The National Police has announced its safety and security plan for Easter Week 2022 in Nicaragua. The plan aims to ensure the safety of Nicaraguan families as well as visitors from other countries at arguably the busiest time of the year for the movement of people around the country.
The national plan is in effect from Saturday the 9th of April to Easter Sunday, 17th of April.
Approximately 14,000 members of the National Police (Policía Nacional or PN) will be on duty as part of an “all leave is cancelled” order. They will be patrolling bus terminals, parks and popular tourist destinations, beaches and resorts. In addition, attention will be given to the numerous religious activities, parades, cultural, sports and recreational events held at this time of the year.
Tránsito Nacional (the National Police Traffic Department) will be enforcing traffic laws on all of the main highways. They will be carrying out random alcohol tests on civilian drivers and public transport in an attempt to reduce accidents caused by one of the most common factors (in addition to unsafe lane changes and speeding).
As part of the Easter Week 2022 in Nicaragua Safety Plan, the National Police Strongly Recommends:
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol,
- Observe all speed limits and traffic signs,
- Wear seat belts in vehicles and your crash helmets on motorbikes and ATV’s,
- Do not carry excess passengers,
- Pedestrians, be responsible and pay attention “Protect Your Life”,
- Vehicle owners; check the mechanical condition of your vehicle including; brakes, steering and lights.
In the case of an emergency, the National Police recommend using the 118 telephone number which will be manned 24/7.
The Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism (INTUR) is working off a list of some 1,200 tourist locations that will receive visitors at this time of the year.
The Ministry of Health (MINSA) will have the responsibility for food safety, inspections and training to avoid any food related issues. They will be checking almost 9,000 bars, restaurants and other food service locations.
Many of those government workers deemed to be “Essential Services” will be working rotating shifts and not enjoying the 10 days of vacation granted to more than 150,000 public employees. See link: Immigration Services in Nicaragua Easter Hours
Easter Week 2021 Statistics
Although there were no traffic accident deaths last year at the various tourist destinations, there were eight homicides outside of those designated holiday hot spots.
A total of 6 people died on the roads and 16 were injured.
The National Police responded to 16,349 calls received through the 118 Emergency Telephone System.
By the Municipalities
95% of the country’s 153 municipalities were free of homicides (that’s 95%).
In addition, 145 municipalities did not suffer a traffic fatality.
The National Police seized 25 firearms, 4 artisanal (homemade) firearms and a total of 259 various sharp weapons.
Red Cross/Cruz Roja Nicaragüense
The Red Cross reported 298 “Lifesaving Incidents” and sadly 6 deaths due to drowning
See Link: Easter Week Nicaragua – Police Statistics 2021
