Crime Watch – Weekly Newsletter for December 20-27, 2010

Monday, December 27, 2010

Three Maoists held in Orissa with weapons

BHUBANESWAR – Three Maoist guerrillas were arrested in Orissas Mayurbhanj district early Monday, police said.

The rebels in the age group of 20-25 years were arrested from Suliapada area after police acted on a tip-off by a source, superintendent of police Dayal Gangwar told IANS, adding that a locally-made gun and 21 gelatin sticks were … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Three Maoists held in Orissa with weapons.

11 militants hanged in Iran

TEHRAN – Eleven members of the Sunni Muslim militant group Jundollah were hanged Monday in Iran’s southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan, the Khabar news network reported.

The inmates were executed at a prison in the provincial capital, Zahedan, for crimes committed in the province over recent years, Khabar said.
Sistan-Baluchistan province, which borders Pakistan and Afghanistan, …. Read the original article  : 11 militants hanged in Iran.

Militants destroy NATO supply tankers in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Suspected Islamist militants in northwestern Pakistan near the Afghan border Monday torched two oil tankers carrying fuel for the NATO forces in Afghanistan, official said.

The incident took place in Khata Kashta area of Khyber, one of the seven mountainous tribal districts that are known bastions of Taliban and Al Qaeda rebels.
“Attackers …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists blow up culvert

BHUBANESWAR – Maoists blew up a culvert in Orissas Koraput district using a landmine, police said Monday.

The incident happened late Sunday near Dhepaguda village, over 600 km from here, police officer G.C. Sahu said.
…. Source  : Maoists blow up culvert.

No Indian militant camps in Bhutan, says Thinley

GUWAHATI – Bhutan Prime Minister Jigme Y. Thinley Monday said there were no Indian separatist bases in his country and pledged not to allow rebels to enter the country for shelter.

“There are no Indian militant camps or bases in my country and we shall ensure that no militants are able to enter Bhutan,” the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : No Indian militant camps in Bhutan, says Thinley.

More Garo rebels to surrender: Meghalaya home minister

SHILLONG – Meghalaya Home Minister H.D.R. Lyngdoh Sunday expressed optimism that more Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) rebels would surrender to end their armed struggle for a sovereign Garoland.

“We are expecting more of them (GNLA rebels) to toe the line (surrender) as some of them have realised they have chosen the wrong path,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : More Garo rebels to surrender: Meghalaya home minister.

Congress plenary attacks ‘insidious’ RSS, ‘disease’ of corruption (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – A combative Congress Sunday declared a no-holds war on right-wing groups, especially the RSS on its terror links, and also outlined a four-point agenda to fight the blight of corruption that has made the party-led central government the target of repeated attacks over numerous scams.

According to the political resolution adopted at … Original source on Gaea Times at : Congress plenary attacks ‘insidious’ RSS, ‘disease’ of corruption (Roundup).

Terrorist-stone pelter nexus unearthed in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Two modules of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Hizbul Mujahideen were busted Sunday in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, thus unearthing a nexus between the guerrillas and the stone pelters who had resorted to violence in the Valley since June, police said.

Shafqat Ahmad Watali, deputy inspector general (DIG) of police (South Kashmir) told reporters …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Terrorist-stone pelter nexus unearthed in Kashmir.

Andhra Pradesh Police Intensifies Maoist Hunt

HYDERABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Andhra Pradesh Police department once again emerged triumphant over the atrocities of the Maoists in the area. They encountered a group of Maoists in the Cherrvuru village of Chintapalli mandal, after a fierce exchange of fire between the cadres of the extremist groups and the police.
This fierce firing continued for …. Original source  : Andhra Pradesh Police Intensifies Maoist Hunt.

No civilised state can hide terrorists: Russian president

NEW DELHI – Without naming Pakistan, visiting Russian President Dmitry Medvedev Tuesday said “no civilised state can hide terrorists”.

“Terrorists are criminals. They, of course, should be punished. Those who hide terrorists conceal their crimes. No modern civilised state can hide terrorists as law abiding citizens. They are subject to punishment,” Medvedev said at a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Three Maoists arrested with 12 wireless sets

RANCHI – Three Maoist guerrillas were arrested from Jharkhand’s Bokaro district and wireless sets as well as explosives recovered from them, police said Tueday.

The three were arrested late Monday from Chandrapura of Bokaro district, around 145 km from here. Officilas said 12 wireless sets, explosives and other incriminating material have been seized.
Amongst … Read more »»».

40 kg landmine found in Jharkhand

RANCHI – A 40 kg landmine was found planted beneath a bridge in Jharkhand, police said Tuesday. The bomb disposal squad was called to defuse it.

