Carib Scope

标签： Belize

伯利兹

  • Henry Mojica Busted with Cocaine in OW Club

    Henry Mojica Busted with Cocaine in OW Club

    In a late-night operation on Saturday, January 17, 2026, Orange Walk District police apprehended 22-year-old Henry Mojica following a narcotics discovery at a local nightclub. The arrest occurred at approximately 11:30 p.m. after officers stationed at the establishment observed suspicious behavior from the August Pine Ridge Village laborer.

    According to official statements from Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, law enforcement personnel conducted a search of Mojica that yielded two transparent plastic bags containing suspected cocaine. The substance, with a total weight of 1.7 grams, was allegedly packaged in a manner consistent with distribution purposes.

    The suspect now faces formal charges for possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply—a serious offense under Belizean drug enforcement statutes. Additionally, Mojica has been charged with a mischievous act for allegedly providing authorities with a fictitious identification during the detention process.

    ASP Smith emphasized that the arrest demonstrates the continued vigilance of Orange Walk police in monitoring entertainment venues for drug-related activities. The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Belizean authorities in combating narcotics distribution within social establishments, particularly in border regions like the Orange Walk District.

    The accused remains in custody as judicial proceedings move forward, with the case representing one of several recent drug enforcement actions in northern Belize. Police officials have indicated that similar operations will continue throughout the district’s nightlife establishments.

  • Budna Case Heats Up as Pou Pushes Back

    Budna Case Heats Up as Pou Pushes Back

    A deepening corruption scandal within the Belize Police Department escalated dramatically on Friday as legal representatives for Police Constable Gabriel Pou issued a vehement rebuttal to Commissioner Richard Rosado. The confrontation centers on the controversial Budna kidnapping investigation, with Pou’s attorneys alleging systematic evidence manipulation and political interference.

    Pou’s legal team contends their client was coerced into providing falsified testimony, directly challenging Commissioner Rosado’s recent appeal for officers to come forward with information. In a scathing statement, they accused the police commissioner of orchestrating a disingenuous campaign that suppresses critical evidence rather than pursuing transparent truth-finding measures.

    Prime Minister John Briceño addressed the mounting controversy during a press briefing, delivering blunt advice to the accused officer: “He needs to go to the DPP [Director of Public Prosecutions]. That’s his right and legal responsibility. He should stop just hurling these accusations. He either steps up or shuts up.”

    The Prime Minister revealed that while Cabinet discussions regarding an independent investigator for the Budna case began in December, the process remains with the Attorney General’s office. Briceño emphasized the complexity of establishing proper legal safeguards for such investigations, noting concerns about potential future political weaponization of special investigative powers. “We must ensure that when this is implemented, it can only be utilized for serious investigations that genuinely require independent oversight,” Briceño stated, specifically referencing the Budna case as potentially meeting that threshold.

  • Tradition and Ceremony Usher In Legal Year

    Tradition and Ceremony Usher In Legal Year

    The Belizean legal community convened in Belize City on January 19, 2026, to formally inaugurate the High Court Legal Year through a ceremony blending tradition with forward-looking judicial vision. The day’s proceedings commenced with a solemn church service at Saint John’s Cathedral, followed by a ceremonial procession along Regent Street led by Chief Justice Louise Blenman and Commissioner of Police Dr. Richard Rosado, accompanied by the Belize Defense Force Band.

    In her keynote address, Chief Justice Blenman highlighted transformative achievements in criminal justice administration during the previous legal year. “Our collaborative approach has produced exceptional results in criminal justice reform initiatives,” Blenman stated. “Longstanding backlogs are now behind us, case disposition rates have significantly improved, and historical dissonance among justice sector stakeholders has been substantially mitigated.”

    Attorney General Anthony Sylvestre endorsed the judiciary’s progress, acknowledging remarkable case reduction achievements and modernization efforts. He reaffirmed government commitment to continued investment in judicial infrastructure, professional training, and staffing resources. “There is much we in Belize are to be proud of,” Sylvestre addressed the Chief Justice, “and with the vigilance of the judiciary and stakeholders, much more is to be achieved this new legal year.”

