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by pltm
(PLTM) - To add to the overwhelming positive sentiments associated with this year’s recently concluded Emancipation Festival, The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF ) has reported that was largely incident-free.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool also revealed that police presence at the events that occurred in and outside of the Festival Village was effective and consistent, which would contributed to limited incidents transpiring.
It is reported that there were minor scuffles at some of the Festival Village events and at the Rise and Shine tramps. However, these were quickly resolved by officers, and the aid of other members of the public who were present.
According to a press release by the RVIPF, “The Operation Order is based on the August Festival schedule which is discussed in advance with the Festival and Fairs Committee. Officers are assigned to provide security coverage at these specific events. However, last minute events and adjustments in the scheduled timetable that are not communicated in advance are not given the proper security and can put attendees at risk.”
Vanterpool also stated that “This is our national celebration, and after three years of waiting, we were happy to provide security coverage to the planned events. However, it is difficult to do so if there are too many last-minute events and no consultation with the RVIPF.”
However, there were two shooting incidents that were unrelated to the Festival events, occurring during the Festival period, one of which resulted in the death of Jason Potter, Jr.
In addition, two serious traffic accidents involving scooters occurred during this timeframe, resulting in injuries being sustained.
In one instance, a female pedestrian was crossing the highway near the Festival Village when she was hit by a scooter. Both the motorist and the pedestrian are still currently undergoing medical treatment.
In the other accident, two scooters collided on the highway outside Treasure Isle Hotel. As a result., three persons sustained injuries. The RVIPF is still conducting investigations relating to these vehicular accidents.
