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Second Armed Robbery at Banco Popular ATM Prompts Police Warning
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is urging residents to exercise caution following a second armed robbery targeting individuals withdrawing cash from an ATM in recent weeks. The latest incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. on February 28 at the Banco Popular ATM, mirroring a similar robbery at the same location on January 11.
In both cases, victims had just withdrawn cash when they were confronted by armed assailants who forcibly took their money before fleeing. The incidents have raised concerns over the safety of late-night ATM transactions and prompted law enforcement to implement additional security measures.
In response to the robberies, the RVIPF has increased police patrols in the area and expanded surveillance through additional CCTV coverage. Authorities are also urging the public to take extra precautions, particularly when making withdrawals at night.
Detective Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis stressed the importance of crime prevention efforts by both law enforcement and the community. He explained that street crimes often occur when three key elements converge: a motivated offender, a vulnerable victim, and a lack of capable guardianship. By working together, he said, police and the public can disrupt these factors and reduce the likelihood of criminal activity. He advised individuals to vary their routines, such as withdrawal times and locations, to avoid becoming predictable targets. He also underscored the importance of security enhancements, including improved lighting, CCTV monitoring, police patrols, and neighborhood watch programs, which can act as deterrents.
The RVIPF is advising residents to avoid withdrawing cash late at night whenever possible and to use well-lit ATMs in busy, populated areas. Individuals are urged to remain aware of their surroundings and stay alert for suspicious activity before using an ATM. Police also recommend considering digital payment methods as an alternative to carrying cash.
Authorities continue to investigate both robberies and are encouraging anyone with information to come forward. Individuals with knowledge of the perpetrators or any suspicious activity near the ATM are urged to contact the police via the non-emergency number 311, the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or report anonymously through Crimestoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or (284) 800-8477 (TIPS) for international callers.
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.
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.
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.
Pope Francis Dies at 88: World Mourns Transformative Leader of the Catholic Church
Leatherback Nesting Season Commences in BVI: Conservationists Seek Community Support
Graceful Steel by Min. Dr. Arliene T. Penn accompanied by Bro. Jacob Edwards
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