In January 2009 a boat sunk near the shores of Anegada (BVI). Probably 8 to 12 people lost their lives in this tragic incident.
The surviving passengers appeared to have lived illegally on Sint Maarten. Leaving Sint Maarten by boat they were hoping to find a new life for themselves elsewhere.
Because of this incident the RST has started an investigation in close cooperation with the authorities in the BVI, the Coastguard, the Immigration Department, the KPSSS, the Royal Marechaussee and the French authorities.
Three persons were already arrested in this investigation, two of which are still in preliminary detention.
Yesterday four more people were arrested.
The investigation is still ongoing, which could lead to more arrests.
In the interest of the investigation no further statements or comments will be made.