Renewed Witness Appeal: Quarry Hill Road, Warwick Firearm Incident

Thursday, September 26,2024

The Bermuda Police Service wishes to thank those members of the public who have so far come forward in relation to the firearms incident which occurred on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Quarry Hill Road Warwick and which left a 48-year-old male with gunshot wounds. While a suspect has been arrested, the investigation into that matter remains ongoing and we continue to appeal for anyone with information to get in contact with us. We urge you to do so by calling the investigating officer Detective Sergeant, Anneka Donawa, on 717-2250 or via email, adonawa@bps.bm. You may also contact Detective Chief Inspector, Derricka Burns, on 717-0921 or via email, dburns@bps.bm. Alternatively, call 211 or, the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers number, 800-8477. Of course, if you’d prefer, please share the information with a police officer you know, or, get the information to us by using the community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm.

Rider Hurt in Tractor Trailer Truck Collision Remains Hospitalised

Wednesday, September 25,2024

The rider of a motorcycle involved in a collision with a tractor trailer truck around 9am Monday, 23rd September 2024, at the junction of Middle Road and South Road in Southampton, remains hospitalised. The injured man, believed to be a 67-year-old Sandys parish resident, is understood to be recovering with non-life threatening injuries. Inquiries regarding this collision continue. Any witnesses that have not already come forward, are now encouraged to call Constable Jamieko Smith on 211, or e-mail jamieko.smith@bps.bm. Alternatively, members of the public with relevant information can share it through the Bermuda Police Service community reporting portal https://portal.police.bm, or by speaking with a police officer they know.

Separate Witness Appeals: Reported Armed Robbery & Reported Stabbing

Tuesday, September 24,2024

Reported Armed Robbery Around 10:00 p.m. on Friday, September 20, 2024, police responded to a reported armed robbery at Mr. Chicken Express on Watlington Road East, Devonshire. On arrival officers were informed that a man had forced his way into the establishment through a back door and brandished a knife before removing a draw containing a quantity of cash from the cash register. The suspect made good his escape on a black motorcycle. He was last seen at the junction of Upland Street and Middle Road, where he made a right turn and rode off in an easterly direction. The suspect is described as a dark-skinned male, approximately 6’ 4” in height, slim built, wearing dark coloured clothing and a black helmet with a dark visor. An investigation into this matter is now underway and anyone with information or who may have been in the area of Watlington Road East, Upland Street or Middle Road, Devonshire, between the hours of 9:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on Friday September 20, 2024 and witnessed any suspicious persons or suspicious activity, to please contact Detective Constable Zaakira Lee, of the Criminal Investigations Unit, on 515-2551 or, via email, zlee@bps.bm. You may also contact Acting Detective Sergeant Assad Akle on 515–2547 or aakle@bps.bm. If you’d prefer, please call 211, the main police number, 295-0011 or, the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers number, 800-8477. Alternatively, you are encouraged to provide the information by speaking with a police officer you know or, via the police community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm. Reported Stabbing Shortly after 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2024, Police attended a report of a male at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (KEMH), seeking treatment for an apparent stab wound. On arrival, officers spoke with the 25-year-old victim who stated that sometime between 9:00 pm and 9:15 p.m. on the said date, he was in the area of Glebe Road, Pembroke, when he was assaulted by a group of individuals. During the incident, he suffered an injury to his upper torso and was transported to KEMH, where he was attended to for his injury which was deemed non-life-threatening. At last check he remained at the hospital under observation, on a general ward. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call the main police number, 295-0011 or 211.

