In a groundbreaking initiative, the construction of the new Bella Vista Police Station in Belize has begun with a unique foundation: discarded and damaged gun parts. This innovative approach, spearheaded by the Belize Police Department, aims to safely dispose of firearms while enhancing community security. Over the past three years, a significant number of damaged and discarded gun parts have been collected, and instead of storing them indefinitely, these pieces are now being used in the station’s foundation. Magistrate Mannon Dennison, a member of the Firearms and Ammunition Control Board, highlighted the environmental and security benefits of this method. Belize, a signatory to the Caribbean Firearm Roadmap, has been grappling with the safe disposal of firearms, a challenge shared by many CARICOM nations. Jason Francis, Senior Policy Advisor at the Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development, praised Belize’s innovative solution, ensuring that these firearms will never re-enter circulation. The new police station is a crucial development for the growing community of Bella Vista Village, which now houses nearly 10,000 residents. Minister of Home Affairs Kareem Musa emphasized that this project marks the beginning of a series of new police stations across the country, including in San Narciso and Santa Elena. This initiative not only addresses the immediate security needs of the community but also sets a precedent for the safe and environmentally friendly disposal of confiscated firearms.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
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400 Parcels of Land Handed Out to Collet Residents
In a landmark event on October 27, 2025, the Collet constituency in Belize City witnessed a historic land distribution ceremony at the Gateway Youth Center. Organized by Area Representative Devin Daly, the event marked the first land clinic in twenty-five years, with 400 parcels of land and 50 land titles officially handed out to residents. The initiative fulfilled Daly’s promise to enhance the community’s quality of life through land ownership, housing opportunities, and infrastructure development. The ceremony followed a mobile land clinic held in September, where residents voiced their land-related concerns. Most recipients were already residing on the land, now gaining official ownership. Pickstock Area Representative Anthony Mahler praised the initiative, emphasizing how land ownership empowers individuals to improve their lives, pursue education, or start businesses. Many of the new landowners were youths and individuals aged 30 to 40. Daly acknowledged the remaining 300 residents seeking land titles and pledged continued efforts to address land issues in the constituency. The event symbolized a transformative step toward community empowerment and economic stability.
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Isabella Zabaneh Ready to Shine at Miss Universe 2025
Isabella Zabaneh, the newly crowned Miss Universe Belize 2025, is set to make her mark on the global stage as she prepares to compete in the 74th Annual Miss Universe Pageant in Thailand. With the event just weeks away, Zabaneh shared her thoughts and aspirations during a pre-departure interview at the Phillip Goldson International Airport.
Zabaneh, who has been a vocal advocate for confidence, self-identity, and inner beauty, expressed her excitement and readiness for the competition. ‘People keep asking me if I’m nervous, but I’ve learned to channel my nerves into excitement and eagerness for what’s to come,’ she said. ‘I have no expectations—I want to be thoroughly surprised by everything that comes my way and all the blessings God has in store for me.’
Beyond the pageant, Zabaneh has made significant strides through her nonprofit organization, which focuses on empowering young women. ‘It may seem shallow at first glance, but through my nonprofit, we’ve been able to make a tangible impact on the lives of young women,’ she emphasized. ‘Whether I win the Miss Universe crown or not, I vow to continue this work because when you’re passionate about something, you can’t help but advocate for it.’
Destiny Arnold, the National Director of Miss Universe Belize, also shared her enthusiasm for Zabaneh’s journey. ‘It has been historic to see her rise to the top picks of some of the toughest bloggers in the pageant industry,’ Arnold remarked. ‘She’s working with influential figures in the industry, and the feedback about her has been overwhelmingly positive.’
As Zabaneh embarks on this prestigious journey, she carries not only her personal aspirations but also the hopes of Belize, aiming to make her nation’s name resonate on the global stage.
