WILLEMSTAD - Due to a shortage of staff at the Public Prosecution Service, the police, and the National Criminal Investigation Department, the Justice Department in Curaçao is unable to effectively seize criminal money and assets. This was revealed in a report by the Council for Law Enforcement. 

Although the legislation on the confiscation of illegally obtained assets is clear, the Council's investigation shows that the involved organizations are suffering from a severe lack of resources and personnel. 

These shortages hinder the effective implementation of confiscation measures, which are outlined in the Penal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of Curaçao. 

The Council emphasizes that confiscation is intended to restore convicts to their financial position before the crime, making it clear that crime does not pay. 

The Special Police Task Force (RST) provides support in confiscation cases, but according to the Council, this is not enough to fully address the problem. The Minister of Justice has indicated that efforts are being made within his ministry to reduce these shortages. A multi-year recruitment plan for the period 2023-2026 has been established to hire additional staff, and financial resources have been allocated in the capital budget. 

Despite the current challenges, the cooperation between the investigative organizations is seen as positive. However, the Council urges that a higher priority be given to the confiscation of illegally obtained assets on the judicial agenda. Only with sufficient resources and personnel support can a strong signal be sent that crime does not pay.