MARIANAS Visitors Authority Managing Director Christopher Concepcion said crimes targeting tourists might drive potential visitors away.
“We pride ourselves on being a safe destination, and for the most part we are indeed a very safe destination with low crime rates relative to the size of our population,” he said. “But every time a crime is committed against a tourist, the problem is amplified because their experience is shared with friends and family overseas, and oftentimes posted on social media, which does immense damage to our reputation as a secure place to visit.”
Tourism is the CNMI’s only industry and has yet to fully recover from the pandemic restrictions imposed globally over three years.
“We’ve received reports directly from visitors and tour operators about the increase in crimes, including a convertible whose top was ripped open and had items stolen, car windows being smashed at tourist sites, and passports and credit cards found in trash bins in Marpi,” Concepcion said.
MVA is requesting more police patrols at tourist sites to deter criminal activities.
“We respectfully request that our law enforcement partners beef up patrols in Marpi, the Laolao Dive Site, Obyan and Ladder beaches, and other areas frequented by tourists. This will deter would-be criminals from committing more crimes,” Concepcion said.
“We also ask the community to be vigilant. Report crimes or suspicious activity and look out for our visitors who are here to enjoy our gorgeous islands. Our law enforcement officers cannot do this alone. The tourism industry is what fuels our economy, so we all must do our part to make our communities safe and attractive. Tourism is everybody’s business,” he added.
Unfortunate
Asked for comment, Department of Public Safety Commissioner Clement Bermudes said, “It’s the holiday season and unfortunately some people are just taking advantage.”
Criminal elements are very opportunistic; they are looking for the right time and the right place, he added.
Bermudes said tour operators should inform their tourists not to store valuables in plain sight in vehicles.
“Because they [criminal] will break in, similarly for vans that are transporting dive gear. If there’s a way to park it in a more open space, having somebody to stay back just to watch the vehicles…. Police officers are out there, but we can’t be all over at one time. We’re spreading our officers, increasing their visibility during the holidays. We can reduce [crime] by removing valuables in easy view. Even at the beach, have somebody stay back. It may be asking too much, but that’s the best security that we can have. If something happens call DPS,” Bermudes said.
