Those who are recently married expect a loving and quiet honeymoon to celebrate that wonderful time of their life.
Not so for a couple from Texas that’s on a month-long honeymoon in Dominica.
Thieves stole from the couple twice during their stay, the latest at Batibou Beach on Tuesday.
The police have confirmed the Batibou incident.
Police PRO Inspector John Carbon told DNO that it occurred between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm and a number of personal effects were stolen.
A source close to the incident told Dominica News Online what happened.
The source said the couple is from Texas. On Tuesday they were on their way to meet a friend at the Melville Hall Airport and decided to stop at Batibou Beach for a bath.
They locked all their personal belongings in their borrowed car which was parked about 25 feet from a hammock on the beach.
The couple noticed a few local men, but no other tourists or bathers, in the area. Later, a few other groups of bathers, mostly tourist families, arrived at the beach. The local men continued to loiter in the area, the source related.
The source said a couple who the honeymooners had met before arrived and after a brief chat with them, the two couples entered the water and continued their conversation while bathing.
The honeymooning couple had hidden the key of their car in some nearby bushes without realizing that they were seen by some men loitering on the beach. While the two couples were in the water the men retrieved the keys and entered the car on the side away from the view of the bathing couples.
The source said the thieves grabbed everything from the car and left.
One of the women, not the victim, saw two men and what appeared to be a shorter teenage boy wearing a black backpack, which it turns out was stolen from the car, near the car and leaving the beach, but she thought nothing of it.
The victims realized their belongings were stolen only after the wife went to the car to check her cellphone to see if her husband had received a text from her friend leaving San Juan for Dominica.
The source said several belongings were stolen including wallets with several credit cards, a document which the man needs to re-enter the US, their personal papers and driver’s licenses, about EC$200 and US$400, the woman’s platinum wedding ring valued at over US$2000, cell phones, and the backpack with all the victims’ clothing.
The couple is scheduled to depart Dominica on Sunday. They had planned to return to Dominica and possibly even buy or build a house here. But now the woman vows that she will “never return to Dominica,” according to the source.
I am disheartened to write this to all Dominicans that were so happy to hear our items were recovered after we were robbed in July. Yes, we are the honeymoon couple that left Dominica with a sense of peace after that frustrating ordeal! My husband and I were told that we could not take our items (including my ring) when we left Dominica, as the police needed the items as evidence for the case against the suspects (which by the way were only fined with a slap on the hand!) We were reluctant to leave the items (especially my ring), but was reassured that everything would be mailed the following week to the U.S. I was anxious to have my ring on my finger again, but once we received the package my ring was not there. Yes, thieves targeted us AGAIN (third time)!!!!! This time we weren’t even in Dominica! Everything was in the box except that ring, (the only item that we cared about)! There was negligence on the part of the Dominican police and the company they asked to ship it. Right now it’s a “he said, she said” as to what happened before and during shipment to the States. First of all, why would anyone ship a ring the way the police did? Come on????????? I thought people there on the island would want to know that our nightmare has not ended due to greedy, dishonest people that saw an opportunity to take from others. At this point, we are unsure where the ring was stolen but authorities and the shipper are aggressively investigating our case. We are devastated by this, yet once again!!!!
My husband and I would like everyone to know that as of Friday (July 26th), our items have been recovered that were stolen. Not important to go into details, but wanted the police of Dominica (also) to know that we are grateful for the investigation/apprehension and arrest that you have made in this case. At this time, we are preparing to leave the island and time did not permit thanking everyone personally involved with spreading the word in hopes that the suspects were caught. We are departing today and hope one day to return to the island of Dominica with a “fresh start.” Also, thanks for the posts/comments on this website. It took our minds off of the situation for moments while we were attempting to make a recovery of our items. We are now HAPPY HONEYMOONERS again, leaving the island with a sense of resolve and peace. Thank you, Dominica!!!!!!
DNO …. this news need to be a headline in itself. Good news as well as bad should be highlighted
these idiots just spoiling the country name… they need to start getting some bullets in there legs and arms so they can start finding hard work to do instead of stealing
Hon. Minister of Tourism, Ian Douglas, this is obviously of concern to you. You are aware of the financial benefit of tourism to the island. What are your plans of ensuring that tourists are not attacked and robbed in Dominica, that their stay will be an enjoyable one? The saying, “A satisfied customer/client is advertisement and additional business.” No further explanation is required.
People just have to use common sense when they are in a strange place and stop being naive.
God dam shame!!!SHAME.I too would want to comeback.
However, Crazy-i would not have thought to hide my keys in the bushes, are you mad?.
Body key tags and waterproof document cases which can be hung around your necks or tied onto your waist are easily accessible as a travel accessory from any well known shops and in victims cases from Walmart USA.
I am totally disgusted with peoples behavior and in which those facety robbers.
Those people needs to get a life.
Hi i have been awaiting for some forum like this to voice my views on issues like such for quite a while now.. i have visited this lovely island countless times and have noticed alot which can and have brought alot of negative vibes to ur country. one of the MAIN things are the DARK TINTED vehicles that drive by all the time, no one knows who is driving these vehicles, EVEN THE TAXI’S ARE DARKLY TINTED,, From my country’s point of view dark vehicles are for security reasons and not for everyone but we visit areas on the island and my God this really needs to be looked into. my friends and i have planned to write to the commissioner of police because they are really scared of going back to the island.. my friends and i noticed a car coming towards us and then it finally stopped just to know it was a woman driving, wow what is there to hide?, arent the country being promoted as a tourist destination?, why do the vehicles have to be so dark?, wind screens are totally tinted etc etc, even rented vehicles are tinted. friends of mine being saying that and i have seen for myself. please please the people in the position to adress should do something about it NOW….. there are no signs on the roads for direction, it look like no one cares maybe the country dont need any visitors, the locals would know there where about but visitors dont… WHY ARE THE PEOPLE OF THIS LOVELY COUNTRY HELPING TO TAKE IT DOWN?.. No decent place to seat and listen to some lovely music or play a game or whatever, if ure not local its like youre left out,, WHEN IS SOMETHING GOING TO BE DONE ABOUT THESE THINGS?, I am a woman too and it hurts to see the amount of young women begging inn smart ways,, wow.. i write because i love the nature, i love the country but if these simple things amoung other things dont change or get addressed this island is going to go to waste. thanks for allowing me the opportunity to express myself. see you when it gets better,, HOPEFULLY.
