Travel
Canada issues travel advisory for U.K., warns of violent protests and crime – NOW Toronto
Canadian travellers heading to the United Kingdom should exercise a high degree of caution, the Government of Canada warns.
A travel advisory released early Wednesday explains that there is a current threat of terrorism in the U.K., caused by ongoing demonstrations and violent clashes between protesters and police since July 30.
“In the United Kingdom, previous attacks have resulted in casualties,” the advisory reads. “They have included random violent incidents in public areas, such as knife and vehicle attacks as well as explosions.”
It’s also noted that most of these incidents have mainly occurred in the London area but have also happened in other parts of the U.K. Further attacks are likely, the advisory warns, and says targets can include institutions like schools, government buildings, places of worship, as well as airports and transit networks. Travellers should also beware of tourist attractions, restaurants, shopping centres and many other sites frequented by foreigners.
Many of these nationwide riots stem from racism and Islamophobia, following the July 29 fatal knife attack against three girls at a Taylor Swift themed-dance workshop in Southport, England. Rioters, believing the suspect to be Muslim, attacked a mosque, set emergency vehicles on fire, and injured nearly 40 police officers hours later, according to the British Broadcasting Corporation.
It was later confirmed that the 17-year-old suspect, Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, was not Muslim. However, the misinformation has spread like wildfire and is resulting in many U.K. storefronts owned by people of colour to be shuttered and boarded up to avoid damages.
The U.K. government’s national emergency threat is currently at level three out of five, classified as “substantial,” while Northern Ireland sits at level four, classified as “severe.”
The Canadian government urges travellers to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place. The advisory also warns to be wary of crime, from petty theft to violent acts.
Pickpocketing and purse snatching is common, the government says, as well as cell phone theft in tourist areas of London. Theft is common in crowded areas such as restaurants, pubs and bars, and the advisory warns to never leave bags or purses hanging on the back of chairs.
There have also been incidents of violent crime, such as mugging, knife crime and sexual assaults, particularly in larger cities. The government says there have been incidents of passengers being sexually assaulted and robbed when riding in unlicensed taxis.
During a trip, the advisory warns travellers to ensure the security of their belongings including passports and ID, at all times. It’s also recommended to avoid carrying large sums of cash, be vigilant especially after dark, and to never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle.
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