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Over 30 killed as torrential rains trigger flooding, landslides in northern India- Reuters

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NEW DELHI (BN24) — Torrential rains sweeping across northern India have unleashed floods and landslides that killed at least 34 people, destroyed infrastructure, and cut off key services, officials and local media said Wednesday, warning that more heavy rainfall is expected in the coming days.

Authorities said the deadliest incident occurred Tuesday near the revered Vaishno Devi shrine, a Hindu pilgrimage site in the Himalayan foothills, where a massive landslide buried parts of the route and killed at least 30 people. The tragedy marked the latest in a series of deadly weather events in the Himalayan region, following last week’s downpours in Kishtwar, Indian-administered Kashmir, that left 60 people dead and 200 others missing.

In nearby Jammu, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded 368 millimeters (14.5 inches) of rain on Tuesday alone. The agency issued fresh warnings of thunderstorms and gusty winds for Ladakh, and forecast heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh as well as the federal territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

The deluge has forced widespread shutdowns, with schools closed across Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab. Omar Abdullah, the chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, said telecommunications services were “almost nonexistent,” complicating relief operations as flooding rivers surged across the region. Officials reported that overflowing waters in the Tawi, Chenab, Jhelum, and Basantar rivers inundated low-lying districts, leaving at least three dead in Doda district of Jammu.

“The immediate priority is restoration of electricity, water supply, and mobile services, for which the authorities have been working continuously overnight,” Jitendra Singh, India’s minister for science and technology, said in a post on X. Singh added that the Madhopur bridge had suffered “significant damage,” with dramatic television footage showing vehicles plunging into the water as part of the bridge collapsed. Several highways linking Jammu to other regions were also washed out, further isolating communities.

The flooding crisis comes as neighboring Pakistan grapples with its own monsoon devastation. Authorities there said Tuesday that Punjab province faces “very high to exceptionally high” flood danger following days of torrential rain compounded by India’s release of water from two dams. Pakistani officials said more than 150,000 people have been displaced in the province, including 35,000 who evacuated their homes voluntarily after warnings issued earlier this month.

Northern India’s Himalayan states are prone to deadly flooding and landslides during the monsoon season, with experts warning that climate change is intensifying rainfall patterns and making disasters more frequent and severe.

Iran security forces kill two key Jaish al-Adl militants in southeast clashes

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TEHRAN, Iran (BN24) — Iranian security forces killed two senior members of the militant group Jaish al-Adl in the restive southeastern province of Sistan and Baluchistan, authorities said Thursday, in the latest escalation of violence in a region long plagued by insurgent activity and armed clashes.

Provincial police commander Doostali Jalilian told reporters that the two militants were planning to stage an attack in the city of Iranshahr but were intercepted and killed before carrying out their plot. “These individuals were members of the terrorist group Jaish al-Zulm [another name for Jaish al-Adl],” Jalilian said, adding that security forces acted preemptively to neutralize the threat.

Jalilian also said that six terrorists involved in earlier armed attacks on military centers in the city of Chabahar were recently detained and handed over to judicial authorities. In addition, he noted that security forces have arrested 29 armed bandits in the province over recent weeks, underscoring continued crackdowns against militant and criminal networks in the volatile border region.

The announcement comes a day after state television reported that Iranian forces killed 13 militants in three separate operations across Sistan and Baluchistan. Among those killed, eight were identified as members of the group that ambushed and killed five policemen on patrol last Friday. Authorities have blamed Jaish al-Adl for that deadly attack, saying the Sunni militant group seeks to destabilize the region under the guise of advocating for greater rights for the ethnic Baluch minority.

According to state media, the Wednesday clashes occurred in three separate cities in the province, with police and paramilitary Revolutionary Guard units taking part in coordinated raids. Officials confirmed that several additional militants were detained but did not disclose exact numbers.

Sistan and Baluchistan, which borders both Afghanistan and Pakistan, has long been a flashpoint for armed confrontations between Iranian security forces, Sunni militant factions, and heavily armed drug traffickers who exploit the region’s rugged terrain and porous borders. It remains one of Iran’s least developed provinces, fueling tensions that insurgent groups have sought to exploit in their campaigns against Tehran.

The operations this week mark one of the most significant security escalations in the area in months, as authorities intensify efforts to prevent militant groups from mounting further attacks.

