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Governor lied? BVITB never consulted on ‘Police in Paradise’ video – Clive McCoy

BVI Tourist Board (BVITB) Director Clive McCoy has discredited the statement by the Governor, H.E. John J. Rankin CMG that the tourist board was consulted on the controversial ‘Police in Paradise’ Video. Photo: GIS/File
The Governor on July 1, 2022, alongside the Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) had said, 'my understanding is that there was some consultation with the tourism board, but I don’t have the exact details of that.' Photo: GIS/Facebook
The Governor on July 1, 2022, alongside the Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) had said, 'my understanding is that there was some consultation with the tourism board, but I don’t have the exact details of that.' Photo: GIS/Facebook
The Virgin Islands public has been in uproar about the Police in Paradise video, which has erroneously cast the VI as a crime infested place. Photo: Team of Reporters
The Virgin Islands public has been in uproar about the Police in Paradise video, which has erroneously cast the VI as a crime infested place. Photo: Team of Reporters
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI - BVI Tourist Board (BVITB) Director Mr Clive McCoy has discredited the statement by Governor John J. Rankin, CMG that the tourist board was consulted on the controversial ‘Police in Paradise’ video.

The Governor on July 1, 2022, at a press conference alongside the Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) had said, “My understanding is that there was some consultation with the tourism board, but I don’t have the exact details of that.”

The Governor added, “Obviously, if any crimes were committed then that should be investigated properly but I’ve got no evidence to believe that is the case.”

However, BVITB Director Mr McCoy said the board only became aware of the video when it went viral in local chat rooms and on social media last week.

“We are not aware of when the footage for this production was shot, as there is no record of permission being sought. Furthermore, the BVITB did not issue a film permit to allow the filmed content from the video to be captured in the Territory,” Mr McCoy declared in a statement on July 3, 2022.

No permission granted for similar project- Mr McCoy 

The Tourism Director, while confirming that the RVIPF did consult with the BVITB four years ago, in 2018, about a similar project, no approval was granted and it was not in favour of the proposed project.

“The BVITB does not have any record of consultation being made regarding the filming of the Police in Paradise video which has been recently circulated. In fact, the BVITB first became aware of the project when along with the entire community, we saw the video being shared in WhatsApp messages and social media platforms,” he reiterated.

Mr Mccoy added that he is not in support of this video as it negatively portrays the Virgin Islands.

In a recent statement made on ZBVI radio, Mr McCoy said his agency was preparing to counter any negative effects of the leaked video.

41 Responses to “Governor lied? BVITB never consulted on ‘Police in Paradise’ video – Clive McCoy”

  • Ty (04/07/2022, 12:03) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    question the Charlie's queen.
    • Linda (04/07/2022, 21:59) Like (10) Dislike (2) Reply
      Rankin didn't meet with the Tourist Board before putting this video out.
      Rankin didn't meet with Fahie before putting him out.
      Rankin wants the BVI to look as bad as it can before putting our Constitution out.
      Rankin's plan to get everything done that he was sent down here to do, is working, no matter how sloppy and transparent it is. All of you who want UK rule is going to get it, right up your A--ES.

  • My girl (04/07/2022, 12:15) Like (22) Dislike (18) Reply
    We no longer trust ranking he must go!
  • HMMM (04/07/2022, 12:36) Like (14) Dislike (5) Reply
    Just accurate reinactments of what happens here all the time.
  • Next question (04/07/2022, 12:39) Like (31) Dislike (1) Reply
    Next question is 'why did he lie?' He need to answer to the people. If he was not speaking from his own knowledge, from whose knowledge was he speaking. As a matter of transparency, we the people need to know. We setting up our own commission of inquiry.
  • An Angry Governor. (04/07/2022, 12:50) Like (16) Dislike (16) Reply
    We, majority of us really thought that Britain will suspend the constitution, take over the place fix it, then give it back to us. That's the only way we thought it can truly fix. As a matter a fact that was the majority wish, don't mind the noise of the few with their personal agenda.... Now Britain try to be nice, they have to now take what they are getting. Can't be too nice to people that hate you..Now the said loud few is calling for the Governor's head. He played right into their hands. I know Britain is mad they didn't suspend and take over..blame urself.
    • Why (04/07/2022, 17:17) Like (6) Dislike (6) Reply
      We are people not things . Take over what? Who will take over the uk ?
  • con-plan (04/07/2022, 12:52) Like (9) Dislike (6) Reply
    The plan will be create issues in the territory most of which could be unfounded then london finds an excuse to return to the territory

