Missing AR-15 Rifle from BDF Training Hall Sparks Investigation

An AR-15 rifle has been reported missing from the Belize Defence Force (BDF) training hall in the Corozal District.  The report has spurred an investigation, but up to news time tonight it seems fruitless.  Reports are that BDF personnel learned that the rifle was missing during a recent inventory check.  It is unknown, however, when and how the weapon was moved. Chief of Staff for the BDF Major Roberta Usher said that while the rifle was not functioning, the force is still actively seeking the person responsible for the theft.

Major Roberta Usher, Chief of Staff, BDF: “That is confirmed and inoperable weapon. The BDF investigation is underway and all the necessary security measures are in place to address the situation and we are working closely with the law enforcement to recover the weapon and prevent future occurrences and hold the people accountable.”

Reporter: Would you be able to say how it was discovered that the weapon was missing? 

Major Roberta Usher, Chief of Staff, BDF: “No, that’s for further ….. that will come out after investigation. Wrong with the weapon, and we are currently using it for ceremonial purposes only in layman’s terms.”

We note that this is not the first instance of a BDF weapon being unaccounted for. In August 2023, an M4 commando rifle went missing from Camp Belizario in the Cayo district. That weapon was recovered by police ten days later.