Constable Martin Bustillos of the Corozal Police has been reported missing from the Corozal Police Formation since Tuesday, July 23, and up to press time tonight, his whereabouts are yet unknown.

Assistant Superintendent Andrew Ramirez, the Commanding Officer of the Corozal Police Formation, told reporters that the last time Bustillos reported for duty was on Friday, July 19. After he concluded duties, he was given his scheduled three days off, which were the ensuing Saturday, Sunday, and Monday — July 20 to 22. After his days off, Bustillo should have reported to work on Tuesday, July 23, at 7 a.m., but he has not been seen since.

His parents and his common-law wife were contacted, and they also were at a loss as to his whereabouts. Bustillo’s parents live in San Estevan Village, and Bustillo lives in Santa Clara.

Ramirez said that they are concerned, and want him found as quickly as possible. He said that on Sunday, July 28, Bustillos contacted a fellow police officer and said that he was depressed, after he withdrew cash from a Belize Bank ATM machine in Belize City on Friday, July 26.

Bustillo’s Commanding Officer said that he is not taking the absence lightly, because in a previous instance they had taken it lightly when another officer had been absent from duty without leave, and the officer was found dead.

Since then, said Ramirez, he takes the absence of policemen without leave very seriously. Anyone who sees or knows the whereabouts of PC Martin Bustillos is asked to contact the nearest police station or call 911.