WILLEMSTAD - The figures from the Prosecutor's Office for 2023 show a shift in the type of crime on Curaçao. The total number of registered cases decreased from 851 in 2022 to 815 in 2023. This decrease of over four percent may indicate changing priorities among law enforcement agencies or a shift in the nature of crime. 

In 2023, fewer serious crimes were recorded. The number fell from 379 in 2022 to 351 in 2023, a decrease of nearly 7.5 percent. This could be a sign of effective preventive measures or a decline in severe criminal activities. However, not all figures reflect a decline. The number of juvenile offenses rose significantly from 32 to 50, an increase of over 55 percent. This rise calls for attention and targeted interventions to address youth crime. 

Common crimes, which often cause feelings of insecurity among citizens, also increased. In 2022, there were 249 cases, while this number rose to 275 in 2023, an increase of over ten percent. This increase may indicate a rise in smaller but frequently occurring offenses that directly impact the daily lives of the residents of Curaçao. 

The so-called "six-hour cases," those resolved within six hours, showed a significant decrease. In 2022, there were 117 of these cases, while in 2023, the number fell to 80, a decrease of over thirty percent. This may suggest more efficient processing or fewer incidents that fall within this category. 

Traffic offenses also declined significantly, from 64 in 2022 to 42 in 2023, a decrease of nearly 35 percent. This could be a positive development, potentially due to stricter traffic enforcement and awareness campaigns, but it may also indicate less police presence on the streets. 

Military offenses showed a slight increase, from nine to twelve cases. Environmental violations remained constant at one case per year. 

Crimes 

In 2023, the offenses primarily involved assault, possession of hard drugs, threats, and robbery with violence. The number of crimes was low compared to the figures from the years before the COVID-19 pandemic, but the complexity of the cases has reportedly increased. Since 2022, more investigations have been under embargo, requiring the involvement of two officers. 

These figures present a mixed picture of crime on Curaçao. While there are fewer serious crimes and traffic offenses, the rise in juvenile offenses and frequent crimes is concerning. The numbers emphasize the need for targeted approaches and measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. Law enforcement agencies must continue to respond to these trends to create a safer Curaçao.