Police Chief Commissioner Ramon Arnhem addressed recent unrest following a two hours strike by investigators, saying he regrets how the situation unfolded but acknowledges ongoing concerns within the force about staffing levels.
Arnhem said he understands the concerns raised but regrets the way they were expressed. He stressed that management is working on a solution and that the focus must be on a sustainable, long-term approach. According to him, the problem cannot be solved by simply moving staff between departments, as this would only create shortages elsewhere. He added that all departments within the police force are currently under pressure due to limited personnel.
He explained that training capacity has been restricted in recent years, with only up to two training classes per year during his tenure. He also noted that no training classes were held for an eight-year period before that. Combined with an aging workforce, this has contributed to the current shortage. He said the issue has developed over many years and is not a recent problem.
“As a force, we share the same goal and responsibility: ensuring safety in our society and the well-being of our staff. I remain fully committed to that and will continue to do so until my retirement,” Arnhem said.
Arnhem confirmed that he received a letter of instruction from the Minister of Justice, although the Attorney General also holds authority in the matter. He noted that it is not possible to simply transfer personnel away from units handling active investigations, and reiterated that all parts of the force are experiencing staffing shortages.
He said agreements on reallocating staff within district investigation units are being finalized this week, and that the minister’s request is being implemented. Personnel have already been reassigned to these units, and staff have been informed.
Arnhem added that the Public Prosecution Service (OM) sent the letter to the minister rather than directly to him, though he received a copy for information. He said the message reflects wider concerns about severe staffing shortages across the entire justice chain, including the Public Prosecution Service, KIA, and KPA. According to him, the OM has indicated it may no longer be able to process police reports as usual, meaning not all cases will receive follow-up.
He stated that the shortage is estimated at more than 30 percent, which he described as unrealistic and unsustainable. Current staffing levels, he said, are still based on an organizational plan dating back to 2011. Since then, society has grown and police work has become more complex, while staffing levels have remained largely unchanged.
