According to www.Telegraaf.nl Marlies' body has been found .. it's the only newssite I currently find, but it seems there's a breakthrough ..
Very very sad if this is true .. I guess not many people still assumed she was still alive, but it's still very sad to hear ..
I've tried to add this to the former discussion thread, but I'm unable to post in there ..

I will do and try a translation in a bit ..


De politie van Bonaire heeft het lichaam teruggevonden van de 24-jarige Marlies van der Kouwe. Zij lag begraven in dicht struikgewas bij de wijk Ambuana. Forensisch onderzoekers stellen nu haar lichaam veilig.

De ontvoerde apothekersassistente (24) verdween op de dag af vier weken geleden, toen zij bij haar appartement van de fiets werd getrokken. Haar lichaam ligt in een ondiep graf, op ongeveer vijf kilometer van waar zij verdween.

Marlies is gevonden door ploeg met speurhonden en prikstokken. Enkele delen waren bloot gespoeld. Bij haar lichaam werden ook een slipper en haar pinpassen gevonden. De familie van Marlies is net op de hoogte gesteld.

De verslaggevers van deze krant zagen gisteren dat de politie rondreed met de nicht van hoofdverdachte Rayan Pieters (24). Zij leek de politie bij de wijk Ambuana vanuit een pickuptruck aanwijzingen te geven. Ter plekke was duidelijk een graf zichtbaar op enkele meters van de weg, tussen twee diepe plassen.

Pieters zelf heeft niet bekend, zeggen bronnen bij de politie. Gisteravond werd begonnen met het uitgraven van haar lichaam. Het hoofd van Marlies is gescheiden geraakt van haar romp en is inmiddels veilig gesteld in het mortuarium.

Rayan Pieters, die eerder jaren vastzat voor gijzeling en verkrachting, is vannacht om twee uur (lokale tijd) in allerijl met een militair toestel naar de gevangenis van Curacao overgebracht. Over enkele uren zal de politie een officiële verklaring afleggen.

The Police of Bonaire has found the body of the missing 24yr Marlies van der Kouwe. She was found in some dense vegetation close to the Ambuana area. Forensic experts are currently inspecting the site.
The kidnapped farmacy employee disappeared 4 weeks ago, when she was pulled of her bike close to her apartment. Her body was found in a shallow grave, approximately 5kms from the place where she disappeared.
Marlies was found by a search-squad with sticks and trained dogs. Some bodyparts came clear because of the rains. Close to her body a flipflop and her bankcards were found. Her family was just informed.
The journalists of this newspaper yesterday saw police driving around with the main suspect’s (Pieters) cousine. It seemed as though she was giving the police directions in the Ambuana area. At that site clearly a grave was visible, just meters aside the road between to mudpools.
According to sources with the police, Pieters did not release a confession. Yesterday evening a start was made to obtain all of Marlies’ body.
R.Pieters was flown to Curacao prison with a military airplane in a hurry. In a couple of hours the police will issue an official statement.

Sad. I read the same thing in the Diario Aruba, but it said the Governor of Bonaire has yet to confirm it. That must be what the official statement will be for. I'm sure Bonaire news is a lot more current. My heart goes out to her family.

The press conference will be at 2pm - they say on all radio stations ......

The Dutch media is opening with the news that -unconfirmed- the body of marlies has been found. They also said a press conference will be held at 20.00 hrs CET (14.00 hrs in Bonaire), like other Dutch media. The "wereldomroep" news however claimed that they (and the Dutch NOS news) received a confirmation from the police.
Let's wait for the press conference...

on http://www.megafm.com/streaming.htm
you can hear the press conference. It starts now.

Being said in the press conference

Marlies has been found yesterday about 5.30pm
It was not thanks to an exact tip but thanks to the good team work of the agents with different specialities from Bonaire, Aruba, Curacao, Holland and also from Germany.
No other information will be given as the investigation is not finished


Lots of questions from the different journalists but answers are not really given.

- More arrests are possible
- The helicopters of the last days were for the search team
- Confirmation that the suspect is now in Curacao, for security, for investigation purposes, and they found it not ethic that the body of Marlies and the suspuct are in the same building
- The niece (cousin) of the suspect had been seen driving with the police in the area were Marlies has been found but the police gives no comments to this subject

I will add if there is important other news

Prayers for her family. Thank you for sharing updated information; albeit heartbreaking.

Source: http://www.bndestem.nl/algemeen/binnenland/3895480/Politie-bevestigt-vondst-lichaam-Marlies-van-der-Kouwe.ece
Saturday October 18, 2008: 20.35 hrs CET

***Police confirms discovery of body Marlies***
KRALENDIJK (ANP) – The Officer of Justice on Bonaire, Mr. David van Delft, has confirmed that the body found is indeed the disappeared Marlies van der Kouwe. Van Delft said in a press conference that on the basis of the dental record it is 99,9 percent sure the discovered body is Marlies van der Kouwe.
The body was found Friday afternoon (local time). A DNA test will have to give 100 percent certainty in the coming 2 days. The police will continue with the crime case to get certainty about the persons responsible for the crime.
The body was found –according to van Delft- “thanks to brilliant tactical investigation effort”

***Politie bevestigt vondst lichaam Marlies van der Kouwe***
zaterdag 18 oktober 2008 | 20:35
KRALENDIJK (ANP) - Officier van justitie op Bonaire David van Delft bevestigde zaterdag op Bonaire de vondst van het lichaam van de verdwenen Marlies van der Kouwe. Van Delft gaf in een persconferentie aan dat op basis van gebitsgegevens voor 99,9 procent zeker is dat het gevonden lichaam Marlies van der Kouwe is.
Het lichaam werd vrijdagmiddag (lokale tijd) op Bonaire gevonden. Een DNA-test moet binnen twee dagen 100 procent zekerheid geven. De politie gaat verder met de zaak om zekerheid te krijgen over de daders.
Het lijk is volgens Van Delft gevonden op basis van ,,briljant tactisch recherchewerk''.

