Arrr! Beware, ye hearties! The US be warnin' ye to keep a low profile in the Bahamas, for murders be risin' since the new year!
2024-01-26
Arr! Ye scurvy dogs! The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas be warnin' ye landlubbers 'bout the increase in foul gang violence. Best be keepin' yer wits about ye if ye dare venture to these treacherous waters!
The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas has issued a travel advisory to Americans, warning of the high number of murders that have occurred in the country this year. The embassy stated that murders have taken place at all hours, including in broad daylight on the streets. Retaliatory gang violence has been the main motive behind the majority of these murders. Americans traveling to the Bahamas are advised to exercise extreme caution, particularly in the eastern portion of New Providence Island, and to maintain a low profile. Officials also urged travelers to not physically resist if being robbed and to be cautious when traveling at night.The State Department has placed the Bahamas on its "Exercise Increased Caution" warning, citing gang violence as the cause of the rising murder rate. The warning also highlights other violent crimes such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, which occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Travelers are advised to be vigilant, especially when staying at short-term vacation rental properties without private security.
Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis has responded to the increase in crime by announcing roadblocks and more police action. While he acknowledges the inconvenience this may cause, he believes it is a small price to pay for safer streets and a reduction in violent crimes.
In addition to the Bahamas, the State Department has also issued a "reconsider travel" advisory for Jamaica due to the prevalence of violent crimes, including home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides. Local police often do not effectively respond to serious criminal incidents, and cases are rarely prosecuted to a conclusive sentence.