Yesterday (May 6) Governor-General Dame Froyla Tzalam issued a proclamation declaring a state of public emergency in specific areas of Belize City, the Belize District, and the Cayo District, effective immediately, in response to an escalated threat to public safety.

Under the Constitution, law enforcement gains increased powers to restore order and maintain peace in the affected communities.

The list of areas covered includes the following: in the Belize City and Belize District:

 • George Price Highway to Belize River, Central American Blvd to Lake Independence Blvd

 • Central American Blvd to George Price Highway to Fabers Road

 • Central American Blvd to George Price Highway to the Caribbean Sea to Fabers Road

 • Haulover Creek to Cemetery Road to Central American Blvd to West Collet Canal

 • Sections around Cemetery Road, Queen Charlotte Street, Caesar Ridge Road

 • Yarborough Road to Regent Street to Haulover Creek

 • Queen Street, Handyside Street, Gabourel Lane, North Front Street

 • all of Ladyville Village, including Lord’s Bank

 • the communities at Mile 7 to 9 on the George Price Highway (Western Paradise) including West Lake, Eight Miles, Sunset, and Western Pines

In the Cayo District:

 • Hattieville Area, Roaring Creek Village

 • Another World Area, Roaring Creek Village

 • Young Bank Area, Camalote Village

The emergency proclamation will initially remain in force for one month unless revoked earlier. However, it can be extended by the National Assembly in periods not exceeding twelve months at a time. New Commissioner of Police Dr Richard Rosado has advocated for as much as six months to quell tensions.