Police Suspend Leave During Prison Manhunt
Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool has suspended all police vacation leave until the end of December as the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force intensifies the search for two inmates who escaped His Majesty’s Prison at Balsam Ghut on October 25. The fugitives, identified as Jose Almestica and John Burgos, are believed to remain in the territory and are described as armed and extremely dangerous.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool has ordered a suspension of all police vacation leave until the end of December as the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) steps up efforts to locate two men who escaped His Majesty’s Prison at Balsam Ghut on October 25. The move is intended to maximise manpower across all districts and maintain an enhanced police presence while the manhunt continues. "This is a necessary action to ensure the full strength of the force is on the ground and working alongside this investigation," Vanterpool said.
Authorities identified the escapees as Jose Almestica and John Burgos and said they are believed to still be within the Virgin Islands. Vanterpool described both men as "armed and extremely dangerous" and urged residents not to approach them under any circumstances. The RVIPF says patrols across the islands have been heightened with the aim of apprehending and returning the men to custody "in short order." Residents should expect increased police activity in their communities as officers concentrate on locating the fugitives.
As part of the investigation, the police are working closely with Superintendent of Prisons Jay Kendall and prison staff. Statements from officers who were on duty the night of the escape are being taken and CCTV footage from the prison and surrounding areas is under review to establish the sequence of events on the night of October 25.
Acting Commissioner Vanterpool also said she has sought external support and is "pulling on every available resource" to bolster operations once assistance is granted. She reiterated that the RVIPF is treating the matter with the utmost seriousness and remains "unrelenting in our mission to find these persons quickly." The expanded deployment has already produced additional law-enforcement results: Vanterpool reported three arrests for firearms offences and five for drug-related matters during the intensified operations.
She said officers will continue efforts to remove illegal weapons that threaten community safety. BVI residents are advised to remain vigilant, secure their properties, and report any suspicious activity or sightings to the nearest police station or emergency services immediately.
The RVIPF has pledged to keep the public updated as the manhunt progresses and reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and security of all communities.
Primary source: BVI News