Aruba Police Force Celebrates 40th Anniversary
ORANJESTAD – The Aruba Police Force (KPA) commemorated its 40th anniversary with a Holy Mass at Misa Pro Cathedral San Francisco in Playa, attended by the Governor of Aruba, His Excellency Alfonso Boekhoudt, the government authorities, special guests, and a large number of community members.
The celebration provided an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and prayer for all members of the Aruba Police Force, as well as for continued protection and guidance in carrying out their important work in service to the country.
Among those present at the Mass were the Governor of Aruba, His Excellency Alfonso Boekhoudt; Minister of Justice, Mr. Drs. Arthur Dowers; KPA Chief of Police Ramon Arnhem; Vice President of Parliament Muzaninn Wever; Members of Parliament; senior officials from the justice sector; various department heads; retired members of the Police Force; and invited delegations from several countries.
At the conclusion of the religious celebration, Minister Dowers addressed those present and congratulated the Aruba Police Force on reaching this important milestone.
The 40th anniversary celebration was also attended by police delegations from the Netherlands, Curaçao, Bonaire, Saba, St. Eustatius, Sint Maarten, and Suriname. Minister Dowers extended a special welcome to the visiting delegations and emphasized that their presence symbolizes not only mutual support, but also a shared commitment to combating crime locally, within the Kingdom, and internationally.
Following the Mass, the participating delegations and organizations took part in an official parade in front of the Government building (Bestuurskantoor). The official delegation, including Minister Dowers, received the parade and greeted the various participating groups.
The program continued with a luncheon at the Renaissance Ballroom as part of the commemorative activities marking the 40th anniversary.
Minister Dowers congratulated the Chief of Police, the leadership, active-duty members, retirees, and the entire Aruba Police Force for their dedication and contributions over the past 40 years. He wished them a successful week of celebrations and activities, characterized by camaraderie and strengthened ties with the visiting delegations.
With 40 years of history behind it, this anniversary marks not only an opportunity to reflect on the development and achievements of the Aruba Police Force, but also to look ahead. The focus remains on strengthening integrity, investing in a new generation of police officers, and preparing the KPA to meet the security challenges of the future.
