According to reports , a total of 32 people have been charged, and 11 arrests have been made so far.

Police investigations indicate that the scale of the alleged scam is significant, affecting 4,782 international climbers between 2022 and 2025. Authorities said more than 300 cases of suspected fake rescues have been identified, with bills totalling nearly $20m charged to climbers and insurance providers.

According to police, these rescue companies secured nearly $20m in payouts from international insurers for evacuations that were unnecessary or, in some cases, entirely fabricated.

The Nepal Police’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) said the offences had caused harm to “Nepal’s national pride, prestige and dignity internationally”.

Investigators said guides used different methods to force helicopter evacuations. These included faking medical emergencies and adding large amounts of baking powder to food to cause gastric distress associated with altitude sickness. In other cases, climbers were given medications with excessive amounts of water to trigger similar symptoms.

The Ministry of Economy and Finance, through the National Coordination for the Fight Against Fraud (CNLF), handed over 3,255 counterfeit March 8 fabrics to the Ministry of Family and Solidarity on March 9, 2026, in Ouagadougou. The fabrics were seized during anti-fraud operations in Bobo-Dioulasso and are valued at over 3.5 million CFA francs. Instead of destroying the counterfeit goods, authorities decided to donate them to vulnerable and internally displaced women. Finance Minister Aboubakar Nacanabo, therefore, transferred the fabrics to Family and Solidarity Minister Lt.-Col. Passowendé Pélagie Kabré for distribution to those in need.

ALT President holds talks with UNHCR on refugee protection

The President of Burkina Faso’s Transitional Legislative Assembly, Ousmane Bougouma, met a UNHCR delegation in Ouagadougou on March 9, 2026, led by Assistant High Commissioner for Protection Ruven Menkdiwela and Regional Director for West and Central Africa Abdouraouf Gnon-Kondé. The talks focused on strengthening cooperation between UNHCR and Burkinabe authorities to improve protection for refugees, internally displaced persons, stateless people and host communities. Menkdiwela praised the role of parliament in adopting laws that protect vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, and thanked the Legislative Assembly for its commitment to supporting people in need.

Ghana National Day: Foreign Affairs officials attend

Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré and Deputy Minister Bêbgnasgan Stella Eldine Kabré joined the Ghanaian community in Ouagadougou on March 6 to celebrate Ghana’s 69th Independence Day. The event highlighted the long-standing ties between the two neighbouring countries, which share deep historical, cultural and economic links. Officials also welcomed the outcomes of the 13th Joint Cooperation Commission, where seven legal agreements were signed to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Burkina Faso PM meets Moroccan ambassador on cooperation

Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo met Moroccan Ambassador Youssef Slaoui in Ouagadougou on March 10, 2026, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation . Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership between Burkina Faso and Morocco, building on South-South cooperation. They also highlighted the 5th Joint Commission held in December 2025, which marked 60 years of diplomatic relations and led to the signing of 14 agreements in sectors including agriculture, vocational training, trade and security.

Economic governance records 79% implementation from 2021–2025

Burkina Faso’s Economy and Finance Minister Aboubakar Nacanabo chaired the 2026 review of the Economic Governance Sectoral Dialogue Framework in Ouagadougou on March 10. The meeting assessed progress under the 2021–2025 action plan, which recorded a 79% implementation rate despite security and economic challenges. Authorities also reported over 13 trillion CFA francs in domestic revenue mobilisation, surpassing forecasts, and highlighted the country’s removal from the FATF grey list as a key reform milestone.

Investigators allege the couple persuaded an unnamed foreign national to channel funds into a series of purported ventures, including stock market investments, property developments, energy projects and the purchase of a private jet. 

Authorities said the suspects cultivated credibility over time, promising returns of up to 11%, before the victim transferred more than one billion baht (approximately $31.8 million).

The Criminal Court approved warrants on charges of fraud and money laundering.

The CIB said the case formed part of a broader effort to dismantle transnational scam operations that have proliferated across mainland Southeast Asia in recent years. 

Smith was previously linked to alleged scam networks operating out of Cambodia, an epicentre of a fast-growing illicit industry that has drawn increasing regional and international scrutiny.

Last week, Thailand’s Anti-Money Laundering Office said it had moved to seize assets worth more than $410 million connected to Smith and other individuals under investigation in related fraud cases.

Thailand's Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, said the warrants were consistent with the government’s policy of pursuing financial crime “regardless of who they are.” 

In December, Anutin acknowledged he knew Smith but said they were not close.

The controversy surrounding former official Juan Cardama has escalated into a major political dispute in Uruguay. Cardama is accused of alleged irregularities and possible fraud linked to state management and public funds , though the legal process is still ongoing. While some lawmakers argue there are sufficient grounds to investigate potential misuse of resources, others warn against turning the process into political persecution. Commentators describe Parliament as a “war zone”, reflecting the intense institutional and partisan confrontation sparked by the case. The debate now centres not only on whether Cardama committed wrongdoing, but also on how the investigation should proceed and under what majority rules.

Senate researcher suggests majority backing for a Cardama investigation commission

A Senate pre-investigator recommended to legislators that a majority vote should be sufficient to create a commission to investigate the Cardama case, rather than a qualified majority. The suggestion reflects growing political pressure to examine alleged irregularities tied to state contracts and public funds. Lawmakers are now debating whether to establish the special commission, with supporters arguing it will enhance transparency and critics warning it may fuel political polarisation. The move signals rising institutional scrutiny of corruption allegations.

