Wheatley: We Must Support Richard Ullger
Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley said the BVI government is duty-bound to support Acting Commissioner Richard Ullger following the removal of former Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool. He urged unity between the elected government, the Governor, the FCDO and the UK as investigations and recent drug seizures continue.
Natalio Wheatley on Friday, December 12, 2025, said the elected government is obliged to back the new Acting Commissioner of Police, Richard Ullger, after questions were raised over the removal of former Acting Commissioner Jacqueline E. Vanterpool. "We have a new Acting Commissioner, Mr Richard Ullger.
Of course, the Governor exercised his discretion in having him appointed, so whoever is in that particular position, we’re duty-bound to support so that we can fight crime here in the Virgin Islands," Dr. The Premier used the press briefing to reiterate the government’s commitment to law enforcement and to highlight recent operational successes, including drug seizures and active investigations into the robbery at the Cyril B.
Romney Tortola Pier Park. "We’re very serious about law enforcement, and we would like for the United Kingdom government, the FCDO, the Governor and the elected government to all be working together to fight crime," he said. Wheatley also disclosed that he discussed the matter of the leadership change with the United Kingdom’s Minister for Overseas Territories, Stephen J.
The two were not aligned on the issue: "I have to say that we were not necessarily aligned in our particular views, and he expressed his support for Governor Daniel Pruce," the Premier said. Wheatley replied he was disappointed by the lack of agreement but acknowledged differences are to be expected.
While the Premier refrained from saying whether Governor Pruce’s actions have caused public resentment, he warned that the episode had "undermined the perception of democratic accountability." He urged residents not to be discouraged, adding that the elected government will continue to press for a greater role and voice in areas where it currently lacks responsibility.
For BVI residents, leadership changes at the police top are closely watched because they affect public confidence and operational continuity. The Premier’s call for unity underscores the need for cooperation among local authorities, the Governor’s office and UK partners to sustain crime-fighting efforts already underway.
Wheatley said the government remains focused on supporting ongoing investigations and law-enforcement activity while continuing to advocate for clearer democratic oversight and collaboration on security matters.
Primary source: VINO