Authorities struggle to save over 27,000 trapped by floods in Pakistan; death toll over 900

Thousands trapped by Pakistan floods; 900 dead

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – Rescue workers struggled Sunday to save more than 27,000 people still trapped by massive flooding in Pakistan’s northwest that has killed over 900 people and destroyed thousands of homes, officials said.
The effort has been aided by a slackening of the monsoon rains that have caused the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Authorities struggle to save over 27,000 trapped by floods in Pakistan; death toll over 900.

Congressman: Coast Guard let BP use too much toxic chemical dispersant in Gulf oil spill

Congressman: too much dispersant used in oil spill

NEW ORLEANS – As BP inched closer to permanently sealing the blown-out well in the Gulf of Mexico, congressional investigators railed the company and Coast Guard for part of the cleanup effort, saying too much toxic chemical dispersant was used.
The investigators said the U.S. Coast Guard routinely approved … Read more »».

Chinese army officer drowns while retrieving chemical barrels

BEIJING – A senior Chinese army official was swept away by floodwaters while trying to retrieve chemical-filled barrels from a swollen river in China’s Jilin province. His body was found a day later, military officials said Sunday.

Guan Xizhi, chief of staff in an engineer corps at Shenyang military command, was swept away by floodwaters on … Read : Chinese army officer drowns while retrieving chemical barrels.

Teenager falls during romp on roof

LONDON – A teenaged student in Britain, who got hurt after she plunged through a city centre roof while having a sex romp with her lover, says “I don’t regret a minute of it. I might even do it all again.”

The couple had climbed onto the 30 feet building in Aberdeen Saturday morning and were … Read more »»».

Pakistan flood toll reaches 1,300

ISLAMABAD – Floods triggered by torrential rain have claimed about 1,300 lives in Pakistan so far, while over one million people have been affected across the country, officials said Sunday.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has been the worst hit in the floods, with over 500 houses washed away by floodwaters. Over 90 highways were damaged and many … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan flood toll reaches 1,300.

Pakistanis criticize government response to flooding that has killed more than 800 people

Pakistanis criticize government response to floods

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – Residents of Pakistan’s northwest have criticized the government’s response to devastating flooding that has killed more than 800 people.
Hakimullah Khan, a resident of Charsadda town, said Sunday that he hasn’t received any help in tracking down his missing wife and three children.
Sehar Ali Shah, who returned to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistanis criticize government response to flooding that has killed more than 800 people.

Kids can accompany mothers to New Zealand jails

AUCKLAND – Children up to two years old will now be allowed to live with their mothers behind bars in New Zealand.

Women’s prisons in Christchurch and Auckland are upgrading their facilities to comply with the law passed in 2008. Babies less than nine months, however, will not be allowed to be kept in prison cells …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kids can accompany mothers to New Zealand jails.

Japanese TV journalists covering chopper crash found unresponsive in pool of water on mountain

Missing Japanese journalists found unresponsive

TOKYO – Two Japanese journalists reported missing by their television network were found unresponsive on a mountain Sunday, though police said an official declaration of death would have to wait until they could be taken to a hospital.
Nippon Television reporter Yuji Kita and cameraman Jun Kawakami had been on their way …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Japanese TV journalists covering chopper crash found unresponsive in pool of water on mountain.

To save themselves, New Zealand police can now bite attackers

AUCKLAND – Police in New Zealand have been allowed to do anything to protect themselves from attackers – including bite, gouge out eyes or even growl at offenders.

Policemen are being told “anything goes”, and whatever action they choose to take – as long as it saves their lives – they will be backed by police …. Source article  : To save themselves, New Zealand police can now bite attackers.

17 held in Poland for child pornography

Warsaw, Aug 1 (IANS/RIA Novosti) In a massive crackdown against paedophile nexus in Poland, 17 people have been arrested for distributing child pornography via internet, Polish Radio External Service reported.

Warsaw police spokesman Mariusz Sokolowski said the suspects were found searching for pornographic materials by the interpol Office in Wiesbaden, Germany via a P2P social networking … Read : 17 held in Poland for child pornography.

Waterbomber plane battling wildfires crashes in Canada

Firefighting plane crashes in Canada
VICTORIA, British Columbia – A Canadian waterbombing plane battling wildfires deep in British Columbia’s interior crashed on Saturday, search and rescue officials said.

Capt. Marguerite Dodds-Lepinski, the public affairs officer at the province’s Joint Rescue Coordination Center in Victoria, said it was believed that the plane had two crew members on board. …. Read the original article  : Waterbomber plane battling wildfires crashes in Canada.

Minibus full of civilians strikes roadside bomb in southern Afghanistan; 6 killed, 9 wounded

6 Afghans killed when minibus hits roadside bomb

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – A minibus full of civilians struck a roadside bomb in southern Afghanistan early Sunday, killing six on board, officials said.
Another nine people were wounded in the explosion in Kandahar province’s Maiwand district, said provincial spokesman Zalmai Ayubi.
The civilian death toll has climbed along with military … Original article on : Minibus full of civilians strikes roadside bomb in southern Afghanistan; 6 killed, 9 wounded.

Spike Lee screens film that includes Gulf oil spill; says ‘nobody’ from BP speaking to him

Spike Lee screens film that includes oil spill
SAN DIEGO – Spike Lee screened some of his new HBO documentary that includes a look at the massive BP Gulf oil spill and says no one from the oil giant is speaking to him.
The director showed about 90 minutes of “If God Is … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Spike Lee screens film that includes Gulf oil spill; says ‘nobody’ from BP speaking to him.

Land mines wash up on SKorean shores, apparently swept by rains from North; 1 man killed

Land mine swept ashore from NKorea kills SKorean

SEOUL, South Korea – Dozens of land mines have washed up on South Korean shores in recent days, apparently swept from North Korea by torrential rains. One killed a man and wounded another, the military said Sunday.
Two men discovered two mines in wooden boxes floating in a river …. Read the original article  : Land mines wash up on SKorean shores, apparently swept by rains from North; 1 man killed.

24 trapped after coal mine flood in NE China, day after 17 killed in mine explosion

24 remain trapped in flooded coal mine in NE China

BEIJING – Two dozen workers were trapped in a flooded mine in northeast China on Sunday, the latest accident in the country’s notoriously dangerous coal industry.
The State Work Safety Administration has dispatched a team to investigate the Saturday afternoon flood at a mine in Jixi city …. Original article  : 24 trapped after coal mine flood in NE China, day after 17 killed in mine explosion.

Coast Guard routinely approved use of toxic chemical to break up Gulf oil despite EPA rule

Coast Guard allows toxic chemical use on Gulf oil

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Coast Guard has routinely approved BP requests to use thousands of gallons of toxic chemical a day to break up oil slicks in the Gulf of Mexico despite a federal directive that the chemicals be used only rarely on surface waters, congressional investigators … Read more >>.

Spike Lee screens oil spill documentary in San Diego, says ‘nobody from BP’ is speaking to him

Spike Lee screens oil spill film in San Diego
SAN DIEGO – Spike Lee has screened his new four-hour documentary on the massive BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and says no one from the oil giant is speaking to him.
The director showed “If God Is Willing and Da Creek Don’t Rise” … Original source on Gaea Times at : Spike Lee screens oil spill documentary in San Diego, says ‘nobody from BP’ is speaking to him.

Fire crews gain ground in high desert north of Los Angeles as hills smolder from 2-day blaze

Crews gain ground on wildfire north of Los Angeles

PALMDALE, Calif. – A wildfire smoldered in the high desert north of Los Angeles Saturday, spewing plumes of thick smoke that promted air quality warnings as hundreds of firefighters worked to contain the 2-day-old blaze.
The fire has charred nearly 22 square miles of brush in the Antelope …. Read the original article  : Fire crews gain ground in high desert north of Los Angeles as hills smolder from 2-day blaze.

Divers recover another plane crash victim from waters Lake Michigan; 1 still missing

1 killed in plane crash pulled from Lake Michigan

LUDINGTON, Mich. – Authorities have recovered another victim of a small plane crash in Lake Michigan more than a week ago.
The Mason County, Mich., Sheriff’s Office says the victim’s body was recovered Saturday night. One of the four missing passengers still has not been recovered.
All of the … Read more : Divers recover another plane crash victim from waters Lake Michigan; 1 still missing.

Document says agency repeatedly told company at heart of Mich. oil spill of pipeline concerns

Feds warned company in Mich. spill about pipeline

DETROIT – U.S. regulators earlier this year demanded improvements to the pipeline network that includes a segment that ruptured in southern Michigan, spilling hundreds of thousands of gallons of oil into the Kalamazoo River, according to a document released Saturday.
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, the U.S. … Read more »»».

Police: 50 killed over weekend after boat capsizes on Uganda’s Lake Albert

50 die after boat capsizes in Uganda’s Lake Albert

KAMPALA, Uganda – Ugandan police say more than 50 people have died after a boat they were traveling in capsized on Lake Albert in Uganda.
Zura Ganyana, a police spokesman, says the boat was carrying between 70 and 80 people, but only five survivors have been found and …. Original source  : Police: 50 killed over weekend after boat capsizes on Uganda’s Lake Albert.

Man lynched in Ghaziabad

GHAZIABAD – A 47-year-old man was lynched in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad district on suspicion of taking a cow for slaughter, police said Monday.

The incident took place Sunday night in Chitaura locality of this city.
“The man, a Dalit, was from the same locality,” Superintendent of Police Rural M.M. Beg said.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Man lynched in Ghaziabad.

3 killed in Alaska freight company cargo plane crash at Denali National Park; fire contained

3 killed in Alaska cargo plane crash on Denali

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A big cargo airplane that crashed Sunday in Denali National Park was registered to an Alaskan freight company and had three people onboard who are presumed dead, the National Park Service said.
The Fairchild C-123 was registered to All West Freight Inc. of Delta Junction, … Original article on : 3 killed in Alaska freight company cargo plane crash at Denali National Park; fire contained.

Compensation for Uttarakhand accident victims

CHANDIGARH – Compensation of Rs.200,000 will be given to the kin of each of the 23 Hindu pilgrims who died in a road accident in Uttarakhand, Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda announced Monday.

He also expressed grief over the death of the ‘Kanwarias’ (Shiv devotees), residents of Baghanki and Khedki villages in Haryana’s Gurgaon district. …. Original source  : Compensation for Uttarakhand accident victims.

Win for Jack: Biffle snaps 64-race drought and wins for injured owner Roush at Pocono Raceway

Win for Jack: Biffle wins one for Roush at Pocono

LONG POND, Pa. – Always wearing his trademark Panama hat, Jack Roush is as much a fixture in the garage during race weekend as the drivers and crew members.
He’s at every race and involved in every decision for all of his cars.
Roush’s drivers spoke the last …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Win for Jack: Biffle snaps 64-race drought and wins for injured owner Roush at Pocono Raceway.

Bangladesh garment workers continue stir against new wages

DHAKA – Bangladesh’s garment factory workers Monday continued their protests against a new wage structure announced by the government. The industrial violence has forced suspension of production in at least 350 units.

The workers held a demonstration in Narayanganj industrial suburb Monday, although their representatives had agreed Sunday to the newly announced pay structure and … Read more >>>.

Dhaka Islamist leaders jailed for 1971 `war crimes’

DHAKA – A tribunal Monday ordered that four top leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) be jailed in connection with the “war crimes” committed during Bangladesh’s 1971 freedom movement.

This was the first ruling given by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal that is trying Islamist militants accused of rape, loot and murder of thousands of unarmed civilians in the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chechen rebel leader who claimed Moscow subway bombings purportedly resigns in video

Video announces resignation of Chechen rebel

MOSCOW – The leader of Chechnya’s separatist militants, who claimed responsbility for the Moscow subway bombings that killed 40 people in March, has purportedly announced in a video posted on YouTube that he is stepping down.
Doku Umarov, regarded in the United States and Russia as a terrorist, says in the … Read more >>>.

‘Smell tests’ leave bad taste in mouths of Louisiana fishermen who harbor contamination fears

La. fishermen wrinkle their noses at ’smell tests’

ON THE GULF OF MEXICO – Even the people who make their living off the seafood-rich waters of Louisiana’s St. Bernard Parish have a hard time swallowing the government’s assurances that fish harvested in the shallow, muddy waters just offshore must be safe to eat because they don’t … Read more »».

Amid their grief, mothers of 2 children who drowned champion pool and hot tub safety

Mothers of 2 kids who drowned champion pool safety

GREENWICH, Conn. – Karen Cohn and Nancy Baker share a tragic experience few mothers could fathom: They watched their children die after they were entrapped by powerful suction in a swimming pool and hot tub.
Cohn, of Greenwich, Conn., and Baker, who lives in Maine, have united in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Despite their grief, parents of Conn. boy who drowned become champions of pool safety

Amid grief, Conn. parents champion pool safety

GREENWICH, Conn. – A Connecticut couple whose son drowned in their swimming pool three years ago have become champions of pool safety.
Karen and Brian Cohn of Greenwich are campaigning for tougher laws and to raise awareness about the dangers that surround pools. Their 6-year-old son, Zachary, drowned on July … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Despite their grief, parents of Conn. boy who drowned become champions of pool safety.

We’re being persecuted: Sobhraj lawyer

KATHMANDU – Once respected as a scrupulous researcher and human rights activist, Nepali lawyer Shakuntala Thapa is today persecuted in her own country, she says, thanks to her decision to defend Charles Sobhraj, the sensational “Bikini Killer” of yesteryears.

“I have been living in fear of my daughter’s and my life,” says the single mother of … Read : We’re being persecuted: Sobhraj lawyer.

CBI to seek seven-day custody of Amit Shah

AHMEDABAD – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is likely to seek seven-day custody of former Gujarat minister Amit Shah, arrested in connection with the killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh in a staged shootout in 2005, sources said Monday.

The CBI’s demand for remand and Shah’s bail plea is expected to come up in court …. Original article  : CBI to seek seven-day custody of Amit Shah.

UN chief ‘deeply saddened’ by losses in Pakistan floods

UNITED NATIONS – UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has been “deeply saddened” by the loss of lives and livelihoods in Pakistan due to floods, the worst in eight decades, in which more than 1,400 people have been killed.

“The secretary-general is deeply saddened by the significant loss of lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure in Pakistan, following the …. Read the original article  : UN chief ‘deeply saddened’ by losses in Pakistan floods.

Official: Death toll from Russian wildfires reaches 34, but blazes shrinking by the day

Death toll from Russian wildfires reaches 34

MOSCOW – Russia’s Emergencies Ministry says 34 people are known to have died in the recent wave of wildfires, which have destroyed hundreds of homes but are thought to be slowly dying down.
Vladimir Stepanov, who heads the Emergencies Ministry’s crisis response center, said in televised comments that nationwide 500 … Read more »».

Rockets fired at southern Israeli city of Eilat; one hits Jordan injuring 4

Rockets fired at Israeli city Eilat
JERUSALEM – A string of rockets was fired early Monday toward the Israeli resort city Eilat, and one hit in neighboring Jordan, injuring four people, officials in both countries said.

It was the second such attack this year, following a similar volley in April that Israeli authorities say was fired from [..] Read the original article: here.

Bridge collapse death toll rises to 51 in central China as more heavy rains expected

Bridge collapse death toll rises to 51 in China

BEIJING – The death toll from a bridge collapse triggered by intense flooding in central China has risen to 51 people as China’s worst flooding in decades wreaks havoc across the country.
Rescuers continued to search for 15 people still missing in Henan province’s Yi River after a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bridge collapse death toll rises to 51 in central China as more heavy rains expected.

18 killed in South African retirement home inferno

JOHANNESBURG – Eighteen people were killed and 84 left homeless when a fire gutted a retirement home in South Africa, emergency services officials said Monday.

The fire at the home in Nigel, around 50 km east of Johannesburg, broke out around 9 p.m. (1900 GMT) Sunday, a spokesman for Netcare 911 emergency service said.
Security guards …. Source article  : 18 killed in South African retirement home inferno.

Suicide car bomb apparently aimed at Afghan official kills 5 children; official unharmed

Suicide car bomb kills 5 kids in south Afghanistan

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – A suicide car bomber blew himself up next to a police truck bringing a southern Afghan official to work early Monday, killing five children nearby, officials said.
The blast struck about 9 a.m. local time near a market area in Dand district to the west … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Suicide car bomb apparently aimed at Afghan official kills 5 children; official unharmed.

300,000 without water as floods damage pipelines in China city

BEIJING – Floods caused by torrential rains damaged pipelines leaving 300,000 people without water in Tonghua city in China’s Jilin province, an official said Monday.

Wang Ruimin, head of the public utility bureau in Tonghua, said four water pipelines had been damaged since Sunday, cutting water supply to the whole city.
Wang said the bureau … Original source on Gaea Times at : 300,000 without water as floods damage pipelines in China city.

Militants kill 5 Iraqi soldiers at Baghdad checkpoint, plant al-Qaida flag

Al-Qaida militants kill 5 Iraqi troops, plant flag

BAGHDAD – Suspected al-Qaida militants killed 5 Iraqi soldiers in a brazen dawn attack Tuesday at a western Baghdad checkpoint and planted the terror group’s black banner before fleeing the scene, officials said.
The attackers arrived in three cars and used pistols fitted with silencers in the assault in …. Source  : Militants kill 5 Iraqi soldiers at Baghdad checkpoint, plant al-Qaida flag.

Tropical Storm Colin forms in the Atlantic, but not on track for oil spill in Gulf of Mexico

Tropical Storm Colin forms in the Atlantic

MIAMI – Tropical Storm Colin has formed far out in the Atlantic but early forecasts put it on a track off the U.S. Atlantic seaboard rather than into the Gulf of Mexico, where BP is working to finally plug its blown-out oil well.
The National Hurricane Center in Miami says …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Deadly floods spread to villages in Pakistan’s heartland, threaten major dam in northwest

Deadly flooding spreads to Pakistan’s heartland

KOT ADDU, Pakistan – Floodwaters spread into Pakistan’s heartland Tuesday, submerging dozens of villages along bloated rivers whose torrents already have killed at least 1,200 people. Fresh rains in the hardest-hit northwest threatened to overwhelm a major dam and unleash a new deluge.
Relief work for some 2 million people has …. Source  : Deadly floods spread to villages in Pakistan’s heartland, threaten major dam in northwest.

30 killed in Karachi after MQM lawmaker’s killing

ISLAMABAD – The murder of MQM leader Raza Haider, a member of the Sindh provincial assembly, in Pakistan’s financial hub Karachi, sparked riots that left 30 people dead and nearly five dozen wounded.

Haider was killed Monday by unknown assailants in Nazimabad area where he had gone to attend a funeral.
Raza, 51, was a … Read more »».

Journalist Nirupama Pathak’s mother granted bail

RANCHI – A Jharkhand court has given bail to Sudha Pathak, the mother of 23-year-old journalist Nirupama Pathak who was found dead in her home April 29, after police failed to file a chargesheet within the stipulated 90 days from her arrest.

Sudha was arrested on May 3 after her New Delhi-based daughter Nirupama was found … Read more »».

Crews hope attempt to seal off oil at bottom of Gulf will do the final trick

On Gulf, crews hope kill attempt will do the trick

NEW ORLEANS – Crews hoped to begin pumping mud and perhaps cement down the throat of the blown-out oil well at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday in what BP officials said could be the method of attack that finally snuffs the spill.
Engineers …. Source  : Crews hope attempt to seal off oil at bottom of Gulf will do the final trick.

With or without BP, Florida naturalist copies lesson from Noah’s Ark to save Gulf species

Biologist using Noah’s Ark idea to save sealife

PANACEA, Fla. – On the chance that the Gulf of Mexico oil spill threatens some sea creatures with extinction, naturalist Jack Rudloe hopes his laboratory can save them.
Rudloe has launched Operation Noah’s Ark, using his four-acre facility an hour south of Tallahassee to preserve more than 350 different … Read : With or without BP, Florida naturalist copies lesson from Noah’s Ark to save Gulf species.

ISI agent living under cover in Punjab arrested

FEROZEPUR – A man suspected to be an agent of Pakistan’s spy agency ISI has been arrested with fake identification documents, including a PAN card, voter identity card and driving license, in this border district, police said Tuesday.

Razaullah, 24, had been staying in Ferozepur, about 275 km from the state capital Chandigarh, for the …. Source article  : ISI agent living under cover in Punjab arrested.

Federal safety board probes ways to prevent rollover accidents by hazmat tanker trucks

NTSB probes rollovers by hazmat tanker trucks

WASHINGTON – A tanker truck hauling propane ran off a busy interstate in Indianapolis, struck a guardrail and exploded last October. The giant fireball could be seen miles away.
The accident has prompted the National Transportation Safety Board to examine whether enough is being done to prevent tanker trucks hauling …. Source article  : Federal safety board probes ways to prevent rollover accidents by hazmat tanker trucks.

Bikers chop off man’s arm in Nepal road rage

KATHMANDU – Two bikers, alleged to be drug addicts, chopped off the arm of a public bus driver in southeastern Nepal in full view of passengers in a bout of road rage, accusing him of deliberately blocking their way, Nepal’s official media reported Tuesday.

The bikers, Dipak Limbu and Rajesh Rai, accosted the bus at Tarahara …. Read the original article  : Bikers chop off man’s arm in Nepal road rage.

Porn broadcast at Indonesian parliament

JAKARTA – Computer screens at the Indonesian parliament broadcast porn images in an incident that caused a shock among journalists and legislators, reports said Tuesday.

Journalists trying to check the parliamentary schedule found two touch-screen terminals located near the media room had been diverted to a pornographic website showing hardcore photographs, including “young teens”, the Jakarta …. Read the original article  : Porn broadcast at Indonesian parliament.

Floodwaters threaten a major dam in Pakistan’s northwest, adding to misery

Flooding threatens major dam in Pakistan
PESHAWAR, Pakistan – Pakistan issued new flood warnings Tuesday as more rains fell and rising water levels threatened to overwhelm one of the country’s biggest dams. At least 1,200 people have died so far in the worst flooding to hit Pakistan in generations.

Relief work has been hampered by submerged roads, …. Original source  : Floodwaters threaten a major dam in Pakistan’s northwest, adding to misery.

Another youth killed in Kashmir, clashes continue

SRINAGAR – A 23-year-old man was killed here Tuesday as crowds defying curfew orders clashed with security forces, taking the toll to 23 in the last five days of unrelenting violence in the Kashmir Valley.

Mehraj-ud-Din was killed in Barthana locality of Srinagar city, six kilometres from the city centre Lal Chowk. “The incident occurred when … Read more : Another youth killed in Kashmir, clashes continue.

Key accused in bomb attack on minister held

LUCKNOW – A key accused in last month’s bomb attack targeting Uttar Pradesh minister Nand Gopal Gupta alias Nandi has been arrested in Allahabad district, police said Tuesday.

Purushottam Dubey, who carried a reward of Rs.1 lakh for his capture in connection with his alleged involvement in the attack on the minister for institutional finance and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

40,000 Indians ‘disappear’ in Malaysia, visa on arrival scrapped

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia revoked its visa on arrival (VOA) facility for Indians after 40,000 visitors from that country “abused” it and “disappeared”, Deputy Prime Minister Muhyideein Yassin has said.

The cases of Indians abusing the scheme topped the list of unauthorised immigrants from eight South Asian nations and China to whom the VOA was offered. …. Source  : 40,000 Indians ‘disappear’ in Malaysia, visa on arrival scrapped.

