The US State Department has issued a fresh warning for passengers going to Bahamas for passengers, urging them to be cautious due to increasing crime, poor regulated boating and recent shark attacks.
On 31 March, the updated advisor lists violent crimes such as armed robbery, theft and sexual attacks. According to the department, these incidents can happen anywhere in Bahamas, but New Providence and Grand Bahama are the most frequently in NASAU and Freeport.
A particularly high-risk area underlined in the advisor is the “over the hill” neighborhood in the south of the Sherly Street, where the violence of the gang has caused the death of the residents. Tourists are also advised to be vigilant while booking a holiday rent, especially lack of private security.
The Department of External Affairs has recommended locking all doors and windows and the doors are not responded until the visitor is known. Passengers are also advised to avoid physically opposing any robbery attempt and thoroughly check their belongings for firearms or ammunition before departure.
Advisor also warns that firearms and ammunition are illegal in the Bahamas, even in small amounts or accidents. Officials have detained American passengers for occupation of such items, sometimes they are motivated for leaving the country and for prison and heavy fines.
In addition to the crime, the advisory talks about safety concerns around water activities. The boating industry in Bahamas is poorly regulated, which has reports of injuries and deadly. Some watercrafts are unsafe, and operators may be a proper license or lack of insurance.
Advisor read,
There have also been reports of sexual attacks by jet ski operators, especially near the city Nasau beaches.
Tourists are warned not to swim alone, beware of the watercraft working close to the edge, and assess their physical fitness before snorkeling. The advisor states that the weather and water conditions should be known, as well as alertness in the public toilet.
Shark’s attacks have become another security concern.
The state department has advised to nominate passengers in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (Step) to receive and help updates during the emergency. It also urges American citizens to buy travel insurance that includes withdrawal coverage and review CDC’s travel information.
