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Haiti Gang Attack Leaves at Least 70 Dead, Dozens Injured as Violence Overwhelms Artibonite Region

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A deadly gang assault in Haiti’s central Artibonite region has left at least 70 people dead and about 30 others injured, according to the rights group Defenseurs Plus, a toll far higher than early official counts as violence continues to spiral beyond government control.

The attack unfolded in rural communities near Petite-Riviere, an area considered vital to the country’s food production. Residents and local authorities described a wave of violence that began before dawn Sunday and stretched into early Monday, with armed groups sweeping through villages, burning homes and forcing thousands to flee.

Defenseurs Plus, cited by Reuters through regional media coverage, estimated that around 6,000 people were displaced by the assault. The United Nations had already indicated that more than 2,000 residents had fled nearby areas in the days leading up to the attack following earlier raids by armed groups.

Initial figures from Haitian police placed the death toll at 16, with 10 injured. A preliminary assessment from civil protection officials listed 17 dead and 19 wounded, most of them men. However, a spokesperson for the United Nations secretary-general said during a briefing that casualty estimates varied widely, ranging from 10 to as many as 80 deaths, and called for a full investigation into the incident.

Defenseurs Plus sharply criticized the response by authorities, saying in a statement issued with the Collective to Save the Artibonite that the lack of effective security measures reflected a failure to protect civilians in one of the country’s most vulnerable regions.

“This situation shows a complete failure of responsibility by the authorities,” the group said, pointing to the growing influence of armed gangs across the region.

Accounts from residents described scenes of panic as attackers moved from house to house, setting buildings ablaze. Defenseurs Plus estimated that about 50 homes were destroyed in the violence.

An audio message circulating on social media was attributed to Luckson Elan, identified as a leader of the Gran Grif gang. In the recording, he appeared to describe the assault as retaliation for earlier attacks on the group’s stronghold in Savien by a rival faction. The authenticity of the message has not been independently verified.

The Artibonite region, long known as Haiti’s agricultural heartland, has increasingly become a center of conflict as armed groups expand their reach beyond the capital, Port-au-Prince. Despite promises of stronger policing and additional foreign support, violence has spread into rural areas, disrupting food production and deepening insecurity.

Haiti’s National Police said officers were deployed to the affected communities with three armored vehicles. Their movement was slowed by trenches dug into the roads by gang members, a tactic used to delay security forces. By the time officers arrived, officials said many attackers had already fled and numerous homes had been burned.

Authorities said the injured were transported to nearby hospitals, while victims were taken to local morgues. Police added that operations are underway to locate those responsible for the attack.

The latest violence adds to a mounting humanitarian crisis in Haiti, where armed groups have gained strength in recent years. A United Nations report estimates that nearly 20,000 people have been killed since 2021 as clashes between gangs, security forces and local defense groups have intensified.

Gran Grif, along with the Viv Ansanm coalition, has been identified by the United States as a terrorist organization. The groups have been accused of widespread abuses, including mass killings, sexual violence, arson and trafficking in weapons and drugs.

Earlier this month, the United States announced a reward of up to $3 million for information related to the financial operations of these groups, signaling growing international concern over their influence.

The attack over the weekend is the latest in a series of large-scale killings in the Artibonite region. In October 2024, an assault blamed on Gran Grif in the nearby town of Pont-Sonde left more than 100 people dead, with gunmen reportedly targeting residents in their homes.

The ongoing violence has forced more than 1.4 million people from their homes across Haiti, representing roughly 12 percent of the population. The mass displacement has worsened an already severe economic crisis and limited access to food, particularly in regions like Artibonite that are central to agricultural production.

The scale and brutality of the latest attack highlight the deepening collapse of security in Haiti, where armed groups now operate with little resistance in many parts of the country. The sharp difference between early official casualty figures and those reported by rights groups points to persistent challenges in gathering accurate information in areas largely controlled by gangs.

Artibonite’s importance as a food-producing region adds another layer of urgency. Continued violence there threatens not only local communities but also the country’s broader food supply, raising the risk of worsening hunger and instability.

