Four Filipino Seafarers Detained and Deported from Carnival Sunshine in Norfolk

Federal authorities recently detained four Filipino crew members aboard the Carnival Sunshine while the ship was docked in Norfolk, Virginia. This operation, conducted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), resulted in the crew’s deportation the following day, raising concerns among Filipino advocacy groups.

The incident marks an increase in the number of Carnival Cruise Line workers apprehended in Norfolk to 28 in recent months. The crew members held valid C1/D visas, yet they were accused of involvement in a group chat related to child pornography, an allegation they vehemently denied. There have been no formal charges or presented evidence against them, and none of the detainees were provided with legal counsel during the process.

The detainees, comprising three men and one woman, were initially held overnight in a hotel near the Norfolk International Airport and were later taken to the airport for deportation. Carnival Cruise Line stated it fully cooperates with law enforcement investigations, emphasizing that the operation falls under their purview.

Advocacy organizations have criticized the handling of the detentions, asserting a lack of due process and suggesting that the actions may be motivated by deportation quotas. These groups are continuing to call for transparency and a recognition of the legal rights of the affected crew members.

For more details on incidents related to Carnival Sunshine, you can visit CruiseMinus.

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