Commissioner of Police Refutes Opposition Leader’s Crime Claims

Police Commissioner Chester Williams has responded to comments by Opposition Leader Moses “Shyne” Barrow during his State of the Nation address. In a press release, ComPol Williams said, “Barrow made glaring errors when speaking about crime in this country, specifically in regards to the murder count being up by 40% and the death of Mr. Daniel Caal.”

Acknowledging that crime remains a significant issue, Commissioner Williams said, “We are surely not where we want to be, but we are proud of the significant progress we continue to make. He pointed out that major crimes have decreased by 54% compared to the same period last year, a testament to the dedication and bravery of the men and women of the police force.

Williams also refuted Barrow’s claim that Daniel Caal was murdered in police custody. “For the Leader of Opposition to have stated proudly that Caal was murdered in police custody, even after he had heard the result of the post-mortem examination, is both reckless and desperate,” Williams stated.

On the topic of police morale and land distribution, Commissioner Williams said that over the past four years, more than 800 officers were promoted, and over 600 were recognised for long service and good conduct. Williams added that land has been distributed to more than 400 officers, with ongoing efforts to provide more.

“The hard-working men and women of the Belize Police Department will continue to work with
the Belizean people to fight the scourge of crime. We recognise that crime is everyone’s problem.
and the only way we can win is by working together.”