By the WBWTN News Team | May 29, 2025
Orange Walk Town, Belize (WBWTN) — Freelance journalist Ryan Budna has raised serious concerns about what he describes as an attempt to intimidate him following a suspicious phone call purporting to be from the Cyber Crimes Unit in Belmopan.
In a public statement released via his official Facebook page, Budna recounted receiving a call from an individual identifying himself as Inspector Shal from the Cyber Crimes Unit. The caller allegedly instructed him to report to the Orange Walk Police Station in connection with an assault report he had filed earlier in the week.
Upon his arrival at the station, Budna was informed that one of the two officers he was advised to ask for was currently on vacation, while the other had no connection to his case. According to Budna, the situation raised red flags and prompted him to make additional inquiries.
He expressed his belief that the incident may be part of a broader effort to intimidate him through the threat of potential but unfounded cybercrime allegations.
Budna, known for his investigative work and social commentary, has previously voiced concerns over press freedom and the treatment of independent journalists in Belize.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official response from the Belize Police Department or the Cyber Crimes Unit regarding the allegations made by Mr. Budna.