Crime/Police
Premier To Hold National Security Meeting With Governor
Premier Hon. Dr Natalio Wheatley has announced his intention to meet with Governor John Rankin to request a National Security Council meeting in light of the unfortunate passing of Police Detective Paul France whose body was pulled from a submerged vehicle near the waterfront of the Queen Elizabeth II Park on Tortola.
During a JTV exclusive interview this afternoon, October 7, the Minister of Finance said he was meeting with Governor Rankin to request a National Security Council meeting to be thoroughly briefed on the investigation.
“I still am yet to receive a proper briefing on it. I will first, and expect to speak to the Governor in a little while and ask for a National Security meeting,” he said.
The interagency meeting aims to provide the Premier with an extensive update on the circumstances surrounding Detective France’s passing, as well as other security matters within the territory.
The sudden loss of Detective France has deeply impacted the entire territory. With almost forty years of dedicated service, Detective France, a British citizen, was highly regarded both locally and in the United Kingdom.
A concerned passerby noticed tracks leading towards the sea and, upon closer inspection, discovered Detective France’s white Kia Soul submerged in the water.
The RVIPF was immediately notified, and the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service also responded to the scene. Sadly, the officer was found unresponsive in the vehicle.
Premier Wheatley and Police Commissioner Mark Collins have extended their heartfelt condolences to Detective France’s family.
Governor John Rankin
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Two Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
Dalfree Rodriguez De La Rosa, 22, of Hannah’s Estate, Tortola, and John Harvey, 33, of Purcell Estate, Tortola, were arrested on April 16, after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered a modified firearm, cannabis and ammunition during a stop-and-check operation in Free Bottom, police said.
According to the RVIPF, officers on patrol conducted the stop and discovered a Glock pistol, a quantity of cannabis and 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The firearm was later identified as a prohibited weapon that had been modified for fully automatic fire.
De La Rosa has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of explosives and possession of a prohibited firearm. Harvey has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Acting Commissioner Kenrick Davis, speaking on behalf of the Senior Command Team, commended the officers involved in the operation.
“Their continued professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty have significantly contributed to the safety and security of our community,” Davis said.
The RVIPF said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to address illegal firearms and drug-related activity across the Territory.
Six new police vehicles have been added to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Territory.
The force stated that the vehicles will support policing operations by improving mobility, response times and visibility across communities in the Virgin Islands.
“These additions form part of our continued efforts to enhance operational capacity and visibility across our communities,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
The vehicles are expected to be deployed on roads throughout the Territory as they begin active patrols in support of law enforcement duties.
The RVIPF also indicated that additional vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming months, further expanding the resources available to officers.
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