Less than a week after a state of emergency was declared in parts of Belize City, police have already detained at least thirty-five individuals. But despite the crackdown, the violence hasn’t stopped. On Friday, another person was gunned down in the city—raising fresh concerns about whether the emergency measures are actually working. Today, Assistant Police Commissioner Hilberto Romero gave an update on the ongoing operations. While authorities say they’re making progress, the latest killing has left many residents questioning if the strategy is enough to bring lasting peace to the streets.
“The SOE operations continue. So far, thirty-five people have been sent to prison. We have another thirty-five that are being interviewed, and then we’ll know how much from that amount we be sent to prison today.”
Reporter
“Sir, how do you respond to report a number of the, especially the heads have been able to escape the SOE incarceration because they turned over weapon or a kilo of cocaine?”
Hilberto Romero
“Several persons were detained, interviews were conducted and then they’re vetted and then we determine who are taken to prison. That is all I know.”
Reporter
“But are you all trading weapons for freedom?”
Hilberto Romero
“Not that I know of.”
Reporter
“So is it your position that the department has not managed to secure any illicit firearms or drugs?”
Hilberto Romero
“There are several searches that continue to be done. Whenever we find firearm, drugs then they are confiscated or if persons are found, then they are arrested. That is all I know.”
What should have been a joyful Mother’s Day weekend ended in heartbreak for one family in Trial Farm Village. On Saturday night, Francisco Melendez lost his life in a tragic road accident while riding his bicycle along San Martin Road. According to reports, Melendez was struck from behind by an SUV. He was reportedly on his way home after buying a Mother’s Day gift for his wife—a gesture of love that would be his last. Assistant Police Commissioner Hilberto Romero confirmed the details of the fatal collision, which has left the community in shock and a family mourning the loss of a husband and father.
“On Saturday, the tenth day of May, 2025, police respond to a Trial Farm in the Orange Walk District. Upon arrival there saw a SUV damages and a damaged bicycle. The SUV was driven by Anastacio Bermudes. Information he was driving and hit a bicycle being ridden by Francisco Melendez. Melendez was taken for treatment where he succumbed his injuries. Bermudes is in custody and will be charged.”
Just after Mother’s Day, a Belama mom is making a desperate public appeal for help. Bernadine Young says her twenty-four-year-old son, Brenton Bishop, is in urgent need of a CT scan—but she simply can’t afford it. Young shared that Brenton’s health took a sudden turn for the worse back in March. Since then, his condition has continued to decline. He now struggles to walk and suffers from frequent seizures. Despite visiting several doctors, Young says there’s been no improvement—and now, she’s out of options and out of funds. Her plea is a reminder of the tough choices many families face when medical emergencies strike without the means to pay.
Bernadine Young
Bernadine Young, Seeking Assistance
“Fi experience this kinda problem especially, is like a nightmare as a mother. It’s not very easy. I’m trying very hard to see weh di happen to my son, but he’s not getting any better. Because he’s couldn’t like he’s bone when he gets seizure, he couldn’t open up his hand, his mouth. I have to massage in his mouth with a wet cloth so his mouth could open up and we can make him drink water, eat or so. And it’s very difficult for me for every time he has to wake up morning, you see yo son di shake. If not that you, you just done give him his breakfast, he’s vomiting his food. Or you give him his medicine that he need to take medication like bendaryl and autrin but then it’s not working. Right now we don’t know where they happen, so I plead to the public out there, even to anybody, even if the Mr. Ladyville Highlight. Mr. Albert, if you could please. Here is outlook on this and on this program because I need help from my son and we want to see what happened. So he need a CAT scan. My phone is 635-5318. I don’t have any WhatsApp. I’m sorry. I can’t afford it. And right now I got things very tough. I lose my job. I have to take care of my son. I can’t leave him on the street.”
Mother’s Day may be over, but one mother and son duo is giving Belizeans another reason to celebrate. As we speak, the Belisle Art Gallery at the Bliss Center for Performing Arts is unveiling “Moments”—a heartfelt art exhibition by celebrated Belizean artist Rachel Heusner and her son, Dean Martin. This marks their second joint showcase, and it’s packed with emotion and creativity. The exhibit features thirty original pieces that beautifully capture fleeting moments of the Belizean experience—snapshots of daily life, culture, and memory, frozen in time through art. News Five’s Britney Gordon got a sneak peek this morning and spoke with the artists about the inspiration behind their work.
Britney Gordon, Reporting
A woman in a bright red sunhat and a colorful skirt buys fruit at the market—an ordinary scene most of us pass by without a second thought. But in the hands of Belizean artist Rachel Heusner and her son, Dean Martin, that fleeting moment becomes something extraordinary. Now hanging on the walls of the Bliss Center for Performing Arts, this painting is just one of thirty pieces in their joint exhibit, “Moments.” The collection transforms everyday Belizean life into vibrant works of art, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate the beauty in the seemingly mundane. Through bold colors and thoughtful brushstrokes, Heusner and Martin remind us that even the simplest moments are worth celebrating.
