During a press briefing held on January 8, the delegated prefect Vincent Berton, accompanied by the sub-prefect Marie-Hildegarde Chauveau and the commander of the gendarmerie Hugues Loyez, gave a worrying overview of the security situation in Grand-Case.
In just two months, seven armed robberies, often committed with scooters, have been recorded. The most recent, involving a gunshot attack on an American tourist, marked a turning point. Although the victim's prognosis is not life-threatening, this irresponsible act raises questions about the security of the territory.
Short-term responses have been implemented: Several arrests have already taken place. Concrete measures such as the reinforcement of technical resources and investigators, the seizure and destruction of the scooters involved. The establishment of a pedestrianization order on Grand-Case Boulevard from 20 p.m. to 3 a.m., will aim to prevent further tragedies.
Furthermore, the prefect insisted on the need to secure the electrical infrastructure in this sector. unresolved problem for two years which contributes to the ambient insecurity.
Beyond immediate measures, a comprehensive response is needed. In the medium term, the focus will be on prevention and accountability. Mediation work with local populations and families is planned. It is essential to raise awareness among the population about consequences of criminal acts, which can lead to severe and irreversible penalties. The reactivation of the video surveillance, essential to support investigations, is also a priority.
In the long term, the authorities are committed to combating youth unemployment. In Saint-Martin, nearly 2400 young people under the age of 25 are unemployed and untrained. They are exposed to criminal influences and motivated by a sense of impunity.
Foundations of youth violence will be held in the first quarter of 2025. This is in order to explore the issue collegially and provide possible answers to counter this recurring violence.
A “lay down your arms” operation will be organized soon. It invites anyone holding a illegal firearm to surrender it to the National Gendarmerie to abandon it to the State for destruction, no prosecution will be retained.
This insecurity has serious economic repercussions for Grand-Case, a tourist pillar of the island, but also for the entire territory. Socio-professionals, in collaboration with the authorities, are called upon to play an active role by strengthening private securityFor Prefect Berton, the challenge is clear: guaranteeing the safety of residents and visitors is essential to preserve theeconomic and social future from Saint-Martin. _Vx
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