Gov’t working with police as sex drugs hit schools

The Ministry of Education said it is intensifying efforts with law enforcement agencies to address the alarming introduction of illegal substances, including alcohol, marijuana-infused edibles, and sexual enhancement drugs, into secondary schools.

The move comes after recent reports of students bringing these substances onto school premises, with some engaging in their distribution or sale to peers.

Officials expressed deep concern over these developments and said the Ministry is taking decisive action. The Ministry also disclosed that multiple students were suspended this week after being found with these substances.
“We take this matter seriously and are working closely with law enforcement and other relevant agencies to safeguard our students,” the Ministry stated.

In support of this initiative, the Ministry is collaborating with the Social Development Department and the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) to enforce a Zero-Tolerance Policy toward illegal drugs in schools. The focus is ensuring student safety, identifying individuals responsible for introducing these substances onto school grounds and providing targeted intervention and support where necessary.

The Ministry is also calling on parents and the wider community to engage in open discussions with young people about the dangers of drug use and to report any suspicious activity promptly. Additionally, local establishments and vendors are urged to refrain from selling these substances or any related paraphernalia to minors. Schools will continue to educate students on drug prevention and the serious consequences of substance abuse.

Troubling videos

Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis, head of the Criminal Investigation Department, previously highlighted the severity of the situation. He noted the emergence of “concerning videos” showing students engaging in inappropriate activities, which should alarm the entire community. He stressed that the issue extends beyond a specific location, urging society to focus on students’ general behaviour.

The RVIPF has been actively involved in addressing this issue. Last year, authorities observed a pattern of drug-related incidents, particularly after the school reopened in August. The school reported several cases, leading to interventions by the police and social services.

Davis said the police seized items and noted that investigations are ongoing to trace the supply chain of these substances. “We were able to seize some items. We were able to interview students as well as other members of the community with a view to finding out the supply chain, where this is coming from,” Chief Inspector Davis explained.