Belize's Battle: Tracking A Nation's Cases

Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. The country has a population of around 400,000 and in 2017, there were 142 homicides. While the majority of violent crime victims in Belize are Belizeans, there has been an increase in crimes against tourists and expats in recent years. Belize City, in particular, is known for its high crime rate, with gang conflicts and shootings almost daily. The country's opposition leader, Moses Barrow, has criticised the government for failing to effectively address the escalating violence. To tackle the issue, the government has imposed a state of emergency, giving police the power to search homes without a warrant and detain suspects for up to 90 days. Despite these measures, the country continues to struggle with gang-related violence and drug trafficking.

Murders and violent crimes

Belize has moderate rates of violent crime. The majority of violence in the country stems from gang activity, which includes trafficking of drugs and persons, protecting drug smuggling routes, and securing territory for drug dealing.

In 2023, there were 87 murders recorded in Belize, giving the country a homicide rate of 19.7 murders per 100,000 inhabitants. This is lower than neighbouring countries Mexico and Honduras, but higher than Guatemala and El Salvador. Belize District, containing Belize City, had the most murders by far compared to all the other districts. In 2023, 66% of the murders occurred in the Belize District. The violence in Belize City (especially the southern part of the city) is largely due to gang warfare.

In 2022, Belize recorded 113 murder victims (9 of whom were women), a 9.6% reduction compared to the previous year. The murder rate per 100,000 population also continues on a downward trend. Firearms are the main weapon contributing to murder in the country, with eight in ten murders (80.5%) committed with a firearm. However, this figure differs when it comes to female victims of murder: six in ten women were murdered with a firearm, three in ten with a sharp weapon, and one in ten with another weapon.

Young people are the primary victims of murder in Belize. Data from 2022 shows that two in five victims of murder were between 18 and 29 years of age, and people between 30 and 49 exhibit a similar proportion.

While tourists in Belize are often victims of theft, few experience real violence. However, there has been an increase in violent crimes against tourists and expats in recent years.

Belize faces similar challenges to the rest of Central America, including the harmful activities of criminal organizations, insecurity and poverty, gang violence, and the increased effects of climate change. The US government is working closely with the Belizean government to fight narcotics, human and other types of illicit trafficking, and transnational organized crime. US programs assist Belize in professionalizing its police force, strengthening its justice sector, and improving its border security capacity.

Police powers and civil rights

The Belize Police Department (BPD) is the country's national police force, responsible for internal security and headed by a Commissioner. The BPD is divided into two main branches: Operational and Administrative, each headed by an Assistant Commissioner and the Deputy Commissioner, respectively. The Operational branch includes the National Criminal Investigation Branch, Special Branch, and Operations, while the Administrative branch covers areas like management services and police information technology.

The BPD has broad powers to maintain law and order, including the authority to conduct searches, make arrests, and use force when necessary. However, there have been concerns about excessive use of force and allegations of human rights abuses by BPD officers. The BPD has also faced challenges with corruption, particularly in relation to drug trafficking, and has worked to improve its public image and effectiveness.

Belize's constitution and laws provide protections for civil rights, including the right to be free from arbitrary arrest, detention, and inhumane treatment. The BPD is required to obtain search or arrest warrants, except in specific circumstances, and must inform detainees of their rights. The country also has an independent judiciary that generally respects judicial independence and the right to a fair trial.

However, there have been reports of human rights issues and abuses by security forces, including allegations of excessive force, inhumane treatment, and corruption. The Office of the Ombudsman has received complaints against the BPD for abuse of power, harassment, and brutality. The government has taken steps to address these issues, including administrative and legal action against offending officers, but successful prosecutions remain low.

To enhance the BPD's capabilities and address challenges, the country receives assistance from international partners like the U.S. through the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). INL provides training, equipment, and technical assistance to improve the BPD's capacity to combat narcotics trafficking, enhance border security, and strengthen the criminal justice system.

Drug trafficking

Belize has become a significant transit country for drug trafficking, with its location making it an ideal route for traffickers moving illicit cargo from South America to the North American market. The country's geography, with its coastline, estuaries, rivers, creeks, swamps, islands, and atolls, provides the perfect conditions for traffickers to transport their goods.

Belize's small population, rugged terrain, and limited security resources make it an attractive target for drug cartels. The country has a long coastline and a geography that appeals to both tourists and drug traffickers. Its security forces are small and lack adequate equipment, such as radar systems and helicopters, to effectively monitor its borders and airspace. This has made it relatively easy for traffickers to use light aircraft and fast boats to transport drugs through Belize.

The country's proximity to Mexico and Guatemala, two countries with strong drug cartel presence, also contributes to its role in drug trafficking. Belize has become a preferred route for cartels as they seek to avoid the increased security measures in Mexico. The country's northern border with Mexico and its western border with Guatemala are particularly active in drug trafficking.

In recent years, there have been increased efforts to intercept drug planes and boats by Belizean authorities, often in cooperation with neighbouring countries. However, the porous borders and sparsely populated landscape continue to make it challenging to prevent drug trafficking.

