RVIPF: BVI sees historic expansion of organised crime
Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Kenrick Davis has revealed that 2024 marked the first time the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) encountered organised property crime in the territory.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, January 15, following a spate of gun-related incidents, Davis cited a 12% rise in crime in 2024, driven largely by gang activity.
“For the first time, we observed property crimes—such as motor vehicle thefts, burglaries, and robberies—being carried out in an organised manner,” Davis said, noting that organized crime had traditionally been associated with drug and gun trafficking.
The RVIPF has since intensified efforts to combat gang activity.
The recent murder of 20-year-old Quentinn Noel, who was fatally shot near his home in Purcell Estate during the early hours of January 15, underscores the escalating violence. His death marks the first murder for 2025.
In a separate incident on the same day, a U.S. Virgin Islands national was arrested and charged after being found with over 200 rounds of ammunition.
The RVIPF also continues to address gang-related crimes. In November 2024, police identified the “Money Boyz” gang, linked to multiple offences, including the attempted murder of K’zhari Stoutt in Long Bush. While 22-year-old Shemoi Carey of Huntum’s Ghut has been arrested for the incident, 18-year-old K’Shawn Martin of Sand Box Road remains at large.
Two individuals suspected of aiding an offender were recently detained and later released pending further investigations.
The RVIPF has reminded the public that aiding criminals is a serious offence under Section 352 of the Criminal Code, carrying penalties of three to 10 years’ imprisonment.
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22yrw old 18yrw old, 20yrs old
Y’all hear those ages? Keep ignoring the youths and what them doing…
More engagement needed at the school why so many youths idolise crime life?? Who are there role models? Are they any after school activities to keep them occupied? Is anyone visiting and talking to them regularly? Check up on their homes?
It’s not just the boys too. The females are unruly as well. Instead y’all promoting festival and vybz kartel.
Then there people on the radio shouting free drew and west bank like a broken record. Y’all promote badness at the youths see that. The songs they listen too , the company they be around. Then there smoking. I have nothing against the green plant but if your child smoking do you think the company he’ll attract or go around will be people of good standards? Highly doubt it.
More engagement needed at home to start with! We let phones do the babysitting but we know little of what they are doing with these insidious devices.
And, indeed, for how many decades has there been underinvestment in youth programs? Better to build a $ 1 million wall around a school than to invest in youth it seems.
As you sow, so shall you reap comes to mind (unfortunately)
What do the sentencing guidelines say about ammunition? Please make sure he gets all of that and more.
The government needs to invest in sports to keep these young boys active in a positive manner.
Have someone fix all the nets in the country, place free basketballs on the court, have a sport outfit giveaway.
Fishing tournaments, swimming races, bike races, engine rebuild competition.
Space these events out throughout the year to keep them looking forward to something.
With the rise in organized crime and violence, law-abiding citizens should have the right to own firearms for self-defense. Responsible gun ownership can help deter criminals and protect families when police can’t always respond quickly. Of course, strict regulations and proper training are essential to ensure safety for all.
They criminals see how weak our leaders and the law are