Two Red Bar Security Officers Arrested with Loaded Illegal Firearms

Wilkie Arthur 

Eagle Legal News Media

Turks and Caicos, October 8, 2024 – Eagle Legal News has learned that two individuals, identified as Jimmy Sylvavaiut and Ose Joseph, were arrested for possession of illegal firearms. Both men are allegedly security officers at the popular Red Bar, a night club.

Earlier this year, Eagle Legal News reported a series of robberies targeting patrons of the Red Bar. Customers had been held at gunpoint, losing cash, jewelry, phones, and occasionally their vehicles. The bar itself was also the scene of violent robberies, where everyone inside was held up, and a security guard was critically injured after being shot.

Due to the ongoing threats, the owners of Red Bar reportedly hired armed security personnel to maintain order and protect the establishment. While Eagle Legal News attempted to reach the owners for a comment, they were unavailable throughout the day.

Following the arrests, several individuals contacted Eagle Legal News to share that security at Red Bar had markedly improved under the watch of the two officers. One patron mentioned, “Those security guys weren’t taking any nonsense. They acted like they had licensed guns and really kept the place in order. We thought they were licensed.”

Official Police Statement on the firearms arrest.

On the evening of October 3rd, an intelligence-led operation aimed at curbing drug trafficking, human trafficking, prostitution, and illegal firearms was conducted at a business off South Dock Road, Providenciales. Shortly before 11 PM, officers from various units within the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force raided the establishment.

During the operation, two illegal firearms and several rounds of ammunition were seized. Two male security guards remain in custody as investigations continue.

Acting Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams expressed his appreciation for the officers’ bravery, stating, “This recent firearms seizure is expected to significantly reduce violent crimes, particularly homicides and burglaries involving firearms. My deepest gratitude goes out to the officers who risked their safety for the protection of the Turks and Caicos Islands. This marks the third illegal firearm seizure within 24 hours.”

He also acknowledged the public’s role, adding, “I thank those who have come forward with information. Your vigilance in reporting suspicious activity is crucial in our efforts to keep our communities safe. We remain committed to seizing illegal firearms and relentlessly pursuing those involved in criminal activity.”

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force urges anyone with information on illegal firearms to contact the nearest police station, call 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or anonymously reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477. Alternatively, information can be shared via the Crime Stoppers P3 app.

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