Crime/Police
At Least One Person Arrested By Police After Violent Altercation – Concerned Parents Withdraw Children From School
Officials from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) have taken at least one person into custody following a violent altercation that occurred at Elmore Stoutt High School in Road Town, Tortola. The incident occurred around 12:00 noon when a group of individuals, one of whom was observed wearing a hoodie and partially concealing their face, managed to breach the school’s security measures.
Eyewitnesses have reported that the intruders were armed and caused a state of panic among the students, leading the school to immediately contact the police for assistance. Chaos ensued as students hurriedly sought shelter, fearing for their safety.
The police responded swiftly to the scene, with reports indicating that one officer had to draw their firearm during the apprehension of one of the individuals involved in the altercation. However, the school administration sent an email shortly after 1:00 pm on October 9, stating that there were no masked gunmen or shootings on campus. The school further reassured parents that the situation had been brought under control.
Despite the school’s efforts to restore normalcy, a number of concerned parents have decided to remove their children from the campus. These parents have reportedly signed a release form with the school, granting permission for their children to be temporarily withdrawn from classes.
Classes have now resumed as usual, but the aftermath of this incident has left the school community on edge. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the altercation, with the aim of ensuring the safety and security of all students and staff at Elmore Stoutt High School.
In a distressing turn of events, one parent reported that while at the school, an individual on a scooter advised parents to promptly remove their children from the campus, as additional intruders were allegedly planning to return. “I went to get my child, and while I was there, a person on a scooter told us to take our children and leave because they were coming back. So I took my child,” the concerned parent shared. Several other parents and residents have also contacted JTV expressing similar concerns.
“The school is giving one account, but these children, even some teachers, are saying something else. My child is still shaking. She claims she witnessed a man in a hoodie brandishing a gun. She doesn’t want to go back to school. She is traumatized,” another parent told JTV.
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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