PHILIPSBURG:--- The One SXM Association is renewing its appeal to the Parliament of St. Maarten for a consultative referendum on political independence following a significant development in Parliament last Friday, January 17. During a motion regarding the referendum, the vote was tied at 7-7, underscoring the importance and urgency of this national issue.
In a letter dated January 13, 2025, addressed to Members of Parliament, the One SXM Association reminded Parliament of its constitutional authority under Article 92 to convene a consultative referendum. The letter, presented through Chairlady Sarah Wescot-Williams, emphasized that it has been 25 years since the last constitutional referendum and urged Parliament to allow the people to voice their opinion on whether St. Maarten should pursue independence.
“Since our initial presentation to Parliament in 2022, we have maintained that the democratic principle requires consulting the people on their future,” said a representative of the One SXM Association. “We believe the time has come to ask a new generation of voters whether they wish to remain part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands or transition to a sovereign Caribbean nation.”
The Association proposed a resolution for Parliament to adopt, including clear timelines and a straightforward referendum question: Independence: Yes or No? It also referenced the United Nations Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, which asserts that the inadequacy of political or economic conditions should not hinder independence efforts.
The One SXM Association actively promotes and encourages independence for the entire island through its weekly radio program, The One SXM Radio Show, aired on My88.3FM every Saturday from 5 PM to 7 PM. This program serves as an independence platform, advocating for the complete administrative unification of the island under the guiding principle: One St. Martin, One Island, One People, One Destiny.
The tie vote in Parliament reflects the ongoing debate surrounding this pivotal decision. The One SXM Association remains steadfast in its belief that St. Maarten’s people deserve the opportunity to determine their future in a fair and transparent manner.
The Association encourages citizens, civil society, and political stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue about the referendum and the broader implications of independence for St. Maarten.
For more information or to support the efforts of the One SXM Association, please contact via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or on facebook at www.facebook.com/onesxm

PHILIPSBURG: --- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) has noted with grave concern the alarming rise in firearm-related incidents on the island. In response, KPSM has intensified its operations to combat the proliferation of illegal firearms, making it unequivocally clear that those found in possession of firearms will face severe consequences under the law. Over the past week, KPSM has confiscated six firearms through various operations, including house searches, traffic stops, and responses to shooting incidents. A total of five individuals have been arrested in connection with illegal firearm possession.

Summary of Key Incidents:
• Minor with Firearm at School:
A firearm was confiscated from a minor at a local school. This disturbing incident highlights the critical need for vigilance within the community to protect our youth from the dangers of firearms.

• House Search in St. Peters Area:
During a house search in the St. Peters area, officers confiscated one firearm.

• Shooting Incidents Over the Weekend:
In response to shooting incidents over the weekend, police confiscated one firearm.

• Monday Morning Arrest in Defiance Area:
Early Monday morning, around 4:00 AM, police arrested three men after the driver of a vehicle was spotted firing shots into the air in the Defiance area. Following a high-speed chase that concluded in the Middle Region, officers successfully apprehended the suspects and confiscated two firearms. It is worth noting that one of the suspects had been released just a week earlier after being arrested for possession of another firearm.

KPSM is resolute in its commitment to addressing this escalating issue. The possession of illegal firearms poses a significant threat to public safety, endangering both law enforcement officers and the broader community. The Sint Maarten Police Force will continue to act with determination and urgency to rid the streets of illegal weapons.

Those found possessing firearms will face the full force of the law. Such actions are a direct violation of the law and a menace to the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors.

The Sint Maarten Police Force urges all community members to take a stand against this dangerous trend. Parents, guardians, and community leaders are encouraged to engage in open dialogue with youth about the dangers of firearms and their legal repercussions. The public is also strongly encouraged to report any suspicious activity or information related to illegal firearms.
Safety is a shared responsibility. Working together can ensure a safer and more secure Sint Maarten for everyone.
KPSM will continue to conduct house searches, traffic controls, and targeted patrols with increased frequency. The message is clear: there will be no tolerance for illegal firearms, and all necessary measures will be taken to uphold the safety of our community.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) is alerting the public to the resurgence of ATM scammers operating on the island. Recent reports from local banks and ongoing investigations by KPSM detectives have revealed that scammers have been placing skimming devices on ATM machines to steal users' banking information.

During the period from December 30, 2024, to January 16, 2025, KPSM received reports indicating that scammers attempted to use skimming devices at several ATM locations, including in the Simpson Bay area. The devices are designed to capture card details and PIN codes, enabling fraudulent transactions and theft of funds.

KPSM urges all ATM users to remain vigilant and take the following precautions when using ATM machines:

Before inserting your card, check the ATM for unusual or loose attachments, especially near the card slot or keypad. If anything appears suspicious, avoid using the machine and report it to the bank immediately.

Protect Your PIN:

Cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN to prevent cameras or bystanders from capturing it.

Monitor Your Account:

Regularly check your bank statements or online banking for unauthorized transactions. Report any irregularities to your bank without delay.

Use Trusted Locations:

Whenever possible, use ATMs located inside banks or well-lit, heavily trafficked areas.

KPSM is actively investigating these incidents and working closely with local banks to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for these scams. Additional patrols and monitoring will be conducted around ATM locations to deter criminal activities.

The Sint Maarten Police Force urges the community to remain alert and report any suspicious activities near ATM machines. Information that may assist in the investigation can be reported to KPSM via +1 721-542-2222 or the anonymous tip line 9300.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) has intensified its efforts to address traffic violations and mechanical infractions through a series of targeted vehicle and traffic controls conducted during the third week of January 2025. These operations reflect KPSM’s commitment to safeguarding public safety and maintaining order on the island’s roadways.
Summary of Enforcement Actions:

Harold Jack Area (Early Week):
A total of 237 vehicles were stopped and inspected.
36 fines were issued for a variety of traffic and mechanical infractions.
14 scooters were subjected to checks, resulting in the impoundment of one scooter due to non-compliance.
Causeway and Sucker Garden Areas (Later in the Week):
40 vehicles were stopped and inspected.
Three suspects were arrested on suspicion of criminal activity.
Two firearms were confiscated as part of these operations.
One scooter and one car were impounded for further investigation.

KPSM emphasizes that these enforcement actions are part of a broader strategy to address ongoing safety concerns on the island. The Police Force reminds all drivers and vehicle owners of their responsibility to comply with traffic regulations and ensure their vehicles are properly maintained and documented.

In light of the prevailing situations on the island, KPSM will continue to enforce traffic laws rigorously to ensure the safety and security of all residents and visitors. Drivers are strongly urged to adhere to the law, as non-compliance will result in strict penalties.

KPSM Press Release.