Turnout for BTV’s Upstream Trek is Dismal

The Government sent out a release prior to the Belize Territorial Volunteers’ anniversary expedition to Gracias A Dios. As you know now, the expedition only reached the mouth of the Sarstoon. But that wasn’t the only problem, the turnout was dismal. Other than Wil Maheia, there were only two civilians that went other than the local media. News Five spoke to the couple from New York that went on the weekend’s trip.

Jose Sanchez

“Going out there what was the experience like for you?”

Enias Bergsma

Enias Bergsma

“Going out it was cold, freezing cold. But as we were there, it became very clear there was a blockade of the river. There are 4 military boats that stop you to go up the river, we’re Belizean I would be concerned about that.”

Judy Bergsma

Judy Bergsma

“I think it’s frightening. I’ve always wanted to go up the Sarstoon. And I know

half of it belongs to Belize. I don’t know where the borders are exactly and I was interested in seeing it. It was frightening and intimidating having a big gun boat looking at us. I asked the boat captain how far they could shoot he said a couple miles.”

Reporter

“Aare you disappointed of the turnout?

Wil Maheia

Wil Maheia

“Definitely. We can’t let it go unnoticed. The weather is freezing. I’m sure that had something to do with it. The government scared Belizeans to come. The Guatemalans, people will be afraid. When they see what is happening I’m sure they will be glad they didn’t come to get involved with this.”

The Couple Enias and Judy Bergsma have property in Punta Gorda and have been coming to Belize for many years.