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3 arrested & 2 firearms recovered in stop & search operations this week- RVIPF

- said security has been heightened in VI
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has conducted a series of high-visibility patrols and stop-and-check operations over the past 24 hours, which have generated results. Photo: RVIPF
The police recovered two firearms and arrested 3 males on the night of October 28, 2025. Photo: RVIPF/File
The police recovered two firearms and arrested 3 males on the night of October 28, 2025. Photo: RVIPF/File
High-profile prisoners Jose Almestica (left) and John M. Burgos (right) escaped from His Majesty's Prison (HMP) on October 25, 2025, and remain at large. Photo: RVIPF
High-profile prisoners Jose Almestica (left) and John M. Burgos (right) escaped from His Majesty's Prison (HMP) on October 25, 2025, and remain at large. Photo: RVIPF
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has conducted a series of high-visibility patrols and stop-and-check operations over the past 24 hours, which have generated results.

On Tuesday night, police recovered two firearms and arrested 3 males, a press release from the RVIPF said on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. Further information relating to the arrested individuals has not been released. 

Response to an uptick in crime

The police engaged in these operations in efforts to deter criminal activity and reinforce public safety following “a recent uptick in robberies and the escape of two dangerous inmates from His Majesty’s Prison”.

High-profile prisoners Jose Almestica and John M. Burgos escaped from His Majesty's Prison (HMP) on October 25, 2025, and remain at large. 

“The RVIPF remains fully engaged in both the ongoing manhunt and in tackling the recent spate of robberies. Our officers are working around the clock to disrupt criminal activity, recover illegal weapons, and ensure that residents feel safe in their communities,” Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool said. 

Public cooperation is important

The RVIPF, she said, continues to rely on the public’s cooperation as the police bring offenders to justice. 

In the release, the police urged residents once again not to approach the escaped prisoners, but to contact police immediately at 368-9339, 311 or through Crimestoppers at 800-8477, if seen or if they have any information regarding their whereabouts.

Residents are also encouraged to remain vigilant, secure homes and properties, refrain from leaving keys in vehicles, and ensure that all vehicles are properly locked at all times.

The RVIPF, the statement concluded, continues to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all communities across the Virgin Islands.

7 Responses to “3 arrested & 2 firearms recovered in stop & search operations this week- RVIPF”

  • one eye rooster (30/10/2025, 09:31) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    GOOD THREE MORE JOINED THOSE BOTTOM SNIFFERS UP BALO HOOD REDDIM
  • Only on we street man (30/10/2025, 10:23) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    How come they are not putting pressure on guards up ballo?
  • Macky (30/10/2025, 11:24) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    You gotta be a real criminal to be riding dirty during a crime wave. That being said, since we brought this inconvenience on ourselves. Let the stop & searches continue until moral improves.
  • Maria Louisa Varlack (30/10/2025, 11:44) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    In 1968 when I was born; 57 almost 60 years ago, no such incident occurred in the BVI. What has become of a small, tiny, peaceful and quiet fishing village?
  • justice (30/10/2025, 12:03) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Post pictures let the public see who these men are know who live amongst
  • stt Thomas (30/10/2025, 12:21) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    okay just keep fulling up the over crowded prison . find another method of punishment locking them up don't solve the issue. Border control. Who bring the drugs and gun. There is no proper rehab. it other countries the prisoners complete a whole degree. Governor you are a waste.

  • lk (30/10/2025, 12:32) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Some thing isn't adding up two inmate that sound like a plan to me any how that prison is a joke the blind man can see that


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