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Chinese Businessman Guo Wengui Convicted in Billion-Dollar Fraud Case

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Chinese Businessman Guo Wengui Convicted in Billion-Dollar Fraud Case

Self-exiled Chinese businessman Guo Wengui has been convicted by a US court of defrauding his online followers in a billion-dollar scam. He was found guilty on nine of the 12 criminal counts he faced, including racketeering, fraud, and money laundering. Guo’s sentencing has been scheduled for 19 November when he could face decades behind bars. He has been in prison since his arrest in March 2023.

Self-exiled Chinese businessman Guo Wengui

He is a critic of the Chinese Communist Party and was an associate of Stephen Bannon, an ex-White House chief strategist under former president Donald Trump. Guo goes by several aliases, including Miles Guo, Miles Kwok, and “Brother Seven”. He was named as Ho Wan Kwok when he was indicted in 2023.

Prosecutors said Guo raised more than $1bn (£770bn) from online followers, who joined him in investment and cryptocurrency schemes between 2018 and 2023. The money he raised was used to fund Guo’s lavish lifestyle, which included a 50,000 square foot mansion, a $1m Lamborghini, and a $37m yacht, they said.

Guo was an associate of Stephen Bannon, an ex-White House chief strategist under former president Donald Trump.

“Thousands of Guo’s online followers were victimised so that Guo could live a life of excess,” the US Attorney in Manhattan, Damian Williams, said after the verdict.

Guo’s political activism and his links to high-profile, right-wing US politicians and activists earned him hundreds of thousands of online followers, most of them Chinese people living in Western countries. Guo’s lawyers tried unsuccessfully to sway the jury by saying their client was a victim of a conspiracy.

Guo’s rise to prominence was as a fervent opponent of China’s political system, and his ostentatious lifestyle was a critique of the Chinese Communist Party. Following his arrest in 2023, Guo’s outspoken opposition to China’s rulers triggered several ventures with Bannon.

usatoday.com

King Charles Sets Out New Labour Government’s Priorities

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King Charles Sets Out New Labour Government’s Priorities

Britain’s King Charles set out Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s legislative agenda on Wednesday, promising a government of service focused on reviving the economy and tackling issues from an acute housing shortage to a cost of living crisis.

In a ceremony full of pageantry, before an audience of robed lords and lawmakers, Charles read out the laws the government is prioritizing after Starmer’s centre-left Labour Party won a large majority at this month’s election.

The package of more than 35 bills will focus on growing the economy, reforming planning laws to make it easier to build homes, and speeding up the delivery of major infrastructure projects, improving transport, and creating jobs.

The king’s speech, written by the government, also tried to set a new tone to British politics, promoting service rather than self-interest, something that Labour says took root over 14 years of often chaotic Conservative Party rule.

“My government will govern in service to the country,” said Charles, wearing a crimson and white robe and the Imperial State crown.

“My government’s legislative programme will be mission-led and based on the principles of security, fairness and opportunity for all.”

Starmer won one of the largest parliamentary majorities in modern British history on July 4, making him the most powerful national leader since former prime minister Tony Blair.

“In this first parliament of daunting challenges, including improving struggling public services, there will be room for more spending.”

Among the planned and expected legislation, Starmer announced “the era of government as performance and self-interest above service is over.”

Starmer, while thanking the voters who might hope the new Labour government can help fix the problems buffeting Britain, wrote, “Rebuilding our country will not be easy, but with the challenges we face require determination, leadership, and new perspectives.”

Former South African President Jacob Zuma Faces ANC Expulsion After Joining Rival Party

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Former South African President Jacob Zuma Faces ANC Expulsion After Joining Rival Party

Former South African President Jacob Zuma, 82, stands at a critical juncture in his political career as he faces a disciplinary hearing with the African National Congress (ANC) on Wednesday. The hearing could result in Zuma’s expulsion from the party he joined in the late 1950s when it was a liberation movement fighting against apartheid.

