Police in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), with assistance from the United States Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), are investigating reports of a plan to blow up airports across the Virgin Islands. Governor John Duncan said he was aware of the reports circulating on social media about the possibility of a terrorist attack at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport – formerly the Beef Island Airport – and officials were meeting to determine the appropriate course of action.
The threat was reportedly brought to the attention of the US Coast Guard Sector San Juan Command Center, according to BVI News.
“The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) are investigating these reports. The BVI National Security Council, jointly chaired by the Governor and Premier, will meet early this afternoon to consider appropriate action,” Duncan said in a media statement.
A joint release from the RVIPF and the BVI Airports Authority indicated that law enforcement authorities were still looking into the credibility of the information.
“We have received information of a possible threat to airports across the Virgin Islands including Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, and we are working closely with the FBI currently on the matter. We cannot yet be sure that this information is credible. Meantime, we have reviewed and stepped up security at the airport and continue to look at public safety as our main priority,” it said.
While the matter is being investigated, travellers have been urged to be vigilant and contact authorities if they see anything or anyone suspicious at the territory’s airports.
“The authorities have stressed that it is business as usual but have recommended that passengers present themselves three hours before their departure to give themselves sufficient time during this weekend’s heightened vigilance,” the airport authority advised.
– Caribbean360
