A targeted shooting on the George Price Highway near Belize City has left two men hospitalized, raising concerns about escalating tensions in the region. Nitin Buxani, a 39-year-old businessman, and his driver, Rene Arnold, were ambushed near the Eight Mile Community as their Chevrolet pickup truck was riddled with bullets. Authorities recovered nearly two dozen shell casings from the scene, with ten bullet holes found in the windshield alone. Investigators believe the shooter was positioned on a pedestrian ramp before opening fire. The motive remains unclear, though speculation points to Buxani’s business dealings in the Corozal Free Zone, where trade disputes with Mexico have reportedly intensified. With cartel influence prevalent along the northern border, the incident has sparked fears of organized crime involvement. Police have yet to confirm any direct links. Paul Lopez reports on this developing story.
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Politic : The MCI and the private sector commit to reducing community violence
On November 6, 2025, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) of Haiti, in collaboration with the Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the United Nations system, hosted a pivotal session of the Private Sector Engagement Forum at the Karibe Convention Center in Pétion-ville. The event aimed to address the pressing issue of community violence in Haiti through economic and social strategies. Key attendees included Frinel Joseph, Presidential Advisor; Pedrica Saint Jean, Minister for the Status of Women; James Monazard, Minister of Commerce and Industry; and representatives from the UN and the Kenyan Gang Suppression Force (GSF).
The forum focused on the National Action Plan for Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration, and Reduction of Community Violence (DDR-RVC), emphasizing the need to tackle the root causes of violence by fostering sustainable economic opportunities. Discussions underscored the importance of economic governance, local solutions, and private sector integration into national stabilization efforts. The overarching goal is to strengthen communities, boost local employment, and promote social peace.
In his address, Frinel Joseph highlighted the necessity of peace for constitutional order, urging private sector involvement in youth reintegration and community reconstruction. Minister Monazard outlined short-term initiatives to support entrepreneurship in violence-free areas and long-term plans to enhance the entrepreneurial ecosystem in vulnerable neighborhoods. He stressed the role of inclusive economic development in combating insecurity.
Minister Pedrica Saint Jean emphasized the critical role of women in peacebuilding and economic recovery, calling for their active participation in community mediation and social reconstruction. She urged the private sector to adopt a gender perspective in its strategies, asserting that women’s involvement is essential for lasting peace and economic recovery. The forum concluded with a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to building an inclusive and resilient society with women as key contributors to national development.
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San Pedro Killer Found Guilty of Double Murder
Anthony Carballo Jr., also known as ‘Lee Pena,’ has been found guilty of a double murder that shocked the community of San Pedro. The 31-year-old was convicted by Justice Candace Nanton on two counts of murder for the execution-style killings of Deon Faber and Allen Martinez. The crime occurred on March 21, 2019, in broad daylight at approximately 1:45 p.m. Carballo, one of four prisoners brought to Belize City for the trial, awaits his sentencing scheduled for November 7, 2025. During the sentencing hearing, Justice Nanton will consider Carballo’s mitigation plea and hear testimony from two character witnesses. Originally, Carballo was charged alongside Darrell Grant, who was acquitted due to insufficient evidence. Prosecutors argued that the two men acted together, but surveillance footage and circumstantial evidence pointed solely to Carballo as the shooter. The case relied heavily on over 40 video clips and a statement from Faber’s wife, who tragically passed away during the pandemic. In her 2019 statement, she recounted the harrowing moment when two men stormed her home. Faber ran inside, and Martinez attempted to shield her before both were fatally shot. Although the actual murder was not captured on camera, the footage showed the suspects arriving and fleeing the scene moments after the gunfire. Carballo remained silent throughout the trial, while Grant claimed he was merely present to purchase marijuana and had no involvement in the killings. The sentencing on Friday will determine the length of Carballo’s prison term.
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Mayor Wagner Led Motion to Block Hangar Access
In a surprising turn of events, Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner has come under scrutiny for his role in a motion to block vehicular access to the Hangar, a prominent seafront area. Despite initially claiming he couldn’t recall who initiated the petition during an August council meeting, official minutes reveal that Mayor Wagner himself proposed the motion, which was seconded by Deputy Mayor Eluide Miller. This decision marks a stark reversal from a 2022 council meeting where a similar petition was rejected. Back then, councilors argued that the area should remain a public reserve, emphasizing the need for increased policing rather than restricted access. Mayor Wagner now defends the motion as a measure to enhance the quality of life for residents, citing concerns about noise and disturbances. However, critics question the transparency of the decision-making process and its implications for public access. The council’s shift in stance has sparked debate over the balance between private interests and public rights, leaving many to wonder what has changed since 2022.
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Former BTL Workers Win Landmark Severance Case
In a landmark decision on November 6, 2025, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) ruled in favor of ten former employees of Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), affirming their entitlement to severance pay under the Belize Labor Act. This ruling overturned a previous decision by the Court of Appeal, marking a significant victory for labor rights in Belize. The case has sparked widespread discussion about its implications for both the public and private sectors, particularly regarding compliance with labor laws. Valentino Shal, CEO of the Ministry of Labor, emphasized the importance of the ruling, stating that it is currently under review to assess its broader impact on Belize’s labor market. Shal highlighted the need for careful examination to ensure compliance across all sectors, including those transitioning from severance schemes to pension plans. The decision is expected to set a precedent for future labor disputes and reinforce the enforcement of workers’ rights in Belize.
