Bahamas: Rise in crime in New Providence and Grand Bahama

Event

A newly released travel advisory for the Bahamas, issued by the United States, is urging visitors to remain particularly vigilant when traveling on the islands of New Providence - home to the capital Nassau - and Grand Bahama. While violent crime in the Bahamas is declining, authorities highlighted that violent crimes, sometimes resulting in fatalities, on New Providence continue to occur in locations commonly frequented by tourists. This includes the area around the cruise ship terminal at Prince George Wharf, the Cable Beach resort area, and downtown Nassau. Additionally, violent crime, particularly incidents where the attacker is armed with a machete, has reportedly increased on Grand Bahama.

Context

Crime rates in the Bahamas are generally relatively low. However, the country has become a transit point for Latin American drugs heading towards the US, located only some 80 km (50 mi) from the islands, leading to a rise in gang activity in recent years.

Advice

Individuals in the country are advised to remain vigilant at all times, particularly when traveling on New Providence and Grand Bahama, and to report any suspicious behavior to the police.

Additionally, individuals should avoid the area referred to by locals as “Over the Hill” in Nassau at night due to security concerns. This includes the area south of downtown Nassau, generally below Shirley Street.