作者: admin

  • Julius Espat Says BTL Merger Could Help or Hurt PUP

    Julius Espat Says BTL Merger Could Help or Hurt PUP

    Infrastructure Minister Julius Espat has openly acknowledged the significant political implications surrounding the proposed merger between Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) and Speednet, indicating the outcome could either strengthen or severely damage the ruling People’s United Party’s standing. In recent statements, Minister Espat emphasized that the government’s approach to this major national issue hinges on one critical factor: conducting thorough and meaningful public consultations before reaching any final decision.

    Espat, who serves as Minister of Infrastructure Development and Housing, revealed the complexity of the cabinet deliberations while maintaining confidentiality regarding specific discussions. ‘We have our opinions in Cabinet that we share quite frankly,’ Espat stated, ‘but those are Cabinet discussions and decisions under our laws that we should not be speaking publicly about.’

    The Minister acknowledged significant opposition to the merger concept while noting that BTL leadership remains strongly convinced of its benefits. Drawing parallels to architectural design that requires proper ventilation, Espat stressed the need for transparent dialogue to address public concerns. ‘If you have a concern, let us have more consultation, let us sit with the people and convince them,’ he advocated.

    Espat highlighted the political dimension, noting that politicians succeed by demonstrating leadership through genuine public engagement. ‘Politically we could come out of this in a positive or negative light,’ he cautioned. ‘It is how you convince people. How does a politician win? By putting in the work and convincing people his leadership and ideas are positive.’

    The Minister concluded that the ultimate outcome—both politically and nationally—will depend on whether government leaders adequately consult with the public and honestly address the concerns being raised about the telecommunications merger.

  • 18-year-old Motorist Killed Riding Home from Work

    18-year-old Motorist Killed Riding Home from Work

    A profound tragedy has struck the community of Ladyville, Belize, following a fatal traffic incident that claimed the life of 18-year-old Miguel Montoya on the morning of February 2, 2026. The young motorcyclist was returning from his factory job along the Philip Goldson Highway when a collision with a tow-head truck ended his life just minutes from his family home.

    According to official statements from Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, the accident occurred between miles ten and eleven on the highway at approximately 9:30 a.m. Preliminary investigation indicates that Montoya was attempting to make a left turn off the highway when a freight truck traveling in the same direction attempted to overtake his motorcycle, resulting in a catastrophic collision. Despite wearing protective headgear, Montoya sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

    The driver of the involved vehicle has been formally served with a notice of intended prosecution while authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

    Family members, including the victim’s uncle Alberto Montoya, expressed both grief and frustration regarding highway safety conditions. In emotional statements to media, the family described Miguel as a promising young man who frequently traveled between Orange Walk and Belize District to maintain relationships with both parents. The grieving relatives are now advocating for immediate safety improvements, specifically requesting the installation of speed reduction measures in the area where the tragedy occurred.

    This incident has reignited community concerns about vehicle operator behavior toward motorcycle riders on Belizean highways, with family members noting that many drivers show insufficient respect for smaller vehicles on the road. The Montoya family’s call for justice and infrastructure improvements reflects broader community anxieties about transportation safety in the region.

  • Guatemalan Arrested for Hit and Run of PC Marcos Acal

    Guatemalan Arrested for Hit and Run of PC Marcos Acal

    Belizean authorities have initiated a rigorous legal response following a fatal hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of Special Constable Marcos Acal on Friday night. Juan Carlos Estrada Prado, a 30-year-old Guatemalan national and cattle truck driver from Santa Cruz Village, now faces multiple criminal charges including manslaughter by negligence, causing death by careless conduct, and several traffic violations.

    The tragedy unfolded around 7:30 PM on the Thomas Vincent Ramos Highway when Constable Acal, traveling on his motorcycle, was struck by a Hino brand pickup truck. Despite severe injuries sustained from the collision, the driver failed to stop and provide assistance. Constable Acal was discovered alongside the roadway by responders and transported to Southern Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

    Through coordinated intelligence operations, police units in Punta Gorda successfully intercepted the suspect vehicle at a local dump site hours after the incident. Estrada Prado was apprehended along with two male passengers found aboard the truck. Forensic examination of the vehicle revealed significant damage and apparent blood evidence consistent with the collision.

    Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith, Staff Officer, confirmed that investigators are evaluating potential charges against the two passengers who were present during the incident. ASP Smith emphasized that all occupants had a legal obligation to report the accident, stating that the traffic department has been specifically tasked with determining appropriate charges against them.

    The case has highlighted ongoing concerns about road safety and legal accountability in hit-and-run incidents, particularly those involving foreign nationals operating commercial vehicles across Central American borders.

  • Police Officer Charged and Linked to Series of Ladyville Murders

    Police Officer Charged and Linked to Series of Ladyville Murders

    In a startling development that has shaken public trust in law enforcement, Belizean authorities have arrested and charged one of their own officers in connection with a series of violent homicides. Police Constable Kenroy Allen, 24, now faces murder charges for the killing of Shakim Ferguson during brazen shootings in Ladyville Village on January 25th, 2026.

