The probe would involve the Department of Justice, the National Bureau of Investigation and potentially the Senate Committee on Women.

Her move was prompted by recent reports based on newly released U.S. government documents suggesting that, as early as 2010, Epstein or his associates hired a Philippines-based team to scrub damaging information about him from the internet .

“This is very recent. It’s right here at our doorstep. I don’t know whether it was him personally or his associates, but this convicted pedophile — who was supposedly a financial wizard at the time and who died or was killed — had a network in the Philippines,” Legarda said.

She added that the alleged operation went beyond sexual exploitation networks and may have involved businesses and other sectors used as cover. 

“We must see because they even work with a public relations company to cleanse their image,” she said.

The planned Senate resolution comes as lawmakers debated Senate Bill No. 1819, which seeks to strengthen the Philippines’ laws against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children . 

Epstein’s past in the Philippines was first reported by Philstar.com , citing emails included in the so-called “Epstein Files,” which described how reputation management tactics were deployed to manipulate search engine results and online platforms. 

These efforts allegedly involved Filipino workers tasked with mass link-building, creating websites and editing online entries to bury references to Epstein’s criminal record.

According to the report, the operation relied on early search engine optimisation techniques to flood the internet with neutral or positive content, pushing reports of Epstein’s jail time and abuse allegations out of prominent search results. 

Legarda said investigators must determine whether Philippine laws were violated and whether local entities knowingly participated in concealing crimes involving child sexual abuse. 

Pope Leo XIV’s first international trip took him to Turkey, where he met President Erdoğan and held key religious and diplomatic meetings. The visit highlighted shared calls for peace amid global crises and underscored Türkiye’s historic role as a bridge between cultures. The Pope also visited İznik, reflecting the country’s deep Christian heritage and recent steps toward greater religious pluralism.

Interior ministry probes security lapse after Barzani’s Cizre visit

Türkiye’s Interior Ministry has launched an investigation into security arrangements during former KRG President Mesud Barzani’s recent visit to Şırnak, after images of his guards carrying long-barreled weapons in military-style uniforms sparked public criticism. Barzani, now a political party leader with no official government role, visited Cizre on Nov. 29 for the Melaye Ciziri Symposium. Footage of his armed detail drew swift backlash and raised protocol concerns. AK Party spokesman Ömer Çelik called the images “unpleasant” during a Habertürk interview and confirmed a formal inquiry, noting that Türkiye is fully capable of providing security for visiting figures.

Turkey's TIKA restores historic Ottoman-era cemetery in Damascus

Turkey has completed the restoration of the historic Ottoman-era cemetery in the courtyard of the Sheikh Muhyiddin Ibn Arabi Mosque in Damascus, repairing decades of damage and neglect, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) announced Monday. The cemetery, home to the graves of Ottoman statesmen and their families, had deteriorated due to wear, deliberate destruction, and lack of upkeep, leaving it in a state seen as inconsistent with the site’s spiritual and historical importance. With Syria reopening to visitors, the cemetery has again become a stop for official delegations and cultural tourists. TIKA said the first phase of restoration, removing debris, uncovering graves buried under concrete and soil, and reorganising the area, was completed in late August.

Turkey seeks permanent, fair solution to Russia-Ukraine War

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reaffirmed Turkey's push for a diplomatic, fair and lasting resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war during a meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán on Monday. At a joint news conference in Istanbul, Erdoğan said they reviewed regional and global developments, including the Middle East and Ukraine, and praised Hungary’s role in the Organisation of Turkic States, noting the historic informal summit held in Budapest in May. He emphasised that Turkey has worked from the start of the conflict to advance a just peace, adding, “No one wins a war, and no one loses from a just peace.”

Parliament speaker says peace bid enters 'riskiest phase'

Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş says Turkey's latest peace initiative has entered its “most risky phase” after the PKK announced it would lay down arms, warning that the process must move forward without delays. Speaking to Milliyet, he said it must be confirmed that the PKK has disarmed, ended its activities, and will integrate with the new administration in Syria, noting the YPG’s March agreement to join Syria’s national army. Kurtulmuş said the process has progressed well but stressed that the next stage is the most delicate, urging the group to fulfil its promises without hesitation. Under the government’s “terror-free Turkey” plan, the PKK declared a ceasefire, began disarming, and said in late October that it had withdrawn from Turkish territory.

