作者: admin

  • The ex-president’s daughter who faces terror-related charges

    The ex-president’s daughter who faces terror-related charges

    The political drama surrounding South Africa’s former president Jacob Zuma has taken a new turn as his daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, prepares to stand trial on terrorism-related charges. The 43-year-old parliamentarian is accused of inciting violence during the deadly July 2021 protests through her social media posts. The unrest, triggered by her father’s imprisonment for contempt of court, resulted in widespread looting, arson, and over 300 deaths, causing an estimated $2.8 billion in damages. Prosecutors allege that Zuma-Sambudla played a pivotal role in fueling the chaos by sharing incendiary content on Twitter, including images of burning vehicles and calls for a province-wide shutdown. Her posts, accompanied by hashtags like #FreeJacobZuma and the Zulu word “azishe” (meaning “let it burn”), are central to the case. Zuma-Sambudla has denied the charges, with her lawyer dismissing the prosecution’s case as “weak.” During a preliminary hearing, she wore a shirt emblazoned with “Modern Day Terrorist,” a move interpreted as a jab at the accusations. The trial marks a significant moment in South Africa’s legal history, as it is the first time someone has been charged with incitement to terrorism via social media. Critics argue the case is politically motivated, targeting Zuma-Sambudla due to her father’s opposition to the ruling African National Congress (ANC). Jacob Zuma, now leader of the rival uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, has been a polarizing figure, with his presidency marred by corruption allegations. His daughter, once a low-profile figure, has emerged as his staunchest supporter and a prominent MK member. The trial is expected to draw intense public interest, with experts questioning the prosecution’s ability to meet the high evidentiary bar required to prove intent and causation. Regardless of the outcome, the case is likely to further entrench the Zuma family’s role in South Africa’s political landscape.

  • 4 dead, 13 injured after street racer slams into crowd at Tampa bar

    4 dead, 13 injured after street racer slams into crowd at Tampa bar

    A devastating incident unfolded in Tampa, Florida, early Saturday morning when a speeding driver lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a bar, resulting in four fatalities and injuring more than a dozen others. The Tampa Police Department reported that the 22-year-old suspect, who had been involved in street racing earlier, was spotted driving recklessly on the highway just before 1:00 AM local time. Despite attempts by the Florida Highway Patrol to stop the vehicle using a PIT maneuver—a controversial technique designed to halt fleeing cars—the driver continued to speed uncontrollably. The chase ended tragically when the car veered off course and plowed into the outdoor patio of Bradley’s, a popular LGBTQ bar. Three victims died instantly, while a fourth succumbed to injuries at the hospital. Among the 13 injured, two remain in critical condition, seven are stable, and two have already been discharged. Authorities have not released the names of the victims. Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw condemned the incident as a ‘senseless tragedy,’ emphasizing the dangers of reckless driving. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor expressed her grief on social media, calling the event ‘devastating’ and highlighting the profound impact on the community. An investigation is ongoing, with the suspect currently in custody.

  • Spanish police arrest trucker wanted in Germany for drug trafficking

    Spanish police arrest trucker wanted in Germany for drug trafficking

    Spanish law enforcement officials have successfully apprehended a 64-year-old long-haul truck driver who was wanted by German authorities for his alleged involvement in a significant drug trafficking operation. The arrest took place on Tuesday at a logistics center in Santa Perpetua de la Mogoda, near Barcelona, according to a statement released by the Catalan regional police. The suspect is accused of exploiting his profession to transport more than 250 kilograms of marijuana and hashish, with an estimated street value exceeding 500,000 euros ($540,000), from Spain to Germany. The arrest was executed under a European Arrest Warrant, and the individual is currently in custody awaiting extradition to Germany. Spain, due to its geographical proximity to Morocco—a major producer of cannabis—serves as a critical gateway for these illicit substances into Europe. This case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by European authorities in combating cross-border drug trafficking networks.

