Akeem Smith Grazed by Bullet in Murder Attempt

On Saturday evening, a man was shot in downtown Belize City, near the Belize City Swing Bridge. Thirty-two-year-old fisherman Akeem Smith and three others had just returned from a sea trip. As their boat approached some riverside buildings, two men on a ledge opened fire on them. The shooters had hidden on the cement ledge over the river, waiting for the group to pass. Smith and his companions managed to jump into the river, avoiding serious injury. Today, A.C.P. Hilberto Romero informed the media that several people have been detained for questioning. He also mentioned that measures are in place to prevent any retaliation.

 

A.C.P. Hilberto Romero, Regional Commander, Eastern Division

“On Saturday, 15th of February 2025 police responded to a shooting incident not from streets in Belize City.  On arrival, they learned that one person had been shot and taken to the cage image for treatment.  Checks are made at the K.H.M.H where police found Akeem Smith with gunshot injuries. Information is that Smith was along with three other male persons in a boat in the river when two male persons who were on the concrete deck fired several shots towards their direction, causing the injuries to Smith. Smith was treated and has since been released from the cage in which we have several persons in custody in regards to the shooting for questioning. There is an ongoing operation at this time to try and prevent any retaliation. Several patrols in the area as well.”

 

Marion Ali

“Can you say what the motive of this attack was?”

 

A.C.P Hilberto Romero

“This is a result of gang rivalry in the city.”