Location: Kingston
Event: The U.S. Embassy in Kingston advises U.S. citizens that, effective June 14, 2020, the Government of Jamaica has declared a State of Public Emergency (SOE) in the Kingston Western and Central Police Divisions (see attached image). The area included in this SOE was already under restriction for U.S. government personnel. U.S. citizens are encouraged to review the Country Information for Jamaica at the Department of State’s Travel.State.Gov website for more information about restricted zones.
The State of Public Emergency, declared under the 1966 Emergency Powers Act, allows Jamaican security forces to detain and deport suspicious persons, enter premises, and seize property without warrant. Expect to encounter increased police and military presence, checkpoints, and searches of persons and vehicles within the declared borders of the SOE.
Actions to Take:
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Cooperate with any police or military personnel you may encounter.
- Do not resist a police or military inspection of your vehicle and personal belongings.
- Allow additional time for transit on the roads in the areas noted above.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Kingston, Jamaica
+1-876-702-6000
KingstonACS@state.gov
https://jm.usembassy.gov/ - U.S. Consular Agency Montego Bay
+1-876-953-0620
MobayACS@state.gov - U.S. Consular Agency Cayman Islands
+345-945-8173
CaymanACS@state.gov - State Department – Consular Affairs
+1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444 - Jamaica Country Information
- Cayman Island Country Information
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
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