Uncategorized
Four Firearms and 302 Ammunition Rounds Seized by RVIPF in First Six Weeks of 2025

In the first six weeks of 2025, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered four firearms and a total of 302 rounds of ammunition through various operations. Notably, one of the recovered firearms was a modified pistol, classified as a prohibited weapon due to its ability to discharge multiple rounds with a single pull of the trigger.
As a result of these efforts, ten individuals have been charged in connection with the recoveries. Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool emphasized the serious legal implications for those who facilitate or permit the presence of illegal firearms or ammunition on their property or in their vehicles.
Under the Firearm Act, any firearms discovered on private property are presumed to belong to the occupants, who are then required to provide evidence to the contrary. This legal standard underpins the arrest and subsequent charges of all individuals present in such cases. A similar provision exists under the Drugs (Prevention of Misuse) Act, which governs the possession of controlled substances.
“The RVIPF remains committed to removing illegal firearms from our streets,” Acting Commissioner Vanterpool stated. “We encourage the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The consequences of neglecting such illegal actions can be severe and far-reaching.”
The RVIPF continues to stress the importance of community cooperation in addressing illegal activities and urges residents to remain aware of the significant legal risks associated with firearm and drug violations.
Anyone with information regarding illegal firearms or suspicious activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or, for international callers, at (284) 800-8477. Additionally, tips may be directed to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.

This image is for representation purposes only and does not depict the full quantity of ammunition seized.
Uncategorized
Pope Francis Dies at 88: World Mourns Transformative Leader of the Catholic Church

Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from the Americas, died on Sunday at the age of 88, bringing an end to a historic papacy defined by humility, social advocacy, and efforts to modernise the Church. The Vatican confirmed his death late Sunday evening in a brief statement, noting he passed away peacefully at the Apostolic Palace, surrounded by senior clergy and aides.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected to the papacy in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His elevation as the first Jesuit pope and the first from the Global South signalled a shift in the Church’s global focus. His leadership inspired millions, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean, where his messages of compassion, environmental stewardship, and economic justice found deep resonance.
Over his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis worked tirelessly to address some of the most complex issues facing the modern Church—sexual abuse scandals, declining attendance, and widening political divides. He was both praised and criticised for his efforts to reach across ideological lines, calling for greater inclusion within the Church, particularly towards the LGBTQ community, divorced Catholics, and interfaith dialogue.
In the Caribbean, a region with a deep Catholic heritage, Pope Francis was seen as a moral voice and a beacon of reform. His 2015 visit to Cuba helped pave the way for a historic thaw in US–Cuba relations, while his outspoken stance on climate change galvanised support for environmental movements across island nations vulnerable to rising sea levels and intensifying hurricanes.
“Pope Francis was a man of the people. His commitment to the poor, the marginalised, and our common home touched the lives of many here in the Caribbean,” said Bishop Harold Richards of the Antilles Episcopal Conference. “He brought a human face to the Church.”
Though increasingly frail in recent years, Francis continued to carry out his duties with determination. He remained active in Vatican affairs until only weeks before his passing, delivering his final public message on Easter Sunday, in which he called for peace in the Middle East and solidarity with migrants worldwide.
A conclave of cardinals will be convened in the coming weeks to elect a new pope. In the meantime, the College of Cardinals will oversee the governance of the Church.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of bold compassion, spiritual leadership, and a vision of a more open, engaged, and globally conscious Catholic Church. Across the Caribbean and the world, churches will toll their bells in mourning—and in gratitude for a life of service.
Funeral services are expected to be held later this week in St Peter’s Basilica. A national day of mourning has been declared in Argentina.
Uncategorized
Leatherback Nesting Season Commences in BVI: Conservationists Seek Community Support

As the leatherback sea turtle nesting season begins across the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are preparing for potential nesting activity. While sightings have been reported in neighboring regions, no nests have been documented in the BVI yet. The Association of Reef Keepers (ARK), a local non-profit dedicated to marine conservation, is urging residents and visitors to report any turtle tracks or nesting activity promptly. Early detection is crucial, especially if nests are located in vulnerable areas where eggs may need to be relocated to ensure their survival.
Uncategorized
Another Section of Threlfalls Collapses, Prompting Safety Concerns

A new section of the Threlfalls road collapsed earlier today, April 18, raising renewed safety concerns among local residents and commuters. While no injuries have been reported, the incident has intensified scrutiny over the ongoing structural stability of the area.
Residents have expressed concern that today’s rainfall may have played a role in triggering the latest collapse.
“We are more worried now as we may soon be unable to traverse this road altogether,” one resident said. “I am worried about accessing my home.”
This is not the first time Threadfall road has been compromised. Another section of the roadway eroded in September 2024 following a period of intense rainfall. The Department of Public Works had subsequently conducted limited repairs, rendering that portion somewhat passable. However, long-standing issues persist.
The road has suffered extensive damage over the years, particularly following the passage of the hurricanes in 2017, which left critical parts of the route severely weakened.
Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the cause of today’s collapse. In the meantime, JTV is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Motorists and pedestrians are strongly advised to exercise caution and avoid the area if possible.
-
Local News4 days ago
Woman Seriously Injured in Motorcycle Crash at Fish Bay
-
Uncategorized3 days ago
Another Section of Threlfalls Collapses, Prompting Safety Concerns
-
Crime/Police4 days ago
BVI Begins Vetting of Police Officers, Reopen Search for Commissioner
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
Jamaican National Ronnie Identified as Carrot Bay Drowning Victim
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
Assaults and Wounding Charges for Huntums Ghut and Virgin Gorda Residents
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
Two Men Charged in Separate Burglary Investigations
-
Crime/Police7 days ago
Police to Enforce Noise Act Amid Complaints About Loud Scooters, Trucks
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Man Drowns After Being Swept Off Rocks by Wave in the Carrot Bay