2025-04-06 - Channel 5 Belize

Global Recession Fears Grow

Investors are increasingly concerned that President Donald Trump’s escalating trade war could lead to a global recession. According to The Economist, stock markets were rattled following the announcement of Trump’s new tariffs.

The Russell 3000, one of the broadest measures of the American stock market, dropped 5% on April 3 and another 6% the following day after China retaliated with its own tariffs, according to The Economist.

It also added that gold and the US dollar also showed unusual movements, while oil and copper prices plunged.

Concerns have intensified as bank stocks, particularly those exposed to economic cycles, have tumbled, and several private firms have delayed their public listings. The VIX, a measure of market volatility, has surged, prompting analysts to raise global recession odds to 60%.

Woman, Man, and Child Injured in Shooting in Belize City

Police are investigating a shooting that occurred on Iguana Street, Belize City, this afternoon. Initial reports indicate that three people were injured, including a woman and child.

Reports are that two gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire on the victims before fleeing the scene. The injured have been identified as Marelee Richards, 56; Edgar Choc, 36; and a 12-year-old.

The victims were transported to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) and are reported to be in stable condition. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear.

Police are currently processing the scene. No arrests have been made.

More details to follow.

Pope Francis Makes First Public Appearance Since Discharged from Hospital

Pope Francis, 88, made his first public appearance since being discharged from the hospital. The Vatican reported that the pope delivered a message about illness as a “holy place.”

He urged the faithful to see the sickbed as an opportunity for spiritual growth. The Pope highlighted how suffering can lead to transformation, comparing it to the exile of the Israelites and the woman condemned for her sins in the Gospel.

The Pope is still recovering from pneumonia. He called his illness a lesson in trust and gratitude. He encouraged people to embrace vulnerability and accept love, rather than viewing illness as a burden.

The Pope greeted crowds in St Peter’s Square. He appeared stronger and in good spirits, offering a message of hope and compassion to the thousands gathered.

Children Removed from House Amid Alleged Abuse

Commissioner of Police Chester Williams confirmed that three children have been removed from a house following allegations of abuse. According to Williams, the children have been interviewed and are “in the process of taking them into protective care.” The children will also undergo medical examinations as part of the ongoing investigation.

This comes after a concerned resident took to social media on Saturday, claiming that two young girls, aged two and three, were allegedly being physically abused in a dangerous and toxic environment.

The user said in a social media post, The post stated, “There are 2 little girls getting abused physically, & God knows there’s a possibility it’s sexually too.” According to the user, Human Services was contacted, but no action had been taken.

She alleged that the man living in the house was abusing the children, stating, “These little girls are about 2 & 3 years old.” The post also claimed that the girls and their mother were “getting beat every single day.”

“I have videos of these little girls & their mom on the street late at night when he puts them out, I have voice clips with a family member saying that these girls are being molested,” the user added.

BDF Opens New Main Kitchen and Dining Facilities to Boost Troop Welfare

The Belize Defence Force (BDF) has officially opened its newly constructed Main Kitchen and Dining Facilities, a major development aimed at improving the welfare of its personnel.

“This state-of-the-art facility is designed to significantly enhance the quality of life for our soldiers, offering them nutritious meals in a comfortable and modern setting,” the BDF said in a statement.

The new facility includes a modern walk-in freezer, advanced cooking equipment, and expanded dining areas for both senior officers and troops. According to the BDF, “These upgrades will not only streamline meal preparation and service but also ensure that our troops receive the best possible sustenance to support their demanding duties.”

Lieutenant Colonel Williams, Services Battalion Commander, called the opening a “momentous occasion”, adding that the facilities will facilitate “proper nutrition which is essential to the readiness and morale of our troops,” he said.

Fire Burns Down Two Homes in Belize City

Authorities are investigating a fire incident that occurred early this morning in Belize City. Reports are that the blaze started around 2:30 in the morning at an abandoned two-storey building on Hunters Lane.

The fire eventually spread onto a nearby home, causing significant damage. Firefighter officials responded and managed to contain the fire from spreading further.

The extent of the fire damage is still unknown. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.