File photo showing a group of Haitians who arrived in Jamaica in July 2023
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By Kimone Witter
The Ministry of National Security says since July 2023, the government has spent close to $30 million to support Haitian migrants who remain in Jamaica.
This includes costs associated with shelter, meals, healthcare needs and other humanitarian supplies.
At present, there are approximately 99 Haitian migrants in state custody, 73 of whom are under an interim injunction issued by the Supreme Court to stay deportation from Jamaica.
Also included in the group are asylum seekers and minors, some in the care of their parents and some under the care of the Child Protection and Family Services Agency.
The Ministry says Jamaican law enforcement sources have confirmed that the uptick in the movement of migrants is part of a lucrative smuggling operation that has intensified after gangs took over parts of Haiti.
In response, Jamaica has strengthened its vetting process of illegal migrants.
The ministry says the government cannot afford to normalise irregular and or illegal migration from neighbouring states as this would fundamentally compromise the integrity of Jamaica's borders and elevate this threat to national security.
It says the government stands behind its commitment to supporting a more sustainable approach for improving the security situation in Haiti.
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