The landmine was found planted beneath the Jamua bridge of Palamau district Tuesday morning. The landmine was planted to blast police vehicle, officials said.
…. Read the original article  : 40 kg landmine found in Jharkhand.

Al Qaeda plotting poison attack in US

WASHINGTON – Terror outfit Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) is planning to attack American food supplies with poisonous chemicals, officials said.

A source “with knowledge of the situation” said authorities have obtained information that indicated a possible plot by the AQAP to target food at hotels and restaurants in the US, perhaps slipping … Read more : Al Qaeda plotting poison attack in US.

US army wants to expand raids in Pakistan

WASHINGTON – US military commanders in Afghanistan are pushing for more ground raids across the border into Pakistan’s tribal areas, leading to a debate over the “controversial” proposal.

The plan for forays into the militant stronghold in North Waziristan has not yet been approved, but military and political leaders say a “renewed sense of … Read : US army wants to expand raids in Pakistan.

New York cops simulate 26/11 Mumbai terror attack

NEW YORK – The New York Police Department (NYPD) has conducted a simulated militant attack similar to the terror unleashed in Mumbai two years ago, a media report said Tuesday.

In the simulation, a team of terrorists launch a coordinated series of bombings and gun attacks around the city. The terrorists also attack police officials …. Original article  : New York cops simulate 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.

Jessica Fashano Death Mystery Continues

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — The reason why Jessica Fashano, 27, jumped off the rooftop of the Trump Palace is still a mystery to the Police and her acquaintances. Considered to be a great person without any mental illness or trauma, Jessica had left several questions surrounding her pre-mature death.
According to her co-workers, Jessica was …. Original source  : Jessica Fashano Death Mystery Continues.

12 arrested in anti-terrorism swoop in Britain

LONDON – Police in Britain have arrested 12 men on suspicion of preparing a potential terrorist plot in an operation described by Scotland Yard as “absolutely necessary” to keep the public safe.

“The operation is in its early stages so we are unable to go into detail at this time about the suspected offences. However, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 12 arrested in anti-terrorism swoop in Britain.

Iran warns Pakistan over terrorist actions

TEHRAN – Iran will take necessary action if Pakistan continues to fail in controlling terrorist activities along its border, a top military official has said.

Brigadier General Hassan Firouzabadi, the chairman of Armed Forces Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Pakistan is Irans friend but “it falls short of controlling and stopping terrorists”, IRNA news … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Iran warns Pakistan over terrorist actions.

Bomb scare at Newark airport in US

NEW YORK – One of the terminals at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey was closed Monday to the public due to a security scare, a media report said.

The incident was sparked by a suspicious package at an American Airlines (AA) counter in Terminal A, ABC News reported.
The terminal was evacuated due … Read more : Bomb scare at Newark airport in US.

Bail plea of Akshardham terror attack accused admitted

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Monday admitted a bail plea filed by an accused in the 2002 Akshardham Temple terror attack.

The bench comprising Justices A.M. Kapadia and B.N. Mehta admitted the petition of Shaukatullah Ghori.
The hearing on Ghori’s bail application is scheduled for Jan 12, 2011.
Ghori was arrested in July 2009 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bail plea of Akshardham terror attack accused admitted.

Indian forces can enter Myanmar chasing terrorists

AIZAWL – Indian security forces can enter Myanmar to hunt for terrorists after taking due permission from Myanmarese authorities, it was decided here Monday.

And to boost their crackdown on Indian separatists hiding in Myanmar, it was also decided that Myanmarese security officials have promised to learn English or Hindi to overcome communication problems.
…. Original article  : Indian forces can enter Myanmar chasing terrorists.

India, Myanmar to act against terrorists

AIZAWL – India and Myanmar will work together to curb trans-border movement of terrorists, smuggling of arms and to prevent drugs trafficking, officials said here Monday.

The Indian home ministry and Myanmars Chin state have agreed to boost border security and share information on cross-border terrorism, a Mizoram home department official said.
A meeting between …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists kill CPI-M supporter

KOLKATA – Maoists shot dead a Communist party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) supporter in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district Monday on charges of being a police spy, an official said.

Kali Charan Mahato, an active member of the CPI-M-affiliated All Bengal Primary Teachers Association, was dragged out of his house Sunday night and shot dead, Jhargram …. Read the original article  : here.

British commandos on alert amid Mumbai-like attack fears

LONDON – Helicopters have been readied to fly crack British special forces commandos at a moment’s notice to tackle any Christmas terror strike as “the government is taking the threat of a ‘Mumbai’ on a busy British shopping street extremely seriously”.

Chinooks and Pumas were set to fly out of the elite SAS unit’s Hereford …. Source article  : British commandos on alert amid Mumbai-like attack fears.

