Police Intervene in Duck Run Three, Belize, Amid Tensions Over Evictions for Cemetery Plans

A land dispute in Duck Run Three, Cayo District, Belize, has escalated as police intervened to support the village council's plans to establish a cemetery. Villagers, who have occupied the land for years, are resisting eviction, citing a lack of ownership papers and claiming harassment by authorities.

This conflict highlights the complexities of land rights and the challenges faced by communities without formal documentation. The outcome of this legal battle could set a precedent for other communities in Belize and influence future policies on land ownership and eviction.

On May 21, 2024, police accompanied village authorities to investigate the growing hostility between the villagers and the village chairman. The villagers argue that they are being wrongfully evicted from the land they cleared and built their homes on. One resident mentioned, *"We made several attempts to apply [for ownership papers], but we were given the runaround due to political differences."*

The situation has become increasingly tense as villagers explore legal options against what they describe as harassment by the police and the village chairman. They are seeking court action to resolve the dispute and secure their right to remain on the land.

The village council's plan to establish a cemetery has been met with strong resistance from the community. Residents argue that the land has been their home for years, and they have invested significant effort in developing it. The lack of formal ownership papers has left them vulnerable to eviction.

As the dispute continues, the villagers' determination to fight for their homes remains strong. They are hopeful that legal intervention will provide a resolution that acknowledges their long-term occupation and efforts to obtain ownership papers.

The outcome of this legal battle could set a precedent for other communities in Belize facing similar issues of land occupation and ownership. It highlights the complexities of land rights and the challenges faced by those without formal documentation.

As the villagers of Duck Run Three await the court's decision, their struggle underscores the broader issue of land rights in Belize. The resolution of this conflict will be closely watched by other communities and could influence future policies on land ownership and eviction.

Key Takeaways

• Villagers in Duck Run Three, Belize resist eviction for cemetery project.
• Lack of ownership papers leaves villagers vulnerable to eviction.
• Villagers claim harassment by authorities, seek legal action.
• Outcome could set precedent for other Belizean communities.
• Conflict highlights complexities of land rights and ownership.