The delayed arrival of security forces, hindered by road blockades set by attackers, underscores the tactical advantage gangs have developed. Their ability to control movement and territory suggests a level of organization that complicates efforts to restore order.

International involvement, including financial incentives offered by the United States, signals recognition that Haiti’s crisis has implications beyond its borders. However, without a sustained and coordinated approach to rebuilding security institutions, such measures may have limited immediate impact.

The attack also reflects a broader shift in the conflict, as violence spreads from urban centers into rural regions. This expansion increases the number of vulnerable communities and places additional strain on already limited humanitarian resources.

As the death toll rises and displacement grows, Haiti faces a critical moment. The absence of effective governance and security continues to allow armed groups to tighten their grip, leaving civilians exposed and the country’s future increasingly uncertain.

Aljazeera

Ukrainian Drone Strikes Hit Key Russian Oil Port Again, Disrupting Exports

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Ukrainian drones struck Russia’s major Baltic Sea port of Ust-Luga again early Tuesday, hitting oil infrastructure and adding to mounting disruptions in the country’s crude export network, according to regional officials and industry sources cited by Reuters.

The latest attack marks the fifth strike on the port in just 10 days, underscoring an intensified campaign by Ukraine targeting Russia’s energy sector more than four years into the war.

Industry sources familiar with the situation told Reuters that the strike damaged crude oil loading facilities operated by Transneft, Russia’s state pipeline operator. The company did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Regional Governor Alexander Drozdenko said three people, including two children, received medical treatment for injuries following the overnight attack. Several buildings were also damaged, he said, though he did not provide details on the condition of the port facilities.

In a message posted early Tuesday, Drozdenko said air raid alerts in the region had been lifted.

Ust-Luga, located on the southeastern coast of the Gulf of Finland, is one of Russia’s most important export hubs for oil and petroleum products. The port handles large volumes of crude shipments and serves as a critical outlet for energy supplies to global markets.

Data cited by Reuters shows the port exported about 32.9 million metric tons of oil products last year and typically processes around 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day.

Repeated attacks on the facility have forced temporary suspensions of operations in recent days. Authorities said the port was targeted multiple times over the past week, including strikes on March 22, 25, 27, 29 and 31.

The ongoing disruptions come amid a broader escalation in Ukraine’s long-range drone campaign aimed at weakening Russia’s ability to sustain energy exports. Kyiv has increasingly focused on oil infrastructure, including ports, refineries and pipelines, as part of its strategy.

Reuters calculations based on market data indicate that as much as 40 percent of Russia’s oil export capacity has been affected by a combination of drone strikes, a separate incident involving a major pipeline and the seizure of oil tankers. The estimate remains subject to verification.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday that some allied nations have signaled concern over the scale of attacks on Russia’s energy sector, particularly as global oil prices have risen sharply. He indicated that partners have raised the possibility of limiting such strikes, though no policy changes have been announced.

The strikes on Ust-Luga and other Baltic ports, including Primorsk, represent some of the most sustained attacks on Russian energy infrastructure since the conflict began. Analysts say the campaign is designed to disrupt supply chains, reduce revenue and increase pressure on Moscow.

Despite the repeated strikes, Russian authorities have continued efforts to maintain operations and restore damaged facilities. However, the frequency of attacks has raised concerns about the resilience of key export hubs.

The repeated targeting of Ust-Luga highlights the strategic importance of energy infrastructure in modern warfare. By focusing on oil export facilities, Ukraine is seeking to undermine one of Russia’s most critical economic lifelines without engaging directly on traditional battlefields.

Such strikes carry broader implications beyond the immediate conflict. Russia remains a major supplier of oil to global markets, and disruptions to its export capacity can have ripple effects on energy prices worldwide. The recent surge in oil prices suggests that markets are already reacting to the increased risk.

At the same time, the attacks place Ukraine in a delicate position with its allies. While weakening Russia’s energy sector may offer strategic advantages, prolonged disruptions can contribute to global economic instability, potentially straining support from countries affected by rising fuel costs.

The pattern of repeated strikes also raises questions about defensive capabilities at key infrastructure sites. If attacks continue at the current pace, Russia may face increasing challenges in maintaining consistent export levels.

