2025 - Channel 5 Belize

The Reason Why He Shot His Fellow Soldier

A shooting incident at the Belize Defence Force’s (BDF) Crique Sarco Patrol Base on Sunday, January 19, 2025, resulted in one fatality and one injury. Major Roberta Usher, Chief of Staff of the BDF, told News 5 that Private Clive Baizar died from multiple gunshot wounds, while another soldier sustained two gunshot wounds and is currently receiving treatment at the Western Regional Hospital.

The shooting is under investigation by the police department. “This matter is now under police investigation, and depending on what comes of it, then they will be charged accordingly,” Usher said. Both soldiers were part of the same patrol.

Usher added that the incident occurred while the soldiers were on duty at the patrol base, and the weapon used was confirmed to be an issued firearm. Initial reports suggest that alcohol was not involved.

“The samples of the entire patrol have been taken, and they’re going through their process of being investigated; however, on the initial outcome of the commanders on the ground and the commanders that were at their camp, they do not believe alcohol is involved,” she said, adding, “We will not know until these results are back.”

Major Usher said that the infantry battalion commander has replaced the patrol, and all necessary steps to maintain operations have been taken. She also added that those involved in the previous patrol are now part of the ongoing investigation.

The incident follows similar cases in 2019 and May 2024.

Police Commissioner Chester Williams told reporters this afternoon that one of the soldiers, identified as Alfred Robinson, allegedly shot Baizar. “Alfred was taken into custody of the police and is currently detained, pending further investigation,” Williams said.

According to Williams, the shooting occurred after a heated argument between the two soldiers while they were reportedly socialising. The argument escalated, and Robinson fired several gunshots, fatally wounding Baizar and injuring another soldier.

PUC Restricts Starlink Operations in Belize

The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has placed limits on the operations of Starlink Belize, LLC (SBL), approving its services only in specific circumstances. While the company had applied for a Class Licence to provide fixed and mobile broadband internet across Belize, the PUC declined the request after assessing consumer needs, regulatory requirements, and the impact on current service providers.

However, the PUC will allow the use of Starlink equipment under the following conditions:

-Unserved or Underserved Areas: Starlink terminals may be imported and operated in areas lacking adequate internet services.

-Vessels and Aircraft: Usage is permitted on ships and aircraft in compliance with regulations for Earth Station in-Motion (ESIM) technology.

-Emergency Situations: Starlink equipment can be deployed during natural disasters when other providers are unable to deliver emergency services.

The PUC has also mandated that current Starlink users in Belize register their equipment within 60 days through the PUC Spectrum Online Centre. New applications for Starlink usage will be evaluated individually, following the PUC’s importation guidelines.

The commission said that it is committed to balancing technological innovation with equitable access to reliable services. It says that it is actively working to refine Belize’s utility regulations and develop a comprehensive licensing framework.

BNTU President Says January Demonstration is Not Ruled Out Yet

In late 2024, the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) voted to organise a national demonstration in January, demanding the Government of Belize address overdue teacher increments. While the government committed to settling the payments by the end of the year, BNTU President Nadia Caliz confirmed that more than 200 teachers are still awaiting their rightful increments.

During this morning’s episode of Open Your Eyes, Caliz stated that the union had initially planned a demonstration but has since adjusted its approach. “Belize is used to seeing BNTU in a more confrontational approach, and we have decided to change strategy,” Caliz said.

She added that the union has not yet ruled out the demonstration, as the month of January is not yet over.

Caliz said that the union has been “gathering accurate data” since January 1, 2025, through January 17, to determine how many teachers received their increments and whether they were paid the full amount owed. According to this data, the issue of unpaid increments involves not only the government but also school administrators and management.

“This situation is not only about government; it’s about management; it’s about school administrators; all three entities,” Caliz said, adding that the information gathered suggests the issue is “pointing at all three.”

She also addressed the broader struggles within the education system, which have led many teachers to seek alternative employment. While some leave the country for better opportunities, Caliz pointed out a surprising trend in data from the Ministry of Education. She said, “80% of teachers are going to the call centres.”

When asked if 2025 being an election year is a factor in the negotiations with the government, she stated, “Election year, or no election year, whenever you ask the people to vote for you, you are committing to improving the lives of citizens. So they’re still the government, and they have that legal responsibility to improve the quality of life for all of us.” She added, “When I approach them, I approach them with the same mantra that they campaigned us with.”

Could Bird Flu Threaten Belize’s Poultry Industry Again?

The ongoing H5N1 bird flu outbreak has made its way into commercial poultry in states like California, Washington, and Colorado. While the risk to public health remains low, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring the situation, particularly among poultry workers.

The virus, which spreads primarily through wild birds, can also infect poultry and mammals. Human cases are rare, but experts caution that farmworkers, dairy, and poultry workers are at higher risk of exposure.

With it clearly being an outbreak in the U.S., how can this affect Belize? Although human cases are rare, the virus spreads mainly through wild birds and can infect poultry and mammals. In Belize, the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) and the Belize Poultry Association (BPA) are working together to monitor the situation and protect local flocks.

Dr. Victor Gongora, a veterinarian with the BPA, stated that while Belize successfully eradicated the virus in 2015, neighbouring countries like Guatemala and El Salvador still face ongoing outbreaks.

“We’ve had avian influenza for a long time in the region, Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador, but Belize has been the only country in the region that we have had an infection in 2015, and we were able to eradicate it and declare ourselves free. Because unlike Guatemala, El Salvador still has it with them, and they’re vaccinating, and Belize is not vaccinating,” he said.

