By Belize Live News Staff: Tensions flared in Placencia this morning as a group of residents gathered to remove rocks placed along the beachfront in front of a private property. The move sparked a confrontation between locals and police officers, who were called to the scene.
According to eyewitnesses, the residents took action to reclaim the beach, arguing that the rocks were obstructing public access and altering the natural shoreline. Video footage circulating online shows heated exchanges between community members and police.
The incident follows a formal notice issued by the Department of the Environment (DOE) on February 27, which instructed the removal of a breakwater in front of a private property in Placencia by March 7, 2025. The DOE determined that the structure was installed without proper consultation or approval from environmental agencies.
Chief Environmental Officer Anthony Mai stated in the notice that property owners must follow necessary environmental regulations when altering coastal areas. “Given the local knowledge, history, and dynamics of the beach, and conceding the fact that you have not consulted any of the relevant agencies… you are required to remove the existing breakwater,” the notice read.
The DOE also warned of legal consequences if the property owner failed to comply, adding that they could be forced to cover the costs of removal.