In the longer term, the escalation of strikes on energy facilities could set a precedent for targeting critical economic infrastructure in conflicts, blurring the line between military and economic warfare. This shift may have lasting consequences for how future conflicts are conducted and how nations protect vital industries.

Reuters

Kuwait Oil Tanker Hit Near Dubai as Iran Tensions Escalate and Global Energy Fears Mount

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A fully loaded oil tanker flying the Kuwaiti flag was struck off the coast of Dubai early Tuesday, authorities said, in the latest escalation of a widening conflict that is disrupting global energy markets and raising fears of a broader regional war.

Dubai officials said emergency crews brought a fire aboard the vessel under control after what they described as a drone strike. Authorities confirmed there were no injuries among the crew and no oil spill, despite damage to the ship’s structure.

The vessel, identified by Reuters as the Al-Salmi, was carrying roughly 2 million barrels of crude oil at the time of the attack, underscoring the potential economic and environmental risks tied to the incident. Kuwait Petroleum Corp., which owns the tanker, said the strike caused a blaze and damage to the hull before it was contained.

The attack marks one of the most serious incidents involving commercial shipping since the conflict intensified following joint U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February. Since then, the Gulf region and nearby waters have seen repeated assaults on vessels using missiles and unmanned aircraft.

The latest developments come as President Donald Trump renewed warnings that the United States could target Iran’s energy infrastructure if an agreement to ease tensions is not reached soon. Trump has said reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil shipments, remains a key demand.

The narrow waterway typically carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies, making it a critical chokepoint for global energy markets.

Oil prices surged following news of the tanker strike, with international benchmark crude climbing sharply amid fears of supply disruptions. Analysts say continued instability in the region could further drive up fuel costs worldwide.

At the same time, military operations across the region showed no signs of slowing. The United States and Israel launched a new round of strikes targeting sites in Iran, including areas near the capital and other locations believed to hold military assets. Video shared by President Trump appeared to show explosions near Isfahan, though Iranian authorities have not confirmed the extent of the damage.

In Iran, local media outlets reported explosions in parts of Tehran, with some neighborhoods experiencing power outages after the strikes. Emergency crews were deployed to restore electricity in affected areas, according to reports from Tasnim news agency.

The conflict has also spilled into neighboring countries. The United Nations said three peacekeepers were killed in southern Lebanon within a 24-hour period. The incidents, involving a projectile strike and an explosion, remain under investigation, and no group has claimed responsibility.

In the same region, the Israeli military said four of its soldiers were killed during operations, highlighting the growing toll on multiple sides of the conflict.

Iran’s military, in statements carried by state television, said recent missile and drone attacks targeted sites used by U.S. forces and Israeli positions across the region. Meanwhile, additional threats have emerged from allied groups, further expanding the scope of the conflict.

According to Reuters, thousands of U.S. troops, including elements of the 82nd Airborne Division, have begun deploying to the Middle East, a move that could broaden Washington’s military options even as diplomatic efforts continue.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said discussions with Iranian officials were ongoing, though she acknowledged differences between public statements and private communications. Iran has indicated it received proposals through intermediaries following talks involving regional officials, but its foreign ministry described the terms as unrealistic and excessive.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio also signaled rising tensions with international partners, criticizing some allied nations for limiting support, including restrictions on U.S. military overflights.

Despite the continued violence, there are signs of mixed signals within the U.S. administration. While Trump has issued strong warnings about potential strikes on Iranian infrastructure, reports from The Wall Street Journal suggest he may be open to ending the military campaign under certain conditions, even if key shipping routes remain partially restricted.

The White House has maintained that ensuring access through the Strait of Hormuz remains a priority, with Rubio stating the passage would be reopened “one way or another.”

The economic impact of the conflict is already being felt. In the United States, average gasoline prices have risen above $4 per gallon for the first time in more than three years, according to GasBuddy. The surge in fuel costs has become a growing political concern ahead of upcoming elections, particularly as the administration had pledged to lower energy prices.

Globally, Brent crude has risen sharply in recent weeks, reflecting tightening supply and heightened risk in one of the world’s most important energy regions.

