Authorities in Belize City are on the hunt for two individuals implicated in a brazen armed robbery at the UNO gas station located at mile 1.5 on the Philip Goldson Highway. The incident occurred on Friday, November 3, 2025, leaving the community on edge. According to reports, the station manager, Eric Chi, was preparing to make a deposit when he was accosted by one of the suspects, who brandished a firearm and forced him to the ground. An accomplice on a motorcycle assisted in the theft of a substantial amount of cash before both fled the scene. While initial estimates suggest that up to $50,000 was stolen, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Hilberto Romero, Head of the National Crime Investigation Branch, has yet to confirm the exact figure. Romero revealed that the suspects were allegedly lying in wait at a nearby parking lot before targeting the manager. Police are currently examining surveillance footage to aid in the identification and apprehension of the suspects. The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement seeks to bring the perpetrators to justice.
分类： society
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Ministry Clarifies Teacher Payment “Misinformation”
The Ministry of Education has refuted claims that teachers in Belize were left unpaid, following concerns raised by the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU). Minister of Education Oscar Requena clarified in a recent interview that the issue stemmed from delayed allowances and communication gaps rather than unpaid salaries. The controversy dates back to December, when some teachers experienced delays in receiving hardship, responsibility, and salary adjustment allowances. To address this, the ministry issued advance salaries, with the understanding that the amounts would later be deducted from future payments. Requena acknowledged that the lack of timely communication from the financial center may have caused confusion when the deductions were processed. He emphasized that the ministry is actively collaborating with the BNTU to resolve the matter swiftly. The ministry has assured stakeholders that efforts are being made to prevent such misunderstandings in the future. News 5 has reached out to the BNTU for further comment.
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Planning and Development Authority launches training initiative
In a significant move to bolster construction safety and align with global best practices, Grenada’s Planning and Development Authority (PDA) has unveiled the ‘Check Consultant Clause’ under the Regional Building Code. This innovative framework mandates an independent third-party technical review for complex or large-scale developments, ensuring that qualified engineers or architects oversee critical design stages. The initiative aims to mitigate structural and foundational risks, which have recently plagued projects both locally and regionally.
At a recent press conference, PDA Chairman Kenrick Fullerton underscored the importance of this measure, stating, ‘This is not merely about compliance; it’s about safeguarding lives, protecting investments, and fostering public trust in our construction practices. It also supports Grenada’s national resilience agenda.’
To facilitate the rollout, the PDA has partnered with Hon. Tony Gibbs, a renowned regional engineer and author of the Check Consultant implementation guidelines. Gibbs will spearhead a series of technical training sessions and stakeholder seminars in collaboration with the Architectural Society, the Grenada Institute of Professional Engineers (GIPE), and local financial institutions. These sessions will cover Grenada’s multi-hazard environment, including wind, earthquake, and structural safety, while guiding professionals on integrating the Check Consultant process into project workflows.
The first training session is scheduled for Tuesday, 18 November 2025, from 9 am to 1 pm, with both in-person and virtual attendance options. The agenda includes technical briefings on multi-hazard design principles, procedural guidance on the Check Consultant framework, and a Q&A segment for professionals and financial institutions. Participation is mandatory for engineers and architects seeking to qualify as Check Consultants, while financial institutions are strongly encouraged to attend due to the potential impact on construction financing and risk assessment.
This initiative is part of the PDA’s broader modernization efforts, which include the adoption of national Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedures and the Fast-Track Review Policy. These measures aim to enhance efficiency, transparency, and public accountability in Grenada’s development sector. For further details or to confirm attendance, stakeholders can contact the PDA Front Desk via email or phone.
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Weekend Records Two Fatal Motorcycle Crashes
In a devastating turn of events, two men lost their lives in separate motorcycle accidents on Saturday, November 3, 2025, in the Cayo District and along the Hummingbird Highway. The incidents have raised concerns about road safety in the region.
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CARILEC to host Annual Occupational Health and Safety Symposium in Grenada
The Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) has announced that its annual Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Symposium will take place at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort from November 5 to 7, 2025. This prestigious event will convene safety professionals and disaster coordinators from electric utilities across the region to address emerging risks and innovative strategies in occupational health and safety, particularly within the energy sector. The 2025 symposium, themed “The Changing Landscape of Occupational Health and Safety,” will focus on two critical areas: Climate Change and Workforce Resilience, and Energy-Based Safety (EBS): A New Paradigm in Hazard Recognition. Attendees will explore the effects of climate change on workforce productivity and well-being, while also discussing practical approaches to developing climate-resilient safety systems. The EBS segment will emphasize identifying and mitigating high-energy hazards to prevent serious incidents. Dr. Cletus Bertin, CARILEC Executive Director, highlighted the symposium’s significance, stating, “As the energy sector navigates complex challenges like climate change and digital transformation, this event equips professionals to redefine safety culture and safeguard their most valuable asset: their people.” The symposium will feature panel discussions and interactive workshops, providing a platform for participants to exchange best practices and explore cutting-edge advancements in safety management. For further details, including the full agenda, visit www.carilec.org or email [email protected].
