A Nunchuck and a machete, both were confiscated during a multidisciplinary control operation that took place on July 31.
COLE BAY/BELVEDERE--A large-scale multidisciplinary control operation carried out by the Police Force of St. Maarten KPSM, Customs Department and the Immigration and Border Protection Service on Friday, July 31, resulted in one arrest, the seizure of several prohibited weapons and dozens of vehicle inspections.
The operation was conducted simultaneously at Union Road/Bellevue and Belle Plaine, the Belvedere border crossings, with the knowledge of French authorities. The controls form part of an ongoing cross-border enforcement strategy aimed at disrupting criminal activity, strengthening border security and improving compliance with the law.
According to KPSM, the cooperation, communication and coordination between the participating agencies showed significant improvement compared to previous joint operations, contributing to the positive results achieved.
During the operation, officers inspected 125 vehicles to verify that drivers and vehicles were in possession of the required legal documents. Customs officers and KPSM personnel conducted searches of 67 vehicles.
Two vehicles were impounded after officers determined that valid road tax had not been paid.
One person was arrested for possession of marijuana. Small quantities of marijuana were also found in the possession of several other motorists. The individuals voluntarily surrendered the narcotics, which were confiscated and destroyed on site.
Joint law enforcement officers gathering during multidisciplinary control operation that took place on July 31.
Officers also seized three prohibited weapons found in separate vehicles: a machete, a nunchuck and a knife.
A total of 17 scooters were inspected, all of which were found to be in compliance with the required documentation.
Seven traffic fines were issued for various offences, including driving without a valid licence, failing to have valid road tax and operating a vehicle without valid insurance.
The Immigration and Border Protection Service carried out identity and immigration-status checks on several individuals, while Customs officers, working closely with KPSM, conducted inspections under the Customs Ordinance to detect customs violations and the movement of prohibited goods.
KPSM thanked the Customs Department, the Immigration and Border Protection Service and all officers involved in the operation for their cooperation and professionalism. The Police Force also expressed appreciation to the public for their patience and cooperation during the controls.
KPSM said additional joint operations can be expected as part of the Ministry of Justice’s continued efforts to combat crime, strengthen border security and enhance public safety.
“The Police Force of St. Maarten remains committed to working together with its justice partners to ensure a safer St. Maarten for all residents and visitors,” KPSM stated.
