Carib Scope

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  • Basketball Uniting Belize District Communities

    Basketball Uniting Belize District Communities

    BELIZE DISTRICT – After three months of intense competition, the William Dawson Sprite Basketball Tournament has concluded with Tuff Enuff emerging as champions, securing a $5,000 prize. What began as a modest six-team event in 2015 has evolved into a significant community fixture, now featuring twenty teams competing for substantial cash awards.

    The tournament, established by the late William Dawson, serves a purpose far beyond athletic competition. Its core mission focuses on diverting at-risk youth from gang involvement through structured sports intervention. Tournament Coordinator Douglas Hyde confirmed the strategy’s effectiveness, noting, “These teams have demonstrated that through sports, they are willing to channel their energy onto the basketball court rather than engage in violence against one another.”

    Community impact has been substantial, with Hyde observing unprecedented collaboration between previously divided neighborhoods. “Some of these players didn’t communicate before. They avoided certain areas. Now we’re seeing genuine partnerships and friendships that have developed over years of tournament participation,” he reported.

    The competition showcased elite talent from across Belize District, with players expressing personal connections to the event. Tournament MVP Francis Arana from Tuff Enuff emphasized its significance: “As someone from the neighborhood, this tournament represents something our community anticipates annually. It allows youth from challenged areas to showcase their talents and redirect their focus.”

    When questioned about the tournament’s effect on reducing gang violence, Arana responded affirmatively: “It helps tremendously by keeping youth actively engaged in basketball. They spend their time practicing and anticipating weekend games rather than lingering on street corners.”

    Godfrey Arnold, Top Scorer from runner-up team Don One, echoed this sentiment, describing the tournament as a premier event that fills a void in Belize’s sporting calendar.

    The tournament’s future received strong endorsement from Oscar Mira, Minister of Home Affairs, who witnessed the championship games. Minister Mira committed continued government support, stating: “Sports uniquely bring communities together in ways nothing else can. These community-based programs provide young people with alternatives and must continue. We will ensure they receive our ongoing support.”

    Final rankings awarded Don One $3,000 for second place, Warriors $1,500 for third, and Class $1,000 for fourth, completing a tournament that successfully blended athletic excellence with social transformation.

  • GGMC suspends operations of more than 100 Brazilian gold miners

    GGMC suspends operations of more than 100 Brazilian gold miners

    In a significant enforcement action, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has immediately suspended operations for 107 Brazilian gold miners following a major joint operation in Georgetown that resulted in gold seizures and identification of undocumented individuals.

    The regulatory body announced the sweeping suspensions on Monday, January 5, 2026, just two days after coordinated operations involving GGMC, the Ministry of Natural Resources’ Compliance Unit, and the Guyana Police Force. The suspended miners, predominantly based in Georgetown with some from Bartica, have lost all permissions to operate pending further engagement with regulatory authorities.

    This crackdown follows a January 2 public notice requiring named individuals to present themselves to the GGMC. The Commission emphasized that the suspensions are without prejudice to additional regulatory or enforcement actions that may be pursued lawfully.

    The Ministry of Natural Resources, while declining to specify the quantity of gold seized, characterized the operation as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and precious metal trading. ‘During these operations, several undocumented individuals were processed, gold was seized, and the verification of persons of interest was successfully completed,’ the ministry stated.

    The Guyana government maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward illegal mining activities, with officials warning that similar operations will be conducted nationwide to ensure compliance with mining regulations. The ministry urged public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities related to illegal mining and trading.

    This action aligns with President Irfaan Ali’s recent warnings that gold miners caught under-declaring production could face dredge deregistration, while foreign offenders—primarily Brazilians—could face prosecution and expulsion. The President had previously indicated Guyana’s commitment to partnering with the United States to combat gold smuggling that potentially empowers undemocratic forces.

  • Guyana, US in talks about accepting nationals from third countries

    Guyana, US in talks about accepting nationals from third countries

    Guyana has entered into substantive diplomatic negotiations with the United States concerning the potential acceptance of third-country nationals currently residing in American territory, Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud confirmed on Monday, January 5, 2026.

