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Tourists relaxing at a beach in Nassau, Bahamas, in December 2022.
CNN
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The US State Department recently issued an updated travel advisory, urging Americans to be more cautious when traveling to the Bahamas due to the prevalent crime in the region.
According to the advisory, there has been a high homicide rate in the Bahamas, particularly affecting the local population due to gang-related violence. The most affected islands are New Providence, where Nassau is located, and Grand Bahama, where Freeport is located.
The advisory also warns about the occurrence of violent crimes such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults in both tourist and non-tourist areas. It cautions travelers to be vigilant, especially when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies may not be present.
The Bahamas has been placed at Level 2, which indicates an increased need for caution, out of 4 advisory levels. The advisory level has remained unchanged in the January 26 update.
The State Department’s advisory follows a security alert from the US Embassy in Nassau on January 24, highlighting the occurrence of 18 murders in Nassau since the beginning of 2024, attributed to gang violence. The alert notes that these murders have taken place at all hours, even during the day.
The State Department confirmed that one person was killed on New Providence island and at least 18 in Nassau since the start of the year, but stated that no US citizens have been affected, according to a statement provided to CNN.
Travelers are urged to exercise extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence Island (Nassau) and take precautions while driving or walking at night. The advisory also advises against resisting robbery and opening doors to strangers.
In the updated travel advisory, travelers are once again cautioned not to resist any robbery attempts and to be wary of opening doors to strangers.
Despite the travel warning, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis expressed confidence that tourism in the Bahamas will not be significantly affected. However, there was no immediate response to CNN’s request for comment from The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.
In addition to the Bahamas, Jamaica’s travel advisory was also updated on January 23 to include new crime and health information. It remains at Level 3, indicating a need to reconsider travel to the country, according to the State Department.
The advisory for Jamaica reflects the prevalence of violent crimes such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, which are common occurrences. It also points out the challenges travelers may face in accessing medical services in the country.