The controversy stems from Zuma’s decision to campaign for the recently-founded MK Party in the May 29 national elections, directly opposing the ANC he once led. This move has deepened the political feud between Zuma and his successor, President Cyril Ramaphosa, who replaced him as leader of both the party and the country in 2018.

The split of Zuma with the ANC became official in December when he announced his support for the MK Party at a press conference. Despite claiming he would retain his ANC membership, the party suspended him in January, citing attacks on its integrity.

The disciplinary hearing’s format remains uncertain, with MK officials pushing for an in-person appearance while the ANC prefers a virtual meeting. The outcome could have significant implications for South Africa’s political landscape.

Zuma’s influence was evident in the May 29 elections, where the MK Party secured a surprising 14% of the national vote in its first contest. This unexpected performance contributed to the ANC losing its majority for the first time since the end of apartheid in 1994, leading to the formation of an unprecedented multi-party coalition government.

The MK Party’s refusal to join the coalition positions it as the official opposition and the third-largest party in Parliament, which is set to open for a new term on Thursday following the election.

Zuma’s enduring popularity persists despite his ongoing legal challenges. He was sentenced to prison in 2021 for contempt of court and faces a separate corruption trial next year. These legal issues disqualified him from standing for a parliamentary seat in the recent election, although he remains the face and leader of the MK Party.

The disciplinary hearing and its potential consequences highlight the complex political dynamics in South Africa. As the country grapples with a new era of coalition politics, the outcome of Zuma’s hearing could further reshape the political landscape and influence the balance of power in the nation’s governance.

This political drama unfolds against the backdrop of South Africa’s ongoing challenges, including economic struggles and social inequalities. The repercussions of Zuma’s potential expulsion from the ANC could have far-reaching effects on the country’s political stability and future direction.

AP

Interpol Arrests 300 People in Global Crackdown on West African Crime Groups

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Interpol Arrests 300 People in Global Crackdown on West African Crime Groups

In a coordinated global operation targeting West African organized crime groups across five continents, police arrested 300 people, seized $3 million, and blocked 720 bank accounts, Interpol announced Tuesday.

The Associated Press reports that Operation Jackal III, which ran from April 10 to July 3 in 21 countries, aimed to combat online financial fraud and dismantle the West African syndicates behind it, according to a statement from Interpol.

“The volume of financial fraud stemming from West Africa is alarming and increasing,” said Isaac Oginni, director of Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre. “This operation’s results underscore the critical need for international law enforcement collaboration to combat these extensive criminal networks.”

One of the targeted groups was Black Axe, one of the most prominent criminal networks in West Africa. Black Axe operates in cyber fraud, human trafficking, drug smuggling, and is responsible for violent crimes both within Africa and globally, the agency added.

AP also stated that in Argentina, following a five-year investigation, the police cracked down on Black Axe and seized $1.2 million in high-quality counterfeit banknotes, arrested 72 suspects, and froze approximately 100 bank accounts.

Interpol, which has 196 member countries and celebrated its centennial last year, works to help national police forces communicate with each other and track suspects and criminals in fields like counterterrorism, financial crime, child exploitation, cybercrime, and organized crime.

FBI Arrests Nigerian Tech Entrepreneur Over $1.5m Fraud

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FBI Arrests Nigerian Tech Entrepreneur Over $1.5m Fraud

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S.A. has arrested and charged Kingsley Inegbedion, a Nigerian tech entrepreneur, with a 16-count criminal indictment for his alleged involvement in a $1.5 million internet fraud and money laundering scheme.

Kingsley Inegbedion, a Nigerian tech entrepreneur arrested in Atlanta

According to The New Telegraph, the indictment filed by the FBI on May 14 in the US District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, Atlanta Division, alleges that Inegbedion and his co-conspirator Efemena Igbe perpetrated romance scams and business email compromise schemes. They posed as legitimate businesses to defraud American citizens between April 2020 and May 2023.

