Brianna Bennett - Greater Belize Media

Piracy Declines Amid Lobster Season Crackdown

It’s lobster season in Belize and while that means fresh seafood for many, it also means the Coast Guard is on high alert. With lobster in high demand, tensions on the water can boil over fast. In fact, several fishermen have recently been targeted in violent attacks linked to disputes over lobster territory. But there’s some good news, according to Rear Admiral Elton Bennett, the number of pirate-related kidnappings and murders is actually going down. He credits increased patrols and smarter strategies for the decline. So, how is the Coast Guard keeping our waters safer this season? Here’s more on that.

Rear Admiral Elton Bennett, Commandant, Belize Coast Guard

“We are at, we are at a point now where we’ve been able to manage that to a very good degree. We are able to reduce the violence. And yes, there is still that threat that exists in between different fractions of the fishing industry. You have the sailing fleet and then you have those who deals with with traps and camps. So, there will always be that friction. Our responsibility here is try to get involved and try to mitigate those friction from becoming violent. So that’s what we’ve been doing and we’ve been working very closely with the Fisheries department to identify those high-risk locations off the coast of Dangriga, out at Turneffe and off the course of Belize City in particular, where these Fisher folks will be vulnerable because of the value of their fishing products. So we recognize that and we try to intervene as much as possible. I met this week with the Commissioner of police as well. We shared that information, share that concern. And we’ve come up with a plan where we’ll be able to support each other, both in Belize City because a lot of these incidents stem from Belize City. So we’re able to establish somewhat of a framework for us to share intelligence and then share a response to those incidents out at sea. So we, we have a very good comprehensive knowledge of what’s going on. We know who the players are and we are able to target them in order to minimize these potential acts of violence.”

Britney Gordon

“Have these operations increased now that lobster season is open? I know we had two recent incidents that were specifically regarding lobster.”

Rear Admiral Elton Bennett

“Yeah, indeed. Every time this time of the year, once the lobster scene is open we know this well in advance, so we try to get out and provide that necessary security protection for fishing fleet. One of the incidents last week we were called out, one of the fishing vessels was threatened, went down towards gowski. We received that information, we went out there and we escorted them into Belize City. So that’s what we’re doing in trying to maintain that, that relationship and that communication, direct communication with the fishing fleet so that we can respond to provide that necessary protection that they need.”

Are Belizeans in Cahoots with Guatemalan Drug Dealers?

Back in March, authorities stumbled upon the charred remains of the aircraft near Graham Creek in Toledo, and it didn’t take long to link it to a suspected drug ring operating in southern Belize. The landing strip? Just a stone’s throw from the Guatemalan border, raising serious questions about cross-border involvement. Today, we spoke with the Minister of Defense and Border Security, Oscar Mira, who gave us an update on the investigation and what’s really happening near the Sarstoon.

Oscar Mira, Minister of Defense & Border Security

“Our intelligence suggests that the Guatemalans were being assisted by those on our side. When we destroyed the amount of coca plants on the Belize side it was done in collaboration with Belizeans as well. It’s something that we are working on. It’s something that we are gathering more information and we have not found any more coca plantations since we destroyed the last one.”

Reporter

“That wasn’t Graham Creek right?”

Oscar Mira

“No Graham Creek is not close to our Sarstoon.”

Reporter

“But did you have residents from Graham Creek who involved in that illegal drug plane?”

Oscar Mira

“So what was happening in the south is we do have a lot of illegal airstrips, that were being used. When you go and you notice that in one day you can clear a whole yard strip for a plane to land two or two or three o’clock in the morning, then indeed the local population is involved, and our intelligence suggest that is what was happening. We have been working, we have been working with the police department. We have been working with the ANU. We have been working with our regional partners. We do have very good network with the Hondurans, the Colombians, the US, Guatemala, Mexicans where we exchange information. And we are also working with our own local intelligence people to ensure that if they are involved, that. And I think you heard about an incident that happened there when the patrol went to Graham Creek. We are looking at it very seriously.”

