In a heartwarming moment of triumph, House Speaker Valerie Woods marked a significant milestone in her cancer treatment journey by participating in the traditional bell-ringing ceremony at her treatment center. This symbolic act, often shared with loved ones and fellow patients, signifies the completion of intensive treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. The ceremony is a cherished tradition in the cancer community, representing hope, resilience, and the strength to overcome adversity. Speaker Woods’ achievement coincides with Global Lobular Breast Cancer Awareness Day, observed this week, which sheds light on a lesser-known yet serious form of breast cancer. While Woods remains abroad for her recovery, the House of Representatives continues its regular session, with updates on both legislative proceedings and her health anticipated in the coming days.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
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Police Arrest Tafaree Sanchez for Daylight Shooting
In a significant breakthrough, Belize District police have apprehended 25-year-old Tafaree Sanchez of Vernon Street in connection with a violent daylight shooting that occurred in September. Sanchez now faces three counts of attempted murder following the high-speed chase and gunfire exchange along the Phillip Goldson Highway. The incident unfolded near mile three of the highway, where Sanchez and a 17-year-old minor allegedly pursued a light blue Chevy Equinox. The pursuit intensified near Reimer’s Feed Mill, where gunmen reportedly exited their vehicle and opened fire on the SUV. The chase continued, culminating in another round of gunfire in front of Maheia’s United, which left 36-year-old Glenford Reed and 28-year-old Joshua Augustine injured. Jahreem “32” Staine, the suspected target, managed to escape unharmed. The minor was arrested shortly after the incident, while Sanchez remained at large until his recent capture. Authorities are actively investigating the motive behind the attack and whether additional individuals were involved. The entire incident was captured on camera, providing crucial evidence for the ongoing investigation. Sanchez is expected to be arraigned today in the lower court.
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Land Dispute Deepens as Ministry Documents Reveal Same-Day Approval
A contentious land dispute in Independence Village has escalated dramatically following the revelation of Ministry of Natural Resources documents that expose irregularities in the approval process. Sherene Garbutt, a local resident, claims she was blindsided after discovering that a 22-acre parcel of land she had applied for was granted to another applicant, Charles Anthony Price, on the same day his application was submitted. Garbutt, who had spent three years navigating the ministry’s procedures, had already received permission to survey the land, completed the surveys, and submitted her lease application. However, she was informed earlier this year that the land was no longer available. The documents indicate that Price’s application was approved on April 29, 2025, and a lease was issued last year, valid until a title is granted. The land was reportedly sold for a mere $10,000, raising questions about transparency and fairness in the process. Garbutt, who had applied for 20 acres, is now preparing to take legal action against the Ministry of Natural Resources, arguing that her application was still pending when the land was transferred. The case has sparked widespread concern over the integrity of land allocation procedures in the region.
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Ceasefire Under Strain as Trump Threatens to ‘Go In’ on Hamas
In a dramatic escalation of rhetoric, former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Hamas, threatening military intervention if the group continues its violent actions in Gaza. The statement, shared on Truth Social, comes just days after a fragile ceasefire agreement was brokered between Israel and Hamas. Trump’s remarks signal a significant shift in tone, as he had previously declared the conflict “effectively over” and downplayed early reports of violence. However, recent developments have prompted a more aggressive stance. Reports indicate that Hamas has used the truce to reassert control over Gaza, allegedly targeting Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israeli forces. Disturbing footage circulating online appears to show public executions, raising international alarm. Trump, in an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, emphasized that the war could resume “as soon as I say the word” and warned that Hamas must disarm or face forceful disarmament. Israel has also accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire by delaying the return of deceased hostages. Trump’s comments reflect growing frustration with Hamas’ actions and suggest a potential shift toward renewed military engagement if the group fails to adhere to the ceasefire terms.
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Nicaraguan Man Alleges Belize NGO Scam Left Him Facing Death Threats (Pt.2)
A Nicaraguan refugee, Eric Omar Hernández Cruz, has come forward with allegations of being scammed and threatened in Belize, prompting a response from the Human Rights Commission of Belize (HRCB). Cruz claims he paid $500 to two men for ‘amnesty documents’ and later faced life-threatening intimidation. HRCB has clarified the roles of the accused individuals, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and accountability. One of the men was an administrative assistant for HRCB, terminated due to budgetary cuts, while the other worked with Help for Progress and was also dismissed. HRCB stated it was informed of the allegations by UNHCR in June 2025, though the initial report was received in March. Cruz reported the threats to the police, suspecting the two men were behind them. HRCB noted this is the first instance of such allegations involving asylum seekers. The case remains under investigation, with further updates expected.
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Belize Takes Part in ILO Regional Meeting on Decent Work
Belize played a pivotal role in the 20th American Regional Meeting of the International Labour Organization (ILO), held in the Dominican Republic from October 1 to 3, 2025. The gathering, which brought together over 300 delegates from governments, businesses, and labor organizations, centered on promoting decent work, social justice, and inclusive development across the Americas. Belize’s delegation, led by Minister Florencio Marin Jr., CEO Valentino Shal, and Labour Commissioner Rissela Dominguez-Patt, actively participated in the discussions. Representing employers was Kim Aikman from the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, while Ella Waight from the National Trade Union Congress of Belize advocated for workers’ rights. The meeting culminated in the Punta Cana Declaration, a regional commitment to fostering democracy, peace, and decent work. The outcomes are expected to shape Belize’s Decent Work Country Programme for 2024 to 2029, potentially enhancing job opportunities, workplace safety, and labor policy decision-making for Belizeans.
