The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force is recording a disturbing rise in the number of serious assaults this past week, two of which were perpetrated against security officers by persons trying to enter premises without face masks.
Security at two establishments, a nightclub in Long Bush and the other at a supermarket in East End, received medical treatment for injuries sustained by persons who were stopped from entering for not wearing face masks.
Similarly, persons in separate incidents were taken to hospital for injuries sustained in fights between present or former friends, coworkers and neighbours.
Deputy Commissioner Alwin James says he is disturbed with what appears to be a lack of restraint and self-control by some members of the community.
“We are not only witnessing an inability by some to resist the temptation to inflict injury on those carrying out their duties, but we are also seeing premeditated and orchestrated assaults on colleagues, friends and neighbours in our civilised community. Arresting those responsible is one thing but some of those injuries are serious and could be permanent. It is important as a community that we accept no excuse for these acts of violence but voice our unified disapproval. It is uncivilized and must be condemned by all of us,” he said.
Charges are still to be preferred in these matters as investigations are ongoing.