The strike on a major oil tanker near Dubai represents a critical escalation in the conflict, as it directly targets global energy infrastructure rather than military assets alone. Such actions increase the likelihood of widespread economic consequences, as even isolated attacks can disrupt supply chains and drive volatility in energy markets.

The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the crisis. Any sustained disruption in this corridor could have cascading effects on global trade, particularly for countries heavily dependent on imported energy. The recent surge in oil prices suggests that markets are already pricing in prolonged instability.

The deployment of additional U.S. troops signals preparation for a potential expansion of the conflict, even as diplomatic channels remain open. This dual approach reflects a broader strategy of applying pressure while keeping negotiation options alive, though it also raises the risk of miscalculation.

The involvement of multiple countries and groups underscores the complexity of the situation. What began as a direct confrontation has evolved into a wider regional conflict, with overlapping interests and alliances making de-escalation more difficult.

If attacks on commercial shipping continue, insurance costs, shipping routes and global supply chains could face long-term disruptions. Such developments would extend the impact of the conflict far beyond the region, affecting economies worldwide.

AP/Reuters

Apostolic Church-Ghana Bans Kissing of Bride During Wedding Ceremonies

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The Apostolic Church-Ghana has banned the practice of kissing the bride during wedding ceremonies, a move church leaders say is aimed at preserving cultural and spiritual values.

The decision was approved by the church’s governing body and adopted by delegates during its sixth general council meeting held at the church’s conference center in Accra.

Church President Ami-Narh said the measure was introduced to address what leaders described as excesses and inappropriate behavior that have increasingly appeared in wedding ceremonies.

In an official statement, the church said it had removed the “you may kiss the bride” portion from its marriage rites, citing concerns that the practice does not align with its beliefs and local traditions.

Leaders acknowledged that such customs may be common in other parts of the world but said they are not consistent with the values upheld by the church.

Ami-Narh added that the church is committed to promoting moral conduct before marriage as part of its religious teachings.

Delegates at the meeting responded with strong support for the decision, saying it would help guide younger members and counter the influence of trends seen on social media.

The decision reflects an effort by religious institutions to balance modern influences with long-standing traditions. As global cultural practices spread through media and social platforms, some organizations are choosing to reaffirm local customs and moral expectations.

Changes to wedding ceremonies often carry symbolic weight, as they represent broader views on relationships, behavior and community values. By removing certain elements, the church is signaling a preference for practices it considers more consistent with its teachings.

The move may also influence how other religious groups in the region approach similar issues, particularly as debates continue over the role of tradition in modern ceremonies.

myjoyonline

Trump Again Threatens Major Strikes on Iran if Deal Is Not Reached Soon

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President Donald Trump on Monday warned of sweeping military strikes on Iran’s energy and infrastructure facilities if a deal to end the ongoing conflict is not reached soon, as fighting across the region intensified.

In a social media post, Trump said progress was being made in talks but cautioned that failure to reach an agreement quickly could result in the United States expanding its military campaign to target power plants, oil facilities and other critical infrastructure.

The warning came as hostilities continued across the Middle East, with Iran launching attacks on regional energy sites and the United States and Israel carrying out new strikes inside Iran.

Trump also suggested earlier that U.S. forces could move to seize key Iranian oil export facilities, while emphasizing that diplomatic efforts were ongoing. Iranian officials have denied that direct negotiations are taking place.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for global oil supplies, remains a central point of tension. Trump said the waterway must be reopened immediately, warning that further disruption could trigger broader military action.

Iran rejected U.S. demands, calling them unrealistic and excessive, and warned of severe consequences if American forces enter its territory. Iranian officials also signaled readiness to escalate the conflict, raising fears of a wider regional war.

Across the region, attacks continued. Air defenses intercepted missiles over several Gulf countries, while a strike in Kuwait hit a power and water facility, killing one worker and injuring others. In Israel, air raid sirens sounded near sensitive sites as incoming threats were detected.

Meanwhile, Israeli forces carried out additional strikes targeting what they described as military infrastructure in Iran, with explosions reported in several areas, including near the capital and in northern industrial zones.

The conflict has also spilled into neighboring countries. In southern Lebanon, the United Nations said three peacekeepers were killed within a 24-hour period amid ongoing clashes. An airstrike in a suburb of Beirut left one person dead and multiple others injured, including children.

