SOE Inmates Released, What Does it Mean for Gang Armistice?

A group of fifty men, all believed to be actively involved in various gang rivalries, was released from the Belize Central Prison over the weekend, at the end of a thirty-day state of emergency that was effected on the south side of Belize City.  But was the month-long lockdown effective in calling a ceasefire among the warring factions?  According to ComPol Chester Williams, while some feuds are deep-seated, a move is being made to bring about a meaningful truce.

Chester Williams

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police

“I know that during the time they were incarcerated, the Ministry of Human Development via the Conflict Mediation and Modification Center, under the stewardship of Abdul Nunez and the Leadership Intervention Team headed by Mr. Rosado and Mr. Dawson and other groups did visit the prison on numerous occasions and dialogued with these young men.  May I say that the Minister of Home Affairs also went twice and spoke with them.  From what I gathered, the feedback from the discussions had was favorable and I discussed with Mr. Dawson yesterday, and this is William Dawson, who happened to be employed at Kolbe, as well.  He told me that they are in the process of trying to work out a truce.  I am optimistic that it is going to work out.  I know that it is not easy, considering the fact that some of the wounds of these young men goes deep and the hate and anger that they may have towards each other may be at an extremely high level.  Perhaps the time spent incarcerated was used to try and mend some of the hurt and to remove of the anger.”