Some more (same) news

Source: http://www.rtl.nl/(/actueel/rtlnieuws/binnenland/articleview/)/components/actueel/rtlnieuws/2008/10_oktober/18/binnenland/1018_2045_aanhoudingen_marlies.xmlHoofdverdachte overgebracht naar Curaçao
RTL News

***Bonaire expects more arrests***
Main suspect transferred to prison in Curacao
In the Marlies van der Kouwe crime case, more arrest are to be expected on the short term.
Solving the case
Justice and the police have focused initially on the retrieval of the body of the missing Marlies. “Now that she is found, the police has more manpower to focus on solving the case”, said Officer of Justice van Delft.

**Main suspect**
In the crime case, three men were arrested. Main suspect Ryan P. is already in custody for the past three weeks. He has been transferred to the prison of Curacao


***Bonaire verwacht meer aanhoudingen***
In de zaak-Marlies van der Kouwe worden op Bonaire 'op korte termijn' nog meer aanhoudingen verwacht.
Oplossen
Justitie en politie richtten zich in eerste instantie op het vinden van het lichaam van de vermiste Marlies. "Nu zij is gevonden, heeft de politie meer mankracht om zich te richten op het oplossen van de zaak", aldus officier van justitie Van Delft.

**Hoofdverdachte**
Voor de zaak zijn drie mannen aangehouden. De hoofdverdachte, Ryan P., zit al drie weken vast. Hij is inmiddels overgebracht naar de gevangenis van Curaçao.

Thank you to our friends on Bonaire and in the Netherlands for keeping us abreast of this news. Sad story, indeed...

This is a very sad story but it is certainly a good sign that the body has now been discovered (unlike the Natalie Holloway case in Aruba). Now the police can focus their manpower on solidifying their evidence for the successful prosecution. Heartbreaking for the poor parents going through this, but at least it may bring some closure.

I am so sorry about what has happened and echo what CB and Vince have said. May the family have closure and my sympathies to them.

Below a rough translation of a part of the article that was published this morning (Sunday October 19, 2008) in the Dutch newspaper ‘The Telegraaf’. The article summarizes the events of the last month.
Since I’m not an official translator, apologies upfront for any typos or misinterpretations…..
Article by John van den Heuvel en Bert Huisjes – De Telegraaf

***Surprise***
The arrest of the stepfather of Shanti, Jamie R.- was a bigger surprise, but for the police the logical next step. Both were together at Karel’s on the night that Marlies disappeared. “Jamie would have some drinks at Karel’s”, said Helene. “Rayan came to pick him up and Jamie was sitting on the back of the black scooter. That night they spent to whole night at Karel’s”, said Helene. “That is what he also told the police.” What followed has the great interest of the police. “At ten minutes past one, Rayan suddenly disappeared, without any notice”, said Helene. “That wondered Jamie. He even talked with two doormen about this. At ten minutes before three he called him. His phone was ringing, but he didn’t pick up. After that, Jamie headed home on his own.” Jamie was released last Friday.
The sudden departure of Rayan –as declared by Jamie R.- fell at exactly the same time as the departure of Marlies (from Karel’s bar). In a dark alley near the police station, one of the 60 detectives working on the case fills in the rest of the story. On five security cameras at Karel’s is recorded that Rayan had contact with Marlies. He approached her and tried to impress her in a macho way. Rayan drunk –also according to Jamie- a lot. Many glasses Black label whiskey. The recordings show that Marlies was absolutely not interested in Rayan. Instead of having contact with him she took her bike and headed home, this was just after one o’clock that night. She was almost home when she was pulled from her bike near the Water and Electricity Company.

Further on in the interview (with the security guard who saw the assault on Marlies):
The police not only discovered that Rayan met and left at the same time as Marlies, but that there were more witnesses. Along the coast road, two women saw Marlies passing, while a scooter was following her. Also there is a statement of a guy called Peki – a drug addict that frequently smokes marihuana on the pouch of his house- about a later time. He says that he knows Rayan and saw him driving up the mountain with a girl on his scooter. She seemed lifeless, was also his statement.

***Verrassing***
De arrestatie van de stiefvader van Shanti, Jamie R., was een grotere verrassing. Voor de politie een logische stap. Beiden waren samen bij Karel’s, op de avond dat Marlies verdween. „Jamie zou bij Karel’s wat drinken”, zegt Helen. „Rayan kwam hem achteroprijden met zijn zwarte scooter en Jamie mocht achterop. Die avond zijn ze een hele tijd samen geweest bij Karel’s”, zegt Helene. „Dat heeft hij ook bij de politie verklaard.” Wat daarop volgde had de grote interesse van de politie. „Om tien minuten over één was Rayan ineens weg. Zonder ook maar iets te zeggen”, zegt Helene. „Dat vond Jamie vreemd. Hij heeft daar met twee uitsmijters nog over staan praten. Om tien voor drie heeft hij hem zelfs nog gebeld. De telefoon van Rayan ging wel over, maar hij nam hem niet op. Toen is Jamie alleen naar huis gekomen.” Jamie werd vrijdag vrijgelaten.
Het vertrek van Rayan, zo verklaarde Jamie R., viel precies samen met het vertrek van Marlies van der Kouwe. In een donker steegje bij het politiebureau vult een van de zestig rechercheurs donderdagavond het verhaal aan. Op vijf bewakingscamera’s bij Karel’s is vastgelegd dat Rayan ook echt contact had met Marlies. Hij kwam naar haar toe en probeerde op macho wijze indruk op haar te maken. Rayan dronk, ook volgens Jamie, die avond een hoop. Vele glazen met black label-whisky. Afgaande op de beelden, moest Marlies niets van Rayan hebben. In plaats daarvan stapte zij even na enen op de fiets, om de kustweg te volgen naar haar appartementje. Ze was bijna thuis, toen ze tegenover het Water en Elektriciteitsbedrijf (WEB) van haar fiets werd getrokken.
Verderop in het interview (met de beveiligingsbeambte die getuige was van de aanval op Marlies):
De politie vond niet alleen uit dat Rayan een ontmoeting had met Marlies en tegelijk met haar vertrok, er waren nog meer getuigenverklaringen. Langs de kustweg zagen twee vrouwen dat Marlies langs fietste, terwijl een scooter op enige afstand volgde. Ook is er nog een verklaring van ene Peki, een verslaafde die vaak blowt voor zijn huisje, over later op die avond. Hij zegt dat hij Rayan kent, en met een meisje voor op de scooter de berg zag oprijden. Zij hing slap, zei ook hij.

