The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has successfully recovered three prohibited firearms in two separate incidents this week, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to reducing crime and ensuring public safety.
On Monday, June 24, 2024, officers, acting on specific intelligence, attempted to stop the driver of a Kia Soul in the Johnsons Ghut area. However, police revealed that upon noticing their presence, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. Despite the immediate escape, the police are continuing their enquiries to identify and locate the suspect.
A subsequent search of the abandoned Kia Soul yielded significant results with officers discovering two high-powered, prohibited firearms inside the vehicle: a Micro Draco 7.62 calibre rifle and a 5.56 calibre rifle equipped with a silencer. Police noted that along with these weapons, a substantial amount of ammunition was also recovered.
Two days later, on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, the RVIPF conducted a stop-and-check operation in the Huntum’s Ghut area. During this operation, a vehicle was searched, and officers found a 0.40 calibre pistol along with several rounds of .40 calibre ammunition. In addition to the firearm, several items suspected to have been stolen were seized. Three male suspects were arrested during this operation and are currently in police custody as the investigation continues.
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mark Collins, praised the officers for their bravery and dedication.
“These recoveries highlight the relentless commitment of our officers to ensure the safety and security of the Virgin Islands. We will continue to act on intelligence and conduct operations to remove illegal firearms from our streets,” he stated.
The RVIPF urges anyone with information related to these incidents to confidentially call the Crime Stoppers line at 800-8477 (TIPS). Additionally, individuals can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 284-368-9339.