‘Soualiga Plus’ welcomed
by business community
PHILIPSBURG--News that the police plan to upgrade the Soualiga Patrol by expanding its tasks to cover the areas surrounding tourist-frequented spots is welcomed by the United Business Association.
Applauding the announcement by Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards about the still to be officially approved “Soualiga Plus Patrol,” the group said it “strongly supports the idea and urged the entire business community to stand behind the initiative.
UBA was formed late last year at defend the rights of businesses on the island, especially those affected by the new residency permit policy of Richards that threatens to kill a significant number of small businesses.
The group has extended its reach to voice concerns and offer solutions about the escalating crime situation in the community. In March and April, several businesses including jewellery stores on Front Street, were robbed in bold daylight incidents, prompting the group to call for better surveillance and patrols in Philipsburg and other areas with a high density of business establishments.
Richards announced the pending patrol upgrade at a meeting of Rotary Club St. Maarten, where he stated, “It is important to have the commitment of the Island Government and the St. Maarten Police Force for the successful realisation of this complementary approach to protecting citizens and residents from the criminal element.”
St. Maarten Police Force will be leading the project, together with a soon to-be-formed foundation that will have funds donated to it by all stakeholders for the payment of the personnel salaries and equipment.
UBA, as a stakeholder, strongly advises its members to support as fully as possible the upgrading of the Soualiga Patrol.
The Soualiga Patrol was introduced in 2004 and had as its main task, patrolling the areas surrounding Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities and Philipsburg.
