Renewed Scam Advisory: Alleged U.S. $800,000 Prize From ‘Samsung’

Wednesday, June 01,2022

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) is once again advising members of the public that if you receive a message from unknown persons suggesting that you have won a large sum of money, it is more than likely a fraud and should be ignored. A variation of a classic scam currently circulating claims U.S. $800,000 in prize money from ‘Samsung’ has been won. More recently, in an effort to further validate the scam, the fraudsters have managed to convince a Bermudian male to post a misleading video on social media stating that the prize draw is legitimate. In addition, the fraudsters are informing recipients that they must keep their ‘winnings’ secret. The BPS is aware of one elderly local man who has been involved in the fraudulent scheme for over 12 months and has so far sent $65,000 in cash and iTunes cards, before reporting the matter to police. It is suspected that overseas fraudsters have swindled more local residents. How it Works The recipients are usually contacted via WhatsApp and informed that they are the winner of an $800,000 prize draw. Of note, more often than not, the WhatsApp contact number has a +234 prefix telephone code, which means that the senders originate in Nigeria. The recipients are then shown a briefcase containing cash via video and are assured that a representative is currently on-island to deliver the cash to the recipients. However, prior to delivering the cash, the recipients are directed to purchase numerous Apple iTunes cards locally, in order to satisfy delivery fees. Once purchased, the recipients are instructed to reveal the unique number located at the back of every iTunes card and send a photograph of each number via WhatsApp back to the senders. The fraudsters (senders) then quickly redeem the value of the cards before the recipient realises that they are being scammed. Advice •          Report any suspected scam you may be involved in to the BPS non-emergency number at 211 or via e-mail to 211@bps.bm. Provide as much information as you can. •          If any credit / debit cards or other account details have been provided, contact your local bank as soon as possible. •          No legitimate organisation demands payment of any fees via the purchase of iTunes cards. •          Block all WhatsApp contact from calls originating out of Nigeria, or any other unknown contact. Here is WhatsApp’s guide on how to block calls and messages. •          Be aware of scams involving Apple iTunes cards. Here is what Apple says about gift card scams.

Proactive Policing Results in Loaded Firearm & Quantity of Drugs Seized

Monday, May 30,2022

Detective Superintendent Nicholas Pedro (Crime Division) – “At 10pm on Thursday 26th May, 2022, uniform officers were conducting lawful road checks in the vicinity of Horseshoe Bay, Southampton. They had cause to stop a private car containing a 40-year-old male and a 29-year-old female. A search of their vehicle uncovered a loaded firearm and a quantity of suspected controlled drugs, assessed to be a sufficient amount for supply. Both persons were arrested and detained at Hamilton Police Station. A file is being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. Carrying or possessing a firearm carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 12- 17 years in prison on conviction in the Supreme Court, and a term of imprisonment of up to seven years on conviction in the Magistrates’ Court, for a first time offender. Possessing a firearm in Bermuda is a serious matter and anyone found in possession of a firearm will very likely go to prison. We take matters relating to guns very seriously, and will use the latest forensic and evidential techniques available to catch and convict persons possessing and using firearms. Please be warned that our officers are actively tasked with catching persons involved in this activity, and we will take steps to ensure that the full force of the law is utilized to achieve this. We NEED members of our community to continue helping us to make Bermuda safer. If you know about anyone with a firearm, please call us directly on 211, or call the independent and anonymous Crime Stoppers hotline on 800-8477.”

Single Vehicle Car Crash in Devonshire: Woman Driver Injured [Updated]

Sunday, May 29,2022

Around 12:00pm on Sunday 29th May, police officers on patrol, came across a single vehicle collision on Middle Road, Devonshire in the area of the U.S. Consulate General. Initial information suggests that a woman driving a private motorcar was travelling in an easterly direction, when she lost control of her vehicle and crashed into a utility pole. The woman, who is believed to be the only occupant in the vehicle, was transported to King Edward Memorial Hospital via ambulance, for treatment of head and neck injuries. Traffic is currently being diverted at Montpelier Road and Flora Duffy Hill, while police process the scene. Anyone who may have witnessed this collision is asked to contact PC Tashun Simons on 211 or email tsimons2@bps.bm. Update: Monday, 30th May - The driver of a car hurt when the vehicle struck a utility pole on Middle Road in Devonshire near the junction with Montpelier Road around 12 noon Sunday, 29th May 2022, said to be a 37-year-old Pembroke woman, was treated at the hospital for non-life threatening injuries. She was later arrested on suspicion of impaired driving and released on police bail, pending further inquiries. Traffic was diverted for approximately two hours while the scene was processed. Any witnesses are once again asked to call Constable Tashun Simons on 211 or e-mail tsimons2@bps.bm.

