分类： society

In a significant development, 29-year-old Mitzellie Sujellie Cruz has been arrested and charged with fourteen counts of theft following an investigation into the misappropriation of company funds at BIOMEDS Limited. The case came to light on July 10, 2025, when Vicki Andrea Quetzal, the company’s manager, reported financial irregularities discovered during an internal audit. Authorities revealed that Cruz allegedly embezzled $18,322.50 BZD (Belize Dollars) collected from various clients between May and June 2025. At the time of her arrest, Cruz was no longer employed by the company. BIOMEDS Limited, formerly known as Belize Chemicals, has been a prominent player in the industry for over a decade. The incident has raised concerns about internal financial controls and accountability within the organization. The case is currently under further investigation, and Cruz is expected to face legal proceedings in the coming weeks.

In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration has introduced new visa guidelines that could deny entry to the United States for individuals with chronic health conditions such as obesity, cancer, or diabetes. The directive, which instructs immigration officers to consider these conditions during the visa application process, aims to protect American taxpayers from potential financial burdens associated with healthcare costs for immigrants. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott emphasized the administration’s commitment to prioritizing American interests, stating, ‘This policy ensures our immigration system does not become a financial strain on taxpayers.’ However, the move has sparked criticism from immigration advocates. Sarah Krieger of the National Immigration Law Centre described the policy as ‘unusual and concerning,’ warning that it could disproportionately affect vulnerable applicants who might otherwise qualify for entry. The new guidelines align with a broader February order aimed at preventing taxpayer-funded benefits from going to ‘unqualified aliens.’ Critics argue that the policy could lead to confusion among immigration officers and unjustly block eligible individuals from entering the country.

Prime Minister John Briceño has extended heartfelt congratulations to Bishop Philip S. Wright on his historic election as Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies. In an official statement, Briceño hailed this achievement as a significant milestone, describing it as “a moment of pride and distinction for the Anglican Community in Belize and the broader Caribbean region.”

Bishop Wright, who has served as the head of the Anglican Diocese of Belize for nearly two decades, now becomes the second Belizean to assume this prestigious role since 1934. Reflecting on his appointment, Wright expressed profound humility, calling it “overwhelming” and emphasizing his eagerness to continue his lifelong dedication to the church. “You never imagined a day like this would come. It gives me an opportunity to serve the church I love,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister’s statement further highlighted Wright’s influential role in fostering collaboration between the church and state on pivotal issues such as education, social development, and justice. Recognized for his spiritual depth and leadership, Wright’s elevation has been widely celebrated across the nation.

Leader of the Opposition Tracy Panton also joined in congratulating Bishop Wright on Tuesday, praising his “extraordinary leadership, spiritual depth, and unwavering devotion to the service of God’s people.” This appointment marks a historic moment for Belize and the Anglican Church, underscoring Wright’s enduring commitment to his faith and community.

Belize remains under the grip of relentless wet weather as the National Meteorological Service forecasts another day dominated by cloudy skies, intermittent rain, scattered showers, and a slight possibility of isolated thunderstorms. Northern and central regions, along with offshore areas, are expected to bear the brunt of this weather activity. Despite the ongoing precipitation, there is a silver lining: the North Atlantic Basin is currently tranquil, with no tropical cyclones posing an immediate threat to Belize or its coastal waters. Saturday’s weather outlook predicts generally cloudy conditions with sporadic showers or light rain, primarily concentrated in the north and offshore areas, gradually tapering off by day’s end. This follows a government advisory issued yesterday, urging residents to prepare for potential flooding as heavy rains persist across multiple regions. A Flash Flood Alert remains in effect for inland western, central, and southern areas, as well as the central coast. Specific locations at heightened risk include the Belize River at More Tomorrow and downstream communities, the Sibun River at Freetown Sibun, the Sittee River at Kendal, and the Golden Stream River at Hellgate in Region Eleven. The national forecast map highlights communities in red as facing the highest flash flood risk, while those in orange are at medium to high risk. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of staying informed through official weather updates and exercising caution near rivers and low-lying areas.