Local News
“We Don’t Have a Money Problem—We Have a Management Problem,” – Hon. Marlon Penn
Hon. Marlon A. Penn, District Eight Representative, has issued a sharp critique of the government’s handling of critical economic and infrastructure matters, highlighting a troubling pattern of mismanagement and inefficiency. Linking rising crime to economic inequality and underemployment,
“We’ve seen an uptick in this type of activity in our community,” Hon. Penn stated, referencing recent criminal incidents, including the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Quintinn McGlore, also known as “MB,” in the Purcell community on 15 January. “I again express to persons who are involved in this type of activity to cease and desist and find more amicable ways to solve your differences and disputes.” He underscored the connection between financial hardship and social unrest, calling for urgent action to address the underlying issues.
The District Eighgt Representative highlighted unemployment and underemployment, particularly among young men, as a key issue. He criticised the government for failing to capitalise on surplus revenues to address pressing needs.
“I’ve often said that we don’t have a money problem in this country—we have a management problem,” Hon. Penn asserted. He revealed that over $100 million in capital expenditure has gone unspent across two budget cycles. “This is money that should have been used to develop the local economy, support small businesses, and address infrastructure and development issues. Instead, it’s gone back into the treasury.”
Hon. Penn expressed frustration over the deteriorating state of road and water infrastructure, particularly in communities like District 8, which he co-represents with the Premier and Minister of Finance. “We have some of the worst roads in the territory, and there’s no relief in sight,” he said. “People are left with exorbitant mechanic bills and constant tyre replacements due to poor road conditions.”
Access to potable water was another major concern. Penn described the situation as a “national state of emergency,” pointing out that residents in many areas lack access to potable water. “In the 21st century, it’s unacceptable that people are forced to collect water in buckets and pans for daily needs, while over $100 million sits idle.”
Hon. Penn also criticised the government’s failure to utilise borrowed funds effectively. He referenced the Caribbean Development Bank loan, which has accrued over $2.2 million in commitment fees while remaining largely unspent. “This money was intended to address infrastructure issues, yet it sits idle, costing the taxpayers millions.”
The unfinished administrative complex, stalled for over seven years despite $10 million in annual maintenance fees, was cited as another example of inefficiency.
Hon. Penn called for improved governance and efficient use of public resources, emphasising the direct impact on residents’ quality of life. He noted that the government’s failure to act is hampering efforts to maintain critical infrastructure and attract tourists. “What are we welcoming visitors into when we can’t even manage basic maintenance of our roadways or address overgrown bush and debris?”
A crackdown on violent crime in the British Virgin Islands has led to multiple arrests and the seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition, authorities announced Friday, March 28.
In a series of targeted search operations, police recovered a semi-automatic handgun and dozens of rounds of ammunition, marking a significant step in the fight against armed robberies and property crimes across the territory.
As part of the ongoing investigations, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) conducted a series of search operations on March 25 at five properties linked to suspects in recent armed robberies. Officers recovered a 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol and 41 rounds of assorted ammunition.
Authorities detained eight individuals in connection with the raids. Three were released after questioning, while five have been formally charged.
Ernest Jacobs, 59, Prynce Jacobs, 19, and a 16-year-old male, all of Josiah’s Bay, have been charged with keeping an unlicensed firearm and two counts of unlawful possession of explosives. A 14-year-old male of Purcell Estate has been charged with two counts of robbery. Ravie Joseph, 43, of Josiah’s Bay, has been charged with overstaying a landing permit.
The charges stem from separate robbery incidents on Tortola on March 3. Police had previously charged and remanded another minor in connection with the same crimes.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool lauded officers for their work and underscored the importance of removing illegal weapons from the streets.
“The removal of illegal firearms and ammunition from our communities is a critical step in reducing the threat of violence and protecting innocent lives,” Vanterpool said in a statement. “To date, a total of nine illegal firearms and more than 300 rounds of ammunition have been recovered as part of our intensified operations. We remain resolute in our mission to disrupt criminal networks and bring offenders to justice.”
Authorities continue to urge residents to come forward with any information that may aid ongoing investigations. Tips can be submitted to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 800-8477, or internationally at (284) 800-8477.
Travelers from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are being urged to check their passport validity before visiting the United States, as officials in the U.S. Virgin Islands have begun enforcing the six-month passport validity rule for entry into U.S. territories and the mainland.
According to a recent bulletin issued by the Office of the Deputy Governor in the BVI, the Civil Registry and Passport Office is advising citizens to renew their passports well in advance to avoid disruptions to travel plans.
“The United States Virgin Islands is enforcing the six-month passport validity requirement for entry to U.S. Territories and mainland,” the bulletin stated. “As such, all citizens are encouraged to renew their passports well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.”
The advisory also reminded British Overseas Territories Citizens (BOTC) and British passport holders that they are eligible to renew their passports up to nine months before their expiration date. This early renewal process is designed to prevent last-minute complications and ensure uninterrupted travel.
Authorities strongly recommend that all travelers verify their passport validity before making travel arrangements. The Civil Registry and Passport Office remains available for assistance and inquiries regarding renewal procedures.
For further information, BVI residents are encouraged to contact the Civil Registry and Passport Office at 468-3035.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) have charged Drew Farrell, 42, of The Valley, Virgin Gorda, in connection with a fatal stabbing that claimed the life of Rasheel Thomas Alexander.
Farrell who remains in police custody is expected to appear before the Magistrate’s Court in the coming days.
The charge follows an ongoing investigation into the stabbing incident, which has drawn significant public attention. Police have not yet disclosed details surrounding the circumstances of the attack.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Tips can be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477. International callers can reach Crime Stoppers at (284) 800-8477.
BVI Police Make Strides in Robbery and Property Crime Investigations
Young Scientists Honored in British Virgin Islands for Groundbreaking Water Research
U.S. Six-Month Passport Validity Rule Enforced for British Virgin Islands Travelers
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