Medical Emergency

Thursday, October 24,2024

Around 3:45 p.m. on Thursday, October 24, 2024, police received several reports of a swimmer in distress on the public side of Elbow Beach. Officers were informed that the swimmer, a 44-year-old male, had gone under water and wasn’t seen for a period of time. The male, a guest worker from the Philippines, subsequently resurfaced and was seen unresponsive in the water. When they arrived, officers found that members of the public had retrieved the male from the water and brought him onto the beach where life saving measures had commenced. EMTs arrived shortly thereafter and continued life-saving efforts as the male was transported by ambulance to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital. At last check, he continued to receive treatment. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call the main police number, 295-0011 or, 211. The Bermuda Police Service commends those members of the public who assisted in removing the male from the water and performing CPR until the arrival of Emergency Services personnel.

Egg Throwing Incidents Reported Prior to Halloween

Monday, October 21,2024

As Halloween approaches, the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) would like to remind the public that throwing eggs at vehicles, homes and businesses is potentially dangerous, as well as costly. Patrol officers have already responded to alleged incidents, the latest reported to be during the day on Sunday, 20th October 2024, in the Middle Road, Riviera Road Southampton area. The BPS reassures the community that its officers are prepared to use all lawful authority to deter and detect such acts of anti-social behaviour, with anyone caught engaging in egg throwing likely to be arrested. To help prevent this irresponsible activity and the need for police involvement, parents and shopkeepers are encouraged to be on the lookout for individuals, especially young persons, attempting to purchase unusually large quantities of eggs. As a reminder, residents and businesses can report any anti-social behaviour in their area by calling 211, or visiting the BPS online community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm.

Update: Female Motorcyclist Treated for Non-Life Threatening Injuries

Monday, October 21,2024

A two vehicle collision that occurred around 4:20pm Wednesday, 16th October 2024, on Middle Road in Southampton near the junction with South Road, resulted in a female motorcyclist receiving hospital treatment. The injured woman, believed to be a 25-year-old Southampton resident, is understood to have been transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance with non-life threatening injuries and later discharged, after appropriate medical care. Apparently, the driver of the car involved, believed to be a 31-year-old Sandys parish woman, was not hurt. The collision occurred when the car driver and motorcycle rider collided, travelling in opposite directions, in the area of Barnes Corner. Traffic diversions were necessary while the scene was processed. Any witnesses that have not already come forward are encouraged to call Constable Jennifer Suter on 211, or e-mail jsuter@bps.bm.