Sad sad news! my sincerest condolences to her family

hopefully some closure will come to the family. my condolences to the family.
es

Sad story , I´m so sorry about this sad news !my Condolences to her family and friends .

Such sad news , we are sorry to hear this. Our condolences to her family and friends

Sjossss :triggered and itchy:
sooo , WTF?
there's a dutch girl kidnapped and missing , several wittnesses of a convicted rapist connected to the victim amd the crime scene.
And it it takes a bloody hurricane to uncover the body before marlies is found?
WTF is wrong there?

(sense knocks in) Dutch and international law prehibiteds me to say how I would love to solve this problem.

Jos, ever heard of "divine intervention"? Call it what you will, Mother Nature, Act of God? With all of the problems caused by Omar, he solved one that was taking too long to solve. Without the hurricane....the authorities could still be searching or worse, Marlis may NEVER have been found. Omar was a disaster to a lot of people, but a welcome gift to others.

My prayers go out all who have been touched by this horrible tragedy, to all of those whose love and caring has been expressed from the BT Family and most of all the families of ALL involved.

Shelley

Shelley, I think Jos is angry at the incompetence of the collective police department handling the case...

It is a tragic tragic tragic end to a just horrible situation.

I do agree with you Jos, in regard as to what they should do with the attacker/murderers...

When seeing some reader comments in Dutch news papers i have to wonder what they know about Bonaire. Mostly they seem to think it is a tiny tiny little island and it should have been very easy to find Marlies. Somebody in one paper tried to explain that the island is not that small, that there are very big areas with cactus and thorny bushes where nobody comes but goats and donkeys.
The response time (Sun 1am to Monday 3pm) was a mostly the case just a big NoNo - and I am afraid it would not have made any difference to poor Marlies if they would have reacted faster. But from the moment the chief of police finally got informed Monday afternoon, they did a good job. Calling in directly help from the Marines, from Dutch police, from Curacao and than even the dogs and their handlers from Germany. The costs are paid by Holland.
The investigation has not been finished, so we just have to wait for the next police press conference.

Our sincere condolences to the family.

With some delay, below the rough translation of the article published today in the Dutch media. Apologies upfront for typo's/misinterpretations..


Source: Algemeen Dagblad
http://www.ad.nl/binnenland/2708229/Opnieuw_arrestatie_op_Bonaire.html

***New Arrest on Bonaire***
By Peter de Knegt

KRALENDIJK – The investigation team on Bonaire has arrested a new suspect in the kidnapping case of Marlies van der Kouwe (24) on Monday morning (local time).
A 25-year old Bonarian K.E.M. was arrested on the suspicion of conspiracy of her disappearance. On two different locations, house searches were initiated.
The moaning Bonaire –where the flags hang half mast and a day-by-day increasing fear for more arrests van habitants of the island- is preparing a big memorial service for Marlies. According to people involved in the organization, the parents and other family members will attend the service to be held somewhere by the end of this week. After this service they will return to the Netherlands.
With this new arrest, there are currently three suspects in custody. Two earlier suspects have been released. These are the brother of the main suspect Ryan P. and a friend of Ryan of the night that Marlies disappeared on September 20th when they were on a night out. This friend has declared to the police that Ryan suddenly left that night and that he has not seen him since.
On video recordings of Karel’s beach bar the police supposedly has clearly seen that Ryan was bothering Marlies. According to the attorney of Ryan the two did not know each other. Ryan –who is held in custody on Curacao and is intensively interrogated-, has not made a confession yet.
Tips/information of the inhabitants of Bonaire are welcomed. Persons that might have relevant information related to this crime are requested to report this to the police.

***Nieuwe arrestatie op Bonaire***
Door PETER DE KNEGT

KRALENDIJK - Het onderzoeksteam van de politie op Bonaire heeft maandagochtend (lokale tijd) een nieuwe verdachte aangehouden in de ontvoeringszaak van Marlies van der Kouwe (24).
Een 25-jarige Bonairiaan K.E.M. werd op verdenking van betrokkenheid bij haar verdwijning gearresteerd. ook werd op twee verschillende adressen huiszoeking verricht.
Het rouwende Bonaire, waar de vlaggen halfstok hangen en de vrees voor verdere arrestaties van eilandgenoten met de dag toeneemt, maakt zich op voor een grote herdenkingsbijeenkomst voor Marlies. Volgens betrokken zullen ook de ouders en andere familieleden die bijeenkomst, ergens deze week bijwonen.Pas daarna keren zij naar Nederland terug.
Met de jongste arrestatie zitten momenteel drie verdachten vast. twee eerdere verdachten zijn weer vrijgelaten. Het gaat om de broer van hoofdverdachte Ryan P., en een vriend van Ryan die de avond van de verdwijning van marlies op 20 september samen met Ryan aan het stappen was. Deze vriend heeft tegenover de politie verklaard dat Ryan plotseling die avond de benen had genomen en hij hem niet meer heeft gezien.
Op de videobeelden van cafe/restaurant Karels Beach Bar zou de politie inmiddels overduidelijk hebben kunnen vaststllen dat Ryan die avond Marlies lastig viel. Volgens de advocaat van Ryan, kende het tweetal elkaar helemaal niet. Ryan, die nu op Curacao vastzit en intensief wordt verhoord, heeft tot op dit moment nog geen bekentenis afgelegd.
Tips vanuit de bevolking blijven welkom. Personen die denken over informatie te beschikken die betrekking kan hebben op de zaak worden opgeroepen deze gegevens vooral te melden bij de recherche.

"First they came for the Socialist, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Socialist. Then they came for the Trade Unionist, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Trade Unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me, and there was no one left to speak out for me."
If anybody knows anything, please do what you would want someone to do, if you were Marlies's mother! We ARE our brother's keeper! If we don't help others, no one may help us when we need it.
The above poem is in the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C.

