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Congo to Receive First Mpox Vaccines Amid Global Emergency

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The Democratic Republic of Congo is set to receive its first batch of mpox vaccines next week from the United States, Health Minister Roger Kamba announced Monday. This development comes days after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox outbreaks in Africa a global health emergency.

Kamba, speaking to journalists, said both the U.S. and Japan have offered to donate vaccines. He did not specify the number of doses expected from the U.S. or the arrival date for Japan’s contribution. Congo currently requires 3 million vaccine doses to address its outbreak.

The WHO has reported over 17,000 mpox cases and more than 500 deaths globally this year. Congo accounts for over 96% of all cases and deaths, with its health system struggling to contain the outbreak across the country’s vast territory and poor infrastructure.

Children under 15 represent more than 70% of the cases and 85% of deaths in Congo, according to WHO data. The outbreak has affected both children and adults in more than a dozen African countries.

Scientists are monitoring a new form of the mpox virus in Congo that may be more transmissible. Sweden recently reported its first case of this new version, though officials there stated the risk to the general public was “very low.”

This new form presents milder symptoms and genital lesions, making detection more challenging. Mpox typically requires close, skin-to-skin contact to spread and is not airborne.

The WHO recently identified mpox for the first time in four East African countries: Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. All these outbreaks are linked to the epidemic in Congo.

Vaccine availability remains limited across the African continent. The global response to the mpox outbreak in Africa contrasts with the swift action taken when cases appeared in Europe and North America last year.

As Congo prepares to receive its first vaccine doses, health officials hope to curb the spread of the virus and prevent further casualties. The effectiveness of the vaccination campaign will be closely monitored as it unfolds in the coming weeks.

AP

Suspected Kenyan Serial Killer Escapes Police Custody

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A man suspected of a string of gruesome killings in Kenya’s capital has escaped from police custody, officials confirmed Tuesday, raising concerns about public safety and the integrity of the country’s criminal justice system.

Collins Jumaisi Khalusha, 33, who police say confessed to killing 42 women, including his wife, managed to break out of a Nairobi police station along with 12 other inmates. The escape occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning, just days before Khalusha was expected to be formally charged.

Mohamed Amin, head of Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), described the incident as “unfortunate” in an interview with The Associated Press. “This was a high-value suspect who was to face serious charges. We are investigating the incident and will take action accordingly,” Amin stated.

According to preliminary reports, Khalusha and his fellow escapees cut through wire mesh in their cells and scaled the perimeter wall of the police station. The audacious escape has prompted questions about security measures at the facility and the potential for insider assistance.

Khalusha’s arrest in July had sent shockwaves through Nairobi after police discovered 10 dismembered bodies and various body parts wrapped in plastic sacks in the city’s Kware area. The grisly findings led to an intensive investigation that culminated in Khalusha’s apprehension.

Police reported that following his arrest, Khalusha confessed to the murders of 42 women. However, the suspect’s lawyer has vehemently contested this claim, telling journalists that his client was tortured and forced to confess. The lawyer maintains Khalusha’s innocence, setting the stage for what would have been a high-profile criminal trial.

The escape has reignited debate about Kenya’s criminal justice system and the treatment of suspects in custody. Human rights organizations have long criticized the use of torture and coercion in obtaining confessions, calling for reforms to ensure fair trials and humane treatment of detainees.

Authorities have launched a massive manhunt for Khalusha and the other escaped inmates. Police have set up roadblocks and increased patrols in Nairobi and surrounding areas. The public has been urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the suspects to law enforcement immediately.

The case has also drawn attention to the broader issue of violence against women in Kenya. Women’s rights activists have called for increased efforts to address gender-based violence and improve support systems for victims and their families.

Two other suspects connected to the case, arrested for possessing mobile phones belonging to some of the deceased women, are scheduled to appear in court on August 26. Their involvement and the evidence against them are expected to be crucial in piecing together the full extent of the alleged crimes.

