FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.
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
Belize wins friendly football match against Grenada 4-2
Belize’s National Football Team (Jaguars) hosted Grenada’s National Team (Spice Boyz) in a friendly match at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium in Belmopan City on Thursday, March 22nd. Among the players selected to play for Belize National Team was San Pedro’s Jesse Smith. The match saw both teams showcasing skills but when the long whistle was blown, it was a 4-2 victory for the Jaguars.
The match began at 8PM with Grenada determined to take the victory, with Rickey Modeste scoring their first goal within the first two minutes. Belize’s Michael Salazar then responded with a goal at minute 11. The early score had fans in a frenzy, and at minute 24, Jarret Davis added to the excitement by scoring another goal for Belize. The match then saw both teams controlling the ball equally, until minute 40, when Elroy Smith netted another goal. At halftime, the Jaguars were roaring to the break with a 3-1 lead.
Guillermo Salazar shot in San Pedrito
Around 10:30PM on Tuesday, March 27th, 26-year-old Guillermo Salazar was attacked and shot in front of his house in the San Pedrito Area by a lone gunman. He received gunshot wounds to his right hand and the left side of his back. Salazar was immediately transported to the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, where he was stabilized and later airlifted to Belize City in a critical condition.
According to residents, as many as nine gunshots were heard, and a few allege that he was chased all the way to the gate in front of his house. Some witnesses shared that Salazar is an easy going person who is not known to be a troublemaker. They are baffled as to why anyone would want to harm him.
Busy NEBL weekend lands San Pedro Tiger Sharks’ second loss and a tight All-Star Game
With three games on Friday, March 23rd and the annual All-Star Night on Saturday, March 24th in Orange Walk Town, the NEBL had a busy weekend. The San Pedro Tiger Sharks took on the Smart Belize Hurricanes on Friday, losing 80-68 against the Belize City team. Despite this loss, the 2017 Sub-Champions continue to lead in the League with a total of 18 points. At the All-Star Night, Tiger Sharks’ coach Rico Black suffered another loss as his team, dubbed the Local Team, fell one point short to the Imports/Belizean American squad. The winning team was coached by Isaac Rhys from Dangriga Dream Ballers. Other games on Friday, March 23rd saw Belize City Defenders defeating Orange Walk Running Rebels 81-61, while Dangriga Dream Ballers ran over Belmopan Bandits, taking the victory home with a final game score of 83-75.
ABC Preschool’s Easter Extravaganza ushers in the season
ABC Preschool hosted their 3rd Annual Easter Show at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium in San Pedro Town on Saturday, March 24th. The show saw a large number of families enjoying the live entertainment that featured some of the children’s beloved TV and Disney characters via actors from Mérida, Yucatan, Mexico.
Opening the show was the San Pedro Dance Academy with an energetic performance. They were followed by the Easter Bunny and his friends, who entertained the children with giveaways and dances. The San Pedro Dance Academy came back after intermission with a modern dance selection. They were followed by “La Gallinita” and her friends doing a musical performance, while the main show star’s prepared for the stage.
Police Report Shooting Victim Identified as Guillermo Salazar
On Tuesday the 27/3/18 about 10:30pm Guillermo Salazar, 26 year-old Construction worker of San Pedrito San Pedro Town area was walking home. Upon reaching in front of his gate he was approached by a person dressed in full camouflage with a hood over his head and a rag over his face. The person fired a shot at which caught him in his right hand. He then turned around and the person fired another shot which caught him on the left side of his back and exited his left lower chest. He was transported to the KHMH in a critical condition. Police investigation continues.
Ambergris Today
Guillermo Salazar Shot In The San Pedrito Area
On Tuesday, March 27, 2018, at about 10:30pm Guillermo Salazar, 26 year-old Construction worker of San Pedrito Area, San Pedro Town was walking home upon reaching in front of his gate he was approached by a person dressed in full camouflage with a hood over his head and a rag over his face. The person fired a shot at which caught him in his right hand.
Lime Shortage Hits Belize Again
It has come to our attention that lime is scarce and the cost of lime has skyrocketed to a staggering $1.25 per lime and in some cases $2.00!!
In an interview with News 5 Belize, Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Jose Alpuche informed that the Belize Marketing Development Corporation (BMDC) has applied for a permit to import lime. According to the report the importation of lime will aid in the shortage the country is currently experiencing especially since there is great demand in the local market and tourism industry.
Misc Belizean Sources
February 2018 External Trade, CPI & 4th Quarter 2017 GDP
For the month of February 2018, the Statistical Institute of
Belize reported that the All-Items Consumer Price Index (CPI) stood at
104.5, a decrease from 105.1 in February 2017 (see Figure 1). For the
first month since December of 2015, the average Belizean household
experienced an overall drop in the cost of regularly purchased goods and
services compared to the same month of the previous year, reflected in
an inflation rate of negative 0.5 percent. Nonetheless, for the first two
months of 2018, consumer prices were up slightly by 0.2 percent.
