French and Dutch forces continue their joint efforts to secure the island. In the space of a few days, two major operations have been conducted: one at the Bellevue border crossing, the other at Grand-Case airport as part of the “100% control” plan.
Bellevue: a coordinated cross-border system
Starting at 6:30 a.m., the Bellevue border crossing hosted a new police cooperation operation. Under the authority of the prefecture, the Border Police, the Territorial Police, Customs, and the Community's transport control service joined forces with the KPSM and the Sint Maarten transport control unit.
This third joint action of the year aimed to control passenger and vehicle flows while ensuring the regularity of carriers. In just a few hours, 235 people, 71 light vehicles, and 14 buses were inspected. Several violations were noted, resulting in fines and arrests.
Authorities emphasize that these checks are part of a long-term strategy, integrated into the Daily Security Action Plan (#PADRSQ). Their objective is twofold: to deter fraudulent behavior and strengthen daily security for residents. Bellevue, a strategic point between the two parts of the island, illustrates the need for joint, visible, and regular action in the face of cross-border threats.
Grand-Case: “100% control” operation on the tarmac
Two days later, Grand-Case airport was the scene of a new operation called “100% control.” Conducted at the request of the public prosecutor and under the authority of the prefect, it involved Customs and Border Police. This third initiative aimed to disrupt drug trafficking routes and limit the use of Saint-Martin's infrastructure as transit points.
The system included systematic passenger searches and a complete inspection of luggage. The nine PAF officers focused on the passengers, with pat-downs and increased controls, while the four customs officers inspected each suitcase on the tarmac with the support of a specialized detection dog. The luggage scanners were analyzed by an officer trained in drug detection, working in tandem with a security officer.
Regional flights, particularly those to Guadeloupe with a connection in Paris, were the subject of particular attention. To surprise traffickers, operations deliberately varied their schedules and periods.
A deterrent strategy reinforced since July
These actions are a continuation of the first two operations organized in July. The first, on July 8, mobilized around forty officers and enabled the inspection of 233 passengers and all their luggage, without the discovery of narcotics. It was primarily intended as a test and demonstration. The second, on July 25, involved 167 passengers and 111 pieces of cabin baggage. This time, significant quantities of cigarettes and a large sum of cash were seized, confirming the effectiveness of the operation.
Since the beginning of the year, more than 31 kilos of cocaine and 15 kilos of weed have been seized in Saint-Martin. By increasing the number of operations of this type, the authorities intend to maintain constant pressure on criminal networks and provide lasting protection for residents. The desired effect is not only repressive but above all dissuasive: introducing a degree of uncertainty into traffickers' logistical schemes and demonstrating that every crossing point, whether land or air, can be subject to complete control. _VX
Source: Faxinfo https://faxinfo.fr/en/securite-controles-renforces-a-bellevue-et-a-laeroport-de-grand-case/
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