PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is actively addressing the incidents that transpired over the past two days in the Dutch Quarter area. During this period, multiple properties were damaged, vehicles were set on fire, and public disorder ensued. Two law enforcement personnel, including Marines, sustained injuries. In connection with these events, 18 suspects have been apprehended on charges of property destruction, public disorder, and attempted theft.
These recent actions have understandably caused concern among the Dutch Quarter residents. KPSM acknowledges the potential adverse effects these incidents may have on the neighborhood's overall sense of safety and security.
The KPSM management team wants to clarify that the Police have no issues with the community or the Dutch Quarter as a whole. Only a small group of individuals caused these disturbances.
We commend the Dutch Quarter Community Council for their proactive engagement and leadership in fostering a shift in community attitudes. Their efforts are crucial for achieving sustainable positive change in the Dutch Quarter area.
The KPSM is thoroughly investigating the events and continues to arrest individuals involved in the recent disturbances. We call upon all community members to remain vigilant and support law enforcement efforts to restore peace and order.
Beyond addressing the immediate disturbances, the KPSM also seeks the community's assistance in combating ongoing issues such as gun violence and other criminal activities in the neighborhood. Active community collaboration is essential in our shared mission to establish a safer and more secure environment for all residents.
On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, two representatives of the young men supposedly linked to the recent disorder requested a meeting to discuss the current situation.
Present at this meeting were the Honorable Minister of Justice, Mr. Lyndon Lewis, Chief of KPSM, Mr. Carl John and his management team, and Member of the Parliament, Mr. Omar Ottley.
This fruitful discussion yielded a clear message that:
· Mutual respect for citizens and enforcement officers is paramount.
· Everyone living in any district must be able to move freely and without fear.
· No one's rights should ever be threatened or trampled upon.
· There must be a display of unity to end ongoing disturbances.
· All those involved in the recent events will be held accountable for their actions.
During the discussion, the Chief of Police of Sint Maarten made it abundantly clear that any violence directed towards police officers, including those living in the Dutch Quarter area, will not be accepted or tolerated.
The Police Department of Sint Maarten, in collaboration with the Prosecutor’s Office and with the general public's support, is set to launch a new firearm amnesty program shortly. This initiative aims to enhance community safety by allowing individuals to turn in their firearms. The program will allow citizens to bring in their firearms to designated drop-off locations without fear of prosecution for illegal possession of firearms not involved in any criminal act. This was also agreed upon by those participating in the discussion.
KPSM would also like to openly thank the residents of the Dutch Quarter who showed their solidarity on Monday morning, August 05th, 2024, and support for law enforcement officers, even providing our officers with some tea and sandwiches while carrying out their duties.
The KPSM remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Sint Maarten citizens. We will continue our relentless efforts to protect our communities and bring those responsible for these criminal acts to justice.
We encourage anyone with information about recent events or other criminal activities to come forward. Tips can be provided anonymously, and all information will be handled with the highest level of confidentiality. Don't hesitate to contact the police tip line at 9300.
