Belize state of emergency brings checkpoints to 11 zones for 1 month

What changed in Belize City

Belize declared a State of Public Emergency in parts of Belize City and the Belize District on May 8, after a surge in gang-related killings and shootings. The order, signed under Statutory Instrument No. 49 of 2026, covers 11 zones in Belize City plus nearby communities in the district and gives police and military units wider powers for patrols, checkpoints, searches and detentions.

Officials said the measure was tied to recent violence, including the killing of Salma Funez and shootings involving Jamal Samuels, Hubert Baptist and Eric Fraser. Police Commissioner Richard Rosado has said operations are ongoing.

Who feels it most

The emergency affects residents, commuters and anyone moving through the listed areas, including expats, digital nomads and travelers staying in or passing through Belize City. Checkpoints can slow travel and security sweeps raise the chance of stops, searches and delays.

The impacted areas include parts of Southside and Northside Belize City along Freetown Road, Philip Goldson Highway and Haulover Creek, plus rural Belize District communities such as Ladyville, Burrell Boom, Bermudian Landing and Double Head Cabbage. U.S. advisories already urge caution in Southside Belize City and the wider tourism sector should watch for spillover.

What to do now

The emergency is set to run for up to one month, unless revoked earlier or extended by the National Assembly. There’s no new visa rule or fee, but people in affected zones should expect more police contact and follow all lawful instructions at checkpoints.

Travelers heading through Belize City should allow extra time and keep IDs handy. For ongoing coverage, check our visa updates and read our full Belize guide for the complete picture.