stupppppesss…you shouldve waiting another millenia to post your comment..DARK TINTED WINDOWS that burning you pal? stuuuuuuuuuuuuupes!
that one bound to go school behind the black board to reply like that.
yes man, those dark tinted vehicles give me the creeps. And isn’t that dangerous for the police too? You never know who or what is hiding in there. Someone could be pointing a gun at you! They should ban this gangster style !
I have tinted windows and my reason for this is the SUN
When is Dominica going to take Tourism and Crime seriously? What will it take for us to realize that tourism is our bread and butter now? When will we realize that Dominica is the new “St. Maarten, St. Barths etc.” Flocks of people are wanting to come to the “Nature Isle”. There is money to be made if we use our head and treat the people right. When will the Government step in. If you have a problem then fix it! When will the citizens stop harboring there criminals. They are your sons, boyfriends and husbands. You know who they are. Report them! We better start taking our future seriously or else if you think you are suffering now. Just wait!
I understand their situation, except that my belongings were stolen on the airport in St.Lucia( VG) my new Samsung galaxy 3 and my US plus ec. And LIAT yet to respond, but I know for certain they won’t be getting a dime from me ever again. If I want go to back to Dominica is either I walk, swim, or stay in America where I am. I will go to Trinidad but as long as liat is in service awa par la.
As reported by “http://www.disastercenter.com/crime/txcrime.htm”
here is the crime list for Texas in the year 2011:
Violent: 104,873
Property: 891,499
Murder: 1,126
Forcible Rape: 7,439
Robbery: 28,395
Aggravated assault: 67,913
Burglary: 215,223
Larceny-Theft: 612,938
Vehicle Theft: 63,338
Nonetheless, I still think Texas is a wonderful place.
Texas does not need puny Dominican Dollars to survive. Dominica on the other hand needs American Dollars to make a dent in the economy. Think before you write.
The topic at hand is about ‘OUR BEAUTIFUL DOMINICA’ and not Texas. We all love our country and do not want our country’s reputation to go down the drain.
The issue is not about Dominica or Texas. The issue is that these tourists from Texas were wrong to be so careless. There are and will continue to be thieves everywhere, yet they are threatening to give Dominica a bad name because of there lack of prudence.
you cannot compare Dominica with a state in America state… Dunce cyat!!!!
Crimes reported in TEXAS in 2011 Per http://www.disastercenter.com
25,674,681 996,372 Violent:104,873
Property:891,499
Murder:1,126
Forcible rape:7,439
Robbery:28,395
Aggravated assault:67,913
Burglary:215,223
Larceny-theft:612,938
Vehicle theft:63,338
what this have to do with our beautiful Island Texas is not our sister Island or brother Island so don’t bring this up at all is you causing or encouraging nonsense in DA what is happening in other country have to do with us as we are so beautiful we don’t follow other country corruption so please what your eyes experience in other don’t come and compare in DA God bless our DA
The issue is not about Dominica or Texas. The issue is that these tourists from Texas were wrong to be so careless. There are and will continue to be thieves everywhere, yet they are threatening to give Dominica a bad name because of there lack of prudence.
where is a police patrol in the area? My God simple put signs saying BATHE AT YOUR OWN RISK! wait till an American get kill and Dominica will feel the effect.
my take on that take the money and leave the people things alone i sure is throw they throw them away because they have no use for them.
…you condone stealing African Queen? You are just as bad.
Some of the Police are afraid to confront the suspects because they do not have confidence in themselves
Righteous
When the community talk to the Police and the police do nothing or seem to be doing something and do nothing, this is pure BS.
The Police must win the trust of the people.
The worst hurricane of this millenium is hurricane Skerrit. WISH I NEVER SEE ONE AGAIN.
I WOULD RATHER DIE FIRST.
Having been to Dominica many times, we were warned not to go to Batibou Beach on our last visit. If something is not done about the wave of crimes, NO ONE will be visiting the island and that is cause for shame.
indeed it is!
It is a disgrace that in 2013 after being an agricultural country from thy kingdom come and investing billions by now in tourism that implementing standards and sustaining them is a challenge and for some reason the shabbier the tourism product the more we say it’s ‘Dominica’.
It is hard not to feel angry about these situations. Crime is everywhere but this system where people dress in uniforms, heels, jacket, tie, weave up and make-up, get paid and at the end of it all nothing is happening, nobody is on the ground getting anything done, everybody in big fancy ride dark-up and all you hear is training, talk, speech and conference is aaaarrrrggghhhhh!!!! frustrating and sickening! This darn country needs a shake-up and there are a lot of wicked muffers living in it just cashing checks. Some of them on all board!
When i see comments like this…i just gotta smile and shake my head!!!
