The House of Assembly officially passed the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime (Amendment) Bill, 2024 on Monday, January 13, 2025, marking a significant legislative step towards bolstering cybersecurity and law enforcement capabilities in the Virgin Islands.
Mover of the legislation, Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley, emphasized the importance of the amendments in addressing gaps identified by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF). These deficiencies, he said, hinder law enforcement’s ability to investigate and prosecute serious crimes, including financial offences.
Premier Wheatley explained that the amendments align the legislation with international standards, enhancing the effectiveness of investigations while ensuring individual rights are protected.
The premier reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the Virgin Islands, a responsibility he described as a personal passion and priority. He said the urgency of the amendments was underscored by a recent high court ruling, which outlined known deficiencies in the BVI’s legal framework, including the Police Act.
Premier Wheatley said if the government had not planned on fixing the issues, it would have been like handing over the territory to “the gangsters”.
Dr. Wheatley also acknowledged concerns raised by Opposition members but clarified that the bill was brought to the House of Assembly through the Office of the Governor, as constitutionally required. He said it was then the duty of members of the House to make amendments to the areas of concern prior to having the legislation passed.