    London Bridge is Falling-Down and some of us know London believes in Exploitation(do you remember the old slavery days)

    Even, London white associates set plans in place to plans to come out of “Great Britain” Scotland & Wales(running for cover having the same skin colour)

    Once Great Britain pulled away from the European union they began stumbling now Great Britain is falling

    London will not try to manipulate Scotland and wales they white associates but they will set out to come back into the territory where it is occupied by the black folks

    London just want to grab a hole of cash flow in this territory and will conjure up all manner things

    • @Con Plan (05/07/2022, 08:44) Like (8) Dislike (4) Reply
      I think you need to live in the UK to make remarks so unfounded based upon your racist hate. Brexit has nothing to do with this but if it did your facts are incorrect. Please do not remark on the UK without having full knowledge or facts. I am a BVI citizen living and working in London! As for London Bridge is falling down, the childrens nursery rhyme, that my children sing in their play yard, it has medieval influences, according to many scholars. The fact that Great Britain flourishes today, has totally evaded you!
      • @@Con Plan (05/07/2022, 12:31) Like (1) Dislike (3) Reply
        Well replied. The person making reference to London Bridge obviously has no understanding or concept of the United Kingdom. In fact, I would hazard a guess, has never travelled to the UK? Therefore comments made about Brexit are poorly founded too. This persons racism and hatred for white people obviously bubbles within. I am only inspired by my many fellow citizens who want to work with the UK, to build a better future!
    • Wellsah (05/07/2022, 15:12) Like (3) Dislike (1) Reply
      You are absolutely right. It has all to do with Brexit. I don't know what part of UK @con and @@con living but could only be where the deaf and blind live. The game is already in-play and was clearly solidified this weekend with the leader of the Labour party's statement that there will be NO going back to the single market EU but then spouted a set of Brexit fixes that will take generations for fruition as those in London get richer and the poor and less fortunate suffer. So all those who realized the mistake that was made and had any hopes of not going back but going in with a better understanding of the benefits of the unity with the EU, better prepare for the rough ride and start thinking of methods that will actually work for the people.
      • Expat (05/07/2022, 17:21) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
        I partially agree with you but Brexit isn’t the issue here. I voted to stay in the EU, as a UK citizen. I am sure that the persons writing @Con @@Con are giving their view points as they see and quite rightly so. The UK people spoke during the referendum, 40 years in the making, gone overnight. New policies and procedures, a very new UK for sure. However, this has brought much opportunity throughout the counties. New contracts signed, new growth and development. There is a fresh wind blowing. It will be a rough ride for years to come. The rich get richer, the poor poorer, it is even worse here in the BVI. Through all this the UK is supporting its overseas territories. Given a vote, leave the BVI alone or stay, what would the UK people vote? That’s a rather scary proposition at this time but let’s hope that with strong nurturing this beautiful territory can move towards a safe and reliable future and independence.
  • pat (04/07/2022, 13:05) Like (13) Dislike (0) Reply
    The governor office looks small this morning
  • josiah'sbay (04/07/2022, 13:39) Like (13) Dislike (0) Reply
    In light of the current happenings' here in the VI I will no longer refer to the Government or any agent or representative of the UK as " Honorable or his/her excellency". They do not deserve those titles.
  • @ An angry governor (04/07/2022, 13:48) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    The contitution protects the fundamental rights of the people without that even the new born babies will have no rights. That is why the Unity Government is trying so hard to keep it. Without our constitution Virgin Ilnders and Belongers will be sitting ducks for whoever and whatever. We have to stop being so naive and finding reasons to hate on each other. We have to appreciate the people who are fighting for us and support them. Put petty things aside our lives depend on that constitution.
    • josiah'sbay (05/07/2022, 08:21) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
      I think that you need to stop being naïve. The so called constitution has not been suspended and we can't use it to run the country because it's being overridden by the Governor. The Order in council is being held in reserve until needed. The Constitution will be held in abeyance until the revocation of the Order In Council and the Governor assume his constitutional duties.
  • Wah next... (04/07/2022, 13:57) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    Hmmmmm....really now?? Can't trust the police....now the governor lying bold in the face to the pple in dis beautiful virgin islands....not surprised @ all, the damage has already been done
  • Interested (04/07/2022, 14:07) Like (9) Dislike (5) Reply
    You all were hot to get rid of Gus Jaspert. My grandmother always said you know who you have,you don’t know who you will get. Amen
  • Be careful what you wish for (04/07/2022, 14:53) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    Is it stupidity or badmind that any one would want a suspention of the VIslands' constitution and cops that are recruited to serve a coomunity of gunslingers and drug dealers. Come on down we have no constitution and we have gun toting citizens shooting up each other. These cops will be shooting first and ask questions later and then our Governor will decide if any criminal charges should be brought against the Cop. People be careful what you wish for.
  • when? (04/07/2022, 15:10) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Saw filming in Road Town in early to mid March of this year. I assume around that time....
  • Outsider looking in (04/07/2022, 15:52) Like (6) Dislike (4) Reply
    It’s apparent that you are an expat. Your blog is not that of a native. You and your kind want the UK to take over so that you can run things the way you see fit. Do you have this kind of power in your country of origin?
  • Rubber Duck (04/07/2022, 16:35) Like (6) Dislike (6) Reply
    The Fcdo must recall this man he has become a big disgrace and very dishonest
  • Interesting response (04/07/2022, 17:04) Like (4) Dislike (4) Reply
    I believe the Governor. You can’t really come into the territory and film without going through the film commission (BVITB)—including providing a synopsis of what is being filmed. They would have had some type of involvement. Director would be better served saying no comment! SMH!!!!
    • @ interesting response (05/07/2022, 01:42) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
      Stop tell lies like John ranking the director is very honest here

