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Sierra Leone Court Sentences Soldiers to Long Jail Terms for Failed Coup Attempt

Freetown, Sierra Leone – A military court in Sierra Leone has handed down lengthy prison sentences to 24 soldiers for their involvement in a failed coup attempt against the government of President Julius Maada Bio last November. The sentences, which range from 50 to 120 years in prison, were delivered late on Friday as the court sought to impose severe penalties on those convicted of the serious charges.

The convicted soldiers were among 27 individuals who were court-martialed for their participation in the November 26 coup attempt, during which armed men attacked military barracks, two prisons, and other strategic locations across the capital. The coordinated assault resulted in the freeing of approximately 2,200 inmates and the deaths of more than 20 people.

The court’s decision follows a violent crackdown in July, during which 11 civilians, as well as police and prison officers, were killed in connection with the insurrection. The sentencing represents the culmination of a significant military trial that has drawn national attention.

A seven-member military jury found the majority of the court-martialed soldiers guilty on multiple counts, including mutiny, murder, aiding the enemy, and stealing public or private property. After hours of deliberation, the jury delivered a unanimous verdict, resulting in a total of 88 charges being upheld.

Among those sentenced, one of the most notable cases involved a lieutenant colonel who was found guilty of leading the coup effort and received the heaviest sentence of 120 years in prison. The court’s decision highlights the severity with which the Sierra Leonean military views acts of insubordination and attempts to destabilize the government.

Before delivering the sentences, Judge Advocate Mark Ngegba, a former military officer, emphasized the importance of upholding discipline within the military ranks. “When we reach this conclusion for sentences, it is to send a message of zero tolerance for such an act in the military,” Ngegba stated, underscoring the court’s intention to deter any future attempts at insurrection.

Of the 27 soldiers tried, one was acquitted, while another had already been sentenced earlier after pleading guilty. The trial of the final defendant is set to conclude at a later date.

As the sentences were read out, family members of the convicted soldiers expressed their anguish outside the courtroom, where emotions ran high.

This high-profile court-martial comes in the aftermath of a closely contested election in which President Bio narrowly secured a second term. His victory was heavily disputed by the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party, which, alongside some regional and international observers, raised concerns about the transparency and fairness of the electoral process.

The trial and subsequent sentencing have become a focal point of national discussion, reflecting the deep political and social divisions in Sierra Leone as the country navigates its post-conflict recovery.

Reuters

Ethiopian Airlines Signs Landmark Deal for Design of Africa’s Largest Airport

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Ethiopian Airlines has officially signed an agreement for the design of what is set to become Africa’s largest airport once completed in 2029. The ambitious project will feature a four-runway facility and marks a significant expansion for Ethiopian Airlines, the continent’s leading carrier.

The new airport will be located near the town of Bishoftu, approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) southeast of the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa. According to Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew, the airport will be capable of handling up to 100 million passengers annually and will provide parking for 270 aircraft, making it a critical hub for both passenger and cargo traffic in Africa.

The design contract has been awarded to Dubai-based engineering and consulting firm, Sidara. Tareq Al Qami, Sidara’s Director of Operations, confirmed the company’s involvement in the project during a press conference. Plans for the new airport were first unveiled in 2018, but the project has gained momentum recently as Ethiopia seeks to position itself as a major aviation hub on the continent.

Mesfin noted that the current main hub for Ethiopian Airlines, Bole Addis Ababa International Airport, is nearing its capacity limit of 25 million passengers per year. This rapid growth underscores the necessity of expanding the country’s aviation infrastructure to accommodate increasing demand. “Bole International Airport will soon reach its capacity, which is why this new airport is so critical for our future operations,” Mesfin explained.

The new airport, which is part of a five-year development plan, is projected to be fully operational by 2029. Mesfin emphasized the scale of the project, stating, “It will be the biggest in Africa.” The construction phase alone is expected to cost at least $6 billion, with funding anticipated from various sources, including companies that have already expressed interest in the project.

