A coordinated multi-agency operation conducted between 8th and 9th December 2025, involving His Majesty’s Customs, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), and external law enforcement partners from United States Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) and the Joint Regional Command Centre from the CARICM region, resulted in the arrest of six males and the seizure of 772.4 kilograms of cocaine.
The joint operation was initiated after intelligence was received indicating suspicious maritime activity within BVI waters. A targeted response led to the interception of a vessel, where the drugs were recovered and the suspects apprehended.
The following individuals have now been charged with Importation of a Controlled Drug and four counts of Possession of a Controlled Drug with Intent to supply:
1. Francisco Mejia Ortiz, 21, of the Dominican Republic
2. Joel Santana Santos, 39, of the Dominican Republic
3. Jermife Toribio Vasquez, 40, of the Dominican Republic
4. Cesar Diaz Abrahim, 30, of Trinidad & Tobago
5. Ronald James, 49, of Trinidad & Tobago
6. Candido Rois Quezada, 42, of St. Kitts & Nevis
They remain in custody pending their appearance at the Magistrate’s Court.
Interim Ag. Commissioner of Police Richard Ullger commended the participating teams for their professionalism and swift action, which involved significant risks, noting that this recovery represents a significant disruption to transnational criminal activity in the region.“This seizure is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when law enforcement agencies work together with precision, intelligence, and determination. The removal of more than 770 kilograms of cocaine from circulation represents a major blow to organised crime. I commend every officer and partner agency involved for their professionalism and unwavering commitment to protecting the Virgin Islands.”
The RVIPF urges the public to remain alert and to report any suspicious activity.
Persons with information are encouraged to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 or (284) 800-8477 if calling from overseas.