In a significant move to address migrant smuggling, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe presented the Smuggling of Migrants Bill, 2025, in the House of Assembly. This legislation aims to strengthen The Bahamas’ ability to prosecute traffickers involved in moving people into or out of the country, particularly when Bahamian nationals or interests are implicated. The bill extends jurisdiction to cases occurring both within and outside The Bahamas, covering scenarios where the country serves as a point of origin, transit, or destination for smuggled migrants. Minister Munroe emphasized that the expanded scope ensures local authorities can act against offenders regardless of the location of the crime, provided it involves Bahamian interests. The legislation also enhances enforcement powers at sea, including search, seizure, and arrest, while safeguarding migrant safety and human rights. The bill outlines various human smuggling offenses, such as using fraudulent documents, arranging illegal entry, concealing migrants, and coordinating smuggling operations. Penalties include fines up to $300,000 and imprisonment for up to 15 years, with harsher punishments for cases involving exploitation, violence, or harm to vulnerable groups. The bill also penalizes owners of vehicles, vessels, or aircraft used in smuggling and criminalizes harboring smuggled migrants for financial gain. Additionally, the legislation protects migrants’ rights, ensuring access to basic amenities, consular services, and asylum procedures. Minister Munroe highlighted that this legislation fills a critical gap in national law, aligning with international treaties to combat migrant smuggling effectively.