SPU Meets and Greets Residents in Gungulung

The area surrounding Holy Emmanuel Street, known as Gungulung, has seen its share of gang violence over the years.  The neighborhood, otherwise known as Backa-Lands, is one of several designated hotspots in Belize City under the current state of emergency. Several active gang members from that location are presently incarcerated at the Belize Central Prison.  But that has not stopped the Special Patrol Unit, of the Belize Police Department, from visiting the community and speaking with residents about citizen security.  This afternoon, News Five caught up with Doctor Richard Rosado who led a team of officers on a meet and greet session.

Dr. Richard Rosado, Regional Commander, Eastern Division

“Like you see, we are out here with the commander of the Special Patrol Unit meeting the residents, one of the most important stakeholders, to listen to their concerns, their issues and see how best we can address it.”

Richard Rosado

Isani Cayetano

“What have been perhaps some of the most important issues being raised, having spoken to several of the residents in this neighborhood?”

Dr. Richard Rosado

“Well many of the residents have applauded the police in their effort but they are requesting more visibility from the police within the area and we intend to address that.”

Isani Cayetano

“Now with the issue of the nightly curfew and some residents saying they’re still seeing individuals out and about well after nine o’clock, this speaks to the visibility of police officers as well, in terms of a nightly patrol or what have you.  What is the existing state of affairs with regards to the deployment of officers in this area?”

Dr. Richard Rosado

“Well we have a number of foot patrols, mobile patrols, motorcycle patrols and bicycle patrols within the area.  We know that certain areas we need to increase the visibility, especially in this area and especially after the curfew hours and we intend to do that.”