Pakistan’s President Zardari visits UK amid diplomatic row, worst floods in country’s history

Pakistan’s Zardari visits UK amid spat, floods
LONDON – Pakistan’s president arrives Tuesday in Britain for a five-day visit, amid a simmering diplomatic spat between the two countries and calls for him to cancel the trip to look after his flood-devastated nation.
President Asif Ali Zardari’s planned trip has been overshadowed by fury in Pakistan …. Original source  : Pakistan’s President Zardari visits UK amid diplomatic row, worst floods in country’s history.

Long delayed inquest to begin into death of UK scientist killed during secret bomb experiments

Inquest to begin into secret bomb experiment death

LONDON – A long-awaited investigation into the death of a British scientist killed during secret U.K.-U.S. experiments to build homemade bombs likely to be used by terrorists is scheduled to begin Tuesday.
Coroner Peter Dean will open an inquest into the death of Terry Jupp, who died in 2002 … Read more : Long delayed inquest to begin into death of UK scientist killed during secret bomb experiments.

11 troopers booked for killing men during clash

LUCKNOW – Eleven troopers of the paramilitary Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) have been booked for killing two villagers during a clash in Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur district, police said Tuesday, a day after the incident.

“We registered a case of murder late Monday against 11 SSB personnel, including Deputy Commandant Manjit Singh,” Deputy Superintendent of Police Vivek …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 11 troopers booked for killing men during clash.

Engineers booked after elephants electrocuted in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Three engineers of a private power distribution company in Orissa have been booked for the deaths of three elephants by electrocution in Keonjhar district, an official said Tuesday.

The engineers of the North Eastern Electricity Supply Company of Orissa Ltd (NESCO) were booked under various sections of the Wildlife Protection Act, Divisional Forest Officer …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Engineers booked after elephants electrocuted in Orissa.

Beijing police now do blogging, podcasts

BEIJING – Police in the Chinese capital will now offer interactive services through blogs and podcasts in a country where the number of internet users is multiplying.

The Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau officially launched its new media services at the news portals sina.com, sohu.com and 163.com and video-sharing site ku6.com, in a move that would … Original article on : Beijing police now do blogging, podcasts.

BP says mud pumped into blown-out well in Gulf of Mexico is holding down the oil

BP: Mud pumped into well is holding back the oil

ON THE GULF OF MEXICO – In a significant step toward stopping the worst offshore oil spill in U.S. history, BP said Wednesday mud that was forced down its blown-out well was holding back the flow of crude in the Gulf of Mexico and it was … Original source on Gaea Times at : BP says mud pumped into blown-out well in Gulf of Mexico is holding down the oil.

Chinese author to publish book critical of premier despite police threats

Chinese author to publish book critical of premier
BEIJING – The author of a book unusually critical of China’s premier said Wednesday it will be published this month in Hong Kong despite police threats that he could be put in prison.
Yu Jie said the book, titled “China’s Best Actor: Wen Jiabao,” is meant to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Army soldier arrested on molestation charge

KOLKATA – An army soldier has been arrested for allegedly molesting a woman green police volunteer here, police said Wednesday.

Lance Naik Pradeep Jagdale, attached to the Eastern Command headquarters at Fort William, was nabbed redhanded when the victim raised an alarm after he tried to grab her in the central part of the city Tuesday … Read : Army soldier arrested on molestation charge.

BP claims ‘desired outcome’ reached in static kill procedure, mud holding oil down

BP says ‘desired outcome’ reached in static kill

LONDON – BP says it has reached the “desired outcome” in a procedure in which it pumped mud down the throat of the blown-out well that is leaking in the Gulf of Mexico.
BP spokeswoman Sheila Williams says the mud is holding the oil down.
BP PLC began pumping Tuesday … Read more »»».

Four dead in knife attack at China kindergarten

BEIJING – At least four children died and 12 stabbed in an attack at a kindergarten in eastern China’s Shandong province, reports said Wednesday.

The attacker, who was armed with a knife, burst into the unnamed kindergarten in Shandong’s Zibo city Tuesday afternoon, the Hong Kong-based Information Centre for Human Rights and Democracy quoted a local …. Source article  : Four dead in knife attack at China kindergarten.

61 killed in Karachi violence

ISLAMABAD – The toll in the violence that broke out in the Pakistani port city of Karachi following the murder of a MQM legislator rose to 61 Wednesday with four more people being killed and shootouts continuing through the night.

Sixty-one people have been gunned down and over 150 injured so far as violent incidents …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 61 killed in Karachi violence.

Floods swallow Pakistani villages in heartland, kill dozens more as they threaten south

Floods kill dozens more in Pakistani heartland

KOT ADDU, Pakistan – Floodwaters ravaged hundreds of villages in Pakistan’s heartland Wednesday, destroying homes, soaking crops, and threatening more lives. Aid workers warned that bloated rivers would soon surge into the country’s south, prompting more evacuations.
This year’s monsoon season has prompted the worst flooding in Pakistan in living … Read more >>>.

22-year-old man saved teen, couldn’t get to 6 others who drowned in Louisiana’s Red River

La. man saved teen, couldn’t stop 6 from drowning

SHREVEPORT, La. – Christopher Patlan was hanging out with friends on the Red River when he heard the desperate screams coming from seven teenagers. One minute they were wading in shallow water, the next they plunged into a dropoff 25 feet deep.
Patlan bolted the three yards to … Read more : 22-year-old man saved teen, couldn’t get to 6 others who drowned in Louisiana’s Red River.

As ’static kill’ begins in Gulf, officials caution it’s not quite a cure-all to plug well

Seafloor gusher requires attack from 2 directions

ON THE GULF OF MEXICO – The mud being forced down a broken wellhead to permanently plug the gusher at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico is only half the story.
To call the mission a success, crews working on a flotilla of vessels on a desolate patch of …. Source article  : As ’static kill’ begins in Gulf, officials caution it’s not quite a cure-all to plug well.

Officials: Russian wildfires death toll hits 48 as Moscow disappears under blanket of smog

Officials: Russian wildfires death toll hits 48

MOSCOW – Officials say the death toll from weeks of wildfires that have wiped out forests and villages in western Russia has reached 48.
The Emergency Ministry said in a statement Wednesday that 403 new fires were spotted in the last 24 hours, but 293 were extinguished.
Russia is suffering its … Read : Officials: Russian wildfires death toll hits 48 as Moscow disappears under blanket of smog.

CBI demand for Shah remand rejected

AHMEDABAD – A CBI court Wednesday rejected the agency’s demand for a seven-day custody of former Gujarat minister Amit Shah, arrested for the 2005 killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh.

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) special judge A.I. Raval’s ruling stunned the agency. “The CBI may challenge the decision. The CBI may go to the high court,” a …. Read the original article  : CBI demand for Shah remand rejected.

Himachal forest guards to get weapons

SHIMLA – Buoyed by the success of its forest police stations or ‘van thanas’ in checking illegal felling of timber, the Himachal Pradesh government has now decided to equip forest guards with weapons.

The government in May last year decided to open forest police stations on the pattern of Madhya Pradesh to combat organised forest crimes. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Himachal forest guards to get weapons.

Court rejects CBI demand for remand of Amit Shah

AHMEDABAD – A special CBI court Wednesday rejected the investigating agency’s demand for seven-day custody of former Gujarat minister Amit Shah, arrested in connection with the killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh in a staged shootout in 2005.

The plea was rejected by Central Bureau of Investigation Special Judge A.I. Raval, an official said.
CBI had July 23 …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Indian appearance’ man wanted in Australia for sex assault

MELBOURNE – Australian police are hunting for a man of “Indian appearance” for sexually assaulting a teenager in this city almost a year ago.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said they had released pictures of a man who could be responsible for the sexual assault of a teenage girl as she walked along a street in Melbourne … Read : ‘Indian appearance’ man wanted in Australia for sex assault.

Trooper held for killing villagers in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A trooper of the paramilitary Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has been arrested on charges of killing two villagers during a clash in Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur district, police said Wednesday.

Sher Singh was arrested late Tuesday after investigations revealed that the Trikolia villagers were killed by the bullets he had fired from his service rifle. … Read : Trooper held for killing villagers in Uttar Pradesh.

Wyclef’s brother says family stands behind expected Haiti presidential candidate

Wyclef bro: Haiti presidential bid ‘very serious’

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Wyclef Jean’s planned run for Haiti’s presidency is bound to make entertainment headlines, but the hip-hop artist’s brother knows trying to take charge of this earthquake-devastated and politically unstable country is a deadly serious affair.
Schoolhouse charts of past leaders are crowded with monthslong presidencies and group …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Wyclef’s brother says family stands behind expected Haiti presidential candidate.

Cameron friend’s son commits suicide

LONDON – The school-going son of a Tory leader, who is a friend of British Prime Minister David Cameron, committed suicide after a lover’s tiff even as police tried to talk to him.

Alexander Codrington, 16, had been speaking to policemen on his girlfriend’s mobile for an hour when a loud noise was heard on the [..] Read the original article: here.

British girl’s kick sends thief packing

LONDON – A 12-year-old British girl sent a thief packing by giving him a solid kick right between his legs. The burglar groaned before running out of the house.

Georgia Bulis-Gray found the thief in her kitchen.
“He smiled at me and I thought, ‘I do not want him thinking I am just a helpless …. Source  : British girl’s kick sends thief packing.

Rajdhani Express engine catches fire, passengers safe

LUCKNOW – A fire broke out in the engine of a Rajdhani Express on the outskirts of this Uttar Pradesh capital Wednesday, disrupting the busy Sultanpur-Lucknow rail route, officials said. No injury or casualty was reported.

The engine of the New Delhi-bound Guwahati Rajdhani Express caught fire near the Rehmatnagar railway station, about 40 km from …. Original article  : Rajdhani Express engine catches fire, passengers safe.

Three prisoners flee Goa jail

PANAJI – In a dramatic jail break, two convicts and an undertrial escaped from a prison in Goa by drilling a passage through the cell toilet in the early hours of Wednesday, jail authorities said.

Undertrial Abhijit Patil and convicts Hitler Fernandes and Seby Ferrao escaped from Sada prison located at Vasco, about 35 km from … Read more »».

Death toll from Russian wildfires reaches 50, over 600 blazes rage as record heat persists

Death toll from raging Russian wildfires hits 50
MOSCOW – Rescuers pulled a body out from a Russian village gutted by wildfires and another person died of their injuries as the death toll from hundreds of blazes nationwide rose to at least 50.
Almost 600 separate fires were still raging, mostly in western Russia, the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Death toll from Russian wildfires reaches 50, over 600 blazes rage as record heat persists.

Oil-fouled Gulf, struggling coastal residents face long recovery, despite progress

Oil-fouled Gulf still has a long recovery ahead
NEW ORLEANS – Even after stuffing the blown-out Gulf of Mexico well with enough mud to pack down the oil, federal officials weren’t ready to declare victory over the stubborn spill yet. Neither were many Gulf residents, who have agonized as engineers launched one …. Read the original article  : here.

14 missing Bangladeshi fishermen in Indian jail

DHAKA – India and Bangladesh are working to repatriate 14 Bangladeshi fishermen who were washed into Indian shores after a cyclone in 2007 and were then jailed.

Hailing from Pathorghata in southern Barguna district, the fishermen were in mid-sea when Cyclone Sidr hit them. They are reportedly in a jail in Orissa, The Daily …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Junior engineer raided for unaccounted money

RAIPUR – A sub-engineer employed with the Public Works Department (PWD) in Chhattisgarh has been found to have assets worth Rs.25 million, informed sources said Thursday.

Raids by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) here brought out the startling revelation.
According to an official, the raids took place in four places Wednesday and the documents seized … Read more >>>.

Man arrested with explosives

LUCKNOW – A middle-aged man has been arrested with a huge cache of explosives, including ammonium nitrate and detonators, from Uttar Pradesh’s Banda district, police said Thursday.

Ram Manohar was nabbed late Wednesday from Naraini area with ammonium nitrate, 200 detonators and 70 feet long fuse wires. His aide escaped.
“We cannot rule out the possibility …. Read the original article  : Man arrested with explosives.

UN acquits Sobhraj, asks Nepal for his release, compensation

KATHMANDU – Seven years after remaining behind bars in Nepal for the alleged murder of an American tourist and having his “not guilty” plea rejected by Nepali courts, Charles Sobhraj has finally a silver lining with the UN saying he did not get a fair trial and asking the government of Nepal to free him [..] Read the original article: here.

Dhaka axes 334 NGOs

DHAKA – Bangladesh has cancelled the registration of 334 NGOs in the last four months for alleged corruption and misuse of foreign funds and on charges of patronising militancy.

The government’s NGO Affairs Bureau (NGOAB) has seized moveable and non-moveable property of these organisations, which were operating in the name of social welfare, charity and voluntary …. Original article  : Dhaka axes 334 NGOs.

Sharad Yadav’s chopper makes emergency landing

PATNA – A helicopter carrying Janata Dal-United president Sharad Yadav made an emergency landing Thursday barely five minutes after take-off from Patna airport following a snag, an official said.

Yadav, Bihar Minister for Road Construction Prem Kumar, Secretary to Chief Minister S. Siddharth and Road Department Secretary Prataya Amrit took off in a private helicopter for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sharad Yadav’s chopper makes emergency landing.

Delhi University student raped in car

NEW DELHI – A businessman has been arrested on charges of abducting and raping a 17-year-old student of Delhi University in his car here, police said Thursday.

The first year student was on her way back from college Wednesday evening when Mukesh Singhal dragged her inside his Wagon R car in Moti Nagar in west Delhi, …. Source article  : Delhi University student raped in car.

Death toll from Russian wildfires reaches 50, blazes continue to rage as record heat persists

Russian wildfires death toll reaches 50
MOSCOW – Russian officials say they have recovered a body from a provincial village gutted by wildfires, while another victim has died in the hospital, taking the death toll from hundreds of blazes nationwide to at least 50.

The Emergencies Ministry said in a statement Thursday that almost 600 separate fires … Original source on Gaea Times at : Death toll from Russian wildfires reaches 50, blazes continue to rage as record heat persists.

34 fall ill in China gas leak

BEIJING – At least 34 people were hospitalised after poisonous gas leaked from a chemical plant in China, authorities said Thursday.

Titanium tetrachloride, a gas with pungent odour, leaked from the plant in south China Tuesday night when workers were cleaning it. The plant is owned by Guinan Titanium Co. Ltd., Xinhua reported.
Of the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 34 fall ill in China gas leak.

Pakistan braces for flood surge

ISLAMABAD – Authorities in southern Pakistan were Thursday preparing for the arrival of flood waters that have left hundreds dead and large areas devastated on their way through the northwest and centre of the country.

“Up to 1 million cubic feet (28,300 cubic metres) per second of water will pass through Guddu Barrage at Indus River …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan braces for flood surge.

“God, why have you done this?” Pakistani flood victim asks as he flees historic deluge

Hundreds flee Pakistan floods, as criticism grows
KOT ADDU, Pakistan – Flood survivors loaded down with possessions fled a growing deluge in Pakistan’s most populous province Thursday as the government came under renewed criticism for its response to the worst monsoon rains in decades.
Authorities issued flood warnings for Punjab province in Pakistan’s east … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : “God, why have you done this?” Pakistani flood victim asks as he flees historic deluge.

Former policeman appears before CBI in Sohrabuddin case

GANDHINAGAR – O.P. Mathur, former additional director general of police, appeared before the CBI Thursday for questioning in connection with the 2005 Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake shootout case.

Mathur was head of the state CID (Crime) department which was heading the investigation into the case before the Supreme Court handed it over to the Central Bureau of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Former policeman appears before CBI in Sohrabuddin case.

Fleeing thieves hurl Rolex watches at policemen

LONDON – A group of thieves who were fleeing after breaking into a jewellery store in Britain hurled Rolex watches at chasing police personnel.

The six robbers had stolen the high value Rolex timepieces along with those of other brands such as Cartier and Tag Heuer from a jewellery store, The Sun reported Thursday.
Police personnel …. Original source  : Fleeing thieves hurl Rolex watches at policemen.

School girl dead, four students hurt as bus runs over them

LUCKNOW – Two people, including a girl student, were killed and four students seriously injured when a bus of a private school ran over them in Uttar Pradesh’s Ballia district Thursday, police said.

The bus of R.K. Mittal Public School spun out of control and ran over five students and a 45-year-old man, who were … Read more : School girl dead, four students hurt as bus runs over them.

NTSB report: Medical helicopter fell 600 feet in 8 seconds before Arizona crash that killed 3

New info in Ariz. crash of medical helicopter

TUCSON, Ariz. – A medical helicopter that crashed last week in Tucson, Ariz., killing all three on board, fell 600 feet in eight seconds before it hit the ground.
That’s according to a preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board obtained Wednesday by the Arizona Daily Star.
The report …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NTSB report: Medical helicopter fell 600 feet in 8 seconds before Arizona crash that killed 3.

Congressman says Enbridge waited to report oil pipeline break in southern Michigan

Congressman says Enbridge violated oil spill rules

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – A congressman says the company at the center of an oil spill in southern Michigan waited to report the pipeline break, violating federal rules.
Michigan Democrat Mark Schauer said Wednesday that Enbridge Inc. did not file a report about the release until two hours after the …. Read the original article  : Congressman says Enbridge waited to report oil pipeline break in southern Michigan.

Plane evacuated in Chicago airport

NEW YORK – Passengers on a plane at Chicago’s O’Hare international airport were evacuated after fire broke out in the plane’s landing gear.

There were 188 passengers and 11 crew members on board the United Airlines Flight 949 from London’s Heathrow airport, airlines spokesman Mike Trevino was quoted as saying Wednesday by the Herald Sun.
Several … Original source on Gaea Times at : Plane evacuated in Chicago airport.

Prosecutors, defense present closing arguments in Arkansas doctor’s bombing trial

Closing arguments made in Ark. bombing trial

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A doctor sanctioned by the state medical board for over-prescribing painkillers who also collected military-grade weaponry exacted revenge on the board chairman by orchestrating a bombing that nearly killed him, prosecutors said Wednesday during their closing arguments in the doctor’s trial.
Attorneys for Dr. Randeep Mann … Read : Prosecutors, defense present closing arguments in Arkansas doctor’s bombing trial.

IAF flights from Chandigarh to Ladakh hit

CHANDIGARH – The Indian Air Force (IAF) suspended flights to Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir Friday after the Leh runway was inundated by floodwaters following a massive cloudburst, defence officials said here.

“No flight has taken off from Chandigarh to Ladakh as floodwaters submerged the runway,” an IAF official said here.
A cloudburst hit … Original article on : IAF flights from Chandigarh to Ladakh hit.

Man, 62, jailed for raping friend’s drugged wife

WELLINGTON – In a shocking case, a New Zealand court Friday sentenced a 62-year-old man to nine years in prison for sexually assaulting a woman in tandem with her husband when she was unconscious.

For the victim, the discovery that a friend had sexually violated and raped her in tandem with her husband was the ultimate …. Read the original article  : Man, 62, jailed for raping friend’s drugged wife.

Emirates says Japanese tanker was attacked in Persian Gulf, days after al-Qaida group’s claim

UAE: Japanese tanker attacked in Persian Gulf

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – An explosive-laden dinghy had struck a Japanese oil tanker in the Persian Gulf last month, the Emirati state news agency said Friday, in the first official confirmation that the incident was an attack.
The report came after an obscure al-Qaida-linked group said Wednesday one of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Emirates says Japanese tanker was attacked in Persian Gulf, days after al-Qaida group’s claim.

PM announces Rs.1 lakh for kin of Leh cloudburst victims

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Friday condoled the deaths caused by the cloudburst in Leh town of Jammu and Kashmir and announced a compensation of Rs.1 lakh each for the families of those dead.

“The prime minister has sanctioned an ex-gratia of Rs.1 lakh each from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PM announces Rs.1 lakh for kin of Leh cloudburst victims.

Worst smog yet hits Moscow airport, seeps into buildings as Russia’s wildfires rage

Worst smog yet hits Moscow, seeps into homes

MOSCOW – The city of Moscow was shrouded Friday by a dense smog that grounded flights at international airports and seeped into homes and offices, as wildfires that have killed 50 people nationwide continued to burn.
The fires have torn through forests and villages over the last two weeks … Read more >>.

Exact death toll not known in Leh tragedy: Azad

NEW DELHI – Union Health Minister and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad Friday said the exact number of casualties due to the flash floods in Leh was not known officially because all communication links in the Ladakh town have been snapped.

“We are trying to contact a minister from Ladakh (Nuwang Rigzin …. Read the original article  : Exact death toll not known in Leh tragedy: Azad.

Crude still coats marshes and wetlands along Gulf, complicating cleanup efforts

Crude still coats marshes and wetlands along Gulf

ON THE GULF OF MEXICO – Much of the crude still in the Gulf and coastal areas more than three months after BP’s blowout has permeated deep into marshes and wetlands, complicating cleanup.
Crews are still finding plenty of crude in those interior areas, even as government officials say …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

AP Exclusive: FBI says new al-Qaida leader who is planning attacks on America lived in US

AP Exclusive: New al-Qaida leader knows US well

MIAMI – A suspected al-Qaida operative who lived for more than 15 years in the U.S. has become chief of the terror network’s global operations, the FBI says, marking the first time a leader so intimately familiar with American society has been placed in charge of planning attacks.
Adnan … Original source on Gaea Times at : AP Exclusive: FBI says new al-Qaida leader who is planning attacks on America lived in US.

Court frees Australian caretaker who had sex with teenager

MELBOURNE – An Australian court Friday freed a 22-year-old man after convicting him of having a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old girl in a care facility two years ago.

County Court judge Ross Howie said Victoria Giddens was an immature and untrained university student at the time of his offence.
Giddens had pleaded guilty and …. Read the original article  : Court frees Australian caretaker who had sex with teenager.

Day of fun turns into day of tragedy for Mo. high schoolers involved in fatal highway wreck

Mo. families grieve 2 slain in school buses wreck

GRAY SUMMIT, Mo. – What was supposed to have been a day of fun for a high school marching band turned into a day of chaos and tragedy, when the two buses taking them to an amusement park slammed into a highway wreck, killing a 15-year-old student … Read : Day of fun turns into day of tragedy for Mo. high schoolers involved in fatal highway wreck.

Bad weather grounds relief helicopters in flood-ravaged northwestern Pakistan

Flood relief flights grounded in Pakistan
SUKKUR, Pakistan – Bad weather grounded helicopters carrying emergency supplies to Pakistan’s flood-ravaged northwest Friday amid warnings the worst monsoon rains in decades would bring more destruction to a nation already reeling from Islamist violence.
U.S. military personnel waiting to fly Chinooks to the upper reaches of the hard-hit …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bad weather grounds relief helicopters in flood-ravaged northwestern Pakistan.

Three kanwarias killed in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN – Three kanwarias, devotees of Lord Shiva, were killed when a truck in which they were travelling from Haridwar to Rishikesh fell into a gorge in Uttarakhand’s Pauri district Friday morning, police said.

Eighteen people were injured, six critically, in the accident.
There were 34 people, including the driver, in the truck when the … Read more >>>.

Former general in army custody for court martial

JALANDHAR – Army authorities at the 11 Corps here Friday took a top retired army officer in custody ahead of his court martial over corruption charges in a ration scam.

Lt. Gen. Surendra K. Sahni, who retired in 2006, is the most senior army officer to be facing a General Court Martial (GCM).
The proceedings against … Read more >>>.