    William Lindo Jr., President of the Bar Association of Belize, emphasized the critical role of technology in judicial evolution. “We have entered an era where technology is no longer optional but foundational,” Lindo asserted. “E-filing systems, digitalization of court records, and accessible judicial resources are no longer conveniences but necessities integral to transparency and efficiency. Belize cannot afford to be left behind in this digital transformation while preserving the essential human element in justice delivery.”

    The unified message from judicial, legal, and government leadership underscored a collective commitment to developing a more robust, efficient, and responsive justice system serving the needs of the Belizean populace as the new legal year commences.

  • Telecom Rate Freeze Pending; AG Awaits Directive

    Telecom Rate Freeze Pending; AG Awaits Directive

    BELIZE CITY – The Belizean government’s highly anticipated plan to implement a year-long freeze on telecommunications rates has encountered an administrative delay, with the Attorney General’s office confirming it has not yet received formal instructions to draft the necessary legislation.

    Attorney General Anthony Sylvestre addressed reporters outside the High Court on Monday, revealing that despite Prime Minister John Briceño’s announcement last week regarding the proposed statutory instrument, his department awaits official drafting instructions to begin the legal process. The planned measure would temporarily lock current phone and internet service prices while merger negotiations between telecommunications providers BTL and SMART continue.

    Sylvestre emphasized the standard procedural protocol, stating, “We act on instructions. A particular ministry may have an issue, so we will receive drafting instructions and would draft a rule or statutory instrument based on that instruction, ensuring it complies with the constitution and other prevailing laws.”

    The Attorney General confirmed that the proposed BTL acquisition will receive comprehensive discussion during Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting. When pressed by reporters regarding the Prime Minister’s potential participation in these discussions – given his family’s partial ownership of SMART – Sylvestre declined to speculate, noting that Cabinet had not yet collectively examined the matter.

    “The discussion will take place tomorrow at Cabinet. We don’t know what will happen tomorrow,” Sylvestre stated, adding that he wished to avoid venturing down “what could eventually be a rabbit hole” regarding procedural specifics ahead of the formal meeting.

    The development highlights the complex interplay between regulatory oversight, market consolidation, and consumer protection in Belize’s telecommunications sector, with the government attempting to balance competitive market forces with affordable public access to essential services.

  • Briceño Pulls Plug on 13th Amendment, Gun Court Still in Play

    Briceño Pulls Plug on 13th Amendment, Gun Court Still in Play

    In a significant policy reversal, the Briceño administration has formally terminated its pursuit of the Thirteenth Amendment to Belize’s Constitution as a mechanism to address the nation’s crime epidemic. The decision follows extensive nationwide consultations that revealed insufficient public and parliamentary support for the constitutional overhaul.

    Attorney General Anthony Sylvestre confirmed the administration’s shift in strategy, indicating that while the comprehensive amendment package has been shelved, certain components—notably the establishment of a specialized Gun Court—remain under consideration through alternative legislative pathways.

    “The ministry of Home Affairs and AG’s ministry are consulting and considering this matter,” Sylvestre stated. “A final product has not been determined as yet regarding what will be the next step—whether that will be an amendment to the criminal code or the Crime Control and Criminal Justice Act.”

    The Attorney General emphasized that any legislative measures derived from the original amendment proposal would require thorough parliamentary deliberation and additional public consultation. He specifically noted that the potential implementation of a Gun Court, once contemplated as part of the constitutional amendment, could potentially be enacted through regular statutory legislation rather than constitutional reform.

    Sylvestre declined to provide further specifics pending final decisions, but unequivocally stated: “The Thirteenth Amendment or parts of the Thirteenth Amendment will no longer be pursued.” The ultimate determination regarding which elements might be preserved through alternative legislation rests with parliamentary committees and elected representatives.

    This development represents a notable recalibration of the government’s approach to criminal justice reform, shifting from comprehensive constitutional change to targeted legislative measures that can be implemented through established parliamentary processes.

