Crime, Corruption and Contraband at Corozal Free Zone

Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton is calling for national attention and urgent action over what she describes as growing corruption, criminal influence, and fear inside the Corozal Free Zone.

Panton warns that the situation should “alarm ALL Belizeans, most especially those living in our northern border communities who must traverse the Zone daily for work and to support their livelihoods.”

She says that based on “multiple credible accounts” it is alleged that Mexican “criminal” elements, protected by “a handful of well connected political cronies,” are now dictating operations in the Zone. According to the statement, they reportedly determine “what goods receive clearance, when they receive clearance, and what ‘special fees’ are demanded by those inspecting cargo and facilitating movements in and out of this facility.”

Panton says “a culture of fear prevails,” explaining that business owners and employees choose silence “out of concern for their own safety and the safety of their families and loved ones.” She cites reports of containers sitting idle for “five to six weeks,” causing delays and increasing the cost of doing business.

Despite the concerns, Panton says there has been “no word from the Ministry of Finance; no word from the Ministry with oversight for Trade and Commerce; no word from the Ministry of National Defence; no word from the Ministry responsible for Border Security; no word from the Customs and Excise Department; no word from the Management Authority of the Zone itself. Not a single word of caution or concern.”

She adds that the illegal movement of counterfeit cigarettes and the transshipment of illicit drugs, including fentanyl, are said to be dominating activity within the Zone and at nearby border points. She warns that the pattern “poses a direct and immediate threat to Belize’s national security, financial integrity, and international reputation.”

Panton also points to international scrutiny, stating, “our friendly neighbors to the north are not asleep. They are watching closely, carefully, and with deep concern. They know who is politically connected, who are the facilitators, and who are the beneficiaries.” She further alleges that it appears they “forced the hand of the Prime Minister and one who is considered one of his most trusted allies in Cabinet.”