Dr Richard Rosado, to proceed on 45 days’ leave “in the first instance” as the controversy over the “abduction” of a Belizean and his surrender to Guatemalan authorities took yet another turn. Last week, Briceño had asked his Home Affairs Minister, Kareem Musa, to provide an update over the controversial “abduction” of Ryan Joseph Budna. On August 24, the Belize Police Department said it had officially launched an investigation into an incident involving Budna, which occurred on August 22.

“The Policia National Civil (PNC) of Guatemala has confirmed that Mr Ryan Joseph Budna is in their custody pursuant to an arrest warrant; however, they have not disclosed the details surrounding his apprehension,” the police said, adding that its own investigation was initiated based on an official report filed by a witness to the event. “The witness reported observing a confrontation involving several individuals, one of whom matched the description of Mr Budna, who was subsequently placed into a dark-coloured SUV bearing a Belize City license plate,” the police added.

But a government statement said that Briceño had received the police report from Musa and “found the report to be incomplete and, therefore, unsatisfactory”. “In the circumstances, the prime minister has directed that Dr Richard Rosado, Commissioner of Police, proceed on a leave of absence for forty-five (45) days in the first instance. This leave is to commence with immediate effect,” the statement said. It said that Rosado’s leave, “in the context of the high level of public interest in this matter, as well as the grave allegations made against the police department and the incomplete investigative report, is proper and proportionate at this time”.

The government said that Deputy Commissioner of Police Bart Jones will be appointed as acting commissioner of police for the period of Commissioner Rosado’s absence. “Both Rosado and Jones have assured the minister of home affairs…of their cooperation, ensuring that all police department operations flow seamlessly during this period,” the statement added. (Jamaica Observer/Love FM Belize)