PHILIPSBURG:--- Preventive measures to address firearm violence are currently in place across Sint Maarten and will continue into the foreseeable future.
Under the order issued by the Prosecutor’s Office Sint Maarten OM SXM, police officers may open bags and packages, search vehicles, and request cooperation from individuals for clothing searches in publicly accessible areas. These measures are designed to detect illegal firearms, disrupt criminal activity such as armed robberies, and strengthen public safety across all communities.
Investigations indicate that illegal firearms are being brought onto the island through various channels, contributing to increased violence and public safety risks. As part of the response, the Prosecutor’s Office has ordered the continuation of preventive searches through Monday, December 15, 2025, with further extensions expected.
Police have seized over 70 illegal firearms since early 2024, underscoring both the scale of the challenge and the active work of the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM). Targeted controls and earlier preventive search operations have proven effective in removing weapons from circulation.
Gun violence remains a serious concern, with multiple injuries and fatalities recorded since 2024 and several cases showing links to criminal groups operating across the Dutch–French border and the wider region. Firearms are also being used within drug-related networks, driven by shifting trafficking routes through the Caribbean.
The Prosecutor’s Office, together with KPSM, reaffirms its commitment to combating gun violence and protecting residents and visitors.
St. Maarten Government Outlines Traffic Solutions Amid Growing Congestion.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Traffic congestion on St. Maarten has become a pressing issue, with residents and visitors alike voicing frustrations over gridlocked roads at all hours of the day. During Wednesday’s press briefing, Minister of VROMI Patrice Gumbs Jr. addressed the growing concerns, outlining both short-term fixes and long-term strategies to tackle the island’s traffic woes.
Short-Term Fixes in Motion
Minister Gumbs highlighted several immediate measures aimed at alleviating traffic bottlenecks. Among these is the installation of new road signage to regulate traffic flow, including limiting left turns and controlling access to high-traffic areas. The signage, currently in its final procurement stages, will target congestion hotspots such as Simpson Bay and Pondfill Road.
Additionally, pothole repairs are underway to improve road conditions and reduce vehicle slowdowns. Police officers have also been deployed to manage traffic in critical areas during peak hours, providing temporary relief.
The Minister emphasized the importance of enforcing existing traffic laws, such as restricting heavy construction vehicles on roads like Link One. “It’s not just about creating new rules; it’s about ensuring people follow the ones already in place,” he stated. Garbage collection schedules are also being enforced, with haulers required to operate during off-peak hours to avoid disrupting morning traffic.
Long-Term Vision for Traffic Management
While short-term fixes are being implemented, Minister Gumbs acknowledged that sustainable solutions require a long-term approach. The government is working on a comprehensive transportation review, which includes regulating the import of vehicles and improving the island’s public transportation system.
Infrastructure development is also a key focus, with plans for filtering lanes and improved access roads, such as the Manzanilla Road, to address bottlenecks. The Minister noted that a phased approach is being taken, citing C.A Cannegieter Street as an example, where making it a one-way road has already reduced congestion in the area.
To ensure compliance with traffic regulations, the government is strengthening its enforcement mechanisms. Plans are underway to introduce fines for violations, as warning letters alone have proven ineffective. “If people don’t feel it in their pocket, they won’t take it seriously,” Minister Gumbs remarked.
Challenges During High Season
The Minister acknowledged the added strain on the island’s infrastructure during the peak tourist season, with six to eight cruise ships arriving daily. “The reality is that our infrastructure cannot handle the current volume of traffic,” he said, calling for collective action and tough decisions to address the issue.
A Call for Patience and Cooperation
Minister Gumbs concluded by urging residents to remain patient as the government works to implement both immediate and long-term solutions. “It takes all of us to make this work,” he said, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in following traffic rules and respecting regulations.
As St. Maarten grapples with its traffic challenges, the government’s efforts to balance quick fixes with strategic planning will be closely watched by residents and stakeholders alike.
A Masterclass in Evasion: Minister Gumbs' Troubling Silence on VROMI Scandal.
PHILIPSBURG:--- In a stunning display of political deflection, Minister of VROMI Patrice Gumbs Jr. recently treated the public to a textbook example of how to say nothing while pretending to say something. When questioned during a press briefing about a serious complaint filed against his own Secretary-General, the Minister’s response was a masterclass in vagueness, leaving a trail of unanswered questions and fueling suspicions of a cover-up within his ministry. The situation has only grown more alarming with the subsequent suspensions of Head of New Projects Kurt Ruan and Charlon Pompier, the original complainant.
