US officials have transferred 15 migrants to The Bahamas after the US Coast Guard intercepted a vessel east of Miami Beach.

The vessel carried 19 people when authorities stopped it on August 18, about 22 miles east of Miami Beach.

The Coast Guard has not released the migrants’ nationalities. Officials also have not said what happened to the other four people on the vessel.

The migrants received food, water, shelter and basic medical care while aboard Coast Guard cutters. Officials also processed them to confirm their identities before the transfer.

Lt. Cmdr. Justin Dadlani said the operation shows the US commitment to securing its maritime borders.

He also highlighted cooperation between US agencies and Bahamian authorities. The partnership aims to stop unauthorized migration by sea.

The Coast Guard said it continues to work with Operation Vigilant Sentry partners across the Florida Straits, Windward Passage, Mona Passage and Caribbean Sea.

Operation Vigilant Sentry focuses on preventing unauthorized entry into the US and its territories. The operation also aims to protect lives at sea.