By Belize Live News Staff: A case of animal cruelty and livestock theft has led to the detention of three teenage boys, following a shocking video that shows a horse being chopped in the head.
The video, which has since gone viral, was handed over to police and is being used as key evidence in an investigation into the theft of 15 horses from a farm near Ladyville.
Tour operator Joshua Trapp, the owner of the stolen horses, believes the horse seen being attacked in the video is one of his still-missing animals. While seven of the horses have been recovered, eight are unaccounted for, and police suspect the abuse is connected to the theft.
In a public statement, Police Commissioner Chester Williams condemned the video, saying the department would do “all within our power to hold those responsible to justice.”
The three teenagers, ages 16 to 19, are currently being held pending formal charges, which may include livestock theft and cruelty to animals.
The Belize Police Department continues to investigate, with the possibility of more suspects being identified in the coming days.
