BVI: Back to order in prisons

Chief Minister Dr. the Hon. D. Orlando Smith has assured the Territory that Government is taking all necessary steps to protect public safety and maintain order at Her Majesty’s (HM) Prison.

The Chief Minister gave the assurance in a Territory wide address, aired on radio stations and VITV Channel Five, in response to two separate disturbances at HM Prison on 20 and 22 April.

He said Government will identify the perpetrators and address the situation, while at the same time listening to the concerns of prisoners and restoring law and order.

“We offer our strongest assurance that we will not compromise when it comes to defending public order and protecting public safety,” Dr. Smith said. The incident on 22 April developed around 1:00pm when a number of prisoners attacked Deputy Superintendent of Prisons Mr. Edward Smith.

Although the situation is not back to normal, Police and Prison officials have regained control. The institution is currently under lockdown to provide for a “cooling off” period to ensure that thorough investigations are conducted and that ongoing talks to address the prisoners’ concerns can continue in a controlled environment, the Chief Minister explained.

Dr. Smith said the ringleaders involved in the incident are now in the custody of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, adding that criminal proceedings will be brought against those who have broken the law.