Chinese Migrant Apprehended on Paddleboard Off Bahamas Coast

In a recent apprehension off the coast of the Bahamas, the United States Coast Guard intercepted a Chinese migrant attempting to reach American shores via a makeshift paddleboard. This incident occurred approximately 25 miles off Freeport, highlighting the ongoing challenges related to illegal immigration and maritime security.

The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sea Horse discovered the individual on Tuesday, February 4th. Photos and videos released by the U.S. Coast Guard Southeast depict the migrant paddling on what appears to be two boards connected together, with several pieces of luggage secured to them. The unidentified Chinese national was subsequently transported back to the Bahamas.

Recent Migrant Smuggling Operations in Florida

This apprehension follows a significant incident just a week prior, where 26 individuals from China were discovered in Coral Gables, Florida. Authorities believe these migrants arrived via boat from the Bahamas and entered through a secluded area in the southern part of Coral Gables, utilizing a canal system leading to a private marina.

Coral Gables Police Chief Hudak Jr. stated in a press release, "We believe they came by boat, they came through a secluded area in the southern end of Coral Gables. They're coming up through a canal area that leads to a private marina." Two alleged smugglers, identified as being of Cuban and Puerto Rican descent, were apprehended alongside the 26 migrants, nine women and 17 men. The alleged smugglers were found in possession of a firearm.

Surge in Chinese Migrants

Fox News Digital previously reported on the dramatic increase in illegal immigrants from China over the past several years. Between the fiscal years of 2021 and 2024, they accounted for more than an 8,000% surge. This spike coincides with growing concerns among U.S. lawmakers regarding China's influence in South and Central America, as well as its burgeoning tech industry, which are perceived as national security threats.

Government Response to Illegal Immigration

President Donald Trump's former border czar, Tom Homan, has pledged to address illegal immigration from "day one" of any future administration. Recently, President Trump signed an executive action suspending asylum for those crossing through the southern border. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security has expanded its use of "expedited removal," a process that allows U.S. Customs and Border officials to deport individuals without a formal immigration court hearing or appearance before a judge.