By Belize Live News Staff: Minister of National Security Michel Chebat says he plans to visit El Salvador to see firsthand the measures that have helped drive down violence in that country.
Chebat said the aim is to learn more about the security strategies put in place under President Nayib Bukele’s administration and determine whether any of those lessons can be applied in Belize.
El Salvador has drawn international attention in recent years for a dramatic drop in homicides and gang related violence following an aggressive crackdown on gangs.
The announcement comes as Belize faces a surge in violence. A state of emergency was declared on Sunday for Southside Belize City and parts of the Belize and Cayo Districts, following a deadly attack on the Coastal Highway and a string of shootings in Belize City.
Chebat, who took on the newly combined Ministry of National Security, Energy and Ports in last month’s Cabinet reshuffle, has faced growing pressure from the Opposition to present a clear plan to tackle crime.
