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Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials
The San Pedro Sun
New Shark species discovered in Belize has been identified
A new shark species discovered in Belizean waters about two years ago has been named the Atlantic Sixgill Shark. The identification was made by scientists of the Florida Institute of Technology, Mar-Alliance in Belize, Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory in Teresa, Florida and the National Marine Fisheries Service.
Mar-Alliance had been working with local fishers to conduct research on sharks in Belize for more than 20 years and a couple of years ago they began to research the deep sea sharks as well. One of the very first deep-sea sharks they caught was right off the barrier reef at around 800 feet deep, which they thought was the "Bigeye Sixgill shark" (Hexanchus nakamurai).
San Pedro Cancer Society elects new board
The San Pedro Cancer Society (SPCS) elected a new board of directors at their Annual General Meeting held on Wednesday, February 14th. The members that will now take reins of the organization for 2018 are Delsie Graniel as President, Miguel Perez as Vice-President, Claudia Miranda as Treasurer and Lucy Mu�oz as Secretary. Newly elected president Graniel shared with The San Pedro Sun that she is excited about this new challenge in her life and encourages the community to follow them on their Facebook page for constant updates on their activities. "We are planning to offer information on the different types of cancers every month, so feel free to like our social media page," said Graniel. "Also we are gearing up for our biggest event of the year in October, which is also breast cancer awareness month. Throughout that month the community can take advantage of pap smears and breast exams at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic."
One loss, one win, Tiger Sharks still lead in the NEBL
The San Pedro Tiger Sharks maintained their lead in the 2018 National Elite Basketball League (NEBL) tournament despite experiencing their first loss on Friday, February 23rd against the Belize City Defenders. The grueling match ended with a final score of 76-70 in favor of the City's squad. However, the following day, the island played a second game hosting the Orange Walk Running Rebels. At the end of four arduous quarters, the island boys emerged victorious with a final score of 92-86.
San Pedro Lions Club hosts Directors from Costa Rica and Panama
The San Pedro Lions Club had the privilege of hosting Lions Directors from Panama and Costa Rica on Monday, February 26th. Visiting Lion Luis Castillo from Panama and Gerald Mory from Costa Rica along with their companions enjoyed a familiarization trip on the island that included visits to The San Pedro Town Council, the San Pedro Lions Den, Hope Haven Children's Home, and the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II. Castillo and Mory had been in Belize City over the weekend delivering a two-day training to members of the four Lion Clubs in Belize (San Esteban, Belmopan, Belize City and San Pedro). The training touched on teamwork, efficient meetings, and motivation, along with the processes of membership, services, and leadership which are the main focus of Lions International.
Ambergris Today
Belize Saddened And Shocked With Rape Of Baby Girl
Thursday, March 1, 2018, reports of a 17-month old baby girl being brutally raped in rural Belize spread like wildfire across social media. Very little is known as to what went on but what is certain is that a one year old is in critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital for being brutally raped both vaginally and anally by someone known by her family.
Belizeans are outraged by this heinous crime and have blatantly expressed their disgust and anger throughout social media outlets. The Belize Family Life Association and the Special Envoy for Women and Children have issued press releases on the matter. They are as follows:
Fisheries Department Reminds Public Of Illegal Poaching Of Sea Turtles
The Department hereby reminds the public that in accordance with Section 10 of Statutory Instrument No. 66 of 2002, under the Fisheries Act Chapter 210 of the Laws of Belize Revised Edition 2000-2003:
� No person should interfere with any marine turtle nest
� No person should have in possession any marine turtle of the following species:
a) Eretmochelys imbricate (Hawksbill Turtle)
b) Carretta carreta (Loggerhead Turtle)
c) Chelonia mydas (Green Turtle)
d) Dermochelys coriacea (Leatherback Turtles)
e) Lepidochelys Kemp (Kemp Ridley)
f) Lepidochelys Kemp (Olive Ridley)
Child Stimulation Month 2018 Opens With Parade
Child Stimulation Month 2018 kicked off countrywide under the theme "Birth to Eight - Children must Play". Pre-Schools on the island celebrated the opening of Child Stimulation Month with a parade throught the main streets of San Pedro. Children were in colorful costumes displaying, social workers, National Symbols of Belize, Colors, Shapes, Numbers, the Weather, Farm Animals, Domestic Animals and so much more. Here are a few pics for your entertainment. Enjoy!
Misc Belizean Sources
Child Stimulation Month Kickoff
We were delighted to join preschoolers from across the City of Belmopan at the Independence Plaza to officially kick-off Child Stimulation Month this morning. This year's theme is "Birth to Eight: Children Must Play!"
Chinese Car Wash closed for good in front of the fire station in Corozal
Corozal Community College Drug Awareness Week
Lunch on the Lawn
Child Stimulation month in San Pedro
Child Stimulation month 2018 is celebrated under the theme "Birth to eight, children must play." This theme is inline with UN's Conventions on the Right of a Child - Article 31 which states that every child has the right to play and rest.
At the kick off ceremony in San Pedro Town, Mayor Daniel Guerrero emphasized that we all have a role in ensuring that we not only live up to Article 31, but all 54 Articles.
Over the last 4 weeks, FCD's Environmental Educator has been busy in Belize City
Twenty primary schools, with a total of 2,485 students and 88 teachers have been sensitized on the importance of the Chiquibul-Mopan-Macal-Belize River and methods of protecting these rivers. We are grateful to FYFFES for the support in making this possible.
