2025 - Channel 5 Belize

Police Report Rising Gang Activity Following Recent Shootings

Commissioner of Police Chester Williams told reporters today that gang violence in Belize City has increased in the wake of Brandon Baptist’s death on January 31. Baptist, a known gang affiliate, was fatally shot during a football match at the Marion Jones Stadium.

Since then, several incidents of gun violence have been reported. On February 18th, Akeem Smith narrowly escaped injury when gunmen targeted him while returning from a fishing trip. Smith reportedly jumped into nearby water to evade the attackers. The following day, Leon Gray and Emmeth Baptist were shot at near Newtown Barracks. Gray was injured but has since been treated and released from the hospital.

Williams said the police department has “deployed additional police officers on the grounds, and we’re conducting daily operations.” He added that police are focusing on specific areas to prevent further gang-related incidents.

Williams added that the investigation into Baptist’s death points to self-defence. He said, “I wish it was not a matter of self-defence, indeed, but the DPP, in her wisdom, and I cannot; I don’t argue with what the DPP is saying. Because, as a lawyer, I see myself too that there is a very strong element of self-defence.”

Williams explained that the person who fired the gun is not actually a member of a gang. While he was at the scene, he wasn’t involved in gang activities. “The person who actually is a gunman is not a gang member… he happened to have been there, yes, but he’s not a gang member,” he added.

Fire Official Urges Homeowners to Inspect Outdated Wiring After Church Blaze

A fire official is urging households to inspect their electrical wiring, particularly in homes with older systems. Station Supervisor Gladstone Bucknor of the National Fire Service highlighted the Queen Street Baptist Church, which has stood since 1822 and was last updated in 1931 after Hurricane Hattie.

Bucknor noted that the church’s outdated wiring, coupled with a power surge when electricity was restored, may have contributed to the recent fire. He advised all homeowners to have their electrical systems inspected and rewired by a professional to avoid potential hazards.

“That building is from 1822 and was last updated in 1931 after Hurricane Hattie. recently had their roof did and electrical system. As we know, electrical system is heat and we will people just leave their buildings like that and around appliances after appliances rather than actually getting electric to come in and rewire their system. So I advise all household personnel try to get their electrician to come in and sorted out,” he said.

Alvaro Tun Acquitted of Murder in San Pedro

Thirty-four-year-old Alvaro Tun has been acquitted of the murder of Elder Arana, who was fatally stabbed during a bar fight in San Pedro. The incident occurred on March 5, 2023, at Jeemar’s Night Club in the San Pedrito area, where a brawl erupted after the bar owner closed early, and security attempted to clear out patrons.

Arana was stabbed six times in the altercation, which reportedly stemmed from a dispute over a woman. Police recovered a box cutter belonging to the club’s security guard, but no charges were brought against him. Instead, Tun was arrested based on the testimony of Diego Santos, the prosecution’s key witness.

However, Judge Derick Sylvester ruled Santos’ testimony unreliable, citing inconsistencies and contradictions with other evidence. With the witness’ account deemed not credible, the judge dismissed the case, resulting in Tun’s acquittal.

Electrical Fault Suspected in Queen Street Baptist Church Fire

Fire investigators believe an electrical issue may have sparked the early morning blaze that gutted the historic Queen Street Baptist Church in Belize City. According to Gladstone Bucknor, Belize District Station Supervisor for the National Fire Service, a power outage between 3:00 and 4:00 a.m. may have contributed to the fire, which ignited shortly after electricity was restored. Bucknor stated that investigators are examining burn patterns to confirm the exact point of origin but noted that electrical fires often result from power surges following an outage.

Commissioner of Police Chester Williams ruled out arson, stating that there is no evidence of criminal involvement. Preliminary findings suggest the fire started in an area where a malfunctioning light fixture was located, but final confirmation will come from the fire department’s ongoing investigation. Bucknor also urged residents to call the fire department directly at 9-9-0 in emergencies, as 9-1-1 calls must first be routed through the police, potentially delaying response times.

