ANGUILLA--In a release from Governor Tim Foy and Premier Victor Banks it is reported that over the past weekend, four boats were intercepted in Anguillian waters. The boat captains were all told to leave and no one landed from the vessels.
On May 8 the Royal Anguilla Police Force detained four suspected illegal immigrants. It was established that they had entered illegally via boat, but prior to the borders’ closing on March 20. All four were tested for COVID-19 and tested negative.
“This episode clearly demonstrates that illegal entry has occurred in the past. We cannot afford for this to happen in the future, which is why the government has put in place the strongest possible steps to stop illegal immigration. We thank you all for your vigilance in reporting any boat movements. Should you have any information you wish to share with the authorities you can do so in confidence at
www.gov.ai/911. Prohibition on boat use – regulation prohibiting the use of any boat in Anguilla’s waters unless specifically exempted – remains in force until May 31,” the release states.
The ports are to remain closed until at least the end of May and will not be opened until the situation outside of Anguilla allows for them to be opened safely. The release refers to persons in the US wishing to return to Anguilla, but notes, “The policy of Anguilla is first and foremost that residents and Anguillians overseas should shelter in place until further notice. Therefore, we want to be clear: returns, if they proceed, will be limited in numbers with a clear prioritisation based on need. Returns will also be managed under strict protocols, including testing either prior to or on arrival; mandatory quarantine of no less than 14 days in a government facility; and testing at the end of that period. Further information on this will be released soon.”
There remain no active or suspected cases of COVID-19 in Anguilla and it has been more than 45 days since the last confirmed case was reported. “This is a great achievement but we must not be complacent. We ask you all to continue to practise social distancing and good basic hygiene to prevent the spread of all infectious diseases,” the release states.
