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Nigerian Court Orders Forfeiture of 20 Cars Stolen from Canada

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Lagos, Nigeria, July 2024 – Justice Deinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria has mandated the final forfeiture of 20 cars stolen from Canada to Nigeria. The cars are to be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria following a ruling on a motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, issued a statement on Tuesday detailing the vehicles involved. “The forfeited cars are Black color SUV 400, White 4MATIC Mercedez Benz; SUV MDX SH-AWD Acura; Grey color SUV RS 350L Lexus; Deep Blue SUV RX 350 Lexus; White Toyota 4Runner 2015; White 2020 model Lexus RX 350; White 2019 Lexus RX 350, Black 2020 Model Lexus RX350, and Black Honda Ridgeline 2017 Model.”

Additional cars listed in the order include: “White Lexus RX 350 SPORT 2019 Model; Grey Lexus RX 350 2019 Model; Grey Toyota 4Runner 2018 Model; White Lexus RX 350 FS Sport 2019 Model; White Toyota Highlander XLE AWD 2017 Model; Black Toyota Highlander 2020 Model; Black Toyota Highlander 2018 Model; Black Mercedez Benz G550 2019 Model; Red Lexus RX 350 2016 Model and White Mercedez Benz GLA 250 2018 Model.”

During the sitting on Monday, the EFCC, through its counsel R.A. Abdulrasheed, informed the court that the commission had complied with the stipulations of the court regarding the publication of the forfeiture notice. Abdulrasheed also mentioned that the application was supported by a 17-paragraph affidavit deposed to by Olufemi Oluikpin, an investigator with the EFCC, and other written evidences.

The motion for the final forfeiture order followed previous legal processes and was granted based on the compliance and evidence presented.

Actress Emma Roberts, 33, Announces Engagement to Cody John with Stunning Diamond Ring

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Actress Emma Roberts, known for her roles in “American Horror Story” and “Nancy Drew,” has taken to Instagram to announce her engagement to boyfriend Cody John. The 33-year-old star shared the exciting news with her followers on Tuesday, beating her mother to the punch in a playful post.

In the Instagram post, Roberts is seen with her arm around Cody, proudly displaying a large sparkling diamond ring on her left hand. The caption reads, “Putting this here before my mom tells everyone,” showcasing the actress’s sense of humor about the momentous occasion.

According to a representative from The Diamond Bank in Los Angeles, the engagement ring appears to be approximately five carats and is estimated to be worth around $100,000. The stunning piece of jewelry has already captured the attention of fans and media alike.

The couple first confirmed their relationship in August 2022 after being spotted kissing in New York City. They went Instagram official shortly after, with John posting a photo of them sharing a kiss on a yacht, captioned “sweet sweet.”

Since then, the pair have kept their relationship relatively private, though sources close to them have reported that Roberts has been “very content” with John. Their friends and family are said to be happy for the couple, believing they make a great match.

Roberts’ engagement to John comes after she previously expressed a desire to avoid dating actors. In a recent interview with Flaunt magazine, she admitted, “One day the veil was lifted and I didn’t want to date actors anymore. It’s hard, I think, for two actors to be together.”

The actress has had high-profile relationships with actors in the past, including Alex Pettyfer, Garrett Hedlund, and her “American Horror Story” co-star Evan Peters. She shares a three-year-old son, Rhodes, with ex-boyfriend Garrett Hedlund, whom she dated from 2019 to 2022.

While celebrating her personal happiness, Roberts continues to thrive professionally. She recently expressed excitement about co-producing a Netflix series with Kim Kardashian, showcasing her expanding role in the entertainment industry beyond acting.

As Emma Roberts embarks on this new chapter in her personal life, fans and well-wishers are eager to see what the future holds for the talented actress and her fiancé, Cody John. With her career continuing to flourish and a wedding on the horizon, it seems that 2024 is shaping up to be a memorable year for the Hollywood star.