The FBI claims that the Nigerians used sham corporate entities to receive fraudulent funds, which were then distributed into other accounts within and outside the US to conceal the fraud. The defendants allegedly used stolen funds to purchase cashier’s checks and withdraw cash from various bank accounts. The FBI is seeking restitution of funds and forfeiture of property obtained through the fraud scheme.

The indictment states, “Upon conviction of the offences alleged in counts one through 16 of this indictment, the defendants, Efemena Igbe and Kingsley Inegbedion, shall forfeit to the US, pursuant to Title 18, United States Code, Section 982(a)(1), any property, real or personal, involved in such offence, and any property traceable to such property including, but not limited to, a money judgement, that is, a sum of money in United States currency representing the amount of property involved in the offence.”

Inegbedion was taken into custody after the grand jury returned the indictment. Igbe reportedly fled to Nigeria after security officials invited him for questioning before the indictment was filed, The New Telegraph stated.

Nigerian Crypto Billionaire BLord Arrested on Fraud and Terrorism Funding Allegations

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Nigerian Crypto Billionaire BLord Arrested on Fraud and Terrorism Funding Allegations

In a significant development for Nigeria’s cryptocurrency scene, the Nigeria Police Force has arrested Linus Williams, a crypto billionaire widely known as BLord. The arrest, which took place in Abuja on Tuesday, stems from serious allegations including cryptocurrency fraud, terrorism funding, and facilitating internet fraud through his various companies.

Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi confirmed the arrest in an interview, stating, “Yes, we have him with us. The FCID (NPF-NCCC) is currently investigating complaints lodged against Blord Group, Blord Real Estate Ltd, Blord Jetpaye Limited, and Billpoint Technology.

The range of allegations against BLord and his companies is extensive. Adejobi elaborated, “These offences include allegations of cryptocurrency fraud, aiding internet fraud, computer-related fraud, terrorism funding, and non-compliance with regulatory frameworks.”

The arrest highlights the growing scrutiny of cryptocurrency operations in Nigeria, a country that has seen a surge in digital currency adoption despite regulatory challenges. The involvement of terrorism funding allegations adds a layer of national security concern to the case.

Adejobi emphasized the police force’s commitment to a thorough investigation, stating, “We will do due diligence in our investigation. Our cyberspace must be safe and secure by all means. We are committed to achieving that.” This statement underscores the authorities’ determination to address potential threats in the digital financial space.

The spokesperson also clarified that the arrest was not prompted by a petition from Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, dispelling rumors that had been circulating on social media.

BLord’s arrest sends shockwaves through Nigeria’s crypto community and raises questions about the regulatory landscape for digital currencies in the country. It also highlights the potential risks associated with the rapid growth of cryptocurrency adoption in emerging markets.

As the investigation unfolds, it could have far-reaching implications for cryptocurrency operations and regulations in Nigeria. The case may prompt authorities to tighten oversight of digital currency transactions and platforms, potentially reshaping the country’s approach to this burgeoning financial sector.

The crypto community and investors will be watching closely as more details emerge about the allegations against BLord and his companies. This case could serve as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to balance the innovative potential of cryptocurrencies with the need for financial security and regulatory compliance.

Punchng.com

Drake’s $100M Toronto Mansion Flooded in Canada Record-Breaking Storm, Months After Security Incidents

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Drake’s $100M Toronto Mansion Flooded in Canada Record-Breaking Storm, Months After Security Incidents

Global rap superstar Drake has given fans an unexpected glimpse into his lavish lifestyle, sharing footage of his $100 million Toronto mansion flooding during a record-breaking storm. The 37-year-old artist posted a video on his Instagram Stories showing ankle-deep water in his luxury dressing room, with a staff member struggling to keep the doors closed against the deluge.

