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Gunmen Kill 20 Miners in Balochistan Attack, Tensions Rise Ahead of Asian Security Summit

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Gunmen Kill 20 Miners in Balochistan Attack, Tensions Rise Ahead of Asian Security Summit

A brutal attack on a coal mine in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province has left 20 miners dead and seven others wounded, local police official Hamayun Khan Nasir reported on Friday. The assault comes just days before a major Asian security summit is set to take place in the capital, Islamabad.

The gunmen stormed the miners’ accommodation in the Duki district late Thursday night, rounding up the workers before opening fire. The attackers also reportedly fired rockets and lobbed grenades, damaging mine machinery before fleeing the scene.

Most victims were from Pashtun-speaking areas of Balochistan, with three of the dead and four of the wounded identified as Afghan nationals. The attack has sparked local outrage, with shop owners in the area shuttering their businesses in a day-long strike to protest the killings.

While no group has claimed immediate responsibility, suspicion falls on the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), known for targeting civilians and security forces. The BLA launched multiple attacks in August, killing over 50 people, including 23 individuals from Punjab province who were fatally shot after being taken from vehicles in Musakhail district.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the incident, vowing to eliminate terrorism. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the attack, stating, “The killing of these innocent laborers will be avenged.”

The violence occurs against a backdrop of ongoing separatist tensions in Balochistan, where groups accuse the federal government of unfairly exploiting the region’s rich mineral resources. The attack also raises concerns about security ahead of the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Islamabad, prompting increased troop deployments in the capital.

This incident follows a recent BLA-claimed attack on Chinese nationals outside Pakistan’s largest airport, underscoring the challenges faced by Pakistani forces in protecting high-profile events and foreign workers involved in China’s Belt and Road Initiative projects.

As authorities grapple with the aftermath of this latest attack, the incident casts a shadow over recent economic developments, including the signing of $2 billion worth of investment agreements between Saudi and Pakistani businessmen, some of which involve mining projects in Balochistan.

The ongoing violence in Balochistan continues to pose significant challenges for Pakistan’s security apparatus and economic aspirations, particularly concerning international investments and regional stability.

AP

Tesla Unveils ‘Cybercab’ Robotaxi, Plans Autonomous Tech Expansion

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Tesla Unveils ‘Cybercab’ Robotaxi, Plans Autonomous Tech Expansion

Tesla CEO Elon Musk unveiled the company’s long-awaited robotaxi, dubbed the ‘Cybercab’, at a Hollywood studio event Thursday night. The futuristic vehicle, designed without steering wheels or pedals, represents Tesla’s bold vision for autonomous transportation.

Musk, arriving on stage in one of the sleek AI-powered vehicles, expressed confidence in Tesla’s progress on autonomous driving technology. “We’ll move from supervised Full Self-Driving to unsupervised Full Self-Driving, where you can fall asleep and wake up at your destination,” he proclaimed, adding, “It’s going to be a glorious future.”

The Cybercab is expected to cost under $30,000, with Musk projecting availability in 2026, “before 2027.” Additionally, Tesla plans to introduce unsupervised Full Self-Driving technology to its popular Model 3 and Model Y vehicles in Texas and California next year.

However, Tesla’s autonomous driving ambitions face scrutiny and competition. Other companies like Waymo and GM’s Cruise unit have already deployed robotaxis in various U.S. cities, though Cruise’s operations were suspended following a crash last year.

The event, dubbed “We, Robot,” also showcased a minibus-style vehicle and Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robots. Musk ambitiously claimed the robots, priced between $28,000-$30,000, could perform tasks ranging from babysitting to lawn mowing.

This unveiling comes as Tesla seeks to reinvigorate investor interest amid concerns about its aging electric vehicle lineup and Musk’s political activities affecting brand perception among some consumers.

Despite Musk’s optimism, Tesla’s autonomous driving technology has faced regulatory challenges. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration forced a recall of Full Self-Driving software in February due to traffic law violations, and investigations are ongoing into accidents involving the technology.

