Crime/Police
National Security Council Reacts to Homicide of Attorney Jamal Smith
The National Security Council (NSC) held a special meeting today to address the recent homicide of attorney Jamal Smith, as reported by the Commissioner of Police.
This unfortunate event marks the Territory’s first homicide for 2024, prompting NSC to reaffirm its zero-tolerance policy towards crime.
In a statement, the NSC expressed shock and dismay at the incident, urging communities across the Territory to assist the police in their investigations. They specifically called upon individuals who had contact with Mr. Smith within the past 24 to 48 hours to come forward with any pertinent information. The NSC emphasized the importance of cooperation and urged citizens to utilize Crime Stoppers and the confidential hotline for reporting.
“NSC continues to deliberate strategically on all options to confront and eradicate the scourge of crime in the Territory,” the statement affirmed.
The NSC also extended condolences to Mr. Smith’s family and pledged to introduce measures and relevant legislation to resolve this and other unsolved crimes.
Acting Governor of the Virgin Islands, Mr. David D. Archer Jr., echoed these sentiments in a separate statement, expressing his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Mr. Smith. Recognizing Smith’s contributions to the legal community and the Territory at large, Acting Governor Archer pledged his support to the ongoing investigations, stating, “I am appealing to anyone with relevant information to contact the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).”
The NSC, chaired by the Governor and comprising key members including the Premier, the Minister for Communications and Works, the Attorney General, and the Commissioner of Police, plays a pivotal role in addressing internal security matters and significant security developments in the Territory.
A stabbing incident that occurred on May 12 at His Majesty’s Prison, resulted in inmate Shakeel Ryan being transported to Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for medical treatment.
Meanwhile, another individual has been apprehended and is currently being questioned at the Road Town Police Station.
Ryan, who is incarcerated for conspiracy to murder, remained hospitalised at the time of publication.
Circumstances surrounding the incident are still unclear, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The East End Police Station, previously closed due to ongoing sewerage works, is set to reopen its doors today, Friday, May 3.
The closure had been necessitated by sewerage works conducted by the Government of the Virgin Islands in the station’s parking lot.
Despite the station’s closure, law enforcement services in the East End district remained uninterrupted, with officers maintaining 24/7 patrols to ensure community safety. Residents were encouraged to contact officers directly at 368-9704 for immediate assistance or to report emergencies.
“We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding during this time,” stated a spokesperson for the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.
With the reopening of the East End Police Station, residents can once again rely on the presence of local law enforcement for their safety and security needs.
Following a tip-off received on Thursday, April 25th, the Department of Immigration has activated a coordinated effort to locate suspected illegal migrants, with Peter Island emerging as a focal point in the ongoing investigation.
Prompted by this information, the Department of Immigration engaged HM Customs and the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) to form a Joint Task Force. Their collaborative efforts have been directed towards Peter Island, where two Indian nationals have already been apprehended. However, it is suspected that additional migrants, possibly of various nationalities, remain at large on the island.
Members of the Joint Task Force are committed to thoroughly conducting searches, not only on Peter Island but also across other potential locations, as authorities intensify efforts to locate the remaining migrants.
Anyone with relevant information should contact the Department of Immigration at 468-4705, 468-4717, 468-4754, or the RVIPF at 311.
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