WILLEMSTAD – Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas has reaffirmed the government's commitment to tackling livestock theft and animal abuse by leading a second high-level working meeting with law enforcement agencies, government departments and representatives of Curaçao's agricultural sector.
The meeting, held on July 16, follows an initial consultation with agricultural cooperatives on July 8 and forms part of a broader government effort to strengthen the fight against crimes affecting farmers and livestock owners.
Representatives from the Public Prosecution Service, the Curaçao Police Force (KPC), the Veterinary Service, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature (GMN), the agricultural sector and other relevant organizations attended the session.
According to the government, the primary objective was to clarify the responsibilities of each institution involved in preventing, investigating, monitoring and prosecuting cases of livestock theft and animal abuse.
During the meeting, participating agencies outlined their current responsibilities, the challenges they face and opportunities to improve cooperation. Government officials said the discussions also gave representatives of the agricultural sector a better understanding of how the various organizations contribute to addressing these crimes.
Prime Minister Pisas emphasized that livestock theft and animal abuse not only affect Curaçao's agricultural sector but also undermine the sense of security of many families. He said the government will continue to treat the issue as a priority through long-term cooperation among all relevant institutions.