The footage shows the duo brandishing what appear to be firearms as they made their way into the premises, sparking panic in the usually tranquil community.

In a separate incident reported in the same area, a prominent local businessman was attacked and beaten by bandits who demanded cash. Details about the extent of the injuries or the amount stolen remain unclear.

The back-to-back incidents have put business owners, employees, and residents on edge, with many calling for swift and decisive action from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.

Community members are urging authorities to deploy targeted strategies to address the recent surge in criminal activity, emphasising the need for an immediate crackdown on perpetrators to restore a sense of safety and normalcy in the area.

Police have yet to release a formal statement.

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In the BVI, the threat, conveyed via email to Advance Marketing & Professional Services, claimed the presence of explosive devices aboard an aircraft and within the Terminal Building. A flight preparing for departure at the Bermuda airport was abruptly canceled.

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and Airport Security swiftly evacuated the premises and conducted an exhaustive search of all areas. Fortunately, after two and a half hours of tense scrutiny, the all-clear signal was given, and normal operations resumed.

The RVIPF, in close collaboration with these jurisdictions, launched a concerted effort to identify the perpetrators behind these coordinated attacks.

Despite the intense search efforts, no explosive devices were found, leading authorities to conclude that the messages were likely malicious hoaxes aimed at sowing chaos and disrupting airport operations.

Kurt Menal

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The burning question on everyone’s mind is what will her sentence be now that the federal authorities have won their case against Fahie.

Maynard was the key witness in the prosecution’s case against Fahie, who faced charges of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States and conspiring to launder a substantial amount of money.

Over the course of  two days – February 6 and 7 – the sixty-one-year-old testified for more than six hours, detailing the plan involving her son, Kadeem Maynard, and Fahie to exploit the territory as a transshipment port for a Mexican drug cartel.

Maynard, who was heard on secret recording stating she intended to use the proceeds to settle her mortgage in the British Virgin Islands, has been held in police custody for nearly two years. Her arrest took place on April 28, 2022 by DEA agents at Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport.

On that particular day, Fahie, who concurrently held the position of leader within the Virgin Islands Party (VIP), was apprehended, causing astonishment amongst Virgin Islanders, including loyal party backers, and Caribbean leaders. 

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Gunfire resonated in the heart of Road Town shortly after 10 am on February 9 , with no reported injuries.

Eyewitnesses’ videos show four bandits clad entirely in black and shrouded in hoods concealing their faces fleeing the scene. One suspect was seen on the video wielding what seemed to be a semi-automatic gun at the store’s entrance.

The specifics regarding the quantity of stolen merchandise remain undisclosed.

Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIP) in a statement confirmed the holdup and added that an investigation has been launched.

This is the second daytime heist in Road Town in less than a year. On July 1, 2023, a pair of armed and masked individuals dressed in all white robbed a jewellery store in the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park.

Both suspects fled towards the parking lot, firing several shots in the air before absconding with a quantity of the store’s merchandise.

Subsequently, Shamul Mitchell, 35, of Sand Box Road, and Jelani Marquis, 27, of Hannah’s Estate, were apprehended and charged with robbery and possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence.

They are currently on remand in prison.

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After a trial spanning seven days, a diverse jury rendered a guilty verdict against the former politician who also faces potential fines amounting to US$10 million. The jurors deliberated for a mere four hours before arriving at their decision. Fahie, who was previously out on bail, was handcuffed and taken into custody.

His journey from the corridors of power to a courtroom in Miami has been nothing short of extraordinary. Arrested on April 28, 2022 by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) at Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport, Fahie made international headlines, shocking many supporters in his homeland.

Fahie, whose political career once seemed destined for greater heights, the verdict represents a stunning reversal of fortune.

However, as the trial progressed and evidence was presented, the territory closely followed the prosecution’s case which included extensive incriminating conversations recorded by undercover DEA agents, phone records, and testimony from the prosecution’s key witness, Oleanvine Pickering Maynard, who secured a reduced sentence through a negotiated deal.

Maynard and her son, Kadeem Stephan Maynard, found themselves apprehended in the drug sting. The male counterpart also entered into an agreement with federal authorities, resulting in a five-year sentence.

A former mathematics teacher turned lawmaker, he ascended to prominence as the representative for District One in 1999, a position he held steadfastly for 23 years. Throughout his tenure, he wielded significant influence, serving in various ministerial capacities and ultimately assuming leadership of the Virgin Islands Party (VIP).

Fahie led the VIP to a return to power in the 2019 general election, upending the long-standing dominance of the National Democratic Party. His ascent to power was met with both acclaim and scrutiny, reflecting the complex dynamics of Caribbean politics.