Government expands drought aid measures to 12 departments

Uruguay’s Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries (MGAP) announced it is extending emergency assistance measures for drought relief to 12 departments, as parts of the country face serious water deficits affecting crops, livestock and rural livelihoods. The package includes support for water access, feed assistance and flexible loan conditions for affected farmers. Officials stressed the need for coordinated regional responses and early planning to mitigate ongoing climate stress. Local governors welcomed the announcement but urged faster implementation in the hardest-hit areas.

Well-known Punta del Este businessman charged; daughter under investigation in US

A prominent Punta del Este entrepreneur has been formally charged in Uruguay in a high-profile case that has drawn significant media attention. Authorities also revealed that the businessman’s daughter, currently in the United States, is being investigated by US law enforcement for her alleged involvement in related activities. Details of the case remain under judicial seal, but sources say the charges relate to financial misconduct and possible cross-border elements. The development has raised questions about accountability and international cooperation in complex financial crime cases.

Emails and parties reveal link between Epstein and famous Italian businessman in Uruguay

Investigative reporting has uncovered emails and social events suggesting a connection between Jeffrey Epstein and a well-known Italian businessman who spent significant time in Uruguay. The correspondence and social records indicate that Epstein and the businessman attended overlapping events and had contact over the years, prompting renewed scrutiny of elite networks tied to Epstein’s global activities. Journalists say the links shed light on how powerful figures moved within common social circles, with implications for understanding Epstein’s reach beyond the United States.

Thai police believe the centre was established after recent joint operations tightened the net around known scam hubs closer to Thailand.

According to Pol. Lt. Gen. Jirabhob Bhuridej, deputy commissioner of Thailand’s Anti-Cyber Scam Centre (ACSC) and assistant national police chief, the site lies around 50 kilometres from Poipet, a border township opposite Thailand’s Sa Kaeo province.

Poipet has long been linked to illicit online operations targeting victims across the region and beyond.

The newly discovered centre is still partially under construction and comprises several two-storey buildings with clearly separated workspaces and living quarters.

Inside the compound, investigators believe there are workers of multiple nationalities, including Thais, Indians and Indonesians, many of whom may have been trafficked or coerced into scam work.

Supervisory roles, however, are thought to be dominated by Chinese nationals.

Between December 28 and January 3 alone, Thai police recorded 6,369 scam-related cases, according to figures released by the ACSC. Authorities warn that these numbers likely represent only a fraction of the true impact.

This latest case of scam centres comes against the backdrop of heightened tension between Thailand and Cambodia over border management and law enforcement cooperation.

Analysts say the row has complicated efforts to pursue suspects across jurisdictions. Thai officials argue that criminal groups are exploiting these frictions to evade arrest and rebuild their operations.

“The situation shows that scam operations are becoming more severe and complex, and no country should be a safe haven for them,” Jirabhob said.

Jakkaphong and JKN are accused of misleading him on the investment’s viability, according to the court.

JKN, which bought Miss Universe from IMG in 2022, has been in financial crisis since defaulting on bond payments last year. The company entered rehabilitation proceedings in 2024, declaring roughly 3 billion baht (US$93 million) in debt. It later sold half its stake in Miss Universe to Mexico ’s Legacy Holding Group.

Jakkaphong stepped down from all executive posts in June after the Securities and Exchange Commission accused her of falsifying 2023 financial records, though she remains the largest shareholder. 

Her location is currently unknown. She did not attend the Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok earlier this month.

As with its co-owner, Miss Universe itself was dogged by controversy this year, including accusations of mismanagement, two judges withdrawing over alleged rigging, and a police probe into illegal online gambling promotions tied to event marketing.

Miss Universe has said the legal case is unrelated to its operations.

On Monday, JKN denied rumours that Jakkaphong had liquidated assets and fled Thailand. The company has not commented on the arrest warrant, and attempts to reach her were unsuccessful.

Across the region, the most vulnerable roles were in administration, office support, sales, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics, according to a study conducted by SEEK, the parent company of Jobstreet and Jobsdb

These jobs typically attract a large number of applicants, making it easier for scammers to target potential victims.

Entry-level roles with immediate employment promises create a wide pool of potential victims, said Tom Rhind, SEEK’s head of trust and safety. 

Rhind noted that scammers can use these positions to craft convincing offers that appear legitimate.”

Fraudsters are exploiting popular communication channels like Viber, SMS, and social media , often impersonating recruiters or even platforms like SEEK and Jobstreet.

Experts also warn that scammers are increasingly using AI tools to generate fake job ads and recruiter profiles, making fraud harder to detect.

The findings underscore a growing risk for job seekers across Asia-Pacific, a fast-moving digital job market, where even experienced candidates may fall prey to sophisticated scams.

His portfolio included high-end hotels, ambitious property developments, and a collection of London estates reportedly worth over $130 million. To the public, Chen was a symbol of modern Asian entrepreneurship and a man who built billions through luxury and innovation.

But that narrative has collapsed.

In October 2025, the United States and the United Kingdom jointly launched one of the largest cybercrime crackdowns in history, accusing Chen and his associates of running a transnational criminal network that profited from human trafficking, online scams, and crypto fraud.

More than 146 individuals and companies were sanctioned, and assets worth billions, including real estate and digital currencies , were frozen. Investigators traced the flow of money from fake job ads, romance scams, and crypto schemes back to Chen’s network in Cambodia and beyond.

Authorities allege that behind the façade of luxury developments and high-finance operations lies a vast web of “scam compounds” across Southeast Asia. Trafficked workers from across the region were forced to run online fraud under threats of violence, generating billions of dollars in illicit profits.

