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Reviewed: 30 June 2010, 14:05 NZDT
Still current at:
03 September 2010
There is high risk to your security in Kingston due to civil unrest and we advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel. On 23 May the Jamaican Government declared a State of Emergency in parts of Kingston in response to localised civil unrest, including attacks on police stations in West Kingston and St Andrews districts. The State of Emergency has been extended until 22 July 2010, and expanded to include the Parish of St Catherine
Jamaican authorities have arrested an alleged drug and weapons trafficker. The State of Emergency which is in force in Kingston gives authorities additional powers. Movement restrictions and police checkpoints may be put in place at short notice. Citizens who have made plans for outdoor events are being advised to contact their local police commander to ascertain whether or not these events will be allowed to go ahead. The security situation could deteriorate with little or no notice, including in other parts of Kingston and possibly other urban areas in Jamaica. New Zealanders in Kingston are advised to pay close attention to personal security, listen to local media for updates on the security situation and follow any restrictions or instructions issued by the local authorities. Access to the international airport in Kingston may be blocked on an intermittent basis by gun battles between criminal elements and the police.
There is some risk to your safety elsewhere in Jamaica due to high levels of violent crime and we advise caution.
Violent crime including kidnapping and murder is an issue in Jamaica. We advise New Zealanders to maintain security vigilance, particularly in neighbourhoods such as Whitfield Town, Payne Land, West Kingston, Grant’s Pen, Tivoli and Olympic Gardens in Kingston, Trench Town and Arnett Gardens in Kingston, August Town, Harbour View, Denham Town, Hannah Town, Mountain View, Spanish Town and certain parts of Montego Bay (non-resort areas), Central Village and Spanish Town. Avoid walking, including on beaches, or taking buses at night.
There have been outbreaks of violence in the Mountain View area en-route from Kingston International Airport and drivers have been shot in the cross-fire. It is advisable to avoid self-driving, especially at night. New Zealanders are advised to take an official ‘JUTA’ taxi or one recommended by your hotel or official airport taxi dispatcher. New Zealanders should avoid large crowds and public demonstrations as these have the potential to lead to politically-motivated violence and opportunistic crime.
Most hotels and resorts are well guarded and gated communities are considered the safest accommodation in the Kingston area. New Zealanders should maintain a high level of security awareness, even when staying with family or friends.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Jamaica should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Jamaica are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
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