By Belize Live News Staff: A massive horse theft near Ladyville has led police to uncover what may be a disturbing case of animal cruelty linked to organized crime.
The case was reported by Joshua Trapp, a Belizean farmer from Trinidad Road, who said that while he and his family were out for the day, 15 horses were stolen from their farm near mile 13 on the Philip Goldson Highway.
The animals were discovered missing around 4:00 p.m., when Trapp’s wife noticed several were gone from the pasture. A further search revealed seven horses tied up with ropes, but the rest were nowhere to be found.
Trapp told police he spotted two unidentified men fleeing into the bushes, shortly after assessing the property. He later came across a viral video showing young men viciously chopping a horse, which he believes to be one of the stolen animals.
Police confirmed they are reviewing the video and say the individuals involved are known to law enforcement as gang members. Investigators suspect a connection between the stolen horses and the abuse footage, and are treating the matter with urgency.
The value of the stolen horses is estimated at $225,000 Belize dollars, and eight horses are still unaccounted for.
Police are asking for the public’s help and warn that those found responsible could face charges not only for theft but for cruelty to animals under the law.