  • 3 Taiwanese airlines ban Bluetooth earphones in checked baggage

    3 Taiwanese airlines ban Bluetooth earphones in checked baggage

    In a significant move to enhance aviation safety, three major Taiwanese airlines—Uni Air, Tiger Air, and Eva Air—have imposed a ban on Bluetooth earphones in checked baggage. The decision stems from concerns over the lithium-ion batteries embedded in these devices, which pose risks of short-circuiting and potential fire hazards. According to Uni Air, Bluetooth earphones and their charging cases are classified as portable electronic devices (PEDs) that remain in ‘standby mode’ due to their automatic charging feature. This violates the requirement that PEDs must be entirely powered off when stored in checked luggage. Tiger Air has also restricted the transport of earphone charging cases, permitting them only in hand-carried baggage. Eva Air has echoed similar guidelines, reinforcing the industry-wide focus on safety. The dangers of lithium batteries were highlighted in a recent incident aboard an Air China flight, where a fire erupted in an overhead compartment due to these batteries, causing panic among passengers. This incident underscores the necessity of such precautions. Additionally, Emirates, the UAE’s flagship carrier, recently banned the use of power banks onboard, aligning with broader regional safety measures. These restrictions reflect the aviation industry’s proactive approach to mitigating risks associated with lithium battery-powered devices.

  • Thousands of Chinese lured abroad and forced to be scammers – now Beijing is cracking down

    Thousands of Chinese lured abroad and forced to be scammers – now Beijing is cracking down

    In a rare exposé, Chinese state media has unveiled the inner workings of a sweeping crackdown on organized crime syndicates operating in Southeast Asia, which have ensnared thousands of Chinese nationals in a web of fraud, human trafficking, and violence. The documentary, aired on CCTV, provides an unprecedented glimpse into the justice system’s handling of these criminal networks, which have long operated with impunity in Myanmar’s border town of Laukkaing.

  • Watch: Sheikh Mohammed shares how Dubai Metro makes commute easy for millions

    Watch: Sheikh Mohammed shares how Dubai Metro makes commute easy for millions

    The Dubai Metro, inaugurated in 2009, has revolutionized urban transportation in the Emirate, offering millions of residents and visitors a seamless, eco-friendly, and efficient commuting experience. On November 8, 2025, Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared a video showcasing the Metro’s daily operations, emphasizing its role in enhancing the lives of diverse commuters. The video, posted on his official Twitter account, highlighted the Metro’s punctuality, cleanliness, and the respectful behavior of its passengers, which Sheikh Mohammed described as a reflection of the nation’s progress. Testimonials from commuters, including a ticket salesperson and an elderly couple, underscored the Metro’s importance in fostering happiness and inclusivity. Managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Dubai Metro serves an average of 850,000 passengers daily, with ridership surpassing one million during major events. Sheikh Mohammed’s post reinforces the Metro’s significance as a cornerstone of Dubai’s future-ready infrastructure.

  • Meet 17-year-old KT+150 changemaker redefining how we recycle electronic waste

    Meet 17-year-old KT+150 changemaker redefining how we recycle electronic waste

    At just 17 years old, Rishabh Mittal has already made a significant impact on environmental sustainability through his initiative, Going Green Dubai. Founded when he was only 13, this youth-led project aims to inspire community members to recycle and reduce their environmental footprint, with a particular focus on electronic waste (e-waste). E-waste, which includes discarded electronic devices, is one of the fastest-growing solid waste streams globally, according to the World Health Organisation. Mittal’s journey began with a simple school project on recycling, where he started by collecting plastic bottles in his residential building. However, his passion for technology soon led him to tackle the more complex issue of e-waste, which is notoriously difficult to decompose and often releases harmful toxins into the environment. To amplify his efforts, Mittal partnered with EnviroServe, the region’s largest e-waste processing facility. Together, they have organized school campaigns and set up e-waste bins to safely dispose of unused electronics. The facility recycles everything from mobile phones and laptops to larger appliances like refrigerators and washing machines, breaking them down into raw materials such as copper, aluminium, and steel. Since its inception, Going Green Dubai has collected and recycled 7,109kg of e-waste, 19,960 bottles, and reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 8,951kg. Mittal’s dedication has earned him recognition as a KT+150 achiever, a list that highlights young changemakers making significant impacts across various industries. His story is a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives in driving meaningful environmental change.

