The State Department has recently strongly advised American citizens to reassess their travel plans to Jamaica and Colombia. The decision comes in light of growing concerns over crime rates in both countries and the additional threat of terrorism, specifically in Colombia. This cautionary message follows the department’s routine evaluation of potential risks Americans traveling abroad face. While prior travel advisories had already been issued for Colombia and Jamaica, the State Department has now published updated warnings to ensure travelers are well-informed about the current situation.
“Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts,” the State Department says in its level 3 travel advisory for Jamaica.
The State Department has issued a stark warning about the prevalent occurrence of violent crimes in Colombia, encompassing a range of offenses such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery. In certain regions, there is also a risk of kidnapping and extortion. Moreover, the department highlights the unpredictable nature of terrorist and criminal groups, which may launch sudden attacks on public spaces like airports, hotels, and restaurants. The advisory emphasizes that these incidents can transpire without prior notice, posing a severe threat to the safety of individuals. Compounding the concerns are the frequent instances of civil unrest throughout the country, with demonstrations occurring regularly. The State Department cautions that these protests have the potential to turn violent, leading to fatalities and injuries. Travelers are urged to exercise utmost caution and stay informed about the evolving situation in Colombia.
“The U.S. Department of State has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas,” a State Department spokesperson said. “We take seriously our commitment to provide U.S. citizens with clear, timely, and reliable information about every country in the world so they can make informed travel decisions.”