Flash floods kill at least 59, injure 200 in remote part of Indian Kashmir

Flash floods kill dozens in Indian Kashmir

SRINAGAR, India – A sudden overnight downpour and flash floods killed at least 59 people and injured 200 in the remote and mountainous Ladakh region of Indian-controlled Kashmir, police and army officials said Friday.
Police and paramilitary soldiers had pulled 59 bodies from flood-hit areas around Leh, the main town …. Original article  : Flash floods kill at least 59, injure 200 in remote part of Indian Kashmir.

59 dead, over 300 injured in Leh flash floods (Second Lead)

SRINAGAR – At least 59 people have been killed and over 300 injured in flash floods triggered by a massive cloudburst that hit Leh town in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ladakh region, washing away several government buildings and homes, police said Friday.

A huge cloudburst struck the town around midnight Thursday, triggering flash floods and mud slides, … Read : 59 dead, over 300 injured in Leh flash floods (Second Lead).

Flash floods kill at least 59, injure scores in remote part of Indian Kashmir

Flash floods kill at least 59 in Indian Kashmir

SRINAGAR, India – A sudden overnight downpour and flash floods killed at least 59 people and injured 200 in the remote and mountainous Ladakh region of Indian-controlled Kashmir, police and army officials said Friday.
Police and paramilitary soldiers had pulled 59 bodies from flood-hit areas around Leh, the …. Original source  : Flash floods kill at least 59, injure scores in remote part of Indian Kashmir.

Australian cops alert as Facebook chatter hints racial brawl

MELBOURNE – Police intensified patrolling in this Australian city following chatter on social network site Facebook about possible racial violence involving teenagers.

Facebook is buzzing with talk that a wild brawl involving gangs of high-school students and up to 100 onlookers Thursday was only the precursor to a larger fight. The website claimed the violence, thought …. Read the original article  : Australian cops alert as Facebook chatter hints racial brawl.

School Bus Crash in Missouri Leaves 2 Dead, 40 injured

MISSOURI (Gaeatimes.com) — The Thursday morning at Missouri started with a dreadful accident. A school bus crashed with a Tractor Trailer and a pickup. Two school buses loaded with John F. Hodge High School band members was heading for Six Flags when the crashed against the vehicles.
The accident occurred at 10:15 a.m. sharp, on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : School Bus Crash in Missouri Leaves 2 Dead, 40 injured.

Tropical Storm Colin weakens slightly in Atlantic with 50 mph winds as it heads to Bermuda

Tropical Storm Colin weakens slightly
MIAMI – Forecasters at the National Hurricane Center say Tropical Storm Colin has weakened as it heads toward Bermuda.

The center of the storm is located about 410 miles (660 kilometers) south-southwest of Bermuda and is moving northwest around 14 mph (22 kph). Its maximum sustained winds are near 45 mph (75 …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tropical Storm Colin weakens slightly in Atlantic with 50 mph winds as it heads to Bermuda.

US, nuclear powers join Hiroshima memorial for first time, on 65th anniversary

US, nuclear powers join Hiroshima memorial
HIROSHIMA, Japan – The U.S., Britain and France participated for the first time Friday in the annual commemoration of the A-bomb attack on Hiroshima, in a 65th anniversary event that organizers hope will bolster global efforts toward nuclear disarmament.
Hiroshima’s mayor strongly welcomed the Washington’s decision to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Smog over Moscow deepens as wildfires continue to rage

Smog over Moscow worsens as wildfires rage

MOSCOW – A deep layer of smog from wildfires around Moscow is hanging over the Russian capital, prompting many city residents to wear masks and forcing many planes to divert to other airports.
The thick haze is hanging over Moscow for the second straight day Saturday as southeastern winds blow …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Smog over Moscow deepens as wildfires continue to rage.

Drought-hit Bihar farmers’ hopes lie in power supply

PATNA – In drought-hit Bihar, the hopes of small farmers now lie in the state government’s decision to provide uninterrupted power supply to rural areas for at least six hours a day to facilitate irrigation and save the paddy crop.

“We need to look forward to uninterrupted power supply if the government is serious to provide …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Drought-hit Bihar farmers’ hopes lie in power supply.

BARC job scam busted

MUMBAI – Police Saturday claimed to have busted a recruitment racket promising jobs in the sensitive Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) near here with the arrest of eight people, including a contractor.

Police inspector S.G. Mullemwar said there was no security threat of any kind to BARC and there is no involvement of any official from … Original article on : BARC job scam busted.

Pakistani province on high alert for floods

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Sindh province was on high alert Saturday after floods wreaked havoc in the country leaving at least 1,600 people dead, a media report said.

At least four districts are on high alert as flood waters are expected to hit Sindh Saturday, Dawn reported on its website quoting the UN Office for Coordination of … Read more >>>.

Angry villagers block Punjab highway

MOHALI – Hundreds of villagers blocked one of the busiest national highways that connects Chandigarh with Punjab’s industrial hub of Ludhiana for about five hours Saturday to protest alleged police inaction.

National Highway 95 was blocked around 9.30 p.m. Friday by residents of Ghaduan village. They blocked the highway alleging that three people, including a woman, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Angry villagers block Punjab highway.

4 Iraqi policemen killed in hourslong shootout at suspected Baghdad bomb workshop

Iraq: 4 policemen killed in overnight shootout

BAGHDAD – Gunmen killed four Iraqi policemen in an overnight shootout that lasted until dawn at a suspected bomb workshop in western Baghdad, security officials said.
Tipped off by a carjacking, the police trailed the suspects to a house in the mostly Sunni neighborhood of Saidiya, where they came under …. Read the original article  : 4 Iraqi policemen killed in hourslong shootout at suspected Baghdad bomb workshop.

IAF aircraft carrying relief material reaches Leh

CHANDIGARH – An Indian Air Force aircraft carrying relief material from Chandigarh Saturday made a safe landing in Jammu and Kashmir’s Leh town that was lashed by massive flash floods triggered by a cloudburst.

“Indian Air Force’s IL-76 plane has reached Leh. Earlier in the morning, we had sent a flight to Leh but it could …. Source article  : IAF aircraft carrying relief material reaches Leh.

More rain soaks Pakistan, with worse weather on the way, deepening flood crisis

More rain lashes Pakistan, deepening flood crisis

ISLAMABAD – More rain soaked flood-ravaged Pakistan on Saturday and even heavier downpours were forecast in the coming days, deepening a crisis in which hard-line Islamist groups have rushed to fill gaps in the government’s patchy response.
Pakistani officials estimate as many as 13 million people throughout the South Asian … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : More rain soaks Pakistan, with worse weather on the way, deepening flood crisis.

BP engineers wrap up a defining week in battle to vanquish ruptured Gulf oil well

Responders to Gulf oil spill wrap up defining week

NEW ORLEANS – BP PLC closed the books on a defining week in an epic battle to defeat its ruptured oil well, with exhausted engineers forcing the surging crude underground with a torrent of mud and cement, preparing to make a final push to plug it from …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : BP engineers wrap up a defining week in battle to vanquish ruptured Gulf oil well.

Leh Cloudburst Mourned By Politicians

LADAKH, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The devastating flash flood at Leh caused by an unprecedented Cloudburst that has claimed more than 100 lives and left the place in utter mess has sent shock waves across the country. The rescue and relief operations are still on and the leading political leaders of the country have expressed … Read : Leh Cloudburst Mourned By Politicians.

Rescue efforts pick up as floods leave 130 dead at popular Kashmir tourist destination

Flash floods kill 130 in Indian-held Kashmir

SRINAGAR, India – Authorities stepped up rescue efforts as the weather improved Saturday, a day after flash floods sent rivers of mud down desert mountainsides in Indian-controlled Kashmir, killing at least 130 people and injuring 400 others, officials said.
As the rain stopped in the morning, thousands of army, police … Read more »»».

Leh Cloudburst Leaves Total Mess

LADAKH, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The devastating cloudburst and resultant flash flood in Leh has claimed near about 112 lives and a lot of people could still be missing as sources have reported. The incident took place Thursday night and the residents of the mountain town and adjacent villages were caught completely unaware. The relief operations were … Read : Leh Cloudburst Leaves Total Mess.

Rains hamper rescue operations in Leh, 25 army men among missing

SRINAGAR – Heavy rains and bad weather Saturday morning forced authorities to suspend rescue and relief work in Jammu and Kashmir’s Leh town where at least 115 people were killed and over 300 injured in massive flash floods triggered by a cloudburst.

So far, 115 dead bodies have been recovered and the injured are being treated … Read more : Rains hamper rescue operations in Leh, 25 army men among missing.

Rescuers save 7 trapped miners after fire in eastern China gold mine killed 16 people

7 miners rescued after China mine fire kills 16

BEIJING – Rescue workers pulled out the last seven trapped workers Saturday after an underground fire killed 16 people in China’s latest mining disaster.
The blaze that broke out Friday afternoon initially trapped 50 miners at the Lingnan Gold Mine in Zhaoyuan city in eastern Shandong province, but …. Source  : Rescuers save 7 trapped miners after fire in eastern China gold mine killed 16 people.

Senior bank official found dead in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A senior official of Punjab National Bank (PNB) belonging to Delhi was found dead in a hotel room in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly district, police said Saturday.

Kulbhushan Sharma, 48, chief auditor of PNB, was found dead late Friday inside the Tea Rose hotel, some 300 km from Lucknow. The police found the body after … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Senior bank official found dead in Uttar Pradesh.

Amtrak train hits big-rig truck in Calif.; 20 people sent to hospitals with minor injuries

Amtrak train hits truck in Calif.; 20 injured

SHAFTER, Calif. – Police say an Amtrak train hit a big-rig truck at a California crossing, sending 20 people to hospitals for treatment for minor injuries.
Shafter police Sgt. Randy Milligan says the southbound Amtrak train hit the truck in Kern County at around 3:55 p.m. Friday.
Police say the … Original article on : Amtrak train hits big-rig truck in Calif.; 20 people sent to hospitals with minor injuries.

16 die in China gold mine fire

BEIJING – Sixteen miners were killed when a fire broke out in a gold mine in eastern China, Xinhua reported Saturday.

About 300 people were working underground when the accident occurred around 5 p.m. Friday in Luoshan gold mine in Zhaoyuan city, officials said.
Most of the victims were suffocated. Seven miners remained trapped.
By …. Source article  : 16 die in China gold mine fire.

2 dead, several wounded in bomb blast in Thai-Myanmar border town

2 reported killed in Myanmar border town
BANGKOK – A bomb exploded in a crowded market in a Myanmar border town, killing at least two people and wounding at least eight others, an official said.

The blast occurred Friday evening in the town of Myawaddy, across a river from Thailand, according to the Mizzima news agency, run …. Original source  : 2 dead, several wounded in bomb blast in Thai-Myanmar border town.

16 dead, 7 trapped in gold mine fire in eastern China

16 dead, 7 trapped in China gold mine fire

BEIJING – Rescue workers were rushing to free seven workers trapped in a gold mine in eastern China on Saturday after an underground fire killed at least 16.
The fire that broke out Friday afternoon at the Lingnan Gold Mine in Zhaoyuan city in eastern Shandong province had …. Original article  : 16 dead, 7 trapped in gold mine fire in eastern China.

Beaches closed in Bermuda as Tropical Storm Colin approaches; Estelle forms in the Pacific

Colin heads for Bermuda; Estelle forms in Pacific

MIAMI – Tropical Storm Colin is heading toward Bermuda, while Tropical Storm Estelle has formed in the Pacific.
Colin’s center is expected to pass near or over Bermuda on Saturday. A tropical storm warning was issued for the British territory, and authorities closed beaches, warning of high winds and …. Source article  : Beaches closed in Bermuda as Tropical Storm Colin approaches; Estelle forms in the Pacific.

Death toll from blasts at a market in Iraq’s second-largest city rises to 43

Death toll in Basra blasts rises to 43
BAGHDAD – The death toll from explosions at a market in Iraq’s second-largest city has risen to 43, Iraqi officials said Sunday, adding that as many as 185 people were also wounded in the blasts.

The new casualty figures from Saturday’s explosions were released by Dr. Salah Abid, a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Death toll from blasts at a market in Iraq’s second-largest city rises to 43.

Pakistanis struggle with soaring food prices from floods that devastated crops

Floods send foods prices soaring in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Pakistanis grappled with skyrocketing fruit and vegetable prices Sunday caused by floods that have destroyed more than 1 million acres (405,000 hectares) of crops and left at least 4 million people in need of food assistance in the coming months.
The rising prices threaten to amplify misery in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistanis struggle with soaring food prices from floods that devastated crops.

Two pro-Maoist activists arrested

KOLKATA – Two pro-Maoist activists were Sunday arrested for their alleged involvement in the May 28 Gyaneshwari Express derailment in West Bengal in which 148 people were killed, police said.

People’s Committee Against Police Atrocities (PCAPA) leaders Tapan Mahato and Altaf Hossen were arrested from Jhargram area, said Pravin Tripathy, the superintendent of police in Jhargram. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two pro-Maoist activists arrested.

10 cars to join Delhi Fire Service

NEW DELHI – About 10 small cars fitted with fire fighting equipment will join the Delhi Fire Service (DFS) ahead of the Commonwealth Games so that they can get through clogged streets faster.

According to DFS director R.C. Sharma, the idea of using small cars is to cut down on the time taken by fire tenders …. Source article  : 10 cars to join Delhi Fire Service.

Rescuers search for 400 people missing after flash floods in Indian Kashmir; 132 dead

400 missing after flash floods in Indian Kashmir

SRINAGAR, India – Rescuers dug through crushed homes and piles of mud Sunday searching for 400 people still missing after flash floods sent massive mudslides down remote desert mountainsides in Indian-controlled Kashmir, officials said. The death toll rose to 132 with about 500 others injured.
Thousands of army, police … Read : Rescuers search for 400 people missing after flash floods in Indian Kashmir; 132 dead.

Two foreigners die as train hits car

ALAPPUZHA – Two foreign tourists and a driver were killed Sunday when the Chennai Express rammed into their car at an unmanned railway crossing in Kerala’s Alappuzha district, police said.

“Two foreign tourists and the driver of the car died on the spot. A third tourist suffered serious injuries. The nationalities of the foreigners are being … Read more : Two foreigners die as train hits car.

CBI continues to quiz Amit Shah

GANDHINAGAR – Former Gujarat minister Amit Shah continued to be quizzed by CBI officials here Sunday, a day after he was grilled for nine hours in connection with the 2005 killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh in a staged shootout.

The former minister of state for home was at the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) office here …. Source article  : CBI continues to quiz Amit Shah.

Volcano Erupts In Indonesia

JAKARTA, INDONESIA (GaeaTimes.com)- On Friday Mount Karangetang which is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia’s Siau island erupted suddenly and searing lava and gas cloud tumbled down its slopes. Four people who got swept by the lava are feared dead. Some others got injured as well. The entire thing took place fast and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Volcano Erupts In Indonesia.

Nepal ex-king’s son-in-law nabbed for disco orgy

KATHMANDU – Less than a week after he hit the headlines for joining politics, Nepal’s former king Gyanendra’s son-in-law Raj Bahadur Singh was arrested by police from a Kathmandu nightclub for drunken and disorderly behaviour.

Singh, a commoner who married Gyanendra’s daughter, Princess Prerana, in 2003, was arrested along with over a dozen companions, including six …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Nepal ex-king’s son-in-law nabbed for disco orgy.

96 people killed, 2,000 missing as landslides bury towns in western China’s Gansu province

96 dead, thousands missing in China landslides

BEIJING – Rubble-strewn floodwaters tore through a remote corner of northwestern China on Sunday, smashing buildings, overturning cars, and killing at least 96 people.
Half of an entire town was under water and an estimated 2,000 more people were missing in the latest deluge in a summer that has seen … Original article on : 96 people killed, 2,000 missing as landslides bury towns in western China’s Gansu province.

Tropical Storm Colin barely a tropical storm as it approaches Bermuda, waves and rain expected

Colin approaches Bermuda, barely a tropical storm

MIAMI – Colin is moving slowly and barely retaining its tropical storm status as it approaches Bermuda, but could regain some strength.
Colin’s maximum sustained winds were about 40 mph (65 kph) early Sunday. The storm’s center is expected to pass near or over Bermuda on Sunday.
A tropical storm warning … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tropical Storm Colin barely a tropical storm as it approaches Bermuda, waves and rain expected.

NATO says 3 US service members killed in southern Afghanistan; makes 5 deaths Saturday

NATO: 3 US service members killed in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Three US service members were killed in recent attacks in southern Afghanistan, the military coalition said Sunday.
All three died Saturday, bringing the day’s death toll for NATO to five.
Two of the Americans died in an insurgent attack, while the third was killed by a bomb …. Read the original article  : NATO says 3 US service members killed in southern Afghanistan; makes 5 deaths Saturday.

Delhi to get first tourist police station

NEW DELHI – Delhi will soon get its first police station catering specially to foreign tourists visiting the city for the Commonwealth Games and the policemen posted there will have a good command over English, officials said.

The new station, which is to start by the end of this month, would come up at Paharganj …. Source article  : Delhi to get first tourist police station.

Russian man dies during Finnish sauna competition

HELSINKI – A Russian national died late Saturday during the final of the Sauna World Championships in Finland, organisers said.

The man apparently collapsed after spending some six minutes in the sauna that was heated to a scorching 110 degrees Celsius. Every 30 seconds the sauna’s heater is doused with water, increasing the heat factor.
A … Read more >>.

NATO says 3 more service members killed in southern Afghanistan; makes 5 deaths Saturday

NATO: 3 service members killed in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Three NATO service members – at least two of them American – killed in recent attacks in southern Afghanistan, the military coalition said Sunday.
All three died Saturday, making a total of five NATO deaths that day.
The two identified as American died in an insurgent attack, while …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NATO says 3 more service members killed in southern Afghanistan; makes 5 deaths Saturday.

80 dead, 2,000 missing in China landslides

BEIJING – Over 80 people were killed and 2,000 went missing Sunday morning after landslides triggered by torrential rains hit northwest China’s Gansu province, an official said.

The landslides occurred at around 12 a.m. Sunday in Zhouqu county in Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. More than 80 people have been confirmed dead and some 2,000 others are … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 80 dead, 2,000 missing in China landslides.

At least 80 people killed, 2,000 missing in landslides in China’s Gansu province

80 dead, thousands missing in China landslides

BEIJING – Landslides killed at least 80 people and left an estimated 2,000 missing Sunday in northwest China’s Gansu province, the latest disaster caused by widespread flooding in the country.
The landslides happened early in the morning in the province’s Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, the official Xinhua News Agency reported, … Read : At least 80 people killed, 2,000 missing in landslides in China’s Gansu province.

Australian man survives 12,700-volt shock

SYDNEY – An electric pole surveyor in Australia had a miraculous escape when he suffered only partial burns on being hit by a power surge of 12,700 volts.

The 35-year-old unidentified man suffered partial burns to about 20 percent of his body and was shifted to a hospital in Brisbane.
“It’s believed the patient from Rockhampton … Read more : Australian man survives 12,700-volt shock.

Woman, 75, kills 80-year-old husband

NEW YORK – A 75-year-old woman stabbed her husband, 80, to death in a fit of rage in Monroe town in New Jersey, police said.

Ruth Zucker was charged with the murder of her dentist husband, Harvey Zucker, in the living room of their home in a retirement community in Monroe, the New York Post reported. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Woman, 75, kills 80-year-old husband.

65 killed in China landslide

BEIJING – At least 65 people were killed early Sunday morning due to landslides triggered by heavy rain in China’s Gansu province, officials said.

The landslides occurred at around 12.00 a.m. Sunday in Zhouqu county in the province, said Mao Shengwu, a county official.
The total number of people affected by floods in the province is …. Source article  : 65 killed in China landslide.

BP’s costs to respond to massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has risen to $6.1 billion

BP’s Gulf oil spill costs rise to $6.1 billion

NEW ORLEANS – BP says its costs to respond to the massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has risen to about $6.1 billion.
That includes expenses for relief well drilling, the static kill and cementing procedure done on the blown out oil well, grants to Gulf …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BP’s costs to respond to massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has risen to $6.1 billion.

Rescue efforts continue in Leh, 500 still missing

SRINAGAR – After a night’s halt, thousands of rescue workers fanned out across Jammu and Kashmir’s Leh town Monday, three days after after a cloudburst caused flash floods, killing 132 people and causing widespread destruction.

“Out of 132 bodies recovered so far, 128 have been identified,” Inspector General of Police (Kashmir) Farooq Ahmad told IANS.
“No …. Read the original article  : here.

Two of gang selling arms to Maoists held

LUCKNOW – Two men who used to supply firearms illegally manufactured in Bihar to Maoists have been arrested in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district, police said Monday.

Surendra Kumar and Ram Kewal, members of a Bihar-based gang involved in the illegal manufacturing and trading of firearms, were arrested late Sunday from the Risia area, some 300 km … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Two of gang selling arms to Maoists held.

Moscow deaths twice the usual number as suffocating smog from wildfires lingers

Moscow deaths twice as high this year amid smog

MOSCOW – The Russian capital’s chief health official reportedly says the number of deaths in Moscow is twice as high as usual because of smog suffocating the city from ongoing wildfires nearby.
The Interfax news agency quotes Andrei Seltsovky on Monday as saying there are now 1,300 bodies …. Original article  : Moscow deaths twice the usual number as suffocating smog from wildfires lingers.

China searches for survivors as flooding spreads death, despair in Asia; Pakistan relief slow

China searches for survivors amid Asian flood wave

ZHOUQU, China – Rescuers dug through mud and wreckage Monday searching for 1,300 people missing after flash floods and landslides struck northwestern China, just one of a series of floods across Asia that have killed hundreds and spread misery to millions more.
In Pakistan, frustrated victims railed against the …. Source  : China searches for survivors as flooding spreads death, despair in Asia; Pakistan relief slow.

Parliament expresses grief over Leh flood deaths

NEW DELHI – Parliament Monday expressed sorrow over the loss of lives in the flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir’s Leh region.

Over 150 were killed and around 500 are missing after cloudburst caused flash floods Friday.
Expressing solidarity with the people of the region, Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar and Rajya Sabha Chairman M. [..] Read the original article: here.

Gov’t plan for cleaning up a Gulf Coast hurricane calls for sampling oil before removing it

Hurricane could bring bureaucratic delays to Gulf
WASHINGTON – If a hurricane hits the Gulf Coast and whips up oil from BP’s massive spill, cleanup workers will not be able to swoop into action to fix the mess. A new Obama administration edict requires that the oil be tested before it can … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gov’t plan for cleaning up a Gulf Coast hurricane calls for sampling oil before removing it.

Gov’t plan to assess costs could delay Gulf oil spill cleanup in the event of a hurricane

Storm plan could delay Gulf oil spill cleanup

WASHINGTON – If a hurricane hits the Gulf Coast this season, workers cleaning up the BP oil spill won’t be able to swoop immediately into action to fix the mess.
According to a response plan obtained by The Associated Press, a new Obama administration edict requires that the oil …. Source  : Gov’t plan to assess costs could delay Gulf oil spill cleanup in the event of a hurricane.

Fishermen demand compensation for oil spill losses

MUMBAI – The 800,000-strong fishing community in Maharashtra Monday demanded compensation for what they claimed were huge losses to their trade following the oil spill outside Mumbai.

The state government and maritime authorities have banned all fishing activities in and around the Mumbai coast till the oil slick is brought under control while the Municipal Corporation … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Fishermen demand compensation for oil spill losses.