Cyber Security Awareness Month: Practical Advice & Prevention Tips

Tuesday, October 15,2024

With October designated “Cyber Security Awareness Month”, the Bermuda Police Service is once more reminding the public to be on the lookout and take preventive measures to avoid falling victim to cybercrime. Cybercrime encompasses a wide range of illegal activities conducted through the internet or other computer networks and can be broadly categorised into several types. These include: Hacking: Unauthorised access to computer systems, often leading to data breaches that compromise sensitive information such as personal details, financial records and corporate secrets. Phishing: Deceptive attempts to acquire sensitive information by masquerading as a trustworthy entity, typically through emails or fake websites, which may result in identity theft and financial loss. Malware: Malicious software, including viruses, worms, and ransomware that disrupts normal operations, damages systems or encrypts data for ransom, leading to significant financial costs and operational downtime. Denial of Service (DOS) attacks: Overloading a network or website to render it unavailable, causing disruptions for businesses and users alike and potentially leading to substantial revenue losses. Cyberstalking and Harassment: Using technology to stalk or harass individuals, which can have severe psychological impacts on victims and contribute to a climate of fear. Detective Chief Inspector Jason Smith of the Bermuda Police Service Specialist Crime Unit stated: “The Bermuda Police Service is in the process of establishing a Cyber-Security Unit. This unit is being formed to address the rising number of cyber related crimes reported. The impact of cybercrime is profound, affecting individuals, businesses and governments. “From a local financial perspective, it has resulted in millions of dollars in losses. Not only from direct theft but also from recovery efforts and increased security measures. It undermines trust in digital systems, stifles innovation and poses significant risk to national security.” “As our reliance on technology continues to grow, the importance of robust security measures and public awareness becomes paramount in mitigating the risks associated with cyber-crime.” How to Spot Scams: Suspicious Emails, SMS, or WhatsApp messages • Look out for unexpected messages asking for personal or financial information. • Phishing emails often have poor spelling, odd greetings, or strange email addresses/telephone numbers. Urgency or Threats. • Scammers may say things like "Your account will be locked" or "Act now to avoid charges!" • Be cautious of messages that make you feel rushed or anxious. Unknown Links and Attachments. • Don’t click on unfamiliar links or open attachments from people you don’t know. • Always verify the sender before clicking. Too-good-to-be-true offers. • If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Unsolicited or random offers for free gifts or large sums of money are often phishing attempts. Tips to Protect Yourself Online: • Never Share Your Passwords. Don’t share your passwords, especially through email or text. • Look for the Padlock Symbol. When shopping or banking online, make sure the website starts with "https" and has a padlock icon in the address bar. • Keep Your Software Up to Date.  Always update your phone, computer, and apps to protect against security threats. • Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a code from your phone or email. • Check if your e-mail has been breached. Visit  https://haveibeenpwned.com to see if your email address has been compromised in a data breach. What to do if you suspect you’ve been targeted or have become a victim. Don’t Panic. If you believe you’ve shared personal information with a bad actor, immediately change your passwords. Report It. • Let your bank or email provider know. They can help protect your accounts. • Report it to the Bermuda Police Service by sending an email at https://portal.police.bm • Run a Virus Scan. • If you clicked a suspicious link, use antivirus software to scan your device. For more information or assistance, visit us at https://portal.police.bm.

Witness Appeals Regarding Two Separate Wounding Incidents

Monday, October 14,2024

Shortly before 1:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 13, 2024, police responded to a reported assault at the Zen Lounge, Somerset Road, Sandys parish. Upon arrival, officers were informed a 35-year-old male had suffered a suspected stab wound to the upper torso. He was reportedly driven from the scene in a private vehicle, before being transferred to an ambulance which was already in the area responding to an unrelated medical incident. He was subsequently transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, where, at last check, he continued to receive treatment for his injury which is considered life threatening. Around 7:45 p.m. on Saturday, October 12, 2024, a 52-year-old male attended Hamilton Police Station to report that he was the victim of a wounding. He told officers that he was near the doorway to Spinning Wheel, when an unknown male described as tall, slim built and dark complexioned, made a comment to him. The suspect then allegedly pushed the 52-year-old male to the ground. Another male then pulled a machete from his waistband and assaulted the 52-year-old male, leaving him with a non-life-threatening injury to his right hand. He was transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital where he was attended to for his injury and discharged. Both matters are now under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call the main police number 295-0011, 211 or the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers number, 800-8477. If you’d prefer to, please share the information with a police officer you know or use the community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm.

Recruitment for BPS Constables: Local Residents Encouraged to Apply

Friday, October 11,2024

Local residents who are looking for a career in law enforcement, with a desire to represent our community and assist in ‘Making Bermuda Safer’, are encouraged to apply for the post of Constable with the Bermuda Police Service (BPS). Applicants must: be between the ages of 19 and 49 years at the start of the contract; be in good physical and mental health; have a Bermuda School Diploma (BSD) or equivalent. Applications from resident non-Bermudian work permit holders, or their spouses who are permitted to seek employment in Bermuda, may be considered. Foreign nationals living outside Bermuda are not eligible for this recruitment process. Successful applicants must also pass the following BPS evaluations to be considered for an upcoming Recruit Foundation Course (RFC). Police Service Initial Recruitment Test (PIRT). Job-Related Fitness Test (JRFT) – (Level 5.4 – 15 metre beep test). Security checks. Suitability testing. Psychological evaluations. Medical examinations (which includes BMI assessment). Assessment Board. The RFC lasts for six months with on the job training, academic modules, course work, exams, and practical exercises. The academic learning undertaken coincides with serving as a Student Police Officer, which involves active frontline duties for the Bermuda Police Service. All applications must be submitted online at https://govtcareers.gov.bm/. The deadline for applications is 7pm Friday, 25th October 2024. No hard copy applications will be accepted. Any queries should be sent via e-mail to recruiting@bps.bm.