    The case has taken a dramatic turn as investigators revealed they have recovered and ballistically tested the murder weapon—Allen’s personal firearm—along with his black Chevy Equinox vehicle spotted at the crime scene. Additional evidence includes clothing retrieved from the officer’s residence believed to have been worn during the shooting incident.

    During today’s court appearance before Chief Magistrate Deborah Rogers, Allen was formally charged with murder while wearing his police-issued jacket. No plea was entered, and he has been remanded to Belize Central Prison until his next hearing scheduled for May 15th.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith confirmed that while no clear motive has been definitively established, investigators are exploring potential drug-related connections between Ferguson’s murder and two other homicides in the Ladyville area—those of Elroy Bainton and another individual identified as Mr. Valerio. Ballistic evidence suggests all three incidents may be interconnected, prompting a broader investigation into possible narcotics involvement and accountability within police ranks.

    The case has raised significant concerns about internal police conduct and the potential infiltration of criminal elements within law enforcement agencies, particularly regarding drug-related activities and their connection to violent crime in the community.

  • US Military Vet Opens Fire at Police Mobile

    US Military Vet Opens Fire at Police Mobile

    A joint security operation in Ladyville, Belize, culminated in the dramatic arrest of a 29-year-old American military veteran following an armed confrontation with law enforcement. Darnain Garcia, who was already on bail for previous firearms trafficking charges, allegedly opened fire on a police mobile unit during the early hours of February 2, 2026.

    The incident began when officers responded to a domestic disturbance report. While transporting a female complainant to Ladyville Police Station, their vehicle came under direct gunfire. This triggered an immediate response from elite units including the GI3, Anti-narcotics unit, and Ladyville Quick Response Team.

    Utilizing advanced surveillance technology including drone reconnaissance, authorities tracked Garcia to a specific area of interest. Through covert operations, they successfully apprehended the suspect at approximately 6:00 a.m. The operation yielded significant weapons seizures: an AR-15 rifle with 37 rounds of 5.56 ammunition, a 9mm Smith & Wesson pistol containing 14 live rounds, and an additional bag holding 60 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

    Garcia’s previous legal troubles include July 2025 charges for illicit firearms trafficking after authorities discovered a barrel containing multiple weapons and ammunition at the Santa Elena border. He remains unlicensed to possess firearms and is currently prohibited from leaving Belize as investigators prepare additional charges related to this latest incident.

  • Ranchito Woman Charged for Crack and Weed Trafficking

    Ranchito Woman Charged for Crack and Weed Trafficking

    A routine Friday morning in Ranchito Village was abruptly transformed into a significant law enforcement operation on January 30, 2026, resulting in the arrest of 38-year-old Sandra Aracelly Pineda on serious drug trafficking charges. According to official police reports, officers executed a pre-arranged search warrant at approximately 10:00 AM at Pineda’s residence.

    Law enforcement authorities detailed that upon entering the premises, officers immediately identified themselves and declared their purpose. During this critical moment, police observed Pineda allegedly seizing a transparent plastic bag and attempting to flee through the residence. ASP Stacy Smith, the Staff Officer overseeing the operation, provided a comprehensive account of the incident.

    “The arresting officer reported that while simultaneously advising occupants of police presence and the execution of the warrant, she observed Pineda picking up a transparent plastic bag and running through the house,” stated Smith. “Pineda was pursued and was observed throwing the plastic bag. When subsequently opened and inspected, the bag was found to contain several pieces of suspected crack cocaine totaling 5.8 grams.”

    Further investigation revealed additional narcotics in Pineda’s possession. A subsequent personal search resulted in the discovery of 17.8 grams of cannabis, compounding the charges against the suspect. The successful operation demonstrates continued vigilance by local authorities in combating drug distribution networks within the community.

    Pineda now faces multiple charges related to drug possession with intent to distribute, marking another step in ongoing efforts to address substance abuse issues in the region. The case continues to develop as prosecutors prepare formal charges based on the evidence collected during the operation.

  • Suspected Drug Habit Fuels Burglary Spree, Arrest

    Suspected Drug Habit Fuels Burglary Spree, Arrest

    A series of residential break-ins in the Corozal district has culminated in the arrest of a 26-year-old Chan Chen resident, with authorities pointing to a suspected drug habit as the potential catalyst for the criminal activity. Dennis Eck now faces serious legal consequences following two distinct burglary incidents and an additional drug possession charge.

    According to police reports, the first incident involved a burglary where approximately $750 was stolen from a local residence. The second, and more alarming event, involved a young girl who encountered an intruder—later identified as Eck—inside her bedroom. Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith provided detailed commentary on the case, noting that the suspect was reportedly shirtless during the second encounter and fled the scene upon being discovered.

    Police investigation swiftly identified Eck as a person of interest. Upon apprehending him at his residence, officers discovered a small quantity of suspected crack cocaine in his possession, weighing approximately 0.13 grams. The simultaneous drug and burglary charges suggest a troubling connection between substance abuse and property crimes in the region.

