A member of the Dutch Quarter Community (third left) shaking hands with Police Chief Commissioner Carl John (second right) following the candid meeting between community leaders and police on Tuesday, while UP Party Leader and Member of Parliament Omar E.C. Ottley who facilitated the meeting (second from the left) looks on, pleased with the effort on both sides.
Following a series of troubling events in the Dutch Quarter, including vehicle fires and gunshots, MP Ottley acted swiftly at the request of Community Police Officers. Recognizing the urgent need for dialogue and understanding, he first met with key community members on Tuesday morning to express his concern and encourage a peaceful resolution. Later that day, MP Ottley facilitated a crucial meeting between community leaders and the police, chaired by Minister of Justice Lyndon Lewis, to directly address the escalating tensions.
Minister Lewis opened the meeting by thanking MP Ottley for his initiative and thanked the community members for attending the meeting. Justice Minister Lewis and Police Chief Commissioner Carl John emphasized the importance of collaboration and mutual respect between law enforcement and the community.
MP Ottley, a passionate advocate for ending violence, has been a steadfast voice of reason and support for the youth of St. Maarten. He has consistently encouraged young men and women to seek guidance and reach out to him directly when facing challenges, offering them a supportive ear and practical solutions. His compassionate approach was evident in his handling of the Dutch Quarter situation.
Justice Minister Lyndon Lewis at the head of the table addressing the meeting. In attendance are Community leaders from Dutch Quarter, Police officers, Community Police Officers, Police Chief Commissioner Carl John (fourth from the left) and UP Party Leader and Member of Parliament Omar E.C. Ottley (first right).
The meeting also addressed critical issues, such as the impact of utility company NV GEBE's power outages, which have been exploited for criminal activities. Chief Commissioner Carl John noted that he had requested NV GEBE to avoid cutting power in the Dutch Quarter at night to help curb such opportunities for crime.
A member of the Dutch Quarter Community Council (third left) addressing the meeting while Justice Minister Lyndon Lewis at the head of the table (right) and others listen. In attendance are Community leaders from Dutch Quarter, Police officers, Community Police Officers, Police Chief Commissioner Carl John (fifth right) and UP Party Leader and Member of Parliament Omar E.C. Ottley (fourth left).
Addressing the police, MP Ottley remarked, "The power of communication is evident here, as these young men often just need someone to listen to them, and that can go a long way." MP Ottley's efforts, supported by Community Police Officers and endorsed by Justice Minister Lewis, address immediate concerns and set a precedent for how communities and law enforcement can work together to ensure safety and security for all. Also in attendance at the meeting were several members of the rank and file of the Police Management Team and the Community Police Officers.
As St. Maarten navigates through these challenging times, MP Omar E.C. Ottley's leadership and vision serve as a beacon of hope. His dedication to the well-being of the community and his proactive approach to conflict resolution are inspiring examples of effective and compassionate leadership.