On Wednesday evening, a tragic incident took place at the San Nicolas police station, where a detainee passed away in his cell. Competent authorities, including the Landsrecherche (National Investigative Agency), immediately launched an in-depth investigation to determine the exact cause of death.
According to the official report by the Aruba Police Force (KPA), the discovery was made at approximately 8:20 PM during a routine inspection of the cells. The officers on duty came across a male detainee who was unresponsive.
The situation was immediately reported to the shift commander (chef van dienst) and an alarm was raised with the Police Central Dispatch, which activated all required protocols and notified the relevant authorities of the incident.
Due to the severity and nature of the case, involving a person passing away within a detention cell of the Country of Aruba, a large number of authorities presented themselves at the scene. Among them:
- The Police District Chief.
- A forensic doctor to officially confirm the death.
- Technical Police (Forensics) personnel to collect evidence.
- The independent department of the Landsrecherche, which is legally tasked with heading the investigation whenever a detainee dies in a cell.
The deceased was a local man, born in Aruba, 60 years of age. As of right now, the Police Force has not released public details regarding the person’s identity, nor the reason why he was being held at the station.
Assistance to the family: Personnel from the Slachtofferhulp (Victim Support) Department also rushed to the scene to provide the necessary support, guidance, and companionship to the family of the deceased during these difficult moments.
The case remains under official investigation. The Aruba Police Force concluded its report by sending words of deep condolences and strength to the family of the deceased.