As Tesla moves forward with its autonomous driving plans, the company faces the dual challenge of delivering on its ambitious promises while addressing safety concerns and regulatory scrutiny in an increasingly competitive autonomous vehicle market.

Japanese Anti-Nuclear Group Nihon Hidankyo Awarded Nobel Peace Prize

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Japanese Anti-Nuclear Group Nihon Hidankyo Awarded Nobel Peace Prize

The Norwegian Nobel Committee announced Friday that the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, a Japanese organization comprised of survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, for their tireless activism against nuclear weapons.

Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, emphasized the timely nature of the award, stating that the “taboo against the use of nuclear weapons is under pressure.” This comes amid growing concerns over recent shifts in nuclear doctrine, particularly referencing Russian President Vladimir Putin’s announcement last month that appeared to lower the threshold for potential use of Russia’s nuclear arsenal.

The committee’s decision aims to “honor all survivors who, despite physical suffering and painful memories, have chosen to use their costly experience to cultivate hope and engagement for peace,” Frydnes explained.

Tomoyuki Mimaki, chairperson of Hidankyo’s Hiroshima branch, expressed shock and joy upon hearing the news, exclaiming, “Is it really true? Unbelievable!”

This year’s award continues the Nobel committee’s tradition of recognizing efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons, following previous awards to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons in 2017 and Joseph Rotblat and the Pugwash Conferences in 1995.

The decision comes against a backdrop of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Sudan, with Frydnes noting the alarming trend of nuclear threats damaging international norms.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the decision, stating on social media that “the spectre of Hiroshima and Nagasaki still looms over humanity,” and emphasizing the importance of Nihon Hidankyo’s advocacy.

The Nobel Peace Prize, as stipulated in Alfred Nobel’s will, is awarded for work promoting fraternity between nations, reduction of standing armies, and the promotion of peace congresses. This year’s prize carries a cash award of 11 million Swedish kronor ($1 million).

As global tensions continue to rise, with conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and beyond, the recognition of Nihon Hidankyo’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of nuclear warfare and the ongoing need for disarmament efforts worldwide.

Putin Meets Iranian President in Turkmenistan, Discusses Middle East and ‘New World Order’

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Putin Meets Iranian President in Turkmenistan, Discusses Middle East and ‘New World Order’

Russian President Vladimir Putin began a diplomatic visit to Turkmenistan on Friday, meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of an international forum in Ashgabat. The meeting comes at a critical time, with Iran supplying weapons for Russia’s war in Ukraine and growing concerns over escalating conflicts between Israel and Iran and its allies.

According to Russian state media, Putin and Pezeshkian discussed the situation in the Middle East. The Russian leader emphasized that Moscow and Tehran’s positions on international events are often closely aligned. Putin extended an invitation for Pezeshkian to visit Russia, which the Iranian president reportedly accepted.

The meeting underscores the strengthening ties between Russia and Iran, highlighted by a $1.7 billion deal signed in 2022 for Iran to export drones to Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. U.S. intelligence also suggests that Iran has transferred short-range ballistic missiles to Russia.

This growing cooperation has raised alarms in the West. Ken McCallum, head of Britain’s MI5 intelligence agency, recently accused both countries of a “staggering” increase in assassination attempts, sabotage, and other criminal activities on UK soil. McCallum warned that Iran might expand its targets in the UK if Middle East conflicts intensify.

Putin meets Iranian President

During the forum’s opening, Putin expressed his desire to create a “new world order” comprising Moscow’s allies to counter Western influence. The conference is attended by other regional leaders, including Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and the heads of Central Asian nations Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

Putin is also expected to hold talks with Turkmen President Serdar Berdymukhamedov, who succeeded his father in March 2022. Turkmenistan, a gas-rich country, has remained largely isolated under autocratic rule since gaining independence after the Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991.

