PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister Patrice Gumbs of the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) has issued a statement that demolition has commenced and will continue on Soualiga Drive, Pond Island. Occupants of the land were informed in September that they needed to vacate by December. Though the original demolition timeline was slated for early December, the recent holiday period was considered, which resulted in the date being postponed to January 8th, then again postponed, and finally executed. Although notice of the demolition was given in September, construction was observed to continue in October, prompting stop/removal orders that were also ignored.
The demolition operations, which began last week, are the result of a court verdict upholding the validity of a long-term lease on the parcel. The government must deliver the parcel free of structures, residents, or blockages. The focus of this demolition is on removing unauthorized structures, including multiple shacks, containers, abandoned vehicles, fencing, and gates on the property. "This action follows months of advance notice to occupants and stakeholders," said Minister of VROMI, Patrice Gumbs. "We have been communicating since September that this demolition will take place. When the teams arrived on January 8th to execute, the decision was made to give additional time for the residents to remove their belongings. Upon return, the site was still occupied, signaling that the notices of demolition weren’t taken seriously, and that’s very unfortunate; but at that stage Government has to execute the order of the court."
Prior to beginning demolition work, comprehensive documentation was completed, including photographic records of all structures. Inspectors conducted site assessments, and all relevant stakeholders, including GEBE and KPSM, were present to ensure safe and coordinated execution of the work.
Minister Gumbs also clarified that the demolition area does not fall within the scope of the Emergency Debris Management Project (EDMP) and, therefore, there is no question of compensation. Furthermore, contrary to reports, all established Project Affected Persons (PAPs) have been appropriately compensated.
Going forward, addressing the ongoing unauthorized occupation of Government land on Pond Island will be a part of the Ministry’s larger enhanced spatial planning and enforcement efforts. “While I recognize the right of everyone to decent housing, that right cannot be realized through squatting.”
“I want to thank the KPSM and all cooperating agencies whose presence and support enabled the safe execution of this operation.” Gumbs continued. He also thanked the departments within VROMI for their coordination.
Demolition activities will continue at the site this week.
Start the Year Strong” // An Interview-Style Conversation.
SAINT MARTIN:--- On January 17th, at Beth’s Aida Conference Room in Simpson Bay, BPW Concordia Saint-Martin launched its first Members in Motion session of the year with an inspiring interview-style conversation titled “Start the Year Strong.” The session was hosted and moderated by Luciana Yamamoto, a member of BPW Concordia Saint-Martin, who led a thoughtful and engaging exchange designed to inspire reflection, intention, and purposeful leadership.
With a warm, intentional approach, Luciana created a welcoming space for open dialogue, setting the tone for a strong, mindful start to the year.
Structured as a conversational interview rather than a traditional keynote, the session encouraged authentic exchange between the moderator, the guest, and participating members. This format allowed for meaningful interaction and deeper reflection throughout the discussion.
The guest speaker, Valérie Damaseau, shared her personal and professional journey, offering candid insights into resilience, commitment, and staying grounded while navigating leadership responsibilities. Guided by Luciana’s questions, the conversation explored themes such as starting the year with intention, redefining priorities, managing personal energy, embracing change, and remaining aligned with one’s values in professional and civic life.
Members were actively invited to participate, ask questions, and share their own experiences, reinforcing the strength of collective intelligence and peer support within the BPW network. The session highlighted the power of dialogue as a tool for growth, encouragement, and empowerment, emphasizing that starting the year strong also means creating space for reflection, adjustment, and mutual support.
This Members in Motion initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality) by promoting women’s leadership, amplifying women’s voices, and fostering inclusive spaces where women are supported in developing confidence, agency, and long-term impact within their communities.
Through sessions like this, BPW Concordia Saint-Martin continues to advance its mission to empower women, strengthen leadership pathways, and contribute to sustainable and equitable development at both local and global levels.
Minister Brug appoints Interim Inspector General.
PHILIPSBURG: --- The Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor hereby informs the public that an Interim Inspector General has been appointed, effective February 2, 2026, for a period of two (2) years.
After several years during which the Inspectorate of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (IVSA) operated without a permanent Inspector General, this appointment represents a significant and long-awaited step toward restoring effective oversight and enforcement. Minister Brug expresses his satisfaction that this longstanding matter has now been resolved and that continuity and leadership have been secured within this critical supervisory institution.
