PHILIPSBURG, SINT MAARTEN – Nation Opportunity Wealth (NOW), Member of Parliament (MP) and Vice Chair of Parliament’s Justice Committee, Lyndon Lewis, has expressed serious concern over the influx of reports regarding robberies that occurred over the weekend, particularly incidents involving tourists and residents having their jewelry snatched.
According to reports received by MP Lewis, several complaints were made over the weekend involving individuals, reportedly operating on scooters, targeting people and snatching jewelry in and around the Simpson Bay area.
MP Lewis stated that this developing trend requires the utmost attention from the Government, the Ministry of Justice, law enforcement authorities, and the Prosecutor’s Office before the situation escalates and results in serious injury or tragedy.
“Sint Maarten has long and proudly been known as the Friendly Island. We cannot allow criminal activity to create an atmosphere of fear among our residents or the visitors who choose our country as their vacation destination,” MP Lewis stated.
MP Lewis also issued a stern message to those involved in these criminal activities, emphasizing that individuals who choose to commit crimes must understand that their actions have consequences.
“To those who believe that they can continue committing these crimes without consequences, think again. When apprehended, I expect the appropriate authorities to ensure that offenders are dealt with in accordance with the full extent of the law. A perceived lack of detention capacity must never become an invitation for criminal behavior,” MP Lewis said.
As Vice Chair of the Justice Committee, MP Lewis is calling on the Government, particularly the Prime Minister and Minister of Justice, to treat the matter as an urgent public-safety concern and establish a coordinated plan of action aimed at suppressing this developing trend.
MP Lewis further stressed that strengthening public safety requires adequate investment in the justice chain. With preparations for the 2027 national budget, he cautioned against reducing or reallocating funding that is necessary for the Ministry of Justice to properly execute its responsibilities.
“We cannot continuously demand more from our law enforcement officers while providing them with fewer resources. If we are serious about combating crime, protecting our residents, safeguarding our tourism product, and maintaining confidence in Sint Maarten as a safe destination, then the necessary financial and operational resources must be made available,” MP Lewis stated.
MP Lewis also acknowledged the continued efforts of all law enforcement personnel, who continue to carry out their responsibilities despite challenges involving staffing and available resources.
“I recognize that our men and women in blue are doing what they can with the resources available to them. I want to acknowledge each and every officer who continues to show up, patrol our communities, respond to incidents, and enforce the law. I was one of you and your work does not go unnoticed.” MP Lewis stated.
MP Lewis concluded by stressing that public safety must remain a national priority and that addressing this issue requires immediate enforcement measures as well as a sustainable strategy that provides law enforcement with the manpower, equipment, resources, and legislative support necessary to effectively combat crime.
“Our residents deserve to feel safe in their communities, and our visitors deserve to enjoy Sint Maarten without fear of becoming victims of crime. Protecting both is essential not only to our quality of life, but also to the reputation and economic stability of our country. We must act before this trend becomes an even greater problem.” MP Lewis concluded.
