Belize declares state of emergency in 19 areas after gang violence

Belize has declared a state of emergency in 19 areas following a series of deadly shootings, UPI reported. The measure went into effect on Sunday in parts of Belize City, Ladyville, Cotton Tree, and Unitedville. The decree grants police expanded authority to detain suspected gang members across the affected regions. [1]

Police Commissioner Richard Rosado stated that authorities had identified approximately 60 individuals for potential detention, according to UPI. Not all of the identified individuals have been taken into custody yet. Law enforcement officials have not published a total count of confirmed arrests under the emergency measures. [1]

The Belizean government is currently evaluating whether to study anti-gang strategies utilized in El Salvador, UPI reported. Breaking Belize News had reported the locations where the emergency took effect. [1]

Belize is a Central American country with a 300-kilometer coastline protected by the Belize Barrier Reef, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Tourism, agriculture such as sugar cane and citrus, and emerging services drive the national economy. [3]