The Family Support Network (FSN), a vital nonprofit organisation assisting vulnerable families in the British Virgin Islands, has received a timely donation from CIBC Caribbean to replenish its food pantry.

On January 21, representatives from CIBC Caribbean—including Nelson Ramirez, Relationship Manager, Platinum Banking; Roschelle Smith, Compliance Manager; and Valissa Graham, Business Banking Manager—presented several cases of sardines, tuna, and soda crackers to FSN Pantry Coordinator Sandra Mills. The donation was part of an internal initiative in which bank staff contributed their 2024 hurricane provisions to support the pantry’s efforts.

FSN’s pantry provides non-perishable food and essential household items to families in need, particularly those facing financial hardship or domestic crises. Recently, the organisation had been experiencing shortages of protein-rich staples such as canned fish, making the bank’s contribution especially critical. Mills expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasising its importance in meeting the dietary needs of those the FSN serves.

The Family Support Network offers more than just food assistance. The nonprofit serves as a critical resource for individuals affected by domestic abuse, providing counseling, advocacy, and long-term support, including employment training and resumé writing services to help clients rebuild their lives.

“CIBC Caribbean has been a steadfast partner in our mission,” said FSN Interim Executive Director Prudence Charles. “Through monetary contributions, gift baskets, and pantry supplies, their generosity has made a real difference in our ability to serve the community. We deeply appreciate their continued support.”

The bank’s ongoing collaboration with FSN reflects its commitment to social responsibility and community resilience across the Virgin Islands.

FSN serves clients on Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada. Those interested in supporting the organisation can contact the office via email at info@familysupportbvi.org. Donors and beneficiaries can drop off or collect items Monday through Friday at FSN’s office on Chalwell Street, Road Town, by appointment at (284) 542-2085. For emergencies, individuals can reach FSN at (284) 499-0999.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Police Commissioner, Erla Harewood-Christopher, has been arrested and detained as authorities investigate the controversial importation of two sniper rifles by the country’s Strategic Services Agency (SSA), officials confirmed on Friday.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Suzette Martin announced the arrest during a news conference, revealing that Harewood-Christopher and former SSA director Major Roger Best were taken into custody at a secret location “over the past few days.”

“We understand that this has raised significant public concern, and we are committed to providing as much information as possible while respecting the ongoing investigation,” Martin stated.

Authorities launched the probe after uncovering irregularities in the procurement of the firearms. While charges have not yet been filed, Martin indicated that potential offenses could include misbehavior in public office. She emphasized that the investigation remains active and that law enforcement is working closely with the Director of Public Prosecutions to ensure due process.

“As this matter is still at a sensitive stage, we cannot provide specific details about the nature of the arrest,” Martin said. “It is important that we allow the investigation to unfold without interference. We ask for the public’s patience and understanding as we ensure that all aspects of this case are addressed thoroughly and fairly.”

Despite the arrest of the nation’s top law enforcement official, Martin assured the public that the operations of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) remain unaffected.

“Our officers remain dedicated to serving and protecting the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago. The police hierarchy continues to function without disruption, and our commitment to public safety remains our top priority,” she said.

The police also confirmed that Harewood-Christopher’s constitutional rights are being upheld. “We have taken proactive steps to ensure that there is no action that could compromise her welfare,” Martin added.

Harewood-Christopher has joined a short list of Trinidad and Tobago’s police commissioners who have faced criminal investigations. In 1986, former Police Commissioner Randolph Burroughs was arrested on drug smuggling charges following a government probe into the narcotics trade.

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has made it clear that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents cannot enter school grounds in the U.S. Virgin Islands without a judicial warrant. In a memorandum issued on January 29,  to cabinet members and government staff, Bryan outlined strict guidelines for handling ICE activity, particularly within public schools.

“Schools should not permit the agent to enter the school building without a warrant signed by a judicial officer,” the governor stated in the directive. He emphasised that administrative warrants, which are issued by immigration authorities but not approved by a judge, do not grant access to non-public locations such as schools.

The guidance also makes clear that ICE agents cannot question students without parental consent or request immigration-related information from school staff. Disclosing such details without a judicial order or subpoena could violate students’ rights.

Bryan instructed school officials to report any ICE presence immediately. “The Commissioner of Education shall immediately notify the Attorney General of reported ICE activity,” the memorandum states.

The governor also reaffirmed that local law enforcement officers are not required to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. “Federal ICE activity is not sanctioned or assisted by local law enforcement,” he wrote, stressing that peace officers in the territory are responsible for protecting residents and enforcing local laws, not aiding federal immigration operations.

The directive has been met with support from education officials and community advocates.

“Our job is to educate and protect children, not to act as immigration enforcers,” said a senior Department of Education official. “This guidance ensures that our schools remain safe spaces for all students.”

Immigrant rights advocates also welcomed the governor’s stance. “Families should not have to live in fear that dropping their child off at school could result in an immigration encounter,” said a spokesperson for a local advocacy group.

While ICE has not publicly commented on its operations in the territory, Bryan’s memorandum sends a strong message that the USVI government will not facilitate federal immigration enforcement in schools.