分类: society

  • Underage assault in Inner Mongolia: four detained, one gets correctional education

    Underage assault in Inner Mongolia: four detained, one gets correctional education

    Local authorities in Wuyuan County, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, have imposed disciplinary measures against five female students involved in the physical assault of a 13-year-old peer. The incident, which occurred on January 11, 2026, prompted official intervention after video evidence circulated widely across social media platforms.

    According to police reports, the altercation began with a personal conflict between the victim, identified only by her surname Liu, and a 14-year-old instigator surnamed Fu. The situation escalated when Fu invited four other girls to accompany them to a secluded area within a building complex. There, the group subjected Liu to sustained verbal harassment, physical violence, and threats while bystanders recorded the incident.

    Medical examinations confirmed that Liu sustained cutaneous injuries and soft tissue contusions requiring medical attention. The regional public security bureau subsequently initiated formal proceedings under China’s public security administration protocols.

    Four of the perpetrators, all aged 14, have received administrative detention and financial penalties. The fifth individual, aged 13, is undergoing mandatory corrective education programming designed to address juvenile behavioral issues. Officials emphasized that all measures were implemented in strict accordance with China’s legal framework governing minor offenses.

  • China experiences brief warm spell before cold snap returns

    China experiences brief warm spell before cold snap returns

    Meteorological authorities report that much of China is currently experiencing an unusual mid-January warm spell, with temperatures soaring significantly above seasonal averages across vast regions from the northwest to southern territories. The most pronounced warmth has been observed spanning from the Huanghuai area through the Yangtze River basin, where such mild conditions are historically uncommon for this period.

    Urban centers including Hefei in Anhui province and Nanjing in Jiangsu are anticipating daytime highs approaching 20°C, while Hangzhou in Zhejiang and Changsha in Hunan may see thermometers reaching approximately 22°C. The China Meteorological Administration indicates this dry, sunny pattern will persist nationwide for the next 72 hours, with minimal precipitation expected across most regions.

    Despite the daytime warmth, forecasters emphasize that substantial temperature differentials are creating dramatic daily swings. “Many locations will experience variations exceeding 15°C between daytime highs and overnight lows, essentially creating two distinct seasons within a single day,” meteorological officials noted.

    Meanwhile, northern territories continue to brace against persistent cold conditions expected to intensify as new Arctic air masses advance. From Wednesday through Friday, northeastern China, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Gansu province, and sections of North China will encounter temperature declines of 4-8°C, with some areas plummeting more than 10°C. Light to moderate snow is forecast for portions of Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, and Northeast China.

    The most significant climatic shift is projected to commence this weekend as a powerful cold front sweeps southward, affecting virtually all regions nationwide. Northeastern areas may confront temperatures diving below -30°C, representing a substantial intensification of cold conditions. Current above-average temperatures across other parts of the country will reverse dramatically, falling below seasonal norms. Central and eastern regions should prepare for developing rain and snow events in the coming days.

  • ‘Grim scene’: BBC on site after crane collapses on train in Thailand

    ‘Grim scene’: BBC on site after crane collapses on train in Thailand

    A catastrophic construction accident has delivered a severe blow to Thailand’s national infrastructure modernization program, as a massive crane collapsed directly onto a passenger train near Bangkok’s central station. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and devastation at the accident site, with emergency services conducting rescue operations amid twisted metal and debris.

    The incident, characterized by BBC correspondent Jonathan Head as ‘grim’ and ‘devastating,’ raises serious questions about construction safety protocols and oversight mechanisms within Thailand’s rapidly expanding transportation network. Preliminary investigations suggest the crane, which was part of ongoing railway improvement projects, suffered a structural failure during operation, though official causes remain under determination by authorities.

    This tragedy represents more than an isolated industrial accident—it strikes at the heart of Thailand’s ambitious efforts to position itself as a regional transportation hub. The psychological impact on public confidence in infrastructure safety could potentially delay future development initiatives and trigger comprehensive safety reviews across all ongoing projects. Transportation officials have pledged full transparency in the investigation while expressing condolences to those affected by this unforeseen disaster.