I think we should start cutting off the hands of those people when they are cough, GET SOME DAM WORK TO DAM GO MAN leave other people stuff alone man shit
I in that! so we know that most one arm men in da are thieves. That is so damaging to the country, Greed and envy those kind of people
why not set up security or police patrol…they getting paid to secure ppl on the island so why not two or three police at the beach in certain areas from about 7am to 6pm and they return to their base after the day is over…i mean how much more robberies and rapes are to be done so that they do something about it….come on step up its our country not theirs so we have to protect them so they can feel at ease and come back
How about one officer at each beach…each house?? Better yet, why don’t we assign an officer to each and every person in D/a…
You stupid ?
Long time ago it was suggested to put guard houses on the beautiful secluded beaches during the day so that the tourists would have a place to see, enjoy, tell their friends.. But no, Govt says it would do no good, the only reason it would not make an improvement is that the drug runners and thieves would get caught. Who runs this Island of Beauty and Thievery? Don’t count on Tourism. I could never in good faith send a friend there anymore. Before 2000 it was the best place on earth, better than disneyland…..
since the police will not get involved,the tourist should report the incident to the tv stations when they get to texas.
I dont think you are a dominican
a Dominican who is disgusted by the lack of laws and morals. Such potential lost.
what good would it do?
Why not setup a sting operation and when the thieves are stealing they should be shot in the legs several times . This will send out a clear message.
At least give the people teir wedding ring , there is nothing u can do with it, God is looking. Dat is so sad, police need to pick up fellas along bense go back. Its a shame, and the police all they do is drive
Is this how we want to grow tourism? Skerrit drives around, alway heavily protected by his armed bodyguards, which tells me he does not trust his own people. That is the clear message. Should foreign tourists trust us more than our own Prime Minister? If he needs protection what about the tourists, the geese that lay the golden eggs?
all head of state and even the pope have bodyguards.so this is nonesense you talking about the man not trusting his people.on the other hand this is another sad day for tourisme in dominica
Is nonsense I’m talking? So how come I never saw Pierre Charles like that? Walking around without fear amongst his own people. Even the British P.M. and mayor of London go to work on a bicycle. No, my friend, that thing with Skerrit is fear and paranoia. Either that or he is so full of himself his head is about to explode. After all, in a small country like ours where everybody knows everybody else. Malgraysa
@sphinx…is not nonsense di person talking…even if it being done in other countries…is it necessary here?…skerrit has the most seats won ever in dominica and still requires the most security ever…where the security is needed to protect our poeple going to the beach as well as tourist visiting does not exist…our priorities are totally screwed up
A tourist just needs to pound one thief’s head with a stone/rock and see how they will start respecting people’s properties. Why don’t they attack the locals?
I am so sorry to hear about this couple’s plight,the last thing you need whilst on holiday is for someone to take all your belongings and leave you in the lurch.
what people are not aware of is the fact that because you are tourist does not mean that you have money most people buy now and pay later (credit Card)so folks being on vacation does not mean money.
In terms of credibility and theft every nation, race creed and colour steals and texas is not exempt, if that is going tyo stop someone from moving to a country them let them stay in texas where it is crime free.
I did say that I am sorry for their loss they have every right to enjoy themselves on the nature Isle.
Shame on the locals who carried out such a nasty piece of work
I agree with this comment 100%. I am from New York and I will still move to Dominica when I retire in 2020. I think the couple was not smart to leave the key in the bushes. Take it with you to your beach towel – and watch it!
At the end of the day, you cannot blame the tourist. Stealing is wrong and the blam lies with the lazy a men who decided to steal from them.
they shouldnt have to worry about leavin gtheir items “locked up”
this is not the Dominica i grew up in. Guess what ti says?
Dominicans have changed. Every time all you read is tourist getting attacked, killed, stolen from etc.
this needs to stop.
Condem the perps but do not blame victims. it’s like saying to a rape victim; if you hadnt gone that way, if you hadn’t worn that dress. this mentality is SICK!
i agree with you to a certain extent…but what you must remember is we as a small nation and are far more dependent on them than they are on us…so we cannot take that approach…we MUST make sure that no matter where someone comes from and what the status of the crime situation where they live, when they come here they are safe…people may come here just to escape the environment we talking about and we must capitalize on that so they keep coming…and even MORE SO we go to those beaches too..and get robbed…so we must make sure that the taxes we are paying are being used to protect us and our families….
I feel sorry for the couple. Think of all your personal effects, important documents and money stolen.
Thieves will target visitors. They are aware that they have money and carry it with them. They do not care and do not have a conscience and will not think twice to carry out their evil activities.
The police should make every effort to catch those thieves and incarcerate them.
The Tourist Board in Dominica should make every effort to issue relevant information to hotels and restaurants; wherever tourists may frequent during their stay, to visit, eat and sleep.
The tourists must be protected. Otherwise Dominica will pay a dear price of loss of tourism, business and dollars. These owners should be concerned.
Due to what occurred to them, the tourists will leave Dominica with a bitter feeling. When they return home they will spread their bad experience to others who in turn will do likewise.
I realize that the authorities would not want to scare tourists. However, the tourists should be informed of these matters, that wherever they travel in D/ca to be careful of their surroundings and be on the alert.
I wish the police authorities would make note of this:
First of all police should patrol the dangerous areas where it is known that criminal activities occurred. There should be some sort of security presence in those areas where criminals are known to frequent and prey on the tourists.
When tourists arrive in Dominica, they should be given relevant safety directives.
They should also be informed of the nearest Police Station and given its address and telephone number.
Tourists should be careful where they go to bathe especially if it is an isolated area.
They should keep their keys, blackberry and cellular close at hand; within reach.
Should they observe people loitering in the area, they should be suspicious and quietly telephone the Police Station.
If this was done the police could have gone to the area, questioned the men and asked them to leave. Those men had no business there. They knew what their plans were.
If thieves or rapists knew police patrolled the area, they would not dare venture in that area.
This is one theft which should never have occurred in that area, not after the rape and thefts which were previously committed in that same area.
