WILLEMSTAD – The public transport union of Curaçao, Sindikato Transporte Optimalisá (STO), is raising serious concerns over a growing number of retired bus drivers who continue to operate illegally. The union claims these individuals drive without proper permits, undercut licensed operators, and have even allegedly threatened colleagues with knives. 

STO reports that the disruption caused by these “clandestine” drivers is escalating daily. These drivers reportedly pick up passengers at official bus stops, drive aggressively, and show blatant disregard for traffic laws and transport regulations. Most of them are said to be former bus drivers who continue operating their old vehicles after retirement, some still displaying distinctive blue lighting typical of public buses. 

The union says it previously submitted license plate numbers of suspected illegal buses to the Department of Public Transportation, but no action was taken. Complaints were allegedly passed on to the enforcement division, without any visible consequences. 

Adding to the frustration, STO highlights a perceived double standard: authorities are reportedly quick to take action against drivers with expired licenses, sometimes even visiting them at home to confiscate their license plates. "Yet those driving without any license at all face no penalties," the union stated. 

As a result, STO is suspending further dialogue with the Department of Public Transportation and will now escalate the issue to higher authorities, demanding decisive action. The union emphasized that the identities of the illegal operators are well known and called for immediate enforcement to restore fairness and safety in Curaçao’s public transport sector.