Police Shot Alleged Copper Thief

Belize City police shot a suspected burglar this morning. Police responded to a call around 5:45 am saying that a man was near A and R Store committing a burglary. But, he wasn't breaking into any business - it appears that instead he was trying to strip copper from a building. Police responded with two strike teams from both sides of the city, as well as regular precinct police. But even with all that manpower, police say the Robert Flores, known as "Putung" was advancing towards an officer and they shot him - fortunately it was to the instep of his foot - and there was no serious injury. Flores - who is well known to police for breaking and entering - was taken to the hospital pending charges.