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(WJW) – A level 2 travel advisory has been issued by the United States Department of State, warning travelers to “exercise increased caution” when traveling to the Turks and Caicos Islands due to crime.
According to the advisory, most of the crime occurs in Providenciales, where police may have “limited investigatory resources.”
If you do have plans to travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands, the advisory asks that tourists follow these guidelines:
- Check luggage and handbags carefully for bullets or firearms before leaving the U.S. Do not bring these items to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
- Avoid walking alone and at night.
- Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance and trip cancellation coverage.
According to the advisory, firearms and ammunition are illegal and these laws are strictly enforced by police.
“Travelers face arrest, jail time, and heavy fines,” the advisory said. “Some U.S. citizens have been detained and unable to depart for several weeks or more after being found with bullets in their luggage. Offenders can face 12 years or more in prison. Though the law allows for some exceptions and discretion, the Department of State cannot guarantee your release.”
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