PHILIPSBURG:---  Customs Sint Maarten intercepted 20 kilograms of cocaine during an inspection of an in-transit container vessel at Port St. Maarten on April 18, 2026. The seizure ultimately led to the arrest of two suspects in the Netherlands on suspicion of involvement in the importation of the narcotics.

The cocaine was discovered inside a sports bag concealed in an apparently empty container destined for the Netherlands. Following the discovery, the Prosecutor's Office Sint Maarten authorized the use of special investigative powers and requested that the Dutch authorities continue the investigation.

The container vessel arrived in the Netherlands on May 5, 2026, where it was inspected by Dutch authorities as part of the ongoing investigation. The investigation was subsequently taken over by the HARC Team (Hit and Run Cargo Team), a multidisciplinary partnership comprising Dutch Customs, the Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD), the Seaport Police, and the Dutch Prosecution Service.

The investigation resulted in the arrest of two suspects in the Netherlands. The narcotics have since been destroyed.

This case highlights the close cooperation between customs and law enforcement authorities within the Kingdom in combating international drug trafficking and disrupting criminal networks that seek to use maritime cargo routes for the transport of illegal narcotics.

No further information can be provided at this time in the interest of the ongoing investigation.

PHILIPSBURG:---The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is investigating a serious incident that occurred during the early morning hours of Tuesday, June 30, 2026, in the Cole Bay area, during which police officers came under gunfire while responding to a report of an attempted theft.

Just after 4:00 a.m., a police patrol was dispatched to Union Road in Cole Bay after the Police Central Dispatch received reports that unknown individuals were attempting to steal a scooter/motorcycle.

Upon arriving at the scene, officers immediately began investigating the situation. During their investigation, they were confronted by two suspects dressed in dark clothing. As soon as the suspects noticed the officers, a firearm was brandished by the suspects in the direction of the officers.

Faced with an immediate threat to their lives, the officers were forced to fire in order to protect themselves. The suspects returned fire after the officers while fleeing the scene.

The two suspects then fled the scene on foot into nearby bushes. Responding officers immediately conducted an extensive search of the surrounding area, but despite these efforts, the suspects managed to evade capture. The investigation into their identities and whereabouts remains ongoing.

Thankfully, neither of the responding officers was injured during the incident. However, the experience was a traumatic one, and both officers were understandably shaken.

Incidents such as this, in which criminals are willing to use firearms against police officers, demonstrate a blatant disregard for human life and pose a serious threat not only to officers but also to the safety of the entire community.

The Police Force of Sint Maarten strongly condemns these heinous criminal acts against officers who risk their lives to protect the community of Sint Maarten. Attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated, and every available resource is being used to identify and arrest those responsible. Detectives are investigating this shooting incident

KPSM urges anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the Cole Bay area during the early morning hours of Tuesday, June 30, or anyone with information regarding this incident or the recent series of robberies and thefts to come forward.

Members of the public are asked to contact the Police Dispatch at +1 (721) 542-2222 or call the anonymous Tip Line at 9300. Every piece of information, no matter how small it may seem, could prove crucial in identifying and apprehending those responsible.

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset celebrated an evening of inspiration, recognition, fellowship, and new beginnings at its annual Change of Board Ceremony held on June 20, 2026, at Mélange, Port de Plaisance. The elegant "50 Shades of Green"- themed event marked the conclusion of President Alex Pierre's successful Rotary year and the installation of President Jade Maccow for the 2026–2027 Rotary year.

The evening was masterfully hosted by Charles Rollan and Luciana Raspail, whose energy and enthusiasm helped create a memorable celebration for members, guests, sponsors, and community partners.

Reflecting on the club's theme, "Helping Hands, Touching Hearts, Changing Lives," President Pierre highlighted a year filled with impactful projects in literacy, youth development, healthcare, environmental stewardship, and community service. The club also celebrated several accomplishments, including recognition from Rotary District 7020 and the prestigious Platinum EPIC Award for excellence in public image and community engagement.

Members were recognized for their commitment and participation throughout the year, with Silver, Gold, and Platinum Attendance Awards presented to Rotarians who achieved 50% or higher attendance at club meetings, fellowship events, and service projects.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of Paul Harris Fellow and Multiple Paul Harris Fellow recognition. Several club members were honored for their continued support of The Rotary Foundation, while Gold and Platinum Sponsors Guillaume Gorlier, Guillaume Gumbs, and Joy Carty were recognized as Paul Harris Fellows for their generosity and unwavering support of the club. In a touching tribute, Rotarians Magdiona Gumbs and Krystel Davis presented Paul Harris Fellow recognition to their mothers, Bernice Gumbs and Glenda Smith Groeneveldt, celebrating lives dedicated to service, compassion, and giving back.

The club also proudly welcomed Tamara Leonard as an Honorary Member, recognizing her steadfast support and dedication to Rotary.

