Interpol Cracks Down on Cybercrime: Over 1,000 Arrests Across Africa in Operation Serengeti
Interpol, alongside Afripol, executed Operation Serengeti, a two-month initiative resulting in 1,006 arrests in Africa. This extensive mission targeted cybercriminals involved in ransomware, phishing, online scams, and more, identifying 35,000 victims and nearly $193 million in losses. Key arrests included fraudsters in Kenya and Senegal, with the operation emphasizing the value of global cooperation against cyber threats.
Russian Court Sentences American to Nearly Seven Years for Alleged Mercenary Activities in Ukraine
Stephen James Hubbard, an American citizen aged 72, receives a prison sentence of nearly seven years from a Russian court for allegedly acting as a mercenary for Ukraine. Accused of joining Ukrainian forces against Russia, Hubbard's trial was conducted behind closed doors, raising skepticism amongst his family. Concerns surface over the potential targeting of US nationals by Russia for geopolitical leverage.
Pope Francis Condemns Ongoing Gaza Conflict, Urges Immediate Peace Negotiations
Pope Francis has firmly denounced the sustained conflict in Gaza, particularly stressing the high child mortality rate and the stalled peace talks. On a flight from Singapore to Rome, the Pope voiced his grave concern for the Gaza situation. He strongly urged for swift actions to halt the brutality and safeguard civilians.
Powerful 7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Rattles Kamchatka Peninsula; Klyuchevskaya Sopka Volcano Erupts
On August 18, 2024, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, leading to the eruption of the Klyuchevskaya Sopka volcano. The quake caused significant damage and prompted evacuations in the town of Klyuchi. Emergency responders are working tirelessly to restore services and ensure public safety.
US and Allies Press Israel to Exercise Restraint Amid Potential Iranian Assault
US officials and allies have emphasized to Israel the importance of a measured response to an anticipated Iranian attack. The aim is to avoid escalating tensions into a larger conflict, especially following a thwarted drone and missile attack in April. Joint US-Israel military preparedness is crucial as both nations brace for possible Iranian aggression.
Dubai Princess Sheikha Mahra Announces Divorce from Mana Al Maktoum on Instagram
Sheikha Mahra, daughter of Dubai's ruler, took to Instagram to announce her separation from husband Mana Al Maktoum, an Emirati businessman. Married since April 2023, their split has drawn significant public attention.
Devastating Stampede in Hathras: 121 Dead in Religious Crowd Crush Incident
A tragic stampede during a religious gathering in Hathras, India, resulted in at least 121 deaths, predominantly women and children. The chaos ensued when Hindu guru Bhole Baba left the stage, causing the crowd to rush forward. Experts attribute the disaster to poor event planning and unsafe conditions. Authorities have launched an investigation, and India's leaders are offering support.
Malawi's Vice President Missing as Military Plane Vanishes
A military plane carrying Malawi's Vice President Saulos Chilima has gone missing after departing from Lilongwe. Efforts to make contact with the aircraft have failed and President Lazarus Chakwera has ordered a search operation and cancelled his trip to the Bahamas. The vice president was on his way to a funeral.
British Doctor and 5:2 Diet Pioneer, Michael Mosley, Reported Missing on Greek Island Symi
Dr. Michael Mosley, a notable British doctor and TV presenter, has vanished on the Greek island of Symi during a solo walk. A large-scale search involving multiple agencies and local volunteers is currently in progress. Authorities are investigating but no definitive leads have emerged yet.
Portugal Mandates Work Visas for Foreign Job Seekers in New Immigration Regulation
Portugal has introduced a new immigration regulation mandating that foreign job seekers obtain a work visa prior to entering the country. This new policy is expected to curb the practice of entering on a tourist visa to hunt for jobs and aims to ensure that incoming job seekers have necessary qualifications. The effects on the foreign workforce and employers are yet to be fully understood.
North Korea Escalates Tensions with Massive Ballistic Missile Barrage Toward Sea of Japan
North Korea launched a salvo of at least 10 ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan, escalating regional tensions. The launch, confirmed by South Korean and Japanese authorities, did not breach Japan's exclusive economic zone but defied UN resolutions. Kim Jong Un vowed to continue expanding the country's spy satellite capabilities.
Pope Francis' Controversial Remark on Gay Men in Seminaries Sparks Debate
During a closed-door discussion about the admission of gay men into seminaries, Pope Francis reportedly used the offensive Italian term 'frociaggine'. Bishops shared this revelation, causing shock and laughter. The term translates to 'frolicsome' or 'lewd' behavior in English, and its use has sparked considerable controversy and debate over the Pope's intent and awareness.