There has been a recent spike in crime after a report of nearly 20 deaths in only one month. The US embassy in the Bahamas has cautioned Americans traveling there to exercise caution.
The US embassy in Nassau has issued a security alert and advisory, alerting visitors to the escalating rates of gang-related violence and killings.
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Since the start of 2024, violent crime has increased significantly in both tourist and non-tourist regions. This includes burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults.
Officials say that gang violence in retaliation has been the main cause of the 18 recorded deaths in the nation in January alone.
It has been suggested to Americans that when vacationing at short-term rental residences, they should be extremely cautious and watchful.
In a statement, the embassy stated, ‘Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets.’
Additionally, officials have requested that visitors not open the front door at any hotel or apartment for strangers and refrain from forcefully opposing any robbery attempt.
The Bahamas have been added to the State Department’s “Exercise Increased Caution” warning list, and visitors are even being encouraged to refrain from participating in water sports and excursions.
“Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. “
It added, ‘Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications. Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities.”
“Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills. Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities.”
The release warned, “Be mindful of sharks when swimming and engaging in water activities, as there have been recent fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks.”
Philip Brave Davis, the prime minister, offered remarks on the advice, “We will not violate anyone’s civil liberties, but you are likely to be impacted by more roadblocks and unannounced police action.
He continued, “This may make you late for your appointments, or delay plans you have, but this is a small price to pay for the collective benefit of having our streets made safer, and our lives less blighted by murder and other violent crimes.”
Davis has reportedly presented the public with a crime strategy in reaction to this month’s alarmingly high murder rate, according to local press.
