Belize plane hijacking thwarted by courageous passenger

• What happened? An armed man, Akinyela Sawa Taylor, took control of a small passenger plane in Belize, Central America, demanding a flight beyond the country's borders. Shots were fired during the incident, resulting in two people being injured.
• Where and when did it take place? The incident occurred en route from Corozal to San Pedro in the Belize district, on the island of Ambergris Caye. The plane eventually landed at Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City.
• The assailant died in hospital. His motives remain unknown. The authorities have announced a review of security procedures.

During the flight from Corozal to San Pedro in Belize, Akinyela Sawa Taylor took control of the plane. He demanded the pilot fly beyond the country's borders. The American threatened the pilot and passengers with a knife, injuring two people.

While circling the coast near Belize City, one of the passengers made a desperate move. He shot Taylor, injuring him in the chest.

After these dramatic scenes, the plane safely landed at Philip Goldson International Airport. However, Taylor died in hospital from his injuries.

As a result of the shooting, two people were injured, including one in critical condition. Belize Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, emphasised that the passengers avoided a greater tragedy because the plane ran out of fuel while landing. The police coordinated efforts at various airports, not knowing where the plane would eventually land.

In response to the incident in Belize, a detailed review of safety procedures for domestic flights is planned. The US Embassy in Belize has pledged to cooperate with local authorities to ensure the safety of tourists and residents.