Casualty figures have continued to rise across the region. Iranian authorities say more than 1,900 people have been killed, while Israel has reported at least 19 deaths. Additional fatalities have been reported in Gulf countries and surrounding areas, along with widespread displacement.

The escalating violence has raised concerns about global energy supplies. Attacks on oil and gas infrastructure, along with disruptions to key shipping routes, have driven oil prices sharply higher. International benchmark crude was trading around $115 a barrel, a significant increase since the conflict began.

Trump has previously warned Iran of even stronger military action if an agreement is not reached, linking recent U.S. naval deployments in the region to stalled negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program.

Despite the threats, U.S. officials maintain that diplomatic channels remain open. Iranian leaders, however, insist that negotiations cannot proceed under military pressure and have called for talks based on mutual respect.

The latest exchange of threats underscores the fragile balance between diplomacy and military escalation in the region. While both sides publicly reference negotiations, their actions suggest preparations for a prolonged conflict.

Targeting energy infrastructure carries significant global implications, as the region plays a critical role in supplying oil and natural gas. Disruptions to production or shipping routes can quickly impact international markets, leading to higher prices and economic uncertainty.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a key flashpoint, as any prolonged closure or instability in the area could severely restrict global energy flows. Military activity near the waterway increases the risk of broader confrontation involving multiple countries.

As the situation evolves, the outcome of diplomatic efforts will likely determine whether the conflict expands further or moves toward de-escalation. For now, the combination of ongoing strikes, rising casualties and economic pressures points to a volatile and uncertain path ahead.

AP

Student Shoots Teacher, Then Dies by Suicide at Texas High School, Authorities Say

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A 15-year-old student shot a teacher at a Texas high school before fatally shooting himself Monday morning, authorities said, in an incident that prompted a campus lockdown and emergency response.

The shooting occurred at Hill Country College Preparatory High School in Bulverde, according to the Comal County Sheriff’s Office. No other injuries were reported.

Officials said the student died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The teacher was transported to a hospital in San Antonio, but authorities did not immediately provide an update on her condition.

Investigators have not yet determined what led to the shooting.

The school said it was placed on lockdown at 8:34 a.m., shortly before the start of classes. Students described hearing multiple gunshots and screams coming from inside the building.

One student told local television station KSAT that loud bangs were heard from a second-floor classroom, followed by panic. Another student said she heard several shots before a teacher instructed students to move into a classroom for safety.

Following the incident, students were evacuated by bus to a nearby middle school, where parents gathered to be reunited with their children. Some parents were seen praying as they waited in long lines.

Jesse Lopez, a parent, told KSAT that returning to school would be difficult for his daughter.

“She’ll be afraid to go back,” he said, noting concerns about how the incident would affect her.

Hill Country College Preparatory High School is part of the Comal Independent School District and focuses on preparing students for college through programs in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. The school, which opened in 2020, currently serves about 260 students in grades nine through 12.

School shootings involving students continue to raise concerns about safety, mental health and early intervention in educational settings. While incidents involving only one victim are less common than broader attacks, they still have a significant emotional and psychological impact on students, families and staff.

The response by school officials, including lockdown procedures and coordinated evacuation, reflects standard safety protocols designed to minimize further harm. However, such incidents often lead to renewed discussions about preventive measures, including threat assessment, access to counseling services and campus security.

As authorities investigate the motive behind the shooting, attention is likely to focus on whether warning signs were present and what steps, if any, could have been taken to prevent the tragedy.

AP

Kenyan Boxer Jacob Oyoko Dies After Ringside Incident During Professional Bout

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Kenyan professional boxer Jacob Oyoko has died after a ringside medical emergency during a bout, officials said, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

The Kenya Professional Boxing Commission confirmed Sunday that the Kisumu-based fighter died following an incident during a sanctioned fight on Saturday at the Mumias Cultural Centre in Kakamega County.

According to the commission, ringside medical staff immediately administered emergency care, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation and oxygen support, before transporting Oyoko to a hospital. Despite those efforts, he could not be revived.

