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FIFA proposes one‑minute off‑field rule for injured players

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Simeon Bateren
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ZURICH, Switzerland (BBC) — Football’s global governing body, FIFA, is supporting a proposed rule that would require players who receive medical treatment on the field to remain off the pitch for at least one minute before returning to play, a measure designed to deter time-wasting and maintain match tempo.

The proposal is scheduled for consideration at the annual general meeting of the International Football Association Board, the independent authority responsible for setting and amending the Laws of the Game. If endorsed, the change would be formally written into football’s global rulebook.

According to BBC Sport, which detailed the plan Monday, the measure has gathered support as lawmakers seek practical solutions to address stoppages that disrupt the rhythm of matches.

Currently, the Laws of the Game do not mandate a fixed period that an injured player must remain off the field after treatment. Individual competitions retain discretion to apply their own guidelines.

Existing Domestic Models

Several leagues have already experimented with similar policies.

The Premier League implemented a 30-second off-field requirement at the start of the 2023–24 season. The move was intended to discourage players from exaggerating contact and slowing play during critical phases of matches.

FIFA also tested a more stringent two-minute exclusion during the Arab Cup in December. That trial, however, prompted criticism from coaches and stakeholders who argued that an extended absence could unfairly penalize teams, particularly in tightly contested matches.

FIFA’s refereeing chief, Pierluigi Collina, indicated the experiment aimed to limit gamesmanship and preserve the flow of play. The governing body has repeatedly emphasized the need to balance player welfare with the integrity of competition.

A comparable approach is already embedded in the regulations of Major League Soccer, where a player who remains on the ground for more than 15 seconds and requires medical attention must temporarily leave the field. That framework has been cited in discussions as an example of how structured time limits can discourage tactical stoppages.

Toward a Standardized Global Rule

Members of IFAB agreed in January that the absence of a clearly defined time requirement created inconsistencies across competitions. While there was broad consensus that a fixed interval should be codified, debate continued over the precise duration.

The proposed one-minute window is widely viewed as a middle ground shorter than FIFA’s earlier two-minute experiment but longer than certain domestic measures. Supporters contend that 60 seconds is sufficient to deter deliberate delays without imposing excessive competitive disadvantage.

Should IFAB approve the measure, it would apply universally across international and domestic competitions that operate under the Laws of the Game, ensuring global uniformity.

Balancing Fairness, Flow and Player Welfare

The proposal reflects a broader push within football governance to address time management in modern matches. In recent seasons, lawmakers have expanded stoppage-time calculations and strengthened enforcement against dissent and simulation. The injury-treatment debate fits within that pattern.

Critics of lengthy stoppages argue that they disrupt tactical momentum and frustrate spectators. Data compiled by various analytics firms have shown that effective playing time the minutes the ball is actually in play often falls well below the nominal 90-minute match duration. Governing bodies have responded with measures intended to narrow that gap.

Yet any reform touching player health carries sensitivity. Medical professionals stress that decisions regarding head injuries, muscle strains or impact-related concerns must prioritize safety over pace. A mandatory one-minute absence, some observers suggest, may encourage more accurate self-assessment by players who might otherwise feign minor contact.

Conversely, there is concern that teams reduced to 10 players for a full minute during critical defensive sequences could face disproportionate risk. In elite competitions, even brief numerical disadvantages can alter outcomes.

The compromise approach signals recognition of both viewpoints. By shortening the exclusion period from the two-minute trial while still formalizing a requirement, FIFA and IFAB appear intent on discouraging tactical delays without undermining competitive equity.

There are also broader commercial implications. Faster-paced matches enhance broadcast appeal and advertising value, particularly in markets where viewer retention metrics are closely tracked. A more continuous flow may align with global audience expectations shaped by other major sports.

The outcome of the upcoming IFAB meeting will determine whether the one-minute rule becomes part of football’s universal framework. Any amendment would likely take effect at the start of a new competition cycle, allowing leagues and federations to adjust protocols and educate players.

For now, the proposal underscores an ongoing recalibration within the sport’s leadership: preserving fairness and safety while adapting the game’s structure to modern demands.

If adopted, the change would mark another incremental but symbolically significant shift in how football manages time, discipline and competitive balance areas increasingly central to the sport’s global evolution.

DRC-Burundi Border Reopens After Two-Month Closure, Reviving Trade and Raising Hopes in Uvira

By
Simeon Bateren
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UVIRA, Democratic Republic of the Congo (BN24) Movement resumed Monday at the main crossing between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi, ending more than two months of closure that had cut off trade, separated families and strained the fragile economy of this lakeside city.

Crowds assembled at the Kavimvira border post on the Congolese side and at Gatumba in Burundi as authorities allowed pedestrians, traders and vehicles to pass through for the first time since late 2025. The reopening followed an announcement by the governor of South Kivu province a day earlier.

The frontier had been sealed after fighters linked to AFC/M23 seized control of Uvira amid escalating insecurity in eastern Congo. Burundi’s government shut its border post in response to the deteriorating security environment, leaving thousands stranded and halting the steady flow of goods that underpins daily life in this region along Lake Tanganyika.

By midmorning Monday, motorcycle taxis ferried passengers once more, bicycles stacked with sacks of produce rolled through the checkpoint and small-scale merchants carried goods across the boundary in scenes residents described as both emotional and long-awaited.

“I am very happy, because for a long time we were looking for a way to return home, but it was not possible,” said Dalili Mussa, a Congolese national who had remained in Burundi during the closure.

Many who crossed Monday had fled weeks earlier as gunfire echoed through neighborhoods. Aline Safi recounted the moment she decided to leave.

