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DR Congo: 129 Killed in Attempted Prison Break in Kinshasa

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At least 129 people were killed during an attempted mass escape from the central Makala prison in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, government officials reported Tuesday.

Interior Minister Shabani Lukoo, in a statement posted on social media platform X, said the situation was now under control. The attempted breakout occurred late Sunday night, resulting in significant casualties and damage to the facility.

“The mass escape attempt at Makala central prison resulted in the loss of life and significant material damage,” Lukoo said in a video statement. He added that a fire had broken out in the prison’s administrative building, food depots, and hospital. Additionally, 59 people were reported wounded in the incident.

The escape attempt began around 2:00 a.m. local time (0100 GMT) on Sunday. Prisoners told Reuters they heard heavy gunfire and sounds of other inmates outside their cells during the incident.

A prison official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that no prisoners had successfully escaped. Those who attempted to flee were reportedly killed, although this claim has not been independently verified.

The government has launched an investigation into the incident, which marks one of the deadliest prison events in recent Congolese history.

Makala prison, the largest in Kinshasa, has a history of overcrowding and poor conditions. This incident raises concerns about prison security and inmate treatment in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Human rights organizations have long criticized the state of prisons in DR Congo, calling for reforms to address overcrowding, inadequate healthcare, and poor sanitation.

The government has not yet provided details on the identities of those killed or the circumstances that led to such a high death toll during the escape attempt.

Ethiopian Airlines Suspends Flights to Eritrea Amid Diplomatic Tensions

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Ethiopian Airlines, the state-owned flag carrier of Ethiopia, announced Monday it has suspended flights to neighboring Eritrea, citing unspecified “difficult operating conditions.”

The suspension comes after Eritrea had previously stated it would halt all Ethiopian Airlines flights at the end of September. This development marks a significant setback in bilateral relations that had shown signs of improvement since 2018.

“Ethiopian Airlines regrets to inform its valued customers travelling to/from Asmara that it has suspended its flights to Asmara effective Sept. 3 … due to very difficult operating conditions it has encountered in Eritrea that are beyond its control,” the airline said in a statement.

The carrier, ranked as Africa’s largest by revenue and profit according to the International Air Transport Association, said it would assist affected passengers by rebooking them on other airlines at no additional cost or offering refunds.

Flights between Ethiopia and Eritrea had resumed in 2018 after a two-decade hiatus, following a peace deal that earned Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019. The resumption of air travel was seen as a symbol of renewed diplomatic ties between the once-warring nations.

Five diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that the flight suspension signifies a significant deterioration in relations between Asmara and Addis Ababa. However, they noted that the risk of renewed conflict remains low for now.

The roots of tension between the two countries date back to a border war from 1998 to 2000. More recently, Eritrea fought alongside Ethiopia against regional forces from Ethiopia’s Tigray region in a conflict that began in November 2020. However, relations soured again after Eritrea was excluded from peace talks that ended the Tigray conflict in 2022, and due to the continued presence of some Eritrean troops in Tigray.

Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the flight suspension.

This development raises concerns about the stability of diplomatic relations in the Horn of Africa and potential impacts on regional trade and movement. Observers will be closely monitoring for any further signs of tension or efforts at reconciliation between the two nations.

Reuters

Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei Hospitalized After Alleged Petrol Attack

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Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei is in critical condition after an alleged petrol attack by her boyfriend in western Kenya, local authorities reported Monday.

Cheptegei, 33, who finished 44th in the women’s marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, is being treated for burns covering 75% of her body. The incident occurred at her home in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya.

Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom said Cheptegei’s boyfriend, identified as Dickson Ndiema, allegedly purchased petrol, poured it on her, and set her on fire during a disagreement on Sunday.

“The suspect, Ndiema, also sustained burn injuries in the incident,” Kosiom stated. Both Cheptegei and Ndiema are receiving specialized treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret city.

Cheptegei’s parents told local media that their daughter had purchased land in Trans Nzoia to be near the county’s numerous athletic training centers. The local chief’s report indicates that the couple was heard arguing over the land where the house was built before the fire started.

The athlete’s Olympic performance in Paris last August saw her complete the marathon in two hours, 32 minutes, and 14 seconds.

This incident has shocked the athletic community and raised concerns about the safety of athletes in their personal lives. Local authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Kenyan and Ugandan athletic officials have yet to comment on the situation. Support services for athletes facing domestic violence are being highlighted in the wake of this tragic event.