Passengers Scamper As Abuja-Kaduna Train Derails In Nigeria

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ABUJA, Nigeria (BN24) — A passenger train traveling from Abuja to Kaduna derailed Tuesday morning, overturning several carriages and sparking panic among those onboard. The incident occurred shortly after the train departed Abuja around 11 a.m. along one of Nigeria’s busiest rail corridors, according to eyewitness reports.

Chaos erupted as passengers scrambled to escape the overturned cabins, with many describing the scene as frightening and disorganized. An eyewitness at the scene recounted, “It was pure panic. People were running in different directions, unsure of what to do next. We cannot yet confirm if everyone is safe, but we pray for everyone’s survival.”

The Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation, Kayode Opeifa, confirmed the derailment during a telephone interview, noting that rescue efforts are actively underway. “The incident is confirmed, and rescue operations are ongoing at the scene,” Opeifa said, adding that further details would be provided as the situation develops.

While the exact cause of the derailment remains unknown, no casualties have been officially reported at this time. The Abuja-Kaduna rail line is a critical transport artery used by hundreds of commuters daily and has previously been disrupted by security challenges, including the March 2022 terrorist attack that resulted in deaths and abductions.

This latest derailment raises concerns over railway safety and operational stability on one of Nigeria’s most vital train routes. Authorities continue to monitor the rescue process as investigations into the cause of the derailment proceed.

Credit: Punching.com

JUST IN: 6 Injured in Abuja-Kaduna Train Derailment, Investigation Underway in Nigeria

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ABUJA, Nigeria (BN24) — The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed that six passengers sustained injuries following the derailment of a Kaduna-bound train on Tuesday at approximately 11:09 a.m. The incident occurred at kilometer 49 between Kubwa Station and Asham Station, Nigeria, prompting the immediate deployment of an NSIB go-team to the site to gather evidence, engage stakeholders, and launch a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident.

In a statement released by Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, the bureau confirmed that no fatalities were recorded despite the injuries sustained. The NSIB team is actively collecting data and interacting with relevant parties to understand the circumstances surrounding the derailment.

The statement emphasized, “Current information available indicates that six persons sustained injuries, and no recorded fatalities. A go-team has been deployed to the site to gather evidence, engage relevant stakeholders, and commence an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.” The bureau expressed sympathy for the injured passengers and pledged support to all those affected by the incident.

Captain Alex Badeh, Director General of NSIB, commented on the situation, stating, “We deeply sympathize with all who sustained injuries. The Bureau has deployed investigators to the site to ensure the root cause of this derailment is uncovered. Our commitment is to ensure safer rail transport for Nigerians through a transparent and independent investigation.” NSIB assured the public that updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

The derailment occurred shortly after the train departed Abuja around 11 a.m., traveling to Kaduna along one of Nigeria’s busiest rail corridors. Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scene, recounting how the train suddenly went off the tracks, causing widespread panic as passengers scrambled to escape the affected carriages.

This incident adds to the concerns over railway safety on the Abuja-Kaduna route, which has faced previous disruptions and security challenges. Authorities are now focused on determining the direct and underlying causes to prevent future occurrences and enhance commuter safety on the rail line.

Liverpool’s Slot Criticizes Newcastle’s Defensive Tactics After Thrilling 3-2 Win

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LIVERPOOL(BN24) — Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed doubts about whether Tuesday’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United could truly be called a football match following a hard-fought 3-2 victory at St James’ Park. The Reds secured the win in dramatic fashion with a 100th-minute goal from 16-year-old forward Rio Ngumoha, capping off a tense and unpredictable encounter.

Despite being reduced to 10 men after Anthony Gordon’s red card for a reckless challenge on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk just before halftime, Newcastle mounted a spirited comeback from a two-goal deficit. The match saw an intense, physical battle with 32 fouls committed—the highest in a Premier League game this season.

BBC Sport highlighted statistics from Opta revealing the ball was in play for only 40.8 percent of the match, marking the lowest active playtime in a Premier League fixture since February 2010. Slot’s post-match comments reflected his frustration with Newcastle’s defensive approach. “I’m not too sure if I saw a football match,” Slot told Sky Sports. “It was set-piece after set-piece, long throws. It didn’t have a lot to do with tactics. But I liked a lot how we stood strong.”

The atmosphere inside St James’ Park was charged, fueled in part by reports of Newcastle striker Alexander Isak’s interest in a move to Liverpool. Slot acknowledged the challenges faced during the first 45 minutes, saying, “It was a very difficult first half hour, 45 minutes. We didn’t collapse at all and went 1-0 up.”

