Girl attempts suicide after boy circulates MMS

RANCHI – A teenaged village girl in Jharkhand tried to commit suicide after discovering that a boy from her village her circulated a pornographic MMS involving her, police said Monday.

A resident of Giddi village in Ramgarh district, around 45 km from Ranchi, Rajni (name changed) belongs to a very poor family. A student of Class …. Source article  : Girl attempts suicide after boy circulates MMS.

Man kills son for refusing to beg

RAIPUR – A man killed his 11-year-old son and buried him in his house after the boy refused to join his father as a beggar in a Chhattisgarh village. The man was arrested Monday, police said.

Ashok Nishad, 50, smothered his son Bhola Nishad to death Friday at Thethwarpara village in Dongargarh, some 125 km from …. Source article  : Man kills son for refusing to beg.

Two killed in explosion at scrap dealer’s shop

LUCKNOW – A scrap dealer and his son were killed in an explosion in their shop in Uttar Pradesh’s Jhansi district, police said Monday. Two people were injured in the incident.

The explosion took place in the Baruasagar area late Sunday. The scrap dealer, Govind Das, died Sunday itself while his son Jeetu succumbed to …. Source article  : Two killed in explosion at scrap dealer’s shop.

Floods surging into southern Pakistan test city’s defenses; 13 die as bus plunges into ravine

Floods test defenses in southern Pakistani city

SUKKUR, Pakistan – Workers piled stones and sandbags to plug leaks in a levee protecting a southern Pakistani city Monday, as the floods that have destroyed homes, farmland and livelihoods moved slowly toward the sea.
A bus carrying people fleeing the water plunged into a flooded ravine in Punjab province, … Read : Floods surging into southern Pakistan test city’s defenses; 13 die as bus plunges into ravine.

Sex cult smashed in China

BEIJING – A cult, which advocated sexual liberation, was smashed by the police in China’s Xiamen city. The cult leader lived with some of his women followers and had group sex activities with them.

Sex cult leader Chen Keyong even persuaded some women to bring teenage girls to his training courses, Shanghai Daily Monday quoted Xiamen … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sex cult smashed in China.

Tropical Storm Danielle Gains Momentum

MIAMI (GaeaTimes.com)- The 2010 Hurricane season coined its fourth name on Sunday when the tropical depression that had formed over the central Atlantic ocean on Saturday was upgraded to a tropical storm named Danielle after it gained strength. Officials of the National Hurricane Center has warned that chances are high that the Tropical Storm … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tropical Storm Danielle Gains Momentum.

Italian mafia clans contact jailed mobsters via TV show

LONDON – Criminals have been using a popular football show aired on an Italian television to exchange coded mobile text messages with their jailed cronies, a media report said here Monday.

Imprisoned crime bosses were kept up to date through mobile phone texts sent to the show, Quelli Che il Calcio, which unwittingly scrolled them across …. Original article  : Italian mafia clans contact jailed mobsters via TV show.

Telugu film actresses among nine held for prostitution

HYDERABAD – Telugu film actresses Saira Banu and Jyoti and seven others were caught red-handed in a prostitution racket busted by Hyderabad police here Monday.

Saira, who played lead role in few Telugu films, and Jyoti, a supporting actress in many films, were arrested along with a woman from Uzbekistan and their customers from an apartment … Read more »»».

Iraqi officials say late night bombings in Baghdad kill 1, wound 17 people

Bombings in Baghdad kill 1, wound 17 people

BAGHDAD – Iraqi police say one person has been killed and 17 were wounded in separate late night bombings in Baghdad.
The first attack targeted a liquor store near central Baghdad around 8 p.m. Monday. A police official said the blast was caused by a roadside bomb that wounded … Original source on Gaea Times at : Iraqi officials say late night bombings in Baghdad kill 1, wound 17 people.

Four killed in Congress-CPI-M clashes in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Three Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) activists and a Congress worker were Monday killed in clashes between supporters of the two parties over a school management committee poll in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, police said.

“Four people died and eight were injured in the clashes that broke out over Sunday’s management committee elections at … Original source on Gaea Times at : Four killed in Congress-CPI-M clashes in West Bengal.

Policeman commits suicide in Bihar

PATNA – A police official Monday committed suicide within the premises of a police station in Bihar’s Jamui district, an official said.

Damodar Singh, a sub-inspector posted at Chakai police station, shot himself in the head with his service revolver, a police official said.
The reason behind is suicide is not yet known, he …. Source  : Policeman commits suicide in Bihar.

Southern farmers say disaster aid program tailored to Midwest needs fix to work elsewhere

Southern farmers say disaster aid plan failed them

MINNEAPOLIS – The permanent disaster aid program in the 2008 Farm Bill was intended to spare Congress from having to scrape up extra money every time a drought, flood or hurricane struck farm country, but growers in the South claim the plan has failed them.
They argue the program …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Southern farmers say disaster aid program tailored to Midwest needs fix to work elsewhere.

40 years after bombing at UW-Madison, last of Vietnam protest fugitives remains ‘a ghost’

40 years later, Wis. bomber is a ‘ghost’
MADISON, Wis. – University of Wisconsin student Leo Burt approached his former journalism instructor at the student union one day in August 1970.

The intense 22-year-old thanked the man for encouraging him to write for a left-wing student newspaper, where he covered the Vietnam War protests raging on campus …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 40 years after bombing at UW-Madison, last of Vietnam protest fugitives remains ‘a ghost’.

Dismissed police officer seizes tourist bus in Philippines

MANILA – A sacked police officer armed with an assault rifle Monday seized a bus carrying more than 20 Chinese tourists in the Philippines, police said.

Authorities said the suspect, police officer Rolando Del Rosario Mendoza, was demanding a review of his dismissal in January in the hope of being reinstated to the police force.
The …. Original article  : Dismissed police officer seizes tourist bus in Philippines.

Roadside bombs kill 2 foreign troops in Afghanistan, raising month’s toll to 44

NATO: Bombs kill 2 foreign troops in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Roadside bombs killed two members of the international security force in Afghanistan on Monday, including one American, NATO reported.
The attacks came in the north and south of the country, NATO said. No other information was released immediately in accordance with procedure.
The deaths bring the number …. Original source  : Roadside bombs kill 2 foreign troops in Afghanistan, raising month’s toll to 44.

Floods surge into southern Pakistan, testing defenses in one city

Flood defenses strengthened in Pakistan
SUKKUR, Pakistan – Authorities piled stones and sandbags to strengthen embankments protecting a city from rising waters in Pakistan on Monday as the floods moved slowly south after leaving thousands of square kilometers (miles) of destruction in their wake.

The disaster has left around six million people homeless from the mountainous north …. Source article  : Floods surge into southern Pakistan, testing defenses in one city.

Unidentified gunmen kill three in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Three people, including a mother and a daughter, have been killed in separate incidents in Kashmir Valley, police said Monday.

The incidents took place late Sunday.
According to police, Muhammad Hussain Gorsi in Damal Hanjipora village of Kulgam district lost his wife Shakeela, 40, and daughter Zarina, 19, when gunmen broke into their … Read more »».

Staying sane may be toughest challenge for 33 trapped Chilean miners months away from rescue

33 miners in Chile are alive, but stuck for months

COPIAPO, Chile – For 33 men found alive after 17 days trapped deep in a copper and gold mine, the toughest challenge now may be preserving their sanity during the months it may take to carve a tunnel big enough for them to get out.
Chileans were …. Original article  : Staying sane may be toughest challenge for 33 trapped Chilean miners months away from rescue.

