LOADED FIREARM DISCOVERED. ARREST WARRANT ISSUED

SINT MAARTEN (HOPE ESTATE) - On Monday evening, December 22, 2025, officers of the Special Team of the Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) conducted a control operation in the Hope Estate area as part of ongoing efforts to maintain public order and safety throughout Sint Maarten.

During the operation, officers observed a group of men gathering in the area. While carrying out preventive searches, officers decided to check a vehicle that was allegedly being driven by one of the young men from the group. Just before the vehicle inspection, the suspect requested permission to remove his bag containing personal belongings from the vehicle.

Officers decided to inspect the bag first. During the search, a loaded silver revolver with extra ammunition and other items was discovered inside the bag. At that moment, the suspect fled the scene.

An intensive search was immediately conducted for the suspect, who is known to police, but he was not located. With permission from the Prosecutor's Office, an arrest warrant was issued for the suspect. Officers subsequently visited two different locations where the suspect is believed to reside, but he was not encountered at either location.

The KPSM will continue to carry out preventive searches in light of the positive results these operations are having in removing illegal firearms from the streets. The police force emphasizes that anyone found in possession of any type of illegal firearm will be arrested and prosecuted.

The KPSM urges anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the suspect to contact the police immediately via the emergency number 911 or the tip line at 9300.

KPSM remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors of Sint Maarten through continued enforcement actions into the new year.