WILLEMSTAD – Ongoing concerns about gun violence and illegal firearm possession in Curaçao have prompted questions in the Dutch House of Representatives. MPs Raoul White and Songül Mutluer of the GreenLeft–Labour Party (GroenLinks-PvdA) have formally asked the Dutch government to clarify its approach to tackling illegal weapons on the island and preventing youth involvement in crime. 

The parliamentary questions were submitted on April 22 to the Minister of Justice and Security and the State Secretary for the Interior and Kingdom Relations. In their inquiry, White and Mutluer ask how authorities are working to prevent young people from being exposed to weapons and criminal behavior. They also question whether youth outreach organizations in Curaçao are sufficiently funded to carry out effective preventive programs—and whether the Netherlands is willing to provide additional support. 

Another concern raised is the illegal sale of firearms through online channels. The MPs want to know what steps are being taken to combat digital trafficking and whether cooperation between law enforcement agencies within the Kingdom is functioning effectively. They are calling on the Dutch Cabinet to evaluate and, if necessary, strengthen the joint strategy with Curaçao and the other islands. 

These parliamentary questions follow recent news reports of intensified police gun control operations on Curaçao. Additionally, Curaçao’s Minister of Justice, Shalten Hato, recently announced that the maximum prison sentence for illegal firearm possession will be doubled, from four to eight years. 

White and Mutluer are seeking clarification on how closely the Dutch government is monitoring developments on the island, what role the Netherlands plays in this issue, and which resources are available to support public safety efforts in Curaçao.