HARBOUR VIEW, PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the first naturalization ceremonies of 2026 were held at the Cabinet of the Governor of Sint Maarten. During two separate ceremonies, a total of 84 individuals took the declaration of allegiance before the Governor of Sint Maarten, His Excellency Mr. Ajamu G. Baly, and, in doing so, formally obtained their Dutch citizenship.
The newly declared Dutch citizens represent 19 different nationalities across the community of Sint Maarten. In his address to the attendees, Governor Baly emphasized the significance of Dutch nationality and highlighted the Kingdom of the Netherlands' core values. He also pointed out the rights and responsibilities that accompany citizenship and the connection with the Sint Maarten community and the Kingdom.
Dutch nationality can be acquired in several ways: automatically at birth if at least one parent is Dutch, through adoption or acknowledgment, or through formal procedures such as the option or naturalization process. These procedures are governed by stringent requirements under the Kingdom Act on Dutch Nationality. To honor the importance of the completion of this important milestone, the Governor’s Cabinet organizes naturalization ceremonies for all individuals who obtain Dutch nationality through the option or naturalization procedure. Attendance at the naturalization ceremony is mandatory and must be done within one year of the decision being rendered.
These ceremonies mark the first naturalization events of the year. By publicly marking this milestone, the Cabinet wishes to promote awareness and understanding of the process of acquiring Dutch citizenship.
PHILIPSBURG:---The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) has officially announced that the traffic incident which occurred in the early morning hours of March 2, 2026, on Arlet Peters Road (Old Cake House Road), is now being investigated as a double homicide. The case is currently under investigation by personnel of the Detective Department. Authorities stated that further details will be shared as the investigation progresses. While police have remained tight-lipped, they have confirmed that the incident involves more than a simple vehicular accident.
Willemstad:--- During a military ceremony on Monday morning, March 2, 2026, Company Rotation 50 handed over its tasks to the next unit, Rotation 51. The new commander, Captain Marnix, took over command from his predecessor during a traditional paddle handover.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) continues its firm, coordinated efforts to combat the series of jewelry robberies that have been affecting the community throughout 2025. As part of these ongoing investigative operations, another suspect has been taken into custody.