In defending his stance to see the Police Act 2023 passed through the House of Assembly, His Excellency Governor John Rankin says he is committed to protecting the human rights of residents in the territory.
Since its introduction in 2019, the new Police Act has been met with backlash not only from residents but also legislators in the House of Assembly.
The most recent version of the legislation has been deemed by many as containing measures that will be problematic to the BVI as it gives law enforcement officers more powers which in some instances infringes on the rights of residents of the territory.
Speaking during a recent press conference in response to questions posed by the media, Governor Rankin said the new Police Act is needed to ensure that the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force is equipped with the necessary legislation to properly execute its duties.
The governor also addressed some of the new stipulations being proposed such as entering a home without a warrant, which he said in some cases is necessary.
The Police Act 2023 will seek to replace the current three-decade-old Police Act (Cap 165).