Daily MailOnline

Nigerian Court Sentences Man to Death for Ritual Killing of Twin Boys

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In a landmark ruling that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria, a High Court in Asaba, Delta State, has sentenced a man to death for the brutal ritual killing of twin boys. The verdict, delivered on [insert date], marks a significant moment in the country’s ongoing battle against ritual-related crimes.

Onuwa Ijie, the primary defendant, received a death sentence for his role in the murder and conspiracy to commit the murder of 7-year-old twin boys, Chidalu and Chigozie Agwunobi. His co-defendant, Nwanozie Uzor, was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment for his involvement in the heinous crime.

Justice Onome Marshal-Umukoro presided over the case, which saw the prosecution, led by Mrs. Paula Akpoguma, a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Justice, present five witnesses. The court determined that the testimony of these witnesses proved the case against the two defendants beyond reasonable doubt.

The tragic event unfolded on March 5, 2020, in the Oko-Ogbele Community. The seven-year-old twin boys were lured into a bush by the defendants, where they were subjected to unimaginable brutality. In a shocking act of violence, the perpetrators cut off the children’s penises, eyes, tongues, and hands. These body parts were then hurriedly transported to a native doctor in Aguleri, Anambra State, presumably for use in ritual practices.

The prosecution revealed a chilling detail: one of the defendants had previously attempted to abduct the twins from their school but was thwarted by a vigilant teacher, Mrs. Emelda Ezekwude.

In his judgment, Justice Marshal-Umukoro carefully evaluated the evidence presented. He concluded that the first defendant, Ijie, had instigated the crime by providing the second defendant with the contact information of one Chukwudi Edemuzor, who was allegedly seeking twins for ritual killings.

The court also emphasized the admissibility and reliability of testimony from the investigating police officer, stating that such evidence is not considered hearsay and can be relied upon in court proceedings.

This case has reignited discussions about the persistent issue of ritual killings in Nigeria. The severe sentences handed down by the court are seen as a strong message to would-be perpetrators and a reaffirmation of the justice system’s commitment to combating such crimes.

Speaking to journalists after the verdict, prosecutor Akpoguma expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that it “reaffirms that the judicial system works.” The case has drawn widespread attention and condemnation, with many hoping it will serve as a deterrent to similar crimes in the future.

The sentencing of Onuwa Ijie and Nwanozie Uzor marks a significant moment in the legal history of Nigeria. As the country continues to grapple with the dark reality of ritual killings, this case serves as a stark reminder of the justice system’s role in protecting its most vulnerable citizens and punishing those who would harm them.

Lionel Messi to Miss Inter Miami’s Next Two Matches Due to Ankle Injury

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Argentina's Lionel Messi grimaces in pain during the Copa America final soccer match against Colombia in Miami Gardens, Fla., Sunday, July 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Miami, FL, July 2024 – Lionel Messi will be sidelined for Inter Miami’s upcoming two matches after suffering an ankle injury during the Copa América final. The injury was confirmed by head coach Tata Martino on Tuesday.

Injury Details and Impact

The 37-year-old Messi sustained the injury during Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. He was forced to leave the match in the 64th minute after going down with a twisted ankle. Martino mentioned that Messi will undergo further evaluation to assess the severity of the injury and determine if a longer recovery period is necessary.

“He twisted his ankle, and the injury is present, so tests are needed and we must wait for the results,” Martino stated. “I’ve had the opportunity to see other images. There will be tests done to determine the severity of the situation. We are always informed through our kinesiologist Walter Insaurralde, who is also the kinesiologist of the national team. He is very cautious at giving a final diagnosis before results are in.”

Immediate Consequences for Inter Miami

Fox’s cameras captured Messi’s noticeably swollen ankle as he watched the remainder of the match from the bench. Inter Miami is scheduled to play against Toronto FC on Wednesday and the Chicago Fire on Saturday at home before the MLS All-Star break. The team will then begin its Leagues Cup title defense against Mexican side Puebla on July 27.