The Minister wishes to expressly commend the staff of the Inspectorate of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor for their resilience and professionalism in holding down the fort throughout this prolonged period without an Inspector General. Despite limited leadership capacity, the Inspectorate continued to carry out its mandate to the best of its ability, demonstrating a strong sense of duty and commitment to the public interest.
Minister Brug also extends sincere appreciation to Dr. Daphne Illis, who served on a temporary basis as Acting Inspector General. In addition, special thanks are extended to Ms. Fenna Arnell and the entire Department of Public Health, whose dedication and perseverance were instrumental in ensuring that, despite numerous challenges, the Inspectorate is once again under formal leadership.
It is important to note that the prolonged vacancy was largely due to structural constraints embedded in outdated legislation. Under current law, the Inspector General must be a qualified medical doctor or pharmacist. When combined with the salary framework applicable to the position, this requirement significantly narrowed the pool of eligible candidates, as no locally practicing medical professional could relinquish their existing role to assume the role. These circumstances further underscore the need for legislative modernization, which remains a priority of this administration.
The appointed Interim Inspector General, Dr. Alcala, was born and raised in Curaçao and studied Medicine at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. He brings extensive professional experience within the Caribbean region and has previously served as Interim Inspector General, equipping him with the expertise and contextual understanding required to lead during a period of reform.
In his capacity as Interim Inspector General, Dr. Alcala will provide strategic leadership and independent oversight to IVSA. His appointment forms part of a broader reform agenda focused on strengthening governance, enhancing supervisory capacity, and ensuring that laws and standards protecting workers, patients, and vulnerable populations are consistently and effectively upheld.
Dr. Alcala will work in close collaboration with the project team that commenced its activities in November 2025 under the Temporary Work Organization–funded IVSA Reform Project. This project aims to assess and improve the organization, execution, and effectiveness of the Inspectorate’s statutory mandate, while laying the foundation for a modern, professional, and independent supervisory authority.
Minister Brug reaffirms his commitment to moving beyond temporary measures toward sustainable institutional strengthening. The appointment of an Interim Inspector General is a responsible and necessary step to ensure stability, continuity, and progress while reforms are being implemented.
Deceased Man Discovered in Cay Hill.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) is currently investigating the discovery of a deceased man found along Hysopp Road in Cay Hill.
On Sunday, January 25, 2026, shortly after 6:00 a.m., Central Police Dispatch received multiple reports about a man lying unresponsive on the roadside in front of several residences. Upon arrival, officers confirmed that the individual showed no signs of life. The body was discovered in an open area.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the victim's death was not due to natural causes.
The Major Crime Investigation Team, along with detectives and forensic experts, is actively working on the scene to uncover the circumstances surrounding this incident.
At this time, no additional details are available. KPSM will release updates as the investigation progresses.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the Sint Maarten Police Force at +1 721 554 2222, 911, or via the anonymous tip line at 9300.
KPSM Press Release.
Drug Dealing Operation Dismantled in Sandy Ground – Heavy Sentences Delivered.
SAINT MARTIN:--- In a decisive move against drug trafficking, the court has handed down severe sentences to individuals involved in a drug-dealing operation in Sandy Ground. The verdicts, announced following a thorough investigation and trial, reflect the justice system's unwavering commitment to combating illegal drug activities.
Sentences Delivered:
- For the three main dealers:
- Prison terms ranging from six to seven years.
- Fines between €10,000 and €20,000.
- A 10-year ban from entering the territory.
- For their accomplice:
- A 30-month prison sentence.
- A prohibition on working in any capacity involving minors.
All four individuals remain in custody following the court's decision.
A Strong Message Against Drug Trafficking
These exemplary sentences underscore the firm stance taken by law enforcement and the judiciary in addressing drug-related crimes. The dismantling of this drug-dealing operation in Sandy Ground is a testament to the relentless efforts of the gendarmerie and the justice system to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law.
The case serves as a clear warning to those involved in drug trafficking: such activities will be met with severe consequences. Authorities reaffirm their dedication to eradicating drug-dealing networks and maintaining the security of the community.