BELIZE CITY, Wed. Dec. 2, 2020– For the first time in Belize’s history, a woman police officer will be at the head of the intelligence unit within the Police Department.

Senior Superintendent Sandra Bowen was named the new Commander of Special Branch this past week. This unit in the Police Department is responsible for gathering intelligence and information on criminal matters and is pivotal in our response to major crime across the country.

According to reports, Sr. Supt. Bowen has never held a position as an intelligence officer. This did not stop Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, from confidently selecting her and defending his decision when the topic of her competence in that post was brought forward.

Commissioner Williams expressed absolute confidence in Bowen’s ability to head the unit, adding that top brass women officers have always been effective in carrying out their duty, yielding good results.

“I have not shied away from putting women in key places, and whenever that occurs, we get good results from them. So, I will emphasize the fact that putting Ms. Bowen as the first woman officer to head Special Branch is not a mistake, and I am sure that she will turn out to be one of the best heads that Special Branch will ever have.” Commissioner WIlliams said.

Senior Supt. Bowen has held various leadership positions in units and divisions across the Belize Police Department.