      We now see how dishonest John is
  • TB (04/07/2022, 17:14) Like (6) Dislike (1) Reply
    Director just shortened his job duration to a few more weeks by defying the Guv. Soon the local news websites will headline McCoy out Rankin in!
  • asking for a friend (04/07/2022, 17:22) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Why waz the governor in anegada he turn minister now?
    • Stupido (04/07/2022, 22:29) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
      He is the governor of the BVI which includes Anegada. He is not the governor of Road town.
  • i see (04/07/2022, 17:39) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Mr you have a job try an keep yr job don't try to with them who above you
  • Norris Turnbull (04/07/2022, 19:24) Like (8) Dislike (8) Reply
    Do governors lie? Yes they do and often.
  • DEDE (04/07/2022, 19:51) Like (5) Dislike (1) Reply
    I’m still trying to understand the true purpose of this video. If it to bring to light corruption and incompetence, then it did a terrible job. This video has done more damage than what good. Why would those in charge think this would be a good idea. This does not shed a good light on anyone responsible for security in this country. After seeing this short clip, I for sure won’t want to join that police force. This doesn’t look like the paradise I want be caught dead in. Furthermore, some of the latest drug bust includes current and former police officers. So again, why produce a video that puts them in a bad light.

    As for this consultation issue, asking for ones opinion on a issue and then turning around and doing something else does not constitute an approval. I’m wondering what was truly discuss at this consultation. It no way in hell any sane person could agree to this. No one benefits from such deceptive behaviour.
    • @DeDe (05/07/2022, 08:06) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
      That is a very good question. Why was it made? You can't trust anything they are saying.
      I have seen the video and I found it to be very insulting to the people of the BVI.
      I am from the UK but I have no horse in this race and I call it how I see it.
      As a UK citizen I am embarrassed by it.
      The CoP starts off telling the viewer that he began his career in the Police Force walking the beat on the Old Kent Rd in the Elephant & Castle. That area of London is far more dangerous than anywhere in the BVI. So this only brings me to two possibilities. 1) He is completely lying with the intent to deceive the viewer or 2) He is completely out of touch with the BVI and incompetent. Either way I think the man should resign his position.
      I also have been asking myself Why? The video was filmed and edited in such a way that it was very relatable to the popular TV show in the UK.
      I believe the video was aimed towards the UK market. It was made by one of the most established UK TV stations.
      Maybe they were trying to recruit British born young police officers who would welcome the opportunity to police in the Caribbean, the more danger the better as far as they are concerned or ITV were planning on making some kind of reality TV show here in the BVI. Possibly it was aimed at the British public for reason only they know.
      In my opinion the whole thing stinks of a hidden agenda that certainly doesn't have the best interest of the BVI in mind.
      • @DeDe (05/07/2022, 09:10) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        For starters.. film was never edited...the film was never edited.. why are you determinants of ongoing strife lively...jeez...the video was not edited...not completed...was illegally obtained and purposefully displayed on the World Wide Web by a Black Caribbean woman,a non BVIslander in an obvious attempt to create an environment of discord beneficial to their innate Spirit of evil.
        This is the same scene that was created during the previous Governor,'s term and the end result culminated in ugliness, uncertainty and continues with the help of folks of evil disposition and intent.
        • @@DeDe (05/07/2022, 10:15) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