Tse was handed a non-parole period of 10 years in the County Court of Victoria after admitting to conspiring to traffic large quantities of illicit drugs within Australia. With credit for time already served, he could walk free in just over five years.

Prosecutors said Tse attempted to move 20 kilograms of methamphetamine — valued at around 4.4 million Australian dollars — between Sydney and Melbourne over a 12-month period from March 2012 to March 2013. 

His conviction followed an Australian Federal Police (AFP) probe that targeted Sam Gor, the transnational crime syndicate he was accused of leading.

Sam Gor, also known as “The Company,” has been linked to industrial-scale production and distribution of meth across the Asia-Pacific region. At its height, Australian authorities believe it was the country’s largest supplier of the drug, pushing tonnes of product through a vast international network of traffickers.

Tse’s fall began in 2021, when Dutch police arrested him at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport at the request of the AFP. He spent months contesting extradition before being sent to Australia in late 2022 to face charges.

His sentencing brings to a close more than a decade of investigative work. AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett said the outcome marked the conclusion of “one of the most high-profile investigations in the AFP’s history ,” describing it as a testament to the force’s global reach.

While Tse did not face charges relating to the full spectrum of Sam Gor’s alleged activities, his conviction represents a symbolic victory for Australian authorities, who have long viewed him as a central figure in the region’s drug trade.

Law enforcement agencies across Asia, Europe and North America have spent years trying to dismantle the syndicate, which they allege operated with a level of sophistication comparable to the world’s most notorious cartels.

For now, the man once regarded as the most influential meth trafficker in the Asia-Pacific is behind bars in Melbourne. But authorities say the wider fight against the networks he helped build is far from finished.

In correspondence shared by the party, Pillay wrote, “The Public Protector has considered your submissions and will proceed to investigate your allegations in connection with abuse of power and/or improper conduct.”

MK party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela said the investigation was critical to “restoring credibility to the highest office,” adding that no president should be “placed above the law .”

The complaint draws on long-standing controversies surrounding Ramaphosa’s presidency, including the Phala Phala foreign currency scandal and what the party describes as the weakening of oversight institutions.

Ramaphosa has previously been cleared of separate ethics violations. In April, Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka dismissed a complaint lodged by opposition leader John Steenhuisen, who argued that the president blurred party-state lines at an ANC event.

“Sadly, if you look at all the resolutions from page one to the last page, where the resolution required an update from the Vice President, none of them were forthcoming,” Mbowe told lawmakers, adding, “This is one of the clearest evidences that parliamentary resolutions are not respected by the executive.”

At the centre of MPs’ anger is the fate of over $1.7 million (D137 million) in COVID-19 relief funds overseen by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), which falls under the Vice President’s office. FPAC’s report also flagged more than $1.3 million (D100 million) in undelivered food items and $480,000 (D37 million) in missing oil supplies meant for struggling Gambian families during the pandemic.

“This happened at the most trying time for our people . Some civil servants were receiving only half salaries, while public officers played with millions meant to feed the nation. Yet the Vice President has not updated this Assembly,” Mbowe said. 

Lawmakers also cited other unresolved issues under the Vice President’s remit, including:

$234,000 (D18 million) in unretired imprest; $117,000 (D9 million) in fraudulent withdrawals from sub-treasuries; missing government vehicles and concerns over shady contracts at the National Environment Agency and foreign missions.

Lamin Ceesay, Member for Kiang West, accused the Vice President of showing “executive contempt” by ignoring parliamentary oversight. “How can the Vice President ignore corruption of this scale and not even give a reason? It is unacceptable,” he said.

Lawmakers warned that the continued silence from the Vice President’s office risks eroding public trust in the Assembly’s authority and undermining constitutional checks and balances. 

“Officially, the Holy See does not believe that we can make any declaration at this time about that,” he added. "There's a very technical definition about what genocide might be, but more and more people are raising the issue."

The July interview was Pope Leo XIV’s first since his election in May.

Days before the interview was published, on September 16, an independent UN inquiry formally concluded that Israel is committing four of the five acts defined as genocide under the Genocide Convention: killing Palestinians, causing serious bodily or mental harm, deliberately inflicting conditions of life calculated to destroy the group, and preventing births.

The 72-page report detailed evidence of deliberate targeting of civilians, including children, and highlighted mass displacement and famine caused by Israeli blockades preventing aid from entering Gaza.

