Armed robberies ‘major concern’ for businesses, says BVICCHA

Chairman of the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA), Sinclair Flemming, has described the recent rise in armed robberies as a “major concern” for businesses, warning that the incidents are undermining confidence among business owners and employees alike. 

Speaking on the Talking Points radio programme, Flemming said the Chamber had already raised the issue with Governor Daniel Pruce and Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool before a series of recent incidents occurred.

“It is a major concern because actually we had meetings with the Governor and the Acting Commissioner on the 12th and then they had that big armed robbery a week later,” Flemming stated. “Since then we’ve been seeing two or three more, to my knowledge, around the country happening.” 

Flemming said business owners are increasingly worried about how the crimes could affect their operations and future investments.

“The businesses are very concerned about how to operate, how much more to invest, if they want to stay in that type of business or if they’re taking on too much risk,” Flemming said. 

He noted that many businesses are family-run enterprises where relatives and employees may be exposed to danger while carrying out their daily duties.

“Some of these things are family businesses. You have your daughter working inside the business late at night, your wife — unsafe,” Flemming stated. 

Challenges retaining and recruiting staff

According to Flemming, the effects of robberies extend beyond the immediate loss of cash or goods. He argued that businesses also face challenges in retaining and recruiting staff after violent incidents occur.

“Now your staff ask questions. So now you’d have to provide extra security or you yourself have to be the security.” 

Flemming also expressed concern that robberies appear to be occurring in a wider range of locations than before.

“The problem that we’re having now is these things used to happen in certain communities around the BVI,” he said. “It’s seemingly happening anywhere, and it seems to be on the rise.” 

The Chamber chairman’s comments come amid heightened public discussion about crime and public safety in the territory. In recent months, several businesses have reported armed robberies, including incidents carried out in broad daylight. Police have repeatedly appealed for public assistance as investigations continue.

Flemming said the recent incidents should prompt greater attention to the issue.