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PM Briceño Reaffirms Support for Caribbean as a “Zone of Peace” Amid Tensions
Prime Minister John Briceño of Belize has reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering commitment to preserving the Caribbean as a ‘zone of peace,’ aligning with the collective stance of CARICOM Heads of Government. This declaration comes amid escalating tensions fueled by increased U.S. military presence near Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago. Briceño emphasized the importance of regional unity, stating, ‘The Caribbean is a zone of peace, and we must do everything to maintain it.’ He highlighted Venezuela as a key partner and Trinidad and Tobago as a valued member of CARICOM. The Prime Minister’s remarks were prompted by recent developments, including the arrival of U.S. warships in the region and reports of strikes on suspected drug vessels. Briceño condemned attacks on fishing boats, acknowledging the possibility of drug-related activities but stressing the need for lawful and peaceful resolutions. On October 18, 2025, CARICOM leaders, excluding Trinidad and Tobago, issued a statement endorsing the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace. The statement advocated for dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution while reinforcing cooperation against narcotrafficking and the illegal trade of small arms and light weapons within the framework of international law.
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Son After Father Dies Waiting at NRH: “If You Don’t Love the Job, Leave It”
A tragic incident at Belize’s Northern Regional Hospital (NRH) has reignited concerns over the country’s public healthcare system. Eusebio Espinosa Senior, a 92-year-old man, passed away over the weekend while awaiting medical attention. His son, Eusebio Espinosa Junior, recounted the harrowing experience, stating that despite repeated pleas for help, his father was left unattended until it was too late. The elderly man was brought to the hospital on Saturday evening after experiencing severe pain and discomfort. Despite undergoing triage, they were instructed to wait outside as staff attended to other patients. Espinosa Junior claimed that by the time medical personnel responded, his father had already stopped breathing. The emergency area was reportedly overcrowded, with limited staff on duty. Health and Wellness Minister Kevin Bernard has ordered a full investigation into the incident, vowing to hold those responsible accountable if negligence is confirmed. Espinosa Junior expressed skepticism about the investigation’s outcome but emphasized the need for systemic improvements, including increased staffing and better emergency response protocols. He also urged healthcare workers to reconsider their roles if they lack passion for their jobs, stating, ‘If you don’t love what you’re doing, you need to carry on with another occupation.’ The incident has sparked widespread calls for urgent reforms in Belize’s healthcare system to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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Prime Minister Unaware of Possible BTS Strike
Belize Prime Minister John Briceño has expressed unawareness of a potential strike by the Belize Tax Service (BTS) employees, despite growing concerns over the government’s plan to transition the BTS into a semi-autonomous entity known as the Statutory Authority Revenue Agency (SARA). The proposed reform aims to enhance efficiency and accountability in tax administration, but it has reportedly sparked discontent among BTS staff.
When questioned about the strike rumors, Briceño responded, ‘Well, you’re giving me news. I’m not aware of it.’ He emphasized that while workers have the right to protest, his administration would seek clarification from relevant authorities. ‘As I always say, it is your right as a citizen that if you want to strike or not, that’s on them,’ the Prime Minister stated.
Briceño defended the SARA initiative, highlighting its potential to improve public service delivery and strengthen oversight. ‘What is important behind SARA is to be able to move it into a semi-autonomous body and provide better service to our citizens,’ he explained. ‘And also to hold accountable the employees who provide that service. That’s very important for us.’
The Public Service Union (PSU), representing BTS employees, had previously written to the Prime Minister, expressing concerns about the transition’s impact on national revenue and member welfare. However, over a month after their initial letter, the union claims to have received no acknowledgment or response. As of now, Briceño has not confirmed whether discussions with the PSU have taken place.