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3000 People Sue Johnson & Johnson Over Baby Powder Cancer Claims
In a landmark legal battle, over 3,000 individuals in the UK have filed a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson, alleging that the company’s talc-based baby powder caused cancer. The plaintiffs claim that the product was contaminated with asbestos, leading to cases of ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. The lawsuit, lodged in London’s High Court, accuses the pharmaceutical giant and its subsidiaries of concealing the risks for decades. Lawyers argue that Johnson & Johnson was aware that the talc used in its products originated from asbestos-containing mines but continued to market the powder until its removal from UK shelves in 2023. Michael Rawlinson KC, representing the claimants, stated that the company “suppressed critical information” and “lobbied regulators” to safeguard its brand. He emphasized that the powder’s fine particles, when shaken into the air, posed a significant inhalation risk, potentially exposing users to harmful substances. Among the plaintiffs is Patricia Angell, whose husband Edward died of mesothelioma in 2006. Despite never having worked with asbestos, Edward used the baby powder daily, and talc was noted in his autopsy report alongside asbestos strains. Johnson & Johnson has vehemently denied the allegations, with its former consumer health division, Kenvue, asserting that the product adhered to safety standards and was asbestos-free. A company spokesperson expressed deep sympathy for cancer patients but stressed the importance of factual accuracy. The case is anticipated to draw widespread attention as it progresses through the legal system.
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Two Trinidadians Killed in U.S. Strike Off Venezuela
Two Trinidadian fishermen from Las Cuevas were tragically killed in a U.S. air strike off the coast of Venezuela earlier this week, as reported by Guardian Media Newsroom. The victims have been identified as Chad “Charpo” Joseph, 26, and a man known only as Samaroo. The incident has ignited widespread anger and sorrow among their families, who vehemently deny any involvement of the men in drug trafficking.
U.S. President Donald Trump, announcing the strike on social media, claimed the targeted vessel was engaged in narcotics trafficking and linked to illicit narcoterrorist networks. This strike is part of Washington’s ongoing anti-drug operations in the Caribbean, aimed at disrupting Venezuela-based trafficking routes.
In Las Cuevas, Joseph’s relatives and friends have condemned the attack as unjust and inhumane. His mother, Lenore Burnley, asserted that her son was not a trafficker and criticized the U.S. for destroying the vessel instead of intercepting it. Joseph’s grandmother, Christine Clement, revealed that her grandson had been living in Venezuela for three months and had previously survived another boat attack, describing the latest strike as an act of ‘wickedness.’
Local residents have also expressed outrage, questioning the legality of the U.S. action. Kern, one of Joseph’s friends, stated, ‘What the U.S. is doing there, I think it is inhumane.’
The deaths bring the regional toll to 27 from five U.S. air strikes since Trump ordered military operations in the Caribbean Sea. Despite mounting criticism, Washington has vowed to continue its campaign.
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Trump Confirms CIA Operations in Venezuela
In a significant development, former US President Donald Trump has publicly confirmed his authorization of CIA operations within Venezuela. This admission has ignited a fierce response from Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who denounced the move as part of a broader strategy by Washington to orchestrate coups in the region. Trump justified the decision by alleging that Venezuela had released prisoners into the United States and was a major source of drug trafficking. This revelation comes on the heels of recent US military strikes in the Caribbean, which targeted suspected drug vessels and resulted in 27 fatalities. United Nations experts have condemned these actions as ‘extrajudicial executions.’ In response, Maduro called for peace, declaring ‘no war, yes peace,’ and initiated military drills near Caracas. Venezuela’s foreign minister further criticized the US deployment of warships and fighter jets as acts of aggression and intimidation. According to The New York Times, the CIA’s mandate permits independent operations or coordination with broader US military efforts in Venezuela.
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SIB Celebrates Statistics Week with Interactive Exhibit at UB
The Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) launched its annual celebration of Caribbean Statistics Day and Statistics Week 2025 with an engaging exhibition at the University of Belize Gymnasium. The event, held on October 15, brought together students, government ministries, statutory bodies, and partner organizations to demonstrate the pivotal role of data in shaping national policies and development strategies. Primary school students from the Cayo District participated actively, gaining insights into how statistics narrate Belize’s growth and challenges. This year’s theme, ‘Improving Lives Through Statistics: Strengthening and Innovating Together,’ underscores the importance of data in fostering a more inclusive and resilient Belize. The week-long celebration, running from October 14 to 17, features a series of activities designed to enhance data literacy, transparency, and innovation. The festivities will culminate with SIB’s annual Data Users Conference on October 17 at the Belize Biltmore Plaza, where key reports from the 2022 Population and Housing Census, including the Migration Report and the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) Report, will be officially released.