Sudden Death Witness Appeal

Tuesday, October 08,2024

Shortly after 3:00 pm on Monday, October 7, 2024, Police and Emergency Medical Services personnel (EMS) were dispatched to a report of persons in difficulty in the water at Horseshoe Bay Beach. Both persons who are males and visiting the island, were removed from the water and placed on the beach. EMS personnel commenced life saving measures and both individuals were transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital. Sadly one of the men a 48-year-old from the United States, was pronounced dead a short time after. The second male was attended to and discharged. A Police Family Liaison Officer is now assisting the relatives of the deceased during this difficult time. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact PC Jennifer Suter on 295-0011 or, via email, jsuter@bps.bm. Alternatively, you may call 211 or use the community reporting portal https//:portal.police.bm.

Witness Appeals: 2 Cars Damaged in Separate Collisions Found Unoccupied

Tuesday, October 08,2024

Around 1:25 a.m. on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 Police received a report of a single vehicle road traffic collision (RTC) on Middle Road, near the junction with Verdmont Road, Smiths. Upon Police arrival the vehicle was found abandoned, overturned and resting on its roof. There was no indication of anyone having been injured. Shortly after, around 1:30 a.m. on the same date, police received a report of another single vehicle RTC on Somerset Road, Sandy’s, near Heydon Gardens. Officers arrived to find the vehicle extensively damaged and abandoned in the middle of the roadway. It appeared to have struck a nearby wall. The areas surrounding both collision scenes were extensively searched for any injured persons, but no one was found. Checks were also made at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, but there no reports of anyone having attended seeking treatment for injuries which may have been sustained in a vehicle collision. Both incidents are now under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call the main 295-0011 or, the non-emergency reporting number 211. You may also provide information using the community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm.

All Road Users: BPS Driver Training Courses Currently Underway

Tuesday, October 08,2024

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) Driver Training Unit currently has four driver training courses in progress. Three involve the use of police cars and one the use of police motorcycles, on our roads. At times, the police officers under driving instruction may operate marked police vehicles at high speeds and depending on the training objective, emergency equipment (lights and sirens) will also be utilised. Members of the public can recognise the BPS car driver training vehicles by the training plate at the front and rear of the police vehicle. Trainee BPS motorcyclists will be wearing high visibility vests. As always, road users are reminded to give way and exercise caution when they encounter BPS driver training vehicles, the same way they would for any emergency vehicle.

Common Factor in Recently Reported Stolen Cars: Keys Left Inside

Monday, October 07,2024

Between Sunday, 29th September and Monday, 7th October 2024, four cars were reported stolen. Three of those vehicles were removed from outside the owners’ homes. All four were later recovered, apparently intact. In each case, the keys to the car were left inside the vehicle, before they were taken. These incidents are preventable. The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) once again reminds members of the public to securely lock their vehicles before leaving them unattended anyplace for any period of time – especially overnight – even at home. Particular care should be taken with newer model cars that have keyless access, to ensure that they are properly locked, before being left unoccupied. Leaving keys anywhere inside a car, truck, or van – whether in the ignition, dashboard, cup holder, card receptacle (for keyless access cards), or in a bag left within the vehicle – makes it easier for an opportunistic individual to drive away undetected. As always, residents are encouraged to report stolen vehicles promptly, by calling 211 and providing as much information as possible. Alternatively, stolen vehicles can be reported through the BPS online community reporting portal, at https://portal.police.bm/.

