PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) informs the general public that the first phase of the Inter-Insular Gun Amnesty Program has officially concluded. During this initial phase, individuals were given the opportunity to voluntarily surrender illegal firearms safely and anonymously.
KPSM is now in the second phase, under the clear message: “We're Coming For It.”
This phase represents a firm transition from voluntary compliance to enhanced enforcement. Officers will intensify preventative searches, targeted controls, and operational actions, including visits to homes and businesses where intelligence indicates the possible presence of illegal firearms.
As the island prepares for heightened activity during the Carnival period, KPSM will also significantly increase its operational presence across key areas. Enhanced patrols and controls will be conducted during major events, such as the Jouvert (J’ouvert) Jump-Up and scheduled shows in the Carnival Village, to prevent firearm-related incidents and maintain public safety.
These measures are being implemented with a clear objective: to push back against gun violence, safeguard the community, and ensure a safe and enjoyable Carnival season for all.
KPSM has taken note of several altercations and fights during recent events in the Carnival Village. Such behavior not only disrupts public order but also significantly increases the risk of serious violence. The police are therefore issuing a zero-tolerance warning for disorderly conduct, possession of illegal firearms, and any actions that may endanger public safety during the Jouvert (J’ouvert) Jump-Up in particular.
The public is reminded that while the initial amnesty phase has ended, the opportunity to make responsible choices remains. Individuals found in possession of illegal firearms during this second phase will face decisive police action, arrest, and prosecution.
KPSM urges all residents and visitors to act responsibly, avoid confrontations, and cooperate fully with law enforcement officers during controls and searches. Community cooperation remains essential in reducing violence and protecting lives.
Every firearm removed from the streets is a step toward a safer Sint Maarten.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) has confirmed that 15-year-old Kelvina Toma, previously reported missing, has safely returned home. According to police, the young girl’s mother contacted authorities after her daughter’s return, officially closing the case.
However, what unfolded after her return raises serious concern — and a vital lesson for other young people.
Shortly after being reported missing, a video surfaced showing Kelvina partying with friends in a vehicle, sparking outrage among community members who had been actively searching and sharing information to help locate her. Following the public attention, she returned home but went on to make disrespectful remarks on social media, even directly contacting media outlets that had posted the footage.

This kind of behavior is deeply troubling. When someone falsely triggers a missing persons alert, it diverts critical police resources, time, and public effort that could make the difference in real emergencies — situations where a young person may actually be in danger or desperately in need of help. KPSM already works with limited manpower and equipment; unnecessary searches strain those capacities and damage public trust, which is crucial in genuine cases.
Teenagers — especially young girls — must understand the importance of open communication with parents and guardians. Whenever you decide to go out, stay with friends, or spend time away from home, always inform your family of your whereabouts. Doing so isn’t about control — it’s about safety, respect, and responsibility.

Every false alarm puts law enforcement under pressure and risks dulling the community’s alertness the next time a real child goes missing. Actions have consequences, and the public must treat such incidents with the seriousness they deserve.
Let’s keep our focus where it belongs — protecting those truly in danger — by being honest, accountable, and mindful of the trust our community places in law enforcement.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Carnival J’ouvert Morning Jump-Up will take place on Monday, April 27, 2026, starting at 04:00 AM.
The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) wishes to remind all participants that this is a time for celebration and enjoyment. However, any form of fighting or criminal activity that endangers the safety of fellow revelers will be dealt with immediately and firmly.
The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) remains committed to ensuring that the festivities continue in a safe and orderly manner. Officers from Sint Maarten, along with additional officers assisting KPSM, will be out in full force to monitor the event and respond swiftly to any incidents.
In preparation for this very busy period, the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) will also be receiving additional support from partner police forces within the Dutch Caribbean, including Aruba Police Force, Curaçao Police Force, and the Caribbean Netherlands Police Force. This collaboration is aimed at further strengthening general safety and security during the upcoming days of festivities.
Individuals who engage in criminal behavior will face the appropriate legal consequences.
Scooter riders are also strongly advised to act responsibly. Any attempt to intercept, disrupt, or interfere with the free flow of the Jump-Up or associated parades and traffic will result in immediate action by law enforcement.
The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) encourages everyone to celebrate responsibly and contribute to a safe and enjoyable J’ouvert Morning experience for all.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Justice, Nathalie M. Tackling, together with Member of Parliament Ms.Sjamira Roseburg, officially accepted a donation of boxing equipment for inmates at the Point Blanche Prison. The donation, consisting of punching bags and boxing gloves, was personally delivered by Gramey Browne, in collaboration with AMA Jewelers and Pineapple Pete.

The initiative was made possible through the efforts of MP Roseburg, who connected Mr. Browne with the Ministry’s leadership. During his visit as an author and motivational speaker, Browne held open discussions with inmates, where many expressed interest in constructive outlets that support discipline, focus, and personal development. In response, Browne mobilized support to provide the equipment and has further committed to personally training inmates in boxing.

Minister Tackling welcomed the contribution, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in strengthening rehabilitation efforts within the justice system.

“Rehabilitation continues to be a critical pillar of our justice system. By the time individuals enter our care, our responsibility is not only to ensure security, but to create and welcome opportunities for change. Initiatives like this provide inmates with structure, discipline, and a positive outlet, which are all essential to reducing reoffending and supporting successful reintegration,” said Minister Tackling.

MP Roseburg, a long-standing advocate for inmate rehabilitation, highlighted the importance of continued investment in programs that support transformation.

“Rehabilitation is not optional, it is a must. If we are serious about safer communities, we must be equally serious about giving individuals the tools to change their lives while they are still within the system,” said MP Roseburg.

Mr. Browne, a retired entrepreneur, author, and mentor, has dedicated much of his life to guiding individuals toward personal and professional growth, with a strong focus on discipline, leadership, and legacy-building . His engagement with inmates forms part of his broader mission to give back to the community and support those seeking a second chance.

The Ministry of Justice remains committed to fostering meaningful collaborations that contribute to a more rehabilitative and forward-looking justice system in Sint Maarten, as it continues to build a stronger, more effective system through the Detention Sector Reform Program (DSRP).