3 Malaysian Indians killed in car crash

KLANG – Three ethnic Indians were killed early Monday when their car crashed into a road divider in Malaysia.

Selangor state public order and traffic chief Che Hussin Omar said 25-year-old D. Kevinderan was driving with his two friends — S. Thanaselan, 30, and Devanathan, 26.
The incident occurred at 4.45 a.m., The Star newspaper …. Read the original article  : 3 Malaysian Indians killed in car crash.

Fire in Uttar Pradesh warehouse

LUCKNOW – Goods worth lakhs of rupees were destroyed when a fire broke out in a warehouse in a busy market area in Uttar Pradesh’s Shahjahanpur district Monday, police said.

The fire broke out in the warehouse of Right Concept Marketing in Anta Bazar building. It soon spread to other commercial establishments.
No casualty or injury … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fire in Uttar Pradesh warehouse.

Long Island Rail Road Paralyzed By Fire

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- The regular commuters of Long Island Rail Road has to face a harrowing time on Monday after a fire that erupted in the switching station disrupted the train service for around four hours. At around 11 a.m yesterday morning the fire broke out quite close to the control tower in the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Long Island Rail Road Paralyzed By Fire.

Australian guard held taking snaps up women’s skirts

SYDNEY – A security guard in Australia has been charged with taking more than 500 sneaky photos up the skirts of women at his workplaces.

Kok Chuen Chong, 49, used a mobile phone secreted in a shopping bag to record video footage up women’s dresses 507 times over a two-year period, Perth Now quoted police …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Australian guard held taking snaps up women’s skirts.

Hurricane Danielle becomes Category 2 storm far out over Atlantic Ocean with 100 mph winds

Hurricane Danielle becomes Category 2 storm

MIAMI – Hurricane Danielle has strengthened to a Category 2 storm as it churns far out over the Atlantic.
The hurricane has maximum sustained winds Tuesday near 100 mph (160 kph) and could become a major hurricane by early Wednesday.
Danielle is located about 1,110 miles (1,790 kilometers) east of the Lesser [..] Read the original article: here.

2nd bore hole for communications reaches 33 trapped miners, ventilation shaft nearly there

2nd bore hole reaches 33 trapped in Chile mine

COPIAPO, Chile – Rescuers are lowering capsules containing rehydration tablets, glucose and oxygen down a long hole to 33 miners who surprised the world by staying alive while trapped a half-mile underground for 2?? weeks.
Raising hopes further Monday, a second bore hole punched into the chamber where … Read more »».

More than 150 women raped in Congolese village, says UN

NAIROBI/GOMA – More than 150 women have been raped by rebels in a remote area of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, an aid agency and the UN said.

A Rwandan rebel group, the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), occupied the town of Luvungi July 30 and embarked on a four-day raping spree in …. Original article  : More than 150 women raped in Congolese village, says UN.

Indian held with jehadi literature in US

NEW YORK – An Indian has been arrested for carrying jehadi literature at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, a media report said.

Vijay Kumar, 40, was arrested Friday after security officials searched his luggage when they noticed him behaving strangely, the New York Post reported Monday. Kumar said he is from Mumbai.
Officers found books …. Source  : Indian held with jehadi literature in US.

Gegong Apang arrested for PDS scam

GUWAHATI – Former Arunachal Pradesh chief minister and veteran Congress leader Gegong Apang was Tuesday arrested by sleuths of the Special Investigation Cell (SIC) for his alleged involvement in a Rs.1,000-crore public distribution system (PDS) scam.

A government spokesperson said Apang was arrested in capital Itanagar around midday.
The SIC was constituted by the state government …. Original source  : Gegong Apang arrested for PDS scam.

All 14 die in Nepal plane crash (Fifth Lead)

KATHMANDU – The festival of Raksha Bandhan, when sisters pray for the long life of their brothers, turned into stark tragedy in Nepal Tuesday as all 14 people on board a private aircraft, including seven foreign tourists, were killed in a crash near Kathmandu.

The 15-seater Dornier aircraft flown by domestic carrier Agni Air was heading …. Original article  : All 14 die in Nepal plane crash (Fifth Lead).

Miners’ rescue will take months, says Chile

Santiago, Aug 24 (IANS/EFE) The 33 miners who have survived nearly three weeks after a cave-in at a gold and copper mine in northern Chile will have to hold out another three months while rescuers work to dig them out, Chilean authorities say.

Early Sunday morning, a drill bored to a depth of 688 meters to … Read more : Miners’ rescue will take months, says Chile.

Minn. bridge collapse settlement closes legal chapter for victims but money can’t replace all

Minn. bridge deal closes legal chapter for victims

MINNEAPOLIS – A $52 million legal settlement will help Minneapolis bridge collapse victims cover lost wages and pay medical bills. It won’t do anything for the missed weddings, altered college plans or horrific memories from that August day three years ago.
Monday’s announcement of a settlement with engineering giant … Original source on Gaea Times at : Minn. bridge collapse settlement closes legal chapter for victims but money can’t replace all.

On rain-soaked Martha’s Vineyard, Obama eats out but still keeps a low profile

Despite Martha’s Vineyard deluge, Obamas dine out

OAK BLUFFS, Mass. – More drenching rain and wind gusts are in the forecast Tuesday for the vacationing President Barack Obama.
A weather front that moved in Sunday has helped keep Obama and his family out of public view during the last few days on Martha’s Vineyard off Cape Cod.
Mostly, … Read more »».

All 14 killed in Nepal plane crash (Fourth Lead)

KATHMANDU – The festival of Raksha Bandhan, when sisters pray for the long life of their brothers, turned into stark tragedy in Nepal Tuesday as all 14 people aboard a private aircraft carrying tourists were killed following a crash near Kathmandu.

The flight by domestic airline Agni Air headed towards northern Nepal was carrying 11 passengers, … Read more »»».

US troops fire warning shots to end protests over Afghan police arrest of religious leader

US troops fire shots to disperse Afghan protesters
KABUL, Afghanistan – U.S. troops fired warning shots to disperse a protest in eastern Afghanistan over the arrest of a religious leader suspected of a rocket attack, NATO said Tuesday.
The alliance said no civilian injuries were reported from the protest Monday, but Gen. Faqir … Original article on : US troops fire warning shots to end protests over Afghan police arrest of religious leader.

Mumbai diamond heist cracked, Interpol help sought (Second Lead)

MUMBAI – Three Mexican nationals carried out the daring diamond heist worth over Rs.6.6 crore from the India International Jewellery Show-2010 here and fled to Dubai, police said Tuesday, adding that Interpol help has been sought to nab them.

The case was cracked after studying the CCTV footage and checking visitor records of the jewellery … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mumbai diamond heist cracked, Interpol help sought (Second Lead).

Toyota’s Prius hybrid becoming louder to warn pedestrians in response to safety worries

Prius gets sound option to protect pedestrians

TOKYO – Toyota’s Prius hybrid is becoming a little less quiet with a new electronic humming device that is the automaker’s answer to complaints that pedestrians can’t hear the top-selling car approaching.
The 12,600 yen ($148) speaker system that goes under the hood of the third-generation Prius sets off a … Read more : Toyota’s Prius hybrid becoming louder to warn pedestrians in response to safety worries.

