October 11, 2024 - Channel 5 Belize

Belizeans Found Alive with “Superficial Wounds”

Earlier today, the Mexican authorities reported locating Johan Cámara, 19, and his father, Luis Josué Cámara, 48, after being reported missing following an alleged kidnapping on October 8, 2024, in Subteniente López, Othón P. Blanco, Quintana Roo.

This incident raised urgent concerns about safety for Belizeans travelling across the border. Belize Ambassador to Mexico, Oscar Arnold, confirmed that the father-son kidnapping appears to be a case of “mistaken identity.” He added, “There are some superficial wounds… from them being either handcuffed or tied up.”

Arnold stated, “At the time when the incident was reported on social media, we’ve been in contact with their authorities; they’ve been a little bit tight-lipped.”

While the pair suffered superficial wounds consistent with being handcuffed or tied up, Arnold reported that the two men otherwise “seem to be okay.” The ambassador said that some personal items, including passports and laptops, were stolen during the incident.

Arnold noted that Belizean authorities were in contact with their Mexican counterparts, who confirmed a missing persons report had been filed. He noted that the Mexican authorities have an active, ongoing investigation.

With a long weekend approaching, Arnold urged Belizeans to remain vigilant while crossing borders. “Each of us is responsible for our own safety,” he advised. Despite officials describing the incident as isolated, Arnold stressed the importance of understanding any potential threats in the area. “If there is a group operating with impunity, we need to know,” he said.

BAPDA Calls SSB’s Press Release on Santiago Ciau Case “Deflective”

The recent passing of former police officer Santiago “Santi” Ciau Jr. has left the community questioning the treatment of individuals seeking invalidity benefits in Belize. Ciau, who passed away at 37 on October 8, had been battling a debilitating bone illness linked to a workplace injury from 2009.

The Belize Assembly for Persons with Diverse Abilities (BAPDA) is criticising the Social Security Board (SSB) for failing to provide the necessary support during Ciau’s struggle. In a statement, BAPDA declared that “this level of structural violence is unnecessary,” condemning the SSB’s “deflective press release” as an inadequate response to the profound injustice faced by Ciau.

Ciau reportedly faced repeated denials for invalidity benefits from SSB. Despite his long service in the Belize Police Department, Ciau faced repeated denials for invalidity benefits. Even after appealing the SSB’s decision, he received a delayed notification that hindered his ability to pursue a timely second appeal.

The SSB defended its actions, stating that the Medical Board ruled Ciau did not meet the criteria for benefits, a decision upheld by the Social Security Appeals Tribunal. However, this has done little to address growing calls for reform.

“Mr. Ciau was a Person with a Disability that somehow was not protected by the entities we would expect to do so,” BAPDA stated. It added that “a deflective press release simply cannot be the norm as the life of a worker is discarded due to a lack of assistance to benefits that he was supposedly paying in for, hoping to collect upon if ever needed but only have an independent Medical Board deny him ALL access at a time when he needed it most.”

PM John Briceño: “We have not caused this problem, yet we must adapt”

Belize is at the forefront of the global climate dialogue with the opening of the Strategic Alliances International Partners Conference. The two-day event was launched on Thursday under the theme “Unlocking Climate Finance and Disaster Risk Financing for Sustainable Development.”

In a statement issued by the government, it said, “The conference underscores Belize’s priorities in Climate Finance and Disaster Risk Financing, in line with Strategic Objective 5 of the Medium-Term Development Strategy: “Protection of the Environment.”

The conference brings together international partners to explore innovative financial solutions aimed at tackling pressing environmental challenges and securing a sustainable future.

During his address, Prime Minister John Briceño highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on developing nations. “We have not caused this problem, yet we must adapt,” he said. Briceño mentioned that a single hurricane could threaten Belize’s economy. Briceño noted the necessity of preparing for potential loss and damage.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Francis Fonseca also spoke on the importance of international cooperation, noting that “90% of the public sector projects in Belize are funded by external donors.” He noted the economic burden of climate change and revealed that hurricanes cost Belize approximately $7.7 million annually.

Amalia Mai, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, reinforced the message of collaboration, stating, “This conference will serve as a platform to further our partnerships, explore opportunities, and increase awareness and understanding of climate finance.”

Mexican Mayor Murdered Days After Taking Office

Alejandro Arcos, the newly appointed mayor of Chilpancingo in Mexico’s Guerrero state, was murdered less than a week after taking office. Arcos, who had been in the position for only six days, was found dead on Sunday. Guerrero’s governor, Evelyn Salgado, expressed sorrow and outrage over the killing, calling it an act that “fills us with indignation.”