Injured Teen Male Continues to Recover After Suspected Motorcycle Crash

Sunday, May 29,2022

A male teenager who sustained head and facial injuries as well as abrasions to his body in a suspected motorcycle crash on Friday evening continues to recover in hospital. He is now understood to be a 17-year-old Southampton resident. As of Saturday afternoon (28th May), the young man had been transferred from the Intensive Care Unit to a general ward to continue recuperating and is likely to be discharged from the hospital in due course. Inquiries are ongoing regarding the circumstances of the suspected motorcycle crash, which occurred around 6:45pm Friday, 27th May 2022 on Camp Hill Road, Southampton near Fork Lane, leaving the teen injured and unresponsive lying in the road. Constable Rajiv Bailey is still interested in speaking with anyone that has information regarding this incident and renews the appeal for those that can assist to call 211 or e-mail rbailey@bps.bm as soon as possible.

Injured Male Found Lying Along Camp Hill Road, Southampton [Updated]

Saturday, May 28,2022

Around 6:45pm Friday, 27th May 2022 a 911 call was received reporting an injured, unresponsive male lying in the road on Camp Hill Road, Southampton near the junction with Fork Lane. Police, Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service as well as ambulance personnel immediately responded. The unknown male was rushed to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance for treatment of potentially life threatening injuries. An update on his medical condition is anticipated in due course. Circumstances of this incident are unclear at this time. However, initial indications suggest the injured male may have been involved in a collision. Inquiries continue and any witnesses or members of the public with information about this incident are urged to call Constable Rajiv Bailey on 211 or e-mail rbailey@bps.bm as soon as possible. Update: Saturday, 28th May - At last check the injured, unresponsive male found lying in the road on Camp Hill Road, Southampton around 6:45pm Friday, 27th May 2022 was being treated in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. He is believed to be 18 years old. Inquiries continue and once again, any witnesses or members of the public with information regarding the circumstances of this incident are urged to call Constable Rajiv Bailey on 211, or e-mail rbailey@bps.bm as soon as possible. Update: Sunday, 29th May - Injured teen male continues to recover after suspected motorcycle crash.

Visitors Injured After Rental Scooter & Van Collide in Hamilton Parish

Thursday, May 26,2022

Around 3:30pm Wednesday, 25th May 2022, a reported two-vehicle collision occurred on South Road in Hamilton parish, in the vicinity of Hexham Drive. It now appears that a rental scooter, ridden by a 62-year-old visiting American man with a 56-year-old visiting American woman pillion passenger, was travelling west along South Road and a van, driven by a 43-year-old Smith’s parish man, was travelling in the opposite direction when the vehicles collided. The male visitor is understood to have sustained injuries including potentially serious wounds to his legs. He was transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance for treatment and at last check remained hospitalised – although his injuries were not believed to be life threatening. The female visitor apparently sustained abrasions that did not require hospital treatment. The van driver was not hurt. Area traffic diversions were temporarily in effect while initial inquiries were conducted at the scene. Inquiries continue regarding the circumstances of this collision and any witnesses that have not already come forward are encouraged to call Constable Lisa-Nichole Tucker on 211 or e-mail ltucker@bps.bm.

