Riot Squad Training near the Marion Jones Stadium

Earlier this week, the riot squad was seen training at the compound of the Mexico Sports Centre, located adjacent to the Marion Jones Sporting Complex. Word spread like wildfire that that they are preparing to be deployed, in the event that party supporters refuse to comply with the curfew regulations on election day. ComPol Chester Williams told News Five today that it is farfetched. He says that it is routine training that they were engaged in and he does not believe in a confrontational style of policing. The riot squad, he says, will be deployed as a tool of last resort.

Chester Williams

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police

“I had been advised that the curfew is going to be from nine to five; and I think that is good because it gives people more time to get home and to be able to relax and await the results of the elections. And yes the riot squad is in constant training. I am not the type who believes in confrontational style of policing. I always believe in diplomacy; I believe that diplomacy can solve many issues when applied properly. The riot squad is surely a tool of last resort. I don’t anticipate that we are going to require the services of the riot squad on election night. I am sure that our Belizean people do understand the nature of what we are dealing with and why this year’s election is going to be different from other years and are going to do what is expected of them.”