Isla Mujeres, Q.R. — Nine Cuban nationals are in Mexican immigration custody after being reported stranded at sea. Mexican Marina based out of Isla Mujeres were notified of the drifting makeshift boat Wednesday evening.
A passing cargo vessel spotted the small boat carrying a group of men in Mexican waters. State officials were notified that the boat was stranded and drifting.
Marina personnel set out in search of the vessel, locating it east of the island in Quintana Roo waters. On board were nine people. All were provided with medical care before being turned over to Mexican immigration.
In a statement Thursday, the Mexican Navy reported that through the Fifth Naval Region, naval personnel rescued nine people near Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo.
“This action was carried out after receiving a report of a small, makeshift vessel adrift with nine people on board.
“Therefore, personnel from the Isla Mujeres Maritime Search, Rescue and Surveillance Station (ENSAR) and Naval Medical Services aboard a Defender-class vessel, arrived at the area where the individuals were located.
“Upon medical examination, they were found to be in good health. Subsequently, they were transferred to the Naval Station in Puerto Juárez, Quintana Roo, where they were handed over to the authorities of the National Migration Institute (INM) to carry out the corresponding legal procedures.”
Last month, seven people of Cuban origin were rescued off Costa Maya. They were rescued by Costa Maya fishermen who found them adrift off the coast of Mahahual. The fishermen were eventually assisted by Marina personnel.