Collision Involving 10-Year-Old Boy & Car on Marsh Folly Road [Updated]

Wednesday, May 25,2022

Around 3:30pm Wednesday, 25th May, police and first responders were dispatched to a report of a collision involving a motorcar and 10 year old boy along Marsh Folly Road near the junction with Cedar Avenue, Pembroke. Initial information suggests that the boy was attempting to cross the road when he ran into the path of an oncoming private motorcar traveling in the eastbound lane. The boy was conveyed to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital in company with one of his parents. The female driver was not reported to be injured. Out of an abundance of caution, police are currently processing the scene. Traffic delays should be expected, with diversions put in place at Cedar Avenue and Blackwatch Pass. Police are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed this collision to call PC Helen McHugh on 211 or email hmchugh@bps.bm. Update: Thursday, 26th May - The 10-year-old boy struck by a car as he attempted to cross Marsh Folly Road, Pembroke around 3:30pm Wednesday, 25th May 2022 was discharged from hospital later that evening following medical examinations. The car driver involved, said to be a 33 year old Pembroke woman, was not hurt. Any witnesses that have not already come forward are once again encouraged to call Constable Helen McHugh on 211 or e-mail hmchugh@bps.bm.

2022 Bermuda Day Holiday Weekend Policing

Wednesday, May 25,2022

Acting Superintendent Jerome Laws – Good afternoon. The Bermuda Police Service (BPS), working in partnership with the Bermuda Reserve Police and the Royal Bermuda Regiment, wishes to take this opportunity to advise the public on several matters to ensure a peaceful and safe time during this year’s Bermuda Day holiday weekend. This press conference aims to share the general policing plan with the community. Members of the public should expect a heightened police presence during the holiday weekend. Police will be conducting roadside sobriety checks and 315 F checks at various locations. There will be an increase in police presence around “the night-time economy” and high visibility patrols to deter acts of violence and anti-social behaviour. We want to remind the public that if you see something, say something. Please call the main police telephone number 295-0011 or 911 in an emergency. Bermuda Day Races The Bermuda Bicycle Association race will start from Somerset and finish on Cedar Avenue. The Junior Bermuda Bicycle Association Race will commence on Harbour Road, near the junction with Lovers Lane and will finish on Cedar Avenue. The Junior Classic Running Race will start at the east end of Front Street and finish on Dutton Avenue. The annual Bermuda Day Half Marathon Derby will start in Somerset and finish on Dutton Avenue. As in previous years, the Bermuda Police Service, Bermuda Reserve Police and the race organisers will have officers and marshals positioned along the routes. They are there to minimise risks to all road users, especially cyclists and runners. We are asking the motoring public to fully cooperate with any directions given. We all need to do our best to ensure there are no collisions with race participants, as that could lead to serious injury or death. On Friday, the roads along the race route will close at 8:00 in the morning. Therefore, persons in the west end who are travelling on morning flights need to be sure they have passed Barnes Corner well before 8:00 am. The roads will be re-opened when it is deemed safe and delays of up to an hour and a half or more should be expected. The road closures for the races will be in effect from 8:00 am until around 12.30 pm. Details of the road closures can be found on the Government of Bermuda’s website under The Official Gazette, Government notices. In addition: • No traffic will be allowed to travel in either direction during the cycle race. • No traffic will be allowed to travel in either direction during the running race. Bermuda Day Parade The Bermuda Day parade starts at 1:30 pm. Spectators should not obstruct the participants in the parade. Officers of the Royal Bermuda Regiment will be on hand to assist. Please make sure you comply with any of their directions. The parade will start on Front Street near the junction with Bermudiana Road and will travel along Front Street to Court Street, Church Street, and Cedar Avenue before concluding on Marsh Folly Road. No parking areas will be marked, and specific road closure times are contained in the gazetted notices. Once the roads are closed in the City of Hamilton, no persons will be allowed to move their vehicles between the time that the races start and the end of the parade. During the parade, King Street between Reid Street and Church Street will be converted into a two-way street from 12.30 pm until the conclusion of the parade. Road Safety The motoring public should be mindful that the police will be highly visible on the roads. In addition to calming the roads, there will be an emphasis on offences such as speeding, impaired driving and driving without due care and attention. Remember, road safety is everyone’s responsibility. Loud Music Loud music complaints both in residential neighbourhoods and on the water are a problem associated with this holiday and we accept that the celebration of Bermuda Day brings with it a party atmosphere. We ask a couple of things of the public. Patience and tolerance on the part of the persons who enjoy a more sombre celebration, along with a display of respect and courtesy on the part of those who like to party hard. We encourage members of the communities that they live in, to work together to keep the peace in their neighbourhoods and to avoid the involvement of the police. Our final message again this year is to encourage everyone to exercise patience, tolerance, and caution so that we all have a good time! On behalf of the Commissioner of Police, BPS staff and the Bermuda Reserve Police, I wish the entire community a pleasant, enjoyable, and safe holiday weekend.

