Police Confirm Armed Robbery in Purcell
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has officially confirmed an armed robbery at a business along Blackburn Highway in Purcell four days after the incident occurred. Two masked men, one reportedly carrying a handgun, stole cash from two registers before fleeing the scene without causing injuries. Police are now seeking public assistance and urging vigilance among business owners.
ROAD TOWN, Tortola — The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has officially confirmed an armed robbery at a commercial establishment along Blackburn Highway in Purcell Estate, four days after the incident took place. According to police reports, the robbery occurred shortly after 9:30 p.m. on Friday, September 25.
Two masked individuals dressed in black clothing entered the business premises and demanded cash. Authorities indicated that one of the suspects was armed with what appeared to be a handgun. The assailants removed cash from two separate cash registers before fleeing the scene on foot.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the ordeal. Responding officers attended the location and carried out initial inquiries. Law enforcement officials have stated that the investigation remains active and ongoing. The official confirmation comes after informal reports began circulating throughout the community over the weekend, prompting media inquiries on Saturday morning.
However, the police force did not issue formal confirmation until Tuesday, September 29. The four-day delay in releasing information regarding an incident involving a firearm has raised questions regarding communication protocols, particularly given the importance of timely public safety alerts and rapid community assistance in ongoing investigations.
The RVIPF is urging local business owners, employees, and community members across Tortola to remain vigilant, implement heightened security measures, and promptly report any suspicious activity. Detectives are now appealing to anyone who was in the Purcell or Blackburn Highway area around the time of the incident, or anyone who may have witnessed suspicious movements, to come forward.
Members of the public with relevant information can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit directly at 368-9512. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers BVI by calling 800-8477. All information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Primary source: Guavaberry