For the month of February 2018, Belize
imported goods valuing $136.8 million. This represented a 2.6
percent or $3.7 million decrease from the same month in 2017,
when imports totalled over $140.4 million.
This overall decline was largely caused by a drop in the imported
quantities across all types of fuels.
Mexican military in free zone for holidays
If you’re heading to Mexico, you will meet the military. They are addressing contraband in the free zone distributed by fayuqueros.
Department of Transport Advises Public on Traffic Safety during Easter Holidays
The Department of Transport takes this opportunity to remind all motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians of the following traffic safety tips for the Easter Holidays in an effort to minimize or prevent any traffic incidents which may result in fatalities and/or injuries.
• Check your vehicle properly that it is road worthy.
• Ensure that all lights (head lights, signal lights, brake lights, park lights, I.D. plate light) are in perfect working condition (no unauthorized LED lights will be allowed).
• Ensure that your brakes are in perfect working condition (check brake fluid compartment for possible signs of leakage).
Ministry of National Security to Host Nationwide Consultation
The Ministry of National Security will embark on a nationwide consultation with stakeholders to discuss, and share ideas and possible strategies to address the crime situation in Belize.
The Ministry has extended invitations to meet with the Belize National Teachers Union on April 11th, 2018, and the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Belize Council of Churches, and the National Trade Union Congress of Belize on April 13th, 2018.
HAVE YOU SEEN THIS STOLEN BOAT?
The Gales Point Wildlife Sanctuary needs your help to find this recently stolen boat.
It was stolen early Saturday morning, 24 March, from Gales Point Village. During the night, heavy chains securing the boat were cut and it was pulled from dry land into the water of the Southern Lagoon.
The skiff may be in Belize City, Colson’s Point area near Dangriga, or Punta Gorda.
DESCRIPTION:
It is a 25ft skiff, white with green bottom, and blue & red lines. Name is “Pearl of the Sea”, registration # SC 0341. The boat has a grey/red Yamaha 85 motor, current license. It is also carrying a 40hp outboard stolen from another fishing guide’s boat nearby.
Boat has center steering console and 4 passenger benches.
If you have any information on this stolen boat, please contact Dangriga Police.
New mural in Corozal
CSAM artist Vianay Bautista Alpuche working on her mural at the Market! If you have artistic talent and would like to paint your own mural contact the House of Culture. We have secured wall space, as well as donated paint and materials for community members who would like to express their self and help beautify our beloved Corozal Town!
Ice Cream Truck in Corozal
Come enjoy the Ice Cream Truck in Corozal. Comes to Corozal every Sunday. We love to please our valued customers in Corozal and Orange Walk. Check out ER'S Icy Treats for our routs and wonderful flavors we offer.
How the Annual Holy Saturday Cross Country Race Started
With the Annual Cross Country Race coming up in a few days, It is only fitting that we know the history of how the race started. The Cycling Association should consider naming the first place trophy after Captain Metzgen. We are rooting for a Belizean to win the Garland in the 2018 Monrad Metzgen Annual Cross Country Race!
Ask any cycling enthusiast who came in first in the first Annual Cross Country Race in 1928 and they will probably tell you Elston Kerr. If you asked them who came in second, you might just get a blank stare because no one remembers who came in second and so if you asked who came in third, now that is asking for trouble. In this case, third place is signigficant because it was Captain Monrad Siegfried Metzgen. He not only organized the race, but he completed the race in 30 and a half hours.
Available now from the Cycling Federation of Belize the 2018 edition of the Tradition magazine
Get your copy from the Secretariat upstairs Doonys store on Albert St Read about the upcoming female cyclist Taralee Ordonez check out Palas top ten Belizean hopefuls who he think can win the garland .Was Johnito Miguel the greatest of the famous Miguel Brothers ? It's all these stories and much more in this edition.Get your copy before its all gone
Job Readiness Training
From the 9th to 12th April 2018, the Department of Youth Services will be hosting a Job Readiness Training at our main office in Belize City. If you or someone you know is interested in enhancing their skills in job preparedness, tag them in the comments below! There are 20 spaces available, so sign up today to secure your spot! Last day to apply for this training is April 6, 2018. Take advantage of this great opportunity!
BEL and Hand in Hand Ministries Partner to Provide a House for a Family in Burrell Boom Village
A family of three today received the keys to a new house in Burrell Boom Village. This is the 6th consecutive year that Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has partnered with Hand in Hand Ministries (HHM) to support the "Building for Change" program.
