GREAT BAY--The Ministry of Justice has requested additional law enforcement assistance from the Netherlands and local security partners as authorities move to strengthen the Police Force of St. Maarten (KPSM) in response to an increase in armed robberies, firearm-related incidents and other violent crimes.
In a statement issued Friday, November 13, Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling announced that the Ministry has initiated several requests aimed at reinforcing police operations, increasing visibility on the streets and strengthening criminal investigations.
The requests include an extension of the existing support provided by the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (KMar), additional investigative assistance from the Recherche Samenwerkingsteam (RST) and KMar, temporary operational support from the Netherlands National Police and increased assistance from the Volunteer Corps St. Maarten (VKS).
The Ministry has not specified how many additional officers are being sought, when reinforcements could arrive or whether the requests have received formal approval.
The measures come amid growing concern among residents and business owners over violent crime, particularly armed robberies and incidents involving illegal firearms.
Tackling acknowledged the fear and frustration within the community, stressing that the government has a responsibility to respond with concrete measures.
"I understand the fear and frustration being felt across our community. People are tired of hearing about armed robberies and violent incidents, and they want to know that concrete steps are being taken to protect them. They have every right to expect that," Tackling stated.
"We cannot and will not accept violent crime as a normal part of life in Sint Maarten. Our responsibility is to ensure that our law enforcement agencies have the support and resources needed to respond effectively, and that is precisely what we are working to strengthen."
According to the Ministry, the additional assistance is intended to support a broader public safety strategy involving intensified policing, targeted enforcement, stronger investigative capabilities and administrative measures.
The Ministry is also coordinating with other government ministries and law enforcement agencies as St. Maarten approaches the busy tourism high season, when increased visitor arrivals and commercial activity place additional demands on public safety services.
Residents, businesses and visitors are being encouraged to report suspicious activities, criminal behavior and information concerning illegal firearms to the authorities. The Ministry cautioned against attempting to intervene in potentially dangerous situations.
While emphasizing that public cooperation remains important, the Ministry acknowledged that responsibility for leading and coordinating the response to violent crime rests with the authorities.
The Ministry said it remains committed to strengthening police capacity and restoring public confidence in law enforcement.
