BAHA clarifies it does not handle bee emergencies, Ministry of Agriculture addresses Belize City situation

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Residents of a section of Kings Park, Belize City, were urged to remain indoors on Saturday morning following a bee attack that resulted in the death of at least six dogs. The aggressive swarm originated from an abandoned property on Sixth Street.

Homeowner Steve Mahler said early Saturday morning he found his dogs dead and his workers reported to him that they had been attacked by bees. Seeking immediate intervention, Mahler said he contacted the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA).

However, BAHA’s Managing Director, Zoe Zetina told Breaking Belize News that though BAHA is not responsible for addressing bee-related emergencies, on receiving the call, BAHA relayed the information to the Ministry of Agriculture.

“BAHA does not respond or handle reports of bee emergencies. We do not have the equipment or mandate to respond to these situations,” Zetina stated.

According to Zetina, BAHA’s primary role is safeguarding agricultural health, including disease control in livestock. Bee infestations, however, fall under the Ministry of Agriculture’s jurisdiction—specifically in cases where public safety is at risk, such as at schools or parks.

Reports to Breaking Belize News say the Ministry has responded and is currently addressing the situation.