Coast Guard Intercepts Migrants in Puerto Rico and Repatriates Them Immediately

Migrant interception in the Mona Passage near Puerto Rico

Dominican migrants repatriated

One detainee with warrant

The United States Coast Guard reported on Wednesday the repatriation of 21 migrants to the Dominican Republic after intercepting a vessel in waters near Puerto Rico.

Why it matters: The case reflects the constant flow of migrants through the Mona Passage, a maritime route frequently used to attempt entry into U.S. territory.

Migrant interception in Mona Passage near Puerto Rico

#PUERTORICO: The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Tezanos repatriated 21 people to the #DomRepublic, Monday, following the interdiction of an unlawful migration vessel voyage in Mona Passage waters northwest of Aguadilla. pic.twitter.com/9pdkLrgFIT

— CaribbeanNewsNetwork (@caribbeannewsuk) April 22, 2026

The vessel was detected during a routine patrol, according to EFE.

The operation took place northwest of the municipality of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, an area within the Mona Passage.

This channel separates the Dominican Republic from Puerto Rico and is known as a common migration route.

Authorities acted after locating the vessel in these waters, successfully stopping all occupants.

No incidents were reported during the interception, the Coast Guard confirmed in an official statement.

Profile of the migrants detained near Puerto Rico

U.S. Coast Guard authorities confirmed the repatriation of 21 migrants to the Dominican Republic after intercepting a vessel off the coast of Puerto Rico… pic.twitter.com/0kXq8rPqKt

— El Demócrata Multimedios (@eldemocratard) April 22, 2026

In total, authorities detained 22 people, including 18 men and two women.

These 20 individuals stated they were Dominican nationals. Additionally, two men identified themselves as being from Haiti.

No minors were reported among those intercepted.

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Authorities confirmed this detail in their report. The information about the migrants was based on their own statements.

No further details about their identities were provided.

The group of migrants was processed according to established protocols to be later repatriated.

Repatriation and status of one detainee

Of the migrants intercepted, 21 were repatriated to the Dominican Republic.

They were transferred to a vessel operated by the Dominican Navy.

U.S. and Dominican authorities coordinated the operation.

However, one migrant was not repatriated.

This individual remains in custody in Puerto Rico due to an outstanding arrest warrant.

The warrant was issued by the Puerto Rico Police.

Authorities have not disclosed the nationality of this individual or additional details about the case.