The PM, DPP, Chief of Police, Minister of Tourism and the Tourist Board authority must consider how to protect tourists when in Dominica. The country, its economy and nationals will suffer for it. Therefore get cracking. If something is not drastically done and soon, as news get around, Dominica can eventually say goodbye to tourism. Let there be less talk and more action for the protection of tourists and tourism which is of great benefit to the economy of Dominica.
I love that last little bit. One isolated incident shouldn’t tarnish the reputation of the island.
Unfortunately, it’s not “one isolated incident”. The crimes against visitors are numerous and often violent. It will only take one tourist’s death for Dominica to lose the very few visitors it gets.
Batibou should be renamed, “Beach from Hell” simply cannot believe there is another incident at Batibou beach, what of the police patrol?
I am a Dominican who lives in Florida, I am a proud Dominican, But I will have to say I’m so ashamed that we as Dominican,seat there and say that we do not have no Job for the young kids that have completed school and in order for anyone on the Island to have any kind of life it has to come from the people who visit the Island. Yes this thing should be posted so Dominican like myself will know to also be careful with my own native people when i visit home myself.
I hope ALL the Tourist stop coming to Dominica…who vex I say that too damn bad. This kind of thing keep happening over and over and the authorities eh doing one s*h** about it. Such a shame
Oh boy….such a great move for the Tourist Industry and Dominica. Wutlyss SOB”s
Come on, that just plain wickedness. What are they going to do with the people’s credit cards and other documents? I agree with the honeymooners by saying that they will not return. I wouldn’t return to a place like that
On behalf of my husband, I would like to acknowledge all who shared comments about our unfortunate experience that happened at Batibou Beach yesterday, and say thanks for your concern. My husband has been here five (yes five) times to the island and I’ve been here twice.We are always careful. The thieves clearly watched every move we made and there were other people on the beach at the time we were. We CHOSE Dominica as our honeymoon destination, not because it is CHEAP to fly here. We feel that instead of security being in the markets (where we clearly need food and glad to pay for it), the Government should position security at tourist destinations on the island so we (and others) can relax and enjoy what Dominica has to offer. During our honeymoon, we have had a friend and relative (that have never been here before) visit us because we have spoken positively about the Dominican people and how they embrace tourists who visit.
This is not a big island and thieves can not hide and the police know who the bad guys are.Please bring them to justice where they belong. You have the manpower and know the island. NO EXCUSES!!! GOVERNMENT OF DOMINICA, HEAR ME LOUD AND CLEAR: The people of Dominca will suffer if there is a lack of tourism and your have just lost two tourists that were on your side till yesterday!!!!!
I am sorry about your lost. Let’s not blame all of this lovely Island because of a couple of lowlife acts. I live in the UK and there are lots of crime there everyday , but that doesn’t stop all sorts of tourist from coming there. Whenever I travel on vacation I am always very vigilant and is always aware of my surroundings as we are living in an changing world and even the small islands have their share of issues as well. Once again I am very sorry for your lost and I hope the police will be able to retrieve all your belongings . Have a safe flight back home..God Bless you and God Bless Dominica ….
“loss”, not “lost”. grammar pls.
I feel very sorry that this happened to you. I am also thankful you were not harmed. I have been to Dominica twice now. We really believe that Dominica is one of the most beautiful places we have ever been to in the World. My wife and I spent many days at Batibou fortunately without incident. Two weeks after we left a German couple was assaulted and robbed at this beach. They were also taken to the ATM machine in Calibishie to get money. Many other incidents have occurred on this beach, including the rape. It is widely known by the police and others that this happens here. Something needs to be done. The thieves that stole your items are known by their neighbors. Those people should come forward and let the Authorities know who did this. We own property on the island and would love to retire in Dominica, but the many incidents really are making us rethink our decision on investing here. We are thinking about bringing our friends to Dominica in 2014 for a vacation, but the thought of brining them to a place where an incident like this, or even worse could happen to them will make us think twice about returning, at least until somoene steps up, like many other countries have and put tourist police around the island. Dominica is a very special place that has the potential for a booming tourist industry. No other country in the Caribbean is like Dominica. The potential to develop a tourist industry that is geared toward the natural beauty of the island and accomodations that are environmentally friendly should be embraced by everyone, as this will help the economy in a very positive way. Dominica, please stand up to these bad people who commit such terrible acts. Your future depends on it.
I am so sorry for that unfortunate experience you had in Dominica. Please don’t let some low life fools prevent you from visiting again. There are lots of very nice people all over the island who are very helpful. And, if the police officials know who the thieves are, they will be caught
Quite frankly that beach should have a sign saying “out of bounds to tourists”, since it is too risky for tourist being on this isolated beach.
I not coming to live in Dominica, no way! Will spend my retirement where I am. These people are bringing curses on the island. And those voler that covering that encourAging those things. God will deal with them. Change my mind
To the thieves who did that mischievous act, may I remind you that “Thou shall not steal”–this is the Law of God Almighty of Spirit and Holiness in Love–not man.
I am sure that you mischievously did this crime; and so, you may think that you have gotten away with it but not so fast–God will always have victory against wickedness and the one who guided you minds to do this wicked thing!
God saw what you did was wrong, for it was against His Law–that is a sin in His opinion, and the wages of sin is death.
You will have your eternal rewards–I sure will not want to share it with you– living to regret the day on which you did that mischief is part of that reward.
I suggest that you confess your crime to authourity and to turn up the things which do not belong to you, in Jesus Christ there is
forgiveness
I appreciate your comment, but spouting out scriptures and what not is not going to deter these scumbags, They need to be locked up where they cannot steal anymore from anyone. When people are so evil to where they can steal from tourists/islanders and feel no way about it, they are just that EVIL. And they MUST be punished!!