The scandal has reignited discussion over the need for legislation that directly addresses AI-generated fraud. Malaysia’s main cyber law, the Communications and Multimedia Act, was enacted in 1998, long before generative AI existed.

Last year, Malaysia passed the Online Safety Act, which does cover deepfakes, but the law has not yet come into effect. Some legal experts argue that the blackmail attempt could be prosecuted under Section 292 of the Penal Code, which criminalises obscene materials.

For many experts, the blackmail highlights the urgency of more AI-specific legislation.

“The law is there, but the context of crimes committed using AI does not fit exactly into the definition of the crimes, especially if there are no tangible damages incurred from the abuse of AI,” Melissa Lim, an AI legal research fellow with Sinar Project, told The Straits Times . 

Malaysia’s digital minister, Gobind Singh Deo, has announced plans to table a dedicated AI bill by mid-2026. But that timeline has prompted concern as AI-enabled scams proliferate across Southeast Asia.

A report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime found that deepfake cases in the Asia-Pacific region surged by 530% between 2022 and 2023, second only to North America in total reported incidents.

In the first half of 2024 alone, AI-related crimes involving deepfakes ballooned by more than 600%, according to a United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime report.

Criminal hubs in countries like Thailand are also turning to AI to supercharge other scams. A Reuters report this month quoted a scammer who admitted using ChatGPT to impersonate Americans while defrauding US citizens.

The victims are not only the vulnerable but also the powerful. In December 2023, deepfake videos featuring Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong falsely depicted them endorsing cryptocurrency and investment products.

With its young population and reliance on labour exports, Southeast Asia is becoming a magnet for transnational organised crime groups that are evolving into “ criminal service providers .”

As Malaysia races to identify those behind the deepfake blackmail, it is also weighing tougher legislation to provide long-term protection against AI-driven threats.

The Council of Ministers approved 15 draft resolutions advancing Timor-Leste’s accession to key ASEAN agreements, including those on dispute settlement, privileges and immunities, customs cooperation, counter-terrorism, human trafficking prevention, and mutual legal assistance in criminal matters. The decisions mark a major step in fulfilling the country’s ASEAN membership roadmap and securing full participation in regional mechanisms. The Council also approved a joint operational plan between the Defence Forces (F-FDTL) and National Police (PNTL) to maintain public order during major events, including ASEAN accession ceremonies and upcoming state visits. 

UN warns scam centres spreading to Timor-Leste

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has warned that scam call centres are spreading to Timor-Leste, citing a suspected operation linked to the Oecusse free trade zone. Police raided a compound in August in the Special Administrative Region, detaining more than 30 foreigners from Indonesia, Malaysia and China for working without permission. The UNODC report said it was unclear whether the detainees were trafficked. Scam centres, often walled compounds running online fraud schemes that cost victims billions annually, have proliferated across Southeast Asia and are now emerging globally.

Indonesia helps Timor-Leste draft first aviation carbon reduction plan

Indonesia’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation has helped Timor-Leste draft its first State Action Plan (SAP) to cut carbon emissions from international aviation. The mentoring, held in Dili from September 2 to 4 under ICAO’s SAP Buddy Program, included workshops on environmental frameworks, CORSIA implementation, and ICAO software tools. Officials said the collaboration produced an initial draft SAP, a target for submission before the 42nd ICAO Assembly, and plans for on-the-job training in Bali. Indonesia’s Civil Aviation Director General Lukman F. Laisa said the effort reflects Jakarta’s commitment to sustainable aviation and its role in supporting Timor-Leste’s compliance with global environmental standards.

Malaysia, Timor-Leste to deepen cooperation under new strategic framework

Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening ties with Malaysia by advancing a comprehensive strategic framework. Discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur focused on expanding cooperation in defence, health, and education.  At Malaysia’s recent national day celebrations in Dili, Ramos-Horta praised Malaysia’s role in supporting Timor-Leste’s pending ASEAN membership, expected to be formalised at the Kuala Lumpur Summit. He also identified opportunities for energy collaboration, including with PETRONAS, in projects such as Tasi Mane and the Greater Sunrise Gas Field. A new direct flight route between Kuala Lumpur and Dili was described as a historic milestone, enhancing connectivity.

ASEAN chief, Timor-Leste interior minister discuss crime cooperation, membership bid

ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn met Timor-Leste’s Interior Minister Francisco da Costa Guterres on the sidelines of the 19th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) in Melaka, Malaysia. The two discussed Timor-Leste’s role in contributing to regional efforts against transnational crime and supporting the work of AMMTC and its related mechanisms. Dr Kao reaffirmed the ASEAN Secretariat’s commitment to assist Timor-Leste in its accession process as ASEAN’s 11th member state. 

The criminals siphoned over Sh810.68 million ($6.1m) through mobile banking alone, deploying tactics like SIM swaps, phishing, malware, and identity cloning. The figure represents a 344 percent jump from the previous year, accounting for more than half of all money stolen.

The CBK noted that many of the scams happened late at night, often on weekends, when unsuspecting revellers were tricked into revealing passwords. Millennials, those born between 1981 and 1996, were identified as the most vulnerable group.

Overall fraud cases more than doubled, rising from 173 in 2023 to 353 in 2024. Losses from card fraud, computer hacks, online banking scams, and identity theft all surged, pushing total exposed funds , the amount criminals targeted before banks clawed some back, to nearly Sh2 billion ($15m).

The Bank further noted that card fraud cost customers Sh263.3 million, up nearly 17 times from the previous year, while computer hacking drained Sh203.4 million, almost triple the 2023 figure. Identity theft grew sixfold to Sh199 million.