If you want to express your feelings towards the family, goto: http://www.condoleance.nl/registers/register_10668.html, goto "condoleance toevoegen" on the right side. Of course you can post in whatever language you want to.

Harrie

(Message edited by harmoni on October 20, 2008)

I am glad there is finally closure, we heard alot of this on island. Heard many stories.
I hope the family can get past this and the man who did this to her can be NOT released AGAIN!!

Thank you Harrie.

There is an article from 18 October in English in Amigoe online at http://www.amigoe.com/artman/publish/artikel_48197.php .

Thank you everyone for the updates.

Thank you Harrie for the page for condolences.
(in case anyone does wish to leave their condolences, please be careful when you go to submit your note...click on the work on the LEFT side under the comment area. If you click on the "right" side after typing your note it will "disappear" into thin air...it deletes the comments.

So many postings of sympathies and condolences for Marlies and her family....very touching and very moving. cb

I hope that in some way the burden of this terrible loss is lessened for Marlies' family by all the hearts that share their grief, near and far.

It makes me think of so many trips home on my bike after a night out dancing at Karel's or City Cafe....and how thankful I am for the many friends I had looking out for my safety when I lived on Bonaire.

My heart goes out to family and friends of Marlies, and to everyone who feels the same sense of violation and loss of personal freedom such an act can create. May we all be more mindful of looking out for one another, friend and stranger alike, wherever we find ourselves. And may we find the courage to intervene if ever it is needed.

My thoughts exactly, Tara. I sincerely hope anyone with tips or information will come forward and...... "Speak Out!!!"

Apologies for misspelling your name, Dara. You do express my heartfelt sympathy for both families. I agree with you. "We all should be more mindful of looking out for one another". Somebody, somewhere, knows something that would help. Let's hope they.... "Speak Out!!!"

at this moment a reporter on rtl4 in the Netherlands said on tv that the suspect is flown back to Bonaire and seems to going to speak out.
This info comes from the crime reporter, he just received this news from Bonaire.
It seems it may unreveil today.It was confirmed again just minutes ago.

For Marlies it is too late, I am more then sorry for her and her parents and family.


(Message edited by lydibeau on October 21, 2008)

As I am not allowed to post "hearsay", I will not post the latest news here.
For people who want to read that news, and want to know what "I think I've heard on the local radio" and who can handle a possible rumour with all its consequences, goto: http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/abc-islands/254160-kidnapping-bonaire-10.html

Harrie

Thanks for the update , this is a tragic situation . As with everyone else , my prayers to the family who must cope . I hope closure can relieve some of the pain . I will never see Bonaire the same way again , innocence lost .

this article was published just now in the telegraaf, since I am not good in translating, maybe somebody else can.
It is confirmation of what I said before in the other post.

http://www.telegraaf.nl/binnenland/2253306/__Ryan_Pieters_naar_plaats_delict__.html?p=13,1

this article was published just now in the telegraaf on line, since I am not good in translating, maybe somebody else can.
It is confirmation of what I said before in the other post.

http://www.telegraaf.nl/binnenland/2253306/__Ryan_Pieters_naar_plaats_delict__.html?p=13,1

Give me 5 mins, I will give it a try

Tuesday Oct. 21, 20.20 CET
Source: De Telegraaf

***Suspect Ryan P. brought to crime scene**

WILLEMSTAD – Ryan P., the main suspect in the murder case of Marlies van der Kouwe, was brought back to Bonaire this Tuesday. He will be escorted to the crime scene where the body of Marlies van der Kouwe was found. Sources within the police force confirmed this on Tuesday.
P. would be brought to the crime scene with the aim to provide more clarity in the case. P. is now in custody for over 4 weeks on suspicion of involvement of the kidnapping and murdering of Marlies. The 24-year old pharmacy assistant disappeared in the night of September 20 and 21.
On Curacao and Bonaire the radio station reported Tuesday that Ryan P. would be brought back to Bonaire to make a statement and to have a conversation with his mother and his lawyer. Ryan’s mother stated to the ANP (press) that she also heard these messages on the radio, but is unaware and is at work.
P. was escorted –after the discovery of the body of Marlies- to the Bon Futuro prison on Curacao. This Tuesday morning he was –under heavy security- flown back. The police investigation on the spot where Marlies was found was finalized Monday.

***Verdachte Ryan P. naar plaats delict***
WILLEMSTAD - Ryan P., de hoofdverdachte in de zaak Marlies van der Kouwe, is dinsdag teruggebracht naar Bonaire. Hij wordt daar naar de plaats gebracht waar het lichaam van Marlies van der Kouwe vrijdagmiddag is gevonden. Bronnen binnen de politie hebben dat dinsdag bevestigd.
P. zou naar de plaats delict worden gebracht in de hoop meer duidelijkheid in de zaak te krijgen. P. zit inmiddels vier weken vast op verdenking van betrokkenheid bij de ontvoering van en de moord op Marlies. De 24-jarige apothekersassistente verdween in de nacht van 20 op 21 september.
Op Curaçao en Bonaire meldde de radio dinsdag dat Ryan P. naar Bonaire werd gebracht omdat hij een verklaring wil afleggen en een gesprek zou willen voeren met zijn moeder en zijn advocaat. Ryans moeder zei hierover tegenover het ANP dat ze de berichten ook op de radio heeft gehoord, maar verder van niets weet en gewoon aan het werk is.
P. is na de vondst van het lichaam van Marlies overgebracht naar de Bon Futuro gevangenis op Curaçao. Hij werd dinsdagochtend onder strenge begeleiding terug gevlogen.

Het politieonderzoek op de plaats waar het lichaam van Marlies van der Kouwe werd gevonden, is maandag afgerond.

Thanks Martijn.
You are fast in translating.
My posts seems to double post, sorry.

Maybe a stupid question but I have to ask it. Why in all the news reports on this case is the suspect referred to as Ryan P.? But the victim complete name is given...

