Home Blog Page 776

Belarus’ Lukashenko Urges End to Russia-Ukraine War Amid Kursk Incursion

admin
-
0
Belarus’ Lukashenko Urges End to Russia-Ukraine War Amid Kursk Incursion

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, a key ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has called for Russia and Ukraine to negotiate an end to their conflict. In an interview with Russian state television, Lukashenko emphasized the need to prevent the war from spilling over into Belarus.

The Belarusian leader’s comments come against the backdrop of a significant Ukrainian incursion into Russia that began on August 6, 2024. Thousands of Ukrainian troops breached Russia’s western border, causing embarrassment for Putin’s military leadership.

Lukashenko claimed that only “high-ranking people of American origin” want the war to continue. He accused the West of encouraging Kyiv to fight, alleging they want Ukraine and Russia to “destroy each other.” Without providing evidence, Lukashenko suggested that Ukraine might have plans to attack Belarus, vowing not to allow Ukrainian troops to “trample on our country.”

Urging negotiations, Lukashenko said, “Let’s sit down at the negotiating table and end this brawl.” He referred to the conflict as a “common war” between Belarus and Russia against Kyiv and its Western allies.

Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of people received orders to evacuate the western Kursk region, prompting Russia to announce plans to strengthen its border defenses. Ukrainian forces claim to have advanced 35 km (22 miles) into Russia since last week and continue to gain ground.

Lukashenko warned that if Ukraine provokes Belarus, “we’ll have no other choice” but to respond. He also stated that Minsk sees no reason to use Russian nuclear weapons deployed on Belarusian territory unless its borders are violated.

The Belarusian leader’s call for negotiations comes as Moscow insists any peace talks should be based on Ukraine ceding a fifth of its territory, while Ukraine demands full respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

As the situation in the region remains tense, Lukashenko’s comments highlight the complex dynamics of the conflict and the potential for further escalation involving neighboring countries.

US Seeks to Move Alleged Mexican Drug Kingpin ‘El Mayo’ Zambada to Brooklyn for Trial

admin
-
0
US Seeks to Move Alleged Mexican Drug Kingpin ‘El Mayo’ Zambada to Brooklyn for Trial

Federal prosecutors in the United States are taking steps to transfer alleged Mexican drug lord Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada from Texas to Brooklyn, New York, for trial. The move would bring Zambada to the same courthouse where his Sinaloa Cartel co-founder, Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, was convicted in 2019.

On Thursday, federal prosecutors in El Paso, Texas, filed a court document requesting U.S. District Judge Kathleen Cardone to schedule a hearing for Zambada’s transfer. The prosecutors stated that Zambada would face charges in the Eastern District of New York before returning to address separate charges in Texas.

Zambada, who is in his seventies, was apprehended on July 25 at a New Mexico airfield alongside Joaquin Guzman Lopez, one of El Chapo’s sons. This operation was hailed as a significant achievement for U.S. law enforcement. While the U.S. Embassy in Mexico reported that Guzman Lopez surrendered voluntarily, Zambada’s capture appeared involuntary.

In Brooklyn, Zambada faces charges brought in February, including conspiracy to manufacture and distribute fentanyl, a synthetic opioid contributing to a widespread epidemic in the United States. The Texas charges, dating back to 2012, involve drug trafficking and racketeering related to alleged conspiracies to import cocaine and marijuana into the U.S.

FILE PHOTO: REUTERS/Jose Luis Gonzalez/File Photo

Zambada has pleaded not guilty to the Texas charges. His attorney, Frank Perez, has not yet commented on the proposed transfer. Prosecutors mentioned in their filing that they were awaiting a response from Zambada’s defense team regarding their position on his removal.

The timing of Zambada’s potential transfer to New York remains unspecified in Thursday’s filing. Meanwhile, Joaquin Guzman Lopez has pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking charges he faces in Chicago.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of U.S. authorities to prosecute high-ranking members of international drug cartels. The transfer of Zambada to Brooklyn would align his case with the venue of his former associate El Chapo’s trial, potentially consolidating related proceedings and evidence.

El Chapo Guzman, following his conviction, is currently serving a life sentence in a maximum-security prison in Colorado. The prosecution of Zambada in Brooklyn could provide further insights into the operations of the Sinaloa Cartel and its impact on the U.S. drug trade, particularly concerning the fentanyl crisis.

