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Mexican Mayor Carlos Manzo Rodríguez assassinated during Day of the Dead celebrations in Michoacán

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Mexican Mayor Carlos Manzo Rodríguez assassinated during Day of the Dead celebrations in Michoacán

In a shocking act of violence, Carlos Alberto Manzo Rodríguez, the mayor of Uruapan in Mexico’s western state of Michoacán, was shot dead during Day of the Dead celebrations on Saturday night. The brazen killing unfolded in the town’s historic center in front of dozens of residents and tourists gathered to honor the traditional holiday.

According to state prosecutor Carlos Torres Piña, Manzo Rodríguez was rushed to a hospital after being shot multiple times but later died from his injuries. A city council member and one of his bodyguards were also wounded in the attack.

Federal Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch said the mayor was shot seven times by an unidentified gunman, who was later killed at the scene. Authorities linked the weapon used in the assassination to recent armed clashes between rival criminal groups operating in the region.

“No line of investigation is being ruled out to clarify this cowardly act that took the life of the mayor,” García Harfuch said.

Michoacán remains one of Mexico’s most violent states, a contested stronghold for cartels fighting over territory, drug routes, and extortion rackets.

Grief and Outrage in Uruapan

On Sunday, hundreds of Uruapan residents filled the streets dressed in black, carrying photographs of the slain mayor and chanting “Justice! Justice! Out with Morena!”—a reference to the ruling party of President Claudia Sheinbaum.

At the head of the funeral procession, a man led Manzo Rodríguez’s black horse, adorned with one of his signature hats on the saddle. Behind him, a group of black-clad mariachi musicians played somber songs as police and military officers guarded the route.

The mayor, a former Morena legislator who had since formed an independent political movement, had become an outspoken critic of state authorities. In recent months, he publicly appealed to President Sheinbaum on social media for federal help to combat local cartels, accusing Michoacán’s pro-government governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla and the state police of corruption.

Captured on Camera

The assassination was caught on video and widely shared on social media. Footage shows families and visitors enjoying the vibrant festivities surrounded by marigolds, candles, and painted skulls before gunfire erupts. Panic quickly ensues as people run for cover.

Another video shows an official performing CPR on a person lying motionless on the ground as armed officers secure the area.

Manzo Rodríguez had been under police protection since December 2024, just three months after taking office. His security was later strengthened in May with municipal police and 14 National Guard officers, although officials have not disclosed what prompted the added measures.

Known by some as “the Mexican Bukele,” a nickname referencing El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele and his tough anti-crime policies, Manzo Rodríguez had pledged to confront organized crime and restore order in Uruapan—a city long plagued by cartel violence.

A Pattern of Political Violence

His death marks the second killing of a Michoacán mayor in 2025. In June, Salvador Bastidas, mayor of Tacámbaro, was murdered alongside his bodyguard outside his home. Last October, journalist Mauricio Cruz Solís was also shot dead in Uruapan shortly after interviewing Manzo Rodríguez.

The escalating wave of assassinations has underscored the growing risks faced by local politicians in Mexico, where criminal groups routinely target public officials who resist their influence or expose corruption.

As mourners in Uruapan continue to demand justice, Manzo Rodríguez’s death has once again drawn attention to the deepening crisis of political violence and impunity gripping Michoacán—and much of Mexico.

Top Labor groups break with federal union over Republican shutdown measure

Simeon Bateren
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Top Labor groups break with federal union over Republican shutdown measure

WASHINGTON (BN24)— A deep split has emerged among U.S. labor unions over how to respond to the ongoing government shutdown, after the largest federal workers’ union threw its support behind a Republican funding bill this week. The move, seen as a break from the broader Democratic-aligned labor movement, has intensified political pressure on lawmakers and highlighted divisions within organized labor.

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), which represents hundreds of thousands of federal employees who have been furloughed or forced to work without pay during the shutdown, called for a “clean continuing resolution” to reopen the government. AFGE President Everett Kelley stated in a press release that both political parties had made their points, and it was time to act to end the shutdown immediately, even if that meant bypassing broader negotiations on healthcare and other policy issues.

