Key Insights
This is the third crime analysis since the constitutional changes in 2010 and primarily focuses on crime within the Dutch Caribbean. Unlike previous editions, this analysis has been entirely conducted by KPCN analysts and is based on KPCN data, supported with information from other organizations such as the Public Prosecutor's Office, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee(KMar), the Coast Guard of the Caribbean Area, and the Detective Collaboration Team.
Key Insights from the CBA 2020-2024
The analysis highlights several trends and challenges that impact security in the region:
- Traffic Crime: Issues caused by poorly maintained roads, increasing traffic congestion, and alcohol consumption.
- Youth Crime: Alarming increase in theft and violence, while there is a lack of youth care and rehabilitation options.
- Violent Crime: Rise in domestic and nightlife-related violence, requiring additional measures.
- Property Crime: Declining numbers overall, but concerns about scooter thefts on Bonaire and home burglaries on Saba.
- Drug Crime: Persistent issue with drug exports from Bonaire and limited visibility into involved criminal networks.
- Firearm Crime: Alarming increase, especially in the second half of 2024, with young suspects playing a significant role.
- Migration Crime: Increase in human trafficking and exploitation due to political instability in the region.
- Financial and Economic Crime: Fraud and money laundering, especially in the real estate sector.
- Cybercrime: Growing reports of fraud and hacking, while law enforcement faces challenges in investigations.
- Environmental Crime: Illegal waste dumping and damage to coral reefs call for stricter enforcement.
Strategic Recommendations Based on the CBA
Based on the analysis, the researchers have recommended the following strategic priorities:
- Strengthening traffic safety and enforcement.
- Prevention and tackling of youth crime through improved youth care and rehabilitation programs.
- Targeted combatting of drug and firearm crime through intensified cooperation between law enforcement agencies.
- Increased focus on financial and economic crime and anti-corruption measures.
- Sustainable policy for environmental crime to protect nature and ecosystems.
- Strengthening collaboration between government, businesses, and citizens to jointly address crime.
Read the full report
Would you like deeper insight into crime trends and proposed measures? Read the full report and discover how we are working together towards a safer Dutch Caribbean.