Douglas Perlitz’s Sordid Past Revealed

FAIRFIELD (GaeaTimes.com)- Douglas Perlitz a school founder in Haiti hailing from USA was given 20 years imprisonment for sexually abusing a number of school children while pretending to be the savior for them to the outer world. The sordid acts of the man who was hitherto regarded as a benevolent generous social worker have … Read more : Douglas Perlitz’s Sordid Past Revealed.

US government told to compensate Islamic charity

WASHINGTON – A US court has asked the government to pay compensation to an Islamic charity after it was found that then president George W. Bush had ordered wire-tapping of the organisation after the 9/11 attack.

Tuesday’s ruling by Justice Vaughn R. Walker, the chief federal judge in San Francisco, ordered the government to pay …. Source  : US government told to compensate Islamic charity.

Maoists torch five vehicles

RANCHI – Maoists set on fire five vehicles at a construction site in Jharkhand, police said Wednesday.

Around 50-60 guerrillas raided the site near Damodar river late Tuesday. They set on fire two dumpers and machines, a police official said.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Man from Adams Drive Arrested for Connection with Shelton Car Accident

SHELTON (GaeaTimes.com) — A person named Nicola Urbani from Adams Drive was arrested last night on charges of stemming from a fatal car accident which took place on last April.
Bradner Cameron, 52, of Shelton was killed on April 30, when his 2005 Ford Escape collided with a 2004 Chervolet Silverado which was driven by …. Source article  : Man from Adams Drive Arrested for Connection with Shelton Car Accident.

‘Suspect’ package found in Rome underground train

ROME – A “suspect” parcel possibly containing explosives was being examined Tuesday by experts after it was found in a Rome underground train, Italian news reports said.

The package contained steel pipes and what appeared to be flammable powder, the ANSA news agency said.
“Bomb disposal experts are checking to see if the device was … Read more >>.

Swami Aseemanand to be quizzed over Samjhauta train blast

CHANDIGARH – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will question Hindu religious leader Swami Aseemanand, accused in the 2007 Mecca Masjid blast in Hyderabad, in connection with the Samjhauta train blasts that left 68 people dead in February 2007.

The NIA, according to officials, has sought the production warrant of Aseemanand from a court in Panchkula …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Shanghai Massage’ Gets Raunchy

SHANGHAI, CHINA (GaeaTimes.com)- China’s anti porn campaign may have been able to shut a few pornographic websites. However, it seems that a few desperate porn lover would not give it up easily. A few of these websites took an effort to change their language into English to serve the same raunchy purpose, violating … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Shanghai Massage’ Gets Raunchy.

President says ‘terrorists’ defaming Sri Lanka from abroad

COLOMBO – President Mahinda Rajapaksa said Tuesday that defeated “terrorist” elements abroad were defaming Sri Lanka.

His comments at a military academy came less than two weeks after he cancelled an address at the Oxford Union in London because of protests by the Tamil ethnic minority in London.
“Their latest weapon is to defame … Read this article on Gaea Times at : President says ‘terrorists’ defaming Sri Lanka from abroad.

Haneef to get ’substantial’ compensation from Australia

SYDNEY – Indian-origin doctor Mohamed Haneef, wrongly accused of being involved in terrorism, will receive a “substantial” and confidential payout from the Australian government, a media report said Tuesday.

Haneef returned to Australia last week to seek compensation, after he was wrongfully held in prison in July 2007.
The compensation claim, described by his lawyers … Read more >>.

ISI chief won’t appear in US court over 26/11

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani Thursday declared that the country’s spy master will not appear in any US court in connection with the Mumbai terror attack.

Addressing the National Assembly, he said the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) “is a sensitive agency of the Pakistani military and it is unimaginable that we will force …. Read the original article  : ISI chief won’t appear in US court over 26/11.

Rights activists await ruling on Binayak Sen

RAIPUR – Rights activists from across India are gathering here as a court is set to rule Friday in the case involving Binayak Sen, who spent two years in jail for alleged links with Maoists.

Security has been stepped up in and around the district and sessions court where judge B.P. Varma will give his … Read more »»».

Pakistan to set up national forensic agency

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has decided to establish a national forensic agency (NFA) due to the worsening law and order situation in the country and a budget of Rs.2 billion ($23 million) has been approved for setting it up, an official said.

The Express Tribune Thursday reported that the poor law and order situation prompted the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan to set up national forensic agency.

Detained Maoists call off 12-day hunger strike

KOLKATA – Maoists and pro-rebel inmates lodged in two prisons in West Bengal Wednesday withdrew their 12-day-old fast after assurances that facilities inside the jails will be improved.

The prisoners, including pro-Maoist tribal group People’s Committee Against police Atrocities (PCAPA) convenor Chhatradhar Mahato, had started an indefinite huger strike Dec 10, pressing for a 32-point …. Original article  : Detained Maoists call off 12-day hunger strike.