Ethiopian Airlines has seen substantial growth in recent years. In the 2023/2024 financial year, the airline carried 17 million passengers and is on track to reach 20 million passengers in the current financial year. The expansion of airport facilities is seen as a necessary step to sustain and further accelerate this growth trajectory.

The new airport is expected to play a pivotal role in the airline’s future, enhancing its ability to serve as a gateway between Africa and the rest of the world. As Ethiopia continues to develop its aviation infrastructure, the country is set to solidify its status as a key player in global air travel.

reuters.com

Travis Scott Remains in French Police Custody After Altercation with Security Guard in Paris Hotel

Paris, France – Rapper Travis Scott remains in police custody following his arrest at a luxury hotel in Paris, where he was involved in an altercation with a security guard. The incident occurred on Friday, and French prosecutors confirmed on Saturday that Scott’s detention has been extended while the investigation continues.

The Paris prosecutor’s office issued a statement indicating that Scott, whose real name is Jacques Bermon Webster II, was arrested early Friday morning after police were called to the Georges V Hotel. The rapper, who is in Paris for the Olympics, allegedly engaged in a violent confrontation with a security guard. The altercation reportedly began when the security guard attempted to intervene in a dispute between Scott and his own bodyguard.

Although the prosecutor’s office did not provide further details about the incident, it has been reported that the situation escalated rapidly, leading to Scott’s arrest. French authorities are continuing to investigate the matter, and the exact circumstances surrounding the altercation remain unclear.

Scott’s US-based representative and his lawyer have so far declined to comment on the situation, and they did not immediately respond to inquiries from the Associated Press. However, following Friday’s arrest, a spokesperson for Scott did release a brief statement. The representative indicated that they are “in direct communication with the local Parisian authorities to resolve this matter swiftly and will provide updates when appropriate.” The representative spoke on condition of anonymity, citing the ongoing investigation.

Scott’s presence in Paris coincides with the 2024 Summer Olympics, where he was spotted in the audience during the men’s basketball semifinal on Thursday night, cheering on the United States team as they rallied over Serbia. The rapper, known for his love of sports, frequently attends high-profile athletic events around the world.

Scott, who has become one of the biggest names in hip hop, has enjoyed immense success in recent years. With more than 100 songs that have made it onto the Billboard Hot 100, Scott has released four singles that topped the charts: “Sicko Mode,” “Highest in the Room,” “The Scotts,” and “Franchise.” His influence in the music industry has been significant, making him a prominent figure in both the entertainment and fashion worlds.

In addition to his music career, Scott is also known for his personal life, particularly his relationship with media personality and businesswoman Kylie Jenner. The couple, who share two children, have been in the public eye for their on-and-off relationship, which has been widely covered by the media.

This is not Scott’s first brush with the law. In June, he was arrested in Miami Beach on misdemeanor charges of trespassing and public intoxication after a separate incident where he was found shouting obscenities at people on a yacht. Scott reportedly refused to leave the area despite orders from law enforcement, leading to his arrest.

The current situation in Paris is yet another legal challenge for Scott, and it remains to be seen how it will be resolved. The extension of his custody suggests that French authorities are taking the matter seriously, and fans and the public alike are waiting for further developments.

apnews.com

Afghan Refugee Disqualified for Wearing ‘Free Afghan Women’ Cape at Paris Olympics

Paris, France – In a controversial decision at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Afghan refugee Manizha Talash, also known as “B-girl Talash,” was disqualified from the first-ever Olympic breaking competition on Friday. The disqualification came after Talash wore a cape with the slogan “Free Afghan Women” during her pre-qualifier battle against India’s Sardjoe, who is known in the breaking community as “B-girl India.”

Talash, 21 years old and originally from Afghanistan, represented the Olympic Refugee Team at the event. Although she lost the pre-qualifier battle against Sardjoe, the focus quickly shifted to her attire, which ultimately led to her disqualification. Officials confirmed that Talash would not have advanced in the competition even without the disqualification, as her performance did not meet the qualifying criteria.

