ORANJESTAD – Aruba’s Public Prosecutor’s Office (OM) has warned that the illegal possession of firearms continues to pose a serious threat to public safety across the island.
In its 2025 Annual Report, the institution stated that illegal firearms remain a major concern and that combating illegal weapons continues to be one of its highest priorities.
According to OM, the presence of illegal firearms in the community increases the risk of serious violence, shootings, and homicide. Authorities are concerned that every illegal weapon circulating in society represents a potential danger to innocent citizens and public order.
During 2025, several criminal investigations led to the seizure of firearms, ammunition, and other prohibited materials. The report highlights that close cooperation between the police, customs authorities, and international partners has been essential in identifying networks involved in illegal weapons trafficking.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office also noted that illegal firearms frequently appear in investigations related to drug trafficking, personal disputes, and organized crime. This combination of criminal activity and easy access to weapons increases the potential for violent incidents.
In addition to enforcement, OM emphasized the importance of prevention through cooperation with schools, community organizations, and government agencies to educate young people about the consequences of gun violence.
The report further states that prosecutors continue to seek severe penalties in firearm-related cases, recognizing that illegal weapons can easily contribute to deadly situations.
Authorities also stressed the need to prevent Aruba from following regional trends where firearm violence has increased significantly over the past decade. Maintaining strict controls, international information sharing, and effective prosecution of traffickers remain key priorities.
