Col. Azariel Loria to Move Up as B.D.F. Commander

Azariel Loria

Today News Five found out that Colonel Azariel Loria will succeed outgoing Brigadier General Steven Ortega. Ortega’s term as commander of the B.D.F. comes to an end shortly and at the annual B.D.F. day in January; Loria will ascend to the post.  Loria is the current Deputy Commander of the B.D.F. Minister of State for National Security, Oscar Mira, shared details on the transition plan.

Oscar Mira

Oscar Mira, Minister of State, National Security

“The Belize Defence Force finds itself at the stage where the current commander, which is General Ortega, has reached his retirement age. He has reached his four years of service as the commander of the Belize Defence Force and as the S.I. states after four years, it is time for you to leave. There is Colonel Loria, who is the deputy commander at this point in time, qualified and very much in tune with what is happening at this point in time with the Belize Defence Force and he has been nominated and recommended by our ministry to be the next commanding officer of the Belize Defence Force.”

Reporter

“Are there any other nominees, Sir, or is he the main point person at this time?”

Oscar Mira

“He is the main point person at this point in time. We do have other qualified persons, but we believe Colonel Loria which is the Deputy Commander is going to assume command next year.”