He also commented on the difficulty of maintaining the lead against a team that, despite being a man down, employed time-consuming tactics, including the goalkeeper taking every free-kick. “Newcastle going down to 10 men, you would expect it to be a big plus for us, but when a goalkeeper takes every free-kick, there is not much hope [benefit] if you are one player up. That’s why it was so difficult to bring the 2-0 over the line,” Slot added.

Liverpool’s victory, secured in stoppage time, not only underscores their resilience but also raises questions about the style of play Newcastle employed to disrupt the Reds’ rhythm in one of this season’s most hard-fought Premier League encounters.

U.S. Revokes Visa Of Brazil’s Justice Minister Amid Bolsonaro Trial Tensions

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US President Donald Trump speaks during a bilateral meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on August 25, 2025. Trump on Monday suggested that a "purge or revolution" was underway in South Korea, hours before new President Lee Jae Myung was due at the White House. He did not specify to what he was referring but said he would bring it up with Lee. (Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP)

BRASILIA (BN24)— Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on Tuesday condemned the United States for what he called an “irresponsible” decision to revoke the visa of Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski, as diplomatic tensions rise over the trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro on charges of coup plotting.

Speaking during a ministerial meeting in Brasília, Lula voiced strong support for Lewandowski, calling the move part of a broader campaign by Washington to punish Brazil’s judicial system for proceeding with the high-profile trial. “I wanted to express my solidarity and the government’s solidarity with my colleague Lewandowski faced with the irresponsible gesture of the United States in revoking his visa,” Lula said.

While the U.S. State Department has yet to officially confirm the visa revocation, Brazilian officials say it’s one in a series of punitive actions from Washington. According to reports, several Supreme Court justices, including Judge Alexandre de Moraes — who is overseeing Bolsonaro’s trial — have also had their U.S. visas revoked.

The developments follow extensive lobbying by Bolsonaro’s son, Eduardo Bolsonaro, who is based in the U.S. and has actively sought support for his father. In a related escalation, former U.S. President Donald Trump imposed sweeping 50% tariffs on dozens of Brazilian imports and echoed Bolsonaro’s claims that the trial is a “witch hunt.”

Dubbed the “Trump of the Tropics,” Jair Bolsonaro is accused of plotting to remain in power after losing the October 2022 election to Lula. If convicted, the 70-year-old faces up to 40 years in prison. He is currently under house arrest as Brazil’s Supreme Court prepares to deliver a verdict early next month.

Bolsonaro maintains his innocence, asserting that the charges are politically motivated. Prosecutors, however, have intensified scrutiny in recent days, urging heightened police surveillance at his residence amid concerns he could attempt to flee.

Last week, it was revealed that Bolsonaro drafted a request for asylum from Argentina’s right-wing President Javier Milei shortly after the investigation into the alleged coup attempt began. In that request, Bolsonaro described himself as the target of political persecution. The revocation of high-ranking Brazilian officials’ U.S. visas marks a sharp deterioration in diplomatic relations between the two nations, as the fallout from Bolsonaro’s turbulent presidency continues to reverberate across Brazil’s institutions

Homeless Man Admits Killing Woman With Mallet Days After She Gave Him Shelter in London

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LONDON (BN24)— A homeless man has admitted to murdering a woman with a mallet just days after she allowed him to stay at her home in Hammersmith, west London, in a case that has shocked the local community and highlighted the potential risks faced by those offering help to vulnerable individuals.

Apapale Adoum, 39, pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey to the murder of 37-year-old Victoria Adams, who was found dead in her flat in February. Prosecutors told the court Adams suffered at least ten separate head injuries from repeated blows with the mallet.

The court was told that Adams had recently written a letter asking Adoum to leave her property. Neighbours reported hearing screams in the middle of the night in the days leading up to the grim discovery of her body, raising concerns that she may have been in danger prior to the fatal attack.

Adoum appeared in court wearing a grey t-shirt and submitted a handwritten document containing derogatory remarks about the victim. His demeanor and written comments further underscored the disturbing nature of the crime.

Judge Nigel Lickley KC addressed Adoum directly, stating: “I will sentence you on 24 October, and on that day I will sentence you to a life sentence. The thing I have to decide is the minimum term you will serve.”

The case has brought renewed attention to the dangers faced by individuals who offer shelter to those in precarious living conditions, especially when no formal support systems are in place. Sentencing in October will determine how long Adoum must serve in prison before he is eligible for parole.