Reporter

“We have not a recent one.”

Oscar Mira

“No that not too recent. Since then we have not had another landing, but we are also doing a lot of patrols in the area. And soon we’re going to have a forward observation base in the Otoxha Dolores area, That will be a new one so that we can, mitigate and possibly stop all of those landing that are happening.”

Police Back on Duty as Airport Security Contracts Axed

There’s a shake-up in airport security across the country. Police officers are once again stepping in to secure Belize’s domestic aerodromes after the government pulled the plug on contracts with private firms iSecurity and Four Diamonds. But here’s the catch, this move is putting even more pressure on an already stretched police force. So, what’s the long-term plan to keep our airports safe without burning out our officers? Prime Minister John Briceño weighs in.

Prime Minister John Briceño

“What we have done is to be able to ask the police and the airlines to be able to provide the security for the time being. The board is meeting and sorting out discussions. I need to meet with the management of the BAA. They asked to meet with me but I have not been here these few days, to see what is the way forward. Obviously it has to be advertised. Last time it was but with limited tendering. This time it is going to be open to everyone and see who could give us the best proposal.”

Marine Life, Tourism at Risk as Seaweed Spreads

Residents of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker say they’ve never seen anything like it, the worst sargassum invasion in living memory. And now, Belize is on the verge of declaring a national emergency. Despite nonstop efforts by locals, businesses, and government crews, the seaweed just keeps coming, tons of it, every single day. It’s not just an eyesore; it’s a serious threat to marine life and our tourism industry. We asked Prime Minister John Briceño how the government plans to respond to this growing crisis.

Prime Minister John Briceño

“Yeah, I think we pretty soon will have to declare that a national emergency to be able to move financing to help with the cleaning. It is no one’s fault. It is the more developed countries that are causing climate change. Again, as always, we end up paying that price. So we have been in formal discussions with both the area representative and the minister of blue economy and the Minister of Tourism, Anthony Mahler. Quite likely we are going to discuss that on Tuesday and see what plans we can come up to be able to help to clean the sargassum.”

Belize Strengthens Forecasting, Disaster Readiness

Belize is doubling down on climate action with a stronger focus on teamwork and preparation. Earlier today, the National Meteorological Service brought together government officials, civil society, and private-sector partners for the Thirteenth National Climate Outlook Forum. The aim is to sharpen our seasonal forecasting, boost disaster readiness, and build a more climate-resilient Belize. It’s a big step forward in making sure the country is ready for whatever nature throws our way.

Daniel Mendez, Coordinator, NEMO

“What we’re doing here is looking at the seasonal outlook as it relates to the climate in Belize and what we should be anticipating for the rest of the year so we were presented with information for the seasonal outlook for drought, the seasonal outlook for rain, and so what we will do with that information is incorporate it into our planning so that we are knowing with this in advance we should know when to anticipate certain things to happen. Yes, particularly for NEMO and the rest of the national emergency system knowing when to anticipate drought, knowing when to anticipate fire, and the likelihood for flash floods happening across the country helps us in being able to determine and reinsuring that we have the resources available when we do have to deploy.”

Ronald Gordon, Chief, Meteorologist, National Meteorological Service

“In this particular forum we are also presenting two important projects that we care doing one is a project with the Korean International Corporation Agency where we want to develop impact based forecasting for the Toledo and Orange Walk District, by that we mean we want to go into the communities we want to find out what are their impacts the normally get from particular hazards and how we can improve our products so we can prepare them for those impacts we also have another project similar to that one in the Belize river water shed and that is funded through the Caribbean development bank and we are looking at that same kind of thing, buying from the community for them to understand what we do and how we can improve to mitigate natural hazards so that they don’t have to be a disaster.”