Let's dissect the exchange. A direct question was posed: What is the status of the complaint filed by Charlon Pompier against the Secretary-General? Instead of providing a clear, transparent answer, Minister Gumbs offered a convoluted narrative that obfuscated the truth. He confirmed a complaint was lodged, mentioned a procedure involving Human Resources, and then bizarrely stated that the investigation into the complaint against the SG somehow led to the suspension of Mr. Pompier, the one who blew the whistle.
"The complaint that he lodged about the Secretary General, once investigated, led to that suspension," Gumbs stated, before quickly adding, "Further than that, there's an ongoing investigation, so I cannot give you more information."
This response is not just inadequate; it is an insult to public intelligence. How does a complaint against a high-ranking official result in the suspension of the accuser? The Minister’s statement creates a disturbing implication: that reporting misconduct within VROMI is a career-ending move. By hiding behind the shield of an "ongoing investigation," Gumbs avoids all meaningful accountability. It is a classic bureaucratic maneuver designed to stall, deflect, and ultimately bury an inconvenient issue.
The plot has since thickened with the suspension of another key figure, Kurt Ruan. This development casts an even darker shadow over the ministry. The public is left to connect the dots, wondering if this is a systematic purge of individuals who dared to challenge the status quo or expose wrongdoing. Without transparency from the top, the vacuum is filled with speculation and eroding trust.
This entire affair reeks of a toxic workplace culture where power is protected at the expense of justice. The Minister’s non-answers do more than just dodge a few uncomfortable questions. They signal that accountability is not a priority in his ministry. They undermine the very principles of good governance, which depend on transparency, fairness, and the protection of whistleblowers. When employees see their colleagues suspended after raising concerns, the chilling effect is immediate and devastating. Who will dare speak up next?
We are not just talking about internal personnel matters. This is about the integrity of a ministry responsible for the country's fundamental infrastructure. The public deserves to know if the leadership of VROMI is compromised. They deserve to know that complaints of misconduct are handled impartially, not by punishing the messenger.
Minister Gumbs’ evasive rhetoric is a profound failure of leadership. He had an opportunity to reassure the public, to commit to a fair and open process, and to demonstrate that no one is above scrutiny. Instead, he chose to circle the wagons, leaving citizens to question the integrity of his entire department. The people of St. Martin deserve better than vague platitudes and closed-door justice. It is time for Minister Gumbs to stop hiding and provide the public with the one thing he has so far refused to offer: a straight answer.
Minister Gumbs Outlines Ambitious Plans for Housing, Wastewater, and Infrastructure.
PHILIPSBURG:--- During Wednesday’s Council of Ministers press briefing, Patrice Gumbs Jr., Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), provided a comprehensive update on several critical projects aimed at improving Sint Maarten's infrastructure and quality of life. The Minister addressed topics ranging from new housing developments and wastewater management to long-term solutions for the island's persistent traffic and waste issues.
New Housing and Cemetery Development in Belvedere
A significant announcement was the finalization of the national housing policy and the purchase of the "Belvedere remainder" property. This land acquisition paves the way for new public housing initiatives. As part of this large-scale development, a new cemetery is also planned for the area.
Responding to questions about community impact, Minister Gumbs clarified that the cemetery will be located on an adjacent property to the existing Belvedere housing development, not within it. He assured the public that the project would adhere to strict zoning and environmental guidelines. "In the whole development of the master plan, public consultation will be part and parcel of what that will look like for everybody in that area," Gumbs stated, emphasizing that community buy-in and engagement are crucial for the project's success.
Major Wastewater Project for Cul de Sac Basin
Minister Gumbs also highlighted the upcoming Sint Maarten Wastewater Treatment Project, a $25 million initiative focused on the Dutch Cul-de-Sac area. The project aims to introduce a public sewage network, establish household connections, and upgrade the capacity of the current wastewater treatment plant.
When questioned about the ministry's capacity to handle such a large-scale project, the Minister expressed confidence. He noted that VROMI has prior experience with sewage projects and possesses significant in-house expertise. The project will also benefit from the strengthened monitoring and oversight mechanisms provided by the World Bank. He confirmed that a public tender for the main construction work will be issued to a third-party contractor.
