Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard Celebrates 30th Anniversary

On February 1, 1996, the Netherlands, the Antilles, and Aruba established the Coast Guard of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba (KWNA&A) to combat the alarming amount of drug smuggling and human trafficking to neighboring islands from Venezuela and Colombia during the 1980s and 1990s.

Initially, the organization consisted of a relatively small group of professionals who worked at sea with great dedication. They took to the sea with the intention of intercepting boats involved in illegal activities. Today, the Coast Guard consists of a large number of dedicated and motivated professionals and has fast patrol boats such as the Panther, Metal Sharks, Super RHIBS, and Boston Whalers; an AW139 helicopter; and a DASH8 aircraft. These are equipped with modern technology and advanced radar systems at sea, which can intercept suspicious movements on the Dutch Caribbean mainland. The Coast Guard is responsible for maritime law enforcement, crime detection (drugs, weapons, fishing, and illegal immigration), environmental protection, and search and rescue (SAR) operations in Aruba.

The current operations rely on intelligence systems that greatly enhance efficiency at sea.

Following the celebration of the Coast Guard's 30th anniversary, the work of three Coast Guard officers was recognized for their 25 years of service, dedication, and integrity. It involves Rivelino Kelly, Nehomar Rasmijn, and Rowaltski Paskel. Also honored was Mrs. Juanita Ozuna, who has been in civilian service with the Coast Guard for 25 years.

Minister of Justice Dr. Arthur Dowers visited Coast Guard Aruba at Navy Barracks Savaneta to celebrate their anniversary with the staff.

Minister Dowers congratulates Coast Guard personnel for their years of tireless efforts to protect our maritime area from the illegal transportation of people, drugs, and weapons.