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Wrestler Jaka dies aged 39 after heart attack

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WWE, AEW(BN24) — The wrestling world is mourning the loss of Jonathan Echevarria, known professionally as Jaka, who has died at the age of 39 following a critical heart attack.

Jaka had been in intensive care over the weekend, but his family confirmed early Monday that he had sadly passed away. Tributes have since poured in from across the wrestling world, spanning WWE, AEW, and the independent circuit where Jaka made his name as a beloved performer and respected locker room figure.

Best known for his work on the now-WWE-owned Evolve brand, Jaka was a former tag team champion, having defended the titles during a WWE-affiliated show in 2018 while the promotion was still under the leadership of Gabe Sapolsky. Sapolsky, who played a key role in developing Evolve, paid tribute to the late wrestler, saying:

“A true tragedy. No one will say a bad word about the man. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Thank you for everything, Jaka.”

Beyond Wrestling, where Jaka last wrestled in 2019, confirmed his death by sharing an image of him in the ring surrounded by fellow wrestlers. Their tribute read simply:

“The original Ace. RIP Jaka.”

Jaka also made a notable appearance in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), teaming with Sean Maluta in a match against Santana and Ortiz, one of AEW’s most established tag teams. Though the team came up short, the match marked a significant milestone in Jaka’s career.

Independent promotions that hosted Jaka throughout his career also expressed their grief. C*4 Wrestling shared on social media:

“Very saddened to hear the news about Jaka’s passing. I always loved having him on shows. He was a welcome addition to our locker room. He was kind, hardworking, and thoughtful. To his friends and family, we send our love and support. Rest in peace.”

AEW star Penelope Ford was among the many wrestlers who shared heartfelt remembrances:

“One of the funniest, kindest and insightful humans I was blessed to have known.”

Jaka’s final match took place in March 2025 with Boca Raton Championship Wrestling, where he once again teamed with Maluta and Neil the Heel in a losing effort to Jonny Fairplay and Oddyssey. His contributions to the wrestling community extended far beyond wins and losses, leaving an impact on those who worked with him both in and out of the ring.

As the wrestling industry continues to reel from the news, Jaka is remembered not only for his talent and passion inside the squared circle but for his humility, humor, and heart outside of it.

He is survived by his family, friends, and countless fans and peers who admired his work and character.

South African lawyer Bouwer Van Niekerk assassinated days after threats over high-profile case

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Simeon
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JOHANNESBURG (BN24) — South Africa’s legal community is in mourning and shock following the assassination of prominent insolvency lawyer Bouwer van Niekerk, who was fatally shot in a boardroom at Smit Sew Attorneys and Conveyancers in Saxonwold, Johannesburg, on Friday morning, September 5, 2025.

Van Niekerk, 43, was a well-known figure in the legal sector, particularly for his work on high-stakes financial cases, including matters tied to the controversial Gupta family and a massive alleged Ponzi scheme. His murder, executed in cold blood inside a law office, is being treated as a targeted killing.

According to Gauteng police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, the attackers — two men posing as prospective clients — scheduled a meeting to gain entry to the firm’s office on Avonwold Road. Once inside the boardroom, multiple gunshots rang out. The suspects fled the scene, and nothing was stolen, further pointing to a deliberate assassination rather than a robbery gone wrong.

Police have confirmed they are searching for four suspects and have opened a murder investigation. Authorities have not yet publicly identified a motive, but circumstances strongly suggest Van Niekerk’s professional activities placed him in the crosshairs of powerful interests.

Just days before his death, Van Niekerk reportedly received chilling threats demanding he withdraw from the Ponzi scheme case or face “dire consequences.” According to statements given by his family to News24, he refused to yield, citing his unwavering commitment to justice and accountability.

His assassination mirrors previous targeted killings of legal professionals in South Africa. Most notably, Van Niekerk himself had publicly condemned the 2023 murders of respected insolvency practitioner Cloete Murray and his son Thomas, who were gunned down in Pretoria while investigating corruption linked to the Gupta empire. Van Niekerk had warned that those attacks sent a “terrifying message” to the legal community.

That same warning has now come full circle with his own death — a chilling confirmation of the growing dangers facing those challenging organized crime and systemic corruption in South Africa.

The South African Restructuring and Insolvency Practitioners Association (SARIPA) expressed deep shock and outrage. Chairperson Jo Mitchell-Marais stated:

“This is an assault on the entire judicial system. Our members must be able to work without fear or violence.”

Ian Cameron, chairperson of the parliamentary portfolio committee on police, echoed the alarm:

“When lawyers and investigators are targeted, it is likely justice itself that is being attacked.”

