Global Pulse

分类： society

  • Hotel owner and 10 others jailed for life over deadly Turkish fire

    Hotel owner and 10 others jailed for life over deadly Turkish fire

    In a landmark ruling, the owner of a Turkish ski resort hotel and 10 others have been sentenced to life in prison following the deadliest fire in Turkey’s history. The devastating blaze at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Bolu occurred during school holidays in January, claiming the lives of 78 people, including 34 children. The fire, which erupted in the early hours, forced some residents to leap from the 12-story building to escape the inferno. A total of 137 people were injured in the tragedy.

    The hotel owner, Halit Ergül, along with his wife and two daughters, received the maximum penalty after being found guilty of severe negligence. Bolu’s deputy mayor and the local fire chief were also among those sentenced. An investigation revealed critical safety failures, including malfunctioning safety equipment and non-compliant gas installations. Ergül denied responsibility, blaming the gas supplier and the tourism ministry for oversight.

    In addition to the life sentences, 18 other defendants, mostly hotel employees, were handed prison terms ranging from 12 to 22 years. Two cooks were acquitted. The Bolu mountains, a popular skiing destination for residents of Istanbul and Ankara, were bustling with tourists at the time of the disaster due to the school holiday season. The tragedy has left a lasting scar on the community, with victims’ families expressing profound grief and loss.

  • What to know about Rio’s deadliest police raid that exposed limits of anti-gang tactics in Brazil

    What to know about Rio’s deadliest police raid that exposed limits of anti-gang tactics in Brazil

    In a dramatic escalation of Brazil’s ongoing battle against organized crime, Rio de Janeiro police conducted a massive operation in two of the city’s favelas on Tuesday, resulting in 121 fatalities, including four police officers, and numerous injuries. The raid, targeting the notorious Comando Vermelho (Red Command) gang, involved helicopters, armored vehicles, and ground troops. While official figures report 121 deaths, Brazil’s public defender’s office claims the toll reached 132, raising questions about the operation’s transparency and effectiveness. The Comando Vermelho, which originated in the late 1970s within Rio’s prison system, has since expanded its influence internationally, particularly in Europe, and now competes with rival gang First Capital Command (PCC) for control over drug routes. The recent raids have left communities like Penha and Complexo do Alemao in a state of mourning, with residents and activists criticizing the psychological toll and questioning the long-term impact on crime. Community leader William de Oliveira emphasized that favelas are home to diverse populations, not just criminals, and called for equal scrutiny of crime across all societal strata. The operation has also ignited a political debate, with Rio Governor Cláudio Castro labeling it a “success” despite the high casualty count, while critics like retired police officer Claudio Ferraz described it as “barbaric” and politically motivated. As Brazil approaches presidential and local elections in 2024, violence remains a top concern for voters, and high-profile raids may serve as a strategy to garner political support. Human rights organizations have called for investigations into the operation, which they describe as one of the most violent in recent Brazilian history. Meanwhile, the federal government has announced new measures to combat organized crime, including the establishment of an emergency office and the signing of a law to strengthen anti-crime efforts. The Senate is also set to launch an inquiry into the expansion of organized crime, signaling a renewed focus on addressing the root causes of violence in Brazil.

  • ‘I’m not a terrorist’: Mumbai filmmaker held 17 kids hostage, killed in rescue operation

    ‘I’m not a terrorist’: Mumbai filmmaker held 17 kids hostage, killed in rescue operation

