17 dead after boat carrying Haitian migrants sinks off Bahamas
- Bahamian security forces rescued 25 but it was not clear if there were any people missing after the boat sank about seven miles from New Providence
- Prime Minister Philip Davies said a criminal investigation had begun into the suspected human smuggling operation apparently bound for Miami, Florida
A boat carrying Haitian migrants apparently capsized off the Bahamas early on Sunday, and Bahamian security forces recovered the bodies of 17 people and rescued 25 others, authorities said.
It was not clear if there were any people missing after the boat sank about seven miles from New Providence.
Prime Minister Philip Davies said in a statement that the dead included 15 women, one man and an infant. He said the people rescued were taken for observation by health workers.
Davis said investigators had determined that a twin-engined speed boat left the Bahamas about 1am local time, carrying as many as 60 people, apparently bound for Miami.
He said a criminal investigation had begun into the suspected human smuggling operation.
“I would like to convey the condolences of my government and the people of the Bahamas to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragedy,” Davis said. “My government, from the time it came to office, has warned against these treacherous voyages.”
