Local authorities in Belize reported the tragic incident of three American tourists who were discovered deceased at a beach resort. The officials suspect the cause of death to be linked to potential drug overdoses.
The women, identified as Kaoutar Naqqad, aged 23, Imane Mallah, aged 24, and Wafae El-Arar, aged 26, were the individuals at the center of this unfortunate event in the Central American nation. Their lifeless bodies were located in Belize last Saturday.
The tourists’ bodies were found in a room at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort in San Pedro. The group was last seen entering their room Thursday night.
Upon unsuccessful attempts by the accommodation staff to reach out to the trio on Friday, the resort workers proceeded to access the room on Saturday morning using a master key. Inside the room, the women were discovered in an “immobile” state, as reported by The Associated Press.
Vapes and snacks were also found in the women’s room, but no injuries or signs of forced entry were visible.
Belize, which borders the Caribbean Sea, is a popular destination for American tourists, though the U.S. government warns its citizens to be cautious in the country. The U.S. State Department lists a travel advisory for U.S. citizens in Belize on its website.
“Violent crime — such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder — are common even during the day and in tourist areas,” the website warns. “A significant portion of violent crime is gang related.”
Aerial photo of San Pedro, Belize, which borders the Caribbean Sea. (Getty Images/iStock)
The State Department’s warning applies to the entire country of Belize, though it advises visitors to avoid Belize City specifically, which is around 35 miles south of San Pedro.Â
“Due to high crime, travelers are advised to exercise caution while traveling to the south side of Belize City,” the warning states. “Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious crimes.”
Fox News Digital reached out to the Belize Police Department for more information, but did not hear back.
San Pedro is a popular tourist destination in Belize. (Getty Images/iStock)
Authorities are actively investigating.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
