The Government has responded to questions from TNN News following concerns surrounding a Jamaican national who remained in custody at Westgate Correctional Facility for more than five months after becoming eligible for deportation.
Last Thursday, TNN News first reported on the inmate’s claims that he had been kept in custody despite having completed his sentence and awaiting deportation back to Jamaica. Speaking through family representatives, the inmate described what he said was a lengthy and frustrating delay while waiting for immigration authorities to facilitate his removal from Bermuda.
Following TNN News’ report, inquiries were submitted to the Ministry responsible for Immigration as well as the Office of the Attorney General, seeking clarification on the matter and the reasons for the prolonged delay.
The Government has since provided a response to those inquiries, which is published in full below for readers to review.
A Department of Immigration spokesman can confirm, “It has been the longstanding position of Immigration that non‑Bermudians who commit serious criminal offences should not be permitted to reside in Bermuda.
In accordance with this position, individuals convicted of serious crimes may be subject to deportation and removal procedures, consistent with the governing legislation and the public‑interest considerations that apply in such matters.”
“With respect to the specific case referenced, the Department cannot comment on individual immigration matters beyond what is permissible under the relevant legislation and privacy requirements. However, I can advise generally that where an appeal is filed, the Department awaits the outcome of that process before proceeding with any deportation action. Once all legal processes have concluded, the Department acts in accordance with the final determinations.”
TNN News remains committed to following this story and will continue to seek accountability and transparency regarding the handling of deportation matters, particularly in cases where individuals remain in custody after becoming eligible for removal from the island.
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