This diplomatic gathering in Turkmenistan serves as a platform for Putin to strengthen Russia’s alliances and project influence in Central Asia, particularly as tensions with the West continue to escalate over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and broader geopolitical issues.

apnews.com

12 Rescued from Colorado Gold Mine After Hours-Long Ordeal, One Fatality Reported

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12 Rescued from Colorado Gold Mine After Hours-Long Ordeal, One Fatality Reported

Twelve people were safely rescued Thursday night after being trapped for hours deep within the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine near Cripple Creek, Colorado, following a tragic elevator malfunction that claimed one life. The incident at the popular tourist attraction prompted a complex rescue operation and raised questions about safety measures at such facilities.

Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell reported that the elevator encountered mechanical problems approximately 500 feet below the surface, creating what he described as a “severe danger for the participants.” The malfunction resulted in one fatality, though details about the victim and the cause of death were not immediately disclosed.

The twelve survivors were stranded about 1,000 feet underground for several hours. Sheriff Mikesell confirmed they remained in communication with authorities throughout the ordeal and had access to water. The air quality in their location was reported as good, helping to maintain calm among the trapped individuals.

Rescue efforts focused initially on attempting to restore the elevator to working order. “We want to inspect it, make sure it’s safe before bringing them back up with it,” Mikesell explained. Authorities also prepared alternative rescue plans, including the possibility of extracting the group by rope if necessary.

The incident, reported to authorities around noon, involved a total of 24 people. Eleven individuals who were on the elevator at the time of the malfunction were successfully rescued earlier, with four sustaining minor injuries. The nature of these injuries and the specific mechanical issues with the elevator were not elaborated upon.

Governor Jared Polis announced that the state was dispatching resources to assist in the rescue operation, including a specialized mine rescue team. “We will do everything possible and assist the county to ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation,” Polis stated.

The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, a former active gold mine that now operates as a tourist attraction, offers visitors the opportunity to descend 1,000 feet into the earth for a one-hour tour. The site, discovered in 1891 by Mollie Kathleen Gortner, closed as an active mine in 1961 but continues to conduct tours, allowing visitors to see gold veins in the rock and ride an underground tram.

This incident has raised concerns about the safety protocols at such tourist sites. Colorado regulations require daily inspections of mines operating as tourist attractions, including their transportation systems. However, Sheriff Mikesell was unable to confirm the date of the last inspection at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine.

Nkunku Scores Debut Goal as France Dominates Israel 4-1 in Nations League Clash

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Nkunku Scores Debut Goal as France Dominates Israel 4-1 in Nations League Clash

Christopher Nkunku marked his return to the French national team with his maiden international goal, helping France secure a commanding 4-1 victory over Israel in their UEFA Nations League encounter on Thursday. The win narrows the gap between Les Bleus and Group A2 leaders Italy to just one point.

Playing in Hungary due to security concerns in Israel, France demonstrated their depth and resilience in the absence of captain Kylian Mbappe. Eduardo Camavinga opened the scoring for France in the 7th minute, capitalizing on a handling error by Israeli goalkeeper Omri Glazer.

Israel briefly leveled the match in the 24th minute through Omri Gandelman, who headed home from Oscar Gloukh’s long pass. However, France’s lead was quickly restored four minutes later when Nkunku, making his first appearance for the national team in nearly 10 months, skillfully evaded two defenders before slotting home a low shot.

The Chelsea forward’s goal was a highlight of a strong French performance that saw Matteo Guendouzi and Bradley Barcola add late strikes to seal the comprehensive victory. Guendouzi found the net with a low shot from outside the box, while Barcola contributed a curling effort in the penultimate minute.

France coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged the team’s transitional phase but expressed satisfaction with the result. “It’s always good to win. The atmosphere around the squad is not exactly pleasant,” Deschamps remarked, alluding to recent criticism of Mbappe’s absence. “It’s not perfect, we’re in a transition period but there are some good things, with players who have qualities and now need to confirm.”

The match also marked France’s first outing since Antoine Griezmann’s retirement from international football. Michael Olise, starting in Griezmann’s absence, showed promise but also revealed his inexperience at the international level.