“We were in the house with the children when the crackling of bullets and bombs began,” she said. “That’s when we decided to flee to Burundi so as not to become victims.”

According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), advances by M23 rebels in South Kivu province triggered a notable influx of Congolese civilians into Burundi during the fighting. The agency indicated that the cross-border movement placed additional humanitarian pressure on host communities already grappling with limited resources.

With the crossing now accessible, some refugees have begun returning, though humanitarian organizations caution that conditions remain volatile.

Uvira’s economy, largely informal and heavily reliant on daily exchanges with Gatumba, was hit hard during the suspension. Traders reported shortages of essential goods, price spikes and declining household income as transport links were cut.

“The reopening of the border is a great joy for us and for all the residents of Uvira,” said Bosco Amani, a local trader. “Even in Gatumba, there is celebration. Motorcycles and bicycles are moving. I even saw students leaving their schools to come celebrate at the border.”

For residents, the reopening is both practical and symbolic. Kavimvira is more than a checkpoint; it is a lifeline connecting families, markets and services on both sides of the border. The resumption of traffic restores access to food supplies, medical care and education routes disrupted by the crisis.

Yet beneath the relief lies uncertainty.

The city still bears visible signs of recent clashes. Some buildings show damage, and the security presence remains noticeable. Local leaders have emphasized the need for sustained cooperation between Congolese and Burundian authorities to guarantee safe passage and prevent renewed instability.

The AFC/M23 group, which has been active in eastern Congo for years, has periodically seized territory, prompting displacement and international concern. The resurgence of the movement in South Kivu has once again drawn attention to unresolved grievances and the broader regional dynamics shaping conflict in eastern Congo.

The reopening of the Uvira-Gatumba crossing may signal more than a logistical adjustment; it reflects delicate regional calculations. Burundi’s decision to resume border operations suggests confidence however tentative that immediate threats near Uvira have diminished. At the same time, it underscores the economic interdependence binding border communities.

Cross-border trade in eastern Congo often operates outside formal customs systems, forming a backbone of subsistence for thousands. When the border closed, the impact rippled quickly: food scarcity intensified, informal credit systems stalled and transportation workers lost daily wages. In cities like Uvira, where formal employment opportunities are limited, such disruptions can accelerate poverty and fuel social tensions.

The return of commerce may help stabilize prices and restore income flows. However, economic revival alone cannot guarantee lasting calm. The underlying drivers of conflict in eastern Congo including competition over land, ethnic tensions and regional rivalries remain unresolved.

The involvement of neighboring states has historically complicated peace efforts. While the reopening represents coordination between Kinshasa and Bujumbura, sustained diplomatic engagement will be essential to prevent future closures that could once again isolate border populations.

For humanitarian agencies, the challenge now lies in managing returns while ensuring that displaced families have access to shelter, security and basic services. Premature returns to unstable areas risk exposing civilians to renewed violence.

Residents interviewed at the crossing expressed a shared hope that the border will remain open. For them, stability is measured less by political statements than by the ability to move freely, trade goods and send children to school without fear.

As foot traffic continued throughout the day, the sound of engines and conversation replaced the silence that had defined the crossing for weeks. In Uvira, the steady rhythm of people walking across Kavimvira offered a visible sign of resilience and a reminder that for border communities, peace is inseparable from mobility.

Whether this reopening marks a durable turning point or a temporary pause in a longer cycle of unrest remains uncertain. For now, however, the barrier is lifted, and with it, a measure of hope returns to the shores of Lake Tanganyika.

Manchester United Edge Everton 1-0 as Sesko’s Late Strike Extends Carrick’s Unbeaten Run

By
Simeon Bateren
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EPL, England (BN24) — Manchester United climbed into fourth place in the Premier League after substitute Benjamin Sesko struck late to seal a 1-0 victory over Everton on Saturday, extending Michael Carrick’s unbeaten start as manager.

Sesko, introduced from the bench for the sixth consecutive match under Carrick, delivered the decisive moment 19 minutes from full time at Everton’s new 52,000-seat Hill Dickinson Stadium. The Slovenian forward finished off a sweeping counterattack to secure three points that moved United three clear of both Chelsea and Liverpool in the race for Champions League qualification.

The Premier League’s top five teams will earn places in next season’s Champions League, intensifying the competition as the campaign enters its decisive stretch.

Sesko’s resurgence has been striking. After completing a £74 million (approximately $100 million) transfer from RB Leipzig in the offseason, he managed only two goals across his first 22 appearances. Since the dismissal of former manager Ruben Amorim last month, however, the 21-year-old has rediscovered his scoring touch, producing six goals in his last seven outings.

Carrick, a former United midfielder, has overseen a swift change in trajectory. The victory on Merseyside preserved his unbeaten record through six matches in charge. United, once inconsistent and defensively fragile earlier in the season, has now recorded three clean sheets under his leadership after managing only two before Amorim’s departure.

Despite the positive result, the match itself offered a limited spectacle. Both sides were playing for the first time in nearly two weeks, and the lack of rhythm was evident throughout much of the contest.

Everton, guided by David Moyes, nearly capitalized on United’s sluggish start. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford denied Amad Diallo inside the opening two minutes — the only clear opportunity of a subdued first half.

United’s attack struggled to find fluency. Bryan Mbeumo was again selected ahead of Sesko as the central striker and squandered a chance early in the second period, sending an effort high from a tight angle. Yet Mbeumo played a crucial role in the breakthrough.

