News Americas, New York, NY, September 30, 2024: Belize police are continuing their investigation into the discovery of a quantity of suspected cocaine found on a boat owned by government Minister Andre Perez, who holds the portfolios of Blue Economy and Disaster Risk Management. Authorities reported that 474 grams of the suspected drug were found aboard Perez’s boat in San Pedro last Friday, September 27, 2024.

Drugs has been found on a boat owned by Belize Minister Andrew Perez.

According to a police statement, Perez has stated that the boat had been docked for repairs and left unused for over six months. Preliminary findings suggest the drugs may have been placed without his knowledge, and the minister is fully cooperating with the investigation.

The boatyard owner has corroborated Perez’s account, confirming that the minister had been paying a monthly docking fee of BDZ$250 (One Belize dollar = US$0.49) during the boat’s inactive period.

Perez recently returned to the government after taking leave in August last year due to an unrelated investigation. He was previously embroiled in a scandal involving a female attorney.

When questioned by reporters about the drug discovery, Perez said he had “no idea” how the drugs ended up on his boat but emphasized his cooperation with the police, adding, “I have, there is nothing to worry about.” When asked if he believed someone was trying to set him up, he responded, “probably.”

Prime Minister John Briceño, however, dismissed the idea of a setup. “I don’t think it’s someone trying to set him up,” Briceño said, adding that the boat had been docked for more than six months, making it an unlikely target for suspicion. “When somebody tipped off the police, they searched it, and they found the drugs. But it’s clear Andre had not been using his boat.”

The United States has identified Belize as a significant transshipment point for cocaine and precursor chemicals used in illicit drug production. Belize’s geographic location along the Central American isthmus, between drug-producing countries in South America and the U.S., makes it vulnerable to drug trafficking. The country’s borders with Guatemala feature large, unpopulated jungle areas, while its relatively unpatrolled coastline, dotted with small islands and atolls, presents challenges for drug interdiction efforts. The remote jungles also provide an ideal environment for cannabis cultivation and trafficking.

Belize’s proximity to countries where drug trade operations are controlled by highly organized and violent cartels further compounds the issue. While cannabis use is generally tolerated within Belizean society, laws against it are enforced by local authorities.

Despite stepped-up efforts by the Belize Coast Guard and the Anti-Drug Unit to patrol coastal waters, both agencies face significant challenges due to limited funding, insufficient equipment, and personnel shortages. Belize’s counter-narcotics initiatives are further hindered by corruption, outdated intelligence and judicial systems, and a lack of political will, all of which impede progress in combating drug trafficking.

News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. September 27, 2024: “My personal journey has taught me that the greatest gift we can give to others is to give of ourselves. That is why making it my life’s mission to do exactly that – whenever and however I can – has become my top priority,” says Caribbean immigrant philanthropist and corporate executive, Audrey Tomlinson.

Jamaican philanthropist and corporate executive Audrey Tomlinson shares her personal journey of service, emphasizing the importance of giving time, resources, and support to others. (Photo courtesy of Ian Buddington)

The Jamaican-born Tomlinson, who serves as Vice President of Human Resources and General Services at Nippon Life Insurance Company of America, has built a successful career spanning more than 25 years, all while maintaining a commitment to community service and helping those in need.

“As I rose throughout the corporate ranks, balancing family, work, and community activities was very difficult,” she recalls. “But after the life-altering changes brought by COVID, my priorities shifted, and I became much more intentional about what truly matters.”

Mrs. Audrey Tomlinson. (Photo courtesy of Ian Buddington)

Tomlinson credits much of her drive for service to her husband, Trevor Tomlinson, an IT Director at the Children’s Learning Center in Connecticut, saying, “He is deeply involved in philanthropic work within the Jamaican diaspora in New York and serves as my inspiration to make a difference.”

Despite her dedication, Tomlinson was once reluctant to identify as a philanthropist, believing that “philanthropy” was reserved for the ultra-wealthy. However, her perspective evolved. “Whether it’s money, resources, professional expertise, or simply your time, the term still applies,” she says. “You don’t need to be wealthy to make a meaningful impact. You could have two dollars and still change lives because you gave of yourself.”

Born to Dr. Artnel Henry and Merle Henry, Tomlinson was raised with the belief that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” Her parents instilled the value of helping others, often opening their home to young people in need. These lessons shaped her early volunteer efforts, which began during her time at Stella Maris Preparatory School, where she tutored adults through Jamaica’s Adult Literacy Program (JAMAL).

Tomlinson initially planned to pursue a career in medicine but shifted focus after attending the University of the West Indies, later earning an MBA and PhD in Human Resources Management. Her HR career provided her with invaluable skills in listening, empathy, and adapting to others, qualities that now inform both her professional and philanthropic work.

Over the years, Tomlinson has sponsored children in Haiti and Africa through ChildFund and World Vision International, mentored young professionals, and served on the boards of the Immaculate Conception High School Alumnae Association and the Greyston Foundation. She also spearheads a mentoring program at Ridgeway Alliance Church, which fosters connections between younger and older individuals in a reciprocal learning environment.

An in-demand emcee for Jamaican community events, Tomlinson’s long-term goal is to open a consulting and coaching business to help others navigate life’s challenges, manage their careers, and make sound decisions.

Her advice for those wishing to make a positive impact? “Treat others how you want to be treated, walk in someone else’s shoes, and remember: “it’s not about thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less.”

“We all need each other, now more than ever,” she added.