Ullger Calls For More Police Resources
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force is currently under-resourced and in need of additional frontline officers alongside modern equipment. Police Commissioner Richard Ullger announced that a data-driven workforce review is underway to support formal requests for increased personnel and upgraded surveillance technology.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force is currently under-resourced and requires a critical boost in both frontline personnel and modern technological tools to effectively safeguard the Territory, according to Commissioner of Police Richard Ullger. Speaking during an appearance on the Talking Points radio programme on ZBVI 780 AM, Ullger outlined the operational challenges facing law enforcement across the Virgin Islands.
While acknowledging that modern policing requires specialized capabilities across multiple units, he stressed that frontline policing remains the foundation of community safety. He explained that one of his immediate priorities has been assessing the organisation's capacity and determining how to resolve existing operational deficits.
To address these shortfalls systematically, the RVIPF has initiated a comprehensive, consultative, and data-driven workforce review. This extensive exercise gathers direct feedback from officers and commanders, evaluates operational demands, examines resource needs, and analyzes emerging security risks.
Ullger stated that the resulting evidence base will be used to design a future-proof organisational structure intended to serve the Territory effectively over the next 10 to 15 years. As part of this initiative, the force plans to submit a formal paper requesting a specific increase in police personnel to ensure law enforcement is properly equipped to manage current and future crime challenges.
Beyond expanding staff numbers, Ullger emphasized that the force must embrace modern technology to operate smarter and faster. He highlighted the urgent need for enhanced tools, including high-grade drones, improved radar systems, and upgraded closed-circuit television coverage across the islands, noting that certain operational tasks are best resolved through better technology rather than manpower alone.
Under the Territory's constitutional arrangements, policing and internal security remain the responsibility of the Governor, while financial appropriations and operational funding depend on the Government of the Virgin Islands.
Primary source: VINO