Recently, the Minister of Justice, Mr. Drs. Arthur Dowers, received an introductory visit from Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Taribuka, the new commander of the Caribbean Brigade (Brigade Caribisch Gebied) of the Koninklijke Marechaussee (KMar).
Since September 2026, Patrick Taribuka has served as commander of the KMar Caribbean Brigade. Taribuka replaced Lieutenant Colonel Gerhard Smit, who had headed the brigade since June 2024.
In his new role, Taribuka leads the KMar units across the six Caribbean islands within the Kingdom. His visit to Minister Dowers took place in the context of his new position and focused on cooperation and joint responsibilities in the fields of security and border control.
During the meeting, discussions were held regarding the importance of strong cooperation between the various partners within the Kingdom. Although each island has its own distinct character, responsibilities, and institutions, mutual cooperation and trust are essential in combating border-related crime and supporting local authorities.
The Koninklijke Marechaussee carries out various tasks in the Caribbean in the areas of border control and combating border-related crime. Additionally, the KMar supports local authorities with expertise, personnel, and equipment. Marechaussee personnel play a key role in, among other areas, the immigration chain, intelligence units, combating organized crime, and detecting document and identity fraud. There is also ongoing cooperation with the Kustwacht Caribisch Gebied (Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard) and other partners within the security and justice chain.
Developments in border security and transboundary crime require a joint and well-coordinated approach, while simultaneously accounting for the specific situation and needs of Aruba.
Minister Dowers wished Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Taribuka great success in his new role and expressed confidence in the continuation of the strong cooperation between Aruba and the Koninklijke Marechaussee.