LONDON — The British government has updated its travel advisory on St. Kitts and Nevis maintaining that although most visits are trouble-free, there have been incidents of crime including murder, armed robbery and sexual assault.
Updating its website on January 24, the British government also warned that “although there’s no recent history of terrorism in St. Kitts and Nevis, attacks can’t be ruled out.”
“There’s a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria and you should be vigilant at this time,” the updated information said.
But not everyone agreed with the facts presented in the Virgin Islands Free Press article or the way those facts were presented.
“Your article on St. Kitts is misleading & does not faithfully represent the FCO travel advice with regards to terrorism and St. Kitts,” St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Timothy Harris wrote on Twitter. “The definition you rely on is in fact a broad FCO statement applicable worldwide. Please correct. Thank you.”
A reader of the V.I. Free Press’ Facebook platform agreed.
“This article is pure crap,” wrote Carla Dunrod. “Well just don’t come! St. Kitts have some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.”
And a reader living in St. Kitts and Nevis went one further.
“I did not read anything in your article that supports your headline,” Al Edds wrote in the V.I. Freep. “I guess you are only interested in doing as much or more damage than the ‘potential’ crime you write about. Journalists like you should be charged and prosecuted. At least you were kind enuf [sic] to provide some direct quotations from the advisory that was issued.”
The advisory called on British travelers to St. Kitts and Nevis to “maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as you would in the UK and make sure your accommodation is secure.”
“This also applies if you are staying on a yacht. Be vigilant at all times. Take care when walking alone off the busy main roads and avoid isolated areas, including beaches, particularly after dark. Only use licensed taxis and take particular care at late night street parties, especially during the festival season.”
British travelers to St. Kitts and Nevis have also been informed not to carry large amounts of cash or jewelery.
“If possible, leave valuables and travel documents in a safety deposit box or hotel safe. You should check that the hotel safe is securely fixed before using it to store your items,” the advisory said.