Coast Guard Joins ‘Not In My City’ Campaign

Greg Soberanis

The Coast Guard’s duties can be broken down into its military, law enforcement, and humanitarian functions. In fulfilling the law enforcement mandate, the unit has been deployed to assist the Belize Police Department with the ‘Not in My City’ campaign. That campaign is not only targeting crime in violence ridden hot zones in the city, but thanks to the Coast Guard, is taking the war to the waters.

Lt. Greg Soberanis, Fleet Commander, Belize Coast Guard

“We are conducting operations in the harbour and inland waterways to ensure that mariners are in compliance with the boating safety regulations. We say to mariners – ensure that you are in compliance with all boating safety regulations as when you are being boarded by the Coast Guard patrol you will be asked for proper documentation. You will be asked to ensure that all your safety equipment is on board. So this is the type of operations that we are doing in the harbour and in the inland waterways. We are also conducting safety and security inspections at the water taxi terminals. Why do we do this? Because the intent is to deter, intercept and interdict persons who are conducting illicit activities between Belize City, Caye Caulker and San Pedro. We began this operation on the seventh of October this year – so far we’ve seized nine hundred and fifty-three undersized conch. We’ve also seized a hundred and forty-three undersized lobster tails, as well as we’ve detained two vessels so far. These vessels are being detained for port violations. They will be processed through the Port Authority. And if there are any charges to be levied these individuals will be charged and will need to pay their fines.”

On another note, Soberanis warns mariners that this time of year there is always an increase in vessel and engine theft because of the upcoming tourism high season, so it is wise to ensure that appropriate security measures are in place.