Crime/Police
Security Audit Of Cyril B Romney Tortola Pier Park Commissioned, Confirms Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer
– Final Report To Be Submitted July 10
Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer has revealed that a thorough security audit of the Cyril B Romney Tortola Pier Park has been commissioned to identify security vulnerabilities.
The decisoin was made following a July 2 emergency meeting between the Minister Rymer, who is responsible for ports, and key stakeholders, including the chairpersons of the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board and the British Virgin Islands Ports Authority and Acting Commissioner of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.
A government statement said the audit will assess existing security protocols and systems, identify vulnerabilities, and propose necessary enhancements. A final report will be presented to Minister Rymer, the BVI Ports Authority, and Tortola Pier Park Limited Boards on July 10.
The meeting, which was held a day after the daring daylight armed robbery at House of Luxury, primary focus was to collaborate on robust strategies to enhance security measures at the park.
At around 2 p.m. on July 1, two persons dressed in all white robbed the House of Luxury jewellery store of an undisclosed some of valuables, firing gunshots in the air as they fled the Cyril B Romney Tortola Pier Park.
No one was injured during the daring crime which was witnessed by several persons in and around the Pier Park in Road Town.
Police have been given full access to the park’s CCTV cameras and have also appealed to eyewitness to assist with the investigation by sharing any details of the crime they remember.
The Minister has also requested additional support from the police at the park to reinforce public confidence, while ensuring a positive guest experience until the audit is completed.
He stressed that all relevent agencies are committed to the safety of both citizens and visitors, and dedicated to promptly addressing the incident and implementing measures to strengthen a security at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park.
Witnesses are asked to call the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or Crimestoppers at 8008477.
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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