Pope Leo XIV said it was “so horrible to see the images that we see on television,” adding, “hopefully we won’t grow numb.”

“We can’t ignore this. Somehow, we have to continue to push, to try and make a change there,” he said.

The UN inquiry’s findings are the strongest yet on the scale of the killings in Gaza and mark the first time a UN-mandated investigative body has concluded that Israel’s actions meet the criteria for genocide.

However, the UN emphasised that it cannot make a legal determination on whether a situation constitutes genocide under international law, noting that such a ruling can only be made by a competent national or international court. 

A case before the International Court of Justice, filed by South Africa, seeks to have Israel’s actions declared genocide. However, experts say this is unlikely to conclude before 2027.

US President Donald Trump, who has openly stated his desire to win the Nobel Peace Prize, has sought to intervene in the war. He has held ceasefire talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and is scheduled to meet him again on September 29.

The pope criticised the lack of progress in peace efforts despite US involvement.

"Even with some very clear statements being made by the United States government, recently by President Trump, there has not been a clear response in terms of finding effective ways to alleviate the suffering of the people, the innocent people in Gaza, and that is obviously of great concern," he said.

Other organisations have also defined the Gaza war as genocide. Amnesty International, in a December 2024 report, accused Israel of carrying out systematic killings, starvation, forced displacement and the destruction of civilian life.

Health authorities in Gaza put the death toll since October 2023 at 65,062, with a further 165,697 wounded.

Among the haul were 51 tonnes of methamphetamine, including a record 297 million meth pills (known as yaba), along with heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, and chemical precursors used in drug manufacturing.

Operation Lionfish-Mayag III

Codenamed Operation Lionfish-Mayag III , the crackdown ran from 30 June to 13 July. Its coordination hub was based in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where specialised officers worked in real time with international partners to target the manufacturing, trafficking, and smuggling of synthetic drugs. 

Authorities also dismantled a major Darknet syndicate in India known as Ketamelon, seizing LSD blots, ketamine, and digital assets worth USD 87,000. Investigators said the group was responsible for over 600 shipments in just 14 months.

In Myanmar, police intercepted two vehicles, one hiding 22 kg of heroin behind pineapples and another carrying 5.25 million yaba pills. A follow-up house raid uncovered an additional 4 million pills. Meanwhile, in the Lao PDR, officers seized 3.9 tonnes of methamphetamine and 10 production machines, arresting two suspects.

In Mexico, authorities confiscated more than 190,000 fentanyl tablets and 1.7 tonnes of methamphetamine, while also requesting an urgent Interpol Purple Notice to warn member states about new fentanyl precursors that criminals are using to bypass existing regulations.

Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza warned that the volume of seizures underscores the danger synthetic drugs pose, “The drugs trafficked by transnational criminal networks fuel violence, cripple economies and endanger public health. Each successful seizure highlights the power of law enforcement working together to protect lives and dismantle these threats.”

The operation resulted in 386 arrests, including a man under an Interpol Red Notice suspected of running a large-scale meth smuggling ring into Incheon National Airport. He was arrested in Cambodia and is awaiting extradition to South Korea.

Local news portal Foroyaa reported that lawmakers adopted the report earlier this year and forwarded their findings to the government.

While the joint report stopped short of proving bribery or money laundering, it highlighted “serious governance and regulatory failures, pervasive non-compliance with financial, tax, and corporate laws, and a troubling disregard for due process.”

Minister Keita noted those concerns, telling lawmakers that the regulatory lapses and collusion exposed by the report posed a “significant risk to public interest” and undermined confidence in Gambia’s financial governance.

The report also revealed that Creed Energy and Ultimate Beigee Logistics owed D8.5 million and D12.2 million in tax arrears.

Keita said the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) had imposed “best of judgment assessments” after the companies failed to file returns and pledged that recovery actions would follow.

“GRA will use information available to generate a tax assessment, which may be disputed, and initiate recovery where possible,” he explained.

Among its recommendations, the report urged the suspension of Gam Petroleum’s General Manager and the launch of a criminal investigation into alleged conflicts of interest and fiduciary breaches. Keita confirmed the government would act on the proposal,

“The police will initiate investigations as recommended into any conflict of interest and breach of agreement and fiduciary duties against the General Manager.”

