The next two stories provide a telling snapshot of the immigration difficulties Belize faces as a stopping point on the way north.
First, we start with 16 Cubans - 14 males and two females who are in police custody tonight. They were stranded late last night near Coco Beach Resort 3 miles north of San Pedro Town. They said they were heading north, but their boat, named "Fishn N' Wishn" broke down. From what authorities have pieced together, they left Grand Cayman on August 26th on the way to Honduras - but broke down after a day of travel and started to drift. After 7 days lost at sea they drifted to shore on Ambergris Caye. But, depending on who you listen to, their planned final destination was either the United States of America or Mexico. When they reached Belize, the first thing they are reported to have asked for is fuel to finish their journey.
But, that meant they ended up in Belize without proper documentation - and they were taken into police custody. They were first taken for medical attention and were learnt to range in age from 18 to 36 years of age.
And although they only ended up in Belize when their boat broke down, today, the Immigration office in San Pedro was preparing to charge them. They were held at NEMO building - where some locals brought them food and water.
This afternoon they were sent to Belize City for detention and had not been charged - not yet at least. We are told they may seek legal assistance as they believe no charges should be brought against them. We'll keep following the story.
