Local News
Bryan to Appeal Directly to Trump If Necessary in BVI-USVI Trade Dispute

– Blasts Gittens for Weakening USVI Position
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. vows to take the USVI-BVI trade dispute to President Trump if necessary, accusing Senator Gittens of undermining negotiations. The canceled meeting will be rescheduled as officials work toward a resolution that protects USVI interests.
Following the abrupt cancellation of a scheduled meeting between the 36th Legislature and Bryan administration officials regarding the ongoing trade dispute with the British Virgin Islands, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. condemned Senator Kenneth Gittens for weakening the territory’s negotiating stance. Bryan also stated that he is prepared to petition President Trump to impose tariffs on the BVI that could have significant economic repercussions.
The meeting was canceled after information was made public regarding the USVI’s lack of authority to levy tariffs independently. Senator Gittens had sought clarification from the Senate’s legal counsel on the issue, and the legal opinion confirmed that only the President of the United States has the power to impose such tariffs. Governor Bryan believes that by making this information public, the USVI’s negotiating position was undermined, leading to the sudden cancellation of the meeting.
“Whose side is he on?” Governor Bryan said, referring to Senator Gittens. “It’s about his ego. He isn’t about the Virgin Islands.” The governor had initially called for the emergency meeting to discuss imposing a 25% tariff on BVI goods in response to proposed legislation in the BVI that would significantly raise charter fees. USVI marine industry leaders have warned that such a move could severely impact local businesses.
Governor Bryan stressed that his administration is moving forward with decisive action against the BVI. He also revealed that if necessary, he would seek support from President Trump to implement the proposed tariffs.
“We are moving forward with our own strategy, and if we need help from the White House, I’ll get it from there too,” Bryan said. “I don’t think it will come to that, but I have shared my position with the Deputy Chief of Staff at the White House. He told me, ‘If you need my help, just let me know.’” The governor noted that his goal is to create an equitable and sustainable sailing and charter boat environment in the greater Virgin Islands.
The meeting has been rescheduled for next week, the governor revealed. He also noted that BVI officials have indicated a willingness to collaborate on a deal that would be beneficial to all parties involved. Discussions are expected to focus on finding a resolution that supports both territories’ economic interests while addressing concerns raised by USVI marine industry leaders.
Source: VI Consortium
Education
VI Celebrates Inclusion at Down Syndrome Awareness Event

The Virgin Islands reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity and support for individuals with Down syndrome as the Social Development Department, through the Disability Services Division, hosted a Down Syndrome Awareness Motorcade, Sports, and Games Day last week.
Held at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, the event, themed “Improve Our Support Systems,” brought together families, caregivers, advocates, and community members in a day of celebration and awareness. Participants engaged in interactive games, sporting activities, and discussions aimed at highlighting the importance of strong support networks for individuals with Down syndrome.
The motorcade, a key feature of the event, traveled through Road Town, drawing attention to the cause and encouraging greater societal engagement in disability advocacy. Attendees, including government officials and representatives from various community organizations, echoed the call for continued improvements in support services, accessibility, and awareness initiatives.
Parents and caregivers also took the opportunity to share personal experiences, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges in securing resources and services for individuals with Down syndrome in the territory.
The Social Development Department expressed gratitude for the community’s participation and reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening support systems for individuals with disabilities through continued advocacy and policy development.
Crime/Police
BVI Police Make Strides in Robbery and Property Crime Investigations

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.
Local News
U.S. Six-Month Passport Validity Rule Enforced for British Virgin Islands Travelers

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.
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