Taylor Swift Announces Engagement to NFL Star Travis Kelce After 2 Years of Dating

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NEW YORK(BN24) — Pop superstar Taylor Swift announced her engagement to Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce on Tuesday, sharing the news in an Instagram post that quickly captured global attention.

“Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married,” Swift wrote, posting several photos from the moment Kelce proposed, including a picture of him down on one knee.

The couple’s relationship began in 2023 after Swift noticed Kelce at one of her Eras Tour concerts in Kansas City, Missouri. Since then, their relationship has been widely followed by fans and media alike, blending the worlds of music and professional football.

Kelce, an All-Pro athlete, and Swift, one of the world’s most popular recording artists, have made frequent public appearances together over the past two years, fueling speculation about their romance.

Their engagement announcement quickly became a trending topic on social media platforms, highlighting the growing public fascination with the union of two high-profile celebrities from distinct fields.

Trump Demands $500 Million Settlement From Harvard University To Restore Federal Funding

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WASHINGTON (BN24)— US President, Donald Trump demanded that Harvard University pay a $500 million settlement before the federal government restores the Ivy League institution’s funding, accusing Harvard of misconduct amid a legal dispute over allegations of antisemitism on campus.

“We want nothing less than $500 million from Harvard. Don’t negotiate, Linda,” Trump told Education Secretary Linda McMahon during a Cabinet meeting Tuesday, August 26. He emphasized the demand again moments later, saying, “They’ve been very bad. Don’t negotiate.”

The confrontation marks a significant escalation in tensions between the Trump administration and elite universities, particularly Harvard, which is the only major institution to challenge the federal government’s actions in court. The dispute has intensified amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, which has sparked debates over academic freedom and political speech on campuses nationwide.

Harvard’s lawsuit centers on allegations that the administration’s actions threaten to disrupt crucial research funding. The university requested an expedited ruling from U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs ahead of a September 3 deadline to submit grant paperwork, which Harvard says is critical to avoid interruptions in research programs.

While the administration has reached agreements with Columbia and Brown Universities, Harvard remains the most prominent holdout in the ongoing standoff over federal funding and oversight of higher education institutions.

Officials within the Trump administration have indicated that pressuring elite universities resonates politically with a base frustrated by what they perceive as liberal dominance in academia.

A federal judge is expected to issue a decision on the case shortly, which could have broad implications for the relationship between the federal government and American universities.

At Least 34 Colombian Soldiers Kidnapped After Clashes With Farc Dissidents, Defence Minister Says

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BOGOTÁ, Colombia (BN24) — At least 34 Colombian soldiers have been kidnapped in the southeastern jungle province of Guaviare following deadly clashes with dissident members of the former FARC rebel group, the country’s defence minister said Tuesday.

Defence Minister Pedro Sanchez confirmed that the soldiers were abducted on Sunday in the rural municipality of El Retorno during an evacuation operation. The mission followed a military offensive that left 11 rebels dead, including a commander of the Central General Staff, or EMC — the main dissident faction of the now-disbanded Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC).

“This is an illegal, criminal action by people in civilian clothing,” Sanchez told reporters. “This is a kidnapping.”

The EMC group, composed of former FARC fighters who rejected the landmark 2016 peace agreement, continues to operate in remote regions and plays a central role in Colombia’s ongoing armed conflict. The Guaviare jungle, where the incident occurred, is a key corridor for cocaine trafficking and home to extensive coca cultivation.

Sunday’s abduction mirrors a similar incident in June, when 57 soldiers were detained by civilians in a mountainous area of southwestern Colombia — another region notorious for drug production and frequent clashes between security forces and illegal armed groups.

The Colombian army maintains that civilians involved in such abductions often operate under the influence or direction of the EMC. Armed groups across the country are believed to fund themselves through narcotrafficking, illegal mining, extortion, and other criminal activity.

Despite the 2016 peace deal, which officially ended FARC’s insurgency after more than 50 years of war, violence persists in many rural areas. More than 450,000 people have died during the decades-long conflict, according to official figures.

Last week, a series of deadly attacks attributed to FARC dissidents left at least 18 people dead and dozens injured.

In Cali, a car bomb exploded Thursday outside a military aviation school, killing six and wounding 71, local authorities said. Just hours earlier, 12 police officers were killed when a National Police Black Hawk helicopter involved in a coca eradication operation was downed by a drone in Amalfi, Antioquia.

President Gustavo Petro has blamed the wave of violence on dissident factions of the FARC, which remain a destabilizing force across several regions of the country.

A response from the government or a rescue operation has not yet been detailed.

Credit: BBC

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