The winning sequence began deep inside United’s half. Sesko dropped back to combine with Matheus Cunha, then accelerated into space. Mbeumo’s precisely weighted return pass split Everton’s defense, and Sesko applied a composed finish beyond Pickford.

Everton pushed forward in the closing stages in search of an equalizer. Senne Lammens reacted sharply to tip over a long-range drive from Michael Keane, preserving United’s narrow advantage.

The defeat extended Everton’s winless run at home to seven matches, underscoring their difficulties adjusting to new surroundings. Moyes’ side had entered the contest with hopes of climbing to seventh place and strengthening its bid for European qualification but instead remains on the periphery of that race.

The result also avenged a November meeting at Old Trafford, when Everton claimed a 1-0 win despite playing most of the match with 10 men.

For United, the implications are substantial. After missing out on Champions League participation in recent seasons, the club now appears positioned for a return to Europe’s elite competition.

While the scoreline was narrow, the broader significance of United’s victory may lie in the transformation taking shape under Carrick.

Under Amorim, United often appeared disjointed, particularly in defensive transitions. The team conceded goals at a troubling rate and struggled to maintain structural balance. Carrick’s approach has emphasized compact lines, disciplined pressing triggers, and selective counterattacks rather than sustained possession.

That tactical shift was evident in the build-up to Sesko’s winner. Rather than committing numbers recklessly, United absorbed pressure and struck decisively when space opened up. The move showcased clarity of roles and timing hallmarks of Carrick’s early tenure.

Sesko’s individual turnaround also reflects improved utilization. Instead of operating as an isolated focal point, he has been deployed as an impact substitute, exploiting tired defenses with direct runs and clinical finishing. The strategy has maximized his athletic profile and restored confidence that appeared diminished earlier in the campaign.

Defensively, United’s recent solidity marks another significant development. Clean sheets have become more frequent, and goalkeeper distribution has been streamlined to reduce unnecessary risks. Though Everton created limited opportunities, United’s organization during late pressure demonstrated composure absent in previous months.

The Champions League race remains crowded, with several clubs separated by slim margins. However, United’s upward momentum contrasts with Everton’s stagnation at home and the inconsistency shown by other contenders.

Much will depend on squad rotation and managing fixture congestion as the season intensifies. Carrick has yet to face a prolonged injury crisis or a stretch of matches against multiple top-tier opponents in quick succession. Maintaining defensive discipline while extracting continued production from Sesko will be essential.

For now, United’s revival appears tangible rather than temporary. A team once adrift in mid-table has re-entered the conversation among England’s elite.

As the Premier League campaign narrows toward its conclusion, Carrick’s understated stewardship combined with Sesko’s timely resurgence — may prove decisive in determining whether Manchester United returns to Europe’s grandest stage.

Fire Engulfs Murtala Muhammed International Airport Old Terminal in Lagos, Nigeria

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Simeon Bateren
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LAGOS, Nigeria (BN24) — Around 10 individuals remain trapped in the control tower of Murtala Muhammad International Airport’s old terminal as a fire continues to rage through the facility, airport officials confirmed.

The blaze, first reported by Sahara Reporters, erupted at the old terminal, which is currently undergoing a multibillion-naira renovation project. According to an airport source, the fire has intensified, particularly on the sixth floor where the control tower is located.

“There are roughly 10 people trapped at the control tower on the sixth floor, and we are making efforts to get them to safety,” the official told Sahara Reporters at approximately 5:15 p.m. “I can’t be sure if there are others trapped anywhere else because there is a lot of smoke right now; the fire is still burning.”

Emergency crews are actively combating the flames, working to prevent the fire from spreading further into the terminal complex. A helicopter has been observed circling the site, though its exact role in the rescue operation remains unclear. Airport personnel speculate that it may be operated by law enforcement, but there is no confirmation that it is assisting in evacuating those trapped.

“The helicopter is just roving around, honestly. We don’t know what it is doing here,” the source added.

The cause of the fire has not yet been definitively determined. However, preliminary assessments suggest an electrical fault may have sparked the blaze, echoing similar incidents in the past.

This is not the first fire to affect Murtala Muhammad International Airport in recent years. On September 6, 2023, a fire broke out at the airport’s international wing. Investigations by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) revealed that the incident stemmed from a suspected electrical spark in the ceiling of the baggage hall, where a lithium inverter battery installed in the basement had ignited.

The recurrence of such fires has raised concerns about infrastructure safety and the adequacy of preventive measures in the airport’s older facilities. Aviation safety experts emphasize the need for comprehensive electrical inspections, particularly in areas undergoing renovation.

The ongoing fire at the old terminal could have significant operational and safety consequences. While the airport’s newer terminals remain unaffected, the disruption to the control tower poses immediate risks for air traffic coordination. Officials are closely monitoring flight operations to ensure safety is not compromised.

Analysts note that repeated fire incidents at Murtala Muhammad International Airport highlight broader challenges in maintaining aging infrastructure amid increasing passenger traffic. A multibillion-naira renovation aims to modernize the facility, but incidents like the current blaze underscore the importance of rigorous fire safety protocols and emergency preparedness measures.

Local authorities have mobilized firefighting units and coordinated emergency response teams to contain the fire and rescue those trapped. Residents and airport employees in the vicinity report heavy smoke, while emergency sirens echo across Lagos.

Safety experts suggest that rapid deployment of aerial support and specialized firefighting equipment is critical to preventing the blaze from reaching nearby operational areas, including the newer terminals and adjacent airport facilities.

