PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) extends its appreciation to the community and the Carnival organizing committee for their cooperation in ensuring a relatively safe and orderly Causeway Jump-Up on Saturday, March 15, 2025. The event proceeded with minimal incidents, reflecting the collective efforts of revelers, organizers, and law enforcement personnel.

During the event, officers identified an individual for whom an arrest warrant had previously been issued in connection with an ongoing investigation into multiple armed robberies. Upon approaching the suspect, officers discovered that he had a firearm. The individual was immediately taken into custody and transported to the Philipsburg Police Station, where he remains detained pending further investigation.

In light of ongoing safety measures, KPSM wishes to remind the public that masks will not be permitted during future jump-ups and similar events. This measure enhances security and ensures the safety of all participants.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) is pleased to announce the successful completion of specialized training for the "Officier van Dienst Recherche" (OVD-R) position. The comprehensive training program was conducted at the police headquarters in Philipsburg under the guidance of instructors from the Netherlands Police Academy.

Several senior detectives from KPSM participated in this professional development opportunity, enhancing their investigative leadership capabilities critical to maintaining public safety and effectively managing criminal investigations on Sint Maarten. Throughout the week, additional detectives were also given insight into the exact responsibilities of the OVD-R, broadening their understanding of the role.

The training included participation from detectives representing all Dutch Caribbean islands, fostering stronger regional collaboration and knowledge-sharing among law enforcement agencies.

The OVD-R (Duty Officer for Investigations) plays a vital role within the police organization by coordinating criminal investigations and ensuring the quality of investigative procedures. Their responsibilities include:

• Leading investigative responses to serious crimes such as homicide, drug-related offenses, and organized crime.

• Assessing whether cases should be transferred from basic police teams to specialized investigative departments.

• Coordinating forensic investigations and securing evidence at crime scenes.

• Making decisions regarding suspect arrests and search operations.

• Maintaining communication with the Public Prosecution Service regarding investigation progress.

This role collaborates closely with the OVD-P (Duty Officer for Police), who focuses on immediate policing and law enforcement. While the OVD-P manages tactical police deployment and initial incident response, the OVD-R ensures proper investigation procedures are followed and evidence is properly secured.
"This training represents our commitment to professional development and enhancing our investigative capabilities," said [QUOTE FROM POLICE SPOKESPERSON/CHIEF]. "By strengthening the skills of our officers in the OVD-R role, we improve our ability to conduct thorough investigations and better serve the Sint Maarten community."

The specialized training is part of KPSM's ongoing efforts to develop local expertise and strengthen cooperation with regional and international law enforcement partners.

KPSM extends its sincere gratitude to the instructors from the Netherlands Police Academy, namely, C. van ES, E. VAHRMEIJER, R. BRANS-BRABAND., P. TROOSTER for their invaluable contribution. Their expertise and dedication have played a crucial role in upgrading the skills of KPSM personnel not only in Sint Maarten but across various Caribbean police forces.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament and Leader of the United People's Party (UPP), Honorable Omar E.C. Ottley, has voiced concerns about an increasing disconnect among the governing coalition members, preventing them from bringing forward the Governing program.  

Despite promises made by the Mercelina II Cabinet to complete the Governing Program within three months of taking office—originally setting a deadline for the week of February 28th—the deadline was extended to last week. However, to date, MPs nor the public has yet to receive any clear direction from the government.

"The governing program serves as the strategic blueprint for the Coalition, outlining key policies, development plans, and priority projects. The prolonged delay raises questions about whether internal disagreements hinder its completion."

One of the most contentious issues within the Coalition is the regulation of lotteries and casinos. According to MP Ottley, some coalition members have openly advocated shutting down gambling establishments altogether, while others have issued new licenses. This stark contrast in policy approaches has caused unease within the Coalition, particularly regarding how these licenses were granted and the apparent increase in casinos, which has displeased certain coalition partners.

Another significant point of contention is the debate over implementing a national healthcare program. MP Ottley notes that members of the Coalition have taken fundamentally opposite stances on this issue. While some strongly support establishing a national healthcare system, others vehemently oppose it. This lack of consensus on such a critical matter raises concerns about whether the government can effectively execute long-term healthcare policies that benefit the people of St. Maarten.

MP Ottley underscores that the continued postponement of the governing program raises an essential question: "Does this delay indicate deeper fractures within the Coalition that prevent a unified vision for St. Maarten's future?"

MP Ottley urges the government to address these internal differences and ensure that the governing program is presented to Parliament without further delay. He remains committed to holding the government accountable and ensuring that the people of St. Maarten receive clear and decisive leadership.

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure (VROMI) informs the public that road painting works will be conducted on A. J. C. Brouwers Road, adjacent to the Osborne Kruthoff Roundabout, Cole Bay.
To facilitate these works, there will be a half-road closure this evening, Friday, March 14, from 8:00 p.m. to approximately 12:00 a.m. During this time, traffic flow will be restricted to one lane, and motorists may experience slight delays. Road users are urged to exercise caution when traveling through the area and to adhere to traffic signage and the instructions of on-site personnel to ensure a smooth and safe passage.
The road painting is part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and improve visibility for both motorists and pedestrians. The repainting of road markings, including pedestrian crossings, is crucial in maintaining proper traffic management and ensuring a safer driving experience, particularly at night and during adverse weather conditions.
The Ministry of VROMI recognizes that such maintenance work may cause temporary inconvenience and appreciates the patience and cooperation of the public. Motorists are encouraged to plan their routes accordingly and, if possible, seek alternative routes to avoid delays.
For any questions or further information, the public is encouraged to contact the Ministry of VROMI at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call us at 542-4292 ext 2371.