Saba hit by Tropical Storm Rafael

Chief of Police Herman Oosterveen confirmed that a vehicle had lost control and knocked down part of a road wall in the proximity of Mathew’s Dorms in The Bottom due to Tropical Storm Rafael. The driver had left the site and is asked by the police to come forth and report the damage. The public is asked to contribute any knowledge of the incident by calling 416-3737.

Other storm-related damage included a vehicle smashed by a fallen rock in the upper parking lot of the medical school, but so far the owner has not officially reported the damage.

At Fort Bay Harbour a boat drifted onto the pier. The boat had no passengers aboard, as its six passengers had been rescued by another boat and taken to St. Eustatius. That second boat also required assistance when it experienced steering difficulties. All passengers were taken safely ashore on a different craft in Statia’s harbour. The two boats were part of a group of three boats that seemed to have left St. Maarten without permission during the rough weather, heading towards Dominica. The third boat returned to St. Maarten.

Acting Lt. Governor Franklin Wilson said he was aware a cargo vessel had run aground and that there were no casualties to report. He had not yet received the harbour authorities’ report.

Oosterveen also revealed a 43-year-old man had been arrested on Wednesday, October 10, and detained for two days for threatening a civilian with a machete. The suspect has since been released.

Oosterveen extended an invitation to the entire community on behalf of Dutch Caribbean Police Corps (KPCN) to celebrate their two years of existence. The second anniversary celebrations will take place simultaneously on Bonaire, Saba and St. Eustatius, with the Saban community celebrating the day with a church service at Wesleyan Holiness Church at 10:00am on Sunday, October 21.

Source: “The Daily Herald” 2012-10-16