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Unsolved crimes in VI: ‘Something isn’t right’- Hon Fraser

- maintains that police should be placed under Premier’s Office & that police should be armed
Former Leader of the Opposition Hon Julian Fraser RA (right) has bemoaned the number of unsolved crimes in the Virgin Islands and has reiterated that the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) be placed under the responsibility of the Premier. Photo: VINO/File
Recently, there have been a series of armed robberies and fatal shootings in the Virgin Islands with hardly anyone being brought to justice. Added to that, there are more than 28 unsolved murders in the territory since the year 2000. Photo: VINO/File
Recently, there have been a series of armed robberies and fatal shootings in the Virgin Islands with hardly anyone being brought to justice. Added to that, there are more than 28 unsolved murders in the territory since the year 2000. Photo: VINO/File
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- Former Leader of the Opposition Hon Julian Fraser RA (R3) has expressed his frustration about crimes being left unsolved in the Virgin Islands.

Recently, there have been a series of armed robberies and fatal shootings in the territory with hardly anyone being brought to justice.

There are more than 28 unsolved murders in the Virgin Islands since the year 2000.

Speaking during the Seventh Sitting of the Second Session of the Third House of Assembly (HoA) on Tuesday June 6, 2017, Honorable Fraser recalled the bombing incident in Manchester, England on May 22, 2017 that took 22 lives and seriously injured another 59.

“That incident took place and within 24 hours, they (police) could have told you what happened, how it happened and who were the most likely suspects in the incident.”

Hon Fraser stated that Manchester, England is 85 times the size of little Tortola, “a 2X2 country” and crimes are taking place and the officials are still trying to find out what, how, whom, where and why.

“Something isn’t right,” said Hon Fraser, suggesting that if people in the community cared more they would place more pressure on those responsible for bringing information forward.

The veteran legislator emphasised that crime should not be taken for a joke. “I am not going to keep my mouth shut about crime in this territory and those who are responsible for bringing people to justice. Whatever it takes to bring these people to justice and those who are responsible for doing so must be held accountable,” remarked Hon Fraser.

Police under the Premier

Hon Fraser told the Members of the HoA that he is an advocate for the police being under the Premier rather than under the Governor.

“That’s a far cry from where I stood in 2007, but its 10 years hence and I think as far as constitutional advancement goes, these are steps that we must be taking. Else, what legacy are we leaving for our children and those to follow? When I came along, my generation came along, our parents where not cash rich but they were land rich. They left us land. My generation educated our children. I’m not too sure what they can do for their children, given the trend.”

Hon Fraser takes the view that the upcoming generation will now have the burden of these unsolved crimes and no suggestion for the solution.

Making a case for arming police officers, Hon Fraser said if the UK officers were not armed the three perpetrators of the recent London terrorist attack would not be killed and possibly more causalities would have occurred.

“What we need in this territory is deterrent. We need to be more proactive and deter crime from taking place. Don’t wait until it happens,” concluded Hon Fraser.

26 Responses to “Unsolved crimes in VI: ‘Something isn’t right’- Hon Fraser”

  • Music (07/06/2017, 08:11) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    One bomber in Manchester, three men in London. Just for accuracy.
  • DON Q (07/06/2017, 08:30) Like (16) Dislike (7) Reply
    Frazer is the man
  • FAST FORWARD (07/06/2017, 09:03) Like (22) Dislike (1) Reply
    Crime in TORTOLA can be solved or reduce if measures are put in place to stop or prevent such but how can you have parents in high places (eg) Police force, Government, Parliament, lawyers judges) whose children commits some these crimes and because of who their parents and families are it swept aside or under the books or them are given a sentence for a serious crime(attempted murder of a cop) the same as for a road traffic violation of not wearing a seat belt , but for tinted glass you want drop the mighty THOR hammer on a person.
  • my people (07/06/2017, 09:07) Like (17) Dislike (2) Reply
    I agree with you Mr Fraser..100%
  • muas (07/06/2017, 09:49) Like (9) Dislike (2) Reply
    real talk well said hon fraser
  • POUNDCAKE (07/06/2017, 10:11) Like (34) Dislike (7) Reply

    Pound them Frazer, we like how you talking this week. Striking TKOs. Bout time we face the truth. To reduce crimes we need a different approach to prevent, deter, and send the message of zero tolerance. “Whitewashing” the problem will not work. They themselves don’t have the answers and possibly don't necessarily want to enforce the answers...for those who can follow.

    We particularly appreciate how you pounded “these set a just comes” and talking their sh*t about “entitlement.” They have no clue about the sacrifices made by our parents and grandparents in the days of ole to survive in this country when the colonialists left us high and dry to fend for ourselves. How we had to give up our lands, work and toiled for very little pay, and at times even for no pay, to build our foundation that they- johnnies’ and joannies’ come-lately, come to enjoy today.

    Yes! We deserved to be entitled. We are to be the Kings and Queens of our country- and should come First. That is how it should be in everyone’s country. Period! Point Blank!!

    Yes! We need diversity. But we need diversity who respects us as a proud people who knows where and how we came about.