Iraqi officials say bomb targeting police kills 2 traffic cops, 1 civilian at Baghdad precinct

Bomb kills 2 traffic cops at Baghdad precinct

BAGHDAD – Officials say a rush-hour bombing at a western Baghdad police precinct has killed two traffic cops and one civilian.
Police and hospital officials say five traffic cops and four civilians were also wounded in the bombing at the gates of the Ghazaliyah precinct headquarters.
They say the civilians …. Original article  : Iraqi officials say bomb targeting police kills 2 traffic cops, 1 civilian at Baghdad precinct.

Anger grows in southern Pakistan as flood victims demand government help

No help for flood victims in southern Pakistan
SUKKUR, Pakistan – Although Manzoor Ahmed managed to escape rising floodwaters that submerged villages and destroyed homes in southern Pakistan, he said Monday that the total lack of government help meant dying may have been a better alternative.
The 25-year-old was one of thousands of people who … Read more »»».

Final sealing of Gulf oil gusher could be in sight as BP plans to continue relief well work

BP plans to continue relief well work this week

NEW ORLEANS – The oil that poured into the Gulf for more than 12 weeks has been forced back underground and BP engineers expect to spend this week drilling the final leg of a relief well to complete the “bottom kill” designed to permanently seal the leaking …. Original source  : Final sealing of Gulf oil gusher could be in sight as BP plans to continue relief well work.

Efforts on to check oil spill spreading along Konkan coast

MUMBAI – Efforts continued on a war-footing Monday to combat the oil spill from a Panaman ship that crashed into another vessel in Mumbai harbour as it threatened to spread further along the Konkan coastline, officials said.

Taking a grim view of the situation arising out of the oil spill off Mumbai, Maharashtra Environment Minister Suresh … Read more >>>.

Woman scams Canadians by faking cancer

TORONTO – A 23-year-old Canadian woman, who faked having cancer and then created a bogus charity to raise thousands of dollars only to blow the money away, says she did it all to settle scores with her parents for her miserable childhood.

“I was trying to get my family back together. I didn’t want to feel … Read : Woman scams Canadians by faking cancer.

NATO says American service member, Afghan child killed in fighting in southern Afghanistan

US service member, Afghan child killed in attacks

KABUL, Afghanistan – A U.S. service member was killed in a bomb attack in southern Afghanistan on Monday, while an Afghan child was shot dead during a gunbattle between NATO forces and insurgents, the alliance said.
NATO did not provide further details on the death of the American.
Sunday’s fighting … Read more : NATO says American service member, Afghan child killed in fighting in southern Afghanistan.

More Haitian children beg on Dominican streets post-quake in a sign of widening economic gulf

Haitian children turn to begging in DR after quake

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – From the white-sand beaches at the edge of all-inclusive resorts to the gritty streets of the capital, more Haitian children are begging on the streets of the Dominican Republic – a sign that the economic gulf between the neighboring nations has grown …. Source article  : More Haitian children beg on Dominican streets post-quake in a sign of widening economic gulf.

Two women, teen murdered in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Two women and a teenage girl were found murdered in their rented house in Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi district, police said Monday.

The three bodies were recovered late Sunday from the house in Rustamnagar village, some 300 km from here.
The victims include Zareena (40), her 14-year-old daughter Salma and another tenant Ramrati (60). Police … Read : Two women, teen murdered in Uttar Pradesh.

Mumbai Oil Spill Getting Worse

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- As MSC Chitra continues to spill out oil, the environmentalists fear that the condition of the coastal area of Mumbai might get worse in days to come. The oil slick is spreading fast off the shore of Mumbai and the authorities are closely monitoring the situation to gauge the extent of the …. Source  : Mumbai Oil Spill Getting Worse.

Four bullet-riddled bodies found in Mexico

Mexico City, Aug 9 (IANS/EFE) Four bullet-riddled bodies were found in the southern Mexican state of Guerrero, while 12 hostages were released by kidnappers in the northern state of Nuevo Leon, officials said.

The bodies of four people killed gangland-style were found along with “narcomessages” in the cities of Tecoanapa and Petatlan.
The bodies of Mario …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Four bullet-riddled bodies found in Mexico.

Ferry carrying more than 50 people sinks in eastern Indonesia

Ferry sinks in eastern Indonesia
JAKARTA, Indonesia – A police chief says a ferry carrying more than 50 people sank in eastern Indonesia. At least 10 people died and 16 others were rescued.

Lt. Abdul Rahma Aba told the local television station, TVOne, that the accident occurred Monday off East Nusatenggara province.
He says the boat was heading … Read more >>.

Thousands rally in Polish capital to demand memorial cross be moved from presidential palace

Thousands rally in Warsaw to demand cross be moved

WARSAW, Poland – Thousands of people held a midnight rally in Poland’s capital to demand that a wooden cross erected in memory of the late President Lech Kaczynski be moved from in front of the presidential palace.
The cross was erected after Kaczynski was killed in a plane [..] Read the original article: here.

30 arrested in Punjab with pirated CDs

CHANDIGARH – Thirty people have been arrested in Punjab and hundreds of pirated CDs and DVDs seized from them, police said here Tuesday.

On a tip-off from the organisation Indian Music Industry (IMI), police conducted 31 mobile chip anti-piracy raids at several places across the state. Over 21,180 pirated CDs, mostly of new films, were seized … Read more >>>.

Rescue operations intensified in Leh, 151 foreigners relocated

SRINAGAR – More than 150 foreign tourists trapped in Leh, where flashfloods have killed 165 people, were relocated to safer places Tuesday as the Indian Army intensified its rescue and relief operations, officials said.

Army columns moved into some of the worst affected areas by trekking for miles through mud and debris. “This was a task …. Original article  : Rescue operations intensified in Leh, 151 foreigners relocated.

UN: Afghan civilians killed, injured rose 31 percent in first 6 months of the year

UN: Afghan citizens killed, injured rising sharply

KABUL, Afghanistan – The number of civilians killed in the Afghan conflict rose 25 percent in the first six months of the year, with insurgents responsible for the spike, the United Nations said in a report Tuesday.
The report comes after a strong push by NATO forces to reduce civilian …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UN: Afghan civilians killed, injured rose 31 percent in first 6 months of the year.

Report: Russian wildfires have caused some $15 billion in damages

Report: wildfires cost Russia some $15 billion
MOSCOW – A newspaper says the hundreds of wildfires that has swept western Russia has caused billions of dollars in damage.
The business daily Kommersant says in Tuesday’s edition that the damage from the fires is expected to amount to about $15 billion – or about one percent … Read more : Report: Russian wildfires have caused some $15 billion in damages.

Flash floods: special control room set up for foreigners

NEW DELHI – India’s external affairs ministry has set up a special control room to provide information to relatives of foreigners who may have been affected by the flash floods in and around Leh town in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Information about Indians and foreign nationals who have sadly lost their lives, have been injured or … Read more : Flash floods: special control room set up for foreigners.

Plane crash reported near Dillingham, Alaska; 8 believed aboard

Plane crash reported near Dillingham, Alaska

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Emergency crews are trying to reach the site of a plane crash north of Dillingham in southwest Alaska.
Maj. Guy Hayes says the Alaska Air National Guard was asked to respond after a passing aircraft spotted the wreckage Monday night.
Hayes says eight people were reported to be on [..] Read the original article: here.

Gulf relief well down to final 100 feet, but crews keep an eye on possible tropical weather

Gulf relief well crews watch for tropical weather

NEW ORLEANS – Crews finishing work meant to forever stop oil from leaking from a blown-out undersea well into the Gulf may have one more hurdle to overcome: the weather.
The National Hurricane Center is watching a cluster of thunderstorms in the far eastern Gulf of Mexico that forecasters [..] Read the original article: here.

Chhattisgarh team in Leh to look for missing people

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh has sent a five-member team to Jammu and Kashmir’s Leh town, which was devastated by floods last week, to help trace missing people, an official said Tuesday.

The team left late Monday after reports suggested that dozens of men and women belonging to Chhattisgarh’s Janjgir district were missing in Leh.
The team, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chhattisgarh team in Leh to look for missing people.

Manali-Leh highway partially reopened

MANALI – The strategic national highway that connects this town in Himachal Pradesh to Leh in Jammu and Kashmir has been partially reopened after it was shut due to landslides at various points last week, an official said Tuesday.

“The traffic on the entire 475-km stretch between Manali and Leh couldn’t be restored as work is …. Original article  : Manali-Leh highway partially reopened.

Fiery highway crash in Calif. kills 6, including member of university cross country team

Fiery California highway crash kills 6
BISHOP, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol says an SUV swerved into a highway median in the eastern Sierra Nevada and collided with two vehicles, killing six people, including a member of a university cross country team.

CHP Officer Dennis Cleland says the southbound SUV drifted off the shoulder then traveled …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Upset with spouse, tribal woman murders kids

RAIPUR – A 30-year-old tribal woman killed her two children and injured another two after having an altercation with her husband in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, police said Tuesday.

Mitibai also attempted suicide late Monday in Bagmohlai village, about 280 km from here.
“Motibai had a dispute with her husband Ishwar Mandawi and in a fit of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Small tsunami generated after powerful earthquake hits near Vanuatu in South Pacific

Small tsunami generated after Vanuatu earthquake

SYDNEY – Panicked residents of Vanuatu raced for higher ground after a powerful earthquake rattled the South Pacific island nation and generated a small tsunami on Tuesday.
The 9-inch (22 centimeter) wave was observed off the capital Port Vila, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said. Police said there were no immediate … Read : Small tsunami generated after powerful earthquake hits near Vanuatu in South Pacific.

Coca Cola employee gunned down in Guwahati

GUWAHATI – A Coca Cola employee on his way to a bank was gunned down on a busy road in Assam’s main city of Guwahati Tuesday morning, police said, suspecting the involvement of Bodo militants.

A police spokesperson said Keshab Phukan was shot at with small weapons from close range in the crowded R.G. Baruah Road …. Read the original article  : here.

Magnitude 7.5 earthquake hits near Vanuatu in South Pacific; no tsunami warning issued

Magnitude 7.5 earthquake hits near Vanuatu

SYDNEY – The U.S. Geological Survey says an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.5 has hit the South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has not issued an alert and there have been no immediate reports of damage.
The USGS says the quake hit Tuesday about 25 miles …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Magnitude 7.5 earthquake hits near Vanuatu in South Pacific; no tsunami warning issued.

Rescuers bring food, blankets to sightseers stuck on Alaska glacier after plane mishap

Alaska glacier: Supplies reach stranded sightseers

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Rescuers in Alaska skied across a glacier in whiteout conditions Monday evening to bring food, water and blankets to a group of sightseers stranded after their small plane apparently crashed.
A four-man rescue squad found the five people on board the plane in good condition on Knik Glacier, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Leh toll rises to 165, 81 foreigners rescued

LEH – The toll in the devastating flash floods caused by Friday’s cloudburst in Leh town of Jammu and Kashmir has risen to 165, even as 81 foreign tourists were rescued by the Indian Air Force from Zanskar Valley of Ladakh region, police said Tuesday.

The foreigners were rescued late Monday.
“We have recovered 165 bodies … Original article on : Leh toll rises to 165, 81 foreigners rescued.

Five killed in Uttar Pradesh accident

LUCKNOW – Five young men were killed and one was injured early Tuesday when the car they were travelling in collided with a speeding truck in Uttar Pradesh’s Bulandshahr district, police said.

The accident took place on the Bulandshahr-Delhi road in Salempur area, about 400 km from here.
“Of the six men, who were present inside … Read more »»».

Two Indians held in Malaysia with drugs

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Police have arrested two Indians at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport with nine kilograms of ketamine taped to their bodies.

The men, aged 40 and 28, had arrived from Chennai, India, and were waiting for their luggage when a team from the Selangor state police headquarters detained them last Friday.
The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

3 tornadoes spotted on northeast Colorado plains; barn damaged, but no injuries reported

3 tornadoes reported on NE Colorado plains

DENVER – At least three tornadoes have been reported on Colorado’s northeastern plains, with one person reporting damage to a barn.
Meteorologist Frank Benton of the National Weather Service in Boulder says a woman told the Washington County sheriff’s office that a tornado touched down on her property 13 miles …. Original source  : 3 tornadoes spotted on northeast Colorado plains; barn damaged, but no injuries reported.

8 Iraqi army soldiers killed during explosion at house in Diyala province, officials say

Bomb kills 8 Iraqi soldiers north of Baghdad

BAGHDAD – At least eight Iraqi army soldiers died early Wednesday when a house they were preparing to raid blew up, army and police officials said.
The incident in the volatile Diyala province underlines the unrelenting dangers that members of Iraq’s security forces still face as American forces prepare … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 8 Iraqi army soldiers killed during explosion at house in Diyala province, officials say.

With 1,000 still missing, hope fading for survivors in northwest China floods that killed 702

Little hope for more survivors of China floods

ZHOUQU, China – Heavy rains Wednesday lashed a remote section of northwestern China where weekend flooding killed at least 702 people, as hopes of finding more survivors faded and crews worked to stave off outbreaks of disease.
More than 1,000 people were still listed as missing in the disaster, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : With 1,000 still missing, hope fading for survivors in northwest China floods that killed 702.

Wildfires in Russia raise fears that radioactive fallout from Chernobyl could spread

Russian wildfires raise radiation fears
MOSCOW – Russian emergency workers have increased forest patrols in a western region affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, trying to prevent wildfires that could potentially spread harmful radiation, officials said Wednesday.

The Emergency Situations Ministry’s branch in the western Bryansk region – the area of Russia that suffered worst from the … Read more »».

Sri Lanka’s government-appointed commission to probe civil war begins public sittings

Sri Lankan war commission begins public sitting

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – A Sri Lankan government-appointed commission to look into the country’s civil war opened public hearings Wednesday amid international skepticism about its credibility and mandate to probe and punish war crimes.
The hearings began a day after a group of 57 U.S. lawmakers wrote to Secretary of …. Read the original article  : here.

Approaching tropical depression halts drilling of relief well at Gulf spill site for 2-3 days

Tropical depression halts drilling at Gulf well

NEW ORLEANS – Drilling the final feet of a relief well intended to permanently plug the busted BP oil well deep below the Gulf of Mexico will have to wait two to three days as a strengthening tropical depression bears down on the site.
BP and Coast Guard officials had …. Read the original article  : Approaching tropical depression halts drilling of relief well at Gulf spill site for 2-3 days.

33 rare snakes confiscated in Shanghai

SHANGHAI – Thirty-three rare snakes meant to be sold illegally in an aquatic products market in Shanghai were seized after a dealer was bitten by a poisonous species.

The snakes were confiscated from the market in Putuo district after a snake breeder named Guo Yupeng, 27, nearly died after being bitten by a narrow-banded krait, the … Read more : 33 rare snakes confiscated in Shanghai.

Alaska National Guard helicopter rescues 3 stranded sightseers from glacier; 9 people remain

Helicopter rescue plucks 3 from Alaska glacier

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Three people stranded on an Alaska glacier for two days when their small sightseeing plane crashed were finally carried away by a helicopter crew Tuesday, but deteriorating weather conditions threatened to delay the rescue of nine others, authorities said.
Another Alaska Air National Guard Pave Hawk helicopter … Read more >>>.

Man marinates ‘mean’ cat in car bonnet

NEW YORK – An American man who was caught “marinating” his cat in a mixture of peppers, salt and oil inside a cage in the car bonnet said he was doing so because the feline was mean and ill-tempered.

Police in Buffalo, 470 km from New York, pulled over a car driven by Gary L. Korkuc, … Read more >>.

Five Jharkhand police officials sacked

RANCHI – The Jharkhand government has terminated the services of five police officers appointed through illegal means by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) in 2007, says an official statement.

All four are of deputy superintendent of police rank. They were sacked after the vigilance bureau found that the officials were appointed in a wrong way, … Read more : Five Jharkhand police officials sacked.

China to resettle 45,000 mudslide-affected people

BEIJING – The Chinese government has chalked out a three-stage resettlement programme for the thousands of people affected in rain-triggered mudslides in Gansu province that left at least 702 dead while over 1,000 people are still missing.

Over 45,000 people have been affected in the landslides that occurred at midnight Sunday in Zhouqu county in Gannan … Original article on : China to resettle 45,000 mudslide-affected people.

To stop girlfriend, Chinese man says bomb on plane

BEIJING – A Chinese man who did not want his girlfriend to visit the Shanghai Expo told police that the plane she would be travelling in had a bomb in it.

Tian Yu, 21, from Henan province, was sentenced to one and a half years in prison by the district people’s court in Henan’s Kaifeng city … Read more »»».

Roadside bomb in eastern Afghanistan kills 3 Afghan civilians, as noncombatant deaths surge

NATO: Roadside bomb kills 3 Afghan civilians

KABUL, Afghanistan – A roadside bomb in eastern Afghanistan killed three Afghan civilians, NATO forces said Wednesday.
They died Tuesday when their vehicle struck the bomb while driving in Ghazni province’s Waghaz district, the coalition said in a statement. Another three people were wounded.
It was the latest in a growing …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Roadside bomb in eastern Afghanistan kills 3 Afghan civilians, as noncombatant deaths surge.

One killed as terrorists attack bus, army jeep in Jammu

JAMMU – A woman was killed and 15 people hurt when terrorists attacked a civilian bus and an army jeep in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district Wednesday, police sources said.

The incident took place around 9 a.m. at Dera-k-Gali in Rajouri, about 190 km north of Jammu.
A woman passenger was killed and 11 others … Read more >>>.

Magnitude 6 earthquake shakes Vanuatu: No tsunami and no injuries or damage reported

Magnitude 6 earthquake shakes Vanuatu: No damage

CANBERRA, Australia – The U.S Geological Survey says a magnitude 6 earthquake has shaken Vanuatu – a day after a stronger quake off the South Pacific island nation generated a small tsunami.
The Wednesday quake was too small to cause a tsunami and there were no immediate reports of injuries …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Abortion a method of contraception in Argentina’

Buenos Aires, Aug 11 (IANS/EFE) Forty percent of pregnancies in Argentina are terminated by illegal abortions, a figure that is double the Latin American average, the Human Rights Watch (HRW) has said .

“In the rest of the region, 20 percent of pregnancies are terminated by abortion. In Argentina, abortion has become a method of contraception,” …. Source article  : ‘Abortion a method of contraception in Argentina’.

Brazil makes formal offer of asylum to convicted Iranian woman

BRASILIA – The Brazilian government has made an official offer of asylum to an Iranian woman – Sakineh Mohammadi-Ashtiani – who has been sentenced to death by stoning for adultery and killing her husband.

Brazilian foreign ministry sources said Tuesday in Brasilia that the offer, which Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva made unofficially a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Japanese tour bus driver blamed for rollover crash in Utah that killed 3 and injured 11

Bus driver under investigation for Utah crash

SALT LAKE CITY – At this time of summer, foreign tourists are swarming across U.S. landmarks. But one Japanese tour group that set off for Utah’s spectacular Bryce Canyon National Park didn’t make it.
Their tour bus careened off a highway and rolled over Monday, killing three tourists and injuring … Read more : Japanese tour bus driver blamed for rollover crash in Utah that killed 3 and injured 11.

UN warning on trial of young Guantanamo detainee

UNITED NATIONS – The opening of the trial of Omar Khadr, a Canadian captured in Afghanistan in 2002 at the age of 15, in Guantanamo Bay Tuesday could “set a precedent that may endanger the status of child soldiers all over the world”, a top UN official warned.

Radhika Coomaraswamy, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s special representative … Read more : UN warning on trial of young Guantanamo detainee.

Tropical depression forms in Gulf of Mexico, heads for oil spill site where work is halted

Tropical depression forms in Gulf, heads for spill

MIAMI – The National Hurricane Center says a tropical depression has formed in the Gulf of Mexico and is headed toward the oil spill site off the coast of Louisiana.
BP and Coast Guard officials had already decided to stop drilling on a relief well on Tuesday, before forecasters …. Source  : Tropical depression forms in Gulf of Mexico, heads for oil spill site where work is halted.

Tropical depression forms in Gulf of Mexico, heads for oil spill site where work is halted

Tropical depression forms in Gulf, heads for spill

MIAMI – The National Hurricane Center says a tropical depression has formed in the Gulf of Mexico and it is heading toward the oil spill site off the coast of Louisiana.
BP and Coast Guard officials had already decided to stop drilling on a relief well on Tuesday, before … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tropical depression forms in Gulf of Mexico, heads for oil spill site where work is halted.

Russian wildfires reach nuclear disaster zone

MOSCOW – Wildfires in Russia have reached areas contaminated by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, raising concern among people that radioactive material could be released into the air.

Russia’s Federal Forestry Agency said around 3,900 hectares in the zone from the 1986 disaster have been affected by the raging forest fires, that have killed at least … Read more : Russian wildfires reach nuclear disaster zone.

Russian emergency officials report success in battling wildfires

Russia manages to reduce number of wildfires

MOSCOW – Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry says its teams have managed to reduce the size of wildfires around Moscow and other regions in western Russia.
The ministry said Thursday that the area engulfed by fires around the capital has shrunk by more than quarter over the past 24 hours. It …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Russian emergency officials report success in battling wildfires.

Pakistan rivers in spate

ISLAMABAD – Rivers in Pakistan’s Punjab and Sindh provinces reached “exceptionally high” levels Thursday and may soon inundate low-lying areas, as the country grappled with its worst ever floods that have affected over 14 million people.

Floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains have left over 1,600 people dead.
Rising water levels in the Indus and Chenab … Original article on : Pakistan rivers in spate.

Psychic looks for girl, finds woman’s body

SYDNEY – A psychic acting on a hunch that the body of a missing Sydney schoolgirl would be in a public park found the torso of a missing woman there instead, police said Thursday.

Police have contacted the family of a 31-year-old mother not seen for two months but would not confirm a link with the …. Source  : Psychic looks for girl, finds woman’s body.

Flooding in Iowa forces hundreds of residents from their homes, kills 16-year-old girl

Hundreds evacuated, 1 dead after flooding in Iowa

DES MOINES, Iowa – Three nights of heavy rainfall caused Iowa creeks and rivers to swell, forcing hundreds of residents from their homes and killing a 16-year-old girl when three cars were swept away by a torrent of water on a rural road.
In Ames, flooding contributed to a …. Source  : Flooding in Iowa forces hundreds of residents from their homes, kills 16-year-old girl.

Ramadan or not, Pakistani flood victims say they’re already going without food

Ramadan or not, hunger hits Pakistan flood victims

MULTAN, Pakistan – Pakistani flood survivors already short on food and water began the fasting month of Ramadan on Thursday, a normally festive, social time marked this year by misery and fears of an uncertain future.
The U.S. announced a navy ship with 19 helicopters and 1,000 Marines on … Read more >>.

Ishrat Jahan killing probe given to court-appointed SIT

AHMEDABAD – The Gujarat High Court Thursday handed over the investigation of the Ishrat Jahan suspected staged-shootout case to the Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Jahan was gunned down by Gujarat police in Ahmedabad June 15, 2004.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ishrat Jahan killing probe given to court-appointed SIT.

Swede gets world’s highest motoring fine

LONDON – A Swedish driver, who sped through Switzerland and received the world’s highest ever motoring fine of 650,000 euros, said: “I think the speedo on the car, which is new, is faulty.”

The 37-year-old driver was clocked at 180mph while driving through Switzerland in a Mercedes SLS AMG that costs 140,000 pounds.
The … Read more »»».

