“When Things Like This Happen, It Casts a Bad Light Over Legitimate Operators”

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The alleged assault of an American visitor has created unwanted, negative attention to jet ski operators once again.

25-year-old Briana Bazel took to TikTok, alleging she and her friend were assaulted on September 10th by a man on Goodmans Bay, offering himself as a water sports operator.

The man, she claims, allegedly assaulted her after she declined his sexual advances.

Transport Minister Leon Lundy confirming on Monday, the man was not licensed to operate.

Meanwhile, for Renwick Rolle Jr, a licensed operator at the beach, he says it’s not a true reflection of who they are.

Renwick Rolle Jr. – Water Sports Operator

“We are licensed, we have to go to classes for hospitality, dealing with anybody whether it’s guest, locals, you could be someone just walking up on the beach and wants to do something. We have to know how to deal with you.”

However, it’s not the first time something like this has happened.

Past allegations of assault and rape have resulted in the United States government issuing safety advisories for its citizens, while also putting pressure on local authorities to do more in ensuring safety.

However, Rolle says there’s something many don’t understand.

Renwick Rolle Jr. – Water Sports Operator

“You have to be vigilant, you still have to look for these things…for example this is a public beach so anybody and everybody can come out here right, but you don’t want any and everybody dealing with a jet ski…”

In fact other jet ski operators tell us illegal operators often ride up and down the coast.

Renwick Rolle Jr. – Water Sports Operator

“When they say an incident like this happens they put everybody in the same basket that’s legitimate businessmen. The people who do anything from boating, fishing…[selling] coconuts on the beach…whatever, all of us are affected…”