As of Tuesday evening, firefighters continue battling the flames, and rescue efforts remain ongoing for the ten individuals trapped in the control tower. Authorities have not provided a confirmed timeline for extinguishing the fire or for evacuating all affected personnel.

The incident underscores the pressing need for both preventive infrastructure maintenance and robust emergency response protocols at major transportation hubs. Aviation regulators and airport operators are expected to conduct a detailed post-incident review to identify causes and implement safety enhancements, ensuring the recurrence of such events is minimized.

For now, the focus remains on containing the blaze, safeguarding human life, and restoring normal airport operations at one of Nigeria’s busiest aviation hubs.

Romantic Partner’s Location Led Mexican Forces to ‘El Mencho,’ Triggering Deadly Cartel Clash

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admin
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Mexican authorities located and fatally wounded one of the country’s most powerful cartel leaders after tracing the movements of a woman described as his romantic partner, officials disclosed Monday, detailing an operation that ignited a wave of violence across multiple states.

President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the nation at a morning news conference, asserting that the country remains “under control” following Sunday’s military action against Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” the longtime head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

Gen. Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, Mexico’s defense secretary, told reporters that intelligence gathered from monitoring the whereabouts of a woman close to Oseguera Cervantes led security forces to a compound in Tapalpa, a mountain town in Jalisco state long associated with the cartel’s operations.

According to Trevilla Trejo, special forces moved in after confirming the target’s presence. A firefight erupted when Oseguera Cervantes attempted to flee the property. He sustained injuries during the exchange and was airlifted toward Mexico City for emergency medical care, but died en route, the defense secretary said.

At least eight suspected cartel members and three Mexican security officials were killed during the raid, Trevilla Trejo said, describing the confrontation as “very violent.” While expressing condolences to the families of the fallen officers, he paused and became visibly emotional during the briefing.

Sheinbaum praised the armed forces, saying, “Mexico should be very proud of our armed forces,” and emphasized that authorities are working to stabilize affected areas.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, known by its Spanish initials CJNG, has been identified by Mexican and U.S. officials as a dominant criminal organization involved in trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl into the United States.

Although the operation was carried out by Mexican special forces, U.S. officials confirmed that intelligence support was provided to assist in locating Oseguera Cervantes. The collaboration underscores ongoing bilateral security coordination amid heightened pressure from Washington to confront powerful trafficking groups.

In the hours following confirmation of Oseguera Cervantes’ death, coordinated retaliatory attacks erupted across Mexico. Noticias Telemundo indicated that hundreds of roadblocks were established in 20 states, with the heaviest concentration in Jalisco. Vehicles were set ablaze, highways were obstructed and gunfire was reported in multiple municipalities.

Omar García Harfuch, Mexico’s top security official, said during the same briefing that 70 individuals were detained in connection with the unrest. He added that more than 30 suspected cartel members and 27 law enforcement officers responding to the violence were killed in the aftermath.

Attacks also targeted gas stations and banks, García Harfuch said, as authorities worked to dismantle barricades and restore order.

“The most important thing right now is to guarantee peace and security throughout Mexico, and that’s what’s being done,” Sheinbaum said, noting that major blockades had ceased by Monday.

The unrest disrupted daily life in several cities. In Guadalajara, Jalisco’s capital and Mexico’s second-largest metropolitan area, traffic resumed early Monday after much of the city had shut down a day earlier. The Associated Press noted that more than 1,000 people spent the night at the Guadalajara zoo, sleeping in buses after being unable to leave safely.

Air travel was also affected. Multiple international carriers canceled flights Sunday amid the violence, stranding travelers. A security advisory issued by the U.S. State Department urging American citizens in several Mexican states to “shelter in place” remained active Monday.

The advisory covers Michoacán, Guerrero, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, Baja California, Nayarit and Jalisco, including Chapala, Guadalajara and the resort city of Puerto Vallarta. An updated notice extended caution to parts of Colima, Guanajuato, Estado de México, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, Veracruz and Zacatecas.

Sheinbaum indicated that flight operations, particularly in Puerto Vallarta, are expected to normalize by Tuesday.

The method used to locate Oseguera Cervantes highlights the evolving intelligence tactics employed by Mexican authorities. Rather than relying solely on traditional surveillance of known cartel compounds, investigators appear to have leveraged digital tracking and human network analysis focused on close associates. Targeting the social circle of high-profile criminal figures has increasingly become a strategy for penetrating tightly controlled security environments.

The swift and widespread retaliation underscores the CJNG’s operational reach and its capacity to mobilize coordinated actions across state lines. Roadblocks and arson attacks have long been hallmarks of cartel strategy designed to overwhelm security forces and project strength during leadership transitions.

Oseguera Cervantes’ death could trigger internal competition within the organization. Cartel hierarchies often experience instability following the removal of a central figure, particularly one who maintained personal authority over regional commanders. Such transitions can lead either to fragmentation or to a period of intensified violence as factions jockey for control.

The cooperation between Mexican and U.S. agencies also reflects the geopolitical stakes of the operation. With fentanyl trafficking at the center of bilateral tensions, dismantling a figure as prominent as Oseguera Cervantes carries symbolic and strategic weight. However, past experience suggests that eliminating top leaders does not automatically dismantle trafficking networks, which often adapt quickly.

For now, authorities say the immediate objective is stabilization. Whether the death of “El Mencho” marks a turning point in Mexico’s long-running struggle against organized crime — or the beginning of another volatile chapter — remains uncertain.

