Government of Canada issues official travel advisory for Jamaica

The Government of Canada has issued a travel advisory for Jamaica.

The advisory was issued due to “a significant increase in violent crime since the beginning of the year.”

The Jamaican government has declared states of emergency for the following regions:

Effective until October 19, 2019

• Clarendon parish
• St Catherine parish

Effective until October 28, 2019

• St James parish, which includes Montego Bay
• Hanover parish
• Westmoreland parish, which includes Negril

Effective until January 4, 2020

• St Andrew parish, which includes areas of Kingston

During this period, security forces have been given increased rights to conduct searches, seizures, and detain persons of interest. Curfews may also be imposed without notice, according to the Government of Canada.

• See also:
  • Amnesty International issues travel advisory for US following mass shootings
  • Government of Canada issues official travel advisory for Thailand

If you’re travelling in the affected areas, the Canadian government advises that you:

• Always cooperate with military and police officers
• Carry valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints
• Avoid outings outside the resort after dark
• Allow extra time to reach your destination
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situations