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Intruder Breaks into One Mart East End, Police confirm
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has confirmed that an intruder broke into OneMart East End, in the early hours of the morning.
According to a source, a lone individual broke in shortly before 4 a.m. and managed to steal an unconfirmed amount of cash, believed to have been the cashier’s float.
It is unclear how the suspect gained entry or if any arrests have been made.
Authorities have launched an investigation, and more details are expected to follow.
The Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) has announced plans to reassess the West End Ferry Terminal project after bids submitted by contractors significantly exceeded the estimated $15 million budget. The move follows a review of financial submissions from two shortlisted firms—one a joint venture between Virgin Islands companies and the other a Canadian firm—whose bids came in at $64 million and $94 million, respectively.
The project, which has been a priority for several decades, gained renewed urgency following the devastation caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Since then, the RDA has been tasked with leading the terminal’s reconstruction as part of the Virgin Islands’ post-storm recovery efforts. Despite its critical importance, the current financial gap between the proposed costs and budget has prompted a reevaluation of the project’s scope and financial viability.
In light of this, the RDA convened a meeting with the Ministry of Communications and Works and the BVI Ports Authority to discuss the way forward. After careful consideration, a decision was made to review the Statement of Requirements (SoR), which will involve a reexamination of project priorities and potentially scaling down the terminal’s size and scope. A further update on the procurement process is expected within the coming week.
While the delays may be disappointing, the RDA emphasized that it is crucial to ensure the project is completed in a financially sustainable manner without compromising on quality. The agency remains committed to refining the procurement process to ensure cost-effectiveness while meeting the needs of the Virgin Islands.
The RDA also acknowledged the effort and resources invested by the bidding firms and reassured stakeholders that the procurement process would continue with fairness and transparency. With this reassessment, the RDA aims to move forward with a more competitive, sustainable approach to deliver this critical infrastructure project for the Virgin Islands.
A British Virgin Islands national was shot and killed in Anguilla early Monday morning, prompting a homicide investigation by local authorities.
The victim has been identified as 29-year-old Omari Roberts, a BVIslander who had traveled to Anguilla just days before the fatal shooting. According to the Royal Anguilla Police Force, the incident occurred shortly after midnight on February 17, at Hill Side Bar on Back Street, South Hill.
Details surrounding the circumstances of the shooting remain unclear, but authorities have confirmed that a section of the road near the establishment has been closed to all traffic as investigations continue.
Roberts arrived in Anguilla on February 14, and it is not yet known whether he was a target or an unintended victim of the violence. Police have not released any information regarding suspects or possible motives.
Authorities in Anguilla are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to piece together the events leading to Roberts’ death.
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The British Virgin Islands Cricket Association (BVICA) has unveiled its squad for the upcoming USVI President’s Cup Cricket Tournament in St. Thomas, USVI. The team will be led by Captain Imran Smith of Falcons CC, with Reno Mettelholzer of Royal Knights CC serving as Vice Captain.
The full squad includes Imran Smith (Captain), Reno Mettelholzer (Vice Captain), Joel Williams, Julian St. Clair, Collis Frazer, DonPaul Chrisnanand, Richard Francis, Shelan Isidore, Johann Lezana, Ameri Hinds, Vaden Walker, Juenick Mingo, and Jerome Morris. Elvis Richards has been appointed as Team Manager.
In an interview with BVICA Public Relations Officer Alison Scatliffe, Captain Imran Smith expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to lead the team. “I appreciate the fact that they entrusted me with the leadership role. It’s a pleasure representing the BVI and leading a bunch of talented guys,” Smith said.
On the team’s preparation, Smith shared that players have been training with their respective clubs and began focused collective sessions two weeks before the tournament. The training has centered around strategic play and a solid understanding of the basic rules to ensure a cohesive team performance.
When discussing his approach to leadership, Smith stressed the importance of balancing tactical strategies with motivation, while fostering a strong team bond and adaptability in various game situations.
Regarding the competition, Smith acknowledged a level of familiarity with some players from St. Thomas through local competitions. However, he cautioned against underestimating any team. “I know the BVI team has a very good chance of becoming winners. We just have to go out there and put what we practiced into play,” he remarked confidently.
Smith also addressed fans who would be unable to attend the matches, encouraging them to support the team in any way possible, and expressed optimism about the future of cricket in the BVI.
PHOTO: Imran Smith
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