Chunox Fishermen Granted Bail After Alleged Conservation Zone Violations

Three fishermen from Chunox Village, Corozal are out on bail tonight after being accused of fishing in a conservation zone. The men, 22-year-old Emir Gabino Nah, 31-year-old Kevin Baptist, and 22-year-old Rivaldo Junino Baptist, were allegedly caught by fisheries personnel conducting illegal fishing activities within the South Water Caye Marine Reserve on December 13, 2024. According to reports, the fishermen were found with a catch that included nine queen conch in shell, one Florida horse conch, one slipper lobster, and seven whole spiny lobsters. The trio appeared in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court, where they pleaded not guilty to the charges. Fisheries Prosecutor Hampton Gamboa did not object to bail, and each fisherman was granted bail of $5,000 with one surety of the same amount or two sureties of $2,500 each. They successfully met bail and were released. Their next court date is scheduled for February 11, 2025. If convicted, the fishermen face fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with a possible maximum penalty of up to $150,000. Attorney Richard “Dickie” Bradley, though not present at the arraignment, has been consulted by the fishermen for legal advice. It is understood that Bradley advised them on their plea before they entered the court.