Photo Credit: BVI Platinum News

Photo Credit: BVI Platinum News

While officers will enjoy a spanking new Road Town Police Station some time in the future, the hierarchy of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is expected to remain at their current location at Sir Olva Georges Plaza.

Third District Representative, Hon. Julian Fraser asked about plans to move the police headquarters during the Standing Finance Committee deliberations.

Permanent Secretary in the Deputy Governor's Officer, Mr. David Archer in response stated that he is unaware of any plans to relocate the police headquarters from the Sir Olva Georges Plaza.

Cabinet recently approved $22,795,500 for the development of a new Road Town Police Station, according to Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. David Morris. The new Road Town Station has been discussed for several years, but experienced some delays as Government considered funding.

Financial Secretary, Mr. Neil Smith had suggested that a loan be acquired for the construction, as opposed to relying solely on Government's budgetary allocations.

Schematic drawings under the first phase of the new Police Station were completed by Dawson Wells before it was ordered into dissolution by the Commercial Court.

Apart from the Road Town Station, Mr. Morris has made repeated calls for improved and modern stations at East End, West End and on the sister islands.

Additionally, during the SFC's deliberations, the Acting Commissioner made a case for funding to purchase a new plane at a cost of $2,088,750. Mr. Morris pointed out that if approved, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) will require a further $851,093 for staffing, utilities and supplies for the aircraft.

Currently, the Territory's sole police aircraft, 'VP Law', a Piper PA-31 Navajo has been under repairs for several months. According to Mr. Morris, the aircraft is currently based in Miami and a broker currently acts on behalf of the RVIPF.

The Acting Commissioner explained that the aircraft is valued at $80,000 as it is and there was an offer of $55,000.