President of the TOPA Union, Axcel Figaroa, warns that the situation at the Aruba Correctional Institute (KIA) has reached a critical point and can no longer wait for concrete action. According to Figaroa, the correctional facility is operating under extreme pressure due to a severe staff shortage and a lack of structural investment over consecutive years.
Currently, KIA has 31 prison guards (correctional officers) and six security staff members to cover daily operations. However, according to figures presented by TOPA, the institution requires approximately 115 guards and 68 security officers to function at an adequate level.
To keep operations running “properly,” at least 12 employees must work overtime almost every day. During the morning shift there is a deficit of 10 staff members, while both the afternoon and night shifts each face a shortage of six employees.
Figaroa warns that the constant pressure is creating a work environment characterized by high stress levels, frequent sick leave reports (AO notifications), and limitations on the right to take vacation or days off. “The situation is becoming inhumane,” he stated, referring to the impact on the physical and mental well-being of staff.
According to TOPA, the combination of staff shortages and continuous pressure is creating a dangerous scenario where “at any moment” something serious could occur. The union notes that within the next five years another 12 guards will retire, which will further worsen the current deficit.
In addition to staff shortages, the condition of the building itself is also a concern. Figaroa emphasized that no government to date has made KIA a real priority on the national agenda.
The TOPA president confirmed that various meetings and discussions have taken place with the Ministry of Justice. Official letters were sent, and during a recent meeting four concrete points were on the agenda. However, according to Figaroa, the meeting ended abruptly due to an urgent matter involving the minister, and no further follow-up contact occurred.
Figaroa also mentioned that several years ago the first stone was laid for a new KIA building in Barcadera, but to this day the project has not been realized.
Recently, Minister Arthur Dowers visited KIA. TOPA expressed hope that the minister gained a clear impression of the seriousness of the situation and will take urgent measures to reduce tensions and guarantee safety for both staff and detainees.
The TOPA union is making a direct appeal to the Government of Aruba to immediately begin investing in the recruitment of new personnel and structural improvements. According to Figaroa, the situation at KIA has been accumulating for years without a concrete solution.
“Many meetings, many words, but until now no real action,” the TOPA president concluded, emphasizing that the moment for immediate intervention has arrived before the situation escalates out of control.
