Official figures released lately reveal that a total number of 59 Britons died in popular Indian tourist state of Goa, since 2009. As per the Foreign Office, the number of British tourists to die in the popular holiday destination was the highest in 2009, with 14, 13 in 2010, and 12 in 2016. The report added that it did not have information on successful prosecutions of the deaths.
Goa is associated to the deaths of Britons like teenager Scarlett Keeling in 2008, and Danielle McLaughlin earlier this year. The Foreign Office said over 800,000 British nationals visit India each year with most of them being trouble-free. However, it also has a separate section for travel advice on Goa. “British women have been the victims of sexual assault in Goa... Be wary of confidence tricksters, particularly in Goa, Agra and Jaipur, who promise large amounts of cash for delivery of jewellery abroad in return for an initial deposit. The jewellery is worthless and the deposit, often amounting to thousands of pounds, is lost,” the section read.
The section advised them to observe and respect local dress and customs, taking particular care of bags and purses, and avoiding unlit and remote beaches in the state. It adds, “ Don’t leave your drinks unattended. There have been reports of drinks being spiked and travellers, including British nationals, subsequently being robbed or assaulted. You should follow warnings posted at beaches and instructions issued by lifeguards. Every year several people drown due to the strong currents in the sea. Emergency service standards may differ from those in the UK.”
“Road traffic accidents are common and many fatal accidents occur each year. Wear a good quality helmet if renting a motorcycle or scooter. Possession or consumption of drugs is illegal. If arrested, you may be incarcerated for several years whilst your case comes to trial, and a conviction for either offence may lead to a very long prison sentence,” the travel advice said.
