COROZAL FREE ZONE, BELIZE – January 12, 2026 – Belize has implemented enhanced security protocols in the Corozal Free Zone since December 2025, employing innovative multi-agency policing strategies to combat criminal threats. Commissioner of Police Dr. Richard Rosado today detailed the comprehensive security overhaul, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the operation.
“Our methodology in the free zone has consistently embraced an interagency framework,” stated Commissioner Rosado. “We are operating with full support from both the Belize Defence Force and the Coast Guard to maintain security throughout the Free Zone territory. This represents a unified cooperative endeavor to ensure comprehensive policing of our border regions.”
The security enhancement initiative introduced last month incorporates all-terrain vehicles for police patrols, residential facilities for deployed military personnel, and reinforced coordination mechanisms with customs and immigration authorities. According to Florencio Marin, the newly appointed Minister of National Defence and Border Security, these measures are designed to protect shoppers while addressing criminal enterprises and cartel-related threats.
Commissioner Rosado expressed optimism about working with the recently appointed Minister of Border Defense and Home Affairs, noting their aligned vision would drive operational improvements. “I enthusiastically endorse this collaboration. We share complementary perspectives and ideological alignment. Their oversight will critically evaluate our existing protocols and facilitate the development of more advanced policing methodologies,” Rosado commented.
The police commissioner further projected that the partnership would introduce technological advancements to crime prevention efforts: “I am confident that with their integration into our security apparatus, we will witness greater innovation and technological implementation in our comprehensive crime reduction initiatives.”