Criminal Records / Vetting Office Closed 25th May, Open Again 26th May

Wednesday, May 25,2022

The Bermuda Police Service would like to advise the public, that the Criminal Records / Vetting Office will be closed to public queries today, Wednesday 25th May. The office will resume normal operations on Thursday 26th May. Telephone messages may be left at 247-1750 and staff will answer queries when operations resume. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause.

Cedar Park, Devonshire Assault: One Man Hurt & One Man in Custody [Updated]

Tuesday, May 24,2022

Around 8:21pm on Monday 23rd May 2022, police responded to a report of an assault in the Cedar Park, Devonshire area. On arrival it was ascertained that two men had been involved in an altercation. One man has been transported to King Edward Memorial Hospital, via ambulance, for treatment of injuries sustained after he was assaulted with a bladed weapon. The extent of his injuries is not known at this time. And one man is in custody assisting police with enquires. Update: Tuesday, 24th May - The 32-year-old man injured by another man with a bladed weapon during an assault in the Cedar Park, Devonshire area around 8:21pm Monday, 23rd May 2022 was treated and later discharged from hospital. The assailant and the injured man are known to each other. At last check the suspect, a 23-year-old man, remained in police custody pending further inquiries.

Inquiries Underway After Two City of Hamilton Businesses Burglarised

Monday, May 23,2022

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) is currently conducting inquiries into two reported burglaries at City of Hamilton businesses. P-Tech on Reid Street, near the junction with Queen Street, was burglarised around 1:40am Monday, 23rd May 2022. It appears that two men gained entry into the store. Both suspects were said to be of slim build. However, one suspect was wearing light coloured pants, a dark coloured hooded jacket with the hood up, a baseball hat and dark coloured shoes with light coloured soles while the other suspect was believed to be wearing a green or grey hooded jacket with the hood up, dark coloured pants, light coloured shoes and a baseball hat. At this time, it is understood that the two P-Tech intruders made good their escape with a quantity of electronic items. The Terrace on Front Street was burglarised around 4:30am Monday, 23rd May 2022. It appears that a lone intruder wearing a helmet, dark coloured jacket and lighter coloured pants as well as a mask, gained entry into the premises. So far, it is unclear what was removed from The Terrace bar and restaurant. Both scenes were secured and forensically processed, with CCTV footage from both businesses being reviewed as part of the investigation. At this stage, it is unknown whether the two incidents are linked, but the possibility has not been ruled out. Members of the public that can assist investigators are encouraged to call Detective Sergeant Lennox Ince on 247-1222, 717-2304 or e-mail lince@bps.bm. Anyone with information regarding either burglary can also call the Criminal Investigations Department on 247-1744, or speak to a BPS officer they are familiar with.

Bermuda Records 6th Road Traffic Fatality

Monday, May 23,2022

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) can now confirm the death of 52-year-old Robert Hudson, Bermuda’s sixth road fatality for 2022, and extends sincere condolences to his family and friends. Mr. Hudson was fatally injured in a single vehicle collision around 2:45pm, on Sunday 22nd May. Preliminary information suggests he was traveling east along Cut Road near the junction with Floral Lane, St. George’s, when he lost control of his motorcycle causing him to collide with a wall before hitting a parked motorcar. Despite life-saving efforts, Mr. Hudson tragically succumbed to his injuries a short time later.  An investigation into the circumstances of this fatal collision has commenced and a BPS family liaison officer is providing support to the family at this difficult time. Members of the public with any relevant information – particularly witnesses to the crash or persons who can provide details regarding the whereabouts of Mr. Hudson prior to the collision are asked to contact Constable DeForest Evans on 717-0860 or via email devans@bps.bm.