    The back-to-back incidents, occurring between January 31 and February 1, have raised concerns about community safety and the impact of drug-related criminal behavior. Eck remains in custody as legal proceedings move forward, with law enforcement highlighting the successful identification and detention as a priority in maintaining public security.

  • NTUCB Slams ‘Silence’ on Speednet Deal

    NTUCB Slams ‘Silence’ on Speednet Deal

    BELIZE CITY – A significant confrontation is brewing between Belize’s labor movement and government institutions over a controversial telecommunications acquisition. The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) has issued a strongly worded condemnation of the proposed Speednet purchase, accusing the Social Security Board (SSB) of maintaining a “deafening silence” regarding the transaction’s details.

    The labor organization asserts that the SSB, which already maintains a substantial 34% stake in Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), bears direct legal responsibility for safeguarding worker contributions. Despite this fiduciary duty, the NTUCB claims the Board has failed to provide adequate disclosure or engage in meaningful consultation with the contributors whose funds are potentially at risk.

    While stopping short of formally demanding resignations, the union’s statement reflects growing internal pressure for SSB Board Chairman Chandra Nisbet-Cansino to step down. Critics within the labor movement have particularly questioned her recent resignation from BTL’s Board of Directors ahead of a crucial meeting concerning the acquisition, characterizing the move as an abdication of responsibility during a pivotal moment.

    The NTUCB has now issued a formal demand for the SSB to publicly oppose the Speednet acquisition until comprehensive due diligence is completed and contributor concerns are thoroughly addressed. The brewing controversy has garnered additional support, with the Belize Communications Workers for Justice announcing their participation in planned demonstrations.

    The United Democratic Party has aligned with labor groups in organizing protests scheduled for Wednesday outside the SSB headquarters. Political observers suggest that the four social partner senators may use this platform to articulate a forceful public position on the escalating dispute.

  • FLASH : TPS revocation blocked by the courts, Trump will appeal to the Supreme Court

    FLASH : TPS revocation blocked by the courts, Trump will appeal to the Supreme Court

    In a significant legal development on February 2nd, 2026, Federal Judge Ana C. Reyes issued a temporary stay halting the Trump administration’s attempt to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 350,000 Haitian nationals residing in the United States. The ruling represents a major setback for immigration officials seeking to end humanitarian protections granted following Haiti’s devastating 2010 earthquake.

    The judicial intervention stems from a class-action lawsuit filed by Haitian immigrants who contended that forced repatriation would expose them to extreme danger. Haiti currently faces a severe humanitarian crisis characterized by widespread gang violence, kidnappings, and limited government control over vast territories, conditions that prompted the United Nations to declare a state of emergency.

    In her comprehensive 87-page opinion, Judge Reyes—appointed by former President Joe Biden—determined that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem violated constitutional due process guarantees and equal protection principles under the Fifth Amendment. The ruling notably suggested that Secretary Noem’s decision appeared “substantially likely” motivated by “hostility to nonwhite immigrants,” indicating potential racial bias in the termination process.

    Legal representatives from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, the firm advocating for the plaintiffs, hailed the decision as recognizing “the grave risks Haitian TPS holders would face if forced to return” while allowing them to “continue their lives, contributing to their communities, and supporting their families” as originally intended by congressional legislation.

    The Department of Homeland Security immediately signaled its intention to escalate the matter to the nation’s highest judicial authority. Tricia McLaughlin, DHS spokesperson, declared: “Supreme Court, here we come,” characterizing the ruling as “illegal activism for which we will be vindicated.” This stance aligns with previous administration actions regarding Venezuelan TPS beneficiaries, where the Supreme Court permitted status termination during appellate review.

    The temporary reprieve offers uncertain protection for Haitian immigrants, as precedent suggests the Supreme Court may ultimately allow the administration to proceed with TPS termination while legal challenges continue through the judicial system.

  • Trade organizations deny chicken and eggs shortage

    Trade organizations deny chicken and eggs shortage

    SANTO DOMINGO – Key retail trade organizations in the Dominican Republic have publicly endorsed Agriculture Minister Francisco Oliverio Espaillat, refuting circulating allegations about shortages and unjustified price surges in chicken and egg products. The unified stance emerged from a high-level meeting convened on Monday, as detailed in an official release from the Ministry of Agriculture.

    Retail representatives confirmed that market supplies of poultry and eggs have now stabilized, attributing this balance to strategic interventions deployed by the current government. They emphasized that availability has normalized across distribution channels, contradicting widespread rumors of scarcity.

    Apolinar Leyba Jr., a prominent voice in the retail sector, issued a stark warning against what he described as disinformation campaigns. He asserted that certain interest groups are deliberately propagating false narratives of product shortages to engineer artificial market distortions and undermine price stability for their own benefit.

    In a show of sector-wide solidarity, Ricardo Rosario, who heads the National Central Union of Unified Retailers, reiterated the industry’s dedication to collaborative engagement with the Ministry of Agriculture. This partnership aims to safeguard the consistent supply and equitable pricing of essential food commodities for consumers. The meeting drew participation from multiple federations representing retailers and merchants, all pledging ongoing cooperation to preserve market equilibrium and prevent speculative practices.