As BP, feds explore whether final plug is needed for Gulf gusher, locals fear being forgotten

Gulf leaders wary over wavering on final plug

NEW ORLEANS – With the oil well that had been spewing into the Gulf of Mexico plugged from the top and BP PLC and federal officials pondering whether the final plug, or “bottom kill,” is needed, local officials fear national disengagement from what remains a crisis of unknown … Read more »».

Teacher to face action for thrashing Class 11 student

LUCKNOW – A government school teacher of Uttar Pradesh’s Etawah district will face action for brutally thrashing a Class 11 student that left him needing multiple stitches on his head, an official said Thursday.

Mohammad Ahmad, a teacher of the Islamia Inter College Wednesday assaulted Shishir Shukla after the student jumped the queue while leaving the …. Original article  : Teacher to face action for thrashing Class 11 student.

Villagers in eastern Afghanistan protest alleged killing of 3 civilians by NATO

Claims of Afghan civilian deaths spark protest

KABUL, Afghanistan – A crowd of about 300 villagers yelled “death to the United States” and blocked a main road in eastern Afghanistan on Thursday as they swore that U.S. forces had killed three innocent villagers, officials said.
NATO forces rejected the claim – saying they killed several suspected insurgents …. Original source  : Villagers in eastern Afghanistan protest alleged killing of 3 civilians by NATO.

Ames, Iowa Flooding Situation Getting Worse

DES MOINES (GaeaTimes.com)- The Ames, Iowa flood on Wednesday has claimed the life of a 16-year-old girl who died when floodwater swept three cars off a road near Des Moines. Widespread flooding has struck Ames, Iowa after three nights of continuous rainfall. Hundreds of Iowa residents had to evacuate their homes early on Wednesday. [..] Read the original article: here.

More rains, mudslides expected this week as death toll in China disaster rises to 1,117

More rain expected in China as flood toll rises

ZHOUQU, China – Overnight thunderstorms brought fresh misery to survivors in a remote area of northwestern China on Thursday as the death toll from weekend flooding and massive landslides rose to 1,117.
The National Weather Center forecast heavy rains in the coming days – up to 3.5 inches …. Source  : More rains, mudslides expected this week as death toll in China disaster rises to 1,117.

Harney Co., Ore., officials say 2 people, not 3, dead in plane crash near Burns, Ore.

Ore. officials say 2, not 3, dead in plane crash

BURNS, Ore. – The Harney County sheriff says two people have died in the crash of a small plane about 70 miles south of the Eastern Oregon city of Burns.
Sheriff Dave Glerup said Wednesday night via e-mail that no additional information would be available from his … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Harney Co., Ore., officials say 2 people, not 3, dead in plane crash near Burns, Ore..

Briton kills wife for his ‘twisted obsession for sex’

LONDON – A Briton who murdered his wife due to his “twisted obsession for sex” has been sentenced to 25 years in jail.

Just days before their divorce, 32-year-old Brent Mott killed his wife Kate, Daily Express reported Thursday.
Brent attempted to cover up the killing by staging a car accident. He took Kate’s body to … Read more »».

More rain threatens China’s mudslide-hit region

BEIJING – Rescuers Thursday scrambled to look for survivors in China’s Zhouqu county, where mudslides triggered by torrential downpour killed 1,117 people, as more heavy rains are expected to lash the region Friday.

The National Meteorological Centre warned of more landslides in the coming days, with heavy rain of up to 90 mm expected to hit …. Read the original article  : here.

CBI takes over Koda scam probe

RANCHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed an FIR against former Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda and five ex-ministers in a disproportionate assets scam, an official said.

The Jharkhand High Court Aug 4 ordered a CBI probe against them for amassing assets more than their known sources of income.
“We have lodged an …. Source  : CBI takes over Koda scam probe.

Now satellites to monitor global fires

UNITED NATIONS – The Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) has created a new system that will use satellites to monitor devastating fires around the world.

“The control of these fires has become an issue of high importance, not only because of the increasing number of casualties and the huge area burned but also because of the …. Original source  : Now satellites to monitor global fires.

FAA: 3 people believed dead in twin-engine plane crash in eastern Oregon

FAA: 3 believed dead in small plane crash in Ore.

BURNS, Ore. – The Federal Aviation Administration says three people are believed dead in the crash of a twin-engine plane in eastern Oregon.
FAA spokesman Ian Gregor says the Aero Commander 500B went down Wednesday morning about 70 miles south of Burns.
Both he and FAA spokesman Allen …. Source  : FAA: 3 people believed dead in twin-engine plane crash in eastern Oregon.

Everyone now rescued from Alaska glacier where sightseeing party was stranded

Everyone now rescued from Alaska glacier
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Alaska National Guard helicopter was able to land Wednesday and pick up two sightseers and seven guardsmen – the last of 12 people who had been stranded on an Alaska glacier.

The sightseers were part of a five-member group on a small plane that crashed Sunday on … Read : Everyone now rescued from Alaska glacier where sightseeing party was stranded.

4,800 Chinese died in road accidents in July

BEIJING – At least 4,853 people died in road accidents in China in July, the ministry of public security said Friday.

Around 30,000 people were injured in 17,000 accidents across the country. The accidents caused an economic loss of about 70 million yuan ($10.3 million), Xinhua reported.
The ministry warned of increased traffic snarls as students …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 4,800 Chinese died in road accidents in July.

UN chief to visit flood-hit Pakistan Saturday

ISLAMABAD – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will arrive in Pakistan Saturday to assess relief and rescue work in the flood-hit country, a media report said Friday.

Pakistan is grappling with its worst ever floods that have left over 1,600 people dead and affected over 14 million people.
The secretary-general will assess losses due to the floods … Read more >>.

Woman scratches swastika on drunk man’s buttocks

AUCKLAND – A woman was found guilty of stomping on a drunk man and scratching a swastika with a screwdriver on his buttocks after a row in a bar in New Zealand.

Briana Rose Murray, 21, was sentenced to 16 months in jail for her role in the attack in Christchurch in August 2009, the Herald … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Woman scratches swastika on drunk man’s buttocks.

24 more die in China’s flood-hit northwest as new rains trigger more landslides

24 more die in China’s flood-hit northwest

ZHOUQU, China – New landslides killed 24 people and left 24 missing in China’s remote northwest as downpours threatened more devastation and made rescue work nearly impossible Friday in a region where more than 1,100 people have been killed.
More rain was forecast for flood-ravaged Gansu province in the coming …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 24 more die in China’s flood-hit northwest as new rains trigger more landslides.

Alaska fishing guide says Stevens enjoyed good fishing day before dying in plane crash

Guide says Stevens in good spirits before death

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A guide says Ted Stevens’ last day of fishing was a very good day – the former U.S. senator was in great spirits as he casted for silver salmon at an Alaska camp and raved about the spinning lures he was using.
“He was happy to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Alaska fishing guide says Stevens enjoyed good fishing day before dying in plane crash.

Chhattisgarh to compensate its Leh victims

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh Friday said several people from the state had lost their lives in the flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir’s Leh town and announced Rs.1 lakh as compensation for each victim’s family.

“The state government will pay Rs.100,000 to each of the families that lost their members in Leh’s disaster. The government will also …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Recovery effort’ under way after Nev. gold mine accident leaves 2 miners missing, feared dead

Nev. accident leaves 2 miners missing, feared dead

RENO, Nev. – A search was under way after an accident at an underground gold mine in northern Nevada left two miners missing and feared dead.
Barrick Gold Corp. has not confirmed any deaths following Thursday’s accident at the Meikle mine, which has seen three fatalities in the past …. Source article  : ‘Recovery effort’ under way after Nev. gold mine accident leaves 2 miners missing, feared dead.

Alaska fishing guide says Stevens enjoyed good fishing day before fatal plane crash

Guide: Stevens in good spirits before fatal crash

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A fishing guide says the day before former U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens died he was in great spirits – enjoying some fishing for silver salmon at an Alaska fish camp and raving about the spinning lures he was using.
Byron Orth says the fishing was so …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Alaska fishing guide says Stevens enjoyed good fishing day before fatal plane crash.

Three illegal coal miners die in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Three illegal miners in Jharkhand’s coal city of Dhanbad died when the roof of a closed mine they were working in caved in. More casualties are expected, police said Friday.

According to the police, seven to eight people were working in the closed Munidih coal mine of Dhanbad district, some 240 km from here … Read more >>>.

Youth arrested for murdering four family members

NABHA – A 24-year-old man, accused of mercilessly killing four members of his family in this Punjab town, has been arrested and will be produced in court Friday, police said.

Amrit killed his parents Iqbal Singh, 55, Jaswinder Kaur, 50, grandfather Hameer Singh, 75, and sister Gurjagjit Kaur, 18, Thursday morning at a house in Preet … Original source on Gaea Times at : Youth arrested for murdering four family members.

Sweltering Russian capital refreshed by rain, but wildfires still burning and smog may return

Rain refreshes Moscow, but wildfires still burning

MOSCOW – Heavy downpours have cooled the Russian capital after weeks of unprecendented heat and dry weather, but dozens of wildfires are still raging around Moscow.
The city on Friday remains largely free of clouds of suffocating smog after they were blown away by favorable winds earlier this week. Weather …. Source  : Sweltering Russian capital refreshed by rain, but wildfires still burning and smog may return.

Brothers jailed for burning church in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR – Two Malaysian brothers were Friday jailed for five years for burning a church earlier this year.

The Metro Tabernacle Church was one of the four Christian shrines attacked in January.
The series of attacks was linked to the High Court’s decision Dec 31, to allow a Catholic publication to use the … Read more : Brothers jailed for burning church in Malaysia.

La. wife of ‘Granddad Bandit’ suspect describes quiet life, no knowledge of robberies

Wife: Quiet life with ‘Granddad Bandit’ suspect

BATON ROUGE, La. – Patsy Mara doesn’t doubt the man the FBI calls the “Granddad Bandit,” suspected in a string of bank robberies across the country, is her husband. The 61-year-old schoolteacher, however, still has trouble reconciling the image of a holdup man who snatched money from more than …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Analysis of tests on BP’s broken Gulf oil well will show if leak is sealed for good

Decision expected on plug for BP’s broken oil well

NEW ORLEANS – Officials could know by early Friday if BP’s broken oil well in the Gulf of Mexico has been sealed for good.
An analysis of tests on the well done Thursday was scheduled to be completed within 24 hours, letting the federal government and BP PLC … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Analysis of tests on BP’s broken Gulf oil well will show if leak is sealed for good.

LA boy rescued from house fire dies; was aspiring actor from New Zealand

LA boy killed in house fire was aspiring actor

LOS ANGELES – A 14-year-old boy who was placed on life support after being pulled from a burning San Fernando Valley home has died.
Officials said Thursday that Eitan Djiji died Wednesday afternoon.
Djiji was featured in the 2009 comedy film “My Homework Ate My Dog” and was due … Read more >>>.

RAND report: Haiti must clear rubble, aid businesses, fix government to move forward

RAND report: Haiti must clear rubble, aid business

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – A U.S.-based think tank is painting a grim picture of the earthquake recovery effort in Haiti, adding its voice to widespread accusations of ineffectual local leadership.
The RAND Corp. report being released Friday ticks off a crushing litany of problems in the Caribbean nation, many predating …. Source article  : RAND report: Haiti must clear rubble, aid businesses, fix government to move forward.

Delhi sees six robberies in one night

NEW DELHI – The national capital saw six robberies take place in one night. This includes a man being looted outside an ATM, a property dealer robbed of Rs.8.5 lakh and a few other cases of small thefts, police said Friday.

“Six robbers on three bikes robbed a property dealer of Rs.8.5 lakh at gunpoint in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delhi sees six robberies in one night.

Frustrated student threatens suicide

CHANDIGARH – A frustrated Panjab University student, who had to repeat two papers of the annual examinations, threatened to commit suicide if her result is not declared in time. The varsity has ordered a probe.

Akashdeep Kaur, who is pursuing Bachelors of Arts (BA) from Government College in Sector 46 here, was declared failed in her … Read more >>>.

World Bank announces $900 mn for Pakistan floods

ISLAMABAD – The World Bank has announced a grant of $900 million for relief and reconstruction work following the floods in Pakistan that have cost the nation around Rs.250 billion, a media report said Friday.

Pakistan is grappling with its worst ever floods that have left over 1,600 people dead and affected over 14 million people. [..] Read the original article: here.

One of the world’s most wanted cyber-criminal nabbed

WASHINGTON – One of the five most wanted cyber-criminals in the world who founded sophisticated internet sites for trafficking credit card information has been detained in France, authorities said.

Vladislav Anatolieviech Horohorin, 27, was arrested at the Nice airport Saturday while he was on his way from Monaco to Moscow, said the US Secret Service and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : One of the world’s most wanted cyber-criminal nabbed.

Canadian man sets a fire in front of PM’s house

OTTAWA – A man has been arrested for setting a fire in front of the official residence of Canadian Prime Minster Stephen Harper in Ottawa Saturday night.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said they found a man burning some liquid near the 24 Sussex Drive residence, but refused to comment on whether the prime minister …. Source  : Canadian man sets a fire in front of PM’s house.

Bombings, drive-by shooting kill 7, wound 17 in Baghdad area

Drive-by shooting, bombings kill 7 in Iraq

BAGHDAD – A drive-by shooting outside a mosque and a series of rush-hour bombings early Sunday killed seven Iraqis and injured 17 more in and around Baghdad, police and health officials said.
Gunmen opened fire on worshippers as they were leaving morning prayers in town of Jurf al-Sakhr just south …. Read the original article  : Bombings, drive-by shooting kill 7, wound 17 in Baghdad area.

Rich being shielded from Pakistan floods?

ISLAMABAD – As ordinary Pakistanis continue to battle floods which have claimed at least 1,600 lives, there have been allegations that flood waters are being diverted to less privileged areas and canals are being breached at the behest of power groups.

Residents in Dera Ghazi Khan and its peripheral areas have alleged that the Taunsa barrage … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rich being shielded from Pakistan floods?.

Flooding worsens in Pakistan as UN chief appeals for more aid

UN chief appeals for aid in flood-hit Pakistan
SUKKUR, Pakistan – U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged the world to provide more aid to flood-ravaged Pakistan on Sunday as the 20 million people made homeless grew increasingly desperate, and new torrents inundated villages.
Survivors fought over food being handed out from a relief vehicle close to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Flooding worsens in Pakistan as UN chief appeals for more aid.

Indians hack Pakistani website: TV channel

ISLAMABAD – Indian hackers have broken into the website of the Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF), a Pakistani television channel claimed Sunday.

The PPF is an independent media research and training centre designed to promote and defend the freedom of press and raise social and political awareness in Pakistan.
The website was subsequently closed by Pakistani authorities …. Original source  : Indians hack Pakistani website: TV channel.

Dutch girls groomed for sex on social networking sites

LONDON – Thousands of young girls in the Netherlands are being groomed for sex on social networking websites and forced into prostitution by pimps, a charity has claimed.

Anita De Witt of the charity Stoploverboys claims the young girls are showered with promises of love before being threatened with violence and bullied into a life of …. Source  : Dutch girls groomed for sex on social networking sites.

Shoe-thrower mentally unsound: Kashmir Police

SRINAGAR – The Jammu and Kashmir police Sunday said the man who flung a shoe at Chief Minister Omar Abdullah during the Independence Day parade here Sunday is a suspended head constable and is “mentally unsound”.

“Abdul Ahad Jan is a suspended head constable of police belonging to Kulgam district (in south Kashmir) and already has …. Read the original article  : Shoe-thrower mentally unsound: Kashmir Police.

UN chief arrives in Pakistan to see flood devastation

ISLAMABAD – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon arrived in Pakistan Sunday to visit areas devastated by the country’s worst floods.

Ban was met at Islamabad’s Chaklala airbase by Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Interior Minister Rehman Malik.
“I will have an opportunity to see for myself the affected area and I get to share for stories … Original source on Gaea Times at : UN chief arrives in Pakistan to see flood devastation.

Fire prompts evacuations at hotels, offices near White House

WASHINGTON – An underground transformer fire near the White House prompted the evacuation of two landmark hotels and the National Press Building in downtown Washington Saturday night. No injuries were reported.

The fire broke out at about 8 p.m. (0000 GMT) about a block from the White House, with flames and smoke shooting up through a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bombs explode in Baghdad’s rush hour traffic killing 4 people say police

Rush hour bombs kill 4 in Baghdad
BAGHDAD – Iraqi police say a series of rush-hour bombings across Baghdad hit commuters on their way to work, killing four and injuring at least 16.

Sunday’s deadliest strike came when a roadside bomb exploded at 7:15 a.m. local time next to a minibus heading from the Shiite neighborhood of … Read more : Bombs explode in Baghdad’s rush hour traffic killing 4 people say police.

8 dead, 12 wounded as vehicle plows into crowd at off-road race in Southern California desert

8 dead, 12 hurt at off-road race in Calif. desert

LOS ANGELES – An off-road vehicle plowed into a crowd moments after sailing off a jump at a race in Southern California Saturday night, killing eight people and leaving 12 wounded, authorities and witnesses said.
The accident happened shortly before 8 p.m. at the race called the … Read more »».

Flooding worsens in Pakistan as UN chief flies in to boost relief effort

UN chief flies in to Pakistan as crisis worsens
SUKKUR, Pakistan – U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon arrived in flood-ravaged Pakistan on Sunday to boost relief efforts as the 20 million people made homeless grew increasingly desperate.
Survivors fought over food being handed out from a relief vehicle close to the town of Sindh, ripping … Original source on Gaea Times at : Flooding worsens in Pakistan as UN chief flies in to boost relief effort.

Women expose breasts to steal from ATM customer

PARIS – Two women, described by police as attractive, exposed their breasts to a man inside an ATM in Paris and took off with his money.

The women in their 20s exposed themselves to distract the man as he punched his pin code into an ATM machine in Paris. As he stared at one of them, … Read more »»».

Chinese media turns black-and-white to mourn mudslide deaths

BEIJING – Online versions of major Chinese newspapers including China Daily, Global Times, People’s Daily and Shanghai Daily wore a black-and-white look Sunday to mourn the over 1,200 deaths in mudslides in Zhouqu county.

The mudslides hit Zhouqu county in Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Gansu province Aug 8, leaving 1,239 people dead, while 505 people …. Original article  : Chinese media turns black-and-white to mourn mudslide deaths.

Floods force evacuation in Sindh, Balochistan

ISLAMABAD – Raging waters of the Indus river have flooded Pakistan’s Sindh and Balochistan provinces, forcing evacuation of 90 percent of the villages. People were forced to shelter under the open skies as they saw their homes being washed away.

The country is grappling with its worst ever floods that have left over 1,600 people dead …. Original article  : Floods force evacuation in Sindh, Balochistan.

Crooks to get cycles for an honest life

LONDON – Criminals in a British county will be given bicycles on loan by the police to help them find jobs and lead an honest life.

Stolen bicycles, which were meant to be auctioned under the Police Property Act will now be “loaned” to offenders by police in Suffolk, 109 km from London.
But critics have …. Read the original article  : here.

China holds national day of mourning for landslide dead; flags lowered, ceremony on state TV

China holds day of mourning for landslide dead

BEIJING – Cinemas closed and coal miners stopped work as China observed a day of mourning Sunday for more than 1,200 victims of a mudslide a week earlier in a northwestern town, while authorities rushed to protect survivors from more flooding.
In a televised memorial service, some 5,000 rescue …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China holds national day of mourning for landslide dead; flags lowered, ceremony on state TV.

Man drowns in Gulf of Mexico about 8 miles from where President Obama, daughter swam

Man drowns about 8 miles from where Obamas swam
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. – A man has drowned in the Gulf of Mexico about eight miles from where President Barack Obama and daughter Sasha were taking a dip.
The News Herald of Panama City reported that it happened about 3:30 p.m. Saturday. Double red flags … Original source on Gaea Times at : Man drowns in Gulf of Mexico about 8 miles from where President Obama, daughter swam.

NTSB: Pilot who was flying near site of Alaska crash says clouds just 600 feet from ground

Pilot near Alaska crash site says clouds were low

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A pilot flying in the area of this week’s Alaska plane crash that killed former Sen. Ted Stevens and four others has estimated that clouds were as low as 600 feet at the time of the crash, the National Transportation Safety Board’s chairwoman said … Read : NTSB: Pilot who was flying near site of Alaska crash says clouds just 600 feet from ground.

Fire extinguished after forcing evacuation of downtown DC hotels near White House

Fire in front of downtown DC hotels extinguished

WASHINGTON – A fire that forced the evacuation of two hotels in downtown Washington near the White House has been extinguished. No injuries were reported.
The fire started around 7:45 p.m. Saturday and appeared to have been sparked by an underground electrical transformer.
The flames shot into the air in … Read more >>.

Russian firefighters score success in battling wildfires, cold front expected to cool Moscow

Russian wildfires shrink as cold front advances

MOSCOW – Russian officials say firefighters have had success pushing back wildfires while an advancing cold front is expected to finally put an end to a two-month heat wave.
The Emergency Situations Ministry said Monday that the area covered by wildfires has shrunk by 15 percent in the last 24 [..] Read the original article: here.

Family, friends mourn 8 killed when truck in Calif. race hit fans who lined up alongside track

Family, friends mourn 8 killed in off-road wreck

LUCERNE VALLEY, Calif. – Zachary Freeman loved to fish, dirt bike and camp – but most of all, he loved to watch off-road truck racing in the vast Mojave Desert northeast of Los Angeles.
That love would cost the 24-year-old pipe welder and seven other off-road enthusiasts their lives … Read more »».

15 die of waterborne disease in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 15 people were killed due to breakout of gastroenteritis disease Monday at a hospital in Dera Ismail Khan of Pakistan’s Khyber- Pakhtunkhwa province which has been severely hit by floods, hospital sources said.

The waterborne gastroenteritis killed several dozen people last week as more cases have also been reported elsewhere across the …. Source article  : 15 die of waterborne disease in Pakistan.

Flood victims go on rampage in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Enraged flood victims burned tyres, blocked roads and exchanged blows with police as the deluge continued to cause devastation in Pakistan’s southern, Sindh province.

The protesters got angry Sunday after one of the flood-affected men died in a relief camp at Sukkur-Shikarpur Road, Geo TV reported Monday.
The flood water is now feared …. Read the original article  : here.

More flood warnings for Pakistan, Jacobabab threatened

ISLAMABAD – Authorities Monday warned of more floods as efforts were under way to save a major city in southern Pakistan.

Meteorological department chief Qamar-uz-Zaman Chaudhry said a second wave of floods on the Indus river has reached the southern province of Sindh and threatened to swamp more areas.
“This second wave is around one million … Read this article on Gaea Times at : More flood warnings for Pakistan, Jacobabab threatened.

Pakistan authorities warn of more floods as survivors block roads in protest at slow aid

Pakistan flood survivors protest slow aid
SUKKUR, Pakistan – Angry flood survivors in Pakistan blocked a highway to protest slow delivery of aid and heavy rain lashed makeshift housing Monday as a forecast of more flooding increased the urgency of the massive international relief effort.

Pakistan’s worst floods in recorded history began more than two weeks ago … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan authorities warn of more floods as survivors block roads in protest at slow aid.

Sex predator admits impregnating victims

SYDNEY – A sex predator in Australia has admitted abusing 18 children over a 25-year period, including a mentally-challenged seven-year-old girl who he later impregnated.

