WILLEMSTAD, PHILIPSBURG – The Customs Service of Sint Maarten and the Caribbean Coast Guard have agreed to intensify their collaboration in the fight against smuggling and cross-border crime. The new partnership was formalized during a strategic meeting held yesterday in Philipsburg, where representatives from both agencies discussed concrete measures to enhance border security on the island. 

Both services plan to work more closely on operational coordination, joint patrols, and information sharing. Agreements were made to conduct joint training sessions and improve rapid coordination when responding to threats at sea and in the ports. 

Sensitive Location 

Due to its geographical position and open borders, Sint Maarten is vulnerable to drug and weapons smuggling as well as illegal migration. The southern part of the island—the Dutch side—shares no physical border with the French northern side. While this facilitates the free movement of people and goods, it also complicates border control efforts. In practice, border security is a shared responsibility among Customs, the Coast Guard, the Immigration Service, and at the airport, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee. 

The Caribbean Coast Guard, operating under the Dutch Ministry of Defence, plays a key role in maritime security. It is responsible for patrolling the waters around the island and cooperates closely with Customs, which oversees goods traffic and import duties. The Immigration and Border Protection Service (IBPS) handles traveler and residence document checks at the airport. Meanwhile, the Royal Marechaussee supports immigration control and conducts inspections on international flights. 

Unified Front for Border Integrity 

According to the Coast Guard, a “united front” is essential to safeguard the integrity of Sint Maarten’s borders. Through joint patrols and improved information exchange, both agencies expect to respond more quickly and effectively to illegal activities. This renewed collaboration marks a new phase in their long-standing partnership. 

The enhanced cooperation between Customs and the Coast Guard comes at a crucial time as Sint Maarten faces emerging security challenges such as illegal migration and smuggling routes from other Caribbean islands. By combining their efforts, the agencies aim not only to react to threats but also to act proactively: “Through proactive collaboration, we increase the safety of our society,” the Coast Guard stated.