A team of Bermuda Police officers is on the front line helping the devastated British Virgin Islands recover after a massive hit from Hurricane Irma.

The six-strong team was deployed to the BVI on September 17 to provide armed support to the policing operation in the UK Overseas Territory.

They were sworn in as special constables with the Royal British Virgin Islands Police Force and are helping local police, in partnership with the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service and UK troops.

The officers are carrying out patrols, responding to reports of looting and public disorder, providing escorts for bank cash movements and assisting with prisoner transfers.

Acting Commissioner of Police Paul Wright said: “The hurricanes severely damaged the infrastructure in the country and conditions there are challenging.

“However, our officers readily volunteered to serve and I am pleased to report that they are in good spirits and have been very warmly received by the Governor, the Commissioner of Police and the wider local community.”

The team is due to return on October 8 after completing its three-week deployment. They will be relieved by another six volunteers from Bermuda.