Woman charged with trying to poison Venezuelan actress

Mexico City, Aug 24 (IANS/EFE) A woman accused of trying to poison a Venezuelan actress and members of her family was arraigned here, the Mexico City district attorney’s office said.

Argentine national Marcia Celeste Fernandez Babio, 24, worked as an assistant to Gabriela Elena Spanic Utrera and over at least four months she administered … Read more >>.

Pakistani president says recovering from devastating floods will take at least 3 years

Pakistan president: Flood recovery will take years
ISLAMABAD – Recovering from the devastating floods still battering Pakistan will take at least three years, the president said, as the waters swept south after leaving millions homeless and submerging millions of acres of farmland.
The floods that began nearly a month ago with hammering monsoon rains …. Source article  : Pakistani president says recovering from devastating floods will take at least 3 years.

All 14 on board feared dead in Nepal plane crash (Third Lead)

KATHMANDU – The festival of Raksha Bandhan turned into stark tragedy in Nepal Tuesday as all 14 people aboard a private aircraft carrying tourists were feared to have been killed following a crash near Kathmandu.

Gyan Kumar Thokuwa, an eyewitness in Shikharpur village where the crash occurred around 7.30 a.m., said the aircraft was in flames [..] Read the original article: here.

Shipping halted at China’s Three Gorges dam as dam to experience fresh flood peak

Floods halt shipping at China’s Three Gorges dam

BEIJING – Authorities have halted shipping through China’s massive Three Gorges Dam on the upper reaches of the Yangtze river because the dam will experience another flood peak Tuesday.
Water levels at the world’s largest hydroelectric project have been at high levels for weeks from record rains, which have …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rs.6.6 cr diamond heist cracked, Interpol help sought

MUMBAI – The daring diamond heist of over Rs.6.6 crore from the India International Jewellery Show-2010 here was the handiwork of three Mexican nationals who have fled to Dubai, police said, adding that help had been sought from Interpol to nab them.

The case was cracked after studying the CCTV footage and checking visitor records of … Read : Rs.6.6 cr diamond heist cracked, Interpol help sought.

Saudi hammers 23 nails into Sri Lankan maid’s body

RIYADH – A maid from Sri Lanka was being treated in hospital after her employer in Saudi Arabia allegedly hammered 23 nails into her body, Arab News daily reported Wednesday.

“I had to work continuously since I had to do the chores of all the occupants and when I wanted to take rest due to tiredness, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Saudi hammers 23 nails into Sri Lankan maid’s body.

String of attacks targeting police kills 22 in Iraq as number of US troops falls below 50,000

22 dead in string of attacks in Iraq
BAGHDAD – A string of more than a dozen attacks targeting Iraqi security forces stretching from one end of the country to the other killed 22 people and left scores wounded on Wednesday, police and hospital officials said.

There were no claims of responsibility, but the scale and reach …. Original source  : String of attacks targeting police kills 22 in Iraq as number of US troops falls below 50,000.

Hurricane Danielle gaining strength in Atlantic; TS Frank moving away from Mexico’s SW coast

Hurricane Danielle gaining strength in Atlantic

MIAMI – Hurricane Danielle has strengthened a little as it swirls far out over the Atlantic.
Danielle’s maximum sustained winds increased Wednesday to near 85 mph (140 kph). Additional strengthening is expected over the next two days.
The hurricane is located about 795 miles (1,275 kilometers) east of the Northern Leeward Islands … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hurricane Danielle gaining strength in Atlantic; TS Frank moving away from Mexico’s SW coast.

Teenager held for killing three kids in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on charges of murdering three children, all under the age of 10 years, in a Chhattisgarh village, police said Wednesday.

“Mahesh (not his real name) was arrested late Tuesday. He confessed that he killed the three kids in Nimora village (about 15 km from here) Aug 20,” Superintendent …. Original source  : Teenager held for killing three kids in Chhattisgarh.

Saudi employer hammers 23 nails into Lankan maid’s body

RIYADH – A maid from Sri Lanka was being treated in hospital after her employer in Saudi Arabia allegedly hammered 23 nails into her body, Arab News daily reported Wednesday.

“I had to work continuously since I had to do the chores of all the occupants and when I wanted to take rest due to tiredness, …. Read the original article  : here.

Chidambaram cautions against ’saffron terrorism’

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Wednesday asked the chiefs of state police forces and security agencies to be vigilant against various forms of extremism, including “saffron terrorism” that he said had been behind many bomb blasts.

“I wish to caution you that there is no let up in the attempts to radicalise young men …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chidambaram cautions against ’saffron terrorism’.

Angelina’s donation for floods surpasses Zardari’s help

ISLAMABAD – Hollywood star Angelina Jolie has contributed $100,000 (about Pakistani Rs.8.5 million) for flood ravaged Pakistan, a move that surpasses President Asif Ali Zardari’s Rs.5 million donation and the help extended by most other politicians.

Some leaders have refused to disclose their contribution to the relief effort and claimed that their donation had gone directly …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Angelina’s donation for floods surpasses Zardari’s help.

Suspected British spy found murdered in London

LONDON – The body of a man believed to be a British spy has been found stuffed into a large sports bag in a bathroom of his London flat

In his 30s, the man was understood to have been employed as a worker at the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), the “listening post” in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Doctors in Nepal struggle to identify 14 killed when plane crash on way to Everest region

Doctors try to identify dead in Nepal plane crash

KATMANDU, Nepal – Doctors struggled Wednesday to identify the remains of 14 people, including six foreign tourists, who were killed in a plane crash while heading to the Mount Everest region in heavy rain.
The remains, flown to Katmandu by rescue helicopters, were being examined at the Tribhuwan … Original source on Gaea Times at : Doctors in Nepal struggle to identify 14 killed when plane crash on way to Everest region.

In Pakistan, Muslims and Hindus pray together against floods

ISLAMABAD – In times of adversity, religious differences are forgotten. In a rare demonstration of communal harmony, Muslims recited the Quran while the minority Hindus gathered for special prayers on the banks of river Indus near Shahdad Kot town of Pakistan’s Sindh province amid the misery of the country’s worst disastrous floods, reports reaching here …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US aid chief says flood donations will come only if Pakistan spends money transparently

US to divert aid package to flood reconstruction

ISLAMABAD – The United States plans to redirect part of its existing $7.5 billion aid package for Pakistan to flood reconstruction, the U.S. aid chief said, but warned that other nations would only contribute money if Islamabad could ensure it would be well spent.
America has been the most …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

A lesson in survival for Chilean miners from those who came back from Mir, Andes, plane crash

Other isolated survivors tell what kept them alive

WASHINGTON – Astronaut Jerry Linenger and architect Eduardo Strauch know the remarkable quality that keeps the trapped Chilean miners going: the immense power of hope.
Linenger and Strauch are living proof of survival amid isolation. They say that power is in us all.
Thirteen years ago, Linenger was only a …. Original source  : A lesson in survival for Chilean miners from those who came back from Mir, Andes, plane crash.

Safety concerns have been raised about runway where Chinese passenger jet crashed, killing 42

Safety concerns raised about China crash runway

YICHUN, China – At least one airline had questioned the safety of nighttime landings at the relatively new airport in northeast China where a passenger jet crashed and burned while trying to land at night on a fog-shrouded runway, killing 42 people and injuring 54.
The Henan Airlines plane crashed …. Read the original article  : Safety concerns have been raised about runway where Chinese passenger jet crashed, killing 42.