    A tense hostage situation unfolded in Mumbai on Thursday, resulting in the death of a 50-year-old filmmaker, Rohit Arya, during a police rescue operation. Arya had held 19 people, including 17 children aged between 10 and 12, hostage in a studio in Powai. The incident began when Arya, who was conducting auditions for a short film, extended the sessions and refused to release the children, causing panic among parents. Mumbai Police responded to distress calls and launched a rescue operation, forcing entry through the studio’s bathroom. All hostages, including a senior citizen and another individual, were safely rescued. However, Arya was seriously injured during the confrontation and later pronounced dead at the hospital. Reports indicate that Arya fired an air gun at the police, prompting them to return fire, which struck his chest. In a video released prior to the incident, Arya admitted to taking the children hostage, claiming he wanted to speak with certain individuals and have his ‘questions answered.’ He denied being a terrorist or seeking financial gain, stating his demands were ‘moral and ethical.’ Authorities described Arya as mentally unstable. Investigations revealed that Arya had been involved in a government-funded urban sanitation project, Project Let’s Change, through his company, Apsara Media Entertainment Network. He allegedly demanded Rs 2 crore (approximately Dh828,895) for the project, but the government identified discrepancies in his claims and paperwork. Maharashtra Education Secretary Ranjit Singh Deol clarified that no such payment agreement existed. The incident has raised concerns about mental health and the vetting process for government-funded initiatives.

  • Free things to do in Dubai: Halloween events, Fitness Challenge and more

    Free things to do in Dubai: Halloween events, Fitness Challenge and more

    Dubai, often synonymous with luxury, offers a plethora of free activities that cater to diverse interests, proving that enjoying the city doesn’t always require a hefty budget. From Halloween celebrations to fitness challenges and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without spending a dirham.

    **Halloween Festivities**
    This Halloween, Dubai is hosting a range of free events. On October 31, Al Habtoor Polo Resort is organizing a **Halloween Family Movie Night** at The Clubhouse, featuring an outdoor screening of *Hotel Transylvania*, pumpkin carving, a bouncy castle, and complimentary goodies from Flying Tiger Copenhagen. Entry is free for all ages. Meanwhile, Festival Plaza in Jebel Ali Village is hosting a Halloween celebration on November 1, complete with costume competitions, face-painting for kids, and prize giveaways of up to Dh1,000. Participants can sign up at the mall’s customer service desk.

    **Dubai Fitness Challenge**
    November marks the annual **Dubai Fitness Challenge**, an initiative by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan that encourages residents and visitors to engage in 30 minutes of activity for 30 days. Starting November 1, the city transforms into an open-air gym with free classes, Fitness Villages, Community Hubs, and flagship events like **Dubai Ride**, **Dubai Run**, **Dubai Stand-Up Paddle**, and **Dubai Yoga**. Even if you don’t own a bike, you can participate in Dubai Ride on November 2 by renting Careem bikes for free. Check the full schedule and registration details to join the movement.

    **Dubai Fountain Shows**
    After months of renovation, the **Dubai Fountain** reopened on October 1, offering visitors a mesmerizing display of water, music, and light. Located at Dubai Mall with the Burj Khalifa as its backdrop, the fountain is a must-see attraction. Shows occur every 30 minutes from 6pm to 11pm daily, with additional afternoon shows on weekends.

    **Night Beaches**
    For a serene evening, head to one of Dubai’s night beaches—Jumeirah 2, Jumeirah 3, or Umm Suqeim 1. These spots offer stunning views of the illuminated Burj Al Arab, making for a perfect nighttime escape.

    **Birthday Freebies**
    Dubai is known for its birthday perks. From free rides at Aquaventure Waterpark to complimentary tours of the Miracle Garden, the city goes the extra mile to make your special day memorable. Restaurants like Claw BBQ and Paul Arabia offer free treats, while Cinemacity provides free movie tickets for birthday celebrations.

    **Art and Culture**
    Art enthusiasts can explore **Alserkal Avenue** in Al Quoz, home to over 70 galleries, studios, and cultural spaces. Highlights include Carbon 12, Green Art Gallery, and Leila Heller, as well as Gulf Photo Plus and thejamjar. Catch independent films at Cinema Akil or live performances at The Junction.

    Dubai’s free offerings showcase the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit, making it accessible to all, regardless of budget.

