By Belize Live News Staff: In the wake of a violent uptick in gang-related shootings, a state of public emergency has been officially declared in parts of Belize City, the Belize District, and the Cayo District. Governor-General Dame Froyla Tzalam signed the emergency proclamation, which took effect immediately and gives law enforcement extended powers to detain individuals and increase patrols in designated hot zones.
The government’s move follows a deadly wave of gun violence, including the recent killing of Brandon Baptist and the shooting of a man identified only as Rojas. According to Police Commissioner Dr. Richard Rosado, these incidents have escalated the national security threat from high to critical. He stated, “With the death of Brandon Baptist, the security threat was high, and with the shooting of Rojas, it has now escalated to a critical level. At the critical stage that it is right now, there’s a need for [a State of Emergency]. I believe that one month will not suffice, two months will not suffice—we must start off at six months at the very least.”
The Commissioner added that all available resources are being mobilized to restore order and ensure public safety. He described the violence as “totally unacceptable” and said the police are working tirelessly to identify and apprehend those responsible. The areas placed under the SOE are long known to be plagued by gang activity and include several neighborhoods in southside Belize City and rural communities along the George Price Highway, as well as hotspots in Roaring Creek, Camalote, and Hattieville in the Cayo District.
The state of emergency is initially set to last one month but may be extended by the National Assembly in periods not exceeding twelve months. Commissioner Rosado, however, has already signaled his intent to push for a six-month minimum.
The coming days will reveal whether this declaration will lead to real, lasting safety or if it will follow the path of past SOEs—short-term relief with no long-term results.
