2025 - Greater Belize Media

A New Name for S.O.E.

Prime Minister John Briceño is considering renaming the “State of Emergency” (SOE) to better reflect its purpose against gang violence. In this morning’s appearance on Open Your Eyes, Briceño likened the measure to a “time-out,” a strategy used by parents to manage children’s behaviour.

“Sometimes you need a time out… At home, when you and your brother are fighting, what does a parent do? They’re like, ‘Okay, you go to your room.’ That same analogy works in the streets,” Briceño explained, adding, “I hate the words ‘state of emergency’ because it is not the entire state—the entire country, but rather some sections.”

Briceño stated that he has been in discussions with Minister of Home Affairs Kareem Musa and said they are exploring alternative terminology for SOEs, which are enacted in high-crime areas. “This is a temporary solution for things to calm down,” Briceño stated. He said that it is not a “band-aid” but a necessary step to bring relief to communities while longer-term solutions are developed.

“It is not fair to the people in these neighbourhoods who are good, decent, hard-working, law-abiding citizens who live in fear of these guys when they start out shooting. And then they shoot, and in many instances innocent people get hurt,” he said.

“If that is the only way that we can have peace on the streets, then we are going to do it,” Briceño added.

While SOEs have helped lower the murder rate, they also come with concerns about rights violations, especially for those who are suspected of gang activity. Despite this, Police Commissioner Chester Williams reported in September that SOEs have contributed to a noticeable decrease in crime.

Sugar Roads Being Repaired

Efforts to repair the dirt roads leading to cane fields in northern Belize are underway. Last week, the Corozal Sugarcane Producers Association issued a press release raising concerns about their inability to meet the daily sugarcane delivery quota. The fields where mature cane is planted are located in low-lying areas that have become inaccessible. The root of the problem lies in the poor condition of the roads, exacerbated by weeks of heavy rainfall and the constant use of heavy-duty equipment, which has further damaged the infrastructure. With a break in the rains, the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing has begun repairing as many roads as possible.

Repairs have already been completed in parts of Caledonia, San Victor, and Louisville, with ongoing works in Pachacan and surrounding areas.

For cane farmer Jose Majil, the challenge is slightly different. Unlike other farmers who can’t access their mature cane, Majil has been unable to deliver any cane since the crop season opened in December because his crop won’t mature for another month. This delay translates to an estimated loss of $400 per day, based on the 39 tonnes of cane he should be delivering daily.

He said, “We cannot work, and some farmers have big machinery, so they try to take out the product, but at the time they’re hurting the roots too.”

The poor condition of the roads, worsened by persistent rains and the impact of heavy machinery, has made it difficult for farmers to transport their crops.

During his appearance on Open Your Eyes today, Prime Minister John Briceño explained that it is difficult to repair the roads when it’s raining constantly.

Belize Pushes for Tren Maya Expansion

Is the Tren Maya heading to Belize? Since early 2024, a delegation from Belize has been in talks with Tren Maya officials in Mexico. In March, they discussed the possibility of setting up a station at Belize’s northern border with Mexico.

In July, Amir Espadas, President of CANACO SERVYTUR, spoke about the potential benefits of extending the Tren Maya to Belize, saying, “The president said that there is the possibility of extending the Tren Maya, according to conversations with the government of Belize, into Belize.”

Prime Minister John Briceño also addressed the idea in an interview in May 2024. He said, “That is one of the meetings we are going to have with them to see how we can get the Tren Maya a little over three miles to be able to connect to our border.” He added, “Ideally what we want to do is connect it to our border, build the facilities, and get the tourists to come to Belize and also products. We no longer have to depend on transporting by ship.”

Yesterday, Riviera Maya News, a Mexican news outlet, reported that the government of Belize has officially requested Mexico to extend the Maya Train across the Hondo River and into Belize. In a formal letter to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, Briceño proposed a two-phase expansion. The first phase would add over 7 kilometres of track from Quintana Roo into Belize, including a spur connecting Chetumal International Airport near the border, according to Rivera Maya News. The second phase would extend the train through Belize to Guatemala, reaching the famous Tikal National Park.

Briceño explained the significance of the proposal to Rivera Maya News: “The letter was to follow up on the two proposals we have; the first is that we can bring the train to the entrance of Belize from Chetumal, and the second is that it can go from here in Belize to Guatemala City.”

He added, “This would bring many benefits to Belize. It could open a new market for tourists since those who come to Cancun are often from Europe… With the Maya Train, it would be much easier for them to travel to Belize.”

“Also in trade, Mexico is a country from which we import millions of dollars, so with the train moving products from Mexico to Belize would be easier, and also moving our products not only to Mexico, but to the United States and Canada, so it is an opportunity for everyone to win,” he said.

Although studies are still needed, Briceño stated, “I am very hopeful that this can be consolidated.”

Police Officer Caught Stealing Suspended with Full Pay

Police Officer Caught Stealing Suspended with Full Pay

A police officer has been suspended after being caught on camera stealing money from a store he was assigned to protect.