Van Niekerk was a respected legal voice known for his courage and integrity. His death has intensified calls for stronger protections for whistleblowers, attorneys, and investigators working on state capture and financial crime cases.

His passing is not only a personal tragedy but a severe blow to South Africa’s fight against corruption — a battle that, increasingly, seems to carry deadly consequences.

MTV Vmas 2025: full winners list highlights a night of powerful performances and historic wins

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Simeon
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NEW YORK (BN24) — The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards took center stage Sunday night at UBS Arena in New York, celebrating a year of musical milestones with a high-energy ceremony hosted by hip-hop legend LL Cool J. With performances, tributes, and a wide-ranging winners list, the night honored the brightest stars in pop, hip-hop, rock, K-pop, and more.

Ariana Grande earned one of the evening’s top honors, winning Video of the Year for her hopeful and visually stunning single, “Brighter Days Ahead.” The track also brought her wins in two additional categories, underscoring her continued reign in pop music and visual storytelling.

Lady Gaga, however, emerged as the biggest winner of the night with four Moon Person trophies, including the prestigious Artist of the Year award. Her emotional duet with Bruno Mars, “Die With a Smile,” won Best Collaboration, further highlighting Gaga’s enduring versatility and creative evolution.

Another standout was Sabrina Carpenter, who added three VMAs to her growing collection. She won Album of the Year for Short n’ Sweet, Best Pop Artist, and Best Visual Effects for her emotionally charged video “Manchild.” Carpenter’s success highlighted her expanding influence across both visual and musical artistry.

Rosé, best known as a member of BLACKPINK, took home Song of the Year for “APT.”, a powerful duet with Bruno Mars. Meanwhile, girl group KATSEYE claimed MTV Push Performance of the Year for “Touch,” capping off a breakout year.

The ceremony also recognized legacy contributions. Mariah Carey was honored with the Video Vanguard Award, celebrating her decades of influence on the music video format. Busta Rhymes received the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award, while Ricky Martin was presented with the first-ever Latin Icon Award, commemorating his global impact.

Among genre-specific wins, Alex Warren was named Best New Artist, and BLACKPINK secured Best Group, continuing K-pop’s global dominance. Tate McRae captured Song of the Summer for “Just Keep Watching” from F1: The Movie, which also earned her Best Editing.

Mariah Carey also won Best R&B Video for “Type Dangerous”, adding another Moon Person to her decorated career. Doechii earned both Best Hip-Hop Video for “Anxiety” and Best Choreography, solidifying her place as one of the most innovative voices in contemporary hip-hop.

Other major wins included:

  • Coldplay for Best Rock Video (“All My Love”)
  • Shakira for Best Latin Video (“Soltera”)
  • Tyla for Best Afrobeats (“Push 2 Start”)
  • Megan Moroney for Best Country Video (“Am I Okay?”)
  • Lisa of BLACKPINK for Best K-pop Video (“Born Again” with Doja Cat and Raye)

On the technical side, Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra” took home both Best Direction and Best Art Direction, while Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” earned Best Cinematography, adding to his impressive visual repertoire.

Charli xcx, alongside Billie Eilish, won Video for Good for their collaboration “Guess”, which tackled social themes with bold visuals and lyrical depth.

The 2025 MTV VMAs successfully balanced honoring music legends with uplifting emerging talent. From emotional acceptance speeches to unforgettable performances, the night served as a vivid reminder of music’s unifying power. As the industry continues to evolve, the VMAs remain a vital pulse point for creativity, diversity, and cultural impact.

Brazilian President accuses US of ‘Tariff Blackmail’

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(FILES) Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva attends the meeting of the Council for Sustainable Economic and Social Development in Brasilia on August 5, 2025. Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva denounced the United States' military deployment in the Caribbean Sea on September 8, 2025, during a virtual meeting of the BRICS countries. Amid tensions with Venezuela, the U.S. Navy deployed several ships to the Caribbean Sea to combat drug trafficking, according to the US President Donald Trump. (Photo by EVARISTO SA / AFP)

BRASÍLIA, Brazil (BN24) — Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on Monday accused the United States of engaging in “tariff blackmail,” sharply criticizing a 50 percent import duty imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump that has triggered a steep drop in Brazil’s exports to its second-largest trading partner.

Speaking during a virtual summit of BRICS leaders—including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa—Lula said the tariff move by Washington represents a growing threat to international trade norms.

“Tariff blackmail is being normalized as an instrument for market conquest and to interfere in domestic affairs,” Lula warned. His remarks came as Brazil’s exports to the U.S. plunged by 18.5 percent in August compared to the same period last year, following the Trump administration’s decision to impose its highest level of trade duties on a broad range of Brazilian goods.

