Local News
Registrar General Urges Prompt Passport Renewal Ahead of Hurricane Season
In a bid to ensure smooth travel plans for citizens amidst the looming hurricane season and upcoming summer holidays, Registrar General at the Civil Registry and Passport Office (CRPO), Mrs. Tashi O’ Flaherty-Maduro, has issued a crucial advisory urging the public to renew their travel documents promptly.
Mrs. Flaherty-Maduro emphasised the importance of checking the validity of passports well in advance and submitting renewal applications promptly before making concrete travel arrangements. Highlighting the centralised processing system implemented since 2015, she informed that passport printing is carried out by His Majesty’s Passport Office (HMPO) in the United Kingdom.
Citing HMPO guidelines, she cautioned that passport processing can take up to ten weeks. Therefore, renewing passports early ensures hassle-free travel, averting any potential interruptions or delays.
“Let us continue to work together to ensure that all travelers are well-prepared and equipped with valid passports for their upcoming travel plans,” Mrs. Flaherty-Maduro emphasised, underlining the collaborative effort needed to facilitate smooth travel experiences.
The Registrar General also reminded citizens of varying processing times based on individual circumstances such as lost, stolen, or first-time passports. Additionally, she informed that BOTC and/or British passports can be renewed within nine months of expiration.
For more information and assistance, individuals are encouraged to reach out to the Civil Registry & Passport Office at 284-468-3036 or infocris@gov.vg.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
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