While banks recovered about Sh368 million, insurers now warn of spiralling risks. Some banks are paying as much as Sh400 million annually in premiums to cover cyber thefts.

“The motivation of cyber criminals targeting financial institutions is financial gain. Cyber fraud was prevalent in the banking sector in 2024, with reported cases rising from 157 in 2023 to 353 in 2024, and the mount exposed increasing from Sh680.9 million to Sh1.9 billion,” the bank noted, adding, “Perhaps the most significant and emerging operational risk facing the financial sector is associated with the rapid adoption of financial technologies,” the CBK warned.

The Communications Authority of Kenya reported that cyberattacks in the country more than doubled to 7.96 billion attempts in the year to June 2025, with system attacks accounting for 97 percent of the threats.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), between October 2019 and February 2022, Ezeonyido filed fraudulent claims with five different insurance companies, falsely asserting that he and at least seven others had received emergency medical treatment abroad for serious injuries, including gunshot wounds, stabbings, and car accidents.

However, investigators found that in nearly all cases, the individuals were in the United States at the time of the supposed overseas treatments. The DOJ described the claims as "fabricated, high-cost medical scenarios" that enabled the conspirators to obtain significant reimbursements from insurers.

“Ezeonyido was arrested and charged in July 2024, along with co-conspirators Brendon Ashe, Aqiyla Atherton, Darline Cobbler, and Ariel Lambert,” the DOJ said. While Ezeonyido was later indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024, his four co-defendants pleaded guilty and received probation for their roles in the scheme.

The fraudulent operation involved the use of fake medical documents, claims of out-of-pocket payments abroad, and carefully coordinated kickbacks. Several participants paid portions of their insurance payouts back to Ezeonyido and other intermediaries, including Atherton, who was accused of recruiting others into the scheme.

“Healthcare fraud affects every American through increased premiums and reduced trust in the system,” said U.S. Attorney Foley.

He warned that the DOJ remains committed to aggressively prosecuting such crimes.

The plan was announced during a nine-month performance review held by the ministry.

Officials say the existing system has several problems, including gaps in how license plates are produced, distributed, and monitored.

It has also been criticised for enabling corruption and making it easier for criminals to avoid detection.

The current plate system reflects Ethiopia’s regional divisions, with each state having its own design.

This often reveals a driver’s ethnic identity, something critics say has created security concerns on the road.

The Ministry says the upcoming system will use the letters "ETH" alongside Geez script, one of Ethiopia’s ancient writing systems.

It will also follow international standards and include security features to prevent tampering and allow for easier inspection.

“The new system is designed to reduce the waste of government resources,” officials said, adding that raw materials used for license plates are costly to import.

The change is expected to help the government better manage these materials.

Different types of vehicles will receive different plates. For example, electric cars will have a separate design from those running on fuel, and the plates will also reflect a vehicle’s ownership and purpose.

It’s not yet clear when the new system will come into effect. But the government says the shift is part of a broader effort to modernise the transport sector.

Earlier this year, Ethiopia banned the import of fuel-powered cars in favour of electric vehicles.

The once-peaceful nation averaged a killing every hour at the start of the year, as cartels vied for control over cocaine routes that pass through Ecuador's ports. In the volcano-ringed capital Quito, Noboa's supporters celebrated his victory late into the night with fireworks and amped-up conveys of cars blaring infectious tecnocumbia.

US President Donald Trump was among the first to congratulate the 37-year-old president on his reelection, calling him a "great leader" and telling Ecuadorans "he will not let you down!"

Speaking to jubilant supporters in his hometown Olon, Noboa claimed a "historic victory." "A huge hug to all those Ecuadorians who always believed in this young president!" he said. "Ecuadorians have spoken. From tomorrow morning we will go to work." But the results were clouded by Gonzalez's refusal to concede defeat.

Seemingly shocked by her weak showing and perhaps the end of her dream of becoming Ecuador's first woman president, she immediately questioned the results. The pair had been virtually tied in the first round of voting . Gonzalez accused Noboa of "the most grotesque electoral fraud" and called for a recount of the ballots. She did not immediately provide evidence for her claims.

With almost 98 percent of the votes counted after Sunday's election, Noboa won 56 percent of the vote, against Luisa Gonzalez's weaker-than-expected 44 percent. The result appeared to be a thumping endorsement of Noboa's "iron fist" approach to drug gangs and a stinging rejection of Gonzalez's links with an exiled, populist firebrand ex-president accused of corruption .

The once-peaceful nation averaged a killing every hour at the start of the year as cartels vied for control over cocaine routes that pass through Ecuador's ports. In the volcano-ringed capital Quito, Noboa's supporters celebrated his victory late into the night with fireworks and amped-up convoys of cars blaring infectious tecnocumbia.

US President Donald Trump was among the first to congratulate the 37-year-old president on his reelection, calling him a "great leader" and telling Ecuadorians," he will not let you down!" 

The Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project ( OCCRP) annually recognises individuals or entities that have significantly advanced organised crime and corruption globally through its "Person of the Year" award.