Oily boom, trash from Gulf spill heads to landfills, some with state environmental issues

Gulf waste heads to landfills, some with problems

NEW ORLEANS – The cleanup of history’s worst peacetime oil spill is generating thousands of tons of oil-soaked debris that is ending up in local landfills, some of which were already dealing with environmental concerns.
The soft, absorbent boom that has played the biggest role in containing the spill … Read more : Oily boom, trash from Gulf spill heads to landfills, some with state environmental issues.

String of attacks targeting police kills 13 in Iraq as number of US troops falls below 50,000

13 dead in string of attacks in Iraq
BAGHDAD – A string of attacks targeting Iraqi security forces killed 13 people and left scores wounded on Wednesday, police and hospital officials said.

The deadliest attack occurred in north Baghdad where a suicide bomber detonated an explosives-laden car in a parking lot behind a police station, killing 11 …. Source  : String of attacks targeting police kills 13 in Iraq as number of US troops falls below 50,000.

Yamuna in spate, flood threat in Agra

AGRA – The threat of flood looms large in the lower reaches and along the banks of river Yamuna in this Taj Mahal city with authorities sounding a danger alert and advising people to move out as the water level was rising every hour.

The level was expected to touch 494 feet Wednesday … Read more : Yamuna in spate, flood threat in Agra.

String of attacks targeting police kills 8 in Iraq as number of US troops falls below 50,000

8 dead in string of attacks in Iraq
BAGHDAD – Officials say a string of attacks on Iraqi security forces have left eight people dead.

Police and hospital officials say the deadliest attack occurred in northern Baghdad when a suicide bomber detonated an explosives-laden car in a parking lot behind a police station, killing six people, including … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : String of attacks targeting police kills 8 in Iraq as number of US troops falls below 50,000.

Indian jailed for raping student in Australia

MELBOURNE – An Indian national has been jailed for 13 years for raping a university student in Australia.

Harjot Hundal Singh, 27, pleaded guilty to rape, abduction and intentionally causing injury, The Age reported Wednesday.
Singh abducted the woman from Springvale railway station in Melbourne June 18 last year and raped her in a work van, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian jailed for raping student in Australia.

42 dead in China plane crash (Roundup)

BEIJING – At least 42 people were killed while 54 miraculously escaped with injuries Tuesday night when a passenger aircraft broke into two and burst into flames amid thick fog at an airport in China, the country’s first major accident in almost six years.

The plane, which had taken off from Harbin city, crashed 40 minutes …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 42 dead in China plane crash (Roundup).

Four police officers sacked over bungled hostage rescue

MANILA – Philippine police Wednesday sacked four officers who led a bungled hostage rescue operation that left eight Hong Kong tourists dead.

The policemen were Inspector Santiago Pascual of the special weapons and tactics team and three of his officers who led Monday’s deadly assault on a tourist bus with 16 hostages, according to police spokesman … Read more : Four police officers sacked over bungled hostage rescue.

Search begins for CRPF trooper who faked his killing

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh police Thursday launched a search for a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) trooper who allegedly faked his own murder to get Rs.4 million in insurance money that is given to cops who get killed in Maoist violence. They have arrested his accomplice.

Police say constable Kanhaiyalal Yadav of CRPF’s 204 Battalion — … Read more >>.

Iraqi police say 6 members of government-allied Sunni militia killed in Diyala province ambush

Iraqi police say 6 guards killed in ambush

BAGHDAD – Insurgents killed six members of a government-allied Sunni militia in an ambush northeast of Baghdad on Thursday, police said, offering no respite to a nation still reeling from a spate of attacks on police and soldiers a day earlier that left at least 56 dead.
Diyala police …. Read the original article  : here.

Rain Worsened the Post Flood Situation in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN (GaeaTimes.com) — Another session of monsoon rain has splashed on the upper region of Pakistan only to worsen the condition of the flood-affected nation. A heavy rainfall that started on Thursday add to the pathetic condition of the distressed people still fighting with the aftermath of the horrible flood.
According to Marcus Prior …. Original article  : Rain Worsened the Post Flood Situation in Pakistan.

Sohrabuddin case: top cop Johri appears before CBI

GANDHINAGAR – After ignoring two summons, police commissioner of Gujarat’s Rajkot town Geetha Johri appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) here Thursday in connection with the 2005 staged killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh and the later elimination of his wife Kauserbi.

This is the second time that she is being questioned by the CBI, the … Read more »»».

3.5 mn Pakistani flood victims drinking dirty water: UN

ISLAMABAD – Some 3.5 million survivors of the worst floods in Pakistan’s history only have contaminated water to drink, which is increasing the risk of water-borne diseases spreading, the UN said.

The floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains a month ago have impacted more than 20 million people. Nearly half of them rely on the assistance … Read : 3.5 mn Pakistani flood victims drinking dirty water: UN.

Tropical Storm Earl Poses Threat to Bermuda

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — Tropical Storm Earl has formed in the North Atlantic on Wednesday. Earl is reported to get intensified within next couple of days. It is supposed to follow the track of Hurricane Danielle posing a threat to Bermuda.
Earl is having a speed of 40mph and its direction is traced towards west before moving … Original article on : Tropical Storm Earl Poses Threat to Bermuda.

China airport reopens after plane crash

BEIJING – The airport in northeast China, where a plane crash killed 42 people Tuesday, reopened Thursday afternoon.

An Airbus 320 landed at the Lindu airport in Yichun city of Heilongjiang province at around 12.45 p.m., Xinhua reported.
The exact number of passengers on board the China Southern Airlines flight from Beijing was not immediately …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : China airport reopens after plane crash.

Rescue work on as floods threaten Punjab, Haryana

CHANDIGARH – Work was continuing on war-footing in Haryana and Punjab Thursday to plug fresh breaches in the Satluj and Yamuna rivers and people were evacuated to safer locations from inundated farmlands and villages.

In Haryana, the administration was also taking the help of the Indian Army to plug the breaches that emerged in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rescue work on as floods threaten Punjab, Haryana.

Mumbai diamond heist: Thieves brought from Dubai

MUMBAI – Four thieves who carried out the diamond heist of over Rs.6.6 crore from a jewellery show here and fled to Dubai were brought to Mumbai early Thursday, a senior official said.

“We have brought them here. We will present them in the magistrat’s court in the afternoon,” Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime) Deven …. Original article  : Mumbai diamond heist: Thieves brought from Dubai.

18 years of captivity still haunts US woman

LONDON – A young woman in the US, held captive for 18 years by a paedophile who fathered her two daughters, is still trying hard to recoup from the ordeal as she appreciates “the fresh air and open spaces”.

A year after she was rescued in August 2009, kidnap victim Jaycee Dugard and her two daughters …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Four kids killed in house collapse in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Four minor siblings were killed and their mother received critical injuries when their mud house collapsed in Uttar Pradesh early Thursday, police said.

The accident took place in the Nekpurchaurasi area in Farrukhabad district, some 300 km from here.
“Preliminary investigations suggest the house collapsed because of dampness in the wall following the recent … Original source on Gaea Times at : Four kids killed in house collapse in Uttar Pradesh.