Drake, whose real name is Aubrey Graham, made waves in 2015 when he embarked on building his lavish Toronto home, purchasing the plot for $6.7 million

Drake, known for his wit, captioned the clip, “This better be Espresso Martini,” comparing the brown floodwater to the popular coffee-flavored cocktail. The flooding occurred as Toronto experienced its heaviest rainfall since 1941, with over four inches recorded, leaving more than 100,000 residents without power.

He reportedly invested $100 million in constructing the sprawling estate, located on one of Canada ‘s most prestigious streets; seen in December 2022

The “Hotline Bling” hitmaker’s estate, nicknamed “The Embassy,” is located on one of Canada’s most prestigious streets. Drake purchased the plot for $6.7 million in 2015 and reportedly invested $100 million in constructing the sprawling property. While generally private about his residence, the artist has occasionally shared glimpses of its luxurious features, including a private basketball court.

This flooding incident comes just two months after Drake’s mansion faced a series of security breaches. In May, there were multiple attempted break-ins, with Drake’s security team detaining an alleged intruder for the third time in a week. These incidents followed a drive-by shooting of a security guard outside the property.

The flooding comes two months after Drake’s $100 million estate, nicknamed the Embassy, had several attempted break-ins; seen in December 2022

The Toronto Police Service responded to several calls at Drake’s home during this period. One incident involved an early morning shooting on May 8, followed by attempted break-ins on subsequent days. In one instance, an intruder was reportedly involved in an altercation with security guards before being taken to the hospital.

he 37-year-old rapper posted a clip on his Instagram Stories , seemingly from his perspective, showing him wading through his luxury dressing room with water up to his ankles

These security incidents occurred amid Drake’s highly publicized feud with fellow rapper Kendrick Lamar, which has played out through viral diss tracks. While police acknowledged awareness of the feud, they stated there was no current indication that the incidents were related to it. However, Lamar had previously taunted Drake by using an image of his mansion as cover art for a track, with the property marked as if on a sex offender app.

The water covers the floor, with a man at the dressing room’s doors, struggling in vain to keep them closed against the deluge

As Drake deals with these challenges at his Toronto estate, he has the option to retreat to his $15 million mansion in Texas if needed. The flooding and security incidents highlight the unique challenges faced by high-profile celebrities, even in the comfort of their own homes.

Showing off his trademark wit, Drake compared the brown water to a coffee-flavored cocktail, as he captioned the clip, ‘This better be Espresso Martini’

This series of events at Drake’s Toronto mansion has captured public attention, offering a rare look into the personal life of one of music’s biggest stars while also underlining the impact of severe weather events and the ongoing tensions in the rap world.

Daily MailOnline

Alameda Family Massacre: Suspect Identified by Dying Victim, Police Say

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Alameda Family Massacre: Suspect Identified by Dying Victim, Police Say

A horrific family massacre in Alameda, California has left the community reeling as authorities piece together the details of a tragedy that claimed five lives, including two young children. The suspect, identified as Shane Killian, 54, was allegedly named by one of the victims in his dying moments, according to police reports.

The Alameda County Coroner’s Office confirmed to PEOPLE the identities of four victims: Brenda Natali Morales, 36, Miguel Carcamo, 70, William Killian, 6, and Wesley Killian, 1. The San Francisco Chronicle, citing the Alameda County Coroner’s Bureau, identified the fifth victim as Morales’ mother, 56-year-old Marta Morales-Diaz.

Alameda police responded to the scene on Wednesday, July 10, after receiving a call about a neighbor being shot. Upon arrival, they found Shane’s father-in-law critically wounded. As they tended to him, their attention was drawn to a nearby residence where they encountered Shane Killian, who was detained without incident.

In a chilling turn of events, the elderly victim, in his final moments, allegedly identified Shane as the killer, according to KTVU, citing law enforcement sources. An Alameda police representative confirmed to PEOPLE that the victim “provide[d] officers with information before passing away,” though they did not elaborate due to the ongoing investigation.

Inside the residence, authorities discovered the bodies of the other victims, revealing the full extent of the tragedy. The victims were identified as Shane’s wife, father-in-law, mother-in-law, and his two young sons.

