Chunox fishermen out on bail after alleged illegal fishing in conservation zone

Published by [email protected] at January 9, 2025

Tags

Posted: Thursday, January 9, 2025. 11:25 pm CST.

By Breaking Belize News Staff: Three fishermen from Chunox Village, Corozal, have been released on bail after being charged with fishing in a conservation zone at Turneffe Atoll.

The accused, 22-year-old Emir Gabino Nah, 31-year-old Kevin Baptist, and 22-year-old Rivaldo Junino Baptist, were allegedly found conducting fishing activities within the Margee Caye Conservation Zone on December 13, 2024. Fisheries personnel claim the men were in possession of nine Queen Conch in shell, one Florida Horse Conch, one Slipper Lobster, and seven whole Spiny Lobsters, all while fishing was prohibited in the area.

The trio appeared before a Magistrate in Court #8 on Thursday, where they pleaded not guilty to the charge. Fisheries Prosecutor Hampton Gamboa did not object to bail, and each fisherman was granted bail of $5,000, which they successfully met.

Their next court appearance is scheduled for February 11, 2025. If convicted, the fishermen face fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, which could extend up to a maximum of $150,000.

The fishermen have sought legal representation from attorney Richard “Dickie” Bradley, who advised them prior to their court appearance, although he was not present during the arraignment.

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Belize ~ We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages. Your content is delivered instantly to thousands of users in Belize and abroad! Contact us at mаrkеtіng@brеаkіngbеlіzеnеwѕ.соm or call us at 501-612-0315.