    The South American nation is actively developing a framework of understanding aligned with its national priorities while supporting U.S. objectives regarding migration management. “Guyana and the USA have been in productive discussions on a framework of understanding which is consistent with our national priorities and needs and supportive of the USA objectives,” Persaud stated in an exclusive interview with Demerara Waves Online News.

    This development follows similar agreements recently confirmed by Caribbean neighbors Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica. The U.S. initiative, first proposed to Caribbean nations and other allied countries in early 2025, seeks international cooperation in addressing complex migration scenarios where individuals cannot be returned to their countries of origin.

    According to Caribbean Media Corporation reports, Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerritt announced his country’s formal agreement with the U.S., emphasizing stringent security provisions. “In our discussions with the State Department there has been careful deliberation of the need to avoid receiving violent individuals or individuals who will compromise the security of Dominica,” Skerritt clarified during a press conference.

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne indicated his nation would accept approximately ten carefully screened non-criminal refugees possessing skills in local demand. The arrangement maintains full discretionary power for the Caribbean nation to accept or reject any recommended individuals, with the U.S. providing comprehensive biometric data and criminal background information.

    The United States has extended similar invitations to over 100 countries worldwide, seeking to distribute the responsibility for refugee and deportee cases more equitably across the international community. Several Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states have already participated in this multilateral initiative.

  • Foreign Affairs Minister Says Observer Visa Story Is False and Misleading

    Foreign Affairs Minister Says Observer Visa Story Is False and Misleading

    The Antigua and Barbuda government has issued a formal rebuttal against what it characterizes as a deliberately misleading news report regarding U.S. visa processing. Foreign Affairs Minister E. Paul Chet Greene has unequivocally rejected an article published in the January 5, 2026 edition of the Antigua Observer, which alleged improper cancellation of a student visa despite government assurances.

    According to official statements, direct consultations with U.S. immigration authorities confirmed that the case referenced in the article bore no connection to Presidential Proclamation 10998. Instead, the application was denied under Section 214(b) of standard U.S. immigration law, which pertains to applicant eligibility requirements.

    The Ministry clarified fundamental aspects of U.S. visa processing protocols, noting that preliminary interview approval does not constitute final visa issuance. All applications undergo mandatory post-interview vetting through Washington, D.C., where refusals may occur if statutory criteria remain unmet. Crucially, no visa was ever issued in this instance, and the refusal notice made no reference to the Presidential Proclamation.

    Further investigation revealed that the photograph accompanying the article—purportedly showing a cancelled visa—was completely unrelated. The image actually depicted an H-1B work visa application from India, bearing no connection to either Antigua or student visa processing.

    The Ministry concluded that the article was constructed with malicious intent to falsely suggest that visas approved before January 1, 2026 were not being honored. The government maintains that all validly issued visas continue to be respected and that the newspaper’s claims lack factual foundation.

  • Fuel price hike adds to pressure on taxi and PSV drivers

    Fuel price hike adds to pressure on taxi and PSV drivers

    A newly implemented fuel price increase has triggered grave concerns within Barbados’s transport sector, with taxi drivers and Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators warning of intensified financial pressures. The adjustment, which took effect at midnight on Sunday, introduces heightened operational costs for an industry already grappling with stagnant fares and significant overheads.

    According to the latest pricing structure, petrol has risen by three cents to reach $3.88 per litre, while diesel experienced a more substantial jump of nine cents, settling at $3.41 per litre. Conversely, kerosene saw a decrease of eight cents to $1.48 per litre. Prices for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were also detailed across various cylinder sizes. The next scheduled price review is set for February 1.

    For operators, these increments, though seemingly marginal, accumulate swiftly given their daily reliance on fuel. The sentiment on the ground is one of resigned acceptance. Veteran taxi driver Enson Bowen, echoing a widespread feeling of futility, stated, “I don’t study it no more… You just draw a line in the middle.” He expressed skepticism about long-discussed government subsidies, noting a continued lack of clarity on any relief measures.

