A major political confrontation has intensified in Belize following the controversial detention of United Democratic Party affiliate Brian “Yellowman” Audinett. The incident, occurring on February 10, 2026, has sparked allegations of political targeting and escalated into a serious institutional crisis.
The controversy began when police detained Audinett under unclear circumstances, with conflicting reports suggesting either suspected gang membership or potential incitement of violence. The UDP responded by blockading the strategic Belcan Bridge, demanding his immediate release.
The situation escalated dramatically when UDP Senator Sheena Pitts launched a scathing attack against police authorities. Pitts revealed that official documentation labeled Audinett with the acronym “BMOG” (Believed Member of Gang), which she vehemently disputed based on lifelong acquaintance with the detainee.
In a remarkable counteraccusation, Senator Pitts directly challenged Police Commissioner Chester Williams to investigate the ruling People’s United Party as a criminal organization. “Let your first order of business go to arrest the prime minister as the head of the PUP gang,” she declared during her impassioned address.
The senator further accused authorities of systematically weaponizing terminology to suppress legitimate political opposition, claiming those fighting for their rights are being deliberately characterized as violent gang members. She specifically called for the arrest of northern cabinet ministers, suggesting equal application of detention policies across political affiliations.
This developing situation represents a significant deterioration in police-political relations and raises serious questions about the neutrality of law enforcement in Belize’s democratic processes.