Above: Nassau (CJ Photo)

By the Caribbean Journal staff

The United States Embassy has issued a new advisory warning US citizens traveling in the Bahamas on a “crime spike” in the country.

The security message, which was released on Wednesday, urges citizens to “be aware of their surroundings and remain on heightened alert to avoid being a victim of crime.”

“Armed robbery and violent crime remain major threats facing US citizens in the Bahamas, including in areas frequented by tourists on New Providence and Grand Bahamas islands,” the US Embassy said.

The Embassy said that “a number of US citizens” had fallen victim to armed robbery and two had been murdered in the last eight months.

“In light of this situation, US citizens residing in or traveling to the Bahamas should review their personal security plans. Remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates,” the Embassy said. “Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.”

The Embassy said that, in the past month, American citizens were robbed at gunpoint in two separate incidents, including one each on Grand Bahama and New Providence.