Crime/Police
Governor and Premier Appeal To Public For Help To Solve Murders In The BVI
British Virgin Islands Governor John Rankin and Premier Natalio Wheatley have appealed to the public to share any information relating to murders of Kemo Lettsome, Yan Edwards and Jahkeem Christopher with the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).
“Further to the National Security Council meeting, I, as Governor, and I, as Premier, join the RVIPF in appealing for information into the murder of Mr. Lettsome, as well as the continued need for information in relation to the murders earlier this year of Yan Edwards and Jahkeem Christopher,” a join statement said.
The appeal came after the Deputy Police Commissioner St Clair Amory briefed the National Security Council on May 1 on the status of the investigation into the murder of 37-year-old Lettsome which occured at a residence near Stickett in Long Look on Sunday, April 30 at around 6:30 p.m.
RVIPF Major Incident Team said Lettsome was “gunned down senselessly and defenselessly.”
Initial inquiries indicate that the shooter drove by the residence in a vehicle, discharged several bullets, and fled the scene in the same vehicle.
The police need the help of the public to solve the murders.
“Those who saw something or heard something about any of the murders, must say something. Absolutely, we believe that no dispute is worth taking someone’s life.
We are determined to support the RVIPF in bringing to account those responsible for murders and other acts of gun violence, and we call on the entire community to help to bring these perpetrators to justice,” the Governor and Premier’s statement added.
Detectives are asking for witnesses or persons with information to contact the Major Incident Team at 368-9410.
Alternatively, persons can give information anonymously through the Crimestoppers hotline number 800-8744.
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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