The Canadian Government has updated its travel notice for its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Jamaica. It says the cautionary advice was updated last Friday based on high crime levels.
The Canadian Government last week issued similar updated warnings for The Bahamas, Guyana, the Dominican Republic and Suriname.
The notice warns travelers that violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities in Jamaica, particularly Kingston, Spanish Town and Montego Bay. It says the availability of firearms is widespread, and most violent crimes, especially murder, involve guns.
The advisory adds that, despite the presence of police in major urban areas, drug and gang related violence, including shootings, continue to be a significant problem, claiming that there is a risk of becoming the victim of crossfire shooting.
The Canadian Government does concede that reports of violence perpetrated against tourists are actually very low but nevertheless is urging its nationals to maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times. In that regard, it has highlighted the fact that some inner-city and disadvantaged neighbourhoods of Kingston have a significant gang population and high incidences of violent crime. Tivoli Gardens, Grant’s Pen and August Town have been singled out in this respect.
Canadian travelers are also being warned to avoid some parts of Montego Bay, namely St. Clavers Avenue and Hart Street, Flanker, Canterbury, Norwood, Rose Heights as well as Mount Salem. The Canadian government also said crimes of opportunity, including petty theft, pick-pocketing and bag-snatching are common in major tourist areas.
The statement added that women traveling alone are often harassed and urged them to refrain from excessive drinking, especially at all-inclusive resorts and to always ensure that their hotel room doors and windows are secure.
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