Rachael Heusner
Rachael Heusner, Belizean Artist
“Basically, we do a lot of historical paintings between myself my son. So we have been working on a few pieces over the past year, you would say, and then coming towards the end, I came up with a theme “Moments” because when you paint,, you basically capture a moment in time. So it’s, you know, like every snippet is a moment.”
Britney Gordon
“So what are some of the moments that we can see here today? Where did you draw your inspiration from?”
Rachael Heusner
“From life. From life, from, you know, walking down Albert Street to a lady baking some Johnny Cakes or the people just walking, just doing life. You know, life happens every second.”
The collection, now on display at the Bliss Center for Performing Arts, transforms ordinary moments into vivid, emotional works of art. Each painting reflects the places and experiences that shape the memories of the average Belizean. Many of Heusner’s clients are Belizeans living abroad, and that connection to home fuels her inspiration. She draws from iconic city spots and familiar scenes that she believes will strike a chord with viewers—whether they’re here or part of the diaspora. With “Moments,” Heusner and Martin invite us to see the magic in the mundane and celebrate the stories hidden in plain sight.
Rachael Heusner
“I did this based on, Hofius was closing down after so many years, and there’s a lot of buildings on Albert Street. William Quan, Brodie’s, Remax not there anymore. Odette’s. I stopped in by Sikaffy the other day and the history that all of these, they’re not just buildings. There’s so much stories and memories that resonates with people here and especially those that live abroad. They miss Belize. People live abroad, but they love their Belize.”
The exhibition features several pieces created by her twenty-year-old son, Dean Martin. Though they now live in Trinidad and Tobago, artist Rachel Heusner and her son, Dean Martin, say their latest exhibit “Moments” has brought them closer to Belize than ever before. Heusner shares that working on this project gave them a unique chance to rediscover her homeland through art.
Rachael Heusner
“He works along with me because they have a very keen and sharp eye for detail. So sometimes he might see something that’s off or he might be want, the perspective is a little bit off, the colors are not working right. So we work a little bit together on that. And in doing that he gets to learn a little bit about the history of Belize.”
Heusner and Martin invites the public for a night of color, culture, and creativity at the Bliss where anyone will be able to purchase their favorite piece or simply appreciate the artwork.
Rachael Heusner
“So the exhibit opens this evening at six p.m. here at the Bliss. It’s a free event. And like I was telling you guys earlier, I don’t feel people should have to pay to look at art. You know, I guess museums, they charge you to go in because they need to maintain the place, but come and enjoy the art. Just like how you enjoy music, you enjoy poetry, you know, it’s, it’s an aesthetic that animals don’t have. We could enjoy stuff like that. Yeah. So come, if you wanna take something home, then there’s a little fee to it.”
The public is warmly invited to attend and experience this unique blend of family, culture, and creativity. The exhibit will remain at the Bliss until Friday, May sixteenth. Britney Gordon for News Five.
Good evening and welcome to this week’s installment of Sports Monday. I am Paul Lopez, here with the latest sports news. Basketball fans, get ready—there’s a new game in town. The Belize Premier Basketball League is making its grand debut, promising a thrilling night of high-level hoops and entertainment as it tips off its inaugural season. All eyes will be on the court as the freshly formed Belize City Thunderbolts take on the seasoned EZ Investments Dream Ballers in what’s expected to be a high-energy showdown. But it’s not just about the game. For the league’s executive team, this season is a proving ground. They’re aiming to show that Belize can support a second professional basketball league—and that this one has staying power. We caught up with league C.E.O., Doctor Gilbert Gordon, who shared his excitement and confidence in what’s to come.
Gilbert Gordon
Dr. Gilbert Gordon, Chief Executive Officer, B.P.B.L.
“In early November we heard about two meetings to try to get the BEBL off the ground but that did not come to fruition. So, in early January I contacted my team, the Hurricanes management team and told them how would you feel to be able to sacrifice what we have put together and the success we have built and let us focus on building pro basketball in Belize using that same managerial capacity we had. We put together a prospectus that was presented to all team owners and we sent right out all the way to Punta Gorda to see if we could built something, because of the ten years we have we understand the challenges and pitfalls. So we know what it is to run a professional basketball league.”
As the Belize Premier Basketball League kicks off its first season, we’ll be keeping a close eye on which of the seven teams rises to the top—and how the league’s leadership handles the challenges ahead. Speaking of challenges, four Belizean athletes have just scored big wins—not on the field, but in the classroom.
Over the weekend, standout thrower Mia Sylvester graduated from the University of Idaho with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. She’s not slowing down either—Mia plans to keep breaking records while pursuing a graduate degree.
