Strong police presence at the Carrot Bay Cultural Fiesta on August 9, 2019. Photo: VINO/File

Speaking Exclusively to Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), Commissioner of Police (CoP), of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, Mr Micheal B. Matthews (left) said that aside from minor altercation, the festival was a resounding success with regards to policing efforts in the territory. Photo: VINO/File

Speaking Exclusively to Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), Commissioner of Police (CoP) of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), Mr Micheal B. Matthews said that aside from minor altercations, the festival was a resounding success with regards to policing efforts during the celebrations.

‘Public Cooperated’ – Mr Matthews

“From a policing perspective, the festival was a success. Only a very few minor incidents generally speaking which were either drink-related or minor altercations,” he said.

CoP Matthews continued, “I am pleased to report that our planned policing response was successful and kept those attending all aspects of Festival safe. I am grateful in this regard for the cooperation of the vast majority of the public who clearly enjoyed the festivities peacefully.”

Meanwhile, Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture, Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) aka 'Showande Uhuru', in invited comments echoed similar sentiments.

“The festival was successful. We had great attendance, great participation, high-quality performances by local and international acts, great cultural events, a great parade, and great rise and shine tramps,” he told this news website.

‘Weather impacted some events’ – Hon Wheatley   

He said with regards to challenges, the rain impacted a few nights and Participation on the East End of Tortola was not as expected.

During the launch of the 65th Emancipation Celebrations on July 26, 2019, Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) took the opportunity to call for law and order given the importance of the celebrations, by urging citizens to not get involved in any criminal activity, illegalities or fights.

“Instead you will use this time to unite… to build up each other, because that is what festival is a tribute to our ancestors,” the Premier said.