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Several individuals, including nationals from St. Kitts & Nevis and Haiti, are facing charges after U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents thwarted an attempted smuggling operation off the coast of St. John. The dramatic interdiction unfolded on February 7, with agents intercepting a vessel from the British Virgin Islands carrying illegal migrants.

Among those detained were Clawens Destin, Jean Louise Metellus, and Junia Orelus, along with two unidentified individuals. Law enforcement documents revealed that one of the unidentified persons is an American citizen, while the others are nationals of Haiti and St. Kitts & Nevis.

The operation intensified when CBP Air Marine Operations (AMO) agents encountered Eudys Santana Santos near Annaberg Beach in a Suzuki SUV. As the vessel approached the shore, Santos attempted to flee the area, prompting a high-speed pursuit. Despite his efforts, Santos was detained approximately half a mile away by agents with flashing police lights.

Investigations revealed that Santos is a Dominican Republic national who entered the U.S. Virgin Islands illegally from the BVI two years ago. Following the interdiction, all defendants were transported to St. Thomas, where they were placed under house arrest pending trial.

The smuggling operation highlights ongoing concerns about illegal migration and human trafficking in the Caribbean region. U.S. authorities continue to crack down on such operations, emphasizing the importance of border security and international cooperation.