Thanks,
Ric

Ric,

There are no stupid questions! The "code" in the Dutch media is to not disclose full names until a suspect is convicted or released from suspicion. As you probably have read in previous posts, not all (dutch) journalists follow this code...

The poor young woman. I am so sorry for her family.

Martijn, Thanks for clearing up the issue. I understand but somewhat disagree. Perhaps the Dutch media and justice systems needs to toughen up, so people think twice before committing crimes. In this case, its' not like the entire island doesn't know who Ryan P. is anyway.

Ric, what if he turns out to be innocent, by now he has been convicted by a lot of people. That's why we have these rules / laws. If people are in the paper with the full name, the defense laywers use it as a way to get lower punishments. IMHO, as soon as it's roven that he has done it, put him with name and all in the paper, until then, be careful in the press...

Ric, you're welcome. There are a lot of pros and cons on disclosing surnames, specially in smaller communities like the Netherlands (or Bonaire). Indeed it might frighten some criminals to be, on the other hand we've seen examples where persons were unrightfully suspected of crimes. In this case everyone indeed knows who P. is...

Word just on the Dutch newsprogram SBS was that Ryan P. was escorted the whole day on Bonaire and visited many places (amongst the crime scene). Also they stated that a breakthrough is near and that suspects are accusing each other (which I think is good, simply because they now talk!). They also said that Ryan P.was brought back to the Curacao prison by the end of the day.

Below the summary SBS just published on their website (http://www.hartvannederland.nl/item/14555/Mogelijke_bekentenis_Ryan_P._)

A possible confession from Ryan P.

Ryan P., the main suspect in the Marlies van der Kouwe case, suposidly would have confessed to be involved in the murder case.
P. returned to Bonaire this Tuesday where he pointed out to the police the places where he would have been with Marlies and the place where she was killed. Last Friday P. was transferred to the prison of Curacao to avoid contact with other suspects.

Mogelijke bekentenis Ryan P.

Ryan P., de hoofdverdachte in de zaak Marlies van der Kouwe, zou bekend hebben betrokken te zijn bij de moord op Marlies van der Kouwe.

P. kwam dinsdag terug op Bonaire en wees de politie de plekken aan waar hij met Marlies is geweest en waar zij om het leven is gebracht. Vrijdag was Ryan P. overgebracht naar de gevangenis op Curacao om contact met de andere verdachten te voorkomen.

Yeah, I just read the same thing ..
Sad sad sad story ...

***Silent march for Marlies on Bonaire***
Source: http://www.nu.nl/news/1800938/10/Stille_tocht_voor_Marlies_op_Bonaire.html
Published: October 22, 2008 10:48 CET

AMSTERDAM - This Thursday a memorial service followed by a silent march will be held on Bonaire in remembrance of Marlies van der Kouwe. During the service –that is organized by the parents and relatives of the 24-year old pharmacy assistant- both the parents and other invitees will speech. The police announced this Tuesday night.
The silent march will end on the spot where the body of Marlies was found last week. The family calls upon everyone to attend the service and the silent march.
Flowers
Earlier the parents stated that they highly appreciate the inhabitants leaving flowers at the finding place of their daughter.
The forensic investigation on the body of Marlies is in full progress. Tuesday it was announced that the body of Marlies would be transported back to the Netherlands in the days to follow. In the Netherlands, the Dutch Forensic Institute will examine the last week found body. It is not known on what day the remains of Marlies will be transported back to the Netherlands.

***Stille tocht voor Marlies op Bonaire***
Uitgegeven: 22 oktober 2008 10:48

AMSTERDAM - Op Bonaire wordt donderdag een herdenkingsdienst en een stille tocht gehouden ter nagedachtenis van Marlies van der Kouwe.
Gedurende de herdenkingsdienst, die wordt georganiseerd door de ouders en nabestaanden van de 24-jarige apothekersassistente, zullen zowel de ouders als andere genodigden spreken. Dit laat de politie op Bonaire dinsdagavond weten.
De stille tocht eindigt op de plek waar het lichaam van Van der Kouwe vorige week werd gevonden. De familie roept iedereen op om bij de dienst aanwezig te zijn en mee te lopen met de stille tocht.
Bloemen
Eerder lieten de ouders weten dat zij het zouden waarderen als inwoners van Bonaire bloemen zouden achterlaten op de vindplaats van hun dochter.
Het forensisch onderzoek op het lichaam van Van der Kouwe op Bonaire is in volle gang. Dinsdag werd bekend dat haar lichaam binnen een paar dagen overgebracht wordt naar Nederland.
Daar zal het Nederlands Forensisch Instituut het vorige week gevonden lijk verder onderzoeken. Het is niet bekend op welke dag het stoffelijk overschot naar Nederland wordt overgebracht.

Additional note:
The service will take place in the youth center "Jong Bonaire" and will start at 5.30 in the afternoon (local time).

De dienst zal plaatsvinden in het jongerencentrum Jong Bonaire en begint om half zes 's middags (plaatselijke tijd).

As American's we would like to express our sincere thanks to those who have provided Dutch/English translations during this difficult time.

This is truly a sad happening and our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the family of Marlies.

Patrick & Susan

Just published in the Dutch Newspaper ‘De Telegraaf’, apologies upfront for any typos or misinterpretations

Wednesday October 22, 2008 16:02 CET
Source: http://www.telegraaf.nl/binnenland/2260320/___Ryan_Pieters_bekent_moord_Marlies___.html?p=3,1

***Ryan P. confesses murder Marlies***
AMSTERDAM – Ryan P. confessed to have murdered the pharmacy assistant Marlies van der Kouwe on Bonaire. P. Intended to steal the bag of van der Kouwe. When he ended up in a struggle with the victim he strangled her.
The mother of Ryan told this on Wednesday. According to her, her son is the only one responsible for the crime.
The other of Ryan spoke to her son on Tuesday. He would have told her that he strangled van der Kouwe on the place where he dragged her from her bike. After this, he transported her body on a scooter to the place where last week her body was found. According to the mother or Ryan her regrets his actions.
The 24-year old pharmacy assistant disappeared in the night of the 20th and 21 of September. On her way home she was dragged from her bike. Ryan P. was arrested a week later. There are more persons held in custody at this time.

