Belize City Man Charged After Gun and Ammo Found in Caye Caulker

Police have arrested and charged a Belize City man following the discovery of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition in Caye Caulker over the Easter weekend.  Authorities say the incident unfolded on Holy Saturday, when officers responded to a disturbance on the island. During the course of their investigation, police were able to verify the involvement of one individual through video footage that was obtained and reviewed.  That individual has since been identified as 25-year-old Herman Ciego of Belize City.  He has now been formally charged with offenses relating to the possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.  ASP Stacy Smith, Staff Officer for the Belize Police Department, confirmed that Ciego’s presence and involvement in the disturbance were corroborated by video evidence.

Stacy Smith, Assistant Superintendent of Police: “Police in Caye Caulker have formally arrested and charged 25-year-old Herman Ciego of Belize City for the offense of kept firearm without a gun license and kept ammunition without a gun license. These charges follows police’s response to a disturbance at the corner of Avenida Mangle and Estrella Street in Caye Caulker on Saturday, 4 March, 2026, at approximately 10: 40pm. The arresting officer reported that upon responding to the disturbance, his attention was drawn to a fleeing male person. This male person later identified as Ciego was pursued and detained. A search of the immediate area where Ciego fled led to the discovery of a 9mm pistol which contained 10 live rounds of 9mm ammunition. Also retrieved as a part of the investigation is video footage which shows Ciego engaging in conduct which supports the arrest which was made.”

Police say the firearm and ammunition were recovered during the operation, and charges were subsequently laid.  Ciego remains in custody as he is expected to be arraigned before the court.