MARIGOT--Four beach vendors operating on Orient Beach were deported recently by Police aux Frontières (PAF) following the most recent control.
The PAF controlled some 15 vendors on the beach with the assistance of the Gendarmerie. Of six who were detained, four Jamaicans were issued with deportation orders for residing in the territory illegally and another two detained for further investigation into their activities and documents. All of the merchandise was confiscated.
PAF hold regular controls on Orient Beach. Vendors are a regular feature on Caribbean beaches, but many can be working illegally and are a source of annoyance to tourists who complain of aggressive selling tactics or overpriced services and hair-braiding. The Collectivité regulates only a few who can work legally on the beach.
PAF notes controlling vendors is a continuous process that cannot be solved easily. Vendors typically have getaway cars on standby and persons watching out for the arrival of the PAF, who are easily noticeable in their black shirts. Once they have made their escape the vendors return the next day, or when the next cruise ship is in.
