A significant drug interception on the George Price Highway has resulted in the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of 49 pounds of cannabis. The suspects, identified as Whitney Doris Alford, 21, from Unitedville; Lisa Marie Gonzalez, 31, from Santa Elena; and Francisco Ernesto Landaverde, 23, from San Ignacio, face charges of possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply. The incident occurred on Monday night during a coordinated checkpoint operation by the Mobile and Highway Interdiction Units. Police attempted to search a silver Ford Escape with four occupants, but the driver fled, prompting a high-speed chase. Upon interception, two male suspects escaped, while two women were detained. A thorough search of the vehicle uncovered multiple parcels of suspected cannabis. Landaverde later surrendered to authorities. ASP Stacy Smith confirmed the arrests, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of the police units in curbing drug trafficking.
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Pre-Dawn Raid in Dangriga Nets Guns, Weed, and Cocaine
In a meticulously executed pre-dawn operation on October 24, 2025, law enforcement authorities in Dangriga, Belize, made a significant breakthrough in their fight against illegal drugs and firearms. The raid, conducted at a residence on Magoon Street, led to the discovery of a substantial cache of illicit substances and weapons. Among the items seized were a nine-millimeter pistol, forty-five rounds of ammunition, nearly half a kilogram of cannabis, forty-one grams of suspected crack cocaine, and an alarming seven hundred and eighty-seven grams of cocaine. These items were strategically concealed in various locations within the property. The primary suspect, fifty-six-year-old Charles Peebles, a resident of Magoon Street, was promptly arrested and is now facing a series of serious charges. These include possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply, as well as the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition without the requisite licenses. The operation, which involved a coordinated effort by local police, underscores the ongoing challenges posed by drug trafficking and illegal arms in the region. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to dismantling such networks and ensuring public safety. This incident has sparked renewed discussions about the need for stringent measures to combat the proliferation of drugs and weapons in Belize.
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Teen Nabbed After Armed Robbery in Bella Vista
In a swift response to a daring daylight robbery, Bella Vista police have apprehended 19-year-old Angel Miguel Pineda, an electrician from the village, following a heist at the Zhun Hung Store on October 19, 2025. The incident, which occurred shortly after 11 a.m., involved two individuals, one of whom was armed, who allegedly stole $500 and a cellphone from the store. Pineda was formally arrested and charged on October 20, 2025, with robbery and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. Authorities have identified another suspect and are actively pursuing him. This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to combat violent crime in the community.
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Acting Superintendent lays out alternate routes for WCMF25
In preparation for the 25th Edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), Acting Superintendent of Police Delvin Jno Lewis has unveiled comprehensive traffic and vending arrangements to ensure a smooth and safe event. The festival, scheduled from October 24 to October 26, will see significant changes in parking and access across key areas in the city.
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Suspect Nabbed After 3 A.M. Burglary in Ladyville
A dramatic early-morning burglary in Ladyville has culminated in the arrest of a suspect, thanks to prompt police intervention and community cooperation. On October 22, 2025, a resident of Perez Road was startled awake by unusual noises at approximately 3 a.m. Upon investigating, she discovered an intruder rifling through her belongings and hastily making off with several items. The homeowner immediately alerted authorities, who launched a swift investigation. Leveraging crucial tips from the public, law enforcement officers apprehended 28-year-old Freddy Vasquez, a resident of Phillip Goldson Highway, shortly after the incident. Police also successfully recovered the stolen goods. Vasquez has since been formally charged with burglary. This case highlights the effectiveness of community-police collaboration in addressing crime and ensuring public safety.
