PHILIPSBURG:--- An off-duty police officer intervened in an attempted robbery near Market Garden Supermarket on Welfare Road at approximately 4:00 a.m. Sunday, September 20, according to the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM). A minor was arrested, while a second suspect fled.
KPSM said the officer was driving through the area when he noticed two people on a scooter wearing dark clothing and covering their faces. After passing his vehicle, the scooter made a U-turn and began following him.
The scooter then stopped near a man and a woman standing beside the road. According to police, the passenger approached the man, appeared to reach for a gold chain around his neck, and became involved in a physical confrontation with him.
The off-duty officer identified himself as a police officer and intervened. The scooter driver fled toward Cole Bay. The passenger complied when the officer ordered him to stop and was subsequently arrested by patrol officers who arrived at the scene.
Police said the arrested suspect is a minor and is being held at the Philipsburg police station while the investigation continues. Officers are working to identify and locate the scooter driver.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is asked to call KPSM at 542-2222 or the anonymous tip line at 9300.