    Vino cartoon this week says it all. It has been left all white for a reason.

    Subliminally reminding us that – if we don’t intend to be Kings and Queens of our own country, there are always those- waiting in the wings- who don’t mind coming back to our shores to control/assert their positions over us.

    Carry-on Frazer! Keep Pounding Away!! Sounding Real Good!!! E'nuff Said!!!!

    • Zinc fence (07/06/2017, 14:45) Like (6) Dislike (12) Reply
      Entitled? What is the BVI without the international market and the people that make the wheels turn? You speak as if BVI has oil wells and is somehow detached from the rest of the world in terms of its ability to survive economically. The real answer is education and being proud, not being entitled and ignorant. If we educate ourselves and step up to the plate we would already be holding the spaces reserved for us and not shouting and fighting for them. Think about that for a minute and besides, white people aren't the ones that have the BVI how it is, that's just something that is trumpeted by the locals who despite being black, don't the 'rest of us down here'...
      • @Zinc fence (07/06/2017, 16:31) Like (13) Dislike (1) Reply
        And that needs to change by exposing our people to a different mindset in what is education. It is not how you read, but what you read - that makes the difference. Real talk from the Zinc Fence Academy. If we continue to elect a bunch of buck-dancing leaders to lead us, who don't mind selling us out, we will continue to sow more of the same or worse yet- A return to where we started. And those same people from the international market you tak about right now feel they are entitled to control forever. All these years and still no succession planning has been seriously enacted. All done by design.
    • yessssss (07/06/2017, 15:09) Like (10) Dislike (0) Reply
      @Pound Cake, thank you soooo much for your comment. My grandparents are no longer with us, I miss them everyday but I am glad they are not here to see what their be loved BVI has came to. They helped paved the way for some of these ungrateful Uncle and Auntie Toms with their white apron and white gloves that is destroying this Country for their own personal gain.
  • l (07/06/2017, 11:24) Like (9) Dislike (4) Reply
    In the UK, witnesses come forward and speak up. In Tortola, they do not. If the public does not cooperate with the police, we will never be able to solve crime.
  • Street reporter (07/06/2017, 11:32) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
    Since the introduction of tickets crime have rocketed. This traffic controlling tool has been abused, over used and misused... As a result created a wedge in Police public relationship....Don't take my word. Do u all own research......
  • NOWnotTomorrow (07/06/2017, 12:13) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    What is most disappointing is to hear people like the governor make statements suggesting that because crime is relatively low compare to other Caribbean countries that we should take some comfort it that. All I see is the prelude to what our neighbor (USVI) is and with the governor mentality we will become like them. One crime is too much and every measure should be taken to move us away from the direction we are heading. Many of us can remember a time when crime wasn't at the forefront of our minds, when you could leave your home at any time, keep doors and window unlock. That is the culture we are made from!!!
    • HopealiveinVI (08/06/2017, 10:54) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
      This is what we get for not raising our men, especially to be responsible men, work hard and take care of your family.
      This is what we get for not screening who we let into our Territory, but using Work Permit fees to generate income.
      This is what we get for not stating up front that we are building a Virgin Islands for Virgin Islanders FIRST and those among us who wish to be law-abiding.
      This is what we get when we do not understand the dismal past that brought us Africans to be living in the Caribbean.
      This is what we get when we are not taught the real history in our schools.
      This is what we get when we do not acknowledge and appreciate the sacrifice of our fallen compatriots.
      This is what we get when we do not have a vision for the country.
      This is what we get when we sell our islands to outsiders.
      This is what we get when we continue to be a 'child' of the UK.
      This is what we get when the betterment of Virgin Islanders is second priority.
      This is what we get when our children are not taught to be leaders and entrepreneurs, but to look for a job.
      This is what we get when we fail to embrace the values of what made BVI a blessed country in the first place - Godly principles, prayer, honesty and citizens togetherness.
      We need a conversation: Where did we go wrong and how to right the wrong.
      Virgin Islanders will never give up; we will never sit and drope in self-pity. We are strong; resilient and
      whatever it takes to solve our problems for the betterment of all, trust me, there is a remnant who will stand and do it. Keep Virgin Islands Hope Alive.
  • John (07/06/2017, 13:37) Like (4) Dislike (3) Reply
    What legacy indeed....?
  • life (07/06/2017, 20:11) Like (9) Dislike (0) Reply

    how can crime be stop when the police depertment not doing their job? (eg) Police force, Government, Parliament, lawyers judges) whose children commits some these crimes and because of who their parents and families are it swept aside or under the books or them are given a sentence for a serious crime. Well said I can provied proof that that police force is indeed not doing their job for one i made a police report back in 2013 on a man that walked into my house in front of my 3 kids all under the age of 6 back then threthen to kill us and till date nothing was done I called followed up on this matter and till now i was told no repert was made by me so I provided them with a copy of their report why is it not in their system? why can I give it to them till this day four years later they still waiting on a court order for a seach warrent but when it's the other way arround the want to burst down my door but don't worry I have so much I want and will bring to light on that police force so who all feel am not telling the truth challange me on this I can defend myself for the public dont take police word for it get it in black and white it will come bace to save you when the time is right. The police depertment knows who i am because up to date am in their a*$ for answers but when someone get killed or hurt they pleading with the public for help not because theywant too but to cover their a*$ we are like a show to them.