Dennis Alfred Goudge, 57, formerly of Bendigo city in Victoria, pleaded guilty to 58 sex charges including one count of rape and 28 of indecent assault, The Age reported Monday.
A … Read : Sex predator admits impregnating victims.

Four mutilated bodies found in Uttar Pradesh town

LUCKNOW – Four mutilated bodies were found lying near a railway track in Uttar Pradesh’s Faizabad district Monday morning, police said.

The bodies were recovered from near the railway track in Faizabad’s Rudauli town, about 150 km from here.
“We are yet to establish whether it’s the case of murder, suicide or accidental … Read more »»».

Pakistan authorities warn of more floods as more monsoon rain adds to relief urgency

Pakistan warns of more floods as heavy rains fall

SUKKUR, Pakistan – Heavy rain lashed the makeshift camps housing Pakistan’s flood survivors Monday and authorities warned of more flooding this week, adding to the urgency of the massive international relief effort.
Pakistan’s worst floods in recorded history began more than two weeks ago in the mountainous northwest …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan authorities warn of more floods as more monsoon rain adds to relief urgency.

New season for La. shrimpers; worry about low prices, unseen oil and if consumers are buying

La. shrimpers worry about prices for new season

NEW ORLEANS – Shrimpers trawling Louisiana waters Monday in the first commercial season since the Gulf disaster don’t know what dangers from the massive BP oil spill still lurk and what market there will be for their catch if consumers don’t believe the seafood is safe.
Perhaps the biggest … Original article on : New season for La. shrimpers; worry about low prices, unseen oil and if consumers are buying.

HEALTHBEAT: Intense testing under way to assure safety of Gulf seafood following oil spill

Gulf seafood gets intense safety testing
WASHINGTON – Seafood from the Gulf of Mexico is being put under the microscope like no other kind on the market, with fish, shrimp and other catches ground up to hunt for minute traces of oil – far more reassuring than that sniff test that made all the headlines.

And while … Original source on Gaea Times at : HEALTHBEAT: Intense testing under way to assure safety of Gulf seafood following oil spill.

Pumpkins in August? Warm spring, hot summer have many fruits, vegetables ahead of schedule

Heat brings early harvest in New England, Midwest

BOSTON – Warm weather has many fruits and vegetables ripening early this year, and on some farms, fall crops will be ready well before Labor Day.
Early apples are already ripe for picking in the Northeast and Midwest. Sweet corn was a couple of weeks ahead of schedule, as …. Original source  : Pumpkins in August? Warm spring, hot summer have many fruits, vegetables ahead of schedule.

Lucerne Valley Crash Claims 8, Injures 17

LUCERNE VALLEY (GaeaTimes.com)- There is no denying the fact that desert car racing is one of the most exciting sports and its fans will vouch that it is the only one which takes the breath away, but this time the sports near Lucerne Valley took a tragic turn. On Saturday night, eight people were … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lucerne Valley Crash Claims 8, Injures 17.

Bangladesh seeks extradition of Mujib killers

DHAKA – The Bangladesh government has asked countries, including India, where it suspects the killers of its founding leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman are hiding to track down and arrest the absconding men.

Dhaka suspects that at least two of them, former captain Abdul Majed and Risaldar Moslehuddin, are hiding in India and has written to New … Read more >>.

40 dead in Nigeria accident

NAIROBI/LAGOS – At least 40 people have died in a flaming multi-car pile-up near the Nigerian city of Lagos, reports said Monday.

An articulated lorry smashed into a queue of vehicles waiting to navigate a police
checkpoint Sunday, the Nigerian Tribune, quoting witnesses, said.
At least 15 vehicles were engulfed in flames, including two mini-buses, in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pakistan authorities warn of more floods as rain adds to relief urgency

Pakistan warns of more floods as millions affected

SUKKUR, Pakistan – Authorities warned of more flooding this week in Pakistan and heavy rain lashed victims living in makeshift camps Monday, adding to the urgency of a massive international relief effort under way.
Pakistan’s worst floods in recorded history began more than two weeks ago in the mountainous …. Source article  : Pakistan authorities warn of more floods as rain adds to relief urgency.

Woman survives ninth-floor fall

Buenos Aires, Aug 16 (IANS/EFE) A 21-year-old woman survived a fall from the ninth floor of a building in Argentina’s capital Buenos Aires.

The woman, who hails from South Africa, broke an ankle and sustained a facial injury in the fall, but she is out of danger, doctors said.
The accident occurred Saturday, when the woman, … Read more »».

Rouvanjit’s death hasn’t deterred beatings in Bengal schools

KOLKATA – Six months after Class 8 student Rouvanjit Rowla hanged himself following a humiliating caning by the principal, teachers in West Bengal have not stopped thrashing students, with some even causing serious injuries.

La Martiniere for Boys was in the eye of a storm for days after Rouvanjit’s suicide Feb 12. The incident triggered sharp … Read more »»».

Australian women’s jail to have full-body scanner

MELBOURNE – A high-security women’s prison in Australia will have a full-body scanner for checking visitors and inmates in order to stop infiltration of drugs and weapons inside the jail.

The special X-ray machine will be shipped from The Netherlands to the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre in Deer Park, Victoria’s only maximum-security women’s prison, to help … Read : Australian women’s jail to have full-body scanner.

Ten dead in Mexico’s drug wars

MEXICO CITY – Another ten deaths were credited to Mexico’s drug wars over the weekend, including four drug gang suspects killed in a chase by security forces in northern Mexico, according to media reports Sunday.

In Acapulco, the coastal holiday resort on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, police found the bodies of six young men at what they …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ten dead in Mexico’s drug wars.

Maudany’s bail plea not taken up by Supreme Court

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday declined to entertain People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief Abdul Nazir Maudany’s plea for interim bail as it became irrelevant after his arrest for the 2008 Bangalore bombings.

Maudany, an accused in the Bangalore bombings in which one person was killed and 15 injured, was arrested Tuesday by a contingent … Read more »».

PM visits Leh, announces Rs.125 crore relief package

LEH – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday visited flood-ravaged Leh in Jammu and Kashmir and announced a Rs.125 crore relief package for the victims. He also promised to visit the people again before the onset of winters to assess the situation.

He said that all houses destroyed in the Aug 6 devastation will be reconstructed within … Read more »».

Oxfam assesses Ladakh flood disaster, seeks help

NEW DELHI – Shortage of shelter has emerged as the biggest cause of worry for the survivors of flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ladakh region earlier this month, according to a report prepared by NGO Oxfam India.

The other areas of concern are potable water, health and hygiene and bathing cubicles, an official of … Read more : Oxfam assesses Ladakh flood disaster, seeks help.

Four babies die in Bucharest clinic fire

BUCHAREST – A fire in a Bucharest clinic killed four newborns and seven others were still fighting for their lives, the Mediafax news agency said Tuesday.

The fire broke out Monday evening in a room with incubators for prematurely born babies of the gynaecology and obstetric Giuliesti clinic.
Three newborns died immediately, another one succumbed overnight, … Read more »»».

Man killed in shark attack while surfing off western Australia

Man killed by shark while surfing in Australia

ADELAIDE, Australia – An Australian man died Tuesday after being attacked by a shark while surfing off the southwestern coast, police said.
The 31-year-old was attacked while surfing alone early in the morning at a beach near Gracetown, about 175 miles (280 kilometers) south of the Western Australia state … Read more »».

Australians kill friend for attempt to rape

SYDNEY – Two Australian men stabbed a friend to death after they found out he had tried to rape a partner of one of the men, a court heard Tuesday.

Raymond John Green, 38, and his childhood best-friend, Jeremy David Cockram, 35, stabbed Tim “Fritz” Everington, 48, numerous times, including in the back and head, at … Original source on Gaea Times at : Australians kill friend for attempt to rape.

Villagers attack police in Agra

AGRA – Angry villagers, including a large number of women and children, of Etmadpur here Tuesday morning attacked police pickets, demanding higher compensation for their farm land acquired for the Yamuna Expressway.

Police used batons and rubber bullets to disperse the mob. A large number of villagers reported injuries.
Circle Officer Mahendra Singh was badly injured … Original source on Gaea Times at : Villagers attack police in Agra.

Tamil-smuggling ship charged $20 million for passage

VANCOUVER – Canadian Public Safety Minister Vic Toews said Monday that the Thai ship that brought about 500 Tamils into Canada Friday was part of a organized criminal enterprise in which each person was charged $40,000 to $50,000 for the passage.

The amount charged by the ship works out to be about $20 million.
It was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tamil-smuggling ship charged $20 million for passage.

Man held for reaching out to wife on Facebook

NEW YORK – A man in the US has been arrested after he sent his estranged wife a friendship request on social networking site Facebook, despite a court’s restraining order.

Harry Bruder of Hudson, Florida, was served with a restraining order in June from his wife, Carole Jean Bruder, over allegations of domestic violence, the Herald … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Man held for reaching out to wife on Facebook.

US singer shoots naked where Kennedy was shot

NEW YORK – A Grammy Award winning American singer has been sentenced to a six-month probation and fined $500 after she was found guilty of shooting naked a video in the area where president John F. Kennedy was killed.

Erykah Badu walked naked at the Dealey Plaza in Dallas March 13 during a shoot for her …. Source  : US singer shoots naked where Kennedy was shot.

Report: Iranian fighter jet crashes near nuclear power plant, pilots eject safely

Iranian fighter jet crashes near nuclear plant

TEHRAN, Iran – A semi-official Iranian news agency says an Iranian F4 fighter jet has crashed in the country’s south, near a nuclear power plant that is expected to be launched next month.
Local government official Gholam Reza Keshtkar says the Iranian airforce plane crashed on Tuesday, about 4 miles … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Report: Iranian fighter jet crashes near nuclear power plant, pilots eject safely.

Ex-MP’s son arrested in murder case

LUCKNOW – A former Janata Dal MP’s son who with his two brothers killed a youth has been arrested in Uttar Pradesh’s Moradabad district, police said Tuesday.

Rahul Singh, who has just completed his medical studies, was arrested late Monday from a forest area of Guraitha village, some 250 km from here.
With the help of …. Read the original article  : Ex-MP’s son arrested in murder case.

Suicide bomber strikes Iraqi army recruits in Baghdad, killing 60, wounding 123

Baghdad suicide bomb hits army recruits, kills 60

BAGHDAD – A suicide bomber blew himself up Tuesday among hundreds of army recruits who had gathered near a military headquarters in an attack officials said killed 60 and wounded 125, one of the bloodiest bombings in months in the Iraqi capital.
The massive strike just outside a major …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Suicide bomber strikes Iraqi army recruits in Baghdad, killing 60, wounding 123.

Smog from wildfires seeps back into Moscow despite success in battling wildfires

Smog again creeps into Russian capital
MOSCOW – Smoke from wildfires around Moscow has returned to some parts of the Russian capital even though firefighters have scored successes in containing the blazes, officials said Tuesday.

Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry says its teams have cut the area covered by fires around Moscow by more than a quarter over …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

UN says millions without assistance in Pakistan floods as possible malnutrition looms

UN says millions without help in Pakistan floods

SUKKUR, Pakistan – The World Bank said Tuesday it will redirect $900 million of its existing loans to Pakistan to help in flood recovery, as the U.N. warned that many of the 20 million people affected by the disaster have yet to receive any emergency aid.
The floods began …. Source  : UN says millions without assistance in Pakistan floods as possible malnutrition looms.

La. shrimpers report clean catch on 1st day of fall season; study says much oil still in Gulf

La. shrimpers reporting clean 1st day catch

GRAND ISLE, La. – Commercial shrimpers out for the first season since BP’s disastrous spill indicated their catch was plentiful and free of oil, despite a report by scientists that much of the crude remains below the surface of the Gulf.
Fishermen spent much of the summer mopping up oil … Read this article on Gaea Times at : La. shrimpers report clean catch on 1st day of fall season; study says much oil still in Gulf.

Fire destroys property in Punjab town

MOHALI – Property worth lakhs of rupees was destroyed Tuesday when a fire enveloped a multi-storey building in Mohali city in Punjab, police said. No casualty was reported.

Twelve fire engines took over four hours to put out the blaze, police officer Kulbhushan Singh told IANS. An electrical short-circuit is believed to have caused the fire. …. Read the original article  : here.

Iraqi officials: Suicide bombing strike against army recruits in Baghdad kills 51, wounds 119

Baghdad suicide bomb hits army recruits, kills 51

BAGHDAD – A suicide bomber blew himself up Tuesday among dozens of Iraqi army recruits who had gathered near a military headquarters in downtown Baghdad in a devastating strike that officials said killed 51 people and wounded 119.
The massive morning blast took place just outside the former Iraqi … Original article on : Iraqi officials: Suicide bombing strike against army recruits in Baghdad kills 51, wounds 119.

3 US service members, 2 Afghan civilians killed in Afghan bomb attacks

Afghan bombs kill 3 US service members, 2 Afghans

KABUL, Afghanistan – Bomb attacks killed three U.S. service members and two Afghan civilians in Afghanistan on Tuesday, officials said.
The deaths – in eastern and western Afghanistan – were a reminder that the Afghan war continues to be violent far from the southern Taliban strongholds currently targeted …. Read the original article  : here.

Colombian ‘miracle’ plane crash survivor: Everything seemed fine, then ‘boom’

6 badly injured in ‘miracle’ crash flown to Bogota

BOGOTA, Colombia – Survivors say everything seemed normal as a jetliner with 131 people on board prepared to land in a storm on a Caribbean resort. Suddenly it plunged to earth, killing one person – a death toll so low the island’s governor called it a miracle.
“The …. Read the original article  : Colombian ‘miracle’ plane crash survivor: Everything seemed fine, then ‘boom’.

Armed men loot train in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Unidentified men, armed with guns and other weapons, looted cash worth Rs.2 lakh and other valuables from passengers on a train in Uttar Pradesh’s Jhansi district Wednesday morning, police said.

After looting the passengers in two compartments of the General coach of the Lucknow-bound Pushkar Express, the men pulled the train’s emergency chain and [..] Read the original article: here.

Army chopper goes missing in Nagaland

KOHIMA – An Indian Army helicopter went missing shortly after take-off in Nagaland Wednesday with three people, including two pilots, on board. The locals claimed they have sighted the wreckage and recovered two bodies.

A defence spokesperson said the four-seater Cheetah helicopter took off from the army’s Rangapara base in Dimapur, Nagaland’s commercial hub, …. Read the original article  : Army chopper goes missing in Nagaland.

Rio Grande Missing Woman Search Resumed

SANTA FE (GaeaTimes.com)- On Tuesday the search for the Santa Fe area woman named Mariah Walker was resumed by the State police. Mariah Walker went missing on Tuesday, Aug 10, from the Rio Grande River where she jumped for a swim reportedly. The authorities have been joined by friends and family members of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rio Grande Missing Woman Search Resumed.

Firemen help out burglar stuck in window

LONDON – A hapless burglar in Britain got stuck for six hours in a tiny window and was arrested after firemen ripped out the window frame to bring him out.

The 36-year-old burglar’s legs were left dangling outside the bathroom window when he failed to enter the house, The Sun reported Wednesday.
He attempted to enter …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Firemen help out burglar stuck in window.

Bus plunges into ravine in northern Philippines, killing 40 people; 10 survive, including boy

Bus crash in Philippines kills 40; 10 survive

MANILA, Philippines – A packed passenger bus negotiating a downhill curve plunged off a Philippine mountain highway into a 100-foot (30-meter) ravine Wednesday, killing 40 people in one of the country’s worst recent accidents, police said.
Ten people, including a 10-year-old boy, survived and nine were taken to hospitals, … Original article on : Bus plunges into ravine in northern Philippines, killing 40 people; 10 survive, including boy.

Russian cruise ship carrying US, German tourists collides with barge on Volga, no one hurt

Russian cruise ship collides with barge
MOSCOW – A Russian cruise ship carrying hundreds of U.S. and German tourists collided Wednesday with a barge on the Volga River, but no one was hurt, officials said.

The Russian Emergency Situations Ministry’s branch in the Yaroslavl region said the collision occurred early Wednesday in the Rybinsk reservoir on the … Original article on : Russian cruise ship carrying US, German tourists collides with barge on Volga, no one hurt.

UN secures half of funds required for flooded Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – The UN said Wednesday that it has secured almost half of the $460 million it requires in emergency assistance for flood victims in Pakistan.

“We have received $208 million and that makes 42.5 percent of the funds initially required,” Maurizio Giuliano, a spokesman of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Pakistan, …. Original article  : UN secures half of funds required for flooded Pakistan.

Police exploring why Texas gunman with explosive-laden trailer opened fire outside station

Police seeking motive for Texas gunman’s attack

McKINNEY, Texas – A gunman who pulled into a suburban Dallas police station parking lot with a trailer loaded with explosives, set fire to his pickup truck, then started shooting at the building was apparently hoping for a massacre, police say.
In the end, only the gunman – identified by …. Read the original article  : Police exploring why Texas gunman with explosive-laden trailer opened fire outside station.

Couple sacrifices daughter to attain wealth

LUCKNOW – A poverty-stricken couple in an Uttar Pradesh village allegedly killed their four-year-old daughter after a self-proclaimed godman assured them that the act would attain them affluence, police said Wednesday.

Shri Krishna and his wife Rama Devi are absconding. The body of their daughter Kanni was recovered late Tuesday evening from their house in Sitapur … Original source on Gaea Times at : Couple sacrifices daughter to attain wealth.

Landslide hit Konkan rail services

PANAJI – Train services on the Goa-Mumbai Konkan railway route were disrupted Wednesday following a landslide near Ratnagiri in Maharashtra.

According to spokesman Baban Ghatge of Konkan Railway, several trains have been halted on both sides of Ratnagiri, about 150 km from here.
“The landslide occurred in the early hours. We are trying our … Original source on Gaea Times at : Landslide hit Konkan rail services.

Anti-American protesters say troops killed 2 civilians; NATO says they were insurgents

Anti-US protest blocks highway in east Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Hundreds of demonstrators blocked a main highway between Kabul and the eastern city of Jalalabad on Wednesday to protest two deaths in a night raid. The protesters said the two men killed were innocent civilians, while NATO said its forces killed two insurgents.
Ghafor Khan, chief of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Anti-American protesters say troops killed 2 civilians; NATO says they were insurgents.

Chandigarh cops drag feet on car race deaths

CHANDIGARH – Police Wednesday was yet to identify the two women in a Honda Accord that left two people, including a six-year-old child, dead in a high-security area of Chandigarh the night before.

A car race between the Honda Accord and the Maruti Swift, believed by police to be driven by women, had Tuesday evening ended …. Source  : Chandigarh cops drag feet on car race deaths.

Five killed in Thailand helicopter crash

BANGKOK – Five people, including a senior official, were killed in a helicopter crash in northern Thailand, an official said Wednesday.

It is believed that the helicopter crashed into a mountain in Namom district, Nan province, said Nisakorn Kositratna, deputy permanent secretary of the ministry of natural resources and environment.
Nisakorn blamed bad weather for the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Five killed in Thailand helicopter crash.

Islamist militants keep pressure on police in Pakistan, even as flooding crisis rages

Insurgents, police clash amid Pakistan flooding
PESHAWAR, Pakistan – Islamist militants attacked police posts in Pakistan’s northwest and killed two civilians active in an anti-Taliban militia, challenging a security establishment straining under a national flooding disaster, police said Wednesday.
The attacks came as the U.N. said an estimated 4.6 million flood victims have … Read more »»».

Bus plunges into ravine in northern Philippines, killing 35 people; 8 survive, including boy

Bus crash in Philippines kills 35, but 8 survive

MANILA, Philippines – A packed passenger bus negotiating a downhill curve plunged off a Philippine mountain highway into a 100-foot (30-meter) ravine Wednesday, killing 35 people in one of the country’s worst recent accidents, police said.
About eight other passengers, including a 10-year-old boy, were pulled alive from …. Source article  : Bus plunges into ravine in northern Philippines, killing 35 people; 8 survive, including boy.

Over 35 killed in Philippines accident

MANILA – At least 35 people were killed when a bus carrying 47 passengers plunged into a ravine in northern Philippines Wednesday morning.

All 35 bodies were retrieved. Six people were seriously injured in the accident which occurred in Benguet province, a police officer said.
Rescue and search operations are still going on, Xinhua said, citing … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Over 35 killed in Philippines accident.

Behind bars but JD-U legislator still enjoys minister status

PATNA – A legislator from Bihar’s ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U), sentenced to life imprisonment for killing a minister, enjoys the status of minister as head of the assembly housing committee, officials said.

Vijay Kumar Shukla alias Munna Shukla, currently in jail, is chairman of the Bihar Vidhansabha Awas Samiti, a post accorded the status of a … Read : Behind bars but JD-U legislator still enjoys minister status.

Latest China landslide strikes in Yunnan, leaving at least 67 missing, cutting power

Latest China landslide leaves at least 67 missing

BEIJING – A landslide swept through a mountain town in southwest China after days of heavy rains Wednesday, leaving at least 67 people missing and cutting off access to the area.
Roads, power and telecommunications were cut off when the mud tore through Puladi township in Yunnan province, the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Latest China landslide strikes in Yunnan, leaving at least 67 missing, cutting power.

Small aircraft crashes in northern China, may have been North Korean, villager says

Small aircraft crashes in China, possibly NKorean

BEIJING – Residents say a small aircraft that crashed in northern China was a helicopter carrying a North Korean pilot, who died, a villager said Wednesday.
The official Xinhua News Agency said in a brief report that an aircraft went down Tuesday afternoon in Lagu village in Fushun county. The …. Source article  : Small aircraft crashes in northern China, may have been North Korean, villager says.

67 missing in China mudslides

BEIJING – At least 67 people were missing after mudslides hit a remote town in southwest China’s Yunnan province early Wednesday, authorities said.

Power supplies and telecommunications were cut following the mudslides in Puladi Township in Gongshan, Xinhua reported.
Rescuers were sent to the area high up in the mountains bordering Myanmar, said a … Read more : 67 missing in China mudslides.

Chinese news agency says passenger train carriages derailed after floods knock out bridge

China train derails after floods knock out bridge

BEIJING – A state news agency says several carriages of a passenger train fell into water after floods knocked out a bridge in Sichuan province.
The official Xinhua News Agency said the accident happened Thursday in Guanghan, a city about 50 kilometers (30 miles) north of the provincial capital …. Original article  : Chinese news agency says passenger train carriages derailed after floods knock out bridge.

Salvagers to pull rare World War II plane from Calif. reservoir 6 decades after it crashed

Divers to pull WWII plane from Calif. reservoir

SAN DIEGO – Divers in California are preparing to extract a rare World War II airplane from a San Diego city reservoir more than six decades after it crashed during a training exercise.
The National Naval Aviation Museum is funding the salvage operation that is expected to pull the …. Original article  : Salvagers to pull rare World War II plane from Calif. reservoir 6 decades after it crashed.

Parts of Tennessee hit with flash flooding, washing away home and derailing a train

Tenn. rain washes away home, derails train

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Drenching rains swept away a home, trapped drivers in their vehicles and derailed a train in Tennessee, and forecasters expected more heavy showers to fall Thursday over the Southeast.
The downpours Wednesday hit some of the same parts of Middle Tennessee that were inundated with severe flooding … Original source on Gaea Times at : Parts of Tennessee hit with flash flooding, washing away home and derailing a train.

Chandigarh hit and run: police yet to trace other girl

CHANDIGARH – Even 36 hours after a teenaged girl crushed a youth and a child under her Honda Accord car here, police remain clueless about the other girl in the killer vehicle.

