The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is strengthening coordination on public safety while the Police Union is urging Government to make greater investments in the country's justice system following recent criminal incidents.
On July 23, KPSM hosted a coordination meeting with the Ministry of VROMI and contractors involved in the construction of the new Point Blanche Prison to develop traffic and road safety measures for the project. The discussions focused on the safe movement of construction vehicles, minimizing disruptions to nearby communities, and protecting motorists, pedestrians, and residents throughout the construction period. KPSM said it will continue working closely with all stakeholders to ensure public safety remains a priority.
Meanwhile, NAPB Sint Maarten Police Union President Marcus Pantophlet welcomed TEATT Minister Grisha Heyliger-Marten's call for an urgent meeting on recent criminal activity but stressed that crime is a national issue requiring a whole-of-government response. The union renewed its call for increased investment in the justice chain, including more police officers, modern equipment, improved training, better insurance and welfare provisions, and greater capacity for prosecution and detention facilities. The union said meaningful improvements will require concrete policy decisions and budget commitments to ensure officers have the resources needed to protect the community effectively.