By Belize Live News Staff: The Belize Immigration Department has launched an investigation into an alleged visa fraud scheme, leading to criminal charges against a Belizean consultant from the Cayo District. The accused, 49-year-old Craig Elliott Martin, who holds dual citizenship in Belize and Jamaica, appeared in court on Thursday on allegations of fabricating immigration documents.
Martin, who reportedly operates a consulting business in Camalote Village, was brought before the Belize City Magistrate’s Court on Thursday morning. Prosecutors claim that on January 17, 2025, he falsified documents to facilitate the illegal entry of Lazar Krivokapic into Belize. Representing the Crown, Head of Prosecution Alifah Elrington argued that Martin’s travel documents should be surrendered due to concerns over flight risk.
Despite his expired Jamaican passport, the court granted Martin bail with conditions, including surrendering all travel documents and reporting weekly to the Belmopan Police Station. Additionally, he was later charged with aiding in the fabrication of an immigration offense.
His next hearing is scheduled for April 4, 2025, at the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court. Martin has pleaded not guilty to both charges and was released on bail after meeting conditions, including providing Belizean sureties. His attorney, Orson “OJ” Elrington, has indicated that they intend to fight the charges.