10 Vietnamese fishermen rescued after 2 days at sea in tiny traditional basket boats

10 Vietnamese saved after 2 days lost at sea

HANOI, Vietnam – Ten Vietnamese fishermen have been rescued after floating in rough seas in tiny traditional basket boats for two days after a tropical storm sunk their fishing trawler, an official said Thursday.
The men had been missing since Monday when their boat sank during tropical storm … Read more : 10 Vietnamese fishermen rescued after 2 days at sea in tiny traditional basket boats.

Second oldest after Scotland Yard, forensic lab loses identity

SHIMLA – A British-era laboratory here has lost its pride of place as the world’s second oldest forensic institution after Scotland Yard, with the central government deciding to merge it with another lab.

Government Examiner of Questioned Documents (GEQD) was set up by the British in 1904 to identify handwritings on secret documents connected to freedom …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Second oldest after Scotland Yard, forensic lab loses identity.

Man who slashed Muslim charged with hate crimes

NEW YORK – A 21-year old man was arraigned Wednesday in Manhattan Criminal Court, accused of attempted murder and hate crimes on a Muslim taxi driver, New York authorities said.

Michael Enright calmly discussed Islam with the cabbie before slashing him from behind with a utility knife, authorities said.
He faced charges of second-degree attempted …. Original article  : Man who slashed Muslim charged with hate crimes.

Pakistan floodwaters break through river embankment, threatening 3 new towns

Pakistan floods threaten 3 towns as levee fails

KARACHI, Pakistan – Pakistani officials urged anyone left in three southern towns Thursday to evacuate immediately as floodwaters broke through a levee, endangering areas previously untouched by the country’s almost monthlong disaster.
The swollen Indus River broke through the Sur Jani embankment in southern Sindh province late Wednesday, threatening … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan floodwaters break through river embankment, threatening 3 new towns.

Goan helping hand in Pakistan flood relief work

PANAJI – As help pours in for Pakistan’s flood-affected areas, a small group of Pakistanis of Goan origin is networking to bring hope to some 20 million people affected by the calamity.

Deborah Santamaria’s Goinkars Own Academy (GOA) operating from Karachi has been sending appeals to the Goan diaspora across the world, seeking assistance desperately. Around …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Goan helping hand in Pakistan flood relief work.

Four die as gunmen attack bus in Philippines

MANILA – Gunmen in southern Philippines ambushed a passenger bus early Thursday, killing four people, including two police officers, police said.

The attackers flagged down the bus in the township of Kapatagan and then attacked it, Lanao del Norte province, said an official.
… Read more >>>.

China aviation official says no safety issues at airport where plane crashed, killing 42

China says airport not responsible for plane crash

YICHUN, China – A top aviation official defended the safety of an airport in remote northeast China where a flight crashed while coming in for a night landing, raising questions about the facility’s design, a state news agency reported Thursday.
Forty-two of the 96 people on board the Henan … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : China aviation official says no safety issues at airport where plane crashed, killing 42.

Spies hacked US military computers with a flash drive

WASHINGTON – An infected flash drive put in a US military laptop in 2008 set off the most significant cyberattack ever against the military by a foreign spy agency, according to a top US defence official.

The previously classified incident, which took place in 2008 in the Middle East, was disclosed by Deputy Defense Secretary William …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Spies hacked US military computers with a flash drive.

Trucks set on fire in Chile

Santiago, Aug 26 (IANS/EFE) Hooded assailants intercepted two freight trucks, pulled out the drivers and set the vehicles on fire in a southern town in Chile.

The incident took place Wednesday in Araucania region, where ethnic Mapuche Indian activists have torched vehicles, highway toll booths and lumber shipments on earlier occasions as part of a protest …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Trucks set on fire in Chile.

Russian tugboat with crewmembers sinks in Laptev Sea

Vladivostok (Russia), Aug 27 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Rescuers found a life raft from Russia’s Alexei Kulakovsky tugboat, which sank Friday morning in the Laptev Sea, some 20 nautical miles from the shore, Russia’s Far East emergencies ministry said.

The vessel with 14 crewmembers on board sent a distress call at 4.40 a.m. and a nearby tanker rushed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Russian tugboat with crewmembers sinks in Laptev Sea.

Woman attacked in Australia, cops look for Indian-like men

MELBOURNE – Police in this Australian city were looking for two men of “Indian or sub-continental appearance” after a woman was molested and assaulted.

The victim, 29, went Aug 21 to the Spencer Hotel in West Melbourne. There she met two men, who the police described as being of “Indian or sub-continental appearance”, the Herald Sun … Original source on Gaea Times at : Woman attacked in Australia, cops look for Indian-like men.

UAE telethon raises $11 mn for flood-hit Pakistan

Abu Dhabi, Aug 27 (IANS/WAM) A telethon organised in the UAE to raise funds for flood-affected people in Pakistan has collected 43 million dirhams (about $11 million), organisers said Friday.

The three-day telethon, a TV programme to raise funds for charity, was launched by UAE Red Crescent Authority (RCA) Thursday.
Donations can be made by …. Original article  : UAE telethon raises $11 mn for flood-hit Pakistan.

Two students killed in Greater Noida accident

GREATER NOIDA – Two students were killed and three others critically injured when their car turned turtle in this satellite town of the national capital, police said Friday.

Around 11.30 p.m. Thursday, five students — among them two women — of Noida’s Bajaj Institute were driving fast on the Noida-Dadri road near Kulesara police post …. Original source  : Two students killed in Greater Noida accident.

Father held for daughter’s murder in Tamil Nadu

MADURAI – A man was arrested for killing his daughter in Tamil Nadu’s Madurai district, police said.

Rangasami was arrested Thursday after his wife Lakshmi filed a complaint that he murdered their daughter Mariselvi.
According to police, Rangasami was upset with the ways of his daughter who did not listen to him. Fearing societal … Original article on : Father held for daughter’s murder in Tamil Nadu.

Chetak chopper crashes, pilots safe

BANGALORE – A two-seater Chetak helicopter crashed moments after take-off during a training mission at the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) airport here. The two pilots suffered minor injuries, police said.

The chopper, on a regular training mission, was only a few feet above the ground when it crashed, the police said.
A senior pilot and a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chetak chopper crashes, pilots safe.

Poverty-stricken woman set kids, herself ablaze

RAIPUR – Unable to get money to treat her children, a poor woman in a Chhattisgarh village set herself and her two children on fire, police said Friday.

The incident took place Thursday in Bhelwa Pataibahar village in Jashpur district, some 400 km north of capital Raipur, when 27-year-old Kamla Bai killed her three-year-old daughter and …. Read the original article  : Poverty-stricken woman set kids, herself ablaze.

Yamuna still above danger mark

NEW DELHI – The fear of floods still loomed large over low lying areas in the capital with the Yamuna continuing to flow above the danger mark Friday.

“The water level in Yamuna is still at Thursday’s 205.77 metres,” an official at the Delhi flood control room told IANS.
The river crossed the danger level … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Yamuna still above danger mark.

Hurricane Danielle strengthens to Category 3 storm, reaches major hurricane status

Hurricane Danielle becomes Category 3 storm

MIAMI – Forecasts say Hurricane Danielle has reached major hurricane status.
National Hurricane Center forecasters said early Friday that Danielle had strengthened to a Category 3 storm. It has maximum sustained winds of 120 mph (195 kph).
Forecasters say swells churned up by Danielle could reach parts of the U.S. East Coast …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hurricane Danielle strengthens to Category 3 storm, reaches major hurricane status.

