Three men stormed the jewelry store on Saturday afternoon
PHILIPSBURG—St. Maarten Police Force KPSM launched a large-scale manhunt on Saturday evening following a daring armed robbery at Oro Diamante jewelry store on Front Street. The establishment is located just steps away from the Courthouse in Philipsburg’s prime shopping street.
According to preliminary reports, the robbery took place a little after 5:00pm when three men dressed in dark clothing arrived in a vehicle and stormed the jewelry store. Witnesses said the men, one of whom appeared to be carrying a firearm, entered the establishment and threatened staff before grabbing an undisclosed quantity of jewelry.
The suspects then fled across Wathey Square onto the Boardwalk, where two scooters were waiting. They sped off in different directions as alarmed bystanders looked on. Police patrols arrived moments later and quickly sealed off parts of Front Street and the Boardwalk area.
A heavy police presence remained in town throughout the evening, with multiple patrol units and detectives in search of the suspects. Around 7:30 pm, officers managed to apprehend one individual believed to be involved in the robbery.
The search for the remaining suspects continued in the Belair and Divi Little Bay areas. KPSM said the investigation is ongoing and urged anyone with information to contact the station at +1 (721) 542-2222 or submit an anonymous tip via the KPSM tip line at 9300.
Police have not yet confirmed whether the recovered suspect was found with stolen items or a weapon. However, investigators are treating the incident as part of a coordinated operation, given the method and timing of the escape.
