Gunmen Strike Pier Park Again
Masked men armed with firearms robbed House of Luxury at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park on Wednesday afternoon, May 20. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force says shots were fired, no injuries were reported, and officers remain on scene investigating.
Masked gunmen armed with firearms carried out an armed robbery at House of Luxury, a jewellery retailer at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park, on Wednesday afternoon, May 20, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has confirmed. According to a brief statement from the RVIPF, the suspects entered the establishment, stole jewellery and fled the scene in a vehicle.
Shots were reportedly fired during the incident, but police say there were no injuries. Officers remained at the scene conducting enquiries up to the time of publication and said they would provide further updates as information became available. The robbery is the latest in a string of armed incidents affecting House of Luxury, the Pier Park and other businesses on Tortola in recent months.
Police and business owners have expressed growing concern about repeated attacks in the area; this is at least the third robbery at House of Luxury in roughly two years. The RVIPF noted that it has made progress in some recent cases, with several arrests carried out in connection with related investigations.
The Pier Park is a central hub for residents and visitors, and the latest crime has heightened anxiety among people who work, shop and commute through the area. Local owners and shoppers told BVI Live they are worried about safety during daytime hours as well as after dark. Romney, a familiar landmark at the park, sits near the site of the attack.
Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information, dashcam or CCTV footage that could assist the investigation is asked to contact the RVIPF. Investigators are expected to review surveillance footage captured in and around the Pier Park and to follow up on leads relating to the vehicle used in the escape.
Community leaders and business associations have urged owners to review security measures, including lighting, alarms and camera coverage, and to remain vigilant. The RVIPF has reiterated its commitment to bringing perpetrators to justice and to working with the public to reduce violent crime.
Further details will be published as the investigation unfolds. Members of the public with relevant information are encouraged to report it to the police so authorities can pursue all available lines of inquiry.
Primary source: BVI News