Two masked men were arrested in the “early morning hours” last Thursday after police responded to a report that they were in the vicinity of a “popular local bank,” police said.
“As a result, a firearm and several rounds of ammunition were recovered,” according to a statement issued the same day by the Police Information Office.
Police did not provide further information about the incident, and as of press time yesterday afternoon they had not identified the men or the bank. The arrests, however, follow two armed robberies at the Banco Popular ATM in Road Town earlier this year.
The most recent, at about 2 a.m. on Feb. 28, bore “striking similarities” to another robbery at the same place on Jan. 11, police said at the time.
“In both cases, victims withdrew cash from the ATM and were soon after accosted by armed men, who forcibly took their money before fleeing the scene,” according to a Feb. 28 press release from the Police Information Office. “These incidents highlight the risks of late-night ATM transactions and reinforce the need for increased situational awareness.”
Police did not announce the Jan. 11 robbery before then, and their Feb. 28 statement did not explain why not.
‘Courage, dedication’
Last Thursday, acting Police Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool praised the officers who arrested the two masked men.
“This operation is a clear example of our officers’ courage, dedication and tactical skill,” she said. “Their quick actions may have prevented a more serious incident from occurring.”
She also thanked the public for their cooperation and “continued trust” in the police force.
“It is only by working together that we can keep our communities safe,” she said. “Every bit of information helps, and we urge anyone with knowledge that may assist this investigation to come forward.”
Police said the investigation is ongoing and promised further updates as it develops.
Anyone with information about last Thursday’s incident or other crimes is asked to contact the Intelligence Unit by calling 368-9339 or the anonymous Crime Stoppers hotline by calling 800-8477 (TIPS) locally or 284-800-8477 from overseas.
