On Wednesday, the 11^th of June, around 9:30 AM, the central control room received a report of a diver on Saba who had become unwell. Police and an ambulance were dispatched to the Fort Bay harbor in anticipation of the boat arriving with the person. When the boat docked, they were already performing CPR on the victim. After this, the victim was taken by ambulance to the hospital for further medical treatment. Soon after, the police were informed of the victim's death. The doctor confirmed the death of a 72-year-old man with initials R.J.W. born 8^th of February 1953, in the United States.

KPCN Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is providing an important update in connection with the case of two brothers who were recently reported missing after traveling from Antigua to Sint Maarten.

On the morning of Friday, June 13, 2025, detectives from KPSM spoke with the mother of the two young men, who confirmed that she had made contact with her sons. According to her account, the brothers are alive and currently safe. She explained that they experienced mechanical problems with the vessel they were using to travel, which left them drifting between Antigua and Barbuda for an extended period of time.

This update follows growing concern from family members and the public, stemming from the brothers' unexplained disappearance after their arrival on Sint Maarten. KPSM had launched an active investigation and issued a public appeal earlier in the week for any information regarding their whereabouts.

While this development brings relief, the circumstances remain under review. KPSM is now actively engaging with its regional law enforcement and maritime partners throughout the Caribbean to verify the brothers' current location and check on their well-being.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Philipsburg Police Station at +1 (721) 542-2222 or the anonymous tip line at 9300.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Soul Beach Music Festival (SBMF) has become the focal point of the 2025 budget debate, leading to a misunderstanding among several Members of Parliament (MPs) that the SBMF financial arrangements are tied to the 2024 budget. The Democratic Party emphasizes the importance of parliamentary oversight, advocating for the questioning of all ministers.
However, the actions of some MPs reveal a troubling tendency towards political opportunism. Their fixation on perceived divisions within the government, particularly among DP ministers, appears less about oversight and more about scoring political points at the expense of meaningful discourse.
Since the announcement of the SBMF taking place in St. Maarten, at least six letters have been sent to relevant ministers regarding the festival, with responses provided consistently. These answers are accessible to all MPs, yet it seems that some members remain oblivious to the potential repercussions of their choice of language. The careless use of terms like "illegalities" and "misappropriation" sows seeds of doubt that not only tarnish St. Maarten’s reputation but could also invite claims of reputational damage from the festival’s organizers.
These individuals are well aware that the Council of Ministers (COM) endorsed the festival and that the Ministry of Finance also contributed a modest amount to cover last-minute sponsorship shortfalls. It is within every citizen's rights to question governmental decisions, particularly regarding initiatives that promote the island.
Nonetheless, the Tourism Ministry recognized a unique opportunity and acted decisively. As the festival's launch approached, efforts were accelerated in December by both the Tourism Ministry and the Council of Ministers to ensure timely payments to the SBMF and to commence preparations without delay.
Upon reviewing these processes, it is apparent that several formalities are still pending that will allow this agreement to withstand scrutiny. Rather than ignore these outstanding issues or allow them to fester, the government has committed to addressing them by making necessary budget adjustments in the 2024 annual report.
To the politicians who profess to support the SBMF while simultaneously undermining it for political gain, consider this a word of caution: your statements may have lasting implications, and the repercussions of your words may soon return to haunt you.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Our community was once again shaken by the heartbreaking news regarding the passing of a dedicated security officer who, for unknown reasons, took his own life. 

I want to take this time and extend my deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, other loved ones and all those affected by this loss. No words can ease the pain, but please know that you are in my heart during this incredibly difficult time.

Mental health is not a weakness; it is a reality that so many silently struggle with every day. As a society, we must do better in acknowledging, supporting, and addressing the mental and emotional burdens that individuals carry daily. 

To anyone going through hardship, please know you are not alone. There is help, there is hope, and there are people who care. Suicidal thoughts are a sign of deep suffering, not failure, and I urge anyone facing overwhelming difficulties to reach out, speak up, and allow others to support you.

Let this moment remind us of the importance of compassion, understanding, and mental health awareness. Together, we must create an environment where seeking help is not only accepted but encouraged.

May the soul of the fallen officer rest in peace, and may we, as a nation, rise to ensure that no one else suffers in silence.