Father and Son Abducted in Mexico: Belizean Family Members Taken After Violent Struggle in Chetumal

A father and son from the Corozal District were reportedly abducted yesterday in Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico. According to reports, 48-year-old Louis Camara, his son 19-year-old Johan Cámara, his wife, and another relative were driving in the Othon P Blanco area Chetumal when gunmen in a vehicle pulled in front of them and opened fire. No one was hit, but the assailants forced Camara to stop the vehicle.  The men then pulled the younger Camara out, prompting the father to intervene. A struggle ensued but Camara was overpowered, and the father and son were carted away, leaving behind the two others. Camara’s wife then visited a police station and informed Mexican authorities, who launched an immediate investigation. While other details are scarce at this time, we have confirmed with Belize’s Ambassador to Mexico, Oscar Arnold, that Mexican authorities have issued official missing person flyers for the men. The men are residents of Louisville Village and have been described as productive members of society.  The village Chairman Izael Pott added that they are well known in the community, and that they do frequent Mexico for work. 

Izael Pott, Chairman, Louisville Village: “It’s very unfortunate to hear about on the news of the abduction of this family father and son. I know Mr. Joe better known as Joe Jose Camara and his son. Mr. Josue is very easy going person and also volunteers to provide support at the village whenever it is requested from him so in events like village council needs assistance the family is always there to provide support. And we were able to see it in recent activities so very good person in the village.”

Reporter: Do you have any idea why someone would have wanted to target Mr.Camara or his son ? 

Izael Pott, Chairman, Louisville Village: “I really don’t know why that would happen but just like normal families in Belize they tend to travel. His job was truck driving so normally he would travel close to the border and driving the truck all the way to Belize City or somewhere else I don’t know exactly what was the destination but yeah I believe the contact between borders was plenty.”

Additionally, we understand that the younger Camara is studying in Mexico.