Many of the nation’s top labor unions, however, expressed sharp disagreement with AFGE’s approach. They continue to back Democratic strategies that link reopening the government to protecting affordable healthcare and extending Obamacare subsidies, a stance labor analysts say reflects the movement’s broader commitment to social and worker protections.

Jaime Contreras, executive vice president of the 185,000-member Service Employees International Union Local 32BJ, acknowledged the pressures facing federal employees but criticized AFGE’s strategy. “They have to do what they have to do for their members,” Contreras told ABC News. “But it’s a false choice to say we need to give up affordable healthcare for millions of Americans to bring federal workers back to work,” Contreras noted that SEIU 32BJ represents about 2,400 federal contractors, including security officers and food-service staff, many of whom face lost wages during the shutdown.

Other major labor organizations voiced similar positions. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, whose federation represents nearly 15 million workers nationwide, faulted President Donald Trump for attempting to divide federal workers from the larger labor movement. “As federal workers miss paychecks and line up at food banks, President Trump is more focused on pitting workers against each other than ending the shutdown,” Shuler said. “It’s time to fund the government, fix the healthcare crisis, and put working people first.”

United Steelworkers International President David McCall urged a balanced approach that prioritizes both essential government services and affordable healthcare, while the National Education Association, representing nearly 3 million educators, reaffirmed its support for linking funding to healthcare protections. Other unions, including the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees and the United Food and Commercial Workers, have expressed similar positions in previous statements.

Experts say the broader labor movement’s insistence on maintaining pressure on Democrats has likely reduced some of the political fallout from AFGE’s decision. “The federal unions aren’t the biggest players in the labor movement,” said Nelson Lichtenstein, a labor historian at the University of California, Santa Barbara. “Large parts of the rest of the labor movement are crying out for the Democrats to fight against the Trump administration and not give up. Despite these cracks, which are understandable, the labor movement is fairly united in its position on the shutdown.”

The White House has criticized Democrats for the ongoing impasse. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that while many federal employees might weather a single missed paycheck, extended furloughs could create “huge problems.” President Trump has called on Senate Republicans to eliminate the filibuster to pass a Republican funding bill, describing it as a “TRUMP CARD” solution to reopen the government.

The government shutdown, which entered its 30th day on Friday, shows no immediate signs of resolution. Senate Democrats have rejected the Republican funding bill 13 times, and the upper chamber is on recess until next week. Meanwhile, millions of federal employees, contractors, and their families remain without regular paychecks, as unions and lawmakers continue to navigate a tense standoff.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto named World Series MVP after historic Game 7 heroics for Dodgers

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Yoshinobu Yamamoto named World Series MVP after historic Game 7 heroics for Dodgers

TORONTO (BN24)— Yoshinobu Yamamoto cemented his status as one of baseball’s premier pitchers with a historic World Series performance, earning MVP honors after leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to their second consecutive championship. Yamamoto’s dominant postseason included two complete games, a clutch relief outing in Game 7, and a 3-0 series record against the Toronto Blue Jays that has drawn comparisons to MLB legends.

The 27-year-old Japanese ace entered Game 7 in a high-pressure situation, tasked with escaping a bases-loaded jam in the ninth inning with the score tied at 4. Demonstrating poise beyond his years, Yamamoto retired the Blue Jays to end the inning and cruised through the 10th despite a Vladimir Guerrero Jr. leadoff double, preserving a 5-4 lead and securing the Dodgers’ championship. His relief appearance came just one day after throwing 96 pitches in a Game 6 win, highlighting his remarkable stamina and versatility.

