RVIPF calls for tighter business security after seven robberies across BVI
Seven robberies targeting businesses across the British Virgin Islands have prompted police to urge operators to reduce cash on premises and strengthen security measures.
Seven business robberies prompt RVIPF security push across the territory
Seven robberies targeting businesses across the British Virgin Islands in recent weeks have led the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) to call on operators to tighten security and limit the cash held on their premises, BVI News reports.
In a statement issued on Friday, the RVIPF said it had intensified investigative resources and stepped up patrols in key areas. Detectives are pursuing available leads to identify and apprehend those responsible.
"Robbery is a serious offence that threatens public safety and undermines the sense of security within our communities," Acting Commissioner of Police Richard Ullger said.
The force also renewed its appeal for public assistance. "We are asking anyone who may have seen suspicious activity, possesses video footage, or has information relating to any of these incidents to come forward. Even the smallest piece of information may prove critical to our investigations," Ullger added.
The statement follows earlier police action in response to robberies at businesses on Tortola. Targeted patrols had already been increased after incidents at Manuel Reef and Road Reef on October 10 and 11, and a prior robbery in Purcell on September 25.
Cash handling and access controls
In its latest guidance, the RVIPF urged business owners and managers to avoid storing large amounts of cash on site, make frequent bank deposits and use secure cash-handling procedures. Operators should also vary deposit times and routes to prevent offenders from establishing predictable patterns.
Police recommended restricting employee access to safes and cash storage areas, and fitting safes with time-delay locks where practical.
Surveillance, lighting and alarms
The RVIPF urged businesses to install and maintain CCTV systems covering entrances, exits, cash registers, parking areas and storage rooms, and to ensure cameras remain operational with recordings retained for an adequate period.
Additional advice included improving lighting around parking areas, entrances and loading bays, conducting regular security assessments, and installing monitored and panic alarms. Staff should stay alert to suspicious persons or vehicles and report concerns without delay.
Licence plates and footage preservation
Residents with derelict or inoperable vehicles were advised to remove and securely retain their licence plates until those vehicles become roadworthy again — a precaution intended to reduce the risk of plates being stolen or misused in criminal activity.
Anyone in possession of CCTV, doorbell camera or mobile phone footage relevant to any of the incidents should preserve it and contact police promptly, the RVIPF said.
Members of the public can reach the RVIPF Intelligence Unit on 368-9512 or the Criminal Investigations Department on 368-9155. Police said all information would be treated with strict confidentiality.
Source: BVI News