WILLEMSTAD - On November 6, the Action Center for Undermining Curaçao (ACOC) will launch the awareness campaign "Arma Ta Karma" (Weapons Are Karma) to reduce illegal firearm possession in Curaçao. The campaign is organized by ACOC, a collaborative platform involving various justice partners, and aims to raise awareness about illegal weapons and their consequences for society.
The campaign stems from a collaboration among judicial partners, led by the Ministry of Justice. Thyrza Girigorie and Roderick Gouverneur, representatives of the ministry, emphasized the importance of this joint initiative to tackle the issue of illegal firearms from multiple perspectives.
ACOC was established in 2018 as the Task Force Firearms following several shocking incidents involving weapons, including a shooting at Hato Airport. The Task Force brought together partners to find a comprehensive approach to the firearms problem. Since then, the organization has expanded its focus to include human trafficking, money laundering, and other forms of undermining within sectors such as the automotive industry.
This campaign marks ACOC's first major awareness initiative regarding firearms, particularly targeting youth. According to Thyrza Girigorie from the Task Force, it is essential to raise awareness among young people about the dangers of weapons and their impact on families and the community. The campaign will kick off at the Maris Stella VSBO and then extend to other schools on the island.
Schools Involved
The campaign communicates with youth in a language and style they understand. Well-known local influencers such as Ms. JD, Zaidi, and artist Dongo are involved to capture the attention of young people. Through discussions, presentations, and a music video, the campaign aims to inform youth about the negative influence of firearms. Public Prosecutor's spokesperson Roderick Gouverneur emphasizes the need for a wake-up call, as weapons often lead to grief and loss within families.
Throughout the campaign, young people will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage with experts who have firsthand experience of the consequences of firearm misuse. The campaign will last six weeks and will initially target high school students. ACOC plans to evaluate this first phase to determine whether the campaign will continue and expand.
Karma and Responsibility
Roderick Gouverneur explained that the name "Arma Ta Karma" was inspired by a music video from a few years ago in which five young people were seen driving in a car with firearms. Most of these young individuals have since passed away, a reality that the organizers say serves as a warning about the potential consequences of gun possession. The campaign's message is clear: if you have a weapon, think carefully before using it.
During the campaign, ACOC collaborates with a wide range of judicial authorities, including the police, coast guard, customs, defense, and the Public Prosecution Service. The goal is not only to enforce the law but also to work preventively through education and cooperation with other ministries.