Serious Collision in St. George’s: Rider Sustains Life Threatening Injuries [Updated]

Sunday, May 22,2022

Around 2:45pm, Sunday 22nd May, police and other first responders were dispatched to a report of a serious collision along Cut Road near the junction with Floral Lane, St. George’s. Preliminary information suggest a man on a motorcycle was traveling east on Cut Road when the rider lost control of his vehicle and struck a wall and a parked motorcar. Life saving efforts were commenced at the scene and the man was transported to King Edward Memorial Hospital, for what has been described as life threatening injuries. Traffic was diverted through Floral Lane while investigators processed the scene. The road has now reopened. Anyone with information regarding this collision is asked to call 211. Update: Monday, 23rd May - Bermuda records sixth road traffic fatality.

Patrick Dill Murder Investigation Remains Active Six Years Later

Saturday, May 21,2022

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) is renewing its appeal for witnesses to come forward regarding the murder of 26-year-old Patrick Dill, who was fatally shot outside of his home approximately 11pm Saturday, 21st May 2016. Today marks six years since Mr. Dill’s murder. The case remains open and the investigative team continues to encourage any witnesses or members of the public with information to come forward – particularly those who were in the Crossland Lane, Pembroke area that night and saw persons acting suspiciously before and after the fatal shooting. Help us bringing some closure to the family and friends of Patrick Dill. All information received will be treated in the strictest of confidence and we are urging anyone that can assist the ongoing investigation to call the Senior Investigating Officer Detective Sergeant Jason Smith on 717-0864, or e-mail jsmith2@bps.bm. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be provided via the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-8477, or www.crimestoppers.bm. Persons with information may also speak to a BPS officer they are familiar with.

Confirmed Firearms Incident in Pembroke: No Reported Injuries

Friday, May 20,2022

Around 10:15 p.m. on Thursday, 19th May 2022, police received several 911 calls reporting several gun shots heard in different locations within Pembroke Parish, including Deepdale Road, Parsons Road, St. Augustine Hill, Curving Ave and Middle Town. Police units were immediately despatched to these areas and were informed two individuals on a motorcycle were chasing another person. One of the individuals on the bike was said to have been discharging a firearm as the chase continued. There have been no reports of anyone attending hospital seeking treatment for gunshot injuries. There were also no reports of property damage in relation to this incident. Officers recovered several spent shells along with one live round of ammunition from various scenes located in the previously mentioned areas. As we heighten patrols to provide reassurance to residents, we urge anyone with information on this incident to please get in contact with us by calling 211, the main police number, 295-0011. You may also call Crime Stoppers on 800-8477. Alternatively, share the information with a police officer with whom you are familiar.

Suspect Arrested in Connection With Divots Bar & Grill Firearm Incident

Saturday, May 14,2022

The Bermuda Police Service can confirm an 18-year-old male, is currently in custody assisting with the ongoing investigation into the firearm incident, which occurred at Divots Bar and Grill, Belmont Hills Drive, Middle Road, Warwick on Tuesday 10th May, 2022. Meanwhile, detectives continue to progress the forensic strategy and other investigative actions concerning the firearm incident, which occurred on Court Street on Sunday 8th May 2022. Detective Chief Inspector Sherwin Joseph of the Crime Division stated: “We are unable to say at this time if the firearm incident which occurred on Sunday 8th May, on Court Street, is connected to the incident which occurred at Divots Bar and Grill. We are awaiting the outcome of forensic and ballistic testing to determine whether or not the same firearm was used during both incidents. We wish to remind the public that while we pursue these two matters, the investigation into the murder of Keyoshe Robinson is still being actively progressed by our Serious Crime Unit. Mr. Robinson’s lifeless body was found on Thursday 5th May, 2022, on the shoreline near the golf course in St. George’s.” Anyone with information on any of these crimes, no matter how insignificant you may think that information to be, to please make contact using 211, the police main line 295-0011 or reaching out to a police officer with whom you are familiar. You may also call Crime Stoppers on 800-8477 or, Acting Detective Inspector, Dean Martin on 717-2074. We would like to thank the members of our community who have so far come forward and provided information concerning these incidents.

