The Government of Canada is asking citizens to exercise a high degree of caution in Jamaica due to the high level of violent crime and the state of emergency in St. James Parish.
“On January 18, 2018, a state of emergency was declared by the Jamaican government for St. James Parish, which includes Montego Bay, as a result of a significant increase in violent crime,” Canadian officials stated.
“Military forces have been deployed to the area in an attempt to stabilize the situation.”
Canadian officials say if you are staying at a resort in the affected area, restrict your movements beyond resort security perimeters.
“If you do travel outside these perimeters, use transportation arranged or provided by the resort,” Canadian officials say.
“Use organized tour operators for excursions and travel to and from the airport. If you are in the affected area, be extremely vigilant, follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor local news.”
Canadian officials say the decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad.
“We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.”
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