I won’t take my family near that place after what happen to that young girl and her family.There’s crime all over but we were a loving and peaceful nation but we are no longer that way,am extremely careful when I visit.
The authorities only care about the bay front and they leave the other sites to danger
It is sad that this happened and continues to happen to some tourists who behave here in ways they would never behave in their own home town or city.
The tourist office will continue to caution tourists that parking in certain places may be legal, but as in most parking lots in the rest of the world, you may “park at your own risk and we are not responsible for theft or damage to vehicles or contents”.
No matter where you go, you should always exercise caution and never let your guard down.
Honestly, we talk about the police, the police, the police. What about the community? The community has to step up and play a role in stopping these things. Someone in the community know who the perps are; this can easily be handle by community policing. The community must work more with the police and stop blaming everything on the police when people in the communities know the thieves but will not report them to the police. Nous Ke hele soukou le I wive nous.
Not only that, but somebody in the community already accepted those people wedding rings and give them voleh little change.
Time to bring back de catonine
Douglas family land….Ian its a shame….boy
stiffer punishment is needed for theft.
Where in Dominica is that beach ? Can somebody enlighten me please
on the outskirt of Calibishie.
Well done people, give yourself a pat on the shoulder
Shame Shame Shame embarrassment. Government, WAKE UP
WTF is wrong with these A-holes
Be careful what allu wish for.
Priorities my brother. The Govt must really set up tourism police or a branch that deals with tourists. We know all them thief in the community; they are our brothers, cousins dads and friends.Si I pa ni soutiweh I pa ni voleh!
Or the hotel and tourism board in that area set up security system on those beaches in the area.
Priorities my brother. The Govt must really set up tourism police or a branch that deals with tourists. We know all them thief in the community; they are our brothers, cousins dads and friends.Si I pa ni soutiweh I pa ni voleh!
Security cameras,cos police never see anything.
I don’t condone the robbery but, who the heck takes all these personal belongings to a beach? Did they not have a hotel room to safely lock up their stuff? Sounds like a set up to me, papa! Allu can say whatever allu want but that does not make for an argument.
Why doesnt the government use the free money there giving out in red clinic every week, to hire security to patrol the beach?
The police need to do a set up there. Put a bomb in a bag for them voleh.
A thief thinks its not big thing, man. is just things I getting for free. Insurance will pay for that. I am not hurting anybody.
WHere in Dominica is that beach ? Can somebody enlighten me please!
why steal from the tourist that’s why they will stop coming to dominica in the future
Action should be taken to discourage and reduce stealing. Please don’t suggest that we locals are the only one who should be robbed.
I don’t think the person meant that us Dominicans should be robbed at all, They were saying it is extra detrimental to steal from tourists, since it will reduce income from the tourism industry.
Why the tourists stupid enough to leave their personal belongings in a parked car at the beach, when they had a hotel room. Stupid tourists and vouler youths make a great combination! They were not going to buy anything or settle anywhere, they are bluffing.
It’s exactly this kind of warped logic that is troubling the country. WHen you take what does not belong to you it is STEALING. Period!!
why for the love of this land cant these theives leave people alone?
these are the kinds of people we need to clamp down on and hard.
police hope u are listening. every day allu training people. shame shame shame
What did they take? “personal effects?” So the thieves stealing effects too? well look Batibou.
This is an unfortunate experience. Theft is a problem EVERYWHERE. My vehicle has been robbed in New York City, Toronto, Ottawa… is that really a reason for not revisiting? Why should Dominica be the exception?
Why are you comparing Dominica to a first world country like America??? THAT is the point genius, the majority of the world doesn’t HAVE to come to little old Dominica if they don’t have to, so when they do come and sh*t like this happens it is extremely detrimental to us as a tiny developing country in the Caribbean. Use your head nuh
There is theft everywhere, but per capita, Dominica is a safe place with very little murder, kidnapping, etc. I just had a wonderful vacation there; don’t be discouraged, but I do hope the thieves are punished.
Isnt it the same beach government promised to patrol 24 -7
I don’t know is it?
I am not supporting what the thieves did but why are the tourist behaving like this type of crimes only happens in Dominica.Saying they change their mind about building heree.So where they live don’t have crime?
Man stop talking garbage.For months the wicked government promised to have security on this very beach. Guess What? They are too busy grabbing. That’s why they cannot do that.
The tourist is right to behave in this manner. I support them all.
SHAME ON THIS GOVERNMENT AND THE POLICE,( they are the same),for not being to do the job they were mandated to do
yes but we do not need these thieves in society,be real.
I guess you don’t know how it feels my friend, I guess you don’t know.
The difference is if you live or are from a particular place then you know where it’s safe and where it’s not. And, for those unsafe places, you stay away from. But when you’re visiting someplace, especially for the first time, you don’t have that knowledge and especially when you’re celebrating a joyous occassion, getting robbed is just not part of the experience you were looking for. If I visited someplace and was robbed, I probably wouldn’t return either, regardless of where it was. I would do like a do at home….STAY AWAY!
Regardless of where you are in the world and personal possessions are stolen from you, you would say the same thing. Yes there is crime everywhere including Texas but when one is violated like this that type of reaction is common.
Patriotic at hear but wrong is wrong.
Stupes. That’s hardly the point is it??? When you are a VICTIM of crime, you speak from a different view point?
exactly… americans make me vex acting like america is not one of the most violent places in the world.
Any where you visit and these things happen to you, you never want to go back to that place again. come on be real
You deserve to be called some stupid type of name.
