ROAD TOWN, Tortola:--- Two men accused of lying to cops after landing in the territory illegally were next to tears on Friday (November 15) as they pleaded with the court to send them back to their country so they can reunite with their families.
The men, who gave their names as Vincent Hodge and Dany Griffiths, stated that they are from St Maarten.
They were before the Magistrate's Court on charges of landing in the territory without leave from an immigration officer, causing a vessel to arrive at a place other than a Customs port, and giving false information to the police.
The two pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Allegations are that on November 12, police marine base received information that a disabled vessel was in the vicinity of Norman Island. The officers responded and, on their arrival, they met the two accused in a 24ft vessel.
While questioned by the police, they explained that their fishing boat developed engine problem and drifted into BVI waters.
The police said, when the boat was examined, no fish or fishing gears were found. They also found no weapon.
It was said that the officers however received information that the men came into the territory from the day before.
They were then arrested on suspicion of landing without leave.
During an interview the men reportedly admitted that they came ashore, but only to purchase fuel from a gas station in Baugher's Bay.
Griffiths, in court on Friday, pleaded with Senior Magistrate Tamia Richards to reverse her decision to remand them in custody, saying that his family doesn't know whether he is dead or alive.
"I never went to prison; I can't go back. I have a son who is 7 months and a daughter who is two years. I don't have any reason to lie to all a you; my name is Dany Griffiths. If you want to deport us, deport us and I will never come back," he appealed.
He explained that he and his friend Hodge were fishing in St. Maarten waters when the boat, which only had one engine, ran out of gas.
Griffiths further stated that, on seeing that the gas was finished, they decided to anchor the vessel.
But, soon afterwards, it began taking on water.
"We threw out the fish and said let's leave it up to God," he continued.
Griffiths explained that, some time later, they saw another vessel heading into the territory.
He said the captain of the other vessel decided to pull them into the BVI so they could purchase gas.
Griffiths further told the court that, since they were arrested, neither of them has been able to get even a phone call to their families back home.
The Magistrate ordered that the men be remanded and seek legal representation. They are schedule to return to court on December 13.
BVI News Online