As this legal process unfolds, it continues to draw attention to the complex challenges in combating international drug trafficking and the judicial strategies employed in high-profile narcotics cases.

reuters

Kim Dotcom to be Extradited from New Zealand to US After 12-Year Legal Battle

admin
-
0
Kim Dotcom to be Extradited from New Zealand to US After 12-Year Legal Battle

New Zealand’s Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has signed an extradition order for Kim Dotcom, the founder of the defunct file-sharing website Megaupload, to face criminal charges in the United States. This decision comes after a 12-year legal battle that began with an FBI-ordered raid on Dotcom’s Auckland mansion in 2012.

Goldsmith stated, “I considered all of the information carefully, and have decided that Mr Dotcom should be surrendered to the U.S. to face trial.” The minister has allowed Dotcom a brief period to consider and seek advice on the decision.

Dotcom, a German-born entrepreneur with New Zealand residency, has been fighting extradition since 2012. U.S. authorities allege that Dotcom and three other Megaupload executives cost film studios and record companies more than $500 million by encouraging users to store and share copyrighted material, generating over $175 million in revenue for the website.

In a social media post, Dotcom referred to New Zealand as “the obedient US colony in the South Pacific,” expressing his frustration with the extradition decision.

The case has seen developments over the years, with co-defendants Mathias Ortmann and Bram van der Kolk entering plea deals in 2023, receiving jail terms in New Zealand but avoiding extradition. Another executive, Finn Batato, passed away in New Zealand in 2022.

This extradition order marks a significant turning point in one of the most high-profile copyright infringement cases in recent history, potentially bringing Dotcom closer to facing trial in the United States after years of legal maneuvering in New Zealand.

REUTERS

Sri Lanka Accepts Record 39 Presidential Candidates Amid Economic Crisis

admin
-
0
Sri Lanka Accepts Record 39 Presidential Candidates Amid Economic Crisis

Sri Lanka’s Elections Commission announced on Thursday that a record 39 candidates have applied to run in next month’s presidential election. The election is expected to significantly influence the future of the nation’s financial reforms, as the country battles an unprecedented economic crisis.

The head of the commission, R.M.A.L. Rathnayake, confirmed that all 39 applications had been accepted. More than 17 million Sri Lankans are eligible to cast their votes in the election, scheduled for September 21.

This election will have more candidates than the last presidential election held in 2019, which saw 35 candidates vie for the presidency. The upcoming vote is widely regarded as a referendum on the sweeping economic reforms introduced by the current president, Ranil Wickremesinghe.

While the reforms have shown some signs of improvement in Sri Lanka’s economic indicators, they have not yet translated into tangible relief for many of the country’s ordinary citizens.

Sri Lanka is currently undergoing a critical process of debt restructuring and financial reform as part of a bailout program initiated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The country is grappling with unsustainable debt levels, a balance of payments crisis, and the lingering economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the government’s decision to spend its limited foreign reserves to artificially prop up the rupee has exacerbated the crisis, leading to a severe shortage of foreign currency and essential goods, such as fuel, medicine, cooking gas, and food in 2022.

These hardships led to mass unrest and protests, culminating in riots that forced former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country and resign from office. Parliament then appointed Wickremesinghe as president to serve out the remainder of Rajapaksa’s term.

Wickremesinghe is seeking re-election, promising to restore economic stability through ambitious reforms aimed at revitalizing Sri Lanka’s economy. He also aspires to mark Sri Lanka’s centenary of independence in 2048 with a stable and prosperous economy.

The country’s inflation rate, which had peaked at a staggering 70% two years ago, has shown some improvement but remains high, reflecting the ongoing economic challenges.

The upcoming election presents a crucial moment for the country as voters decide who will steer the nation through its most challenging economic times in decades.

Five Charged in Matthew Perry’s Death: Doctors and Assistant Implicated in Ketamine Overdose

admin
-
0
Five Charged in Matthew Perry’s Death: Doctors and Assistant Implicated in Ketamine Overdose

U.S. prosecutors have charged five individuals in connection with the death of “Friends” star Matthew Perry. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada announced on Thursday that the group, including Perry’s personal assistant and two doctors, were part of what he described as a “broad underground criminal network” supplying Perry with dangerous amounts of ketamine.

Two individuals, including one doctor, were arrested on Thursday. Perry’s assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, and another defendant have already pleaded guilty, while a third person has agreed to plead guilty.

