IN THE wake of police-related shootings in the United States that have resulted in the deaths of black men, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging Bahamians to be particularly careful when travelling in the U.S.

Five police officers were killed and seven wounded on Thursday night during a protest in Dallas, Texas, over recent fatal shootings by police in Louisiana and Minnesota.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken a note of the recent tensions in some American cities over shootings of young black males by policemen," a ministry statement yesterday said.

"We wish to advise all Bahamians travelling to the U.S., but especially to the affected cities, to exercise appropriate caution generally. In particular young males are asked to exercise extreme caution in affected cities in their interactions with the police.

"Do not be confrontational and co-operate. If there is any issue please allow consular offices for The Bahamas to deal with the issues. Do not get involved in political or other demonstrations under any circumstances and avoid crowds."

Bahamian consular offices can be found in New York, Washington, Miami, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Denver, Chicago and Dallas.

"At the commencement of the Independence holiday weekend, many Bahamians will no doubt use the opportunity to travel, in particular to destinations in the United States," the ministry said.

"While it is prudent for travellers to conduct themselves in an orderly manner at all times, in light of recent episodes of involving police officers and young black men in the United States, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration wishes to advise the Bahamian public to exercise due care and attention especially when travelling to particular cities in the United States.

"Pay attention to the public notices and news announcements in the city that you are visiting. Be safe, enjoy the holiday weekend and be sensible."

By Rashad Rolle, Tribune Staff Reporter

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