I think it is unfortunate that the forums delete all messages that pertain to the increasing problem of robberies and violence taking place on Anguilla. It is very real and people should be aware.

On March 3rd, there was another break-in, robbery and attempted molestation in the Rendezvous Bay area. It happend just before 5:00am to a couple who have lived on Anguilla for 20 years. The woman said it was 2 masked men with Anguillan accents. I read this in the Anguillian Newspaper.

I think in an isolated community of 10000 in the US the police would have a decent idea of who the bad guys are.

From other posts I'm getting the distinct impression few incidents are resolved. Perhaps the Anguillan police have not had proper training.

I agree that you'd think the police would be able to solve some of these crimes, especially with the potential impact they have on tourism. My friend calls the native Angullian police "Keystone Cops" but I think it's much more sinister than that. Many years ago a very popular Angullian called Pressure King was killed and that has never been solved. I have read the citizens of Anguilla are asking that the British policemen they have now on island stay longer , doesn't say much for their faith in the Anguillian police, who are probably on the take and well aware of who's doing what. I'm sure on that small island neighbors see what's going on and they see their neighbor with the new bling and know who can afford what. I think that people are afraid to talk and that until they do talk the crime will continue.

While on Anguilla last month, I heard repeatedly that no one will talk, no one will turn in their neighbor. And, no one seems to get caught, so it encourages this behavior even more. Since 2001, we've been robbed twice during the night when visiting Anguilla. It's really frightening.

Turks and Caicos has the same issues.

I am one of the two parties who were robbed at Serenity on Wednesday night, so I can confirm it did happen. We were in the lower unit and kept our doors open while we were sleeping. Sometime during the night, someone came in our room while we were sleeping and took two purses. They took the money from the purses but left them right outside in the bushes and did not take passports, credit cards, etc. They also didn't take our computer or cameras or anything else of value, just the cash. I understand that the room above us did have their safe broken into.

It was frightening and I have to say I have always felt very safe at Serenity and on Anguilla in general. Kenneth was extremely responsive and kind and he eventually did call the police. He was understandinably reluctant at first as he explained there was most likely little the police would do. He has a lot of construction going on and felt quite certain that it may have been one of the workers. It just amazes me that someone would have the guts to enter rooms with three people sleeping in them.

I really feel bad for Kenneth. At this point he will need to hire nightime security to watch over the property. We lost a little cash, which can always be replaced. As someone said, with the island growing in leaps and bounds, there are a lot more locals around from different islands who don't always have the ethical backgrounds of most Anguillans I have met. Unfortunately this will mean visitors will need to use a lot more caution than in the past.

I have nothing but good feelings for both Serenity and Anguilla and I will have no hesitation whatsoever in staying there next year.

David2: I remember you from T&C and Grand Bahamas forums.

So sorry that happened to you-I love Anguilla, hate to see that happen.

My theory, but with all the FAST growth (all over Caribbean, not just Anguilla, or T&C) but brings in lots of temperary, some illegals, some foreigners all trying to capitalize. I really think when all the growth slows down, so will the crime. Happens everywhere unfortunately.

David2: on another note-did you ever make it to Old Bahama Bay?

Hi Blamona! Hope all is well with you. I completely agree with you that it was most likely one of the new construction workers or someone similar that Serenity had working there recently. In any event, we had such a wonderful time otherwise that we really didn't let it bother us. Weather was great, I love the accommmodations at Serenity and the food is just amazing. Hibernia is still my favorite, but we also went to Koal Keel for the first time and liked that a lot too.

We DID get to Old Bahama Bay last fall and it was really really nice. The beach was not as nice as T&C or Shoal Bay but the resort is very very nice. I think I still owe a trip report on that one!! Where have you been recently, anywhere new and fun?

David

I am really happy to know that David2 still feels good about Anguilla despite his unfortunate event.

However, I would like to say to him and to all of Anguilla's past and future guests....Anguilla can become just like anywhere, why do you think it is ok to leave your hotel room unlocked???? Not even the locals do such crazy things. Anguilla is changing and it is not like previous times when people acutally left their homes and vehicles open.

Also to the original poster, it seems as though you truly live off of gossip. Hearsay is not facts. And I suggest that you and other people should get the right information before publically posting things. I am glad that David clarified everything about Kenneth.