Ms. Pamela Reyes and her two daughters are the recipients of a 16' x 20' wooden house complete with electricity, plumbing. furniture and appliances valued at approximately $22,000. The house was donated by BEL and constructed through volunteer work of over 40 BEL employees along with Hand in Hand, Ms. Reyes and her extended family.
"I am grateful for this new beginning." said Ms. Reyes. "My desire to have my two children under one roof and share family time is now a reality. My two girls can now grow closer together as sisters should."
Mrs. Lydia passes away
A Belizean icon passed away yesterday. As one of the founders of the Belize Audubon Society, Mrs. Lydia was intimately involved in lobbying efforts that resulted in the creation of Belize's first natural monument, Half Moon Caye, and other protected natural areas in the 1980s.
Mrs Lydia managed the BAS library and served as its Board Secretary for many years until retiring in the mid-1990s. I had the privilege of working with her at BAS, and will always treasure the countless discussions that we had back then. Mrs. Lydia was an avid birding enthusiast; I became an amateur birder because of her. I learned a lot from her, and for that I will be forever grateful.
The art of Sawdust
Thanks to Norte Vision for hosting us today to demonstrate the art of Sawdust for Good Friday. Thanks to the viewers and see you all on Good Friday.
Channel 7
Jamal Humes Found Dead, Three Months After He went Missing
Tonight the family of Jamal Humes finally has closure. The 28 year old Belize City mechanic's remains were found buried in a shallow grave on a road off mile eight on the George Price Highway this morning. He had gone missing from December 20th and weeks of intensive, relentless searches by his family, the police and Coast Guard turned up nothing.
But today when the family heard that human remains had been found near mile eight, they knew it had to be his. Jules Vasquez was there and tells us why:..
Jules Vasquez Reporting:
This is the site of the shallow grave where the decomposed remains were found. The umbrella and the caution tape are what police left there, but this morning, a resident of Western Pines was going to fish in one of the many ponds back here when his dog caught a sent and went sniffing around the area - and came upon the skeletal remains of a human hand sticking out from the shallow grave.
Two Possible Motives For Murder
And so why would anyone want to kill this auto mechanic? Well police have no firm answers on that, but activist Jose Uc Espat who was a leading part of the search for him and the investigation into his disappearance, said there are two possible motives:..
Jose Uc Espat, Searcher:
"There are two motives I was looking at, as I said at several press conferences I had before. The main one would be that he was an eyewitness to a murder that occurred on Faber's Road. The other was that there was allegedly some sort of money mismanagement and there are several police officers' names that have been called. So those are the two main motives that we have been looking at from the onset of the investigation."
Allen Felix Turns Himself In, Will Be Charged For Guerrero Murder
And while police currently have no suspects or strong leads in that Humes case, another murder - which happened about half a mile from where this body was found - is just about to be closed.
64 year old boat maker Mario Guerrero was murdered at his own house in Sunset Park at dawn on Sunday morning - and, last night, police arrested the final two suspects.
One of them was found at his home on West Street, while the main suspect, Allen Felix turned himself into Belmopan police last night in the presence of his attorney.
Alleged Cop-Killer Acquitted
An alleged cop-killer is at home tonight - free of a murder charge.
35 year-old Delford Slusher, who has been on remand at the Belize Central Prison for over 5 and a half years, was acquitted of murder today before Justice Adolph Lucas in a trial without jury.
Back in July 2012, Slusher was was identified as the man who perpetrated a home invasion at a house in Hattieville. The assailant reportedly broke into the house and held 2 females hostage at gunpoint while he searched for valuables. Police Corporal Victor Lima and other officers responded to the crime in progress, and as soon as he opened the door, the burglar shot him twice in the chest. He succumbed to his injuries days later.
Shooting Victim Dies, Another Murder
Belize City has another murder victim tonight. 42 year old Fabio Paredez died this morning at 6:15 - three and a half days after he was shot on Kelly Street.
He was shot in the legs but his main artery was badly damaged, and he succumbed to his injuries.
The incident occurred last week Saturday night when Paradez was socializing with a group of friends. Two men on bicycle rode up and opened fire on a small street that has seen a number of gang related murders.
Southside Supercops Go To Mayflower Hot Zone To Make Peace
Last week we told you about the police meet and greet session on Aloe Vera and Tibruce Streets. Those areas had been witness to three murders and a number of shootings in just two weeks.
And this week, southside police went into another hotspot.
Actually, it's probably the most volatile zone right now: we're talking about the Mayflower area. Police were there for today's meet and greet.
Now if you are wondering why in the world would police ever step foot in that area again after the big GSU blowout on Sunday … the Southside commander and his team say they simply can't give up or ignore these residents no matter how tense the situation. Courtney Weatherburne has more on the hostile encounter.
