Crime/Police
Royal Virgin Islands Police Force Officers Complete Armed Response Training & D.A.R.E Program
Officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force recently completed an intensive Armed Response Training and D.A.R.E Program. The comprehensive training took place simultaneously at the Road Town Police Station over the course of four to six weeks.
Led by the experienced team of Inspector Carty, Sergeants Roberts, and Winter, the in-house Armed Response Training provided nine officers with a wide range of essential skills. Topics covered included weapon handling, precision shooting, and house clearing, among others. This rigorous training equipped the officers with the necessary tools to effectively handle reports that require armed response.
The Drug Abuse Resistance and Education (D.A.R.E) program, delivered by Police Constable Zamfir Adams, was equally impactful. Nine Community Policing Officers participated in this program, gaining valuable knowledge on crucial topics such as bullying, resisting drug offers, and understanding gangs and gang violence.
Additionally, they received training on handling more sensitive subjects like identifying good and bad touches, as well as good and bad secrets. They were also taught effective techniques to engage and captivate children, ensuring that they remain interested and eager to continue learning.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, St. Clair Amory, commended all participating officers for their exemplary performance throughout the training. He also expressed his appreciation for the training instructors, highlighting their exceptional delivery of the program’s material. In a time when it is not always feasible to employ trainers from overseas, he emphasized the significance of having dedicated trainers within the organization who are fully equipped to deliver these essential training materials to officers.
Deputy Commissioner Amory encouraged the officers to make the most of the skills they acquired during the training, emphasizing the importance of utilizing these newfound abilities to drive the organization forward. With their enhanced skills and knowledge, these officers are now better equipped to serve and protect the community, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for all.
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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