Established in 2012, this satirical accolade aims to highlight and promote accountability by shining a light on those judged to have done the most to bolster corruption and the political collusion that often accompanies it. ​

2012: Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan

Ilham Aliyev was selected for his family's extensive involvement in various lucrative industries, including telecommunications, minerals, and construction, often through government-related deals. ​

2013: The Romanian Parliament

The Romanian Parliament was awarded for its collective efforts in undermining anti-corruption legislation, facilitating an environment conducive to organised crime and corruption.​

2014: Vladimir Putin, President of Russia

Vladimir Putin was recognised for his role in fostering a culture of corruption within Russia, with allegations of state resources being used to enrich a select few, thereby strengthening organised crime networks.​

2015: Milo Đukanović, Prime Minister of Montenegro

Milo Đukanović was 'honoured' due to revelations about his family's control over lucrative industries and alleged connections to organised crime, which have significantly impacted Montenegro's political and economic landscape. ​

2016: Nicolás Maduro, President of Venezuela

Nicolás Maduro was selected for presiding over a regime characterised by widespread corruption, economic mismanagement, and the erosion of democratic institutions, leading to a humanitarian crisis in Venezuela.​

2017: Rodrigo Duterte, President of the Philippines

Rodrigo Duterte was recognised for his controversial "war on drugs," which, while targeting criminal elements, also resulted in significant human rights abuses and allegations of corruption within law enforcement agencies.​

2018: Danske Bank

Danske Bank received the award due to its involvement in a massive money-laundering scandal, where billions of euros from dubious sources flowed through its Estonian branch, highlighting significant lapses in financial oversight.​

2019: Joseph Muscat, Prime Minister of Malta

Joseph Muscat was crowned following investigations that linked his administration to high-level corruption and the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, who was probing these illicit activities. ​

2020: Jair Bolsonaro, President of Brazil

Jair Bolsonaro was selected for policies that allegedly undermined environmental protections, facilitated corruption, and eroded democratic norms, contributing to increased organised criminal activities in Brazil.​

2021: Aleksandr Lukashenko, President of Belarus

Aleksandr Lukashenko was recognized for his authoritarian regime's crackdown on opposition, electoral fraud, and fostering a culture of corruption that permeated various sectors of Belarusian society.​

2022: Yevgeny Prigozhin, Russian Oligarch and Leader of the Wagner Group

The late Yevgeny Prigozhin was honoured due to his leadership of the Wagner Group, a private military company implicated in various conflicts and associated with human rights abuses and the exploitation of resources in war-torn regions.​

2023: María Consuelo Porras, Attorney General of Guatemala

María Consuelo Porras was selected for actions perceived as obstructing anti-corruption investigations and targeting prosecutors and judges involved in such cases, thereby weakening Guatemala's judicial integrity.​

2024: Bashar al-Assad, President of Syria

Bashar al-Assad was recognized for his regime's involvement in the production and distribution of the highly addictive street drug Captagon, earning billions to maintain his authoritarian rule, and for widespread human rights abuses, including torture, murder, and the use of chemical weapons. ​

Additionally, in 2024, the OCCRP introduced a "Lifetime Non-Achievement Award," bestowed upon Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the long-serving President of Equatorial Guinea, acknowledging his decades-long involvement in corruption and human rights abuses. ​

Lan, aged 68, was found guilty of orchestrating a $12.5 billion fraud scheme through fraudulent loan activities over ten years, severely impacting Vietnam’s banking system and shaking investor confidence.

In September, Truong My Lan’s appeal against her death sentence was dismissed by the Ho Chi Minh City court. The court clarified its position by stating that reimbursing the substantial embezzled amount would warrant reconsidering her sentence.

Despite claims by her legal team that she had partially repaid some funds and expressed remorse, the judiciary maintained that her efforts fell short in light of the significant damage caused to public trust.

Lan’s case embodies the overarching ‘Blazing Furnace’ anti-corruption initiative aimed at addressing rampant financial misconduct among influential societal figures. This campaign has seen numerous powerful individuals facing scrutiny and sanctions for illicit activities.

The ongoing nature of her legal battles also highlights the extended appeals process available under Vietnamese law, wherein death sentences are not executed immediately, thereby allowing for possible clemency petitions.

The economic consequences of the fraud scandal extend beyond Lan’s case, revealing systemic vulnerabilities within Vietnam's financial institutions that could deter foreign investment.

Experts have suggested that the handling of such cases is critical for restoring confidence in governance and business practices within Vietnam, particularly in light of the death penalty provisions for severe financial crimes. The implications of such high-profile legal proceedings will also likely reinforce the government’s commitment to combatting corruption on multiple fronts.

During a parliamentary session on Thursday, November 28, State Minister for Finance Henry Musasizi revealed that investigations are ongoing , led by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Auditor General.

"It is true our accounts were hacked into, but not to the extent of what is being reported. An audit and investigation are in their final stages," remarked Mr Musasizi. "To avoid misrepresentation of facts, I wish to indulge the House that we be patient that when the audit is finalised, which is now at the tail-end, I come and report."

According to the state-run New Vision newspaper, a hacking group identified as "Waste" has been linked to this cybercrime, which reportedly originated in Southeast Asia. Allegations suggest that portions of the illicitly acquired funds may have been wired to Japan.

The Bank of Uganda released a statement indicating it was "awaiting a police report" concerning the hacking incident, neither confirming nor denying the breach, while also noting that more than half of the funds have been recovered.

Despite the recovery efforts, sources cited by Uganda’s leading independent newspaper, Daily Monitor, imply that internal collusion within the central bank may have facilitated the cyber attack. In light of these developments, President Yoweri Museveni has mandated a comprehensive inquiry into the incident.

Uganda has faced numerous cyber thefts targeting banks and financial service providers, including telecom companies. Despite this, police officials report that some banks are reluctant to publicly disclose these incidents, fearing it might drive away customers.

Three American citizens imprisoned in China for years have been released and are returning to the U.S., according to the White House. Their plane landed late November 27 at a military base in San Antonio, Texas, according to AP News .

