Suriname’s Minister of Justice and Police Harish Monorath has declared the strengthening of the national police force and crime control as paramount government priorities, citing significant progress achieved throughout 2025 despite economic challenges. The minister made these statements during a formal police promotion ceremony on Friday.
Monorath detailed several concrete accomplishments realized this year, including the submission of the Korps Politie Suriname (KPS) organizational structure framework, the introduction of new police uniforms, and the approval of multiple legislative proposals enhancing officers’ legal status and working conditions. Infrastructure developments featured prominently, with renovations completed at the Duisburglaan Police Station, Quarantaine Police Station, and Mariënburg detention facility, alongside the commencement of construction for the new national police headquarters.
Substantial investments in digital transformation have yielded operational advancements, with new applications implemented for digital traffic violation registration, fuel management, lost passport reporting, and seized goods tracking. Additional IT resources have been allocated for combating serious crime, while protective equipment including bulletproof and stab-resistant vests has been distributed to personnel.
Regarding policy direction, Monorath emphasized that crime management remains central to government strategy, with focused efforts targeting serious and organized crime, illegal immigration, youth delinquency, human trafficking, and narcotics trade. Parallel initiatives are enhancing community policing, traffic safety, and interior region police services. Official statistics indicate slight reductions in both criminal offenses and traffic fatalities, providing motivation to continue current strategies.
The minister highlighted inclusive decision-making processes since assuming office, regularly engaging both management teams and the Surinamese Police Union in policy formulation to ensure broader support and effectiveness. These efforts are complemented by investments in training programs, new recruit intakes, and continued professionalization of the police academy.
Addressing promoted officers directly, Monorath stated that advancement results from dedication and discipline rather than chance, urging them to recognize their exemplary role and consistently operate within legal frameworks. He characterized police as “the most visible actors of the constitutional state” and expressed profound appreciation for both officers’ daily work and their families’ support.