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In a recent development in Belize City, Mayor Bernard Wagner has acknowledged the City Council’s procedural misstep in erecting barricades at the Hangar area two months ago. The barriers, which were removed following a legal challenge by resident Rommel Berges, sparked widespread debate over public access and security concerns. Berges, who signed a neighborhood petition, claims he was misled into believing the petition aimed to enhance security rather than restrict access. Mayor Wagner emphasized the importance of adhering to legal procedures, citing Section 24, 3 of the Belize City Council Act, which mandates public notification and consideration of residents’ written representations before any street closures. The initial decision to install the barricades was based on a petition from Home Park residents citing security and erosion concerns. However, recent police briefings and a review of local news archives reveal no significant crime incidents in the area for the past two decades. The controversy has drawn comparisons to the Belizean Beach saga, where former politician Anthony ‘Boots’ Martinez faced public backlash for blocking access to a public beach. Martinez has questioned the disparity in public pressure between the two cases, suggesting underlying issues of class and privilege. Meanwhile, Belize City residents Moses Sulph and Alex Sanker have voiced their concerns, with Sulph advocating for full public access and Sanker lamenting the influence of money and power in shaping public policy. Mayor Wagner has indicated that the barricades may be reinstated following procedural corrections, ensuring the council’s actions align with legal requirements. News Five continues to monitor the situation as it unfolds.

In a recent interview, Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner was questioned about the origins of the proposal to install barricades at the Hangar, a decision approved by the City Council. When pressed to identify the individual who brought the petition to the council, Mayor Wagner stated he could not recall, attributing the decision to a collective effort by the council. He emphasized that the area remains accessible to the public by foot, dismissing concerns about it being entirely closed off. The mayor explained that the issue has been under deliberation since 2022, driven by residents’ concerns and the impact of climate change on the area. He acknowledged the financial constraints preventing the city from constructing a protective wall, suggesting that residents might need to collaborate on a solution. While the mayor reaffirmed the government’s responsibility, he stressed the importance of finding common ground with residents to ensure quality of life. When asked about alternative solutions to security concerns, Mayor Wagner noted that previous attempts, including barricades and private landownership, had proven ineffective.

The tranquil community of Corozal Town was thrust into turmoil early this morning following the tragic shooting of Arnaldo “Colo” Vellos, the uncle of Corozal Mayor Rigoberto Vellos. The incident occurred outside Vellos’s residence in the Finca Solana area, where he was reportedly ambushed by two unidentified assailants. According to eyewitness accounts, Vellos had momentarily returned to his home to retrieve a forgotten item when the attackers opened fire, fatally wounding him. The shocking event has left the community in mourning and seeking answers. Local law enforcement has launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing. Meanwhile, Arturo Guy, a close friend of the deceased, shared his disbelief and sorrow, describing Vellos as an honest and amiable individual who led a clean lifestyle. Guy expressed his determination to uncover more details about the incident, emphasizing that Vellos had no known conflicts or enemies. The tragic loss has underscored the need for increased security measures in the area, as residents grapple with the unsettling reality of such violence occurring in their midst.

A heart-wrenching incident unfolded in San Narciso on Thursday evening, as a family outing turned into a devastating tragedy. Rigel Primiños, a four-year-old boy, lost his life after accidentally falling into an uncovered well while visiting his grandparents. The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. when Rigel was last seen playing in the yard. His grandfather raised the alarm upon discovering the well cover open and Rigel’s sandals floating inside. Despite the relentless efforts of villagers and rescue teams, who worked tirelessly for hours, the young boy’s body was eventually recovered. Rigel, who would have celebrated his fifth birthday in January, was the elder of two siblings, leaving behind a three-year-old sister. His body has been transported to Belize City for a post-mortem examination. The community mourns this profound loss, and heartfelt condolences are extended to the grieving family during this unimaginably difficult time.