Statement

Commissioner of Police Mark Collins

 June 27, 2022

The incomplete video entitled ‘Police in Paradise’ which is now in circulation was intended to be a tool for recruiting officers from the Caribbean and the U.K., and aimed at capturing the benefits and challenges of policing in the BVI. 

While permission was sought in advance from the relevant authorities specifically for the intended purpose, this raw footage in circulation lacked an introduction and a conclusion and was never intended for public consumption. I received the video in its incomplete form and circulated it to a small group of officers within the Force to receive feedback to help with its completion. None of the violence, drug transshipments or the seizures in this video would ever be appropriate to be viewed by the public.

I am saddened by the actions taken to bring me and the Force into disgrace. I am even more disheartened that the people of this Territory have to endure additional distress and trauma in this already very difficult time.

I offer apologies on my behalf and that of the Royal Virgin Police Force.