“All relevant authorities have been formally notified,” the commission said, including national police, the sports ministry, and local health officials. A full medical report from the ringside physician is expected.

The bout, which featured Oyoko against Julius Okuruchi, has drawn scrutiny after video circulated online appeared to show Oyoko struggling during the later stages of the fight. The footage has raised questions about whether the match should have been stopped earlier, though officials have not made any findings.

The commission described Oyoko as a dedicated athlete and called his death a significant loss to both his family and the sport.

An independent review panel has been established to investigate the incident. The panel will examine pre-fight medical clearance, weight management, hydration practices, ringside medical response, and officiating decisions, including the referee’s actions during the bout.

Authorities have also requested a post-mortem examination in line with legal requirements to determine the exact cause of death.

In addition, the commission said it would support Oyoko’s family, including covering medical and funeral expenses and ensuring any entitled benefits are provided.

The incident has prompted renewed concerns about safety standards in professional boxing in Kenya. Officials said they are prepared to strengthen medical protocols, improve pre-fight screening procedures, and enforce stricter safety measures at boxing events.

Criticism has also emerged from some public officials and observers, who questioned the handling of the fight and called for a thorough investigation. However, responsibility has not been assigned as inquiries continue.

Oyoko’s death has cast a shadow over the country’s boxing community, with calls growing for stronger oversight to prevent similar tragedies.

Fatal incidents in boxing, while rare, often lead to increased scrutiny of safety protocols and officiating standards. Ringside medical preparedness and timely intervention by referees are critical factors in reducing risk during bouts.

The review launched by Kenya’s boxing authorities reflects a broader effort seen in combat sports worldwide to reassess safety measures following serious injuries or deaths. These typically include stricter medical evaluations before fights, closer monitoring during bouts, and clearer guidelines for stopping contests when a fighter appears unable to defend themselves.

The outcome of the investigation into Oyoko’s death may influence future regulations and enforcement in Kenya’s boxing scene, particularly regarding athlete safety and event oversight.

Kenyans.co/thestar.co

Gunmen Attack Wedding in Kaduna, Nigeria, Killing at Least 13 and Abducting Guests

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Gunmen stormed a wedding celebration in Kaduna State, Nigeria, late Sunday, killing at least 13 people and abducting an unknown number of guests in a violent attack that has shaken the local community.

The assault took place in Kahir village in Kagarko Local Government Area, where witnesses said armed attackers entered the wedding venue and opened fire on those gathered inside.

An eyewitness who spoke to Daily Trust said the gunmen arrived carrying assault rifles and began shooting into the hall, causing panic among attendees.

“Several people were hit by bullets,” the witness said, adding that victims with injuries were rushed to Kagarko General Hospital, while others in critical condition were taken to a hospital in Kaduna.

The witness said the number of those abducted remains unclear due to the confusion during the attack.

A community leader, who asked not to be named, confirmed the killings and identified several victims, including Bako Danjuma, Williams Luka, Peter Williams, Joseph Yakubu, Victor Peter, John Dan Asabe, Angulu Markus, Maikano Aribi, Douglas John Ado Yakubu, Zaphaniah Alhaji, Joseph Kaddah and Francis Unguwa Doya.

He said the attackers operated for nearly an hour without resistance, during which time they also looted nearby shops, taking food supplies, household goods and medical items from a local pharmacy.

The victims have since been buried, according to the community leader, who added that there has been no contact with those responsible for the abductions.

“The entire community was thrown into panic because of the shooting,” he said. “Some people had to run into the surrounding bush to escape.”

A police source in Kagarko confirmed both the killings and the abductions but said authorities were still working to determine how many people were taken during the attack.

Kaduna State police spokesperson Hassan Mansur also confirmed the incident, saying a detailed statement would be released after further assessment.

The attack marks another episode of violence in a region that has faced repeated assaults by armed groups targeting rural communities, public gatherings and travelers.

The attack on a wedding highlights the growing threat posed by armed groups in parts of Kaduna State, where gatherings of civilians have increasingly become targets. Such incidents not only result in loss of life but also deepen fear and disrupt social life in affected communities.

