Two Haitian women, previously detained in the Santa Cruz Police lock-up in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica for illegal entry, are set to be transferred to another facility following grievances voiced by their legal representation.
Missclaine Andemette, 43, and Odanette Ystal, 37, who both have asylum petitions in progress, were being held in a facility previously flagged as inappropriate for use.
Their Attorney, Thomas Levene, challenged the court to clarify the grounds for keeping the women in such conditions.
This move comes in light of the facility’s ordered closure in late August after a thorough inspection by the Ministry of National Security.
Agreement for relocation
Mr. Levene in an interview with Radio Jamaica News, said that the police have agreed with the concerns raised by him.
“The contention by myself and others is that the Santa Cruz lock-up is not, or could never be considered, an approved facility as the lock-up itself has been closed for several months due to certain concerns by the Police High Command. But however, due to certain constraints, we understand that in recent weeks, females are being housed there under very trying circumstances,” he told the radio station.
“With the intervention of senior officers, we were informed last night that immigration officers have been informed and steps have been taken for the females to be removed from the Santa Cruz lock-up to an approved facility over the weekend,” Levene continued.
Seeking refuge in Jamaica
The two Haitian women shared with the court their history of residing in Jamaica for several years. They also shared that they are in stable relationships, and are seeking asylum.
