On Friday October 3rd, traffic at the newly upgraded Michael Espat Bridge came to a standstill when a minivan collided with a semi-truck. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured. The addition of new guardrails to the bridge has reduced available space, making it tighter for vehicles to pass. The bridge is located on a curve,...
For decades, Belize and Guatemala have experienced tensions along the border. In 2014, the Chiquibul Forest became a hotspot, as Xateros crossed from Guatemala to illegally harvest thousands of Xate leaves, often entering armed. It was on September 25th of that year that a Xatero shot and killed Tourism Police Officer Danny Conorqui while he...
In a recent patrol of the Port Honduras Marine Reserve, rangers from the Toledo Institutefor Development and Environment (TIDE) discovered a dead hawksbill turtle caught in anillegal gillnet set on the coral reefs. The environmental NGO, which manages SapodillaCayes and Port Honduras, regularly faces challenges from illegal fishers crossing theborder from Guatemala and harming Belize’s...
In a significant boost to local law enforcement, the Punta Gorda police department has officially received a new pickup truck to enhance its operational capabilities. This addition aims to improve the department’s response to time and overall efficiency in serving the community. The new vehicle will assist officers in patrolling the area, conducting investigations, and...
Residents have long raised concerns about traffic within the town limits, citing reckless driving and unlicensed motorcyclists as significant issues. Many have voiced these complaints at town meetings and in discussions with the Commissioner of Police. Reports indicate that some drivers engage in reckless behavior, while motorcyclists are often found riding without a valid driver’s...
The Punta Gorda Police Formation held a meet-and-greet in the St. Vincent Block area on Thursday, October 17th. At least a dozen residents participated, expressing their concerns and opinions about the ongoing challenges they face. During the meet-and-greet, the officer commanding the Punta Gorda Police Formation, his deputy, and the community policing team were in...
It was an evening of confidence, talent, and determination as the first ever Mr. B.N.T.U. Competition took place on Saturday, March 28. In the end Punta Gorda teacher Maklovio Ack emerged victorious and was crowned Mr. B.N.T.U. After showcasing his abilities and dedication throughout the competition, Ack stood out among contestants, earning the title following...
As the Queen Conch season officially comes to a close, stakeholders are reminding the publicof the importance of protecting this valuable marine resource during the closed period. Theseasonal closure is aimed at allowing conch populations to replenish, ensuring sustainabilityfor fishermen and future generations. Authorities are also urging compliance with regulations asenforcement efforts continue across coastal...
Naledo was on the international stage yet again, representing Belize, this time in Antigua, Guatemala. The company has consistently championed local goods, exporting to markets across Canada, the Caribbean, and the United States, while highlighting Belize’s richness and diversity in the global export sector.
A major legal decision from the Caribbean Court of Justice is being described as a victory for justice and fair elections in Belize. Belizean activist Jeremy Enriquez, along with Senior Counsel Anand Ramlogan, successfully overturned a previous ruling, allowing their constitutional case to move forward before the Belize Court of Appeal. The case challenges the...
TIDE’s Fire Crew recently conducted a Basic Wildland Fire Management Training for staff at Silk Grass Farms, equipping participants with essential knowledge and hands-on experience in fire safety and control. The two-day training combined classroom sessions on fire behavior, safety procedures, and equipment use, with practical field exercises focused on team coordination during prescribed burns...
