National Security Strategy of Belize 2. Reduce violent crime and dismantle local, cross border, and trans-national criminal networks “ Lead Agency: Ministry of National Security ® Rationale: • Is entrusted by the government with Administration of the Police Department who by law is responsible for the preservation of Law and Order within Belize • Strengths: Has the required leadership, training, skills and operational experience. • Shortfalls: Requires specific technical, material and human resources some of which are available from the identified supporting agencies. • Supporting Agencies: BPD, Attorney General’s Ministry, BNCG, BDF, Forest, Immigration, Customs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, NGOs, Private Sector, Ministry of Housing, NCFC, Department of Corrections, FIU, Ministry of Youth, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, Income Tax 3. Strengthen the criminal justice system and ensure respect for the Rule of Law “ Lead Agency: Attorney General’s Ministry ® Rationale: • Senior legal office in Government with oversight of the justice system; the promotion of human rights; and the provision of legal aid • Strength: Understanding of the law and the capability to prosecute offenders • Shortfalls: Lack of adequate human resources, limited training and equipment • Supporting Agencies: Ministry of National Security, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, NGOs, Private Sector, Ministry of Housing, NCFC, Department of Corrections, FIU, Office of the Ombudsman, BPA, Customs, Fisheries, Transport, Income Tax, CAA, BACC (Airport), Forest Department Execution and Monitoring Programmes 31