The ability of the attackers to operate for an extended period without interruption raises concerns about security coverage and response times in rural areas. Limited resources, difficult terrain and coordination challenges often hinder rapid intervention by security forces.

Abductions remain a major concern, as they are frequently used by armed groups to demand payment from families, further compounding the humanitarian impact of these attacks.

The broader pattern of violence suggests a need for sustained security measures and improved intelligence gathering to prevent future incidents. Without consistent efforts to address the root causes and strengthen protection for vulnerable communities, such attacks may continue to occur.

lindaikejiblog

Gunmen Kill Residents in Jos Attack as Plateau State,Nigeria, Enforces Curfew Amid Rising Tensions

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Gunmen opened fire in a crowded neighborhood in Jos North, killing several residents and prompting authorities in Plateau State, Nigeria, to impose a 48 hour curfew as security forces moved to contain unrest following the attack.

The violence unfolded Sunday night in the Angwa Rukuba area, where witnesses said armed men on motorcycles shot at people in the streets, sending residents fleeing in panic. The area is known for its large population of students and young people.

Local accounts cited by Pulse Nigeria indicated that at least 10 people were killed, though officials have not released a confirmed death toll. Some victims were believed to be students living in the community.

“They just rode past and started shooting,” one resident said, describing the sudden outbreak of gunfire and confusion.

Images shared online showed bodies lying in the streets, intensifying anger and fear among residents already on edge after previous incidents of violence in the region.

In the immediate aftermath, groups of young people blocked major roads in protest, accusing nearby security forces of responding too slowly. The demonstrations added to tensions, raising concerns about further unrest.

The Plateau State government responded by announcing a 48 hour curfew across Jos North, effective from midnight March 29 through April 1, in an effort to restore order and allow security personnel to stabilize the situation.

In a statement issued by Commissioner for Information and Communication Joyce Ramnap, the government described the attack as “barbaric and unprovoked” and confirmed that security agencies had been deployed to track down those responsible.

“Following the tragic security incident … resulting in the loss of lives, while several others sustained injuries, the government … wishes to inform the public of the imposition of a 48 hour curfew,” the statement said, as cited by Punch Nigeria.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the killings and assured residents that efforts were underway to restore calm and protect lives and property. He urged the public to cooperate with authorities and provide information that could assist the investigation.

Accounts from residents provided further detail on the attack. One resident, John Caleb, told Punch Nigeria that multiple people were killed and others injured, with victims taken to a nearby hospital. Another resident, Janet Pam, said she initially mistook the gunfire for a minor disturbance before realizing the scale of the attack.

“They targeted those moving on the road and those selling by the roadside,” she said, adding that one of the victims was her neighbor returning from a church service.

She described the violence as unprecedented in her experience and said the attackers fled before security personnel arrived.

Authorities have not confirmed the motive for the attack or the identities of the victims. Claims circulating online describing the incident as a targeted religious killing have not been verified by officials.

The timing of the attack, which coincided with a major religious observance for many Christians, has contributed to speculation about possible motives. However, officials have urged caution and have not linked the violence to any specific cause.

The attack has also disrupted daily life in the area. The University of Jos announced the postponement of examinations scheduled for March 30 and March 31, citing safety concerns for students and staff living in affected neighborhoods.

The incident adds to a pattern of violence that has troubled Plateau State for years. Communities in the region have experienced repeated attacks, kidnappings and clashes, often fueled by longstanding tensions.

Earlier in March, more than 20 security personnel and local defense volunteers were killed in an ambush in another part of the state. In previous years, coordinated attacks in several communities resulted in large numbers of deaths and displacement, drawing widespread condemnation.

Residents say the recurring violence has created a climate of fear and uncertainty, with many calling for stronger security measures and quicker responses from authorities.

The latest attack in Jos highlights the persistent security challenges facing Plateau State, where cycles of violence have proven difficult to break. While the immediate cause of the shooting remains unclear, the rapid spread of unverified claims online underscores how quickly such incidents can inflame tensions.

The government’s decision to impose a curfew reflects both the seriousness of the situation and the need to prevent retaliatory violence. However, curfews are often short term solutions that do not address underlying issues such as weak law enforcement capacity, economic strain and community mistrust.

