Managed security services in Belize

Security considerations in Belize

A programme in Belize often spans the mainland and the cayes, with sites in Belize City, on Ambergris Caye and along the southern coast. A managed programme applies the same post orders, supervision and reporting format at each site, and plans supervisor visits around boat and domestic flight schedules to the islands. English is the official language and the working language for officers; Spanish is widely spoken and is useful at many retail and visitor sites.

The main tourist season runs from December to April, and cruise ship days bring short, heavy peaks of visitors to Belize City. Coverage plans should include relief officers, seasonal reinforcement for resort and island sites, clear opening and closing procedures, and continuity plans for the hurricane season from June to November.

• Fort George, Belize City
• Fort Street Tourism Village
• San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
• Placencia
• Belmopan
• San Ignacio
• Corozal Free Zone

How MGP delivers coverage in Belize

Coverage in Belize runs on the MGP Global Partner Program: MGP designs and manages the programme, and officers are supplied by vetted local security partners and held to MGP Post Orders.

Private security regulation in Belize

• Private security is governed by the Private Security and Investigation Services (Control) Act, Chapter 138.01 of the Laws of Belize. Source
• No person may act as a security guard unless licensed under the Act, and applications for guard and security company licences are made to the Commissioner of Police. Source
• A security company applying for a licence must show financial viability, have or undertake to obtain adequate insurance, and have a system for training its guards in the use of firearms and other equipment. Guards must carry their licence while on duty. Source

Cities in Belize

• Belize City
• San Pedro
• Belmopan
• Placencia
• San Ignacio
• Corozal

Coverage in other areas, including Caye Caulker, Dangriga, Orange Walk and Hopkins, is arranged on request.

Frequently asked questions

Does MGP hold its own security licence in Belize?

No. MGP does not hold its own security licence in Belize. Officers are employed by vetted Belizean security companies that hold the licences required under Belizean law, and MGP manages the programme, its standards and its reporting.

What languages do officers speak?

All officers speak English. Officers with working Spanish are assigned where a site serves Spanish-speaking customers or visitors, and the level required is set in each site’s post orders.

See the Latin America overview for other countries.