Gambling and fraud

China repatriated 240 Chinese suspects arrested for gambling and fraud from Cambodia as part of an intensified campaign against organised crime in Southeast Asia. This marks the second batch of repatriations in recent months, following the return of over 680 suspects in April. VOA News reports that China collaborates with countries like Cambodia and Myanmar to combat cross-border online fraud and gambling, which has led to over 53,000 arrests since last year. Recent agreements between China and Cambodia aim to enhance law enforcement cooperation against these crimes. China's ongoing "Operation Fox Hunt" targets corruption and economic crimes globally, recovering billions in assets.

Telecom cables

Sweden has requested China's cooperation in investigating the severing of two Baltic Sea telecom cables, linked to the Chinese ship Yi Peng 3, which was in the area when the incidents occurred on November 17 and 18. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson emphasised the need for clarity and confirmed that the request for cooperation was sent to China, which denied responsibility. The damaged cables include the Arelion cable between Gotland and Lithuania, and the C-Lion 1 connecting Helsinki and Germany. According to Barrons , investigations by Swedish and Finnish police are ongoing, amid suspicions of sabotage potentially linked to geopolitical tensions with Russia.

Anti-corruption measures

China has dismissed top military official Miao Hua amid an investigation into serious disciplinary violations, as part of an ongoing anti-corruption crackdown in the armed forces, Daily Journal reports. The ruling Communist Party has suspended him pending the inquiry, according to defense ministry spokesman Wu Qian.

Chinese territorial claims

Satellite images reveal nearly 100 Chinese vessels occupying waters near Thitu Island (Pag-Asa) in the contested South China Sea, an area of heightened territorial tensions between China and the Philippines. The images, shared by Ray Powell of Stanford University, show 73-83 Chinese ships within 2.5-5.5 nautical miles of the island, with the potential for more untracked vessels in the area. China's maritime militia, often seen as a means to assert territorial claims, has previously faced accusations of blockading Philippine-held features. The situation has aggravated diplomatic relations, with increased Chinese aggression noted in recent encounters, News Week reports. China's claims over the South China Sea conflict with those of multiple Southeast Asian nations and were invalidated by a 2016 international ruling. Recent legislative moves by the Philippines to clarify its maritime claims have drawn condemnation from Beijing.

More than 17 million voters participated in the October 9 elections to select a new president and parliament members in one of the world ’s poorest nations, despite its significant gas reserves.

Although official results are expected in two weeks, Mondlane, a prominent candidate aiming to succeed outgoing President Filipe Nyusi, announced his triumph on Facebook.

With only a small fraction of the votes counted, an independent observatory linked to Frelimo indicated that the party was currently leading the race.

While no major incidents were reported on election day, observers noted several irregularities, including voters with multiple ballots and restrictions on opposition monitors at polling stations.

"It's now that the fraud is going to start, with the progressive posting of results," said one analyst quoted by AFP who preferred to remain anonymous. "If Venancio shows a solid lead, the situation will become tense very quickly," he added.

Despite the numerous allegations against Diddy, his defence team stands by its previous comments that the rapper is bouncing back stronger.

"He's doing fine (Sean "Diddy" Combs). You know, Dr King called it the law of unintended consequences. So sometimes the more you push a person down, the stronger they get and so he's making an adjustment. He had his family here today to support him. We really want to put an end to all of the clowning that we see on the Internet. This is a serious proceeding with serious consequences, and all of us are addressing it accordingly," Diddy's lawyer Anthony Ricco told the press on Thursday.

The charges against Combs stem from an extensive investigation into allegations of sex trafficking and racketeering. Federal prosecutors have accused the music mogul of orchestrating a network that exploited individuals for commercial sex acts.

R&B singer Cassie Ventura filed a lawsuit against Sean "Diddy" Combs in 2023, accusing him of repeated physical abuse, sexual exploitation, and rape throughout their decade-long professional and personal relationship.

In November 2023, the two reached an undisclosed settlement, while Combs firmly denied the accusations.

Cassie's lawsuit opened a plethora of legal actions against the 54-year-old rapper by more than 100 people including singer Dawn Richard.

Mexico's President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador stated that Mexico will recognise the Venezuelan election result given by the electoral authority. The Peninsular reports that the Venezuelan President Maduro declared victory, but opposition claims of fraud have arisen. Mexico is waiting for the final vote count and detailed reports from Venezuela's National Electoral Council before making a final decision. The CNE stated that Maduro won re-election with 51.2 percent of the votes.

Rain forecasts

Mexico is experiencing increased rainfall due to a combination of seasonal monsoons, tropical waves, and cyclonic activity. Heavy rain is forecasted for various states, along with strong winds. The country has already surpassed its average rainfall for the year, with reduced drought conditions in many areas. Some states have benefitted more from the rainfall than others. High temperatures are also expected in certain regions, according to Mexico News Daily .

Boxing in Mexico

Female boxers in Mexico, inspired by Olympic contenders like Citlalli Ortiz and Fatima Herrara, are empowering themselves through the sport in a society still grappling with machismo. Traditional gender roles have confined women in the past, but with women like Ortiz making noise in the boxing scene, the mentality is changing. Young girls are looking up to these fighters as role models and are eager to follow in their footsteps. With the legacy of boxing running deep in Mexico, the country is becoming a powerhouse in the sport, particularly in women's boxing, Supersport reports.