Southside Commander Says GSU Move Was Correct
Now as you saw, the residents are not open to hear the police's version of the story. They are still wrapped up in pain and rage. But Commander Gillett says he hopes that the community does come around and see that the GSU were only doing their job on Sunday.
Sr. Supt. Howell Gillett:
"On that day, in particular, the police had a lawful authority to be here. The report was that gunshots were being fired and we had to be here to respond to it because, whether licensed or not, nobody has any authority to be shooting any 21 gun salute. So that is a no-no, nobody must have that idea that it is okay to be doing that and if we have sufficient information to tell us who did it then we would take action through the courts."
DCP Chester Committed To Peace-Making in Mayflower
Commander of Operations Deputy Commissioner of Police Chester Williams was also on the ground with Gillett. Now Williams is known as sort of a hero on the Southside. He is well respected for his work in reaching out to the community and curbing crime in the city. But today in the Mayflower area there was no love for Williams.
As the commander of operations, he's the one who gave the order, sending the GSU to Flowers' residence on Sunday, and the community is very bitter about that. Williams says he holds nothing against the residents. He committed to working with them and looking at how police, especially the GSU can be more effective in their duties.
Lime Scarcity Produces Controversy
There's a lime shortage this easter - and there's a controversy about how the Belize Marketing and Development Corporation is trying to remedy it.
Reports say that the BMDC and BAHA have agreed to import a small amount of limes from Mexico. This has got the Citrus Growers Groups up in arms because they say limes are indeed scarce, but they are available on the market. Secondly, they say that BAHA is not doing a proper pest risk analysis to ensure that there is no risk of pests or diseases coming in with the Mexican limes.
The PUP's shadow minister for agriculture Jose Mai - who is an agronomist by training - has been following developments closely. Today he told our colleagues at CTV-3 in Orange Walk that the idea of importing limes is ridiculous:...
Parliament Passes Draconian New Anti Gang Laws
Last night, we took you inside the Senate's budget debate in Belmopan - or a portion of it - since the debate went for almost 12 hours.
But after the budget, the Senate debated the Crime Control and Criminal Justice Amendment Bill, which is one of the police department's latest get-tough-on-crime initiatives.
Last month, The Ministry of Home Affairs unveiled the department's National Crime Fighting Strategy 2018-2020. It's a comprehensive set of changes that police want to make, to counter crime and violence, specifically gang related crimes.
When Will “Emergency Areas” Be Activated?
Now, that is separate and apart from the Government's response to the spike in crime last week in which 64 year-old Theresita Flowers and 17 year-old Delcia Blanco were murdered in their home.
In an effort to curb crime in Belize City, the Government has decided that different parts of the Southside will be designated as emergency areas.
The Police will also have the authority to detain key gang members and hold them beyond 48 hours without any charge.
Taking a brief pause from the Senate Meeting, Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte granted 7News an interview discussing it. Here's what he had to say about the progress with that initiative at this time:
Can Police Handle Power Without Accountability?
So, with the Government giving so much more authority to the Police, we wondered if there were any checks and balances to minimize abuse of that authority.
Regularly on this newscast, you've seen persons come here to complain bitterly that police are harassing them, or abusing their authority. It's certainly has some members of the public a bit uneasy that police will be able to lock up persons they deem to be gang affiliates for 48 hours without any charges. They can simply justify it with the explanation that they were trying to prevent that the detained person from participating in any kind of crimes. With the 4-day Easter Holiday weekend almost here, we asked the Attorney General if there is any oversight to the new police powers. He said that everyone will have to trust that the police will be honest:
Government Will Ignore US Court Crowfoot Ruling
We also asked the Attorney General about the Ashcroft Alliance's victory in the US District Court of Colombia. As we told you last week, the court has granted an enforcement order against the Government of Belize to crowfoot it's assets to settle a judgement in that court.
The Attorney General told us that from the Government's perspective at this time, that US Court's decision is an empty judgment which, as far as they can see, has no effect:
Hon. Michael Peyrefitte, Attorney General:
"Yes I am aware of the judgement. We expect to go the way it did. We don't expect the American courts to rule in our favor. They have demonstrated a pattern that they don't even respect the CCJ which is our final court. So it's no surprise to us. But we have, as far as I know we don't have any assets to crowfoot. I am also aware of the fact that they've been trying to do this for some time and we expected that at some point they will attempt to do this. So, like I said it comes as no surprise, but we don't have any assets abroad that they can crowfoot and I pretty much would like to see that it's an empty judgement."
AG Says He’s Ready To Go To Jail
But, while the Attorney General can interpret that US Court order as mostly a non-event, he can't say the same thing for the CCJ decision that is pending at this time.
