The most recent news from our journalists throughout the US sent directly to your inbox every weekdayYour update on the most recent news from across the USPlanning to avoid the harsh cold and head to a tropical paradise this winter? You might want to reconsider heading to the Bahamas. The US embassy issued a security warning and travel advisory, stating that the island nation is currently unsafe for tourists, as the capital city of Nassau has reported 18 murders since the beginning of 2024.“The US Embassy in Nassau advises US citizens to be aware that 18 murders have occurred in Nassau since the beginning of 2024,” the embassy wrote in the release.“Murders have occurred at all hours including in broad daylight on the streets. Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders.”Following the security alert, the US State Department on Friday placed the Bahamas on its “Exercise Increased Caution” list, raising it to a Level 3 and warning Americans to keep a low profile, be aware of their surroundings, and to not resist if confronted by robbers.“Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas,” the warning read. “Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence. ”The State Department also advised travelers not to “physically resist” when being robbed and to use caution when traveling at night. Additionally, it cautioned that many recreational watercraft rentals, tours, and trips are inconsistently regulated.“Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications,” the release said. “Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities.”The department also warned Americans not to swim alone in the Bahamas, where recent shark attacks have been reported.In December, a female tourist from Boston was killed by a shark while paddleboarding less than a mile off the western end of New Providence island, where the capital, Nassau, is located, according to the Associated Press.At least 33 confirmed unprovoked shark attacks have been reported in the Bahamas since 1580, with the island ranking ninth worldwide, according to the International Shark Attack File.In response to the recent security alert, Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis announced an increase in police action and roadblocks, according to the Nassau Guardian. He stated, “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.”Last week, the State Department also raised its advisory level for travel to Jamaica to Level 3 due to violent crime, including home invasions, armed robberies, homicides, and sexual assaults – which “occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.”
