By Belize Live News Staff: Ryan Joseph Budna has filed a high-profile lawsuit against eleven government officials, claiming that his constitutional rights were violated during an alleged unlawful abduction that ended with his removal to Guatemala.
The suit lists senior state officials and police officers, including Attorney General, Minister of National Security Kareem Musa, Police Commissioner Richard Rosado, and Constable Barry Flowers. It also identifies Corporals Choco and Gabriel, who Budna accuses of carrying out the operation on the night in question.
Budna alleges that he was unlawfully detained, tortured, and denied the chance to access legal counsel before being expelled across the border. He argues that the government acted outside of the law and stripped him of his right to due process.
The claim asks the Supreme Court to declare his arrest and expulsion unlawful, demand his immediate return to Belize via diplomatic channels, and open an official inquiry into the circumstances of his removal.
Additionally, Budna is requesting financial compensation for damages and legal costs.
The case is being pursued by attorneys Arthur Saldivar, Michelle Trapp, and Emertice Anderson. Saldivar and Trapp have chosen not to provide public statements at this time.