Police Thank Public for Information Resulting in Recent Firearms Seizures

Monday, September 23,2024

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) can confirm that over the last twelve months, a total of 12 firearms and quantities of ammunition have been seized by officers. Forensic examinations on these firearms have confirmed their use in crimes that are currently under investigation. Ballistic tests on a number of these firearms, have linked their use to multiple incidents. Ongoing investigations have resulted in the arrests of a number of suspects, as demonstrated earlier today with a 42 year old man being charged before the courts for firearm possession. The seizure of these firearms has at the very least prevented the commission of serious acts of criminality and prevented possible serious injury. More importantly, prevented any potential loss of life. Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr. Antoine Daniels, said – “The BPS wish to thank those individuals who have so far come forward to provide information which has assisted in the removal of these dangerous weapons from our streets, thereby making our communities that much safer. Your courage in providing such information is to be applauded and has proven invaluable in our ongoing efforts to rid our island home of this scourge.” “However, we remain concerned that there are still illegal firearms out there, which the criminal element continues to seek opportunities to use to further their nefarious activity.” Mr. Daniels asserted, “I am confident in the belief that with the continuing partnership between the community and your Bermuda Police Service, there will be further successes of this nature. Again, thank you for your assistance and let’s continue to strengthen this relationship, in which we all seek to make Bermuda safer.” Anyone with information regarding illegal firearms is urged to contact, Police calling the main police number, 295-0011.You may also call 211, speak with another officer you know or use the community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm. Alternatively, we encourage you to call the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers number, 800-8477. You could earn a reward of up to $5,000 for providing the information.

Online & Phone Scams Defraud Three Seniors of Thousands of Dollars

Monday, September 23,2024

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) continues to urge residents, particularly senior citizens, to remain vigilant regarding online scams and phone scams. In three recently reported incidents, one local senior citizen was apparently contacted through Facebook, while two other local senior citizens are understood to have received random phone calls. Combined, the three senior citizens involved reportedly were defrauded of approximately $685,000. It is believed that the senior citizen contacted via social media received a message that appeared to come from someone known to them, containing specific instructions. Purchase Apple gift cards, photograph the back with the redemption code visible and send the pictures to an e-mail address provided in the message. The two senior citizens that received unsolicited phone calls were led to believe the caller was a local bank employee contacting them because their accounts had been compromised. In one instance, it was reported that the senior citizen was persuaded to give the caller their bank information. In the other, it was reported that the senior citizen was persuaded to allow the caller remote access to their computer. All of these scenarios are tactics regularly used by scammers to defraud unsuspecting individuals. Renewed Practical Scam Prevention Advice Avoid social media messages with instructions to redeem gift cards or send cash. Don’t install any computer software recommended by an unknown caller. Hang up on callers who ask for personal or bank information and either call the specific business to confirm if there is a problem, or contact the police for advice. Check your bank account(s) regularly for any unusual activity. Report any suspected fraud to the relevant bank and the police immediately. Family members and friends are once again urged to speak with their senior citizen relatives about how to avoid being defrauded, as seniors are often targeted by swindlers. To make a police report regarding suspected fraud, please call 211, or visit the BPS community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm/.

Tractor Trailer Truck & Motorcycle Collide in Southampton [Updated]

Monday, September 23,2024

Around 9am Monday, 23rd September 2024, police officers responded to a reported two vehicle collision at the junction of Middle Road and South Road in Southampton. Early information indicates that a tractor trailer truck driven in the eastbound lane of Middle Road turned onto South Road, at the same time as a motorcycle ridden behind the tractor trailer truck along Middle Road also turned onto South Road, in the vicinity of Barnes Corner. The male motorcyclist was hurt and transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance for treatment of potentially serious injuries. An update on his medical condition is anticipated in due course. Police officers are currently directing motorists in the Barnes Corner area, to assist with traffic flow. However, road users travelling through the Middle Road, South Road Southampton junction should expect some traffic delays, while the collision scene is being processed. Any witnesses to this collision, or members of the public with relevant information, are encouraged to call 211, use the Bermuda Police Service community reporting portal https://portal.police.bm, or speak with a police officer they know. Update: Wednesday, 25th September - The rider of a motorcycle involved in a collision with a tractor trailer truck around 9am Monday, 23rd September 2024, at the junction of Middle Road and South Road in Southampton, remains hospitalised. The injured man, believed to be a 67-year-old Sandys parish resident, is understood to be recovering with non-life threatening injuries. Inquiries regarding this collision continue. Any witnesses that have not already come forward, are now encouraged to call Constable Jamieko Smith on 211, or e-mail jamieko.smith@bps.bm. Alternatively, members of the public with relevant information can share it through the Bermuda Police Service community reporting portal https://portal.police.bm, or by speaking with a police officer they know.