The security camera inside the Belize City store caught Police Constable Peter Graham rummaging through a cash pan and pocketing bills behind the store’s counter. The store owner entered during the incident and found Graham standing behind the desk. Upon seeing the owner, Graham calmly stepped back to allow her access, though she appeared confused by his presence in the area.

In response to the incident, the Belize Police Department issued a suspension letter, effective January 11, 2025. The letter, signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Bartholomew F. Jones, stated, “Please be informed that you are suspended from active duty with effect from the 11th day of January 2025, pending the outcome of an investigation into your conduct.”

It also confirmed that he would continue to receive his full salary during the suspension period. “During the suspension period, you shall receive your full salary.”

International Help Arrives to Battle L.A Wildfires

The scorching wildfires in Los Angeles, California, have swept through 39,000 acres, displacing over 153,000 people and killing 11 people. Canada and Mexico are stepping in to help Los Angeles battle the fires.

The fires have also impacted Belizeans living in Los Angeles. The tight-knit Belizean community forms part of the large Caribbean population in Los Angeles. Belizean DJ Easy, who lives close to the affected area, stated, “Everybody’s attention is on this, you know. Everybody wishing the best for everybody because a lot of friends, family, and loved ones are affected directly with this. Never, never had this happened here before.”

Another Belizean, Mirna Reneau, had reported that the fire led to the temporary closure of the university she works at. “UCLA cancelled undergraduate classes due to the fire. Graduate students are remote. It’s moving fast and very devastating,” she said, adding, “We have a lot of Belizeans that are caregivers and they work in these areas.”

On Friday, Canada and Mexico have stepped in with firefighting support. This International assistance comes despite recent tensions between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico over trade issues.

Mexico extended help, with President Claudia Sheinbaum announcing on Friday that firefighters from Mexico’s National Forestry Commission and the National Secretary of Defence would assist. “We are going to send support, not just because the people and government of Mexico have always been generous, but also because there are many Mexican people in this zone of the United States,” she said.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also announced that Canadian teams from British Columbia and Quebec are already on the ground, providing crews, aircraft, and equipment. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith confirmed the deployment of additional resources, including water bombers and night-vision helicopters.

In response, California Gov. Gavin Newsom stated on X, “California is deeply grateful” for the humanitarian help the state is receiving.

Building Near an Airport? BDCA Approval Required

Strict new construction regulations are now in place for areas near aerodromes, which require approval to prevent hazards to aircraft operations. The Belize Department of Civil Aviation (BDCA) has outlined clear guidelines, under the Civil Aviation Aerodrome Design and Construction Regulations 2023 (SI No. 126). The department states that no object posing a threat to aircraft should be within prescribed distances of runways.

For domestic aerodromes, the new rules focus on runways used for visual and instrument approaches. “No object that would pose a hazard to aircraft operations is to be situated inside the prescribed vicinity of said runway,” the BDCA stated. New buildings or extensions of existing ones are not allowed above certain safety zones, known as obstacle limitation surfaces unless they are shielded by existing structures.

At the Philip Goldson International Airport, the rules are even strictetr. “No new objects shall be permitted above obstacle limitation surfaces,” the BDCA added. This ensures that nothing interferes with aircraft operations at the country’s busiest airport, according to the department.

The BDCA also reminded the public that before starting any construction within 3,000 meters of a domestic aerodrome, or 6,000 meters of the Philip Goldson International Airport, a “letter of no objection” must be obtained. This letter confirms that the construction will not interfere with aviation safety.

Existing structures above these safety zones may only remain if they are deemed safe after an aeronautical study or if they are blocked from view by immovable objects. 3

Video Captures Police Officer Stealing Cash from Store

A police officer was caught on camera stealing money from a store he was supposed to be protecting. The video, posted on social media, shows the officer opening a cash pan and rummaging through cash bills behind the store’s desk and pocketing some of the money.

The footage reveals the officer calmly moving aside as a woman, who was the shop owner, enters the store. The woman appeared to be distraught as to why the policeman would be behind her desk. The video shows him stepping back, gesturing behind the desk, and speaking to her.

This same police officer was also previously involved in a 2018 incident involving aviation fuel near a drug plane landing, for which no action was taken against him at the time.

Public Outcry After ‘Dr. Sutherland’ Charged with “Unreasonable” Offence

A simple act of kindness—carrying a water bottle on a bike—has led to an unusual charge and public outcry. On Friday night’s newscast, News 5 reported on a peculiar case involving Harrison Sutherland, famously known as “Dr. Sutherland.”

Sutherland, 34, was arrested and brought to court for facing an unusual charge with a misdemeanour for carrying the water in a way that hindered his control of the bike. The charge came after Sutherland helped an elderly woman by transporting the water for her.

This misdemeanour charge is quite rare, especially for something as simple as carrying a water bottle on a bicycle. Just like Sutherland, many citizens were shocked by the charge, with some expressing confusion online.