Arcos’s murder occurred just three days after the city’s newly appointed government secretary, Francisco Tapia, was shot dead. Authorities have yet to release any details about the investigation or possible suspects, but Guerrero, plagued by drug cartel violence, has long been a hotspot for such crimes. Cartels have killed numerous politicians across Mexico, with Guerrero being one of the worst-affected states due to its strategic location on the Pacific coast, a prime smuggling route.

Unverified social media posts showed images of what appeared to be Arcos’s remains before authorities confirmed his death. His social media activity during his short term included updates on disaster relief efforts following Hurricane John, which caused severe flooding in the region. Hours before his death, Arcos had posted pictures of meetings with relief workers and residents.

Mexican senator Alejandro Moreno called for federal authorities to take control of the investigation, citing Guerrero’s “ungovernability.” He described Arcos and Tapia as “young and honest officials who sought progress for their community.”

The Institutional Revolutionary Party, to which Arcos belonged, demanded justice, stating, “Enough of violence and impunity! The people of Guerrero do not deserve to live in fear.”

Guerrero, long embroiled in turf wars between rival drug gangs, including the Ardillos and Tlacos, has seen increasing violence. In the lead-up to Mexico’s June 2 elections, at least six candidates for public office were killed in the state. Since 2006, when the government deployed the army to combat drug trafficking, Mexico has seen over 450,000 murders and tens of thousands of disappearances across the country.

Will the Sea Cucumber Industry Sink or Swim? A Look at Its Future Amidst Overfishing Concerns

The Latest from Cabinet

Press Release :

The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, met on 8th October 2024.

Cabinet gave its approval for the extension of the hours of operation for the clearance of cargo at the Belize Western Border at Benque Viejo del Carmen. Once finalized, the opening hours will be from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays. In addition, the Western Border will operate from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily for the facilitation of passengers and vehicles with non-commercial goods.
Cabinet authorized the Minister with responsibility for Local Government to fix and declare new boundaries for the seven towns in Belize to align them with the growth and expansion of these towns. Likewise, Cabinet requested that the Minister meet with the relevant authorities to begin consultations for the future demarcation of the boundaries of villages and communities across Belize. Having regard to the Belize Blue Bond Agreement signed in November 2021, Cabinet gave its approval for the expansion of Belize’s Biodiversity Protection Zone to 25 percent in fulfillment of Milestone. This is in partial achievement of Belize’s obligation under the Agreement to protect up to 30 percent of its total ocean space by 2030.
Cabinet welcomed the report of the completion of the technical negotiations between Belize and the Republic of El Salvador for a Partial Scope Trade Agreement, and gave its support for the process that will lead to the completion of the Agreement.

Belize Hosts Strategic Alliances International Partners Conference

Cabinet considered the Draft Maya Customary Land Tenure Policy, made suggestions as to improving on the salient features, and asked for the sharing thereof with interested parties to arrive at finalization and the subsequent move to drafting legislation. Cabinet also acknowledged the extensive consultations held and the requirement to advance the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice of 2015.
Cabinet gave its support for the introduction of the Movable Property Security Rights Bill at the next sitting of the House of Representatives. This bill, once enacted, will bring favourable benefits to the private sector, fostering growth, innovation, and development particularly for micro, small and medium enterprises. To enhance oversight of pharmaceutical products in Belize, Cabinet has approved the repeal of the Food and Drug (Registration, Licensing, and Inspection) Regulations. This will be replaced with a modernized legislation designed to meet current needs and ensure the safety and efficacy of medicines accessed by Belizeans.
Cabinet gave its approval for the implementation of activities to strengthen the transition to and implementation of standards for biodegradable/biobased products. This initiative will significantly reduce plastic pollution from adversely impacting Belize’s environment.
The Government of Belize is enhancing the criminal records registry to streamline the application process, making it more accessible and efficient for all Belizeans. As part of this initiative, the service is being fully digitized, allowing applicants to apply and make payments either online or at designated cashier locations. Criminal records will be available for collection in all districts and can also be delivered conveniently via email. The new system will also enable applicants to track the status of their applications through email and SMS notifications, providing a more transparent and user-friendly experience. This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to improving public services for the benefit of all citizens.
Cabinet noted the assumption of Belize to the Vice-presidency of OLADE and approved the signing of a Joint Declaration titled “No More Coal-Fired Power Plants in Latin America and the Caribbean.” This Declaration, to be signed by the energy ministers from several countries in the region, seeks to adopt measures to prevent environmental pollution caused by the exploitation, transportation, storage, and utilization of energy resources within the region.

Finally, Cabinet wishes all Belizeans a happy Day of Resistance Holiday.

Indigenous People’s Resistance Day 2024

Belize will commemorate Indigenous People’s Resistance Day on Saturday, October 12. This year’s theme, “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact,” emphasises the pressing need to safeguard the lands and territories of Indigenous Peoples, which are crucial for biodiversity, cultural, and linguistic preservation.

