Most Wanted Slovak Captured in Belize During Anti-Drug Raid

Slovakia’s most wanted fugitive was apprehended in Belize on July 30, 2024, during a high-profile anti-drug operation in Dangriga. Authorities seized over 200 kilogrammes of marijuana and 170 grammes of cocaine. The operation, which began at 6 a.m., led to the discovery of a deep freeze and multiple containers filled with drugs.

Four individuals were detained. Among those detained was Slovakian national Ladislav Lipták, 34, who is one of the most wanted fugitives in Slovakia. Lipták was apprehended along with three Belizean nationals: his 26-year-old girlfriend Winsy Richie, her 22-year-old brother Yessi Gomez, and Dennis Robinson, 53, the property owner. 

Lipták had evaded capture since a 2020 European arrest warrant related to a major drug operation known as the Tower. Notably, another Slovak criminal, Karol Mello, also remains at large in Belize, having escaped previous charges and accusations of serious crimes.

Police Commissioner Chester Williams confirmed that Lipták has been charged, following witness statements that provided sufficient evidence for prosecution. “Witnesses came forward, provided statements to the police, which was sufficient for us to be able to get sufficient evidence to charge him,” said Commissioner Williams.