Government Tables Bill to Combat Migrant Smuggling
National Security Minister Wayne Munroe introduced the Smuggling of Migrants Bill, 2025, in the House of Assembly to crack down on migrant smuggling.
The bill expands The Bahamas' authority to prosecute cases involving the smuggling of migrants, whether committed inside or outside the country, where Bahamian nationals or interests are involved.
The bill extends jurisdiction and cooperation at sea as offenses committed on vessels outside the territorial waters, especially stateless vessels or those flying a foreign flag but the suspected involvement in smuggling and vessels registered under protocol states other than The Bahamas.
According to Mr. Munroe, the broadened scope ensures local authorities can take action against offenders regardless of where the offense occurs, so long as it involves Bahamian interests.
The bill aims to target traffickers who move people into or out of The Bahamas, particularly where The Bahamas is the point of origin, transit, or destination for smuggled migrants.
Author's summary: The Bahamas introduces a bill to combat migrant smuggling.