WILLEMSTAD – Police have detained three men in connection with two recent armed robberies at local businesses, authorities confirmed Friday. The arrests occurred Thursday evening on Nijlweg following an intensive investigation into crimes committed in Weto and along Architectenweg.
The suspects include two 19-year-old Curaçao natives and a 28-year-old Guyanese national. They are accused of robbing a minimarket in Weto last Sunday before targeting another shop on Architectenweg on Wednesday. Investigators tracked down and apprehended the trio shortly after the second incident.
After presenting the suspects to an examining magistrate, authorities secured orders to keep all three in pretrial detention. While police have not disclosed what evidence led to the arrests, sources indicate surveillance footage and witness accounts helped identify the alleged perpetrators.
"This swift resolution demonstrates our commitment to combating violent crime," said police spokesperson Reginald Huggins. "We urge business owners to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately."
The robberies follow a recent spike in commercial thefts across Willemstad, prompting increased police patrols in high-risk areas. If convicted, the suspects could face up to 12 years imprisonment for armed robbery under Curaçao's penal code.
Authorities continue investigating possible connections to other unsolved cases. The Public Prosecutor's Office expects to file formal charges next week.