June 22, 2026 No comments
VROMI SWEARS IN EIGHT BAVPOL OFFICERS TO STRENGTHEN ENFORCEMENT CAPACITY
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) had eight (8) BAVPOL officers sworn in today by the Minister of Justice, the great majority being from the inspection department, strengthening the ministry’s capacity to enforce and hand out fines. In March, the eight (8) candidates undertook training for BAVPOL certification. While the Ministry continued to issue warning letters, the additional certification allows for follow-through to have consequences that are more immediate. In his address at the ceremony, Minister Gumbs emphasized the broader purpose behind enforcement: "Enforcement is not only about rules or penalties. It is about service. It is about creating order, strengthening trust, and ensuring that every person is protected by the law." From...
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June 22, 2026 No comments
Ministry of VSA Marks Completion of Nibud Study Visit and Training on Cost of Living in Sint Maarten
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), with the support of the Tijdelijke Werk Organisatie (TWO), has completed an important phase in its collaboration with the Nationaal Instituut voor Budgetvoorlichting (Nibud), as part of the ongoing study into the cost of living on Sint Maarten. The study was carried out to gain evidence-based insight into the actual cost of living for individuals and families in Sint Maarten and forms part of the ongoing implementation of the Country Reform Packages. It focuses on the buildup of necessary household expenditures for different household compositions, including the resources residents need to meet their basic needs and participate fully in society. From June 2 to June 11, 2026,...
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June 22, 2026 No comments
Police Conducts Vehicle and Documentation Controls. 26 Vehicles Checked, Three Fines Issued
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - In response to a recent increase in serious scooter and vehicle accidents, as well as firearm-related incidents on both sides of the island, the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) conducted a traffic control over the weekend of June 20, 2026, on the A.J.C. Brouwers Road. During the control, a total of 26 vehicles were stopped and checked, along with two scooters/motorcycles, which were inspected on both documentation and technical compliance. As a result of the control, three fines were issued for various infractions observed during the checks. The Police Force of Sint Maarten emphasizes that these actions are part of a broader, ongoing effort to improve road safety and reduce crime across the island. In the coming...
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June 22, 2026 No comments
THREE ARRESTED FOLLOWING FIREARMS DISCOVERY AT OYSTER POND HOTEL
SINT MAARTEN (OYSTER POND) - On Saturday afternoon, June 20, 2026, the police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) received credible information indicating that several individuals residing at a hotel in the Oyster Pond area were in unlawful possession of firearms. Acting swiftly on this intelligence, the KPSM immediately deployed a combined unit of detectives and patrol officers to the location. Upon arrival, officers conducted a control at the premises. During the operation, three individuals were encountered and two firearms were discovered and secured and confiscated. All three suspects were subsequently arrested and transported to the KPSM station in Philipsburg, where they are currently being held and questioned in connection with the incident.
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June 22, 2026 No comments
Local performer and Lucia Marthas student showcase St. Maarten talent on Dutch national television
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - From the dance studios of St. Maarten to national television in the Netherlands, 23-year-old Faith Peterson is proving that island talent can shine on some of the biggest stages abroad. Born and raised on St. Maarten, Peterson began dancing at just four years old with Motiance Dance School and NIA. What started as a childhood passion has grown into a promising professional career in the performing arts. Today, Peterson is in her third year at the prestigious Lucia Marthas Institute for Performing Arts, where she studies Musical Theatre Dance. The academy is widely recognized as one of the leading performing arts institutions in the Netherlands, training performers for careers in musical theatre, television, and live entertainment. In recent months,...
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