The Central Bank of The Gambia (CBG) was also flagged for failing to enforce prudential risk guidelines, with lawmakers calling for penalties against commercial banks found in breach. Keita assured Parliament that punitive sanctions would be maintained and a special audit would be undertaken to prevent hidden arrangements.

Video footage shows Kirk reaching for his neck and collapsing from his chair, with visible bleeding from his neck. He was rushed to Timpanogos Regional Hospital but died hours later. Utah Governor Spencer Cox described the incident as a “political assassination”.

Ongoing manhunt for the sniper

Trump reacts to the killing

Charlie Kirk had played a key role in connecting young voters to Donald Trump’s political base. Trump called the killing an act of “terrorism” and blamed it on radical left-wing rhetoric.

“For years, those on the radical left have compared wonderful Americans like Charlie to Nazis and the world’s worst mass murderers and criminals. This kind of rhetoric is directly responsible for the terrorism that we’re seeing in our country today. And it must stop right now,” Trump said .

He also ordered that all U.S. government flags be flown at half-staff until Sunday to honour Kirk.

He is survived by his wife, Erika Frantzve, and their two children —a son and a daughter.

The body of 19-year-old Sneha Debnath from Tripura was discovered in the Yamuna River near Geeta Colony after she had been missing for six days . As reported by police, she had left a suicide note and was last seen on Signature Bridge. Technical surveillance led to the tracing of her movements, and local eyewitnesses reported her presence on the bridge shortly before her disappearance. A search operation involved the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and raised concerns about non-functional CCTV cameras in the area.

Fuel switch system declared safe by FAA and Boeing

After the fatal Air India Boeing 787-8 crash, both the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Boeing have stated that the fuel switch locking systems on their aircraft are safe , as reported by Reuters. Despite an AAIB investigation questioning the reliability of the switches, the FAA issued a notification concluding that no regulatory action is necessary, citing no unsafe condition. ALPA India has requested observer status in the ongoing crash investigation, amidst claims that pilot error is not to blame.

Indian national arrested for cocaine at Kathmandu airport

Nepalese police arrested Abdus Samad Jamal Mansuri, a 49-year-old Indian national from Mumbai, after recovering approximately 3.4 kg of cocaine at Tribhuvan International Airport. Mansuri had arrived in Kathmandu from Azerbaijan on a Qatar Airways flight. The police confirmed his arrest occurred in the airport's arrival parking area, and an investigation is currently underway.

Punjab congress raises alarm over law and order crisis

Following the daylight murder of businessman Sanjay Verma, Congress leaders in Punjab have accused the state government of allowing drug cartels and extortionists to operate with impunity. Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa criticized Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's inaction, demanding accountability and immediate government reform to protect business interests. Amid escalating fears among the entrepreneurial community, calls for a high court-monitored investigation into Verma's murder and public discussion about law enforcement efforts have intensified.

The notice, made public on June 6, is part of a broader investigation into alleged corruption linked to major public projects during his tenure.

Ofori-Atta, 65, is wanted on charges of “Using Public Office for Profit.” The Red Notice, which requests the provisional arrest of Ofori-Atta pending extradition or surrender, signals international collaboration in tackling corruption. The former minister is believed to be in the United States, receiving medical treatment

This development contributes to Ghana's initiatives aimed at ensuring accountability for public officials involved in significant corruption cases, including the stalled National Cathedral project initiated in 2017 during former president Nana Akufo-Addo's administration.

The cathedral project aimed to establish a sacred space and infrastructure of the highest calibre for the country's formal religious activities. However, the government at the time reportedly invested over $58 million of taxpayers' funds in the project, amid allegations of financial impropriety.

In February, Ofori-Atta was declared a “ fugitive from justice ” by the OSP for his involvement in the cathedral project, among other high-profile cases.

The OSP formally initiated the INTERPOL Red Notice just before its public announcement on June 2.

“I triggered processes for the issuance of an INTERPOL red notice for the location and provisional arrest of Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta in whichever jurisdiction, pending extradition or his surrender,” special prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng said.

Amid internal efforts to address corruption, Ghana's President John Mahama has stated that his administration "won't interfere with corruption cases," and will seek to maintain the independence of the country's anti-corruption agencies.

"I will not interfere in their work... attempt to influence them to drop investigations, including those involving officials from the previous administration," he added.