Nigeria Police Arrest 70-Year-Old Man for Alleged Sexual Abuse of Daughter

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Lagos State Police Command, Nigeria, arrested a 70-year-old farmer on August 29, 2024, for allegedly sexually abusing his 14-year-old daughter, authorities said Thursday.

Bashiru Abiodun, residing at No. 26, Papa-Ado Street in the Agbowa community of Lagos State, was taken into custody by the Agbowa-Ejirin division following allegations of sexual abuse against his teenage daughter.

The victim’s mother, identified only as Mrs. Abiodun, told police, “My daughter informed me that her father had been sexually abusing her before I caught him in the act.”

According to Mrs. Abiodun, confronting her husband about the allegations led to arguments and hostility. She claims he then attempted to silence the family by selling their house.

“He put our only house up for sale and received partial payment from a buyer. He then relocated to the Itu Kosomi community,” Mrs. Abiodun said. “My husband seems to believe that selling the house will punish us into dropping the accusations.”

At the police station, a community member alleged that Abiodun had also abused his daughter from a previous marriage, who is now an adult.

The victim, whose name is withheld due to her age, stated, “My father occasionally engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with me.”

Lagos State Police Command is conducting an ongoing investigation into the allegations. Authorities urge anyone with information related to the case to come forward.

Child protection advocates emphasize the importance of reporting suspected abuse and providing support for victims of family violence.

Russia Imports $30M in U.S. Dollars and Euros from Rwanda Despite Western Sanctions

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Russia has imported more than $29 million in U.S. dollar and euro banknotes from Rwanda this year, despite Western sanctions prohibiting such cash imports, according to a report by the investigative outlet Vyorstka. The revelation, based on confidential customs data, highlights potential loopholes in the sanctions regime imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.

Vyorstka’s investigation found that on January 23, Russia’s state-controlled arms exporter Rosoboronexport imported $29.21 million worth of $100 bills from Rwanda’s Defense Ministry. This transaction occurred nearly two years after the United States and the European Union banned the export of their banknotes to Russia in March 2022.

The report also detailed two additional shipments registered on January 18 by Aero-Trade, a company providing duty-free shopping services for flights and airports. These shipments were valued at $20 million and 20 million euros ($22.14 million) respectively. Vyorstka noted that these were the last reported imports of what Russia publicly refers to as “toxic” currencies until at least April 30.

Since the imposition of sanctions, an estimated $2.27 billion in dollars and euros has been sent to Russia from countries that have not imposed such restrictions, including Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. The Vyorstka report suggests that Rwanda, which was among the UN members condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has now joined this list of countries facilitating currency imports to Russia.

Reuters, in a separate investigation, identified Aero-Trade as the only company that declared foreign currency imports for 2022 and 2023, reporting a total of $1.5 billion in banknotes across 73 shipments. Each shipment was valued at $20 million in either dollars or euros. However, the exact source and destination of this cash could not be determined.

In response to previous reports, Aero-Trade had stated that it was “not involved in the supply of hard currency to Russia.” The company’s role in these transactions and its relationship with Russian financial institutions remain unclear.

This latest revelation raises questions about the effectiveness of Western sanctions and the strategies employed by Russia to circumvent them. It also highlights the complex web of international financial transactions that continue to occur despite efforts to isolate Russia economically.

As international observers and policymakers digest this information, it may prompt renewed discussions on strengthening sanctions enforcement and closing potential loopholes in the global financial system. The involvement of Rwanda, a country that officially condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine, adds a layer of complexity to the geopolitical implications of these currency imports.

The Russian government and financial institutions have not yet commented on Vyorstka’s report. As the situation develops, it is likely to draw attention from international financial regulators and diplomatic circles, potentially leading to further scrutiny of Russia’s economic activities amid ongoing sanctions.

Uruguay’s Luis Suarez Announces Retirement from International Football

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Luis Suarez, one of Uruguay’s most iconic football players, announced his retirement from international football on Monday. The 37-year-old striker confirmed that Friday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Paraguay in Montevideo will be his final match representing his country.

“Friday will be my last match for my country,” an emotional Suarez told reporters during a press conference. “It was not an easy decision to make, but I do it with the peace of mind that I will give my maximum until the very last game of my (Uruguay) career.”

Suarez leaves the international stage as Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer, having netted 69 goals in 142 appearances since his debut in 2007. His illustrious career with La Celeste spans over 16 years and includes participation in nine major tournaments.