Two police officers arrested in Bhutto murder case

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani authorities Wednesday arrested two senior police officers for alleged dereliction of duty over the 2007 assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, a prosecutor said.

Bhutto was assassinated in a gun and suicide attack Dec 27, 2007 after addressing an election rally in Rawalpindi.
A court in Rawalpindi this month issued warrants … Read more >>.

Maoists torch vehicles in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoist guerrillas set on fire five vehicles belonging to a construction company on Ranchi’s outskirts late Tuesday, police said Wednesday.

The attack took place near the Damodar river, about 45 km from here. The Maoists set ablaze two dumpers and other machines, an officer said.
… Read more >>>.

Over 800 Afghan soldiers killed this year

KABUL – More than 800 Afghan soldiers have been killed in the country’s conflict with militants so far this year, more than any other since the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001, a defence ministry spokesman said Wednesday.

“A total of 806 Afghan National Army soldiers have been martyred in 2010,” Zahir Azimi told … Read more >>.

Al Qaeda affiliate renews threat against Iraqi Christians

BAGHDAD – An Al Qaeda affiliate responsible for a bloody attack on a Baghdad church earlier this year renewed threats against Iraqi Christians, according to Islamist websites Wednesday.

The statement, which has not been verified, said that there would be peace only after the release of two Egyptian women that the Islamic State of Iraq …. Original article  : Al Qaeda affiliate renews threat against Iraqi Christians.

10 escape unhurt in Maoist landmine blast

KOLKATA – At least 10 people travelling in a vehicle in West Bengals West Midnapore district had a narrow escape when a landmine suspected to have been triggered by Maoists exploded Wednesday afternoon, police said. Three women have have been detained for questioning.

A landmine exploded near Balichua in between Belpahari and Kokraghor while a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 10 escape unhurt in Maoist landmine blast.

NMDC resumes full iron ore shipment after Maoist shutdown

RAIPUR – Iron ore shipment by state-run National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) Ltd has reached its peak levels after three weeks of disruption at its key mining facilities in Chhattisgarh, an official said Wednesday.

“The iron ore shipment from Bailadila hills facilities has resumed to its full capacity after being hit by a Maoist shutdown … Original source on Gaea Times at : NMDC resumes full iron ore shipment after Maoist shutdown.

NATO urged to eliminate terrorist centres abroad

KABUL – A spokesman for the Afghan ministry of defence said Wednesday that security would not be achieved in Afghanistan unless NATO eliminates “terrorist sanctuaries” abroad.

“We believe that until the funding, training, equipping and staging centres for the terrorists are not eliminated outside of Afghanistan, security will not be established in Afghanistan or in … Read more >>.

WSOC-TV Employees Threatened

CHARLOTTE (GaeaTimes.com)- Police on Tuesday arrested a woman from the Charlotte ABC affiliate WSOC-TV after she had appeared on the site and panicked the employees with her life threatening act. Reportedly the woman had threatened to end her life. The situation at the TV station was all the more dangerous as the woman was possessing … Read more >>>.

Women being recruited to fight Taliban suicide bombers

LONDON – Afghan women are being recruited for the very first time by the country’s national police to help tackle Taliban suicide bombers, a media report said Wednesday.

Earlier, women “had only been tasked with menial backroom responsibilities”.
But, with training from the British ministry of defence and the British Army, Afghan women are now …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Women being recruited to fight Taliban suicide bombers.

Policeman killed in Quetta blast

ISLAMABAD – One policeman was killed and three injured in a blast in Pakistan’s Quetta city Friday, a media report said.

The Dawn reported that the bomb was planted on a bicycle and was detonated when a police van was passing through Qambrani road of the Balochistan capital city.
Original source on Gaea Times at : Policeman killed in Quetta blast.

Blast in Pakistan school

ISLAMABAD – Two students were injured Friday in a blast in a Peshawar school, a media report said.

A classroom of the New Modern Collegiate School was damaged in the blast, Xinhua reported citing Express TV.
Bomb disposal squads and a rescue team have been dispatched to the school, officials said.
… Read more >>>.

Maoists disrupt panchayat polls in Jharkhand

RANCHI – The Maoists set on fire three vehicles and disrupted voting at a polling booth in Jharkhand’s Garwah district during the last leg of the panchayat polls Friday, police said.

“Maoist guerrillas set on fire three vehicles at Matgari of Garwah district. At one polling booth, they tried to disrupt the polling,” … Read : Maoists disrupt panchayat polls in Jharkhand.

