Belize City has launched a comprehensive security mobilization in response to a disturbing escalation of gang-related violence in the Lake Independence district. The heightened police activity comes after a series of shootings that shocked the community, including an incident on December 10th where three civilians—two minors and a sixty-year-old woman—were wounded by gunfire near La Croix Boulevard. This violence occurred merely one week after the tragic killing of fifteen-year-old Eric Reyes on Park Street.
In an exclusive interview, Eastern Division Commander Senior Superintendent Reymundo Reyes outlined the strategic response to the crisis. “Our operational recalibration extends beyond Lake Independence to encompass the entire city,” Reyes stated. “We have reorganized our patrol patterns and significantly increased ground operations to ensure resident safety.”
The security crackdown involves a multi-unit approach combining regular police forces with specialized teams. The Belize Defense Force (BDF) has been deployed to high-risk areas, working alongside the Gang Operation Unit, Special Patrol Unit, and Mobile Interdiction Unit. Tactical operations include systematic searches of vacant properties aimed at disrupting criminal networks and seizing illegal firearms and narcotics.
Superintendent Reyes confirmed the operations are yielding positive results, noting that a small criminal element remains responsible for most violence. “We are targeting these specific individuals on a daily basis,” he emphasized. The security initiative will continue through the remainder of the year as authorities work to restore public safety and community stability.