The probe uncovered evidence that a locally recruited staff member had diverted visa and passport applicants to a privately owned company and pocketed unapproved fees.

In an X (formerly Twitter) post , the Minister stated that Mr Fred Kwarteng, an IT staffer hired in 2017, orchestrated the scheme.

Investigators found that Kwarteng created an unauthorised link on the embassy’s official website that redirected applicants to his firm, Ghana Travel Consultants (GTC), where he charged additional fees ranging from US$29.75 to US$60 per applicant.

These charges were not sanctioned by Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or approved under the country’s Fees Act.

Kwarteng admitted to the misconduct and has been referred to the Attorney-General for potential prosecution and recovery of misappropriated funds .

In response to the findings, the ministry has taken the following immediate actions:

* Dismissal of Fred Kwarteng from his post.

* Recall of all Ministry of Foreign Affairs staff posted at the Washington embassy.

* Suspension of all locally hired staff at the mission.

* Dissolution of the embassy’s IT department.

* Invitation to the Auditor-General to conduct a forensic audit to determine the full extent of the financial losses.

* The embassy will remain closed for a few days from today as they finalise the ongoing restructuring and systems overhaul

The minister acknowledged the inconvenience of the closure. “Any inconvenience these radical measures may cause visa and passport applicants is regretted,” he stated in his X post.

He also stated that President John Mahama has expressed full support for the actions taken and reiterated his administration’s commitment to “zero tolerance for corruption, conflict of interest, and abuse of public office.”

Colombian filmmaker Juan Pablo Solano, of Jaguar Bite, has expressed concerns over proposed U.S. tariffs on audiovisual content, which could significantly impact international production in Colombia, where approximately 80-90% of projects are American. According to him, tariffs threaten to undermine independent films that rely on Colombia's cost-effective production landscape, putting the future of local filmmaking at risk.

Expansion of extortion gangs in key Colombian oil region

Colombian palm-oil farmer Jaime Cruz encountered a resurgence of extortion gangs in Puerto Gaitan, the country's largest oil-producing area, after more than a decade of relative peace. The 39th Front guerrilla group has begun demanding extortion payments from local businesses, causing significant insecurity and hindering investment in an economically vital region as violence escalates.

Investigations underway for suspicious death in South Carolina

Authorities in Columbia, South Carolina, are investigating a suspicious death following the discovery of a body in a home on Kinard Court, reported on May 15. The Columbia Police Department is collaborating with the Richland County Coroner’s Office as the investigation unfolds, with further updates pending.

Colombia takes landmark step in indigenous autonomy

Colombia has officially recognised Indigenous councils in the Amazon as local governments, granting them administrative power and budget control . This historic shift enhances Indigenous rights and governance, aiming to protect forests and inspire similar movements across Latin America, contrasting sharply with legislation in neighbouring countries that threaten Indigenous authority.

Colombian senate rejects president's labour reform referendum

Colombian lawmakers blocked President Gustavo Petro's referendum aimed at reforming labour laws, which included proposals for limiting work hours and mandating double pay on holidays. Business Standard reports that despite Petro's warning of electoral repercussions, the Senate voted against the referendum, though a group of congressmen has revived discussions on the labour proposals ahead of a deadline.

The arrest follows mounting international pressure over the controversial campaign, which reportedly led to the deaths of individuals. Many of these killings occurred in Davao City, where Duterte had previously served as mayor before assuming the presidency.

But how justified is the legal pursuit of Duterte?

During Duterte’s presidency from 2016 to 2022, his war on drugs led to thousands of deaths, with official figures standing at 6,000 to over 27,000 as reported by human rights groups and investigative journalists. Many of these killings were allegedly carried out by police officers or vigilantes, often without due process.

The catch is that victims were frequently poor and marginalised individuals, raising concerns about class-based extrajudicial violence.

International organizations, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court (ICC), have argued that these killings could amount to crimes against humanity. The ICC formally opened an investigation, asserting that the scale and pattern of the killings show systemic abuse, not isolated incidents.

On the other hand, Duterte has vehemently rejected the legitimacy of the ICC’s jurisdiction over the years, citing Philippine sovereignty. In 2019, Duterte withdrew the Philippines from the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC, though the Court argues it retains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the country was still a member.

