Belize: Govt orders crackdown on gang members in Santa Elena and San Ignacio

Belize: The government of Belize has ordered a crackdown on all gang elements that are operating in Santa Elena and San Ignacio to eliminate the concerns of the community's business sector.

During recent months, crime in the twin towns has witnessed a sudden surge in crime incidents, with two murders and many armed robberies. During the weekend, police officials increased efforts amid the death of a local gang leader, David Galindo, whose associates are still wanted by the police.

The department has also identified active gang members, which include Galindo's brother, Mynor Galindo. However, Galindo denies the claims and issued a release while proclaiming violence. In the release, he stated that two weeks ago, as he approached his gate, a black-coloured Chevrolet Equinox approached him. As he turned to face the vehicle, a man leaped out along with a firearm and attempted to shoot him in the head, and he somehow managed to tackle the gunman while disarming him before he could fire and also dragged him into a drain.

As he fled the scene, another gunman came out from the vehicle from the passenger side and fired around eight shots in his direction. Fortunately, he was able to escape immediately and a week late the same vehicle carried out a drive by shooting targeting his brother David Galindo.

The release added, "It is devastating that we, the victims of these heinous attacks, are now being unjustly portrayed as perpetrators. No one has been arrested or charged for my brother's death."

On Tuesday, while meeting with the business owners and members of the community, the Commissioner of Police responded to the claims made by Galindo.

He stated, "Our objective in this area must be to disrupt the activities of the gang members, the drug traffickers, and those who have the tendency of robbing people."

The Commissioner further noted that disruption is going to cause a long term solution to the problem as opposed to short term solutions and to ensure this, he has passed the SBU to conduct patrols and operations within Santa Elena and San Ignacio area.