The International Olympic Committee and World DanceSport Federation, the governing body for breaking at the Olympics, maintain strict rules against political statements and slogans on the field of play and on podiums. The Federation issued a statement clarifying that Talash was disqualified “for displaying a political slogan on her attire during the Pre-Qualifier battle.”

Talash’s story has drawn international attention, as she sought asylum in Spain after fleeing the Taliban’s oppressive rule in Afghanistan in 2021. Speaking to the Associated Press before the Olympics, Talash shared her motivations for competing despite the risks involved. “I’m here because I want to reach my dream. Not because I’m scared,” she said, explaining her decision to continue breaking despite the challenges she faced.

Talash’s journey to the Olympics was anything but straightforward. She was included in the Olympic roster only after a one-off pre-qualifier battle against Sardjoe was added in May. This decision came after the b-girl from Afghanistan missed registration for qualifying events. The International Olympic Committee’s executive board personally invited Talash to participate in the Games, recognizing her efforts to defy the Taliban’s restrictive policies on women’s sports in her home country.

The disqualification has sparked debate about the balance between Olympic regulations and the expression of political and social issues by athletes, especially those from conflict-ridden regions. While the rules are clear, the impact of Talash’s actions—and the subsequent response—has resonated far beyond the competition floor.

As the first Afghan woman to compete in Olympic breaking, Talash’s participation was symbolic of resilience and the struggle for freedom. Although her journey in the competition was cut short, her message continues to echo, highlighting the ongoing plight of Afghan women under Taliban rule.

APnews

Israel Strike on Gaza School Shelter Kills Around 100, Palestinian Government Says

Gaza City – In a tragic escalation of the ongoing conflict, an Israeli airstrike on a Gaza school shelter has resulted in the deaths of approximately 100 people, according to official statements. T

he school, which had been serving as a refuge for displaced Palestinians, was struck on Friday, marking one of the deadliest incidents since the war began 10 months ago.

The Gaza health ministry reported that the majority of the victims were civilians, including women and children, who had been seeking shelter in the school after fleeing from other parts of the city.

The school, like many others in Gaza, had ceased functioning as an educational institution due to the conflict and was instead being used as a temporary sanctuary for thousands of displaced residents.

Israel has defended the strike, reiterating its longstanding claim that Palestinian militant groups, including Hamas, frequently use civilian infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, and humanitarian zones as cover for their operations.

According to the Israeli government, the militants embed themselves within these civilian areas, making it difficult to target them without causing civilian casualties. Hamas and other Palestinian factions have denied these allegations.

Hamas condemned the airstrike as a “horrific crime” and a “serious escalation.” Izzat El-Reshiq, a member of Hamas’ political office, issued a statement claiming that no combatants were among the dead, insisting that the strike targeted only innocent civilians.

The airstrike has drawn widespread international condemnation. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s spokesperson, Nabil Abu Rudeineh, urged the United States to reconsider its “blind support” for Israel, arguing that this support contributes to the ongoing violence and the deaths of “thousands of innocent civilians, including children, women, and the elderly.

Regional powers, including Egypt, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, also condemned the strike. Egypt described the incident as proof that Israel has no intention of ending the war, while Qatar’s foreign ministry labeled it a “horrific massacre.” Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri stated that the strike should mark a turning point in ceasefire negotiations.

In response to the escalating violence, Egypt, the United States, and Qatar have scheduled a new round of ceasefire talks for Thursday. These discussions are seen as increasingly urgent, with growing fears that the conflict could expand further, potentially involving Iran and its ally Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains resolute in his approach, stating that the war will not end until Hamas is no longer a threat to Israel. He announced that an Israeli delegation would participate in the upcoming August 15th ceasefire talks.

While Netanyahu has emphasized the importance of eliminating the threat posed by Hamas, a Hamas official told Reuters that the group is currently reviewing the new proposal for talks, though no further details were provided.

The conflict, which began on October 7 when Hamas fighters launched a deadly incursion into southern Israel, has led to significant casualties on both sides. Israeli sources report that approximately 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed in the initial Hamas attack, with more than 250 taken hostage.

