Governor Rejects Claims Of Losing Control
Governor Daniel Pruce has denied suggestions that he has lost control of security in the British Virgin Islands, saying agencies are working hard to tackle a changing crime landscape. He confirmed internal and independent external investigations into the escape of two prisoners and outlined measures from the recent Anti-Crime Summit to strengthen policing and maritime surveillance.
Governor Daniel Pruce has rejected assertions that he has lost control over crime in the British Virgin Islands, telling reporters that law-enforcement agencies and security partners are actively responding to a shifting criminal environment. Speaking at Government House on Tuesday, Pruce responded to questions about recent prison escapes, a rise in robberies and gun-related offences, saying the issues form part of an "evolving" regional pattern and require coordinated action. "You may choose to characterise it that way.
I think the reality is that across the board, all agencies that can contribute to the security and safety of the islands are working hard to achieve that," he said. The Governor confirmed that the escape of two prisoners, Jose Amestica and John Burgos, from His Majesty's Prison at Balsam Ghut has led to both local internal inquiries and a full independent external investigation that he commissioned, with support from the Ministry of Justice.
The breakout has heightened public concern and prompted closer scrutiny of prison procedures and security. Pruce set out a package of commitments agreed at last months Anti-Crime Summit. Those measures include creating a senior strategic security adviser within the Governor's Office, developing a comprehensive territory-wide security strategy, and forming a new community advisory group to support the National Security Council.
Operational upgrades being pursued include improvements to police radio communications and installation of a coastal radar system to bolster maritime surveillance. Acknowledging that crime has risen this year, Pruce cited figures showing a 58 per cent increase in robberies, a 9 per cent rise in serious assaults, and a 15 per cent increase in vehicle thefts between January and September. "The statistics speak for themselves," he said. "We cant wish them away.
We have to recognise the challenges and work to address them." When asked about calls to transfer national security powers from the Governor to the elected government, Pruce said his priority is fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities. "The most effective thing I can do is to work within the legislation and the Constitution that we have," he said, stressing continued cooperation with regional and international security partners.
For residents, the announcements signal increased oversight and new resources aimed at reducing crime and improving community safety, while the independent inquiry into the prison escape is expected to report on failures and recommend reforms.
Primary source: BVI News