Three Charged in Separate Drug and Illegal Firearm Cases Across Belize

Police have formally charged three individuals in separate drug and firearm-related matters following investigations carried out in different parts of the country. In the first matter, on June 10th, police carried out an operation in San Pedro that led to the detention of Melissa Mendez and Balbino Camara. Both have since been jointly charged in connection with the possession of a firearm and ammunition without a valid gun license. ASP Stacy Smith have provided further details on the discovery during the operation.

Stacy Smith, Assistant Superintendent of Police: “The arrest follows the execution of a search warrant at their residence on Wednesday by intelligence and operation personnel which resulted in the discovery of a Ruger brand 9mm pistol which contained six live rounds of 9mm ammunition.”

In a separate incident in Bella Vista Village, Toledo District, police have charged 26-year-old Nelson Cal in connection with drug-related offences. Smith says the matter developed following a police search in the area, which led to his arrest and subsequent charge.

Stacy Smith, Assistant Superintendent of Police: “After an operation conducted by GI3 personnel which led to the discovery of a plastic bag which contained 34 small foils each containing suspected crack cocaine in the pants pocket of Mr.Caal. The drugs when weighed amounted to .4 grams.”

Meanwhile, in a separate drug-related matter, police in Punta Gorda charged 65-year-old John Gabriel of Jose Maria Nunez Street on June 12th. He was taken into custody in connection with an ongoing investigation. ASP Stacy Smith continues to share further details on this story. 

Stacy Smith, Assistant Superintendent of Police: “This arrest follows a search of Mr.Gabourel on Friday 12 June as he exited a terminal with a manilla envelope. A search of the envelope led to the discovery of two transparent plastic bags contained suspected crack cocaine amounting to 57.79 grams.”

Police continue their efforts across the country to tackle illegal guns and drug-related crime.