A media release from the Ministry of Labour & Immigration said they are currently being detained pending deportation from the British Virgin Islands.

The media release said the operation to capture the Venezuelans was spearheaded by the territory’s joint security task force and lasted roughly two-and-a-half-hours.

“The operation resulted in the discovery of 72 persons living in the building. Among the persons found in the building were two male Venezuelan individuals who have overstayed the time permitted on their landing permits as visitors. The other 70 individuals found at the location were able to show proof that they are legally residing in the territory and were not detained,” the release said.

Thankful

In the meantime, Acting Chief Immigration Officer, Ian Penn thanked members of the public who alerted the department for the subsequent apprehension of the two men.

“Creating a safer community is the business of everyone who calls the BVI home, and we are encouraging the public to support law enforcement agencies. We are in this together with BVILOVE,” Penn stated.

He also expressed his gratitude to the Joint Task Force for their efforts.