BVI businesses in crisis: some weigh illegal guns amid robbery wave

A surge in armed robberies across the British Virgin Islands has pushed some business owners to contemplate acquiring illegal weapons for self-defence, the BVI Chamber of Commerce disclosed on October 12.

Chamber Chairman Sinclair Flemming made the disclosure following the release of video showing two armed men threatening supermarket staff during a robbery at a major store. The situation has grown dire enough that certain operators are weighing options that would put them on the wrong side of the law.

"Even more troubling, we are hearing from business operators who have become so frustrated and fearful that they have contemplated obtaining illegal firearms for protection," Flemming wrote. He stressed the Chamber's position firmly: "Let me be absolutely clear: The BVI Chamber of Commerce vehemently opposes the possession or use of illegal firearms."

The threat extends beyond illegal weapons. Flemming reported that business owners have told the Chamber they may shut down entirely because they no longer feel safe. "Some business owners are now telling the Chamber that they are considering closing their doors altogether," he said.

While acknowledging Royal Virgin Islands Police Force efforts to remove illegal weapons from circulation, Flemming argued that businesses required additional protection. Many have already installed surveillance systems, reinforced entry points and controlled access, but such measures offer no guarantee against armed attackers.

Smaller enterprises face particular hardship. They typically cannot pay for armed guards or continuous security coverage. Flemming also flagged a hidden problem: robberies going unreported because owners fear bad publicity and customer loss.

The Chamber cited incidents of patrons at bars and other venues losing jewellery, watches and cash late at night, though it noted these reports needed verification.

Flemming called for national debate on lawful self-defence options, including changes to rules on non-lethal protective equipment and firearm licensing. "We are not advocating for an armed society. We are advocating for a society in which law-abiding citizens have practical, legal and proportionate means of protecting themselves," he stated.

The Chamber asked government and police to work with businesses on security upgrades, access to lawful protective tools and crime reduction. "We should not have to choose between keeping our businesses open and keeping our employees alive," Flemming added.