Chicago Tribune
The Mona Passage, from the Dominican Republic to Puerto Rico, has become a dangerous hot spot for those trying to enter the U.S. illegally.
The number of illegal immigrants taken into custody in the Mona Passage paints a picture of U.S. border crews being run ragged since the surge began three years ago. In fiscal year 2002, border control authorities reported 810 would-be immigrants taken into custody at sea or once their boats hit land. Three years later, the number has swelled to 6,537.
The Border Patrol says Dominicans are the vast majority of those entering the passage en route to Puerto Rico. Of the 1,589 illegal immigrants taken into custody after landing in Puerto Rico during fiscal year 2005, nearly 70% were from the Dominican Republic. The year before, it was slightly more than 80%. Cuban nationals rank second, with 690 arriving in Puerto Rico via the Mona Passage during the last two years.
The increase in immigrant traffic in the passage worries those who are protecting U.S. borders at a time when Americans fear terrorists might be entering the country.
Posted by Richard at December 9, 2005