GRAND CASE, Saint-Martin:--- Burglars broke into several offices at L’Espérance Airport during the night of Wednesday, November 4, into Thursday, November 5, forcing doors, breaking windows, and searching premises used by the Border Police and car rental businesses.
The Gendarmerie confirmed to SMN News that the intrusion affected several offices and airport storage areas, including the premises of the Police aux Frontières (PAF), France’s Border Police. Investigators searched drawers and cupboards inside the affected offices.
Car rental offices outside the terminal were also broken into. Attempts were made to steal vehicles, and several cars were damaged. Investigators have not disclosed what property, if any, was stolen or provided an estimate of the losses.
Gendarmes are reviewing surveillance footage as part of the ongoing investigation and have conducted initial examinations at the airport.
A security cordon was established to prevent members of the public from entering the damaged areas.
Despite the overnight break-ins and vandalism, flights operated on Thursday morning, although some services experienced minor delays.
The Gendarmerie confirmed the details to SMN News and directed requests for further information about the investigation to the Prosecutor’s Office.
The circumstances surrounding the intrusion and the full extent of the damage remain under investigation.