With this victory, France moves to six points from three games in their Nations League campaign, trailing Italy by a single point. The result sets up an intriguing clash with Belgium in Brussels on Monday, as Les Bleus continue their pursuit of the group leaders.

The match, played in Hungary due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, underscored France’s depth and adaptability, as they convincingly overcame both the absence of key players and the challenges of a neutral venue.

Italy Held to 2-2 Draw by Resilient Belgium in UEFA Nations League Thriller

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Italy Held to 2-2 Draw by Resilient Belgium in UEFA Nations League Thriller

In a pulsating UEFA Nations League encounter at the Stadio Olimpico, Italy surrendered a two-goal advantage as Belgium fought back to secure a 2-2 draw on Thursday evening. The result leaves Italy atop League A Group 2, while Belgium salvaged a crucial point in their campaign.

Italy started the match in blistering fashion, taking the lead after just two minutes. Federico Dimarco’s dangerous cross caused chaos in the Belgian defense, with Andrea Cambiaso capitalizing to poke home from close range after Maxim De Cuyper’s near own-goal was initially saved by Koen Casteels.

The Azzurri doubled their advantage in the 25th minute through Mateo Retegui. A sweeping attack saw Cambiaso’s effort parried by Casteels, only for Retegui to calmly slot home the rebound, putting Italy firmly in control.

However, the game’s complexion changed dramatically five minutes before halftime. Lorenzo Pellegrini received a straight red card following a VAR review for a dangerous tackle on Arthur Theate, reducing Italy to ten men.

Belgium immediately capitalized on their numerical advantage. A clever free-kick routine in the 42nd minute saw Maxim De Cuyper whip a superb effort past Gianluigi Donnarumma, bringing the Red Devils back into the contest before the break.

The second half saw Belgium press for an equalizer, which arrived in the 62nd minute. Wout Faes’ header from a corner was skillfully redirected by Leandro Trossard, who poked the ball into the near corner to level the scores.

Trossard emerged as the standout performer for Belgium, playing a pivotal role in both goals. The forward was at the heart of Belgium’s attacking play, registering 57 touches, making two key passes, and contributing defensively with two tackles and three duels won.

Despite being a man down, Italy managed to weather the Belgian storm in the closing stages, holding on for a point that keeps them at the summit of their group. The Azzurri will look to maintain their unbeaten start when they face Israel on Monday.

For Belgium, the comeback draw provides a significant boost to their Nations League campaign. Domenico Tedesco’s side will aim to build on this result when they host France in their next fixture on Monday.

Greece Stuns England with 2-1 Victory in Nations League Clash at Wembley

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Greece Stuns England with 2-1 Victory in Nations League Clash at Wembley

Greece achieved a historic first victory over England at Wembley Stadium on Thursday night, winning 2-1 in a Nations League Group B2 match that dealt a blow to England’s caretaker manager Lee Carsley’s hopes of securing the job permanently.

Striker Vangelis Pavlidis emerged as the hero for Greece, scoring both goals including a dramatic winner in the fourth minute of stoppage time. The victory puts Greece in control of the group with a maximum nine points, while England suffered their first defeat under Carsley, leaving them second with six points.

Pavlidis opened the scoring early in the second half with a clinical finish, showcasing impressive footwork to dispatch a low shot past Jordan Pickford despite being surrounded by England defenders. The Greek striker’s performance was even more remarkable considering Greece had three goals disallowed throughout the match.

England, fielding an ultra-attacking lineup in the absence of injured captain Harry Kane, struggled to find their rhythm. Jude Bellingham appeared to have salvaged a point for the hosts with a powerful equalizer in the 87th minute, but Pavlidis capitalized on poor defending to score the winner from close range in stoppage time.

The defeat raises questions about Carsley’s tactics and England’s defensive vulnerabilities. John Stones, wearing the captain’s armband in Kane’s absence, expressed his disappointment: “On a personal note, absolutely gutted. To have a result like that with the armband for the first time. We prepared like we normally do and it didn’t come off.”

