作者: admin

  • Boca Chica Garden project exposed as major fraud targeting Dominican diaspora

    Boca Chica Garden project exposed as major fraud targeting Dominican diaspora

    The Boca Chica Garden project, once marketed as a luxurious beachfront residential complex tailored for Dominicans living abroad, has been unmasked as an alleged large-scale fraud. Over a hundred investors, many of whom are retirees from the Dominican diaspora, now face devastating financial losses and shattered dreams. An investigative report by *El Informe con Alicia Ortega* revealed that the promised modern apartments and amenities remain non-existent, with the development site still an untouched, abandoned lot.

    Victims of the scheme shared harrowing accounts of their losses. Otoniel Pichardo, who invested $80,000 in four units, discovered the land flooded and devoid of any construction. Francia Romero and Gabriel Rodríguez, a Puerto Rican truck driver, also lost tens of thousands of dollars after being lured by glossy promotional materials and false promises of oceanfront living.

    Attorney Miguel Serum, representing more than 100 affected investors, has filed a criminal complaint against developers Edgar and Mabel Hernández, accusing them of aggravated fraud and money laundering. Serum described the project as ‘a well-structured deception disguised as paradise.’ Apartments were sold for $54,000 to $80,000 each, accompanied by elaborate promises of luxury facilities. The developers’ lawyer, Frankelis Peña, has denied any wrongdoing, attributing delays to permitting issues—a claim victims argue fails to justify the total absence of construction.

  • Union Island group wins int’l conservation award

    Union Island group wins int’l conservation award

    The Union Island Environmental Alliance (UIEA) Rangers Team has been awarded the prestigious International Ranger Award at the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi. This accolade recognizes their unwavering commitment to protecting the unique wildlife of Union Island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The team, composed of local members Roseman Adams, Junicia Gellizeau, Millesia Gellizeau, Roxanne Forget, Ricardo Gellizeau, Kayroy Baptiste, and Esrome Durant, has played a pivotal role in the recovery of endangered species, including the Union Island gecko and the Grenadines pink rhino iguana. Their daily efforts encompass forest patrols, wildlife monitoring, and addressing human-wildlife conflicts. Despite the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in 2024, which destroyed 90% of the island’s homes and left the team without essential resources, they demonstrated remarkable resilience. They adapted their strategies, leveraging their deep understanding of the local environment and community to continue their conservation work. The team also played a crucial role in post-hurricane recovery, assisting with debris clearance and supply distribution. Their achievements include a significant increase in the Union Island gecko population, from 10,000 in 2018 to approximately 18,000 today. Supported by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Forestry Department, Fauna & Flora, and Re:wild, the UIEA Rangers have become a beacon of hope for both wildlife and the local community. Arica Hill, Fauna & Flora’s Caribbean lead, praised the team’s dedication, emphasizing their invaluable contributions to the island’s recovery and conservation efforts. The award includes financial support, which is expected to enhance their ongoing work and improve their living conditions.

  • Unitedville Family Speaks Out After Wrongful Murder Accusation

    Unitedville Family Speaks Out After Wrongful Murder Accusation

    In a distressing turn of events, the McKoy family from Unitedville has spoken out after being wrongfully accused in the murder of Police Constable Oswald Young Senior. The incident, which occurred on October 10, 2025, has raised significant concerns about police procedures and the impact on innocent families. Jamil McKoy, a local mechanic, was arrested on the night of the shooting but was later exonerated when surveillance footage confirmed his alibi. The Ministry of Home Affairs has labeled the killing as a targeted attack on law enforcement, emphasizing the urgency of the ongoing investigation. The McKoy family, still reeling from the trauma of the wrongful accusation, has called for greater care in handling such sensitive cases to prevent further distress to innocent parties.

