San Nicolas Robbery Aruba Suspect Arrested: Aruban police have arrested a 20-year-old Colombian national living illegally on the island in connection with four knife-point robberies that targeted both residents and tourists in the San Nicolas area between March and April 2026.
The suspect, identified by the initials H.S.L.B., was taken into custody on April 11 following an intensive investigation by the police Robbery Team (Atraco Team). Authorities say he confessed to all four robberies during questioning.
The Robberies
According to police, the suspect used a knife to intimidate his victims in a series of escalating attacks:
- March 2: A student waiting for his parents near the National Library on Peter Stuyvesantstraat was held at knifepoint. The suspect held a knife to the victim’s throat and made off with a cellphone and cash.
- March 19: An employee of the MFA San Nicolas community center was robbed in the parking lot of Plaza Lolita. Again, the suspect pressed a knife to the victim’s throat and stole a cellphone, jewelry, and money.
- April 3: Tourists admiring the famous murals in downtown San Nicolas were threatened with a knife. The suspect fled with cash and personal documents.
- April 9: A woman and her child were robbed outside a cinema. The suspect drew a knife and took their money.
Arrest and Evidence
Investigators identified the suspect based on witness descriptions and a consistent pattern of behavior across all four incidents. A judicial search of his residence on Theaterstraat yielded significant evidence linking him to the robberies.
The suspect has been living in the San Nicolas district and was found to be on the island illegally. He admitted guilt during the interrogation process.
Police Response
The Aruba Police Force (KPA) stated that the Robbery Team works tirelessly to solve robbery cases and that this arrest demonstrates their firm commitment to ensuring the safety of both citizens and visitors.
Discussion about this post