Suspect Arrested Following Armed Robbery Attempt, KPSM Conducts Targeted Enforcement Actions Addressing Road Safety, Robberies, Firearms and Drugs
From: Head of communication Department
Inspector E.S Josepha
September 27th 2026
Suspect Arrested Following Armed Robbery Attempt
The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) arrested a suspect on Friday, September 25, 2026, in connection with an attempted armed robbery in the Rhine Road area.
Police received a report that two persons were approached while walking by two armed men. The suspects allegedly searched the victims for money. After the victims raised the alarm and began making noise, the suspects fled the area in a vehicle.
Police patrols responding to the report observed a vehicle shortly afterward that matched the description provided. The vehicle was followed, and with assistance from other police units, an attempt was made to stop it.
The occupants eventually abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot in the Simpson Bay area, in the direction of the beach. Police officers continued the pursuit on foot, and one of the suspects, identified by the initials I.L.A., was apprehended a short time later.
A search was conducted in the area for the second suspect; however, he was not located. The vehicle believed to have been used in connection with the incident was seized, and a firearm was also confiscated for further investigation.
I.L.A. was arrested on Friday evening, September 25, 2026, on suspicion of attempted theft by means of violence. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing. The KPSM is actively working to identify and locate the second suspect involved.
The KPSM is appealing to anyone who may have information regarding the identity or whereabouts of the outstanding suspect to contact the police. Information can be provided by calling the police at 542-2222 or anonymously through the police tip line at 9300.
The KPSM emphasizes that the possession and use of firearms in connection with criminal activities is taken very seriously. Persons involved in armed criminal activities may face criminal prosecution and serious legal consequences.
KPSM Conducts Targeted Enforcement Actions Addressing Road Safety, Robberies, Firearms and Drugs
The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM), through the KPSM Operations Team and in cooperation with various operational partners, conducted a series of targeted enforcement actions during the period of Sunday, September 20 through Sunday, September 27, 2026.
The operations focused on general road safety, the suppression of robberies, illegal firearms and drug-related offenses, with particular attention to areas where an increase in robberies had been identified. Based on information gathered through intelligence-led policing and operational cooperation, the KPSM Operations Team adjusted its deployment to locations and times where criminal activity was considered more prevalent. Controls were conducted during both daytime and nighttime hours.
During a control near business in Simpsonbay, officers stopped a vehicle occupied by three persons. During a preventive search, a handgun was discovered inside the vehicle. All three occupants were initially arrested and the firearm was confiscated for further investigation. Following questioning, two of the persons were identified as tourists and were subsequently released. The investigation concerning the firearm remains ongoing.
In the Maho area, officers arrested a suspect on suspicion of receiving or handling stolen property. The suspect was driving a gray Kia Picanto, which, during the control, was determined to have been reported stolen. The vehicle was secured for further investigation.
On the vicinity of the airport, two persons were arrested following a vehicle control.During a preventive search, a quantity of narcotics was discovered inside the vehicle. Both occupants were arrested on suspicion of violating the Opium Lands Ordinance.
One of the arrested persons, a Colombian national, was also found not to possess valid documentation permitting her to remain on Sint Maarten. She was subsequently transferred to the Immigration Department for further processing.
On Saturday, September 26, a joint enforcement operation was conducted involving the KPSM Operations Team, together with, Detective Department, Immigration Department and Customs.
The operation was carried out at several locations across Sint Maarten and included targeted traffic and vehicle controls.
A total of 23 scooters were stopped. Of these, 11 scooters were taken into custody because their drivers did not have the required valid documentation.
During the operation, the police control center also received information concerning two scooters carrying four persons in the Platinum area, with reports that the male occupants were wearing masks.
Members of the Detective Department responded to the report. The suspects were subsequently observed and stopped on Sr. Modesta Road. the suspect managed to flee on a scooter, while another suspect was arrested. During the arrest, a firearm was found in the suspect’s possession.
Given the circumstances surrounding the incident, investigators are examining the possibility that the suspect may have been preparing to commit a robbery. The investigation remains ongoing.
During the joint operation, a total of 68 vehicles were stopped for inspection. Of these, 28 vehicles were subjected to preventive searches conducted by police, Customs and Immigration personnel.
KPSM emphasizes that these actions form part of its continued efforts to improve road safety, prevent robberies and combat the possession and use of illegal firearms and narcotics.
The Police Force will continue to conduct targeted controls based on available intelligence and information received from officers and members of the public.
Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity or information concerning criminal activity to the police.
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