Mexican fishermen rescued three Cuban rafters stranded at sea off the coast of Progreso, Yucatán, on Tuesday. Local media reported that the individuals were suffering from severe dehydration at the time of their rescue.
The rescuers, aboard a vessel named “Tigre III,” spotted three foreign nationals adrift in a boat and promptly alerted the authorities from the Mexican Navy. A unit was dispatched to the scene immediately.
According to the digital news outlet PorEsto!, the fishermen were 42 nautical miles (77 kilometers) northwest of Progreso when they spotted the Cubans. “They exhibited clear signs of dehydration and were at risk of capsizing due to disorientation caused by the recent high temperatures,” the report stated.
A Defender-type boat from the Naval Search, Rescue, and Maritime Surveillance Station (ENSAR) based in Yucalpetén, along with personnel from the Mexican Federal Health Secretariat, arrived at the scene shortly after. The Cuban nationals received medical evaluations and were rehydrated until their health stabilized, allowing for their transport to land.
They disembarked at the Federal Maritime Guard dock in the Progreso harbor, where they were handed over to the National Institute of Migration (INM) for humanitarian support and to process their legal status in Mexico.
Earlier in May, four other Cubans were rescued by Mexican fishermen near San Fernando, off the Barra Boca de Catán in Tamaulipas, after spending 34 days at sea in an attempt to reach the United States. Those individuals, also severely dehydrated, were later granted residence in Mexico for humanitarian reasons, as confirmed by the INM.
FAQs on Cuban Rafters Rescued Near Progreso, Mexico
Here are some frequently asked questions about the recent rescue of Cuban rafters off the coast of Progreso, Mexico.
What condition were the Cuban rafters in when they were rescued?
The Cuban rafters were found to be severely dehydrated and disoriented, posing a risk of capsizing.
Who rescued the Cuban rafters off the Progreso coast?
The rafters were rescued by Mexican fishermen aboard the vessel “Tigre III,” who then alerted the Mexican Navy.
What happened to the Cuban rafters after they were rescued?
After being stabilized by medical personnel, they were handed over to the National Institute of Migration (INM) for humanitarian support and legal processing.