Minister of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation Honorable Manuel Heredia Jr has donated a new, 2016 Mazda s3 truck to the San Pedro Police Department (SPPD). On September 7th, the new vehicle labeled “Tourism Police” was specifically given over to help alleviate crimes against tourists.
Receiving the donation was Officer in Charge of the San Pedro Police Sub-Formation, Superintendent Sandra Bowden. She is thankful for the donation, as it will go a long-way in aiding them to work on tourism safety. She has also appointed Police Constable Saldano to carry out these special duties, as well as increasing police patrols.
“I am grateful that the police department is receiving support from various organizations. We have limited transportation, and with this new truck, we improve officers’ efficiency to respond more quickly,” said Bowden.
According to Bowden, tourists are targeted for burglary and theft. While there is no dramatic increase in crimes against tourists, she is simply assuring visitors that the local police department is making sure everyone is protected by working diligently to prevent all crimes on the island, especially those of opportunity.
Crime does not discriminate, and the SPPD strongly encourages visitors to take precautionary measures and protect themselves from preventable crimes. Bowden recommends that tourists should avoid traveling with original documents, carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry, and to not leave belongings unattended. They also encourage expat residents to lock windows and doors to their houses, to stay in groups, and stay in areas that are well lit.
On behalf of the SPPD, Bowden gives thanks for all of the donations made to the department. She extends particular thanks to Minister Heredia, San Pedro Town Council, and Mahogany Bay Village/Pete Davis for their help to improve their transportation methods. To report a crime, the police encourages all tourists/expats to call 911 or 206-2022 or visit the green and yellow police station on Middle Street of San Pedro Town.
Help is always welcome
Superintendent Bowden is the Officer in Charge for both San Pedro and Caye Caulker, and she indicated that the Caye Caulker Police Department is currently in need of two computers and one air conditioner (AC) unit. The Caye Caulker police station is located across from the sea, and the salt air has affected their technical equipment. The AC unit will allow the station to close its windows so that salt air won’t enter the building.
In San Pedro, the department is still in need of a generator. During Hurricane Earl, the police station was without power for three days when Hurricane Earl hit Ambergris Caye. Having a generator will ensure that police officers can continue to carry out their duties, despite electrical outages.
Share
Read more