    The financial impact is acutely felt. Driver Kenneth Durant acknowledged the inevitability of the hike, citing embedded taxes as a core issue, while Wayne Padmore, a driver with over 15 years of experience, explained how the increase directly erodes already slim profit margins. “Fuel gone up and the taxi fees still at the same price,” he said, highlighting the mismatch between rising costs and unchanged revenue.

    From a broader industry perspective, Roy Raphael, Chairman of the Alliance Owners of Public Transport (AOPT), underscored the severe ramifications. Emphasizing that PSVs move 80% of the island’s traveling public, he revealed that smaller units now spend up to $175 daily on diesel, with larger vehicles consuming between $200 and $350. Country routes, which require longer travel distances, are anticipated to be the hardest hit.

    Raphael further identified exorbitant insurance costs—ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 annually per vehicle—as a critical burden, equating to at least $1,200 per seat per year. He called for greater transparency from insurance providers and the creation of incentives for safer driving to mitigate premiums.

    Looking toward the future, Raphael confirmed that strategic talks are underway with the Ministry of Energy to transition towards electric vehicles, with a target of converting 25% of the fleet by early 2027. Additionally, plans are in motion to establish a buyers’ club to help members source vehicle parts and oil at more reasonable rates, addressing the challenge of costly imports.

  • Former UDP Senator Henry Gordon Remembered as Statesman

    Former UDP Senator Henry Gordon Remembered as Statesman

    The nation of Belize is mourning the passing of Henry Gordon, a distinguished former Cabinet Secretary and Senator, who died on January 2, 2026, at the age of 83. Gordon’s multifaceted career spanned meteorology, pastoral ministry, and national politics, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s public life.

    Gordon’s political journey saw him serve as Cabinet Secretary during the 1990s before ascending to the role of Secretary General for the United Democratic Party (UDP). Following the party’s decisive electoral victory in 2008, he was appointed Church Senator through a nomination by the Council of Churches and the Evangelical Association of Churches, representing religious communities in the national legislature.

    Before entering politics, Gordon established himself as Belize’s chief meteorologist and served as a respected Baptist pastor, blending scientific acumen with spiritual leadership. This unique combination of expertise characterized his approach to public service throughout his career.

    UDP Leader Tracy Panton commemorated Gordon’s legacy in an official statement, noting: ‘Mr. Gordon served with unwavering commitment, integrity, and a profound sense of duty. His contributions to our nation’s development will be remembered with both respect and sincere appreciation.’

    Current Church Senator Louis Wade, who considered Gordon his mentor, reflected on his guidance: ‘This represents a significant loss for our nation, as he was among my most influential mentors. I first encountered his wisdom through his writings in Amandala newspaper.’ Wade further elaborated: ‘He possessed the unique ability to navigate both governmental corridors and spiritual matters, much like the biblical Daniel who maintained his faith while serving in positions of power. He consistently emphasized how biblical principles and constitutional values collaboratively strengthen democratic governance.’

    Gordon is survived by his wife Ann, their four children, eleven grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. A funeral service will be conducted at Bethany Baptist Church in Belize City on January 10 at 1:00 PM, where community members and dignitaries will gather to honor his life and contributions.

  • Sewage Overflows at Belize City Bus Terminal

    Sewage Overflows at Belize City Bus Terminal

    BELIZE CITY – A severe sanitation emergency unfolded at the Belize City bus terminal over the weekend as raw sewage overflowed from drainage systems, contaminating street surfaces and creating hazardous public health conditions. This incident occurs several months after the Ministry of Transport committed to comprehensive terminal upgrades that were intended to address exactly these types of infrastructure failures.

    Transport Ministry CEO Chester Williams attributed the overflow to exceptional rainfall volumes experienced throughout recent weeks. While confirming that immediate cleanup operations have been conducted using sewer trucks to extract the waste, Williams acknowledged the terminal’s longstanding sanitation deficiencies.

    The promised renovation project, which includes installation of four new bathroom facilities and flood prevention measures, remains in preliminary development phases despite allocated funding already being approved. Infrastructure Ministry engineers and architects have conducted site assessments, but the project awaits final architectural drawings and quantity bills before tender documents can be prepared.

