Belmopan Couple Fined for Aiding Group of Brazilian Nationals in Human Smuggling Case

A couple from Belmopan were arraigned in court today after being charged for aiding and facilitating the group of fifteen Brazilians who illegally entered Belize via the Mopan River. 33-year-old, Kirk Andrew-Hower and 34-year-old, Gracielita Mendez of the San Martin area of Belmopan pleaded guilty to transporting the Brazilian group from Benque Viejo del Carmen to Saint Matthew’s Village in two separate vehicles. The couple was represented by Attorney John Nembhard. Nembhard appealed to the court saying that his clients are law abiding citizens and that they had erred in judgement and are sorry for their actions. They were both fined one thousand dollars each. Love News understands that the authorities are seeking a third person who may have facilitated in this human smuggling case.