PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Justice informs the public that it is deploying additional law enforcement support on Sint Maarten as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen operational capacity and increase enforcement against criminal activity.
Members of the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps are currently supporting the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) during control operations across the island. Members of the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (KMar) are expected to join these operations this week, further reinforcing the available capacity.
The deployment follows a formal request by Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling to the Dutch Ministry of Defense for additional support to complement local law enforcement efforts. The request forms part of the Ministry’s broader approach to strengthening enforcement capacity, increasing the visible presence of law enforcement, and providing KPSM with additional resources to address priority areas of concern.
The joint operations include general checks, traffic controls, and targeted stops and searches of individuals and vehicles, with particular attention to detecting illegal firearms and narcotics. All activities are carried out in coordination with KPSM and within the applicable legal authorities and procedures.
The additional personnel provide KPSM with increased operational capacity on the ground, and support intensified efforts to address criminal offenses, particularly illegal firearm possession and drug trafficking.
The Ministry of Justice remains focused on ensuring that the necessary partnerships and resources are mobilized to support local law enforcement and strengthen public safety. Cooperation with Kingdom partners is one tool being used to reinforce these efforts while continuing to build Sint Maarten’s justice capacity.
The Ministry of Justice and KPSM ask residents and visitors to cooperate during these operations. Motorists are requested to follow the instructions of personnel carrying out the controls and to take possible delays into account.
Anyone with information concerning illegal firearms, drug trafficking, or other criminal activity is encouraged to contact KPSM at +1 721 542 2222 or provide information anonymously through the tip line at 9300. In an emergency, call 911.