***'Ryan Pieters bekent moord Marlies'***
AMSTERDAM - Ryan P. heeft bekend de Nederlandse apothekersasistente Marlies van der Kouwe te hebben vermoord op Bonaire. P. zou de tas van Van der Kouwe hebben willen stelen. Toen hij met het slachtoffer in een worsteling belandde en zij hem bij de keel greep, wurgde hij haar.
Dat heeft de moeder van Ryan woensdag gezegd. Volgens haar is haar zoon de enige dader.
Brommer
De moeder van Ryan sprak dinsdag met haar zoon. Hij zou gezegd hebben dat hij Van der Kouwe wurgde op de plek waar hij haar van de fiets trok. Daarna heeft hij haar lichaam met een brommer vervoerd naar de plek waar het eind vorige week werd gevonden. Volgens de moeder heeft Ryan spijt van wat er is gebeurd.
De 24-jarige apothekersassistente verdween in de nacht van zaterdag 20 op zondag 21 september. Op weg naar huis werd ze van haar fiets getrokken. P. werd bijna een week later gearresteerd. Er zitten nog meer mensen vast in deze zaak.

At last it appears that the truth has come out.

Despite the blinkered and misguided loyalty of his mother, the original accused has now confessed (although mummy claims that he regrets it).

I sincerely hope that the person responsible for this dreadful murder rots in Bon Futuro prison and becomes the plaything of a sex hungry lifer.

Despite the efforts of the bleeding hearts that make up Amnesty International, Bon Futuro prison is still one of the worst jails in the world.

Hopefully that will be of some comfort to the family and friends of Ms van der Kouwe.

Amen. cb

Source: RTL news (Dutch), published on Oct 23, 08.50 CET

P. would have confessed murder

***Suspect in van der Kouwe case released***
The Justice department has released another suspect in the case of Marlies van der Kouwe. The released Kenneth M. was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy of kidnapping van der Kouwe.
There are still 2 persons held in custody, Ryan P., the main suspect has -according to his mother- confessed the crime. What the role was of the other suspect Siegmar M. - is still not known.
Last Friday, the police found the body of the Dutch woman. Yesterday the mother of Ryan told the press that her son murdered Marlies after trying to rob her.




P. zou moord op Marlies bekend hebben
***Verdachte zaak-Van der Kouwe vrij***
Justitie in Bonaire heeft weer een verdachte in de zaak Marlies van der Kouwe vrijgelaten.
De vrijgelaten Kenneth M. was opgepakt voor betrokkenheid bij de ontvoering van Van der Kouwe.
Voor de moord op Marlies zitten nog twee mensen vast, onder wie Ryan P., die volgens zijn moeder heeft bekend. Wat de rol is van de andere verdachte, Siegmar M., is nog onduidelijk.
Vrijdag vond de politie het lichaam van de Nederlandse vrouw. Gisteren zei de moeder van Ryan P. dat zijn zoon haar had gewurgd toen hij haar beroofde.

I know my comments here will be very unpopular and raise the ire of a lot of BT folks but here goes anyway.
What happened to Marlies (or to anyone for that matter) is horrible beyond belief. The fact that it happened on Bonaire, a happy island known for the peace and tranquility it brings to most to visit there magnifies the senceless of the crime.

Here in New Orleans, a day without a murder is a good day. It is not unusual for weekends to produce 2, 3 or sometimes 4. The victims and the perps are anywhere between 14-21 are just another news item. That is until it touches home. Unfortunatly, this time the home is Bonaire. And the violent nature of it all is again, not a regular occurance on Bonaire.

I am as angry about the lack of the initial response of the authorities to this child abduction as I was about them going out and shooting dogs. (Before I hear from you saying that I am comparing dogs to human life, don't even go there.) I am saying the unfortunatly, the officers didn't take the call seriously, thinking it jus another Saturday night on Bonaire. Shame of them. They have to live with the fact that had THEY taken it seriously, just MAYBE they could have been a hero?

For the parents of this young woman who had her life taken away for some money and credit cards, they will find closure and peace know how Marlies has touched so many lives worldwide. Marlies too will rest in peace.

Now for Ryan. Not only will he have to live with the knowledge of what he has done but he will also have to pay the consequences of his actions. Lets just not forget that he too is someones son, uncle, friend,etc. Not only will he have to pay for his actions here on earth, in the end, he will also have to answer to a higher power. I pray for Ryan, his family. I pray for the authorities who did not get him any type of treatment or rehabilitation while serving his time in prison. I pray that the police who did not get the call or take it seriously, this be the wakeup call the Bonairian authorities need to take any and all calls to them serious. I pray for those in charge now to do the right thing now. I pray for the all of us. I can only hope that you do too.

Stay safe and have a blessed day.
Shelley

Sorry, time ran out and I didn't get to spell check..

Shelley.

Your sentiments to the perpetrator are admirable.

It is probably true that somewhere along the way, failings have been made. The constant denials and excuses from his Mother have not helped him in any way, if anything, they have served as a catalyst to his crimes.

That said, having spent time in jail for rape, one would have hoped that he would have learned that Mummy can't always help and that there are consequences to his actions.

I would expect a life term to be handed out. Anything less would be an insult to the victim and her family.

If found guilty by a jury of his peers, the death sentence should be used. I know, the Dutch do not have the death sentence but perhaps they should reconsider it. Life in prison is a vacation for some people and very costly to the taxpayers.

Aaah, Ric, not familiar with the Bon Futuro prison? Believe me, you'd rather be dead! Re. the death penalty, there are very good reasons why Dutch law doesn't have this sentence, but let's not go into that direction. If guilty, the judge (and not a jury) will give the appropriate sentence. Given his (criminal) background this will probably be life term.

is bon futuro on bonaire or on curacao?

Curacao

I wonder where these men will be tried (and jailed if convicted), assuming the trial occurs after the formal 'breakup' of the NA (it usually takes months from commission of a crime to the trial).

