The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is intensifying its investigation into a string of robberies that have unsettled communities across the Territory, as detectives close in on what they believe to be a coordinated criminal network.
The series of incidents — spanning from Long Bay, Beef Island, to Pier Park, Tortola — has prompted an island-wide response from law enforcement. According to Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Dariel Robinson, investigators have confirmed that a vehicle stolen during the robbery in Long Bay was later used in the Oasis incident.
The RVIPF is also probing robberies at Touchdown Bar and La Cachet. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage and awaiting ballistic and forensic test results to determine whether weapons recovered from suspects are linked to the crimes. “Our detectives are working around the clock to bring those responsible to justice,” Robinson said. “We are confident that the evidence being gathered will lead to key breakthroughs.
These incidents have our highest priority.” In a separate development, detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department arrested two males in connection with a July robbery report at Pier Park, Tortola. Both individuals were interviewed and released pending further investigation.
Police have urged the public to come forward with any information that could assist in solving the ongoing cases.

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“We looked at robberies from a victim-centric perspective,” Davis told the audience at the summit, held under the theme ‘Our Virgin Islands: Safe Communities, Prosperous Territory.’ “If five persons are robbed by one suspect, that’s five victims. Almost every robbery that was committed this year — at least one firearm was involved, which says that this is the weapon of choice.”

Davis said gun violence is a growing concern. Police and partner agencies have seized 18 firearms and 1,146 rounds of ammunition between January and August, the highest bullet recovery figure in recent years. “There were years when we didn’t recover any guns at all,” he said. “These are individual recoveries … which means it is more alarming than when we found a single large amount of firearms at a particular property.”

Overall crime in the Territory has increased 12 percent compared with the same period last year and stands 35 percent above the five-year average. “So far this year … we have already exceeded the crime figures for 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022,” Davis said.

Domestic violence also rose, with a 19 percent increase in domestic-related offenses. “These domestic-related assaults account for 47 percent of our assault reports,” he said.

Some indicators showed improvement. Sexual offenses have declined 36 percent, and non-dwelling burglaries — including incidents at supermarkets and businesses — are down 41 percent.

A 20-year review by police shows 88 murders across 81 violent incidents between 2005 and 2025. Davis said 91 percent of those killings were committed by men and most victims were male.

Comparing the Territory with its neighbors, Davis estimated that the Virgin Islands’ 2025 murder rate would be about 16 per 100,000 residents, higher than the Cayman Islands’ 5 per 100,000 but below several other Caribbean jurisdictions.

Davis closed with a warning and appeal for unity. “The figures tell us that interventions, when you do it together, have worked,” he said. “But the figures are also saying to us, this is a siren. This is an alarm. And if we don’t do something about it now, then it might just reach a stage where it’s too late. The figures have spoken … the question is, what will we do together?”

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Police confirm that Quentinn Noel, 20, was shot and killed near his residence shortly before 2:00 a.m. today. Detectives from the Major Incident Team, supported by other RVIPF units, are actively pursuing leads to solve the case, which has been designated a high-priority investigation.

In addition to the fatal shooting, officers responded to reports of gunfire at three other locations during the past 24 hours. Proactive efforts by the police led to the seizure of a significant quantity of ammunition and the arrest of an individual in connection with firearms-related offences.

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacquelyn Vanterpool will hold a press briefing at 4:00 p.m. today at Police Headquarters to provide updates on these incidents and outline ongoing efforts to address violent crime in the territory.

The RVIPF has emphasised the importance of community support in its investigations and is appealing to the public for information. Individuals with knowledge of any of the incidents are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339. All reports will be handled with strict confidentiality.

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On November 29, officers arrested Luiz Guerra Bethelmy, 45, of Great Mountain, and Dania Livari Castello. Both face charges of keeping a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.

Earlier in the month, on November 17, police apprehended 20-year-old Daniel Maduro of Long Bush. Maduro was charged with carrying a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.

In a separate incident on November 15, authorities arrested Richard Baronville, 32, of Long Bush, and Kahlim Smith, 24, of Nottingham Estate. Both men face charges of possession of a prohibited firearm and unlawful possession of explosives.

Most recently, on November 30, police charged Keanus Smart, 18, of Free Bottom, with possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offense and unlawful possession of explosives.

The RVIPF is urging members of the public to report any suspicious activity.

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A 16-year-old was charged with aggravated burglary on November 13. The minor was granted bail in the sum of $8,000 and is scheduled to appear at the Magistrate’s Court on November 18.

