2024-09-11 - Channel 5 Belize

Guatemalan Armed Forces in Belizean Waters, Again!

Guatemalan Armed Forces (GAF) were found operating within Belizean territory for the second time last week. Reports of the Guatemalan naval ships in Belizean waters first emerged on Saturday morning. One of the ships named Quetzal was spotted off the coast of Barranco Village.

Despite being informed by the BDF that they were outside their jurisdiction and provided with GPS coordinates, the Guatemalan forces refused to leave. The situation was only resolved when the Belize Coast Guard (BCG) intervened. Several hours went by before the Guatemalan vessels departed

Major Roberta Usher, Chief of Staff of the BDF, said that the patrol, which was routine, detected the Guatemalan vessels near their Forward Operating Base (FOB). The vessels, numbering between three and five, were seen moving between Belizean and Guatemalan waters over the weekend. The BDF conducted reconnaissance and collected information, while the Coast Guard mapped the territorial boundaries. Authorities are now awaiting confirmation on whether the Guatemalan vessels were illegally intruding or if there were other issues at play. The BDF is working to gather all necessary information before determining if any breach of sovereignty occurred.

In response to these incidents, the United Democratic Party has criticised the Guatemalan actions as intimidation and is urging the Briceño administration to establish a formal protocol for operations on the Sarstoon River.

Battle of St. George’s Caye Inspires a Bold and Progressive Future for Belize

Every September 10, Belize celebrates the historic Battle of St. George’s Caye, which took place from September 3 to 10 in 1798. This historic conflict saw British woodcutters, known as Baymen, fend off Spanish forces off the coast of what was then ‘British Honduras.’ The Baymen’s victory led to the establishment of the settlement as a British colony and shaped Belize’s future as an English-speaking nation.

The annual commemoration ceremony was held at Belize City’s House of Culture. Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner spoke about the historical significance of the battle. He stated, “226 years ago, the baymen, free men, and the enslaved found it important to stand united and firm against a mighty force… They fought to preserve a dream. A dream of a land where we can all live free, where our future would be our own to shape.”

Wagner also emphasised the importance of embracing modern advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). He highlighted AI’s potential to revolutionise Belize’s future, from improving weather forecasts to enhancing healthcare services. Wagner urged Belizeans to adopt a bold and ambitious approach, using the E-Bus transportation project as a model for progress. “We must be willing to work, especially when it is necessary to carry us forward,” he added.

Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Education, Culture, Science and Technology, was the ceremony’s keynote speaker, and echoed Wagner’s call for forward-thinking. He urged Belizeans to consider the legacy they wish to leave for future generations, advocating for “unity over division, action over complacency, and hope over despair.” Fonseca called for collective effort to build a stronger, more just, and united Belize, “Let us honour the sacrifices of those who came before us by building a Belize that is stronger, more just, and more united,” Fonseca added.

The ceremony concluded with the official crowning of the New Queen of the Bay, Queen Deanni Laing.

Stann Creek Fishermen Ride the Solar Wave

The Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy, Logistics, and E-Governance has rolled out a new initiative aimed at boosting sustainability and supporting the livelihoods of fishermen in Stann Creek. Today, 100 solar kits were distributed to local fishermen in Dangriga Town. This provides them with a reliable, eco-friendly source of energy to improve their operations.

The solar kits, which include high-efficiency solar panels, batteries, and energy-efficient lighting, will enable fishermen to power essential equipment with minimal environmental impact. These kits offer a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels, helping to lower operational costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

This initiative, funded by the European Union through the Lait Up Belize Technical Assistance Project, aims to improve economic efficiency, cut energy costs, and enhance safety during nighttime fishing activities with solar-powered lighting. Training and support were provided to ensure that fishermen are able to fully utilise the technology.

The Ministry views this as a significant step forward in empowering local communities and promoting sustainable development in Belize. It is expected that this project will positively impact the fishing industry in Stann Creek while also contributing to larger global efforts to combat climate change.

18-Year-Old Dies in Collision with Cow in Orange Walk

A tragic road accident in the Orange Walk District has claimed the life of 18-year-old Alvin Guardado. Guardado, a labourer from Blue Creek, was reportedly driving in an area between San Felipe and August Pine Ridge, known as “El Rancho,” when he crashed into a cow. He was severely injured, including a large open wound to his forehead.

Guardado was rushed to the Northern Regional Hospital by ambulance. However, despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

The incident happened on Monday night.

Guardado’s father explained that his son was on his way home after visiting his girlfriend.

Non-Functional AR-15 Rifle Reported Missing from BDF Training Hall

An AR-15 rifle has been reported missing from the Belize Defence Force (BDF) training hall in the Corozal District. BDF personnel discovered the rifle’s absence during a recent inventory check, although it remains unclear when and how it went missing. According to BDF Chief of Staff Major Roberta Usher, the missing rifle was non-functional and used primarily for ceremonial purposes.

Despite its inoperability, Major Usher says that the BDF is taking the situation seriously and is actively working with law enforcement to locate the weapon and prevent similar incidents in the future. Usher also indicated that further details regarding the circumstances of the disappearance will emerge once the investigation progresses.

This is not the first time a BDF weapon has gone unaccounted for. In August 2023, an M4 commando rifle went missing from Camp Belizario in the Cayo District but was recovered by police ten days later.