WILLEMSTAD – House searches in Curaçao are being carried out lawfully and in accordance with regulations. That is the conclusion of a review by the Council for Law Enforcement covering the period 2018–2024.

The investigation found that all institutions involved—the Public Prosecution Service, the Curaçao Police Force (KPC), the Landsrecherche Curaçao, and the Joint Investigation Team—act with care and follow established procedures.

Planned searches are almost always conducted under the supervision of an examining magistrate, with a public prosecutor present. Residents are informed of their right to legal counsel, and all seized items are carefully registered. Within 48 hours, residents receive a written report and inventory. Compensation for damages is only provided in limited circumstances, such as when an incorrect address has been targeted.

Emergency searches also follow protocol

In urgent situations, examining magistrates may grant permission by phone, and public prosecutors are authorized to act independently if needed. For execution, investigative authorities frequently cooperate with external partners, including Customs, the Coast Guard, and the Royal Netherlands Navy.

Each search is followed by an evaluation of the process by those involved. However, the Council noted that the KPC requires more personnel and resources of its own, as the force currently relies too heavily on external assistance.

The Council also recommended that the Minister of Justice continue investing in training for both KPC and Landsrecherche Curaçao officers to ensure their skills remain up to date.