  • Jerry Enriquez Wins Leave to Sue JLSC

    Jerry Enriquez Wins Leave to Sue JLSC

    In a significant legal development, social advocate Jerry Enriquez has secured High Court authorization to challenge the Judicial and Legal Services Commission’s rejection of his formal complaint. The judicial body had previously dismissed Enriquez’s submission in late 2025, a decision the activist contends disregarded substantial and compelling evidence.

    The High Court’s approval enables Enriquez to pursue formal judicial review proceedings against the JLSC, marking a notable escalation in the confrontation between civil society and Jamaica’s judicial oversight mechanism. Attorney General Anthony Sylvestre acknowledged the historical precedent of such challenges, revealing this isn’t the commission’s first courtroom encounter.

    Sylvestre referenced a prior case that progressed to the Caribbean Court of Justice involving allegations against Justice of Appeal Awich. The Jamaican Bar Association had previously sought removal proceedings against Awich for alleged misconduct concerning delayed judgment delivery, though the JLSC initially declined to advance those proceedings. That case established important procedural precedents regarding the commission’s accountability mechanisms.

    The current litigation raises fundamental questions about complaint adjudication transparency within Jamaica’s judicial oversight framework. Legal observers anticipate this case could potentially reshape how the JLSC evaluates future misconduct allegations and complaint dismissals.

  • Sugar Cane Season Opens with High Hopes for Successful Harvest

    Sugar Cane Season Opens with High Hopes for Successful Harvest

    Belize’s sugar industry has officially launched its 2026 harvesting season with renewed optimism following a devastating previous year marked by agricultural disease and climate challenges. The ceremonial commencement took place at the Belize Sugar Industries compound in Tower Hill, Orange Walk, bringing together farmers, industry executives, and government representatives.

    The sector faced significant setbacks during the 2025 season when Fusarium disease severely impacted northern cane fields, substantially reducing crop yields. Compounding these difficulties, exceptionally heavy rainfall damaged transportation infrastructure critical for moving harvested cane to processing facilities, resulting in an unusually delayed start to this year’s season.

    Mac McLachlan, General Manager of Belize Sugar Industries, acknowledged the ongoing recovery process while expressing confidence in the industry’s direction. “We’re not back to where we need to be,” McLachlan stated, “but we are expecting more cane this year than we had last year.” The government allocated three million dollars for emergency intervention, enabling pesticide treatment across 54,000 acres of cane land to combat the fungal disease.

    Climate-related challenges further complicated the recovery effort, with excessive rains rendering many sugar roads virtually impassable. Vladimir Puck, Chairperson of the Corozal Sugar Cane Farmers Association, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among farmers, government agencies, and milling operations in addressing these multifaceted challenges.

    A significant development this season involves intensified focus on crop diversification strategies and investment in more resilient cane varieties that offer improved sugar yields. Prime Minister John Briceño reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the industry’s revitalization, noting his personal oversight of sugar-related ministries and reference to a comprehensive 120-million-dollar investment plan.

    Price fluctuations have added another layer of complexity to the industry’s recovery. While 2024 established a record price of ninety dollars and ninety-five cents per ton, the following year witnessed a sharp decline. Salvador Martin, Chairperson of the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association, maintained a cautiously optimistic outlook, noting improved testing results and anticipating better pricing conditions for the current season.

    Consumers should prepare for increased sugar prices this year, according to Dr. Osmond Martinez, Minister of State in the Ministry of Economic Development. The price adjustment aims to support farmer profitability while addressing cross-border contraband issues stemming from regional price disparities.

    The industry encourages farmer participation in individual testing programs that evaluate crop quality and provide incentives for higher-quality production, representing another step toward comprehensive sector recovery.

  • Firearm Found in American Businessman’s Luggage at PGIA

    Firearm Found in American Businessman’s Luggage at PGIA

    An American entrepreneur faced temporary detention at Belize’s Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) over the weekend when security screening revealed a concealed firearm within his luggage. Law enforcement officials confirmed the incident occurred following the businessman’s arrival via private aircraft for commercial purposes.

    Authorities reported the traveler claimed to have inadvertently forgotten the weapon was packed in his baggage. The Belize Police Service conducted comprehensive background verifications and consulted with United States diplomatic representatives before determining the appropriate course of action.