The highlight of Suarez’s international career came in 2011 when he played a pivotal role in Uruguay’s Copa America triumph. Named player of the tournament, Suarez reflected on this achievement with pride: “I wouldn’t trade the Copa America title for anything. It was the best moment of my career.”

Throughout his career, Suarez has been known for his dynamic playing style, exceptional skill, and clinical finishing. However, his time on the international stage has also been marked by controversial moments. Most notably, he was expelled from the 2014 World Cup after receiving a four-month ban for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini.

Suarez’s international career also includes the infamous handball incident during the 2010 World Cup quarter-final against Ghana, which denied the African side a potential winning goal. While vilified by many, the incident showcased Suarez’s win-at-all-costs mentality that endeared him to Uruguayan fans.

At club level, Suarez’s career has been equally impressive and controversial. He faced an eight-game ban in England in 2011 for allegedly racially abusing Manchester United’s Patrice Evra while playing for Liverpool. Despite the controversies, Suarez’s talent shone through at top clubs including Barcelona and Liverpool.

In recent years, Suarez has taken on a different role within the national team. During this summer’s Copa America, coach Marcelo Bielsa utilized him primarily as a substitute. Nevertheless, Suarez managed to score his 69th international goal in a third-place playoff victory over Canada.

As Suarez prepares for his final match in Uruguay’s sky blue jersey, fans and fellow players alike are reflecting on the impact of a player who, despite his controversies, has left an indelible mark on Uruguayan football. His retirement marks the end of an era for a generation of Uruguayan players who brought the small South American nation back to football’s top table.

The football world now turns its attention to Friday’s match against Paraguay, where Suarez will have one final opportunity to add to his impressive goal tally and bid farewell to the passionate supporters who have stood by him throughout his rollercoaster international career.

Arsenal Reject Al Ittihad’s Bid for Leandro Trossard as Saudi Transfer Window Nears Close

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Arsenal have reportedly rejected a bid from Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad for Belgian winger Leandro Trossard, according to multiple sources. The offer comes as the Saudi transfer window approaches its September 2 closure, while the Premier League’s summer transfer period concluded on August 30.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed on Monday that Al Ittihad, home to stars like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante, had submitted an offer for Trossard. The Athletic subsequently reported that Arsenal swiftly rejected the “informal proposal,” which was structured as a season-long loan with an obligation to buy next summer for €20-25 million.

Arsenal’s decision to retain Trossard underscores the club’s belief in his importance for the remainder of the season, despite the player’s limited playing time in the 2024/25 campaign so far. The 28-year-old Belgian international has started only one Premier League match this season, against Brighton & Hove Albion, and came off the bench in wins over Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Gunners manager Mikel Arteta had previously acknowledged Trossard’s frustration at his lack of starts, citing the team’s depth in the left wing position. However, Trossard’s contributions during the 2023/24 season, where he made 46 appearances and scored 17 goals in Arsenal’s title challenge, have not been forgotten by the club’s hierarchy.

The rejection of Al Ittihad’s bid comes in the wake of Arsenal’s deadline day acquisition of Raheem Sterling from Chelsea, further intensifying competition for the left wing role. Simultaneously, the departure of Reiss Nelson to Fulham has somewhat balanced the squad dynamics.

Trossard’s situation at Arsenal reflects the broader challenges faced by Premier League clubs in managing squad depth and player satisfaction, especially with the allure of lucrative offers from Saudi Arabian clubs. The Saudi Pro League has made significant moves in recent transfer windows, attracting high-profile players with substantial financial packages.

As Arsenal prepares for their upcoming north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur after the international break, the retention of Trossard signals the club’s intent to maintain a strong, competitive squad across all competitions. The Belgian’s ability to impact games, whether as a starter or from the bench, remains valued by Arteta and the Arsenal management.

The failed bid also highlights the growing influence of Saudi Arabian football in the global transfer market, with clubs like Al Ittihad actively seeking to recruit established Premier League talent. As the Saudi transfer window nears its close, further attempts to lure players from Europe’s top leagues may be expected.

US Forces Capture ISIS Leader Aiding Escaped Detainees in Syria

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U.S. forces, in cooperation with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), have captured an ISIS leader responsible for assisting escaped fighters from detention facilities in Syria, according to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). The operation, conducted early Sunday morning, resulted in the apprehension of Khaled Ahmed al-Dandal.

