Man shot in the hand near Simpson Bay Marina in St. Maarten

On Monday 6th February 2018 AM LT, a man believed to be a yacht crew member was shot in the hand by two robbers near the Simpson Bay Marina in St. Maarten. The man had left a sports bar in the early hours of the morning and was offered a ride by two men he didn’t know. Upon reaching the Marina, the men demanded money and then shot the victim, who ran towards the yacht club security booth. The police were called and the victim was taken to St. Maarten Medical Centre for treatment.

Sources

https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/73384-man-shot-by-strangers-who-offered-him-a-ride

https://www.the-triton.com/2018/02/man-shot-in-hand-near-marina-in-st-maarten/

Background & Advice

As with any destination, there is an underlying threat of travelers falling victim to petty and opportunistic crime in Saint Martin and Sint Maarten. There is violent crime between gangs involved in the illegal drugs trade, but this rarely affects tourists. Main tourist areas are generally safe, but you should take sensible precautions. There have been reports of theft from vehicles, especially rental cars. Armed robberies and tourists being followed by people on motorcycles have also been reported.

There was an increase in looting and criminal activity following the Hurricane season. Residents of St Martin spoke about a general disintegration of law and order as people struggled in the face of severe food and water shortages, and the absence of electricity and phone service. Local media sources reported that a group of men overpowered security and staff at the Simpson Bay Resort before heading to rooms to take jewelry and money.

As of February 2018, the situation has improved drastically, but some major hotels will not reopen until later in 2018.

It is strongly advised only to use registered taxis on the island and negotiate a price before taking a ride. Do not accept lifts from strangers.

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