Suresh Kalmadi’s Houses Raided By CBI

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- In a sensational development that have sent waves in the media and political circles in India the CBI carried out raids on the houses of disgraced CWG Organizing Committee chief aka Suresh Kalmadi. The raids were conducted at his houses in the Indian capital and Pune in connection with CWG related …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Suresh Kalmadi’s Houses Raided By CBI.

August Busch IV In Legal Soup?

Huntleigh (GaeaTimes.com)- Former Anheuser-Busch CEO August Busch IV is likely to land in a legal soup after the body of a dead woman was recovered from his home on Sunday. A 27 year old woman found dead inside August Busch IV’s St. Louis home at Huntleigh has stirred an uproar surrounding the former Budweiser beer … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : August Busch IV In Legal Soup?.

Benazir Bhutto murder: Musharraf sent questionnaire

ISLAMABAD – Pervez Musharraf has been sent a questionnaire by the interior ministry regarding the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto in 2007, when he was the president.

Dawn reported Friday that the questionnaire was sent to Musharraf, who now lives in self-exile in the UAE and London, even as two arrested former police [..] Read the original article: here.

Militants kill US spies to avenge drone attacks

WASHINGTON – Suspected American spies are being killed routinely in Pakistan’s northwestern tribal region bordering Afghanistan, apparently to avenge US drone attacks.

Tribesmen in the region have said corpses appear in fields and on roadsides almost every day with written warnings pinned to their clothes: “All American spies will meet the same fate.”
“Espionage has … Original source on Gaea Times at : Militants kill US spies to avenge drone attacks.

24 Taliban militants killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 24 gunmen and three soldiers were killed Friday morning after Taliban militants attacked checkposts in Pakistan’s northwestern region bordering Afghanistan, a media report said.

About 150 Taliban militants attacked five Frontier Corps checkposts in Baidnami village in Mohmand district near the border with Afghanistan, Geo News reported citing a senior security … Read : 24 Taliban militants killed in Pakistan.

Stockholm underground station evacuated over hoax

STOCKHOLM – Police evacuated a station on the Stockholm underground late Thursday after a suspicious item was spotted on the platform, eventually proving to have been a hoax, police said Friday.

Bomb disposal experts summoned to the scene destroyed the object, which appeared to have been made to look like a fake bomb, a Stockholm … Read more »»».

Anarchists claim responsibility for Rome bombings

ROME – An Italian anarchist group has claimed responsibility for two parcel bombings that targeted the Swiss and Chilean embassies in Rome Thursday, the Italian news agency Ansa reported.

A statement to that effect was recovered from a small box found next to one of the two embassy workers who were injured in the explosions.
Read : Anarchists claim responsibility for Rome bombings.

Two injured in blasts at embassies in Rome (Fourth Lead)

LONDON – Police searched embassies and consular offices in Rome after two people were injured in separate parcel bomb blasts Thursday at the Swiss and Chilean missions in the Italian capital. The Mayor of Rome described the blasts as a “wave of terrorism against embassies”.

A Swiss employee at his embassy received serious hand injuries …. Source article  : Two injured in blasts at embassies in Rome (Fourth Lead).

CBI interrogates RSS leader; conspiracy, says Kumar (Fourth Lead)

NEW DELHI – The CBI Thursday questioned Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Indresh Kumar for more than five hours in connection with the 2007 Mecca Masjid blast in Hyderabad that killed nine people. The RSS leader described his questioning as a “political conspiracy” by the Congress.

Emerging out of the Central Bureau of Investigation office …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : CBI interrogates RSS leader; conspiracy, says Kumar (Fourth Lead).

Embassy blasts rock Rome ahead of Christmas (Third Lead)

ROME – Two people were injured Thursday in separate, but similar, bomb blasts at the Swiss and Chilean embassies in Rome.

It was not immediately clear if the attacks were linked, police said.
In the first incident, which took place around midday, a parcel exploded in the hands of 53-year-old Swiss man employed in the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Embassy blasts rock Rome ahead of Christmas (Third Lead).

Four LeT men in Mumbai, planning major attack: Police

MUMBAI – Four LeT men have sneaked into Mumbai and are planning a “violent” attack on the city, Joint Commissioner of Police Himanshu Roy said here Thursday evening.

“We have received information about four LeT men sneaking into the city some time back. We have released the sketch of one man Vaalid Jinnah,” said Roy.
…. Source  : Four LeT men in Mumbai, planning major attack: Police.

India keen to send panel to Pak to question 26/11 suspects

NEW DELHI – With Pakistan dragging its feet over the Mumbai attacks probe, India is keen to send a panel to Islamabad to question top Lashkar-e-Taiba mastermind of 26/11, including Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, and get voice samples of those directing the carnage. India has conveyed to Pakistan its desire to send such a commission to Islamabad, … Original source on Gaea Times at : India keen to send panel to Pak to question 26/11 suspects.

