A Belize City construction worker has been arrested and charged for allegedly robbing a teenage girl at gunpoint in broad daylight and later escaping from police custody.
Police have formally arrested and charged 26-year-old Omar Morales with the crime of robbery.
The incident occurred last week Tuesday at around 9:50 a.m.
According to police, a 16-year-old female minor reported that she was at the corner of East Canal and Regent Street when she was approached by a Hispanic male who was armed with a firearm.
The assailant reportedly demanded that she hand over her belongings, and fearing for her life, the teen complied. The gunman made off with two chains valued at $50 and a cellphone worth $1,100.
Police say surveillance footage proved instrumental in identifying and apprehending Morales. During the course of the investigation, officers were able to recover the stolen phone.
Morales has also been slapped with an additional charge of escape from lawful custody. Police report that while detained at the Precinct One police station, Morales managed to jump the counter and escape. He was later recaptured by authorities.
Morales remains in custody pending arraignment.