Police Find Better Reception on Pen Road

As you heard earlier in the newscast, Senior Superintendent Howell Gillett is working on multiple initiatives across south side Belize City. Today we caught up with the regional commander at one of his meet and greet in Precinct Two where he was visiting with residents in the Neal Pen Road Extension, Arlington Drive and surrounding areas. Gillett explained to the media that the residents were open about their concerns and appear willing to work with the police.

Howell Gillett

Sr. Supt. Howell Gillett, Regional Commander, Eastern Division South

“The number one issue the people wanted is for the relationship between the police and community to improve. For us to do that, we have to show the public that we are doing our side of it. The police have to minimize on the number of cases of abuse. Corruption has to go immediately. For the past few weeks we haven’t heard anything on corruption coming out of the Southside and we are very pleased for that. The police abuse is something that must go away. We know that it is something that has been there for a long period of time. To show that we do care, today we enlist the support of the Fire Service and they cleaned out the cell block. Whatever street name you use to call the cell block it is much better than how it was prior to taking over Belize City. So, it is to show people that you may come in contact with the Police while being in custody but we want to provide the very best. And that in itself sends a message that the Police are trying to make a difference and I believe the cooperation will improve. By the number of texts and calls coming in to support the police and that kept us safe over the weekend. It is tiresome but we have job and are up for the challenge.”