The Belize Police Department discovered 474 grammes of suspected cocaine on a boat owned by Minister Andre Perez in San Pedro on Friday. According to a statement from the Department, Perez stated the boat had been docked for repairs and unused for over six months. Preliminary investigations suggest the drugs were placed without Perez’s knowledge, and he is cooperating fully with authorities.
News Five caught up with Minister Perez today at the People’s United Party National Party Council meeting in Belize City. Minister Perez denied a request for an interview. But reporters pressed him as he walked away. When asked if he knows the drug peddlers, he said, “No idea.” Minister Perez added, “I have cooperated with police. No comments. I have; there is nothing to worry about.” When asked if he thinks anyone is trying to set him up, Minister Perez said, “Probably.”
Meanwhile, when asked about it, Prime Minister John Briceño said, “I don’t think it’s someone who’s trying to set up. I think someone was smart because Andre has not been using his boat. He’s just docked there for more than six months. He has not used the boat. If they put anything there, the police will not think about going to search his boat. But when somebody tipped off the police and the police were, they didn’t care if it was Honourable Andre Perez’s boat. They went to check, and they found the drugs. But it has been abundantly clear that Andre had not been using his boat.”
