Joint law enforcement operation results in arrest, weapons seizures and vehicle impoundments

GREAT BAY--A large-scale joint law enforcement operation conducted at two border crossings resulted in one arrest, the confiscation of three prohibited weapons, the impoundment of two vehicles and the issuance of seven traffic fines.

During the operation, 125 vehicles and 17 scooters were inspected. Officers also searched 67 vehicles and conducted immigration and customs checks on several individuals.

The multidisciplinary operation was carried out on Friday, July 31, 2026, by the Police Force of St. Maarten, KPSM, in collaboration with the Customs Department and the Immigration and Border Protection Service.

Controls were conducted simultaneously at the Union Road/Bellevue and Belle Plaine, Belvedere, border crossings, with the knowledge of the French authorities.

One individual was arrested for possession of marijuana. Small quantities of marijuana were also found in the possession of several motorists. The individuals voluntarily surrendered the substances, which were confiscated and destroyed at the scene.

Three prohibited weapons were confiscated from separate vehicles: one machete, one nunchuck and one knife.

Two vehicles were impounded because they did not have valid road tax documentation. Seven fines were issued for offences including driving without a valid driver’s licence, failure to possess valid road tax and operating a vehicle without valid insurance.

All 17 scooters inspected were found to have the required documentation.

Immigration and Border Protection officers conducted checks to verify the identities and immigration status of several individuals. Customs officers, working closely with KPSM, also carried out inspections under the Customs Ordinance to detect customs-related offences and prohibited goods entering or leaving the country.

The operation forms part of the Ministry of Justice’s continued strategy to strengthen public safety, increase compliance with the law and disrupt criminal activity through coordinated enforcement.

By combining the expertise and legal authority of multiple justice agencies, the authorities are better positioned to detect criminal offences, enforce immigration and customs legislation, improve road safety and protect the community.

KPSM reported that communication and operational coordination among the participating agencies improved significantly compared to previous joint operations. This strengthened cooperation contributed directly to the results achieved.

The Ministry of Justice and its partners will continue conducting coordinated operations as part of their efforts to maintain public order and demonstrate a united law enforcement presence across the island.

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