The former leader has also consistently maintained that he only ordered police to kill in self-defence, firmly defending the drug crackdown throughout his presidency. He has repeatedly told his supporters that he was willing to "rot in jail" if it meant eliminating illegal drugs from the Philippines.

What lies ahead of the leader at The Hague?

Two medical doctors from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), employed at Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital (QMMH), are under investigation for allegations of negligence, malpractice, and unethical conduct. One of the doctors is accused of reporting to work while intoxicated, endangering patients' lives, while the other is being probed for malpractice linked to his previous employment at Maluti Adventist Hospital in Mapoteng, Lesotho Times reports. Health Minister Selibe Mochoboroane confirmed that the Lesotho Medical, Dental, and Pharmacy Council has been tasked with investigating the matter and recommending appropriate action. “The investigation will primarily focus on how one of the doctors, who has an alleged history of malpractice and negligence at Maluti Adventist Hospital, was subsequently hired at Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital,” Mochoboroane said. The investigation will also scrutinise the hiring process that allowed the doctor with a questionable past to secure employment at QMMH.

US visa scandal

As legislator Tṧepo Lipholo continues his controversial campaign to reclaim Lesotho’s purportedly lost land from South Africa, an official involved in facilitating his travel to the United States has been suspended. Japan Mntambo, Director of Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issued a "Note Verbal" that allowed Lipholo to obtain a US visa for his campaign. However, Mntambo now faces suspension for allegedly issuing the document without parliamentary approval, Lesotho Times reports. Lipholo, the sole MP of the Basotho Covenant Movement (BCM), has previously submitted motions in Parliament seeking the return of Free State and other territories to Lesotho. The government, led by Prime Minister Sam Matekane, has distanced itself from Lipholo’s agenda, wary of straining diplomatic relations with South Africa. Foreign Affairs Minister Lejone Mpotjoana has labeled Mntambo’s actions a serious violation of protocol, warranting further investigation.

Lesotho’s growing cancer crisis

Lesotho is grappling with an escalating cancer crisis, with calls for urgent investment in local healthcare infrastructure. Health Minister Selibe Mochoboroane revealed that the government spends approximately M250,000 per cancer patient for treatment in South Africa, an unsustainable financial burden as cases continue to rise. Lesotho Times reports that in 2023 alone, the Sankatana Oncology Centre recorded 1,888 cancer cases, including 500 cases of cervical cancer. Speaking at the World Cancer Day commemoration, the minister emphasized the need for a national health system capable of managing cancer treatment locally. He proposed establishing a medical school to train local specialists and a dedicated health fund supported by employer and employee contributions. Despite the government’s efforts, including an HPV vaccination campaign with a 95% success rate and the construction of Lesotho’s first cancer center, experts stress the need for more skilled healthcare workers and better palliative care services.

Chinese embassy disowns Businessman Yan Xie

The Chinese Embassy in Maseru has publicly distanced itself from controversial businessman Yan Xie, popularly known as John, clarifying that he is not a Chinese citizen. The embassy has also dismissed claims that Chinese investors or officials in Lesotho are involved in Xie’s business dealings. Public Eye News reports that Xie has been at the center of multiple corruption and business misconduct allegations. A previous investigation into his nationality was launched by former Minister of Home Affairs, Motlalentoa Letsosa, but was inconclusive due to government changes in 2022. Xie reportedly fled to Australia amid allegations of financial impropriety.

Trade deficit

Lesotho’s trade balance remains a cause for concern, with the latest Southern African Customs Union (SACU) report revealing a widening deficit. In 2023, the country exported goods worth M15.3 billion while importing M31.7 billion. As a SACU member, Lesotho relies heavily on revenue from the union, which significantly contributes to its national budget. Despite government efforts to enhance local production, the country remains a net consumer rather than a producer, Informative News reports. Challenges such as border delays, red tape, and inadequate infrastructure continue to hinder trade, limiting the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The manufacturing sector, historically a key economic pillar, has also declined, reflecting shifts in global and regional market dynamics. The business community has urged the government to strengthen border efficiency, streamline customs procedures, and boost local production to capitalise on regional trade opportunities.

Congolese government spokesman Patrick Muyaya welcomed the decision, emphasising its urgency. "This shows that today the world wants the situation in the east of the DRC to be resolved quickly," he said in Geneva.

Muyaya highlighted the swift response to the DRC’s request for a special session, noting the unanimous vote in favour of the investigation.