    • So true (07/06/2017, 23:37) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
      Life that's so true I personal knows that lady and her family is being victimized by some members of the police force all that is said in your post is true I can contest to that. I have seen copies of those said documents that's being proposed on copies of letter that was written to those of higher ranking positions officer begging and pleading for those to take action and no respond was given back in writing high ones refused to keep a meeting to get to the bottom of that matter and present matters.

      What is it that the high ones hiding or supporting?

      Why is it she has copies of police reports on many occasions that they can't seem to find in their systems?

      Why is it that the DPP office has never received a filed that charges can be made and brought before the court?

      Who or what the police are protecting? And for what reasons please give the families answers.
  • tola (07/06/2017, 20:34) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    Yes Mr Frazer I like where you or goin keep the pressure on its got a lot a people's hear in the BVI see when all these crimes taking place an is afraid to let the police know about it or is jus true it's ain't none of them family member them doesn't really care .....once you belongs to certain family in the BVI an you do a crime or do anything them get away wit it that is where the crime keep goin up
  • Afu (07/06/2017, 21:00) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    Why can't we just have, "PEACE ON EARTH, GOOD WILL TOWARDS MEN", here in the BVI just like the old days?
  • Real Talk (08/06/2017, 06:45) Like (10) Dislike (0) Reply

    @ life @ so true i read your comments and thats how it is here in tortols. Can u see the police force is still have bad officers. Why is it they treat people the way they do we as a people need to stand united anf fight for justic. I have seen a officer on a video clip going to arrest her own son by law its a conflict of intrested if us another person cursing abd getting on in the manner in which he did he wiuld have been slam to the ground and draged out the area where it happened but because its her son the officer son special treatment was given. Where in the world u can see officers arresting someone and u can go up put your hand in the person pocket twke stuff out no where in the world or but i was wrong it happen here on tortola.

    The police pick and chose who they want to arrest who they want to charge and treat like Criminals.

    Yesterday a young lady and her baby went to the road town station to press cgarges on her child father for puting his hands on her she gave the report but came out upset she said to me that the officer said that a mear common asult and before they can do anything she has to go hospital for a doctor paper for clams made by her foolishness the police told her their job was to go find that man and do their jobs what if she dont have visable marks dose it mean she is not being abused or police waiting for her to be killed and the worst part was they deal with her as she was not the victim whats going on here what msg are they sending.

    It will get way wosrt and to late that they cant do anything and this is when its going to become public and they need help when someone grt killed this police dept. Dont care about us the care about a pay check and its people life we talking about the young lady was so hurt as to what police told her they not even thinking about the child that came there with her.

    What about fake warrents the burst into your house with and its not in there system why all these things not updated in the system police making problem with the public but when they need our help to cover their @$% they come out like they concern about our safty look how much unsoloved muders but it have more to come because police not doing their jobs but pick who they feel need help smh.

  • first hand (08/06/2017, 06:49) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    I have had incidents happen to me where I report two instances to the police and on both occasions I was not given copies of my statement and the incidents have not been taken further and the person is still on the streets and has subsequently threatened friends and still nothing has been done. Maybe it is because he has a boss with money and a name.

    I know of other friends who are residents and other who are belongers that have had incidents with police and immigration that have been treated unfairly and because the Officers have Surnames or they know the accused or have Power they are abusing it and the accused are being set free and the case or matter is not being taken further.

    I also then had an incident where an Immigration Officer held my passport for months and refused to give it back to me because he was abusing his power. I had been going to immigration week after week and all of a sudden I was "illegal" and then had me deported illegally by again abusing his power and putting my name on a list of people who were in the country illegally. He and his two Officers went through my belongings and confiscated items, paperwork and personal belongs, which they did not return to me and other people. They went through the house where I was residing looking for who knows what and made me empty my bags and repack them and telling what I could and could not take with me. They would not let me make a call as is stated in the laws. I am now trying to get it sorted out and because I do not have a big surname and do not have the documentation that was supposed to be given to me I am in a position that has left me with no way forward.
  • Logic (08/06/2017, 19:12) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    How can officers serve the public when the public refuses to help them in solving the unsolved crimes and how can they do their jobs effectively when all the disciplined people stand aside and not join while all the people with bad intentions are joining?.... and how can someone conduct there job when lacking in the necessary requirements and tools to get the job done when the gov dont have money
  • Serpico (09/06/2017, 14:39) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Police under Premier office? Are you out of your mind.
  • ReXFeRaL. (11/06/2017, 06:55) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    At First hand
    If the immigration did what you are saying they did how come you didn't report it to immigration or Police?? You come on here talking piss lies. Hmmm
    • chad (12/06/2017, 14:44) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      At ReXFeRaL
      how could i when u all didn't give me a chance to defend myself


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