Since then, the Israeli military response has resulted in nearly 40,000 Palestinian deaths, according to the Palestinian health ministry. Most of these deaths are believed to be civilians, though Israel claims that at least a third of the fatalities are combatants. Hamas, supported by Iran, has not released its own casualty figures.

As the situation continues to deteriorate, the international community is watching closely, hoping that the upcoming ceasefire talks may offer a path to de-escalation and, ultimately, peace. However, with the deepening humanitarian crisis and the high civilian death toll, the prospects for a swift resolution remain uncertain.

Reuters

Adele Announces Engagement to Rich Paul: “I’m Getting Married!”

London, UK – In an exciting revelation that has thrilled fans worldwide, Adele has confirmed that she is engaged to her longtime boyfriend, sports agent Rich Paul. The Grammy-winning singer made the announcement during one of her concerts, much to the delight of the audience.

During the performance, Adele shared a humorous anecdote with the crowd, describing how she had to turn down a proposal from someone by saying, “I can’t marry you because I’m already getting married!” As soon as she finished the sentence, the audience erupted in cheers, especially when Adele showcased her dazzling engagement ring—a stunning 4-carat diamond on that finger.

The engagement ring in question is the same piece of jewelry that Adele has been spotted wearing for some time, fueling speculation that Rich Paul had already proposed. The rumors gained traction over the past few months, and now Adele has officially confirmed that Rich indeed “popped the question” during a romantic moment in London last month.

Although the couple has not disclosed any specific wedding plans or dates, Adele’s recent comments suggest that they are well on their way to making their relationship official. The singer has affectionately referred to herself as Rich’s wife for several months, indicating that their bond is already incredibly strong, even before tying the knot.

tmz photo

In addition to their engagement, Adele has also hinted at wanting to start a family with Rich, making it clear that she sees a long and happy future with him. This exciting news comes as no surprise to fans who have followed the couple’s journey, as their relationship has been characterized by deep love and mutual support.

As Adele continues her concert tour, her engagement has added another layer of joy and celebration to her performances. Fans are eagerly awaiting more details about the upcoming wedding and any other plans the couple may share in the near future.

TMZ

Rick Ross Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Lack of Accessibility at Car Show

Miami, FL – Rick Ross, the renowned rapper and entrepreneur, is facing legal action after a disabled man filed a lawsuit against him, alleging that a car show hosted by Ross lacked proper accessibility accommodations. The event, which drew significant attention from car enthusiasts and fans of the rapper, has now become the center of controversy due to these serious allegations.

According to a report by TMZ, the plaintiff, whose name has not been disclosed, claims that he attended Rick Ross’s car show in a wheelchair but was unable to fully enjoy the event due to the lack of adequate provisions for disabled attendees. The man alleges that the event was not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates that public events and spaces provide appropriate access for individuals with disabilities.

In the lawsuit, the plaintiff asserts that his view of the cars on display was obstructed because the event did not offer accessible viewing areas for wheelchair users. As a result, he was unable to see the wheels and other key features of the vehicles, which he claims caused him distress and frustration.

The complaint further details that the man had specifically chosen to attend the event because of his interest in cars, but was left disappointed by the experience. The lawsuit seeks damages for the alleged emotional distress caused by the lack of accessibility, as well as a mandate that future events hosted by Rick Ross comply with ADA standards to ensure that they are fully accessible to all attendees.

Rick Ross, known for his passion for luxury cars and extravagant lifestyle, has not yet publicly responded to the lawsuit. The car show, which was widely covered by the media and attended by several celebrities, was intended to be a celebration of automotive culture, but this legal challenge now casts a shadow over the event.

TMZ’s report highlights the broader issue of accessibility at high-profile events, where compliance with federal regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a matter of inclusivity. The case against Rick Ross could serve as a reminder to event organizers about the importance of ensuring that all guests, regardless of their physical abilities, can fully participate in and enjoy public events.

As the lawsuit progresses, it will likely attract further media attention, particularly given Rick Ross’s celebrity status and the public interest in how such events are managed. The outcome could have significant implications for future events hosted by the rapper and other celebrities who organize large-scale public gatherings.