    Assistant Superintendent Smith, who supervised the case, provided detailed justification for the decision. “After thorough investigation and confirmation from U.S. Embassy officials that the individual wasn’t a person of interest, we exercised discretionary authority to release him while confiscating the firearm,” Smith stated.

    The police representative further elaborated on the reasoning behind accepting the traveler’s explanation. “Given that no rational person would voluntarily submit to security screening while aware of possessing a prohibited weapon, his account appeared credible. He received formal cautioning and reprimand before being permitted to depart,” Smith added.

    When questioned about the legal basis for bypassing mandatory Supreme Court bail requirements in such cases, Smith emphasized that police discretion has been routinely implemented within the country’s judicial framework for extended periods.

  • Belizeans Recognised for Promoting Peace and Unity

    Belizeans Recognised for Promoting Peace and Unity

    BELIZE CITY, January 19, 2026 – Distinguished Belizeans spanning multiple sectors have received international recognition for their dedication to fostering social harmony at the World Leader Summit of Love and Peace. The prestigious gathering, orchestrated by the Federation of Love and Peace (FOWPAL), convened global figures to advance dialogues on compassion, non-violence, and international unity.

    The event saw the participation of high-profile national leaders including Prime Minister John Briceño and Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner, alongside government ministers, diplomatic envoys, and civil society representatives. In a ceremony highlighting humanitarian contributions, the organization bestowed its Compass Clock of Conscience Award upon multiple citizens for their impactful societal work.

    Esteemed awardees encompassed a diverse cross-section of Belizean professionals: Jermaine Burns of the Belize Defence Force; Karen Simplis, a lecturer at the University of Belize; Dr. Anya Moguel, a specialist in palliative medicine; cultural advocate Karen Vernon; Joycelyn Lopez, Executive Director of the Inspiration Center; Michele Irving, founder of the women’s empowerment group POWA; and former political leader Moses “Shyne” Barrow.

    During his address, Barrow emphasized the urgent worldwide necessity for reconciliation and peace, citing ongoing conflicts in regions including Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and Venezuela. “Across the globe, warfare continues to fracture nations and communities. This makes our mission of promoting love and peaceful coexistence more critical than ever,” he stated.

    The Compass Clock of Conscience, an emblem created by FOWPAL, symbolizes the alignment of personal integrity with purposeful action. It serves as a reminder for individuals and leaders to adhere to ethical principles in their pursuit of societal welfare. This award has historically been granted to international advocates of peace and social well-being.

  • Health Ministry Urges Vaccination as Measles Nears Border

    Health Ministry Urges Vaccination as Measles Nears Border

    The Belize Ministry of Health and Wellness has issued an urgent public health advisory following confirmation of twelve measles cases in neighboring Guatemala. Health authorities are calling upon citizens to immediately verify their vaccination status, particularly as two affected Guatemalan departments—Izabal and Petén—share direct borders with Belize.

    Dr. Natalia Beer, Technical Advisor for Maternal and Child Health at the Ministry, disclosed that Belize received official notification through the International Health Regulations system on January 9. She emphasized the extreme contagious nature of measles, describing it as one of the most rapidly spreading viral diseases known. Vaccination remains the singular effective defense against transmission.

    Current immunization coverage in Belize falls below the critical 95% threshold required for robust herd immunity. The Ministry provides routine measles protection through the MMR vaccine administered at 12 and 18 months of age, with the MR vaccine available for older children and adults. Health officials specifically advise that travelers and those uncertain about their vaccination history should seek immunization promptly.

    Measles transmission occurs through airborne particles that can remain infectious in enclosed spaces for up to two hours after an infected individual has departed. Early symptoms typically manifest as fever followed by a distinctive rash, though individuals may spread the virus for four days prior to visible symptoms appearing. Potential long-term complications include rare but fatal neurological conditions that can emerge years after initial infection.

    Dr. Beer referenced a tragic case in the United Kingdom where an 18-year-old woman died from complications stemming from childhood measles infection—a preventable outcome with vaccination costing less than one dollar. While Belize experienced measles outbreaks between March and May of last year, no current outbreaks have been confirmed. However, immunization gaps continue to pose significant vulnerability to renewed transmission.