U.S. Embassy in Dublin Issues Security Alert

The U.S. Embassy in Dublin has issued a security alert to tourists after a number of recent incidents reported in Irish media.

“The U.S. Embassy in Dublin reminds U.S. citizens to exercise good personal security practices while traveling,” the advisory reads.

“Travelers should safeguard valuables, such as credit cards and passports, and refrain from carrying large amounts of cash.  The U.S. Embassy in Dublin encourages all citizens to be aware of their surroundings, especially when traveling in unfamiliar places, crowded locations, empty streets, or at night.

“Please follow good security practices at home and while traveling.”

The warning comes a few days after a tourist from Buffalo, New York was injured after being assaulted on Jervis Street in Dublin on Monday night. The Jervis Street incident was just one in a string of assaults on tourists in Dublin, including another on Price’s Lane in Temple Bar earlier on Monday, and others in the city earlier this year.

According to the Irish Journal, Leo Varadkar, Ireland’s Taoiseach, which translates to “chief” or leader,” said this week that the government is still trying to add another 1,000 members to its police force this year, which has been difficult to meet.

Varadkar added that Dublin is still a safe city, with a relatively low murder rate, but the country plans to “redouble” efforts to improve safety, including more police recruitment, tougher sentences for violations, and more lighting and CCTV around Dublin.

It's not the first time that a U.S. Embassy has issued a security alert this year—the U.S. Embassy in Mexico issues its own security alert for spring breakers to be aware for potential dangers during their travel.