The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) says it is keeping the pressure on in its fight against ridding the Virgin Islands of all illegal firearms.
The message comes on the heels of the recent double murder in Fat Hoggs Bay, Tortola which involved the use of illegal firearms.
Commissioner of Police Mark Collins in a statement to the media on Thursday reiterated the RVIPF’s commitment to removing firearms from the stress of the territory.
He pointed to the recent seizures in the past year which he said totaled 75 firearms and approximately 2,100 rounds of ammunition.
To garner more similar results, Commissioner Collins said the public’s assistance is needed to expose illegal ports of entry and firearms distributors.
“This past year alone we seized an excessive number of firearms, many of those are high-powered weapons. All the individuals found in possession of these weapons were arrested. It is, therefore, obvious that these weapons continue to be brought in, not necessarily through our ports of entry but illegal ports and put in the hands of persons who have and will recklessly endanger lives. We can only win this battle if we work together. Our safety and our way of life depends on it,” he stated.
He noted that more than one month ago, a semi-automatic assault rifle, a glock pistol, and an imitation firearm were confiscated following a series of search warrants carried out on premises in Baughers Bay, Purcell Estate and Great Mountain.
Persons with information that can lead to further seizures are asked to contact the Intelligence Unit directly at 368-9339.