Police have apprehended one of two men wanted in connection with the attempted murder of K’zhari Stoutt, who was seriously injured when he was shot shortly before 1 p.m. on Nov. 8 in Long Bush near Elmore Stoutt High School.
Shemoi Carey, 22, of Huntums Ghut, was arrested and charged with attempted murder, carrying an unlicensed firearm, and unlawful possession of explosives, police said in a Monday press release that did not disclose further details such as the date of his arrest.
In connection with the investigation, two other people were also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, the release stated. Both were interviewed by detectives and subsequently discharged pending further inquiries.
Second suspect
The police are still seeking public assistance in locating the second man wanted in connection with the shooting: 18-year-old K’Shawn Martin of Sand Box Road.
Police have described Mr. Martin as dark-skinned; 5 feet, 9 inches tall; and weighing 130 pounds with a slim build.
‘Money Boys’ gang
Shortly after the shooting, police warned about a violent gang called “Money Boys” that they said had been linked to the crime.
“The gang consists of approximately 25 young men, aged 17 to 25, from various communities across the territory,” police stated at the time. “The members of Money Boys are reportedly in possession of unlicensed firearms and have been linked to multiple violent incidents.”
In addition to gun violence, the gang, which is also known as “MB,” is believed to be involved in robberies, thefts, burglaries and other offences, according to police.
Police added at the time that they had intensified efforts to crack down on the gang in recent months, making multiple arrests, seizing guns, and recovering stolen goods found in vehicles and residences linked to gang members.
“The Money Boys gang members frequent several areas across Tortola, including Purcell Estate, Free Bottom, Baughers Bay, Road Town, Huntums Ghut, Greenland and Long Look,” police stated. “Despite their geographic spread, the lack of anti-gang legislation in the British Virgin Islands limits police capacity to prosecute them solely on gang affiliation, making it essential to connect individual members to specific criminal acts before preferring charges.”
Anyone with information on the Mr. Martin’s whereabouts is urged to provide it to the police by calling the anonymous Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-8477 (TIPS) locally or 284-800-8477 from overseas or by calling the police Intelligence Unit directly at 368-9339.
“All information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality,” the Monday press release stated.
Police added that knowingly aiding offenders can attract a prison sentence up to ten years.
They also promised further updates as the investigation continues.
