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Police have increased targeted patrols following armed robberies at two supermarkets on consecutive evenings over the weekend, as security footage of one incidents went viral on social media, including in other countries.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) said the robberies occurred shortly before 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, at businesses in Manuel Reef and Road Reef.
Preliminary reports indicate that two males wearing face masks and gloves and travelling on scooters were involved in both incidents.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool said the use of firearms to threaten members of the community was unacceptable.
“No business owner, employee, or member of the public should have to live or work under the threat of armed violence. We recognise the concerns these incidents have created, and I assure the public that we are treating these matters with the utmost seriousness,” she stated.
In a release issued today, October 12, the RVIPF said the increased patrols were intended to enhance tactical response, deter criminal activity and support business operators and residents.
Detectives are also investigating an armed robbery at a business along Blackburn Highway in Purcell on September 25. Two masked males dressed in black reportedly entered shortly after 9:30 p.m. and demanded cash. One reportedly carried what appeared to be a handgun, and cash was taken from registers before the suspects fled.
Police said investigators were examining possible connections between the three robberies and had developed information supporting several lines of inquiry.
Although police statistics showed a 50 per cent decrease in robberies from January to August 2026 compared with the same period last year, the recent incidents have raised renewed concern.
“While the reduction in robberies earlier this year is encouraging, these recent incidents are deeply concerning and demand our continued attention,” Vanterpool said.
Police encouraged businesses to ensure CCTV and security systems were functioning and recordings securely maintained. They also advised the public to remain alert, particularly during late evening hours, avoid displaying large sums of cash and report suspicious activity.
“We are determined to bring those responsible to justice, but we cannot do so without the support of the community,” Vanterpool said. “Even the smallest piece of information may be critical to our investigations.”
She added that the victims had been offered support following the traumatic encounters.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9593. Information will be handled confidentially.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) said the robberies occurred shortly before 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, at businesses in Manuel Reef and Road Reef.
Preliminary reports indicate that two males wearing face masks and gloves and travelling on scooters were involved in both incidents.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool said the use of firearms to threaten members of the community was unacceptable.
“No business owner, employee, or member of the public should have to live or work under the threat of armed violence. We recognise the concerns these incidents have created, and I assure the public that we are treating these matters with the utmost seriousness,” she stated.
In a release issued today, October 12, the RVIPF said the increased patrols were intended to enhance tactical response, deter criminal activity and support business operators and residents.
Detectives are also investigating an armed robbery at a business along Blackburn Highway in Purcell on September 25. Two masked males dressed in black reportedly entered shortly after 9:30 p.m. and demanded cash. One reportedly carried what appeared to be a handgun, and cash was taken from registers before the suspects fled.
Police said investigators were examining possible connections between the three robberies and had developed information supporting several lines of inquiry.
Although police statistics showed a 50 per cent decrease in robberies from January to August 2026 compared with the same period last year, the recent incidents have raised renewed concern.
“While the reduction in robberies earlier this year is encouraging, these recent incidents are deeply concerning and demand our continued attention,” Vanterpool said.
Police encouraged businesses to ensure CCTV and security systems were functioning and recordings securely maintained. They also advised the public to remain alert, particularly during late evening hours, avoid displaying large sums of cash and report suspicious activity.
“We are determined to bring those responsible to justice, but we cannot do so without the support of the community,” Vanterpool said. “Even the smallest piece of information may be critical to our investigations.”
She added that the victims had been offered support following the traumatic encounters.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9593. Information will be handled confidentially.
© 2026 BVI Platinum News. This article is original BVI Platinum content. Reproduction or republication without written permission is prohibited.
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