Signs of avian influenza in birds can include reduced appetite, coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and a drop in egg production. Affected birds may show signs of weakness, such as lack of energy, swelling around the face, and purple discolouration. Other symptoms include lack of coordination, diarrhoea, muscle tremors, drooping wings, and twisted head and neck movements. In severe cases, birds may become unable to move or die suddenly without any prior symptoms.

The bird flu’s economic impact on Belize’s poultry industry can be significant over a long-term period, said Armando Cowo, the manager of the BPA. Cowo stated that systems are in place to assist local farmers to better protect their birds even if some farmers are not members of the association.

Cowo and Dr. Gongora stressed the importance of the public’s assistance in reporting suspected cases. The public is urged to report any suspected cases to the BPA at 822-3221 or 615-9694 to help protect Belize from this disease.

Official Statement on B.D.F. Fatal Shooting

Press Release

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, at approximately 9:00 p.m., a tragic incident occurred at Crique Sarco Patrol Base, resulting in one fatality and one injury. While the circumstances remain under investigation by the Police Department, it has been confirmed that one BDF soldier succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds, while another patrol member sustained two gunshot wounds and is currently in stable condition, receiving medical treatment at the Punta Gorda Hospital. Both injuries were inflicted by another BDF soldier of the patrol.

The First Infantry Battalion has taken all necessary measures to ensure that the Crique Sarco Patrol Base remains secure. The Belize Defence Force remains committed to maintaining the national sovereignty of Belize.

At this time, the Commander of the Belize Defence Force and all officers and soldiers extend their heartfelt condolences to the families of both soldiers. Welfare officers have visited the families to offer comfort and support in their time of grief. His life and memory will be honored by the Belize Defence Force.

Trump Makes His Return to the White House

All eyes are back on the United States as Donald Trump makes his return to the White House as the 47th president. JD Vance will become vice president after a rapid rise, having been elected to the Senate in 2022.

Trump’s swearing-in is set for noon indoors in the Capitol Rotunda due to concerningly low temperatures in Washington, DC. Trump has made it openly clear that his first actions in office will include executive orders on immigration and other key policy areas. And after the emotional rollercoaster Americans felt over the weekend, he has also been vocal about extending the deadline for TikTok’s potential ban.

The schedule includes a church service, tea at the White House, and the formal swearing-in ceremony. Afterward, Trump will deliver his inaugural address. Trump and Vance will then sign key documents before attending a lunch hosted by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.

Car Crashes into Tree, Bursts Into Flames in Sandhill

A person was rescued from a burning car earlier tonight. Witnesses say that the driver crashed into a tree near mile 16 on the Philip Goldson Highway in Sandhill Village.

Residents who responded to the scene report that the driver did not show any signs of serious injuries.

Police officers and fire officials responded.

The fire was extinguished.

More details to follow…

BREAKING: One BDF Soldier Shot and Killed, Others Injured

Reports emerging from southern Belize are that a shooting left one Belize Defence Force soldier dead.

The incident occurred earlier tonight at the Crique Sarco Conservation Post.

Information reaching to News 5 that at least two others were injured. They are from the Support Company First Infantry Battalion.

Details of what led to the incident are still forthcoming.

Brigadier General of the B.D.F. Azariel Loria told News 5 that “That’s the news we got. We have dispatched a ptl (patrol) along with police to investigate the incident.”

This is a developing story

BTIA Hosts 39th AGM with Focus on Climate Change and Tourism

The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) held its 39th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday in Belize City. Themed “Tourism in a Time of Climate Change,” the event featured a panel discussion with experts addressing the challenges and opportunities posed by climate change to Belize’s tourism sector.

The discussion centred on practical recommendations for safeguarding Belize’s tourism industry against climate-related risks.

Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, Anthony Mahler, delivered remarks highlighting key developments and achievements in the sector. Senator Janelle Chanona delivered the keynote address, offering passionate and thought-provoking insights that tied into the event’s theme.

Stewart Krohn, who served as president for four years, officially handed over the reins to Efren Perez, chair of BTIA’s Corozal Chapter. Perez will lead the organisation as president for the next two years. Javier Gutierrez was elected as the 2nd Vice President, and Chris Rothing as Secretary, while Raineldo Guerrero and Tamara Sniffin continue their roles as Treasurer and 1st Vice President, respectively.

Trump’s First Immigration Raids to Target Chicago

Donald Trump’s incoming administration plans to launch its first immigration raid in Chicago on Tuesday, targeting over 300 individuals with violent crime histories, according to reports from unnamed officials. The operation, slated to last a week, will involve deploying 100 to 200 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to the city.

Chicago, known for its strong sanctuary city policies, has drawn criticism from Trump and his incoming border czar, Tom Homan, who vowed to prosecute local officials obstructing federal immigration enforcement.

While ICE officials have indicated that enforcement efforts will occur nationwide, including in New York and Miami, advocates fear the raids will sweep up individuals without criminal records or those with legal status. Community groups in Chicago have been mobilizing, educating immigrants about their rights, and preparing phone trees to alert residents of ICE activity.

Chicago officials, including Governor JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson, reaffirmed their commitment to sanctuary policies, with local Democratic leaders urging immigrants to stay calm, know their rights, and avoid granting officers access to their homes without warrants.

As Trump’s administration prepares for large-scale deportations, immigrant rights groups are bracing for legal challenges while attempting to shield vulnerable communities from the anticipated crackdown.

Guatemala has expressed willingness to accept citizens from other Central American countries deported from the United States as part of its efforts to foster a positive relationship with the incoming Trump administration. According to Prime Minister John Briceño, Belize will not.

When asked about possible pressure, he added, “We are a sovereign nation, and they cannot force us to accept people that are not citizens from this country. And as far as I am concerned, we are not going to accept any citizen that is not Belizean.”