NSC Convenes After Balsam Ghut Escape
The National Security Council meets today after two inmates, Jose Almestica and John Burgos, escaped from His Majesty’s Prison at Balsam Ghut. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force is leading an island-wide manhunt with strengthened port checks and international assistance being sought; residents are urged not to approach the men and to report sightings immediately.
A National Security Council (NSC) meeting is taking place today following the escape of two inmates from His Majesty’s Prison at Balsam Ghut, officials confirmed. Jose Almestica and John Burgos were discovered missing shortly after 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, prompting an immediate “territory-wide search” by the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).
Authorities have warned both men should be considered dangerous and urged residents not to approach them. Governor Daniel Pruce said the NSC gathering will bring senior officials together to assess the security situation and coordinate the response. "I am very concerned by [Saturday’s] escape of Jose Almestica and John Burgos from HM Prison Balsam Ghut," he posted on Facebook.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool said the RVIPF is conducting an "intense and comprehensive manhunt" in collaboration with local and international agencies. "We are working to systematically restrict their movement within and out of the Territory. Our priority is the protection of the community and the safe apprehension of the escapees," she said.
Authorities have stepped up security at all ports of entry, private docks and other possible departure points. Vanterpool confirmed vehicle checkpoints, roadblocks and mobile patrols are in place and will be expanded as needed, and urged motorists to follow officers’ instructions.
Almestica had been convicted earlier this year on several firearm and drug-related offences and was awaiting sentencing. Burgos was being held on remand for serious charges including conspiracy to murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm. The nature of the charges has heightened concern among officials about the potential risk to public safety.
The RVIPF said it is seeking international assistance to help locate and recapture the fugitives, though details of external support have not been disclosed. For residents, the immediate priorities are vigilance and prompt reporting: do not approach either man if sighted. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 368-9339 or 311, or call Crimestoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS).
Residents should expect possible delays at ports and checkpoints while searches continue and are advised to secure homes, check cameras or doorbell footage if available, and avoid sharing unverified sightings on social media that could hamper operations. The NSC meeting will determine next steps for containment and public safety as the manhunt continues across the Territory.
Primary source: BVI News