PHILIPSBURG:--- A visiting tourist was robbed Wednesday evening in front of the Horizon View Hotel on Front Street, in the heart of Philipsburg, while waiting for friends to take him out to dinner.
According to witnesses, the visitor was standing near the hotel entrance shortly after sunset when an unknown individual approached and forcibly took personal belongings before fleeing the area. The incident left nearby business owners and shoppers visibly shaken.
Local merchants say the robbery highlights a troubling trend of increased street crime in Philipsburg’s main commercial zone — a concern that has been growing over recent months.
“It’s extremely discouraging,” said one store owner who witnessed the commotion. “This is the center of our tourism industry, and it keeps happening right in front of our businesses.”
Several business operators along Front Street say they now close earlier and have increased private security measures to protect staff and visitors.
“People come here to enjoy themselves, not to be afraid,” said another merchant. “Incidents like this are bad for everyone — the hotels, the shops, and the reputation of St. Maarten as a safe vacation spot.”
Shoppers nearby expressed frustration that the situation appears to be worsening, even in well-lit, busy areas.
“It could have been any of us,” one resident said. “It’s time for serious action before the town loses its appeal completely.”
As the high tourism season approaches, business owners say they hope for swift measures to restore safety and confidence in Philipsburg’s downtown area — once considered one of the island’s safest and most vibrant destinations.