As the search for Khalusha continues, questions linger about how such a high-profile suspect managed to escape and what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The DCI has promised a thorough internal investigation, with potential disciplinary action for any officers found negligent in their duties.

The escape has also raised concerns about potential witness intimidation and the safety of those involved in the investigation. Authorities have not disclosed whether any specific threats have been made, but security measures around key witnesses and investigators are likely to be enhanced.

This case continues to grip the nation, highlighting issues of public safety, police competence, and the challenges facing Kenya’s criminal justice system. As the manhunt intensifies, Kenyans await answers and assurances that justice will be served for the victims and their families.

Source: AP

Russia Strikes Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure in Overnight Attack

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KYIV, Ukraine  — Russian forces launched a large-scale overnight attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, targeting multiple regions and causing significant damage, Ukrainian officials reported Tuesday.

The assault, involving both missiles and drones, struck facilities in northern Ukraine and ignited a major fire in the west of the country, highlighting Russia’s continued strategy of targeting civilian infrastructure as the war, which began with Moscow’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, grinds on.

Ukraine’s air force commander stated that Ukrainian defense systems successfully intercepted three ballistic missiles and 25 out of 26 drones launched across nine regions. Despite this high interception rate, some attacks breached defenses, resulting in power outages and property damage.

In the northeastern Sumy region, which borders Russia, an energy facility was hit, plunging 72 settlements and over 18,500 consumers into darkness. Regional authorities, communicating via the Telegram messaging app, reported that energy workers were rushing to repair the damage and restore power.

The attack on Sumy underscores the vulnerability of Ukraine’s power grid, which has faced nearly daily bombardments over the past six months. Despite purchasing electricity from neighboring European Union countries, Ukraine struggles to make up the deficit caused by these persistent attacks. As a result, scheduled power cuts during peak evening hours have become a regular occurrence for many Ukrainians.

Further west, in the Ternopil region, an industrial facility was targeted, and a fuel reservoir was struck, officials said. Ukrainian television broadcast images of massive columns of black smoke rising over Ternopil, prompting regional authorities to urge residents to remain indoors.

Viktor Ustenko, a deputy head of the Ternopil regional administration, reported that more than 90 firefighters were engaged in efforts to extinguish the blaze. “The situation is fully under control,” Ustenko assured the public.

In Kyiv, the capital, city officials reported that air defenses successfully repelled an attack without major damage or casualties.

The Russian Ministry of Defense has not immediately commented on Tuesday’s attacks. Both sides in the conflict maintain that they target facilities of military significance rather than civilian infrastructure. However, the ongoing war has resulted in numerous civilian casualties.

These latest airstrikes come in the wake of a Ukrainian incursion into Russia’s Kursk region on August 6, demonstrating the conflict’s potential to spill across borders. Meanwhile, Russian forces have been making gradual advances in parts of eastern Ukraine, indicating a protracted and evolving battlefield situation.

As Ukraine continues to bolster its air defenses with Western support, the effectiveness of these systems in protecting critical infrastructure remains a key factor in the country’s resilience against Russian aggression.

The persistent targeting of energy facilities underscores the broader impact of the war on civilian life in Ukraine, with power outages affecting daily activities and the economy. As winter approaches, concerns grow about the potential humanitarian consequences of widespread energy shortages.

International observers continue to monitor the situation closely, with many calling for increased diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the conflict and alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.

Israel Recovers 6 Hostage Bodies, Blinken Advances Cease-Fire Talks

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JERUSALEM  — The Israeli military announced Tuesday the recovery of six hostage bodies from Gaza, as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken sought to advance cease-fire negotiations.

The bodies, retrieved in an overnight operation in southern Gaza, belonged to individuals taken during Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack. The military did not disclose when or how the six died. Hamas claims some captives have been killed in Israeli airstrikes.