  • Tragedy on Simon Lamb Street; Murder-Suicide Suspected

    Tragedy on Simon Lamb Street; Murder-Suicide Suspected

    A harrowing incident unfolded on Simon Lamb Street in Belize City on Saturday afternoon, leaving two young individuals dead in what authorities suspect to be a murder-suicide. The victims, identified as 26-year-old Kiera Gentle and 27-year-old Harrison Arnold, were found lifeless in a bedroom, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Police were alerted to the scene following reports of gunfire within a residence. Upon arrival, they discovered the tragic aftermath of what appears to be a domestic dispute turned fatal. An audio recording from the vicinity captured a woman’s screams followed by three gunshots, with another three shots heard 14 seconds later. A nine-millimeter pistol, registered to Arnold, was recovered at the scene. Investigators revealed that Gentle and Arnold had been in a relationship but had recently separated. Friends and family described the pair as vibrant and full of life, making their untimely deaths all the more shocking. The Belize Police Department has launched a full investigation into the incident, which has left the community in mourning.

  • ULP on the move for a 6th term

    ULP on the move for a 6th term

    The Unity Labour Party (ULP) is making significant strides in its 2025 campaign, marked by a massive rally held on October 11 at the Layou Playing Field. Under the theme ‘We Wuking,’ the event highlighted the party’s broader campaign slogan, ‘Labour is Working For All.’ Prominent figures including Saboto Caesar, Grace Walters, Grenville Williams, Carlos James, Orando Brewster, and Comrade Ralph delivered compelling speeches, outlining the party’s achievements and future plans under the overarching theme ‘Own The Future.’ The rally, which lasted nearly five hours, captivated the audience with a mix of political discourse and musical performances, showcasing the ULP’s deep connection with the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). The event underscored the party’s determination to secure a sixth consecutive term in office. The ULP’s campaign has also spotlighted emerging stars like Dr. Grace Walters and Dr. Orando Brewster, alongside seasoned leaders such as Saboto Caesar and Comrade Ralph, who continues to be a pivotal figure in the party’s success. The week of October 11-17 was particularly eventful for the ULP, with the inauguration of the Clifton Ferry Terminal on Union Island, the Ignite Grand Finale cultural competition, and the Central Kingstown Football Competition. Additionally, the party held a press briefing on October 13 regarding the upcoming opening of the Modern Port, scheduled for October 25. On October 16, the ULP commemorated two significant historical milestones: the 57th anniversary of Comrade Ralph’s leadership in political activism and the 31st anniversary of the merger between the SVG Labour Party and the Movement for National Unity, which formed the ULP. These events were celebrated with the launch of two books authored by Comrade Ralph, ‘Caribbean Regional Integration’ and ‘Labour is Working for All,’ and a planned rally in Calliaqua on October 18. The ULP’s enduring legacy and commitment to SVG’s development continue to resonate with the electorate, positioning the party as a formidable force in the upcoming elections.

  • Police Officer Arrested in Brutal Hattieville Double Murder

    Police Officer Arrested in Brutal Hattieville Double Murder

    In a startling development in a high-profile murder investigation, a 25-year-old Belizean police officer, Orvin Williams, has been arrested and charged with the brutal killings of fraternal twins Paul Esquilliano and Paula Belisle. The siblings were discovered shot dead inside Paula’s residence on Ysaguirre Boulevard in Hattieville on September 15, 2025. After weeks of uncertainty, the Belize Police Department announced on October 11 that Williams, a constable from Mahogany Heights, had been taken into custody and faces two counts of murder. The case has taken a deeply personal turn, as investigators revealed that Williams had previously been in a relationship with Paula’s daughter, who passed away some time ago. Reports also suggest that Williams had allegedly been stealing money from Paula’s credit union account, raising questions about financial motives. Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith, a spokesperson for the police, emphasized that while an arrest has been made, the investigation remains ongoing, and further details will be disclosed in court. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the complexities of the case and the emotional toll it has taken on all involved.