Uncertainty Around MLS All-Star Game

It is currently unclear what role, if any, Messi will play in next week’s MLS All-Star Game in Columbus, Ohio. Messi was among the 30 players named to the team that will face off against a best-of LIGA MX team. His participation will depend on the results of his medical evaluation and subsequent recovery progress.

Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant, Father of Kobe Bryant, Dies at 69

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Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, father of the late NBA superstar Kobe Bryant and a former professional basketball player, has died at the age of 69, according to La Salle University’s athletics department. La Salle confirmed to CNN that Bryant passed away Tuesday morning, though the cause of death was not officially disclosed.

The Philadelphia Inquirer, citing La Salle men’s head basketball coach Fran Dunphy, reported that Bryant had recently suffered a stroke. Known affectionately as “Jellybean,” Bryant was a Philadelphia native who played for La Salle University from 1973 to 1975.

Bryant’s professional career spanned both the NBA and European leagues. He was drafted 14th overall by the Golden State Warriors in the 1975 NBA draft and went on to play for the Philadelphia 76ers for four seasons, the San Diego Clippers for three, and the Houston Rockets for one. His career also took him to Europe, where he notably played in Italy.

After his playing career, Bryant remained involved in basketball, serving on La Salle’s coaching staff from 1993 to 1996. La Salle’s men’s basketball X account paid tribute to Bryant, calling him “a beloved member of the Explorer family” who “will be dearly missed.”

Joe Bryant in his playing days.

The Philadelphia 76ers also honored Bryant, describing him as “a local basketball icon, whose legacy on the court transcended his journey across Bartram High School, La Salle University, and his first four NBA seasons with the 76ers from 1975-79.”

This loss comes just over four years after the tragic death of his son, Kobe Bryant, who, along with his daughter Gianna and seven others, was killed in a helicopter crash in California in January 2020.

Joe Bryant’s passing marks the end of an era for a family that has left an indelible mark on the world of basketball. His legacy, both as a player and as the father of one of the sport’s greatest icons, will continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans and the basketball community alike.

Grammy-Nominated Country Singer Ingrid Andress Enters Rehab Following Controversial National Anthem Performance

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Grammy-nominated country singer Ingrid Andress has announced her decision to enter rehab following a controversial performance of the national anthem at the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby. The singer admitted to being intoxicated during the performance, which drew widespread criticism.

In a candid statement posted on her verified social media account, Andress wrote, “I’m not going to bulls**t y’all, I was drunk last night.” She went on to apologize to MLB, fans, and “this country I love so much” for her rendition of the anthem. Andress confirmed she would be checking into a facility to “get the help I need,” adding a lighthearted comment about hearing rehab is “super fun.”

Andress’s performance has drawn comparisons to other infamous national anthem renditions, including Roseanne Barr’s 1990 performance at a San Diego Padres game and Fergie’s 2018 NBA All-Star Game performance.

The incident marks a setback in what has been a promising career for the country artist. Andress first gained public attention on NBC’s “The Sing-Off” in 2010 and 2011. She launched her country music career with her debut album “Lady Like” in 2020, which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart. Her single “More Hearts Than Mine” hit the Billboard Hot 100 in 2019.

Andress has received multiple Grammy nominations, including for best new artist in 2021, best country album for “Lady Like,” and best country song for “More Hearts Than Mine.” In 2023, her duet “Wishful Drinking” with Sam Hunt earned a nomination for best country duo/group performance.

Prior to this incident, Andress had been promoting her new single “Colorado 9” and upcoming shows. However, her representatives confirmed to CNN that her July 17 Nashville show and July 24 Denver show have been cancelled in light of her rehab announcement.

As Andress takes this step to address her personal challenges, the music industry and her fans await her recovery and potential return to the stage.