Shooting Suspect Arrested

Friday, September 20,2024

A suspect has been arrested in connection with the firearms incident which occurred on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Quarry Hill Road Warwick and which left a 48-year-old male with gunshot wounds. The suspect, a 42-year-old male was arrested as police today executed a warrant at a residence in Warwick. Items liable for seizure were also recovered at the scene. The investigation into this shooting remains ongoing and we are urging persons with information in relation to this matter to contact Detective Chief Inspector Derricka Burns on 717-0921 or via email, dburns@bps.bm. You may also contact Detective Sergeant Anneka Donawa on 717-2250 or adonawa@bps.bm. Alternatively, you may call 211 or, the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers number, 800-8477. You may also speak with another officer you know or use the community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm.

Two BPS Officers Receive Investigative Training in Terrorism Financing

Thursday, September 19,2024

As part of ongoing efforts to bolster the capabilities of your Bermuda Police Service (BPS), Detective Chief Inspector Jason Smith and Acting Detective Inspector Leroy Mathurin, recently attended the “United Kingdom Overseas Territories Counter Financing of Terrorism Forum”, held in Miami Florida. The focus of this conference was on educating the territories on investigative measures employed in detecting terrorism financing. Bermuda is currently undergoing a National Risk Assessment to determine its preparedness for addressing terrorism financing. Previous assessments identified a gap in the ability of the BPS to investigate this form of criminal activity. Training provided during the gathering in Miami, now better equips the BPS to identify and analyse terrorism financing threats as the organisation seeks to assist in maintaining Bermuda’s outstanding reputation as a financial jurisdiction.

Car Overboard Along Harbour Road in Paget

Tuesday, September 17,2024

Around 10:15pm Sunday, 15th September 2024, police officers responded to a reported single vehicle collision along Harbour Road in Paget. It appears that a white car being driven in the westbound lane of Harbour Road went across the road and through a wall, ending up overboard. The vehicle was located unoccupied and completely submerged, in an area of Hamilton harbour between Valley Road and Highwood Lane. The driver, understood to be a 37-year-old Hamilton parish man, was later located and transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance, with non-life threatening injuries. Any witnesses or members of the public with details about this collision, that have not already come forward, are encouraged to call 211, share relevant information through the Bermuda Police Service community reporting portal https://portal.police.bm, or speak with a police officer they know.

Suspected Firearm & Ammunition Seized, Three Arrested In Connection

Friday, September 13,2024

Shortly before noon today, Friday, September 13, 2024, acting on information received, police attended a residence in Warwick and recovered what appears to be a firearm and ammunition. Three persons have been arrested in connection with this matter. Enquiries are ongoing. No further information will be provided at this time.

Man Shot & Injured in Warwick [Updated]

Friday, September 13,2024

Shortly after 9 PM on Thursday, 12 September 2024, police received several 911 calls regarding gunshots being heard in the Quarry Hill Road, Warwick area. On arrival at the scene, it was ascertained that a man had been shot. That man has been transported to King Edward Memorial Hospital for treatment of his injuries. The extent of which is not known at this time. Police have cordoned off the scene, while it is being forensically examined. Anyone who may have information regarding this shooting incident is encouraged to call Detective Sergeant Anneka Donawa on 717-2250. Update: Friday, 20th September - A suspect has been arrested in connection with the firearms incident which occurred on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Quarry Hill Road Warwick and which left a 48-year-old male with gunshot wounds. The suspect, a 42-year-old male was arrested as police today executed a warrant at a residence in Warwick. Items liable for seizure were also recovered at the scene. The investigation into this shooting remains ongoing and we are urging persons with information in relation to this matter to contact Detective Chief Inspector Derricka Burns on 717-0921 or via email, dburns@bps.bm. You may also contact Detective Sergeant Anneka Donawa on 717-2250 or adonawa@bps.bm. Alternatively, you may call 211 or, the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers number, 800-8477. You may also speak with another officer you know or use the community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm.

