Security Council Condemns Purcell Estate Murder
The National Security Council has strongly condemned the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Devorn Furlonge in Purcell Estate, the fourth homicide in the British Virgin Islands this year. The NSC met on December 17 under Acting Governor David D Archer Jr and pledged full support to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force as investigators pursue all lines of enquiry.
The National Security Council (NSC) has condemned the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Devorn Furlonge in Purcell Estate, which occurred shortly after 7 a.m. yesterday and marked the fourth homicide in the British Virgin Islands so far this year. Police say the male victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.
The RVIPF has described the investigation as active, with officers pursuing all lines of enquiry as they work to identify and arrest those responsible. In a statement issued on December 17, the NSC said it met under the chairmanship of Acting Governor David D Archer Jr, where members received a briefing from Interim Acting Commissioner of Police Richard Ullger on the ongoing probe.
The Council called the killing "a heinous and brazen act" and expressed deep concern about the rise in broad daylight shootings across the territory. The NSC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and pledged to "use the full weight of the law to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice." The statement also sought to reassure residents that the RVIPF will mobilise its resources and capacity to keep the community safe during the Christmas season.
Authorities have urged anyone with information relevant to the investigation to come forward. Members of the public were asked to contact the police directly, use Crime Stoppers, or make use of the confidential hotlines provided by law enforcement. The NSC emphasised that community cooperation is vital to preventing and solving violent crime.
The NSC, responsible for internal security and major developments affecting public safety, is chaired by the Governor and includes the Premier, the Minister for Communications and Works, the Attorney General, and the Commissioner of Police, with operations facilitated by the Cabinet Secretary.
Its statement highlights the multi-agency approach the territory is using to address a worrying pattern of shootings. Community leaders and residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. The NSC said it will continue to work closely with the RVIPF as the investigation progresses and actions are taken to protect public safety during the holiday period and beyond.
Primary source: BVI News