  • Belize on Alert After Gang Members Escape Prison in Guatemala

    Belize on Alert After Gang Members Escape Prison in Guatemala

    Belize has been placed on high alert following the escape of twenty high-profile gang members from a maximum-security prison in Guatemala. The fugitives, affiliated with the infamous Eighteenth Street gang, are considered highly dangerous, and authorities fear they may attempt to cross into Belize due to its proximity to Guatemala. The Belize Police Department was notified of the escape on October 11, 2025, and has since intensified border surveillance and operational efforts to prevent their entry. ASP Stacy Smith, a staff officer, emphasized the gravity of the situation, urging residents in border areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately. The public has been warned to avoid contact with the escapees and to assist law enforcement by providing any relevant information. This incident has raised significant security concerns, as the Eighteenth Street gang is known for its violent activities and transnational operations. Belizean authorities are collaborating with Guatemalan counterparts to track and apprehend the fugitives, while also bolstering national security measures to ensure public safety.

  • Appeal Hearing for Convicted Attorney Oscar Selgado Underway

    Appeal Hearing for Convicted Attorney Oscar Selgado Underway

    The Court of Appeal convened today to hear arguments in the high-profile case of Oscar Selgado, a 56-year-old attorney convicted last year for abetment to murder. Selgado was found guilty of allegedly orchestrating a hit on Marilyn Barnes, a Belizean woman, though the act was never carried out. The court ruled that his actions had crossed legal boundaries, leading to his conviction and a ten-year prison sentence. Today, Selgado’s legal team, led by attorneys Arthur Saldivar and Darrell Bradley, presented arguments to overturn the conviction. The hearing raised critical legal questions, including the reliance on a key statement from Giovanni Ramirez, the individual Selgado allegedly hired. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) conceded that without Ramirez’s statement, the prosecution’s case would have collapsed. Notably, Ramirez’s statement was admitted during a voir dire, despite his refusal to testify in person due to fears for his safety. Selgado’s lawyers argued that this violated the Evidence Act, as the prosecution failed to provide adequate protection or alternative testimony options for Ramirez. Additionally, they highlighted the absence of crucial evidence, such as a phone allegedly containing incriminating recordings, which was never recovered before the trial. After hours of deliberation, the panel of judges reserved their decision for a later date. Selgado remains incarcerated pending the outcome of this appeal, which could potentially alter the course of his case.

  • Police Investigate Sudden Death of 9-year-old Girl

    Police Investigate Sudden Death of 9-year-old Girl

    A tragic incident has shaken the community of Belize City, as authorities investigate the sudden death of a nine-year-old girl, Evadne Martinez. The young girl reportedly collapsed at a residence near the intersection of Linda Vista Street and Police Street on the evening of Saturday, October 11, 2025. Emergency responders rushed her to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (K.H.M.H.), where medical personnel attempted to resuscitate her. Unfortunately, their efforts were unsuccessful, and Evadne was pronounced dead. While it is known that the child had a history of asthma, the exact cause of her sudden demise remains undetermined. Police have initiated a thorough investigation, and a post-mortem examination has been scheduled to ascertain the precise cause of death. ASP Stacy Smith, the Staff Officer overseeing the case, confirmed these details, emphasizing the need for clarity in this heartbreaking situation. The community mourns the loss of young Evadne, as questions linger about the circumstances surrounding her untimely passing.

  • Police ID Man Found Dead Near Foreshore

    Police ID Man Found Dead Near Foreshore

    In a significant development in the ongoing investigation into a mysterious death in Belize City, authorities have identified the deceased as 30-year-old Adrian Victor Bood, a Belizean national with no fixed address. Bood’s body was discovered floating near the Southern Foreshore on October 12, 2025. His sister has officially confirmed his identity, providing some closure to a case that has sparked widespread curiosity and concern. According to police, there are currently no indications of foul play or violence on the body. ASP Stacy Smith, the Staff Officer handling the case, revealed that Bood was known to reside in the streets of downtown Belize City, a fact corroborated by several local residents. However, his specific details remain unclear, prompting authorities to appeal to the public for assistance. Individuals with relatives matching the description are urged to visit the Raccoon Street or Queen Street Police Station with photographs to aid in the identification process. Investigators are still working to determine the circumstances surrounding Bood’s death, and updates will be provided as new information emerges.