Police Say Fugitives Still in BVI
Acting Commissioner Jacqueline E. Vanterpool says investigators have found no indication the fugitives Almestica and Burgos have left the Virgin Islands. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has heightened its presence across all districts and suspended all vacation leave until December 31 to ensure full staffing for the ongoing manhunt.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool has told the public that investigators believe the fugitives identified as Almestica and Burgos remain in the Virgin Islands. "Since my last update, investigators within the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force have been working around the clock to advance the investigations into this matter and discover any leads," Ms Vanterpool said in an update to the public on Sunday, November 2, 2025. "To this date, we have no indication that the fugitives have left the Virgin Islands." Ms Vanterpool warned residents that the individuals are considered armed and dangerous. "I want to reiterate this point: these individuals are considered to be armed and extremely dangerous and should not be approached by anyone," she said.
Residents are asked to exercise caution and to leave any potential confrontations to police officers. The Acting Commissioner said police presence throughout the territory has been heightened with the aim of apprehending and returning the fugitives to lawful custody "in short order." While she did not provide operational details or locations of activity, the statement indicates increased patrols and investigative activity across all districts of the BVI.
To ensure the force can sustain this intensified effort, Ms Vanterpool has suspended all vacation leave for officers until December 31, 2025. "This is a necessary action to ensure the full strength of the force is on the ground and working alongside this investigation, while contributing to the advanced police presence in all districts," she said.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force is asking the public to report any information that may assist the investigation to their nearest station or through official police channels. Members of the public are reminded not to approach or attempt to detain the fugitives themselves and to prioritise personal safety.
No charges, descriptions or additional identifying details were released in the update. Authorities say the investigation remains active and that further public updates will be provided as new information becomes available. The heightened police activity may affect normal operations in some areas; residents should follow advice issued by police and local officials and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Primary source: VINO