The reaction from residents, including road blockades and protests, points to frustration with perceived gaps in security response. Restoring public confidence will likely depend on visible progress in identifying and prosecuting those responsible.

The disruption to academic activities also illustrates the broader impact of insecurity on daily life, particularly in areas with large student populations. Schools and universities often become indirect victims of instability, affecting education and local economies.

Looking ahead, the incident may increase pressure on both state and federal authorities to strengthen security operations in the region. Without sustained efforts, there is a risk that violence could escalate further, deepening divisions and prolonging instability.

Pulseng/Punchng/LindaIkejiblog

Trump Raises Possibility of U.S. Seizing Iran’s Main Oil Terminal Amid Rising Tensions

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President Donald Trump has suggested that the United States could consider taking control of Iran’s primary oil export hub, signaling a potential escalation in tensions as negotiations between the two countries continue.

In an interview published Monday by the Financial Times, President Donald Trump said the United States has multiple options regarding Iran’s Kharg Island, a critical facility for the country’s oil shipments.

“Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t. We have a lot of options,” Trump said in the interview. He added that any such move would likely require a sustained presence by U.S. forces.

Kharg Island serves as Iran’s main oil terminal, handling a significant portion of its exports. Any effort to seize or control the site would represent a major shift in U.S. policy and could have far reaching consequences for global energy markets and regional stability.

President Donald Trump downplayed Iran’s defensive capabilities at the location, saying he believed the island could be taken with relative ease. His remarks follow earlier U.S. airstrikes that Washington said targeted military positions linked to Iranian forces in the area.

Iran has warned that it would respond forcefully to any ground operation on its territory. Officials in Tehran have threatened retaliatory action, including potential attacks and military operations involving nearby countries, if foreign troops attempt to land.

At the same time, President Donald Trump indicated that diplomatic efforts with Iran are ongoing. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday night, he said progress had been made on a proposed ceasefire framework.

“We’re doing extremely well in that negotiation,” Trump said, while cautioning that talks with Iran have historically been unpredictable.

He also said Iran had responded positively to a multi point ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States, though he did not provide specific details about the terms under discussion.

“They’re agreeing with us on the plan,” Trump said. “They gave us most of the points.”

In a separate development, President Donald Trump said Iranian authorities had permitted a number of oil tankers to pass through a key shipping route at the entrance to the Gulf, describing the move as a gesture tied to ongoing talks.

According to Trump, the number of vessels allowed to transit the waterway had increased in recent days, signaling what he characterized as cooperation from Iranian officials.

The route is one of the world’s most important shipping lanes for oil, and any disruption or restriction there can have immediate global economic effects.

The president pointed to the role of Iran’s parliamentary speaker in authorizing the tanker movements, describing him as a key figure in recent developments. The official has remained active on social media during the conflict, often issuing statements critical of the United States while maintaining a prominent public presence.

The combination of military signaling and diplomatic engagement reflects a complex moment in relations between Washington and Tehran. While discussions over a ceasefire suggest a possible path toward de escalation, the suggestion of seizing a major oil facility underscores the risk of further confrontation.
President Donald Trump’s remarks highlight a dual track approach that blends negotiation with the threat of force. By raising the possibility of seizing Kharg Island, the administration is signaling leverage in ongoing talks, but such a move would carry significant risks.

Control of the island would directly affect Iran’s ability to export oil, placing pressure on its economy. However, it could also trigger a wider conflict, drawing in regional actors and disrupting global energy supplies. Even the suggestion of such action can influence oil prices and market stability.

The reference to tanker movement through a major shipping route suggests that both sides may be testing limited forms of cooperation while maintaining a firm stance publicly. Allowing oil shipments to proceed could be viewed as a confidence building measure, though its long term significance remains unclear.

The situation also underscores the importance of key individuals within Iran’s leadership structure. Public messaging from senior officials can serve both domestic and international audiences, shaping perceptions of strength and control.

Ultimately, the coming weeks will determine whether diplomatic efforts can reduce tensions or whether the situation moves closer to open conflict. The balance between negotiation and military posturing remains delicate, with significant consequences for the region and beyond.

AP

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