Total prison population: 1097 prisoners 

Crime trend: Increase in drugs- and gun-related crime

Belize is a major transit point to the US for cocaine, and narcotics-related crime is high. Armed robberies by criminal gangs based in neighboring Guatemala are also a major concern. The police force lacks resources and training, and a government ombudsman was appointed in 2000 to investigate police brutality and corruption.

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004