Sudden Death of 50-Year-Old Jove Mascarinas

Thursday, May 12,2022

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) can now confirm the death of 50-year-old Jove Mascarinas and extends sincere condolences to her family and friends. Mrs. Mascarinas, a Filipino guest worker, was seriously injured as one of the occupants at a Hilltop Court, Southampton residence where an explosion occurred around 8:50pm Monday, 2nd May 2022. She received treatment in the Intensive Care Unit of King Edward VII Memorial Hospital where sadly, she was ultimately pronounced dead on the evening of Tuesday, 10th May. Her husband, 49-year-old Oscar Mascarinas, who also suffered fatal injuries in the Hilltop Court explosion, predeceased her. A BPS Family Liaison Officer is providing ongoing support to both their families. The investigation regarding the circumstances and cause of this tragic incident continues. Once again, members of the public with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, are urged to call 247-1744 as soon as possible.

Commissioner Simons Addresses Firearm Incident at Divots Bar & Grill

Wednesday, May 11,2022

As the investigation into the firearm incident which occurred yesterday at Divots progresses, the Bermuda Police Service wishes to thank those members of the public who have thus far. Thank you for providing statements, or otherwise sharing information with detectives. We urge those individuals who have information about the incident but have not yet come forward, to please do so. I cannot sufficiently stress how important it is for you to work with your police service to combat this kind of behaviour which puts all our lives at risk. On the question of risk, not long after yesterday’s incident, individuals began sharing a video clip and an image of the off duty police officer, who attempted to apprehend the suspect. Sharing that video clip and image could quite possibly put the safety and wellbeing of both that officer and those present at risk. What’s more, it could negatively impact the investigation by revealing information which investigators would not want publicised at that time. I am grateful for the brave actions of the officer and how the recovery of the firearm will advance the investigation and significantly reduce future harm in the country. I should also make the point that the preservation of life and property must always remain our main objective. Thus, I wish to advise the public that should you find yourself faced with a similar situation, you should always take actions that maximise your safety and avoid confrontation with the perpetrator.

Reported Serious Two Vehicle Collision in Smith's Parish

Monday, May 09,2022

Around 6:30pm on Monday 9th May 2022, police and other first responders were dispatched to a report of a serious two vehicle collision in the area of McGall’s Hill, Smith’s Parish, involving a car and a motorcycle. A 40 year old male has been transported to King Edward Memorial Hospital for treatment of what has been described as serious injuries. Traffic is currently being diverted from South Road onto Sayle Road and St. Mark's Road, while the scene is being processed. Motorists are being advised to use alternative routes. Anyone who may have witnessed this collision is asked to contact police on 211.

Confirmed Firearm Incident in North Hamilton: No Reported Injuries

Monday, May 09,2022

Police are investigating an attempted shooting which occurred shortly after 11:00 p.m. on Sunday May 8th 2022. Police at that time received a call from a member of the public who reported a male had brandished a silver coloured handgun and pointed it at an unknown male who was sitting on a white bike near the junction of Court Street and Elliott Street, Pembroke. The caller stated the suspect attempted to discharge the weapon when it jammed. It was reported the suspect then ran off through the parking lot towards Union Street. Police attended the scene which was cordoned off and forensically processed. Several rounds of live ammunition were recovered during a search of the area. These were seized and have been sent for further processing. CCTV footage of the incident is now being reviewed as part of the investigative process. Detective Chief Inspector, Sherwin Joseph, the officer in charge of the Specialist Investigations Unit highlighted the importance of the report made to police and renewed community assistance going forward. “We are thankful to the caller who alerted us to this incident. However, there were several individuals in the area when it occurred. Despite the efforts of officers at the scene, no one was willing to say what they saw or assist police with their enquiries. Thankfully, last night’s incident did not result in injury or worse. However, the police are not in this alone and it will take a community effort to put an end to this kind of criminal activity which has already caused unnecessary loss of life and pain to so many families. Please, we are urging anyone with information on what happened last night, to get in contact with us.” If you have any information on this matter, please call 211, the main police number, 295-0011, Crime Stoppers on 800-8477 or, of course share the information by speaking with a police officer with whom you are familiar.