Yamamoto’s postseason brilliance was on full display throughout the series. In Game 2, he threw a four-hit complete game, retiring the final 20 batters in a 5-1 victory. This marked the first complete game in a World Series since Kansas City’s Johnny Cueto accomplished the feat in 2015 and made Yamamoto the first Dodgers pitcher in nearly a decade to go the distance in the Fall Classic. His performance in Game 6, while less dominant, still yielded six innings of one-run ball, setting up the decisive Game 7.

Over the course of the series, Yamamoto posted a 3-0 record with a 1.09 ERA, striking out 15 and walking just two across 17 2/3 innings while allowing only 10 hits and two earned runs. Including last year’s World Series Game 2 win over the New York Yankees, Yamamoto is now 4-0 with a 1.13 ERA in four Fall Classic appearances.

Signed from Japan to a $325 million, 12-year contract before the 2024 season, Yamamoto has quickly validated the Dodgers’ investment. Prior to joining Major League Baseball, he pitched 12 complete games over three seasons with the Orix Buffaloes of Japan’s Pacific League, demonstrating the durability and command that have carried over to the big leagues.

Yamamoto’s consecutive complete games in the postseason place him among elite company. Arizona ace Curt Schilling last achieved back-to-back complete postseason games in 2001, and Dodgers legends Orel Hershiser and Hall of Famer Sandy Koufax previously threw multiple complete games in the Fall Classic, underscoring the rarity of Yamamoto’s accomplishment.

Manager Dave Roberts praised his ace effusively after the championship, calling Yamamoto “the GOAT” as the Dodgers hoisted the World Series trophy moments after the final out. “He’s shown incredible resilience, stamina, and skill throughout the playoffs. His pitching is nothing short of historic,” Roberts said.

Yamamoto’s postseason also reflects a combination of strategic brilliance and mental toughness. In high-leverage situations, he consistently outsmarted hitters, navigating jams and keeping opponents off balance with a mix of velocity, movement, and pinpoint control. His ability to perform at peak levels on short rest—particularly in Game 7 following a 96-pitch outing in Game 6—is a testament to both his physical conditioning and competitive mindset.

For the Dodgers, Yamamoto’s heroics were instrumental in overcoming the Blue Jays, who had matched Los Angeles blow for blow in several close games. The championship marks the Dodgers’ second straight title, further cementing the team’s status as a modern-era powerhouse.

Yamamoto’s World Series MVP honors also reflect his impact on the global stage. As a Japanese player excelling in MLB’s biggest spotlight, he has inspired fans worldwide and demonstrated that international talent can dominate at the highest levels. His postseason performance, blending durability, precision, and poise, will be remembered as one of the greatest in Fall Classic history.

Nigerian author James Emmanuel reflects on his journey, inspiration, and the creation of Echoes of Ambition

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Nigerian author James Emmanuel reflects on his journey, inspiration, and the creation of Echoes of Ambition

In an exclusive conversation, fast-rising Nigerian author James Emmanuel opens up about his journey as a writer, the creative process behind his critically acclaimed debut novel Echoes of Ambition, and his aspirations to shape the future of African storytelling. Blending traditional themes with modern realism, Emmanuel has quickly established himself as one of the most promising voices in contemporary literature.

Emmanuel traces his passion for writing back to his childhood, deeply influenced by Nigerian literary icons Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, Cyprian Ekwensi, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Their works, he says, instilled in him a lasting love for narrative and a belief in literature’s power to drive social change.

“Their novels were irresistible,” Emmanuel said. “I began to dream of a time when I could tell compelling stories that inspire change. My desire to make a positive impact on both the young and the old is at the core of my writing.”

Crafting Meaningful Narratives

Emmanuel explained that every story he writes begins with a message or a social issue he hopes to explore. “The central theme drives the plot,” he said. “As the story unfolds, I make adjustments to ensure that the idea remains the story’s backbone. I often use flashbacks to build suspense and keep readers engaged.”

Finding the right title for his debut novel was another challenge. After considering several options, including When the Gods Fall Silent and A Future Forged in Fire, Emmanuel settled on Echoes of Ambition. “It resonated more deeply with both students and adults,” he said. “It captures the essence of the story perfectly.”