Belize has responded to the drug trafficking threat by adopting a hardline, militaristic approach, similar to the U.S. strategy. The country has received support from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. to strengthen its military and police forces. However, the effectiveness of this approach has been questioned, and some suggest that alternative strategies, such as drug legalisation and investment in social programs, may be more successful in combating the drug problem.

Tourist safety

Belize is a beautiful country in Central America, boasting stunning waterfalls, lush jungles, and rich Mayan cultural and historical heritage. However, it's important to be aware of potential safety concerns when travelling to the country. Here are some key considerations for tourists to ensure a safe trip to Belize:

Crime and Gang Activity

Belize has a high crime rate, and violent crimes such as sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder are common, even during daylight and in tourist areas. Gang-related activities and conflicts are prevalent, particularly in Southside Belize City, which is best avoided by tourists. The presence of gangs and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings, is a significant concern. Most crimes remain unresolved and unprosecuted due to limited police resources and training. Tourists are not usually targeted, but it's crucial to be vigilant and avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive jewellery or watches.

Transportation and Public Spaces

Public transportation in Belize, including buses and taxis, is generally unreliable and unsafe. It is recommended to rent a car or use well-known water taxi companies like San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi and Caye Caulker Water Taxi. Avoid travelling after dark, especially in rural areas, and stay vigilant in public spaces like banks and ATMs.

Natural Disasters and Health Risks

Belize is prone to hurricanes and storms, particularly during the hurricane season from mid-May to the end of November. Stay updated with weather forecasts and follow the instructions of local authorities during severe weather events. Additionally, Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world, and health care services and facilities are limited, especially in rural areas. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Border Areas and Territorial Disputes

Border areas, particularly those with Guatemala and Honduras, often experience higher criminal activity and violence. Exercise caution when visiting tourist sites near these borders, such as the Mayan ruins at Caracol. Belize also has unresolved territorial disputes with Guatemala and Honduras, which can lead to tensions.

Other Considerations

Be cautious when using credit or debit cards to prevent fraud, especially in San Pedro. Avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers, as they may be spiked with drugs. Women travelling alone may encounter harassment and verbal abuse, and cases of sexual assault have been reported. LGBTQI+ travellers should also be cautious, as they have experienced harassment and abuse.

In conclusion, while Belize offers a wealth of attractions for tourists, it's important to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. By being vigilant, avoiding high-risk areas, and following local authorities' instructions, tourists can minimise their risk of encountering safety issues in Belize.

Political demonstrations

Belize, a small country on the northeastern coast of Central America, has a rich history of political demonstrations and civil unrest. Here are 4-6 paragraphs detailing some of the significant political demonstrations that have taken place in Belize:

In January 2005, civil unrest erupted in Belize's capital city of Belmopan due to the release of a new national budget with significant tax increases. The protests were directed at the ruling People's United Party (PUP), as anger mounted over the worsening fiscal condition of the government. The National Trade Union Congress of Belize and the Belize Chamber of Commerce led demonstrations outside the National Assembly building, with protesters throwing rocks at the police, who responded with rubber bullets and riot gas. Several protesters were arrested, and the police used teargas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd. This unrest reflected a broader frustration among the Belizean population over alleged financial mismanagement and corruption within the PUP government.

In April 2005, Belize experienced another wave of civil unrest primarily centred around the Belize Telecommunications Limited (BTL) and the government's handling of the company. The issue involved a power struggle between Michael Ashcroft of England and Jeffrey Prosser of the United States, who were majority shareholders in BTL. The situation escalated, with BTL workers cutting off phone lines across the nation and barricading the BTL compound. The trade unions called for the resignation of Prime Minister Said Musa, and the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) planned civil disobedience to force early elections. The unrest culminated in a night of looting and vandalism in downtown Belize City, causing damage worth over a million dollars.

In August 2022, the government denied the opposition UDP a permit to hold a demonstration against increases in the cost of living. However, the UDP proceeded with the demonstration, and it unfolded peacefully. The police commissioner cited staffing shortages as the reason for not approving the permit, demonstrating the delicate balance between maintaining public order and respecting the right to peaceful assembly.

In May 2022, the head of the Belize Police Department's Commander Operations Strike Team (COST), Assistant Commissioner of Police Marco Vidal, was forced to resign due to negligence and administrative failures. This followed the involvement of his subordinates in drug airplane landings in 2021. The incident highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating drug trafficking and the potential for corruption within the ranks.

In June 2022, leaked documents revealed payments made by the government to law firms connected to former Prime Minister Dean Barrow and his family during his tenure. The payments totalled five million Belize dollars ($2.5 million) and raised questions about potential conflicts of interest and improper use of government funds. The revelations sparked public outrage and fuelled perceptions of corruption within the political elite.

In February 2022, residents of the Garifuna community of Barranco protested against government logging permits that were issued without community consultation or consent. The villagers were angered as they had previously been denied logging access, while permits were granted to individuals from outside the community. This incident underscores the tensions between local communities and the government over natural resource management and the need for greater transparency and inclusion in decision-making processes.

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