In Brief
- Belize police have arrested and charged Elvis Christian Zabaneh (36), Tersi Amino Aguilar (34), and Emilio Quinonez Zabaneh (88) with Trafficking in Persons.
- The arrests followed a collaborative investigation involving local authorities, non-governmental organisations, and INTERPOL.
- Each of the accused was granted bail set at BZ$7,000 with strict conditions not to contact witnesses ahead of their next court appearance on 18 November 2026.
BELMOPAN, Belize, (CMC) – Police have arrested and charged three people, including an 88-year-old man, with the offence of Trafficking in Persons (TIP).
Following directives from the prosecution, the Anti-Trafficking in Persons (A-TIP) Police Unit of the Belize Police Department formally arrested and charged Elvis Christian Zabaneh, 36; Tersi Amino Aguilar, 34; and Emilio Quinonez Zabaneh, 88.
Authorities said that bail was granted at BZ$7,000 (US$1 = BZ$2 ) each with one surety, subject to the condition that the accused must not contact any prosecution witnesses, either directly or indirectly.
The matter has been adjourned to 18 November 2026.
Police noted that the arrests and charges resulted from collaborative efforts involving several stakeholders, including INTERPOL and non-governmental organisations supporting the government’s efforts to combat human trafficking.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs said it remains committed to working closely with law enforcement and partner agencies to identify, protect, and support victims of human trafficking, and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable under the law.
“Members of the public who suspect human trafficking activities or have information regarding potential victims are encouraged to report their concerns,” the police added.
