Immigration controls supported
by Quick Response Team Friday
PHILIPSBURG--Immigration officers supported by the Quick Response Team conducted a series of controls at local brothels and in some residential areas. Most of the persons detained reportedly were released once their documents were found to be in order, showing they reside on the island legally.
Police spokesman Inspector Ricardo Henson said the controls were a first step, but while he promised more controls would follow with different strategies, he did not give details.
He said the controls at the brothels especially were simply to ensure that the dancers had their documents in order. He said once they had been checked they had been released and returned to the clubs.
There were also some arrests involving young men who were held for Immigration-related matters and one man was detained in Fort Willem for a domestic dispute with his girlfriend during which he reportedly struck her several times.
The police presence on the island is being stepped up as part of efforts to restore calm to the community that has been plagued by a series of armed robberies and break-ins in residential areas over the past few months.
