By Belize Live News Staff: In the early hours of Sunday morning, a deliberate arson attack in Belize City left three luxury vehicles engulfed in flames, causing an estimated loss of nearly half a million dollars. The vehicles, belonging to 75-year-old Bob Hotchandani and 43-year-old Sanjay Hotchandani, were parked on Princess Margaret Drive when three individuals set them on fire.
Police reports indicate that the arsonists arrived by boat, meticulously executed their plan by pouring a flammable substance on the vehicles, and then fled the scene. The vehicles targeted in the attack included an Escalade, an Audi, and a Chevy Silverado pickup truck. The fire department was called to extinguish the blaze, but not before all three vehicles were severely damaged or destroyed.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Hilberto Romero stated, “Upon their arrival, they saw three vehicles engulfed in flames. An investigation was carried out, and it revealed that three persons came to the area, poured a flammable substance on the vehicles, and lit them on fire. We have one person in custody regarding this investigation.”
While police have yet to determine a motive, surveillance footage captured images of the suspects, leading to the detention of one individual. Investigators are still pursuing the remaining suspects and examining any potential connections between the perpetrators and the vehicle owners.
“We have not established any motive at this time. The investigation continues,” said ACP Romero. He also noted that the suspect in custody is undergoing questioning, though authorities have not confirmed whether the detained individual is cooperating.
The total value of the destroyed vehicles is estimated to be several hundred thousand dollars. Two of the vehicles were comprehensively insured, while the third had third-party insurance.
Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward as the search for the remaining suspects continues.