Murder

A 12-year-old boy was killed on a Cancun beach by gunmen on jet skis, who were reportedly targeting a rival drug dealer. The incident is under investigation by Mexican officials, who believe the attackers arrived by sea and were involved in a dispute over drug sales. According to the ABC , the boy, who has not been publicly identified, was not believed to have been the intended target. He and his family were at the beach at the time of the shooting.

Temporary residency

Guatemala has granted temporary residency to 207 Mexican refugees, mostly children, who fled drug violence. They have 30 days of legal status and can request asylum if they choose. The refugees crossed the border into Guatemala to escape cartel violence in their communities. Organizations are providing support and donations to the families. The Mexican government has been urged to protect the communities from cartels. AP News reports that two powerful cartels have been battling for control of smuggling routes in the area, leading to multiple displacements.

Ghana's debt restructuring is progressing as bilateral creditors sent a draft memorandum of understanding for their $5.4 billion part of the deal. The process has been marked by credit downgrades, interest rate hikes, and loans from international institutions, citinewsroom reports. In January 2023, Ghana requested debt restructuring under the G20's Common Framework process.

Suspected kidnap case

Ghanaian woman, Afiba Abigail Tandoh, is missing in Nigeria's Abia State, along with a Nigerian friend. According to GhanaWeb , they were last seen in Aba and there are suspicions of kidnapping. Reports indicate that they were in Nigeria for a wedding that was cancelled and had gone for business-related activities. An arrest has been made in connection with their disappearance. Their families and authorities are urgently trying to locate them.

NHIA collaborates to promote health initiatives

NHIA is engaging with health service providers to implement preventive and promotive health initiatives. The goal is to address key health issues and improve the efficiency of the National Health Insurance Scheme. Stakeholders discussed resource allocation and community outreach activities to operationalize the initiative. The NHIA and its partners are urging the public to actively participate in the upcoming programmes, according to the Ghana News Agency . The initiative is supported by the Ghana Health Service, Christian Health Association of Ghana, and the Private Health Facilities Association of Ghana. Dr Anarfi Asamoa-Baah, former Deputy Director-General of the World Health Organisation, chairs the committee facilitating implementation.

Fraud

Two Ghanaian-American citizens, Kelvin Nkwantabisa and Justice Amoh, have been arrested in the United States for their involvement in a $7 million global fraud scheme, which took place over three years. The scheme involved wire fraud and money laundering, with the suspects posing as legitimate business partners to trick victims into wiring money into their bank accounts. The suspects and their co-conspirators now face federal charges and could potentially face decades in prison, GhanaWeb reports.

Black Starlets coach resigns

The Ghana Football Association has accepted Laryea Kingston's resignation as Black Starlets coach but has made allegations of inappropriate behaviour. Kingston announced his resignation following a defeat to Burkina Faso and cited a focus on his coaching career. During his tenure, the team scored 54 goals and conceded 15, GhanaWeb reports.

The trial is scheduled to commence on April 4, 2024, at the Federal High Court (FHC) in Abuja, under the jurisdiction of Justice Emeka Nwite, local media reports.

However, Anjarwalla, a British Kenyan who is Binance's regional manager for Africa, managed to escape lawful police custody on March 22 and is now set to be tried in absentia.

Initially detained after their first court appearance on March 20, Gambaryan and Anjarwalla were expected to remain in custody for two weeks.

Among the charges levelled against Binance is the allegation that the company conducted specialised businesses without a valid license during its operations in Nigeria from January 2023 to January 2024.

The world of crypto trading seems to be in turmoil as its biggest pioneers have found themselves embroiled in legal battles.

Recent events include the arrest of HyperVerse crypto promoter Rodney Burton by U.S. security services, accused of being a part of a network that initiated  'fraudulent' presentations to unsuspecting individuals promising high returns to investors and purportedly backed by non-existent crypto-mining operations.

There is also the case of Sam Bankman-Fried who is serving a 25-year jail term for defrauding customers and investors of his cryptocurrency exchange FTX.

Under U.S. federal sentencing guidelines, Bankman-Fried was looking at a potential sentence of up to 110 years. However, the prosecution urged presiding Judge Lewis Kaplan to impose a prison term of 40 to 50 years on Bankman-Fried for what they labelled as a "historic fraud".

China's central political and legal work conference revealed a 28.6% decrease in telecommunications fraud cases since August 2023. The country's political and legal bodies have focused on disrupting illegal telecom scam activities, arresting 78 fraud group members and freezing 3.5 billion yuan ($488.3 million) in funds, Chinese news agency Global Times reports. They have also dismantled 133 criminal organizations and 1,858 organised criminal groups. China plans to deepen special operations targeting telecommunications fraud. The country will also strengthen prison management, implement the Law on the Prevention of Juvenile Delinquency, and utilise modern technology for administrative management and legal services, according to the Global Times.

Taiwan reunification after election results

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has stated that the recent leadership election in the Taiwan region will not alter the fact that Taiwan is part of China. The Chinese minister made this remark in a press conference on January 14 during his visit to Egypt. According to Wang, Taiwan will one day reunite with China and both countries would experience total reunification. "We believe that the international community, in accordance with the one-China principle, will continue to support the just cause of the Chinese people in striving for national reunification and opposing the separatist activities of seeking Taiwan's independence," he is quoted by Chinese state agency Xinhua .

Tibet opens first ski resort

The first ski resort in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region has opened. The ski resort began trial operation in August 2023 and is expected to attract 350 single-day skiers and 3,000 daily visitors. The ski resort employs around 70 people, with 90% being local residents, and they earn a monthly salary of around 4,000 yuan (about $563), Xinhua reports.

