WILLEMSTAD – Political leader of the KEM party, Michelangelo ‘Low’ Martines, has expressed frustration on Facebook over the postponement of his court case, which was originally scheduled for June 11. The hearing is now expected to take place in September. 

Martines, who is facing serious drug trafficking charges, first appeared in court for a pro forma hearing on February 28. During that session, it was decided that the full case would be heard in June. However, the proceedings have been delayed, reportedly due to the complexity of the investigation, which may require several court sessions. 

According to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, Martines is suspected of involvement in multiple international drug shipments from countries including the Netherlands, Panama, the Dominican Republic, Belgium, and France. Communications regarding these alleged transports are said to have taken place via the Skype messaging platform, as reported today by local newspaper Extra. 

The investigation began in October 2023, and Martines was arrested the following November. He subsequently resigned from his seat in Parliament shortly after his arrest. 

The case has drawn widespread public and political attention, given Martines’ prominent role in local politics.