Defence Attorneys Demand Independent Investigation

The Belize Association of Defence Attorneys (ADA) is calling for an independent and transparent investigation into the abduction of Joseph Budna.

The kidnapping occurred on the night of August 22, 2025, in Orange Walk Town, just steps away from a police station.

The ADA expressed deep concern over what it described as a “grave violation of fundamental human rights,” citing the proximity of the incident to law enforcement and the nature of the actions taken against Budna. The Association is demanding the immediate public release of all surveillance footage from that night.

“The actions witnessed that night – a citizen being forcibly taken under circumstances suggesting extrajudicial and extraterritorial conduct – are an affront to the rule of law and the basic rights to due process. If the very custodians of our law turn a blind eye to such violations, they risk becoming complicit in undermining the trust and integrity of our justice system,” the ADA stated.

The Association is urging the Government of Belize, the Ministry of National Security, and the Police Department to act swiftly and thoroughly in investigating the incident.