Amanat Brar, 19, had mowed down Sukhwinder Singh, 21, and his cousin Harpreet Singh – who would have been five next week – after …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

America increases flood aid to Pakistan, voices concern that terrorist may emerge stronger

US announces aid boost to Pakistan after flooding
GHAZI AIR BASE, Pakistan – The United States will increase its aid to flood-ravaged Pakistan to $150 million, U.S. Sen. John Kerry said Thursday, stressing that Washington did not want Islamist extremism to increase on the back of the crisis.
The floods have affected 20 …. Original article  : America increases flood aid to Pakistan, voices concern that terrorist may emerge stronger.

Cold front hits western Russia, drives Moscow smog away

Cold front ends heat spell over western Russia

MOSCOW – A cold front has hit western Russia,ending the exhausting two-month heat spell and clearing skies over Moscow from suffocating smog.
Colder temperatures and rains are expected to help firefighters put down the wildfires that have bedeviled Russia through the summer.
Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry on Thursday said the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cold front hits western Russia, drives Moscow smog away.

Seven killed in China explosion

BEIJING – Seven people were killed and 14 injured when an electric tricycle exploded in northwest China Thursday, authorities said.

The blast occurred on a bridge on the outskirts of Aksu city in southern Xinjiang, the autonomous regional government’s information office said in a statement.
A suspect was arrested by police at the site and being … Original source on Gaea Times at : Seven killed in China explosion.

12,000 foreign ’sex slaves’ work in British brothels

LONDON – As many as 12,000 foreign women were smuggled into Britain and forced to work as “sex slaves” so that crime gangs could earn hundreds of millions of pounds, a study has said.

The two-year study, dubbed Project Acumen, revealed that prostitutes live and work in appalling conditions and suffer rape and imprisonment.
Most of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 12,000 foreign ’sex slaves’ work in British brothels.

Pakistan thanks India for $5 mn aid

NEW YORK – Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has thanked India for offering $5 million aid for the relief of flood victims in his country.

Qureshi, who is on a visit to the US, announced Wednesday that India had offered a $5 million donation for flood victims. He profusely thanked India’s top diplomat here for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan thanks India for $5 mn aid.

Pit bull guarded Washington state woman after she suffered fatal heart attack while on a walk

Pit bull guarded Wash. woman who had heart attack

BREMERTON, Wash. – Police in the Washington state city of Bremerton say a pit bull reported as a menacing dog was just protecting its owner who had suffered a heart attack and died on a sidewalk while the two were out walking.
A detective says the 51-year-old Bremerton …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Judge bans burqa in Australian court

SYDNEY – An Australian judge Thursday refused to allow a Muslim woman to wear a full-face veil in court during her testimony as a witness in a fraud trial.

Perth’s District Court Judge Shauna Deane said that in the interest of a fair trial the witness should not be allowed to wear a niqab or burqa. …. Original source  : Judge bans burqa in Australian court.

Crowded truck falls into mountain gorge in northern India, killing 38 and injuring 37

Truck falls into gorge in north India, killing 38

NEW DELHI – A truck crowded with people returning from a party swerved off a mountain road into a gorge in northern India, killing 38 people and injuring 37 others.
Police and villagers helped pull out the injured and take them to hospitals after Tuesday’s crash, and emergency … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Crowded truck falls into mountain gorge in northern India, killing 38 and injuring 37.

Chinese official says suspected bomb attack kills 7, wounds 14 in Xinjiang region

Blast kills 7, wounds 14 in China’s Xinjiang area

URUMQI, China – A suspected bomb attack killed seven people and wounded 14 Thursday in China’s far west Xinjiang, a region beset by ethnic conflict and separatist violence.
The explosion occurred on a three-wheeled vehicle Thursday morning at a bridge in Aksu city in southwestern Xinjiang, said Hou …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

South Pacific Tsunami Caused By Two Earthquakes

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Scientists have come up with studies that have concluded that the devastating 2009 South Pacific tsunami which caused havoc on Samoa, American Samoa and Tonga was not due to one earthquake of magnitude 8.1, but two consecutive earthquakes each of magnitudes greater than 8 on Richter scale. Research conducted by …. Original article  : South Pacific Tsunami Caused By Two Earthquakes.

Chinese province shuts all fireworks factories after explosion kills 20

China officials shut fireworks plants after blast

BEIJING – All nine fireworks factories in Heilongjiang province in northeast China were ordered shut Thursday, days after a blast at one of them killed 20 people.
The factories have been told to dismantle their production facilities by the end of the month, according to a statement on the website … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chinese province shuts all fireworks factories after explosion kills 20.

Toll in Himachal accident rises to 40

SHIMLA – The death toll in the accident, in which an overcrowded truck skidded off the road and fell into a 200-foot deep gorge in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district, rose to 40 Thursday, police said.

Thirty seven people, including 21 women and seven children, were killed and an equal number injured in the accident that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Toll in Himachal accident rises to 40.

AP Interview: In hiding, Wyclef Jean says his presidential candidacy a ‘wild card’ for Haiti

Wyclef Jean says his Haiti candidacy a ‘wild card’

CROIX-DES-BOUQUETS, Haiti – Wyclef Jean’s glamorous hip hop lifestyle seems far away as he sits in hiding in a white stucco building on a rutted, dirt road where chickens scurry and Haitian women carry sacks of laundry atop their heads.
The former Fugees frontman, multimillionaire philanthropist and Haitian …. Source article  : AP Interview: In hiding, Wyclef Jean says his presidential candidacy a ‘wild card’ for Haiti.

Rescuers search for 90 missing in latest China landslide as heavy rains loom on horizon

China landslide leaves 1 dead, 90 missing
BEIJING – Rescuers dug through the debris of China’s latest landslide Thursday in a search for at least 90 people thought buried when a wall of mud crashed into their mountain town in southwestern China.

Wednesday’s landslide in Puladi township in Yunnan province killed 1 person, covered homes and cut … Read more »»».

Celebrity plastic surgeon posted tweets 90 minutes before fatal crash, police investigating

Police investigating plastic surgeon’s fatal crash

LOS ANGELES – Police are investigating the accident that killed celebrity plastic surgeon Dr. Frank Ryan, including whether texting or tweeting may have played a role.
“We haven’t confirmed anything regarding the cause of the collision,” California Highway Patrol officer Steve Reid said Wednesday, adding that detectives are “looking into several … Read more >>>.

Prosecutors: Accused Oregon bank bombers were motivated by anti-government views

Prosecutors: Accused bombers were anti-government

SALEM, Ore. – Prosecutors provided a glimpse Wednesday of their strategy in the upcoming trial of a father and son accused of killing two law enforcement officers in an Oregon bank explosion, saying the defendants harbored anti-government sentiment and were jubilant over the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing.
In a pretrial hearing in …. Source article  : Prosecutors: Accused Oregon bank bombers were motivated by anti-government views.

Gulf oil spill and Iraqi combat behind him, President Obama takes vacation break

Oil spill and Iraq combat over, Obama takes break
VINEYARD HAVEN, Mass. – Finally, President Barack Obama can relax on vacation.
The Gulf oil leak is plugged. The last combat troops are out of Iraq. And Congress is on its own summer break.
Still, doubts remain about the strength of the U.S. economy, and Obama …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bull In Stand Injures 40

TAFALLA, SPAIN (GaeaTimes.com)- The Bull that rammed in to the crowd at a bull fight arena in Spain’s Tafalla has made headlines. The raging beast weighing at least half ton broke the fence in the arena and headed straight at the viewers. The incident took place on Wednesday and almost 40 people were left … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bull In Stand Injures 40.

India welcomes Pakistan’s acceptance of aid

NEW DELHI – India Friday said Pakistan had accepted its $5 million aid for flood victims and welcomed Islamabad’s decision to do so.

“Pakistan has conveyed to India its acceptance of the Indian aid. We welcome the decision by Pakistan to accept this offer,” Vishnu Prakash, external affairs ministry spokesperson, told reporters here.
“It is a … Read more >>.

Punjab Police yet to nab father in honour killing case

MOGA – A day after a man shot dead his daughter and her lover in an honour killing case in this Punjab district, the police are still clueless about the attacker’s whereabouts and have failed to arrest him.

According to the police, Jagtar Singh shot dead his daughter Lovepreet Kaur, 17, and her lover Harjinder Singh, … Original article on : Punjab Police yet to nab father in honour killing case.

High court declines to stay Sajjan Kumar’s trial

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday declined to stay the criminal proceedings to be initiated against Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

Sajjan Kumar moved the high court, challenging the charges framed against him by the trial court July 1 in a case related to riots in Sultanpuri area here. … Read : High court declines to stay Sajjan Kumar’s trial.

Israeli troops held for thefts from Gaza aid flotilla

JERUSALEM – Three Israeli soldiers have been arrested on suspicion of selling equipment stolen from passengers on board the Gaza-bound aid flotilla which the navy intercepted in a deadly May 31 raid.

The cache of stolen goods is believed to include up to six portable computers and several satellite phones that had belonged to passengers … Original source on Gaea Times at : Israeli troops held for thefts from Gaza aid flotilla.

Ex-NBA star Jayson Williams to face NYC DWI case; he’s in NJ prison after shooting limo driver

Ex-NBA star Jayson Williams to face NYC DWI case

NEW YORK – Jayson Williams is already in prison for accidentally killing a limo driver, but the former NBA star still is contending with another criminal case.
Williams has a Manhattan court date Friday in a drunken-driving case stemming from a car wreck a week before his January …. Source article  : Ex-NBA star Jayson Williams to face NYC DWI case; he’s in NJ prison after shooting limo driver.

Policemen suspended for cremating Muslim

PATNA – Two police officers have been suspended here after a Muslim banker found dead near a park was mistakenly identified as a beggar and cremated according to Hindu rites.

The body of Mohd Ishrafil, a 46-year-old State Bank of India official, was recovered near Gandhi Maidan last week. He was cremated within three hours.
According … Read : Policemen suspended for cremating Muslim.

Australian, NRI arrested for plotting kidnapping

CHANDIGARH – An NRI and an Australian were arrested here Friday for plotting to kidnap someone, police said.

A police officer said the two were arrested from a hotel after a tip off. “We are looking into all aspects of the matter,” a police officer said.
Police sources identified the Australian as Simon and the NRI …. Read the original article  : here.

Pregnant woman kills self, two children

LUCKNOW – A poverty-stricken pregnant woman poisoned her two minor children to death before committing suicide in an Uttar Pradesh village, police said Friday.

Rukhsana, 30, Thursday evening made her son Ashfaq (3) and daughter Altama (2) consume poisonous tablets and then consumed the same.
The kids died in their house in Bhakar village of …. Read the original article  : Pregnant woman kills self, two children.

US troop killed in southern Afghan explosion; insurgent leader captured in the east

Afghan insurgent leader captured; US troop killed

KABUL, Afghanistan – A deputy commander for an al-Qaida linked insurgent group was apprehended in an overnight operation in eastern Afghanistan that claimed the life of a woman, NATO said Friday.
Separately, the coalition reported that a U.S. service member died Thursday in an explosion in the south, bringing to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US troop killed in southern Afghan explosion; insurgent leader captured in the east.

US pledges $60 mn more as aid to Pakistan

UNITED NATIONS – The US has pledged an additional $60 million to emergency relief efforts in flood-stricken Pakistan.

The announcement Thursday came as US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was taking the floor at a plenary meeting of the UN General Assembly, aimed at strengthening the coordination of humanitarian and disaster relief assistance to Pakistan, Xinhua …. Read the original article  : US pledges $60 mn more as aid to Pakistan.

Pakistan floods: newborns likely to be malnourished

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani health officials fear that the more than 85,000 babies expected to be born in the country’s flood-affected areas over the next six months will be malnourished because of scarce food supply.

There is also a serious threat of polio and measles outbreak amongst newborns and officials are trying to put in place …. Read the original article  : here.

Rescuers search for scores listed as missing and feared dead in western China mudslides

Scores still missing in western China mudslides

BEIJING – Rescue crews searched Friday for scores of people left missing and feared dead in southwestern China after torrential rains triggered massive mudslides during a summer plagued by deadly rains and flooding.
Rainfall hampered efforts to find 88 people in Puladi township, a remote mountain community in Yunnan province. …. Source  : Rescuers search for scores listed as missing and feared dead in western China mudslides.

Bangladesh asks Zia’s son to surrender

DHAKA – The Bangladesh government has refused to extend the parole of opposition leader Khaleda Zia’s son Arafat Rahman Koko, living in Bangkok for over two years, and asked him to surrender before a court by Aug 31.

Koko, a businessman, has been accused of illegal business deals and financial transactions when his mother was the … Read : Bangladesh asks Zia’s son to surrender.

Man kills five relatives in Cambodia

PHNOM PENH – A Cambodian man killed five family members and injured three others after they prevented him from raping his 16-year-old sister-in-law, local media reported Friday.

The man, identified only as Nang, then hanged himself.
Police said the crime, which took place Thursday in south-eastern Svay Rieng province near the border with Vietnam, was among …. Source  : Man kills five relatives in Cambodia.

Half of trafficked sex workers in Britain are Chinese

LONDON – Almost half of all women trafficked into Britain and forced into prostitution are Chinese nationals, a police report has said.

A study by British Police found that 17,000 of the 30,000 women involved in the sex trade in Britain are migrants, including a majority from China, Thailand and eastern Europe, Sky News reported.
The … Read more >>>.

US carrier rescues eight Iranian sailors

MANAMA – Eight Iranian sailors whose vessel caught fire were rescued by US Navy helicopters in the Arabian Sea, according to a US military statement late Thursday.

Two helicopters from the nuclear-powered carrier USS Harry Truman carried out the rescue operation on high seas, after an F/A-18 jet assigned to the carrier squadron spotted a vessel … Read more : US carrier rescues eight Iranian sailors.

As nations sharply up pledges, UN seen meeting goal of $460 million for Pakistan flood aid

UN seen meeting aid goal for flood-hit Pakistan
UNITED NATIONS – The United Nations appeared to have met its target of $460 million in immediate aid for flood-stricken Pakistan on Thursday after the U.S. and other nations significantly upped their pledges.
The rush of promised help came after U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, addressing … Read more >>.

Court records: Claims over 2005 crash of Circuit City jet near Colorado city settled

Claims over 2005 jet crash near Colo. city settled

DENVER – Court records say family members who sued over a fatal Colorado crash of a jet owned by Circuit City Stores Inc. have reached settlements of their lawsuits.
A document filed Thursday in federal court in Denver didn’t disclose terms.
The crash in February 2005 killed the jet’s …. Source article  : Court records: Claims over 2005 crash of Circuit City jet near Colorado city settled.

AI pilot abandons take-off after engine snag

LUCKNOW – The pilot of a New-Delhi-bound Air India (AI) flight abandoned its take-off at the Lucknow airport Saturday after the plane developed some technical problems, an official said.

“The take-off was abandoned after some engine problem developed in the Air India flight,” Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport (Amausi) director Atul Dixit told IANS by telephone.
“I … Read more : AI pilot abandons take-off after engine snag.

Neighbors say they’re fed up with roars coming from Ohio home where bear killed caretaker

Neighbors: Home where bear attacked Ohioan a ‘zoo’

COLUMBIA STATION, Ohio – Neighbors of a man who kept a menagerie of wolves, tigers and bears – including one that attacked and killed its 24-year-old caretaker – often complained about the roars and howls coming from the owner’s house.
“It’s a pain in the neck,” said Tom Burrington, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Neighbors say they’re fed up with roars coming from Ohio home where bear killed caretaker.

2 US troops die, 3 civilians accidentally killed in Afghanistan

2 US troops, 3 civilians killed in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – A woman and two children were accidentally killed in fighting in western Afghanistan that erupted as Afghan and international forces pursued a Taliban militant known to smuggle foreign fighters and weapons from Iran, NATO said Saturday.
Separately, one U.S. service member died Saturday and another was …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 2 US troops die, 3 civilians accidentally killed in Afghanistan.

Rains batter China anew with 50,000 people evacuated from a flooded city

Rains batter China anew; 50,000 evacuated in flood

BEIJING – The Yalu River that marks China’s border with North Korea breached a dike Saturday after torrential rains, inundating parts of the Chinese city of Dandong and forcing the evacuation of more than 50,000 people.
Flood waters punctured the dike that stood between the river and an economic …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

750 liquor cartons on way to Gujarat seized, one held

PANCHKULA – An attempt to smuggle 750 cartons of Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL) worth over Rs.5 lakh to Gujarat has been foiled and one person arrested from this Haryana town, police said Saturday.

The cartons were recovered from a truck during a regular search operation at a police check-post in Panchkula, neighbouring state capital Chandigarh, Haryana …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 750 liquor cartons on way to Gujarat seized, one held.

51,000 evacuated after China floods

BEIJING – About 51,000 people were evacuated and three were reported missing Saturday after floods ravaged northeast China’s Liaoning province, authorities said.

Some 230 houses collapsed while transport and power supply were cut in some areas of Dandong city due to the floods triggered by heavy rains, the authorities said.
Roads along the Yalu, [..] Read the original article: here.

Five workers killed in Punjab factory blast

CHANDIGARH – At least five workers of a private paper factory near Malerkotla town in Punjab were killed when a blast took place in the boiler of the unit Saturday, police officials said.

While five workers died instantly, three others were injured in the accident.
Punjab police officials said they were investigating what triggered the boiler …. Read the original article  : here.

Four dead as man poisons family, self

LUCKNOW – A poverty-stricken couple in Uttar Pradesh gave poison to their four children before consuming it themselves. While the wife and three children died, the man and his daughter are in critical condition, police said Saturday.

Subhash Kumar, a 43-year-old who lost his job at a scooter repair shop, took poison with his wife after …. Read the original article  : here.

Woman killed for dowry

RANCHI – A young woman was beaten to death by her in-laws for dowry in this Jharkhand capital, police said Saturday.

Gazala, 25, was beaten by an iron rod. Gazala’s mother alleged that her daughter, who was married last year, was being tortured by her husband and in-laws for Rs.30,000 and a gold chain, a police …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Woman killed for dowry.

More towns go underwater, thousands evacuated as Pakistani floods wash into the south

Flooding submerges new towns in Pakistan’s south

SUKKUR, Pakistan – About 150,000 Pakistanis were forced to move to higher ground as floodwaters from a freshly swollen Indus River submerged dozens more towns and villages in the south, a government spokesman said Saturday.
Officials expect the floodwaters will recede nationwide in the next few days as the last … Read more : More towns go underwater, thousands evacuated as Pakistani floods wash into the south.

Piracy causes $1 bn loss to Indian entertainment industry

MUMBAI – Did you know that an estimated 600 million pirated DVDs are sold in India every year compared to only 20 million original ones? Industry insiders quote these figures pointing to the huge losses inflicted on the entertainment industry by the piracy menace.

“The size of the Indian film industry is $2 billion. Hollywood film …. Read the original article  : Piracy causes $1 bn loss to Indian entertainment industry.

Wildfire in Angeles National Forest burns 120 acres, 100 percent contained

Wildfire in LA County forest 100 percent contained

VALYERMO, Calif. – A stubborn wildfire that charred 120 acres Friday and spurred some residents to evacuate homes in the Angeles National Forest is fully surrounded, authorities said.
The blaze that erupted at about 3 p.m. near the town of Valyermo in northeast Los Angeles County was 100 percent … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Wildfire in Angeles National Forest burns 120 acres, 100 percent contained.

Six of family consume poison, four dead

LUCKNOW – A poverty-stricken family of six, including four children, consumed poison in Uttar Pradesh’s Mirzapur district. While four died, two are battling for life, police said Saturday.

Subhash Kumar, a 43-year-old who lost his job at a scooter repairing shop, consumed poison along with his wife and four children – aged between seven and 14 [..] Read the original article: here.

Government says more than 23K workers affected by Gulf of Mexico drilling ban

Gov’t: 23K workers affected by Gulf oil drill ban

WASHINGTON – The deepwater drilling moratorium in the Gulf of Mexico costs at least 23,000 jobs, according to a federal document that weighed the economic impact and alternatives to the drilling ban.
A six-month suspension would directly put 9,450 people out of work and indirectly affect nearly 14,000 …. Original source  : Government says more than 23K workers affected by Gulf of Mexico drilling ban.

Wildfire in Angeles National Forest burns 100-plus acres, 50 percent contained

Wildfire in LA County forest 50 percent contained

VALYERMO, Calif. – A stubborn wildfire that charred 110 acres Friday and spurred some residents to evacuate homes in the Angeles National Forest kept firefighters working into the night to surround it, authorities said.
Crews were slowly gaining ground on the blaze that erupted at about 3 p.m. near …. Original article  : Wildfire in Angeles National Forest burns 100-plus acres, 50 percent contained.

Buddhist monks learn firefighting in China

BEIJING – Buddhist monks in China are undergoing training to combat fires so that they can handle emergencies in their temples.

More than 60 monks from 11 temples and Buddhist institutes displayed their skills on how to operate fire extinguishers, hoses and other modern equipment at the first Hangzhou Buddhist Firefighting Competition held Friday at a … Read : Buddhist monks learn firefighting in China.

51,000 evacuated after flood hits China

BEIJING – About 51,000 people were evacuated Saturday morning after floods hit northeast China’s Liaoning province, authorities said.

Three people were missing after floods ravaged the province.
A total of 230 houses collapsed, and transport and power supply in some areas of Dandong city were cut off due to the floods triggered by heavy rain …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 51,000 evacuated after flood hits China.

50,000 displaced in Assam floods

GUWAHATI – Heavy monsoon rains triggered flash floods in Assam Saturday, displacing at least 50,000 people in the state’s Lakhimpur district, officials said. No casualties have been reported.

A government spokesperson said floodwaters of Singora river, a tributary of the Brahmaputra river, entered at least 40 villages forcing residents to take shelter on raised platforms and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 50,000 displaced in Assam floods.

The last word: Slim and fit defensive tackle Jerrell Powe ready to power Mississippi

Slimmed-down Powe ready to power Ole Miss
OXFORD, Miss. – For six years, everyone else has had their say.

Now it’s Jerrell Powe ’s turn.
As the Mississippi defensive tackle enters his senior season, he’s in the best shape of his life, he’s on the verge of earning his degree and he’s up for a handful of national …. Original source  : The last word: Slim and fit defensive tackle Jerrell Powe ready to power Mississippi.

Speed guns to check Delhi’s rash drivers at night

NEW DELHI – Soon people will have to think twice before speeding on Delhi roads at night. Delhi Traffic Police are set to procure radar-based speed guns at a cost of Rs.5.25 crore (Rs.52.5 million) that will check speedsters after dark.

“We are in the process of procuring radar-based speed guns, which will be the latest … Read more : Speed guns to check Delhi’s rash drivers at night.

IMF to review Pakistani budget in floods aftermath

ISLAMABAD – The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said it has called a meeting to review Pakistan’s budgetary and economic prospects in the aftermath of the floods that have devastated the country’s infrastructure.

Finance Minister Abdul Hafeez Sheikh is to head the Pakistani delegation in the talks with IMF officials that scheduled to take place in …. Read the original article  : IMF to review Pakistani budget in floods aftermath.

Another contraband haul from train from Pakistan, authorities worried

ATTARI – Fake currency of face value Rs.9.5 lakh and one kg of heroin were recovered from a goods train coming from Pakistan, causing worry to the authorities who say these trains are increasingly becoming a smuggling medium.

“During our daily search operation of the goods train that comes from Pakistan, we found counterfeit currency and … Read : Another contraband haul from train from Pakistan, authorities worried.