  • How UAE’s first olive-based coffee was brewed by mother-daughter duo

    How UAE’s first olive-based coffee was brewed by mother-daughter duo

    In a unique blend of tradition and innovation, the UAE has welcomed its first olive-based coffee, crafted by Emirati mother-daughter duo Nadia Al Mansouri and Huda Abdulaziz. What started as a pop-up attraction at community events has evolved into a sensation among health-conscious consumers and lovers of heritage-inspired flavors. The product, distributed under the brand History Coffee, offers a range of blends infused with hazelnut, frankincense (libaan), and even karak-style varieties, redefining the coffee experience in the region. The concept was inspired by Dr. Waleed Al Azraq, CEO of First Pasha Coffee, a Turkish-Yemeni firm that holds the patent for olive-powder coffee. Dr. Al Azraq’s vision was to merge the cultural significance of coffee with the health benefits of olives, creating a product that resonates with both tradition and modern wellness trends. The journey began after Dr. Al Azraq discovered powdered olive fruit at a Turkish agricultural exhibition. After extensive experimentation, the team achieved a perfect balance between the rich flavor of Emirati coffee and the nutritional properties of olive powder. Despite challenges in flavor balancing and regulatory approvals, the product has gained widespread recognition, both locally and internationally. Huda, a self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast, and her mother Nadia, who previously avoided coffee due to health concerns, were drawn to the product’s unique properties. Today, History Coffee is a staple at major events like ADIHEX and has expanded its offerings to include Arabic blonde coffee and other popular blends. Beyond its distinctive taste, olive coffee is celebrated for its health benefits, including antioxidant properties, heart health support, and cognitive enhancement. This Emirati-Yemeni collaboration exemplifies a growing regional appetite for innovative products that honor cultural heritage while promoting well-being.

  • Dubai: Parkin introduces two new paid public parking zones

    Dubai: Parkin introduces two new paid public parking zones

    Dubai’s leading public parking provider, Parkin, has unveiled two new paid parking zones in Dubai Studio City and Outsource City, marking a significant expansion of its services. The announcement, made on Friday, October 31, 2025, introduces structured parking tariffs and subscription rates for these areas, effective immediately. Clear signage has been installed to demarcate the zones, ensuring compliance with Code T regulations. The new tariffs, applicable from 8 AM to 10 PM, range from Dh2 for half an hour to Dh36 for a full 24-hour period. Subscription options include monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual plans, priced at Dh315, Dh840, Dh1680, and Dh2940, respectively. This move follows Parkin’s earlier initiatives, such as the introduction of free parking on Sundays and public holidays in Mirdif and the addition of paid zones in Al Jaddaf and Al Khail Gate earlier this year. The expansion aims to streamline parking management and enhance convenience for residents and visitors in these bustling commercial hubs.

  • GCC regional visionaries honoured at the 13th Annual GOV HR & Youth Empowerment Awards

    GCC regional visionaries honoured at the 13th Annual GOV HR & Youth Empowerment Awards

    The 13th Annual GCC GOV HR & Youth Summit and Awards 2025, hosted by QnA International, concluded with a grand celebration at the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi. This prestigious event, recognized as the GCC’s leading platform for governance and human resources excellence, gathered over 300 distinguished leaders, policymakers, and HR professionals from across the region. Under the theme ‘Elevating HR, empowering youth, enabling nations,’ the awards highlighted the region’s commitment to fostering inclusive, technology-driven, and future-ready workplaces. The ceremony featured a wide range of categories, including leadership and governance, diversity and inclusion, digital transformation, employee wellbeing, sustainability, nationalisation, youth empowerment, and HR innovation. Among the notable honorees, Major General Dr. Saleh Abdullah Murad, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Administrative Affairs at Dubai Police HQ, was named GOV HR Leader of the Year, and Captain Shaikh Abdulaziz Bin Sultan Bin Abdulla Al Nuaimi, Director of the Excellence Awards Branch at Ajman Police, received the Youth Icon of the Year award. Sidh N C, director of QnA International, emphasized the event’s role in celebrating innovation, leadership, and progress in governance and human capital, stating that it reinforces the belief that people are central to national transformation. The 13th edition of the awards continues to serve as the region’s foremost platform for recognizing the individuals, policies, and initiatives driving a more empowered and future-ready GCC.