Israeli authorities identified the deceased as Chaim Perry, 80; Yoram Metzger, 80; Avraham Munder, 79; Alexander Dancyg, 76; Nadav Popplewell, 51; and Yagev Buchshtav, 35. Some had family members previously released during a November cease-fire.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the recovery effort, stating, “The State of Israel will continue to make every effort to return all of our hostages — both alive and dead.”

The recovery complicates Hamas’ strategy of exchanging hostages for Palestinian prisoners and a lasting cease-fire. Approximately 110 hostages are believed to remain in captivity, with Israeli estimates suggesting a third may be deceased.

In Gaza, Israeli airstrikes continued. An attack on a school-turned-shelter in Gaza City killed at least 10 people. The Israeli military claimed it was a precise strike on a Hamas command center. Another strike in central Gaza killed a mother and her five children.

Blinken, on his ninth regional visit since the war’s outbreak, said Netanyahu has accepted a proposal to bridge gaps in cease-fire talks. The U.S. diplomat called on Hamas to do the same, though the militant group accused the U.S. of embracing Israeli demands.

The conflict, triggered by Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack that killed about 1,200 people in Israel, has resulted in over 40,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ongoing offensive has caused widespread destruction and displacement in Gaza.

Former Plantain Seller Becomes Successful Model, Wins First “Runways to Freedom” Scholarship

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LAGOS, Nigeria  — Ngozi Arimokwu, once a plantain seller on the streets of Sapele, Nigeria, has emerged as a successful fashion model and the first recipient of the “Runways to Freedom” scholarship, overcoming visual impairment to inspire a new generation in the industry.

Arimokwu’s transformative journey began when an entertainment reporter discovered her selling plantains. She was subsequently recruited by Joan Okorodudu, CEO of Isis Models and founder of Nigeria’s Next Super Model competition.

“Ngozi’s story embodies the mission of our Runways to Freedom program,” Okorodudu told the Bobnews24. “Her transition from selling plantains to walking runways exemplifies the untapped potential we aim to nurture.”

Joan Okorodudu

Despite her visual impairment, Arimokwu participated in Nigeria’s Next Super Model, where her performance launched her modeling career. Her success in the competition led to her selection as the inaugural recipient of the Runways to Freedom scholarship.

The scholarship, part of a broader empowerment initiative, provides Arimokwu with educational resources, career development opportunities, and financial support to further her modeling career.

“This scholarship is not just about fashion; it’s about changing lives,” Okorodudu explained. “We’re committed to unlocking potential and fostering growth in young people from all backgrounds.”

Arimokwu, who hails from Igbanke in Delta State, Nigeria, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “From selling plantains to receiving this scholarship, every step has been a blessing,” she said. “I hope my journey inspires others to pursue their dreams, regardless of their circumstances.”

The model’s rise to prominence has resonated within the Nigerian fashion community. Fashion designer Amaka Osakwe praised Arimokwu’s resilience, stating, “Her journey serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging others to overcome obstacles in pursuit of their aspirations.”

Industry insiders suggest Arimokwu’s success could lead to more inclusive practices in Nigerian and international fashion scenes. The Runways to Freedom program aims to expand its reach in the coming year, with plans to support more aspiring models and fashion industry professionals across Nigeria.

As Arimokwu continues her career, her story is viewed as a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of opportunity in the fashion industry.

Madonna Celebrates 66th Birthday with Family in Italy, 28-Year-Old Boyfriend

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ROME — Pop star Madonna celebrated her 66th birthday with an extravagant gathering in Italy, sharing photos of the event on social media Monday.

The singer, whose actual birthday was on August 16, posted images on Instagram showing her with her six children and her new boyfriend, 28-year-old Akeem Morris. The celebration coincided with her son Rocco Ritchie’s 24th birthday, which was on August 11.

Madonna’s photos, captioned “La Dolce Vita,” show her wearing a semi-sheer white lace dress over a black top, adorned with gold accessories including an elaborate choker-style necklace. She was pictured holding hands with Morris as they walked surrounded by their entourage.

