MP Kotai says the crime situation is a "travesty of justice in our society", Calls for alternative means for non-violent offenders

GREAT BAY--"It is deeply unfortunate that I myself belong to a system that needs urgent reform, a political system that spends weeks trying to validate or justify crime trends instead of tackling them head-on." And with that, MP Viren Kotai on Sunday called St. Maarten's crime plague a "travesty of justice in our society" and expressed his frustration and concern for the general public. He added: "Some may criticize my tone or approach, but as a human being, I cannot stay silent while our people live in fear. Sometimes, even leaders must vent to awaken others. We have to do better."

In the wake of more violent robberies and other instances of crime over the past week, the MP, who has been vocal on the floor of Parliament numerous times, could not hold his comment over the weekend. "We are presently faced with a serious uptick in crime, one that has shaken the very sense of safety in our communities," he said.

"Recently, it has been said, that the patterns of robberies have changed in 2025, suggesting that what we are experiencing is merely a “higher visibility” of crime rather than an actual increase. In August, it was stated that crime must be addressed with facts, not perception. Yet, as that “perception” has been dismissed, chaos has taken over our streets," he added.

Note should be taken here that it was the Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling he recently made the remarks MP Kotai referenced. He said while it was emphasized that public safety must be guided by accurate data and called for an island-wide integrated approach, this reasoning, he said, conveniently ignores the reality that robberies are happening more frequently than ever.

"Today, we are witnessing armed robberies almost weekly, sometimes twice a week. Guns are being pointed in faces. Shots are being fired. Robberies are taking place inside stores, on the streets, at homes and in broad daylight. It has become a complete disaster. This wave of crime is not confined to Philipsburg alone. Supermarkets, small businesses, and even family homes have become targets. No one feels safe, neither the cashier closing up late, the homeowner sitting in their living room, nor the individual walking home from work. Our people live with anxiety, constantly looking over their shoulders," the MP stressed.

He continued: "We are an island entirely dependent on tourism. While these robberies deeply affect our residents, they also tarnish the reputation of our destination. Every act of violence erodes the sense of safety that visitors expect, risking a decline in both tourist arrivals and national revenue. On a micro level, one bad experience can prevent a tourist from ever returning. On a macro level, the perception of rising crime threatens our long-term image and viability as a safe, welcoming destination."

"While I call on my own coalition members and Ministers to pay serious attention to this crisis, I must also highlight the state of our prison system, which has made our population more vulnerable. The recent release and deportation of violent offenders has, in effect, become a “go free” card—showing the world that we lack the capability and the will to punish crime with intent. We have diluted the principle that if you commit the crime, you must serve the time."

He said while work continues toward long-term social solutions to address the roots of crime, short-term measures must also be enforced. "Space in our prisons must be reserved for violent and sexual offenders. Meanwhile, non-violent criminals could serve their sentences through alternative means such as house arrest or community service. But one thing is non-negotiable: No violent criminal should walk free. Let crime pay with time," he said.  

MP Kotai closed with a message of caution for the public: "As we approach the holiday season, I urge every citizen to remain vigilant. Be aware of your surroundings. Look out for your neighbors. Protect your loved ones."

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