Undocumented Honduran Nationals Charged

Cindy Reyes

It was an emotional time in court for five Honduran nationals who were caught illegally in the country; they are facing jail time since they are unable to pay their fines. They group left Honduras on March twenty third en route to Belize to seek employment. They spent six days searching for jobs in the city, but were unsuccessful so they headed to the Water Taxi Terminal to catch a boat to San Pedro. But someone tipped off the Immigration Department and the group was detained. The group comprises twenty-one year old Cindy Paola Pueto Reyes, thirty-two year old Nesly Osmara Lara Sarmiento, thirty-six year old Cindy Pahola Zelaya Duenas, and twenty-nine year old Nodis Vacanado. This morning, they were escorted to the Belize City Magistrate’s Court to answer to a charge of Illegal Entry. Also appearing in court was thirty-four year old Cesar Odiar Quiot. He was arrested elsewhere in the city and was unable to produce his documents to show his status in Belize. They all pleaded guilty and were fined one thousand dollars or in default six months imprisonment.  A removal order was also granted by the court for their expulsion as soon as they pay their fines or serve jail term.  According to Immigration personnel, the group came into Belize via the banks of the Mopan River. Tonight they are behind bars.