Local News
BVI On Shutdown as Tropical Storm Philippe Strikes
Government buildings, schools and businesses are closed on Wednesday due to Tropical Storm Philippe which continues to bring heavy downpours across the British Virgin Islands.
The territory is currently under a flash-flood warning, which will remain in effect throughout October 4.
The government has issued a statement advising residents to exercise caution as thunderstorms, flash flooding, and strong winds are expected throughout the day.
“The Virgin Islands is under a flash-flood warning. As Tropical Storm Phillipe continues to affect the Territory, thunderstorms, flash flooding and strong winds are expected throughout the day,” a government statement said.
Tropical Storm Philippe, which originated over 10 days ago in the Atlantic Ocean, is projected to bring significant rainfall, potentially reaching up to a foot, across the territory and certain parts of the Leeward Islands.
Having made landfall on Barbuda on Monday, October 2, the storm is currently centred approximately 120 miles northeast of St. Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands. Peak winds are estimated to be around 45 mph.
Residents are strongly urged to remain indoors and be mindful of the life-threatening rip currents occurring along portions of the Atlantic coasts of the northern Leeward Islands, the British Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico throughout the middle of this week.
Philippe is the 16th named storm of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season and the 17th to achieve tropical storm status.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
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.
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