Fahie’s once unassailable reputation began to crumble. In November 2022, facing mounting legal pressure and public scrutiny, he resigned from his position as chairman of the VIP and withdrew from the political arena altogether.

Fahie’s sentencing Is scheduled for April 29.

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Oleanvine Maynard former managing director of the BVI Ports Authority, took the stand on Tuesday, February 6, in Miami, testifying against former British Virgin Islands Premier Andrew Fahie who faces drug-trafficking conspiracy charges.

Maynard, having pleaded guilty to conspiring with Fahie to import cocaine into the United States, agreed to testify against him in exchange for a potentially lighter sentence.

Her testimony, which stretched over six hours on Tuesday and resumed on Wednesday morning, offered a glimpse into a world of clandestine meetings and coded conversations. Prosecutors played secret recordings as Maynard detailed interactions with Fahie, her son Kadeem Maynard, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) operatives, shedding light on alleged drug trafficking operations.

“On the recording,  Maynard was heard explaining to DEA confidential source who used the named “Roberto Quintero” what she hoped to gain from their arrangement. “There are things I want to accomplish. One is to pay off my house in Tortola. And when I retire I want to go to Miami. And in both areas, I want to be rent-free,” she said. Quintero then asked her to open her bag and he gave her $10,000, Ms. Maynard said. “It’s just $10,000: a little present for you,” he was heard to say on the tape. Maynard replied, “Thank you.”

As the prosecution’s fifth and final witness, Maynard’s testimony served to tie together pieces of evidence presented by prior witnesses, including DEA agents and digital forensic analysts. Her guilty plea in June 2023 to conspiracy charges marked a turning point in the trial, offering prosecutors a crucial insider perspective on the alleged conspiracy.

During her testimony, Maynard revealed how she first became entangled in the web of drug trafficking, describing meetings with associates and a DEA confidential source named “Roberto Quintero.” She detailed negotiations with Fahie, including discussions of profit-sharing agreements and a substantial cash “gift” exchanged between Fahie and Quintero.

As Maynard’s testimony continued, the courtroom remained transfixed by the unfolding drama, with Fahie continuing to deny any wrongdoing. Yet, her revelations painted a vivid picture of an alleged conspiracy spanning multiple jurisdictions.

Fahie was arrested on April 28, 2022 by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) at Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport, Fahie made international headlines, shocking many supporters in his homeland.

Maynard and her son, Kadeem Stephan Maynard, found themselves apprehended in the drug sting. Kadeem also entered into an agreement with federal authorities, resulting in a five-year sentence.

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At the time of Mr. Fahie’s arrest, Ms. Sylvester, who is not accused of any wrongdoing, was in Miami as part of a Virgin Islands delegation attending the Seatrade Cruise Global 2022 cruise industry conference.

According to Witek, Ms. Sylvester participated in a meeting at the Embassy Suites hotel in Miami the day before the arrest, alongside Mr. Fahie, BVIPA Managing Director Oleanvine Maynard, and two DEA operatives posing as members of Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel.

The following day, she, along with Ms. Maynard, traveled with the undercover DEA operatives to the Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport. There, they briefly boarded a jet containing fake cash that Ms. Maynard allegedly believed was destined for Tortola. Both women were detained upon leaving the jet, but while Ms. Maynard faced charges, Ms. Sylvester was released without any accusations.

The prosecutor introduced evidence, including cell phones taken from Mr. Fahie and others, and questioned the witness about recordings made during the investigation.

Agent Witek stated that he was familiar with the voices of Ms. Sylvester, Mr. Fahie, the Maynards, undercover agent Jossue Dominguez, and a DEA confidential source known as ‘Roberto Quintero.’

All these voices were heard on secretly-captured recordings played during the trial, which has centered on two meetings at Miami’s Embassy Suites hotel on April 27, 2022.

The court also heard that Ms. Sylvester’s initials were included in a motion filed in January, where prosecutors sought to prevent the jury from hearing a statement allegedly made by Ms. Sylvester to Ms. Maynard after her arrest.

The statement purportedly indicated Mr. Fahie’s plans to intervene with VI officials and to have Mr. Quintero arrested upon landing in the VI. Prosecutors argued for its exclusion as hearsay, while the defense sought to address it during cross-examination.

Mr. Fahie, who maintains his innocence, is accused of allowing undercover DEA operatives to use VI waters for cocaine trafficking, allegedly in exchange for cash and a share of future drug proceeds.

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This disclosure marked one of the most notable moments of the court proceedings that day, which otherwise mainly consisted of procedural matters, technical explanations, and lengthy reviews of text message communications involving Mr. Fahie and others.

Despite the lack of Mr. Fahie’s testimony, anticipation was high for upcoming testimony from Oleanvine Maynard, the former managing director of the BVI Ports Authority and Mr. Fahie’s alleged co-conspirator.

