A wave of bold robberies over the past few days left residents and visitors on edge, raising serious concerns about safety on Sint Maarten just as the holiday tourism season began.
The most alarming incident happened Sunday evening at the Divi Little Bay resort, where a group of young men entered the property and broke into around seven hotel rooms. They stole electronics and valuables, leaving guests shaken and some saying they would never return to the island. With Sint Maarten’s economy heavily reliant on tourism, officials fear stories like these could damage the island’s reputation and affect future bookings.
This wasn’t an isolated case. Earlier, on November 30th, two other robberies took place — one involving a suspect posing as a police officer to rob a business owner in Madame Estate, and another where five individuals stormed a hotel in the Oyster Bay area and stole a safe. The string of incidents has raised concerns about whether authorities can contain this spike in crime at such a critical time of year.
Police say they’re actively investigating the Little Bay break-ins. Officers searched the hotel property late into Sunday night, and by Monday, a parent had brought in a minor who may have been involved. Investigators are now speaking with the parents of other teens believed to be connected. KPSM is urging parents to keep close track of their children’s activities and talk with them about the consequences of criminal behavior.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Detective Department at 542-2222 or the anonymous tip line at 9300.
Authorities say restoring public confidence is now essential — for both the safety of visitors and the protection of the island’s tourism-driven economy.