Responding police fired tear gas in and around the main terminal to regain control after protesters entered the building and airport grounds. However, protesters will also block, key intercity transportation routes and intracity intersections with burning tires, rocks and other debris, to include the roads leading to the international airports in Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, and the CA-5 and CA-11 highways. Read more. In August, media reported that United States federal prosecutors had released documents implicating Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández in a drug trafficking and money laundering conspiracy with his brother Juan Antonio Hernández. However, there can be communal tension over land ownership, natural resource allocation, and exploitation. Source: Secretaría de Salud [Honduras], Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE) e ICF … Do not travel to Gracias a Dios Department due to crime. For more in-depth information, review OSAC’s Honduras country page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password. Last modified on Wed 14 Oct 2020 09.39 EDT. Criminals sometimes obtain personal information through social media, the internet, or a victim’s family member. Dial 911 for emergency or call (504) 2232-4092. If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime, contact the local police and U.S. Embassy Tegucigalpa. The location and timing of criminal activity are unpredictable. After a two-week trial in the US, in October, Hernández was convicted of drug conspiracy. In August, the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights visited Honduras to assess how the government and the business sector discharge their responsibility to prevent, mitigate, and remedy human rights abuses and negative impacts linked to business activity. In November, the Honduran government and the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), installed an evaluation board to review the performance of  MACCIH, prior to examining whether or not to extend its mandate. Resolution of disputes in court often takes years. Journalists, political activists, and women are often the victims of violence, and perpetrators are rarely brought to justice. There are no known international terrorist groups operating in Honduras. As of June 2019, almost half of more than 13,500 police officers evaluated by the commission had been removed for acts committed during their tenure as officers. The San Pedro Sula area has seen armed robberies against tourist vans, minibuses, and cars traveling from the airport to area hotels. The following diseases are prevalent in Honduras: Chikungunya, Dengue Fever, Malaria, and Zika. 2 4. The Honduras Medical Center (HMC) is the primary private hospital that the Embassy uses for emergency response and when hospitalization is required. ; and read the State Department’s webpage on, Passengers on public buses have been the victims of robbery at roadblocks and bus stops, during daytime and nighttime hours. Some passengers opt to travel armed when using public transportation, which sometimes results in armed confrontations where innocent bystanders are injured or killed in the crossfire. In El Salvador, at least seven trans women and one gay man were killed between October 2019 and March 2020. Impunity, Violence Against Women in Honduras: A Reflection on the Process, Combating Violence Against Women, and A Balance of Gender-Sensitive Jurisprudence of National Courts in 13 Latin American and Caribbean Countries. Despite significant international and local public pressure, MACCIH’s mandate ended in January 2020 without agreement for its extension between the OAS and the Honduran government. Following the enactment of the Law Exercise extreme caution driving on isolated stretches of road and passing other vehicles on mountainous curves. Most demonstrations were concentrated in or around city centers, public buildings, and other public areas. It was the first conviction achieved by MACCIH. Marred by corruption and abuse, the judiciary and police remain largely ineffective. Red Cross ambulance: 911, (504) 2227-7474 or (504) 2227-7575. Reports of kidnappings of U.S. citizens are not common, with zero reports for 2019. Although reports of kidnappings have dropped considerably in recent years, they continue to affect both the local and expatriate communities, with victims sometimes paying large ransoms for the prospect of release. There are no legal cases involving instances of terrorism affecting U.S. citizens or facilities brought before the Honduran judicial system, and no reports of judicial developments that would have a negative impact on U.S. counterterrorism efforts. In 2019, there was one murder case involving a resident U.S. citizen in Roatán. There are no legal cases involving instances of terrorism affecting U.S. citizens or facilities brought before the Honduran judicial system, and no reports of judicial developments that would have a negative impact on U.S. counterterrorism efforts. Diarrheal illness is very common even in large cities and luxury accommodations. Most of the persons included there were displaced for resisting extortion by the maras and gangs, while others had received direct threats for being linked to their threatened relatives. Medical care is limited. 