BELIZE CITY, Thurs. Jan. 9, 2020– In his address to the nation for the New Year, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams said that in 2019 criminals used firearms, knives and machetes to commit murders. He said that machetes and knives fall under the Edge Tools Legislation, which will now be enforced.

People found with a blade measuring over 3 inches between 8:00 at night and 5:00 in the morning, will be immediately charged with possession of an article with a blade, under the Criminal Control Act. Also they can be charged under the Summary Jurisdiction Act, for going equipped or with possession of an article with a blade.

Compol Williams said that he has given orders to police commanders to target persons who are drinking or socializing in front of clubs and are armed with knives, or have the knives or machetes tied on their bicycles nearby. These persons should be arrested and charged, said the commissioner.