PHILIPSBURG: --- The St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry (COCI) wishes to inform the public of an incident involving an unauthorized container that was placed on the Pelican Park property without the Chamber’s knowledge or approval.
COCI became aware of the matter through reports circulating on social media indicating that the container contained spoiled meat and was emitting a strong, offensive odor, posing a potential public health concern.
Upon learning of the situation, the Chamber acted promptly to address the issue. The owner of the container was contacted and requested to take responsibility for its removal and the cleanup of the affected area. While efforts were made to have the responsible party resolve the matter, the Chamber ultimately ensured that the container was removed and that the area was thoroughly cleaned and sanitized in the interest of public health, safety, and the preservation of the Pelican Park property.
COCI wishes to make it unequivocally clear that stricter measures will be enforced regarding the use of its property. Effective immediately, any containers, equipment, vehicles, materials, or other items placed on the Pelican Park property without the Chamber’s express authorization will be subject to immediate removal at the owner’s expense, where applicable.
The Chamber further reminds the public that no individual, business, organization, or third party has the authority to grant permission to place any object on Pelican Park property. Authorization for the use of Chamber property may only be granted directly by the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
COCI remains committed to maintaining a safe, clean, and orderly environment for the business community and the general public. The Chamber appreciates the cooperation of all stakeholders in respecting and adhering to these requirements.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) wants to make the community aware of a serious incident that took place on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 — the theft of a firearm belonging to one of KPSM officers.

According to preliminary findings, an unknown suspect broke into the officer's personal vehicle, parked in the Cole-bay area, searched through it, and made off with the officer's legally owned firearm.

Given the gravity of this situation, KPSM has launched a full-scale investigation, bringing together the Detective Department and other internal and external judicial partners. KPSM is leaving no stone unturned in our effort to recover the stolen weapon, identify those responsible, and ensure they face justice.

We want to be clear: an illegally possessed firearm in the wrong hands is a direct threat to everyone in our community. Getting this weapon off the streets is one of our highest priorities right now.

If you saw anything suspicious around the time of this incident, or if you've heard anything that might be connected, please reach out to us. No piece of information is too small. What seems minor to you could be exactly what breaks this case open.

You can contact us through the following:

Police Tip Line: 9300

Police Dispatch Center: +1 (721) 542-2222

Anonymous tips are welcome

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  The Collective Prevention Service (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), is encouraging men across Sint Maarten to make their health a priority by taking advantage of preventive healthcare services and regular medical check-ups during Men's Health Month.

Men's Health Month, observed annually in June, seeks to raise awareness about preventable health conditions affecting men and boys and to encourage healthy lifestyle choices that can lead to longer, healthier lives.

One of the most important messages of Men's Health Month is the value of preventive healthcare. Many serious health conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, and kidney disease, can develop gradually and without noticeable symptoms. Regular health screenings and routine medical examinations can help detect these conditions early, when treatment is often more effective and health outcomes are generally better.

CPS notes that many men are less likely than women to seek medical attention unless they are experiencing symptoms or a health emergency. However, waiting until symptoms appear can sometimes mean that a condition has already progressed. Preventive healthcare focuses on identifying risk factors and health concerns before they become serious medical problems.

Men are encouraged to schedule regular visits with their healthcare provider and discuss important health screenings based on their age, family history, and individual risk factors. Routine health assessments may include blood pressure checks, blood sugar testing, cholesterol screening, weight management evaluations, and discussions about heart health and cancer prevention.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also an essential part of preventive health. CPS encourages men to adopt habits that promote overall well-being, including eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular physical activity, getting adequate sleep, avoiding tobacco products, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing stress in healthy ways.

Preventive healthcare not only benefits individuals but also families and communities. When men take care of their health, they are better able to support their families, participate in community life, remain productive in the workplace, and enjoy a higher quality of life.

CPS also encourages family members, friends, employers, and community organizations to support and promote men's health initiatives. Open conversations about health and wellness can help reduce stigma and encourage men to seek medical advice when needed.

"Men's Health Month serves as an important reminder that good health begins with prevention," CPS stated. "Taking time for regular check-ups and health screenings is an investment in one's future. Early detection and healthy lifestyle choices can prevent many illnesses and help men live longer, healthier lives."

As Men's Health Month continues throughout June, CPS encourages all men to take proactive steps toward protecting their health and to speak with their healthcare provider about preventive care and recommended health screenings.

Persons seeking additional information should contact their family physician or CPS at telephone numbers: 542-1570 or 542-1222.

PHILIPSBURG:---- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is seeking the community's assistance in locating a missing 16-year-old female, identified as Fabrisha Matilda.

On Wednesday, June 17, 2026, the teenager's father reported to the Philipsburg Police Station that his daughter had been missing since Tuesday, June 16, 2026. According to the report, Fabrisha was last seen after leaving school at approximately 9:00 a.m. in the South Reward area.

Fabrisha Matilda is described as having a brown complexion, black hair, and brown eyes, and wearing braces. Anyone who may have seen Fabrisha or who has information regarding her whereabouts is urgently requested to contact the Philipsburg Police Station.

KPSM also wishes to make a direct appeal to Fabrisha: if you see this message, please contact your family or the nearest police station as soon as possible to let them know that you are safe.

Community cooperation is essential to ensuring the safe return of this young person.

Contact Information:

Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM)
Philipsburg Police Station
Tel: +1 (721) 542-2222