Foul play not suspected in Benque drowning

The death of a Belize City man whose decomposing body was found on the banks of the Mopan River in Benque Viejo appears to be a case of accidental drowning. According to police press officer G. Michael Reid, thirty-three-year-old Jahlarud Sankey, was apprehended by Guatemalan authorities in Melchor on Tuesday morning, where he was apparently harassing tourists. The Belizean man, with no immigration documents, was handed over to officials at the western border. When immigration officers called the Benque police, Sankey, whom authorities say had a history of mental problems, escaped custody, running off towards the river. That was the last time that Sankey was seen alive. His body was discovered early this morning. Police do not suspect foul play in Sankey’s death.