Ten Tobago beaches shut after shark attacks tourist

Ten beaches in Tobago have been shut following a shark attack on a British tourist.

The Caribbean island’s government confirmed that the 64-year-old was in a stable condition after being attacked by a shark off Turtle Beach on Friday.

“To maintain the safety of members of the public following the incident, the Division of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities and Transportation has advised that the beaches on the western end of the island remain closed until further notice,” a statement said on Sunday.

The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) added: “These beaches will be reopened on a phased basis and updates will be disseminated once clearances are given by the relevant authorities and the necessary arrangements for reopening are made.

“In addition, all reef tours in the area remain suspended until further notice.

“Drone reconnaissance along the affected areas continue and the relevant authorities are actively managing the situation.”

Beaches along the north-eastern end of Tobago remain open to the public.

“The THA is taking every precaution to safeguard the well-being of all persons on the island, including residents and visitors,” it added.