They have been trying for quite some time with the "peaceful approach" to be heard, to no avail. Sadly, there is an element (on BOTH side of the island and everywhere in the world) who will take advantage of any event to riot, steal and destroy. The animosity between local St Martiners and metropolitans has been around for decades. It the same on Dutch side.

To the poster who said there are no local French police, you are mistaken. Police Municipale can always be seen on the roads.