WILLEMSTAD – Several entrepreneurs operating at Daaibooi Beach say they feel intimidated by Soenitha van Dongen, the widow of Kees van Dongen, the former owner of the beach bar who recently passed away. Marion van Gennip, owner of the coffee shop on the beach, claims that Soenitha is trying to discredit other business owners and question their permits. In response, Soenitha denies the accusations and has announced legal action. 

Van Gennip states that false claims have been spread on social media, alleging that she does not have a valid permit. “I am completely fed up. My permit is fully in order, as is my GVD card,” she asserts. She says the ongoing accusations are affecting her sense of security and business income. Additionally, she claims that the police photographed her private documents and that these images were shared on social media. 

According to Van Gennip, Soenitha’s goal is to drive everyone off the beach. She claims that multiple business owners, including beach chair operators and a fish stall vendor, have been affected by Soenitha’s actions. “She just keeps going, putting pressure on all of us,” Van Gennip states, adding that vandalism has also occurred. “My advertisement boards disappear or are destroyed.” 

Despite filing multiple complaints with the police, Van Gennip says no significant action has been taken. “They tell us to stop provoking and intimidating, but I still don’t feel safe.” She fears the situation will escalate further and hopes for a swift resolution. 

However, Daaibooi Beach Restaurant, now managed by Soenitha van Dongen, presents a different perspective. In a press statement, the company claims that the real issue is the illegal exploitation of the beach, along with intimidation and the undermining of the rule of law by Koöperativa Piskadonan di Daaibooi (KPD) and its supporters. 

According to Van Dongen, unauthorized commercial activities are taking place on the tourist beach area, and misinformation is being spread to force out the legitimate operator. She asserts that Daaibooi Beach Restaurant has been operating legally for 25 years, while other parties engage in illegal structures, financial gain, and violations of laws and regulations. 

The restaurant has announced legal action against KPD and other involved parties, urging the government to enforce the law and restore order to the beach.