In a bold daylight robbery, over $20,000 was stolen from the Belize Marketing Board in Orange Walk on November 7, 2025. The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. when a masked man, dressed in a grey hoodie, entered the office premises through the main gate. Armed with a weapon, he confronted the female security guard and proceeded to the cashier, where he seized a bag containing a substantial amount of money. The perpetrator fled the scene on a motorcycle, aided by an accomplice. Police were promptly called, but the suspects had already escaped. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith provided details on the ongoing investigation, noting that video footage from the scene is being reviewed to aid in identifying the culprits. Smith also highlighted a seasonal increase in property crimes during the holiday period, urging the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to safeguard their belongings.
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Caribi Bleu Casino Boss Taken Down; New Bodycam Footage Released
In a dramatic turn of events, Rima Ray, the controversial figure behind Caribi Bleu Casino in Belize, was arrested earlier this year in the U.S. on charges of fraud and illegal gambling. Newly released police bodycam footage provides a firsthand account of the arrest, shedding light on the events that unfolded during a routine traffic stop in July. Officers discovered $340,000 in cash hidden in Ray’s Tesla, leading to a deeper investigation into his operations. This arrest marks a significant development in a case that has been under scrutiny since News Five’s investigative report in November 2024 revealed unauthorized activities at the casino, including an unregistered ATM dispensing U.S. currency. Despite initial leniency from Belizean authorities, Ray now faces prosecution under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act (RICO), with his illegal operations valued at $24 million. The case underscores the international reach of financial crimes and the persistent efforts of law enforcement to bring such operations to justice.
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Sargassum Task Force Receives New Monitoring Tools
Belize has taken a significant step forward in addressing its recurring sargassum crisis with the Sargassum Task Force receiving cutting-edge monitoring tools. Earlier this year, the country faced one of its worst sargassum invasions, with tons of rotting seaweed inundating its pristine beaches. The influx disrupted tourism, local livelihoods, and marine ecosystems, prompting urgent action. Today, the Task Force unveiled a suite of advanced tools, including a drone, a laptop, and the Sargassum Forecasting Model (SAMtool), donated by the Department of the Environment. These tools are part of a broader regional initiative funded by the government of Taiwan, aimed at enhancing Belize’s ability to predict and manage sargassum outbreaks. Deputy Chief Environmental Officer Edgar Ek highlighted the collaborative efforts behind the project, involving the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation. SAMtool, a subscription-based digital platform, utilizes satellite imagery and ocean current forecasts to track sargassum movement, providing critical data on its trajectory and potential impact. Chief Meteorologist Ronald Gordon emphasized the tool’s role in strengthening national preparedness and response strategies. Tourism Officer Darcy Correa underscored the crisis’s broader implications, noting that sargassum not only affects tourism but also the livelihoods of coastal communities. With these new tools, Belize aims to improve early warning systems, support informed decision-making, and safeguard its coastal ecosystems and economy.
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ICJ to Hear Guatemala’s Bid in Sapodilla Case
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has announced that it will hold public hearings from November 24 to 26, 2025, to consider Guatemala’s request to intervene in the ongoing territorial dispute over the Sapodilla Cayes. This case initially arose three years ago when Belize filed a lawsuit against Honduras, seeking the ICJ’s affirmation of its sovereignty over the contested area. In 2024, Guatemala entered the fray, asserting that the dispute intersects with its own longstanding territorial claim against Belize, which is also pending before the ICJ. Guatemala argues that the outcome of the Belize-Honduras case could have significant implications for its claim and is therefore seeking to participate in the proceedings. The ICJ’s decision on Guatemala’s intervention could reshape the dynamics of this complex territorial conflict, drawing international attention as the hearings approach.
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Belize Joins Global Climate Talks at COP 30
As the world gears up for COP 30, set to take place in Brazil from November 10 to 21, 2025, Belize is poised to play a pivotal role in the global climate dialogue. This year’s summit, themed ‘The Forest COP,’ will focus on the Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the planet’s lungs. Belize’s participation comes at a critical juncture, following the devastation wrought by Category Five Hurricane Mellisa in Jamaica, which has amplified the Caribbean’s call for urgent climate action. Dr. Colin Young, Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Center (CCCCC), emphasized the dual impact of such extreme weather events. ‘Hurricane Mellisa vividly illustrates the scientific predictions we’ve been advocating for,’ Dr. Young stated. ‘As global temperatures rise and oceans warm, the frequency and intensity of these catastrophic storms increase. This underscores the need for swift, decisive action to cut emissions and for developed nations to fulfill their commitments to provide resources for climate adaptation in vulnerable regions.’ The summit aims to shift the focus from rhetoric to tangible solutions, with Belize and other Caribbean nations advocating for stronger global cooperation to mitigate the escalating climate crisis.
