WILLEMSTAD - The Ministry of Justice in Curaçao has announced the establishment of the legal organization PATH (Prevention of Abuse and Human Trafficking) as part of a comprehensive approach to combat illegal prostitution and human trafficking on the island. This development was revealed in a statement in a local morning newspaper, with a focus on actively addressing these serious issues within the community. 

The initiative to establish PATH is a response to increasing concerns about illegal activities associated with human trafficking, especially due to problematic situations in neighboring countries. Many individuals enter the country legally as tourists or workers but unwittingly find themselves ensnared in networks of human trafficking. The ministry has emphasized that these individuals are often unaware of the full extent of their situation and come to Curaçao with hopes of a better life. 

In addition to the establishment of PATH, the ministry underscores the need for ongoing attention to both prevention and enforcement. It is suggested that despite the presence of individuals coming to the island for legitimate work purposes, there remains a strong need to protect the community from the harmful influences of illegal practices. The ministry has urged the community to immediately report suspicious cases of human trafficking to the police authorities. 

The police, in collaboration with PATH, have been tasked with conducting intensive investigations into these matters and taking action locally and internationally as necessary.