The singer’s children in attendance included Lourdes Leon, 27; Rocco, 24; David Banda, 18; Mercy, 18; and 11-year-old twins Stella and Estere.

The celebration appeared to take place at the Teatro Grande in Pompeii, with a lavish feast set up at the foot of the amphitheater’s steps. The table was decorated with metallic decor and candles.

Naples Prefect Michele Di Bari confirmed to reporters on Tuesday that Madonna had planned a private evening tour of the archaeological site at Pompeii. “She loves Pompeii, loves the archaeological park, and can’t wait to come,” Di Bari said, denying speculation of a large public event at the ancient city.

Madonna, whose family originates from Italy’s Abruzzo region, has reportedly been in the country for several days as a guest of fashion designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana.

The birthday celebration highlights Madonna’s ongoing connection to her Italian heritage and her continued prominence in popular culture as she enters her late 60s. It also marks one of her first public appearances with her new boyfriend, Morris.

As the pop icon’s career spans over four decades, her birthday festivities in Italy showcase her enduring influence and her close relationship with her family.

Source: Daily MailOnline

Two Men Charged with Murder in ‘General Hospital’ Actor’s Death

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LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced Monday that two men have been charged with murder in connection with the May shooting death of “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor.

Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, both 18, face murder charges along with additional felony counts. Two other men have been charged with related crimes in the case.

Barceleau’s charges include a special circumstance allegation of murder during an attempted robbery, which could result in a life sentence without the possibility of parole if convicted. He is also charged with one count each of attempted robbery and grand theft, both while armed with a firearm.

Estrada faces charges of murder, attempted robbery, and grand theft, all while armed with a firearm. His murder charge does not include the special circumstance allegation.

Additionally, Leonel Gutierrez, 19, has been charged with attempted robbery and grand theft while armed with a firearm. Frank Olano, 22, faces charges of accessory after the fact to murder, receiving stolen property, and three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to prosecutors, Wactor was shot in the chest by Barceleau in May after the actor confronted a group attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his car. The incident occurred as Wactor was leaving his job as a bartender in downtown Los Angeles.

The charges follow the execution of multiple arrest and search warrants by law enforcement on Thursday, as reported by TMZ.

Wactor, known for his role on the long-running soap opera “General Hospital,” died at the scene of the shooting. The case has drawn attention to the ongoing issue of catalytic converter thefts in the Los Angeles area.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has not yet announced arraignment dates for the suspects. The investigation into the case is ongoing.

As the legal process unfolds, Wactor’s family and colleagues await further developments. A coworker of the late actor, who was present on the night of the incident, has stated that the family seeks convictions in the case for closure.

The charges represent a significant development in a case that has highlighted concerns about violent crime and property theft in Los Angeles.

Ukraine Blows Up Third Key Supply Line Bridge in Russian Territory

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KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian forces have targeted three bridges over the River Seym in Russia’s Kursk region within four days, according to reports from both Ukrainian and Russian sources. The attacks appear to be part of Ukraine’s ongoing military operations inside Russian territory, which began on August 6.

The bridges, located near Glushkovo, Zvannoe, and Karyzh, are approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from the Ukrainian border. Their destruction could potentially disrupt Russian supply lines and military movements in the area.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Sunday that the objective of these operations is to create a “buffer zone” between Ukraine and Russia. “It is now our primary task in defensive operations overall: to destroy as much Russian war potential as possible and conduct maximum counteroffensive actions,” Zelenskyy said.

According to Ukrainian military sources, their forces have advanced up to 35 kilometers (21 miles) inside Russian territory since the operation began, reportedly capturing 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles) of land, including dozens of towns.

Russian military bloggers reported that engineers have constructed a pontoon bridge east of Glushkovo to maintain supply lines to their forces. However, this temporary solution may create logistical challenges, as such structures typically allow only limited traffic.