Floods spread in Pakistan’s south, forcing as many as 1 million more to leave homes

U.N.: 1 million more displaced in Pakistan floods

KARACHI, Pakistan – Hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis were fleeing a southern district Friday after the bloated Indus River crushed a levee and flooded new areas, officials said. The U.N. said as many as 1 million people have been displaced in the south since midweek.
The latest evacuations came … Read : Floods spread in Pakistan’s south, forcing as many as 1 million more to leave homes.

Market bombing in northern Afghanistan town kills 3 police, 2 civilians, wounds 15

5 killed in northern Afghanistan market bombing
KABUL, Afghanistan – A roadside bomb tore through a crowded market in Afghanistan’s increasingly volatile north, killing three policemen and two civilians, a police official said Friday.
Another 15 civilians were wounded in Thursday evening’s bombing in Kunduz province’s Archi town. The blast went off as residents were … Original source on Gaea Times at : Market bombing in northern Afghanistan town kills 3 police, 2 civilians, wounds 15.

Former NASA head Sean O’Keefe, son return home area after surviving Stevens’ plane crash

Ex-NASA head O’Keefe back in DC after plane crash

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Former NASA head Sean O’Keefe and his son Kevin have returned home to the Washington, D.C., area after surviving the Aug. 9 plane crash that killed former Sen. Ted Stevens.
A statement issued Thursday by Paul Pastorek on behalf of the O’Keefe family said Sean …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rathore applies for parole to look after crops

CHANDIGARH – Former Haryana police chief S.P.S. Rathore, convicted for molesting teenager Ruchika Girhotra and currently lodged at the Burail jail, has applied for nearly two weeks parole for looking after crops in his farmhouses, jail officials said here Friday.

Rathore, 68, was sentenced to 18 months rigorous imprisonment by the district and sessions court … Original article on : Rathore applies for parole to look after crops.

Pilot presses wrong button causing mid-air scare

LONDON – A British Airways (BA) pilot caused a mid-air scare when he pressed a wrong button, triggering an announcement that the aircraft was about to make an emergency landing on water.

The mistake activated an automated female voice that said: “This is an emergency announcement. We may shortly need to make an emergency landing on … Read : Pilot presses wrong button causing mid-air scare.

Authorities: 1 dead, 2 hurt after car driven by US ambassador to Malta crashes in California

US ambassador to Malta crashes car; passenger dies

CALABASAS, Calif. – Authorities say a car driven by the U.S. ambassador to Malta crashed into a drainage ditch in Southern California, killing a nun and injuring a 94-year-old pastor.
The nun and pastor were passengers in the car driver by Ambassador Douglas Kmiec (kah-MEK’), 58, the California Highway …. Source article  : Authorities: 1 dead, 2 hurt after car driven by US ambassador to Malta crashes in California.

Olympic gold medallist held for beating wife

Naples (Italy), Aug 27 (IANS/AKI) A member of the Italian national water polo team that captured the gold medal at the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona has been arrested in the southern city of Naples on suspicion of beating his wife, as well as other acts of abusive behaviour.

Francesco Porzio, 44, Wednesday allegedly kicked his …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Olympic gold medallist held for beating wife.

Egyptian tycoon offers reward for stolen Van Gogh painting

Cairo, Aug 27 (IANS/AKI) Egyptian telecom tycoon Naguib Sawiris has offered a 140,000 euro reward for information leading to the recovery of a stolen masterpiece by Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh, according to broadcaster Europe1.

Sawiris is the first businessman to have publicly offered a reward for Van Gogh’s “Vase and Flowers”, worth $55 million, …. Source article  : Egyptian tycoon offers reward for stolen Van Gogh painting.

Swells from Hurricane Danielle may reach East Coast Friday; dangerous surf expected in Bermuda

Hurricane Danielle swells could reach US coast

MIAMI – Forecasters say swells churned up by Hurricane Danielle could reach parts of the U.S. East Coast by the weekend and that dangerous surf conditions are expected in Bermuda, though the eye will likely move well east of the island.
National Hurricane Center forecasters said late Thursday that Danielle … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Swells from Hurricane Danielle may reach East Coast Friday; dangerous surf expected in Bermuda.

New video gives fullest picture yet of conditions for 33 men trapped in Chilean mine

New video gives tour of trapped miners’ refuge

COPIAPO, Chile – A new video released late Thursday showing the 33 miners trapped a half-mile underground provides the best images yet of the conditions in the mine in northern Chile.
The men are shirtless, some sitting and others standing, and appear to be sweating. Most are skinny, sport …. Source  : New video gives fullest picture yet of conditions for 33 men trapped in Chilean mine.

Tiger cub found among toys in Bangkok airport

BANGKOK – A two-month-old tiger cub was found sedated and hidden among stuffed toys inside a woman’s luggage at the Bangkok airport, wildlife officials said.

Wildlife trade monitoring network Traffic said the Thai woman was trying to board a flight to Iran but had difficulty with a large bag at check-in. X-rays aroused suspicion among airport …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Insurgents attack 2 bases in east Afghanistan, no coalition casualties reported

Insurgents attack 2 bases in east Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Insurgents launched pre-dawn attacks Saturday on a major NATO base in eastern Afghanistan and a nearby camp where seven CIA employees were killed last year in a suicide bombing. NATO said there were no coalition casualties and the attacks were repelled.
It said 13 insurgents were killed …. Source  : Insurgents attack 2 bases in east Afghanistan, no coalition casualties reported.

A PIL that unravelled one of India’s biggest scams

ITANAGAR – Bamang Tago, a civil rights leader, did not have the faintest idea that a PIL (public interest litigation) he filed way back in 2004 could eventually unravel one of India’s biggest frauds involving over Rs.1,000 crore ($213 million) of government funds allegedly pocketed by a clique of politicians-bureaucrats-contractors in Arunachal Pradesh.

“I knew it …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : A PIL that unravelled one of India’s biggest scams.

Floods breach another levee in Pakistan, sending thousands fleeing the threatened city

Another levee breach threatens south Pakistan city

THATTA, Pakistan – Floodwaters made another break Saturday in the levees protecting a southern Pakistani city, as thousands of residents fled for high ground and left the city nearly empty.
Both sides of the main road were crowded with people from Thatta and nearby flooded villages fleeing the floodwaters. Many … Read more »»».

Yamuna water level rises again in Delhi

NEW DELHI – The Yamuna river started to swell again Saturday as more water was released into the river from Haryana. Officials have warned of a further rise in the river’s water level in the city during the day.

“The water level in the Yamuna has risen to 205.94 metres — 1.14 metres above the danger …. Original article  : Yamuna water level rises again in Delhi.

Magnitude 5.9 earthquake kills 3 in sparsely populated corner of northeastern Iran

Moderate quake kills 3 in Iran’s remote northeast

TEHRAN, Iran – Iranian state TV is reporting that three people died in the 5.9 magnitude earthquake that shook the country’s remote northeast overnight. Forty others were injured.
The quake struck at 11:53 p.m. local time (1923GMT) on Saturday in Semnan province.
The report says two children and a woman …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Magnitude 5.9 earthquake kills 3 in sparsely populated corner of northeastern Iran.

