newsbites · 1 year ago
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News from Belize, 20 July
A tragic explosion in Neuland Village resulted in severe burn injuries and the loss of two young children.
The incident, involving a kerosene lamp, which may have been mistakenly filled with gasoline, had a profound impact on the affected family and the tight-knit Mennonite community.
Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the explosion and bring justice to those affected.
2. A pregnant woman was seriously injured and an elderly man was killed after a white Chrysler van knocked her down on George Price Drive, Dangriga Town. 
3. The government and Belize Sugar Industries/American Sugar Refining (BSI/ASR) have agreed to proceed under the existing import/export requirements until the court proceedings over new Sugar Industry (License to Import/Export) Regulations, 2023—in which BSI/ASR are seeking an injunction against the new licensing requirements—have concluded. 
4. Meanwhile, Belize Sugar Industries and American Sugar Refining (BSI/ASR) have recorded an increase in revenues for the farmers.  According to BSI/ASR, this is the second highest the industry has seen since the year 2000. 
5. Law enforcement has increased their visibility in the George Street vicinity to avert additional violence following the tragic death of a mother of two on Monday morning.
According to police, the shooting that resulted in the murder of 23-year-old Jasmine Domingo and left her 4-year-old daughter hospitalized was linked to an ongoing internal dispute among gangs in that locale.
Domingo's brothers, who are associated with the gang, were reportedly the intended victims, raising concerns of possible reprisals.
Today, Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, outlined the measures the department is taking to address gang-related violence in the area.
6. According to Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, the officer who shot Belize City fisherman, Kenyon Plunkett, is still on active duty.
Plunkett, 22 years old, was shot last week while riding on a motorcycle with another individual along Chetumal Street.
The police assert that the two men failed to comply with instructions to stop, resulting in the officer firing at Plunkett, hitting him in the elbow.
However, Plunkett's family has challenged these assertions, contending that the officer acted impulsively.
Today, Williams provided a status update and emphasized that the investigations are ongoing.
7. The National Crime Observatory reports that major crimes in the country during the first six months of this year have decreased compared to the same period last year.
Heinous crimes show a decline, but incidents of robbery have increased. Today, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams commented on the statistics, expressing satisfaction with the progress made so far, yet acknowledging the need for ongoing efforts.
He also noted that despite the factual data indicating a decrease in crime, the Leader of the Opposition maintains a different viewpoint.
8. There have been developments within the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU), where a faction of its members has been demanding proof of qualifications from their newly elected president, Ruth Shoman. The group's activities have now subsided, and President Ruth Shoman has resumed her regular duties.
Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner is among several government officials who have shown their support for Shoman.
9. The Yucatec Maya Women's Group in San Antonio Village is planning to expand their clothing project.
The Oxmul Farmers in the village face challenges with high input costs and lack of support.
Alex Balona, the Area Representative for Cayo Central, reaffirmed his commitment to improving the community of San Antonio.
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