The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force commenced an operation last evening as part of a concerted effort to respond to recent incidents of public disorder. Among other things, this public disorder has involved the indiscriminate discharging of illegal firearms in public places in some communities on Tortola.

Just over the past week, there has been numerous reported incidences of gunfire in the Free Bottom and Purcell areas, resulting in damage to private property.

The operation saw the execution of intelligence-led stop and checks, targeted patrols, and search operations in various hotspots throughout the island. The operation resulted in the recovery of a significant quantity of controlled drugs, drug-dealing paraphernalia, and the confiscation of an offensive weapon.

So far, one adult male has been arrested in connection, and investigation has commenced concerning some of the other items seized during the operation.

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool indicated that one objective of the operation was to provide reassurance to the public, especially the communities directly affected by the recent incidents of public disorder. 

She stated,” The police are committed to investigating and apprehending criminal offenders who continue to flout the law and create mayhem in the community.” Ag. COP Vanterpool is also encouraging members of the public to provide the police with any information they may have about these or any other types of criminal activities.

Persons with information can confidentially call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-8477 (TIPS) or the RVIPF Intelligence Department at 284-368-9339. All information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.