Crime/Police
RVIPF/MARINE ASSOCIATION LAUNCH OPERATION ISLAND WATCH
Mariners across the British Virgin Islands can now easily report suspicious behaviour to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) through Operation Island Watch.
Operation Island Watch was launched on March 29. It equips captains, boaters, keen sailors or just those walking on the beach with the tools to anonymously report any suspicious activity, a RVIPF statement explained.
The RVIPF has partnered with the territory’s Marine Association on this initiative. Funding was provided by the Marine Association.
Head of the Marine Branch Inspector Lesroy Simmons noted that “we are fortunate to have a number of persons within the marine industry who are passionate about protecting our waters from predators who engage in illegal fishing, illegal smuggling or trafficking, illegal dumping, or any other unlawful use of the Territorial waters or shorelines. By giving no more than a few details, law enforcement is provided with the information needed to respond quickly and apprehend potential suspects.”
At the launch, Chief Inspector Louis Buckley explained just how easy it is for someone to share information to the authorities.
“On the Operation Island Watch brochure is a QR code. With a smartphone on camera mode, you can scan the QR code. This will immediately take you to
the Watch site where you can log any suspicious details. All we need is a line or two. No other information is required or requested,” he said.
Operation Manager for Virgin Islands Search and Rescue Phil Aspinall publicly endorsed the initiative calling it a “ win-win for all concerned.”
He added: “ the BVI is considered the sailing capital of the world, and we must help to protect this destination at all costs. I think I speak for many within the boating community when I say that I am happy to be part of this initiative and any such initiative that promotes safety and security in our waters.”
The group took the opportunity to share a dinghy safety brochure now available for charter companies, captains and sailing visitors which lists safety tips for persons travelling in a dinghy including maintaining a safe speed, wearing a kill cord and a lifejacket and practising safe loading.
Boaters can collect a free Operation Island Watch and Dinghy Safety Brochure at the Police Marine Base or at the VISAR Office at Road Reef. Persons can also contact Lesroy Simmons directly at +284 368-9462.
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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