WILLEMSTAD – Military personnel stationed in Curaçao will be deployed to support the Curaçao Police Force (KPC) in maintaining public order and strengthening security across the island as authorities prepare for an anticipated increase in criminal activity during the final months of 2026.
The additional security measures were announced by the Dutch Ministry of Defense in the Caribbean and will involve joint patrols between military personnel and police officers. The Volunteer Corps Curaçao (VKC) will also participate in the initiative.
The deployment is intended to increase the visibility of security personnel in public areas, strengthen preventive measures, and help safeguard residents and tourists during a period traditionally associated with heightened security concerns.
According to Defense, military personnel will work alongside police officers during patrols, providing additional manpower and operational support to the local police force.
The authorities expect that a stronger security presence on the streets will contribute to maintaining public order and deterring criminal activity.
However, officials have not disclosed how many military personnel will participate in the operation, when the joint patrols will officially begin, or how long the additional deployment will remain in effect.
The announcement comes as Curaçao approaches the busy holiday season, when increased commercial activity, public gatherings, and celebrations can place additional demands on law enforcement agencies.
The involvement of military personnel is not unprecedented.
During December 2023 and January 2024, military personnel were deployed to assist the Curaçao Police Force as part of Operation Ta Basta Awor, an initiative primarily focused on combating firearm-related crime.
That operation was introduced amid concerns about gun violence and the need for additional security measures.
During the previous deployment, military personnel did not receive independent criminal investigation powers. Responsibility for law enforcement activities, arrests, and criminal investigations remained with the police.
The current announcement does not indicate that military personnel will be granted additional policing powers under the new operation.
The deployment also highlights continued cooperation between the Curaçao Police Force, Defense in the Caribbean, and the Volunteer Corps Curaçao in addressing public safety challenges.
The VKC has traditionally supported public authorities in security-related operations and emergency situations, making its participation another component of the coordinated response.
For the authorities, the objective is to reinforce the capacity of the police force during a period when additional preventive measures are considered necessary.
The announcement does not specify which neighborhoods or areas will receive priority during the patrols, nor does it identify particular criminal organizations or incidents as the reason for the expected increase in criminal activity.
Further operational details may become available as the participating organizations finalize their arrangements.
For residents and visitors, the measures are expected to result in a more visible presence of uniformed security personnel on Curaçao's streets during the coming weeks.
The initiative reflects an effort by authorities to strengthen public safety through coordinated patrols and additional security support as the island enters the final weeks of the year.