To all U.S. gun owners, Do Not Travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands, a British Overseas Territory located southeast of the Bahamas. If you have already made plans, reconsider your destination.
SUMMARY: Since November 2022, at least eight American tourists have faced “firearms prosecutions” for inadvertently having ammunition in their luggage. In the past, tourists had been able to pay a fine, but as of a judge’s ruling in February of this year, violators are subject to severe prison time.
Firearms and ammunition are strictly forbidden in Turks and Caicos. The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas last September issued this warning to travelers:
“Firearms, ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). TCI authorities strictly enforce all firearms related laws. The penalty for traveling to TCI with a firearm, ammunition, or other weapon is a minimum custodial sentence of twelve (12) years.”
The advisory also stated, “We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI and will result in your arrest.
“We strongly encourage you to carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing for TCI. If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures.”
The Second Amendment Foundation
The Second Amendment Foundation (saf.org) is the nation’s oldest and largest tax-exempt education, research, publishing, and legal action group focusing on the Constitutional right and heritage to privately own and possess firearms. Founded in 1974, The Foundation has grown to more than 720,000 members and supporters and conducts many programs designed to better inform the public about the consequences of gun control.
Another third world sh*thole heard from. They don’t need my business anyway.
Why would anyone want to visit that toilet, anyway?
I wouldn’t travel to these Caribbean places anyway, but always keep in mind, whenever you travel, especially by airlines, do not so much as bring a small pocketknife or nail clipper, much less guns and ammo.
These countries thrive on unsuspecting tourists making mistakes on gambling, hotel and nightspot inibriating and general ignorance.
Why would anyone want to go to this blend of s-hole and tourist trap?
State Dept. should request a fine and no jail time, he is not an arms trafficer.
We know State will not lift a finger for him.
Before you travel outside of the USA, check the CIA for travel advisories.
https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/
It is entirely safe to travel to the Turks and Caicos. Just don’t be stupid enough to take firearms or ammo with you. This is another example of why you need a dedicated bag/case for your hunting/range accoutrements.
Money talks and all else walks. This is a great tactic. Get the word out and boycott. Personally I’d never go there,but if there is the perception that money can be lost these places might get a little more agreeable over simple mistakes.
So because we have a castrated 2nd amendment we are to ignore other countries laws??
Turks and Caicos Islands are a tourist trap, but that do not release you from your responsibilities as a traveler. You are responsible for your actions when visiting other countries. Don’t use your range bag to travel overseas or even to other states. Is it a harsh punishment??? Yes it is. But the individual in question made a mistake and it’s paying the consequences. The State Department should be dealing with the problem. Be a responsible gun owner and a smart respectful tourist.
The Caribbean is full of corrupt systems. Even if the political side issues permits their police will refuse to honor them.