Two Charged After Marijuana, Gun and Ammo Seized in Belize District

Police in the Belize District have arrested and charged two individuals, 21-year-old Taedra Robateau and 25-year-old Joshua Franklin, following the discovery of drugs, a firearm, and ammunition over the weekend.  Authorities say the operation was carried out in a rural community, where law enforcement conducted a search that led to the seizure of several illicit items. Among the most significant finds was approximately 739 grams of marijuana, along with a firearm and a quantity of ammunition.  The two suspects are now facing multiple charges in connection with the discovery, as investigations continue into the extent of their activities.  Police say the manner in which the marijuana was packaged has raised concerns about possible drug trafficking.  ASP Stacy Smith, Communications Officer for the Belize Police Department, explained that the packaging is consistent with distribution.

Stacy Smith, Assistant Superintendent of Police: “Police have formally arrested and jointly charged 21-year-old Teja Robateau and 25-year-old Joshua Franklin, both of Hattiville Village, for the offense of possession of control drugs with intent to supply, kept firearm without a gun license, and kept ammunition without a gun license. These charges follow police’s execution of a search warrant at a residence in Hattiville on Wednesday 1st April 2026 which led to the discovery of seven parcels of suspected cannabis weighing a total of 739 grams along with a Glock 9mm pistol containing 13 live rounds of 9mm ammunition as well as two 9mm extended magazines, one of which contained 13 live rounds of 9mm ammunition and the other 17 live rounds of 9mm ammunition.”

According to Smith, the packaging suggests that the drugs were not intended for personal use, but rather for sale, pointing to potential involvement in drug dealing.