Police News
Machete Attack in Caye Caulker Leaves One Man Severely Injured
Caye Caulker Police are investigating a machete attack that left Mark Budd, 37, with serious injuries to his arm and hand. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Thursday, August 28, in the Bahia area of the island. Budd was later transported to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City, where he was admitted and listed in stable condition. Reports indicate he lost two fingers in the attack.
Crime & Violence
No Arrests Made in Backatown Shooting
A San Pedro barber, 25-year-old Jose Manuel Velasquez, survived an early morning shooting on Tuesday, August 26th, in the Backatown area. He was reportedly approached by a known male individual who pulled out a firearm and fired at him, grazing him but causing no fatal injuries. Velasquez was rushed to the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, where he was stabilized and listed in stable condition. Police are investigating the incident but have not yet detained the shooter.
Business & Economy
GOB Revokes Caribi Bleu Casino License
On Friday, July 25th, the Government of Belize (GOB), through the Ministry of Investment, issued an official statement announcing the formal cancellation of the license for Caribi Bleu Casino, located in San Pedro Town. The casino, which operated under the name GMK Sky Limited, is no longer permitted to operate the gaming premises following the detention of its owner, Rima Ray, in the United States on charges of money laundering and operating an unlicensed gambling establishment.
Police News
Islander Remanded for Attempted Robbery at San Pedro Quality Poultry Branch
Police have arrested and charged 25-year-old Roberto Barrientos with Aggravated Assault in connection with an attempted robbery at the Quality Poultry branch in the Boca del Rio area of San Pedro Town on July 13th. According to official reports, Barrientos was arraigned and remanded to the Belize Central Prison.
Crime & Violence
Brothers Remanded After Charged for Alleged Gang Involvement
Following a shooting incident at a residence in the San Pedrito area belonging to the Espat family, brothers Alexander Logan and Mark Espat were detained and subsequently charged with being members of a gang. The pair were arraigned at the Belize City Magistrate's Court on Monday, July 21st. They were denied bail and remanded to the Belize Central Prison until their next court appearance, set for September 24, 2025.
Crime & Violence
Carlos Gomez Remanded for Assaulting His Mother
Carlos Gomez, 18 years old, of the San Mateo subdivision, has been remanded to the Belize Central Prison after being arraigned on charges of Grievous Harm and Use of Deadly Means of Harm against his 56-year-old mother, Marleny Calderon.
Community and Society
ComPol Dr. Richard Rosado and Police Minister Kareem Musa Visit the Cayes
On Friday, July 18th, the newly appointed Commissioner of Police (ComPol), Dr. Richard Rosado, along with the Minister of Home Affairs responsible for police, Honourable Kareem Musa, visited the police formations in Caye Caulker and San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. The visit is part of a nationwide tour the minister and his team are conducting to understand better the needs and challenges faced by police officers.
Police News
Crime Trends Shift in Belize: Murders Down, Sex Offenses Up
Belize experienced a shift in major crime rates during the first half of 2025, with official figures reflecting both progress and ongoing challenges. Law enforcement and community leaders continue to monitor patterns, aiming to achieve long-term reductions in violent and property crime.