  • How an Indian comic book legacy was lost in a fire

    How an Indian comic book legacy was lost in a fire

    For generations of Indians, Amar Chitra Katha has been a cherished portal into the realms of religion, mythology, and history through its iconic comic books. Launched in 1967 by Anant Pai, the series, whose name translates to ‘immortal illustrated stories,’ has captivated readers with its engaging visuals and accessible language. However, a tragic fire on October 1 at its Bhiwandi warehouse near Mumbai has left a significant portion of this legacy in ashes. The blaze, reportedly caused by a short circuit, took four days to control and destroyed nearly 600,000 books, including special editions, merchandise, and over 200 original hand-drawn illustrations from the 1960s and 1970s. Archival materials, such as original positives on transparent film, were also lost. While most published titles have been digitized and remain accessible through apps, the irreplaceable original artworks are gone forever. The emotional toll on comic book enthusiasts is profound, as Amar Chitra Katha has long been a cornerstone of Indian cultural education. The 1970 issue on the Hindu deity Krishna, illustrated by Ram Waeerkar, marked a turning point for the series, paving the way for stories on Indian mythological and historical figures. Despite the loss, the publication remains resilient, with plans to innovate digitally and rebuild its legacy. Yet, for art lovers, the absence of these originals is a heartbreaking reminder of what has been lost.

  • National Games vibe is everywhere in Guangzhou

    National Games vibe is everywhere in Guangzhou

    The vibrant city of Guangzhou is abuzz with anticipation as the 15th National Games of China draw near. The event, set to commence soon, has transformed the city into a hub of sports enthusiasm and cultural celebration. Streets are adorned with banners and decorations, while local communities are actively participating in pre-event activities, showcasing their support and excitement. The National Games, a prestigious multi-sport event, brings together athletes from across the nation to compete in various disciplines, fostering a spirit of unity and sportsmanship. Guangzhou, known for its rich history and modern infrastructure, is well-prepared to host this grand event, promising an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike. The city’s fervor for the Games is palpable, with residents eagerly awaiting the opening ceremony and the thrilling competitions that will follow.

  • More than 1,000 flights cancelled as US air traffic cuts enter second day

    More than 1,000 flights cancelled as US air traffic cuts enter second day

    The ongoing federal government shutdown has plunged the US aviation sector into chaos, with over 1,000 flights canceled and nearly 4,000 delayed on Saturday, according to FlightAware. This marks a slight improvement from Friday’s 7,000 delays but underscores the growing strain on air travel as the shutdown enters its 39th day. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented a 10% reduction in air traffic capacity at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports, citing fatigue among unpaid air traffic controllers. Newark Liberty International Airport experienced some of the longest delays, with arrivals averaging over four hours and departures delayed by 1.5 hours. Charlotte/Douglas International, Newark Liberty International, and Chicago O’Hare International were the most affected airports in terms of cancellations. Departures from major hubs like John F. Kennedy International, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, and La Guardia were also significantly delayed. The FAA has announced a gradual increase in flight reductions, starting at 4% on Friday and reaching 10% by November 14. The shutdown has also impacted private jets, with restrictions redirecting them to smaller airports to ease the burden on controllers. As Thanksgiving approaches, one of the busiest travel periods in the US, the situation is expected to worsen. The shutdown has left 1.4 million federal workers, including 64,000 Transportation Security Agency (TSA) agents, working without pay. Bipartisan negotiations are underway in Washington to resolve the impasse, but no agreement has been reached. The current shutdown is now the longest in US history, surpassing the 2018 shutdown under President Donald Trump, during which 10% of TSA staff chose not to work unpaid.