U Janal Aj Maya: Traditional Maya Cuisine
A book by Aurora Garcia Saqui with Amy Lichty. The Mayan Culture Healing Art ancestors obtained their food from the forest and plants that have been domesticated for thousands of years. Corn (maize) was the main staple of the Mayan Sky Canopy Tour WBT Empire. When there was a drought and the corn harvest didn't produce the needed food supply, fruit of the bread-nut tree was often harvested.
I am a Belize Yucatec Maya who grew up in San Antonio, San Ignacio, Cayo District, Belize. My mother told us a story from when she was a child. No One Cares year the corn crop didn't do well because of drought, but my grandfather planted his corn at the right time and the harvest was productive. The villagers came to my grandfather and traded gold coins for ears of corn. While gold was valuable, there wasn't much that it could be traded for, so he buried it like you would put money in a bank. Through stories passed down the generations, we know that the Ancient Maya Mountain Research Farm planted Ceiba trees to mark where they had buried their treasures. To this day, my grandfather's gold is still hidden away and may very well be at the base of a Ceiba tree.
Solar Water System to Supply Safe Water to 1,000 Residents of San Victor Village, Corozal District
An Official Ceremony to inaugurate the new upgrade and expansion of San Victor Rudimentary Water System was held on the compound of the new water tank in San Victor Village, Corozal District on today, Thursday, March 1, 2018.
The Government of Belize is enabling men, women, and children of San Victor Village to have easier access to the supply of Safe Water to meet their daily water needs for drinking, cooking, bathing and washing.
The Water Project was funded courtesy of a grant from the Caribbean Development Bank under the Basic Needs Trust Fund, BNTF7's Water and Sanitation System Enhancement Sector with counterpart funding from the Government of Belize and the community of San Victor totaling $830,802.56.
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY: Kemitraan Negara Bekembang (KNB) Scholarship 2018
Master's Degree Scholarship Opportunity!
India-UN Development Partnership Fund to Support Human Development, Health, and Sports
The India-UN Development Partnership Fund has granted over USD 600,000 for the Support to Infrastructure for Human Development, Health, and Sports Project in Belize. UNDP's support to the project consists in ensuring efficient procurement for the infrastructure needs outlined. In order to address poverty in Belize, and ensuing issues such as young male vulnerability to crime and violence, young female vulnerability to early pregnancy, and poor nutrition and lack of fitness opportunities for all ages, infrastructural improvements are sought to facilitate various innovative approaches.
Illegal poaching of Sea Turtles
The Department hereby reminds the public that in accordance with Section 10 of Statutory Instrument No. 66 of 2002, under the Fisheries Act Chapter 210 of the Laws of Belize Revised Edition 2000-2003: No person shall buy, sell, take or have in his possession any turtles, part of turtles or articles made of any part of turtle or turtles eggs
Any person found in possession of sea turtles will be prosecuted in accordance with section 14A (1) of the Fisheries Regulation, Chapter 210 of Subsidiary Laws of Belize Revised Edition 2000-2003
San Pedro Town Council gifted refurbished computers
On Wednesday, February 28, 2018, Mayor Daniel Guerrero and the San Pedro Town Council presented four (4) refurbished computers sets and one (1) brand new dell computer set to the Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II. The Staff were very content with the donation as they are much needed for patient record keeping and other necessities.
Cleanup on Caye Caulker Sunday March 11
Oceana Wavemaker invites you all to join us to clean our beach during the reef week on Sunday March 11 from 9 o'clock am till noon. We will be meeting in front of Tropical Paradise at the beach. Be the change u want to see in your community.
Xaibe RC school cultural presentation
Our culture our heritage
DJ Faceoff at Corozal Community College
Friday March 16, 6pm, Price $2 at Rudolph Wade Auditorium
CHILD STIMULATION MONTH IS HERE!
Every year, March 1st marks the beginning of Child Stimulation Month.
Early childhood stimulation programs implemented at school and at home can contribute to children's cognitive and socio-emotional development, ultimately enabling them to improve on a number of future life outcomes.
Here are a few pictures from today's inaugural parade of Child Stimulation Month in Corozal Town.
UDP San Pedro Pre-Election Rally
Join us on the Road to Victory!
Saturday, March 3, 2018 at the Hon. Louis Sylvestre Sports Complex (Old football field), starting at 7:00 p.m.
Music by Dj Debbie, Dj Patron and SUPER FURIA!
There will be lots to eat and drink....$2 beers and FIREWORKS!
TEACHING VACANCIES AT ST. FRANCIS XAVIER SCHOOL MANAGEMENT, COROZAL
The following teaching vacancies exist in our Catholic Management for the following schools for one (1) year: Two at Fireburn, Xaibe, St. Francis Xavier Primary, Mary Hill and Santa Clara/San Roman .
There are also two principal posts: One at Copper Bank R.C. School and the other at Santa Clara/San Roman R.C. School.
Candidates must have a Full License, Certificate in Education Leadership and at least Five (5) years of teaching experience.
Temporary principal's post at San Joaquin R.C. School, Vice-Principal post for Santa Clara/San Roman and Our Lady of Guadalupe. Same principal's requirements apply for vice-principal's post. Also temporary Teaching Vacancies exist at: San Narciso, St. Francis Xavier, Louisville, San Joaquin, Caledonia, Cristo Rey and Libertad.