You are really stupes. Does it have to be explained to you that they were on their honeymoon and never expected, in Dominica, this would have happened to them? They must have been given good reviews of Dominica why they chose Dominica to honeymoon and considered living and purchasing property in D/ca. Here is an investment lost including prospective employment for nationals.
I ask you how could you have made such a silly comment unless you have no sense whatsoever? Always put yourself in the other person’s shoes. If it were you what would you say and do? Grin and bear it?
u people need to stop making excuses for criminals in Dominica.. yes there is crime all over, but Dominica should be different.. we should be able to sell our tourism product on peace of mind.. you al are too Damn lazy and like what people have..
Jack, that is exactly why they were planning to come to Dominica because there is crime where they come from. The impression they got is that Dominica is a safe haven from all the crime they are used to but now, crime for crime best they remain where they are.
The Police spend too much time in the Police station doing nothing of importance.
You cannot get information if you dont leave the station.
What happened to police patrols? mobile or foot.
The PM.gave them vehicles and this is what they are for. It is not only to investigate. It is also to deter crime. You cannot sit and wait for information to come to you all the time.
You also have to seek to get the info.
While the thieves are totally wrong; i put some blame on the Police as well.
The sit and wait too much.
Go out and meet the people.
Please use what you have to get what you want.
MR. Carbon, please shuffle them asap.
YO PAR BON.
This is one thing that will certainly cripple the tourism industry.
(DON’T MESS WITH TEXAS.)
Ian! Please take a serious look at that.
It’s falling right at your feet.
HEADS UP.
Evidence is being destroyed on police property, where the police officers are suppose to be 24 -7, is at Batibou all you want them to go? Maybe if they hear something illegal is coming in they will rush to get there.
Did you say Ian? The same Ian Skerrit commands to sings “We Shall Not Be Moved”? Well you joking man.
The police as a failed institution on island does not surprise me. Remember when a country is a failed country, all institutions are dysfunctional, and Dominica under Skerrit and his cabal is one such country.
I agree. They should be out on patrol. Probably only one should remain at the Police Station, if it is a small one.
Ian take note???? Are you kidding me? what does this man know about tourism????? if this is not the worst appointment of a square peg in a round hole then i DON’T know what is
And despite how everyone feels, we believe this is good news to share with the world to make everyone turn against us and more harm to the island. Does every crime and every story providing all these fine details have to make a news item and particularly on the internet where we are being monitored so closely? The authorities could investivate without it being on line.
I absolutely agree.
This is exactly the news we need to share in order to alert future tourists.
Everyone is NOT going to turn against us, as a matter of fact, it is all good for BOTH the tourists and our Island. AWARENESS.
Yes, every crime and every story detailing CRIME should be published, especially on the internet. WE DO NOT NEED ANY MORE VICTIMS. What type of investigation are the authorities doing anyway? I read the couple lost everything including their travel documents. If investigation is done quickly and effectively the thieves should be caught by days’ end. THE CREDIT CARD IS AN EXCELLENT CATCH.
WHY ARE WE SUBJECT TO THIS TYPE OF ATTENTION?
This is so predictable. There’s always someone there to find a problem with the exposing of serious problems, instead of discussing the real issues. This is news. Of course they have to report it, and that’s not the problem. The problem is the crime, and the fact that adequate security is not provided on the island to keep vulnerable tourists and visitors safe. That’s not good for citizens either.
And what makes you think that not publishing it would keep others around the world from knowing about such problems? Don’t you think people who visit talk to people they know when they get home? Don’t you know that countries keep fact sheets on other countries to inform their citizens of the “fine details” of countries’ crime rates, and other statistics? This is a self-destructive mentality that keeps DA from moving forward.
this can off thing happen allover the world not only dominica see how st maarten so small an every day that happen so is not only dominica
News spread like wild fire and faster than lightning could flash. Another bad name for Dominica.
It is news and not good news. Do you expect the couple who lost so much and on their honeymoon to keep quiet? They should send it all over the world, on the Internet. Know that they will do it. They will also report it to the travel agency whom they booked their trip with. This is not good for Dominica. Pray for Dominica. Cry for it too.
Are you residing in a fool’s paradise? We are in the 21st century, the year 2013. The Internet accords no privacy. Everything is on the Internet, even your name. If you reside overseas, check the Internet for certain information about you. You did not put it there. Those authorities did. This is another matter about the Internet I detest.
Why are tourist still going to Batibou beach? This is a direct reflection from ministry of tourism and the lack of protection for tourist who visit the Island. This is a dangerous location and time after time tourist are being robbed there. Why isn’t something being done about this. OR why don’t we tell tourists to come at their own risk.
They do right, never to return. Why would a human being return to such. Instead of telling their friends of how beautiful Dominica is, they will be telling them to stay away.
Unless we start running this country as if we care, we will never advance. We will always be in a State of whatever, whenever and however.
You asked, “Why are tourists still going to Batibou beach?” I think because this beach was recommended, and they are seeking PRIVACY.
I agree that this is a direct reflection of how the ministry of tourism protects its tourists visiting the Island. Whether this beach, or any beach for that matter, is in a dangerous location, EVERY BEACH SHOULD HAVE PATROL. We cannot tell tourists to come at their own risk, our tourism industry SHOULD PROTECT THEM, AT ALL COST.
If tourists are not FOREWARNED more will be robbed. I think that NO ONE should go to any beach without some type of PROTECTION. Thieves DO NOT rob just tourists, they rob their own too. I would not discourage them from returning, they just need to be a little MORE CAREFUL.
You better believe they will share their experience with their friends, both of how beautiful Dominica is and their experience on theft.
I also agree that “Unless we start running this country as if we care, we will never advance. We will always be in a State of whatever, whenever and however.”
If the police are aware of criminal activities in that area, they should patrol it. This directive should also come from the Minister of Tourism.