Hurricane Danielle weakens to Category 3 strength over the Atlantic with about 120 mph winds

Hurricane Danielle weakens to Category 3 storm

MIAMI – Hurricane Danielle has weakened a bit, and the now-Category 3 storm far out over the Atlantic is expected to keep losing strength. It is still expected to bring dangerous rip currents to the U.S. East Coast.
Danielle’s maximum sustained winds Saturday were near 120 mph (195 kph). The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Hurricane Danielle weakens to Category 3 strength over the Atlantic with about 120 mph winds.

Flood threat looms over border villages in Punjab

CHANDIGARH – Threat of inundation looms over scores of villages of the border district of Ferozepur in Punjab as the Satluj river was overflowing because Pakistan was diverting flood waters on its side of the boundary into it.

Several thousand acres of land have been submerged and flood waters have entered six-seven villages in Ferozepur … Original source on Gaea Times at : Flood threat looms over border villages in Punjab.

Family survives Chile’s big earthquake, only to have husband become trapped in mine

Family survives quake, now husband trapped in mine

COPIAPO, Chile – It’s a tale of two disasters, an unbelievable misfortune for a family. But this is the reality for Carola Narvaez.
Her family survived Chile’s big earthquake six months ago, yet the temblor destroyed the shipyard where her husband worked. That forced him to take a job … Read more »».

Another levee breached in Paksitan, threatening southern city

New breach in Pakistan flood levee
THATTA, Pakistan – Floodwaters made another break Saturday in the levees protecting the southern city of Thatta, as thousands of residents fled for high ground and left the city nearly empty.

Both sides of the main road were crowded with people – from Thatta and nearby flooded villages – fleeing the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Another levee breached in Paksitan, threatening southern city.

Yamuna nears danger mark in Agra

AGRA – The Yamuna river was close to touching the danger mark in this Taj Mahal city while floodwaters entered more villages in Agra and Mathura districts Saturday, officials said.

In Agra, the water level in the river rose to 494.5 feet Saturday, nearing the danger mark of 495 feet. The level stood at 494 feet … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Yamuna nears danger mark in Agra.

25 hurt as Jet flight evacuated, no trace of fire

MUMBAI – Around 25 passengers sustained injuries during an emergency evacuation of a Jet Airways flight after a fire alarm was raised Friday night. However, officials Saturday said there were no traces of any fire in the engine.

The Jet Airways Mumbai-Chennai flight 9W-2302 with 145 passengers, including six crew members, was scheduled for departure around …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 25 hurt as Jet flight evacuated, no trace of fire.

Nicole John Dies After Fall

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- 17 year daughter of US Ambassador to Thailand Eric John, Nicole John, died after falling 22 stories from the balcony of a high rise in Manhattan. Reports suggest that she fell off from the 25th floor balcony and landed on the 3rd floor ledge. A camera was found nearby which indicated …. Source article  : Nicole John Dies After Fall.

Insurgents attack 2 NATO bases in east Afghanistan, no coalition casualties reported

Insurgents attack 2 NATO bases in east Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Insurgents launched pre-dawn attacks on a pair of NATO bases in eastern Afghanistan on Saturday but were beaten back after inflicting little damage, the coalition and Afghan police said.
NATO said no coalition or Afghan security force troops were wounded, while 13 insurgents were killed – … Read more »»».

Probe launched against HIV-infected US sergeant

WASHINGTON – Authorities in the US have launched a probe against an Air Force sergeant infected with HIV for allegedly failing to inform a “multitude of sexual partners” about his medical status, a media report said.

The Air Force Office of Special Investigations launched a criminal probe after receiving information that Sgt. David Gutierrez, 43, “engaged … Read more >>.

Falling coconut kills Colombian man

Bogota, Aug 28 (IANS/EFE) A man died after a falling coconut hit him on the head while he was relaxing in the shade of a coconut palm in the Colombian town of Melgar.

Jose Abelino Ramirez, 69, was resting in a rocking chair Thursday, as he did every afternoon, when a coconut fell from a 12-metre-tall …. Source article  : Falling coconut kills Colombian man.

Ohio property owner gives eviction notice to owner of bear that killed its caretaker

Eviction notice goes to owner of Ohio killer bear

COLUMBIA STATION, Ohio – A lawyer says an eviction notice has been served on the owner of a bear that killed its caretaker in northeast Ohio.
A lawyer for property owner William Arroyo says tenant Sam Mazzola was notified Thursday he has to move unless by Sept. 27 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ohio property owner gives eviction notice to owner of bear that killed its caretaker.

Guard accused of dozing off kills colleagues

KUALA LUMPUR – A security guard in Malaysia shot dead two of his colleagues after they blamed him of dozing off while on duty.

The incident took place at 5.30 a.m. Friday at the car park of Klang Hospital in Selangor state, Omar Mammah, criminal investigation department acting chief, was quoted as saying by Xinhua.
The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Guard accused of dozing off kills colleagues.

Mexican massacre policemen go missing

MEXICO CITY – The aftermath of the migrant massacre in northern Mexico continued to unfold Friday as two police officials went missing and the family of the sole survivor received police protection in Ecuador.

A police officer and a special investigator working on the massacre of 72 migrants were missing, the Attorney General’s Office of the …. Source article  : Mexican massacre policemen go missing.

Investigator missing as new violence surrounding Mexico migrant massacre targets police, media

Violence targets police, media in Mexico massacre

REYNOSA, Mexico – A car explodes outside a police station, another outside a television station. A drug gang is suspected of massacring 72 migrants. A prosecutor investigating those deaths suddenly disappears.
Mexico’s drug cartels seem to be adopting the tactics of war zones half a world away.
The violence has contributed …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

China asks airline to change name after plane crash

BEIJING – China’s Henan province has asked the commercial carrier whose plane crashed during landing, killing 42 people Tuesday, not to use the word “Henan” in its name in a bid to protect the province’s image.

The Henan Administration for Industry and Commerce announced late Friday that it has ordered a change of name of the … Original article on : China asks airline to change name after plane crash.

FBI-style force for Europe to fight crime

LONDON – A pan-Europe FBI-style police force with powers to arrest criminals will be operational within a decade, a media report said Sunday.

Ferenc Banfi, the new director of the EU’s prestigious police academy in Bramshill, Hampshire, said talks were underway and British intelligence experts were leading them, Express.co.uk reported.
He said the threat of organised … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : FBI-style force for Europe to fight crime.

Obama commemorating Katrina anniversary, reflecting on New Orleans rebuilding

Obama set to commemorate Katrina anniversary
VINEYARD HAVEN, Mass. – President Barack Obama is aiming to underscore his commitment to a region weary of calamity as he travels to New Orleans on the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.
Obama ends his Martha’s Vineyard vacation Sunday and heads to the Gulf, five years to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama commemorating Katrina anniversary, reflecting on New Orleans rebuilding.

Himachal tribals donate funds for Leh victims

SHIMLA – Tribals of Himachal Pradesh have collected over Rs.3 lakh to rehabilitate people affected by the flashfloods in Leh in Jammu and Kashmir, an official said here Sunday.

Residents of the Spiti Valley in Lahaul and Spiti district expressed solidarity with the people of Ladakh region and contributed Rs.331,210 for their rehabilitation, a government spokesperson …. Read the original article  : Himachal tribals donate funds for Leh victims.