Some Do's and Don'ts for Municipal Election Day 2018
The Elections and Boundaries Department wishes to draw the attention of the general public to the following list of Election Offences for Wednesday, 7th March 2018 Municipal Elections.
EMPLOYERS TO ALLOW EMPLOYEES PRESCRIBED PERIOD FOR VOTING.
Section 147 of the Cities and Town Councils Regulations, which requires employers to allow employee prescribed period for voters on Election Day, Wednesday, 7th March 2018, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
XAIBE R.C. SCHOOL CULTURAL BUSINESS EXPO 2018
These are the happiest bunch of kids in this village. Awesome! "We Learn, We Build, We Teach" -
A vacancy exists at Belize Electricity Limited
For the post of Electrical Technician I in the Transmission and Substation Department (Belize City).
Paradise Theater playing this weekend:
Ferdinand,
Pitch Perfect 3,
I, Tonya,
MarrowBone.
The Oscar's are Sunday:
**Screen 2 at 7 O'clock is dedicated to the final Oscar Nom's that we haven't all shown yet.. Yes we've played The Shape of Water but we've had a bunch of inbox requests for the people that missed it. Make sure you check which night the movie you want to see is shown.. LADY BIRD friday at 7 I,TANYA Saturday at 7 THE SHAPE OF WATER Sunday at 7 **
Cocktails & Conservation, Hosted by Oceana Belize
Saturday, March 10 at 7 PM - 10 PM, Mahogany Bay Village
Sea Grape Drive San Pedro. Join us at the gorgeous Mahogany Bay Village on March 10th, at 7 pm for an evening of Cocktails & Conservation with members of the Reef Week Committee. Come celebrate with us and learn how to stay "reef-minded". Proceeds of the event go to support the Reef Week Initiative.
Tickets: $80 per person | $150 per couple.
Tickets can be purchased at the following locations:
Mahogany Bay Village- San Pedro; PH: 226-4817,
McNab Designs- Belize City; PH: 223-1025,
Wildlife Conservation Society- Belize City ; PH: 605-6090.
The Chom(Vulture) the Maya legand
Legend has it that in Uxmal, one of the most important cities of El Mayab, lived a king who liked parties very much. One day, it occurred to him to organize a great celebration in his palace to honor the Lord of Life, called Hunab ku, and to thank him for all the gifts he had given to his people.
The king of Uxmal ordered the preparations for the party well in advance. He also invited princes, priests and warriors from the neighboring kingdoms, sure that his celebration would be better than any other and that everyone would envy him later. Thus, he was waiting for his palace to be adorned with the rarest flowers, as well as preparing delicious dishes with venison and turkey from the bush. And he could not miss the balch�, an intoxicating liquor that the guests would love.
Channel 7
Toddler Critical: A Vicious Case of Physical And Sexual Abuse
Child stimulation month started today, March first. But, tonight, instead of being celebrated, our first three stories will show that in the frightening wave of depravity and urban violence - defenseless, blameless children are being victimized and harmed.
The first story is one of the most unfortunate we've reported in more than two decades of the news. It's about a 17 month old toddler from Maskall who is critical in the intensive care unit at the KHMH - after suffering what appears to be multiple traumatic events of sexual abuse and violence.
We have received credible reports which say the toddler was molested - but there are also injuries pointing to a physical abuse. Tonight her stepfather is detained at the Ladyville police station pending investigation. But, at this time he has not been charged - and tonight - to protect the child - we can't show you anybody's face.
Police Say Infant Had Bruises
And while you've heard from the community, the police have their own side of the story. They say no medical examination has been done on the toddler because when she reached the hospital - she was already in a very distressed state:�
ASP Alejandro Cowo - OC, CIB Belize City:
"Yesterday sometime after 5:00 IN THE evening, police were called to the KHMH along with the Department of Human Services. And upon making checks at the hospital they were informed that there was a minor with several bruises to the body and apparently the minor had been sexually molested. the minor had to be rushed to the ICU unit because of the condition the minor was in they were not in a position to do no medical examination however we know that the minor is still presently admitted at the Pediatric Ward in critical condition at the KHMH. This minor is from Maskall village. I know that one person is detained at the Ladyville police station at this time."
Man Killed, One Year Old Shot In Wild Shooter Attack On Home
And from that heinous crime against that 1 year-old baby girl, we turn now the terrible shooting of a 1 year-old baby boy which happened in Belize City. Baby Gregory Mena continues to be hospitalized at the KHMH at this time, where doctors are trying to do what they can to save 3 of the toes on his right foot. He was shot in the street style murder of 32 year-old Jermaine Carr, which happened at the child's home on Neal Penn Road.
Now, the residence where the shooting happened is one big family yard, and there are 3 houses are close together. The child's extended family all live there together, and last night, at around 9 o'clock, there were a number of young children, and women who were socializing at the front house. That didn't stop a brazen gunman from barging in, and opening fire on Carr, who was socializing with his young daughter. After that, the shooter then took aim at Baby Gregory and shot him as well.
