Guat Gun Boat Illegally Entered Belize

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade has confirmed an illegal incursion by a Guatemalan patrol boat within Belizean waters near the Sapodilla Cayes. Contrary to initial media reports, the ministry stated that the vessel did not run aground on the Barrier Reef.

According to the ministry, members of the Belize Coast Guard engaged with Guatemalan officers on board the vessel before escorting it out of Belizean waters. The incident has prompted a firm response from Belizean authorities.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade announced plans to issue a formal protest to Guatemala, calling on its government to prevent further unauthorised incursions by its armed forces into Belizean territory.

The ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to engaging with its Guatemalan counterpart to ensure that Belize’s maritime and territorial integrity—as recognised by international borders—is fully respected.