American-Model Grenade Strikes San Pedro Home
On the prime tourism island of San Pedro, residents in the area of San Mateo escaped grave injuries when a high explosive fragmentation grenade was thrown beneath the house of Amancia Martinez. It’s the first attack using a hand-thrown bomb to be recorded on the island, and many in the popular tourist destination are tonight concerned that crime and violence in San Pedro has ratcheted up to another level. While police have since detained three persons, an investigation is being conducted by the department, as well as the Belize Defense Force. Brigadier General David Jones believes that the type of grenade used is an American model. This afternoon, Assistant Commissioner of Police Joseph Myvett provided details of the incident that occurred on Saturday night.
Joseph Myvett
ACP Joseph Myvett, Head, National Crimes Investigation Branch
“Sometime after eight p.m., there was also an explosion at a residence in the San Mateo area of town. Upon police responding to the area, a large hole was seen beneath the steps of a wooden structure that was built that is elevated off the ground. Also mud was seen off the steps and other damages to the area. Police have since detained three persons in connection with this investigation. Which continues. The area was again revisited by experts from the Belize Defense Force on Saturday.”
Reporter
“Sir are you able to share any details, is there any particular explanation that the police have at this time for this attack?”
ACP Joseph Myvett
“No. But we are working the investigation, as I had previously mentioned. Police is actually, or there is a patrol in that area that is stationed in that area and based on certain information that was gathered that resulted in the detention of the persons who are currently under investigation.”
Reporter
“Is this believed to be connected to any kind of gang or drug warfare between warring turfs on the island? What would be the purpose for an attack like this apart from the obvious intended target in this type of situation?”
ACP Joseph Myvett
“Well, at this point in time the police does not have any information to suggest that. This is an open investigation where we are open to and are following all leads.”
Reporter
“The person or the home or the area which was targeted, I know there is an ongoing drug war in San Pedro. Are these persons known to be affiliated with this drug war?”
ACP Joseph Myvett
“The home where this explosion was, no.”
Reporter
“Have the three persons who have been detained, have they been able to provide any information to assist police?”
ACP Joseph Myvett
“I have not been update as so, so far, but I know they are being questioned.”