Gang Figure Grazed To "Headtop"
But the gun violence in the city started early last night. During the news we got word that there had been a shooting right around the corner from out studio. The target was Nicholi Rhys - one of the lead figures in the Gorge Street Gang. He was walking alone on East Canal when a bullett grazed his head-top - and injured an 11 year old child in a yard. Police told us more:
ASP Alejandro Cowo - OC, CIB Belize City:
"Mr. Nicholi Rhys was walking on the corner of Prince Street and East Canal when he was approached by a male person who fired several shots in his direction. He received a graze to the top of the head, he was admitted to the hospital, he was treated and released on the same night. Police at the scene founded several expended shells and also found a .9 glock pistol in the area with an empty magazine. Also whilst police was dealing with the scene they encountered a minor who has also received a graze to his leg. However he was treated and he is presently at his home at this moment."
Retaliation For George Street Shooting Is Almost Instant
That shooting happened at 6:40 and by 7:30 pm there was a retaliation. Fortunately, it was also non fatal.
21 year old Aaron Avilez, suffered multiple gunshot wounds when a shooter caught him as he was exiting a barber shop on North Front Street, close to Pink's Alley:
ASP Alejandro Cowo - OC, CIB Belize City:
"He was exiting from a barbershop located on North Front Street when he was suddenly approached by a male person who fired several shots at his direction causing the injuries he received. He was admitted to the hospital in a stable condition and I believe he has just been discharged from the hospital. Police checked the area and no expended shells were found at the scene. We believe that yes this shooting is a direct consequence of the first shooting."
PUP Attacks UDP Minister Rene Montero's Family For Land Compensation Payouts
It's only days to go before the municipal elections, and the PUP has been trying to rock - and hopefully turnover the UDP's boat - by releasing information pointing to UDP ministerial corruption. Last night you Minister Boots Martinez defend himself against the claims of contractor - slash- front man - Kirk Lamb.
Tonight, it's Rene Montero who's in the PUP's targets. The opposition leader held a press conference to detail 9 compensation agreements his family members got from the Ministry of Natural Resources between August of 2009 and 2011. This is for land they first acquired at the end of the 1998 Esquivel Administration - which the PUP then took away from them. Briceno claims the compensation was disproportionate and the product of insider trading:�
PUP's Briceno Vs. UDP's Boots
Briceno also used the opportunity to take some heavy shots at Minister Anthony Boots Martinez. As we reported yesterday, his former caretaker, Kirk Lamb is alleging that Martinez used him as a contractor front to fleece the Poverty Alleviation Program. Martinez denies it and insists that Kirk Lamb, who ended up begging lodging from Martinez was formerly a thriving contractor under the programme.
Today, Briceno rejected Martinez's story:�
Hon. John Briceno - Leader of the Opposition:
"How can the Ministry of Works or the CEO from the Ministry of Works, the CEO from the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation had a contract with Mr. Lamb when it is very clear that Mr. Lamb is not a contractor. He has no equipment, he was no finances, he has no experience, he has no ability..."
Cash Grab At Golden Bay
Last night we told you about a late evening attempted robbery at Golden Bay Department Store on Marine Parade. It happened around 6:00 and the very preliminary information was that a shot was fired, but nothing was stolen and no one was hurt.
Turns out though, that it was a successful robbery - just that it didn't happen in the store. It happened outside in the parking lot where one of the employees had just returned with her US dollar collections from the tourist village. The robber had apparently been trailing her and knew when to pounce. Police told us more:�
Gibnut Street Home Up In Flames
Last night around 8:30 the one story plycem home of Monique Dawson on the corner of Curassow and Gibnut Street was burnt to the ground. At the time Dawson was in the home sleeping with her daughter. They managed to make it out unharmed but the Fire Department investigation so far is pointing to a possible arson.
Orin Smith - Station Officer, National Fire Service:
"The fire investigation revealed the fire originated from the North West bedroom of the structure. At the time the incident occurred we had a mother and her child at home who was asleep at the time. They are unharmed as a result of the fire. The structure was destroyed. The structure no at the time there was no electricity at the time."
Sahar Vasquez:
"The family is saying it might be arson from one of the members that live in the house. Have you guys hear that?"
Orin Smith:
"We have heard that. I have heard two version of the story and I have also uncovered certain things that are yet to be tested and draw final causes."
Leslie and Meighan Get Bail Awaiting Re-Trial
Tyrone Meighan and Orel Leslie - they are out on $25,000 bail tonight awaiting retrial. They are accused of the November 2012 murder of James Norales. They had been acquitted in 2015 but the Belize Court of Appeal ordered a retrial in March last year - which meant they were both re-arrested. Both men were granted bail on the condition that they report to the Queen Street Police Station every Monday and Friday starting on March 5 th; that Leslie remain in his home every day from 9:30 p.m. to 6 a.m. until the matter is completed; that Meighan remain at his residence every day from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. until the case has concluded.
Children's Advocacy Groups Lambaste Violence, Say Children Have A Right To Life
Today, UNICEF, NCFC and the Belize Family Life Association put out strong statements on all the recent child violence - which has left two shot, one dead, and one critical. UNICEF says "These children were betrayed by adults in the community. As adults, it is our duty to do everything in our power to protect children and encourage them to grow and be the best that they can be. For too many children in Belize in the last few months, this has not happened and children have been tragically hurt and some have lost their lives due to gun violence, physical abuse and sexual violence."
