PHILIPSBURG:--- In a direct address to the people of Sint Maarten, Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling, supported by Chief of Police Carl John and Chief Prosecutor Mannon Ridderbeks, outlined the comprehensive measures being taken to combat the recent surge in robberies and enhance public safety.
The Minister acknowledged the community's concerns and frustrations, reassuring the public that law enforcement has been proactively working to address the situation. "I hear your concerns, I feel your frustration, and I know the urgency," stated Minister Tackling. "We, as law enforcement, are not sitting still, and we have not been sitting still for the past months."
A multi-faceted strategy involving local, kingdom, and regional partners is already in motion. Key actions include:
- Request for Military Assistance: A request for Marine support was made in October to bolster the police force (APSM) during the high season. This process is ongoing, with the Marines set to operate under the Chief of Police's command upon arrival.
- Enhanced Investigative Capacity: To strengthen detective capabilities, a request was made in July for ten detectives from the Kingdom Cooperation Team (RST) and the Dutch National Police. In the interim, two investigators from the Marechaussee have been assisting APSM for the past four weeks, yielding positive operational results.
- Increased Police Presence: The community's call for more "blue on the streets" has been answered. There is already an increased police presence, and this will be further augmented with heightened controls across the island.
- Preventive Searches: Law enforcement has been granted enhanced powers to conduct preventive searches as a necessary public safety measure. The Minister emphasized that this is a serious step not taken lightly, but it is essential for security.
Minister Tackling also stressed that law enforcement is only one part of the solution. She called upon the community to take an active role in crime prevention, highlighting that the root causes of crime often develop within homes and neighborhoods where basic needs are unmet. "Justice cannot raise our children," she asserted. "We as a community need to stand up and we need to stand tall to make our homes and our lives safer as well. This is the only way that we can move forward and help our law enforcement in the long run."
Looking forward, the Minister made a firm case for sustained, multi-year funding to grow the police force, modernize policing techniques, expand investigative and detention capacities, and leverage technology. She declared her unapologetic advocacy for this level of investment, stating that the people of Sint Maarten deserve nothing less.
The statement concluded with a unified message:
- To the community: "Stay vigilant, support your neighbors, and if you see something, say something."
- To the officers: "Your commitment is visible."
- To government partners: "Prevention is all of our responsibility. Let's invest sustainably in safety in this country."
Minister Tackling expressed confidence that through unity, accountability, and long-term structural investment, Sint Maarten will restore stability and peace of mind. The public is encouraged to follow official government pages for further updates.