British Government enhances support for Turks and Caicos amid Haiti crisis

On Thursday, the British Government made an announcement regarding an increase in support for the Turks and Caicos Islands, its overseas territory, aimed at bolstering border protection amidst the deteriorating situation in neighboring Haiti.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron has authorized the dispatch of new equipment to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, along with enhancements in border security and coastal detectors. Additionally, a reconnaissance team comprising members from the Ministry of Defense, the Home Office, the British Border Force, and international police assistance has been dispatched to assess the ground situation in the territory.

This decision follows reports from the islands’ police, located approximately 300 kilometers from Haiti, of intercepting 140 Haitian immigrants – including 119 men, 17 women, and four minors – in the archipelago’s waters on Monday. This interception occurred amidst a political crisis and escalating violence predominantly controlled by gangs in Haiti.

Concerns have arisen within the UK regarding the potential spread of violence and illegal immigration throughout the Caribbean, particularly affecting Turks and Caicos, which has witnessed a surge in crime in recent years.

Cameron emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of people in Turks and Caicos, especially given the alarming escalation of violence in Haiti. He stated, “In addition to our existing support, these measures will assist the courageous officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force in addressing the threats posed by illegal immigration and gang violence.”

Haitians urge “compassionate response” instead of militarizing Florida

Meanwhile, leaders of the Haitian community in Florida, along with local congressmen, have urged US authorities to adopt a compassionate response to the crisis in Haiti rather than militarizing the border. They expressed deep concerns over the response of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, which they believe prioritizes militarization over humanitarian aid.

DeSantis recently announced the deployment of 250 members of state agencies to South Florida and the Keys in anticipation of potential illegal immigration flows from Haiti. Organizations based in South Florida criticized this response as short-sighted and counterproductive, urging the governor to reconsider and explore alternatives aligned with US and international asylum laws.

They also highlighted the United Nations’ assessment of the situation in Haiti as “unsustainable,” with over 1,190 reported murders since the beginning of 2024. The organizations called on DeSantis and federal authorities to collaborate in halting the trafficking of weapons from Florida to Haiti, which ultimately end up in the hands of gangs exacerbating unrest in the country.

In response, FLIC Executive Director Tessa Petit urged the granting of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for irregular Haitians in the US, providing them protection from deportation and work permits amid the crisis in their home country. Similarly, Congresswoman Joseph emphasized the need to focus law enforcement resources on screening shipments from Florida for illegal weapons rather than harassing refugees fleeing for their lives.

On Thursday, the Florida Division of Emergencies (FDEM) launched a website to register residents of the state or other districts currently stranded in Haiti, offering assistance amidst the ongoing crisis.

Source: EFE