The defence, which did not publicly disclose its list of prospective witnesses in advance, is expected to present its case after the prosecution rests, potentially as soon as Wednesday.

“Throughout the trial, jurors expressed frustration with the pace of proceedings. Judge Williams addressed these concerns, reminding jurors to refrain from discussing the trial among themselves and urging patience.

The trial also featured digital forensic analysis of electronic devices involved in the case, with testimony from experts authenticating evidence and explaining the technical aspects to the jury.

Meanwhile, unexpected scheduling changes led to the temporary suspension of a witness’s testimony, temporarily halting the trial proceedings.

During the mid-morning break, Mr. Fahie received a visit from Devon Osbourne, who had played a role in securing his release on home confinement pending trial.

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“The Commission of Inquiry has identified serious governance and reputational issues, but progress on implementing its recommendations has been too slow, with agreed deadlines missed.  That is why I am here: to listen and understand from those working directly on the reforms how they can be delivered quicker so that the people of BVI get the good governance they deserve,” Rutley said in a February 5 statement issued by the Governor’s Office shortly after his arrival in the territory.

He added that “the UK will provide further technical assistance if required,” and warned that “if there continues to be a lack of progress, we will not hesitate to take further action to help deliver the much-needed reforms.”

The Member of Parliament will hold meetings with Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley and other ministers to receive an update on progress of governance reforms stemming from an independent inquiry into governance in the territory.

Rutley stressed that “the Overseas Territories are a core part of the UK family and the UK Government is committed to the security. prosperity and well-being of the people of the British Virgin Islands. We want to see a successful, thriving, well-governed BVI, and will continue to do our utmost to support the Governor and the people of the BVI to achieve that goal.”

In his final quarterly report released on January 5, outgoing Governor John Rankin expressed reservations about the “capability and determination” of the BVI government to effectively drive and complete crucial reforms.

Rankin highlighted that despite having a considerable time frame of twenty-one months, the government only managed to address 25 out of 48 identified reforms, with just five months remaining before the deadline expires.

The report underscored that failing to meet the deadline would result in the retention of the Order in the Council, a potential two-year constitutional suspension.

It was former Governor Augustus Jaspert who initiated a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) in January 2021 to investigate potential corruption, abuse of office, or significant dishonesty within the public sector.

The Inquiry Commissioner Sir Gary Hickinbottom submitted a comprehensive 900-page report to Rankin on April 4, 2022, outlining findings of corruption across various government levels.

The report included 45 specific recommendations, with four overarching suggestions, including the partial suspension of the constitution to overhaul the BVI’s governmental and governance structures.

Amidst the looming threat of government suspension and the aftermath of Premier Andrew Fahie’s arrest in April 2022 in the United States on drug and money laundering allegations, an interim government led by recently appointed Premier Natalio Wheatley emerged.

Wheatley, who had previously served as Deputy Premier during the review, spearheaded efforts to avert a constitutional suspension. With partial implementation of the recommendations, the 2023 elections saw all political parties committing to uphold the COI recommendations upon assuming office. Premier Wheatley secured re-election in April 2023.

Newly appointed Governor Daniel Pruce stressed that the “Minister’s visit comes at a crucial time for the BVI, and signals the UK’s interest and commitment to ensuring that the BVI succeeds.”

“Delivering the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry will help us achieve the positive changes we all want to see, including better access to services, a fairer society with opportunities for all and a more accountable and transparent government.”

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He emphasised the significance of public participation in shaping the policy’s final form and urged members of the public to provide feedback. “It is important for the voices and perspectives of our community to be heard,” he said. “Your feedback will contribute to refining the Immigration Policy, ensuring it aligns with the needs and aspirations of our people.”

He further elaborated on the policy’s focus on planning and decision-making processes to ensure the sustainable management of granted statuses. “Careful analysis of labor market needs, population density, and resource availability will inform balanced growth,” Premier Wheatley stated. “This approach will contribute to a controlled and beneficial immigration process, enhancing the overall well-being and prosperity of the Virgin Islands.”

The Premier further explained “The foundation of this policy is to strike a balance between economic growth, cultural integration, and social stability. It aims to recognise the invaluable contributions of immigrants while safeguarding the interests and heritage of Virgin Islanders.”

The proposed policy and stakeholder report are now available on the Government’s website, with individuals encouraged to submit their feedback via email to mtcsd@gov.vg by Friday, February 2.

Premier Wheatley concluded his message with a call for collective action towards the sustainable development of the Territory. “Together, let us work towards policies and programs that promote the social and economic progress of the Virgin Islands,” he affirmed.

Click the below link for the Immigration Policy

https://bvi.gov.vg/sites/default/files/immigration_policy_29012024_1.pdf

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