~Operations also led to drug arrests, the recovery of a stolen car, and the seizure of 11 scooters.~
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) seized two firearms and carried out arrests linked to drugs and stolen property during targeted operations conducted from September 20 to 27.
KPSM said its Operations Team, working with other units and enforcement partners, focused on road safety, robberies, illegal firearms and drug-related offenses. Officers used information gathered during their investigations to conduct controls in areas and at times where criminal activity was considered more likely.
During a vehicle control near a business in Simpson Bay, officers found a handgun in a car occupied by three people. All three were initially arrested. Officers later identified two as tourists and released them after questioning. Police confiscated the firearm, and the investigation remains ongoing.
In Maho, officers arrested a person driving a gray Kia Picanto after determining that the car had been reported stolen. Officers secured the vehicle for further investigation.
A separate control near the airport resulted in two arrests after officers found narcotics inside a vehicle. Officers arrested both occupants on suspicion of violating the Opium Lands Ordinance. Police said one of them, a Colombian national, did not have valid documents permitting her to remain in Sint Maarten and was transferred to the Immigration Department for further processing.
Joint operation on Saturday
On September 26, the KPSM Operations Team carried out a joint operation with the Detective Department, Immigration Department and Customs at several locations across the island.
Officers stopped 68 vehicles and conducted preventive searches of 28. They also stopped 23 scooters and took 11 into custody because the drivers lacked the required valid documentation.
During the operation, the police control center received a report of two scooters carrying four people in the Platinum area. The male occupants were reportedly wearing masks. Detectives later spotted and stopped suspects on Sr. Modesta Road. KPSM said one suspect fled on a scooter, while another was arrested with a firearm in his possession.
Investigators are examining whether the arrested suspect may have been preparing to commit a robbery. No robbery was reported in connection with that stop, and the investigation is continuing.
KPSM said it will continue targeted controls and urged residents to report suspicious activity or information about criminal offenses.
“See something, say something,” the police said.