Nearly 30 Migrants Feared Dead After Boat Capsizes Off Crete, U.N. Warns of Deadliest Mediterranean Start Since 2014

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Nearly 30 migrants are feared dead after a boat traveling from Libya overturned south of the Greek island of Crete, authorities said Monday, as the United Nations warned that 2026 is already shaping up to be the deadliest year in the Mediterranean since record-keeping began.

Greek officials and the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration confirmed that the vessel, carrying about 50 people, capsized Saturday roughly 20 nautical miles off Kali Limenes, a port near Crete’s southern tip.

Three men were recovered dead on the day of the incident, and the body of a woman was located floating at sea Sunday. No additional survivors or victims have been found since then.

A spokesperson for the Greek coast guard told The Associated Press that passing commercial ships continue to sweep the area in coordination with maritime authorities. High winds were recorded in the region at the time of the accident, complicating rescue efforts.

Survivors informed authorities that the boat had departed Thursday from Tobruk, Libya, a known launching point for migrants attempting the perilous Mediterranean crossing toward Europe.

Greek officials have detained two Sudanese men, ages 25 and 19, on suspicion of organizing the voyage. They are being investigated as alleged traffickers.

The tragedy adds to an escalating toll across the Mediterranean migration corridor.

In a statement issued Monday, the International Organization for Migration said that at least 606 migrants have been reported dead or missing along the Mediterranean route in the first two months of 2026 alone, citing data from its Missing Migrants Project.

The agency described the figure as the deadliest start to a year in the Mediterranean since it began compiling such records in 2014.

“IOM warns that trafficking and smuggling networks continue to exploit migrants along the Central Mediterranean route, profiting from dangerous crossings in unseaworthy boats while exposing people to severe abuse and protection risks,” the statement said.

The U.N. agency urged governments to strengthen cross-border cooperation and adopt protection-centered strategies aimed at dismantling criminal networks while expanding safe and lawful migration pathways.

“Stronger international cooperation and protection-centered responses are key to tackling these criminal networks and expanding safe and regular pathways to reduce risks and save lives,” the organization added.

The Central Mediterranean route, stretching from North Africa to Italy and Greece, remains one of the world’s most dangerous migration corridors. Many boats departing from Libya are overcrowded and poorly equipped, often lacking adequate life jackets, navigation systems or seaworthy hulls.

The incident off Crete underscores a troubling shift in migration patterns. While the majority of crossings traditionally head toward Italy’s southern coast, traffickers appear increasingly willing to attempt longer and riskier routes toward Greece as European patrols intensify in other sectors. The distance from Tobruk to southern Crete is substantial, and in winter conditions, the risks multiply significantly.

The early spike in fatalities in 2026 may reflect several intersecting pressures. Ongoing instability in parts of North Africa, economic hardship and tightened border enforcement across Europe have left migrants with fewer safe options. As legal migration channels remain limited, smugglers continue to fill the vacuum, offering desperate individuals passage on unsafe vessels.

Maritime conditions during winter months also amplify danger. High winds and rough seas can overwhelm small craft within minutes, leaving passengers little chance of survival, particularly if rescue operations are delayed by weather or distance from shore.

The arrests of the two Sudanese suspects may represent an attempt by Greek authorities to disrupt smuggling rings operating out of eastern Libya. However, experts note that dismantling trafficking networks requires sustained international coordination that addresses both supply and demand. Arrests at sea or upon arrival often capture low-level facilitators rather than the transnational organizers who finance and direct operations.

The mounting death toll also renews debate within the European Union about burden-sharing and migration policy. Southern member states such as Greece and Italy have long argued that frontline countries cannot shoulder rescue and reception responsibilities alone.

As search vessels continue scanning the waters south of Crete, the fate of dozens remains uncertain. With no additional survivors located since Sunday, authorities increasingly fear the worst.

The disaster marks another grim chapter in the Mediterranean migration crisis — one that, according to U.N. data, is accelerating rather than receding in 2026.

AP

Mexico Defense Chief Breaks Down as 25 National Guard Members Killed in CJNG Retaliation After El Mencho Raid

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Mexico’s top defense official struggled to contain his emotions Monday as he confirmed that 25 members of the National Guard were killed in coordinated retaliatory attacks carried out by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel following the military operation that left its leader dead.

Defense Minister Ricardo Trevilla’s voice cracked and he paused repeatedly as he addressed reporters about what he described as an unprecedented wave of violence targeting Mexican security forces in the western state of Jalisco.

The deadly assaults unfolded after Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was killed during a military raid at a property in the state on Sunday. Authorities said Oseguera and six associates died during the operation, setting off a swift and violent backlash from cartel gunmen.

Mexico’s Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch said 25 National Guard personnel lost their lives in what he characterized as “27 cowardly attacks against authorities in Jalisco.” He added that at least 30 suspected cartel members were also killed during the clashes.

According to García Harfuch, the violence extended beyond direct confrontations with federal forces. A prison guard, an agent from the state prosecutor’s office and a civilian woman were also killed amid the unrest. The attacks included ambushes and armed confrontations directed at military and law enforcement patrols.

Authorities said cartel operatives erected more than 250 roadblocks across at least 20 states, using burning vehicles and debris to obstruct highways and disrupt the movement of security forces. The coordinated nature of the retaliation underscored the operational reach of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, commonly known as CJNG.

The cartel has long been regarded by Mexican and U.S. officials as one of the country’s most powerful and heavily armed criminal organizations, with access to military-grade weapons, rocket launchers, drones and improvised explosive devices.

President Claudia Sheinbaum said federal forces had cleared the roadblocks and regained control in affected areas. She indicated that more than 70 individuals had been detained across seven states as part of a sweeping security response aimed at restoring order.

