The United States State Department raised its travel advisory level for the Bahamas on Friday, suggesting “increased caution,” since the country’s capital has seen 18 killings this year.
The move to Level 2 follows a security advisory issued Wednesday by the United States Embassy in Nassau, which voiced worry that Americans could be targeted by gang violence in the capital.
“Murders have occurred at all hours, including in broad daylight on the streets,” the embassy stated in an alert. “Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders.”
U.S. visitors were warned to be extra cautious in Nassau, to use caution when out at night anyplace in the Bahamas, to “keep a low profile,” to be aware of their surroundings, to not resist if attacked by criminals, and to prepare and check security plans.
According to the State Department, short-term vacation rentals frequently lack the type of private security that hotels provide. According to the report, Nassau’s gang criminality is not limited to tourist areas.
“Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas,” the travel alert stated.
The State Department also warned that many recreational watercraft rentals, tours, and trips are inconsistently regulated, posing an extra risk.
“Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications,” according to the report. “Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities.”
The department also cautioned Americans not to swim alone in the Bahamas, where shark attacks have recently occurred.
According to the Tribune, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis responded to the embassy’s caution on Thursday, saying it is unlikely to affect the amount of American tourists in the Bahamas.
He went on to say that the United States has the authority to issue such alerts, as does the Bahamas, according to the outlet. The threats from the United States came as Davis pressed for a crime crackdown, including changes to constitutionally protected bail conditions.
The Bahamas police commissioner and a representative for the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism did not immediately reply to calls for comment.
The US State Department upped its travel advisory level for Jamaica to Level 3 on Tuesday, urging Americans to reconsider visiting the nation due to violent crime and unreliable access to emergency medical care.