No Trouble Reported Down in Sarstoon Says BDF Commander

The Belize Defence Force (BDF) continues to monitor the activity of the Guatemalan Armed Forces (GAF) down south. In recent months, there have been several occurrences of heated encounters. One of the most notable happened in September just before Independence Day when a group led by the Belize Territorial Volunteers (BTV) had their flags stolen by the GAF from Sarstoon Island. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had to intervene in this matter and was able to retrieve the flags. Commander of the BDF, Brigadier General Azariel Loria, says that so far things have been calm in that neck of the woods.

Brig. Gen. Azariel Loria, Commander, Belize Defence Force: “I think that we had our last bout some four or five years ago when I believe it was a bit prior to the referendum to the signing of the referendum that is now at the ICJ everything is quiet. The Guatemalan armed forces are respectful, mind you that they are still at the mouth of the Sarstoon on their side of the river and we are on our side of the river it’s a bit quiet. The FOB is there and I believe it will be revamped in the near future.”

Reporter: And repaired ?

Brig. Gen. Azariel Loria, Commander, Belize Defence Force: “And repaired yes with a brand new building and a resilient building but that will cost some money, some funds that the Ministry of National Defence is trying to get from within the government but that will be reconstructed.”