BVI sees spike in gun-related arrests
The British Virgin Islands is grappling with an upward trend in gun-related crimes, reflected in the number of arrests made by the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) in November.
According to the RVIPF’s latest arrest blotter, at least six individuals were charged with firearm-related offences last month.
On November 15, police arrested 32-year-old Richard Baronville from Long Bush and 24-year-old Kahlim Smith from Nottingham Estate, charging them with possession of a prohibited firearm and unlawful possession of explosives.
Two days later, 20-year-old Daniel Maduro from Long Bush was charged with carrying a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.
On November 29, 45-year-old Luiz Bethelmy from Great Mountain and Dania Castello were both charged with keeping a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.
Additionally, 18-year-old Keanus Smart from Free Bottom was charged with possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence and unlawful possession of explosives. Details of this incident were not disclosed.
Gang violence concerns
Just recently Detective Chief Inspector Davis of the RVIPF expressed concern about escalating gun violence in the territory.
His statement followed the November 8 shooting of K’zhari Stoutt in Long Bush. The RVIPF released a wanted flyer naming Shemoi Carey, 22, of Huntum’s Ghut, and K’Shawn Martin, 18, of Sand Box Road, as suspects connected to the shooting. The pair are reportedly members of a gang known as the Money Boys.
The gang is said to comprise approximately 25 young men aged between 17 and 25, spread across various communities in the Territory. Members are believed to be involved in criminal activities and possess unlicensed firearms.
While the RVIPF has confirmed its investigation into the Money Boys gang and its activities, no further updates on the recent incidents or arrests have been provided to the public.
Authorities continue to urge residents to report any suspicious activities or information related to gun violence.
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The BVI is now officially a cowboy town
It’s the season… plus even when they are caught our dysfunctional justice system sets them free to go back out on the street. When it ain’t evidence gone missing it’s that them ain’t got no warrant or went the wrong place for the warrant you gonna just be on bail for 3-5 years then case throw out cause ain’t got no evidence or it’s inadmissible. so if it don’t have no consequences then what you expect.
We need those unsolved murder cases SOLVED!!!
In fact the uptick in gun crime happened a number of years ago – what had changed more recently is the number of arrests being made. Well done RVIPF, but it is a shame that the DPP can’t win a case in Court.
police stop search for them two lil knowing they already gone out nice work