CNN Exclusive: US Intelligence Uncovers Iranian Plot to Assassinate Donald Trump, Leads to Increased Security

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In an exclusive report by CNN, US authorities have disclosed a recently uncovered Iranian plot to assassinate former President Donald Trump, leading to enhanced security measures in recent weeks. Multiple sources briefed on the matter told CNN that this intelligence, obtained from a human source, indicated an imminent threat to Trump’s safety, prompting the Secret Service to bolster protection around the former president.

CNN’s report reveals that this information comes in the wake of the assassination attempt on Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Thomas Matthew Crooks managed to injure the former president. Officials stressed to CNN that there is no apparent connection between Crooks and the Iranian plot, but the incident has raised significant questions about security lapses at the event.

A US national security official confirmed to CNN that both the Secret Service and the Trump campaign were informed of the Iranian threat prior to the Butler rally. The National Security Council (NSC) had directly contacted the United States Secret Service (USSS) to ensure ongoing monitoring of the threat. In response, the Secret Service increased resources and assets for Trump’s protection.

According to CNN’s sources, intelligence officials had previously warned the Trump campaign about potential risks during outdoor rallies, noting the increased vulnerabilities at such events. The Trump campaign, when approached by CNN, did not comment on their awareness of the Iranian threat, directing all inquiries to the Secret Service.

CNN’s report highlights that this development adds complexity to the ongoing investigation into the Butler attack and underscores the multifaceted threats faced by high-profile political figures. It raises questions about balancing public accessibility with security concerns, especially for former presidents who remain in the public eye.

The Iranian plot, as reported by CNN, is believed to be part of a broader campaign of retaliation for the US military’s killing of Qasem Soleimani in January 2020. CNN also notes that other former Trump administration officials have been targets of alleged Iranian assassination plots.

As investigations continue, CNN’s exclusive report suggests that this development is likely to influence future security strategies for political events and protection protocols for former presidents, highlighting the complex landscape of domestic and international threats facing US security agencies.

Gunmen Kill Five at Shiite Mosque in Oman, Dozens Wounded

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In a rare and shocking incident, a Shiite mosque in Oman’s capital, Muscat, was the target of a violent attack that left five people dead and dozens more wounded. The shooting, which occurred on Monday night in the Wadi Kabir neighborhood, has sent shockwaves through the normally peaceful sultanate and drawn international attention and condemnation.

The Royal Oman Police reported the attack without specifying a motive or identifying suspects. However, the state-run Oman News Agency later revealed that three attackers were killed during the incident. The timing of the attack is particularly significant, taking place on the eve of Ashoura, a holy day for Shiite Muslims commemorating the martyrdom of Hussein, grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.

Pakistan’s government confirmed that four of its nationals were among the dead, with 30 others injured. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned what it termed a “dastardly terrorist attack” on the Imam Bargah Ali bin Abu Talib mosque. Pakistan also expressed gratitude to Omani authorities for neutralizing the attackers and offered assistance in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The violence has prompted security concerns in Oman, a country known for its stability in a volatile region. The U.S. Embassy issued a warning to its citizens, advising them to avoid the area. This incident stands out as an anomaly in the sultanate, which is typically free from such acts of violence.

Iran, a Shiite-majority nation, also condemned the attack, highlighting the international repercussions of this event. The involvement of multiple attackers and the high number of casualties have raised questions about security measures and the potential for sectarian tensions in the region.

As investigations continue, authorities are faced with the challenge of understanding the motives behind this attack and preventing future incidents. The shooting has not only affected the local community but has also cast a shadow over the observance of Ashoura, one of the holiest periods in the Shiite calendar.

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist even in relatively stable countries and the ongoing need for vigilance against extremist violence. As Oman grapples with the aftermath of this attack, the international community watches closely, offering support and calling for a thorough investigation to ensure justice for the victims and their families.

