US State Department Issues Travel Advisories for Bahamas, Jamaica Amid Surge in Violent Crime

Rise in murders and other violent crimes prompts warnings, with travelers advised to exercise increased caution and avoid certain areas.

US State Department has issued travel advisories for the Bahamas and Jamaica due to a significant increase in violent crime, including murders.
In the Bahamas, 18 murders have occurred since the start of 2024, primarily due to retaliatory gang violence.
Jamaica has reported 65 murders in January 2024 alone, prompting the State Department to upgrade the travel advisory to Level 3, advising Americans to reconsider travel.
Violent crimes such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides are common in both countries, occurring in both tourist and non-tourist areas.
Travelers are advised to exercise increased caution, be vigilant, and avoid certain areas known for high crime rates.