"Violence against children is unacceptable. We all have a duty to end it. UNICEF implores every member of the community in Belize to stand with us to respect and protect children and their first and most basic human right - the right to life."
Birth To Eight: Children Must Play
And while all those messages talk about the trauma children endure in a hyper-violent society, today the message was about getting children to start life on the right foot.
"Birth To Eight: Children Must Play" that is the theme for Children Stimulation Month this March. Today the ceremonies kicked off with a massive parade filled with kids, teachers, and parents. Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber told us more about what the month is all about.
Hon Patrick Faber - Deputy Prime Minister/ Minister of Education:
"It is just to sensitize. We really should be stimulating children all year round but it is just sensitized about the need to do this. It is encouraging children from birth up to 8 years old to move, believe in themselves, understand that this is a very important developmental stage."
Attorney General Tells NTUCB To Apologize
Today we asked the Attorney General about yesterday's huffing press release from the National Trade Union Congress of Belize. The union umbrella group complained bitterly about the delay in the next phase of the UNCAC implementation.
Belize is waiting for a country assessment which will be done by experts from the nations of Haiti and Tuvalu. It was scheduled to take place this week Tuesday, and it would have concluded today. These experts would have examined Belize's systems to ensure that the goals of anti-corruption can be achieved by the implementation of the UN Convention.
But, Tuvalu's experts couldn't get their travel documents prepared in time to make it here for the site visit. So, it has been postponed until July 10th to the 12th.
AG Condemns The Practice of Profiling
Last night, we showed you our interview with Cabinet Minister Anthony "Boots" Martinez who said that the Government is against the recent practice of the police of snapping pictures of people who they've stopped and search.
The opponents to this new practice condemn it as the police profiling citizens, which is illegal, and today Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte agreed. This evening, Peyrefitte explained:
Hon. Michael Peyrefitte - Attorney General:
"Any police officer is he believes that a person is guilty of a crime, about to commit a crime, have illegal drugs or weapons on his person. That policeman with that reasonable belief can stop and search an individual."
Faber Says Budget Won't Be Severe With Cuts
Next week, when the elections are done, the Government will be presenting the budget for the new fiscal year. Now the timing of the presentation right after the election suggests that the government may have some bad news hidden away in the budget. Today, Deputy Prime Minister Faber said there's nothing to be afraid of:
Hon. Patrick Faber - Deputy Prime Minister/Minister of Education:
"There is a special meeting of the cabinet scheduled for tomorrow morning Friday so that we are able to see the budget figures. I can only speak to you about what is my Ministry because I have been involved in creating the submission."
Faber Says Giving Education Grants IS His Job
But looking at the old budget - the one that's finishing at the end of this month - the PUP just won't give up on the claim that the Minister of Education is draining the education budget in his political campaigning. Today Faber says he does give education grants, but it's business as usual:�
Channel 5
Maskall baby critical after devastating sexual molestation; one held
We start the news tonight with a sickening report of the rape of a toddler. The seventeen-month old girl is clinging to life at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. The [...]
UNICEF Belize speaks out
The urban violence and abuse of children has prompted UNICEF to speak out. The U.N. organization issued a release this afternoon highlighting the responsibility of adults to protect children and [...]
On crazy night in the City, Jermaine Carr ambushed and shot dead; minor and woman injured
On Wednesday night, Belize City became a war zone. In a matter of hours five people were injured in gun violence and another lost his life. A minor, the third [...]
Rene Montero's family collected three million in land compensation and interest
There is more scandalous information tonight about the hustle in the Ministry of Natural Resources known as the hot bed of corruption. A past P.U.P. administration in 1998 repossessed eighty-one [...]
More to come; P.U.P. says they didn't deserve it
Brice�o, himself a former Lands Minister, says the seventy-one million figure paid out for land compensation is more than three times the amount paid out under his Ministry in eight [...]
"Boots" concerns corner the market in Port Loyola
The P.U.P. also wants Anthony "Boots" Martinez's head on the chopping block. Since early this week, there have been reports about the alleged rip off at the Ministry of Works [...]
Why minister must go, now!
The P.U.P. leader placed full blame on Prime Minister Dean Barrow for not following through on his repeated promise to stamp out corruption. He insisted that nobody knows for sure [...]
Kirk Lamb thought he was going to get a house, not build them
Kirk Lamb has re-emerged to counter some of the accusations and questions raised by his former boss, Anthony "Boots" Martinez, on Wednesday. Today he told reporters that while he may [...]
Nicholi Rhys targeted on Prince Street
The murder of Jermaine Carr on Neal's Pen Road was preceded by two other shooting incidents in Belize City on Wednesday evening. The first incident involved well-known George Street figure [...]
90 minutes later, retaliation visited on Aaron Avilez
The attempt on Rhys' life prompted swift retribution by his affiliates across town shortly afterwards.� Twenty-one-year-old Aaron Avilez was leaving from a barbershop on North Front Street around seven-thirty when [...]
Armed robber "gun-butts" Chinese businesswoman for ten grand U.S.
A robber got away with ten thousand U.S. dollars on Wednesday evening after he held up a businesswoman in Belize City. Police say that the woman was heading home for [...]
Two out on bail for murder charge, but ordered to stay inside at night
There has been a recent trend of men accused of murder seeking bail. It was previously thought that murder, except in rare circumstances, was the one charge immune to bail, [...]