Two injured in bomb explosions in Rome (Second Lead)

Rome, Dec 23 (IANS/AKI) A pair of bombs exploded Thursday at the Swiss and Chilean embassies in Rome injuring two people. Another bomb was found at the Ukrainian embassy.

Nobody immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks that may result in the loss of both hands of the 53-year-old Swiss embassy employee who opened a package …. Read the original article  : Two injured in bomb explosions in Rome (Second Lead).

One injured in blast at Chilean embassy in Rome

ROME – A person was injured Thursday in a bomb explosion at the Chilean embassy in Rome. The incident took place just hours after a man was injured in another blast at the Swiss embassy in the Italian capital.

Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi was scheduled to hold urgent talks on the incidents with Interior … Read this article on Gaea Times at : One injured in blast at Chilean embassy in Rome.

Bomb explodes at Chilean embassy in Rome: Report

ROME – A bomb exploded at the Chilean embassy in Rome, just hours after a man was injured in another blast at the Swiss embassy in the Italian capital, Italian media reported Thursday.
Original source on Gaea Times at : Bomb explodes at Chilean embassy in Rome: Report.

One injured in blast at Swiss embassy in Rome

ROME – One person was “seriously” injured Thursday when a parcel exploded at the Swiss embassy in Rome, Carabinieri police officials said.

The man, an embassy employee, was taken to Rome’s Umberto I hospital where he was being treated, an official told DPA.
Police were examining the scene of the blast which took place in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : One injured in blast at Swiss embassy in Rome.

Blast at Swiss embassy in Rome: Report

ROME – One person was “seriously” injured Thursday when a parcel exploded at the Swiss embassy in Rome, the ANSA news agency reported.
… Read this article on Gaea Times at : Blast at Swiss embassy in Rome: Report.

Bullets left behind by ULFA found in Bangladesh village

DHAKA – Bangladesh authorities have found 13,000 bullets in a village on its northeastern border with India that they say were left behind by Indian militants.

Based on information from locals, investigators said the bullets found in Bakagora village of Sherpur district belonged to insurgents from the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) who were … Read : Bullets left behind by ULFA found in Bangladesh village.

Now drink containers under scanner at North American airports

TORONTO/NEW YORK/WASHINGTON – Beverage containers also came under the scanner at US and Canadian airports from Friday as the North American countries further tightened aviation security.

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority followed the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) which enforced these measures for passengers boarding flights in the country.
The TSA warned Friday that … Read more : Now drink containers under scanner at North American airports.

Back in open, but Assam’s freed rebels have lot to do

GUWAHATI – Years of life underground, then captured and put behind bars for another long stint, and finally back to the mainstream – life has turned full circle for at least five top separatist leaders currently out on bail in Assam.

This is another challenging journey that I have embarked upon after being released on …. Source  : Back in open, but Assam’s freed rebels have lot to do.

Female suicide bomber kills 42 in Pakistan (Third Lead)

ISLAMABAD – A suspected female suicide bomber killed at least 42 people in a crowd receiving food at a distribution centre in Pakistan’s tribal region Saturday, government officials said.

Seventy others were injured in the attack at Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district, where government forces are fighting Taliban and Al Qaeda militants.
…. Original article  : Female suicide bomber kills 42 in Pakistan (Third Lead).

Amnesty denounces sentencing of Sen

LONDON – Amnesty International said Saturday that the life sentence handed down to Indian rights activist Binayak Sen for his alleged Maoist links violates “international fair trial standards”.

It is also “likely to enflame tensions in the conflict-affected area” of Chhattisgarh, Amnesty said in a statement.
“Life in prison is an unusually harsh sentence for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Seven killed in Nigeria bomb attacks

NAIROBI/LAGOS – A series of bomb attacks on Christmas eve left at least seven people dead in Nigeria, a news report said Saturday.

At least nine explosions hit different parts of Plateau State in the centre of the country within an hour of each other late Friday, the Daily Sun reported.
A police officer … Original article on : Seven killed in Nigeria bomb attacks.

Suicide bomber kills 30 in northwest Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A suicide bomber detonated his explosives among a group of people receiving supplies from a UN food distribution centre in Pakistan’s tribal region Saturday, killing at least 30 people, a government official said.

Seventy others were injured in the attack at Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district where government forces are … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Suicide bomber kills 30 in northwest Pakistan.

Five killed in blast at Pakistan checkpoint

ISLAMABAD – At least five people were killed in a bomb blast at a security post in Pakistan’s tribal region near the Afghan border Saturday, a government official said.

Ten others were injured in the attack at Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district where government forces are fighting Taliban and Al Qaeda militants.
…. Original article  : Five killed in blast at Pakistan checkpoint.

