PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunications Hon. Claret Connor, says the shooting of a Police Officer in the line of duty is a wakeup call for the Sint Maarten community at large with respect to the scourge of crime plaguing the country.
“My prayers are with Officer Benjamin, his family and with the men and women who serve our country as law enforcement officials from all branches of the justice system. I heard today that Officer Benjamin’s condition has stabilized somewhat. I call on the nation to continue to pray for his recovery.
“At this same time I use this opportunity to call on the community to help our Police Force and the investigating teams with information so the second suspect and anyone else who may have been involved in this heinous and violent attack on our community can be apprehended as soon as possible.
“I can assure the Sint Maarten community, the business sector and our visitors, that this serious incident has the attention of the Council of Ministers, and in particular the Minister of Justice, as our Justice officials are busy implementing drastic and urgent measures where it concerns the fight against crime in addition to enhancing safety and security on Sint Maarten.
“I have also communicated in writing to the President of the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Michele Paige about this horrible act and have assured her that as a Government we understand and appreciate the dedication by the FCCA towards our tourism-dependent destination, and we are committed to ensuring that we continue to build and protect our economy and product for our citizens and our esteemed visitors,” Minister of Tourism Hon. Claret Connor said on Thursday.
