Uncategorized
National Security Council Addresses Recent Shooting Incident
In response to the recent shooting incident that occurred on Friday, March 22, the National Security Council (NSC) chaired by the Governor and comprising key members including the Premier, the Minister for Communication and Works, the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Police convened today, March 25, to address the matter and the discuss progress of the ongoing investigation.
During the meeting, the Commissioner of Police provided updates on the condition of the victim, Jeron Romney. Additionally, the Commissioner addressed recent media reports regarding gunshots heard in the area of Huntum’s Ghut on the evenings of March 23rd and 24th, 2024. However, investigations thus far have not confirmed the nature of these incidents.
The NSC committed to remaining informed on these matters and scheduled a follow-up discussion later in the week. Expressing gratitude, the NSC thanked community members who have come forward to assist the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force with the investigation and urged continued support from all communities throughout the Territory.
Specifically, the NSC encouraged anyone who had recent contact with Mr. Romney to reach out to Crime Stoppers and the confidential hotline at 800-8477 [TIPS] and 368-9339. Emphasising the importance of maintaining calm, the NSC called for peace and stability in the Territory.
Furthermore, the NSC reiterated its dedication to implementing measures and relevant legislation to address this and other unresolved crimes. The Council plays a crucial role in addressing internal security matters and significant security developments in the Territory, including instances of significant criminal activity.
As investigations continue and efforts to ensure the safety and security of residents progress, the NSC remains vigilant and committed to upholding the well-being of the British Virgin Islands community.
The National Security Council will continue to monitor the situation closely and take necessary actions to maintain law and order throughout the Territory.
Uncategorized
BVI and Dominican Republic Explore Caribbean Economic Hub to Boost International Trade
As global supply chains continue to face mounting pressure from economic uncertainty, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the Dominican Republic have initiated high-level talks on the potential development of a regional economic hub to strengthen international trade across the Caribbean.
In a bilateral meeting held on the margins of the 8th Meeting of the Forum of the Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean on Sustainable Development, British Virgin Islands Special Envoy Mr. Benito Wheatley met with Dominican Republic Vice Minister for Economic Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Hugo Francisco Rivera Fernández. The talks took place in Santiago, Chile between March 31 and April 4.
Central to the discussion was the role of the Dominican Republic as an emerging economic linchpin in the Caribbean. Vice Minister Rivera emphasized his country’s expanding trade and transportation infrastructure, noting its strategic connections to North America, Central America, South America, and Europe. He outlined how these networks could offer valuable opportunities for smaller Caribbean economies—such as the BVI—seeking to diversify their trade relationships and enhance resilience amid global market volatility.
Mr. Wheatley echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of continued cooperation and the potential for closer commercial ties. “It was a pleasure to engage with Vice Minister Rivera to continue BVI-DR discussions on strengthening economic cooperation,” said Wheatley. “The impressive economic growth and development of the Dominican Republic over the past decade has seen the country emerge as a critical economic hub in the Caribbean. As a close neighbour, the British Virgin Islands can benefit from the Dominican Republic’s regional and international trade and transportation links.”
As part of the evolving dialogue, both parties discussed the possibility of a formal trade mission from the BVI to the Dominican Republic, aimed at laying the groundwork for expanded bilateral commerce.
The talks mark a strategic step forward in Caribbean regional integration, underscoring how small and mid-sized economies are working together to navigate global economic headwinds and build sustainable trade partnerships.
the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has ordered the complete shutdown of liquor-selling establishments across the territory for Good Friday, warning that violators will face immediate penalties. The directive, backed by the Liquor Licence Act of 1964, comes with fines for both business owners and patrons found in breach of the law.
The order, issued under CAP 42 (1) of the Liquor Licence Act, 1964, requires that all premises licensed to sell intoxicating liquor — excluding clubs and hotels — remain closed for the entire day on Friday, April 18, 2025. This regulation is in line with legal provisions that mandate business closures on specific public holidays.
Further restrictions prohibit the reopening of these establishments before 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 20, 2025. Authorities stated that any early operation would be deemed a violation subject to enforcement.
Penalties for non-compliance include fines ranging from $150 to $200 for business operators. In addition, individuals found on the premises of establishments operating in violation of the law may be fined $25.
The RVIPF emphasised that these measures are intended to ensure orderly observance of the holiday and adherence to existing legislation. The public notice concluded with thanks to residents for their cooperation and extended wishes for a safe and peaceful holiday period.
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Team BVI Joins the Festivities at Carifta Games Opening Ceremony
BVI and Dominican Republic Explore Caribbean Economic Hub to Boost International Trade
Alcohol Sales Now Permitted After 6 P.M. on Good Friday
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