WILLEMSTAD - The head of Curaçao’s Tax Department, Alfonso Trona, announced over the weekend that he has taken a leave of absence to allow authorities the space to conduct an ongoing investigation.

The Criminal Investigation Cooperation Team (RST) and the National Detective Agency (Landsrecherche) are currently investigating allegations of corruption reported in the media. The probe follows findings from a recent SOAB report.

Trona stated that he regrets attempts to damage his reputation, emphasizing that he has always acted with honesty and dedication throughout his career. He said he expects to resume his duties soon once the investigation concludes.

In his press statement, Trona declared:

“Never have I brought my beloved country into financial disarray. I have always worked with integrity and humility to protect Curaçao’s revenues. The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) has also placed its trust in the Receiver to collect social premiums. I will soon return to once again contribute to our community, as I have done with honor and respect for over 40 years.”

Authorities have not yet commented on the duration of Trona’s leave or on the progress of the investigation.