Saturday, July 22 – Police charged three persons and arrested several others as it continues inquiries into the cocaine seizure, as well as firearms, boat and ammunition detained during the operation on Wednesday evening (19 July).

Dion Leslie McMaster, 38, of Brady Ghut was charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply to another, unlawful possession of a controlled drug, keeping an unlicenced firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition. In addition, Zuri Reid, 40, and Ruth Gonzalez Tellez, 28, both of Belle Vue was charged with keeping an unlicenced firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.

Several persons have been arrested in the last 24 hours in relation to the destruction and theft of two seized vessels as part of the operation. One seized vessel, suspected to be involved in ramming of the police vessel at sea, was set ablaze in a calculated effort to destroy evidence and another was reported missing. Fortunately, all necessary examinations were completed on both vessels by the RVIPF, and no relevant evidence was destroyed by these actions.

The RVIPF wishes to renew its appreciation for the support and continued cooperation in this investigation which remains dynamic as investigators continue to pursue several lines of inquiry. The support of law-abiding members of the community is reassuring and sustains an unwavering determination to continue efforts to keep serving and protecting the Virgin Islands.

The efforts to bring offenders to justice continue and will not be derailed by those who hope to escape detection and prosecution. Investigators are therefore asking anyone who has useful information to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or anonymously through the Crimestoppers hotline number 8008477.