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Caribbean Calls for Urgent Climate Action at COP 30
At the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP 30), the Caribbean region has issued a pressing call for intensified global climate action. Dr. Colin Young, Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC), emphasized the urgent need for faster and more ambitious efforts to combat rising global temperatures. Speaking on behalf of CARICOM, Dr. Young highlighted the critical juncture the world has reached, with current temperatures hovering around 1.3 degrees Celsius, perilously close to the 1.5-degree threshold set by the Paris Agreement. Last year, this threshold was temporarily exceeded, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Dr. Young stressed that while the Paris Agreement’s goals remain attainable, achieving them requires unprecedented global cooperation and accelerated action. The Caribbean, a region particularly vulnerable to climate change, is advocating for heightened climate ambition to safeguard its future and mitigate the devastating impacts of global warming.
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Belize’s Tourism Sector Holds Steady Despite U.S. Flight Chaos
Despite widespread flight cancellations and operational challenges in U.S. airports, Belize’s tourism industry remains resilient. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) faced significant issues, including air traffic control shortages and equipment failures, exacerbated by the prolonged federal government shutdown. These disruptions could have further strained Belize’s tourism sector, which already saw an 8.6% decline in overnight tourist arrivals in September. However, Efren Perez, President of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA), reported no surge in hotel booking cancellations. Instead, stakeholders have proactively diversified their focus to non-U.S. markets, mitigating potential losses. Perez emphasized the importance of adapting marketing strategies and leveraging regional opportunities, such as the recent Central American Travel Market, which attracted European, South American, and Mexican tour operators. Additionally, Air Canada’s upcoming flights to Belize are expected to bolster tourism. While the current situation appears challenging, Perez remains optimistic about the sector’s ability to recover and thrive.
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Agribusiness : Ayitika Chocolate wins 3 awards in Paris
The Haitian agribusiness company Ayitika has achieved remarkable success at the 30th edition of the Salon du Chocolat, the world’s largest chocolate fair, held in Paris from October 29 to November 2, 2025. Representing Haiti alongside Norway, Ayitika secured two prestigious ‘Gourmet’ medals from the Agency for the Promotion of Agricultural Products (AVPA) for its Dark Chocolate with Guava and Dark Chocolate with Cinnamon. These accolades were formally presented during the event, highlighting the company’s dedication to quality and innovation. Additionally, Ayitika’s ‘Kanperen-80%’ chocolate bar was awarded the Best Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Bar in the inaugural ‘Les Éclats de Chocolat’ competition, a special initiative celebrating the Salon’s 30th anniversary. This competition, organized in collaboration with Galeries Lafayette Le Gourmet, recognized the most innovative, ethical, and flavorful chocolate creations. The ‘Kanperen-80%’ bar, crafted from a blend of Contamana and Amelonado cacao varieties cultivated by rural families in Haiti’s Camp-Perrin region, impressed the jury with its balanced flavors, intensity, and aromatic complexity. As a result of this recognition, Ayitika’s products will be featured at Galeries Lafayette Le Gourmet in Paris in spring 2026. The company is also set to participate in the Salon du Chocolat de Montréal from November 20 to 23, 2025, further showcasing its award-winning chocolates on the global stage.
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Salvation Army Launches Kettle Drive to Feed 1,000 Kids
The Salvation Army has officially launched its annual kettle drive in Belize City, marking the beginning of a campaign dedicated to spreading holiday cheer to those in need. This year, the organization aims to provide Christmas meals and gifts to nearly 1,000 children across Belize, while also supporting the elderly with vouchers for essential holiday purchases. Major Marc Eddy Momplaisir, the Salvation Army’s District Officer, emphasized the campaign’s mission of love, compassion, and hope, stating that all funds raised will remain within Belize to directly benefit local communities. The initiative seeks to raise $100,000, a target that fell short by 25% last year due to tighter budgets. However, Major Momplaisir remains optimistic, urging stakeholders, partners, and Belizeans to unite in achieving this goal. The first donor, career educator Maria Coyi, highlighted the importance of supporting the Salvation Army’s efforts to ensure children experience a memorable Christmas. Volunteers will be stationed at high-traffic locations throughout the holiday season, encouraging passersby to contribute to this meaningful cause.
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Three-on-Three Madness Takes Over Civic Center
The Belize Civic Center is set to transform into a vibrant hub of athleticism and community spirit this weekend as the Belize Global Elite Academy organizes a two-day, three-on-three basketball tournament. Over three hundred young players will showcase their skills in this high-energy event, which aims to foster talent and give back to the community. Kashief Thomas, co-founder of the academy, shared his vision for the event, emphasizing its dual purpose of promoting basketball and nurturing young dreams. Thomas, a Belizean native who credits basketball for his personal and professional success, is passionate about creating opportunities for the next generation. The event will feature free meals, basketballs, jerseys, backpacks, and shoes for participants, ensuring an inclusive and celebratory atmosphere. Thomas, now a successful entrepreneur in the U.S., hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams and contribute to their communities. The tournament kicks off at 8 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, promising a weekend of excitement and camaraderie.