WILLEMSTAD – Various partner organizations affiliated with the Action Center for Combating Organized Crime Curaçao (ACOC), which directly deal with money laundering risks associated with the introduction of the Caribbean guilder, have launched a joint awareness campaign.
This campaign targets institutions and professionals who are legally required to report unusual transactions to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), helping them recognize the specific risks tied to the transition to the new currency. Additionally, the campaign seeks to inform the general public about its role in preventing money laundering and other financial crimes.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Combat Money Laundering
Fighting money laundering requires a coordinated, multidisciplinary effort. The campaign is supported by the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS), the Financial Intelligence Units (FIU) of Curaçao and Sint Maarten, and the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA), along with key entities in the judicial sector, including the Public Prosecutor’s Office (OM), the Curaçao and Sint Maarten Police Force, and the Joint Criminal Investigation Team (RST).
The introduction of the Caribbean guilder marks a significant shift, and with any new currency, the risk of money laundering increases. Within ACOC, the potential money laundering risks linked to the new currency have been thoroughly assessed. It is crucial that institutions and professionals are well-informed about these risks and the impact of the transition. At the same time, public awareness is essential, as society plays a key role in identifying suspicious activities.
For instance, people should be cautious when asked to exchange money on behalf of someone else and ensure they understand the origin of the funds to avoid involvement in money laundering.
Campaign Message
The campaign’s message will be disseminated through various social media channels in Curaçao and Sint Maarten to educate the public on different money laundering risks and where to report suspicious activities.
The partner organizations emphasize that a collective effort across all sectors is essential to safeguarding the financial integrity of the monetary system. By remaining vigilant and proactive, authorities and the public can effectively combat money laundering and financial crime.
