Case 4724

Midnight Raid on Expatriates – Caribbean Island State

Summary:
In late 2024, a married couple from Western Europe, residing temporarily in a coastal villa on a Caribbean island nation, reported serious maintenance issues to their landlord. Weeks later, during the night, an immigration enforcement unit forcibly entered their residence without presenting a warrant.

Authorities accused the couple of illegal employment – despite both individuals having no work permits and being in the country on long-stay visitor status. One spouse had occasionally volunteered at a local children’s home, which officials cited as “evidence” of unauthorized work.

During the raid, cash and valuables totaling over USD 9,000 disappeared from the property. Neither a seizure list nor a police inventory was ever provided. The couple was detained overnight in unsanitary conditions before being deported and banned from re-entry. No formal charges were filed, and the missing property has not been recovered.

Key Issues:

• Warrantless entry and arrest

• Criminalization of volunteer work

• Loss of property without documentation

• Deportation without trial

Status:
Filed with an international human rights NGO; under preliminary investigation.