Grand Cayman, 11 February 2026 — Following the recent arrival of ten (10) Cuban
nationals in Little Cayman on 1 February, the Government of the Cayman Islands
confirms that there are currently twenty-six (26) Cuban migrants on island. The
Government continues to monitor potential migration developments from Cuba and
across the wider region and is working with national, regional, and international partners
to maintain a measured, responsible approach to border management and national
preparedness.

Whilst cross-agency intelligence does not indicate an immediate threat of mass
migration, the Government’s actions reflect prudent risk management and its long-
standing obligations to uphold public order, border integrity, and the safety and security of
all three Cayman Islands.

Controlled Response Framework

Hon. Nickolas DaCosta, JP, MP, Minister for District Administration and Home Affairs
confirmed, “The Government’s approach to irregular migration is grounded in lawful
control, humanitarian duty of care, and national security considerations. Existing facilities,
legal frameworks, and operational protocols remain the primary tools for managing any
arrivals, should they occur, and will continue to be applied in a structured and controlled
manner.”

To support coordination and oversight, a multi-agency Mass Migration Committee (MMC)
has been established within the Ministry of District Administration & Home Affairs to
ensure Government readiness across relevant agencies in the event of a significant
migration incident. The Committee brings together critical national agencies to provide
strategic direction and to ensure that any response remains proportionate, legally
compliant, and aligned with national priorities.

Preparedness Measures

In the event of migrant arrivals, the Customs & Border Control Service (CBC), supported
by the MMC and partner agencies, will activate established protocols. These protocols
prioritise identity verification, medical and health screening, and security assessments, consistent with Cayman Islands law and applicable international standards.

Existing facilities are and will continue to be used as a response tool in the interest of
applying the duty of care and upholding public order obligations.

Any activation would be short term, phased, and subject to strict operational controls,
with utilisation determined solely by need and capacity at the relevant time.

As a precautionary measure, in response to recent escape of two detainees and any
future incidences, CBC Director Bruce D. Smith encourages the public to “exercise
increased vigilance, including securing homes, vehicles, and vessels, avoid leaving keys
or valuables unattended, and promptly reporting any suspicious activity. While law
enforcement continues to actively manage the situation, we all share responsibility for
reducing obvious and preventable risks”.

The Government recognises the importance of public confidence in matters of border
security and remains committed to measured, factual communication. Updates will be
provided through official Government channels as appropriate.

Public Urged to Comply with the Law

The public is reminded that a person who knowingly assists, harbours, or facilitates the
illegal landing or residence of another is an offence.

Under section 105 of the Customs and Border Control Act (2024 Revision):

A person who assists or causes another to unlawfully land, remain or reside in the
Islands commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of
CI$50,000.00 and to imprisonment for seven (7) years.

Additional consequences may include forfeiture of assets and other enforcement
measures.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious maritime or migration-
related activity to 911.

A person who unlawfully lands, remains or resides in the Islands commits an
offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of CI$20,000 and to
imprisonment for five (5) years.

To stay connected with the Ministry of District Administration & Home Affairs, follow us on
social media (@mdahacayman) or visit our website at https://gov.ky/mdaha/.

About the Ministry of District Administration & Home Affairs (MDAHA):
Under the leadership of the Honourable Nickolas DaCosta, JP, MP, the enduring vision of the
MDAHA is to build a safer community for our residents and visitors alike. To accomplish this
vision, our mission is to empower our community through innovative, evidence-based, and
intelligence-driven solutions in public safety.
The MDAHA is responsible for furthering the resiliency of the Cayman Islands, through
continued strategic and operational advancement in the areas of district administration, national
security, emergency response services, public safety, offender management services, border
control, and postal services.

About the Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control (CBC):
The Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control (CBC) is responsible for the protection of our
borders, the management of travel, the collection of import duties, package tax, and warehouse
fees under the Customs and Border Control Law and Regulations.