PHILIPSBURG:--- A 17-year-old male was arrested Monday afternoon after allegedly robbing a tourist of a chain on Cannegieter Street in Philipsburg.
According to the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM), Central Dispatch received the robbery report at approximately 3:00 p.m. on September 21, 2026. Patrol officers, detectives, and members of the KPSM Bike Team were immediately dispatched to the area.
Preliminary information indicates that two visitors were walking along Cannegieter Street when the suspect approached them. The teenager allegedly attempted to snatch a chain from around the neck of one of the visitors.
The male victim resisted the attempt, but the suspect ultimately managed to take the chain and fled the scene on foot.
Members of the KPSM Bike Team, already in the area, received a description of the suspect and immediately began searching the surrounding area.
The search quickly produced results. Police located the 17-year-old shortly after, hiding behind a dumpster on Voges Street.
He was arrested without further incident.
According to KPSM, officers found the tourist's stolen chain in the teenager's possession. Police confiscated the chain as evidence and transported the suspect to the police station, where he remains in custody pending further questioning and investigation.
Police are again urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately, noting that information provided quickly to officers can play an important role in locating suspects after crimes.
KPSM also thanked the patrol officers, Bike Team members, detectives and other personnel involved in the rapid response and arrest, as well as members of the public who assisted police.
The Police Force reiterated its commitment to protecting the community and maintaining Sint Maarten as a safe destination for residents and visitors.