“We are closely monitoring for any kind of reaction or restructuring within the cartel that could lead to violence,” García Harfuch told journalists, signaling concern that the group could attempt to reorganize or launch additional attacks following the death of its leader.

Foreign governments reacted swiftly to the escalation. The U.S. Embassy urged its personnel in eight cities and in the state of Michoacán to shelter in place and work remotely Monday. Several Mexican states suspended classes as a precaution while security forces intensified patrols.

Oseguera, widely known as “El Mencho,” had been a central figure in Mexico’s drug trade for years. Authorities accused him of overseeing the trafficking of fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine into the United States. A reward of up to $15 million had been offered for information leading to his capture.

The scale and coordination of the cartel’s retaliation highlight both the entrenched power of organized crime groups in Mexico and the risks associated with high-value targeting operations. While the elimination of a cartel leader can disrupt command structures, history has shown that such actions can also trigger violent fragmentation or reprisal attacks. The killing of 25 National Guard members in a concentrated period represents one of the deadliest retaliatory episodes against Mexican federal forces in recent years.

Security analysts note that CJNG has cultivated a decentralized yet disciplined network capable of launching synchronized attacks across multiple jurisdictions. The erection of roadblocks in 20 states suggests not only operational planning but also the ability to mobilize resources quickly in response to perceived threats.

For President Sheinbaum’s administration, the confrontation presents both a challenge and a defining moment. A forceful crackdown may reinforce the government’s commitment to confronting cartel violence, but it also risks provoking further bloodshed if splinter factions vie for control or attempt to demonstrate strength.

The emotional response from Defense Minister Trevilla underscored the human toll of the confrontation. Public displays of grief by senior officials are rare in Mexico’s security briefings and may reflect the depth of the losses sustained by federal forces.

In the coming weeks, authorities are likely to focus on dismantling residual CJNG networks and preventing retaliatory cells from regrouping. Whether the death of “El Mencho” weakens the cartel long term or ushers in a new phase of instability remains uncertain. What is clear is that the immediate aftermath has already exacted a heavy price on Mexico’s security forces and intensified concerns about the durability of cartel power across the country.

NYPost

19 More Nigerians Added to US Deportation List as Total Rises to 113 Under DHS Crackdown

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The United States Department of Homeland Security has added 19 more Nigerian nationals to a list of convicted offenders slated for removal, bringing the total number of Nigerians facing deportation to 113, according to figures posted Sunday on the agency’s website.

Photo: NewsGhana

Information published by DHS indicates that the newly identified individuals were convicted of crimes including sexual assault of a minor, fraud, assault, drug trafficking and money laundering. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers took the individuals into custody, and they are expected to be removed from the country once immigration processing is completed.

In a statement accompanying the updated list, the department said it is “highlighting the worst of the worst criminal aliens arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.” The statement added that under the leadership of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, DHS and ICE personnel are carrying out President Donald Trump’s directive to prioritize deportations of noncitizens with serious criminal convictions.

“The hardworking men and women of DHS and ICE are fulfilling Donald Trump’s promise and carrying out mass deportations — starting with the worst of the worst,” the statement read.

Among the 19 individuals newly added to the deportation roster are Adeolu Solabu, Oladayo Agboola, Chinonso Ochie, Oluchi Jennifer Chimdimma Chime, Samuel Omorodion, Sunday Adediora, Sunday Kunkushi and Mkpouto Etukudoh. Others include Marcus Unigwe, Kehinde James, Blessing Uchanma, Victor Adebisi, Richard Ugbah, Olaniyi Ojikutu, Oluwamuyiwa Olawoye, Okechukwu Amadi, Femi Jolayemi, Anthony Asanya, Izuchukwu Okoye and Ebele Agbasiele.

Data available on the DHS website show that the Nigerian deportation tally has risen sharply in recent weeks. In early February 2026, 79 Nigerians appeared on the list following ICE enforcement operations. Within days, that number increased to 97 after additional arrests. With the latest update, the total now stands at 113.

News Ghana also referenced the DHS data in a Sunday report, noting that the expansion reflects a broader enforcement strategy targeting foreign nationals with criminal convictions.

The escalation comes amid an intensified immigration enforcement campaign by the Trump administration, which has pledged to expand removals of undocumented migrants and lawful permanent residents who commit serious crimes. Federal authorities have emphasized that the current phase of deportations focuses on individuals convicted of what officials describe as grave offenses.

Original analysis: The rapid increase in the number of Nigerians listed for deportation highlights the administration’s emphasis on publicizing enforcement actions as part of its broader immigration agenda. By releasing names and framing the list under the “worst of the worst” label, DHS appears to be reinforcing a message that removal efforts are centered on individuals with criminal records rather than on broader categories of undocumented migrants. This messaging strategy may serve both domestic political objectives and international signaling, particularly to governments whose nationals are affected.

For Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, the growing deportation figures could have diplomatic and socioeconomic implications. While deportations of Nigerian nationals from the United States are not unprecedented, the pace and scale of the recent increase — from 79 to 113 within three weeks — may prompt discussions between U.S. and Nigerian authorities regarding repatriation logistics, reintegration support and bilateral cooperation on law enforcement.

The offenses cited by DHS span a wide range of criminal conduct, from financial crimes to violent offenses and drug-related convictions. Immigration attorneys note that noncitizens convicted of aggravated felonies or crimes involving moral turpitude are typically subject to mandatory removal under U.S. immigration law. Once criminal sentences are completed, individuals are transferred to ICE custody for immigration proceedings, which can culminate in deportation if relief from removal is not granted.