"We are relieved to see that our request was not only responded to promptly but also passed quickly to the vote and unanimously," he told the AFP.

Adding that, "this is a sign that the world wants the perpetrators to be identified and punished."

The investigation aims to hold those responsible accountable and bring justice to the victims of the ongoing violence.

The Brazilian federal police reported 88 passengers on the flight, while the Amazonas state government listed 79 - 62 men, 11 women, and six children. Many of the deportees, including families and children with disabilities, alleged mistreatment during the journey, including being handcuffed at their wrists, waists, and legs.

"There’s nothing to talk about that trip," said Edgar da Silva Moura, a deportee and computer technician. "The plane had technical issues; the turbines kept turning on and off. If it hadn’t been for divine intervention, I think it would’ve crashed." Moura also described dire conditions on board: "We were tied up, it was unbearably hot, there was no water, and children weren’t even allowed to use the bathroom."

Brazil's Minister of Human Rights and Citizenship, Macae Evaristo, expressed alarm at the reports of abuse. "The complaints are very serious," Evaristo said. "Families, including children with autism or other disabilities, endured horrific treatment on that flight."

Moura echoed these sentiments, saying, "They treated us worse than dogs. A dog would have been treated better than us."

The Brazilian government has condemned the United States for its handling of the deportations, labelling the treatment of the migrants a violation of human dignity. The incident has fuelled calls for an investigation into the conditions faced by deportees and the oversight of international deportation processes.

Sierra Leone's Foreign Minister, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, announced the recall of Ambassador Bangura to Freetown to provide a full account of the incident. Minister Kabba emphasised that the ambassador was not in the vehicle at the time of the incident and is not currently under arrest.

He assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and to hold all responsible parties accountable.

"In light of this serious development, the government has urgently recalled Sierra Leone's Ambassador to Guinea, Ambassador Mr Alimamy Bangura, to Freetown to provide a full account of the incident. Additionally, a thorough investigation has been launched to determine how this incident occurred and to hold all responsible parties accountable," he said.

On Monday, January 13, Guinean authorities impounded a vehicle belonging to the Sierra Leone embassy and detained its occupants. The vehicle was found with seven suitcases filled with substances suspected to be cocaine , along with approximately $2,000 in cash.

This incident comes at a time when Sierra Leone is grappling with a national drug abuse crisis. In April 2024, President Julius Maada Bio declared drug abuse a national emergency, highlighting the prevalence of substances like "Kush," a psychoactive blend of addictive substances.

"We have evidence from both the exterior and interior of the aircraft showing that shrapnel passed through it," Tytelman explained. "This indicates the involvement of an air defense missile, which contains hundreds of steel balls designed to shred through the fuselage. The markings on the plane's tail are consistent with such damage, suggesting the missile exploded above the aircraft."

Tytelman ruled out alternative explanations, such as a bird strike or an onboard explosion, citing the nature of the impact on the fuselage and the evidence captured by passengers during the flight. Videos and photos reportedly show signs of depressurization, holes inside the aircraft, and punctured life jackets.

"The hydraulic system was likely affected, making it difficult to control the plane toward the end of the flight," Tytelman added.

While the Azerbaijan Ministry of Health had initially suggested other possible causes, including a balloon explosion, the missile theory has emerged as the leading explanation. Official investigations are ongoing, and authorities have urged against speculation until their findings are released.

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.

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has rejected allegations that it has engaged in the printing of Rs. 100 billion (approximately $341 million). CBSL representatives characterised these claims as "completely baseless," asserting that their open market operations are conventional practices dedicated to bolstering price stability and regulating interest rates. The bank maintained that there has been no issuance of additional currency or inappropriate money issuance aimed at financing the government's budget.

Installation of rooftop solar systems at religious sites across Sri Lanka

India has embarked on a significant initiative involving a $17 million project to install rooftop solar systems at 5,000 religious sites across Sri Lanka, comprising temples, churches, and mosques. The initiative, governed by the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority, intends to curtail energy expenses while facilitating a transition to renewable energy sources within the country. This project is projected to yield roughly 37 million units of energy annually and includes a five-year maintenance programme to guarantee sustainability. The anticipated completion of this project is slated for early next year and is in alignment with India's "Neighbourhood First" policy, which underscores collaborative efforts with Sri Lanka. Additional renewable energy initiatives are in the pipeline, including solar electrification of Buddhist temples and developments focusing on hybrid energy.

