It was good to read in Monday’s newspaper that Justice Minister Nathalle Tackling formally appointed seven staff members of the Inspection Department at the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) as extraordinary police officers. They have been granted the authority – under specific powers outlined in Article 13, sections 2 and 7 of the Kingdom Police Law – to investigate criminal offences related to legislation in the areas overseen by TEATT, unless responsibility for such is assigned elsewhere by law.
Considering a chronic shortage of personnel at the St. Maarten Police Force KPSM, equipping others with specific enforcement power could alleviate at least some of the burden. It regards two TEATT inspectors, the Head of the Transport Section, three taxi dispatchers and a casino inspector.
These are generally matters that regular officers should be bothered with only if necessary. It’s nevertheless important that all involved handle their new authority with discretion and tact.
The decree requires TEATT’s head to submit quarterly reports to the Minister of Justice, detailing the investigative activities carried out, the use of the granted powers and any complaints filed against the appointed officers. Additionally, the department head is responsible for ensuring timely reappointment once their three-year term expires.
Individuals or entities directly affected by this decision may file an appeal with the Court of First Instance of St. Maarten or submit an objection to the Minister of Justice within six weeks of its issuance, in accordance with the National Ordinance on Administrative Justice.
One always has to be careful when wielding authority afforded by the state, but at the end of the day rules without active enforcement simply don’t work. They become toothless tigers.
