Bahamas on alert: Crime and shark warnings trigger new advisory
The Bahamas, a dream destination for many tourists, could turn out to be dangerous. The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel warning for these islands.
Known for their beautiful beaches and coral reefs, the Bahamas attract tourists from all over the world. However, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel warning for these islands. This isn't primarily about the approaching hurricane season or mosquito-borne diseases like dengue or chikungunya. The main threats are crime and sharks.
The Department of State warns against crimes such as armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults. As noted by "Bild," tourists cannot feel safe anywhere, and the warnings cover the entire archipelago. Most crimes are reported in Nassau and Freeport, on the islands of New Providence and Grand Bahama. Particularly dangerous is the "Over the Hill" district in Nassau, where gang-related murders have occurred.
The German Ministry of Foreign Affairs also advises caution. "Avoid walking after dark without company. Be especially careful in isolated areas and on deserted beaches. Do not leave food and drinks unattended," reads the communiqué quoted by "Bild."
shark threat
The American agency also warns about sharks. Although the Bahamas are not known for a high number of attacks by these predators, approximately 40 species of sharks live in the waters around the islands, which can be aggressive. In early February, two American tourists were attacked by a shark while swimming in Bimini Bay; one of them was seriously injured.
A fatal attack occurred in 2023. The victim was a 44-year-old American woman who was off the coast of the Bahamas. At the time of the attack, she was paddleboarding. The local police spokesperson reported, "The victim had severe injuries to the right side of her body, including a torn hip area and the right upper limb." Although a rescuer arrived and attempted resuscitation, the woman's life could not be saved.
