The statue of Cyril B Romney mounted at the pier park on Tortola.
Police launched an investigation on Tuesday after masked and armed men executed yet another daring daylight robbery at a business at the Tortola Pier Park — the second such incident at the facility in two years.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force said the robbery occurred Tuesday afternoon and confirmed the men stole items before fleeing by boat. In recorded videos shared widely online, several masked suspects wearing dark clothing were seen running from the shopping centre and boarding a waiting vessel. Shots were reportedly fired, though police said no one was hurt.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) said in its initial statement: “The RVIPF is investigating a confirmed armed robbery at a popular business at the Tortola Pier Park a short while ago.” It added: “Preliminary reports indicate that masked men, armed with firearms, entered the establishment, stole items and escaped via a motor vessel.”
Police further noted that officers were on location conducting investigations. The RVIPF promised further updates as more information becomes available. Police have not yet identified which business was targeted.
Two men — Shamul Mitchell and Jelani Marquis — were arrested and charged after the House of Luxury jewellery store was robbed in broad daylight two years ago. During that robbery, which took place in July 2023, the suspects fled the store while firing shots in the air as bystanders screamed and took cover. No injuries were reported.
The Pier Park, one of Tortola’s busiest commercial sites and a major point of entry for cruise passengers, has remained under tight security monitoring since the 2023 incident. Officials and business owners have previously urged stronger safety measures, citing the facility’s importance to the territory’s tourism sector.
The latest robbery has again drawn attention to concerns over organised crime and the ability of armed groups to escape without challenge, this time by sea. Police have not confirmed how many suspects were involved or whether any arrests are imminent.
Officers continued gathering evidence at the scene on Tuesday afternoon. Police have since seized the boat believed to have been involved in the escape. The Force said additional details will be released as the investigation progresses.
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