Audit reports and WhatsApp messages cited as evidence in probe involving Alfonso Trona
WILLEMSTAD - The Criminal Investigation Cooperation Team (RST) has been conducting a criminal investigation for several months into alleged cases of preferential treatment by Landsontvanger (Tax Receiver) Alfonso de Jesus Trona.
According to findings from the Government Audit Bureau (SOAB), some of these requests for special arrangements were allegedly made via WhatsApp messages or phone calls, bypassing official procedures.
Sources close to the investigation told the Antilliaans Dagblad that the RST is using multiple SOAB audit reports as part of its probe. The suspicions focus on favorable payment arrangements and unilateral decisions made by Trona in managing tax debts. Certain companies are believed to have received lenient or preferential treatment, while others were required to comply strictly with the law.
Pattern of Preferential Treatment
Former Minister of Finance Javier Silvania (MFK) stated that the audit reports point to a structural pattern of favoritism by Trona toward specific taxpayers. Silvania declined to comment on how many investigations are currently underway but noted that the reports confirm serious governance concerns within the Tax Receiver’s Office.
Last month, Silvania and Trona were involved in a heated public confrontation, during which both men accused each other of corruption. The clash generated widespread controversy and prompted Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas (MFK) to confirm that the Curaçao National Detective Agency (Landsrecherche, LrC) is conducting a separate investigation into related matters.
Full Criminal Inquiry Underway
The RST’s ongoing investigation reportedly focuses on how Trona handled collection procedures and applied enforcement guidelines during his tenure as head of the Tax Receiver’s Office. Unlike previous administrative reviews, this is a criminal investigation, not a policy or fact-finding inquiry.
The case has intensified scrutiny over the integrity of Curaçao’s tax administration, already under pressure following multiple SOAB audit findings pointing to unjustified settlements, discretionary decisions, and a lack of internal oversight.
Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the status of the investigation, but legal experts note that if proven, the allegations could amount to abuse of authority and corruption in public office—offenses carrying significant legal and political consequences.
