Illegal High-Caliber Rifles Raise Concerns in Belize, Says Police Commissioner

This past week the two shooting incidents in Libertad Village, Corozal were done using high caliber rifles that are illegal in Belize.  The mere thought that persons are in possession of these weapons is not only disconcerting, but according to Commissioner Williams, the public needs to understand that they too should be concerned.

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police: “It does raise concerns not just to me but the entire nation when we see shootings with .223 caliber rifles it is a matter to be concerned about and what we have done again as I said is to put in place a composite patrol made up of police and BDF to patrol that area at the same time going after those persons who we know or we have reason to believe may be behind these shootings. And I want to appeal to the people of Libertad and the northern districts that while we work diligently to restore their sense of safety that they too have a role to play. We cannot achieve our desired outcome alone there must be that buy in from the community as well as information sharing because they are the ones who know the players within their respective communities and can share the information with the police confidentially with a view for us to be able to address the issue.”

Police Commissioner is expected to meet with the residents of Libertad on Monday.