Ecological monitoring centres

China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment and the Chinese Academy of Sciences have issued a work plan for national ecological quality supervision and monitoring for the 2023-2025 period. The plan includes setting up a national ecological monitoring network and designating 55 sites as the first batch of stations for monitoring ecological quality, local media People’s Daily Online reports. The stations cover major ecosystem types such as forests, wetlands, grasslands, deserts, oceans, cities, and farmlands, covering 44 key ecological conservation and regulatory areas in China, according to People’s Daily Online.

Airforce aerobatic performance in Laos

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force's Red Falcon Aerobatic Team will for the first time perform outside China during its visit to Laos from January 13th to 20th. The team will participate in activities celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Lao People's Army, the PLA reports. Chinese Defense Spokesperson said "This is the first time for the PLA Red Falcon Aerobatic Team to perform outside China. It will convey the profound friendship of the Chinese people and military to their Lao counterparts and send festival wishes through its stunt performances."

It also seeks to reduce the human interface in the passport application process.

“The system will ensure thorough scrutiny of passport applications across all Local Government Areas, contributing to strengthening our national security,” Tunji-Ojo was quoted by News Agency of Nigeria .

 The initiative has since been commended by the National Civil Society Council (NCSCN) who say that it represents a significant advancement in the country’s security and migration frameworks and will assist with speedy detection of fraudulent passports.

“This is aimed at reducing crime and illegal migrations while reinforcing the overall efficiency and reliability of the passport issuance system,” parts of a statement jointly signed by NCSCN’s Executive Director Ambassador Blessing Akinlosotu and Executive Secretary Dr. Raymond Edoh said.

They further lauded the Interior Minister for spearheading the swift clearance of a backlog of 204,000 passport applications within two weeks, while easing the passport acquisition process.

These Nigerian citizens are rejected by the supposed employment companies after they arrive in the U.K., having obtained visas with fake employment letters from the organization.

According to the IOM, over 260,000 Nigerians approached it in 2023 alone seeking migration options through approved routes and Pre-Departure Medical Health Assessments.

Nigerian media outlet Vanguard reported that the IOM’s Chief of Mission, Laurent De Boeck indicated during a news conference in Abuja on December 18 that some victims lost thousands of dollars in an attempt to secure foreign employment.

Some of these persons are currently stranded either because of inadequate funds to return or the embarrassment they feel.

“There are some of them who lost over $10,000 only to be given fake employment letters which allowed them to get visas. They get there, present the letters and the organisations would tell them that the letters did not emanate from the organisations. Over a thousand people are affected,” De Boeck was quoted by Vanguard .

The IOM has hinted at collaborative plans with partners to repatriate thousands of immigrants of different nationalities including Nigerians and Tunisians.

Meanwhile, there are concerns about displacements in many states of North West in Nigeria with Zamfara and Kano being the most impacted.

Steinborn, a registered sex offender with a conviction for indecent exposure in Kissimmee, Florida, in 1994, falls under the category of undesirable aliens due to a law prohibiting the entry of individuals convicted of crimes involving moral turpitude.

Awasthi, subject to an Interpol blue notice, is under investigation for alleged involvement in fraudulent transactions that cheated the Indian government. Authorities suspect his role in importing products at inflated prices, claiming government subsidies, and profiting from illegal commissions.

Both individuals were promptly booked on the next available flights to their respective points of origin in compliance with their exclusion orders.

The local authorities in the Yangon Region of Myanmar have issued local orders to prohibit the sale of drones and accessories, citing attacks by People’s Defence Forces (PDF) groups in schools, office buildings, and public places, local media Eleven Myanma r reported. "That announcement is true. It was released on November 18. If you want to shoot at bridge construction sites and donations, you must apply for permission from the relevant authorities. If you don't comply with it, we will take action under Section 188," local authorities said.

Airport attack

Myanmar’s Kalay Airport in the Sagaing Region was attacked by a drop bomb and drone attacks followed. ''On the Sagaing side, there was a drone attack on the runway of the Kalay Airport, followed by an attack,'' a spokesperson for the State Administration Council (SAC) said on November 21. According to Eleven Myanmar , armed groups took two vessels belonging to the Myanmar Inland Water Transport and orchestrated attacks that targeted public areas rather than military areas.

Telecom fraud

Myanmar has handed over 31,000 telecom fraud suspects to China since a crackdown on online scams in September, the Chinese Ministry of Public Security announced on November 21. The suspects include 63 alleged masterminds and 1,531 fugitives, Chinese media Xinhua reported. According to Xinhua, authorities in Muse, northern Myanmar on November 18 transferred over 571 telecom fraud suspects to Chinese authorities.

Repatriated Thais

Thai nationals trapped in northern Myanmar have returned to Thailand, amid a surge in fighting between junta troops and armed ethnic-minority groups near the Chinese border. Tens of thousands have been displaced across Myanmar as the military government battles a coordinated offensive by three ethnic-minority groups and pro-democracy fighters, Reuters reported. According to Thai authorities, some of the people who were stranded in Myanmar were "victims of human trafficking" while others may have had ties to gangs who commit telecom fraud.

Doctors Without Borders

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) in Myanmar has called for the safety of patients and healthcare workers in conflict areas of Myanmar, following drone attacks at Pang Hseng Hospital on 18 November, the MSF reported. The MSF in a statement said “Yesterday, our team in Shan received reports that Pang Hseng Hospital, a facility that MSF has supported in the past, was hit by a drone strike. Thankfully no injuries were reported, but this is only because the hospital recently stopped functioning when hostilities escalated at the end of October.”