House Burglaries On The Rise, Confirms RVIPF

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force have confirmed that house burglaries are on the rise throughout main island Tortola

A June 8 RVIPF statement said the main areas affected within Road Town are include Huntums Ghut, Horse path, Pasea Estate, Lower Estate, Free bottom, Main Street and McNamara.

According to Police, perpetrators often gained entry into homes during the day through unsecured windows, especially those obscured from the public’s view.

Thieves predominately stole cash, jewelry and tools.

Head of the Criminal Investigations Department Acting Detective Chief Inspector Vernon Larocque said homeowners oftentimes secured all their windows except for one in need of repair.

“In too many instances, this is the window that a perpetrator uses to gain access. Homeowners should take the time to repair the locking mechanism for any inoperable windows and lock all windows that allow for easy access. Burglars are looking for any weak points of entry. If there is not an easy way to enter, a burglar will likely move on,” Larocque said.

While there is no full proof way to stop burglaries, Larocque has advised residents to install home security cameras.

“Another easy deterrent is closed circuit television. In this modern era, CCTV is accessible, inexpensive, and easy to install. The footage can be stored remotely on the cloud and can be monitored in real time from any location around the world. Law enforcement can also be alerted while the offence is being committed.”

He added: “While there are no full-proof measures to prevent burglaries, there is some peace of mind knowing that even if you are not at home, there are eyes keeping watch and recording activities in and around your property.”

Persons with any information on burglaries are asked to confidentially call the Crime Stoppers line 800-8477 (TIPS) or overseas call 1-284-800-8477.

You can also contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit on 368-9339.