Governor His Excellency John Rankin has expressed that he will be addressing the matter involving the recently leaked graphical video entitled ‘Police in Paradise’ with the Commissioner of Police Mark Collins.
This is according to Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley who made the disclosure in a statement on Monday, June 27.
Premier Wheatley said the video was a very unfortunate depiction of the territory with highly damaging implications to the BVI’s tourism product.
He said, “The video has unsettled many persons in our local and business community because of its highly distorted portrayal of the British Virgin Islands, which gives the impression that our islands are an unsafe tourist destination infested with drugs and crime. This is not true.”
He added, “I have spoken with His Excellency the Governor, Mr. John J. Rankin, CMG with whom overall responsibility for the Royal Virgin Islands Police falls. He fully agreed that the video is inappropriate and stated he would address the matter with Police Commissioner Mark Collins. Mr. Collins has since issued a written apology to the British Virgin Islands public.”
The BVI still one of the safest destinations
Premier Wheatley who is also the Minister of Tourism gave reassurance to visitors that the BVI remains one of the safest destinations on the globe.
“I want to assure all of our current guests who are right now enjoying the security of our Territory, as well as those persons planning to come to visit our shores to enjoy our white sand beaches, calm sailing waters and friendly people, that the British Virgin Islands is one of the most secure places in the Caribbean and world to vacation and spend your holiday.”
The premier also encouraged all residents to continue to play their role in promoting the BVI as the ideal destination to have a vacation.