Colombian Brothers Jailed After Illegal Entry and Exit Attempt

Two Colombian brothers are spending time at the Belize Central Prison at the Kolbe Foundation after pleading guilty to an immigration offense stemming from their illegal entry and attempted illegal departure from Belize.  The brothers, 38-year-old Wilmar Cespedes Bernal, and 40-year-old Wilson Alberto Cespedes Bernal, both nationals of Colombia, appeared unrepresented yesterday before the Chief Magistrate.  There, they pleaded guilty to failing to produce a valid visitors permit upon demand.  According to the facts presented in court, the brothers were detained on Boxing Day at around 9am at the Philip Goldson International Airport as they attempted to board a Copa Airlines flight to Panama City. Immigration checks revealed that neither man had a valid Belize entry stamp.  Further investigations showed that the brothers admitted to entering Belize illegally on Christmas Day, after walking across the northern border. Authorities also learned that the men had been living near the northern border area for approximately six months, during which time they were reportedly working at the Corozal Free Zone.  When questioned, the brothers claimed they were staying at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza, but immigration records showed no evidence of their stay. Their inability to produce valid documentation led to the single charge brought against them.  In sentencing, the Chief Magistrate noted several aggravating factors, including that the brothers had entered Belize illegally and later attempted to leave the country illegally, as well as providing false information to authorities. The court increased the standard fine from $1,000 to $1,500 each, plus $5.00 cost of court, to be paid forthwith. In default of payment, each man faces six months’ imprisonment.  The court explained that the brothers were fortunate to face only one charge, as they could have been charged separately for illegal entry and for providing false information to immigration officials.  Unable to pay the fines, the brothers were remanded to the Belize Central Prison, where they will serve their sentences. Upon completion of their prison terms, they are to be deported to Colombia, the court ordered.  It was also noted that since their detention, the brothers have managed to make contact with Colombian authorities.