Canada cautions citizens about travel to Guyana

Canadians are being cautioned against travelling to several Caribbean nations, including Guyana over the high instances of crime.

The Canadian Government updated its travel warnings on May 2 and warned nationals to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to eight Caribbean countries.

Visitors were told to beware of assaults, pickpocketing, purse snatching, break-ins, armed robberies, car theft and carjackings as they are common occurrences in Georgetown, Guyana.

The travel warning said the seawall – East of the Pegasus Hotel extending to Sheriff Street and adjacent areas – has been the site of several crimes and should be avoided after dark.

“Other dangerous areas include the East Coast Demerara region, the East Bank Demerara region and the New Amsterdam area,” the advisory added.

Violent attacks have also occurred on the road to and from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and on the Linden Highway, especially at night, the warning said.

It also noted that foreigners and returning Guyanese citizens are favourite targets for criminals.

“Canadians have been injured while being robbed at gunpoint, and some have reported being attacked after withdrawing money at financial institutions. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash,” the notice alerted.

Canadians were also warned to pay attention to their surroundings, especially when entering or leaving vehicles, residences and public places.

“Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. Do not show signs of affluence. When approached by a Police Officer, always ask to see identification,” the travel warning outlined.

Driving

Canadians were also warned about poor road conditions, inadequate lighting, roaming animals and poor driving habits are constant hazards in Guyana.

“Be extremely cautious when driving, keep windows closed and doors locked at all times, and avoid being on the road unnecessarily after dark,” the warning said.

They were particularly advised to exercise caution along the road from the Cheddi Jagan Airport to Georgetown and on the Timehri/Linden Highway.

They were also warned to avoid public minibuses, as they tend to be “overloaded, poorly maintained and badly driven.”

“Taxis are the safest means of transportation. Do not hail taxis from the roadside. Only use taxis that are connected to major hotels or are painted yellow. All yellow taxies are registered with the Government of Guyana’s licencing office. Exercise constant vigilance and make note of the vehicle’s licence plate before entering, in order to track down the driver in the event of overcharging or lost luggage,” the advisory stated.

Meanwhile, other flagged Caribbean nations are The Bahamas, Belize, The Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Suriname.