WILLEMSTAD - The police will from now on take tougher action against people who violate current precautions. Controls are being tightened and the corps is receiving support from the military of the Caribbean Defense.
The leadership of the Curaçao Police Force (KPC) explained this in a recent press conference. "The coming weeks are crucial to ensure that the number of corona infections decreases and with it hospital admissions," said Raymond Ellis, interim head of KPC. Ellis says one group "deliberately makes fun of the system and challenges the police officers." "We will no longer tolerate that."
Road checks are being intensified, among other things with "many more" road blocks. This is done with the help of the members of the Curaçao Volunteer Corps (VKC) and the local soldiers of the Curaçao Militia (Curmil). "We have also asked for support from Defense," says Ellis.
The police can also intervene more harshly. Anyone who is on the road with the car on a different day than is permitted according to his license plate number, Plachi di Dia, must take into account that the vehicle will be confiscated.
There is a fine of 750 guilders for not adhering to the Plachi Di Dia. Anyone who takes to the road without an exemption on a car-free Sunday will receive a fine of 1,000 guilders. The violation of the curfew, which now starts at 7 p.m., is also followed by an official report and a fine of 1,000 guilders.
Jules Ilario, interim head of uniformed services, points out that the Plachi di Dia is not a license "for a family outing". "The rule is that there is one person in a car on the road and then only for urgent and necessary matters."
That is, for example, a visit to the supermarket, petrol station or pharmacy. Anyone who is on the road on a different day and for other reasons than permitted must be able to prove that this is necessary. This could be a vital function, an appointment to vaccinate or a school exam.
The starting point of the current policy to slow down many infections is 'keda kas', to stay at home.
The government has significantly cut the list of vital functions and processes. It was announced which functions and processes will no longer be regarded as vital until at least April 16. These include sales of building materials, car rental companies, cleaning services for individuals and companies, vehicle repair and sale of parts. No exemption will therefore be granted for these functions and services.
Ellis: "This has reduced the number of exemptions by approximately 30,000."