US issues sexual assault warning for Antigua, Guatemala

The US has travel warnings for Honduras and El Salvador but not for Guatemala. Given that we tend to lump all three northern triangle countries together when it comes to violence, it's kind of surprising. Well, while it's not a countrywide warning (not sure what it would take for that), the US has now issued a Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Sexual Assault for Antigua, Guatemala.

The U.S. Embassy Guatemala City, Guatemala reminds U.S. citizens in Guatemala of the dangers of sexual assault. It has come to our attention that at least three U.S. citizens have been the victims of sexual assault in the city of Antigua since April. We are aware of similar crimes committed against other foreign tourists in Antigua in this same time frame. In some scenarios, date rape drugs may have been used to disable the victim. Several of these crimes have taken place in bars, clubs, or after-hours clubs.

We suggest that U.S. citizens take the following precautions:

Do not go out alone at night.

Do not walk alone in isolated areas.

Use the buddy system to ensure that all members of the group are accounted for.

Do not accept drinks from strangers or casual acquaintances.

Keep an eye on all drinks in public places.

Avoid late-night or illegal after-hours clubs.

It's a very specific warning and must have US officials worried since I can't say that it is a new development. I remember hearing assaults against foreign women when I was in Antigua in 1998. Antigua is a beautiful place but there are places you do not want to be caught after dark such as Cerro de la Cruz where women have been victimized over the years. A police presence has been helpful there but I have heard that whether or not police are present depends upon the budget.

One also hears stories from ex-pats and reporters who live there where US and foreign women have been victims of assaults during home invasions and at least one kidnapping. These stories have not made the news from what I am aware.