WILLEMSTAD – Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas has confirmed that an official criminal complaint has now been filed in connection with the ongoing Politur case, marking a significant development in the investigation into alleged irregularities within the tourist police foundation.
Speaking to reporters, Pisas said the matter was discussed during a meeting held Thursday with Minister of Justice Shalten Hato and Minister of Economic Development Roderick Middelhof, during which the ministers also reviewed the next steps for the future of Politur.
"The investigation is progressing," the prime minister said, adding that "there are more people involved than initially appears."
The confirmation represents the strongest indication to date that the case has moved beyond internal administrative reviews and into the criminal justice process.
Investigation has intensified
The announcement follows weeks of heightened scrutiny surrounding Stichting Materieel & Operationeel Beheer Politur, the organization responsible for supporting Curaçao's tourist police.
Earlier this year, the Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB) announced a major reorganization of Politur after an internal investigation identified alleged governance failures and possible financial irregularities during the previous administration.
Subsequent audit reports reviewed by Curaçao Chronicle documented extensive reforms introduced under the new leadership, including the implementation of financial controls, governance procedures, digital recordkeeping and strengthened administrative systems.
Those audits focused primarily on rebuilding the organization and did not determine criminal liability.
Criminal investigation now underway
Pisas did not disclose who filed the complaint or identify the individuals who may be under investigation. Nor did he provide details about the alleged offenses.
However, his statement confirms that law enforcement authorities are now formally involved in examining the case.
His remark that "more people are involved than initially appears" suggests investigators are looking beyond the actions of any single individual.
Government discussing Politur's future
In addition to the criminal investigation, the prime minister said he met with Ministers Hato and Middelhof to discuss the future direction of Politur.
The government has not yet announced whether additional structural reforms or changes to the foundation's governance will be implemented.
Recent audits acknowledged significant progress in rebuilding Politur's administrative and financial systems but also recommended further improvements, including strengthening governance, expanding internal controls and formalizing the organization's relationship with the Curaçao Tourist Board.