The BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA) is deeply concerned about the increase in criminal activity in our community, particularly those targeting businesses in the past few months. The Chamber extends condolences to the family of the business owner who recently loss their life and extends support to all other owners who have been affected by crime in some way. The Chairman, Mrs. Shaina Smith-Archer, indicated that the Chamber has requested and confirmed a meeting with the Commissioner of Police and the Chairman of the Crime Stoppers to discuss solutions to empower businesses to secure themselves and the support businesses need from law enforcement. She said, “It is especially unnerving that these thefts and robberies have involved gun violence. Crime is terrible in any community, and we want the Virgin Islands to remain a safe place to live, work and do business, and we need to safeguard that by any means necessary.”

The Chamber notes that the business community is already facing unprecedented hardship in an economic recession and the growing costs of doing business. Now they are further stressed with worries about keeping their employees and customers safe from criminal activity. Business owners have also expressed anxiety about the ripple effect on the tourism sector because visitors need to feel that the Virgin Islands remains a safe place to visit. The BVICCHA implores anyone who has information that could help the Royal VI Police Force solve these or any other crime to call 311. Stay tuned to www.bviccha.org for more information.

Remember, Your Business Is Our Business! We Got You! Wear your masks and practice good hand hygiene and physical distancing. Be safe and be well.