PHILIPSBURG:--- The high season has started. The many large cruise ships, mega yachts, and constant scheduled flights come to Sint Maarten at a greater extent this time of year. Based on experiences in the months of November to December of each year and the months of January/February of the following year, the Police Force of Sint Maarten again faces a new challenge, to mainly provide and ensure safety for the tourists and also the community of this country. The police has put a plan of action together regarding how to deal with this situation in the best manner possible.
The image of Sint Maarten in regard to the crime situation has the fullest attention of the police force. Cases involving criminal activities such as robberies, burglaries, break-ins, theft from cars, and violent crimes against tourists and citizens may occur and we will do our utmost to prevent this type of criminal acts from happening. The police department has identified several 'hotspots' and other known locations where tourists frequently visit and more focus will be put on these locations as a source of prevention. Also our focus will also be put on the shoplifters, pickpockets, hair braiders, and so-called 'chain snatchers'.
For the police this is every reason to have constant police presence and visibility. This situation calls for special attention and in our opinion, particularly during the final weeks of each year and the first weeks of the New Year. Tourism is the main source of income for country Sint Maarten and together we have to protect that. Along and in consultation with other partners in the justice chain such as Immigration and Naturalization Department (IND), the Voluntary Corps Sint Maarten (VKS), Customs Department, Coast Guard and Public Prosecutor's Office this plan of action will be executed.
In the overall approach by the police, special attention will be given to the gypsy taxi drivers who are providing illegal transportation for tourists and citizens as well. This point has been discussed with the Public Prosecutor's Office on how to best handle this situation.
The Head of Traffic, Inspector Benjamin Gout has been in talks with the different public transportation organizations exchanging information and making agreements in how to minimize traffic congestion during the very busy holiday season.
During this period, which is usually from November 15, 2013 through the early part of 2014, additional capacity (manpower) will be necessary to carry out this plan.
- At all activities the focus will be on monitoring situations, enforcement of the laws and conducting of investigations;
- Efforts will be maximized when cruise ships are in port and during the evening and night hours at locations where activities are planned;
The purpose of this plan of action is to:
- Reduce the number of (robbery) robberies against tourists and the number of robberies general;
- Reducing the number of 'chain snatching', shoplifting, loitering, and harassment, pickpockets, especially during the shopping nights;
- Additional monitoring at hotels, restaurants and cafés;
- Additional monitoring at stores in and outside the Philipsburg area;
- The visible presence of the police;
- Collecting information on a possible offender or group of offenders;
- Tight maintenance of public order (reinforced controls on hotspot);
During these weeks of action, each day will be monitored by the management team to evaluate the current state of affairs and whether it is necessary to adjust the schedule or the approach. When there are more than two cruise ships in port Front Street and Back Street will be closed for motor vehicle traffic. All diversions and rerouting of traffic will be announced to the public in advance.
We are asking the general public to cooperate with the police department to make this Holiday Season a very safe one and to make good use of the Holiday Safety Tips provided by the Police Public Relation Department.
KPSM SAFETY TIPS 2013
As part of the continuing efforts to provide a safe environment for holiday shoppers the Police Force of Sint Maarten has commenced their annual Holiday Task Force initiative and is without any doubt doing its utmost, to protect you, your family and your property, in combating crime and criminals. The Public Relations Office of the Sint Maarten Police Force is therefore offering the entire community, the following safety tips, to help them prepare against crime.
Remember the 3 A's of Crime Prevention:
- Be Aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Be Alert to suspicious people and vehicles.
- Avoid dangerous situations.
If you are out for the evening:
- Turn on lights, radio or television so that it looks like someone is at home.
- Lock all doors and windows well, even if you are just leaving for a few minutes.
- Don't display items where they can be seen from the outside.
- Don't Shop Alone. It's important to shop with a buddy; an extra pair of eyes helps.
- Park your car in a well-lit area and make sure all windows, sunroof and doors are locked. If using an SUV Cover your gifts in your vehicle with a blanket.
- Avoid carrying a large amount of cash. Don't flash cash around and carry it in a safe place on you.
- If you have to use the ATM-machine, pay close attention to suspicious persons hanging around the machine. If that's the case pass up that machine and find another.
- Carry all wallets in the front pockets and carry purses close to your body.
- Keep your children close to you while attending any activities and don't let them get separated from you.
- Pay attention to persons walking in front and behind you (especially in crowded places favorable for pickpockets).
- When returning to your vehicle or your home, have your keys in your hands ready to open the door.
- Before entering your vehicle, check front and rear and seats for any one that may be hiding there. Lock doors immediately after entering.
- Ask your neighbor to keep a watchful eye out for you.
- Drinking and driving is a danger to everyone. Remember that the risks of drinking and driving are not worth it. If you choose to drink, don't drive. Make use of a designated driver or public transportation. (taxi or bus)
- Make sure that you know where your kids are at all times and that they are safe.
Most of all on behalf of the Police force of Sint Maarten, through the Public Relations Office, "We wish the entire community of Sint Maarten and its visitors a very safe and meaningful Holiday Season."
KPSM Police Report
