PHILIPSBURG--- A man was discovered deceased in his residence on Wednesday evening after a concerned friend went to check on his well-being.
Police were called to the home after the friend found the man unresponsive. According to authorities, medical professionals have determined that the man died of natural causes, and no foul play is suspected in the death.
The friend reportedly decided to visit the residence after not seeing or hearing from the man for a day, which led to the discovery. Officials have not released the man's identity pending notification of next of kin.
Authorities have concluded their on-site investigation and stated that no further details will be released at this time.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In a major step toward administrative efficiency, Minister Gumbs announced the awarding of a contract to Grant Thornton to tackle the extensive backlog at the Department of Domain Affairs. The project aims to clear up existing delays and implement stronger, more efficient systems for the future.
Grant Thornton's role will include creating a full inventory of the backlog, developing a detailed action plan, and executing it. This process involves digitizing hard copy files and integrating them into the current domain administration systems. The project will also establish clearer workflows between Domain Affairs and the Receiver's Office and provide dedicated training for staff.
The Minister emphasized that the $209,120,000 project comes at no direct cost to the Government of Sint Maarten, as it is fully funded by the Dutch Ministry of Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations. "This is a meaningful step forward in modernizing our administration and ensuring the people of St. Martin receive the quality of services they deserve," concluded Minister Gumbs.

PHILIPSBURG, Senior Dr. Dennaoui, one of the two local doctors arrested earlier today in connection with a serious investigation into abuse and ill-treatment, has been released from police custody due to medical reasons. The Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed that despite his release, he remains a primary suspect in the ongoing case.
The second suspect arrested in the early morning raid remains in detention at the Philipsburg Police Station as detectives continue their inquiries.
The investigation, which was launched following an official complaint filed with the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM), centers on disturbing allegations involving the doctors' domestic employee. Law enforcement officials have indicated that the suspects are accused of kidnapping and torturing their maid.
According to preliminary reports, the doctors allegedly beat the cleaner and held her against her will. The situation reportedly escalated over an accusation that the employee had stolen $50,000 from them. Further allegations state that during the ordeal, a weapon was pointed at the victim.
KPSM has emphasized that this is a highly sensitive and active investigation. While one suspect has been released on medical grounds, the inquiry is proceeding rapidly as detectives gather evidence and conduct interviews regarding the severe accusations

PHILPSBURG:--- On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, in a short ceremony at the Government Administration Building, the Secretary-General of the Social Economic Council (SER), Mr. Gerard Richardson, expressed his appreciation to the outgoing Secretary-General of the Ministry of General Affairs, Mr. H. Plantijn, for his dedicated years of service to Country Sint Maarten.
Mr. Plantijn is scheduled to retire next month following many years of public service on Sint Maarten. In his former capacity as the Legal Policy Advisor to the former Prime Minister and current President of Parliament of Sint Maarten, the Honorable S. Wescot-Williams, SG Plantijn, together with the former SG of the Ministry of General Affairs, Mrs. Emilia Connor-Thomas, both played instrumental roles in the establishment of the SER dating back to May 2011.

Mr. Richardson conveyed his sincere thanks and appreciation to SG Plantijn for his longstanding contributions to the SER since its inception. While there were occasions when differing perspectives emerged regarding the SER and the Ministry of General Affairs, both officials recognized the importance of maintaining a professional and respectful working relationship and concluded their collaboration on a positive note.
On behalf of the Chairman of the SER, Mr. Harlec Doran, Mr. Richardson thanked his outgoing colleague for his valuable contributions to both the SER and Country Sint Maarten and wished him every success in his future endeavors.