PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina has extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Sint Maarten following the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died peacefully at the age of 88 on Easter Monday in the Vatican.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Mercelina paid tribute to the late pontiff’s legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and tireless service to the world’s most vulnerable.

“Pope Francis was more than the head of the Catholic Church—he was a global moral compass,” said Prime Minister Mercelina. “His powerful calls for justice, dignity, and mercy reached far beyond religious lines and offered hope to millions, including the faithful here in Sint Maarten.”

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the deep sorrow felt across the island by the local Catholic community.

“I extend special condolences to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Willemstad and to the clergy and parishioners of Sint Maarten who are grieving the loss of their spiritual father,” Dr. Mercelina said. “The island’s Catholic faithful are united in prayer and remembrance, mourning a Pope who inspired us to be more just, more merciful, and more united as one human family.”

“His Holiness modeled the type of servant leadership that all leaders should aspire to—humble, courageous, and driven by love,” the Prime Minister continued. “Even in the face of global crises, he offered steady wisdom and never ceased to challenge us to care for ‘our common home.’”

Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and the first Latin American Pope, leaves behind a transformative papacy grounded in humility, compassion, and reform. His death marks the end of an era, but his teachings and message will live on.

“Sint Maarten mourns with the world,” Prime Minister Mercelina concluded. “Let us honor Pope Francis not only by remembering him but by living the values he preached—solidarity, forgiveness, and hope.”

POINTE BLANCHE: --- 

Reports reaching SMN News this Easter Monday state that prisoners that are housed at the Pointe Blanche Prison began striking since Good Friday.

According to information provided, the prisoners began action when their rights to special meals on public holidays were violated.

SMN News understands that the food being served at the prison is not what is expected.
Reports are that spoiled food was served this Easter Monday, which worsened the situation. Further investigations revealed that some prisoners were fed “tilapia” fish on Good Friday.

 SMN News further understands that several of the prisoners are ill, and they have been asking to see the doctor on duty or a nurse. The source said the doctor never reported visiting the sick inmates, while the nurse went to the facility for about 20 minutes, distributed paracetamol, and then left.

Another complaint was that prison guards reporting to work should not be fed prisoners' meals, but recently, these guards, who are working for very low wages, have also had to be fed prisoners' meals.

SMN News contacted the Minister of Justice, Natalie Tackling, to comment on the ongoing situation. The Minister said she was not informed of the latest developments. The Minister promised to look into the recent developments and will provide an update later.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) conducted a series of coordinated operations over the long Good Friday and Easter weekend to enhance public safety, ensure traffic compliance, and prepare for the upcoming Carnival season.

Throughout the weekend, the KPSM team executed a combination of static and rolling controls and strategically incorporated drone surveillance to monitor vehicle and scooter activity around major intersections and roundabouts. These operations were part of a wider effort to tackle unsafe road behaviors and reinforce law and order in hotspot areas.

A significant focus was placed on addressing scooter-related violations, particularly in known gathering points such as the Boardwalk, Mullet Bay, and key roads across the island. During controls on the Boardwalk:

Six (6) scooters were intercepted

Three (3) fines were issued

Four (4) scooters were confiscated due to failure to meet technical and documentation requirements.

With the use of drones, officers could actively monitor vehicles and scooters approaching and departing from major roundabouts, allowing for a proactive response.

Additional controls occurred at several busy locations, including Welfare Road, Bush Road, and Simpson Bay. Across these areas:

Seventy-eight (78) vehicles were checked

Eight (8) fines were issued

Three (3) scooters were confiscated

Furthermore, in the early morning of Monday, April 21, 2025, KPSM executed a targeted control operation in the Defiance area near the gentlemen’s club, due to ongoing concerns about illicit activities and recent firearms-related incidents. This action demonstrates KPSM's proactive stance in addressing public safety threats in high-risk zones.

In addition to confiscated scooters, officers also seized narcotics and a firearm, leading to further investigations.

As part of the Easter weekend enforcement, KPSM also conducted a control at the stoplights at the intersections formed by Bush Road, W.J.A. Nisbeth Road, A.T. Illidge Road, and Longwall Road.

During this initiative, nine (9) vehicles were stopped, and fines were issued for running red lights—a dangerous violation that significantly increases the risk of accidents and injuries.

These comprehensive actions are part of KPSM's continued efforts to promote safety and order in the lead-up to the official opening of the 2025 Carnival season.

KPSM strongly warns the public that any activities posing a threat to general safety during the Carnival period will be dealt with severely. The Police Force urges all citizens and visitors to adhere to the laws and regulations in place and cooperate with law enforcement during this festive time.

KPSM remains committed to protecting the community and ensuring a safe and enjoyable Carnival season.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) proudly acknowledges the successful hosting of the 2025 Pathfinder Camporee, organized by the local Pathfinder clubs of Sint Maarten. The event, held from April 16 to 20 at the Milton Peters College, welcomed youth participants from across the region for a week of fellowship, skill-building, and spiritual growth.

Chief of Police Mr. C. John, accompanied by several KPSM officers, visited the Camporee and spoke directly with the local Pathfinders and the many young visitors from other islands. He emphasized the value of the Pathfinder movement in shaping future leaders and promoting positive choices among youth.

The Pathfinder organization has a lasting impact on the lives of our young people, said Chief John. It instills discipline, teamwork, and respect, essential for building stronger communities. We are proud to support this initiative.”

KPSM extends sincere gratitude to the local organizers and all participants from the neighboring islands who contributed to Camporee 2025's success. Events like these reaffirm the power of unity, mentorship, and youth empowerment.

KPSM Press Release.