The U.S. tariffs appear to be politically motivated, with Trump citing what he called a “witch hunt” against his close ally, Brazil’s former far-right president Jair Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro, who was defeated by Lula in the 2022 presidential election, is currently on trial for allegedly plotting to overturn the election results and reclaim power. A verdict in that case is expected later this week.

Trump’s remarks and the corresponding trade actions have drawn sharp rebukes from Brasília. The Brazilian government has announced it is considering retaliatory measures and has formally requested the intervention of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to mediate the escalating trade dispute.

“Brazil will not allow its economy to be held hostage to external political agendas,” a senior official in Brazil’s foreign ministry told reporters on Monday, signaling a hardening stance from South America’s largest economy.

The tension underscores the broader challenges facing global trade, particularly as geopolitical rivalries and domestic political calculations begin to shape tariffs and other trade policies. BRICS nations, which include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, have increasingly pushed for reforms in global institutions like the WTO to counter what they describe as U.S. dominance in international economic frameworks.

The latest tariff row between Washington and Brasília threatens to strain bilateral relations further, just as both countries navigate high-stakes political transitions and upcoming elections.

Israel vows ‘Hurricane’ of strikes on Gaza to force Hamas to accept surrender demand

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Simeon
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GAZA CITY (BN24) — Israel escalated its military campaign in Gaza on Monday, vowing a wave of intensified airstrikes described as a “mighty hurricane,” aimed at forcing Hamas to release all remaining hostages and agree to a full surrender. The warning comes as the militant group confirmed it is reviewing a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal delivered over the weekend.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a blunt ultimatum via social media, warning Hamas fighters in Gaza and abroad that the enclave faces total destruction unless hostages are freed and weapons laid down. “This is a final warning to the murderers and rapists of Hamas in Gaza and in the luxury hotels abroad,” Katz wrote on X. “Release the hostages and lay down your weapons — or Gaza will be destroyed, and you will be annihilated.”

Residents of Gaza City reported heavy bombardments across multiple districts as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck what they described as Hamas targets. Among the sites hit was a 12-story residential building sheltering displaced families. The IDF said the building had been used by Hamas operatives to coordinate attacks against Israeli troops, though local officials claimed civilians were among the dead.

The sharp escalation came just hours after six people, including a Spanish citizen, were killed in a shooting attack at a Jerusalem bus stop. While Hamas did not claim responsibility, the group praised the attackers, fueling further tensions.

Meanwhile, Hamas confirmed it is assessing the latest ceasefire proposal, which calls for the release of all 48 remaining hostages—both living and deceased—on the first day of a negotiated pause in hostilities. According to senior Israeli officials, the offer would initiate broader talks aimed at ending the nearly two-year conflict. However, Hamas has maintained that any agreement must include a definitive end to the war and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza territory.

Israel relaunched a concentrated assault on Gaza City last month, targeting what it claims are the remaining strongholds of Hamas leadership. Despite widespread destruction, hundreds of thousands of civilians have returned to live among the ruins of neighborhoods flattened during previous phases of the war.

On Monday alone, at least 40 Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes and ground operations, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Among the dead was journalist Osama Balousha, bringing the reported number of journalists killed since the conflict began to nearly 250—a figure that, if verified, would make it the deadliest war for members of the press in modern history. Israel has denied targeting journalists and continues to bar foreign media from entering Gaza.

The ongoing war traces back to a surprise Hamas-led assault on southern Israel in 2023, in which 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 were taken hostage. While many were later released during temporary ceasefires in late 2023 and early 2025, dozens remain in captivity, and their fate has become a key sticking point in ceasefire negotiations.

Gaza remains in a humanitarian crisis. Palestinian health officials estimate more than 64,000 people have died since the war began. Shortages of food and medicine have worsened, with nearly 400 people—many of them children—reportedly dying from starvation and malnutrition in recent months. Israeli officials have disputed those figures, claiming they are exaggerated for propaganda purposes.

Efforts by international mediators, including the United States and Egypt, have repeatedly failed to bridge the gap between Israel’s insistence on unconditional surrender by Hamas and the group’s demand for a future Palestinian state. As talks stall and military operations expand, the civilian toll continues to mount in what has become one of the deadliest conflicts in the region’s recent history.

5 killed, several wounded in suspected terrorist shooting near Jerusalem bus stop

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JERUSALEM (BN24) — At least five people were killed and 15 others wounded in a deadly shooting attack near a bus stop on the outskirts of Jerusalem on Friday, according to Israel’s national ambulance service. The incident is being investigated as a suspected act of terrorism.