The court has ordered the Government to pay the award, but the Barrow Administration's stance is that they must get parliamentary approval to take the payment from the consolidated revenue fund.
And now that matter is back before the CCJ. One of the major considerations that the court has on its hand is the doctrine of the separation of powers between the executive - in this case, the Ministry of Finance and the Attorney General; and the legislature, in this case, Parliament.
“Fayuqueros” Fired Up, Block Mexican Side of Border
Many Belizeans are planning to go across to the Mexican side for Easter, and that's why today it was worrisome for many when for about an hour, the Northern Border with Mexico stood at a standstill. The Chactemal border crossing on the Mexican side was blocked with tree branches placed there by a group of protestors.
The protest group was made up of about 100 residents of the small Mexican border town of Santa Elena, which is just across the old Subteniente Lopez Bridge.
Another Execution Attempt In San Pedro
There has been another execution style shooting in San Pedro - but this one didn't kill the target, but he is in critical condition tonight.
26 year-old Guillermo Salazar was shot by a man who ambushed him last night while trying to get inside his house in the San Pedrito area.
Police say that at around 10:30, Salazar arrived at his front gate, and as soon as he was about to open it, a shooter, dressed in full camouflage, with a hoodie pulled over his head, and a rag over his face, snuck up on him.
Close Call With Big Bullet In Ladyville
There was also another shooting last night, and this one happened in the Milpa Area of Ladyville. This is the same part of the village where 2 warring group of young men live, and the last major incident that happened in that area was the double murders of Casey Lozano and Marlon Spain.
Police say that at around 9:10, shots were fired in the area. Police found 1 expended shell for a .45 bullet - which is a high powered, prohibited type ammunition. The officers spoke with residents in the area who would only confirm that they heard when the shots were fired.
BEL Hand In Hand With Needy Mother For New House
Today a family of three in Burrel Boom received an early Easter present. Hand in Hand ministries and BEL worked together to give Pamela Reyes a brand new furnished home. We caught up with the generous donors and the happy recipient today.
Sahar Vasquez reporting:
Last year Pamela Reyes realized that living in her small, confined home was far from ideal for her two daughters, so with nothing to lose she went into Hand in Hand Ministries to inquire about a home.
Free Lunch For Quick Cops
Last week Southside Commander Howell Gillett said he would reward four different police officers that took two guns off the street.
And just as promised, he took them to lunch today. The officers were rewarded with a five-course meal at Chon Saan. It's a modest but important goodwill gesture, and Gillett explained why it's important:
Sr. Supt. Howell Gillett, Southside Commander:
"Getting firearms off the street is part of the policing role in the society or in the community but what we want is for other officers to emulate what they did. We know that recently there was an upsurge in crime by the use of firearms so that is the message we want to take off the street so we will reward officers. We are recognizing four of them. The commissioner will be here very shortly to speak with them on a one on one basis. We want other officers to follow."
Sobering Prison Visit For Kids
And while he's incentivizing the police for good work, Senior Superintendent Gillett is also confidence building on the southside by working with the youths.
Today he did just that. He took 22 youths from the Saint Martin's area to visit the last place they'll ever want to end up, that's the Belize Central prison. He told us more about the visit today.
LOVE FM
Delford Slusher acquitted of murder, again
Thirty-five year old Delford Slusher, charged with the murder of 35 year old police corporal Victor Lima, was acquitted today by Justice Adolph Lucas in a ruling he delivered in a trial without a jury. Lima was shot twice in his chest on July 23, 2012, when he went to a house in Hattieville in …
‘Fayuqueros’ block entrance to Mexico, temporarily
Persons knows as “hormiquitas” or “Faruqueros” temporarily blocked one of the official entrances into Mexico this morning. For years these persons have been involved in the informal trade, smuggling merchandise from the Corozal Free Zone and into Mexico. Customs officials from both sides of the border have been collaborating to put a stop to this …
PUP Senator zooms in on referendum budget
On April 15, more than seven million eligible voters in Guatemala will decide whether their government will take its territorial, maritime, and insular claim on Belize to the International Court of Justice, ICJ. The Guatemalan government has embarked on an extensive education campaign that has covered months of work and a large percentage of its …
Fabio Paradez succumbs
The Belize Police Department has confirmed that 42 year old Fabio Paradez succumbed this morning while receiving treatment at the KHMH. Paradez was shot while at the corner of Kelly Street and Hunters Lane on March 24. He was socializing with some friends when two men on bicycles approached them. One of the men pulled …
Allen Russel Felix captured
Forty-year-old Allen Russel Felix is in police custody. He is considered as a person of interest in the murder of businessman Mario Guerrero. A woman is also in police detention. Guerrero was found dead under a tent in his yard on Sunday night at Sunset Park, at Western Paradise located at mile eight on the …