The Ukrainian military has not officially confirmed the exact nature or extent of its operations inside Russia. Similarly, the Russian Ministry of Defense has not issued detailed statements about the situation in the Kursk region.

These developments come as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, continues to escalate. The international community, including the United Nations and various world leaders, has called for diplomatic solutions to end the hostilities.

As the situation remains fluid, military analysts suggest that the destruction of these bridges could have significant implications for both Ukrainian and Russian military strategies in the region. However, the full impact of these operations remains to be seen as events continue to unfold.

Apple’s Virtual Driver’s License Feature Set to Expand to More U.S. States

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CUPERTINO, Calif. — Apple Inc. has announced plans to expand its virtual driver’s license feature to more U.S. states, bringing the total number of participating states to 13.

The feature, which allows users to store a digital copy of their state ID or driver’s license in the Apple Wallet app on iPhone and Apple Watch, is currently available in five states: Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, and Ohio. California is pending implementation, which would bring the total to six.

Apple has identified seven additional states that are preparing to support the feature:

– Connecticut

– Hawaii

– Iowa

– Kentucky

– Mississippi

– Oklahoma

– Utah

The technology giant first announced the feature in 2021, with Arizona becoming the first state to offer support in March 2022.

To use the feature, iPhone users must update their devices to the latest version of iOS and add their ID to the Apple Wallet app by scanning their physical ID. The state authority issuing the ID receives only the information necessary for approval.

Apple emphasizes the privacy and security measures in place for the feature. “A user’s ID information is encrypted and stored only on their device, so others, including Apple, cannot access it unless a user chooses to present it,” the company stated in a press release.

When presenting a digital ID, users must authorize the presentation with Face ID or Touch ID. Apple notes that users won’t need to unlock, show, or hand over their device to present their ID.

The virtual ID can be used to verify age when purchasing restricted products and for identification at select Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints.

As states continue to adopt this technology, questions remain about widespread acceptance and potential legal implications. State authorities and federal agencies are working to ensure the digital IDs meet security standards and legal requirements.

The timeline for implementation in the newly announced states has not been specified. Apple continues to work with state governments to expand the feature’s availability across the United States.

Doctor’s Clinic Reopens for Limited Services After Federal Charges in Matthew Perry’s Case

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MALIBU, Calif. — The urgent care clinic operated by Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who faces federal charges related to illegal drug distribution, has reopened with limited services, according to observations by The U.S. Sun on Monday.

Malibu Canyon Urgent Care resumed operations on Monday, August 19, 2024, after being closed over the weekend following Plasencia’s arrest on Thursday. A notice posted on the clinic’s entrance stated it would be open “for weight loss program only,” turning away patients seeking other medical treatments.

A nurse at the practice confirmed to The U.S. Sun that the facility opened at 10 a.m. but “can not see anyone for medical reasons.”

Plasencia faces multiple federal drug charges, including conspiracy to distribute ketamine and distribution of ketamine resulting in death. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His attorney, Stefan Sacks, told ABC affiliate WABC-TV that Plasencia was providing medical treatment “in good faith.”

Despite the charges, Plasencia has not been stripped of his medical license, according to TMZ. The Medical Board of California is investigating Plasencia and another physician, Mark Chavez, but until a ruling is issued, both doctors are still allowed to prescribe medication.

Chavez has reached a plea deal with prosecutors and agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine.

Federal investigators allege that Plasencia and four other suspects sought to profit from illegal drug distribution. U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California Martin Estrada stated that between September and October 2023, Plasencia and Chavez sold approximately 20 vials of ketamine, profiting $55,000 in cash.

Plasencia is currently out on $100,000 bond and is expected to go on trial on October 8.

The reopening of the clinic for limited services has raised questions about medical ethics and patient safety. Local health authorities have not yet commented on the clinic’s decision to continue operations while its primary physician faces serious federal charges.

As the legal proceedings continue, the case has sparked discussions about oversight in medical practices and the responsibilities of healthcare providers.

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