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.

To: Chairpersons of the Parliaments of Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten
Subject: Request for Agenda Inclusion and Speaking Rights at IPKO February 2026
A coalition of youth representatives from the six Caribbean islands and the Caribbean community in the Netherlands has issued an urgent appeal to the parliamentary leaders of Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten. The request centers on the upcoming Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultation (IPKO), scheduled for February 17, 2026, in Aruba. The group seeks to address the climate crisis as a shared responsibility within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and to advocate for structural solutions that ensure the rights and safety of Caribbean residents.
Climate as a Shared Responsibility
The youth representatives emphasize the existential threat posed by the climate crisis to the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. While the Netherlands benefits from robust frameworks like the Delta Act and consistent financial support for climate adaptation, the Caribbean islands lack similar guarantees. This disparity leaves Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten vulnerable, as they are unable to independently access critical international climate funds due to their constitutional status within the Kingdom.
The group highlights the upcoming court ruling on January 28, 2026, in the climate case brought by eight Bonaire residents and Greenpeace against the Dutch State. This case underscores the need for a Kingdom-wide climate adaptation plan developed in close collaboration with local communities. The youth representatives view this as a precedent for safeguarding human rights through the Kingdom’s guarantee function (Article 43 of the Charter), while respecting local autonomy and self-determination.
Local Expertise and Scientific Collaboration
The Caribbean islands are home to a wealth of talent and expertise in climate science and adaptation. Initiatives like the Feelin’ Hot Tool demonstrate the capacity for local innovation, but these efforts often remain limited to short-term projects. The youth representatives argue for a structural approach to climate adaptation, rooted in collaboration across the Kingdom. They call for the Netherlands to facilitate resources while allowing the islands to lead, in line with the principle of mutual assistance (Article 36 of the Charter).
Formal Requests
The youth representatives formally request the following:
1. Agenda Inclusion: That climate adaptation and the implications of the upcoming Bonaire climate case ruling be added as a permanent agenda item for the IPKO meeting on February 17, 2026.
2. Speaking Opportunity: That Oriana Wouters, a youth representative from Aruba, be granted 5-10 minutes to present the local perspective during the opening of this agenda item.
A Call for Kingdom-Wide Action
The youth representatives stress that the IPKO is the ideal platform to address the Kingdom’s shared climate challenges. They urge the parliamentary leaders to seize this opportunity to foster collaboration and ensure a sustainable future for all parts of the Kingdom.
Signatories:
• Oriana Wouters (Aruba)
• Terence Ching (Curaçao)
• Riddhi Samtani (Sint Maarten)
Representing Caribbean Youth within the Kingdom
Footnotes
1. At COP30, international agreements were made to significantly increase financial resources for climate adaptation. However, the constitutional status of the CAS countries within the Kingdom limits their direct access to these funds, leaving them reliant on the Dutch government’s policies.
2. See also: Misiedjan, D.J.E. (2021). "Separate but equal in the protection against climate change? The legal framework of climate justice for the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands."
This appeal underscores the urgency of addressing climate justice and adaptation as a Kingdom-wide priority, ensuring that no part of the Kingdom is left behind in the fight against the climate crisis.

PHILIPSBURG:--- With fresh topics and familiar goals, the Cyber Senior workshop series returns for another 8-month session. This initiative empowers mature adults to engage, explore, and excel with today’s digital tools, technologies, and resources that enhance their well-being.
Registration opens on Monday, January 26, 2026, and will close on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Classes begin on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Belvedere Estate #3, Belvedere Satellite.”
Our dedicated Cyber Senior Media Coaches look forward to welcoming both new and returning students to a program rich with learning, growth, and opportunity. To register, contact the Sint Maarten Library at +1-721-542-2970 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Enrollment is limited, so early registration is recommended.
Empower yourself or a loved one with essential digital skills that promote independence, convenience, and meaningful connection. Join the Cyber Senior Program and take the next step toward digital confidence.
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PHILIPSBURG:--- The National Alliance Party congratulates St. Maarten’s very own Michael Peters on his appointment as Operations Director at Princess Juliana International Airport.

Michael’s story is one we love to see. He started out as a summer employee and, through hard work, discipline, and commitment, worked his way up to one of the most important operational roles at our national airport. That kind of growth does not happen by chance. It happens when talent meets opportunity and when people are willing to put in the work.

As a son of the soil, Michael Peters is proof that local professionals can lead at the highest levels when they are given the chance. His deep knowledge of the airport and steady rise through the ranks show the value of investing in people who understand our institutions and care about doing the job right.

The National Alliance believes strongly in empowering our own. Building St. Maarten means trusting local talent, supporting growth, and creating pathways for our people to succeed. Michael’s appointment sends a positive message to young people across the island that dedication and perseverance truly matter.

We wish Michael Peters continued success as he takes on this important responsibility at the heart of our country’s main gateway.