PHILIPSBURG:--- The NAPB Police Union reiterates its urgent call to the Government of Sint Maarten, particularly the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Finance, to immediately reinstate full Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance coverage for all officers of the Sint Maarten Police Force.
The serious incident that occurred on March 19, 2026, in which three officers were gravely injured while responding to a robbery in progress, is a painful reminder of the dangers officers face every day in the line of duty. These men and women put their lives on the line without hesitation to protect the community.
Police officers require comprehensive AD&D insurance coverage that provides immediate and adequate financial protection to them and their families in the event of death or life-altering injuries sustained in the line of duty. Relying solely on smartengeld (compensation after the fact) is insufficient and fails to provide the level of security and assurance that officers deserve.
Smartengeld is often subject to lengthy procedures, legal uncertainties, and discretionary determinations. It does not replace the certainty and structured protection that a full insurance policy guarantees. Officers should not have to rely on post-incident compensation mechanisms when proactive, properly structured insurance coverage is in place.
NAPB Sint Maarten, therefore, calls on the Government to:
* Reinstate full Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance coverage without delay;
* Ensure that coverage reflects the high-risk nature of police work; and
* Engage in meaningful dialogue with the Union to secure long-term protections for all officers.
Our officers continue to serve with courage and dedication. It is the Government’s responsibility to ensure that when the worst happens, those who protect the community — and their families — are fully protected in return.