          I certainly agree with you that it is being weaponized with harmful intent and it was obtained illegally.
          To me though, the production had a start, a middle and an end and was modified in preparation for possible publication. That is what I am referring to when I say edited.
          It doesn't take away from the fact that it is in bad taste and misleading. I think the CoP showed very poor judgement and was extremely tone deaf.
          I am still confused as to why it was made and what exactly they were trying to do. Like I mentioned, it seemed like the trailer for a reality TV show which is just absurd but that is just my opinion.
          Maybe you can answer me as to why it was made? I am not picking sides here. Just confused.
          • I take it back (05/07/2022, 11:20) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
            I just found this link to ITV making a police recuitment video that received the same backlash in Guernsey as it is receiving here.

            itv.com/news/channel/2020-08-06/guernsey-police-recuitment-video- gets-ridiiculed-online

            I was skeptical as to the motives but I now realise that the CoP was trying to go about things in the right way and it kind of blew up in his face. It seems like it is more of an ITV production issue than anything else.
            I welcome anyone who was as skeptical as I to copy and past the link and read this for themselves before jumping to rash decisions and letting others talk for you.

            I would like to apologise to the CoP.
  • Obviously (04/07/2022, 22:32) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    This is very poor judgement on the part of the police high command but at the same time this is just a howling to get back at anything British.
  • Perc (05/07/2022, 08:07) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    The RVIPF and Lorna smith have done the most damage to the financial services and tourism. Giving bad reference on two upstanding professionals in the financial services industry is a no no. The public and these women need an apology.
  • Yes to UK (05/07/2022, 10:25) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    This is what the Governor said, My understanding is that there was some consultation with the tourism board, but I don’t have the exact details of that.” so Clive McCoy how can you make a statement saying the Governor lied, seems to me like you are in a hurry to cover your tracks.
  • down2earth (05/07/2022, 12:06) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    "My understanding is that there was some consultation with the tourism board, but I don’t have the exact details of that.”

    The Governor can only respond based on what he was told by whomever.
  • Stealth (05/07/2022, 14:37) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    UK-Appointed Governor John Rankin, CMG, is a diplomat. Do diplomats lie? Some have character but most lie, earning deserved Pinocchios. Governor John Rankin, CMG (what does the CMG stand for?), CoP Mark Collins and FCO are all part of the clique, the cabal, to tarnish the image of the BVI. The video was leaked so they lost control of the orchestration of the plan. The plan went sideways and the commish got caught flat-footed and didn’t have time to collude with and compare notes with Guv on what to tell the poor peasants. Consequently, their story collided violently and twisted. Who is lying McCoy, Collins or Rankin? People, here is a news flash. The UK clique is not into you so stop fooling and belittling yourselves. They don’t give a rat’s @$$ about neither the BVI nor the BVI people. Watch out for those plastic, fake smiles.
  • Really (05/07/2022, 15:57) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    Broris Johnson up in UK lying about his action to and covering up wrong doing for him and others . Uk corrupt to real bad so them need clean up there own yard before they can do some one else and it not getting better in UK it,s been getting worst . So they can,t run them own what you think gona happen to us. With them as captain . We in real trouble .


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