Cannabis Seizure: Mission Lane, Pembroke

Monday, September 09,2024

Shortly before 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, police officers were on mobile patrol when they had occasion to attend a property in the area of Mission Lane, Pembroke. A check of the property drew them to the roof of a derelict building where more than sixty cannabis plants in various stages of growth, were found. The plants were seized and subsequently destroyed. The public is reminded that cannabis remains a controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1972. While the Misuse of Drugs (Decriminalisation of Cannabis) Amendment Act 2017 removed criminal offences for simple possession by any person of 7 grams or LESS of cannabis, the Act does NOT make it legal for a person to consume, cultivate, traffic or import cannabis in any quantity. Under the Act, a police officer of any rank has the lawful authority to seize any amount of cannabis in the possession of any person. Even if a person is caught with 7 grams or less of cannabis, that person’s residence, vessel or vehicle may be subject to search, if the police suspect other offences, such as possession with an intent to supply, or other criminal offences. It is still illegal to use, sell (supply), handle, or import cannabis and a person can expect to be prosecuted for such offences. If a person is caught with more than 7 grams of cannabis, that person should expect to be arrested and prosecuted, likely resulting in a criminal conviction.

Body Found Identified as Missing 70-Year-Old Janet Niklaus

Monday, September 09,2024

The Bermuda Police Service can now confirm that the lifeless body found near the Vesey Reserve, Southampton, on Saturday, September 7th, 2024, was that of 70-year-old Mrs. Janet Niklaus. Ms. Niklaus was reported missing from her Whale Bay Road, Southampton residence, on Friday, August 30th, 2024. An extensive search for her commenced and lasted several days. We wish to thank those members of the public who so generously gave of their time to assist in the search for Ms. Niklaus. The BPS extends condolences to her family and a Family Liaison Officer has been appointed to assist them during this difficult time. No further information will be provided at this time.

Renewed Witness Appeal: 5th Road Fatality 50-Year-Old Steve Perinchief

Thursday, September 05,2024

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) is renewing the witness appeal for anyone that can assist with the ongoing investigation regarding a single vehicle motorcycle collision that claimed the life of 50-year-old Steve Perinchief, Bermuda’s fifth road fatality this year. In particular, members of the public who can confirm Mr. Perinchief’s whereabouts in the hours prior to 9pm Saturday, 24th August 2024, are encouraged to come forward. As a reminder, BPS inquiries indicate that shortly after 9pm that Saturday, Mr. Perinchief was travelling in an easterly direction along Southside Road, St. George’s, when the motorcycle he was riding collided with a curb. Sadly, despite lifesaving efforts, he died in hospital a short time later. Those with relevant information are once again asked to contact Constable Bianca Glasford. She can be reached directly by calling 717-2119, or e-mail bglasford@bps.bm. Alternatively, members of the public are encouraged to share any information that they may have with a police officer they’re familiar with, or through the BPS online community reporting portal, https://portal.police.bm/.

