Crime/Police
Police Officers Injured During High-Speed Sea Chase Resulting in Drug Seizure and Arrests
A high-speed sea chase led to the apprehension of three locals and two vessels, resulting in significant drug seizures and the injury of several police officers. The incident unfolded when the vessels, suspected to have originated from Anguilla, caught the attention of the BVI marine unit.
According to Commissioner Mark Colins, one of the vessels complied with the authorities and came to a stop when the BVI marine unit sounded the alarm. However, the other vessel attempted to evade capture, leading to a collision with the police vessel. The impact not only caused damage to the police boat but also resulted in injuries to some of the officers on board. In response to the imminent danger, the police were forced to open fire on the fleeing vessel.
As a result of the operation, a significant quantity of drugs and a firearm were seized. The three locals who were on board the vessels have been taken into police custody, where they will face charges related to drug trafficking and other offenses.
Commissioner Mark Colins expressed his concern over the incident, emphasizing the risks that law enforcement officers face in their line of duty. He commended the bravery and professionalism displayed by the injured officers and extended his wishes for their speedy recovery. The Commissioner also acknowledged the swift and coordinated efforts of the BVI marine unit, highlighting their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the Virgin Islands.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Two Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
Dalfree Rodriguez De La Rosa, 22, of Hannah’s Estate, Tortola, and John Harvey, 33, of Purcell Estate, Tortola, were arrested on April 16, after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered a modified firearm, cannabis and ammunition during a stop-and-check operation in Free Bottom, police said.
According to the RVIPF, officers on patrol conducted the stop and discovered a Glock pistol, a quantity of cannabis and 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The firearm was later identified as a prohibited weapon that had been modified for fully automatic fire.
De La Rosa has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of explosives and possession of a prohibited firearm. Harvey has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Acting Commissioner Kenrick Davis, speaking on behalf of the Senior Command Team, commended the officers involved in the operation.
“Their continued professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty have significantly contributed to the safety and security of our community,” Davis said.
The RVIPF said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to address illegal firearms and drug-related activity across the Territory.
Six new police vehicles have been added to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Territory.
The force stated that the vehicles will support policing operations by improving mobility, response times and visibility across communities in the Virgin Islands.
“These additions form part of our continued efforts to enhance operational capacity and visibility across our communities,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
The vehicles are expected to be deployed on roads throughout the Territory as they begin active patrols in support of law enforcement duties.
The RVIPF also indicated that additional vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming months, further expanding the resources available to officers.
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