In a stark address to the nation, Cayo South Area Representative Julius Espat has delivered a grave assessment of Belize’s deteriorating security landscape, drawing alarming parallels to widespread Latin American instability. The legislator’s urgent call for comprehensive reform follows the brutal double homicide of two constituents—Raynard Garbutt and Robert Crawford—along the Hummingbird Highway on December 17, 2025.
Espat characterized the current trajectory as ‘dangerous’ and warned Belize risks mirroring regional security failures where civilian armed protection becomes normalized. ‘Nobody wants their loved ones to be killed in that manner,’ Espat stated, acknowledging the profound grief affecting families in Roaring Creek and nationwide.
The parliamentarian outlined a multi-faceted approach to combat escalating violence, emphasizing the necessity of public consultations, enhanced punitive measures, and intelligently crafted regulations. While acknowledging he isn’t a security specialist, Espat expressed confidence in recently appointed leadership at the Ministry of Home Affairs, particularly highlighting the experienced Chief Executive Officer now overseeing operations.
Espat revealed that governmental structures are actively developing proposals for cabinet consideration, with guaranteed financial backing being prioritized. However, he cautioned that regulatory measures must accompany public awareness campaigns to prevent negative reactions stemming from inadequate information dissemination.
The timing of this security alert coincides with political developments elsewhere in government, as Minister Ferguson appears to regain standing within the Prime Minister’s administration, suggesting potential shifts in Belize’s governing coalition amid the crisis.