9 days ago we told you about an unexpected find that the Customs Department made when they searched a 20 foot container. Concealed inside they found a gin barrel, a rifle bottle assembly, a firearm trigger assembly, a slide and barrel for a nine millimeter gun, and many boxes of assorted ammunition. In short, the importer had almost all the parts needed to put together a gun, along with plenty of ammunition. But since then, police haven't said anything about the find - no one has been arrested - even though the container was brought in by an identified US National from Stann Creek. Now, it would seem like importing weaponry would be illegal - and an arrest would be made. But, nothing has happened. We asked police why today:...
ASP Alejandro Cowo - CIB, Belize City
"That is a matter that was initially discovered by the Customs Department. They made the discovery and as a result of that, they called in the Police Department. Members of the Police Department went and it is with a joint operation that we conducted that investigation- the Customs Department and the Police Department from the anti-narcotics unit."
Jules Vasquez - Reporter
"Ok, but it was imported in the name of a US national?"
ASP Alejandro Cowo
"Yes."
Jules Vasquez
"I'm saying, my concern is that if the average Belizean had brought in such things in a container experience indicates that that person would have already been arrested charged and probably remanded for the importation without license of firearm assembly. The only thing missing is the stock. I am saying, why have there not been charges brought against the importer who is a known US national from Stann Creek District?"
ASP Alejandro Cowo
"Well Jules, as I told you, that investigation is under its way. If anybody is to be charged when the investigation concludes it will decide if anybody will be charged or not."
From what we were told, police did conduct a search at this US National's home in the south, but found nothing. The container was declared on the manifest to contain an automobile and 71 pieces of used household and personal effects. It originated from Denver, and came through New York to Belize. The person came to Belize to live.
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