Rear Admiral John Borland Honored After Retirement

It’s the end of an era for Belize’s military. After nearly four decades of dedicated service, Rear Admiral John Borland, Belize’s longest-serving military officer, has officially retired as Chief of Defense Staff. Not only was he the first to ever hold that title, but he also leaves behind a legacy as the highest-ranking officer in the country’s military history. Though he stepped down back in March, today he was honored in a big way, with the prestigious Legion of Merit, a rare recognition awarded to foreign nationals for exceptional military service. News Five’s Britney Gordon has more on this historic moment and the man behind the uniform.

Britney Gordon, Reporting

Rear Admiral John Borland, Belize’s longest serving and highest-ranking military officer, has officially retired after thirty-eight years of service. Known for bold decisions, including firing warning shots during a 2001 riot in Orange Walk, Borland has played a key role in shaping the country’s modern military. He led the Belize Coast Guard before becoming the first-ever Chief of Defense Staff, a role created just for him. Although he quietly retired in March, the Coast Guard surprised him today with a special ceremony to honor his decades of dedication.

Rear Admiral John Borland, Former Chief of Defense Staff

“ I left my home this morning. I had two missions to do one up at the Coast Guard here and one up at the BDF, and there certainly weren’t anything that happened here. Just know as you witness in the ceremony, so definitely a surprise, but a good one.”

Over the course of his military career, Rear Admiral John Borland trained both at home and abroad sharpening his skills across the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia. He climbed the ranks to become a Major and earned a reputation as one of the most trusted and respected officers, especially when things got tough. And while he’s never been one to seek the spotlight, Borland admits he’s genuinely touched by the recognition he’s received.

Rear Admiral John Borland

“It means it means a lot. It means that someone or some people recognize the relevance, the significance, and the importance of what I’ve done for my country. For me it was just another job. I was just doing my job, doing what was required, meeting the requirement, fulfilling a mission, fighting onto the objective. That’s what I do. I don’t need special recognition. I don’t need accolades. I don’t need praises. I keep moving every day.”

It’s one of the highest honors a foreign military officer can receive, and now, Rear Admiral John Borland has joined that elite group. He’s been awarded the prestigious Legion of Merit, a rare recognition given by the United States for outstanding service. Rear Admiral Elton Bennett shares more on what this award means and why Borland earned it.

Rear Admiral Elton Bennett, Commandant, Belize Coast Guard

“They had that observation of his leadership ability, his dedication to national effort in nation building to maritime security and defense. So they recognized that and they wanted to bestow upon him the highest level of recognition that they could have done. And they went for the Legion of Merit Award, which puts him in a high class of Military officers and diplomats and politicians across the world.”

Borland may be retired from active service, but his work is not done. According to Minister of Defense, Oscar Mira, Borland has now assumed the post of National Security Director, where he will act as an advisor to the National Security Council.

Oscar Mira, Minister of Defense

“He’s not done yet. If you notice he’s now transitioned to the National Security Director. So his contribution signified so much for Belize. And it was just fitting for us to honor him today. As was rightly said, the first chief of the defense staff, it was an office that he established, and he had to start it from scratch. And he has done a tremendous job. Job.”

Borland steps away from the post confident that the Belize Coast Guard is in good hands and will continue to defend and protect the Belize of Belize.

Rear Admiral John

“A lot of people keep saying that, you are a great leader, you’re a good leader. And I always told them, I always said my job was to take care of the team, to build that team, to take care of the team, and to make sure whoever my successor is better than I was or as I am or will ever be.”

The selection process for a new Chief of Defense staff is still underway but Borland believes that his successor will do their part in keeping Belize safe. Britney Gordon for News Five.

Commander Pinelo Breaks Barriers in Belize

There’s a new commander making waves at the Belize Coast Guard and she’s making history while she’s at it. Today, during a ceremony honoring the legendary Rear Admiral John Borland, another standout officer stepped into the spotlight. Alma Pinelo has just been promoted to Commander, becoming the first woman ever to hold that title in Belize’s Coast Guard. With twelve years of service under her belt, she’s also taking on a brand-new role as Chief of Staff. We caught up with Commander Pinelo to hear what this milestone means to her and what she hopes to bring to the job.

