Benita Keme-Palacio - Greater Belize Media

Major Crimes in Belize Drop Despite U.S. Warnings

In November 2023, the U.S. Department of State-Bureau of Consular Affairs issued a warning to travellers regarding high rates of violent crime in Belize, including sexual assault, armed robbery, and murder, particularly in tourist areas.

Despite these warnings, recent data from the Belize Police Department, in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries, paints a different picture. Between July and September 2024, major crimes in Belize dropped by 16%, decreasing from 268 incidents in 2023 to 226 in 2024. September alone accounted for 37% of these crimes, but even this reflects a 3% decrease compared to September 2023. The most significant decline was noted in July, where major crimes decreased by 32%.

Noteworthy reductions were seen across various crime categories: murders fell by 46%, robberies decreased by 13%, burglaries by 23%, thefts by 33%, and unlawful sexual intercourse by 22%. Rape statistics remained stable with 11 reported cases. The Belize District reported the highest number of major crimes, making up 38% of the total, yet it also experienced a substantial 31% decrease compared to the previous year.

However, looking at the broader picture, the first nine months of 2024 saw a slight uptick in murder victims, with 71 reported, three more than the same period in 2023. The majority of these victims were male, and firearms were the weapon of choice in 77% of the cases. The Belize and Cayo Districts recorded the highest murder rates.

In terms of domestic violence, reports have decreased by 12% from July to September 2024. The majority of complainants were women, predominantly aged 20 to 44. While many districts experienced a decline in domestic violence reports, areas like Independence and Ladyville reported increases. Substance abuse and communication issues were cited as significant contributing factors to these incidents. Notably, 87% of the 435 domestic violence reports led to court action.

Overall, the latest statistics suggest that ongoing efforts to combat crime may be yielding positive results.

Belize Strengthens Efforts Against Transnational Crime

A delegation from Belize, led by Minister of National Defence Florencio Marin Jr., participated in the XVI Conference of Defence Ministers of the Americas in Mendoza, Argentina, from October 13-16.

The team, which included Minister of State Oscar Mira and senior military officials, met with representatives from 23 countries to discuss regional security and cooperation. Belize emphasised its commitment to promoting women’s roles in the armed forces, aligning with the United Nations’s resolution on Women, Peace, and Security.

The delegation also highlighted Belize’s efforts in humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and environmental protection, viewing these as crucial to national security. Additionally, Belize reaffirmed its commitment to combating transnational organised crime through collaboration with regional partners, CARICOM and the OAS.

UDP Accuses AFD of ‘Continued Fraud and Deception’

Leader of the Opposition, Moses “Shyne” Barrow, rejected Sunday’s national convention held by the Alliance for Democracy (AFD) in Belize City.

Barrow condemned the AFD and its leader, Tracy Taegar-Panton, accusing them of “continued fraud and deception.”

Barrow described the AFD’s attempts to mislead the public as “malicious, unscrupulous, and anti-democratic.”

“The ADP is a third party formed by some members of the old guard who left the UDP because they rejected the Party’s anti-corruption and political reform agenda under the leadership of Shyne Barrow, Hugo Patt, Michael Peyrefitte, Alberto August, and the Executive,” said Barrow.

Barrow reiterated its leadership team, stateing that it remains resolute “until the next UDP National Convention to be held 90 days after the next General Elections,” he added.

Alliance For Democracy Claims UDP’s Leadership at Convention

On Sunday, the Alliance for Democracy (AFD), led by Albert Area Representative Tracy Taegar Panton, held what is described as a ‘unity convention’ at Belize City’s Civic Centre.

The event gathered many delegates and supporters of the United Democratic Party (UDP) from across the country.

In an interview with Taegar-Panton at the convention, she stated, “Neither the Party Leader nor the Chairman nor the Executive Leadership Team has greater power than the delegates. The National Convention, which we are having today, is the highest decision-making body of the party.” She said that the convention was convened in accordance with the party’s constitution: “This movement is following the Constitution of the Party in its entirety.”

Taegar-Panton noted that delegates overwhelmingly support the AFD’s call for a leadership change within the UDP, despite Moses “Shyne” Barrow’s claims that AFD leaders and other senior members have been expelled.

Today, Panton took to Facebook to announce the results of yesterday’s convention. In the statement, which branded the official UDP’s press release header, it said, “The United Democratic Party (UDP) is proud to announce that Hon. Tracy Panton has been elected as the Interim Leader of the UDP, making history as the first female to lead a mass political party in Belize.”