The fire was first reported around 4:30 a.m. when Queen Street resident Victor Cowo woke up to the smell of thick smoke. Stepping outside, he saw flames coming from one of the church’s windows and immediately called 911. As the fire intensified, he rushed back inside to secure his family’s documents and belongings. Cowo said it took what felt like 15 to 30 minutes for fire trucks to arrive, during which time he and his father tried to contain the blaze with buckets of water and a garden hose.

Four fire trucks—three from Belize City and one from Ladyville—were deployed to the scene. One truck experienced mechanical issues but was quickly repaired. Firefighters managed to control the blaze within an hour, preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings, though the school sustained damage to doors and burglar bars.

The destruction of Queen Street Baptist Church is a significant loss for Belize City, as the church had stood for over two centuries, serving both as a place of worship and a community support centre. Investigators will continue their assessment in the coming days to finalise the cause of the fire.

CARICOM Leaders Tackle U.S. Policy, Climate, and Haiti Crisis

Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders have been meeting in caucus since Friday morning to discuss a range of pressing regional and global issues. Among the topics on the agenda were the United States’ shifting policy toward the Caribbean, climate change, and the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME). As the meeting progressed, some leaders began to depart, including Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister, Gaston Browne, who provided insights into the closed-door discussions.

While climate change remains a critical issue for the region, the discussions did not focus extensively on it. However, Browne stressed CARICOM’s continued push for the full capitalisation and operationalisation of the Loss and Damage Fund, as well as efforts to encourage major emitters to reduce emissions. He also noted potential partnerships with the European Union on hydrogen technology as part of the region’s broader transition to green energy. Beyond climate change, the discussions also covered geopolitical issues, particularly the evolving relationship between the United States and the Caribbean.

CARICOM leaders hope to engage senior members of the U.S. administration soon, with aspirations of inviting former President Donald Trump to the region. Browne highlighted the importance of such engagement, especially given the region’s economic dependence on U.S. trade and the potential for tariffs to drive up imported inflation. Another major concern was the U.S. decision to roll back immigration protections for over half a million Haitians, which could exacerbate the already dire security situation in Haiti. CARICOM leaders expressed their intent to raise the issue in future discussions with U.S. officials, hoping to mitigate the negative impact on Haiti.

Additionally, there was talk of CARICOM working with Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to urge major global emitters to accelerate decarbonization efforts ahead of COP30. The summit also reaffirmed CARICOM’s commitment to supporting Haiti in achieving stability and security, with a focus on a Haitian-led solution for governance and elections. As the three-day deliberations near their conclusion, CARICOM leaders are expected to provide a formal update to the media later on Friday.

Police Officer to Face Charges for Shooting at Emil Rivers

A police officer is set to be charged with dangerous harm after firing two shots at 24-year-old Emil Rivers on January 24. Today, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams confirmed that Officer Sheldon Arzu was suspended while the investigation proceeded.

Williams said, “We have gotten the directive from the DPP… Today he’ll be charged with dangerous harm and should be appearing before the court this afternoon.”

Rivers, who was armed with a knife during the confrontation, was hospitalised following the shooting Independence Village. Williams also confirmed that Rivers will face charges in connection with a separate ongoing case.

DPP Plans to Appeal Dismissal of Dwayne Gabourel Murder Case

On Thursday, 27-year-old Dane Gillett was acquitted of the murder of 15-year-old Dwayne Gabourel. Gillett had spent over three years on remand at the Belize Central Prison.

Gabourel, a student at SJC, was fatally shot in September 2021 while on North Front Street. While surveillance footage captured the shooter, the shooter had his face covered. A police officer later identified Gillett by his tattoo and body type.

The High Court judge upheld a no-case submission, which led to Gillett’s release. Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl-Lynn Vidal has confirmed that the ruling will be appealed.