Also celebrating academic milestones are Ernest Broaster and Francis Hauze, who both earned their bachelor’s degrees, and Thomas Garbutt, who completed his master’s program. These achievements are more than just personal victories—they’re powerful reminders that sports can open doors to academic success. We spoke with Hauze, who shared his inspiring journey from Belize City’s southside to the global stage. Their stories are proof that with dedication and drive, Belizean athletes can excel both in competition and in the classroom.
Francis Hauze
Francis Hauze, Graduate, Calumet College
“Sports is everything. You have a balance between sports and doing academics. If you are good in sports you will have a balance with managing sports and stuff like that. And that is what I did. This is a very proud moment, I graduated with honors and made my mom, family, and grandmother proud. And, I did it the day before mother’s day, so no better gift and I am very proud of my achievement. I would like to say thanks to everyone, because it is a lot of names, but I would like to thank everyone on this journey. You helped me a lot. You pushed me, given me encouraging words, prayed for me. So I would like to thank you all. I am very much appreciative of what you have done for me.”
It was a bounce-back weekend for the Belize Bank Bulldogs at Roger’s Stadium here in Belize City, as they faced off against the Wolfpack Softball Club in the 2025 Fast Pitch Tournament. Coming off a tough loss to the Beacons last week, the Bulldogs were hungry for redemption—and they delivered. The game opened with Wolfpack stepping up to bat first, but the Bulldogs quickly showed they were ready to turn the tide. With sharper plays and stronger teamwork, the Bulldogs flipped the script and gave fans a thrilling performance under the lights. It’s a big win that puts them back in the mix as the tournament heats up.
Helen Cassasola connects and sent a ground ball towards third base. She made it safely to first base. Cassasola then made it to second base after the catcher fumbled the ball. Alexie Flowers came from behind with a big hit that placed her on second base and Cassasola on third. And now bases are loaded with two outs and Kaylee Guerro up to bat. Her first swing sent a ground ball towards second base. The fielder fumbled the ball and Cassasola was able to make it across the home plate. They scored one run in the first inning. The Belize Bank Bulldogs came out swinging this weekend—and they didn’t let up. The action kicked off in the first inning when Janika Hilton made a daring dash to third base after a solid hit from teammate Agnes Lucas. Lucas paused briefly at first, then made a break for second. Wolfpack’s pitcher chased her down and got the out—but not before Hilton seized the moment and sprinted home, scoring the Bulldogs’ first run of the game. That early spark lit a fire under the Bulldogs. They added two more runs in the second inning, one in the third, and exploded with four more in the sixth, bringing their total to eight runs. Meanwhile, the Wolfpack couldn’t keep up. Their only run came in the first inning, and from there, it was all downhill. Final score: Bulldogs 8, Wolfpack 1. A commanding win that sends a clear message—the Bulldogs are here to play.
The energy was high and the talent on full display this weekend in Belize City, as the Anthony Mahler Youth Football Tournament continued with exciting matchups in both the female and male divisions. In the Under-15 Female Division, the Alvian Strikers and Goal Getters battled it out in a tightly contested match that ended in a 1–1 draw. Both teams showed grit and determination, giving fans a glimpse of the rising stars in girls’ football. Over in the boys’ division, Hattieville United and Sampson Academy delivered a nail-biter. Hattieville took an early lead with goals from Luke Rosado and Christopher Orellano. But Sampson Academy wasn’t backing down—Gilbert Gomez and Jerome Moore came through in the final minutes to level the score at 2–2. The tournament continues to be a platform for young athletes to sharpen their skills and dream big. With more matches ahead, the future of Belizean football is looking bright. Well folks, that is all we have for you in tonight’s coverage of Sports Monday. Catch you in the next one.
A fatal road traffic accident claimed the life of Francisco Melendez, also known as “Wero”, on Saturday night, May 10th, 2025, in Trial Farm Village, Orange Walk District.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Hilberto Romero said that Melendez was riding his bicycle when the incident happened.
Melendez was riding along the San Martin Road heading home after purchasing a Mother’s Day gift for his wife when he was struck by an SUV.
“Melendez was taken for treatment where he succumbed to his injuries,” Romero added.
The vehicle was driven by Anastacio Bermudes, who remained at the scene. He is currently in police custody and “will be charged,” Romero added.Residents say San Martin Road has long been dangerous for cyclists and pedestrians, especially at night due to poor lighting and frequent speeding. “Make them put up street lights; it’s too dark,” a Trial Farm stated on social media.
A communication purportedly sent by Leader of the Opposition, Tracy Panton, to United Democratic Party (UDP) Vice Chairman Alberto August reveals deepening internal tensions and a looming standoff within the main opposition party.