In a separate incident on November 17, police arrested Allivan Hatchet, 20, of Belle Vue. Hatchet faces multiple charges, including aggravated burglary, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, unlawful possession of a controlled drug, and possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.

In burglary cases, a 17-year-old from Jost Van Dyke was arrested on November 7 and charged with four counts of burglary and criminal damage. The teenager was remanded to His Majesty’s Prison and is set to return to court on December 24.

Separately, on November 13, police apprehended 21-year-old Keithroy Smith of The Valley, Virgin Gorda. Smith was charged with burglary and is awaiting his court appearance.

Police also arrested and charged Michelle Corum, 37, of Belle Vue with theft on November 21.

The RVIPF continues to emphasize its zero-tolerance stance on property crimes and urges members of the public with any relevant information to come forward.

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Officers responded to a report of the incident shortly after 3 p.m. today,  December 2. Upon arrival, they encountered four armed individuals. Shots were exchanged during the confrontation, resulting in the arrest of one suspect. The individual is currently in custody at the Road Town Police Station and is assisting with investigations.

The remaining suspects escaped on foot, with one believed to have sustained injuries during the encounter. Despite extensive searches, they have not been located.

The RVIPF has launched a full investigation and is appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477 (TIPS) or from overseas at (284) 800-8477. Information can also be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.

All tips will be treated with strict confidentiality as authorities work to bring the suspects to justice.

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According to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), the injured man was transported to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. His condition remains unknown at this time. Details about the suspected assailant or potential motives are still unclear.

The incident, which took place on Pickering Avenue shortly before 1 p.m. today, November 8, led the school administration to enact the lockdown as a precautionary measure to safeguard students and staff. Shortly afterward, parents received official communication from the school, reassuring them that the lockdown had been lifted and that students were safe.

“We understand that such news can be concerning, but please rest assured that all necessary measures were taken to ensure everyone’s safety,” the school stated. “The school day is continuing as normal, and students are safe and secure.”

Authorities have encouraged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Parents and guardians with questions are also encouraged to reach out directly to the school for further updates on student safety. Further details will be shared as they become available.

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The RVIPF is responding to this concerning trend by increasing patrols and advising the public to proactively secure their properties. Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool emphasized the value of functional security systems, particularly CCTV cameras, as both deterrents and critical tools for investigators.

Protective Measures Suggested by RVIPF

To prevent further incidents and aid in investigations, the RVIPF recommends a series of crime prevention strategies:

1. Install and Maintain CCTV Systems: Ensure cameras are positioned to cover entry points and remain operational.
2. Lock All Entry Points: Secure doors and windows, especially at night or when properties are vacant.
3. Utilize Exterior Lighting: Motion-activated lights can deter intruders by increasing visibility.
4. Establish Neighborhood Watch Networks: Keep neighbors informed and report any suspicious activity to the RVIPF promptly.

“The safety of our communities is a priority,” said Acting Commissioner Vanterpool. “But we need the public’s partnership to address these crimes effectively. Functional CCTV systems, secure properties, and vigilant reporting can go a long way in deterring criminal activity.”

Additional patrols have been deployed in the Eastern districts, and detectives are actively investigating the recent burglaries. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS).

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According to initial reports, the gunman was unable to carry out the robbery and left the premises empty-handed. No shots were fired, and there are no reports of injuries to the proprietor or any patrons.

Police are currently conducting an investigation. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has not yet released further details.

This story is developing, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

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Morgan was granted bail set at $5,000 and is scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on August 29, 2024. His arrest comes as part of a concerted effort by the RVIPF to address recent incidents of public disorder and enhance community safety across the territory.

The proactive operations continued into the weekend. On Saturday, August 24, police patrols in the Purcell Estate area resulted in the arrest of two additional males who attempted to evade officers. The individuals were interviewed and processed before being placed on conditional bail, requiring them to report back to the Road Town Police Station on September 25, 2024.

Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool underscored the importance of these ongoing efforts to maintain law and order within the community. “We will not tolerate any attempts to disrupt the peace and security of our communities. The RVIPF will persist in its efforts to apprehend those who engage in criminal behavior and bring them to justice,” she stated.

The RVIPF is calling upon the public to support these initiatives by reporting any suspicious activities or providing information that may assist in ongoing investigations. Authorities emphasize that community cooperation remains a critical component in the fight against crime and the promotion of a safe and secure environment for all residents.

Individuals with information are encouraged to contact the RVIPF confidentially through the Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-8477 (TIPS) or reach out to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339. Even the smallest piece of information can prove invaluable in advancing these investigations and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.

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