  • Algerian student explores TCM wisdom in Hefei

    Algerian student explores TCM wisdom in Hefei

    In a remarkable cross-cultural educational journey, 22-year-old Algerian student Kerbouche Abdeldjalil is immersing himself in the ancient wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) at Anhui University of Chinese Medicine in Hefei. The sophomore pharmacy major, who began his studies in September 2024, represents a growing trend of international students seeking alternative medical knowledge from Eastern traditions.

    Abdeldjalil’s fascination with nature’s healing properties first emerged during his biotechnology studies in Algeria, where he developed a particular interest in phytotherapy. This curiosity about ancestral healing methods naturally evolved into a dedicated pursuit of TCM’s comprehensive medical system after he passed rigorous entrance examinations.

    The young scholar has embraced numerous immersive experiences since arriving in Hefei, including educational tours through the university’s specialized museums that showcase TCM’s rich historical tapestry. His academic curriculum has introduced him to foundational practices including acupuncture, cupping therapy, and moxibustion, alongside philosophical concepts like yin and yang that form the theoretical bedrock of Chinese traditional medicine.

    What most captivates Abdeldjalil about TCM is its holistic approach to healthcare—the fundamental philosophy that views the human body as an interconnected system requiring comprehensive treatment rather than isolated symptom management. This perspective aligns with his initial interest in plant-based therapies while offering a more structured theoretical framework and practical application.

    Abdeldjalil’s educational journey exemplifies the globalizing landscape of medical education, where ancient healing traditions transcend cultural boundaries and attract international students seeking diverse medical knowledge. His experience in Hefei demonstrates how traditional medical systems can bridge cultural divides while contributing to the global healthcare dialogue.

  • Death toll from Thailand’s high-speed rail accident rises to 22: meida reports

    Death toll from Thailand’s high-speed rail accident rises to 22: meida reports

    BANGKOK – A catastrophic high-speed rail incident in Thailand has resulted in a tragic loss of life, with official reports confirming 22 fatalities as of January 14, 2026. The devastating accident has sent shockwaves through the nation’s transportation sector and raised urgent questions about rail safety protocols.

    The collision occurred along a major transit route, though specific location details remain under investigation by Thai authorities. Emergency response teams worked tirelessly through the night in a complex rescue operation to extract survivors from the wreckage amidst challenging conditions.

    Medical facilities across the region have been placed on high alert, with trauma specialists mobilized to treat the injured. Hospitals near the accident site have reported receiving multiple casualties with varying degrees of injuries, though official numbers of wounded passengers have not yet been finalized.

    Transportation officials have launched an immediate investigation into the root causes of the derailment, examining factors ranging from potential technical failures to operational procedures. The incident represents one of the most severe rail accidents in Thailand’s recent history and has prompted the temporary suspension of services along the affected line.

    Prime Minister’s office released a statement expressing profound grief over the tragedy and extending condolences to the families of victims. The government has announced compensation packages for affected families and pledged a comprehensive review of the country’s high-speed rail safety standards.

    This tragedy occurs amid Thailand’s ongoing efforts to expand its high-speed rail network as part of broader regional transportation initiatives. The accident is likely to influence future safety regulations and infrastructure development plans across Southeast Asia’s rapidly growing rail transportation sector.

  • Russian doctors arrested after 9 babies die in maternity hospital

    Russian doctors arrested after 9 babies die in maternity hospital

    Russian law enforcement authorities have taken two senior medical professionals into custody amid a devastating neonatal tragedy at a maternity facility in Siberia. The Investigative Committee of Russia confirmed the arrests following the deaths of nine infants at Novokutznetsk Maternity Hospital No. 1 during the extended New Year holiday period.

