WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao's Minister of Justice, Shalten Hato, presided over a swearing-in ceremony on Monday, November 2, 2026, for 12 personnel entering new roles within the justice sector, while also welcoming four new immigration employees who officially began their duties the same day.
The ceremony included nine immigration personnel who will begin their internship period with the Curaçao Police Force (KPC) and three members of the National Criminal Investigation Department (Landsrecherche).
According to the Ministry of Justice, the appointments are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen border control, improve operational capacity, and reinforce integrity within Curaçao's justice system.
Growing Tourism Increases Demand for Immigration Personnel
During the ceremony, Minister Hato emphasized that Curaçao's expanding tourism industry is placing greater demands on immigration services.
The continued growth in visitor arrivals has resulted in more international flights, increased passenger traffic, and additional responsibilities for officers working at the country's borders.
According to Hato, these developments make it essential to continue investing in qualified personnel capable of ensuring efficient, professional, and secure border control.
The nine immigration personnel beginning their internships, together with the four newly appointed employees, are expected to contribute to strengthening the island's immigration and border management capacity.
The minister stressed that maintaining effective border controls is an important component of Curaçao's security infrastructure, particularly as the island continues to develop as an international tourism destination.
Landsrecherche Officers Reminded of Their Responsibility to Uphold Integrity
Hato also addressed the three newly sworn-in members of the Landsrecherche, emphasizing the institution's essential role in protecting integrity and public confidence in the justice system.
The Landsrecherche is responsible for investigating certain serious allegations involving public officials and matters requiring independent criminal investigation.
The minister reminded the officers that their work carries significant responsibilities because public trust in government institutions depends on the impartial and professional enforcement of the law.
"Trust is not something we can demand. Trust is something we must earn every single day through our actions. In a state governed by the rule of law, no one is above the law," Hato declared.
His remarks underscored the importance of accountability, professionalism, and integrity among those entrusted with investigative authority.
Minister Calls Public Service a Commitment to Curaçao
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Hato congratulated all 12 newly sworn-in personnel and extended a welcome to the four new immigration employees.
He encouraged them to approach their responsibilities with dedication and a strong sense of public service.
"Serving our country in the justice sector is not simply a job. It is a commitment to security, integrity, the rule of law, and the future of our Curaçao," the minister stated.
The Ministry of Justice considers the addition of new personnel an important step toward strengthening the institutions responsible for border security and criminal investigations.
With increasing demands on immigration services and continued emphasis on integrity within public institutions, the government aims to ensure that Curaçao's justice sector has the personnel and professional capacity needed to carry out its responsibilities effectively.