Bahamas: Alert, increase of armed robberies

The U.S. Embassy in Nassau advises U.S. citizens residing in and traveling to The Bahamas, to be aware of their surroundings and remain on heightened alert to avoid being a victim of crime. On Sunday, May 12, shortly before 5:00 a.m., a U.S. citizen was fatally shot in Nassau during the course of an armed robbery on East Bay Street near the southbound bridge connecting Paradise Island with New Providence Island (Nassau). This crime has brought the year’s murder count to 40.

Armed robbery remains a major threat facing U.S. citizens in The Bahamas. Since the beginning of the year, a number of U.S. citizens have fallen victim to armed robbery with some having been seriously injured in the commission of these crimes. The Royal Bahamas Police Force issued a message earlier this year citing concerns about the increased number of armed robberies in Nassau. The Royal Bahamas Police Force website reports that for January 1–April 15 there have been 328 armed robberies, 111 robberies, and 660 house break-ins.

Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.

If you are the victim of a crime abroad (including the loss or theft of a U.S. passport), you should immediately contact the local police (dial “911”). Contact with the Embassy should be made as soon as possible thereafter.

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in The Bahamas enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for The Bahamas. For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler App, available through iTunes and Google play, to have travel information at your fingertips.

In The Bahamas, the Embassy is located at 42 Queen Street in downtown Nassau, and can be reached at 242-322-1181.
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