The CGA or Curaçao Gambling Authority is facing a formal investigation through local prosecutors. This is according to a letter from the Curaçao and Sint Maarten Financial Supervision Board (Cft) dated November 27. NEXT.io has seen the letter, which was signed by Cft chairperson Lidewijde Ongering. The letter stated that Cft understands the Public Prosecution Service is investigating the CGA. The CGA is responsible for implenting the LOK. The Cft is closely monitoring developments and will discuss these matter with relevant officials.
Local media reported that the RMT, or Criminal Investigation Cooperation Team—comprising investigators from Curaçao, nearby islands, and the Netherlands—has taken over the case.
Even though authorities have now confirmed it, sources told Next.io that rumors of an investigation had circulated for some time. The Cft did not give details on the reason for the investigation, and prosecutors have not officially approached the CGA. The letter added that integrity within the government and its entities is essential to sound financial management and is therefore a priority for the Cft. Recent media reports on potential integrity concerns within the CGA and the Tax Collector underscores the need for further clarity on this matter.
The investigation follows the transfer of gambling regulation responsibilities to the Ministry of Justice. These responsibilities were previously held by Javier Silvania, the former finance minister, who resigned in October amid a corruption scandal. The CGA must implement a major reform of Curaçao’s offshore gaming sector, LOK. LOK remains one of the largest in the world.
Tensions escalated after leaked audio of Silvania and Alfonso Trona, head of the Tax Receiver’s Office, circulated in public. The recording reportedly contained threats of exposing alleged corruption. The CGA, as well as other oversight bodies in Curaçao have faced recent allegations of wrongdoing. This includes a 400-page report sent in 2024 by Dr. Luigi Faneyte, an opposition politician and academic. The report detailed serious allegations against Silvania and senior officials involved in the sector’s reform.