Inspiration From Real Life

Much of Emmanuel’s writing draws from real-world experiences and social realities. “Experiences shared by people add authenticity and depth to my characters,” he said. “That’s why Echoes of Ambition explores religion, social vices, leadership, academic excellence, and resilience.”

Writing the book was not without challenges. Emmanuel recalled long nights balancing his creative work with other commitments. “There were times I didn’t know where to stop,” he said. “My reviewers even asked for more chapters, but I knew exactly where the story had to end.”

The novel’s success has already attracted interest from filmmakers seeking to adapt it for the screen — a milestone that Emmanuel views as both exciting and humbling.

A Vision for the Future

While he remains discreet about his next project, Emmanuel confirmed that several ideas are already taking shape. “I prefer not to rush my work,” he said. “I’m taking things one step at a time.”

When asked what distinguishes his style, Emmanuel said his work reflects a balance of emotion and intellect. “My novels explore the complexities of human experience with sensitivity and nuance,” he said. “The blend of tradition and contemporary reality creates a timeless bridge that connects generations.”

Dream Cast and Literary Outlook

If Echoes of Ambition were made into a film, Emmanuel said he would cast Hilda Dokubo as Obidiya and Pete Edochie as Mazi Ogbodo, with Lateef Adedimeji, Stan Nze, Frederick Leonard, and Ibrahim Chatta rounding out the cast. “I admire how Ibrahim Chatta interprets native roles with captivating depth,” he said.

Readers can find Emmanuel’s works through Commune Writers International and connect with him on Instagram (@IAMJEMEDIA), Facebook (James Emmanuel), or by email at ja******************@***il.com.

On Writing and Growth

For Emmanuel, great writing is built on creativity, clarity, precision, and structure. “Creativity gives originality, clarity ensures connection, and organization provides smooth flow,” he said.

He embraces criticism as a catalyst for improvement. “I separate my emotions from critiques,” he said. “Feedback is a tool for growth, not discouragement.”

With Echoes of Ambition, James Emmanuel has announced himself as one of the most authentic voices in Nigerian literature. His reflective storytelling, cultural depth, and social insight mark him as a writer poised to leave a lasting impact on African literature’s next generation.

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 Powerful earthquake strikes Northern Afghanistan, kills 20 and injures 500

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 Powerful earthquake strikes Northern Afghanistan, kills 20 and injures 500

KABUL, Afghanistan (BN24) — A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan before dawn Monday, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 500, officials said, as rescue teams raced to reach the hardest-hit areas.

The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake’s epicenter was about 22 kilometers (14 miles) west-southwest of Khulm in Balkh province, striking around 12:59 a.m. local time at a depth of 28 kilometers (17 miles).

Sharafat Zaman, spokesperson for Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Health, said 534 injured people and 20 bodies were brought to hospitals in Balkh and neighboring Samangan provinces. “These numbers are expected to rise as rescuers reach remote areas,” Zaman said.

In nearby Badakhshan, officials said roughly 800 houses were partially or completely destroyed in a single village in the Shahr-e-Bozorg district. Limited internet access in the mountainous region has made it difficult to determine casualties.

Yousaf Hammad, a spokesman for Afghanistan’s disaster management agency, said most of the injured suffered minor wounds and were discharged after treatment. The Ministry of Defense announced that emergency teams had reached the affected zones in Balkh and Samangan, transporting the injured and assisting with rescue operations.

Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the quake caused “casualties and significant financial losses,” and that government agencies were mobilized to deliver aid.

Footage from Mazar-e-Sharif, the capital of Balkh province, showed residents rushing into the streets as the ground shook. The city’s historic Blue Mosque, one of Afghanistan’s most revered religious landmarks, sustained visible damage as bricks and tiles fell from one of its minarets, though the main structure remained standing.

The tremor was also felt in Kabul and several other provinces. Authorities said a rockslide temporarily blocked the main highway between Kabul and Mazar-e-Sharif but was cleared hours later, allowing trapped motorists to be rescued.

