B.D.F. Destroys Bridges Built by Guatemalans in Belize

The Belize Defence Force destroyed two bridges built by Guatemalans inside the Columbia Forest Reserve in Belize.  The bridges were used to facilitate illegal logging by Guatemalans. The discovery of the wooden bridges was made in late February. It was not until last week that Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) brought it to the media’s attention, saying that a road stretching over two kilometers into Belize was observed. The wooden bridges facilitated truck access for timber extraction, which may involve rosewood and other valuable woods. Aerial observations reveal active and recent human activity, with stacks of timber visible. Deputy Commander of the B.D.F., Colonel Anthony Velasquez, told News Five that troops remain in the area to deter any further incursions.

 

Col. Anthony Velasquez, Deputy Commander, B.D.F.

“In late February, the Belize Defense Force patrols have discovered a network of tracks in the area, as well as, two reinforced bridges that was constructed from wood, from timber. And, we have discovered these things, and again, we have done our due diligence sent up the verification to the ministry for onward transmission to the Organization of American States. But, in addition to that, we have launched operations in the area and the two bridges have been destroyed and we have troops on the ground in the area right now to deter any further incursions in the area. For the moment, we have presence in the area, so we know that during the dry season, they would most of these activities would increase. So, we have increased active military presence in the area over this period to ensure that they do not return and continue their legal activities. So, one team would dismantle the bridges.  The other teams would conduct security overwatch.  The Belize Defense Force will continue to protect and defend our territorial integrity. And we continue to conduct patrols in these areas. However, these are vast territory, prime jungle, et cetera, et cetera, with numerous terrain features. From time to time, these incursions will occur. The moment they occur, the police defense force will be there to ensure that these activities are halted, where they started, and the environment will return back to the pristine nature that it was before.”