Illegal Logging Surges as Forestry Officers Face Growing Danger in the Field

Belize’s Forestry Department is facing growing challenges as illegal logging continues to surge across the country, prompting intensified enforcement efforts and raising serious safety concerns for frontline officers.  Speaking on The Morning Show, Deputy Chief Forest Officer John Pinelo confirmed that illegal logging remains rampant, placing strain on the department’s limited resources and personnel. Pinelo said the department has “amped up” its enforcement campaign in response, increasing patrols and surveillance in known hotspots.  According to Pinelo, enforcement operations have become increasingly dangerous. He revealed that during a recent encounter in the field, an illegal logger pulled a firearm on one of the department’s officers, an incident that underscores the risks forestry personnel now face while carrying out their duties.

The Forestry Department says enforcement operations will continue, even as officers contend with increasingly bold and sometimes violent offenders, emphasizing that safeguarding Belize’s forests is critical to environmental protection, climate resilience, and sustainable development.