Crime/Police
Greenland man charged with Road Town murder
By MERRICK ANDREWS
Online News Editor
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) said Tuesday that a 37-year-old man from Greenland, Tortola has been charged with murder in connection with the fatal shooting of an unidentified man in Road Town early Sunday morning.
The accused shooter has been identified as Hasani Frett, who is also charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, the RVIPF release also revealed.
The police is appealing to the public for help to identify the victim.
JTV News understands that the shooting occurred around 4 a.m. near UPs Cineplex.
In a separate incident on Sunday, police confirmed that a female, who has not been officially identified, showed up at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital with a gunshot wound to one of her legs.
There is no evidence, so far, to link both shooting incidents, police said.
Sunday’s fatal shooting is the territory’s second homicide within seven days.
On Monday, Jan. 6, after 6 p.m., 42-year-old Long Look resident, Yan Edwards, was gunned down at a bar in Parham Town, East End on Tortola. Edwards was a former murder accused and was out on bail at the time of his killing.
No one else was injured in this shooting.
In light of the recent murders and reports of gunfire, officers have been conducting stop searches throughout the East End and Road Town Districts, the release said.
Close to 30 persons have been searched and quantities of cocaine and marijuana confiscated, police said, adding that traffic violations were recorded.
Meanwhile, the RVIPF said it is seeking any information that could help with identifying the assailant or assailants in the recent murders.
Persons can contact Crimestoppers tipline number anonymously at 800-8477 or +1 284 800-8477. Alternatively, persons can contact 368-9345.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has issued a warning to the public following a wave of blackmail scams targeting residents across the islands. Numerous individuals have reported receiving disturbing text messages demanding cryptocurrency payments, specifically in bitcoin, under threat of exposing allegedly compromising photos or sensitive information if they fail to comply.
RVIPF officials are advising residents to avoid responding or engaging with these messages. The police emphasize that scammers often exploit fear to pressure victims into payment, and any interaction can increase one’s vulnerability to further scams. Instead, recipients are encouraged to report these messages to the RVIPF for investigation and support.
“The RVIPF is actively investigating these cases to safeguard our communities,” said Detective Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis. “We urge residents to report any suspicious messages immediately and to avoid any communication with unknown or threatening contacts.”
To help reduce exposure to scams, the RVIPF advises the public to enhance their online privacy settings, particularly on social media, and to limit the sharing of personal information online.
If you receive or wish to report a blackmail attempt, please contact the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 for assistance and guidance.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is urging residents and business owners in East End, Tortola, to tighten security in light of a recent surge in burglaries plaguing the area. Over the past week, more than seven incidents have been reported, with hotspots including the neighborhoods of Greenland and Long Look.
The RVIPF is responding to this concerning trend by increasing patrols and advising the public to proactively secure their properties. Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool emphasized the value of functional security systems, particularly CCTV cameras, as both deterrents and critical tools for investigators.
Protective Measures Suggested by RVIPF
To prevent further incidents and aid in investigations, the RVIPF recommends a series of crime prevention strategies:
- Install and Maintain CCTV Systems: Ensure cameras are positioned to cover entry points and remain operational.
- Lock All Entry Points: Secure doors and windows, especially at night or when properties are vacant.
- Utilize Exterior Lighting: Motion-activated lights can deter intruders by increasing visibility.
- Establish Neighborhood Watch Networks: Keep neighbors informed and report any suspicious activity to the RVIPF promptly.
“The safety of our communities is a priority,” said Acting Commissioner Vanterpool. “But we need the public’s partnership to address these crimes effectively. Functional CCTV systems, secure properties, and vigilant reporting can go a long way in deterring criminal activity.”
Additional patrols have been deployed in the Eastern districts, and detectives are actively investigating the recent burglaries. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS).
An attempted armed robbery at Matcha’s Bar and Grill on Fort Hill was thwarted this afternoon when the proprietor successfully evaded an armed assailant. The incident occurred around 4:00 PM on November 4, when a masked individual, reportedly carrying a high-powered weapon, approached the popular establishment with apparent intentions to rob it.
According to initial reports, the gunman was unable to carry out the robbery and left the premises empty-handed. No shots were fired, and there are no reports of injuries to the proprietor or any patrons.
Police are currently conducting an investigation. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has not yet released further details.
This story is developing, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
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