Travel warning for the Bahamas after 18 murders this year
Think twice about planning a tropical Caribbean vacation this winter.
The US Embassy in the Bahamas has issued a security warning and travel advisory saying the island nation is currently unsafe for tourists following 18 murders in January alone that were “primarily” motivated by gang violence.
Security concerns have now reached such a level that US authorities say people should not even attempt to “physically resist” a robbery.
“Murders have occurred at all hours of the day, including in broad daylight on the streets,” the embassy wrote in a press release, also recommending “extreme caution” in the eastern part of the Bahamian capital Nassau.
The message also explains that Americans should be especially alert at night and always “keep a low profile.”
The U.S. State Department, which issued a warning of “increased caution” for the Bahamas on Friday, pointed out that the danger remains in both tourist and non-tourist areas.
According to the Nassau Guardian, Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis spoke last week about the terrifying violence and announced roadblocks and undercover police operations to contain the crisis.
“It may mean you are late for your appointments or your plans have to be delayed, but that is a small price to pay for the mutual benefit of making our streets safer and our lives less affected by murder and other violent crimes,” he said.
There are also concerns about unregulated water activities, which the State Department says may not be adequately regulated or designed for safety, and boaters have made poor decisions in the past.
“Commercial watercraft operators can operate their vessels regardless of the weather forecast. Injuries and fatalities have occurred.”
Earlier this week, the State Department also issued a level three out of four travel warning for neighboring Jamaica – the only greater danger is a travel warning.
“Violent crimes such as burglaries, armed robberies, sexual assaults and murders are widespread,” the ministry warns.
“Sexual assault is common, even in all-inclusive resorts.”