    The investigation, led by the nation’s primary federal investigative authority, centers on allegations of professional negligence and failure to provide adequate medical care. Committee spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko disclosed that the fatalities occurred between January 1-12, with the initial death recorded on January 4.

    Those detained include the hospital’s chief physician and the head of the intensive care unit. Official statements indicate both medical professionals are cooperating fully with investigators as authorities determine appropriate charges and pre-trial detention measures.

    Evidence collection efforts have intensified, with investigators conducting multiple witness interviews, securing relevant documentation, and performing nine post-mortem examinations. The committee released surveillance footage showing one suspect being escorted by authorities and another signing official documents under supervision.

    Contradictory information has emerged regarding potential causes. While the official investigation has not released definitive conclusions, regional health authorities from the Kemerovo Region Ministry suggested through Interfax news agency that the infants might have suffered from severe intra-uterine infections.

    The hospital has temporarily suspended new admissions citing unusually high rates of respiratory infections within the facility. This tragic incident has generated significant public outrage across Russia, raising serious concerns about healthcare quality and medical oversight in regional facilities.

  • About 15,000 crabs recovered after lorry crash

    About 15,000 crabs recovered after lorry crash

    In a remarkable recovery effort, approximately 15,000 live crabs were successfully salvaged following a commercial truck accident that scattered the valuable cargo across a roadway. The crustaceans, with an estimated market value of €60,000 (approximately £52,000), were originally en route to supply various retail seafood markets and restaurants throughout Portugal when the incident occurred.

    Emergency responders and transportation officials coordinated a rapid containment operation to gather the displaced marine creatures, utilizing specialized equipment and techniques to preserve their viability. The logistical challenge required meticulous handling to ensure the specimens remained suitable for commercial distribution despite the unexpected delay.

    Authorities confirmed that the majority of the crustaceans survived the incident intact, preventing what could have been a significant economic loss for the distributors and retailers involved. The successful recovery operation demonstrates improved protocols for handling perishable goods during transportation emergencies, highlighting both environmental consciousness and economic practicality in contemporary food supply chain management.

    The incident has sparked conversations within the transportation industry regarding enhanced safety measures for shipping live commodities, with particular attention to container integrity and emergency response planning for specialized agricultural products.

  • UAE weather: Fair to partly cloudy skies; temperatures to dip to 10ºC

    UAE weather: Fair to partly cloudy skies; temperatures to dip to 10ºC

    Meteorological authorities in the United Arab Emirates have issued a weather forecast indicating predominantly fair to partially overcast conditions across the nation on Wednesday, January 14th. According to the National Center of Meteorology, residents should anticipate increased humidity levels during nighttime and early Thursday morning, particularly in western coastal and inland regions where mist formation remains probable.

    Wind patterns are expected to shift from light to moderate southeasterly to northwesterly directions, with velocities ranging between 10-25 km/h. These winds may occasionally intensify, reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h during peak periods.

    Temperature readings recorded on Tuesday revealed a maximum of 28°C in Al Qor, Dubai, at 2:15 PM. The meteorological outlook for Wednesday suggests temperature variations between 10°C and 28°C nationwide. Dubai anticipates temperatures spanning from 18°C to 26°C, while Abu Dhabi expects a slightly broader range of 15°C to 26°C. The emirate of Sharjah will experience moderately cooler conditions with temperatures fluctuating between 14°C and 24°C.

    Maritime conditions in the Arabian Gulf are forecasted to remain slight to moderate, while the Oman Sea will maintain generally calm waters throughout the period.

  • Every door tells a story: Dubai displays historic doors that shaped the city

    Every door tells a story: Dubai displays historic doors that shaped the city

    Dubai has launched an extraordinary cultural exhibition showcasing historic doors that serve as tangible narratives of the city’s evolution. ‘Dubai Doors’ at Nad Al Sheba Square presents meticulously preserved teak entryways from the 19th and 20th centuries, each revealing intricate craftsmanship through symmetrical panels, fan-shaped motifs, and diamond carvings. These architectural artifacts feature traditional security elements like domed iron nails and geometric five-pointed stars symbolizing protection, alongside spiritual elements including Arabic calligraphy with Quranic verses that demonstrate the sacred role of homes in historical Emirati society.

