Crime & Violence
San Pedro Police release murder suspect Christian Espat after questioning
Wanted for questioning in the double-murder of Graniel and Swank, Christian Espat handed himself over to police, and on Monday, July 1st was released without charges.
Crime & Violence
National Security Council Announces Increased Security Measures
The National Security Council of Belize (NSC), chaired by the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, met in special session yesterday, June 27th, 2019 in Belmopan to discuss the crisis arising out of the recent murder of a tourist, Dr. Gary Swank, in San Pedro. The NSC recorded its grave concern over the tragic development and its implications particularly for the tourism industry in Ambergris Caye and nationally.
Crime & Violence
San Pedro residents Melvin Montesino and Silverio Cal still missing
Despite continuous searches, San Pedro residents 26-year-old Melvin Montesino, and 26-year-old Silverio Cal have not been found. Both men were reported missing on Thursday, June 13th after they headed to the north side of Ambergris Caye via motorcycle.
Crime & Violence
Police have detained one person in connection with the death of Mario Graniel and Dr. Gary Swank
The San Pedro Sun has confirmed that a prime suspect, believed to have played a main role in the double murder of Mario Graniel and Dr. Gary Swank, has been detained.
Crime & Violence
Commissioner of Police visits San Pedro Town and provides updates on murder of Mario Graniel and Dr. Gary Swank
The Commissioner of Police was on the island to lend support to the SPPD, and after a closed door meeting, told the media that a suspect had been identified, and information has been sent to all police outposts across the country with said suspect’s identification.
Crime & Violence
Tour guide Mario Graniel and Dr. Gary Swank shot and killed at sea
On June 23, 2019, Fly Fisherman Mario Graniel and guest Dr. Gary Swank were gunned down while at sea. As island residents mourn the loss of lives, San Pedro Police are scrambling for answers and no arrests have been made. Meanwhile, local authorities remain silent on this latest shocking tragedy.
Crime & Violence
Belize upgraded to Tier 2 Watch List in the 2019 Trafficking in Persons Report
The United States Department of State released the 2019 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report today. Belize has been upgraded to Tier 2 Watch List after demonstrating notable improvements in victim services and strengthening the anti-trafficking police unit.
Crime & Violence
Paul Jex’s murder trial set to begin in October 2019
Over a year since his murder at the entrance of the San Pedrito subdivision, Paul Jex’s alleged shooters will be tried in the October session of the Supreme Court of Belize. On Friday, June 14th, the accused appeared before Chief Magistrate Sharon Frazer, where they were informed that they have until Friday, June 21st to provide the court with their alibi statements and names of their witnesses in writing.