U.S. Customs and Border Protection has stopped a packed boat carrying 240 Haitian migrants from reaching American soil.

The vessel was reportedly carrying mostly military-age males, according to U.S. officials. CBP Air Interdiction Agents spotted the overcrowded vessel at sea, where Turks and Caicos authorities intervened before it could approach U.S. territory.

According to CBP data, the boat contained 191 adult males, 44 adult females, and five minors. The vessel was in danger of sinking due to taking on water when agents located it.

CBP Air and Marine Operations confirmed that the passengers did not reach U.S. soil after being rescued by Turks and Caicos authorities.

In a statement, CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott said: “This week, Air Interdiction Agents located a vessel carrying 240 migrants from Haiti attempting an illegal maritime migration. The overcrowded vessel was taking on water and in danger of sinking. Our personnel helped prevent what could have been a catastrophic loss of life while stopping yet another illegal migration attempt.”