The United Nations in Afghanistan said on X that its emergency teams were assessing damage and delivering relief supplies. “We stand with the affected communities and will provide the necessary support,” the U.N. mission said.

Monday’s disaster comes just weeks after a 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan near the Pakistan border, killing more than 2,200 people. In October 2023, a 6.3-magnitude quake and its aftershocks killed about 4,000 people in western Herat province.

Afghanistan’s ability to respond to natural disasters remains limited, with poorly built homes and fragile infrastructure compounding the destruction. Most rural houses are made from mud bricks and timber, leaving them highly vulnerable to collapse.

Since the Taliban seized control in 2021, the country has faced repeated crises — from earthquakes and drought to economic collapse — as foreign aid, once the backbone of the Afghan economy, has sharply declined.

According to the World Bank, the August 2024 quake caused more than $183 million in damage. The U.N. and humanitarian agencies have warned that hunger and displacement continue to rise across Afghanistan, where millions are still struggling to recover from years of war and disaster.

 Israel receives 3 more hostages’ corpses from Gaza as fragile ceasefire endures

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 Israel receives 3 more hostages’ corpses from Gaza as fragile ceasefire endures

Israel announced Sunday that it had received the remains of three hostages from Gaza, as forensic experts began examining them amid a fragile ceasefire that has largely held for a month.

Hamas earlier said the remains were discovered in a tunnel in southern Gaza. The handover marks the latest development in a tense and slow-moving exchange under a U.S.-brokered truce that began Oct. 10. Since then, Palestinian militants have released the remains of 17 hostages, with 11 believed to remain in Gaza before Sunday’s transfer.

Israel’s military said official identification of the remains would be made privately with the families. Later Sunday, President Donald Trump confirmed that among those returned was Omer Neutra, an American-Israeli citizen and tank platoon commander in the Israel Defense Forces.

Trump said he had spoken with Neutra’s family, calling the moment both “relieving and heartbreaking.” Israeli officials believe Neutra, a native of Long Island, New York, was killed during the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led assault on southern Israel that triggered the devastating war.

“They were thrilled, in one sense, but in another sense, obviously, it’s not too great,” Trump said.

In recent weeks, militants have handed over one or two bodies at a time. Israeli officials have expressed frustration with the pace of returns, saying some remains provided have not belonged to hostages. Hamas has blamed the delays on Gaza’s massive destruction, which has complicated recovery efforts.

Families of hostages continue to hold weekly rallies urging restraint and renewed diplomacy. At a Saturday night vigil in Jerusalem, Moran Harari, a friend of slain hostage Carmel Gat, pleaded for peace. “This cursed war has taken so many lives of dear people on both sides. This time, we must not fall into it again,” Harari said.

Israel has, in turn, released the remains of 15 Palestinians in exchange for those of one Israeli hostage. Gaza’s Health Ministry said its ability to identify returned bodies has been hindered by a lack of DNA kits. Of the 225 Palestinian bodies handed over since the ceasefire began, only 75 have been positively identified.

The remains exchanges form a central part of the U.S.-mediated 20-point ceasefire plan, which includes an international stabilization force made up of Arab and allied nations. The proposed mission would coordinate with Egypt and Jordan to secure Gaza’s borders and uphold the truce.

Several nations have shown interest in participating but have called for a United Nations Security Council mandate before committing troops. Ongoing questions remain about Hamas’ disarmament, postwar governance of Gaza, and expanding humanitarian aid deliveries.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that Hamas still maintains a presence in Rafah and Khan Younis, areas under Israeli military control. “They will be eliminated,” he told his Cabinet.

The 2023 Hamas-led assault killed about 1,200 people in Israel and saw 251 taken hostage, sparking the bloodiest conflict in the region’s history. Israel’s retaliatory offensive has since killed more than 68,800 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

Israel denies allegations of genocide raised by U.N. investigators and other bodies, disputing the casualty figures but offering no alternative count.