African swine fever outbreak in Sri Lankan province

African swine fever (ASF) – initially identified in Sri Lanka's Western Province – has now extended its reach to the Uva, Northern, and North Western provinces. Reports indicate that around 20,000 to 25,000 out of 70,000 pigs in the western province have been afflicted. With four farms confirming cases, authorities have instituted control measures that include the culling of infected animals. Nevertheless, the economic ramifications concerning compensation weigh heavily on the response strategy. In light of these developments, the government is poised to issue a Gazette notification that will outline measures to effectively manage the outbreak. Recent investigations have corroborated the presence of ASF in pigs located in the Gampaha District, where unusual mortalities have been noted.

Sri Lanka launches investigation into Indian flight bomb threat

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Sri Lanka has instigated an investigation into a bomb threat directed at an Indian flight, as confirmed by Minister Vijitha Herath. This incident adds to a disconcerting trend, as over 90 flights in India have been impacted by fraudulent bomb threats since mid-October, predominantly disseminated through social media channels. Although rigorous checks of the affected flights have uncovered no actual threats, these bogus alerts have generated considerable disruptions and alarm among passengers. In response, Indian authorities have initiated actions to block social media accounts associated with these hoaxes, while Sri Lanka is reassessing safety protocols.

Drugs worth $3.2 million seized in India was headed to Sri Lanka

India’s Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has made a significant seizure of methamphetamine valued at Rs 27 crore (roughly $3.2 million) in Chennai, eastern India which was being trafficked to Sri Lanka. The authorities apprehended two individuals: Vijaykumar, a Sri Lankan national, and Manivannan. During the arrests, 1.9 kg of the narcotic and Rs 15 lakh (over $17,000) in cash were confiscated. Subsequent searches unearthed an additional 900 grams at Manivannan's residence. Both suspects remain under investigation as officials delve deeper into their drug trafficking network.

This revelation sparked a series of protests , one of which the police forcefully dispersed on Monday, October 21, citing falsehoods.

Despite the police's stance, Pakistan, a patriarchal society, is determined to expose and address the issue of sexual violence, particularly against women.

Senior officer Syeda Shehrbano Naqvi has been tasked with thoroughly investigating the Punjab rape case, which the police are allegedly trying to cover up.

She stated, "All of us have experienced harassment in some form, whether on the streets of Pakistan or elsewhere."

She also urged the relatives of the alleged Punjab University rape victim to come forward with any evidence or information they have.

"We beg the uncle of the alleged victim from the Punjab College rape case to come on camera and give a statement. People tend to believe someone in uniform less than someone directly involved in the incident."

Students participating in the protests indicated that their grievances extend beyond the Punjab case, highlighting the prevalence and seriousness of such incidents nationwide.

"Harassment is widespread on every campus, with rape cases occurring regularly. A student recently committed suicide at Punjab University, and there have been troubling incidents at Bahawalpur University. Numerous cases of harassment and rape have occurred in colleges and universities," said Saqib Ismail, founder of a student committee.

Fatima Razzaq, an Aurat March women's rights group member, added, "Unfortunately, it's pretty common. Students do get sexually violated often, but I haven't seen it grow into a movement like this. And I haven't seen this sort of anger or reaction from them before."

Emergency services responded swiftly, but the extent of the damage made rescue efforts exceedingly challenging. Despite their best efforts, eight lives were lost, leaving the local community in shock and mourning.

Many residents expressed their grief and frustration over the tragedy. Safiatu Kargbo, a relative of six trapped victims, shared her harrowing experience:

"I was on public transport going to central Freetown when my friends told me to check social media. My mother informed me that some members of our family, my uncle and cousins, were under the rubble after a building collapse. I cancelled my journey and rushed to the scene. My uncle told me six of his children were trapped under the rubble. When we called their phone, they responded that they were under the veranda when the building collapsed."

The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) released a statement confirming the tragic toll:

"Thus far, six survivors have been rescued from the rubble, while eight victims have been confirmed dead."

The victims included three men, two women, two girls under five, and a boy under five, according to AFP.

Local authorities have vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse. Preliminary reports suggest that poor construction practices and lack of proper maintenance may have significantly contributed to the disaster.