President Pierre's highest individual awards were presented to:
• Fellowship Silver Award – Krystel Davis
• Board Member of the Year Gold Award – Jamila Boirard
• Rotarian of the Year Platinum Award– Assistant Governor and Club Secretary Elisia Lake

As he concluded his term, President Pierre thanked members, sponsors, and community partners for helping make the year a success and reminded attendees that the true legacy of Rotary is found in lives touched through service.

Incoming President Jade Maccow shared an inspiring vision for the year ahead under Rotary International's theme, "Creating Lasting Impact." Drawing on her passion as an educator, she emphasized empowering youth, promoting literacy, fostering mentorship, supporting entrepreneurship, and strengthening communities through meaningful and sustainable service. She challenged members to continue dreaming boldly, serving passionately, and working together to create opportunities that will leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

The incoming Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 Rotary year includes:
• President – Jade Maccow
• Immediate Past President & Treasurer – Alex Pierre
• President-Elect – Cheryl Dangleben-York
• Vice President, President Nominee and Public Image Chair – Kathy Africa
• Secretary – Jamila Boirard
• Rotary Foundation Chair – Kimberley Duzong
• Sergeant-at-Arms – Fabiana Beauperthuy-Richardson
• Youth Service Chair – Elisia Lake
• Club Learning Facilitator – Franklyn Salomons
• Disaster Relief and Environment Chair – Antoine Flanders
• Membership Chair – Billy Jean-Baptiste
• Service Projects Chair – Krystel Davis
• Club Administration Chair – Marilyn Clark-Waterfort
• Fundraising Chair – Norrisa Anatol
• Wellness Chair – Stuart Johnson

The evening concluded with fellowship, silent auctions, and exciting door prize giveaways. The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, donors, supporters, and guests whose generosity helped make the celebration a tremendous success and whose continued support strengthens the club's ability to serve communities throughout St. Maarten.

As the club enters its eighth year of service, members remain committed to creating opportunities, empowering future leaders, and making a lasting impact through Service Above Self.

PHILIPSBURG:--- At NV GEBE, we know that rebuilding trust begins with open, honest, and consistent communication. Today, Tuesday, June 30, we want to reaffirm our commitment to communicating directly with our customers as we continue working together toward a stronger relationship and a brighter future for our community.

Our priority is simple: to ensure every customer receives clear, accurate, and timely information directly from us about their accounts, available support, payment options, and the steps we are taking together to help customers become current with their payments.

As part of this customer-focused approach, we have decided to discontinue further discussions with the Association for Consumer Protection St. Maarten (ACP-SXM). Instead, we will communicate directly with our customers and the public through our official communication channels and the media, ensuring that the information you receive comes directly from NV GEBE.

When we first met with ACP-SXM, our intentions were sincere. We hoped to help bridge the gap that had developed between NV GEBE and our customers while finding constructive ways to provide greater clarity, support and service. Unfortunately, following our initial meeting and the subsequent public discussions, we concluded that this process was no longer helping to reduce uncertainty or provide the clarity our customers deserve.

Rather than bringing reassurance, the situation created additional confusion and concern for many customers who are simply seeking straightforward answers about their bills, their accounts and the way forward.

"Our responsibility is first and foremost to our customers," said Temporary Manager Iris Arrindell. "We are entrusted with providing reliable electricity and water services, but we also have a responsibility to communicate with empathy, transparency and honesty. At this stage, we believe the best way to rebuild trust is by speaking directly with our customers and ensuring they receive accurate information from NV GEBE."

We recognize that many customers continue to have questions and concerns following the challenges of recent years. We understand that trust is not rebuilt overnight; it is earned through consistent actions, respectful communication, and a genuine commitment to serving our community.

Our immediate focus is helping customers become current with their 2026 utility payments. While our collection policy remains in place, our goal is to work alongside customers by providing a clear, manageable path toward bringing current accounts up to date.

Once customers have addressed their 2026 obligations, we will introduce a separate approach to assist those who continue to have outstanding balances from the 2022 through 2025 period.

"This approach provides clarity and structure," Arrindell explained. "We want customers to clearly understand their current obligations first. Once those accounts are brought current, we will work with customers on addressing older balances from 2022 to 2025 through a separate plan."

We also encourage customers to rely on official NV GEBE information rather than rumors or unofficial interpretations of company policies. Every customer's situation is unique, and the most accurate guidance can only come directly from our Customer Care team.

In addition, we encourage everyone to remain mindful of the global factors that continue to influence the cost of producing electricity and water. International fuel prices, supply chain conditions, and geopolitical developments directly affect utility operations worldwide, including here in St. Maarten.

"We encourage our customers to be conscious of what is happening globally," Arrindell said. "Electricity and water are essential services that we all depend on, but they are also costly to produce. By using these resources wisely and conserving where possible, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future."

We remain committed to serving the people of St. Maarten with transparency, accountability and respect. As we continue moving forward together, we encourage customers to contact NV GEBE directly through our official Customer Care channels for information regarding their accounts, payment arrangements or any questions they may have.

Together, through open communication and mutual understanding, we can continue rebuilding trust and creating a stronger future for our community.