Prosecutors seek tough sentences for illegal gun possession

ORANJESTAD — The Public Prosecutor’s Office (OM) continues to seek severe sentences for illegal firearm possession. So far in 2026, ten defendants have been convicted through fast-track proceedings, which bring suspects before a judge within a short period.

In a recent case, a man who had kept a submachine gun under his bed for years received 24 months in prison, with 12 months suspended and a three-year probation period. Another suspect in the same case is due to appear before a judge soon.

In a separate case, a man carrying a loaded revolver in his bag received 21 months in prison, with six months suspended and a three-year probation period.

According to the OM, photographs and videos on mobile phones help uncover firearm cases. Sentencing demands take account of the weapon, the circumstances and previous convictions. Automatic weapons, carrying firearms in public and repeat offending lead to tougher sentencing demands.