Interim Acting Commissioner of Police (ACoP) Richard Ullger has said a debate should be held to discuss whether or not business owners should be allowed to have licensed firearms. Photo: Internet Source

(L-R) Talking Points Co-hosts Damion C. Grange, Violet Thomas-Gaul, guest Interim Acting Commissioner of Police Richard Ullger and Co-host Elvin G. Grant. Photo: Facebook

Crime-weary business owners in the Virgin Islands have been calling for permission to carry firearms to protect their businesses against robberies and other offences. Photo: Internet Source

Some in the business community in the Virgin Islands (VI) have brought up the possibility of being allowed to have firearms as a means of protection from criminals. 

These discussions are always brought up following armed robberies of business entities. 

In October 2025, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) revealed that it was investigating a series of major robbery incidents throughout the Virgin Islands (VI). 

House of Luxury in Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park was robbed on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, during the day by individuals armed with high-powered weapons. 

Debate is needed- Ullger 

In 2011, then Deputy CoP David Morris suggested businesses install security cameras instead of a gun, as it does not help, and there is a risk of harming an innocent person. 

In October 2025, three business owners spoke to Virgin Islands News Online anonymously and disclosed that it was difficult for business owners to obtain firearm licenses, and that "this is wrong". 

During Talking Points on Monday, February 23, 2026, Ullger was asked his views on the matter of business owners wanting to be allowed to have licensed firearms. 

“I think there needs to be a debate about it, a debate always brings the views of different people and [can help make] informed decisions.”

Ullger added that his personal views are that this is something he would not want to see, but is open to a debate to “listen to the views of others and to see where we can take this forward. 

An ‘adequate police force’ needed- Ullger 

While the Interim ACoP said debate on the matter of firearm licenses for business owners is needed, he also gave another suggestion to curb crime in the VI. 

“I think what we need to be doing is have an adequate police force to make sure that criminals feel threatened to be operating in the Virgin Islands.”

He said if this is achieved, there would be no need for business owners to have guns to protect themselves and their properties. 

See links to related articles 

https://www.virginislandsnewsonline.com/en/news/no-firearms-for-business-owners-

https://www.virginislandsnewsonline.com/en/news/another-call-for-business-owners-to-carry-firearms-in-midst-of-crime-wave