Uncle Sam helps police Anti-Drug Unit

The generic name given to official handing over ceremonies is a “dog and pony show”…and while there were no horses to be seen in Belmopan this morning, the U.S. Embassy’s donation of anti-drug equipment did include three canines. According to U.S. Ambassador Russell Freeman, the new additions will significantly upgrade the Police Department’s ability to curtail the drug trade.

Russell Freeman, U.S. Ambassador

“The computer equipment includes all of the essential components needed to create an electronic connection between the anti-drug unit in Belize City and the anti-drug unit in Belmopan. This new network means that officers will be able to share drug related intelligence immediately, and that will in turn allow fast response time on drug busts. Second, among the various maritime equipment that we are handing over today, I note that the T-Top is particularly important, as it will finally give the A.D.U. maritime wing the capability to mount and use radar in its search for drugs in Belizean waters. Third, two brand new 2003 four by four utility vehicles will become and integral part of A.D.U.’s small but growing motor pool. And last but certainly not least, we are excited to provide the government of Belize with three new additions to its K9 unit, two narcotics detection dogs and an explosive detection dog. These top dollar animals will find illicit materials in places where no on else can.”

Jose Carmen Zetina, Commissioner of Police

“These donations today are essential, not only for the short term, but for the long and continuous efforts we will maintain in the war against drugs. Let me assure the U.S. Embassy that these equipments will be put to good and maximum use. Let me warn officers of the department, that these resources are to be taken good care of so that we can utilize them for a long time.”

The total value of the donation is estimated at some three hundred thousand Belize dollars.