Now thermoses, coffee cups added to terror weapons list

WASHINGTON – Air travellers carrying thermoses or coffee cups at US airports may be subject to extra scrutiny during this holiday season as such items could be used to conceal explosive materials, according to an official advisory.

Officials note no specific threat regarding thermos bottles and cups, but the warning to Christmas Eve travellers and …. Original article  : Now thermoses, coffee cups added to terror weapons list.

Bomb explodes in Philippines church

MANILA – An improvised bomb exploded Saturday at the roof of a Catholic church in the southern Philippines, injuring six people attending a Christmas Day mass, a regional military spokesman said.

Among those wounded was the priest who was celebrating the mass at the chapel of a police camp on Jolo Island, 1,000 km south … Read more : Bomb explodes in Philippines church.

Israeli airstrike leaves three wounded in Gaza

GAZA – Israeli warplanes carried out three airstrikes late Friday against targets in the Gaza Strip, medical staff and witnesses said.

Israeli F-16s flying over the coastal enclave fired two missiles at susepcted smuggling tunnels on the border between southern Gaza and Egypt. No injuries were reported, witnesses said.
Israel said the tunnels are used …. Read the original article  : here.

Attack on US embassy in Afghan capital thwarted: NATO

KABUL – NATO-led forces killed two suspected insurgents in central Kabul Friday after receiving intelligence that the men had planned to attack the US embassy, the alliance said.

The operation was conducted by joint Afghan and NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops in response to a “credible threat” to the US embassy, the military … Original source on Gaea Times at : Attack on US embassy in Afghan capital thwarted: NATO.

Suspected Maoists kill four in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Suspected Maoists killed four political activists, including two of the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) while two rebels were nabbed in West Bengal Friday.

Police said two CPI-M workers were killed in the Belpahari police station area under Jhargram sub-division of West Midnapore district.
Manorajan Mahto and Rathindranath Gop were abducted from … Read : Suspected Maoists kill four in West Bengal.

PM warns of terror becoming internal problem

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday warned against the danger of terrorism becoming “an internal intruding problem” and underlined that if Maoism is not curbed, India will have to bid goodbye to to its ambitions of 10-11 percent annual growth.

“We must also recognize that today I think there are dangers that … Read more »».

Iraqi man kills daughter after she joins Al Qaeda

BAGHDAD – An Iraqi man killed his daughter after he discovered that she had been recruited by Al Qaeda, police sources said Friday.

“Nijm Abd turned himself in to police after killing his daughter when he discovered she works with Al Qaeda to carry out bombing attacks in Baquba city,” the sources told DPA.
The …. Original source  : Iraqi man kills daughter after she joins Al Qaeda.

PM warns of terror modules, internal terrorism

NEW DELHI – Asking budding police officers to tackle terrorism, Maoism and communalism, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday underlined that the problem of home-grown terror needs to be dealt with sensitivity.

“We must also recognize that today I think there are dangers that terrorism can become an internal intruding problem as well,” Manmohan Singh … Original article on : PM warns of terror modules, internal terrorism.

Pakistan clashes kill 11 soldiers, 24 militants (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – Fierce clashes between the Taliban militants and security personnel at five security checkposts in Pakistan’s restive northwest left 11 soldiers and 24 militants dead Friday, an official said.

Around 150 militants attacked the checkposts in a tribal area of Mohmand Agency in the wee hours of Friday, Online news agency reported quoting security … Original article on : Pakistan clashes kill 11 soldiers, 24 militants (Second Lead).

Binayak Sen Sentenced For Sedition

RAIPUR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- An Additional District and Sessions Court in Raipur, the capital of Chattishgarh today gave life sentence to Dr Binayak Sen along with two others for trying to provide aid to naxalites in establishing a network. The others are Piyush Guha a Calcutta based businessman and Narayan Sanyal a Naxal ideologue. After … Read more >>.

Barbie Doll Issues Threat

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- The Barbie doll which is a big asset for all the little girls is having its tryst with the law after FBI issued out warning notices with regard to the latest “Barbie Video Girl”. The doll which has a secret camera hidden inside its body stirred uproar after an individual convicted of …. Original article  : Barbie Doll Issues Threat.

Maoists kill CRPF trooper in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoists killed a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) trooper in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district Friday during the fifth and final phase of panchayat polls in the state, police said.

“One CRPF personnel was killed and three others were injured in a landmine blast near Nagratonagra village. The security personnel were returning after conducting …. Original article  : Maoists kill CRPF trooper in Jharkhand.

Are Maoists on the backfoot in Orissa?

BHUBANESWAR – Offensives by security forces and the refusal of people to join have hit hard Maoists in Orissa, police say. But experts are not so sure and say the guerrillas are only lying low.

