MIAMI (CBS12) — Twenty Cubans were stranded on a deserted island in the Caribbean before getting a helping hand and a lift from members of the United States Coast Guard (USCG).
On Friday, watchstanders learned about a score of people stuck on Anguilla Cay, in The Bahamas. They had been asked by Bahamian authorities for assistance in getting the marooned group to safety.
After spotting the castaways, USCG members reached out to them with a Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations aircrew taking the lead in the operation. They dropped food and water onto the island, along with a radio that would allow them to communicate.
Next, the USCG Cutter Walnut crew welcomed everyone on board and gave them more food and water, treated any injuries, and confirmed who they were.
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“The Coast Guard continues to work daily with our state, federal, and international partners to stop illegal maritime migration voyages and to prevent the unnecessary loss of life at sea,” Seventh Coast Guard District duty enforcement officer Lt. Fernando Pla.
Their next stop was the Cutter Margaret Norvell, which took them all to The Bahamas, after which each of the individuals will be transported to their home countries or the country they left.
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