Extra Journaal Daily News Broadcast – September 24, 2026

A fifth person infected with West Nile virus has died in the Netherlands, the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) announced Thursday. This brings the total death toll from the virus to five in the country this year. In addition to the fatality, sixteen new infections have been recorded in the latest reporting period. West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause severe neurological disease in vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and immunocompromised. The virus has been spreading in parts of Europe during warm months when mosquito activity is highest. While the outbreak is centered in the Netherlands, awareness of mosquito-borne diseases remains relevant across the Kingdom, including in Curaçao. The RIVM continues to monitor the situation closely as the transmission season progresses.

A study examining five locations across Curaçao found that Caracasbaai had the highest average concentrations of copper and lead among all sites tested. Researchers point to differences in land use and the proximity of wastewater and industrial discharge as the likely drivers behind the elevated pollution levels. Caracasbaai is a coastal area that has historically been linked to industrial and maritime activity, making it particularly vulnerable to heavy metal contamination. The findings raise concerns about the long-term health of the marine ecosystem in and around the bay. Heavy metals such as copper and lead are known to be toxic to aquatic life and can accumulate in the food chain, posing risks to both wildlife and human health. The study underscores the need for stricter monitoring and regulation of industrial and wastewater discharges near sensitive coastal zones in Curaçao.

Curaçao police officers removed an abandoned vehicle that had been parked outside a school entrance for an extended period of time. The old vehicle was found occupying a parking spot in front of Van Houtenschool in the Brievengat neighborhood of Willemstad. Authorities intervened after the vehicle remained stationary for a considerable length of time without being moved. The incident took place at a school location, raising concerns about obstruction and safety near the entrance used by students and staff. Police cleared the vehicle as part of routine enforcement of parking and public safety regulations. No arrests or further incidents were reported in connection with the removal.