The massacre has deeply affected the local community. William, the 6-year-old victim, was a member of the Alameda Little League. Ron Matthews, the league’s president, expressed the community’s grief, saying, “Our heart goes out to them in its fullest. This is really harmful to us – hurtful I should say.”

Shane Killian now faces multiple charges, including four counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, corporal injury to a relationship partner, elder or dependent adult abuse, infliction of injury, possession of an assault weapon, and possession of an unconventional pistol. Alameda police expect a fifth murder charge to be added. The motive for the killings remains unclear.

As the community grapples with this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist with funeral expenses and the cost of relocating the victims’ bodies to their native El Salvador.

Shane is currently being held without bail, and his defense attorney, Palden Ukyab, has indicated that he is expected to enter a not guilty plea.

This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the impact of domestic violence and the importance of community support in times of tragedy. As the investigation continues, many are left searching for answers and ways to prevent such horrific incidents in the future.

People.com

64-Year-Old Man Jumps to Death from Luxury Midtown Hotel

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64-Year-Old Man Jumps to Death from Luxury Midtown Hotel

New York, NY – July 2024 – A 64-year-old man jumped to his death from a luxury Midtown hotel on Tuesday morning, police said.

The man plunged from room 28 on the 20th floor of The Kimberly Hotel, located on East 50th Street near Lexington Avenue. He landed in the third-floor courtyard, according to police reports. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers pronounced him dead around 10 a.m., and the NYPD responded to the scene at approximately 10:20 a.m.

The identity of the man has not been immediately released. The Kimberly Hotel is known for its luxurious accommodations, featuring 154 spacious suites, most equipped with private balconies. According to the hotel’s website, the lobby prominently showcases a circular salt-water aquarium and antique furnishings.

This tragic incident has drawn attention to the high-end boutique suite hotel, which prides itself on offering opulent amenities and services to its guests. The circumstances leading up to the man’s decision to jump are still under investigation by the authorities.

Somali Militants Kill Five, Seize Heavy Weapons After Looting Convoy

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Somali Militants Kill Five, Seize Heavy Weapons After Looting Convoy

Mogadishu, Somalia – July 2024 – At least five people were killed when militants ambushed a convoy in central Somalia and seized heavy weapons, the local government and residents reported on Tuesday. The incident comes seven months after a decades-long arms embargo was lifted.

The convoy, traveling on Monday with a security escort near the town of Abudwaq, was attacked by militants from a local clan. The attackers overpowered the security forces, according to four residents who spoke to Reuters. The seized arms included machine guns, anti-aircraft weapons, and rocket-propelled grenades, reportedly originating from neighboring Ethiopia.

“It is unfortunate that five people died from both sides yesterday over weapons,” said Ahmed Shire, a security advisor to the president of Galmudug State, where Abudwaq is located. “We understand the weapons fell into the hands of civilians.”

Rashid Abdi, an analyst with the Sahan Research think-tank, described the incident as “the single most serious incident of arms proliferation in central Somalia” and expressed concern that some of the weapons would likely be bought by Al Shabaab, an Al Qaeda affiliate.

Writing on X, Abdi stated, “It was a clear case of why lifting the arms embargo on Somalia was a big strategic mistake.”

The last restrictions under an arms embargo that had been in place, in some form, for more than 30 years were fully lifted by the U.N. Security Council in June. Somalia’s government had advocated for the move, arguing it would allow the country to better confront security threats and build up its national forces.

Somalia has been battling an insurgency by Al Shabaab for nearly two decades. African Union peacekeepers are drawing down their presence, handing over responsibility to Somali forces. However, the AU and Mogadishu government warned of a possible security vacuum if the process is not carefully managed.

In recent weeks, Al Shabaab has fought alongside government forces in a military campaign against other rebel groups. However, some militants have also turned their weapons on one another in internal conflicts.

Credit: Reuters

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