Alma Pinelo, Commander, Belize Coast Guard

“It acts like a intermediary between the upper command, which is the Vice Commandant and the Commandant, and then the rest of the general staff and the rest of the Coast Guard. It is something that was approved by the board a couple months ago and then officially appointed this week for me to take up that post.”

Britney Gordon

“And what are the feelings that are going through your head right now, being the first woman to be recognized like this?”

Alma Pinelo

“Heavy is the crown, right? It is an honor. I feel very privileged to be able to take up this new post. It is a pleasure to work with the men and women from the Belize Coast Guard, and I feel happy. I’m excited it’s something new, so a little nervous as well because we’re going to figure it out as we go along in terms of getting used to another layer in that command structure because we’re always only used to having the XO and then the commandant, so we’re have to getting used to something new. Something new is always good. So definitely very privileged and honored to be able to take up this new post.”

BDF Pay Mix-Up Causes Confusion, Minister Promises Clarity

Imagine putting your life on the line for your country only to find out years later that you weren’t being paid what you were owed. That’s exactly what happened to many enlisted soldiers in the Belize Defense Force. Back in 2019, a salary error came to light, and while the government promised to fix it, the solution sparked even more confusion. Some soldiers feared they’d actually be taking home less money. We’re unpacking the truth behind those salary adjustments and what the defense minister revealed today that could clear the air.

Oscar Mira, Minister of Defense & Border Security

“I don’t think there was a backlash. It’s about information and that’s what I have done from the very beginning. I have been making sure that I meet with the BDF, that I meet with Coast Guard. It is not a pay cut. If it was a pay cut, it means it would’ve affected a hundred percent of the BDF, but it didn’t. It affected some. So it means that there was an error in 2019 and we needed to correct it. And it has taken so long to correct and I’m pleased to say that we have now corrected it. And not only that, but I was able to lobby cabinet to ensure that we got two allowances to all of the BDF and not only the allowances, but also, access to the commissary, which has given the BDF for morale boost.”

Reporter

“How many soldiers were affected?”

Oscar Mira

“I believe it’s about eighty percent of the soldiers that were affected. It was mostly the non-commission officers, so the commission officers, which are lieutenants and all the way up to general, those were not affected. So they were receiving their correct pay. It was the other ranks, mostly privates and capitals who were receiving a salary that was not correct and we had to correct it. And I have been informing them. I have been at the BDF Price Barrack’s making sure that they understand what we’re doing and it’s not just, when they look at their bank account that something is not the same as before. So they understand and we’re doing everything possible to ensure that we keep the morale up and that we are giving back to them in so many other forms.”

Belizean Breaks Barriers: Garth Bowman Joins U.S. Coast Guard Elite

Talking about making Belize proud, Garth Bowman, a Belizean American from the Stann Creek District, is soaring to new heights. He’s just graduated from the elite United States Coast Guard Officer Candidate School, and now he’s off to California to begin an exciting new chapter in service and leadership. But Garth’s story isn’t just about personal achievement, it’s a powerful reminder to young people back home that big dreams are within reach.

Garth Bowman, Commissioned Officer

“Well, I started my journey on April twenty first to the United States Coast Guard Officer Candidate School. I was one of ninety-five graduates today. The acceptance rates in the new Officer Candidate School for the United States Coast Guard is about ten to twelve percent, so part of it is the twelve percent that made it and graduated. I did eleven years in the United States Navy. I decided to transfer over to the Coast Guard, where I probably did eleven more before I retired. So going to the military was the right choice in the beginning. And I’ve gotten more and more family oriented. It’s just doing something where I can feel accomplished in my job and also feel like I can be the best person I can for my family. What’s next for me is I’m going to California, Alameda. To go there, I’m going to go to a ship. Once I go to that ship, I am going to be a deck watch officer. Essentially, I’ll be driving the ship and also be in charge of a division and leading people on the port ship. I highly recommend joining the military. Going to the military will forever change your life. It will grow you into a person that you will be proud of and your entire family will be proud of. Once you get to that point where you are in the military, your college education will be free.”