The evening began poignantly with a minute’s silence for former Greek international George Baldock, who passed away this week at the age of 31. Pavlidis dedicated the win to Baldock’s memory, saying, “We gave our soul for him tonight. Today is not a day to talk about football.”

Despite England’s attacking potential, with players like Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Bellingham in the starting lineup, it was Greece who created the better chances throughout the match. England goalkeeper Pickford had a nervy performance, nearly gifting Greece a goal in the first half when he lost possession near his own goal line.

As Greece celebrates this landmark victory, England and Carsley must regroup quickly. The result not only impacts their Nations League campaign but also raises questions about the team’s direction following Gareth Southgate’s departure.

With the next round of matches looming, both teams will be keen to build on this result – Greece looking to maintain their perfect start, and England aiming to bounce back from this unexpected setback at Wembley.

Diddy Appears Distressed in Court, to Remain Jailed as Court Sets May 2025 Trial Date

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Diddy Appears Distressed in Court, to Remain Jailed as Court Sets May 2025 Trial Date

Hip-hop mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs appeared visibly distressed in Manhattan federal court on Thursday as he learned he would remain behind bars until his trial, now set for May 2025. The 54-year-old rapper, facing multiple sex trafficking and racketeering charges, has spent three weeks in custody following two rejected bail requests.

Court sketches depicted Combs in prison attire, a stark contrast to his usual stylish appearance. His mother, Janice Combs, 84, was seen in the background, having braved hecklers who shouted “Your son is a predator” as she entered the courthouse. The emotional family reunion, which included Combs’ children, was brief as the court proceedings dashed hopes of his release.

Combs’ legal team filed a third bail application just two days prior to the hearing, arguing that their client is not a flight risk. They highlighted Combs’ willingness to surrender his passport, sell his private jet, and offer his $48 million home as security. However, this appeal, now under consideration by the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, appears to be a final attempt at pre-trial release barring significant case developments.

The charges against Combs stem from his September 16 arrest, with prosecutors alleging a pattern of sex trafficking and racketeering offenses. Since his arrest, over 120 alleged victims have come forward, significantly expanding the scope of the investigation.

Despite the mounting allegations, Combs maintains his innocence and will face a jury trial next spring. The case has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many watching closely to see how it unfolds.

Man Sentenced to Over 10 Years for Attempted Child Sex Trafficking

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Man Sentenced to Over 10 Years for Attempted Child Sex Trafficking

Dimitri Shawn McKenzie, a 29-year-old Boston resident, has been sentenced to 126 months in federal prison for attempting to purchase sex with a 14-year-old girl. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young handed down the sentence, which will be followed by five years of supervised release.

The sentencing comes after McKenzie’s conviction in June 2024 on one count of attempted sex trafficking of a child, following a three-day jury trial. The case, prosecuted in federal court in Boston, stems from an undercover law enforcement operation conducted in November 2022.

According to court documents, McKenzie responded to an online advertisement purportedly offering two minor girls, ages 12 and 14, for sexual services in the Boston area. The advertisement was a fictitious post created by undercover law enforcement agents as part of a sting operation to catch potential child predators.

During subsequent text communications with undercover officers, McKenzie agreed to pay $100 for sex with the fictitious 14-year-old at a hotel. Upon arriving at the designated location, McKenzie met with an undercover agent posing as the seller in the hotel parking lot. He provided cash and accepted a hotel room key before being immediately taken into custody.

Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy emphasized the gravity of the crime and the importance of prosecuting those who drive demand for child sex trafficking. “The sad reality is that children are being sold for sex in our communities because of people like Dimitri McKenzie,” Levy stated. He warned potential offenders that undercover operations are ongoing, and those considering such crimes face severe consequences.

Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of Homeland Security Investigations in New England echoed these sentiments, stating, “It is deeply disturbing to know that people pay to sexually abuse children. McKenzie was ready and willing to pay to sexually assault a child.”

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat child exploitation and sex trafficking. Authorities encourage anyone who may be impacted by or have knowledge of commercial sex trafficking to contact US********************@***oj.gov for assistance.

Source: DOJ

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