“The Maoists have weakened. They are not getting support. They are not able to increase their strength as people are …. Source article  : Are Maoists on the backfoot in Orissa?.

Suicide attack in Pakistan affront to humanity: Obama

ISLAMABAD – US President Barack Obama condemned Saturday’s suicide attack in northwestern Pakistan in which 44 people were killed, saying the terror strike is “an affront to humanity”.

“I strongly condemn the outrageous terrorist attack in Khar, Pakistan,” Obama said in a statement from Hawaii, US, where he was celebrating Christmas with his family.
…. Read the original article  : Suicide attack in Pakistan affront to humanity: Obama.

Attack in Pakistan affront to humanity: Obama

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama condemned a suicide bombing in Pakistan that left at least 44 people dead at a UN World Food Programme distribution point Saturday.

“Killing innocent civilians outside a World Food Programme distribution point is an affront to the people of Pakistan, and to all humanity,” Obama said in a statement … Read more »»».

Bomb blasts, church attacks kill 29 in Nigeria (Second Lead)

ABUJA/LAGOS – Twenty-nine people were killed in a series of bomb blasts and attacks on churches in Nigeria on Christmas eve, officials said Saturday.

According to Xinhua, at least 23 people were killed in the blasts that rocked restive Jos city, capital of the Plateau State, a local hospital official said.
Another 32 victims were …. Original source  : Bomb blasts, church attacks kill 29 in Nigeria (Second Lead).

Dutch police arrest 12 Somali terror suspects

ROTTERDAM – Police have arrested 12 Somali men suspected of planning a terrorist attack in the Netherlands, Dutch public prosecutors said Saturday.

The arrests took place Friday evening in the port city of Rotterdam after the Dutch secret service, the AIVD, received concrete evidence of the men’s plans, the public prosecutor said.
Islamic extremists have … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dutch police arrest 12 Somali terror suspects.

23 killed in Nigeria blasts

LAGOS – At least 23 people were killed in a series of bomb blasts that rocked Nigeria’s restive Jos city on the Christmas eve, a local hospital official said Saturday.

Another 32 victims were receiving treatment in hospital, Ishaya Pam, chief medical director at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), was quoted as saying by … Read more »»».

Iraqi Christians celebrate Christmas amid tight security

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Christians celebrated Christmas quietly Saturday, amid tight security over concerns of sectarian attacks.

Most Christians headed to churches near their homes and businesses to attend services held Saturday morning instead of Christmas Eve for more security.
Leading Shia politician Ammar al-Hakim, head of the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council, attended the mass held …. Source  : Iraqi Christians celebrate Christmas amid tight security.

Suicide bombing, helicopter raids kill 84 in Pakistan (Sixth Lead)

ISLAMABAD – Eighty-four people were killed Saturday in a suicide bombing and government helicopter attacks in the tribal region along Pakistan’s border with Afghanistan, officials said.

A female suicide bomber targeted a crowd collecting food at a distribution centre run by the UN’s World Food Programme, killing 44 people.
Seventy others were injured in the …. Source article  : Suicide bombing, helicopter raids kill 84 in Pakistan (Sixth Lead).

Female suicide bomber kills 44 in Pakistan (Fifth Lead)

Islamabad, Dec 25 (IANS/DPA) A female suicide bomber wearing a burqa exploded herself in a crowd receiving food at a UN distribution centre in Pakistan’s tribal region Saturday killing 44 people, officials said.

Seventy others were injured in the devastating attack at Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district where government forces have been … Read more »»».

Trooper killed in Bengal landmine blast by Maoists

KOLKATA – An elite anti-Maoist battalion central trooper was killed and four others were injured in a landmine blast during an exchange of fire between the security forces and the guerrillas in West Bengal’s Purulia district, an official said Saturday.

“There was a landmine blast while the gunbattle was on,” State Home Secretary Samar Ghosh …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Saudi forces kill suspected militant disguised as woman

RIYADH – Saudi Arabian security forces shot dead a suspected Islamist militant disguised as a woman, after he opened fire at them during a checkpoint inspection, local media said Saturday.

The man, wearing a woman’s face-veil and black clothes, opened fire after security stopped his car Friday evening in the central town of Wadi Al-Dawasir, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Saudi forces kill suspected militant disguised as woman.

Female suicide bomber kills 43 in Pakistan (Fourth Lead)

ISLAMABAD – A suspected female suicide bomber killed at least 43 people in a crowd receiving food at a distribution centre in Pakistan’s tribal region Saturday, officials said.

Seventy others were injured in the attack at Khar, the main town in Bajaur tribal district, where government forces are fighting Taliban and Al Qaeda militants.
Local …. Original article  : Female suicide bomber kills 43 in Pakistan (Fourth Lead).

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