Local News
Government Hosts OECS Delegation to Shape Caribbean Tourism Policy

In a move towards fostering regional collaboration and sustainable tourism development, the Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, Premier and Minister of Finance for the British Virgin Islands, played host to a delegation from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Commission (OECS).
The visit, led by Team Leader and Tourism Technical Specialist Ms. Maria Fowell and supported by Tourism Policy and Development Advisor Dr. T. Jennifer Edwards, marks the commencement of a series of high-level meetings aimed at advancing a Common Tourism Policy.
The discussions, scheduled to take place from January 15 to January 20, will focus on incorporating opportunities in the Blue Economy—a critical aspect of the region’s sustainable development strategy. The OECS Commission representatives will engage with officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development, showcasing a commitment to a unified approach in maximizing the potential of the Caribbean tourism sector.
Accompanying the Premier in these pivotal discussions are the Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development, Joseph Smith Abbott, and Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, Honourable Luce Hodge Smith. Their presence underscores the unified front presented by the British Virgin Islands in engaging with the OECS Commission to shape a forward-looking tourism agenda.
The series of meetings is expected to delve into policy frameworks, sustainable tourism practices, and collaborative initiatives to capitalise on the Blue Economy’s potential. As the British Virgin Islands takes a leadership role in these discussions, the wider Caribbean region anticipates positive outcomes that will pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable future for its tourism industry.
Crime/Police
BVI Police Make Strides in Robbery and Property Crime Investigations

A crackdown on violent crime in the British Virgin Islands has led to multiple arrests and the seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition, authorities announced Friday, March 28.
In a series of targeted search operations, police recovered a semi-automatic handgun and dozens of rounds of ammunition, marking a significant step in the fight against armed robberies and property crimes across the territory.
As part of the ongoing investigations, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) conducted a series of search operations on March 25 at five properties linked to suspects in recent armed robberies. Officers recovered a 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol and 41 rounds of assorted ammunition.
Authorities detained eight individuals in connection with the raids. Three were released after questioning, while five have been formally charged.
Ernest Jacobs, 59, Prynce Jacobs, 19, and a 16-year-old male, all of Josiah’s Bay, have been charged with keeping an unlicensed firearm and two counts of unlawful possession of explosives. A 14-year-old male of Purcell Estate has been charged with two counts of robbery. Ravie Joseph, 43, of Josiah’s Bay, has been charged with overstaying a landing permit.
The charges stem from separate robbery incidents on Tortola on March 3. Police had previously charged and remanded another minor in connection with the same crimes.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool lauded officers for their work and underscored the importance of removing illegal weapons from the streets.
“The removal of illegal firearms and ammunition from our communities is a critical step in reducing the threat of violence and protecting innocent lives,” Vanterpool said in a statement. “To date, a total of nine illegal firearms and more than 300 rounds of ammunition have been recovered as part of our intensified operations. We remain resolute in our mission to disrupt criminal networks and bring offenders to justice.”
Authorities continue to urge residents to come forward with any information that may aid ongoing investigations. Tips can be submitted to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 800-8477, or internationally at (284) 800-8477.
Local News
U.S. Six-Month Passport Validity Rule Enforced for British Virgin Islands Travelers

Travelers from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are being urged to check their passport validity before visiting the United States, as officials in the U.S. Virgin Islands have begun enforcing the six-month passport validity rule for entry into U.S. territories and the mainland.
According to a recent bulletin issued by the Office of the Deputy Governor in the BVI, the Civil Registry and Passport Office is advising citizens to renew their passports well in advance to avoid disruptions to travel plans.
“The United States Virgin Islands is enforcing the six-month passport validity requirement for entry to U.S. Territories and mainland,” the bulletin stated. “As such, all citizens are encouraged to renew their passports well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.”
The advisory also reminded British Overseas Territories Citizens (BOTC) and British passport holders that they are eligible to renew their passports up to nine months before their expiration date. This early renewal process is designed to prevent last-minute complications and ensure uninterrupted travel.
Authorities strongly recommend that all travelers verify their passport validity before making travel arrangements. The Civil Registry and Passport Office remains available for assistance and inquiries regarding renewal procedures.
For further information, BVI residents are encouraged to contact the Civil Registry and Passport Office at 468-3035.
Crime/Police
Drew Farrell Charged With Manslaughter in Virgin Gorda Stabbing

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) have charged Drew Farrell, 42, of The Valley, Virgin Gorda, in connection with a fatal stabbing that claimed the life of Rasheel Thomas Alexander.
Farrell who remains in police custody is expected to appear before the Magistrate’s Court in the coming days.
The charge follows an ongoing investigation into the stabbing incident, which has drawn significant public attention. Police have not yet disclosed details surrounding the circumstances of the attack.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Tips can be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477. International callers can reach Crime Stoppers at (284) 800-8477.
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