Bryon Bowman, Father

“Very very proud he graduated eleven years ago from the navy that was special now he is into the coast guard and like he said its his passion it was his way of molding himself into who he wants to be and we are very proud.”

Fishing Ban on Barry Bowen Bridge Reels in Criticism

On Wednesday, we told you about the Haulover Bridge and the bold thieves who made off with thirty feet of aluminum handrail. Well tonight, we’re back with another bridge story; this time, it’s not about theft, but tension. Over in San Pedro, the Barry Bowen Bridge is making headlines after the town council announced a ban on fishing from the structure. Why? They say constant exposure to saltwater is corroding the bridge, and it’s time to protect it. Some residents agree that it’s a safety issue. But others think the move is a bit overboard. So, is it precaution or overreaction? Here’s News Five’s Britney Gordon with the following report.

Britney Gordon, Reporting

If you’re used to casting a line off the Barry Bowen Bridge in San Pedro, you might want to think twice. The Town Council has just put a stop to fishing on the bridge and not everyone’s thrilled about it. Some residents are scratching their heads, wondering why a long-time pastime is suddenly off-limits. But according to Mayor Wally Nuñez, there’s a serious reason behind the decision.

Wally Nunez, Mayor of San Pedro

“It is some corrosion that was happening on the railing. Please bear in mind that the bridge itself is a concrete structure and it was rebuilt because we had issues with the old bridge that was all metal. This bridge is all concrete. It’s only the railings that are made of galvanized steel. And yes they have to weld them together and it was painted.”

Interestingly, most of the corrosion is happening on the western side of the bridge, which suggests it’s not just the salty sea breeze to blame. After all, the wind usually blows in from the east.

Wally Nunez

“But the problem that we saw was on the western side and specifically on the railing where they usually go and cast their nets. And there’s also some fishing happening on that area. And when they reel in the, their lines with their, the sardine or with they bring in the constant, it brings a lot of water and the salt water directly over the structure is what was causing the corrosion.”

The good news? The damage to the bridge wasn’t too serious and the town council has already made the necessary repairs. But it did raise a red flag. Officials say it’s a clear sign that fishing activity is speeding up the corrosion, and that’s something they can’t afford to ignore.

Wally Nunez

“I started to see some of the comments why we’re not allowing kids to go and fish at the bridge. But I just wanted to explain and to clarify that it does speed up the corrosion if you’re having direct water over it. Yes, I understand that we’re gonna have salt air. We do constant maintenance of the bridge. We have the council constantly doing maintenance and looking at after the bridge to make sure that the integrity of the bridge is in good condition. But we’re just asking the general public to assist us in not speeding up the corrosion by having your cast nets up there, actually fishing up there so that we can prevent it from farther damage.”

Not everyone was on board with the no-fishing advisory at first. Some residents argued that the bridge would corrode over time anyway, with or without fishing. But others have been more understanding, recognizing the need to protect the structure. Mayor Wally Nuñez says this isn’t the only issue the council has had to tackle when it comes to the Barry Bowen Bridge.

Wally Nunez

“The bridge as we had just finished it, we had some lights along the railing and those were vandalized, they were stolen. We have been looking at ways that we can add some lighting on that side that it’s going to be more difficult for them to remove, I don’t know for what reason. Some people remove them because they wouldn’t be able to use it anywhere else because they come in sets and it has one specific ballas that works, or five, five parts of them. So it’s just vandalism and lack of civic pride.”

Nunez is asking the public for understanding and compliance to preserve the integrity of the island’s infrastructure.

Wally Nunez

“We need to encourage people to have civic pride and these things. They cost money and they’re there to serve a purpose and we want to beautify Belize. We don’t want it to be vandalized and being wrecked, in other words.”

Now, just to be clear, fishing on top of the Barry Bowen Bridge is off-limits. But if you’re casting your line from below, you’re still good to go. Britney Gordon for News Five.