Management of the hotel where they stayed should have warned them about safe and dangerous bathing spots in Dominica. Better to be safe than sorry.
one more time , till ???????
there has been scheduled a security training of 8 volunteers at the Morne Bruce Police training school
this was asked by the Calibishie Tourism Center since years.but for X reasons, the training had been postponed to an other date !!!!VOILA !!!!
Bense fellas that do that.
I’m guessing you are from Bense…so do your civic duty and point them out the authorities so that these people can have their property returned to them ASAP and they can go home.
We are not pointing any fingers; however, we have to agree that the thieves DO NOT LIVE FAR from the beach. They are on the watch.
How u know is Bense fellas? Am I to assume you were with them or you just talking crap, as usual?
If you know who REPORT them. And if is u feeling big behind computer and want to say things that don’t have proof THEN SHUT THE HELL UP!!!!!! You don’t need to come on here and say who do it, tell it to people who can do something. Why some Dominicans so sot nuh
no morals… the funny thing is the people doing this nonsense don’t even need to steal to fill their bellies. they just voleur!
Bad, wicked ones.
before they head back home they should pass Guadeloupe and visit an obeah man… fix up their business for them
Why Guadeloupe, I thought Dominica had them too.
I heard they could show them who did it and could wreck vengeance on those heartless thieves. Probably they could find someone in Santo Domingo. These men will go to Hell.
very sad this will affect the tourism industry that is trying to grow,where is the police and pm to speak out on the radio about this issue,young men your damaging your country.
THEY DO NOT CARE. They blame Roosevelt and unemployment.
This is so sad.Why cant every one on the island flush their toliets together and sink that islane.
All which must be done is to eradicate crimes and the judges/magistrates must not grant some of them bail and lenient sentences. Therein lies part of the problem. Those men, a few or all could have been out on parole. Or they may be thieves who have not yet been caught. Their day is coming.
Im sure the perpetrators will only get a slap on the wrist.
Only in DA
I think that when the thieves are CAUGHT, the VICTIMS should press charges aside from the charges brought upon them by the State Attorney’s Office.
When the police catch them they need to skin them by their bools.
Then the judge will give them bail and a hand shake,.. High court letting with 30 kilos of cocaine out of jail on bail in days,. this is the problem, the entire system is completely out of sync, the court system is appearing more wacky than wings on a polka dotted pig.
sad
these men should be publicly whipped because they have brought public SHAME to dominica
Amen to that, our punishment for crime to TOO WEAK in D/A. How we expect the crime to stop when the criminals know full well they going to get off scot free, damn shame!!!!
What a shame.. These young thieves should have their hands cut off! for bringing bad light to Dominica(needless to say this happens everywhere else, Dominica is too small for the BS) .. Instead of showing tourists a good time and motivating them to revisit and bring money into the country, these fools drew them away along with the people whom they may have recommended the beauty of Dominica to…
that sucks
How many robberies need to happen at Batibou before someone within the government WAKES UP and realizes maybe it is time to have some POLICE PRESENCE in that spot? Ever hear of a sting operation? wake up wake up wake up police. I have read 101+ robbery stories that have happened at Batibou Beach and remember a very young French tourist who was raped in the same spot. Killing off all the tourism at an alarming pace, saddening to watch as Dominica downward spirals out of control.
I do remember the Prime Minister ordered police presence on the beach after the teen girl was raped! My question is was it done and if it was how long did it last?
Maybe they are waiting to PROTECT AFTER EACH CRIME, by that time it is TOO LATE.
The PM must look into this. If the police failed to comply which is their duty as mandated by the PM, they should be dismissed. I do think there should be police patrol from dawn to dusk or from approximately 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, 7 days a week. Visitors should be informed about it.
Yours is one of the most sensible comments I’ve read on DNO. How difficult or expensive can it be implement simple measures to guard against crimes against tourists that is damaging to the entire image of the country. Amd the director of tourism is talking about increasing tourist arrival???
Thanks Enquirer, I appreciate the kind words. I 100% agree, the leaders appear to not understand you can’t grow tourism when crimes levels are excessive and NOTHING is being done to reduce crime. I want to read a story up here on DNO about sting operations in effect in regards to all these tourist robberies, give me some news that makes it “appear” like the government actually cares!! It is like the leaders do not realize these tourists go home and tell all their friends and family!!! And those friends and family tell their friends,.. BAD NEWS spreads faster than wild fire. I would love to run this country myself, Dominica is really an awesome island in regards to its natural state,.. so much can be done, while so little has been done.
They do not realize that the Island would be MORE PROFITABLE is there was LESS CRIME. I have NEVER known Police Officers patrolling unless they are called out to a crime scene. They always sit behind the desk, on the veranda, or at the domino table.
So far!
Crime against tourists should be given special attention — not because they are better or special, but because that kind of crime affects the country as a whole, more so than crimes against other citizens.
Oh My gosh! That is such a shame.. These criminals do realize how badly they are hurting Dominica and themselves when they perpetrate such ridiculous crimes against potential investors.. It is very sad to read this story. My heart goes out the this couple. I can’t imagine having to deal with something like this on my honeymoon!
Of course they will never return. And they will tell this story to all the people they know, who might have come to Dominica for a visit.
Batibou has become notorious for this and worse.
I think tourists should NO LONGER GO TO BATIBOU BEACH. The boys in that area are either RAPISTS or THIEVES. Such a nice beach, so secluded.
