The Korps Politie Suriname (KPS) has made preparations for the deportation of more than 63 Mennonites from Bolivia and Mexico who were removed from the Masonia area last weekend.
Akkal gave an explanation of the clearance operation in an interview with the Communicatie Dienst Suriname (CDS) on Tuesday, October 27, 2026. The operation was carried out during the night from Sunday, October 25, to Monday, October 26.
According to the police commissioner, the operation was preceded by several months of preparations. On July 20, 2026, the police and other relevant agencies carried out an exploratory mission in the Masonia area. It was established that foreign nationals were present in the area whose residence permits had expired.
According to Akkal, the residence permits of some of those concerned had already expired in 2025, while those of others expired during 2026.
Three months to leave the area
Akkal stated that a bailiff’s writ was served on the persons concerned on July 20, 2026. They were given three months to vacate the area.
According to the police, this notice was not complied with. A week before the operation, another announcement was therefore issued, giving those concerned another opportunity to leave the area voluntarily.
Because those concerned also failed to comply with this call, according to Akkal, it was decided to carry out the clearance operation.
Police deploy drones to locate Mennonites
The operation was carried out by the police of Regio Midden, with support from, among others, the Regionaal Bijstandsteam (RBT), the Recherche and the Vreemdelingendienst.
Upon arrival at the original place of residence, the police units no longer found the foreign nationals concerned. According to Akkal, they had meanwhile moved several kilometres further away.
With support from, among others, the KPS Drone-Unit, the new place of residence was located.
After their residence status was checked, more than 63 persons from Bolivia and Mexico were removed from the area. They were subsequently transferred to a reception facility in the district of Para, near the airport.
Deportation dependent on court ruling
According to Akkal, the police have now made the necessary preparations to deport the foreign nationals concerned from Suriname in accordance with the applicable immigration legislation.
The planned deportation is being temporarily held up by the summary proceedings filed on behalf of the foreign nationals concerned to prevent their deportation.
The case was heard by the court on Tuesday, October 27. During the hearing, both the plaintiffs and representatives of the Ministry of Justice and Security had the opportunity to explain their positions.
Given the urgent nature of the case, the court ruling is expected on Wednesday, October 28, or no later than Thursday, October 29.
Police announce checks at other locations
Akkal further announced that the police have information about several locations in Suriname where foreign nationals without the required residence status are believed to be staying.
According to the Director of Operations, the police will also visit these locations. It has not been disclosed which areas are involved or when the checks will take place.