Reported Serious Motorcycle Collision in Warwick [Updated]

Monday, October 07,2024

Around 1:25 pm on Monday, October 7, 2024, police and other first responders attended a serious single vehicle collision involving a motorcycle at the junction of Middle Road and Ten Pin Crescent, Warwick. Upon arrival, a 30 year old male motorcycle rider was found lying on the roadway unresponsive, but breathing. He was attended to at the scene by EMTs before being transported by ambulance to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, for further treatment of his injuries, the extent of which remains unknown at this time. It would appear that the male was traveling east on Middle Road when he lost control of the bike and struck a traffic light pole. The roadway was closed to vehicular traffic while the scene was forensically processed, with eastbound traffic diverted along Ten Pin Crescent while westbound traffic was diverted along Khyber Pass. An investigation into this matter is now underway and anyone with information is asked to call the main police number 295-011 or 211. Update: The roads are reopened.

Reported Serious Collision: Khyber Pass Warwick

Sunday, October 06,2024

Around 6:30 PM on Sunday, October 6, 2024, police and other first responders were dispatched to a report of a serious collision involving a motorcycle and a van on Khyber Pass Road, Warwick. Initial information suggests that a 65 year old man was headed south on Khyber Pass Road, when his motorcycle struck a parked van. The injured male has been transported to King Edward Memorial Hospital for treatment his injuries, which are considered to be serious. The parked van was unoccupied at the time of the accident. Traffic is being diverted at Smiths Avenue and Middle Road, whilst police process the scene. Witnesses are asked to contact PC Walter Jackson on 717–0469 or wjackson@bps.bm.

Update: Reported Two Vehicle Collision on Harbour Road Sunday

Friday, October 04,2024

At last check, a female rider hurt in a reported two vehicle collision near Darrell’s Wharf in Warwick around 2:20pm Sunday, 29th September 2024, apparently received treatment at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for injuries that were understood to be non-life threatening. It now appears that the woman, believed to be a 45-year-old Warwick resident, was hurt when the motorcycle she was travelling on collided with the rear of a car that was driven out of Jones Lane. Both vehicles were in the westbound lane of Harbour Road at the time. Traffic diversions were in place for approximately two hours while the collision scene was processed. Any witnesses that have not already come forward are once again encouraged to call 211.

2 More Arrests Made: Part of Recent Firearms, Ammunition, Drugs Seizure

Thursday, October 03,2024

Around 10:40 a.m. on Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024, a 29-year-old male wanted in connection with the recent seizure of two firearms along with a quantity of controlled drugs and ammunition, turned himself into police custody at Hamilton Police Station. Another male has also since been arrested in relation to this matter, making it five suspects arrested as part of this operation. Detective Chief Inspector, Jason Smith, of the Specialist Crime Unit, stated: “The Bermuda Police Service is unwavering in its commitment to rid the island of guns and gang activity. We remain committed to our mandate of making Bermuda safer and are resolute in the pursuit of justice to ensure that those responsible for breaking the law and causing disruption to civility are held accountable.”

Phishing Scam Advisory

Wednesday, October 02,2024

The Bermuda Police Service is aware of members of the public receiving phone-calls from someone purporting to be a member of the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) or claiming to represent the organisation, then attempting to obtain personal information from the call recipient. This is yet another phishing scam. We have been informed that: •   Caller’s ID displayed Bermuda Police Service with the BPS crest. •   Some calls were from phone number +92320 9853 029 with her BPS crest. •   Some calls were from an unknown number with BPS crest. •   Caller claims to be a police officer •   Caller refuses to provide police badge number •   Caller has a Caribbean accent. Please be advised that BPS officers, will at no time contact you requesting personal information over the phone. You will instead be asked to attend a police station at a specific time and date to be spoken with. Should a BPS officer contact you they will identify themselves by their rank, badge number, name, and department. We urge that should you receive any such calls from persons claiming to be BPS officers, you challenge them by asking that they provide their name and badge number should they refuse to provide that information, immediately hang up, and contact the BPS by calling 211 or 295-0011 to make a report. Should the caller provide a name or badge number and continue to ask for personal details, inform them that you would prefer to attend a police station and speak with an officer there, then hang up and again, contact us by calling 211 or, 295-0011 and report the matter.

