Residents of Santa Cruz, Santa Elena, in the Cayo District are voicing urgent concerns over a hazardous lamp post that poses a significant risk to the community. Elihu Yacab, a local representative, revealed that residents have repeatedly alerted him about the unstable structure, which he highlighted in a live video. Despite these efforts, no remedial action has been taken. Yacab emphasized, “The lamp post is in a precarious state and could collapse at any moment. Immediate intervention is crucial to avert a potential disaster.” Mayor Earl Trapp of San Ignacio/Santa Elena acknowledged the issue, stating that he has escalated the matter to the relevant authorities and will provide updates. Stella Armstrong, a community member, pointed out that the soil surrounding the lamp post has been eroding for the past two years, further exacerbating the danger. She expressed particular concern for the nearby Santa Cruz Primary School, located just 75 yards away, as the lamp post stands at a key access point to the school. Despite the growing alarm, authorities have yet to implement any visible measures to secure the post, leaving residents anxious and frustrated.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
-
One Week After Bullet Tree Stabbing, Suspect Arrested
In a significant development, Belizean authorities have arrested 25-year-old Gian Eldred Waight, a construction worker from Cayo, in connection with the brutal murder of Canadian businesswoman Marty Ann Thorne. The arrest took place in Guatemala, where Waight was detained and subsequently handed over to Belizean police. Thorne, the cherished owner of Raw Spa Cabañas in Bullet Tree Falls, had been a long-time resident of Belize, deeply embedded in the local community. The shocking incident occurred one week prior to the arrest, leaving friends and neighbors in profound grief. Michael Waight, a neighbor and long-time friend of Thorne, expressed his devastation, recalling her as a kind and gentle soul who had no known enemies. ‘Ms. Thorne was a good person, very friendly, like family. I never saw her with enemies,’ he said. As the investigation continues, the motive behind the attack remains unclear, leaving those close to Thorne searching for answers.
-
Bangladesh’s Ousted Prime Minister Sentenced to Death
In a landmark verdict, Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) for her role in the violent suppression of student protests in 2024. The court found her guilty of crimes against humanity, including incitement and failure to prevent the deadly crackdown, which the United Nations estimates claimed up to 1,400 lives, primarily due to gunfire by security forces. Hasina, who has been living in exile in New Delhi, India, since being ousted in August 2024, denounced the verdict as “biased and politically motivated” in a statement released through a public relations firm. She also claimed she was denied a fair trial, stating, “I was given no fair chance to defend myself in court, nor even to have lawyers of my own choice represent me in absentia.” The ICT also sentenced former Home Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Khan to death, while a former police chief received a five-year sentence after cooperating as a state witness. The court held Hasina accountable for inciting violence, issuing orders, and failing to take punitive measures against the perpetrators. Bangladesh’s interim government has requested her extradition from India, though New Delhi has yet to respond. The case has drawn international attention, raising questions about justice, political motivations, and the legacy of Hasina’s leadership.
-
Village Council Calls Out Alcalde in Growing Rift
The Indian Creek Village Council has escalated its concerns over a deepening rift with the village’s Alcalde, calling for an urgent meeting with Maya leaders to address the growing tensions. In a series of formal letters addressed to the Maya Leaders Alliance, the Toledo Alcalde Association (TAA), and DAVCO, Council Chairman Domingo Choc accused the Alcalde of acting unilaterally, undermining council decisions, and disseminating false information. Choc emphasized that the council could no longer tolerate such behavior, stating, ‘We can no longer operate with an Alcalde who is acting contrary to the decisions of the Village Council and who has presented false information against us as a governing body.’ The council also demanded a public apology following allegations made by the Alcalde during a recent public meeting, where he claimed the council was selling land to foreigners—a claim the council vehemently denies. The council described the accusations as ‘false and defamatory,’ noting that they have severely damaged the village’s reputation and eroded public trust. In its letter, the council warned that failure to address these issues promptly could result in legal action. To resolve the conflict, the Village Council has invited leaders from DAVCO, TAA, and the Maya Leaders Alliance to a community meeting scheduled for November 21 at the Indian Creek Community Centre.
-
Crime, Corruption and Contraband at Corozal Free Zone
Opposition Leader Tracy Panton has issued a stark warning about escalating corruption, criminal influence, and fear within Belize’s Corozal Free Zone, urging immediate national attention. Panton emphasized that the situation poses a significant threat to Belizeans, particularly those in northern border communities who rely on the Zone for their livelihoods. She revealed that Mexican criminal elements, allegedly shielded by politically connected individuals, are now controlling operations within the Zone. These groups reportedly dictate cargo clearance processes, impose arbitrary fees, and create an atmosphere of fear among business owners and employees, who remain silent out of concern for their safety. Panton highlighted the prolonged delays in cargo processing, with containers left idle for weeks, driving up business costs. She criticized the lack of response from key government ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Finance, Trade and Commerce, and Border Security, despite the growing crisis. Additionally, Panton raised alarms about the illegal movement of counterfeit cigarettes and illicit drugs, such as fentanyl, within the Zone and nearby border areas, warning of severe implications for Belize’s national security, financial integrity, and international reputation. She also noted that neighboring countries are closely monitoring the situation, potentially pressuring Belize’s Prime Minister and his allies to act.
-
Newly Appointed Police Minister Opts to Stay Out of Budna Case
In a significant development, Oscar Mira, the newly appointed Minister of Home Affairs, has announced his decision to refrain from intervening in the ongoing Joseph Budna investigation. Mira emphasized that he will leave all decisions to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, respecting the independence of the legal process. Speaking to Plus TV, Mira stated, ‘I will not interfere with the investigation or the DPP’s guidance. This matter is in her hands, and I trust her judgment.’