CENTCOM reported that al-Dandal played a crucial role in aiding ISIS fighters who had escaped from detention facilities across Syria, including those who had recently fled. This capture comes in the wake of a recent escape incident at the Raqqa detention facility, where five ISIS detainees broke out. While the SDF recaptured two of the escapees, three remain at large.

The situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by U.S. and allied forces in managing the more than 9,000 ISIS detainees held in over 20 detention facilities throughout Syria. Gen. Erik Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command, emphasized the potential threat posed by these detainees, stating, “If a large number of these ISIS fighters escaped, it would pose an extreme danger to the region and beyond.”

U.S. authorities are working to repatriate as many detainees as possible to their countries of origin for prosecution, but progress has been slow. The high concentration of ISIS prisoners in these facilities has made them attractive targets for ISIS attacks aimed at freeing their compatriots.

This operation follows a separate raid against ISIS in Iraq just days earlier, which resulted in injuries to seven U.S. service members. That joint operation with Iraqi Security Forces resulted in the death of 15 ISIS militants and targeted several ISIS leadership hideouts.

As the U.S. and its allies continue efforts to combat ISIS remnants in the region, the capture of al-Dandal represents a significant victory in disrupting the terror group’s support networks. However, it also highlights the persistent threat posed by ISIS and the complexities of managing captured fighters in a volatile region.

CENTCOM officials stress the importance of international cooperation in addressing the ISIS detainee situation, calling for increased efforts to repatriate fighters and bring them to justice in their home countries. As operations against ISIS continue, the international community remains vigilant against the potential resurgence of the terror group in Syria and Iraq.

CNN

Passenger Plane Catches Fire Seconds Before Landing in New Zealand

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An Air New Zealand passenger plane narrowly averted disaster when its engine caught fire just seconds before landing at Wellington Airport. The incident, which occurred on Monday at approximately 2 p.m. local time, involved an ATR-72 aircraft flying from Christchurch to Wellington.

Eyewitness footage captured the dramatic moment as the plane’s left engine began emitting smoke and flames during its final approach. The fire became visible approximately six seconds before touchdown and intensified after the aircraft landed on the runway.

Lucy Macleod, a passenger traveling with her son, described the harrowing experience to local media outlet 1News. “And then the glow got larger… turned out to be flames, a bit of smoke and, as we were landing, someone yelled out ‘fire’,” Macleod recounted. She noted that the landing was hard as all power went off, and a large plume of smoke appeared outside the aircraft.

Emergency crews were on standby and quickly responded as the plane came to a stop on the runway. The flight crew swiftly shut down both engines to prevent the situation from escalating. All passengers were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported.

Macleod commended the cabin crew for their calm and professional response, praising their quick action following the captain’s evacuation order. She described the scene as tense, noting the presence of many teenagers, a baby, and even a beagle in the cargo hold, adding to passengers’ concerns.

A spokesperson for the fire service confirmed that the incident involved an engine fire. “There had been a drop in the oil pressure of the engine, the oil obviously was leaking and made contact with hot parts of the engine and ignited,” the spokesperson explained.

The incident has drawn attention to aviation safety procedures and the importance of crew training in emergency situations. Air New Zealand is expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the engine fire.

Detained Binance Executive Seeks Bail in Nigeria on Health Grounds

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Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive detained in Nigeria since February, submitted a fresh bail application on Monday citing medical concerns. The request, however, faced opposition from lawyers representing Nigeria’s economic crimes agency.

Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen and Binance’s head of financial crime compliance, along with Nadeem Anjarwalla, the exchange’s British-Kenyan regional manager for Africa, are facing charges of laundering more than $35 million. Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, is also confronting separate allegations of tax evasion in Nigeria.

Attorney Mark Mordi presented the new bail application to a High Court in Abuja, stating, “His health has continued to deteriorate while in prison custody.” This follows a previous bail request for Gambaryan that was denied by the court in May.

Gambaryan claims to suffer from a herniated disc causing neck and back pain, as well as recurring bouts of malaria and pneumonia. He appeared in court using crutches and informed the judge that prison officials had denied him access to a wheelchair.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which is prosecuting the money laundering case, contested the bail application. Their lawyer argued that Gambaryan’s health concerns were not severe, noting that he has had a herniated disc for over a decade.

The case has drawn significant attention to Nigeria’s approach to regulating cryptocurrency exchanges and combating financial crimes. Binance’s legal troubles in the country come amid a global scrutiny of cryptocurrency platforms and their compliance with financial regulations.

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