Rapper Travis Scott Arrested in Paris for Allegedly Assaulting a Hotel Security Guard

Paris, France – World-renowned rapper Travis Scott has been arrested in Paris following an altercation at a luxury hotel in the city’s central district. The incident occurred on August 9, 2024, and has led to Scott facing serious allegations of assault, as confirmed by French authorities on Friday.

According to a statement released by the Paris prosecutor’s office, police were called to the George V Hotel, an iconic establishment known for hosting celebrities and dignitaries, after reports surfaced that the rapper, whose real name is Jacques Bermon Webster II, had assaulted a security guard. I can confirm that on August 9, 2024, police officers were called to the George V hotel and arrested the rapper nicknamed Travis Scott for assaulting a security guard,” the statement read.

Photo by Newyorkpost

The circumstances surrounding the altercation are still being investigated, but it has been reported that the incident escalated when the security guard intervened to separate Scott from his own bodyguard. The details of the dispute remain unclear, but the Paris public prosecutor’s office has referred the case to the 1st district of the judicial police for further investigation.

A representative for Travis Scott has claimed that the rapper had been under significant stress due to continuous harassment by paparazzi in the days leading up to the incident. “He has been chased and harassed by paparazzi for days with no help given,” the representative stated, suggesting that the altercation was a result of heightened tensions between Scott and those responsible for his safety. The representative also mentioned that they are currently in communication with local authorities in an effort to “swiftly resolve this matter.”

As of Friday afternoon, Scott was still in custody, with French police expected to conduct interviews and potentially pursue formal charges. The legal process in France could see Scott facing serious consequences if the assault allegations are proven in court.

Scott, 33, has been in Paris attending events related to the 2024 Summer Olympics. On Thursday, he was spotted in the crowd during the U.S. men’s basketball team’s match, where the team secured a hard-fought victory, advancing to the finals with a chance at winning the gold medal. The rapper is known to be an avid sports fan, often seen at high-profile sporting events around the world.

The incident at the George V Hotel occurred just days after Scott was seen enjoying Paris’s cultural attractions, including walks along the famous Champs-Élysées, where he was reportedly spotted dining at several of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants.

This latest development adds to the legal troubles that have occasionally marred Travis Scott’s career. His presence in Paris, which was intended to be a period of leisure and enjoyment during the Olympic Games, has now turned into a legal ordeal that could have significant repercussions for the artist.

As the investigation continues, fans and the public alike are eager to see how the situation unfolds. With the potential for serious charges, Travis Scott’s legal team is expected to vigorously defend against the accusations. Meanwhile, the Parisian authorities remain focused on ensuring that the law is upheld, regardless of the celebrity status of those involved.

Egyptian Olympic Wrestler Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault in Paris

Paris, France – In a troubling incident that has shocked the Olympic community, French authorities arrested anpar Egyptian Olympic wrestler in the early hours of Friday on suspicion of sexual assault.

The arrest took place outside a café in Paris, where the athlete had been spending time, according to the Paris prosecutor’s office.

The wrestler, who has been identified as Mohamed Elsayed by the Egyptian delegation, allegedly touched the buttocks of another customer at the café.

French prosecutors have confirmed that an investigation into the allegations has been opened, and the case is being treated with the seriousness it demands.

While the French authorities initially withheld the name of the wrestler, the Egyptian Olympic Committee later confirmed that the individual in question is Mohamed Elsayed, a Greco-Roman wrestler who previously won a bronze medal in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Elsayed had recently competed in the 67 kg Greco-Roman wrestling category at the Paris 2024 Olympics but was eliminated in the early stages. On Wednesday, he was defeated by Azerbaijan’s Hasrat Jafarov, who went on to win the bronze medal in the event.

The Egyptian Olympic Committee has announced that Elsayed will face a disciplinary hearing upon his return to Egypt.