Operation Athelstan: Second Arrest Made

Thursday, September 05,2024

Around 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, the Bermuda Police Service (BPS), continued Operation Athelstan, which is the BPS response to the police shooting that occurred on Saturday, August 24, 2024. A second man has now been arrested in connection with this firearm incident. A Southampton residence was also searched by police officers, and further items seized. Detective Superintendent Sherwin Joseph, the Senior Investigating Officer for Operation Athelstan stated, “The continued support from the community has been crucial to this investigation.” “I continue to appeal to persons living in the areas of  Random Lane, Lusher Hill, Spice Hill, Pearman’s Hill, Camp Hill, Horseshoe Road, Scenic Heights, South Avenue and Riviera Road, to contact us should you recall any suspicious activity, taking place between 10:00 p.m. on Friday, August 23rd, 2024,  and 4:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024.” Please check your CCTV cameras for anyone who seemed out of place, whether walking, or on a motorcycle within that time frame. No matter how insignificant you may believe this sighting to be, please contact us. You may contact Detective Superintendent, Sherwin Joseph, on 1-441-717-2158 or at jsherwin@bps.bm. You may also call 211, or share the information with a police officer you know. Anonymous reporting can also be made to portal.police.bm. File uploads can be made via this portal. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be provided through the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers Bermuda hotline, 800-8477 or their website, www.crimestoppers.bm.

5th Road Traffic Fatality Named [Updated]

Wednesday, August 28,2024

The Bermuda police service can now confirm the death of the 50 year old man, who was seriously injured, in a single vehicle motorcycle collision on Southside Rd., St. George’s on Saturday 24th of August 2024. The victim has been identified as Mr. Steve Perinchief. At the time of the collision, it is believed that Mr. Perinchief was traveling in an easterly direction, when he lost control of his vehicle and collided with what is believed to be a curb. Life-saving efforts were immediately commenced and Mr. Perinchief was conveyed to King Edward Memorial Hospital for further treatment. He succumbed to those injuries a short time later. This marks the 5th road traffic fatality for 2024. The Bermuda Police Service would like to extend our sincerest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Steve Perinchief. Anyone who may have witnessed this collision is asked to call PC Bianca Glasford on 211 or email bglasford@bps.bm. Alternatively, members of the public are encouraged to share any information that they may have with a police officer they’re familiar with, or through the BPS online community reporting portal, https://portal.police.bm/. Update: Thursday, 5th September - Renewed witness appeal.

Police Involved Shooting Incident [Updated]

Wednesday, August 28,2024

Shortly after 12 AM on Saturday 24th of August 2024 police were responding to an incident in the vicinity of Khyber Pass, Warwick. As the officers approached the junction with Quarry Lane, the officers observed two males riding a motorcycle in a southerly direction along Khyber Pass, when the passenger discharged a firearm at police. Officers began pursuit which eventually lead to shots being fired. The suspects made good their escape. Officers are presently searching the area for suspects as well as forensically processing the scene. The length of Khyber Pass has been closed until police release the scene. Witnesses are being asked to contact Detective Chief Inspector Derricka Burns on 2471062 or 7170921. Update: Wednesday, 4th September - Operation Athelstan: Second Arrest Made.

Press Conference Regarding Police Involved Firearm Incident in Warwick

Monday, August 26,2024

Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons - “Shortly after midnight on Saturday, August 24, 2024, police officers were responding to an incident near Khyber Pass in Warwick. As they approached the junction with Quarry Lane, they observed two males riding a motorcycle heading south along Khyber Pass. The passenger discharged a firearm at our officers. In response, the officers pursued the suspects in attempt to stop them. The rider lost control of their motorcycle and in the course of this encounter our officers discharged their weapons. The suspects managed to escape on foot. This is not the first time that officers have been shot at. But this is the first time, that in performance of their duty, BPS officers have discharged lethal weapons at another person. I want to stress that, thankfully, there are no reports of injury resulting from this incident. I met with the officers involved on the evening in question, and I'm grateful to say they are doing well, considering the circumstances. An investigation is now underway, led by our Serious Crime Unit. Additionally, we have initiated our Post-Incident Procedures, which is standard protocol whenever firearms are discharged, excluding training scenarios. This process is designed to thoroughly examine our police response and use of firearms. We have also notified the Police Complaints Authority, which provides independent oversight of our actions. Further information on the investigation will be shared by CI Burns later. I must emphasize: it is absolutely reckless to shoot at the police. The offender puts his life at the ultimate risk. Such actions not only place the officers in extreme danger but also endanger bystanders and the community at large. The Bermuda Police Service is equipped and trained to effectively respond to these threatening situations. For over 25 years, we have been professionalizing our firearms training and capability. I am committed to maintaining our ability to respond to emergencies and have ensured that the number of firearms officers on patrol remains consistent, even as resources have declined. Rest assured, there are dedicated teams of officers working tirelessly to deter, disrupt, and apprehend those gang members who show a wanton disregard for our community's safety. This includes making arrests, executing warrants, and ensuring that gang members face justice in our courts for their criminal acts. ACOP Daniels will provide some additional information. I ask for the continued support of our community. Working together, we can make a difference. If you know something, please say something. Your information is vital in helping us keep Bermuda safe.”