The announcement detailed, “A total of 347 out of 528 delegates participated in a critical vote to determine the future leadership of the UDP. The question posed was clear: “Do you support the recall of Moses Shyne Barrow as Party Leader of the UDP?” The results were resounding: 334 delegates voted YES, while 13 delegates voted NO.”

According to the statement, the AFD executive, which claims to replace the UDP leadership, includes Hugo Patt as First Deputy Leader and Beverley Williams as Second Deputy Leader. Sheena Pitts and Lee Mark Chang were announced as Interim Chairperson and Vice-Chairman respectively at the convention.

Former area representatives, including Anthony “Boots” Martinez, Manuel Heredia Jr., and Edmund “Clear the Land” Castro, were also in attendance, along with former CEO in the Office of the Prime Minister, Audrey Wallace. Notably absent was Hugo Patt.

“There is no confusion—there is only one great UDP, and today’s convention solidified that we are both great and democratic,” the statement wrote.

Decomposed Body Discovered Floating in Mopan River

The body of a middle-aged man was found floating in the Mopan River near the Belize western border over the weekend. The body was reportedly in an advanced state of decomposition.

The remains retrieved from the river on Saturday were transferred to a morgue. A post-mortem examination is pending. The body is believed to be that of 53-year-old Nery Antonio Cardona Sagatume.

According to the brother of the deceased, Fredy Cardona, Sagatume left home on October 16 wearing clothing that matched the description of what was found on the body.

Initial investigation indicated no visible injuries and no foul play is suspected. This is an ongoing investigation.

Shooting Incident in Ladyville Leaves Man Hospitalised

A shooting incident over the weekend has left a 39-year-old construction worker hospitalised. Reports indicate that Lenny Bengeuche sustained two gunshot wounds and was taken to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) for treatment.

According to Bengeuche, two men dressed in dark clothing shot fire at him before fleeing the scene on foot.

When officers from the Ladyville Criminal Investigations Branch (CIV) arrived at Egbert Quilter Street, the officers discovered an abandoned black 24-inch male-frame beach cruiser bicycle at the location. However, no bullet shells were found.

No arrests have been made. The police continue to investigate.

Body Parts Found in Dangriga Over the Weekend, Butcher Detained

Police in Dangriga have initiated a murder investigation following the discovery of a dismembered body found in a barrel near a resort. The barrel containing the body parts was reportedly discarded in the sea.

Police conducted a search at a local meat shop as part of the investigation. Initial evidence suggests that the gruesome dismemberment may have occurred at this location. A local butcher has been taken into custody in connection with the case.

The investigation continues.

Belizean Farmer Charged with Murder

Twenty-six-year-old Kadrian Travis Wade, a farmer from Lucky Strike Village has been charged with the murder of Glenford Davis.

Davis, a 46-year-old farmer from Rockstone Pond Village, was reported missing on March 12, 2024, after last being seen on December 21, 2023. Police discovered his skeletal remains about 75 yards off a feeder road in the Rockstone Pond area on March 16, along with a pair of rubber boots, a bush hat, and a backpack.

TS Nadine Aftermath: Mollejon and Vaca Dams Spill

Excessive rainfall from Tropical Storm Nadine has resulted in the Mollejon and Vaca dams spilling, while the Chalillo Dam remains stable and continues to hold back floodwaters from the Macal River upstream.

Fortis Belize Limited (FBL) stated that spilling is a natural occurrence when water overflows the dam wall. It emphasised that should the Chalillo Dam begin to spill, it will issue further communication and alert downstream communities that may be impacted. FBL also noted that while dams do not fully prevent flooding, they reduce the risk of flood disasters, even when spilling occurs.

FBL personnel are currently on-site at each facility, monitoring water levels as the storm progresses across Belize. The company says it is maintaining close communication with officials from BEL and NEMO.

MOHW Advises Public on Safe Drinking Water Practices Post TS Nadine

Following flooding from Tropical Storm Nadine, the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) has declared many drinking water sources unsafe, including municipal systems, rural supplies, wells, and stored water. Affected water may “appear dark in color, have an odor, or have floating fragments.” To make water safe for drinking, cooking, or bathing, the MOHW recommends three treatment methods:

Bleach: Add one tablespoon of unscented bleach to five gallons of water, mix, and let stand for 30 minutes.
Boiling: Heat water until it reaches a rolling boil for one minute, then cool and store in a clean container.
Purification tablets: Follow package instructions and allow the water to stand for the recommended time.

The MOHW urges the public to stay safe and will continue to monitor the situation, providing updates when water sources are safe again. For more information, contact the nearest public health office.