A 2-day police operation called Operation Ambergris Caye was conducted by the Eastern Division Police on San Pedro in response to a spate of crimes that was disturbing the peace of the island.

The operation began Thursday morning and concluded Sunday morning.

Senior Superintendent Edward Broaster, commander of the operation, said that the purpose of the operation was to address the increasing number of shooting incidents and other crimes being committed on the island town and to ensure that San Pedro returns to being the tranquil place it has been known to be – a place where both residents and tourists can feel secure.

As part of the operation, officers searched 250 persons, 20 premises, and 20 known drug bases. Ten suspected vehicles were stopped and checked; and 8 persons were arrested on various offenses, including immigration.

Of those arrested, one person was detained for immigration offenses; another person was arrested for possession of a crack pipe, and a deportee was detained for failing to report to the proper authorities.

1,216 grams of cocaine and 1,097 grams of cannabis were confiscated, a crack pipe was found (no one was arrested for this crack pipe) and confiscated and a ganja plant measuring two feet was found and destroyed, among other items found.

Police also announced that a 9mm CZ 110 pistol, loaded with a magazine containing 3 live 9mm rounds, was found, and that the operation also confiscated a liter of Teachers whisky, 3 liters of Bacardi white rum, and a liter of Label 5 whisky, all being contraband goods.

The team consisted of GSU, Special Branch, Anti-Drug Unit, ED Quick Response Team, BDF and Coast Guard officers.

A team of SB/GSU along with Coast Guard personnel also made maritime patrols along the coast, north of San Pedro.