BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – WITH many sections of St. Maarten/St. Martin seriously affected by the passage of Hurricane Irma, reports are that the island is slowly returning to a state of normalcy.
A colleague on the island has informed that power was restored to some sections on the Dutch side and phone and internet services are now available to many people.
Since Hurricane Irma made landfall last week, heart-wrenching images have been emanating from the island, showing the dreadful damage it left behind.
Video and photos from both the Dutch and French sides of the islands showed images of widespread looting, as some people were seen leaving business establishments with a variety of items, including television sets.
The Dutch Government has since deployed extra security forces to keep the peace on the island.
According to 721 News, military personnel were successful in putting an end to the looting spree.
The report also stated that an unknown number of people were detained.
However, according to the report from the French side, due to the lack of proper facilities only people “who did not commit very serious crimes have been sent home. All video-material will be reviewed at a later date”.
Another problem has developed outside of food and shelter for those in need.
The report further stated that fuel is being rationed to consumers, with some not on the receiving end.
721 News reported that gas stations on the Dutch side of the island remain closed to fuel-seekers.
Some of the gas stations had only opened for emergency services and refused to sell to other motorists, the report also said.
Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, Christopher Emmanuel was yesterday (Sept. 11) “stationed at one of the gas stations holding a book of government bonds which he decides who gets and who is turned away”.
