Crime/Police
One Arrested as Police Seize Drugs and Weapon in Major Crackdown on Tortola Violence
In response to a series of violent incidents across Tortola, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) launched a sweeping operation on Friday, August 23, aimed at curbing public disorder and restoring a sense of security to the island’s residents.
The operation, described as intelligence-led, involved a coordinated effort of targeted stop-and-search checks, increased patrols, and strategic searches across various hotspots on the island.
The initiative resulted in the seizure of a significant quantity of controlled drugs, drug-dealing paraphernalia, and an offensive weapon. One adult male was arrested in connection with the seized items, and investigations are ongoing into other materials recovered during the operation.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool highlighted the importance of the operation in addressing the community’s growing concerns. “The recent incidents of indiscriminate gunfire and other forms of public disorder have understandably alarmed our residents,” said Vanterpool. “This operation was crucial not only in terms of enforcement but also in reassuring the public that we are committed to restoring and maintaining peace in our communities.”
Vanterpool further emphasised the RVIPF’s commitment to cracking down on criminal activities, noting, “The police are dedicated to investigating and apprehending those who continue to disregard the law and disrupt the safety of our communities.”
In her statement, the Acting Commissioner also called on the public to support law enforcement efforts by providing any information that could assist in tackling criminal activities. “We urge anyone with information to come forward. Your cooperation is vital to our continued success in these operations,” Vanterpool added.
The RVIPF has provided multiple avenues for confidential reporting, including the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-8477 (TIPS) and the RVIPF Intelligence Department at 284-368-9339, ensuring that all information will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is actively searching for three suspects who fled after an attempted home invasion in Cocodella on Monday afternoon.
Officers responded to a report of the incident shortly after 3 p.m. today, December 2. Upon arrival, they encountered four armed individuals. Shots were exchanged during the confrontation, resulting in the arrest of one suspect. The individual is currently in custody at the Road Town Police Station and is assisting with investigations.
The remaining suspects escaped on foot, with one believed to have sustained injuries during the encounter. Despite extensive searches, they have not been located.
The RVIPF has launched a full investigation and is appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477 (TIPS) or from overseas at (284) 800-8477. Information can also be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
All tips will be treated with strict confidentiality as authorities work to bring the suspects to justice.
A South African national was charged with manslaughter following a tragic marine collision that claimed the life of 39-year-old Stephen Cross Jr.
Lesley Joubert, 36, was taken into custody by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) as part of their investigation into the incident. He appeared before the Magistrate’s Court and was granted bail set at $120,000 in cash. Joubert is expected to return to court on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.
The tragic event occurred on the evening of Friday, 22 November, near Saba Rock. Initial reports indicate that a 21-foot rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) collided with a dinghy, causing severe injuries to Mr. Cross, a resident of St. Thomas, USVI.
Cross was rushed to the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic before being transferred to the Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for advanced treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.
As investigations continue, the authorities have urged members of the public with any information relevant to the case to come forward.
The RVIPF assured the public that comprehensive investigations are underway to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
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