    Notably, renovation work has already commenced at the Belmopan Bus Terminal, with Belize City’s improvements expected to follow subsequently. Williams expressed hope that the delayed upgrades would materialize ‘sooner rather than later’ to prevent recurrence of such public health hazards.

  • Man Charged Following Fatal RTA of Brian Miguel

    Man Charged Following Fatal RTA of Brian Miguel

    Belizean authorities have formally charged 35-year-old William Aleman of Burrell Boom Village in connection with a fatal road traffic accident that resulted in the death of 24-year-old Brian Miguel. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday afternoon at approximately 3:30 p.m. along the miles forty and forty-one corridor.

    Aleman faces multiple serious charges including manslaughter by negligence, causing death by careless conduct, and operating a motor vehicle without due care and attention. The charges stem from a collision involving Aleman’s Ford F-150 pickup truck and Miguel’s motorcycle.

    According to police reports, the impact of the collision was severe enough to eject Miguel—a farmer from St. Matthews Village—several yards from his motorcycle, resulting in his immediate death at the scene.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, who is overseeing the investigation, provided clarification regarding impairment suspicions. “No sample was taken from Mr. Aleman,” ASP Smith stated, “as his conduct did not suggest anybody who was under the influence of intoxicants at the time of the incident.”

    The case highlights ongoing road safety concerns in the region and underscores the legal consequences of negligent driving behavior. The judicial process against Aleman is now underway as authorities continue to investigate the precise circumstances that led to the fatal collision.

  • Two Detained in Murder of Phillip Nicholas

    Two Detained in Murder of Phillip Nicholas

    Authorities in Belize have taken two individuals into custody for interrogation regarding the homicide of Phillip Nicholas, a 57-year-old resident. The tragic event unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, approximately at 2:00 a.m., within the Belize Defence Force housing complex.

    According to official police reports, the assailant gained entry into the residence through an unsecured side door. The intruder discharged multiple rounds, one of which struck Nicholas in the head while he was asleep alongside his wife and their four-year-old grandson. Despite the proximity of the attack, both the spouse and the young child emerged physically unharmed from the harrowing incident.

    In a heartfelt tribute to the victim, Nicholas’s partner characterized him as an exceptionally affable and devoted family man. “He was a jovial personality, brimming with kindness and affection,” she recounted. “He delighted in dancing and clowning around to entertain others. His children and grandchildren were the absolute center of his universe; he constantly expressed his profound love for them and felt a void whenever they were absent.”

    Reflecting on the profound shock of the sudden loss, she expressed a stance of faith and resilience. “Such devastating circumstances always arrive without warning, leaving one utterly unprepared,” she stated. “I place my trust in God as the ultimate overseer who witnesses all things. I have surrendered this matter entirely into His hands.”

    The ongoing investigation continues as law enforcement works to ascertain the motive behind the break-in and the precise circumstances leading to the fatal shooting.

  • Construction Worker Arrested for Burglary in Armenia Village

    Construction Worker Arrested for Burglary in Armenia Village

    In a recent law enforcement development from Cayo District, Belize, authorities have taken into custody 27-year-old Elvis Larios, a construction worker residing in Armenia Village, on burglary charges. The arrest occurred on January 5, 2026, after sophisticated security technology enabled the detection of the crime in progress.

    According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, the incident unfolded when the property owner, who was away from the residence, received an automated alert from his installed security system indicating unauthorized movement on his premises. The homeowner promptly notified local law enforcement officials regarding the potential security breach.

    “Police units were immediately dispatched to the residence to conduct a thorough inspection,” stated ASP Smith during an official briefing. “Upon arrival and subsequent examination of the property, officers discovered Mr. Larios inside the dwelling. Further investigation revealed he was in possession of two separate items that were confirmed to belong to the legitimate homeowner.”

    The efficient response by Belizean law enforcement highlights the growing effectiveness of public-private partnerships between homeowners utilizing modern security technology and police response protocols. This case demonstrates how integrated security systems can serve as effective crime deterrents and enable rapid police intervention.

    Legal proceedings against Larios are currently underway as judicial authorities examine the evidence and circumstances surrounding the alleged burglary attempt. The suspect remains in custody awaiting formal arraignment and judicial review of the charges brought against him.