Burglaries on the rise in East End

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has issued crime prevention tips in response to a recent surge in burglaries in the East End area.

According to an RVIPF press release on Tuesday, November 5, there have been more than seven reported burglaries in the area within the past week.

As precautionary measures, the RVIPF advises residents to install and maintain CCTV systems to cover entry points and high-risk areas, secure all entry points—especially at night or when leaving properties unattended—use exterior lighting, such as sensor lights, to deter intruders, and establish a neighbourhood watch network to promptly report suspicious activity to the RVIPF.

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool emphasised the importance of community involvement for public safety.

“The safety and security of our communities is a priority for the RVIPF, but community partnership is vital to addressing this issue,” Vanterpool said. “We urge everyone to adopt extra security measures, particularly with functional CCTV systems, and to report any suspicious activities.”

Both commercial and residential properties in the East End area, especially in Greenland and Long Look, have been affected by the recent burglaries. While additional patrols have been deployed in the area, the RVIPF is encouraging residents to actively safeguard their properties to aid police efforts.

The RVIPF also urges anyone with information on these burglaries to contact the Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or at 1-284-800-8477 for calls from overseas.