At the same time, immigration advocates often caution that deportation proceedings involve legal complexities, including appeals and claims for protection under asylum or other humanitarian grounds. DHS has not detailed the individual procedural status of those listed, beyond stating that deportations will occur after immigration formalities are finalized.

The absence of an official public response from Nigerian authorities as of Sunday leaves open questions about how the receiving country will manage the influx of returnees. In previous deportation waves, Nigerian officials have coordinated with U.S. counterparts to facilitate travel documentation and reception processes at ports of entry.

The updated deportation figures also reflect a broader national trend. Under President Donald Trump, federal immigration agencies have expanded workplace raids, community enforcement actions and data-sharing initiatives with local law enforcement to identify removable noncitizens with criminal convictions. By spotlighting specific nationalities, DHS underscores the international dimension of U.S. immigration enforcement while maintaining that its primary focus is on criminality rather than nationality.

As ICE continues its operations, further updates to the deportation list remain possible. Federal officials have indicated that enforcement efforts are ongoing and that additional names could be added as investigations and immigration proceedings advance.

Punchng/NewsGhana

Gunman Shot Dead by Secret Service at Mar-a-Lago Was Obsessed With Epstein Files, Family Says He Never Used a Gun

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A 21-year-old North Carolina man fatally shot by law enforcement after breaching the perimeter of President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate early Sunday had recently expressed fixation on the so-called “Epstein files” and urged others to “raise awareness,” according to messages obtained by TMZ and accounts from family members.

Authorities identified the man as Austin Tucker Martin. Law enforcement officials in Florida said Martin was shot and killed after he entered the inner security perimeter of Mar-a-Lago around 1:30 a.m. while carrying a shotgun and a gas canister. Security personnel confronted him, and officers responded after he allegedly raised the weapon into what authorities characterized as a “shooting position.”

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were in Washington at the time of the incident.

The Moore County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina indicated that a relative had approached a deputy shortly before 2 a.m. Sunday to report Martin missing. In a statement, the office said that at approximately 1:38 a.m., a family member informed authorities that Martin had disappeared. He was entered into a national missing persons database before North Carolina officials were notified that federal authorities were conducting an active investigation in Florida involving him. At the request of federal investigators, local officials transferred the missing persons case information to them.

Family members expressed shock at the chain of events. Martin’s cousin, Braeden Fields, 19, told The Associated Press that his cousin was “very quiet” and had never shown interest in firearms. Fields emphasized that Martin “doesn’t even know how to use a gun” and had been around weapons during hunting trips without ever firing one beyond a BB gun. In remarks to ABC station WTVD, Fields reiterated that Martin disliked guns, saying they hurt his ears and that he refused to handle them even when given the opportunity.

“He wouldn’t even hurt an ant,” Fields told The Associated Press, describing the behavior alleged by authorities as entirely out of character.

Martin worked at Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club in North Carolina, roughly 15 miles from his hometown of Cameron, where he lived with his parents. Colleagues cited by TMZ described him as preoccupied in recent weeks with what he believed was government concealment of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In text messages dated Feb. 15 and reviewed by the outlet, Martin wrote to a coworker that “evil is real and unmistakable” and encouraged sharing information about the Epstein files to inform others about what “the government is doing about it.”

The coworker did not respond to the message at the time. On Sunday morning, before news of Martin’s death became public, the coworker sent a follow-up message asking his whereabouts.

Additional coworkers told TMZ that Martin had voiced frustration about economic pressures facing young people and had unsuccessfully attempted to organize a union at his workplace to advocate for higher wages. They also characterized him as a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump.

Fields told ABC that the family broadly supports Trump and said Martin rarely engaged in political discussions. “He didn’t want to get into politics,” Fields said, adding that there had been no indication Martin would travel approximately 700 miles to Florida on any political mission.

A website registered to Martin featured watercolor and ink artwork of golf courses and described a mission focused on evoking “the hopeful feeling of being on a golf course.” Fields said Martin often donated portions of his paycheck to charity and had been preparing golf courses for the upcoming season.

Federal and local authorities have not publicly detailed a motive. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have asked residents in South Florida to review security camera footage that might show Martin’s movements before the breach.

The security response unfolded swiftly. Florida authorities said Mar-a-Lago security detected an individual within the inner perimeter and confronted him before law enforcement discharged their weapons. The Secret Service, responsible for protective operations at sites associated with the president, has not released additional specifics about the engagement, citing the continuing inquiry.

The episode marks the latest security scare involving high-profile political properties in the United States, underscoring the challenges facing federal protective services amid a polarized political climate and the proliferation of conspiracy theories online.

Original analysis: While authorities have not established a definitive motive, the intersection of conspiracy-driven narratives and personal grievance appears to form part of the broader context surrounding Martin’s actions. References to the Epstein files — a subject that has generated sustained online speculation and distrust of government institutions — illustrate how unresolved public controversies can become focal points for individuals grappling with frustration or alienation. Experts who study radicalization have noted that fixation on perceived cover-ups, combined with economic dissatisfaction, can contribute to a distorted sense of urgency or mission, even among individuals without prior histories of violence.

At the same time, the stark contrast between Martin’s alleged actions and his family’s depiction of him highlights the complexities investigators often face in reconstructing intent. Relatives and coworkers frequently describe suspects in such cases as quiet or apolitical, a dynamic that can obscure internal turmoil or escalating online engagement. The rapid shift from a missing persons report in North Carolina to a fatal confrontation in Florida within hours underscores how quickly such situations can unfold, leaving families and communities struggling for answers.

