Two Charged After High-Speed Chase Ends in Seizure of Illegal Seafood

The Belize Fisheries Department says two men are facing charges after officers, assisted by the Belize Police Department, intercepted a pickup truck along the Hattieville-Boom Road following a brief pursuit during an early morning enforcement operation today.

According to the Department, a search of the vehicle turned up a substantial quantity of seafood suspected to have been illegally imported into Belize, including 290 pounds of tilapia fillets, 335 pounds of jumbo shrimp, and 14 octopuses.

The release states the vehicle and seafood products were seized by the Fisheries Department, and that two adult males were detained and subsequently charged in connection with the alleged illegal importation of fisheries products. They are expected to appear before the Belize City Magistrate’s Court on Friday, September 4th.

The Department’s release reminds the public that importing fish and fisheries products into Belize requires proper permits and full compliance with applicable laws and regulations, adding that unauthorized importation can pose food safety and phytosanitary risks and undermines local businesses that follow the rules.