According to reports two unknown and armed men who were in the casino at the time threatened to use their weapons and succeeded in robbing the establishment and after committing their act fled the scene. It is still unclear how the suspect made their escape but with the little description of both suspects the investigating officers identified one possible suspect in the Sucker Garden area. When the suspect noticed that he was pursued by police he tried to flee in a gold colored SUV.
The suspect was chased by the officers and in that process shots were fired by police. The suspect fled on foot in the direction of the “Sint Maarten Zoo” leaving the SUV behind. A search of the area by several officers including the K-9 unit however did not lead to the capture of the suspect. During a search of the SUV in question considerable amount cash was found and confiscated for further investigation. Both suspects thus far remains at large and the police department is asking anyone who may have any information concerning this case to get in contact with the police department via the tip line # 9300 or 54-22222 ext. 203, 204 or205.
This investigation is still in its early stages and as more information becomes available the media will be informed.
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT Road closure
The police department is informing the general public that in connection with several ongoing “On site and walk through information gathering sessions” for projects that have to be done in the Philipsburg area as of Friday September 18th at noon until 07.00 p.m. Front Street and Back Street will be closed for all motor vehicle traffic. This information gathering will be ongoing daily until further notice. Front Street and Back Street will be closed daily from 07.00 a.m. until 07.00 p.m. with the exception of Sundays. All persons living or have businesses on these streets who wish to enter with their motor vehicle should get in contact with the police department. The Police bike patrols will be available during these hours in letting vehicles in and out of these two streets. The Police Department expresses deepest regret for any inconvenience this situation may cause.