PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), Richinel Brug, has taken note of the increasing number of reports and discussions circulating on social media regarding alleged cases of labor abuse and unfair treatment of workers on Sint Maarten.
The Minister stated that while social media has become an important platform for individuals to share concerns and experiences, it is equally important that formal complaints regarding labor abuse, unfair dismissal, unsafe working conditions, unpaid wages, intimidation, or other labor-related violations are officially reported through the proper channels within the Ministry of VSA.
Minister Brug reminded both employers and employees that each has rights and responsibilities under Sint Maarten's labor laws and emphasized the importance of maintaining respectful, lawful, and professional working relationships.
“Employees deserve to work in safe and fair environments, while employers also deserve professional and responsible employees who respect workplace rules and procedures. The relationship between employers and employees must be built on mutual respect, fairness, and compliance with the laws of Sint Maarten,” Minister Brug stated.
The Minister is therefore encouraging employees who believe they are victims of labor abuse or labor-related violations to officially report these matters to the relevant departments within the Ministry of VSA, including the Department of Labor, the Division of Social Services and Labor Affairs at the Government Administration Building and the Labor Inspectorate at W.G. Buncamper Road #33, Vineyard Office Park, so that the appropriate investigations and interventions can take place where necessary.
Minister Brug also emphasized that formal reporting is important to ensure that complaints are properly documented, assessed, and handled in accordance with the applicable laws and procedures.
The Ministry of VSA remains committed to protecting workers’ rights, promoting fair labor practices, and ensuring healthy and lawful working conditions across Sint Maarten.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), is joining the global observance of World No Tobacco Day 2026 on Sunday, May 31, by highlighting the dangers associated with tobacco and nicotine addiction and encouraging the community to make healthier lifestyle choices.

This year’s theme, established by the World Health Organization (WHO), is “Unmask the Appeal – Countering Tobacco and Nicotine Addiction” under the campaign hashtag #TobaccoExposed.

The theme focuses on raising awareness about how tobacco and nicotine industries design products to attract and addict young people.

According to WHO, approximately 15 million adolescents between the ages of 13 and 15 already use e-cigarettes worldwide, while an estimated 40 million adolescents in the same age group use tobacco products. In countries where data is available, adolescents are reportedly nine times more likely to vape than adults. WHO warns that tobacco kills up to half of its users who do not quit.

The tobacco epidemic remains one of the world’s leading public health threats, causing more than seven million deaths annually in addition to long-term illness, disability, and suffering associated with tobacco-related diseases.

All forms of tobacco use are harmful, and there is no safe level of exposure to tobacco products. These include cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, waterpipe tobacco, heated tobacco products, roll-your-own tobacco, smokeless tobacco products, and electronic nicotine delivery systems.

WHO further notes that approximately 80 percent of the world’s 1.3 billion tobacco users live in low- and middle-income countries, where the burden of tobacco-related illnesses and deaths is greatest. Tobacco use also contributes to poverty by diverting household spending away from essential needs such as food, shelter, education, and healthcare.

To combat the global tobacco epidemic, WHO Member States adopted the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in 2003. Today, 183 countries are Parties to the treaty and continue to work toward reducing tobacco use and protecting public health through stronger tobacco control measures and public awareness campaigns.

CPS encourages smokers and nicotine users to seek assistance if they wish to quit. Research shows that counseling, support programs, and medications can more than double a person’s chances of successfully quitting tobacco use. The department also stresses the importance of educating young people about the dangers of nicotine addiction and the long-term health consequences associated with tobacco use.

As part of CPS’ annual calendar of health observances, the department continues to profile important public health themes aimed at improving the health and well-being of the Sint Maarten community.

For more information, persons can contact CPS at 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) arrested two male suspects in the early morning hours of Thursday, May 28, 2026. The suspects were arrested during a joint operation by detectives and patrol officers at a hotel near the entrance to Pelican.
The arrests are connected to an ongoing investigation into an armed robbery that took place on May 19, 2026, in the Simpson Bay area. During that incident, the victim(s) were robbed at gunpoint, and several personal belongings were stolen from the victim(s).
During the early-morning operation, a detective involved in the investigation spotted one of the suspects, who was wanted in connection with the armed robbery, walking toward the hotel near the entrance to Pelican. The detective immediately alerted fellow officers in the area regarding the suspect’s movements and location.
Further investigation carried out by detectives together with patrol officers revealed that the suspect was staying at the nearby hotel. Permission was requested and granted to enter the hotel room in order to effect the arrest.
While officers were entering the room, another male suspect who was present attempted to flee through the patio area but was quickly apprehended by police officers on scene.
Upon entering the apartment, officers encountered several rounds of ammunition for a military-style automatic firearm lying openly in the room. Both male suspects, T.R. and T.A.R., 20 and 21 years old, were immediately arrested.
During a search of the room, officers also discovered and confiscated a black handgun. Due to the discovery of the ammunition for a military-style weapon, officers conducted a comprehensive search in and around the hotel room. During this search, police later located and confiscated a military-style firearm believed to be connected to the suspects.
Both weapons and all confiscated items were transported to the Philipsburg Police Station for further forensic investigation.
KPSM considers the presence of these dangerous weapons in the hands of criminals to be extremely concerning, not only for the safety of the general public but also for police officers carrying out their duties.
KPSM has seen the devastating consequences that military-style firearms have had on neighboring islands and throughout the region, and remains committed to preventing such violence from taking root in Sint Maarten.
KPSM is making a strong appeal to the Sint Maarten community. These types of military-style firearms are extremely dangerous and have the potential to cause devastating loss of life within our community. The Police Force urges members of the public: if you see anyone — whether it is a friend, family member, acquaintance, or any individual — in possession of illegal firearms or suspicious weapons, do not remain silent.
Contact the Police Force immediately at +1 (721) 542-2222 or the anonymous tip line at 9300.

