Pier Park to get new gating system after robbery
Following a daring daylight robbery that stunned the entire territory, the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park is set to be upgraded with a new electronic gating system to enable the venue to be adequately secured during closure periods.
In addition to the new gating system, upgrades will be made to the existing CCTV system at the park to further enhance surveillance capabilities. There will also be increased security personnel within the park premises to enhance security presence and deter criminal activities.
After the incident, stakeholders at the Pier Park proposed some 22 security measures as part of a security audit report.
Minister responsible for ports, Kye Rymer recently held a review meeting with key stakeholders to discuss the recommendations in the report and collaborate on effective strategies to enhance security measures.
22 recommendations
Minister Rymer said stakeholders have revealed that some of the 22 recommendations are already being implemented.
“We appreciate the continued support and understanding of the community as we work together to enhance security at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park,” Rymer stated.
The Ministry of Communications and Works said it will continue to work with stakeholders including the BVI Ports Authority (BVIPA) and the Tortola Pier Park Ltd (TPPL) to ensure the safety of all individuals who access the Pier Park.
Arrests
Two persons were arrested in connection with the incident where armed robbers escaped with items from the House of Luxury jewellery store on July 1. Gunshots were fired as the robbers fled the scene, but official reports confirmed no one was hurt.
Thirty-five-year-old Shamul Mitchell of Sand Box Road and 27-year-old Jelani Marquis, of Hannahs Estate have been charged with robbery and possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence.
Both will appear before the Magistrate’s Court at the next available sitting.
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The cost will be around 1 million dollars once Kye is dealing with it
At the rate he spends, the cost will probably be $2M. No cap whatsoever!
some politician’s brother needs a handout….he’s probably annoyed at his “grant” compared to others.
So we are going to install a new gate that will “secure” the Pier Park during closed hours because there was a daytime robbery???? Right that makes total sense…..
Be needing more than gates. The floodgates are open in the VI to every tom dick and harry for far too long.
Just weep and pray to your Jesus.
How does a new gate prevent a recurrence? Who is the author of this concept? No vehicle other than genuine emergencies and the police should be allowed access to TPP during opening hours. Screen everyone entering from outside the Park.
This government don’t know their heads from their feet. Go right next door to the US Virgin Islands Haven Sight and Crown Bay, do you see any gates? These bastards want to give some one of their croonies millions of dollars to install unecessary gates. Why not security surveillance cameras? What message will they be sending to the cruise ship passengers with these menacing gates? The message will be that the cruise pier is not safe. Other security measures could be considered, but please Mr. Premier NOT GATES.