9 Cuban Migrants repatriated and arrival of new group

 The Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control Service (CBC) repatriated nine (9) migrants to the Republic of Cuba on Friday, 13 February 2026.

The nine male migrants were escorted by Customs and Border Control Officers and Prison Officers. They departed Grand Cayman on a non-chartered Cayman Airways flight at approximately 1:20 p.m. This brings the total number of migrants repatriated to Cuba since the beginning of 2026 to thirteen (13).

CBC Director Bruce D. Smith stated, “I would like to thank all those involved for executing another successful operation. We are grateful for the support of our partner agencies.” Additional repatriation flights will be arranged as processing continues. Separately, earlier today, 16 February 2026, six (6) adult male Cuban migrants arrived in Grand Cayman after being rescued at sea by a passing vessel.

They were transferred into the custody of CBC Officers upon arrival and are currently being processed in accordance with Cayman Islands law and the country's international obligations. The Government's approach to irregular migration continues to be grounded in three core principles: lawful border control, a humanitarian duty of care, and the safeguarding of national security.