“See Something, Say Something.”
Your information could prevent a robbery or a shooting, or even save your own life or someone else's. KPSM reminds the public that fighting serious crime and illegal firearms requires the cooperation of the entire community.

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset hosted a heartfelt and inspiring Youth Service Month celebration on May 25th, 2026, bringing together more than 100 attendees, including Rotarians, Interactors, youth leaders, community organizations, invited guests, and supporters for an unforgettable evening dedicated to honoring the achievements, talents, leadership, and limitless potential of the youth of Sint Maarten.

In celebration of Rotary International’s Youth Service Month, the meeting was proudly co-chaired by the Presidents of the Interact Clubs of the Methodist Agogic Center, St. Dominic High School, and Learning Unlimited Preparatory School. The young leaders confidently guided the evening while sharing highlights from their clubs’ year in review, highlighting impactful service projects, leadership initiatives, and the positive difference young people continue to make throughout the community.

The evening was further enriched by special guest speakers, Teen Times St. Maarten, a dynamic youth-led organization committed to empowering young people through journalism, advocacy, leadership, and community service. Their inspiring message reminded attendees of the importance of giving youth a voice and creating spaces where young people can lead, grow, and thrive.

A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset Youth Service Excellence Awards to Indisu Dance Theater of St. Maarten and Dynamics Sporting Club for their outstanding dedication to youth development and empowerment.

Both organizations received an Award of Recognition along with a financial contribution from the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset to support the continued growth and impact of their youth programs and initiatives.

Dynamics Sporting Club was recognized for nearly two decades of transforming lives through athletics, mentorship, discipline, and opportunity. Founded in 2007 by Coach Abdule Wattley, the organization has inspired countless young athletes to dream bigger, work harder, and believe in their potential both on and off the track.

This year, the club proudly celebrated Nahjah Wyatte Munoz winning gold in the 800 meters at the 2026 CARIFTA Games in Grenada, while also earning an impressive 49 medals at the Trupial Classic in Curaçao. Beyond the victories and accolades, Dynamics Sporting Club continues to provide hope, guidance, mentorship, and life-changing opportunities for the youth of Sint Maarten.

Indisu Dance Theater of St. Maarten was honored for its extraordinary impact on young people through the performing arts. For the past 16 years, the organization has inspired youth through dance, creativity, discipline, and cultural expression while creating a safe and empowering environment where children are encouraged to believe in themselves and embrace their gifts.

Through Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop, Musical Theater, African dance, Acro, and stage productions, Indisu has touched countless lives and proudly represented Sint Maarten internationally. Most recently, the organization earned top awards and the highest rankings for all competition performances at Dance Excellence in Los Angeles, once again making the island proud on the international stage.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset also proudly presented a Vocational Service Award to Michael Granger in recognition of his outstanding professionalism, mentorship, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the community. Through his years of service and positive influence, Granger has impacted countless lives and continues to serve as a role model whose commitment to excellence and community upliftment embodies the true spirit of Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self.

President of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset, Alex Pierre, described the evening as a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in young people and supporting organizations that continue to shape positive change throughout the community.

“Our youth are not just the future, they are leaders of today. When we invest in our young people, encourage their dreams, and provide opportunities for growth, we create stronger communities and a brighter future for everyone. Tonight was a true celebration of hope, leadership, and the incredible potential that exists within the youth of Sint Maarten,” Pierre stated.

The evening concluded with a moving and emotional dance presentation by Indisu Dance Theater to the song “Let It Be,” symbolizing hope, healing, peace, and resilience during challenging times.

Through initiatives such as these, the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset continues to create lasting impact by empowering youth, inspiring leadership, and strengthening the Sint Maarten community through service.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset meets on the second and fourth Monday of the month at Carl N Sons Unique Inn and Conference Facilities in Colebay at 7:30 pm. The club can be contacted via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via the official Facebook page at facebook.com/rotarysxmsunset.