The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is advising Bahamians traveling to Florida to be careful in the wake of reports of theft.

A release issue yesterday noted that as this is the traditional season for Bahamians to shop before back to school, they may not pay particular attention to their documents and possessions.

“We are asking them to take particular care because of reports of opportunistic theft of Bahamian passports and travel documents through break-ins in cars in the parking lots of shopping malls,” the release noted.

“We are advising all Bahamians traveling in the Miami area to be aware of their surroundings. Be sure that you are not followed.”

The ministry further warned Bahamians to not come out of cars if they are bumped at traffic lights.

Placing passports and other important documents in glove compartments and the trunks of vehicles is also strongly discouraged.

In the event, a Bahamian loses a document, he or she is advised to contact The Bahamas Consulate in Miami at #25 SE 2nd Avenue – Suite 600.

The telephone number is (305)-455-1170.

“If for some reason, the Bahamian traveler has to return his or her rented vehicle later than contracted, please notify the rental car agency ahead of time, otherwise under US laws you may be liable of grand theft auto,” the ministry further noted.