Crime/Police
Support Initiative Launched for Former Premier Andrew Fahie Amidst Legal Troubles
Family and friends of former Premier Andrew Fahie have rallied together to organize a financial assistance initiative.
Responding to the urging of loved ones, businesswoman Patsy Lake has agreed to have a collection receptacle placed at the One Stop Mall, serving as a central point for individuals to contribute financially and show their love and support for Fahie.
The receptacle will be available from October 16th to November 16th, providing a month-long opportunity for those who wish to lend a helping hand during this challenging time.
When questioned about her decision to assist in this endeavor, Mrs Lake emphasized the importance of family bonds. She expressed her refusal to pass judgment on Fahie’s actions, leaving matters of right and wrong to the court and a higher power. The family’s persistent requests, coupled with the support of friends, ultimately convinced her to establish the receptacle, a decision that had not been convenient until now.
Contributors can visit the One Stop Mall and place their donations in the designated box, which will be cleared on a daily basis. For those who prefer to make their contributions via check, they can address it to Albion Hodge, also known as Bobby.
Former Premier Andrew Fahie, was arrested on April 28, 2022, by Drug Enforcement Administration Agents (DEA) at the Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport. He was apprehended alongside Ports Authority Director Oleanvine Maynard and her son Kadeem Maynard. The trio faces charges of conspiring to import over five kilos of cocaine into the United States and conspiring to launder $700,000. While the Maynards remain in custody, awaiting trial, Fahie has recently chosen to distance himself from Virgin Islands politics, resigning as chairman of the party in November 2022.
Fahie’s political career spans over two decades, during which he served as District One representative, Minister for Health, Education and Welfare, and Minister for Education and Culture. In 2016, he assumed leadership of the Virgin Islands Party (VIP), leading the party to victory in the 2019 general election.
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.
ADVERTISEMENT:
Caribbean Leaders Rally for Immunisation Progress at 38th EPI Managers’ Meeting
Fraser Appointed to Lead Environment and Planning in Cabinet Reshuffle
Visa-Free Access for Guyanese Effective From Nov. 1
-
Crime/Police3 days agoAttempted Armed Robbery at Matcha’s Bar and Grill Foiled on Fort Hill
-
Crime/Police6 days agoGovernor Pruce Suspends RVIPF Commissioner Recruitment, Citing Evolving Security Needs
-
Local News1 week agoThird District Job Fair Sees Record-Breaking Turnout and Community Impact
-
Local News1 week agoVirgin Islands Moves Forward with New Agriculture and Fisheries Complex Contract
-
Business7 days agoVirgin Islands Secures $100 Million Loan to Drive Infrastructure and Community Development
-
Business7 days agoBVI Financial Investigation Agency and Jersey Financial Services Commission Sign Agreement to Strengthen Cooperation in Tackling Financial Crimes
-
Local News1 day agoFraser Appointed to Lead Environment and Planning in Cabinet Reshuffle
-
Local News1 week agoVirgin Islands to Host 67th Session of Caribbean Meteorological Council