British Citizen in Critical Condition After Shark Attack in Caribbean, Foreign Office Issues Urgent Travel Warning

A British tourist is fighting for his life after a terrifying shark attack on the Caribbean island of Tobago. The 64-year-old man was seriously injured in the mauling, which took place on Friday, April 26. The government of Trinidad and Tobago has taken swift action, closing seven beaches and a marine park in response to the incident.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a warning to British holidaymakers in the area, advising them to exercise extreme caution and follow the advice of local authorities. The FCDO stated that the Buccoo Reef Marine Park has been temporarily closed until further notice, affecting all water-based activities within the park boundaries.

According to reports, the man suffered serious injuries to his left arm, left leg, and stomach after being attacked by a bull shark in Courland Bay. Despite undergoing surgery and having some fingers reattached, he remains in the intensive care unit and is being closely monitored by medical professionals.

The British tourist had been vacationing in Tobago with his wife and friends, and was scheduled to fly home on the day of the attack. The local government is working in collaboration with the British High Commission to provide support to the victim’s family during this difficult time.

Shark attacks are rare occurrences, with only 69 unprovoked attacks reported worldwide last year. The incident in Tobago serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the ocean, prompting authorities to take swift action to ensure the safety of beachgoers and mariners in the area.