State of Emergency in Belize City: 35 Detained, But Gun Violence Persists

Less than a week after a state of emergency was declared in parts of Belize City, police have already detained at least thirty-five individuals. But despite the crackdown, the violence hasn’t stopped. On Friday, another person was gunned down in the city—raising fresh concerns about whether the emergency measures are actually working. Today, Assistant Police Commissioner Hilberto Romero gave an update on the ongoing operations. While authorities say they’re making progress, the latest killing has left many residents questioning if the strategy is enough to bring lasting peace to the streets.

 

ACP Hilberto Romero, Regional Commander, Eastern Division

“The SOE operations continue. So far, thirty-five people have been sent to prison. We have another thirty-five that are being interviewed, and then we’ll know how much from that amount we be sent to prison today.”

 

Reporter

“Sir, how do you respond to report a number of the, especially the heads have been able to escape the SOE incarceration because they turned over weapon or a kilo of cocaine?”

 

Hilberto Romero

“Several persons were detained, interviews were conducted and then they’re vetted and then we determine who are taken to prison. That  is all I know.”

 

Reporter

“But are you all trading weapons for freedom?”

 

Hilberto Romero

“Not that I know of.”

 

Reporter

“So is it your position that the department has not managed to secure any illicit firearms or drugs?”

 

Hilberto Romero

“There are several searches that continue to be done. Whenever we find firearm, drugs then they are confiscated or if persons are found, then they are arrested. That is all I know.”