The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is the recipient of two Armed Response Vehicles (ARV) equipped for the Virgin Islands terrain, specifically for transporting officers of the newly trained and enhanced Armed Response Unit.

I wanted to update you on the independent investigation undertaken by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force into the actions taken by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force Immediate Response Team during the apprehension of escaped prisoner Santo Yamarco Hernandez in early December.

The public is invited to view the joint press conference between His Excellency the Governor Augustus Jaspert and the Premier of the Virgin Islands. Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE on the topic of Security.  

Good afternoon members of the Press. I would like to update you on two matters:

First being that last night, I attended a reception in Puerto Rico for the Puerto Ricans who did so much to help us.

"I was devastated to hear that another young life has been taken in a senseless act last night."

The first responsibility of any Government is to protect its citizens, and provide a safe place for its children, families and residents to live, work and visit.

When I first arrived in these islands, I was struck by the sheer natural beauty, engaging people and the peace and tranquility that have given these islands the name of Nature’s Little Secrets.  While the Virgin Islands are of course well known in business, international finance and tourism across the world, what struck me also were the stories of how people felt safe here; and how important that is.  A sense of calm and safety to walk in the early and late mornings, have family outings and some who even slept with windows and doors ajar to take in natural breezes.

The security of the territory is a critical part of its recovery and is something I take very seriously. I am in regular contact with the Commissioner of Police on security matters and this week convened a meeting of all of the agencies involved in this area. 

I was extremely saddened to hear of the murders of two young men this Saturday morning in Road Town.  My condolences go out to their loved ones.

As you are all well aware, a curfew has been in place across the Virgin Islands since the passage of Hurricane Irma in September.   Since the Curfew was first imposed between the hours of 1800 and 0600, the National Security Council and Cabinet have kept the need for a curfew and its hours under constant review, working with the advice and the guidance of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).  This has seen a gradual reduction in its hours.