CBI plea against Ramalinga Raju’s bail to be heard Monday

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court will Monday hear the CBI’s plea seeking cancellation of the bail granted to disgraced former chairman of Satyam Computer Services B. Ramalinga Raju by the Andhra Pradesh High Court.

Raju was granted bail by the high court Aug 18 after 17 months of judicial custody in Hyderabad. During the period … Read : CBI plea against Ramalinga Raju’s bail to be heard Monday.

IAS officers among dozen under scanner in Kashmir

JAMMU – Two Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers of the rank of commissioner secretary are among a dozen civil service officers in Jammu and Kashmir under the scanner for corruption, official sources said Sunday.

Both the officers, who were promotees to IAS, are from the state and have held significant positions so far.
Official … Read : IAS officers among dozen under scanner in Kashmir.

7 US troops killed in latest Afghanistan fighting, bringing August total to 41

7 US troops killed in latest Afghanistan fighting

KABUL, Afghanistan – Seven U.S. troops have died in weekend attacks in Afghanistan’s embattled southern and eastern regions, NATO said Sunday.
Two servicemen died in bombings Sunday in southern Afghanistan, while two others were killed in a bomb attack in the south on Saturday and three in fighting in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 7 US troops killed in latest Afghanistan fighting, bringing August total to 41.

Floodwaters inundate large town in southern Pakistan, spreading further destruction

Floods inundate large Pakistan town
KARACHI, Pakistan – Floodwaters inundated a large town in southern Pakistan on Sunday, spreading further destruction in an area where hundreds of thousands of people who fled to higher ground are in dire need of food and water.

Almost all of Sujawal’s 250,000 residents fled from the town before the water rushed … Read more »»».

Dalit woman branded a witch, thrashed in Rajasthan

TONK – A Dalit woman was labelled a witch and beaten up badly in Rajasthan’s Tonk district, police said Sunday.

Kamla Bairwa of Jhalra village in Tonk district, over 100 km from Jaipur, stated in her First Information Report (FIR) filed with the police Saturday that some villagers tagged her as a witch, insulted her and …. Original source  : Dalit woman branded a witch, thrashed in Rajasthan.

Match-fixing allegations hit Pakistani players

LONDON/ISLAMABAD – The world of cricket plunged into another match-fixing crisis as the Metropolitan Police arrested London-based Mazhar Majeed who allegedly lured Pakistani fast bowlers Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif to deliver three blatant no-balls in the ongoing Lord’s Test against England.

In a sting operation conducted by The News of the World, it was revealed …. Original source  : Match-fixing allegations hit Pakistani players.

6 US troops killed in latest Afghanistan fighting, bringing August total to 41

6 US troops killed in latest Afghanistan fighting

KABUL, Afghanistan – A total of six U.S. troops have died in the latest attacks in Afghanistan’s embattled southern and eastern regions, NATO said Sunday.
One serviceman died in a bombing on Sunday in southern Afghanistan, while two others were killed in a bomb attack in the south on …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 6 US troops killed in latest Afghanistan fighting, bringing August total to 41.

Drilling of rescue shaft for Chilean miners delayed

SANTIAGO – The start of drilling for a rescue shaft to reach 33 trapped Chilean miners was delayed until Monday because technical preparations had yet to be finished, the head of the rescue work said.

They included reinforcing and settling the drill, Andre Sougarret said Saturday, the day the drilling was to have begun.
An additional …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Three US troops killed in Afghanistan fighting, bringing August total to 41

Three US troops killed in Afghanistan fighting

KABUL, Afghanistan – An American serviceman was killed in fighting in southern Afghanistan on Sunday and two others were killed in battles in the country’s eastern region a day earlier, NATO said.
The latest deaths bring to 41 the number of American forces who have died this month in Afghanistan … Original article on : Three US troops killed in Afghanistan fighting, bringing August total to 41.

Thousands flee volcanic eruption in Indonesia

JAKARTA – A volcano on the Indonesian island of Sumatra erupted Sunday for the first time in 400 years, shooting black smoke and ash up to 1,500 metres into the air and prompting the evacuation of thousands of residents.

Mount Sinabung in the Karo district of North Sumatra province thundered to life shortly after midnight, shooting … Original article on : Thousands flee volcanic eruption in Indonesia.

Indonesian volcano spews ash and lava briefly in its 1st eruption in 400 years

Volcano quiet for 400 years erupts in Indonesia

JAKARTA, Indonesia – A volcano in western Indonesia spewed hot lava and sand high into the sky early Sunday in its first eruption in 400 years.
Government volcanologist Surono, who uses only one name, said Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra province started rumbling a few days ago and the … Original article on : Indonesian volcano spews ash and lava briefly in its 1st eruption in 400 years.

10 troops die in Venezuela chopper crash

Caracas, Aug 29 (IANS/EFE) Ten Venezuelan soldiers have died when their helicopter crashed in southwestern part of the country, an official said.

The accident occurred when the Russian-made MI-17 was taking off after leaving a military patrol on the ground in Apure state, said Luis Motta, general commander of the Bolivarian National Guard, Saturday. The soldiers …. Source  : 10 troops die in Venezuela chopper crash.

Arizona authorities say 69 cars involved in 3 collisions on section of Phoenix interstate

69 cars involved in Phoenix interstate accidents

PHOENIX – A surprise downpour sparked collisions involving 69 vehicles on an interstate near Phoenix’s downtown area Saturday evening, closing the westbound roadway for hours and sending seven people to hospitals.
The crashes – described by authorities as the most in a single Phoenix area in recent memory – began … Read more : Arizona authorities say 69 cars involved in 3 collisions on section of Phoenix interstate.

12 die in Peru bus collision

Lima, Aug 29 (IANS/EFE) At least 12 people were killed when two buses collided head-on in Peru’s northern Cajamarca region, local media reported.

The accident occurred Saturday on the road leading to Ciudad de Dios town, RPP radio said.
Traffic accidents in Peru take over 3,000 lives each year. Unlicensed, unregulated transport companies that run an …. Read the original article  : 12 die in Peru bus collision.

Hurricane Danielle brings dangerous rip currents to US, dozens rescued off Fla. coast

Danielle brings rip currents to US, dozens rescued

MIAMI – Hurricane Danielle is far out over the Atlantic but the Category 2 storm is bringing dangerous rip currents to the U.S. East Coast.
Lifeguards had to rescue dozens of swimmers off the Florida coast. Danielle’s maximum sustained winds were near 105 mph (165 kph) on Saturday. It … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hurricane Danielle brings dangerous rip currents to US, dozens rescued off Fla. coast.

New York judge slapped with child porn charges

NEW YORK – A former Manhattan criminal court judge is being probed after child porn images were found in his office computer, a media report said.

Pictures of naked teenage girls have been found in the work computer of former judge James Gibbons, officials from multiple law-enforcement agencies told the New York Post.
“These appear to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New York judge slapped with child porn charges.

Car accident can’t keep Corey Wilson from making a difference for No. 7 Sooners

OU’s Wilson finding new ways to make a difference

OKLAHOMA CITY – Corey Wilson may not be able to run out and catch a pass for Oklahoma. Walking can still be a struggle for the receiver who injured his spinal cord in a car accident last year.
That doesn’t mean he can’t make a difference for his …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Car accident can’t keep Corey Wilson from making a difference for No. 7 Sooners.