    The exhibition, running through January 26, 2026, highlights functional innovations such as ‘roshan’ ventilation openings that provided light and airflow while maintaining privacy. Central stiles display continuous floral chains that blend aesthetic elegance with structural integrity. According to Asem Al Qassim, Director of Architectural Heritage and Antiquities at Dubai Municipality, these doors represent living documents that reveal the social, architectural, and security functions of traditional homes while showcasing local artisans’ exceptional skills.

    Dubai’s urban preservation strategy involves comprehensive mapping of six historic districts, cataloging buildings by age, and codifying authentic architectural elements. This initiative aligns with global UNESCO standards while addressing challenges posed by rapid urbanization. The municipality is integrating traditional materials with modern components like aluminum and PVC without compromising authenticity, while researching historical cooling techniques such as wind towers (Barjeel) and ventilation courtyards for contemporary applications.

    Community engagement forms a crucial component of preservation efforts, with live workshops and Ramadan markets at Deira Souq designed to help youth connect with their cultural identity. These heritage conservation measures constitute a fundamental pillar of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, ensuring that historic areas like Deira and Bur Dubai remain as living memories rather than mere relics of the past.

  • Why UAE’s new civil law does not give automatic financial independence at 15

    Why UAE’s new civil law does not give automatic financial independence at 15

    The United Arab Emirates’ recently enacted Civil Transactions Law has introduced nuanced provisions regarding financial autonomy for minors, drawing significant attention from legal experts and families alike. While much public discourse has centered on the reduction of the age of majority to 18, the legislation contains a more intricate mechanism for younger individuals aged 15 and above.

    Contrary to some initial interpretations, the law does not establish automatic financial independence at age 15. Instead, it creates a carefully regulated judicial pathway through which minors may petition courts for limited authority to manage their assets. This represents a substantial shift from the previous threshold of 18 Hijri years, yet maintains robust protective safeguards.

    Legal specialists emphasize that this provision constitutes a controlled exception rather than a blanket entitlement. Byron James, Partner at Expatriate Law, clarifies that “this creates a supervised pathway for early financial responsibility where it can be demonstrated to serve the minor’s best interests” rather than establishing independence at 15.

    The judicial evaluation process will involve meticulous examination of multiple factors including the minor’s demonstrated maturity, comprehension of financial matters, and the specific nature and value of the assets in question. Courts are expected to adopt a case-by-case approach, granting tailored authorizations that may be limited in scope, duration, or subject matter.

    According to Ahmed Al Mazrouei, a UAE-based civil lawyer, courts will require compelling justification for approval. “Judges will seek genuine necessity—such as inherited assets requiring active management, business interests, or structured investments that cannot be practically handled through a guardian alone,” he explained. The central consideration will be whether granting management authority better serves the minor’s interests than existing arrangements.

    Parental roles undergo transformation rather than elimination under this framework. As James notes, “Parents or guardians are not displaced entirely, but their role becomes supervisory rather than controlling.” The judiciary retains ongoing oversight authority, enabling revocation or restriction of permissions if they cease to benefit the minor.

    Sara Al Hammadi, another legal expert, characterizes the reform as a response to practical circumstances rather than broad empowerment. “This mechanism accommodates specific situations where minors inherit assets, hold shares in family enterprises, or benefit from investment structures,” she stated. The system provides flexibility while maintaining protective measures, ensuring decisions align with long-term financial wellbeing rather than short-term considerations.

    The legislation incorporates multiple safeguards to prevent misuse, familial pressure, or premature financial decision-making, particularly concerning high-value or complex assets. Courts will likely impose conditions such as reporting requirements and transaction limitations, ensuring that the minor’s economic security remains protected throughout the process.