Cop Trio’s Behaviour Not So GREAT at New Asia
Noel Leal
A trio of police officer, each from a different part of the country, is in detention in Belize City tonight after a wild night on the town on Tuesday. The cops are in the city participating in the Gang Resistance and Education Training, also known as GREAT. Their actions, however, emulated the very gangs that they are trying to dissuade children from joining. It is reported that the officers entered New Asia Restaurant on Vernon Street and ordered a plate of chow mein. When the order arrived, the men reportedly had a change of mind and refused to pay for the food. That’s when the security guard stepped in. It is alleged that the officers then produced a firearm and pointed it at the watchman before leaving the premises. Shortly thereafter another incident unfolded near the Belcan Bridge involving those same officers. Quick police work resulted in the detention of the men who are being held in custody pending disciplinary action and criminal charges. ACP Noel Leal provided further details.
ACP Noel Leal, Acting ComPol
“I think it was shortly after ten last night we got information of what sounded like shots being fired in the Belcan Bridge area. Police responded and they were able to track down and intercept a vehicle. And when the vehicle was intercepted it was found to contain three police officers who are actually on a course here in Belize City. They were detained and an investigation is being conducted as we speak and we are deciding what will be the likely charges to be implemented—whether disciplinary or criminal.”
Reporter
“Are these the same two officers or three officers who are believed to have left New Asia Restaurant on Vernon Street and brandished the firearm at the security guard because they didn’t want to pay for a chow mein?”
ACP Noel Leal
“Yes that is my understanding. I don’t know what kind of food, but it was something they got from the restaurant.”
Reporter
“And they are originally from where?”
ACP Noel Leal
“They are from different parts of the country. They are actually participating in what we call a GREAT Program, which is the community policing program, Gang Resistance Education and Training program. As far as I know it is a corporal and two constables.”
Isani Cayetano
“Are you at liberty to disclose their names at this point?”
ACP Noel Leal
“I wouldn’t like to at this time until they have been dealt with.”
Reporter
“Will they be charged for aggravated assault since they allegedly pulled the firearm and discharging a firearm in public?”
ACP Noel Leal
“We are looking into it. I have had preliminary information that that has been the case and if that is so, more than likely we will be proceeding with charges along those lines.”