Senator Lizarraga takes on Senator Peyrefitte
In his budget debate presentation yesterday, Senator for the Private Sector, Mark Lizarraga, focused a few minutes on the Attorney General’s Office. Lizarraga pointed out that the budget makes no provision for the Attorney General’s office with respect to UNCAC. He asked the Attorney General, Michael Peyreffite, who doubles as a UDP Senator, what his …
SIB: “Consumer price down by 0.5%”
The Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) released its latest figures for February 2018, which shows that consumer prices are down by point five percent, when compared to February 2017. Jacqueline Sabal, Statistician II explains. Jacqueline Sabal, Statistician: “As we look at the major categories affecting the inflation rate; the food and nonalcoholic beverages category decreased …
Church Senator supports Budget
Also contributing to the budget debate was Pastor Henry Brown who temporarily represented the Churches as Senator Ashley Rocke’s alternate. In his presentation, Senator Brown praised government’s infrastructural achievement while also questioning Government’s focus on women and children. Senator Ashley Rocke: “I’ve heard a lot today bout the budget and some of its discrepancy but …
Police not welcomed by Mayflower Street residents
This afternoon, the commander of Southside Belize City, Howell Gillett, Deputy Commissioner of Police Chester Williams and a number of other police officers visited the Mayflower Street residents as part of the Department’s weekly Meet and Greet sessions. Their visit, however, was met with rejection. Only three days after burying Kendis Flowers and their subsequent …
Unidentified body found on the George Price Highway
Today, another body of a man was found near the eight miles community along the George Price Highway. The discovery was made at approximately 9:30 this morning. Police did not release any further information as the investigation is ongoing. This is the second body this week that has been found in the general vicinity. Police …
The Guardian
Johnny Briceno and family own more land than most Belizeans
The Guardian Newspaper was provided with a sheaf of documents that proves that Johnny Briceno and his family may be among the largest landholders in the country. The revelation first came to light during the Budget debate during which Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow refuted Briceno’s claim that the UDP was the most corrupt government. To prove this the PM pulled out a number of documents and pulled no punches when he exposed both Briceno and Julius Espat as being among the largest land holders in the country. While the PM enumerated the large masses of land which the duo own, Briceno hung his head in shame while Espat had a half-hearted defense.
Alejandro Lauriano arraigned for the murder of Theresita Flowers and Delcia Blanco
Over the weekend, police were able to pick up and arrest someone that they say was involved in the double murder of Theresita Flowers, 64, and Delcia Blanco, 17. That man is Alejandro Lauriano, a 19-year-old fisherman/electrician and son of Bernadine Lauriano, who was shot and killed in her home on Aloe Vera Street days before Flowers and Blanco were killed.
The murder is one that stunned the nation. Police visited a home on Tibruce Street, the home of Flowers, where they saw the body of 17-year-old Blanco. She had a gunshot wound to the center of her forehead. After walking into the house, they then saw the body of Flowers with gunshot injuries to her back and buttock.
Mario Guerrero’s murder caught on tape
Mario Guerrero Sr., 64, the well-known business man and boat man from the company Guerrero’s Charters, was found dead at this home in Sunset Park. He was reportedly beaten to death with one of his own bar stools at his home. At this time, it is uncertain why he was killed, but his friends and family members have reason to suspect that his attacker may have wanted to steal from him.
Police say that on Sunday, March 25, at around 9:30 p.m., they visited the residence at #1234 Sunset Park. On their arrival, they found Guerrero’s body under a tent in his yard. He had suffered multiple injuries to the head and body. Beside him, they found the broken bar stool, which they believe was used as the weapon to beat him to death.
First National Research Conference in Belize
Belize’s First National Research Conference ended on Thursday of last week at the University of Belize, leaving in its wake a trail of important papers on Belize’s development agenda. In one of those presentations made by David Gibson from the Centre for Strategic Studies, Policy Analysis and Research CSSPAR, he posits that there is need to do a comparison analysis in international relations.
In such an analysis of the Guyana-Venezuela and Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute, David Gibson attempts to come up with various parallels. In doing so, David Gibson also comes up with a guide to “…support the review of Belize’s diplomatic strategy to end the dispute at this juncture of its existence.”
Evidence of the work in the Cayo North Division
Work has recently commenced on the re-surfacing and paving of three streets in the Cayo North Division, adding to the numbers that have already been paved. Ongoing work during this phase includes Thornley Street, 23rd Street and Bishop Desmond Street.
The Representative for the Cayo North Division Dr. Omar Figueroa reports that he is certain that residents and motorists alike will immediately reap the benefits from these improvements.
