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CBP seized two Zaviar Z-15 Rifles and two .556 high capacity magazines. The firearms were turned over to Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation. By. CBP
ST. THOMAS — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced Friday that its Field Operations Officers (OFO) intercepted a total of 2 firearms and high-capacity magazines arriving Thursday at the Cyril E. King Airport.
“CBP officers remain vigilant to detect and intercept weapons being brought into our islands,” stated Todd Bellew, Area Port Director, Office of Field Operations for the USVI. “Our CBP officers continue to work with the VIPD to ensure that firearms are legally entered into the territory”.
According to CBP, a duffle bag with a locked case when opened revealed two Zaviar Z-15 Rifles and two .556 high capacity magazines. The firearms were turned over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for further investigation.
“We must work together to ensure a safe environment for residents of the US Virgin Islands by stopping the flow of illegal weapons entered into the territory,” stated Keridon Williams, Resident Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “HSI is steadfast in its commitment to working in partnership with CBP, the Virgin Islands Police Department, and other federal and local partners in stemming gun violence in the territory by seizing firearms, investigating, and arresting those individuals smuggling illegal weapons into the territory.”
No further information on the investigation was provided.
CBP said its mission is to safeguard America’s borders thereby protecting the public from dangerous people and materials while enhancing the Nation’s global economic competitiveness by enabling legitimate trade and travel.