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Belize Celebrates UN’s 80-Year Milestone
On October 24, 2025, Belize joined the global community in celebrating the 80th anniversary of the United Nations (UN), an organization dedicated to fostering international peace and security. The Government of Belize organized a series of events to mark this historic milestone, including a flag-raising ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UN80 Belize Podcast, a youth-led discussion on the UN’s role in shaping the next century of global cooperation. Belize, which became a UN member on its independence day in 1981, has consistently contributed to international efforts, particularly through its support for the Sustainable Development Goals and partnerships with UN agencies. Raul Salazar, the UN Resident Coordinator in Belize, emphasized the organization’s founding principles of peace and cooperation, highlighting its significance as a platform for dialogue among 193 member states. The celebrations also featured a panel discussion with tertiary-level students, who shared their perspectives on global issues such as gender equality, youth advocacy, and international relations. Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca underscored the importance of multilateralism in addressing global challenges, urging member states to reaffirm their commitment to the UN’s mission. The event concluded with a flag-raising ceremony in Belmopan, symbolizing Belize’s enduring dedication to the UN’s ideals.
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Caribbean Leaders Question Growing US Air Raids
Caribbean leaders are raising alarms over the increasing frequency of U.S. military operations in the region, particularly following a recent airstrike off Venezuela’s coast that resulted in six fatalities. This incident brings the total death toll from U.S. airstrikes in the Caribbean to forty-three since early September. The targeted vessel is the tenth suspected drug-trafficking boat struck in recent months, sparking widespread concern among regional leaders. Belize’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Francis Fonseca, has expressed deep unease over these developments, emphasizing the need to uphold international law and maintain the Caribbean as a zone of peace. Fonseca highlighted that CARICOM, the Caribbean Community, has issued a firm statement condemning the unilateral actions and extrajudicial killings. He stressed the importance of following due process in addressing criminal activities, rather than resorting to militarization. The growing military presence in the Caribbean Sea has prompted discussions among CARICOM members, who are united in their call for restraint and adherence to legal protocols.
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Belize Yet to see Migrants from Free Movement Agreement
Nearly a month after the implementation of CARICOM’s Free Movement of Persons agreement across Belize, Barbados, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the anticipated influx of migrants has yet to materialize. The agreement, which officially took effect on October 1, 2025, was designed to foster regional integration and strengthen ties among member states. However, Belize has not seen a single official settler under this initiative so far. Critics had expressed concerns about potential economic strain, but the government remains steadfast in its belief that the agreement will ultimately benefit the region. Tanya Santos, CEO of Belize’s Ministry of Immigration, provided an update on the initiative, highlighting that while some individuals from Barbados have visited Belize, none have stayed permanently or sought employment. Santos emphasized Belize’s welcoming nature and expressed confidence in the smooth integration of future migrants. The ongoing regional summit in San Pedro has also facilitated positive feedback from visitors, with some expressing a sense of belonging in Belize. Despite the slow start, officials remain optimistic about the long-term benefits of the agreement for all participating countries.
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Auditor General Faces JPAC in Open Session
In a landmark public hearing on October 24, 2025, Belize’s National Assembly convened the Joint Public Accounts Committee (JPAC) for its first session of the year. Chaired by Lee Mark Chang, a prominent member of the Opposition, the committee comprises representatives from both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Its primary mandate is to oversee the efficient, transparent, and accountable use of public funds in the interest of Belizean citizens. The focal point of the session was the Auditor General’s Report for the fiscal years 2015/2016, with Auditor General Maria Rodriquez providing testimony. Rodriquez highlighted challenges in hiring and training junior audit clerks, noting that many recruits lack accounting backgrounds, which prolongs training periods. She also addressed concerns about pay scales for mid-level and technical roles, emphasizing the need for experienced personnel despite regulatory constraints on salaries. The hearing underscored ongoing efforts to strengthen public financial management in Belize.
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Ministry of Health Launches National Diabetes Care Plan
The Ministry of Health and Wellness in Belize has announced a groundbreaking three-year National Diabetes Care Plan aimed at standardizing and improving treatment for diabetes patients nationwide. Launched on October 24, 2025, the initiative focuses on enhancing primary care through the implementation of standardized clinical guidelines, additional point-of-care testing, and extensive physician training. Dr. Laura Friesen, Medical Officer at the Ministry, emphasized the urgency of addressing the rising rates of diabetes and its complications in Belize. The program, supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), seeks to ensure better quality care and improved accessibility for patients. This marks the beginning of a long-term effort to transform diabetes management across the country.
