PHILIPSBURG:--- On the evening of Monday, July 8, 2025, around 18:00 hours, the Police Central Dispatch received a call regarding a threatening situation between two individuals on Cherry Nut Road.

Upon arrival, officers were met with an escalating conflict between two brothers. Initial investigation revealed that one of the brothers had threatened the other with a machete and a knife, stating his intent to cause serious harm.

The victim filed an official complaint against his brother. The suspect was subsequently arrested and transported to the Philipsburg Police Station, where he remains in custody for questioning and pending further investigation.

KPSM reminds the public that all acts or threats of violence will be dealt with seriously and encourages individuals to resolve conflicts through non-violent means.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The investigation into the sexual harassment case involving two employees of the Ministry of VSA has officially been completed, according to a statement made by Minister of Public Health, Social Affairs, and Labor (VSA) Richinel Brug. However, the resolution of this matter remains clouded with uncertainty as critical questions about the next steps linger.

Speaking at a Wednesday press briefing, Minister Brug confirmed that the final report from the investigation had been submitted to the acting Secretary General of the ministry. "At the time [of the previous brief], I understood it was in the finalization stage. This morning, I was informed that the final report was sent to the acting SG of VSA," said Brug. Despite this significant development, key concerns regarding the findings and the communication process remain unaddressed.

Alleged Victims Left in the Dark

One of the most pressing issues is that the alleged victims involved in the case have yet to be informed about the outcome of the investigation. This has raised concerns about transparency and accountability in the handling of such sensitive matters. Minister Brug acknowledged that the relevant department must inform both parties about the findings, but admitted that this step has not yet occurred.

The delay in communicating the results directly has drawn criticism, with calls for improved handling of cases of this nature. Victims’ rights advocates emphasize the need for timely and transparent updates, arguing that prolonged silence can exacerbate the emotional toll on those affected.

Uncertainty Over Criminal Investigation

Adding to the complexity of the situation is the minister’s inability to confirm whether the report will be escalated to the Prosecutor’s Office for a potential criminal investigation. When questioned during the press briefing, Brug stated, “To date, I cannot say if these reports will be turned over to the Prosecutor’s Office.” This uncertainty fuels speculation about whether the investigation’s findings will lead to further legal action—a step many see as crucial for delivering justice and ensuring accountability.

The following steps appear to hinge on discussions between the acting Secretary General, the Ministry of General Affairs, and other relevant departments. Brug indicated plans to follow up with these parties but did not provide a clear timeline for when these discussions or decisions will take place.

A Call for Clearer Processes

This case highlights broader concerns about how sexual harassment cases are managed within institutions and underscores the need for procedural clarity and responsiveness. While the completion of the investigation represents progress, the lack of transparency and communication thus far has sparked criticism.

Minister Brug has emphasized his commitment to addressing outstanding issues and promised to provide further updates as developments unfold. However, with victims awaiting answers and the public watching closely, the handling of this case will likely remain under scrutiny.

For now, the investigation may be finished, but the quest for answers—and justice—continues.

PHILIPSBURG: --- On Wednesday, during the Council of Ministers press briefing, the Deputy Prime Minister of St. Maarten, and Minister of TEATT, Grisha Heyliger Marten, addressed questions regarding airport security procedures, particularly in light of recent changes in the United States.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the U.S. has announced that travelers are no longer required to remove their shoes at security checkpoints. This raised the question of whether St. Maarten would adopt similar measures.

Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunication (TEATT), Grisha Heyliger-Marten, responded with confidence, highlighting that St. Maarten's airport has already implemented advanced security measures that eliminate the need for such inconveniences.

CTIX 6040: The Technology Behind the Convenience

Minister Heyliger-Marten explained that St. Maarten's airport utilizes a cutting-edge security model known as the CTIX 6040. This modern system streamlines the security process, allowing passengers to pass through checkpoints without removing their shoes, laptops, or toiletries.

"I've traveled a lot these last couple of months, and I've seen it firsthand," the Minister shared. "You walk straight through. It alleviates the process because of the modern system that our airport has."

The CTIX 6040 model is designed to enhance efficiency and reduce waiting times, making the travel experience smoother for passengers. According to the Minister, this system has been in place since the airport's modernization efforts, putting St. Martin ahead of the curve compared to other countries, including the United States.

A Competitive Edge in Travel

The Minister expressed pride in St. Maarten's proactive approach to adopting advanced technology. "We have the most modern model," she stated. "And with that model, you don't have to take off your shoes. I'm glad that you don't have to do that in the U.S. anymore, but the good thing is that we're 10 steps ahead of the U.S. for once."

