Crime/Police
Firearm and Drugs Seized in Weekend Operations by RVIPF
In a series of operations over the weekend, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) made significant strides in their ongoing efforts to enhance public safety, seizing illegal drugs, firearms, and ammunition, and arresting a minor in possession of a prohibited weapon.
Firearm Seizure and Arrest
The first operation took place on Friday, August 31, when officers from the Virgin Gorda Police Station responded to a report of a possible firearm at a local residence. Upon arrival, officers were granted permission by the minor’s father to conduct a search of the property. During the search, an AK-47 rifle and a magazine loaded with 18 rounds of ammunition were discovered concealed in a green towel. A 14-year-old boy was arrested at the scene and charged with Unlawful Possession of a Prohibited Firearm and Unlawful Possession of Explosives. He has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear in Magistrate’s Court on September 3.
Controlled Drug Seizure in Scatliffe Alley
Later that evening, a second operation in Scatliffe Alley led to the discovery of a significant quantity of drugs hidden in an old refrigerator. Among the substances seized were 357.1 grams of a green vegetable matter suspected to be marijuana, 27.2 grams of a white powdered substance believed to be cocaine, and 141.7 grams of a hard, off-white substance suspected to be crack cocaine.
Ammunition Magazine Recovered at Capoon’s Bay
On Saturday, August 31, another operation in Capoon’s Bay resulted in the recovery of an extended empty magazine from an old, discarded deep freezer outside a local establishment. The operation also included searches of over 20 individuals and vehicles in the area.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool commented on the weekend’s operations, stating, “These successful operations underscore our commitment to maintaining public safety and combating illegal activities in our community.”
The RVIPF continues to encourage the public to report any suspicious activity. Individuals can confidentially contact the Crime Stoppers line at 800-8477 (TIPS) or call 1-284-800-8477 from overseas, or reach the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339. Even the smallest piece of information could be vital in ongoing investigations.
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.
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