The Ministry of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous People’s Affairs says that Indigenous Peoples living in voluntary isolation or initial contact are among the most distinct and vulnerable groups in the world. The ministry added that their continued existence on ancestral lands not only symbolises incredible resilience but also represents a living testament to global diversity. Protecting these communities is essential not just for preserving their unique cultures but also for protecting the planet itself.

Belize’s Indigenous Peoples, including the Garifuna and Maya communities, have long played a critical role in the nation’s cultural heritage, environmental conservation, and economic development. From traditional knowledge that supports sustainability efforts to their contributions in agriculture, eco-tourism, and the financial sector, they form an integral part of Belize’s multicultural identity and natural ecosystem protection.

Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Minister of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, reiterated this commitment:

“As we commemorate Indigenous People’s Resistance Day 2024, we honor the resilience of our Indigenous communities and recognize their invaluable contributions to our nation. The Ministry remains committed to protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples, ensuring their voices are heard in every decision-making process and working with them to protect their rights. This is not only vital for their survival, but essential to Belize’s environmental conservation and cultural richness. Together, we will continue to uphold their rights, support their development, and celebrate their profound role in our society.”

Building a Healthier Society Through Nutrition Education

Missing Belizean Father and Son Found!

Mexican authorities have located 19-year-old Johan Josué Cámara and his father, 48-year-old Luis Josué Cámara. The pair are residents of Louiseville village in Corozal District. Authorities did not share under what circumstances the Belizeans were found.

As we had reported, the father-son duo were reported missing following an alleged kidnapping on October 8, 2024, in Subteniente López, Othón P. Blanco, Quintana Roo.

According to reports, Luis attempted to defend Johan during an attack, which may have led to their abduction. The men are expected to return to Belize today. We’ll keep following this story.

Are BDF Soldiers Operating with outdated Communications Equipment?

On September 7, Belize Defence Force (BDF) soldiers found themselves surrounded by over 10 possibly armed Guatemalans near the Machakilha Conservation Post while detaining five Guatemalan illegal loggers. As communication with Fairweather Camp was lost, tensions escalated, and soldiers heard gunshots in the distance. Outnumbered, the patrol commander made the tactical decision to release the detainees to avoid violence, abandoning their original mission to destroy two illegal bridges. Minister of National Defence Florencio Marin Jr. later confirmed the incident, praising the BDF for taking appropriate actions to de-escalate such situations. The detained Guatemalans were part of a larger illegal logging operation, suspected to be orchestrated by a figure known as “Salvador,” who has operated in the region for years. Despite detentions, the illegal operations continue.

The September 7 standoff at Machakilha was intensified by a critical communication failure. The Belize Defence Force (BDF) relies on Harris and VHF radios for secure, long-range communication during operations. The Harris radio, manufactured by L3Harris Technologies, is a robust military-grade device offering encryption, GPS, and multi-frequency capabilities, while the VHF radio is known for its versatility in various professional settings. However, both systems failed during the incident.

Communication issues began when the VHF radio couldn’t establish a connection, and the Harris radio eventually “went out of sync.” The BDF’s Fairweather Camp in Punta Gorda had been alerted to the situation, with the soldiers reporting they were surrounded by “potentially hostile” Guatemalans, likely seeking to recover the detainees. Fairweather Camp’s response was to “man your grounds,” but shortly after, the Harris radio lost sync, severing contact.

Efforts to re-establish communication, including a final attempt at 9:30 p.m., were unsuccessful, leaving the patrol isolated until the following morning.

When asked about the state of the BDF’s communication equipment, Minister of National Defence Florencio Marin Jr. was questioned on whether upgrades or replacements are needed.

Guatemalans Accused of Bribing and Surrounding BDF Soldiers at Machakilha

Guyana President Announces GYD $200,000 Cash Grant for Every Household

President Irfaan Ali of Guyana has introduced a major initiative: a one-time cash grant of GYD $200,000 (approximately US $957) for every household in the country. This measure, which will inject GYD $60 billion into the economy, was announced during a special address at the National Assembly held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Thursday.

The cash grant is part of the government’s effort to alleviate the rising cost of living, a global issue. “We will begin this one-off cash grant payment to households instantaneously,” President Ali said, reaffirming the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of its citizens.

With an average household size of 3.6 people and a national population of 808,726, this grant will directly benefit thousands of families across the country.

Since taking office, the Ali administration has implemented several measures to increase disposable income for Guyanese, including the removal of over 200 taxes and fees imposed by the previous government, such as VAT on water, electricity, and basic food items. Excise taxes on fuel have also been eliminated, saving consumers more than GYD $90 billion annually..

According to XE.com, 1 USD is equivalent to 208.94 GYD, making the GYD $200,000 grant worth approximately US $957.

Belize Survey 2024 is Formally Discussed