As federal investigators continue to examine Martin’s communications, travel history and digital footprint, officials have refrained from drawing conclusions about whether the breach was politically motivated, personally driven or influenced by online content. For now, authorities have emphasized that the protective response was triggered by an armed individual inside a restricted perimeter, and that the matter remains under active review.

NYPost/ABC7

Bus Packed With Dozens Plunges Off Nepal’s Prithvi Highway, Killing 19 and Injuring 25

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 (AP) — A passenger bus carrying dozens of travelers veered off a mountain highway in central Nepal shortly after midnight Monday, tumbling down a steep slope before coming to rest along the banks of the Trishuli River, killing 19 people and injuring at least 25 others, authorities said.

The bus was traveling from the lakeside resort city of Pokhara to the capital, Kathmandu, when it left the Prithvi Highway near Benighat in Dhading district, roughly 80 kilometers (50 miles) west of Kathmandu, police confirmed. Rescue crews arrived at the crash site soon after the accident and worked through the darkness to pull survivors from the wreckage.

District police identified one of the victims as a 24-year-old British national. Officials said nine of the 19 fatalities had been formally identified by Monday afternoon, while efforts were underway to confirm the identities of the remaining victims.

Among the injured were a Chinese national receiving treatment at the National Trauma Center in Kathmandu and a 27-year-old woman from New Zealand who sustained minor injuries and was being treated at a nearby hospital. China’s official Xinhua News Agency, citing the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, indicated earlier that another Chinese national had been reported missing.

Government administrator Mohan Prasad Neupane said emergency responders transported the injured to area hospitals after extracting them from the damaged vehicle. Police have launched an investigation to determine what caused the bus to leave the roadway.

The Prithvi Highway, a critical link between Kathmandu and Pokhara, winds through steep hills and narrow corridors carved into mountainous terrain. Accidents along the route are not uncommon, particularly during nighttime travel when visibility is reduced and fatigue may be a factor. Officials have not yet indicated whether weather, road conditions, mechanical failure or driver error contributed to Monday’s crash.

Nepal’s rugged topography poses persistent challenges for transportation. Much of the Himalayan nation is defined by sharp gradients, tight curves and roads that cling to cliffsides above fast-moving rivers. Infrastructure constraints, aging vehicles and inconsistent enforcement of safety standards have compounded risks for travelers.

The crash site near the Trishuli River carries painful resonance. In 2024, two buses carrying 65 people plunged into the same river during separate incidents, leaving most of those aboard dead or missing. The wreckage of one of those vehicles was discovered only this year, buried beneath deep sand deposits along the riverbank.

Authorities have not released the total number of passengers on Monday’s bus but described it as heavily occupied. Survivors were treated for fractures, lacerations and internal injuries, hospital officials said, though they declined to provide further details pending family notification.

Nepal has struggled for years to reduce its rate of road fatalities. Government data show that traffic accidents claim hundreds of lives annually, with buses frequently involved because they remain the primary mode of long-distance transport for many residents and tourists alike.

Pokhara, the departure point of the ill-fated bus, is one of Nepal’s most visited destinations, known for its lakes, trekking routes and proximity to the Annapurna mountain range. The highway connecting it to Kathmandu is a lifeline for commerce and tourism, but it is also notorious for congestion and hazardous conditions.

Police said forensic teams were examining the wreckage to determine whether mechanical malfunction played a role. Investigators are also reviewing the driver’s background and travel logs.

While authorities focus on determining the immediate cause of the crash, the broader safety concerns facing Nepal’s transportation system are again in the spotlight.

Road infrastructure development in the country has lagged behind growing demand. As tourism rebounds and domestic travel increases, highways such as the Prithvi corridor are seeing heavier traffic volumes. Yet many sections remain narrow, uneven and vulnerable to landslides, especially during the monsoon season. Although Monday’s accident occurred outside the peak rainy period, geological instability and aging guardrails remain ongoing hazards.

Enforcement of vehicle maintenance standards has also been inconsistent. Transport unions and safety advocates have long called for stricter inspections of commercial buses, citing worn brake systems and overloading as recurring issues. Previous crash investigations have highlighted similar factors.

International visitors are often among those affected. Nepal’s adventure tourism sector attracts travelers from Europe, Asia and Oceania, and bus travel is frequently the most accessible way to move between cities. Fatalities involving foreign nationals can carry diplomatic sensitivities, prompting embassies to coordinate closely with local authorities.

The Trishuli River tragedies in 2024 prompted renewed pledges from officials to strengthen oversight, including proposals to install more protective barriers along high-risk stretches and introduce digital monitoring of bus routes. However, implementation has been gradual.

Transportation analysts note that mountainous countries face inherent constraints, but policy measures — including improved driver training, regulated driving hours and enhanced roadside emergency response systems — can significantly reduce fatalities.

Monday’s crash may intensify pressure on policymakers to accelerate reforms. Public frustration often spikes after high-casualty incidents, though momentum for long-term structural change has historically waned over time.

For families awaiting identification of victims, immediate concerns are more personal. Officials in Dhading district said support services were being coordinated for relatives, and foreign embassies were notified regarding their citizens.

As investigations proceed, authorities have urged motorists traveling the Prithvi Highway to exercise caution and comply with traffic advisories. The government has not yet announced whether additional inspections or temporary restrictions will be imposed along the corridor.

The accident stands as another stark reminder of the risks inherent in navigating Nepal’s dramatic terrain — a landscape that draws visitors from around the world, yet demands sustained investment to ensure safer passage for those who travel its winding roads.

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