The committee released a statement indicating that if the allegations against Elsayed are proven to be true, he could face severe sanctions, including a potential lifetime ban from competition. “The seriousness of these accusations cannot be overstated, and if confirmed, the penalties will be severe,” the committee’s statement read.

In the hours leading up to the incident, Elsayed had been granted permission to watch the final wrestling match of his weight category.

However, he failed to return to the mission headquarters as instructed and turned off his phone, according to the Egyptian Olympic Committee. This behavior raised concerns among team officials, who were unable to contact him.

French media outlets, including Le Parisien, have reported that Elsayed was “roaring drunk” at the time of the alleged assault. Following his arrest, Elsayed was taken into custody at the 13th arrondissement police station, where he remains as the investigation continues.

The incident has cast a shadow over the Olympic Games in Paris, particularly as the world’s attention is focused on the event’s celebration of athletic excellence and international unity. The Egyptian delegation is reportedly cooperating with French authorities as the investigation unfolds, though no further comments have been made by either party.

This case has not only caused a stir in the sporting community but also highlighted the importance of athlete conduct both on and off the field.

The outcome of the investigation and the subsequent disciplinary actions will likely have significant repercussions for Mohamed Elsayed’s career and for the Egyptian Olympic team as a whole.

Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet Secures Olympic Double with Victory in the Women’s 10,000m at Paris 2024

… South Africa Sets New African Record in Men’s 4x100m Relay

Paris, France – Beatrice Chebet of Kenya has etched her name into Olympic history by completing a stunning double victory at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The 24-year-old, who had already claimed gold in the 5,000m earlier in the week, surged to triumph in the women’s 10,000m final on Friday, securing her second gold medal of the Games.

Chebet’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, as she clocked a winning time of 30 minutes and 43.25 seconds, crossing the finish line with a commanding lead.

Reflecting on her achievement, Chebet described the 10,000m gold medal as the pinnacle of her career. “This 10,000m gold medal, I can describe it as the most important medal in my life,” she said, visibly emotional.

The Kenyan star had approached the Paris Games with a singular focus: to win the 10,000m event. “I came here targeting the 10,000m gold medal, not a gold in 5,000m,” she emphasized, highlighting her determination to conquer the longer distance.

Chebet’s victory adds to Kenya’s rich legacy in long-distance running, further cementing her status as one of the premier athletes in the world today. Her double gold feat at the Paris Olympics is a testament to her exceptional talent and relentless work ethic.

Meanwhile, earlier on Friday, the South African men’s 4x100m relay team set a new African record during their final race, securing a silver medal for their country. The team, composed of Bayanda Walaza, Shaun Maswanganyi, Bradley Nkoana, and Akani Simbine, delivered an electrifying performance, finishing just 0.07 seconds behind the gold medal-winning team from Canada. The South Africans clocked a time of 37.57 seconds, edging out Great Britain for second place and further establishing themselves as a formidable force in sprinting.

Akani Simbine, who had earlier in the Games secured Botswana’s first-ever Olympic gold in the men’s 200m, spoke about the impact of these performances on the African continent. “African results in Paris are building a hunger for the continent’s athletes to challenge for podium places in every event,” Simbine remarked, reflecting on the shifting perceptions of African athletes in the global arena.

Simbine’s sentiments were echoed by many in the athletics community, as the Paris 2024 Olympics have showcased a broader range of African talent across various disciplines. “I think the whole narrative of ‘Africa just does long distance’ is changing,” Simbine told BBC Sport Africa. “Africa is athletic. We are fast runners, we are sprinters, we are long-distance runners, we are jumpers. We are everything.”

Bayanda Walaza, one of the youngest members of the South African relay team, is still juggling the demands of school alongside his athletic career. Despite his busy schedule, Walaza delivered a stellar performance in the relay, showing maturity beyond his years. “I was just trying not to mess up my mind,” the 18-year-old said with a smile after the race. His youthful exuberance and focus were key elements in the team’s record-breaking run.

As the Paris 2024 Olympics continue, Africa’s athletes are proving their capabilities in a wide range of sports, challenging old stereotypes and inspiring a new generation of competitors.

reuters reports