GREAT BAY--Nation Opportunity Wealth (NOW) Member of Parliament Lyndon Lewis is calling for an urgent and coordinated response from Government and law enforcement following reports of several robberies over the weekend, including incidents in which jewelry was reportedly snatched from residents and visitors.
Lewis, who serves as Vice Chair of Parliament’s Justice Committee, said he received reports of several incidents involving persons allegedly using scooters to target individuals in and around the Simpson Bay area.
He said the reports should be treated seriously before the situation develops into a wider public-safety problem or results in someone being seriously injured.
Lewis said St. Maarten’s reputation as the Friendly Island must be protected and warned that residents and visitors should not be made to feel unsafe because of criminal activity.
He urged the Government, Ministry of Justice, law enforcement agencies and the Prosecutor’s Office to coordinate their response and take steps aimed at suppressing what he described as a developing trend.
“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,” Lewis said.
The MP specifically called on the Prime Minister and Minister of Justice to treat the matter as an urgent public-safety concern and develop a clear plan of action.
Lewis also linked the issue to preparations for the 2027 national budget, arguing that the Ministry of Justice must have adequate financial and operational resources if law enforcement agencies are expected to respond effectively to crime.
“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 St. Maarten as a safe destination, then the necessary financial and operational resources must be made available,” Lewis said.
He cautioned against reducing or reallocating funding needed by the justice sector and said adequate staffing, equipment and operational support must remain priorities.
Lewis also acknowledged the work of police officers and other law enforcement personnel, noting that many continue to carry out their duties despite staffing and resource constraints.
“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,” Lewis said.
He said tackling crime requires both immediate enforcement and a longer-term strategy that gives law enforcement the manpower, equipment, resources and legislative support needed to carry out its responsibilities.
Lewis added that the safety of residents and visitors is directly connected to St. Maarten’s quality of life, tourism industry and economic stability, and urged authorities to intervene before the reported robberies become a more serious problem.
