The Prime Minister of the British Virgin Islands is being held in Miami for drug smuggling and money laundering
- Andrew Fahie, 51, is Minister of Finance and Prime Minister of the British Virgin Island
- He was arrested in Miami for money laundering and drug smuggling
- Secretary of State Liz Truss said she was “appalled by these serious allegations.”
The prime minister of the British Virgin Islands was arrested in the US last night on drug trafficking and money laundering charges.
Andrew Fahie, 51, who also serves as the territory’s Treasury Secretary, was arrested in Miami on money laundering charges and conspiracy to import a controlled drug.
Secretary of State Liz Truss said she was “appalled by these serious allegations,” which also follow an investigation into embezzlement by officials.
She said last night: “I spoke to the Governor of the British Virgin Islands (the Queen’s representative on the territory) and he will be holding an emergency meeting of the territory’s cabinet… He will (today) determine the next steps. including urgent publication of the investigation report.’
Andrew Fahie (pictured), 51, who also serves as the territory’s Treasury Secretary, was arrested in Miami on money laundering charges and conspiracy to import a controlled drug
Secretary of State Liz Truss (pictured) said she was “appalled by these serious allegations,” which also follow an investigation into embezzlement by officials
In September 2021, Fahie supported a “self-determination” referendum that could see the removal of the Queen as head of state of the British Virgin Islands.
The move came after then-Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab ordered an investigation into allegations that party officials had embezzled taxpayer money sent to support the islands after hurricanes.
The independent investigation was announced in January 2021. “The BVI are not corrupt,” Mr. Fahie said at the time.
“Anyone making this statement is attempting to damage the reputation of the BVI and is an irresponsible person.”
Mr Rankin said last night: “I realize this will be shocking news for people in the area. I would ask for silence at this point.’