Prime Minister John Briceño of Belize has formally requested enhanced Mexican security presence along the shared northern border in response to escalating cartel activities and transnational criminal operations. This diplomatic appeal to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum comes amid growing concerns about drug trafficking networks exploiting the Corozal Freezone as an operational base.
The security situation intensified following a recent assassination attempt on Nitin Buxani, a prominent Freezone businessman, highlighting persistent vulnerabilities to organized crime infiltration. Briceño revealed that cartel-related challenges have plagued his administration since 2020, when he initially alerted United States officials about expanding drug operations seeking entry into Belize.
Addressing limitations in Belize’s response capabilities, the Prime Minister noted the country lacks adequate equipment to intercept drug planes landing in remote areas. While cigarette smuggling has been frequently cited, Briceño clarified that numerous goods moving through the Freezone into Mexico contribute to criminal interests, with WTO regulations restricting Belize’s import control options.
In a significant domestic security measure, Belize has launched Operation Northern Fortress, an eight-million-dollar initiative allocating resources for vehicles, communication systems, weaponry, and surveillance technology. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen border enforcement while coordinating with Mexican authorities to disrupt cross-border criminal networks.