WILLEMSTAD - Last Friday, Pastor Alphonsus Baak was severely assaulted following a confrontation at the Westpunt snackbar. The pastor approached a man whom he suspected of stealing aluminum roofing sheets from the church. The conversation escalated, resulting in the pastor receiving a hard punch to his face, leading to a swollen face, loose teeth, and intense jaw pain.
Baak explained that a man had approached him earlier in the week, asking if he could have the roofing sheets. Baak refused, as he still needed them himself. Shortly after, an attempt was made to steal the sheets, but they were quickly recovered by the police.
The escalation occurred when Baak confronted the man at the bar about the incident. The suspect responded aggressively to Baak's accusations and delivered a blow. Despite Baak's refusal to file a complaint, the Curaçao police arrested a 31-year-old suspect, identified as R.G.J.B., due to the severity of the case.
The suspect, along with his family, has apologized to Baak after the incident.
This violent event has garnered significant attention on the island, especially since Baak, well-known and respected in the community, chose not to press charges. The incident has sparked outrage and discussions about respect and safety within the community. The case is still under investigation, and it remains unclear what the consequences will be for those involved.