The United States Embassy has donated nine vehicles to Belizean law enforcement agencies, aimed at bolstering border security and combating transnational organized crime. The donation, valued at approximately $380,000, was facilitated through the Bureau of International Narcotics & Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). The vehicles were distributed among several agencies: one to the Department of Border Management and Immigration Services, two to the Belize Customs and Excise Department’s Intelligence Unit and Enforcement Unit, four to the Belize Police Department’s Mobile Interdiction Team, and two to the Anti-Narcotics Unit.
This gesture is part of ongoing collaboration between Belize and the United States to enhance institutional effectiveness in ensuring citizen and border security. The vehicles are expected to improve the mobility of border security operations, enabling more effective patrols and interdictions.
Ambassador Kwan emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in her remarks during the handover ceremony. "I am so gratified to hand over these vehicles today to enhance the capacity of four agencies that play such a crucial role in border security … It is significant that this event has a multi-agency focus. One thing we in the U.S. government have learned is that only by working together, across agencies and departments, can we stay ahead of criminal organizations that are increasingly sophisticated and well-financed," she stated.
Hon. Kareem Musa also spoke at the event, highlighting the broader implications of such support. He remarked, “we are here, not just as law enforcement representatives, but as representatives of the government and community bound by compassion and the shared belief in making a positive impact to the criminal justice system that we serve. Today’s donation is a testament to the power of collective willingness and the potential for positive change that occurs when we come together for a common cause."
The initiative underscores a mutual commitment between both nations towards enhancing law enforcement capabilities against crime.