The Ministry of Justice, Integration, Public Transportation, and Energy, led by Minister Arthur Dowers, issued a final warning regarding the use of illegal e-steps, e-bikes, and e-scooters on public roads. The government states that development cannot come at the cost of security, public order, and legal responsibility. Electric vehicles that do not comply with legal and technical requirements are not permitted on roads, sidewalks, or any other public space in Aruba. The situation has become a free-for-all, especially in tourist areas. The boardwalk, roads, and areas around hotels are filled with these vehicles, creating dangerous situations for pedestrians and other traffic users. Minister Dowers considers this situation unacceptable. Order and security in public spaces are a priority that cannot be compromised, unlike during the previous government. According to the Landsverordening wegverkeer (AB 1997 no.18), all vehicles that function as motor vehicles (gasoline, diesel, gas, electric, etc.) must comply with technical requirements, registration, and insurance to be on public roads. Based on the Algemene Politieverordening (APV art. 15 & 23), police can confiscate any vehicle occupying public space without permission or obstructing traffic. Minister Dowers’s message was clear: ‘Remove these vehicles from public roads or authorities will take them,’ and action will now be taken.
