Belize Defense Force

Throughout September, Belizeans witnessed another flare-up in tensions surrounding the Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute. Guatemala continues to assert a claim over half of Belize’s landmass, all of its islands (Cayes), and the maritime territory extending from the coast. The latest incidents with the Guatemalan Armed Forces at the Sarstoon River in southern Belize prompted strong protests from the Government of Belize. In response, Guatemala reaffirmed its sovereignty claim over the entire river. Experts further explained that Guatemala’s position extends to all of Belize’s Cayes. Guatemalan officials also discussed possible scenarios in the event that the International Court of Justice (ICJ) rules in their favor.

On Monday, March 31st, a bomb expert from the Belize Defense Force (BDF) traveled to San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye after reports of a hand grenade found on the island. The grenade, located in northern Ambergris Caye, was handled with great care and was safely disposed of (destroyed) around midday, according to police reports. The police are continuing to investigate the origin of this dangerous object and any individuals who may be connected to its discovery.

The Frіеndѕ fоr Соnѕеrvаtіоn and Dеvеlopmеnt (FСD) are considered the guardians of the Chiquibul National Park in the Cayo District in western Belize. For years, they have monitored the continuous encroachment of Guatemalan nationals, bringing it to the government's attention. Recent reports reveal an illegally constructed road inside the national park and bridges in the nearby Columbia Forest Reserve. The Ministry of National Defense and Border Security received the findings and is investigating as these activities violate Belize's sovereignty.

The Belize Defence Force (BDF) sent personnel to the Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport in Belize City after they were alerted about an item resembling an explosive object sent as cargo on a local flight from San Pedro Town.

The Belize Tourism Board, through its Industry Development Department (IDD), donated a 2023 Nissan Frontier Pick-Up Truck to the Belize Defense Force (BDF). The vehicle was delivered during the official handing-over ceremony held on August 17, 2022 at the BDF Price Barracks compound in Ladyville.

A victory would bring one team closer to the PLB finals, and both teams badly wanted the win. At the end of the game time, the San Pedro Pirates team managed to emerge victorious with a 1-0 score.

Despite this 2-1 loss against Belize Defense Force (BDF), the San Pedro Pirates remain in the PLB first place position with 26 points overall.

The island team won with a 1-0 score over BDF, managing to remain in the second place position of the PLB rankings for the second week consecutive.