A.G. to spell out position on why profiling is wrong
The open debate on the taking of photographs by officers conducting stop and search exercises continue in the public domain, as well as within government.� The issue has been raised [...]
UNCAC visit postponement a shame, but don't run down Tuvalu
On Wednesday, the National Trade Union Congress of Belize, N.T.U.C.B., issued a terse release soundly criticizing the Government of Belize for the delay in the visit of an UNCAC team [...]
Nine homeless after flash fire
A fire in Belize City has left a family of nine without a roof over their heads. The homeowner and her baby were asleep when the fire broke out inside [...]
The Budget is [finally] coming!
There will be a special meeting of the Cabinet in Belmopan this Friday, where members will get the first look at the 2018-2019 General Revenue and Appropriation Bill, also known [...]
Education still on top, but being prudent
Last year's budget for the Ministry of Education was around two hundred and seventy-seven million dollars, about twenty-eight percent of government's total fiscal expenditure.� This year's, according to Minister Patrick [...]
Parties spar over "non-existent" education funds
Earlier this week, Leader of the Opposition, John Brice�o, revealed that what is left of the education budget is being raided, with Cabinet approval, to attempt to curry favor before [...]
Child Stimulation Month says it's okay to play
There are more pre-schools and pre-schoolers in Belize than ever before, and the demand for early socialization, especially in a society vulnerable to impression from outside, is consequently greater. But [...]
Healthy Living: check eyes yearly to see clearly
Our eyes play a vital role in our quality of life. However, even though our vision is so important to us, we don't make the time to check-up on them. [...]
CTV3
Rene Montero's Family Collected Over $3 Million Dollars In Compensations, Documents Show
Opposition Leader John Briceno exposed today that the family of Government Minister Rene Montero has benefited from millions of dollars in the form of land compensations given by the then Minister of Natural Resources, Gaspar Vega.
The Opposition has obtained copies of the compensation agreement between Vega and five Montero family members which show that they were paid over three million dollars for compensation for land deals that date back to the previous UDP/Manuel Esquivel era. Opposition Leader Hon. John Briceno shed more light on these questionable and highly controversial compensation deals.
Two Dollars Fee At Corozal Hospital Is Necessary Says Health Minister Of State
Since December 2017 a new fee was implemented at the Corozal Community Hospital, charging $2 to all non-NHI patients seeking medical services. That's the majority of persons going to the hospital, and for many the $2 was a bit prohibitive. Last week when we spoke to the Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, he indicated the fund raised from the fee will provide the finances to continue the National Health Insurance program.
Doctor Campos Weighs In On Controversial Regulations in Pharmaceutical Industry
And Dr. Campos also commented on the still controversial regulations in the pharmaceutical industry which require that all medication imported into Belize meet specifications and fees set by the Pharmaceutical Inspectorate. The regulations also demand that pharmacies must require prescriptions in order to sell certain medications to the public. Pharmacists say the regulations are too demanding, but Dr. Campos told us basically blame the anti-corruption efforts.
LOVE FM
Man claims he was exploited by Minister
Yesterday, we brought you an interview with Minister Anthony "Boots" Martinez who denied allegations claiming that he used his employees' bank accounts to transfer monies from the government and then had these persons withdraw the money and handed over the money to him. We also brought you an interview with Kirk Lamb, a former employee, �
Family homeless after fire destroyed their home
Last night, a fire broke out at a house on Curassow Street in Belize City leaving a family of nine homeless. The family is at a loss as to how the fire got started since the house did not have any electricity. Love News spoke with 26-year-old Monique Dennison who said that she was asleep �
Child Stimulation Month: "Birth to Eight: Children Must Play!"
A short ceremony was held this morning at the Memorial Park officially declaring Child Stimulation Month open. Thereafter, children from forty-three preschools marched through the principal streets of Belize City. Child Stimulation Month is being celebrated under the theme "Birth to Eight: Children Must Play!" Love News spoke with Darlene Lozano, Education Officer about Child �
17-month old girl raped; fights for her life
ulation Month and while that is so, yesterday saw three infants affected by criminal activities. In the first instance, a heinous crime was committed upon a seventeen-month female child on Wednesday evening. Police were alerted to the case sometime after five o'clock on Wednesday evening when they were summoned �
Belize City man ambushed in fenced yard and killed, toddler shot
There were three separate shooting incidents last night in Belize City, one resulted in the death of a man, while two other men and two minors were injured. We begin our coverage of the violent night with the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Jermaine Alexander Carr who was shot multiple times in the face sometime after �
Two men and one minor injured in separate shootings
Police are also investigating two other shooting incidents. The first happened shortly after six o'clock on Wednesday evening. ASP Cowo said that a child was also injured in the incident. ASP Alejandro Cowo - Head, CIB Belize City "Nicholi Rhys was walking at the corner of Prince Street and East Canal when he was approached �
UB's lecturer wins award
Mathias R. Vairez Jr., a Lecturer at the University of Belize, has been recognized by the Prairie View A&M University in the United States of America where he did his doctoral. Vairez along with three other colleagues wrote a research article entitled "Does Diversity Really Matter?" The article discussed the interplay between students' race and �
Police continues mediation with gang members
Last night's shootings point to an escalating tension among gang factions and today police were asked whether there is more being done by the department to address the situation. Already there has been an increase of police presence, particularly in Southside Belize City but the murder count keeps rising. Today ASP Alejandro Cowo said the �
There is nothing to mediate, says PUP Leader
Opposition Leader John Briceno also commented on the recent update regarding the Government's case against attorney Sharon Pitts. Last month we reported that the case had been ordered into mediation. The Government is looking to recover four hundred thousand dollars which Pitts received through an alleged illegitimate land compensation transaction. John Briceno, PUP Leader "Well �
Police caught on camera photographing man, AG says it is illegal
Yesterday Cabinet Minister Anthony Martinez told the media that it is illegal for police officers to photograph civilians as has been reported over the past couple of weeks. According to Martinez, the Attorney General has advised the Cabinet that police officers should cease and desist this practice, which many have described as racial profiling. Cabinet �
Sarawee Village without water
Villagers of Sarawee in the Stann Creek District say they are experiencing a 'water crisis. According to the Chairman of the village, Derrington Ramirez, for the past eight months villagers have been experiencing water shortage. This has prompted villagers to consider digging wells in their back yard something that the village council is not advising villagers to do. Ramirez explained.
