WILLEMSTAD - Residents of Fleur de Marie are facing severe disruptions in their neighborhood due to escalating prostitution-related activities. Claiming that the situation is spiraling out of control, they warn that the peace and safety of the area are at risk. In a desperate plea for intervention, a group of concerned residents has sent an urgent letter to Justice Minister Shalten Hato, urging immediate action.
In their letter, the residents highlight the growing issue of houses being converted into brothels, often managed by individuals of Dominican descent. Some of these properties reportedly contain up to ten rooms, rented out to sex workers. The spread of these alleged illegal brothels throughout the area has led to increased disturbances and a rise in criminal activity.
Escalating Disruptions
Residents report loud music blasting late into the night, originating both from these houses and parked cars, disrupting their sleep. Noise from revving motorcycle engines, traffic jams, and property damage caused by illegal parking add to their distress.
The complaints also include incidents of burglary, joyriding, fights between sex workers and clients, and public drunkenness. Litter, such as beer bottles, cups, and food scraps, is frequently left behind, with people urinating in public spaces, creating unpleasant odors.
A nearby sports facility has become unusable due to the disturbances, further diminishing the neighborhood’s livability. Despite repeated complaints to the police and the provision of specific addresses where prostitution activities are taking place, residents say no effective measures have been implemented.
Call to Action
In their letter, the residents urgently call on Minister Hato to take swift and decisive measures to restore public order and safety in Fleur de Marie. Copies of the letter have also been sent to Ministers Charles Cooper and Javier Silvania, the Chair of Parliament, and the Curaçao Police Corps.
With tensions rising, the residents hope their plea will prompt authorities to act and bring peace back to their neighborhood.