LA LIGA: Marcus Rashford scores as Barcelona bounce back with victory over Elche

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LA LIGA: Marcus Rashford scores as Barcelona bounce back with victory over Elche

BARCELONA, Spain (BN24)— Marcus Rashford scored the decisive goal as Barcelona bounced back from their El Clásico defeat with a 3-1 La Liga victory over Elche on Sunday. Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres had put Hansi Flick’s side in command before Rafa Mir pulled one back for the visitors.

The England forward’s 61st-minute strike sealed the win, lifting Barcelona to second place in the standings, five points behind leaders Real Madrid.

Elche appeared to score first, but their effort was ruled out for offside, quelling early celebrations. From that moment, Barcelona asserted control. Yamal opened the scoring in the ninth minute, expertly finishing into the far corner after receiving a pass from Alejandro Balde and cutting onto his left foot.

Two minutes later, Barca doubled their advantage when Fermin Lopez capitalized on a slip by Adria Pedrosa, crossing for Torres to tap into an empty net. Elche responded just before halftime as Mir beat the offside trap and curled a shot from the edge of the box into the bottom corner, cutting the deficit to 2-1.

Rashford nearly scored early in the second half, but the linesman flagged Fermin for offside in the buildup. The England forward soon made amends, receiving a pass from Fermin and firing powerfully past Inaki Pena to restore Barcelona’s two-goal cushion.

Mir struck the post twice in the second half, but Elche was unable to mount a comeback. The victory extended Barcelona’s unbeaten home record against Elche in La Liga to 25 matches, including 18 wins.

The result allowed Barcelona to rebound confidently from their recent setback in El Clásico, maintaining pressure on Real Madrid at the top of the table as the La Liga season progresses.

India clinches historic first Women’s World Cup victory with win over South Africa

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India clinches historic first Women’s World Cup victory with win over South Africa

NAVI MUMBAI, India (BN24)— India triumphed over South Africa by 52 runs to claim their first Women’s World Cup, delivering a historic victory in front of a packed, raucous crowd at the DY Patil Stadium on Sunday. The final, delayed by two hours due to rain, became a showcase of resilience, skill, and composure under pressure.

Batting first, India posted a competitive 298-7. Opener Shafali Verma led the charge with a dynamic 87 from 78 balls, while Deepti Sharma contributed a steady 58. The total set South Africa a record chase in Women’s One-Day Internationals.

South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt fought back with her second consecutive century, scoring a flawless 101 from 98 balls to keep her side in contention at 211-6. However, her dismissal via a juggling catch from Amanjot Kaur off Deepti Sharma in the 42nd over shifted momentum decisively in India’s favor. South Africa ultimately finished 246 all out, marking their third consecutive final defeat.

Verma, called up late to the tournament after an injury to Pratika Rawal, shone with the ball as well, finishing 2-36, but it was Deepti Sharma, the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, who ripped through the South African batting lineup with figures of 5-39. India’s performance capped an incredible turnaround, overcoming three consecutive group-stage defeats to march to glory.

The final was marked by intense moments, including a crucial run-out of Tazmin Brits by Amanjot Kaur and decisive wickets from Deepti Sharma, Harmanpreet Kaur, and Shree Charani. Despite a valiant effort from Wolvaardt and South Africa, India’s depth, composure, and tactical execution proved decisive.

For India, the triumph was historic not only for breaking the World Cup barrier but also for igniting a new era in women’s cricket. The Women’s Premier League has been instrumental in building the team’s depth and confidence to perform under the spotlight, as evidenced by the enthusiastic support from fans queuing hours before the match.

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur hailed the victory as a turning point: “After every World Cup, we came together as a team and discussed what we needed to do. This is just the beginning. We have so many big occasions coming up, and we want to make this our habit.” South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt praised India’s performance, acknowledging her team had been outplayed despite a brilliant campaign.