Emergency responders reported that paramedics arriving at the scene discovered victims lying on the road and sidewalk, several of them unconscious and suffering from serious gunshot wounds. Among the injured, at least five remained in critical condition as of Friday evening.

Israeli police said that the perpetrators of the attack had been shot and killed, although they did not specify how many individuals were involved. Authorities described the attackers as “terrorists,” but offered no immediate information regarding their identities or the motive behind the assault.

The shooting occurred during a busy time of day at a public transportation hub, heightening concerns about security amid ongoing tensions in the region. Law enforcement agencies have cordoned off the area as investigations continue.

The attack marks one of the deadliest incidents in recent months near the contested city, drawing swift responses from Israeli security forces. While no group has claimed responsibility so far, the situation remains flui

Hundreds abduct 45 soldiers in rebel-influenced region of Colombia, army says-AP

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BOGOTÁ, Colombia (BN24) — The Colombian army said Sunday that hundreds of people abducted 45 soldiers in the country’s southwest, in a rural zone heavily influenced by a dissident rebel faction tied to the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC).

According to a military statement, the incident occurred in the Micay Canyon in Cauca department, a region long known for coca leaf cultivation and now considered a stronghold of FARC dissidents who have stepped up attacks on government forces.

The army said roughly 600 people surrounded and blocked the soldiers, who had been deployed to oversee crop substitution programs designed to replace coca cultivation. Once surrounded, the troops were prevented from carrying out their mission and declared “kidnapped” by the military.

It is the second abduction of Colombian soldiers in less than a month. In August, 33 soldiers were captured under similar circumstances in Guaviare department. Local villagers, allegedly acting under rebel orders, detained the troops after a gun battle that left 10 dissidents dead. They demanded the return of one rebel’s body before eventually releasing the soldiers four days later.

The abduction in Cauca highlights the ongoing security challenges Colombia faces in rural areas nearly a decade after the 2016 peace agreement with the FARC. Despite the accord, dissident groups and drug trafficking organizations continue to control swaths of countryside where state presence is limited.

The government has sought to expand substitution programs to curb coca production, but efforts have met fierce resistance in rebel-dominated regions. The latest incident underscores the volatile relationship between armed groups, local communities, and government forces, as Colombia struggles to maintain order in contested areas.

Teenager fatally shoots 2 police officers in attack on Turkish station

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IZMIR, Turkey (BN24) — A 16-year-old gunman opened fire on a police station in western Turkey on Monday, killing two police officers and wounding at least six others in a shocking assault that officials say was carried out with a pump-action shotgun.

The attack took place in the Balcova district of Izmir, Turkey’s third-largest city, drawing heavy police and emergency response to the scene. Witnesses reported chaos as gunfire erupted inside the station, forcing bystanders to flee for safety.

Authorities said the teenager, who was masked during the assault, was swiftly overpowered and arrested. Izmir Chief Prosecutor Ali Yeldan confirmed that investigators are probing the motive, though early reports from Turkish media suggest the suspect acted out of retaliation after an earlier encounter with police.

According to private broadcaster NTV, the teen had been released from custody only days before the attack. The network reported that he blamed police officers for alleged mistreatment during detention and targeted the station in response.

The rampage left two police officers dead and several others wounded, along with civilians who were caught in the gunfire. Victims were rushed to nearby hospitals as security forces sealed off the area.

The teenager’s use of a pump-action shotgun has raised renewed concerns in Turkey about access to firearms among youth and the rising trend of targeted attacks on law enforcement.

As night fell in Izmir, police cordoned off the Balcova station while forensic teams collected evidence from the site. The Interior Ministry condemned the shooting, calling it a “heinous attack on those who protect our citizens,” and vowed accountability.

The attack is the latest in a string of violent incidents in Turkey involving minors, a growing concern for authorities and communities already grappling with political unrest and security threats.

Gunmen kill 8 NSCDC officers, abduct Chinese expatriate in deadly attack on Edo cement facility, in Nigeria

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EDO STATE, Nigeria (BN24) — Eight operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were killed and a Chinese expatriate abducted late Friday in a violent ambush near the BUA Cement facility in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigerian officials confirmed.

The deadly incident occurred around 10 p.m. on September 5, 2025, as the NSCDC officers were providing security escort to five Chinese nationals following a routine patrol near the company’s entrance. According to a senior NSCDC official in the state, the gunmen—believed to be kidnappers—opened fire on the security personnel, killing eight and fatally wounding a civilian driver.