The message calls on the UDP’s current leadership to immediately honour the constitutional requirements for convening a National Party Council (NPC) meeting and a National Convention. The communication, addressed to “Vice Chairman (Status Quo Ante)” August, stresses the urgency and constitutional necessity of calling the NPC within 14 days of receiving a petition signed by members of the NPC.
“My understanding of the Party’s Constitution is that an NPC must be called 14 days after such a petition has been received,” Panton reportedly wrote. “A National Convention should also be held within 35-90 days of the NPC, where it is my hope that a new Executive Leadership Team will be installed.”
Panton, who ascended to Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives following the UDP’s recent electoral defeat, reportedly made it clear that her continued bid for leadership of the party is contingent upon the party’s adherence to its constitution.
“If it is not the intention of the UDP Leadership (Status Quo Ante) to adhere to the constitutional provisions of the party, I will withdraw my interest in leading the UDP and focus my time, efforts and attention on serving as the Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives and as the duly elected UDP Area Representative for Albert,” she allegedly warned.
When contacted for comment, Vice Chairman August declined to address the content or legitimacy of the message.
“With all due respect, Sir. I offer no public comment on matters relating to the internal and confidential business of the United Democratic Party. The party must be given space to sort out its internal affairs with at least some level of privacy. We ask to please respect this position. Thank you.”
Police continue to investigate the murder of 27-year-old Zinedine Pinelo, who was gunned down on Friday during what authorities suspect was a targeted robbery on Hunter’s Lane in Belize City.
According to Assistant Commissioner of Police Hilberto Romero, Pinelo travelled to the area with another man to conduct what was initially believed to be a motorcycle purchase.
“Information that he went to Hunter’s Lane, along with another male person, to do a business transaction. Thereafter, when he arrived there, there were six other persons there, and they attacked him, robbed him, and one of the persons shot him, causing his fatal injuries,” Romero told reporters.
Investigators now suspect that the transaction was a set-up. “We believe he was led there,” Romero added.
He had reportedly brought an undisclosed amount of cash and a licensed 9mm pistol, both of which were stolen.
Romero confirmed that two individuals are currently in custody in connection with the murder. Police have also located and are interviewing the person who accompanied Pinelo from San Pedro. That individual was unharmed during the incident and is not yet classified as a suspect.
Prime Minister John Briceño presented the national budget under the banner “From Promise to Performance”. He drew a contrast between the fiscal crisis inherited in 2020 and the economic achievements realised by his government.
According to the Prime Minister, Belize’s GDP grew by 8.2% in 2024, and unemployment fell to 2.1%. He said that the national debt-to-GDP ratio halved from 132% to 61%. The government achieved a primary surplus of 1.48% and capped the deficit at 0.26% of GDP in FY 2024/25.
The government closed FY 2024/2025 with a primary surplus of 1.48% of GDP and a narrow overall deficit of 0.26%. The 2025/26 Budget targets $1.74B in revenue and $1.78B in spending, including a record $528.8M in capital projects. Investments are heavily focused on healthcare, education, infrastructure, and renewable energy. Projects include full national roll-out of the NHI, expanded road upgrades, and clean energy plants.
PM Briceño touched on the nationwide NHI rollout, over $300M in clean energy investments, and a 6-fold increase in profits from the public management of the Boledo Lottery. Road upgrades, school modernization, and health infrastructure dominated the $528.8M capital program.
The new budget includes tax reforms, such as the creation of a Semi-Autonomous Revenue Authority (SARA) and electronic invoicing to curb evasion. He said, over 5,000 workers received tax relief, adding $5M in disposable income (Page 25).
Briceno warned of rising U.S. tariffs and the uncertain status of a $125M MCC Compact but emphasized contingency planning via the World Bank CAT-DDO line. The government is also navigating public sector wage negotiations while spending $698M on salaries and pensions—56% of recurrent expenses.
Still, he shared that Belize’s inflation rate fell to 1.7% in Q1 2025, well below global averages, and the country ranked 25th in the 2024 World Happiness Report, fifth in the Western Hemisphere.
The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) has confirmed that High Court Judge Shawn Innocent, who currently serves on the Criminal bench in Grenada, has been charged with an indictable offence.
According to an official statement released, Justice Innocent was charged on April 28, 2025, with assault with a deadly instrument, under Section 176(e) of Grenada’s Criminal Code. He has since been granted bail and is expected to appear in court to answer the charge.
In response, the ECSC has temporarily removed Justice Innocent from his judicial duties, a move described as “de-rostering.” Another judge will be assigned to the Criminal Court in Grenada effective June 1, 2025, in order to ensure that court operations continue without disruption.
The Court said that it is treating the matter “with the utmost seriousness,” while remaining “mindful of Justice Innocent’s fundamental rights under the Constitution.” The ECSC also reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining the integrity of the judiciary.