Police Commissioner Chester Williams told reporters today, “I’m not the judge, so I can’t speak on the judge’s decision, but I’m glad to hear that the DPP plans to appeal.” Williams was asked about the FBI’s involvement in enhancing video evidence, a plan discussed in 2021. He responded, saying that since the DPP is moving forward with an appeal, it shows confidence that the case can still lead to a conviction. He added, “We’ll wait for the appeal and see what happens.”

PUC Proposes New Electricity License Categories

The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has announced plans to introduce a new electricity licensing framework that would grant licenses to individuals and businesses under various categories. The proposal aims to streamline the licensing process and enhance energy resilience in Belize. The proposed categories include: Minor Self-Generation and Supply—Allows off-grid users to generate electricity strictly for personal use without the ability to sell or distribute power. Minor Distributed Generation—Permits grid-connected users to generate electricity for personal use while selling excess power under regulated capacity limits. Backup Generation and Supply—Authorises businesses and individuals to generate backup power in case of outages or install energy storage systems below 1 MWe capacity, with restrictions on selling electricity to utilities. The PUC cited key reasons for the proposal, including simplifying the licensing process, reducing processing time, and integrating prosumers into the energy system. The framework also seeks to improve grid resilience by facilitating backup power generation for businesses and critical infrastructure.

Elvia Vega Samos Declares Independent Candidacy for Corozal Bay

Elvia Vega Samos has officially announced her candidacy as an independent contender for the Corozal Bay constituency in the upcoming General Elections. She stated that after listening to her constituents and consulting with her family, she made the decision to step forward once again to represent the division. “After carefully listening to my beloved constituents of Corozal Bay and having a heart to heart discussion with my family, I have made the decision to offer myself to the people of Corozal Bay as an independent candidate for the upcoming General Elections.”

Vega Samos described the upcoming elections as a defining moment, noting that many candidates are choosing to run through non-traditional avenues. She said that her decision to contest independently reflects her commitment to ensuring that every voice is heard.

Referring to the nearly 1,200 supporters who backed her in a previous convention, as well as those who she claims were excluded from the voters’ list, Vega Samos asserted that they deserve representation. “I am their voice, their hope, and without a doubt, their representative,” she declared.

She concluded her announcement with a message of perseverance and dedication, stating: “Seguiremos siempre adelante con perseverancia y amor a la Bahía de Corozal! We move forward with perseverance and love for Corozal Bay!”

CARICOM Leaders Wrap Up Summit Amid Concerns Over Trump Policies

As Caribbean leaders conclude their three-day summit, they remain keenly aware of the challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies toward the region. While these policies are expected to create difficulties—including mass deportations, cuts to development aid, and a shift in U.S. engagement with Cuba and Venezuela—leaders agree that opportunities may also emerge.

One of the most pressing concerns is Trump’s immigration stance, which now targets nearly half a million Haitians living in the U.S. under temporary legal protection. CARICOM leaders acknowledge that every country has a right to enforce its immigration laws but remain concerned about the economic and social fallout for returning migrants.

Former St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister and current Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas stressed the importance of maintaining dialogue with Washington.

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne also acknowledged the potential strain on Caribbean economies due to U.S. policy shifts, saying regional governments must find ways to sustain development despite the challenges.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves observed that while President Trump was absent from the summit, his policies loomed large over discussions. However, he noted that Trump’s approach may have encouraged greater engagement from other international partners, such as the European Union.

Meanwhile, Bahamian Prime Minister Phillip Davis urged CARICOM to avoid entanglement in geopolitical tensions that could negatively impact the region. Similarly, Montserrat Premier Reuben Meade, returning to regional politics after a decade, advised Caribbean nations to reduce their reliance on the U.S. and seek alternative global partnerships.

Beyond immigration, U.S. aid to the region has significantly declined. President Trump has ordered a freeze on funding and a review of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). In 2003, USAID provided $456 million in development assistance to the Caribbean, with Haiti receiving the largest share at $393 million, followed by Jamaica with $26 million and Belize with $20 million. However, aid contributions to CARICOM nations have since dwindled, raising concerns about the future of key development projects.