Last night police officers working the streets of the south side got a surprise from Minister of National Security John Saldivar - who paid them an unexpected visit.
Along with CEO Felix Enriquez and Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie Saldivar was briefed on the southside situation by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams and led on the tour by Southside Commander, Senior Superintendent Howell Gillett.
We spoke Gillett about it today and he said the visit had a positive effect on his officers.
Sr. Supt. Howell Gillett - OC. Eastern Division
"It was a surprise visit first of all. He toured the operations room and he was briefed. He was along with the CEO and the ministry of nation al security, Mr. Felix Enriquez and the comments coming from the troops on the ground, be it the police or the BDF operating on the ground, he visited every single check point within the south side of Belize City and that in itself sends message that he is very intricate. He wants to be very close to the fight against crime and we are very pleased for that. The comments coming from the officers, you have seen my social media page. The officers are so happy and it's something that they are saying that it didn't happen in a long while and they are happy for it and I believe."
Reporter
"Its boosting them up just to see that their minister is coming out."
Sr. Supt. Howell Gillett - OC. Eastern Division
"It boosts the morale of the officers and it's something that I would want to encourage the minister to continue do and the ministry to continue do to boost the morale of the officers."
Saldivar's visit comes just as the government has taken the decision to rely on the police to contain crime on the southside rather than declaring emergency areas.
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