The win establishes India as a rising force in women’s cricket, signaling a potential shift in the sport’s global hierarchy and inspiring a new generation of players in a cricket-loving nation.

9 dead, dozens injured in temple crowd surge in Andhra Pradesh, India

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9 dead, dozens injured in temple crowd surge in Andhra Pradesh, India

NEW DELHI (BN24) — A religious gathering at a Hindu temple in southern India turned tragic Saturday when a crowd surge left at least nine people dead and dozens injured, authorities said.

The deadly incident took place at the Swamy Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh’s Srikakulam district, where thousands of devotees assembled to mark Ekadashi, one of Hinduism’s most sacred fasting days dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Police said the tragedy began when an iron grille meant to control the line of worshippers collapsed, causing a sudden crush of people near the temple entrance. “The structure broke under pressure, and the crowd surged uncontrollably,” senior officer K. V. Maheswara Reddy told The Associated Press.

Local official Swapnil Dinkar Pundkar said initial reports of seven deaths later rose to nine as two victims succumbed to their injuries. Among the dead were eight women and a child, he said. Sixteen devotees remain hospitalized, while another 20 are under observation for shock.

Video clips aired on regional television showed chaotic scenes as worshippers struggled to breathe and others fainted amid the crush. Bystanders were seen fanning and helping those who collapsed on the temple grounds.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed condolences to the victims’ families. Modi described the incident as “heartbreaking,” while Naidu promised strict action against those responsible and ordered a formal inquiry.

Authorities said the temple sits on a 12-acre private property and is not managed by the state’s religious endowment department. The complex, which can accommodate about 3,000 people, was overwhelmed as an estimated 25,000 devotees arrived for the festival.

“Arrangements were not made accordingly, nor was information provided to the government by the concerned individual. This is the reason for the accident,” the Andhra Pradesh Fact Check Unit said on social media.

Crowd surges are a recurring risk during India’s major religious gatherings, where large numbers often exceed local capacity. In July, a similar incident at a northern temple left six dead and several injured.

Deadly U.S. strike in Caribbean kills 3 suspected narco-terrorists

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Deadly U.S. strike in Caribbean kills 3 suspected narco-terrorists

U.S. military forces launched a deadly strike on a suspected drug-smuggling vessel in the Caribbean Sea late Saturday, killing all three people aboard, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced. The Pentagon said the attack was part of the administration’s broader campaign to target narcotics traffickers that U.S. officials have labeled “narco-terrorists.”

Hegseth said in a post on X that U.S. intelligence had long tracked the vessel as part of an illicit smuggling route in the Caribbean. He identified the three men killed as members of a “Designated Terrorist Organization” but provided no evidence to substantiate the claims.

“This vessel — like EVERY OTHER — was known by our intelligence to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, was transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics,” Hegseth wrote. “We will continue to track them, map them, hunt them, and kill them.”

No U.S. personnel were injured in the operation, which marked at least the 15th strike since early September on vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific that the Trump administration has tied to narcotics trafficking. At least 64 people have been killed in those strikes, according to official estimates.

Hegseth described the attack as part of an effort to dismantle criminal networks that he said “poison Americans at home.” He vowed to continue targeting smugglers with the same intensity that U.S. forces once used against al-Qaida.

Last month, the Pentagon redeployed the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean to bolster U.S. naval operations in the region, according to Defense Department spokesman Sean Parnell.

The ongoing campaign, however, has sparked growing scrutiny in Congress. Lawmakers from both parties have demanded greater transparency about the intelligence behind the strikes and how the administration determines the alleged affiliations of those killed.

Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, criticized the administration last week for failing to include Democrats in a classified briefing on the Caribbean operations. “That’s not how two-party accountability is supposed to work,” Warner said.

Hegseth’s latest statement offered no details about the identities or nationalities of the three people killed, nor evidence linking them to any terrorist or criminal organizations. In earlier operations, the administration has released limited background on the targeted vessels and crews.

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