Armed Robberies Threaten BVI Businesses
The BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association says a recent rise in armed robberies is undermining business confidence and putting employees at risk. Chamber chairman Sinclair Flemming warned the incidents — some in broad daylight — are forcing owners to rethink investments, staffing and security.
Sinclair Flemming, chairman of the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA), has warned that a recent uptick in armed robberies is a "major concern" for businesses across the territory, eroding confidence among owners, staff and potential investors. Speaking on the Talking Points radio programme, Flemming said the Chamber raised worries about violent crime during a meeting with Governor Daniel Pruce and Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool, only to see a large armed robbery occur about a week later. "Since then we've been seeing two or three more, to my knowledge, around the country happening," he said.
Flemming told listeners that the impact of these incidents goes beyond the immediate loss of cash or stock. Business owners are now weighing whether to scale back operations, delay investment or even exit certain sectors because of the perceived risk. "The businesses are very concerned about how to operate, how much more to invest, if they want to stay in that type of business or if they're taking on too much risk," he said.
Many enterprises in the Virgin Islands are family-run, Flemming noted, meaning relatives and employees can be exposed to danger while carrying out everyday duties. "Some of these things are family businesses. You have your daughter working inside the business late at night, your wife — unsafe," he said.
The BVICCHA chairman also highlighted difficulties businesses face when trying to retain and recruit staff after violent episodes. "Now your staff ask questions. So now you'd have to provide extra security or you yourself have to be the security." Flemming added that robberies appear to be occurring in a wider range of locations than before, no longer concentrated in particular communities.
Recent months have seen several reported armed robberies in the territory, including incidents in broad daylight, and police have repeatedly appealed for public assistance as investigations continue. The Chamber is urging authorities and the public to treat the pattern with urgency.
Business leaders say they are seeking clearer communication from law enforcement on patrol plans and crime prevention advice, while some are considering investment in security measures such as cameras, lighting and trained staff. Residents and business owners are being reminded to report suspicious activity to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and to take reasonable precautions to protect staff and premises.
Flemming said the recent wave of incidents should prompt greater attention from government, law enforcement and the business community to restore safety and confidence across the BVI.
Primary source: BVI News