UK sends 54 new officers; first batch leaves BVI

Commissioner of Police Michael Matthews yesterday welcomed and swore in a second group of officers from the United Kingdom (UK) as the first set ended its three-week tour of duty in the hurricane-ravaged British Virgin Islands on Wednesday of this week.

Among the 54 officers are four commanders and 50 public order officers, said the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) in a press release.

The commissioner noted his delight with the support being received from chief constables pulled from forces across the UK to make up the second deployment.

“We continue to enjoy the support of the UK, the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, and the Bermuda Police Service. I want to thank these territories for their valuable support at this critical time of our recovery,” Commissioner Matthews said.

According to the RVIPF, the officers are essentially providing security or reassurance patrols.