WILLEMSTAD – The Landsrecherche Curaçao (National Criminal Investigation Department) has made additional arrests this week in the ongoing criminal investigation into alleged corruption within the Public Works Implementation Agency (UOOW), a division of the Ministry of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning (VVRP). The Public Prosecutor's Office confirmed the arrests but is withholding further details to protect the integrity of the investigation. 

Earlier this month, four individuals were already taken into custody, including a contractor who also works as a musician, and three UOOW employees responsible for supervising infrastructure projects. A woman has now also been arrested, reportedly due to her possible ties to a previously detained civil servant. 

Bribes and Favoritism 

At the heart of the case are allegations that government employees awarded contracts in exchange for bribes, particularly for asphalt works, bypassing official tender procedures. The Prosecutor’s Office has described the case as one of “official corruption”, which it says undermines public trust in government institutions. 

VVRP Minister Charles Cooper (MFK) filed an official complaint last year after receiving reports from inside the ministry and from whistleblowers. It remains unclear whether the minister acted solely on those reports or had prior knowledge of the irregularities. During budget discussions in December 2024, Member of Parliament Ana Maria Pauletta (PAR) raised critical questions about possible favoritism toward certain contractors. Sheldry Osepa (PNP) also expressed concern in both parliamentary debates and a formal letter. 

One of the contractors named in public speculation, Aliansa Civil & Road Works (A.C.R.W.), has denied any involvement. In a public statement, the company declared it has “no connection whatsoever” to any fraud involving the “Live Extension” project and has distanced itself from the investigation. “If necessary, we are prepared to support our position with evidence,” the company’s management stated. 

Investigative Priorities 

According to a May 28 press release from the Public Prosecutor and Landsrecherche, the investigation is fully focused on combating this form of undermining criminal activity. The Landsrecherche operates independently under the authority of the Attorney General and investigates crimes committed by or involving (semi-)government officials that seriously damage public sector integrity. 

The Prosecutor’s Office has not ruled out further arrests, but no additional details will be disclosed for now. The coming period is expected to reveal the extent of the corruption network within the VVRP and determine what steps will be taken toward prosecution.