PHILIPSBURG:--- “Last night’s smash-and-grab in Maho was not only an attack on a business, it was an attack on the rule of law and on the sense of safety our community deserves. To those responsible: you will be found, you will be prosecuted, and you will face the consequences. These acts are not signs of boldness. They are criminals, and they will be stopped.
Since early this morning, I have been in continuous contact with law enforcement leadership reviewing the case details and the immediate operational steps already underway. Investigations are progressing, evidence is being secured, and targeted actions are moving forward. This situation is being addressed with the urgency it demands.
Tomorrow morning, I will hold an urgent meeting with the Chief of Police and the Chief Prosecutor to further tighten our operational response and accelerate coordinated enforcement across all units. This is not a routine meeting. It is a direct, immediate intervention to ensure all agencies are aligned and act swiftly.
Crime cannot be confronted by one ministry alone. This moment requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-community response, and I will continue strengthening that cooperation. We are not offering excuses; we are taking action.
To our residents, business community, and visitors: your safety remains my highest priority. We will restore calm. We will protect this island. Criminals will not dictate how we live or how we feel. Justice will.”
— Nathalie Tackling
Minister of Justice
