A major drug smuggling ring is under investigation within the Belize Customs Department, according to Police Commissioner Dr. Richard Rosado. Authorities are currently probing the involvement of seven customs officers in this ongoing operation. The list includes two officers who are related and five additional coworkers connected to the suspected ring.
The investigation began in April when one alert customs officer received a suspicious call. Two of his colleagues reportedly asked him to be on the lookout for a package labeled as a shipment of Bath & Body Works products. The officer, sensing something was wrong, chose to inspect the parcel closely upon arrival.
That decision led to the shocking discovery of 150 pounds of high-grade marijuana, cleverly concealed within the shipment. The illegal cargo carries an estimated street value of nearly one million Belize dollars. This finding immediately triggered a wider investigation into what appears to be a carefully coordinated drug smuggling ring operating under the cover of legitimate cargo.
Dr. Rosado confirmed that criminal charges are expected shortly, starting with the first two officers involved. Meanwhile, authorities continue to dig deeper to determine the full extent of the operation. The case has already exposed serious vulnerabilities within the Customs Department, raising questions about internal oversight and accountability.
Police are working alongside other national security bodies to ensure a thorough and impartial process. Investigators are confident that additional arrests may follow as more evidence surfaces.
This developing case highlights the importance of integrity among public officials, especially those in sensitive positions. The Customs Department, now under intense scrutiny, will likely face increased reforms aimed at preventing similar breaches in the future.