As I understand it, Bonaire will then 'be a city' in the Netherlands not directly related to Curacao. It would seem that Bonaire's justice 'chain of command' will go up to the Netherlands rather than'across' lines to Curacao (and Bon Futuro).

(what a cynical name for a prison, especially this one with the reported conditions inside!!)

Glen,

As far as I know (and who am I!), the Antillean law will be applicable, so he/they will be judged by a judge from either Bonaire or Curacao. Indeed recently a process has started up where amongst Bonaire will become a Municipality of the Netherlands.Will be finalized before 2010 as I understood.

(still wonders me how that is going to be realized, we have all kinds of idiotic taxes that will be completely out of line for Bonaire (like 'Dog' taxes or taxes for the maintenance of the dykes)

Just learned on MegaFM: There will be a press conference within the next couple of minutes, you can listen to it live.

Let us hope that the show of sympathy and empathy, on the island, the services and this evening's march, will let Marlie's mother know, Bonaire is not a bad place. The perpetrator's mother did come forward and "Speak Out"! Let us not forget to say a prayer for her too. Let's bring candles for the silent march?

From the press conference, sorry for the bad translation)

- There is a confession
- P. has murdered her
- P. was flown from Curacao to Bonaire
- There are traces found
- P was brought to the crime scene
- Result: multiple tracks found
- There is still investigation going on by the forensic detectives
- Many inaccuracies and untruths published
- Urgently request to the press about the importance of research to respect and patience to have to police and justice come with more information
- Research is planned, not yet finalized, so no in-depth reactions
- All details will be presented during the trial
- Team is composed of many disciplines from the Antilles, Aruba, the Netherlands, Germany and navy
- A great deal of the investigation are still going on (at the crime scene, in laboratories, etc.)
- Discrepancies between statements and spores
- Each hearing will be worked out literally, taking much time
- 1 suspect is now released, still 2 in custody
- From the humanitarian perspective, there was a meeting between P and his mother because the suspect is in isolation
- Monday was the crime scene released. Tuesday after the visit to the scene with P, there is a (larger) area closed again for examination by CSI
- There were 2 priorities: finding Marlies and find out what happened, that's why the press is not fully informed because of the above
- The Public Prosecutor (Mr. Van Delft) is very proud of the police team
- Whether there has been sexual abuse will be submitted to the Forensic Institute in Rijswijk, Netherlands
- the charge will most likely be "abuse, with death as a result"
- The trail will most likely start no sooner then next January
- The prosecuter would like to inform the public if Marlies was killed instantly of after a while because of the importance of the investigation

That last one should be "The prosecuter would like to inform the public if Marlies was killed instantly or after a while, but he cannot because of the importance of the investigation
"

Below a rough translation of the article that was just published by the Algemeen Dagblad (same story as Martin's publication of the press conference)

Source: http://www.ad.nl/binnenland/2716487/Justitie_bevestigt_bekentenis_Ryan.html
Het Algemeen Dagblad (Dutch Newspaper)
Published: October 23, 2008 (22.15 CET)

***Justice department confirms confession Ryan***

The Prosecutor does not want to comment on the findings on the death of Marlies. “What the suspect is telling us may not necessarily be what we know”.

PETER DE KNEGT –KRALENDIJK/BONAIRE – Prosecutor on Bonaire David van Delft confirmed this afternoon that Ryan P. (27) confessed last Monday the kidnapping and murder of Marlies van der Kouwe. Van Delft did not want to comment – and in that way jeopardize the investigation- in any way on questions how Marlies was murdered, on which place that would have been and if she was raped by P. “We know a lot, but the investigation is still ongoing. We still have a lot to investigate and therefore do not want to share information with the media. On Bonaire there is little that can be done without being noticed.” Van Delft emphasized that both suspects are in custody with full restrictions and are only allowed to talk to their lawyers. “These restrictions are also applicable for the police. If I for instance would elaborate on the cause of death, I would violate these restrictions. I do not want to share information where and when she died, or on a possible cooperation with other suspects. Believe me, I would very much want to share with you what I know now, and that is a lot. Not only to you the press, but also to the family and relatives, but that is absolutely not possible right now.”
The Public attorney’s office is concerned that possible findings might influence witnesses that still need to be heard. “That would damage the investigation.”
I fit was a rape crime is something –according to van Delft- the pathologist of the Dutch forensic institute in Rijswijk (the Netherlands) will have to determine. . “They will investigate this.” The body of Marlies will be transported to the Netherlands in the days to follow.
On messages in the media –due to the statements of the mother of the suspect-, van Delft refused to comment. The mother of Ryan told that –after she had spoken to her son last Tuesday- her son intended to rob the bag of Marlies, ended up in a struggle and strangled her. Van Delft: “There is a tension between certain interests. The last few days, half-truths and pertinent untrue stories have been told, but I ask the press to wait. We are not done. Give us time. We want to finalize this properly and orderly.”
Ryan’s lawyer, Marga Domingo is also not allowed to respond on comments by the justice department or the police about the murder case. “They intended to release the restrictive regime for my client, but the justice department has notified me today that this will only happen if the investigation is finished.” It is my estimate that that will happen next week.” Said Domingo to the Algemeen Dagblad.
Today on Bonaire a memorial service and silent march was held for Marlies. The march, of which the Bonarians were called to participate, started at 5.30 local time and ended at the factory where Marlies disappeared in the night of the 20th of September. The parents of Marlies held a speech during the service.

