The Tribune

THE US State Department is urging American citizens travelling to The Bahamas to exercise increased caution due to crime following a series of recent shootings and other violent incidents in the country.

Although the department kept The Bahamas at a Level 2 travel advisory, it updated its advisory summary on July 28 to emphasise ongoing public safety concerns.

The advisory said violent crime, including armed robbery, burglaries and sexual assault, can occur anywhere in The Bahamas. However, it noted that most incidents are concentrated in New Providence and Grand Bahama.

The updated advisory follows a recent spate of fatal shootings in the country, with ten murders recorded so far this month alone.

The State Department also urged travellers to remain vigilant in the "Over-the-Hill" area of Nassau, where it said gang-related violence has left residents dead. 

It also reiterated its longstanding concerns about dangers linked to jet ski rentals and the watercraft industry in The Bahamas, citing injuries, fatalities, sexual assault reports.

“Never swim alone and beware of jet skis or other watercraft operating close to shore. Sexual assaults have occurred on and near downtown Nassau beaches. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in public restrooms. Be aware of your own fitness and swimming capabilities.”

According to the US embassy, six US citizens have been hospitalised because of jet ski accidents since August 2024, with three requiring emergency medical evacuation from The Bahamas.

The embassy also said two US women reported sexual assaults by jet ski operators in 2025 and that two more sexual assaults have already been reported in 2026.

Ambassador Herschel Walker recently escalated its warnings and criticism of The Bahamas’ jet ski industry, citing unsafe practices.

“Many watercrafts are unsafe, and operators are unlicensed and uninsured. That's why US government employees are banned from renting or riding jet skis. We're working with the government of The Bahamas to address these issues, but for now, consider all the risks before you get on a jet ski in The Bahamas. Your safety matters,” he said in the public service announcement last month.