WILLEMSTAD - On Wednesday, the 6th, and Friday, the 8th of March 2024, nine suspects appeared in the Court of First Instance in the Crow investigation. They are suspected to be involved in large-scale drug trafficking through the port of Curaçao. The investigation conducted by the RST revealed alarming patterns of organized crime and drug trafficking in the port, where each suspect played a significant role. 

From the investigation, it became apparent that the suspects collaborated for an extended period, actively participating in the import and export of large quantities of drugs. During the case proceedings, the prosecutor estimated the drug quantity's value at over 100 million euros or 200 million guilders on the street. The Public Prosecutor indicated during the case proceedings that they would attempt to confiscate this amount from the suspects because crime should not pay. 

The investigation unveiled a criminal collaboration that, in a highly destabilizing manner, involved corrupt port personnel. Port employees responsible for security and order were found to be corrupt, facilitating cocaine trafficking in this investigation. 

Several suspects in this investigation used SKY-ECC phones. The unlocked communication from these phones provided the investigative team with insight into the suspects' criminal activities. The messages offered a clear view of the group's activities, and they also mapped out additional drug transports. 

The Public Prosecutor is determined to take action against organized drug trafficking and will take additional steps to hold the suspects accountable for their actions. The prosecutor has requested punishment for drug import and export, preparation for this, and possession of firearms, ranging between 5 to 15 years for the suspects.