Dr. Salvador Plasencia faces seven counts of ketamine distribution and two charges related to falsifying records after Perry’s death. Dr. Mark Chavez has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine. Prosecutors allege the doctors exploited Perry’s history of addiction, providing him with ketamine in amounts they knew were dangerous.

Financial records show Perry paid approximately $55,000 in cash to the doctors in the two months before his death. In one instance, Perry reportedly paid $2,000 for a vial of ketamine that cost a physician about $12.

Jasveen Sangha, described as a drug dealer known as the “ketamine queen,” was also charged. Prosecutors allege ketamine supplied by Sangha caused Perry’s death.

Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s live-in personal assistant, allegedly administered several ketamine injections on the day of Perry’s death. Iwamasa discovered Perry’s body and was the first to speak with investigators.

Prosecutors claim the defendants exchanged messages referencing ketamine as the cause of death shortly after Perry died and allegedly deleted messages and falsified medical records to conceal their involvement.

Matthew Perry, 54, was found dead in his hot tub on October 28, 2023. The autopsy revealed that the amount of ketamine in his blood was consistent with levels used for general anesthesia during surgery. The medical examiner listed ketamine as the primary cause of death, with drowning and other medical issues as contributing factors.

If convicted, Dr. Plasencia could face up to 120 years in prison, while Sangha could potentially receive a life sentence.

This case follows other high-profile prosecutions related to celebrity drug deaths, including those following the deaths of rapper Mac Miller and pop icon Michael Jackson.

An Associated Press story

63-Year-Old Retired Educator Brutally Attacked and Set on Fire by Unknown Assailants

admin
-
0
63-Year-Old Retired Educator Brutally Attacked and Set on Fire by Unknown Assailants

TORORO, UGANDA | Obore Village in Tororo Municipality, Uganda, was plunged into mourning after a horrific incident involving the brutal attack and killing of Joseph Olokojo, a 63-year-old retired educator and former headmaster of St Peter’s College. Unknown assailants broke into Olokojo’s residence late at night and set him on fire in a shocking act of violence.

According to police reports, the attackers breached the perimeter fence of his home around midnight. As Olokojo attempted to flee and protect his family, the assailants overpowered him, dousing him in petrol before setting him ablaze.

Olokojo was initially rushed to St Anthony Hospital in Tororo, where his condition deteriorated. He was then transferred to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital and later to Mulago National Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

“We have launched an investigation and are urging anyone with information about this attack to come forward,” said Moses Mugwe, spokesperson for Bukedi South Police.

The attack has shocked the community of Obore Village, leaving them grieving over the loss of a beloved figure known for his dedication to education and his role as a community leader.

“Olokojo was a peaceful man and a pillar of our community,” said Ronald Paito, a local resident. “His kindness and dedication to his students made him beloved by all who knew him.”

Olokojo’s contributions as an educator will not be forgotten, as he played a significant role in shaping the lives of many students during his tenure as headmaster at St Peter’s College. The entire community remembers him as a devoted educator who was ever-present and active in service to the community.

A Nilepost story

Body of Baby Benitta Nakalema, Two Other Kids Recovered from Kiteezi Landfill, Uganda, 6 Days After

admin
-
0
Body of Baby Benitta Nakalema, Two Other Kids Recovered from Kiteezi Landfill, Uganda, 6 Days After

For six agonizing days, baby Benitta Nakalema’s lifeless body remained buried beneath a massive garbage slide at Kiteezi landfill, Uganda. On Thursday afternoon, search and rescue teams finally recovered her remains, alongside those of 6-year-old Simon Katerega and 9-year-old Leticia Nassiwa. The tragic incident has now claimed 34 lives, according to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Patrick Onyango.

The fourth victim identified was Moureen Nakitto, 29. All the bodies were identified by residents Margaret Nakabiri and Fred Lukanga, bringing the community together in sorrow over the devastating losses caused by the landfill collapse.

Authorities have reported that 29 individuals are still unaccounted for, as rescue teams battle severe weather conditions. The collapse occurred following a heavy downpour, engulfing homes in the area. City authorities had previously been warned about the hazardous conditions at the landfill.

The Kiteezi landfill, Uganda had already surpassed its capacity, and now the garbage collapse has created a dire situation for the surrounding community. Despite the rainy season hampering rescue operations, efforts continue to search for those still missing.

