The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has successfully recovered three prohibited firearms from two separate incidents this week.
On Monday, June 24, 2024, officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, acting on specific intelligence, attempted to stop the driver of a Kia Soul in the Johnsons Ghut area. Upon seeing the officers, the driver immediately abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot to evade capture. Enquiries continue toward identifying and locating the driver.
During a subsequent search of the abandoned vehicle, officers discovered two high-powered, prohibited firearms: a Micro Draco 7.62 calibre rifle and a 5.56calibre rifle equipped with a silencer. A significant amount of ammunition was also recovered along with these weapons.
On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, officers of the RVIPF conducted a stop-and-check operation in the Huntum’s Ghut area. A vehicle was searched and a 0.40 calibre pistol with several .40 rounds of ammunition was discovered. The police also found and seized several items suspected to have been stolen. Three male suspects were arrested during this operation and remain in police custody while the investigation continues.
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mark Collins, commended the officers for their bravery and commitment as they strive to reduce crime and protect the communities.
“These recoveries highlight the relentless commitment of our officers to ensure the safety and security of the Virgin Islands. We will continue to act on intelligence and conduct operations to remove illegal firearms from our streets."
The RVIPF urges anyone with information related to these incidents to confidentially call the Crime Stoppers line at 800-8477 (TIPS), or overseas call 1-284-800-8477 with the relevant information, or contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 284-368-9339.
Any information, no matter how seemingly insufficient, could be important to solving these crimes and bringing the perpetrators to justice.