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CCJ Ruling on BTL Still Being Examined by Ministry of Labor
The Ministry of Labor in Belize is currently examining a landmark ruling by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) regarding severance payments for retired employees of Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL). The CCJ’s decision, issued on November 6, 2025, mandates BTL to comply with Belize’s Labor Act by compensating ten former employees. This ruling has sparked nationwide discussions on its implications for workers’ rights and employer obligations. Section 183 of the Labor Act stipulates that employees with five years of continuous service are entitled to one week’s wages per year of service, while those with over ten years of service are owed two weeks’ wages per year. Valentino Shal, CEO of the Ministry of Labor, emphasized the ruling’s significance, stating that it sets a precedent and will be integrated into labor advisories and collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) to safeguard workers’ rights. Shal also noted that the ruling supersedes any contractual attempts to waive severance rights, even in union-regulated agreements. The Ministry is conducting a comprehensive review of labor laws to ensure compliance with the CCJ’s decision.
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How do Villages Become Towns in Belize?
In a landmark development for Belize, the neighboring villages of Lord’s Bank and Ladyville are considering a merger to form the country’s newest town. This potential transformation, the first of its kind in over two decades, has sparked significant interest and debate within the Belize Rural Central constituency. On November 6, 2025, a pivotal meeting brought together key stakeholders, including village councils, Area Representative Dolores Balderamos-García, Minister of Rural Transformation Florencio Marin Jr., and local residents, to deliberate the feasibility and implications of the proposed merger. Valentino Shal, CEO of the Ministry of Rural Transformation, emphasized that the discussions are still in their preliminary stages, with no concrete plans yet in place. He highlighted that the process, governed by the Town Councils Act, involves rigorous considerations such as infrastructure readiness, population size, and extensive community consultation. While the idea has been circulating for some time, the growing population and strategic location of these villages near Belize City have reignited the conversation. The journey from village to town is a complex and time-intensive process, requiring careful planning and consensus-building. As Belize watches this historic development unfold, the outcome could set a precedent for future municipal transformations in the region.
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PSU Officially Declares Trade Dispute Over Impend SARA Transition
The Public Service Union (PSU) has officially declared a trade dispute with the Government of Belize over its plan to transition the Belize Tax Services Department into a semi-autonomous revenue authority (SARA). This escalation follows weeks of growing concerns voiced by the union. On Wednesday, the PSU delivered a formal 21-day notice, signaling its intent to initiate industrial action. Valentino Shal, CEO of the Ministry of Labour, confirmed the receipt of the notice and stated that the government is preparing a response. The move underscores the union’s dissatisfaction with the proposed changes, which could significantly impact public officers and taxpayers. Shal emphasized that internal discussions are underway to address the matter, but the PSU’s decision to escalate the issue highlights the deepening tensions between the union and the government. This development raises questions about the future of Belize’s tax administration and the potential for broader labor unrest.
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Burrell Boom Investment Dispute Escalates
A heated investment dispute in Burrell Boom Village, Belize, has escalated between two Belizean business partners, Kenny and Shanna Williams, and three American investors, including Dr. Sade Thompson. The investors allege they were overcharged for constructing three luxury wooden structures, a wooden deck pool, and other amenities, with costs doubling from an estimated $250,000 to $500,000. The Williams deny these claims, asserting the investors received value beyond their payments. The investors now seek to relocate the structures to Georgetown, Belize, but the Williams oppose this, citing potential losses due to construction noise during the tourist season. Consultant Jazmynn Tillett, representing the investors, has been barred from the property, further complicating matters. Landowner Dr. Erika Paterson supports the Williams, stating the investors lack evidence to substantiate their claims. Legal tensions are rising, with attorneys from both sides preparing for potential litigation. The dispute also highlights issues with the lease agreement, including the lack of land surveying and subdivision, as required by Belize’s Land Utilization Act. Both parties are urged to formalize their arrangement through a limited liability company to avoid future conflicts. The situation remains unresolved, with both sides entrenched in their positions.
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Four Belizean Resorts Awarded Prestigious Michelin Keys
Belize’s luxury hospitality sector has once again captured global attention, with four of its premier resorts being awarded the prestigious Michelin Keys in 2025. This accolade, akin to the Michelin Star in the culinary world, highlights exceptional accommodations worldwide. Leading the charge is Gaia River Lodge, which secured two Michelin Keys, while Copal Tree Lodge, Blancaneaux Lodge, and Thatch Caye each received one. This recognition underscores Belize’s growing reputation as a world-class destination. Reynaldo Malik Jr., President of the Belize Hotel Association, expressed immense pride, stating that these awards reflect the country’s unparalleled hospitality standards. The Michelin Guide, which evaluates properties based on design, service quality, community contribution, and other criteria, features 7,000 hotels globally, with only 2,400 earning Michelin Keys. Belize’s inclusion of ten hotels in the initial list, with four receiving keys, further solidifies its position on the global tourism map. Malik emphasized that this recognition is merit-based, reinforcing the integrity and prestige of the Michelin brand.