Crime/Police
12% Crime Increase Attributed to Money Boys Gang
The British Virgin Islands saw a 12% rise in crime in 2024 compared to the previous year, a surge largely attributed to the activities of the “Money Boys Gang,” Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool revealed during a press conference at Police Headquarters.
The gang has been linked to a series of burglaries, robberies, and vehicular thefts that plagued the territory throughout the year.
“We grappled with the gang for several months, and toward the end of November, we were able to limit their ability to commit crimes,” Commissioner Vanterpool stated. “Working with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the courts, we were successful in arresting and remanding several of the key players. Indeed, some of them have already been found guilty or pleaded guilty as charged.”
Despite these challenges, Commissioner Vanterpool highlighted the success of police efforts in ensuring a “safe, enjoyable, and largely crime-free” festive season, commending the sacrifices made by officers.
The Acting Commissioner reaffirmed the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force’s (RVIPF) commitment to maintaining public safety.
“As Commissioner, you have my word that I and my officers will lead with and leverage every resource available to us to tackle the crime situation so that the BVI remains one of the safest places to live, work, and vacation,” she said.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant and support law enforcement efforts as authorities continue their crackdown on organized crime.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Two Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
Dalfree Rodriguez De La Rosa, 22, of Hannah’s Estate, Tortola, and John Harvey, 33, of Purcell Estate, Tortola, were arrested on April 16, after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered a modified firearm, cannabis and ammunition during a stop-and-check operation in Free Bottom, police said.
According to the RVIPF, officers on patrol conducted the stop and discovered a Glock pistol, a quantity of cannabis and 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The firearm was later identified as a prohibited weapon that had been modified for fully automatic fire.
De La Rosa has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of explosives and possession of a prohibited firearm. Harvey has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Acting Commissioner Kenrick Davis, speaking on behalf of the Senior Command Team, commended the officers involved in the operation.
“Their continued professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty have significantly contributed to the safety and security of our community,” Davis said.
The RVIPF said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to address illegal firearms and drug-related activity across the Territory.
Six new police vehicles have been added to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Territory.
The force stated that the vehicles will support policing operations by improving mobility, response times and visibility across communities in the Virgin Islands.
“These additions form part of our continued efforts to enhance operational capacity and visibility across our communities,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
The vehicles are expected to be deployed on roads throughout the Territory as they begin active patrols in support of law enforcement duties.
The RVIPF also indicated that additional vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming months, further expanding the resources available to officers.
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