Contract Submitted to Rebuild Sarstoon FOB
Brig. Gen. Azariel Loria
The Forward Operating Base at the mouth of the Sarstoon River, because of the structural damage it has suffered over the last few years to the elements, has not been sound enough for occupancy. So the BDF has been visiting the area to conduct patrols along the Sarstoon River. But when they are not around, it leaves the southern border vulnerable to people who engage in illicit activities. One of the recent concerns along the west and southern borders has been the discovery of coca leaves that have been planted for the production of cocaine. But now, those activities will be cut, if not eliminated along the Sarstoon when the Forward Operating Base is restored. Today BDF Commandant, Azariel Loria told the media that a contract for the rebuilding of the base has been submitted.
Brigadier-General Azariel Loria, Commandant, B.D.F.
“We have a contractor that has submitted an estimate to refurbish the current building and that is an immediate measure. In the mid and long term we are going to try to build a proper FOB where our guys can live comfortably and control access to that river. And, we also intend to – because it’s only the BDF that are manning it right now because of the little areas, it’s marshy and it’s unsafe right now to be living there – so we’re going to refurbish it, brace it up properly in order that we ensure survivability should in case any hurricanes or any storms. We have to be prepared to ensure that we give the soldiers a better facility to live in. After all, we are going to be there working 24 7. I always say, that is one of our survey pegs, or pillars, or monument of our country. Just like your lot has four corners, that is one of our corners, and we’ve got to man it. It’s ours.”
Reporter
“So then right now, they’re not living there. They’re just conducting their daily patrols.”
Brigadier-General Azariel Loria
“It’s a combination of both. We’re not going to say, they’re living there 24 7 or not. And that is – we just don’t want to give a pattern of what we do, but we continue to be there for as long as we could.”
Reporter
“So the contractor has given you a timeline by when he will finish? He/she?”
Brigadier-General Azariel Loria
“We’re trying to get the barge, the materials, so all of that, but he has submitted the estimate and it’s a bit substantial. But then,it needs to get done, and you have seen the prime minister of Belize have visit the place first time, and we gotta build it. We have to ensure that the area is safe.”
