Mexico urges citizens to avoid southern Belize City
The embassy advises against travel to the emergency zone, where police can search without a warrant and hold people for up to 30 days.
Mexico's embassy in Belize urged Mexicans who live in or travel through the country on Tuesday to avoid nonessential trips to the south of Belize City, especially the Southside area, and any zone with security operations.
The advisory follows a state of emergency covering parts of Belize City and Belize District. Governor-General Froyla Tzalam signed the emergency powers regulationsPDF on Oct. 31, and they stay in force as long as the emergency lasts.
Loitering, drinking and gathering in groups of three or more are banned on the street in the zone. Police can enter and search premises without a warrant, and arrest anyone they consider suspicious without one, holding them for up to 30 days.
Minors face a curfew. Between 20:00 and 06:00 they must stay home unless an adult is with them. Breaking the rules carries up to a year in prison.
For travelers coming from Quintana Roo, which borders Belize at Chetumal, the embassy also advises:
- Cooperate with soldiers and police at checkpoints.
- Carry valid official identification.
- Avoid driving on highways at night.
- Tell family members the route you will take.
Belize had already declared another emergency in the city on May 8, over gang violence.
A Mexican who is detained should ask authorities to notify the embassy or a consulate right away. That is how Mexico can step in with consular help.
