Image: © KPCN
Fire at after-school care facility SABA
On Wednesday, the 29th of July, at around 12:15 PM, the central control room received a report of a fire in the kitchen of an after-school care facility on Matthew Levenstone Street on Saba. The facility was closed at the time, and no individuals were present. Two off-duty police officers who were in the area broke a window to gain entry to the building. One of the officers broke a window to gain access to the building. They then extinguished the fire using a fire extinguisher present in the building, preventing the flames from spreading and causing further damage. The fire department arrived at the scene and inspected the building for any remaining fire hotspots. Shortly after, the situation was declared safe. Preliminary results of the investigation indicate that the fire was likely caused by an item left on the stove.
Traffic control SABA
On Saturday, the 25th of July, at around 10:00 AM, police conducted a traffic control on Fort Bay Road on Saba. During the controle, multiple vehicles and drivers were checked. One driver received a fine for driving a vehicle without valid insurance. Additionally, another driver was issued a warning for driving without a seatbelt and for having tinted front windows. No irregularities were noted with the remaining vehicles and drivers checked. Police will continue to conduct traffic controls to promote road safety and ensure compliance with traffic regulations.
Looking back on the course of Carnival on Sint Eustatius
The Caribbean Netherlands Police Force (KPCN) looks back on the progression of the Carnival period on St. Eustatius. Throughout the festivities, police conducted checks and took action at various moments to ensure public order and road safety.
During Bacchanal Friday, police intervened in an incident outside Carnival Village on Concordia Road, where a knife was confiscated. Later at the same location, a 48-year-old man with the initials D.R.T.F. was arrested for failing to comply with a police order, attempted manslaughter, violation of the Weapons Act, driving under the influence, and public drunkenness. A vehicle involved in the incident was also seized.
The remaining events and parades proceeded without any significant incidents:
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J’ouvert Morning Parade: Started on time and went smoothly without any incidents.
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First Parade: Prior to the parade, all drivers were checked for a valid driver’s license and subjected to a breathalyzer test. All drivers passed. Some technical issues with vehicles caused delays, but with the assistance of the police, the parade was able to proceed safely. In accordance with the permit, the music was turned off at 8:00 PM.
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Grand Carnival Parade: Due to weather conditions, the parade started slightly later than scheduled. Preventive checks on driver's licenses, insurance, and alcohol consumption were carried out beforehand as well. All drivers remained within the legal limits.
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Burning of King Momo: The closing event featuring the burning of King Momo at Carnival Village also went smoothly and without incident.
Thanks to everyone’s efforts, the festivities proceeded in a generally safe and orderly manner.