WILLEMSTAD – Justice Minister Shalten Hato has approved a draft law proposing stricter measures to amend Curaçao’s longstanding Firearms Ordinance of 1930 and Weapons Ordinance of 1931. 

The proposed legislation targets tougher penalties and higher fines for illegal firearm possession and trafficking. This move comes in response to a rise in gun-related crimes and growing public demand for stricter regulations. 

Key changes include increasing maximum fines to 25,000 guilders, extending prison sentences to up to eight years, and introducing new offenses, such as the possession of illegal firearm components. 

The government aims to crack down on gun violence, which police statistics show is increasingly linked to serious crimes. The draft law marks a significant step in addressing firearm-related offenses and ensuring public safety on the island.