14 illegal immigrants found on VG

Officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) discovered a group of 11 illegal immigrants hiding in an abandoned building on Virgin Gorda early Thursday morning.

The discovery marks the continuation of concerning incidents involving the ongoing issue of illegal migration in the territory. Further investigations led to the uncovering of an additional three immigrants at the same location, with signs suggesting the presence of more individuals yet to be found.

The apprehended immigrants are set to be handed over to the Immigration Department as investigations continue into the matter.

In the meantime, the RVIPF sought assistance in identifying and apprehending the additional persons suspected to be at large, urging persons to contact the Virgin Gorda Police Station at 368-5690 or the Immigration Department if they notice anyone unfamiliar.

Last month, 35 persons were apprehended after a vessel carrying illegal migrants ran ashore at Cooper Island. The discovery was made after a joint operation was conducted between the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) and US Customs and Border Control.

The BVI has increasingly found itself grappling with issues surrounding illegal immigration, human smuggling, and trafficking. Recent reports have highlighted instances where residents were implicated in smuggling operations, exploiting vulnerable individuals seeking better lives.

The RVIPF and the Immigration Department have been working tirelessly to address this complex issue, which has implications for national security, public health, and social cohesion.

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley told residents in 2022 that his government assigned hundreds of thousands of dollars in last year’s budget for the replacement of a detention centre for illegal immigrants, some six years after the previous centre was destroyed by hurricanes.

In the interim, immigration detainees have been housed in government-rented hotels and guest houses, which even when supplied with security officers, has resulted in a multitude of escapes over the past few years.