One user questioned, “So you not allowed to carry the 5 gallon of water on a bicycle then? I really don’t understand what’s this all about.” The user added, “That’s many people’s means of collecting their water. No one will get a taxi to pick up a $3 gallon of water; are they crazy?”

While another criticised the justice system, saying it reflects poor police training. “Need of greater discipline in the department, if not then our entire system is a failure to citizens of this country.”

Sutherland spent nearly 12 hours in police custody before being released on bail. He was scheduled to return to court on March 6, 2025, but in a recent statement from Police Commissioner Chester Williams, he announced that the charge would be withdrawn.

Williams reacted to the case, stating, “How can we now punish someone for such a kind gesture?” Williams added, “While I recognized that the police are doing their job, I believe this charge is unreasonable.” Williams stated that this case “goes directly against the grain of what we are trying to promote.”

“In light of this, I have directed that the charge against Sutherland be withdrawn on Monday.”

WMO Confirms 2024 as Hottest Year on Record

2024 has officially been confirmed as the warmest year ever recorded, with global temperatures rising 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels—a first in modern history. Experts say that this is not just a number; it’s a loud wake-up call that we are living through the effects of climate change right now.

Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Celeste Saulo, said, “Climate history is playing out before our eyes,” as she pointed out the ongoing impacts, including extreme weather, rising sea levels, and melting ice.

This year stands out as the 10th consecutive year of record-high temperatures. WMO’s recent analysis shows that even a single year of temperatures exceeding 1.5°C can trigger devastating effects, such as more intense storms and melting ice. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned, “Today’s assessment from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) proves yet again—global heating is a cold, hard fact.” WMO added that the fact that this is happening amid natural phenomena like El Niño only adds to the urgency.

A new study reveals that ocean heat has played a key role in this record. Oceans have absorbed 90% of the excess heat caused by global warming, making them the warmest ever recorded. The WMO plans to release more details in its 2024 Global Climate report in March.

While surpassing the 1.5°C mark in one year does not mean the long-term goals of the Paris Agreement are out of reach, Saulo cautioned, “Every additional increment of global warming increases the impacts on our lives, economies, and our planet.”

Surveillance Camera Captures Ramirez Murder Suspects

On Thursday, we reported the tragic shooting of thirty-year-old Giovanni Ramirez, who had provided information that led to the incarceration of attorney Oscar Selgado. News Five obtained surveillance footage showing two men on a motorcycle driving up beside Ramirez on Amandala Drive around 1:30 PM and opening fire. Today, a mother shared with News Five that she passes that very spot every day with her young son on their way to school. News Five’s Marion Ali has more on this story.

Marion Ali, Reporting

Today, the street where Giovanni Ramirez was killed on Thursday was eerily quiet. Normally, Amandala Drive is bustling with parents picking up their kids from school in the afternoon. We spoke with a mother who told us she walks that same street every day to take her son to school. On Thursday afternoon, she had just passed the spot when she heard the gunshots.

Voice of: Area Resident

“Me walking to St. Martin School, to ker my son. I talk to the principal when we hear the gun and the people come out, check outside. When we come back out from school, we can’t pass back deh. The police done close right deh. Nobody could pass right deh. We hear only somebody dead in a red car.”

Marion Ali

“ You missed being in the direct path of the gunshots by what, just a few minutes?”

Voice of: Area Resident

“Mm hmm, yeah. I come over quick, and I lock up.”

Marion Ali

“You pass this street every day around that time?”

Voice of: Area Resident

“Yes. Every day same time – eleven-fifteen, go for my son for lunch. Right now, twelve, bring. Bring him back and one-forty-five come back for him, same time.”

Ramirez had reportedly just left Cemetery Road and was on his way to visit family in CET Site when two men on a motorcycle opened fire on him. Today, a relative told us that he was targeted out of jealousy. Commissioner of Police Chester Williams mentioned that the police would be reviewing security camera footage to identify the suspects.

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police

“We do have security footages that we are looking at this time. And if it is that we are unable to identify those persons in the footage, then we’ll release it to the public so that they can help us identify who they are.”

Voice of: Relative

“Sometimes jealousy is a bad thing. When people see you’re trying to uplift yourself and get out of a narrative that people trying to paint you as, jealousy and envy is a bad thing in this city.”

Marion Ali

“You think it somebody who was jealous?”

Voice of: Relative

“It was jealousy.”

Marion Ali

“Of what?”

Voice of: Relative

“Just because you’re coming up. People hate to see you driving; people hate to see you’re living good, doing better things, not negativity – better things in life. And so people try to carry you down with them. It doesn’t matter. As long as you’re doing better than someone, and they’re watching you doing better than them, they perceive you…”

Marion Ali

“That was a lot of bullets the police picked up. You don’t think there was a dispute that resulted in so many bullets being fired?”

Voice of: Relative

“There was no dispute.”

Marion Ali for News Five.