Cup Match Policing

Thursday, August 08,2024

The policing plan implemented over the just concluded Cup Match holiday weekend, was in the main, successful in preventing any major criminal activity. Although, there were thirty-six arrests for various offences, the majority being for outstanding warrants. However of particular concern, among them were ten persons arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol or drug and three persons arrested for possession of bladed articles, namely, knives.  There were also a number of domestic violence reports which were quickly acted upon by officers and which have now become ongoing investigations in some instances. Assistant Commissioner of Police, Antoine Daniels, while not going into detail, addressed the domestic abuse idents. “In recent times, there has been a noticeable uptick in such reports. It’s too early to say whether there has been an increase in these incidents or, whether victims are now feeling more empowered to come forward and speak out against this less than desirable behaviour.” “Either way, your Bermuda Police Service has adopted a zero tolerance approach for these acts and assure those individuals who rightly choose not to suffer in silence that we will do what is required to bring the perpetrators to justice.”

Joint Cup Match 2024 Press Conference

Wednesday, July 31,2024

Superintendent Jerome Laws – “Good Afternoon to the media and Bermuda. I will be the Gold Commander for the upcoming Cup Match Classic, as well as the Emancipation Day festivities at Horseshoe Bay beach. Bermuda’s summertime highlight, this holiday weekend we celebrate Emancipation Day (Thursday) and Mary Prince Day (Friday) with our friends, family and loved ones. As you might expect, the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) has an operational plan in place regarding these particular events, which are traditionally popular with locals and visitors. Cup Match Classic This year’s Cup Match Classic, between Somerset and St. George’s Cricket Clubs, will be held at the Somerset Cricket Club grounds Thursday, 1st August and Friday, 2nd August, 2024. Working in partnership with Somerset Cricket Club management, the Bermuda Police Service, alongside the Royal Bermuda Regiment and a local security company, will have a heightened and visible presence at the venue on both days, to facilitate a safe environment for all. Additional police resources will once again be co-located in the onsite Joint Agency Command Centre (JACC), with Somerset Cricket Club, a local security company, St. John’s Ambulance plus related stakeholders, prepared to respond to any calls for service in a proportionate and appropriate manner. Horseshoe Bay Beach Similarly, a robust police presence, alongside the Royal Bermuda Regiment will be in place at Horseshoe Bay beach on Thursday, 1st August, 2024, working in conjunction with relevant stakeholders like the Department of Parks. The first day of the Cup Match holiday weekend tends to see an uptick in activity at Horseshoe Bay. With that in mind, a BPS drone will be used to monitor and direct any police response to calls for service, as in previous years. Enjoy Safely & Responsibly Police presence at both locations is necessary, to discourage those members of our community who may seek to disrupt these specific festivities with acts of violence or anti-social behaviour. Residents and visitors attending each event are encouraged to have fun, but are also reminded to do so in a safe and responsible manner. Please drink responsibly if consuming alcoholic beverages and be considerate of others. Avoid parking anywhere that will block emergency vehicle and residential driveway access. Finally, do not ride or drive on the roads impaired and do not operate any watercraft while impaired. In closing, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police and his Senior Leadership Team, we wish each and every one of you a safe and enjoyable Cup Match.”