***Justitie bevestigt bekentenis Ryan***
OM wil niets kwijt over toedracht dood Marlies 'Wat verdachte vertelt is misschien niet wat wij weten'

PETER DE KNEGT KRALENDIJK/BONAIRE Officier van justitie op Bonaire David van Delft, heeft gistermiddag bevestigd dat Ryan P (27) de ontvoering en dood van Marlies van der Kouwe afgelopen maandag heeft bekend.
Van Delft wilde, in het belang van de 'zorgvuldigheid'van het onderzoek op geen enkele manier ingaan op de manier waarop dat Marlies is omgebracht, op welke plek op het eiland en of zij ook aangerand of verkracht zou zijn door P.
,,Wij weten heel veel, maar het onderzoek is nog niet klaar. Wat de verdachte vertelt is wellicht niet wat wij weten. We moeten nog heel veel dingen onderzoeken die we niet willen delen met de buitenwereld. Op Bonaire kun je weinig doen zonder dat dat gezien wordt'' Van Delft benadrukte ook dat de beide verdachten nog steeds in alle beperkingen zitten en dus alleen met hun advocaten mogen praten. ,,Die beperkingen gelden ook voor ons. Als ik bijvoorbeeld over de doodsoorzaak zou praten schend ik de beperking. Ik wil ook niet zeggen waar en wanneer zij is overleden en ook niet over een mogelijke samenwerking daarbij met anderen. Ik zou graag willen vertellen wat ik weet, en dat is heel veel. Zowel aan de pers als aan de ouders en familie, maar dat kan nu niet.''
Het OM is ook bezorgd dat mogelijke bevindingen nog te horen getuigen zou kunnen beïnvloeden. ,,Dat zou het onderzoek schaden.''
Of er sprake is van een zedendelict moet volgens Van Delft uiteindelijk worden vastgesteld door de patholoog anatoom van het NFI in Rijswijk. ,,Die gaat dat onderzoeken.'' Het lichaam van Marlies wordt binnenkort naar Nederland overgevlogen.
Op de berichten in de media naar aanleiding van de uitspraken van de moeder van Ryan wilde Van Delft evenmin ingaan. Moeder Pietersz vertelde na een gesprek met haar zoon afgelopen dinsdag dat haar zoon de tas van Marlies had willen roven en haar door haar tegenstribbelen had gewurgd. ,,Ik constateer een spanning tussen bepaalde belangen. Er zijn de afgelopen dagen halve waarheden en hele onjuistheden verteld, maar vraag aan de pers te wachten. We zijn niet klaar. Geef ons tijd. We willen het ongestoord en goed afmaken.
Ryans' advocaat, Marga Domingo mag ook na de persconferentie gistermiddag nog steeds niet reageren op de uitlatingen van politie en justitie over de toedracht van de moord op marlies. ,,In eerste instantie zouden de beperkingen van mijn cliënt afgaan. Het Openbaar Ministerie heeft mij vandaag echter laten weten dat dat pas gebeurt als het onderzoek is afgerond. Ik schat pas over een week,'' aldus Domingo tegen het AD.
Gisteren is op Bonaire ook de herdenkingstocht voor Marlies gehouden. De tocht, waarvoor de bewoners van Bonaire waren opgeroepen mee te lopen, begon om half zes (in Nederland 23.30 uur) en eindigde bij de fabriek waar Marlies in de nacht van 20 september verdween. Tijdens de bijeenkomst hielden de ouders van Marlies een toespraak.

Amigoe online today has this story, with much the content of the posts above: http://www.amigoe.com/artman/publish/artikel_48337.php .

Some pictures of the site where Marlies was found. Locals placed flowers and a little bear there. The first flowers were from her parents, of course.











Harrie

(Message edited by harmoni on October 24, 2008)

Harrie, those photo's just break my heart.

I thought they had the area closed off for further investigation, no?

We have been there four times to put some flowers, and it was closed all the time, just yesterday, Thursday at about 1:00 pm it was opened, although in the press-conference they said it was still closed, and would stay closed for longer time. Sometimes communication is difficult, specially on Bonaire.

Some more pictures, now from the memorial service, yesterday. Sorry for the poor quality, I didn't want to use the flash during the service.

Waiting for the service:


In the youth home, some 500 people inside, another 500 following the service outside:


Mother and sister of Marlies. The mother recited a poem, in which she told about the first steps of Marlies on the Bonairean beaches:


The sister and a friend of Marlies told about their lives with her:


A friend of Marlies (on Bonaire)was telling his regrets, that he had let her go home on her bike that evening, when she said that she didn't want to be braught home, he should have been more persistant.
The father made a nice speech, in which he said his thanks towards the police for doing such good job, and to the Bonairean population for their help. Partially in Papiamentu:


After the service, in the Youthome, we went to the roundabout in Hato, to start the silent walk.

Harrie

(Message edited by harmoni on October 24, 2008)

Powerful photos - thanks Harrie.

Thank you Harrie, and I am touched by the outpouring of sympathy and support for the family. May Marlies rest in peace.

More pictures. (no hearsay this time.....)


I forgot to tell that our Governer (Mr. Domocasse) also held a speech, no succesfull picture made.


Waiting at the roundabout in Hato, for the family to come and to start the silent walk:




The silent walk, I tried to find out how many people were doing that walk. I think somewhere between 2000 and 4000 people were attending. About 25% were coloured people, some 75% were white people. The beginning of the procession was near to the destination, when the end of the procession just had left the starting point:


On the site where Marlies was kidnapped there were some pictures on a tree (near WEB), family halted there and prayed, and songs were sung in Papiamentu:






Parents and several of the people that joined in the silent walk left flowers, candles and papers with the text: "This should never happen again!":




It was a very serene service, and impressive silent walk.
Let's really hope this will never happen again, on the island we are proud of.

Harrie

Harrie, Thank you again and I truly wish for nothing like this to happen again. It's a horrible thing to have happen to anyone, anywhere. (Sadly, it occurs several times a day in cities around the world)

The people of Bonaire should still be proud of the place they call home and the visitors who truly love the island will only express sadness for the victim and family and not dislike for a place many of us have come to adore.

Harrie, thank you for giving us this look into the proceedings.

May the healing now begin.

Oh my Harrie and everyone else thank you for taking the time to keep us in the process.

Bonairians should be very proud of how well they take care of each other and their island.

Those pictures speak a thousand words as to how much Marlies touched Bonaire and those who love her.

A real testament to the wonderful & caring people on Bonaire!

Thanks Harrie...a very good account of a very moving evening.

Thanks, Harrie, for your labor of love. I hope it helps the parents of Marlies to know that we, who live in Bonaire, sympathize and empathize with them. Your photojournalism documents our care and concern.