“The work of transforming Cayo North continues!,” he writes.
Belize National Teachers Union holds rally in Belmopan
On Thursday of last week, the Belize National Teachers Union BNTU flexed its muscle in Belmopan, bringing out some five hundred teachers with a series of new demands. The march by teachers started from in front of the Belmopan Comprehensive High School and ended at the Belmopan Civic Center where some noted speakers were present.
Among those speakers were Kim Simplis Barrow, Special Envoy for Women and Children, who said she was honored and thankful for being invited.
Cassava processing demonstration center opened at Gulisi
On Monday March 26th a building was inaugurated at the Monument Site/Gulisi Community Primary School in Dangriga to house a Cassava Processing Demonstration center. Financed by a number of agencies, the building will serve as a means by which the Garifuna Culture will remain relevant in Belize.
Under the stewardship of the National Garifuna Council (NGC) the new building will serve to demonstrate how cassava is converted from a tuber to bread (Ereba). As a staple in the Garifuna diet, Ereba remains an integral part of the Garifuna culture and in an effort to keep it alive the center will feature every aspect of cassava making, from grating to straining to the final product.
Evidence of Briceno’s Hustle at Lands Department
The United Democratic Party condemns the hypocrisy and dishonesty of the Leader of the Opposition, John Briceno. It is common knowledge that when Briceno served as Minister of Natural Resources between 1998 – 2008 he participated in the wholesale, cheap sale of thousands of acres of government land to his family members, PUP cronies – some of whom are currently elected representatives, and to bogus companies owned by himself and family members. In the UDP’s view, that is corruption. Acting in this way, Briceno carried on a tradition similar to when his father served as a member of the PUP cabinet in the 1980s.
Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation has relocated
The Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation hereby informs the public that effective April 3, 2018 the new location for the Human Development Office in San Ignacio is on 3rd floor of the new San Ignacio/Santa Elena Town Hall building located on No. 28 Maya Street, adjacent of Falcon Field, San Ignacio Town.
The public is further reminded that the office’s telephone number remains the same which is 804-2098.
Keynote Address by Doctor Joseph Palacio
Former Resident Tutor of the University of the West Indies School of continuing studies in Belize City.
Made during the first day of the Belize National Research Conference on March 21, 2018
I am grateful to Nigel Escalante for inviting me to give this Keynote Address. He is the Director of the Institute for Social and Cultural Research and a member of the Working Group that is hosting this First Belize National Research Conference under the theme “Research and Development in Belize”.
Bullet penetrates roof of KHMHA
Belize City, Belize - On the afternoon of Sunday 25th March 2018, just before 3pm, a bullet penetrated the roof of the KHMHA building at our Accident and Emergency Department.
The KHMH is highly concerned about the safety of our patients, visitors and staff and while no one was injured, the outcome could have been gravely different.
As a health institution we directly see the horrific damage that bullets cause to persons and we condemn all forms of gun violence which are destroying lives and causing an unnecessary strain on the limited resources of our health system.
Ministry of Labour Issues Statement on Belize Aqua Culture Ltd. Employee Layoff
The Belize Aqua Culture Limited (BAL), has informed the Ministry of Labour of its intention to make redundant approximately one hundred (100) employees at the company’s operation at Mile 4, Placencia Road, Stann Creek District.
The company states that the reason for downsizing is due to the incursion of significant costs in the fight against a disease outbreak that is affecting the entire shrimp industry. Substantial efforts are underway to rebuild and make its operations profitable in Belize, with a view to re-employ affected employees at a later date.
Municipal Officials Orientation Training
The Ministry of Local Government held a two-day workshop for the newly elected cohort of municipal officials and town/city administrators on the 22 & 23 March, 2018, under the theme: “Promoting Good Governance & Integrity in Political Office for Local Government in Belize”. All elected officials from the nine municipalities were present.
The training commenced with an opening ceremony and introduction of the participants from each municipality by their respective mayors. This was followed by a host of presentations to sensitize municipal leaders on the roles and functions of the Ministry of Local Government and by agencies and organizations that contribute to governance processes within municipalities.
Ministry of National Security to Host Nationwide Consultation
The Ministry of National Security will embark on a nationwide consultation with stakeholders to discuss, and share ideas and possible strategies to address the crime situation in Belize.
The Ministry has extended invitations to meet with the Belize National Teachers Union on April 11th, 2018, and the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Belize Council of Churches, and the National Trade Union Congress of Belize on April 13th, 2018.
It is the intention of the Ministry of National Security to meet with all interested stakeholders over the next few weeks.
