Business group ‘very concerned’ about crime

Ending a year in which gunmen robbed more than 10 local businesses and physically harmed a few entrepreneurs, the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA) said it is ‘very concerned’ about the attacks.

It further stated that it is seeking to meet with the authorities to help tackle the issue.

The latest business hit was the Fine Foods store in East End, Tortola. Reports are that armed men robbed the store of an undisclosed amount of cash after sunset on December 31 – New Year’s Eve.

Several residents were also robbed while at their homes and elsewhere – especially on Tortola – throughout 2016.

Chairman of the BVICCHA Louis Potter said his organisation is hoping the territory will not lose its reputation as a safe and friendly community.

“The Chamber is very concerned with crime and is seeking to meet with the authorities to learn of their plans to reduce crime in the territory,” Potter said in a text message after repeated attempts to get his comment on the upsurge in robberies.

He further wrote to BVI News Online: “The Chamber, which is the voice of business, is willing to aid in developing and monitoring the implementation of strategies that will ensure the BVI maintains its reputation as a safe and friendly community.”