An upsurge in criminal activity in New Providence has led to incidents that, while not directed at tourists, could place visitors and other innocent bystanders at risk, according to a United States Department of State report on crime in The Bahamas released earlier this week.
The Bahamas 2012 Crime and Safety Report highlighted a high profile robbery at a John Bull location last year as a scenario that could have ended in tragedy.
"In 2011, there was an armed robbery at a well-known downtown department store when many tourists were in the area," said the report. "Automatic assault weapons were used in this robbery and have been reported to be used in other robberies.
"In previous years, several daytime robberies in Nassau led to exchanges of gunfire on the busy streets."
Jasper Curry, David Collins and Jonathan Armbrister are accused of robbing the Rolex Boutique at John Bull's Bay Street store of 12 luxury watches, which have a combined value of $395,360.
That trial is ongoing but has repeatedly been delayed by legal issues.
The report also said police "generally respond quickly to hotels and establishments frequented by foreigners who are victims of crime".
However, the report said that, "There have been complaints that police are slow to respond to emergency calls in the residential areas and the 911 and 919 numbers often go unanswered."
The report also noted that, "Recent changes in the police structure have promised a more proactive approach to deter crime."
"Police have few emergency vehicles, and streets and houses are generally unmarked, inhibiting responders from locating affected residences," the Department of State said. "To ensure quick response to a residence, victims may have to go to the local police station and provide transportation to the site."

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