Police Commissioner Visits Lake-I Amid Rising Tensions

Following a series of shootings and other incidents at the start of the New Year, Police Commissioner Chester Williams visited the Lake Independence area today to address growing tensions within the BLC gang. Though he did not reveal new details of the incidents, Williams explained that his visit’s objective was to help defuse the situation before it escalates further.

“There are rising tensions in the area within the BLC. And so, I am here along with Mr. Gamboa to see what we can do to try and defuse the issue before it goes any further,” Williams said.

Williams said that while he leads the police force, crime reduction is a collective effort. “I am one man, and I alone cannot reduce crime… The policies I make will not work if the people on the ground do not execute them properly. I give the praises to my commanders and the foot soldiers,” he said.

Williams also pointed out the importance of working with various organisations, including the Leadership Intervention Unit (LIU), to reduce crime. “Every organisation that can lend to the reduction in crime, I welcome it,” Williams stated.

Established in 2021, the LIU was formed to address gang violence in Belize City. When asked about the role of former gang members who have turned their lives around, Williams confirmed they assist in keeping the peace, especially for younger individuals involved in gangs.

He also reaffirmed the police department’s commitment to working with the Leadership Intervention Unit (LIU) to provide a path for those seeking to leave a life of crime. “The police department is going to continue to work with LIU… to provide a way out for those who wish to become law-abiding members of society,” Williams added.