By Belize Live News Staff: An unusual incident involving former government minister Elvin Penner has prompted concern at the highest levels of government and triggered calls for a full investigation.
Cabinet has expressed alarm following reports that Penner allegedly removed military ordnance from the Baldy Beacon area in the Cayo District, a location that was reportedly under restricted access due to active military operations at the time.
The area is periodically closed to the public to ensure the safe conduct of military exercises and training activities. Authorities say the presence of potentially dangerous ordnance makes unauthorized access a significant public safety issue.
Penner has publicly maintained that he believed the items he removed had been abandoned and has denied any wrongdoing. Nevertheless, Cabinet has indicated that several questions remain unanswered.
Government officials are now seeking a comprehensive investigation to determine how access was gained to the restricted area, what materials were removed, and whether any security protocols were breached during the incident.
The matter has also raised broader concerns about access control and security at military sites, particularly those containing potentially hazardous materials.
In a statement, Cabinet reminded the public that military zones under active operation are designated restricted areas and that unauthorized entry can pose serious risks to both personal safety and national security.
As investigators work to establish the facts surrounding the incident, the case continues to attract public attention due to Penner’s former role in government and the unusual nature of the allegations.
Cabinet has stated that it expects a full accounting of the events and recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