Chhattisgarh villagers in fear after another triple murder

RAIPUR – Terror has struck a Chhattisgarh village after three children, below the age of 10, were found brutally murdered on Friday, the second such triple murder in the village in a month.

The people of Nimora village, about 15 km from here, are keeping indoors out of fear and complain that police are not doing … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chhattisgarh villagers in fear after another triple murder.

Pakistanis use stones, sandbags to strengthen river levees as floods sweep toward sea

Pakistanis use stones, sandbags to stave off flood

HYDERABAD, Pakistan – Workers placed sandbags and stones to strengthen river levees in flood-ravaged Pakistan’s south as the rising water threatened new areas Sunday.
Three towns in the Thatta district were in danger, and officials began evacuating around 150,000 people from lower lying areas Saturday. The surge in the …. Original source  : Pakistanis use stones, sandbags to strengthen river levees as floods sweep toward sea.

Madan Tamang murder: prime accused flees police custody

DARJEELING – Gorkha Janamukti Morhca central committee member Nicol Tamang, one of the prime accused in the murder of Akhil Bharatiya Gorkha League (ABGL) chief Madan Taman, fled from police custody in Darjeeling district early Sunday.

“He escaped from the Pintail village guest house in the Dagapur area,” Inspector General of Police (North Bengal) Ranveer …. Source article  : Madan Tamang murder: prime accused flees police custody.

River in north China overflows; 94,000 people evacuated from flooded city

Rain batters China anew; 94,000 evacuated in flood

BEIJING – Flooding has forced the evacuation of 94,000 people in the north China port city of Dandong after heavy rains caused the Yalu river to breach its banks, state media said Sunday.
More rain was expected to pound the region, which borders North Korea, and threatened to trigger …. Original source  : River in north China overflows; 94,000 people evacuated from flooded city.

Firefighters battling large blaze at apparently vacant Boston warehouse; no injuries reported

Large fire burns at Boston warehouse; no one hurt

BOSTON – About 160 firefighters are battling a widespread blaze at a warehouse in an abandoned industrial complex in Boston.
Fire department spokesman Steve MacDonald says crews were called to the fire in the city’s Roxbury neighborhood just before 10:30 p.m. Saturday, and the blaze is extensive enough … Read more : Firefighters battling large blaze at apparently vacant Boston warehouse; no injuries reported.

Filipino-German beauty queen killed in accident

MANILA – A Filipino-German beauty queen and two companions were killed in a road collision in the eastern Philippines, a police spokesman said Sunday.

Melody Gersbach, 24, died on arrival at a hospital Saturday shortly after the van she was riding was struck by a passenger bus in Bula town in Camarines Sur province, 225 kilometres … Original source on Gaea Times at : Filipino-German beauty queen killed in accident.

Tropical depression forms in the Atlantic far from land; strengthening expected

Tropical depressions form in the Atlantic, Pacific

MIAMI – A new tropical depression has formed in the Atlantic, but the system is far from land.
Forecasters at the National Hurricane Center in Miami said Saturday that the tropical depression is expected to strengthen and could become a tropical storm Sunday.
The depression was located about 600 miles (970 … Original article on : Tropical depression forms in the Atlantic far from land; strengthening expected.

Man takes deadly leap from roof to stage at concert

SAN FRANCISCO – A concertgoer died in an apparent suicide when he jumped from the roof of an amphitheatre onto the stage where a folk music duo was performing, the San Francisco Chronicle reported Saturday.

The death occurred during a concert by the group Swell Season late Thursday at Mountain Winery’s outdoor stage outside Saratoga, California, … Read more : Man takes deadly leap from roof to stage at concert.

10 evacuated by helicopter as wildfire chars 2,000 acres in rural San Diego County

Wildfire chars 2,000 acres outside San Diego

SAN DIEGO – A pair of hikers and eight people in a cabin were evacuated by helicopter as a wildfire consumed thousands of acres of grasslands in rural San Diego County.
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection spokeswoman Roxanne Provaznik says the blaze began Saturday afternoon in the county’s …. Original source  : 10 evacuated by helicopter as wildfire chars 2,000 acres in rural San Diego County.

Family of 24-year-old Ohio man killed by captive bear takes some comfort in animal’s death

Bear who mauled caretaker is put to death in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio – A bear that mauled to death a caretaker was euthanized Saturday at the request of the family of the victim, whose father said he had told his son to leave the job.
The bear attacked Brent Kandra, 24, when he opened its cage Thursday … Original article on : Family of 24-year-old Ohio man killed by captive bear takes some comfort in animal’s death.

Captive bear that killed 24-year-old Ohio man who was feeding it is euthanized, family says

Captive bear that killed Ohio man is euthanized

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The father of a 24-year-old Ohio man who was killed by a captive bear says the animal is dead.
John Kandra says several relatives watched a veterinarian euthanize the bear on Saturday. It had attacked Kandra’s son, Brent, after he opened the bear’s cage for a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Captive bear that killed 24-year-old Ohio man who was feeding it is euthanized, family says.

23 die as more mudslides hit China

BEIJING – At least 23 people have died and 69 are missing after mudslideS hit a remote mountain village in southwest China, Xinhua reported Saturday.

Rescuers have retrieved 11 bodies Saturday, four days after the disaster in Yunnan province.
“The chances of survival for the missing people are slim,” said Hou Xinrong, director of public …. Source article  : 23 die as more mudslides hit China.

Van Gogh painting stolen from Cairo museum

CAIRO – One of Vincent Van Gogh’s most famous paintings, “Poppy Flowers”, has been stolen from a museum in Cairo, Egypt’s Ministry of Culture said Saturday.

It was not immediately clear how the thieves managed to steal the painting from the Mahmoud Khalil museum, but Culture Minister Farouq Hosni ordered urgent measures to prevent it being … Original source on Gaea Times at : Van Gogh painting stolen from Cairo museum.

13 die in Bangladesh after drinking adulterated liquor

DHAKA – At least 13 people died and many others fell ill after drinking adulterated locally-made liquor in Bangladesh’s Sylhet district, police said Saturday.

Six people died at Sylhet Osmani Medical College Hospital and the other seven died in their village homes after they had consumed the home-made liquor Thursday night in Golabazar, 265 km northeast … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 13 die in Bangladesh after drinking adulterated liquor.

Blast at militant house in Somalia kills 10 fighters, including from Pakistan, Afghan, India

Somalia blast kills fighters from Pakistan, India

MOGADISHU, Somalia – An explosion overnight at a house used by insurgents in the Somali capital killed at least 10 al-Shabab militants, including seven foreign fighters, the Somali Information Ministry said Saturday.
The statement said the blast, in a southern Mogadishu neighborhood, may have been caused by a premature car … Read : Blast at militant house in Somalia kills 10 fighters, including from Pakistan, Afghan, India.

Sterlite Industries charged for evading duty

CHENNAI – The customs and excise department Saturday charged Vedanta group’s Tuticorin-based Sterlite Industries (India) Ltd for evading duty by mis-declaration of export consignment. The company officials, however, charged the customs officials as being vindictive.

Charging Sterlite Industries for misdeclaration, excise officials said the company tried to ship out copper waste for separating gold and silver … Read more »».

Somali rebels increasingly resemble Taliban: floggings, music bans and possible al-Qaida links

Somalia rebels looking increasingly like Taliban

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Men are forced to grow beards. Women can’t leave home without a male relative. Music, movies and watching sports on TV are banned. Limbs are chopped off as punishment, and executions by stoning have become a public spectacle.
Somalia is looking more and more like Afghanistan under the …. Original source  : Somali rebels increasingly resemble Taliban: floggings, music bans and possible al-Qaida links.

Two held for killing techie in Greater Noida

GREATER NOIDA – Two men were arrested Saturday for allegedly murdering a software engineer in Greater Noida township of Uttar Pradesh, police said.

Deepak Singh and Rajesh Bhati were arrested for stabbing Abhinav Ratnawat, originally from Jaipur in Rajasthan, in Greater Noida July 27 after a robbery, police said.
“The two youths were on a …. Read the original article  : here.

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.

Hurricane warning issued for the US Virgin Islands as Hurricane Earl approaches

Hurricane warning issued for US Virgin Islands

MIAMI – A hurricane warning has been issued for the U.S. Virgin Islands as Hurricane Earl begins hitting the Caribbean.
The hurricane’s maximum sustained winds increased early Monday to near 105 mph (165 kph) with additional strengthening expected.
Earl is located about 50 miles (75 kilometers) east-northeast of St. Martin.
Hurricane Earl … Read more »»».

China probes jet crash

BEIJING – China Monday set up a task force to probe the crash of a passenger jet that killed 42 people, a media report said.

The accident occurred last Tuesday in northeastern Yichun city. Fifty-four people were injured. The jet belonged to the Henan Airlines.
The probe team consists of officials from six central government …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pakistan frees 100 Indian fishermen

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Monday freed 100 Indian fishermen from a prison in the port city of Karachi, a media report said.

They were expected to leave the Malir prison for Lahore by road, Dawn reported. They are being released on the order of the federal government, it said.
Some 442 Indian fishermen who completed their [..] Read the original article: here.

Brock Mealer aims to show miraculous recovery from spinal-cord injury before Michigan’s opener

Mealers bounce back from tragedy that took 2 lives

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Brock Mealer is going to lead Michigan’s football team onto the field before its opener against Connecticut in a way few thought was possible.
He’ll be walking.
The brother of Wolverines offensive lineman Elliott Mealer was severely injured in a car accident that killed his …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brock Mealer aims to show miraculous recovery from spinal-cord injury before Michigan’s opener.

Thousands begin to return to historic city in southern Pakistan saved from floods

Historic city in south Pakistan saved from floods

THATTA, Pakistan – Thousands of people streamed back to this historic southern city Monday where new levees hastily built from clay and stone held back floodwaters that have inundated much of Pakistan.
Thousands who fled the waters that inundated neighboring towns complained about the shortage of food and water … Read more >>.

Youth found dead in Punjab in suspected honour killing

CHANDIGARH – A man in his mid-20s has been killed in Punjab’s Sangrur district, police said Monday and suspected it to be a case of honour killing.

The body of Raja Ram was recovered early Monday by his relatives and the police from railway tracks in a village near Sangrur, about 130 km from Chandigarh.
A … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Youth found dead in Punjab in suspected honour killing.

Probe over doctors’ labour room brawl in Italy

LONDON – A probe was launched after a child in Italy was born with brain damage as doctors attending on the mother who had gone into labour came to blows over the need for a caesarean section, a media report said Monday.

Laura Salpietro, 30, had her womb removed after the birth. Her husband claims … Read more >>>.

Notice to Maharashtra on Pragya Singh’s bail plea (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued a notice to the Maharashtra government on a bail petition of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, the main accused in 2008 Malegaon bomb blast.

Thakur and 10 others have been arrested for the blast in Malegaon, a textile town in north Maharashtra, on Sep 29, 2008, in which six …. Original source  : Notice to Maharashtra on Pragya Singh’s bail plea (Second Lead).

New Delhi-Howrah Rajdhani engine derails, sabotage suspected

KOLKATA – Passengers aboard the New Delhi-Howrah Rajdhani Express had a narrow escape Monday when two front wheels of the train’s engine derailed in West Bengal’s Hooghly district. An Eastern Railway spokesperson said sabotage could not be ruled out.

No casualties were reported.
“Two front wheels of the engine derailed around 9.25 a.m. near Baruipara station, [..] Read the original article: here.

Kanpur engineering student ragged, hospitalised

LUCKNOW – A first-year engineering student in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur district was hospitalised after he was allegedly ragged and assaulted by his seniors because he declined to mouth abusive words, police said Monday.

Rajanshu, a B.Tech student of the Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology, was ill-treated by a group of seniors inside his hostel room …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kanpur engineering student ragged, hospitalised.

Russian nursing home blaze kills 9; officials say resident may have set self on fire

Russian nursing home fire kills 9 people
MOSCOW – A blaze that killed nine people at a Russian nursing home early Monday apparently started when an elderly resident doesed himself in gasoline and set himself on fire, investigators said.

Daria Korovina, a spokeswoman for the regional Emergencies Ministry, said two other people were injured in the fire …. Source  : Russian nursing home blaze kills 9; officials say resident may have set self on fire.

HDFC Bank in Mumbai looted of Rs.26 lakh

MUMBAI – Armed men looted about Rs.26 lakh at gunpoint from a branch of the HDFC Bank in suburban Borivli area here Monday morning, officials said.

The armed heist took place around 9.30 a.m. at the branch located on Shimpoli Road. “We are awaiting more details,” said a police official from the Borivli police station. …. Read the original article  : here.

Notice to Maharashtra on Pragya Singh’s bail plea

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued a notice to the Maharashtra government on a bail petition of Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, the main accused in 2008 Malegaon bomb blast.

Thakur and 10 others have been arrested for the blast in Malegaon, a textile town in north Maharashtra, on Sep 29, 2008, in which six … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Notice to Maharashtra on Pragya Singh’s bail plea.

Hurricane Earl threatens north Caribbean, expected to gain force

Growing Hurricane Earl threatens north Caribbean

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Hurricane Earl lashed northern Leeward Islands with heavy rain and strong winds Monday after strengthening into a Category 2 storm. Hotels were shut tightly overnight as tourists sought shelter inside their rooms.
The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said Earl could become a major hurricane … Read : Hurricane Earl threatens north Caribbean, expected to gain force.

Apex court issues notice to Rama Raju on bail

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued notice to B. Rama Raju and four others involved in Satyam scam as to why their bail should not be cancelled.

Rama Raju is the brother of Satyam founder and chairperson B. Ramalinga Raju.
The apex court bench of Justice Dalveer Bhandari and Justice Deepak Verma issued the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Apex court issues notice to Rama Raju on bail.

Afghan leader urges rethink of ‘ineffective’ anti-terror strategy, criticizes civilian deaths

Afghan president criticizes anti-terror strategy

KABUL, Afghanistan – President Hamid Karzai renewed his criticism of coalition strategy in fighting Afghanistan’s stubborn insurgency, saying it has thus far produced nothing but civilian deaths.
Meanwhile, a district chief from eastern Afghanistan was killed Monday by a bomb placed in his car that exploded as he was entering a government … Read : Afghan leader urges rethink of ‘ineffective’ anti-terror strategy, criticizes civilian deaths.

Nepal continues to probe plane crash that killed 14 people, searches for black boxes

Nepal searches for black boxes after plane crash

KATMANDU, Nepal – Nepalese investigators hoping to find the cause of a small plane crash last week that killed 14 people, including six foreigners, offered a reward Monday for help in finding the aircraft’s “black box” recorders.
Investigators still have been unable to locate the voice and data recorders … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal continues to probe plane crash that killed 14 people, searches for black boxes.

9 dead in Russian nursing home blaze; officials say resident may have set self on fire

9 dead in Russian nursing home fire
MOSCOW – A fire broke out early Monday at a Russian nursing home, killing nine people, and emergency officials said the blaze may have been started by a resident setting himself on fire.

A spokeswoman for the regional Emergencies Ministry, Daria Korovina, said the fire at the facility in Tver …. Read the original article  : 9 dead in Russian nursing home blaze; officials say resident may have set self on fire.

Four killed in Maharashtra wall collapse

MUMBAI – Four people were killed early Monday when a wall collapsed on their hut in Maharashtra’s Ulhasnagar town, police said.

“The incident happened around 4.30 a.m. at Ambedkar Nagar slums. A wall of the neighbouring building came crashing down on the hut when the victims were still asleep,” said a police official from Hill … Read : Four killed in Maharashtra wall collapse.

Howrah-bound Rajdhani derails in Bengal

KOLKATA – Two coaches of the Howrah-bound Rajdhani Express derailed in West Bengal’s Hooghly district Monday, police said. No casualties were reported.

“I have got information that two coaches have been derailed at Baruipara. Senior officers are going to the spot,” Additional Director General of Police (Rail) Dilip Mitra told IANS.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Howrah-bound Rajdhani derails in Bengal.

11 electrocuted in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – At least 11 labourers engaged on a state government-sponsored construction project were electrocuted in Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur district Tuesday, an official said.

According to police, the accident took place Tuesday afternoon in the Singhai town, where labourers were working on a housing project.
“Preliminary reports reveal that the 11 labourers came in contact with …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gujarat top cop gets reprieve in alleged shootout case

AHMEDABAD – Justice R.H. Shukla of the Gujarat High Court Tuesday quashed the first information report (FIR) filed by the state police against its own Additional Director General of Police Kuldip Sharma in a 26-year-old alleged staged shootout case.

Sharma, who in terms of seniority is in the line for the job of the director general … Read more »»».

China plane crash victims to be compensated

BEIJING – Families and relatives of the people who died in the Aug 24 plane crash in Yichun city will receive 960,000 yuan ($141,100) in compensation for each death.

A Henan Airlines jet carrying 96 people crashed in Yichun, a mountainous city in Heilongjiang province. Forty-two of the people on board the flight died.
Henan … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : China plane crash victims to be compensated.

Indian aid to Pakistan upped to $25 mn

NEW DELHI – India has increased its aid for Pakistan flood victims to $25 million from the $5 million announced earlier, but the assistance will be routed through the United Nations, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said here Tuesday.

“(The) government has decided to increase its assistance to Pakistan from $5 million, announced earlier, to $25 …. Source  : Indian aid to Pakistan upped to $25 mn.

Human body parts found dumped in US street

NEW YORK – Body parts – two severed arms and a leg of a black woman – have been found dumped in different spots of a street in Detroit, police said.

Police were trying to identify the victim, and said the body parts were dark in complexion, suggesting the victim may have been African-American, Fox News … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Human body parts found dumped in US street.

Mohammed Asif dropped from Malayalam film

KOZHIKODE – Mired in a match-fixing controversy, tainted Pakistani fast bowler Mohammed Asif who was to debut in a Malayalam film has now been dropped from the movie, according to its director Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri.

Namboothiri told mediapersons Tuesday that now he just can’t go ahead with the project with Asif.
“He has to be …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Grenade fired at Thai state-run TV station damages news van in latest unclaimed attack

Grenade explodes at Thai state-run TV station

BANGKOK – A grenade was fired into the compound of Thailand’s state-run broadcaster Tuesday, damaging several vehicles but causing no injuries in the latest in a spate of unclaimed attacks in the Thai capital.
Police said the grenade was fired from an expressway overlooking the government-run National Broadcasting Services of … Read more »»».

Four in Himachal sentenced for killing ragging protester

DHARAMSALA – A court in this Himachal Pradesh town has convicted four students for stabbing to death another student, who stopped them from ragging juniors in a degree college in 2003, a law official said here Tuesday.

“Four of the five students were sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment by Additional District and Sessions Judge [..] Read the original article: here.

Teenager tortures man for gossiping about lesbian lover

SYDNEY – An 18-year-old woman tied a man her age to a chair with an electrical cord, doused him with kerosene, forced him to eat dog food and hit him on the head with a broom for allegedly gossiping about her and her lesbian girlfriend.

Judge Frank Gucciardo of a county court Tuesday said Georgia Bucknell … Read : Teenager tortures man for gossiping about lesbian lover.

NATO says 4 American troops killed in roadside bomb explosion in eastern Afghanistan

4 American troops killed by bomb in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – NATO says four American troops have been killed in a roadside bomb explosion in eastern Afghanistan.
Tuesday’s deaths come amid a particularly bloody period for American forces in the country, with 18 service members killed since Saturday to bring this month’s total to 53. Another member …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NATO says 4 American troops killed in roadside bomb explosion in eastern Afghanistan.

Fatal bear attack highlights Ohio’s lax laws on exotic pets and high number of fatal attacks

Bear attack highlights lax Ohio exotic pet laws

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The bear that recently killed a caretaker in a Cleveland suburb was the latest example of animal violence in Ohio. The state has some of the nation’s weakest restrictions on exotic pets and among the highest number of injuries and deaths caused by them.
After a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Fatal bear attack highlights Ohio’s lax laws on exotic pets and high number of fatal attacks.

Fair price shop dealer lynched in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Suspected Maoists beat a fair price shop dealer to death in Jharkhand’s Latehar district Tuesday, police said.

Mukesh Prasad was killed in Turudih village of Latehar, about 140 km from here.
The villagers alleged that he was selling the fair price shop foodgrain in open market and not providing wheat and rice to … Read more »».

India ups Pakistan flood aid to $25 mn

NEW DELHI – India has raised its aid for Pakistan flood victims to $25 million from the $5 million announced earlier, but the assistance will be routed through the United Nations, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said in the Lok Sabha Tuesday.

“(The) government has decided to increase its assistance to Pakistan from $5 million, announced …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Australian man stabs dog to death

MELBOURNE – Police in Melbourne are searching for a “disturbed” man who stabbed a small dog to death inside its kennel before jumping over a fence when the dog’s owner saw him.

Coco, a male Maltese shih-tzu, was stabbed numerous times during the assault, which occured around 5.25 p.m. Monday in Derrick Street, The Age reported. …. Read the original article  : Australian man stabs dog to death.

After swallowing 2 final towns, floods that have devastated Pakistan head for the Arabian Sea

Devastating Pakistan floods finally heading to sea

KARACHI, Pakistan – Floodwaters that have devastated Pakistan for five weeks headed to the Arabian Sea on Tuesday after swallowing two final towns, but the challenges of delivering emergency aid to 8 million people remained.
The floods have moved down from the mountainous northwest, submerging or affecting almost 1/5 of … Original source on Gaea Times at : After swallowing 2 final towns, floods that have devastated Pakistan head for the Arabian Sea.

Taliban tap Pakistan flood misery to enlist 50,000 men

LONDON – Taliban guerrillas are taking advantage of the large-scale misery caused by the devastating floods in Pakistan by attempting to enlist 50,000 new fighters — in return for food and medicine.

The Taliban is eyeing the floods as an opportunity to begin their biggest recruiting drive in a decade, officials told The Sun. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Child killed as school bus overturns in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – An eight-year-old student was killed and 15 were injured when their school bus overturned in Uttar Pradesh’s Deoria district Tuesday, police said.

The Norman Public School’s bus carrying around 20 children overturned in the Rudrapur area.
“Sandeep, a Class four student, died while 15 students suffered multiple injuries. The injured were being treated in …. Original article  : Child killed as school bus overturns in Uttar Pradesh.

Hurricane Earl Path May Change

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Hurricane Earl which has become a category 4 Hurricane by now is expected to change its path and may pose a huge threat to the East coast region than what was expected earlier. If the hurricane does not deviate from its path it may cause damage to the region in parts …. Original article  : Hurricane Earl Path May Change.

Chilean rescuers begin hard part, drilling through solid rock to reach 33 trapped miners

Drill begins hard work of drilling to reach miners

SAN JOSE MINE, Chile – Thirty-three men stuck a half mile underground are now the longest-trapped miners in recent history as a huge drill is the early stages of digging a planned escape route.
The men were trapped Aug. 5 when a landslide blocked the shaft down into … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chilean rescuers begin hard part, drilling through solid rock to reach 33 trapped miners.

18 hand-grenades found in Punjab fields

FEROZEPUR – The troopers of the Border Security Force (BSF) recovered 18 hand-grenades from the fields of Rampur village in Punjab’s Ferozepur district, bordering Pakistan, officials said here Tuesday.

“We received a complaint from Surinder Singh, a farmer, who found a grenade while working in his fields. We launched a search operation and found 17 more … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 18 hand-grenades found in Punjab fields.