Police seek to reassure public’s safety following  murder of ‘street figure’ in Belize City

In the wake of a brazen daylight execution in Belize City, local law enforcement authorities are working diligently to allay fears and restore a sense of security within the community. 

The victim, 48-year-old Jose Matus, a “well-known street figure”  fell victim to a targeted attack, leaving the city’s residents on edge.

Police Commissioner’s reassurance

Police Commissioner Chester Williams addressed the concerns of Belizean citizens, assuring them of the police force’s commitment to maintaining safety in the city. 

“I can assure the Belizean people and particularly the residents of Belize City that the police will be doing what needs to be done to make sure the city is safe,” Williams. 

Details of the incident 

According to police reports, the incident occurred when Matus had gone to pick up two sisters, Breena and Brineya Brown. 

As they sat in their vehicle, a van pulled up alongside them. Reports are that two gunmen emerged from the van and unleashed a barrage of bullets into his vehicle. 

The attack left Matus lifeless behind the wheel, while the Brown sisters suffered injuries.

Rising violent crimes

The Belize City police have been grappling with an alarming surge in violent crimes over the past 24 hours. 

Commissioner Williams revealed that law enforcement officials convened earlier on Monday to address this pressing issue. 

“We do have a flare up currently and…the police will be doing what needs to be done to get control of the situation. I am not going to disclose what we are going to do, but I can assure the Belizean people that we are looking at the issue and we are going to deal with it,” he said.

Community concerns

Residents in the affected neighborhood have openly expressed their fears, particularly in light of the fact that Matus was killed in a residential area not far from Grace Primary School. 

Additionally, a nearby property frequently hosts children playing outdoors in the yard. The proximity of the crime scene to these innocent bystanders has intensified concerns among the local populace.

Prior attempt to kill Matus 

This tragic incident follows a previous attempt to kill Matus in mid-October of 2023 when an unidentified assailant fired multiple rounds at his vehicle. 

Authorities are now bracing for a potential wave of reprisals in the aftermath of Matus’ murder.