From left: Antonio Diaz Montero, 50, and Wilson Lorenzo Perez, 40 were arrested and charged with Keeping an Unlicensed Firearm and Unlawful Possession of Explosives. Perez was additionally charged with Illegal Entry. Photo: RVIPF

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) said it conducted an early morning operation in the East End district on Thursday, June 11, 2026, during which one Glock pistol and six rounds of 9mm ammunition were recovered. Photo: RVIPF

As a result, Antonio Diaz Montero, 50, and Wilson Lorenzo Perez, 40 were arrested and charged with Keeping an Unlicensed Firearm and Unlawful Possession of Explosives. Perez was additionally charged with Illegal Entry.

Both men appeared before the Magistrate’s Court and were remanded to His Majesty’s Prison. They are to return to court on September 22, 2026.

According to the RVIPF in a press release today, June 18, 2026, this recovery marks the 12th firearm seized by the RVIPF since the start of 2026, highlighting the Force’s continued efforts to remove illegal firearms from the streets and enhance public safety across the Virgin Islands.

'Deadly threat'

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool stated, “The recovery of this Glock and ammunition in East End is a stark reminder of the deadly threat that illegal firearms pose to our community. This is especially concerning given that firearms have been the weapon of choice in all our recent homicides. Every weapon we seize is a potential life saved. While this marks our twelfth recovery this year, we cannot become complacent."

Ms Vanterpool urged every resident to stand with the RVIPF, not as bystanders, but as active partners in safety.

"Our officers operate under challenging circumstances, yet they remain relentless in their mission to keep our communities safe, and for that they have my gratitude and admiration. If you see something, say something. Together, we can choke the supply of these dangerous weapons and keep our Territory safe."

The RVIPF said it remains committed to reducing gun-related crime and preventing illegal firearms from entering and circulating within the Territory. Members of the public with information concerning illegal firearms or other criminal activity are encouraged to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9512 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477 (TIPS).