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French overseas minister condemmed violence in St. Martin, US Embassy also issues an advisory

Monday, 16th December 2019

Annick Girardin, French Overseas Minister, condemned the ongoing violent demonstration in the French part of St Martin. Citizens are protesting against the revision of the PPRN report from the past four days.

Annick Girardin referred to the circumstances as extreme insecurity. She took to twitter to express herself over the ongoing stress in St Martin.

“In St. Martin the ongoing protests are creating intolerable insecurity in the area,” Tweeted Annick Girardin French Overseas Minister.

“I understand the expectations of the St. Martin people, but a statement to calm is essential. I am in continuous communication with the selected comptrollers and the president of the Collectivité to work together on proposals adapted to the situation,” added Minister in a statement to AFP.

In some parts of the country, aggressive demonstrators set debris and even vehicles on fire.

Director of Tourism, Valérie Damaseau Aida Weinum cautioned the tourists residing on the island for vacations asking them to opt for indoor activities rather than going outdoors.

Furthermore, the roads remained closed throughout the French side of the Island till Sunday and around 60 more Gendarmers were deployed concerning the security of inhabitants and travellers.

On Sunday afternoon, Gendarmes helicopter was also seen flying over Marigot. As per initial reports, there have been two arrests of minors.

The Préfecture has alarmed travel on the French side unless necessary. The ferry terminal and Grand Case airport are both functioning as usual.

Moreover, the United States Embassy has also issued a travel advisory for its citizens planning to visit the French side of the isle.

Authorities in Dutch St. Maarteen are receiving travellers transported from the French St. Martin.

Dutch St. Maarten authorities are welcoming tourists transported from French St. Martin. Travellers at Princess Juliana International Airport may not be able to travel to French St. Martin.