The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested and charged two individuals in connection with the April 30, 2023 murder of Kemo Lettsome in Long Look, Tortola. The accused, 32-year-old Vernon Bernard of Manuel Reef and 28-year-old Jelani Marquis of Hannah’s Estate, were taken into custody following an intensive year-long investigation into the fatal … Continued
With two major music festivals soon taking place in the Virgin Islands, questions have arisen about why the long-running Virgin Islands Music Festival and the new One VI Music Festival are being held as separate events. BVI Tourist Board Events Manager Dirk Walters has provided insight into the situation. According to Walters, the key reason … Continued
The Social Development Department hosted a conscious co-parenting seminar this month aimed at emphasizing the link between positive co-parenting and safeguarding children from abuse and neglect. The event was part of activities recognizing Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month in the Virgin Islands. Laurel Freeman, Programme Director for Children and Family Support Services, stated that … Continued
The government is calling on residents to review and provide feedback on the proposed Human Rights Commission Bill, 2024 currently open for public consultation. The Bill outlines provisions to establish the VI Human Rights Commission, detailing its powers, functions, and composition. As drafted, the Commission would consist of five commissioners with equal gender representation, including … Continued
Residents of the Virgin Islands are being urged to take precautions due to deteriorating air quality caused by a large plume of Sahara dust enveloping the territory. The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) has issued an advisory stating that air quality levels could reach unhealthy ranges within the next 24 hours. The dust plume is … Continued
Hon. Sharie de Castro, Minister for Education officially opened Library Week 2024 on Monday with a written statement to the public. This year’s theme is “Libraries: Moving full STEAM Upstream,” highlighting the integral role libraries play in advancing science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). In a statement released Minister de Castro emphasized the significance … Continued
Two officers from His Majesty’s Prison in the Virgin Islands have successfully completed an intensive three-week Control and Restraint (C&R) training course in Bermuda. Acting Principal Officers Ms. Alan Jackson and Mr. Kesena Okoro acquired the latest techniques in officer safety, de-escalation, and personal protection. Superintendent Mr. Jay Kendall highlighted the significance of Ms. Jackson … Continued
In the latest issue of the Sister Islands Newsletter, the community is introduced to three impressive and motivated young individuals making positive impacts across Anegada, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke. From Anegada, 22-year-old Anjali Levons is being recognized as an emerging youth leader. A graduate of the Claudia Creque Educational Centre, Levons currently works … Continued
Details are slowly emerging about the highly anticipated 70th Emancipation Festival celebrations this summer. While the lineup of performers remains under wraps for now, the BVI Tourist Board promises an exciting reveal is on the horizon. According to Dirk Walters, Events Manager for the Tourist Board, the first official launch event for the platinum jubilee … Continued
The Cyril B Romney Tortola Pier Park has recently announced its Green Globe membership, solidifying its commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism practices. Green Globe is the leading global certification program for the travel and tourism industry, dedicated to enhancing economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Membership in Green Globe signifies Tortola Pier Park Ltd’s … Continued