Section 18 of the Constitution
On Sunday March 18th at a Press Conference held after a weekend of unbridled criminal activity the Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister of Belize declared that, “We will under section 18 of the Constitution of Belize ask the Governor General to designate certain clearly demarcated areas on the Southside of Belize City as emergency areas.”
While that has not been implemented as yet it is important for the public to know the details of such a proclamation. This section is invoked in times of public emergency where the state deems it necessary to give the authorities the appropriate tools to deal with these types of crises. Section 18 of the Constitution reads as follows:
18.-(1) In this Part “period of public emergency means any period during which -
(a) Belize is engaged in any war; or
(b) there is in force a proclamation by the Governor-General declaring that a state of public emergency exists; or
Special Areas
On page 9 of this edition of the Guardian we outlined Section 18 of the Constitution and what it means for our residents. Subsection 4 of said section 18 makes provision for “emergency areas”. The Crime Control and Criminal justice Act Chapter 102 Part IV of the Laws of Belize Revised edition 2000 speaks on the areas.
A “special area” means any area of Belize not exceeding one square mile in which the provisions of this Part have effect by virtue of an Order made under section 12 below.
12.-(1) Where the Minister has reasonable grounds to believe that in the interest of public safety or public order, or for the purpose of preventing or detecting crime, it is requisite so to do, he may, by Order published in the Gazette, with the concurrence of the Crime Control Council, declare that the provisions of this Part shall, during the continuance in force of the Order, have effect in relation to any area of Belize not exceeding one square mile specified in the Order.
Campaign to plant 10,000 trees
The Forestry Department in Belize has joined with other local and global partners to commemorate International Day of Forests, which was celebrated on March 21, 2018. In lieu of this day and this year’s theme “Forests and Sustainable Cities”, the department is partnering with countrywide municipalities to plant more than 10,000 trees by 2020.
The Belmopan City Council is the first municipality that the department has teamed up with. The council has a campaign for a greener city and through this partnership, over 1,000 trees will be planted in and around the Belmopan area. Several carefully selected tree species will be strategically placed for beautification, providing shade, cooler temperatures and oxygen, and promoting health and well-being.
UB discusses solutions to crime and violence in Belize
Belize’s top minds met within the Jaguar Auditorium at the University of Belize’s main campus in Belmopan on Tuesday evening to issue a series of policy recommendations to address the recent spate of crimes. For the education sector, among these recommendations were that primary and secondary education should be free of cost to all our children. Another recommendation was for there to be a country-wide assessment of specialized courses and disciplines to fulfill the needs for clinical psychologists and other specialties. Also that the authorities provide scholarships for allied health and social services.
Another group also gave recommendations that members of the police receive psycho-social support as they have also been affected by trauma. Experts also advised that there be more transparency in the selection process of police officers. Another recommendation was that the professional standards branch take preventative measures on crime.
Hilberto Perez walks away from accusation of manslaughter
Hilberto Perez, a 50-year-old businessman of Ladyville, learned his fate on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 for the May 9, 2015 shooting death of Daniel Trapp. Perez appeared before Justice Marilyn Williams where he was represented by attorney Richard “Dickie” Bradley.
Trap was accused of stealing mangoes from Perez’s residence on more than one occasion and on May 9, Trapp would be shot in the chest with a pellet gun which Perez used. The question into trial stood: was Perez provoked by the intruder, who was armed with a machete and refused to leave the yard, or was it an intentional act to harm Trapp? According to Perez, he was protecting his yard when he drew the pellet gun which he used to shoot cows.
Burglary in Belama
Krysten Maura Zayden, a 20-year-old student of Belama Phase 1, reported that on March 23, 2018 at about 5:00 p.m., she left her apartment and upon arrival back home about 9:30 p.m., she discovered that her home was burglarized. Zayden noticed that several items were stolen, approximating over $6,500.
Such items included a gold chain with a cross medal valued at $550, a pair of silver earrings with a diamond stone valued at $250, 2 gold bracelets valued at $225, a white gold jewelry set consisting of a pair of earrings, a bracelet, and a chain with a pearl medal valued at $2,500.
Family feud keeps claiming lives
The dispute between the males from the Louriano family and the Flowers family in Lake Independence, Belize City has most likely resulted in yet another murder. 28 year-old Justin Emmanuel Orellana, was shot and killed inside his home in Lord’s Bank. All indications are that the killers executed him while he was asleep in his bed.
Police say that on Sunday morning, March 25, they were called out to a plywood house on Edwin Parks Street in Lords Bank. On a bed inside the house, they found Justin Orellana’s lifeless body. He was found under a blanket on the bed; and most unusually, he had a machete in the right hand. On closer inspection, the cops found gunshot injuries to the left hand and the chest. He was already dead by the time the cops were able to transfer his body to the KHMH.
AmbergrisCaye.com 