PUP Leader slams Minister 'Boots'
And while Minister Anthony Martinez and Kirk Lamb argue on national television, Leader of the People's United Party is weighing in on the matter. John Briceno says that the PUP has, for many years, raised concerns in relation to Minister Martinez and the ministries he is responsible for. Briceno told the media this evening that there is something clearly suspicious regarding the transactions made between Martinez and Lamb.
"I really hope that the perpetrator or perpetrators are brought to justice": Lisa Shoman
The news of the rape of a 17 month old baby of Maskall Village has left the country in shock. Up to news time no one has been charged for that unthinkable crime against a defenseless baby girl. The public reaction is quite visible on social media; they want the perpetrator to be dealt with to the full extent of the law. This was reiterated by Attorney Lisa Shoman.
Chinese business woman targeted by robbers
Shortly before six o'clock on Wednesday evening, a Chinese business woman was robbed of thousands of dollars at Golden Bay, shortly after she finished her collections at businesses in the Tourism Village. ASP Cowo says the woman also sustained a minor injury.
ASP Alejandro Cowo - Head, CIB Belize City:
"She was inside of the Golden Bay compound about to exit her vehicle when a male person approached her, grab her bag that she had with her. The female person is Mr. Wong Chow, a Chinese business woman. "
$3.1 Million for Montero Family
PUP Leader John Briceno showed the media nine land compensation agreements whereby friends and relatives of UDP Ministers were highly compensated by the Government of Belize. According to Briceno, in one year alone the then Minister of Natural Resources, Gaspar Vega, paid out over seventy million dollars as land compensation. He says that at least three point one million dollars went to the Montero family. The documents that Briceno shared with the media show that the agreements were signed between July and August of 2011. These persons reportedly purchased the land back in 1998 but were compensated for it 13 years later at an exorbitant price.
PlusTV
Serious Allegations against Minister "Boots"
Some serious allegations have been made against Minister of Human Development Hon. Anthony "Boots" Martinez. An admittedly disgruntled ex employee of the Minister, Kirk Lamb, spoke to our colleagues in Belize City today. Lamb was dismissed as an employee of the minister several months ago and was ta...
8th Street Shooting connection
Two murders that happened only three days apart, on the same street, are believed to be related. Plus News reported last week on the murders of 35 year old Luis Dominquez and 45 year old Clinton Fitzgibbon on 8th street in the Kings Park area. These men both worked for the city council and it is be...
Pregnant Alley Double Murder still unsolved
The main suspect in the Pregnant Alley Double murder was detained and released due to lack of evidence. Last week Wednesday, a minor, 12 year old David Morrison and a 26 year old man Lloyd Valentine were both murdered by a ride by shooter. After almost a week, police investigations seem to be no c...
Guatemalan Foreign Affairs minister visits Adjacency Zone
Hon. Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs, along with his counterpart, Her Excellency Sandra Joval Polanco, Foreign Minister of the Republic of Guatemala, paid a joint official visit to the Office of the Organization of American States (OAS) in the Adjacency Zone at the western border toda...
San Martin School reaps from farming project
Saint Martin's Government school in SalvaPan, Belmopan reaps the first crop of a farming project in partnership with the Belmopan Police department. According to OC Howell Gillett, just a few months ago the Belmopan Police partnered with the Taiwanese Embassy and the Ministry of Agriculture to creat...
Another man reported missing
Another male person has disappeared, this time in the village of Hattieville. 31 year old, Hattieville resident, Alaine Garcia was reported missing by his common law wife Kelline Neal on Thursday 22nd. According to police he was last seen alive at 5 a.m. on Thursday around the Windmill area where he...
Mexican fraudsters to see more charges?
Three Mexican accused of fraud are to appear back in court in March. Belen Hernandez, Lionel Rodriguez, and Joscan Jafet were all charged with theft after they were accused of fraudulently withdrawing at least one hundred thousand dollars from Atlantic Bank Branches throughout the country. They wer...
