DCP Marco Vidal Steps Down as Commander of Operations

Deputy Commissioner of Police Marco Vidal, in the wake of what transpired over the weekend, has been transferred from his post as Commander of Operations.  That post is now being held substantively by Assistant Commissioner of Police Alford Grinage.  The remainder of Vidal’s team, those officers who have not been implicated in the drug plane landing, have also been transferred effective immediately.  Those officers now join the rank and file of the Belize Police Department. 

Chester Williams

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police

“The team that worked with Mr. Vidal at Operations Office, those who were not arrested as a part of this plane landing, they have all been transferred to the regular police body. Again, while we still comb through our investigations, because as we do certain things, it might uncover other persons. So, so long as there is evidence later on to suggest that any other person, being police officers or not and regardless of rank or whatever  is involved, we will follow evidence and do what needs to be done. So, I want to make that abundantly clear that from my perspective as a commissioner, I will do whatever needs to be done to ensure all those who are responsible for this plane landing, are accountable. There are certain changes that we are making in the senior command. I can tell you off the bat that Mr. Vidal handed over the Office of Commander Operations today to ACP Alford Grinage. Mr. Vidal moves over to another area, but may I also make it clear that at this time, there is no indication to suggest that he is involved. But, Just so as to make the investigation seem as fair as possible without any sort of interference, we believe it is the right thing to do and whatever other changes that is being made in the senior command will be announced tomorrow.”