Masked men arrested near bank freed without charge

Two masked men arrested near a popular bank in the early hours of April 24 have been released from custody without charge, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) said on Wednesday.

The pair had been held after police responded to a report of suspicious activity in the vicinity of the bank. A firearm and several rounds of ammunition were recovered during the operation. Officers pursued and detained the two men following the report.

The RVIPF said the suspects were freed “owing to insufficient evidence at the time that can be relied on to clearly establish links between them and the illicit items.”

The investigation remains active, according to the police.

“We continue to urge members of the public who may have any information relating to this incident to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 or from overseas at (284) 800-8477,” the police said in a statement.

Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool praised the initial arrest.

“This operation is a clear example of our officers’ courage, dedication, and tactical skill,” Vanterpool said. “Their quick actions may have prevented a more serious incident from occurring.”

“I also want to thank the public for their continued trust and cooperation,” she added. “It is only by working together that we can keep our communities safe. Every bit of information helps, and we urge anyone with knowledge that may assist this investigation to come forward.”

The RVIPF said additional updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

Earlier this year, former RVIPF Commissioner Mark Collins had pointed to an uptick in firearm recoveries across the territory. Police have repeatedly urged the public to report illegal weapons and suspicious behaviour.