  • New e-passports for Indian expats: 10 things you need to know

    New e-passports for Indian expats: 10 things you need to know

    Indian expatriates in the UAE are set to experience a significant upgrade in passport services with the introduction of e-passports. The Indian mission in the UAE has launched the Passport Seva Programme (GPSP 2.0), effective from October 28, 2025, marking a new era in passport issuance and renewal processes. The e-passport, embedded with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip, combines traditional paper elements with advanced electronic features, enhancing security and convenience for travelers.

    Applicants must now utilize the upgraded online portal, https://mportal.passportindia.gov.in/gpsp/AuthNavigation/Login, to submit their applications. The platform offers an auto-fill option for renewals, streamlining the process by retrieving existing details from previous passports. A notable change is the requirement for ICAO-approved photographs, ensuring high-resolution images with specific criteria such as a plain white background and neutral expressions.

    Once the online application is completed, applicants must visit BLS International, the designated service provider in the UAE, with necessary original documents. The new system eliminates charges for minor edits, a welcome change from previous practices. While biometrics are not currently required for UAE applicants, the Indian government plans to implement this feature overseas in the future.

    The new e-passports feature a revamped design, including a unique serial number format and a golden RFID symbol. Existing passport holders need not rush to renew their documents, as they remain valid until expiration. However, all new applications will result in e-passport issuance.

    Officials have urged patience during the initial rollout, anticipating some delays as the system stabilizes. The e-passports are expected to expedite immigration processes globally, reducing wait times and enhancing travel efficiency for Indian nationals.

  • Dubai Ride 2025: RTA announces temporary closure of 3 roads on November 2

    Dubai Ride 2025: RTA announces temporary closure of 3 roads on November 2

    In preparation for the highly anticipated Dubai Ride 2025, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced temporary road closures across key routes in Dubai. Scheduled for Sunday, November 2, the event will see three major roads shut down from 3:30 AM to 10:30 AM to accommodate thousands of cyclists participating in the sixth edition of this city-wide fitness initiative. The affected roads include Sheikh Zayed Road between Trade Centre roundabout and Al Hadiqa Road Bridge, Lower Financial Centre Road between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road, and one-way traffic on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys in advance and utilize alternative routes such as Upper Financial Centre Road, Zabeel Palace Road, Al Wasl Road, Al Khail Road, and Al Asayel Street. Dubai Ride 2025 is part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, which runs from November 1 to November 30, offering a diverse range of free fitness activities for all ages and skill levels. Participants can choose between a family-friendly 4-km route through Downtown Dubai or a more challenging 12-km course featuring iconic landmarks like the Museum of the Future and Burj Khalifa. Advanced cyclists can also take part in the Dubai Ride Speed Laps from 5 AM to 6 AM, requiring a minimum average speed of 30 kmph. To support the event, Careem Bike is offering free single-trip rentals from 3 AM to 8 AM, with pop-up stations located at the Museum of the Future and Lower Financial Centre Street. The initiative underscores Dubai’s commitment to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle among its residents and visitors.

  • ‘There’s a monkey running around’: Pet monkey loose inside US Halloween store

    ‘There’s a monkey running around’: Pet monkey loose inside US Halloween store

    A Halloween store in the United States became the unexpected stage for an unusual incident when a pet monkey, described as acrobatic by its owner, escaped and ran loose inside the premises. According to the owner, the primate was startled by a store display, prompting it to flee and create a scene that left shoppers both amused and bewildered. Police were called to the scene to assist in capturing the runaway monkey, which had been a source of both entertainment and concern for those present. The incident highlights the challenges of keeping exotic pets in urban environments and raises questions about the safety and appropriateness of such practices. While no injuries were reported, the event has sparked discussions about the regulations surrounding pet ownership and the potential risks associated with animals in public spaces.