The situation on the island of St. Maarten is turning dire due to the actions and chaos being caused by criminals. There have been many reports of looting that started almost immediately after the destruction caused by Hurricane Irma. It now appears that looting is turning into violence.
There were earlier reports today of violence and assaults occurring at and around Simpson Bay Resort and Flamingo Beach Resort. I’ve also heard reports of violence coming in from Point Blanche. Most assuredly this behavior is not isolated to only these areas but I have not gotten any information on other areas of the island.
The government has stated that all citizens are to remain in their homes. No one is allowed to leave unless they are directly involved in relief efforts.
Beginning immediately, police and military will be clearing the streets of all people not authorized to be helping with relief. This enforcement will be strict and will consist of immediate action taken by the authorities against anyone not abiding to their directives.
Late yesterday afternoon, Prime Minister William Marlin spoke on Laser 101 FM and called for calm and cooperation. He stated, “We have lost a lot, but this time around we have lost no lives.” Adding, “Let us put the lives that were spared to good use, collectively, to move this country forward.”
While the communications on the island are devastated, Laser 101 FM has been broadcasting live. They’ve also had a live internet stream — you can listen on TuneIn.com — but over the last couple of hours that stream has been going in and out. The loss of the stream coincides with the increase in violence and I’m hoping that they are not related.
In addition, the relief efforts have begun but it is not clear exactly to what extent. The Dutch government have been posting updates and photos of military boats arriving, soldiers on the streets and even a government airplane landing at SXM. But there are also reports that military are leaving the island (or have already left) to Curaçao until Hurricane Jose passes.
In StMaarten after #IrmaHurricane help is on the way (8).
Navy, Airforce, Army Kingdom of the Netherlands delivering more supplies.#SSS pic.twitter.com/HsAc5Xne8F— Karel van Oosterom (@KvanOosterom) September 8, 2017
In StMaarten after #IrmaHurricane help is on the way (3).
Marines Kingdom of the Netherlands have started providing security. pic.twitter.com/HA6la0Cj8U— Karel van Oosterom (@KvanOosterom) September 8, 2017
In StMaarten after #IrmaHurricane help is on the way (4).
First flight by military aircraft Kingdom of the Netherlands on damaged Airport. pic.twitter.com/1HEaO5X0hF— Karel van Oosterom (@KvanOosterom) September 8, 2017
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