WILLEMSTAD – At least seven individuals have been arrested on Curaçao in connection with domestic violence and abuse so far in the month of July. In addition to these arrests, there have been multiple other incidents where no arrests were made, raising serious concerns about the prevalence of relational violence on the island. 

One of the most recent cases occurred overnight from Friday to Saturday, when a 31-year-old man was arrested after entering his ex-partner’s home at night and striking her on the head with a mobile phone. Just a day later, on Saturday night around 11:00 PM, a 39-year-old man was taken into custody for assaulting his ex-partner in her home. 

A subsequent search of the suspect’s residence uncovered a firearm, which was seized by police. Both suspects remain in custody as the investigation continues. 

The Bar Association of Curaçao earlier this year called on political leaders to make domestic violence a policy priority, citing the widespread nature of the issue. In nearly all reported cases, the perpetrators are men targeting their current or former partners. 

Authorities and advocacy groups warn that the situation is growing increasingly urgent and emphasize the need for stricter enforcement, better protection for victims, and more public awareness to combat domestic violence in all its forms.