18 Dec 2020 Originally published 17 Dec 2020. Embassy employees and others have experienced skimming at well-known restaurants, hotels, and retailers. Chanting, “long li… It was not clear how many of those killed or injured were victims of excessive force by authorities. Members of the LGBTI+ community have reported violent assaults because of gender identity and sexual orientation. He was originally convicted in 2016, and the Supreme Court upheld the conviction in January. Embassy employees and others have experienced skimming at well-known restaurants, hotels, and retailers. The level of violence in Honduras has gotten attention, but the deeper cultural factors at work are less often plumbed. During 2019, multiple vehicles belonging to U.S. and Honduran employees of the U.S. Embassy were burglarized and/or vandalized on side streets around the Embassy compound. Counterfeit products are predominately but not solely in the pharmaceutical and apparel industries. This page was last edited on 19 December 2020, at 21:40 (UTC). Most of these attacks involved gang members demanding extortion payments. ERIC staff join caravans as independent witnesses. Impunity for crimes and human rights abuses is the norm. Extortion is a key source of … Review the State Department’s webpage on security for. Only sealed commercial water containers (bottles) are considered safe to drink. However, kidnapping figures are likely lower than reality, as families of kidnapping victims often pay ransoms without reporting these crimes to police out of fear of retribution. Avoid using Collectivos (white sedan taxis with a sticker on the windshield denoting its established route), Roleteros (private white sedan taxis with no established routes), and Rapiditos (small buses that pick up multiple riders). U.S. organizations and citizens report corruption in the public sector and the judiciary is a significant constraint to investment in Honduras. Human rights groups reported unjustified lethal force and other excessive use of force by security forces during a police and military crackdown on public protests between March and July. Honduras lacks the infrastructure to maintain water purity and food safety. For fire and public safety emergencies, dial 911. Every 23 hours, a woman violently loses her life in Honduras, said on Tuesday, the director of the Violence Observatory of the National Autonomous University, Migdonia Ayestas. Violent transnational criminal organizations are also involved in narcotics trafficking and other illicit commerce. Download the State Department’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure. The U.S. Department of State has assessed Tegucigalpa as being a MEDIUM-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. The following day, protesters started a fire outside of one of the U.S. Embassy’s entrances during demonstrations against public-sector reforms in the country. In June, the US announced it was restoring some aid, but would halt new funding if countries failed to reduce migration to the United States. LGBTI+ travelers should exercise caution, especially when expressing affection in public. Armed robberies, burglaries, vandalization, home invasions, and extortions occur; closely guarded officials, businesspersons, and diplomats are not immune. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Honduras (OACNUDH) and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) expressed concern over reports that security forces fired live ammunition into demonstrations. Drug trafficking and gang activity, which includes local micro-trafficking of narcotics and extortion, are the main causes of violent crime in Honduras. International non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and USAID implementing partners have reported threats and violence when visiting some rural communities. Honduras: Land of gangs and violence One of most violent countries in the world . Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Demografía 2011-2012. Bureau of Diplomatic Security Responding police fired tear gas in and around the main terminal to regain control after protesters entered the building and airport grounds. The Honduran National Police wear blue uniforms, while the PMOP normally wear green camouflage. International non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and USAID implementing partners have reported threats and violence when visiting some rural communities. Fire Department Ambulance is fully equipped with emergency medical supplies and medical staff. In the first month of 2020, there were more than 31 victims, and their partners killed 55 percent, said the researcher, quoted by Proceso Digital. President Hernández, who has not been charged, has “categorically denied” the accusations. The municipalities in which kidnappings were reported include: Districto Central (4), Jacaleapa (1), Trojes (1), Siguatepeque (1), Puerto Cortes (1), Lejamani (1), Tocoa (1), Tela (1), and Comayagua (1). Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence. The 18th Street and MS-13 (Mara Salvatrucha) gangs are the most active and powerful. at the date of this report’s publication assesses Honduras at Level 3, indicating travelers should reconsider travel due to crime. Honduras requires proof of Yellow Fever immunization if coming from another country endemic with Yellow Fever. In February, the National Anti-Corruption Council, an independent civil-society group, accused, before the Special Prosecution Unit Against Impunity for Corruption, former president Porfirio Lobo of misappropriating government funds during his presidency. Roads have poor lighting and markings. For more in-depth information, review OSAC’s. Review OSAC’s report, The limited capacity of the government to enforce international standards related to natural resource exploitation has resulted in higher levels of conflict in the extractive and electrical generation industries. Extortion threats commonly originate through social engineering. Officials say 2,241 kilograms of cocaine have been seized between January and July 2020, a little more than last year’s entire haul of 2,218 kilograms, Proceso Digital reported. Gangs control some of the taxi services. Passing on blind corners is common. Honduras requires proof of Yellow Fever immunization if coming from another country endemic with Yellow Fever. Penalties for the possession, use, or trafficking of illegal narcotics are strict; convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines. Home to the second biggest barrier reef in the world, beaches, and sparkling turquoise sea, as well as a whole host of Mayan ruins, amazing coffee, and the second largest rainforest in the Americas, Honduras is extremely biodiverse: there are 770 bird species alone.. The police generally treat detained foreigners well. Those planning travel to Gracias a Dios should consider postponing their travel. Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling with Mobile Devices: Trends & Best Practices, and Satellite Phones: Critical or Contraband? Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy/Consulate website. Gangs control some of the taxi services. This Central American country actually has one of the highest … Except in some very rural locations, police are aware of a U.S. citizen detainee's right to contact the Embassy. Airlines estimate that approximately 250,000 U.S. citizens flew into Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, or Roatán in 2019. The Mission to Support the Fight against Corruption and Impunity in Honduras (MACCIH), established in 2016 through an agreement between the government and the Organization of American States (OAS), has investigated a small number of cases involving corruption of senior officials. Guatemala continues to accompany Honduras with high levels of homicides, while El Salvador maintains a substantial reduction, which specialists attribute to actions taken by the government of Nayib Bukele. Review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Traveling with Medication, I’m Drinking What in My Water?, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad. Honduras has one of the highest homicide rates in the world. Review OSAC’s reports, The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling with Mobile Devices: Trends & Best Practices. There have been multiple incidents of gang members destroying city buses and taxis, and reports that gang members rob, assault, rape, kidnap, or murder passengers. Thefts, break-ins, assaults, rapes, and murders do occur. Avoid using. According to the Honduran police, 2,322 murders were registered as of mid-August 2019, and in the same period of 2020 there were 1,934, in a population of 9.3 million inhabitants. As of November, Radio Globo director David Romero remained in prison, serving a 10-year sentence for defamation, according to the Honduran press freedom organization C-Libre. Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System, The U.S. Department of State has assessed Tegucigalpa as being a. The ambulance does not have paramedics or emergency medical equipment; it functions solely as transport to hospitals. -threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Police said at least 20 gunmen took part in the operation on Thursday afternoon in El Progreso, around 30km (18 miles) east of Honduras' second city, San Pedro Sula. Nationwide protests and strikes erupted in April over the approval of regulations to restructure the health and education systems. Port agencies have worked to improve taxi service to/from ports. . Crime by type Murder. CHICAGO — The fate of a boy brought to the U.S. as a toddler when his family fled Honduras remains undecided Wednesday, after a judge ordered the case continued until 2020. CONADEH's Internal Displacement Unit reports that the forced recruitment of children by gangs or criminal groups is the fifth most frequent reason that Hondurans became internally displaced in the first semester of 2019. These figures also reveal an estimated one out of five rural Hondurans is trying to survive on less than a mere $1.90 per day.Since poverty and criminal activity seem to have a close correlational relationship, it is no surprise that … However, the commission has been criticized for its opacity and several of the almost 6,000 dismissed officers have been arrested by police for alleged criminal acts committed after their dismissal. -threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Institutional weakness, corruption, violence, and impunity undermine the overall stability of Honduras. Violence linked to land disputes also occurs, particularly in the Bay Islands and Bajo Aguan Valley in northern Honduras. Hondurans continue to be affected by MS-13 and Calle 18 gang activity in cities such as Tegucigalpa, Choloma, La Ceiba, Tela, and San Pedro Sula. Additionally, illegal drugs are for sale in many of the popular tourist areas during the evening hours. Review OSAC’s reports, Hotels: The Inns and Outs and Considerations for Hotel Security. Many activists report that crimes committed against the LGBTI+ community go unpunished. The court took into consideration the context of violence and discrimination against LGBT people in Honduras. Honduras has one of the highest homicide rates in the world and gangs control swathes of the country, using extreme violence to exert power. otherwise distributing OSAC-derived information in a manner inconsistent with this policy may result in the discontinuation of OSAC support. HMC’s lab was reviewed by the Regional Medical Laboratory Scientist and found to be up to U.S. standards and quality assurance practices. December 2020: New UN data reveals that of 5.5 million people affected by successive tropical storms Eta and Iota in Honduras and Guatemala last month: 400,000 people remain in ill-equipped temporary shelters, while 140,000 homes were destroyed in the storms.As many as 330,000 remain cut off from emergency assistance by destroyed roads and disrupted communications … open sources and (U) embassy reporting. Cruise lines and port agencies offer approved tour companies offering packages. In February, Salomón Matute and his son Juan Samael Matute, both Tolupan indigenous persons who belonged to the San Francisco Locomapa tribe and the Broad Movement for Dignity and Justice (MADJ), died of gunshot wounds despite “precautionary measures” granted by the IACHR in 2013 to ensure the government protected them. Cruise ship passengers should take safety precautions, avoid unfamiliar areas, and book only with reputable tour companies during their stopover in Honduras. 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