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From Independence to the Universe: Isabella Zabaneh Aims for the Crown
Belize’s pride and hope, 21-year-old Isabella Zabaneh, has embarked on a journey to Bangkok, Thailand, to compete in the 74th Miss Universe Pageant. Departing from Mango Creek/Independence, Zabaneh’s route includes a stop in Los Angeles before her final destination in Bangkok, where she will join a diverse array of contestants from around the globe. This year’s Miss Universe marks a historic milestone as it fully embraces a rule change introduced in 2023, allowing married women and mothers to participate. Previously restricted to single women under 28, the competition now boasts a record number of participants, with over 119 confirmed contestants. Destinee Arnold, National Director of the Miss Universe Belize Foundation Ltd., expressed unwavering confidence in Zabaneh’s preparation and readiness. “She has been walking, talking, and traveling the world, working with the best. The past decade of her life has been a preparation for this moment,” Arnold remarked. Zabaneh herself shared her enthusiasm and gratitude, stating, “People keep asking me if I’m nervous, but I’ve learned to channel my nerves into excitement and eagerness for what’s to come.” Her advocacy for confident, secure identities and inner beauty remains a cornerstone of her mission. Through her nonprofit, she has made significant impacts on the lives of young women, a cause she is determined to continue championing. The Miss Universe finals are set for November 20, 2025.
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Nicaraguan Man Alleges Belize NGO Scam Left Him Facing Death Threats (Pt. 3)
In a developing case that has drawn international attention, Nicaraguan refugee Eric Omar Hernández Cruz has come forward with new allegations regarding a scam that left him facing death threats in Belize. Cruz, who fled the country earlier this year, claims he was defrauded while attempting to secure legal status. According to Cruz, he and another individual paid $500 each to two men who allegedly promised them “amnesty documents.” These men were reportedly linked to the Human Rights Commission of Belize (HRCB) and Help for Progress, an NGO partnered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Both individuals have since been dismissed from their respective organizations, though neither has faced criminal charges, with their terminations officially attributed to funding cuts. Enrique August, Executive Director of Help for Progress, confirmed that one of the accused was employed by the NGO but stated the dismissal was unrelated to the allegations. August emphasized that Help for Progress does not issue immigration documents and only provides limited financial assistance for transportation or basic needs. Cruz reported receiving death threats starting in February 2025, shortly after the men were terminated. Despite suspecting the dismissed individuals, Cruz admitted uncertainty about the source of the threats. The case remains under investigation, with Part 4 of the series expected to provide further updates.
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Hurricane Melissa: Earth’s Strongest Storm of 2025
Hurricane Melissa has intensified into the most powerful storm of 2025, with wind speeds surging to 175 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). The Category 5 hurricane is now bearing down on Jamaica, posing a severe threat to the island nation. The NHC reported that Melissa’s winds escalated by 10 mph in just one day, signaling its rapid intensification. Tropical storm conditions are already affecting Jamaica, with catastrophic hurricane-force winds expected to commence tonight and persist into early Tuesday. As of this afternoon, the storm’s center was located 145 miles southwest of Kingston, moving at a sluggish pace of 3 mph. Despite the ongoing US government shutdown, NOAA hurricane hunters have been braving the storm to gather critical data. Meteorologist Andy Hazelton, who was aboard one of the aircraft, described the experience as ‘the most turbulent hurricane I’ve ever been in.’ The mission was cut short due to extreme updrafts and downdrafts, highlighting the storm’s ferocity. Authorities are urging residents to take immediate precautions as Hurricane Melissa continues to strengthen.
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IOM Mobilizes Emergency Relief as Hurricane Melissa Closes in on Jamaica
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has initiated emergency relief efforts as Jamaica braces for the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm. Natasha Greaves, IOM’s Head of Office in Jamaica, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, ‘We expect significant displacement, with many requiring immediate shelter and essential supplies.’ The IOM’s emergency response team is collaborating with Jamaica’s national system, prioritizing shelter, critical provisions, and data collection. Greaves highlighted the importance of established partnerships in ensuring swift and effective aid delivery. Hurricane Melissa’s outer bands have already unleashed torrential rains and powerful winds across the island, prompting the Meteorological Service of Jamaica to issue warnings of ‘catastrophic flash floods and landslides.’ Authorities have enforced mandatory evacuations in high-risk zones. The storm has already claimed four lives in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, underscoring its deadly potential.