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Celebrating Grenadian greatness: King’s New Year’s Honours
Grenada’s Governor-General, Dame Cécile La Grenade, alongside the nation’s government, has proudly announced the recognition of several distinguished citizens in the 2025 King’s New Year’s Honours. These individuals have been celebrated for their exceptional contributions across various sectors, including public service, culture, education, sports, and community development. Their achievements have not only enriched Grenada’s national identity but also strengthened its communities. Among the honorees, Ruth Elizabeth Rouse was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her extensive public service and diplomatic career, which included roles as High Commissioner to the UK and Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organisation. Keith Emmanuel Richard Williams received the Member of the British Empire (MBE) for his three decades of dedication to Grenadian culture, education, and sports. Other notable recipients include Annie Lauretta Rush-Bain, recognized for her community service and leadership in local organizations, and Lyneth Ann Edwards, posthumously awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her lifelong contributions to art and culture. These honours underscore Grenada’s commitment to excellence and national pride, inspiring future generations to serve their country and humanity with distinction.
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Murder in Corozal, Drug Related
Authorities in Corozal are probing a fatal shooting that occurred on Friday night, which is believed to be linked to drug-related activities. The victim, identified as Arnaldo Vellos, was gunned down near his residence in the Finca Solana area on October 31. Despite being rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment, Vellos succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. Assistant Commissioner of Police Hilberto Romero, Head of the National Crime Investigation Branch, confirmed that the incident appears to be drug-related. According to Romero, the suspects, all residents of Corozal, are known to law enforcement. A manhunt has been launched to apprehend three individuals suspected of involvement in the murder. The investigation is still active as police work to uncover further details surrounding the case.
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Krijgsraad wil Rodney Cairo horen in strafzaak tegen Veira
In a significant development in the criminal case against Danielle Veira, former head of the Directorate of National Security (DNV), the President of the Military Court, Cynthia Valstein-Montnor, announced on Monday that she intends to hear Rodney Cairo, the aggrieved party in the case, at the next hearing. This decision follows the receipt of new information that necessitates Cairo’s testimony. The Military Court aims to expedite the witness examination to conclude the case before the year’s end. Initially, the prosecution’s closing argument by military auditor Romeo Rampersad was scheduled for Monday, but he requested a brief postponement due to the case’s complexity. This request was granted, and the prosecution will now present its closing argument on November 18. Veira is accused of ordering the abduction of military officer Cairo in April 2020. Veira claims that Cairo had been a ‘person of interest’ for years due to actions and statements that allegedly threatened national security. She denies any involvement in the abduction, stating, ‘I did not send anyone to Mr. Cairo. What happened in his home was a crime, and I was unaware of it, including the use of weapons; otherwise, I would have signed off on it. I only understood later what had occurred and that Cairo had been restrained.’ In an interview with DTV-Express, Cairo stated, ‘The only solution should be that one of us is removed, for Veira has started a war and must face the consequences.’ Veira’s defense team, comprising Derrick Veira and John Kraag, represented by Cedric Meijnaar, argues that Cairo’s statements could be interpreted as threats and believes he should be ‘thoroughly questioned.’
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Addressing trauma in the education system
The catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, 2025, has left an indelible mark on the nation’s education system and the mental well-being of its citizens. With sustained winds of 298 km/h (185 mph), the hurricane surpassed the intensity of Hurricane Katrina, causing widespread destruction and claiming 28 lives, with many still missing. The aftermath has forced numerous schools to remain closed for the remainder of the academic year, exacerbating an already fragile education system. Prior to the disaster, Jamaica’s schools were grappling with underfunding, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of focus on mental health. The hurricane has further exposed these vulnerabilities, leaving students and teachers to face collective trauma. Many schools in South Western Jamaica, including parishes like Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth, remain without electricity and internet, rendering virtual learning impossible. The loss of essential school supplies and educational gadgets, such as laptops and tablets, has disproportionately affected students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. To mitigate the disruption, experts are advocating for an abridged curriculum that prioritizes essential learning outcomes while addressing the psychosocial needs of students and teachers. Mental health support, including art therapy, drama, and counseling, is crucial to help individuals cope with the trauma. The World Bank has warned that the long-term consequences of school closures will be felt for decades, emphasizing the need for immediate action to rebuild and strengthen Jamaica’s education system.
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Saint Lucia to establish Maritime Authority amid wide sector reforms
Saint Lucia is poised to establish a National Maritime Authority, a significant step aimed at separating regulatory oversight from port operations and modernizing the nation’s maritime governance framework. The announcement was made during a Maritime Symposium hosted by the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), where officials unveiled a series of reforms designed to enhance safety, professional standards, and international compliance. Lorraine Matthew, Permanent Secretary of the Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport, emphasized that the reform, led by a Cabinet-appointed committee chaired by her office, will eliminate conflicts of interest and ensure a modernized transport governance structure. The symposium served as a critical platform for dialogue, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss emerging opportunities and strategies to advance the maritime industry. Among the initiatives highlighted was the National Demarcation Programme, which aims to improve safety and spatial management along Saint Lucia’s coastline. Matthew noted that all equipment has been procured, technical training finalized, and contractor selection is underway, with Rodney Bay chosen as the first site due to its high marine activity density. Additional reforms include licensing and certification upgrades, streamlined vessel concessions, and enhanced safety and environmental measures. Internationally, Saint Lucia reaffirmed its support for the High Seas Treaty, a vital tool for global cooperation in biodiversity conservation. Domestically, the country is modernizing its maritime legislative framework through measures such as finalizing the Open Ship Registry Framework and enacting the Marine Pollution Bill. These reforms collectively strengthen Saint Lucia’s compliance with international conventions and reinforce its position as a responsible maritime sector.