Local News
HMS Dauntless Visits BVI to Strengthen Security and Disaster Preparedness
HMS Dauntless, the Royal Navy’s most advanced destroyer, arrived in Road Town this morning for a routine visit to the British Virgin Islands (BVI). During its time in the BVI’s waters this week, the crew of HMS Dauntless will engage in various activities, including meetings with members of the National Security Council, hosting a disaster exercise, and conducting an on-water search and rescue exercise.
The deployment of HMS Dauntless to the Caribbean serves two primary purposes. Firstly, it supports the British Overseas Territories during the hurricane season, providing assistance and aid in the event of natural disasters. Secondly, the ship plays a vital role in countering drugs trafficking in the region.
Notably, HMS Dauntless recently made a significant seizure of 1.2 tonnes of cocaine, valued at approximately $175 million, while patrolling the Caribbean Sea. The ship’s Wildcat helicopter, Royal Marines, and the US Coast Guard collaborated to intercept the suspect boat, successfully thwarting drug trafficking activities.
On the first day of the visit, Governor John Rankin CMG attended a lunch with members of the BVI National Security Council, the ship’s Commanding Officer, and other key individuals. The gathering included the Premier, Junior Minister Dr. The Hon Karl Dawson Dawson, Acting Commissioner of Police, Acting Attorney General, and the Director of Disaster Management.
Later in the week, HMS Dauntless will host a Disaster Relief Exercise in partnership with local agencies. This exercise aims to enhance the crew’s understanding of the BVI’s disaster response strategies and demonstrate the support that the ship can provide during such events. Additionally, the ship will conduct an exercise with the Police Marine Unit and Virgin Islands Search and Rescue, further strengthening coordination and readiness in search and rescue operations.
Governor John Rankin CMG emphasized the significance of the visit, stating, “The team aboard HMS Dauntless will meet with key partners to ensure that they are ready to respond effectively should their support be required.” He further highlighted the top priority of ensuring the safety and security of the people of the Virgin Islands, particularly during the ongoing hurricane season. The Governor expressed gratitude for the visit of HMS Dauntless, as it serves as a tangible demonstration of the assistance and support the ship can provide to the BVI.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.
Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.
The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.
This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.
The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by Governor Daniel Pruce on November 1, introduces significant changes to the Territory’s immigration policies. Among the most notable amendments is the doubling of the residency requirement for individuals seeking Belonger status, extending the period from ten to twenty years.
The legislation also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board to handle challenges and disputes, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of the immigration process. Premier Natalio Wheatley described the amendments as a step forward in refining the system. “We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitab
Governor Daniel Pruce
le,” the Premier said in a statement.
While the new law introduces robust measures to regulate and manage immigration, it has drawn mixed reactions. One key point of contention is the lack of new pathways for children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Critics argue that this omission leaves a gap in addressing a demographic often caught in legal limbo.
The amended law also tasks a newly created Quota Setting Committee with advising the Board of Immigration on annual quotas for residence and Belonger certificates. This ensures that quotas align with the Territory’s capacity and strategic objectives.
However, the law is not yet in effect. It will commence on a date to be announced by the Premier in the official Gazette. Applications submitted before this date will be processed under the previous legal framework, providing clarity for those already in the system.
The government has framed these changes as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for the Virgin Islands. “These amendments are designed to support the Territory’s long-term goals while maintaining fairness for all residents,” a government statement emphasised.
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
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