I apologize to these couples on behalf of the good people of Dominica. This minority group, criminals, are destroying the country. The punishment for stealing needs to be stiffer! These crimes have ripple effects – that couple maybe come here because of their fiend, now, they will not be returning and any friends or unrelated people who may read their review my not visit. Additionally, I think that beach needs to be closed, and clear WARNINGS should be in place. Unless this crimes get under control, I will not be encouraging my foreign friends to visit the island – I always tell them about the increased crime rate in the Caribbean as a whole, and they should never let their guards down, if they travel there.
you are right but unfortunately its wishful thinking…Dominica is a country where guys caught with 30kg of cocaine or policeman running illegal guns supply can easily walk away on bail in 3-4 days…if serious crimes are nothing in the eyes of the judges and policy-makers..what approach would be taken in case of some tourists? Since the attack on poor french family or wonderful folks in the hotel..what really changed? answer is nothing..nobody cares…complete indifference and apathy to make something to change Dominica to normal place..
What do you mean by “unless these crimes get under control you will not encourage your foreign friends to visit the island, and that you always tell them about the increased crime rate in the Caribbean, as a whole”?
I agree that they should never let their guards down, if they travel to the Caribbean, but they should never let their guards down regardless to where they travel throughout the Universe.
Dominica/the Caribbean is NOT the ONLY CRIME INFESTED PLACE(S). Where have you been? ASLEEP?
Next Level!!!!!!!!!!
yes, i’m sure they always leave their belongings in their car in TX and of course, their wedding ring, being that they’re newlyweds and all.
oh and especially when they’re in TX, they put their keys in the bushes for safety.
give me a break–who does that? this sounds like made up propaganda against Dominica.
not that
I saw people going to escalier tete-chien with passports and creditcards !
and robbed , of course!
Are u one of the?
I agree with your post. By no means am i condoning these thieves behavior; however if the couple was in Texas or any tourist destination in the US they would not leave their valuable in their car; much less leave your keys to your vehicle near the vehicle. They share as much responsibility for the theft. If you don’t value your belonging why would you think others should value yours? Secondly if they were in the US and some and notice people lurking around they would be overly conscious about leaving valuable unattended why not display the same consciousness when you are in a different country. It’s time for these naive tourist to stop facilitating their own robbery as well as it is time for our youth and young men to be responsible in their future. Get a job.
@ i’m not buying it; I feel the same way too!I don’t condone the robbery but, who the heck takes all these personal belongings to a beach? Did they not have a hotel room to safely lock up their stuff? Sounds like a set up to me, papa! Allu can say whatever allu want but that does not make for an argument.
YEs, if one is on the beach where do you expect them to leave their belongings? Take it into the water. Ebeh look sot!
I agree with you. Do they have a safety deposit box on that beach. They hide the keys in the bushes.
They do not have to hide their keys nor their wedding rings in the bushes in Texas. Although thieves a roaming on every beach, when you go on the beach you can put your keys under your towel on the sand while you bathe. When you go to another Country you do not expect to be taken like that. I think the couple should be a little more aware of their surroundings, they did what they thought was safe by locking their belongings in their car and hiding the keys. Little did they know the THIEVES were MORE CAREFUL in hiding themselves. The tourists are not at fault.
The THIEVES ARE ALL TO BLAME BECAUSE THEY ARE THIEVES.
what you wanted them to do, take their belongings in the water with them?
That’s an interesting take on it. It does sound like they were very foolish. I’ll assume these people were white because black people tend to not act like that. White people get really comfortable for some reason, they feel really safe like nothing will happen to them and do things that seem so stupid. Like this. They just don’t worry as much.
I would not doubt them. Reasons being, Dominica is a small island. They did not give it a thought that this would have happened to them. They probably did not know that criminal activities took place in that area. However, I still feel that since they observed the men were loitering around and in an isolated area, they should have been suspicious of them.
I do think it’s a bit strange to leave a key in the bushes. That invalidates any insurance. And apparently in a part of the bush that is not in your full view so you can’t see when someone is taking it. Strange to take off the wedding ring too. Very, very strange not to keep your important documents in a safe. You’d have thought someone from Texas which has it’s fair share of major crime would be a bit more savvy. I don’t think this is propaganda but there might be more to the story.
How many incidents must occur at Batibou before tourists are stopped from going there? I would not even go to them places their yet our tourists continue to flock to the area. WHY?
They don’t like the black sand. They prefer the whiter sand beaches. Are we prepared to use it or loose it?
its good that nobody was raped or murdered…nature island of dominica…
bad name for dominica and Dominicans ……one bad apple spoil the whole bag
come on..you already take all that stuff,why take her wedding ring?
Thanks a lot thieves. I hope the police catch you and the judge presses the maximum penalty
maximum penalty like what? 2 days of arrest, then immediate bail and finally 1500EC penalty?….really severe punishment for the damage those idiots caused…
Typical Americans think that their belongings would be safe… Typical Dominicans proving them wrong!!!
What a horrible thing to say. A thief is a thief, is a thief, is a thief. They are in the wrong, not the tourist. You shouldn’t take what doesn’t belong to you. Otherwise, you’re just a thief. Why would anyone go to a beautiful island like Dominica and expect to have your belongings stolen. Stop making excuses for thieves!!
Batibou again? How many more robberies, attempted murders and rapes do we need before the authorities can post warning signs at that place and tourist advisories about that beach???? The beach is nice, yes, but unsafe!
Don’t come to this place. You are not safe!!
Why cant we set up beach patrols
on the paper only!!!!!!
that’s why am packing and always looking around when ever on a beach let them try especially with my family around trust me they will never still again ever this folks work hard for their money and lazy punks just still all from them giving my lovely Dominica a bad name so yah bullet to the knee
That’s if they come at you with a slingshot. But if they are packing too, then that would be a whole new ball game, and your life and family life is not worth a few dollars and a wallet.
It spoilt their honeymoon and the rest of their stay in D/ca. Imagine, they returning home and how they feel.