Soldiers from Curaçao from December 11, 2023 till January 7, 2024, provided support to the Curaçao Police Corps, during the operation “Ta basta awor”.
The military assistance focused on reducing firearms-related crime and increasing safety on the island. In a joint effort with the Curaçao Police Force (KPC) the Curaçao Military under the authority of the Public Prosecutor, executed patrols, set up mobile checkpoints, and applied ‘blue light prevention’ so as to increase visibility on the street. During the vehicle checkpoints several vehicles were checked, which resulted in interceptions of various weapons and drugs. In addition, fines were issued and vehicles seized by the Police Force.
“Ta basta awor” has been deployed on the island during this busy period, as this period is often accompanied by an increase in crime due to increased financial activities. During 27 evenings and nights each evening, 12 Soldiers from Curaçao were deployed, always in collaboration with the Curaçao Police Corps. The soldiers from Curaçao do not have any investigative powers themselves.
The assistance provided falls under the third main task of Defence in the Dutch Caribbean Region: rendering support to civil authorities. Herewith Defence contributes in the Caribbean Region with the safety on Curaçao.