Mira, who previously served as the National Defence Minister, assumed the role of Police Minister after his predecessor, Henry Charles Usher, declined the Home Affairs portfolio. The Budna case, which has been under intense public scrutiny for months, is one of the first major challenges Mira faces in his new position. The investigation was prompted by video footage that allegedly implicated the police department in Budna’s kidnapping.
Despite the gravity of the case, Mira confirmed that he has not reviewed any related materials, including the controversial footage or investigation files. ‘I have not seen any footage or files. My role is to ensure the process remains unbiased and independent,’ he reiterated.
Meanwhile, DPP Cheryl-Lynn Vidal expressed her dissatisfaction with the police investigation file submitted to her office, describing it as containing ‘less than nothing.’ Vidal told reporters on November 12 that the file lacked sufficient evidence to support arrests, citing limited and uncertain witness accounts. ‘I was expecting nothing, but what I received was even worse,’ she remarked, highlighting the challenges in pursuing charges at this stage.
The Budna case continues to draw public attention, with calls for transparency and accountability growing louder. Mira’s decision to distance himself from the investigation underscores his commitment to upholding the integrity of the legal process.
-
Social Lounge Denies Police Claim of On-Site Shooting
On the evening of November 18, 2025, police responded to reports of gunfire near the Phillip Goldson Highway, close to the popular nightlife venue, Social Lounge. Woodrow Reyes was arrested on charges of possessing a firearm while under the influence. Shell casings found at the scene were collected for forensic analysis to determine if the weapon in Reyes’ possession was used in the incident. Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith detailed the events, stating that officers from Precinct Four conducted a vehicle search leading to Reyes’ arrest. Social Lounge management swiftly addressed media speculation, clarifying that the shooting occurred approximately 150 yards away on the public highway and did not involve their establishment. They emphasized that the venue remained safe and operational throughout the evening, with no disturbance reported on their premises. The incident has sparked discussions about public safety in the area, while authorities continue their investigation.
-
Agriculture Minister Mai Resigns Amid Scandal and U.S. Pressure
Belize’s political landscape faced a significant upheaval on November 17, 2025, as Agriculture Minister Jose Abelardo Mai resigned amidst a storm of controversy and international pressure. Mai’s resignation was confirmed by News Five, following his submission of a resignation letter to Prime Minister John Briceño. Reports suggest that the U.S. Embassy in Belize played a role in exerting pressure leading to his departure. The resignation comes in the wake of allegations from a Mexican news outlet, which accused Mai of involvement in criminal activities—claims he vehemently denies, labeling them as “defamatory” and politically motivated. Mai has even threatened legal action against what he calls “fake news” and opposition operatives. Adding to the controversy, the Agriculture Ministry recently faced scrutiny over a $7,000 invoice for two bulletproof vests. While some speculated the purchase was linked to cartel threats against Mai, officials clarified it was related to an armed robbery investigation. Mai’s resignation marks a pivotal moment for the Briceño administration, with Opposition Leader Tracy Panton demanding transparency from the Prime Minister. Panton expressed concerns over what she described as the “unravelling of a corrupt regime,” emphasizing the need for the government to address issues of national security and sovereignty. She called for a public explanation from the Prime Minister regarding the circumstances behind Mai’s resignation, highlighting the lack of clarity from the administration.
-
Can a Minister Say No to Prime Minister Briceno?
In an unexpected turn of events, Minister Henry Charles Usher has declined Prime Minister John Briceño’s offer to lead the Ministry of Home Affairs and Enterprise, a position renowned for its complexity and controversy. This rare refusal has forced the Prime Minister to reconsider his Cabinet reshuffle, ultimately appointing Oscar Mira, former Minister of National Defense and Border Security, to the role. Mira’s appointment comes with significant expectations, as he steps into one of the most demanding positions in the Belizean government. The decision marks a pivotal moment in Briceño’s administration, highlighting the challenges of balancing ministerial assignments with individual preferences. The Prime Minister’s recent reshuffle, initially aimed at refreshing his Cabinet, has now been overshadowed by Usher’s rejection, raising questions about the dynamics of political appointments. Usher’s decision to retain his role at the Ministry of Public Service, coupled with the return of Florencio Marin to the Ministry of National Defense, underscores the ongoing adjustments within the government. As Mira assumes his new responsibilities, all eyes are on his ability to navigate the complexities of Home Affairs and restore public trust in the Belize Police Department.
-
UDP Leadership Race Heats Up Ahead of Convention
The United Democratic Party (UDP) is in the midst of a heated leadership race as the party’s highly anticipated convention on November 30, 2025, draws near. The contest comes in the wake of a significant internal rift earlier this year between Party Leader Moses “Shyne” Barrow and Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar-Panton. With the deadline for executive post applications looming, Taegar-Panton remains optimistic about the party’s ability to unite and rebuild. She described the upcoming convention as a “grand reset” for the UDP, emphasizing its importance in electing a new leadership executive to guide the party through the 2027 municipal elections and the 2030 general elections. Despite the challenges, Taegar-Panton expressed confidence in the support from party delegates, who she believes are committed to fostering unity. She also highlighted the need for a strong opposition to address what she described as “unacceptable” decisions by the current administration, stressing the importance of defending democracy and sovereignty. As the convention approaches, the UDP faces the critical task of reconciling internal divisions and presenting a united front.