Addressing concerns about flooding in the Cul de Sac Basin, which experienced significant issues in October, Gumbs explained that this project presents an opportunity for integrated solutions. "We're also looking at how, at the same time, when we're going to be digging into the road... we can actually improve the capacity of the drainage system in that area," he said.
A public consultation is scheduled for the evening of December 10th at the Belair Community Center to inform residents and coordinate with other utility companies, ensuring that all necessary underground work can be done simultaneously to minimize public inconvenience. The project is projected to begin interventions in late 2026 with an estimated completion time of 18 months.
A Focus on Sustainable Development and Community Engagement
Throughout the briefing, Minister Gumbs reiterated his commitment to sustainable development. He defined this not as halting growth, but as thoughtfully considering long-term impacts, such as drainage and community needs, during the planning process. Whether discussing the new housing in Belvedere or the wastewater project in Cul de Sac, the Minister underscored the importance of public engagement to ensure that the government's vision aligns with the community's needs and well-being. These projects represent a significant step forward in the government's efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable infrastructure for Sint Maarten.
Growing Pile of Car Wrecks on Pond Island Prompts Government Response.
PHILIPSBURG: --- The sight of mounting car wrecks along Soualiga Boulevard on Pond Island has become a significant concern for residents of Sint Maarten, raising questions about waste management, environmental safety, and the island's overall appearance. In response to questions at Wednesday's Council of Ministers press briefing, Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), Patrice Gumbs Jr., addressed the issue, outlining the government's position and the steps being taken to resolve the situation.
A Growing Environmental and Aesthetic Problem
The accumulation of derelict vehicles and scrap metal on Pond Island is more than just an eyesore. It represents a pressing environmental challenge. These wrecks can leak hazardous fluids, such as oil, antifreeze, and battery acid, into the ground, posing a threat to local ecosystems and water sources. Furthermore, the large, unmanaged pile of metal detracts from the island's beauty, a key asset to its tourism-driven economy.
The issue stems from a scrap-metal operation in the area. While the business plays a role in diverting metal waste from the central landfill, its method of stockpiling materials has led to the current situation. Minister Gumbs acknowledged that the problem is compounded by illegal dumping, where individuals abandon vehicles and other large metal items near the company's premises, often after hours. This blurs the lines of responsibility and worsens the visual and environmental impact on the area.
Minister Gumbs Addresses the Challenge
Minister Gumbs confirmed that the government is actively working to find a solution. He stated that the Ministry of VROMI has initiated discussions with the owner of the scrap metal business. The goal is to formally integrate the company's valuable diversion work into the country's future waste management strategy.
However, this integration comes with clear expectations. The Minister emphasized that the company must improve its operational standards and business practices, particularly concerning the management and upkeep of its site. "If you're going to have certain standards for waste, governments themselves have to be engaged with persons who also have good standards of business," Minister Gumbs explained. He recognized the company's past contributions but stressed that there is always room to "grow and do better."
Towards Stricter Enforcement and Sustainable Solutions
The Minister's response highlights a broader government effort to strengthen its enforcement capabilities. The issue on Pond Island is symptomatic of a wider challenge: existing regulations are not always followed. The government is working to improve the enforcement of its own rules, making clear that disrespecting land-use and waste-management policies will have consequences.
To prevent similar situations from arising in the future, a more comprehensive approach is needed. This includes:
- Formalizing Partnerships: Integrating private-sector recycling and diversion operations into a national waste management plan with clear, enforceable standards for site maintenance and processing times.
- Enhancing Public Awareness: Launching campaigns to educate the public on the proper disposal methods for large items like vehicles and scrap metal, and the penalties for illegal dumping.
- Strengthening Enforcement: Providing the Ministry of VROMI with the necessary resources to monitor industrial sites and crack down on illegal dumping across the island.
- Creating Incentives: Exploring programs that encourage residents and businesses to responsibly dispose of old vehicles, such as buy-back programs or designated collection points.
The pile of car wrecks on Pond Island serves as a visible reminder of the complexities of waste management. While the government's dialogue with the responsible business is a positive step, a lasting solution will require a combination of improved business practices, stronger government oversight, and a collective commitment to protecting Sint Maarten's environment.