PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) is sounding the alarm over a recent surge in reckless scooter and motorcycle riding, particularly in the Maho area. The rise in dangerous behavior has led to serious safety concerns for both riders and other road users.

To address this growing issue, KPSM will intensify traffic enforcement efforts island-wide, with special attention to high-traffic areas such as Maho. Officers will be on the lookout for violations such as speeding, riding without a helmet, improper documentation, and other illegal activities.

KPSM reminds all riders that road safety is not optional—it is a personal and collective responsibility. Ignoring traffic laws puts lives at risk and can have life-altering consequences.

This public reminder aims to encourage all scooter and motorcycle users to operate their vehicles safely, follow the rules of the road, and help prevent avoidable accidents. Strong enforcement measures will be in place to ensure compliance.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday morning, around 4:15 a.m., officers of the Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) conducted a traffic control in the Welfare Road area.

During the stop, a 43-year-old man, bearing the initials B.S., was found in possession of an undisclosed quantity of marijuana and cocaine. He was arrested at the scene and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station for further investigation.

KPSM continues to carry out regular controls aimed at curbing illegal activity and maintaining public safety throughout the island.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:---  On the afternoon of Friday, July 4, 2025, police conducted a traffic control operation near the border leading into French Quarter.

A total of 26 vehicles were stopped and checked during the operation. Officers issued 10 fines for various infractions, ranging from documentation issues to traffic violations.

The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) reminds all motorists to ensure their vehicle documents are up to date and to comply with traffic regulations at all times. These checks are part of ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and order on the roads.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On July 2, 2025, the Minister of Finance, Ms. Marinka Gumbs, was formally presented with the audited 2024 Annual Report of the General Pension Fund of Sint Maarten (APS). The presentation was made by APS Director Mr. Oscar Williams, accompanied by Board Member Mr. Emilio Kalmera.

The presentation included not only the 2024 financial results but also the actuals up to the first quarter of 2025. APS closed the year 2024 on a strong note, achieving a net year-end return of 6,72% on its total investment portfolio. The total financial result for 2024 amounted to XCG 43 million. The coverage ratio at year-end stood at 114.13%, well above the minimum required funding ratio of 105%. Notably, a clean audit opinion was issued on the 2024 annual report, reflecting the fund's commitment to transparency, accountability, and sound financial reporting.

Thanks to these positive results, APS will implement a pension indexation of 3.61%, applied retroactively as of January 1, 2025. Indexed pension payments are expected to be disbursed in July 2025. This marks the second consecutive year in which APS has been able to grant indexation, demonstrating prudent financial management and a solid investment strategy.

The Minister of Finance commended both the Director and the Board of APS for their continued dedication and effective stewardship of the pension fund.