This forward-thinking approach not only enhances the travel experience for passengers but also positions St. Maarten as a leader in airport security innovation. The implementation of the CTIX 6040 system reflects the island's commitment to providing world-class services to its visitors and residents.

St. Maarten's airport security measures demonstrate the island's dedication to efficiency, convenience, and technological advancement. By adopting the CTIX 6040 model, the airport has set a high standard for modern travel, ensuring that passengers can enjoy a hassle-free experience. As global travel continues to evolve, St. Maarten remains a shining example of how innovation can enhance the journey for all.

For those interested in learning more about the CTIX 6040 system, further research into this state-of-the-art technology is encouraged.

Transparency and accountability form the backbone of any functioning democracy. When governments fail to provide clear and complete information to the public, they risk eroding trust, weakening democratic principles, and undermining their credibility. Unfortunately, recent incidents involving St. Maarten’s Council of Ministers and the Department of Communications (DCOMM) highlight serious lapses in transparency and public accountability.

A Troubling Pattern of Avoidance

One of the most concerning issues is the consistent lack of direct answers provided by members of the Council of Ministers during weekly press briefings. Journalists attending these briefings often leave without the information they came for. On multiple occasions, ministers have chosen to defer answers with promises to respond in writing, but these written responses seldom materialize.

Even more alarming, some ministers fail to attend their own briefings altogether, opting instead to make appearances on radio programs during the same time slot. This raises serious questions about their commitment to keeping the public informed and respecting the press as a key institution in any democracy.

DCOMM as a Political Gatekeeper

The role of the Department of Communications, or DCOMM, has also come under significant scrutiny. Instead of fostering open communication between government officials and the public, DCOMM appears to have taken on a more politicized role. This was evident during the press briefing on July 9, 2025, when the Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA) provided incomplete and allegedly inaccurate answers to questions posed months earlier.

Troublingly, attempts by journalists to seek clarification were blocked by DCOMM’s moderator. To add insult to injury, the live video of this briefing was subsequently removed from DCOMM’s social media platforms. An edited version was later uploaded, raising significant concerns about transparency and the freedom of the press.

These actions beg the question: Who at DCOMM is responsible for these decisions? And why is a government communications department—funded by taxpayer dollars—operating in a way that appears to silence media and manipulate public access to information?

Media Freedom Under Threat

Media professionals reporting on St. Maarten deserve the freedom to perform their duties without obstruction. Yet, longstanding journalists who have dedicated years to covering government activities are struggling to access basic information. Some are even denied entry to press briefings under policies that seem arbitrary and counterproductive.

These practices are deeply troubling. Media freedom is a pillar of democracy, and denying journalists the ability to question officials not only stifles professional accountability but also deprives the public of their right to make informed decisions.

For St. Maarten to uphold its democratic ideals, immediate steps must be taken to address these shortcomings. Ministers must commit to attending press briefings regularly and provide clear, accurate, and timely answers to all questions posed by the media.

Additionally, DCOMM must realign its operations to prioritize transparency and public service over political interests. This includes ending practices such as removing live briefings from public platforms and restricting media access to elected and appointed officials.

Finally, the people of St. Maarten must demand better from their leaders. Accountability starts with an informed electorate. By holding officials responsible for their actions—or lack thereof—citizens can help ensure that democracy and transparency prevail.

The Council of Ministers must remember that they serve the people, not political agendas. Transparency is not optional—it is a fundamental obligation. By fostering open dialogue, respecting media freedom, and providing clear information, St. Maarten’s leaders can rebuild trust and strengthen the democratic framework that supports the nation.

It is time for a renewed commitment to accountability, a steadfast defense of press freedom, and a clear rejection of practices that undermine trust in government. This is not just the responsibility of the officials, but a collective call to action for all those who believe in the power of democracy.

Additionally, DCOMM must realign its operations to prioritize transparency and public service over political interests. This includes ending practices such as removing live briefings from public platforms and restricting media access to elected and appointed officials.

Finally, the people of St. Maarten must demand better from their leaders. Accountability starts with an informed electorate. By holding officials responsible for their actions—or lack thereof—citizens can help ensure that democracy and transparency prevail.

The Way Forward

The Council of Ministers must remember that they serve the people, not political agendas. Transparency is not optional—it is a fundamental obligation. By fostering open dialogue, respecting media freedom, and providing clear information, St. Maarten’s leaders can rebuild trust and strengthen the democratic framework that supports the nation.

It is time for a renewed commitment to accountability, a steadfast defense of press freedom, and a clear rejection of practices that undermine trust in government. This is not just the responsibility of the officials, but a collective call to action for all those who believe in the power of democracy.