BPS & Hamilton Princess Partner to Re-Launch Notable Sports Cards Series

Tuesday, October 01,2024

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS), in partnership with Hamilton Princess, is excited to re-launch the BPS Bermuda Sports Superstars cards series! Originally introduced in the 1980s and released approximately every 10 years, these sports cards feature notable local athletes from a variety of sports, with inspiring personal quotes. The 2024 series features Bermuda Sports Legends as well as Superstars. The aim of this initiative, which continues with today’s 1st October 2024 launch, is to engage Bermuda’s young people through local sporting heroes, while promoting positive interactions between our youth and police officers. Hamilton Princess and the Green family approached the BPS with the idea of reintroducing the Bermuda Sports Superstars cards. They were keen to assist with not only producing the sports cards, but modernising them. While primary and middle school students are the main focus of this community outreach, any young person interested in collecting the sports cards is more than welcome to engage with a police officer or visit any police station to start their collection. Over the next two weeks, uniformed officers will be attending school assemblies to promote the initiative and hand out cards to school-selected students. Officers will also visit schools during lunch breaks, youth community centres, and other youth gathering spots, fostering positive interactions while distributing the cards. We encourage our youth to actively seek out police officers throughout the island to collect all 44 cards, which will be released between October 2024 and May 2025. A new set of six cards will be introduced each month, adding an element of discovery and excitement, motivating our youth to engage with police officers in a positive way. The first cards are now available for collection at Hamilton Police Station, with Somerset, and Southside Police Stations scheduled to follow soon. Stay tuned to BPS social media (Facebook, Instagram & Twitter/X) for the latest updates!

Two Firearms, Ammunition, Drugs Seized: Three Suspects Arrested

Tuesday, October 01,2024

On Monday September 30th officers from the Specialist Investigations Unit, and Task Force conducted an operation that resulted in the arrests of three suspects – a 35-year-old male, a 19-year-old male and a 27-year-old-male. A fourth suspect, a 29-year-old male, is being sought in connection with this matter. During the operation, officers seized two firearms, a quantity of ammunition as well as a large quantity of controlled drugs, with a street value of over $700,000. Detective Chief Inspector Jason Smith of the Specialist Investigations Unit, stated: “The seizure of these two firearms brings to fourteen the number of these deadly weapons taken off the street by police in a 10 month period. This seizure of these two firearms as well as ammunition and illegal drugs is quite significant and would have prevented severe injury or, loss of life.” “It is also testament to the commitment and determination of officers of your Bermuda Police Service, as well as our colleagues at sister agency, Bermuda Customs Department, to protecting our community against the dangers posed by individuals who choose to become involved in illicit and criminal activity.” Convictions for these offences carry a minimum sentence of ten years for the firearms and ammunition and a maximum life sentence for drugs possession. Court appearances in relation to this matter are anticipated in due course.