Credit: nilepost.co.ug

19-Year-Old Miner in Ghana Sentenced to 15 Years for Defiling and Impregnating a Minor

admin
-
0
19-Year-Old Miner in Ghana Sentenced to 15 Years for Defiling and Impregnating a Minor

The Tarkwa Circuit Court in the Western Region, Ghana, has sentenced Evans Aryee, a 19-year-old small-scale miner, to 15 years of imprisonment with hard labor for defiling and impregnating a 15-year-old girl.

Aryee, who is popularly known as Kojo Junior, admitted to having sexual relations with the minor but denied responsibility for the pregnancy. However, Mrs. Hathia Ama Manu, the presiding judge, found Aryee guilty of the offense and handed down the sentence accordingly.

Superintendent of Police Juliana Essel-Dadzie, who led the prosecution, explained that the complainant in the case was the victim’s father, a farmer residing in the same community as Aryee at Pieso in the Western Region.

This case highlights the legal consequences of sexual offenses involving minors and the emphasis on justice for victims in such circumstances.

Turkish President Erdoğan Welcomes Palestinian Leader Abbas Amid Gaza Conflict Tensions

admin
-
0
Turkish President Erdoğan Welcomes Palestinian Leader Abbas Amid Gaza Conflict Tensions

On Wednesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held high-level discussions with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas at the Presidential Complex in Ankara.

The talks primarily centered on the escalating Gaza conflict, highlighting Türkiye’s continued support for the Palestinian cause amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

In the private meeting, Erdoğan emphasized Türkiye’s unwavering stance on the Palestinian issue, particularly in the wake of increased violence and humanitarian crises in Gaza.

According to a statement from the Presidential Communications Directorate, the two leaders discussed Israel’s military actions in Palestine and explored possible steps toward achieving a permanent cease-fire. This meeting underscores Erdoğan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to foster peace in the region.

Erdoğan was vocal in his criticism of Western nations for either remaining silent or openly supporting Israel’s military strikes, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties in Gaza.

The Turkish president urged the international community, particularly Muslim-majority nations, to advocate for an immediate cease-fire and to prioritize the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to affected areas.

Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine and Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization, is scheduled to address the Turkish parliament on Thursday.

His speech is expected to articulate the Palestinian perspective on the conflict and to serve as a direct response to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent address to the U.S. Congress.

Upon his arrival in Türkiye, Abbas was welcomed by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Palestinian Ambassador Faed Mustafa. The diplomatic visit is seen as a crucial moment in Turkish-Palestinian relations, particularly as the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East becomes increasingly fraught with tensions.

Abbas’s visit also comes at a time when the region is on edge over the potential for Iranian retaliation against Israel. The assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has raised concerns about the possibility of a broader conflict enveloping the Middle East, further complicating efforts to broker peace between Israel and Palestine.

Erdoğan and Abbas’s dialogue marks an important chapter in Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to mediate in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, reaffirming its role as a key player in regional diplomacy and humanitarian advocacy.

The Turkish president’s call for global action signals a continued push for a peaceful resolution and highlights the necessity of international cooperation in ending the violence and delivering much-needed aid to Gaza.

South African Prosecutors Drop Charges Against 95 Libyan Nationals Over Alleged Military Training

admin
-
0
South African Prosecutors Drop Charges Against 95 Libyan Nationals Over Alleged Military Training

South African prosecutors have dropped charges against 95 Libyan nationals who were arrested last month during a widely publicized police raid on what authorities had described as an illegal military training camp in Mpumalanga province, officials announced on Thursday.

The men, who had entered South Africa on study visas, were reportedly receiving military training at the camp where firearms and ammunition were found during the raid.

During their court appearances, the accused claimed they were undergoing security training, not military training, at the camp.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of South Africa stated that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute the men.

“The only charge that was brought to the NPA was related to immigration violations,” said NPA spokesperson Monica Nyuswa. “The charge was for contravening immigration laws, not for military training.”

Nyuswa further clarified that the men were charged with violating immigration laws, not military laws, and their lawyer had anticipated the charges would be dropped, with their deportation to Libya expected within 48 hours.

Following the dismissal of charges, the men were handed over to immigration officials. Their lawyer, Nico du Plessis, emphasized that his clients had maintained they were in South Africa for security training purposes.

“They are happy with the charges being dropped, as we had expected,” Du Plessis told reporters. “However, as far as we know, investigations into the alleged military training at the camp are ongoing, though our clients were only involved in security training.”

This development ends the legal proceedings against the group but raises further questions regarding the nature of the training they were receiving and the broader implications for security and immigration in the region.

1...775776777...973Page 776 of 973