Nineteen Migrants Rescued from Harsh Conditions in Quebec Woods

Nineteen undocumented migrants were arrested in southern Quebec on March 14, 2024, after illegally entering Canada from the United States on foot. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) initiated a search following a report from the United States Border Patrol shortly before 18:00 local time.

The search concluded around 19:00, when officers discovered 15 individuals hiding in the woods near Havelock, approximately 53 kilometres south of Montreal. The RCMP continued searching until about 22:30, despite the extreme cold conditions, to locate the remaining migrants.

According to police, the group consisted of Haitian nationals, with ages ranging from one to 60. All individuals have requested asylum in Canada. Eight members of the group were transported to a hospital, where six received treatment for frostbite. Additionally, two young children were taken to a hospital as a precautionary measure.

Authorities arrested another man under the Customs Act, believing he was in the vicinity to pick up several of the migrants with his vehicle. The RCMP seized the vehicle, and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the border crossing is ongoing.

The RCMP emphasized the dangers associated with illegal border crossings, particularly during winter months. “People who cross illegally are often poorly equipped and inadequately dressed for the weather. The terrain is also very difficult to access in certain areas,” the police stated in an email.

The incident underscores the challenges and risks faced by migrants attempting to cross into Canada illegally, as well as the ongoing concerns regarding border security and human safety.