Belmopan Police hosts Open Day
The Belmopan Police Department held their annual open day today in Belmopan. The day was organized to showcase some of the services the department offers to the public. Plus news got a chance to speak with OC Howell Gillett who told us about today's event. What caused us to do this is that we know often times the public only hear of the bad things a few police officers do but many services we offer to the public
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Belmopan gets new Road safety Equipment
The nation's capital got some additional equipment for road safety on Monday. Belmopan City Council, yesterday, received some new road safety equipment from the Belize Road Safety Project. Handed over to the Belmopan City Council on Monday, were a traffic light programmer, spare traffic lights and a mini sidewalk sweeper. This contribution from the Belize Road Safety Project is a part of their stride towards improving roads and establishing speed limits. Plus News spoke to Mayor Khalid Belisle, Mayor of Belmopan, at the handing over Ceremony.
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Another drug plane landed in the north
other unauthorised plane landed in the north and after it was emptied of its contents, was burned and abandoned. The plane landed on a public road that is in the middle of a cane field in the Santa Cruz area in the Corozal district. Police say the road connects two villages and by the time officers arrived on the scene, the plane was engulfed in flames. On the road were the lighting apparatus used to make the illegal landing strip visible to the pilot of the aircraft but no cargo, no plane crew were anywhere in sight. Officer Commanding the Corozal Formation, Sinquest Martinez, explained.
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Belmopan Mayoral Candidates Speak to University Students
The University of Belize hosted the Belmopan Mayoral Candidates forum today. Plus News was there to cover the event. All three Belmopan Municipal Mayoral Candidates sat before an audience of University students this afternoon to address questions and concerns from students on various issues in the capital. The afternoon's event started with the candidate's introduction...
Minister "Boots" denies allegations of Kirk Lamb
Yesterday, we reported on those serious allegations made against Minister of Human Development Hon. Anthony "Boots" Martinez by an ex employee of his, Kirk Lamb. As we told you yesterday, Lamb alleges that the minister had enlisted him as a contractor but he was only a caretaker of one of the minister's buildings. He says that the Minister used Lamb's credit union account as a clearing account with funds that were supposed to go to the construction of homes...
Surveillance cameras across the twin towns
The San Ignacio Police Formation command center was officially inaugurated this morning at the San Ignacio police station. The command center will be able to monitor strategic places within the twin towns through surveillance cameras that were installed at various points in the municipality. Mayor of the Twin Towns, Earl Trapp, spoke to Plusnews saying that the command center became a reality through the collaboration of Alternative Network/ CTL, the Town Hall, San Ignacio and Santa Elena business community, and the police department.
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US Homeland Security Investigating Belize Police?
he reputation of the Belize Police Department is once again being brought into question. Channel seven news has reportedly seen an incriminating watch list with names of senior and lower rank officers of the police department being circulated by the US Department of Homeland Security. The list purportedly contains over 50 police officers suspected of various crimes including money laundering...
Fuel tanker accident on Georg Price Highway
There was an accident on the George Price Highway that caused the contents of a fuel tanker to flow on to the highway. Plus TV was called to the scene sometime after 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday February 27. When we got there, the police department had cordoned off the area some 200 yards on either side as personnel from the Fire Department, Department of Environment, and BNE were assessing the damage and beginning the cleanup process. We understand that a fuel tanker truck with Salvadoran license plate...
Why is fuel tanker still waiting?
An independent Internet Media website called Contracorriente, has taken up the story of the Belize cargo Ship, Syrtos, which has been anchored offshore Belize City, waiting for its Petroleum cargo from Venezuela to be offloaded. Yesterday, PlusNews announced that in an unexpected Sunday Press Relea...
Fake bills in circulation
Police are warning citizens to be on the lookout for counterfeit money. $100 counterfeits are reportedly in circulation. Police are in possession of at least one of the hundred dollar bills and are investigating....
February 24th Weekend Basketball report
On Thursday February 23rd the 2018 NEBL season continued with the Belize Hurricanes and Belmopan Bandits at the UB Gym in Belmopan The Belize Hurricanes came out victorious in that match and we were able to speak with Akeem Watters after the game. The following day, the Bel...
Burnt aircraft discovered
Somewhere between Indian church and Hill bank village this morning an abandoned aircraft was discovered partially burnt. Police were able to share with us the little they knew about the incident at the time. ACP Joseph Myvett, NCIB Sometime this morning an Aircraft was discovered partially burnt be...
Temporary Delay in Replenishment of Supply of Diesel Oil
In relation to reports of limited funds and GOB not being able to meet certain financial obligations, there were also reports of a shortage of diesel fuel. According to some media reports, part of the problem may have had to do with G.O.B. not paying outstanding bills. However, on Sunday, GOB issue...
Government of Belize Issues Statement on Current Cash Flow Position
On Friday, various media houses reported on a leaked text message sent by Financial Secretary Joe Waight to CEO's of Government Ministries. The message reads, and we quote, "We are being overwhelmed with requests for reallocation and de-reservations of "savings" identified in various accounts. These...
Shooting on George Price Highway leaves one injured
Two persons on a motorcycle were fire upon on Sunday. According to police, 18 year old Darnell Domingo and 29 year old Francis Parham were the victims. Police told us more. ASP Alejandro Cowo, CIB Two male persons were travelling on a motorcycle from the direction of 8 miles towards Belize City and ...
Man shot in Arizona Village
A shooting incident took place in the Village of Arizona on Sunday. According to Police reports, on Sunday, twenty nine year old Adolfo Flores was socializing in a bar when he got into a misunderstanding with a man known to him as Alex Hernandez. An unknown male person accompanying Hernandez, at the...
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