Police Declares State of Emergency in Southside Belize City, Roaring Creek

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A State of Emergency is now in effect in southside Belize City and Hattieville, as well as specific areas in the Cayo District such as Roaring Creek Village, Another World Area, Camalote Village, and Young Bank Area. This SOE comes after a violent weekend last week, when gun-related crimes increased at an alarming rate. Three persons were murdered in less than two days, with other shootings taking place in Belize City. The SOE will remain in place for one month. Statutory Instrument number fifty-eight gives the police the power to enter any premises, stop and search any vessel, vehicle, or individual, and seize anything found that they believe was intended to disrupt public safety and order without a warrant. We spoke with Commissioner of Police Chester Williams for an update on the situation.