Philipsburg:--- The major joint control between the French Gendarmes and the Dutch Police assisted by the VKS, Marechausse, Fire Department, Custom Department, Health Department and Coast Guard which was planned and being executed prior to the passing of Hurricane Earl is continuing.
Due to hurricane Earl the controls were temporarily put on hold. Now that the situation on the island has normalized the controls are back in full swing. On Saturday evening September 4th commencing at 10.00 p.m. a general joint control between the French Gendarmes and Dutch police was held at the four major border crossing points namely in Low lands, Union road/Bell View, Belvedere-French Quarter and Oyster Pond-Coralita.
During these controls several cars were stopped and checked to make sure they were in proper working order and had all necessary documents. The cars and occupants were searched for weapons and drugs. Drivers and passengers were also controlled in regard to their status on the island. Many cars towed and fines were given. Persons not staying legally on the island were taken to the police station and held for immigration purposes. The controls lasted until the early Sunday morning hours. A summary of all actions taken by the police during this control will be given at a later date.
