ROAD TOWN, Tortola, Virgin Islands — Popular Virgin Islands entertainer TeeJaay whose legal name is Tiejie Henley, has been charged with firearm-related offences after police allegedly recovered a loaded handgun during a routine patrol in the Fat Hogs Bay area.
According to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), the incident occurred shortly after midnight on Tuesday, July 21, when officers conducting routine patrols observed a male allegedly engaging in illegal activity.
Police said officers carried out further inquiries, which resulted in the recovery of a 9mm pistol containing 15 rounds of ammunition.
Henley, 30, of Luck Hill, was arrested and later charged with Carrying a Firearm Without a Licenceand Unlawful Possession of Explosives, the latter charge relating to the possession of ammunition under Virgin Islands law. He remains in police custody pending his appearance before the Magistrate’s Court.
The arrest has generated significant discussion across the Territory, as Henley is widely recognized in the local entertainment industry under the stage name TeeJaay. Over the years, he has built a strong following through his music and live performances, making him a familiar figure within the Virgin Islands’ entertainment community.
As with all criminal proceedings, the charges are allegations at this stage. Henley is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Continued Focus on Illegal Firearms
The latest arrest comes amid the RVIPF’s ongoing efforts to remove illegal firearms from the streets of the Virgin Islands. Throughout 2026, police have continued intelligence-led operations, traffic stops, search warrants and routine patrols aimed at disrupting the circulation of illegal weapons. Several firearms have already been recovered this year, with police consistently warning that many violent crimes committed in the Territory involve illegally possessed guns.
Law enforcement officials have repeatedly expressed concern over the number of illegal firearms in circulation, noting that each weapon recovered has the potential to prevent future acts of violence.
The seizure in Fat Hogs Bay also highlights the importance police place on proactive patrols. Unlike investigations launched after crimes have occurred, routine patrols often enable officers to detect suspicious activity before more serious offences are committed.
Public Assistance Still Critical
The RVIPF continues to urge residents to play an active role in combating gun crime by reporting information about illegal firearms, ammunition and other criminal activity.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9512 or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS).
Police have consistently emphasized that information from members of the public remains one of the most effective tools in locating illegal firearms and preventing violent crime before it occurs.