Public Prosecution distances itself from the article in Algemeen Dagblad
Bon Dia Aruba
4/4/2006

ORANJESTAD – The spokesperson for the Public Prosecution, drs. Mariaine Croes reacted to an article that Algemeen Dagblad published Saturday, April 1, 2006. The title of the article is: ‘Search for Natalee by satellite’. Drs. Croes made it be known to Bon Dia Aruba that in this case, a police worker made these statements to a reporter from Algemeen Dagblad. The Public Prosecution distances itself completely from the content of the statements made by the police officer. Also, the Public Prosecution distances itself emphatically of the fact that these statements were made, who they were made by.

Drs. Croes explains that in dealing with the press, the Public Prosecution is always aware of the following points:

- the protection of the privacy of the suspects and witnesses;

- the fact that you have to avoid dealing with a case through the media, and not speak regarding the supposed culpability of the suspects;

- always have to avoid damage to an ongoing criminal investigation.

Given that the Public Prosecution observes the points mentioned above, the giving of information in specific cases by the Public Prosecution is limited.