AP

Senator Bob Menendez Found Guilty on All Counts in Corruption Trial

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In a stunning conclusion to a nine-week trial, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey was found guilty on Tuesday of all charges in his federal corruption case. The 70-year-old Democrat, who has served in the Senate since 2006, was convicted of accepting bribes in the form of gold bars, cash, and a luxury car, as well as acting as a foreign agent for the Egyptian government.

The verdict, delivered at a federal courthouse in Manhattan, marks a dramatic fall for Menendez, who until recently held the powerful position of chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The jury’s decision followed a trial that exposed a complex web of alleged corrupt activities, including efforts to protect allies from criminal investigations and enrich associates, including his wife, Nadine Menendez.

Prosecutors presented evidence that Menendez abused his office by meeting with Egyptian intelligence officials and helping the country access millions of dollars in U.S. military aid. The case against the senator was bolstered by physical evidence found during a June 2022 FBI raid on the couple’s home in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. Agents discovered gold bars worth nearly $150,000 and over $480,000 in cash, mostly in stacks of $100 bills, along with a Mercedes-Benz convertible in the garage.

Throughout the trial, Menendez maintained his innocence, insisting that he was merely performing his duties as a senator. His defense team argued that the gold bars belonged to his wife and that the cash stemmed from the senator’s habit of hoarding money at home, inspired by his parents’ escape from Cuba in 1951 with only hidden cash.

The most damaging allegations involved Menendez’s actions on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Prosecutors alleged that he provided sensitive information about U.S. Embassy staff in Cairo to Egyptian officials and helped draft a letter encouraging fellow senators to lift a hold on $300 million in military aid to Egypt. Text messages between Nadine Menendez and Egyptian officials were presented as evidence of the couple’s role as conduits for Egyptian interests.

Co-defendants Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, New Jersey businessmen accused of paying bribes to Menendez, were also found guilty on all charges. A third businessman, Jose Uribe, had previously pleaded guilty and testified against the others.

The conviction comes just four months before Election Day, likely ending Menendez’s political career and his plans to run for reelection as an independent candidate. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for Menendez’s immediate resignation in light of the verdict.

This marks the second time Menendez has faced corruption charges. A 2017 trial on unrelated allegations ended in a hung jury, allowing him to return to the Senate. However, this conviction leaves little room for political redemption.

The case has broader implications for U.S. foreign policy and the integrity of the Senate. It raises questions about the influence of foreign governments on American politicians and the effectiveness of ethical oversight in Congress.

As the legal process moves forward, attention will turn to sentencing and potential appeals. The conviction of such a high-ranking senator on charges including acting as a foreign agent is likely to reverberate through Washington and New Jersey politics for years to come.

AP

Six Found Dead in Luxury Bangkok Hotel, Poisoning Suspected

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Six people were found dead in a luxury hotel in downtown Bangkok on Tuesday, with Thai police investigating poisoning as a possible cause. The bodies, discovered in the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, were foaming at the mouth, according to an anonymous officer from the Lumpini police station.

Bangkok Police Chief Lt. Gen. Thiti Sangsawang identified the deceased as two Vietnamese Americans and four Vietnamese nationals, comprising three males and three females. The victims had booked several rooms under seven names, with some staying on different floors from where the bodies were found.

The bodies in Thai were discovered by a maid after the guests failed to check out as scheduled. There were no signs of struggle, and the victims’ luggage was already packed. Uneaten room service food was found, but drinks had been consumed. Police are searching for a seventh person included in the booking.

The room where the bodies were found was locked from the inside, adding to the mystery surrounding the deaths. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin visited the scene but did not provide additional information to the gathered journalists.

This tragic incident has raised concerns about safety in luxury hotels and has drawn significant attention from both local and international media. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the exact cause of death and the circumstances leading to this unusual and disturbing event.

The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in investigating deaths in high-profile locations and the potential international implications given the victims’ nationalities. As more details emerge, this incident is likely to prompt discussions about hotel security and guest safety protocols in Thailand’s hospitality industry.

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