The attackers managed to abduct one Chinese expatriate during the assault, while four of his colleagues were successfully rescued. Four other individuals sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed medical facility, authorities said.

Commandant Agun Gbenga of the NSCDC has visited both the crime scene and the hospital where the injured are being treated. In response to the attack, a joint security task force comprising multiple agencies has launched a search operation in the surrounding forest areas in pursuit of the perpetrators.

In a statement released Sunday, BUA Cement expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the families of the deceased and the Nigerian government. The company acknowledged the loss of the eight NSCDC operatives and a civilian driver, while also condemning the abduction.

“BUA is deeply saddened by the attack of Friday, September 5, 2025, in which eight operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and a civilian driver lost their lives near our Okpella facility in Edo State,” the company said. “We extend heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen, the NSCDC, and the Government of Nigeria, and wish the injured officers a swift recovery.”

The company confirmed it is working closely with Nigerian security forces to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped expatriate and to bring the attackers to justice.

“The safety of our people, partners, and host communities remains paramount. This tragedy is a painful reminder of the sacrifices borne daily by our security personnel. Their courage will never be forgotten,” BUA added.

The NSCDC is expected to issue a formal statement from its Abuja headquarters. Meanwhile, security efforts have intensified across the region, with authorities calling on local communities to report any suspicious activity as the manhunt continues.

Alcaraz defeats Sinner in U.S. Open final to claim second Flushing Meadows title

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NEW YORK (BN24) — Carlos Alcaraz reaffirmed his dominance over Jannik Sinner on Sunday night with a 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 victory in the U.S. Open men’s singles final, securing his second title at Flushing Meadows and sixth Grand Slam overall. The win marked the third consecutive major final contested between the two rising stars, cementing a rivalry that has reshaped men’s tennis.

The match at Arthur Ashe Stadium was played under heightened attention, with President Donald Trump attending as the first sitting U.S. president to appear at the tournament since Bill Clinton in 2000. Trump drew a mix of cheers and boos when acknowledged by fans, and his presence contributed to extra security measures that delayed the start of play by about 30 minutes.

Alcaraz, 22, entered the final intent on avenging his July loss to Sinner at Wimbledon. From the outset, he displayed superior consistency and shot-making, dominating with his forehand and breaking Sinner’s serve five times. The victory gave Alcaraz a 10-5 career edge in their head-to-head meetings, a 6-4 advantage in Grand Slam titles, and a 2-1 lead in U.S. Open championships. It also returned him to the world No. 1 ranking, dethroning Sinner, 24, of Italy.

“This win means everything,” Alcaraz said. “Every time I play Jannik, I need to give my best. He pushes me like no one else.”

The rivalry has become historic. Sunday’s clash marked the first time in men’s tennis that the same two players met in three consecutive Slam finals within a single season. The streak began with Alcaraz’s dramatic five-set victory at the French Open, followed by Sinner’s Wimbledon triumph, and concluded with Alcaraz’s hard-court win in New York. Together, the pair have claimed 10 of the last 13 Grand Slam titles, with Novak Djokovic accounting for the other three.

Sinner, who entered with a 27-match unbeaten streak on hard courts at majors, showed flashes of brilliance in the second set but struggled to match Alcaraz’s power and precision across four sets. Alcaraz finished with 42 winners to Sinner’s 21, overwhelming the defending champion during key moments.

“Carlos was just better tonight,” Sinner said. “He deserved this win. I will keep working and I know I will come back stronger.”

The numbers underline the rivalry’s imbalance in recent years: since the start of 2023, Sinner is 1-7 against Alcaraz and 109-4 against everyone else. Meanwhile, Alcaraz has won 37 of his last 38 matches since May, with his only loss coming to Sinner at Wimbledon.

Sinner attempted tactical adjustments in the final, targeting Alcaraz’s backhand to blunt the Spaniard’s ferocious forehand. The strategy worked briefly in the second set, when Alcaraz’s errors piled up, but it was not enough to halt the Spaniard’s relentless aggression.

The win capped a remarkable season for Alcaraz, who now owns a tour-leading seven titles in 2025 alongside a 61-6 match record. At just 22, he continues to carve a legacy as the defining player of his generation.

Fans in New York largely sided with Alcaraz, cheering his every winner under the closed roof on a rainy evening. For Sinner, it marked his second loss to Alcaraz in a Slam final this year, underscoring the Spaniard’s growing edge in their rivalry.

With two U.S. Open titles now to his name and the world No. 1 ranking secured, Alcaraz leaves New York not just as a champion but as the undisputed leader of men’s tennis.

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