After homeowners used social media to circulate video footage of break-in attempts, police made an arrest in connection with a string of burglaries and attempted burglaries reported in Diamond Estate, Spooners Estate and Anderson Estate in central Tortola.
Akim Stevens, of no fixed address, was charged with burglary and attempted burglary, police said.
“We are aware of the videos being circulated showing individuals attempting to enter homes, and we understand the real fear and anxiety this has caused for residents in the affected communities,” said acting Police Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool. “Let me assure the public that we are taking these incidents seriously, and this arrest is a direct result of the swift action of the police and the cooperation of the BVI public.”
She added that police will continue following leads and working to bring perpetrators to justice.
“The safety and peace of mind of our communities remain our highest priority,” she said.
False claims
Police also refuted a claim circulating in a separate video, which alleged that Mr. Stevens had escaped custody and was later re-captured.
“The [police force] wants the public to know that this claim is untrue,” according to the Police Information Office. “As a person of interest, Stevens was observed by officers, pursued and arrested without incident. He remains in police custody pending his appearance before the Magistrates’ Court.”
Tips hotline
Police are also asking the public to report any suspicious activity by contacting their Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or by calling the anonymous Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-8477 (TIPS) locally or 284-800-8477 from overseas.
