By Belize Live News Staff: The United Democratic Party (UDP) has released a new statement criticizing the Belize Police Department over a reported 167% rise in homicides for the month of September 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. The statement comes in direct response to the Commissioner of Police, who previously disputed opposition claims of a significant spike in murders earlier this year.
According to the UDP’s figures, 78 homicides were recorded by the end of September, marking a 15% increase overall compared to last year. The party emphasized that despite a state of emergency (SOE) in effect for three months — during which time many of the country’s most dangerous offenders were detained — the country still saw a sharp rise in violent deaths.
In the release, the UDP also criticized law enforcement for allegedly protecting officers involved in controversial incidents. One case singled out involved Police Constable Luwis Pascascio, who is accused of assaulting Olympian Shaun Gill. The opposition further denounced the continued defense of officers like Devon Makin and Inspector Christopher Martinez, who have faced abuse allegations in the past.
This latest exchange deepens the ongoing political debate over Belize’s crime-fighting strategies and the role of law enforcement in tackling violent crime, with both sides offering differing narratives on how best to address the growing security concerns in the country.
