Crime/Police

BVI police arrests another female suspect in human trafficking probe

Published

2 years ago

February 8, 2023

Editor

By MERRICK ANDREWS
Online News Editor

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) said Wednesday (Feb. 8) it has arrested a female on suspicion of money laundering in connection with its ongoing human trafficking investigations in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

The female was subsequently released pending further investigations, the RVIPF said in a press release.

The arrest stemmed from the execution of three additional search warrants, the RVIPF added.

The RVIPF said it can make no further comment on the matter because the investigations are active.

It, however, further stated that “persons are invited to contact Crimestoppers anonymously through its tipline 800 8477 or if overseas call 1-284-800-8477 if there is suspected human trafficking or you are a victim of this modern-day slavery. Persons with information can also call the RVIPF directly through its three-digit access number 311”.

This development comes after 37-year old Genette Colastin of Pockwood Pond, Tortola was arrested and charged in connection with a “complex and far-reaching” ongoing human trafficking investigation, according to a RVIPF statement released on Saturday, Feb. 4.

RVIPF Press Officer Diane Drayton said in the statement that Colastin was among three persons who were arrested on suspicion of human trafficking when police executed a search warrant on Thursday.

Four people believed to be human trafficking victims from another island were rescued and placed in the custody of the Immigration Department.

No further details were released about the alleged victims or the specific circumstances which led to the arrests, however, Police Commissioner Mark Collins said in statement that the human trafficking investigation is “complex and far-reaching”.

Collins further stated that human trafficking, also known as modern-day slavery, is a problem all over the world. He urged residents to contact the police at Crime Stoppers, anonymously, on 284-800-8477, if they suspect human trafficking.

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Crime/Police

Multiple Arrests Made for Offenses Ranging from Criminal Damage to Immigration Violations

Published

1 week ago

December 13, 2024

Editor

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has reported a series of arrests across the territory, highlighting a diverse range of criminal charges as law enforcement continues to crack down on illegal activities.

Tyler Harrigan, 26, of North Sound, Virgin Gorda, was charged with criminal damage, armed with an offensive weapon, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Authorities have not disclosed specific details of the incident leading to the charges.

In a separate case, Kelvin Eleuthere, 27, of Soper’s Hole, West End, was arrested on November 15 and charged with harboring a person, a serious offense under local law.

Also on November 15, Shamar John, 47, was charged for overstaying his landing permit, a violation of immigration regulations.

Meanwhile, on November 11, Kelliel Mala, 26, of the US Virgin Islands, was charged with disorderly conduct following an altercation.

Additionally, a 12-year-old minor was charged with indecent language on November 22.

Each of the accused individuals is scheduled to face court proceedings in the coming months.

Crime/Police

RVIPF Report Multiple Assault Arrests Across the Territory

Published

1 week ago

December 13, 2024

Editor

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested several individuals in connection with various assault incidents, including attacks on civilians and law enforcement officers.

On November 1, Julian Peters of Free Bottom was arrested and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was granted bail of $5,000 and is scheduled to appear in court on December 17. Later in the month, on November 29, police arrested Tresley Chewitt, 41, of Windy Hill, Virgin Gorda, for a separate assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Chewitt was granted bail of $10,000 and will appear in court on January 20, 2025.

In incidents involving law enforcement, Ernest Williams, 31, of Virgin Gorda, and Shem Letteen, 53, of East End, were both arrested on November 23 for assaulting police officers, resisting arrest, and obstruction. Both men were granted bail of $3,000 and are expected to appear in court on January 16, 2025.

Authorities continue to encourage the public to cooperate with investigations and report any incidents of violence or threats to public safety.

Crime/Police

Police Ramp Up Arrests for Firearm and Explosives Offenses Across the Territory

Published

1 week ago

December 13, 2024

Editor

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested several individuals in connection with firearm and explosives offenses in a series of incidents spanning November.

On November 29, officers arrested Luiz Guerra Bethelmy, 45, of Great Mountain, and Dania Livari Castello. Both face charges of keeping a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.

Earlier in the month, on November 17, police apprehended 20-year-old Daniel Maduro of Long Bush. Maduro was charged with carrying a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.

In a separate incident on November 15, authorities arrested Richard Baronville, 32, of Long Bush, and Kahlim Smith, 24, of Nottingham Estate. Both men face charges of possession of a prohibited firearm and unlawful possession of explosives.

Most recently, on November 30, police charged Keanus Smart, 18, of Free Bottom, with possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offense and unlawful possession of explosives.

The RVIPF is urging members of the public to report any suspicious activity.