Operation Vega Q3 2024 Update

Tuesday, October 01,2024

Acting Superintendent Robert Cardwell, Tactical Support Division - By design, it was hoped that increased traffic enforcement through Operation Vega, would have had an impact on road traffic collisions (RTCs) and reduced the number of traffic offences. However, this has not proven to be the case, with between 4 and 6 RTCs being reported daily and reported traffic offences increasing. The majority of RTCs are single vehicle, followed by RTCs involving two or more vehicles. The causes of collisions are often avoidable. Unfortunately, most vehicle collisions are due to unsafe driving and riding habits like inattention, speeding and driving without due care and attention. Lower speeds mean fewer collisions while reaction times are increased, if traveling at a lower speed. Impaired driving is also a significant cause of collisions. Impaired driving numbers continue at a high rate. Individuals who engage in this practice risk not only their own lives, but the lives of every other road user as well. The culture of impaired driving in Bermuda is an unfortunate situation that policing alone will not get rid of. If you have been drinking, do not drive or ride. Road safety must be taken seriously and all road users must take responsibility for their driving behaviour. Cellular phone use while driving remains a common offence. Using a cellular phone while operating a vehicle is a distraction and the signs are clear when a person does this. These include suddenly swerving, travelling at a very low rate of speed and disobeying traffic signs and signals. If you are driving, put the phone down. This is a simple undertaking. If your phone rings and you must answer the call, pull over to the side of the road in a safe place to take the call. The Bermuda Police Service remains steadfast in its mission to make Bermuda safer. This includes on the roads.  To prevent a collision slow down, always drive sober, do not drive when stressed or tired, put your phone down and please wear your seatbelt and fasten your helmet.

Renewed Vehicle Theft Advisory

Tuesday, October 01,2024

In recent weeks, there have been a number of reports of cars being stolen from locations across the island. Prevention and deterrence are the best advice for all motor vehicle owners to adhere in order to not become a victim of vehicular theft. The Bermuda Police Services advises that you implement, where possible, the following measures to prevent against falling victim to vehicle theft. Keeping your doors locked is the first step in deterring a thief. It's good to get into the habit of double-checking that your vehicle's windows and doors are closed before leaving your car unattended. Never leave your keys in the ignition and also, do not leave your car running, even if you're just going into a store for a quick errand. A running vehicle may be an easy target for a thief, especially if it is unattended or unlocked. Keep your windows closed completely. A thief can simply reach into your car through an open window taking what they can reach or unlocking the door to gain full access to your vehicle and everything in it. If you can, avoid parking in areas that are poorly lit or places that are not immediately seen by passers-by. Parking under a light and in a well-trafficked area, may be deter a thief if they know they can easily be seen. It is recommended that you install an audible alarm system, if your car did not come with one. The noise emitted by an audible alarm if someone attempts to enter the vehicle, often the car's horn, attracts attention that may chase off a potential thief. If your car is stolen, contact the police immediately. MOTORCYCLES: Motorcycles are most frequently taken from car parks around the City of Hamilton but also from residential neighbourhoods. Typically, motorcycles are stolen for joy riding, stripping of their parts or in some instances, engaging in criminal activity. Again, always remove keys from the ignition, even if you intend on being away from your bike for only a short time. Remember to always use a secondary lock, that is, in addition to the handlebar lock. Where possible, the secondary lock should be used to attach the motorcycle to a fixed object.

Three Vehicle Paget Collision Witness Appeal

Thursday, September 26,2024

Shortly after 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, police, Bermuda Fire and Rescue along with Emergency Medical Services, attended a serious road traffic collision involving a motor car and two motorcycles near the junction of Ord Road and Norden Lane, Paget. Reports indicate the motorcar driven by a 64-year-old female, exited a private driveway and made a right turn to head east along Ord Road when a collision occurred with a motorcycle ridden by a 28-year-old male traveling in the opposite direction. The motorcycle rider then collided with a utility pole and sustained non-life-threatening injuries, to the right side of his body. A second motorcycle ridden by a 20-year-old male also struck the motorcar resulting in minor damage to both vehicles. Neither the motorcar driver nor the rider of the second motorcycle appeared to have been injured. The roadway was closed to vehicular traffic for approximately two hours while the collision scene was processed. The Bermuda Police Service wishes to thank the public for their patience and cooperation during this temporary road closure. An investigation into this incident is now underway and anyone with information is asked to contact Police Constable Jonathan Wood on 515-2157 or, via email, jwood@bps.bm. You may also call the main police number 295-0011 or, the non-emergency reporting number, 211.