WILLEMSTAD – The Public Prosecution Service (OM) is warning the public about the use of forged driver’s licenses following a recent case in which a suspect purchased a fake license in 2019 for 150 guilders and used it as if it were genuine.

The court sentenced the man to a suspended community service order of 100 hours, of which 50 must be carried out, with a two-year probation period under supervision of the probation service.

According to the OM, a driver’s license is an official document that serves both as proof of identity and as evidence of the legal right to drive. “The use of a false document is a serious crime that can result in fines, community service, or imprisonment. In some cases, the penalty can run up to several years in prison,” the statement said.

The prosecution stressed that driver’s licenses can only be renewed through official institutions. “Only then can the validity and authenticity be guaranteed.”

In recent months, several cases have come to light in which suspects attempted to use forged driver’s licenses. The OM warns that penalties vary from community service and fines to prison terms. “We strongly urge citizens not to make use of false documents,” the Public Prosecution stated.