SAINT-MARTIN:---  In response to recent public safety incidents, the Prefecture of Saint-Barthélemy and Saint-Martin has issued an immediate temporary ban on the use and sale of certain fireworks. The measure, announced on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, aims to curb dangerous behaviors during the New Year celebrations.

The decree strictly prohibits individuals from purchasing, selling, transferring, transporting, or using consumer fireworks classified under categories F2 and F3. This restriction applies across the entire territory of Saint-Martin and is effective immediately from December 30, 2025, through January 4, 2026.

According to the Prefecture, the decision follows a series of troubling events over recent nights where law enforcement officers were targeted with mortar fireworks. Officials described this behavior as unacceptable and emphasized the severe risks posed not only to the targeted officers but also to the individuals firing the devices, many of whom are minors.

"In order to guarantee the safety of people and property at the end of 2025," the press release stated, the administration felt compelled to intervene. The goal is to prevent accidents and maintain public order during a period traditionally marked by high festivity.

Law enforcement agencies have been fully mobilized to ensure strict compliance with the new regulations. The Prefecture warns that failure to adhere to the ban will result in sanctions.

While the administration recognizes the desire to celebrate the New Year, they are calling on the public to prioritize safety. The official statement urged residents to "reconcile celebrations and respect for safety rules so that the party remains a party."

For further information regarding this decree, the communication office can be reached at 06 90 71 53 73.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In the early morning hours of Monday, December 30, 2025, just before 3:00 AM, officers of the St. Maarten Police Force (KPSM) and personnel from the Fire Department responded to reports of a house fire in Ebenezer.

Upon arrival, emergency responders found the residence fully engulfed in flames. A preliminary assessment confirmed that all residents had safely evacuated the property before emergency services arrived.

Fire Department personnel acted swiftly to bring the blaze under control, preventing the fire from spreading to neighboring properties. One resident was subsequently treated at the scene by ambulance personnel for smoke inhalation.

The Forensic Department and Fire Department are currently conducting a joint investigation to determine the cause of the fire.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is informing the community about the results of intensive enforcement operations carried out by officers of KPSM between December 22 and December 28, 2025. These actions are part of KPSM’s ongoing efforts to reduce violent crime, remove illegal firearms from the streets, and improve public safety across the island.

During this period, officers of KPSM conducted preventive searches, traffic and scooter controls, hotspot patrols, and island-wide checkpoints. These operations resulted in arrests, the seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition, and extensive preventive controls.

Key Results and Performance Indicators

Over the past week, the following results were achieved:

• 17 scooters were impounded after operators failed to present the required documentation.
• 44 scooters stopped and inspected, with 17 taken into custody.
• 600 vehicles were checked during multiple checkpoints across the island.
• 40 vehicles were thoroughly searched based on the preventive search authority.
• 110 persons preventively searched under the Preventive Firearms Ordinance.
• 45 persons preventively searched due to group gatherings at identified hotspots.

Firearms, Ammunition, and Arrests

• One arrest for illegal possession of a Sig Sauer handgun (9mm).
• One .38 Special revolver was seized, along with 10 live rounds of ammunition.
• One extended magazine containing 12 live rounds was seized during a police pursuit.

These results highlight the effectiveness of the proactive, targeted approach taken by KPSM officers to remove dangerous weapons and ammunition from public spaces.

Operational Focus

Scooter and Traffic Controls
Scooter and vehicle controls remain a priority, as scooters are often used in the commission of violent crimes, including armed robberies. The impoundment of undocumented scooters demonstrates KPSM’s zero-tolerance approach. These controls will continue daily.

Preventive Searches and Hotspot Patrols
Through preventive searches and patrols in identified hotspot areas, KPSM officers continue to disrupt criminal activity and respond quickly to emerging threats.

 Clear Message to Criminals

The Police Force of Sint Maarten emphasizes that these enforcement actions are ongoing and will not stop. Controls, searches, and checkpoints will continue throughout the day and night and will intensify in the weeks ahead and into the new year. Anyone involved in serious crimes, illegal firearms possession, or drug-related activity will be investigated and arrested.

Community Cooperation

KPSM encourages residents and visitors to remain alert and to report suspicious behavior. Information from the public is essential in keeping our community safe.

 Police Line: +1 (721) 554-2222
 Anonymous Tip Line: 9300

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) would like to take the opportunity inform the public about a second arrest, in the armed scooter robbery that occurred on December 28, 2025, in the Kimsha Beach area.

On Monday morning, December 29, 2025, the second suspect in the robbery voluntarily surrendered to the Philipsburg Police Station. The suspect has been identified by the initials K.A.T.H.

Officers immediately accompanied K.A.T.H. to the location where he claimed to have left the stolen scooter. However, upon arrival, it was discovered that unknown individuals had already removed the scooter from that location.

KPSM detectives are actively investigating this incident and working to recover the stolen scooter. Both suspects are now in custody, and the investigation continues.

The KPSM commends the suspect for surrendering and reminds the community that cooperation with law enforcement is always the best course of action.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of the stolen scooter is urged to contact the Police Force of Sint Maarten at +1 (721) 554-2222 or use our confidential tip line at 9300.

KPSM Press Release.