Unbelievable the Cubans that arrived on our island are presently in the local jail awaiting shipment to jail in Belize City for onward transportation to Cuba-does anyone here think that they are going to get a heroes gala reception when they arrive-no they will go to prison for a number of years.
What normally happens is that they are shipped by boat to Mexico(with the tacit approval of the government even though there is a treaty between Belize and Cuba expressly saying that all refugees must be sent back to Cuba) and then shipped to the USA through Cuban sympathisers-this is not possible as various people who should know better have made a big deal in the press and on the radio-what a shame

How long for this post to be taken off?

I don't think this one will be removed as most people agree with you.

When was the last time that happened?

2 months ago

Sad is right. It was my very first thought that had nothing been said, these people could have been quietly escorted a bit further north. However, because it was announced, I had a good idea that things would not go well for them.

its elbert fault

Jeeeeesus how I hate to have to agree with the resident psychopath/moron Pedro1 but I have no choice. The rocket scientist up the coast / "(various people who should know better)" really blew that one.

From Elberts post in the photo forum it was a neighbor that called the police in on the situation. I do agree with P1 that unfortunately the law will do what they are destined to do. It is so sad to hear that they will be sent back to face only God knows what.

Are they actually in jail in San Pedro? That is so sad. I'm so sorry to read that they will be sent back to Cuba.

Latest News on the subject:

Cuban Boat People Will Get Send-off, Not Deportation
posted (March 4, 2008)
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The 17 Cubans who arrived on Northern Ambergris Caye yesterday morning are tonight at the Price Barracks after being taken there this morning. CEO in the Prime Minister’s Office Audrey Wallace has confirmed to us that the plan is not to deport them. She says they have told Belizean authorities they were heading for Honduras, so their boat will be repaired, they will be given fuel and provisions, and hopefully, a compass, and sent on their way.

And while that may not conform to the letter of the standing deportation agreement with the government of Cuba, it is consistent with what has been the standard practice. A number of times in the past Cuban boats ended up on Belize’s outer islands such as Lighthouse Reef – and the BDF gave them gas and water, fixed their vessels if necessary and sent them off. And while that’s what’s planned this time, it might not be so simple. Seems their vessel which was adapted to run on a diesel car engine and we are told by our sources, is completely not sea worthy. If repairing it is not an option, they would likely have to be deported.
end of article.
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My thoughts --- I doubt that most folks here want to send these people back to Cuba (although that is what our international legal agreements dictate), but the bigger the public fuss, the more likely that the event will fall under scutiny by the cubans and GOB will be forced to do something to please the cuban govt.