ARUBA:--- On October 18, the Ministry of Defense provided military assistance following a report of a potential explosive near a government building in Aruba. At the Governor's request, the Defense Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service (EODD) helped the Aruba Police Force secure and inspect a suspicious package; specialists from the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee were also present.
The area was partially cordoned off as a precaution, allowing the specialists to examine the package safely. Authorities have since determined the object is not an explosive. The Aruba Police Force is continuing its investigation into the package. The area is now fully accessible again.
Military assistance
Providing military assistance to civil authorities is one of the Ministry of Defense's three core tasks in the Caribbean region. Through this, the Ministry of Defense supports local authorities in maintaining security.