Crime/Police
BVI homicide victim identified as St. Vincent national — reportedly had loaded guns in his possession
Jahkeem Christopher
By CATHY RICHARDS, JTV News Editor
(JTV News) — The man who was shot and left for dead in the parking lot across from UP’s Cineplex on Sunday, February 12, 2023 has been identified as Jahkeem Christopher, a 23-year-old native of St. Vincent and the Grenadians who was visiting the British Virgin Islands.
On Friday, February 24, JTV News got word of Christopher’s identity and the circumstances that led to his family identifying his body.
Hasani Frett of Greenland, Tortola is currently on remand, charged with Christopher’s murder, wounding a female during the shooting incident, and being in possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.
However, during his first court appearance on February 15, it was revealed that Frett was not the shooter. The shooter fled.
When police arrived on the scene that ill-fated morning, Christopher was found dead. At the time, he was reportedly wearing a mask and had two loaded guns in his possession.
The court had heard that Frett and the mystery shooter were in a car when they came under attack by three men on scooters.
The individual who was in the passenger seat of the car with Frett opened fire at their attackers – two escaped and the third person, Christopher, was killed.
The shooter remains at large.
BELOW IS A PRESS RELEASE FROM THE ROYAL VIRGIN ISLANDS POLICE FORCE
The RVIPF Major Incident Team has established the identity of the male murdered in the parking lot across of U.P. Cineplex on Sunday, 12 February.
The body of Jahkeem Christopher, 23, a native of St. Vincent and the Grenadians who was visiting the BVI, was positively identified by family members residing on Tortola.
Detectives have so far charged one man, Hasani Frett, 37, of Greenland in his death. Frett faces the charges of murder, inflicting grievous bodily harm and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He appeared before the Magistrate’s Court and was remanded to HMP for his later appearance.
Detectives are aware that other persons were involved in the murder and are therefore seeking any information that could help with identifying the other assailants.
Persons can contact Crimestoppers tipline number anonymously at 800-8477 or 1-284 800-8477. Alternatively, persons can call 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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