US embassy in Bahamas issues travel warning to Americans as 18 people are murdered ‘in broad daylight’ in January

The US Embassy in the Bahamas has advised Americans visiting the country to exercise caution after nearly 20 people were killed in one month alone.

The U.S. Embassy in Nassau has issued a safety alert and advisory for tourists about rising levels of gang violence and murders.

Since the beginning of 2024, both tourist and non-tourist areas have recorded a spike in violent crimes, including burglaries, armed robberies and sexual violence.

According to officials, 18 murders were reported in the country in January alone, with retaliatory gang violence the main motive.

Americans have been advised to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant when staying in short-term vacation rentals.

“Murders have taken place at all hours, including in broad daylight on the streets,” the embassy wrote in a message Edition.

According to officials, Antonio Venus of Greaves Street, Monte Grant was murdered in Tunapuna on January 13, counting as one of 18 murders reported in just a month.

Officials have also asked tourists not to physically resist a robbery attempt and not to open the front door of any hotel/residence to unknown people.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has placed the Bahamas on the ‘More Caution’ warning list and has even asked people to avoid water trips and sports activities.

“Activities involving commercial recreational craft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated.

“Personal watercraft may be poorly maintained and some operators may not have safety certifications. Always check and follow local weather and maritime warnings before engaging in water activities.

‘Never swim alone, regardless of your age or swimming skill level. Stay within your fitness and swimming capabilities.

‘Please be aware of sharks when swimming and participating in water activities as there have been recent fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks.’

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has placed the Bahamas on the ‘More Caution’ warning list and has even asked people to avoid water trips and sports activities.

The US Embassy in Nassau has issued a security alert and advisory warning of rising levels of gang violence and murders (photo)

Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis commented to the advice: ‘We will not violate anyone’s civil liberties, but you will likely experience more roadblocks and unannounced police action.

‘This may cause you to be late for your appointments or postpone your plans, but this is a small price to pay for the collective benefit of making our streets safer and our lives less destroyed by murder and other violent crimes. crimes.’

According to local newsDavis has already proposed a crime plan to the public in response to the rising number of murders this month.

Last week, video footage emerged of the moment a 30-year-old man was shot dead in the middle of the street in the middle of the day.

Officials have also asked tourists not to physically resist a robbery attempt and not to open the front door of any hotel/residence to unknown people.

According to civil servantsAntonio Venus of Greaves Street, Monte Grant was murdered in Tunapuna on January 13.

Video shows a black Toyota AE100 crashed, driven by Venus, slamming into the door of a white car and falling into a drain.

As the crash occurred, three men quickly got out of the white car with weapons in hand and ran towards Venus.

The trio quickly shot at the car and ran back to their own car before driving away.

Police discovered Venus in the driver’s seat, bleeding from gunshot wounds to his torso. He later died of injuries in a hospital.

Officials have not identified any suspects.