SKorea announces flood aid for NKorea, US envoy ‘optimistic’ on nuclear talks resuming soon

SKorea to send rice other aid to flood-hit NKorea

SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea announced plans Monday to send 5,000 tons of rice and other aid to flood-stricken North Korea in a sign of easing tension between the divided countries.
The aid would mark South Korea’s first major aid shipment to North Korea since March’s deadly … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : SKorea announces flood aid for NKorea, US envoy ‘optimistic’ on nuclear talks resuming soon.

AP ENTERPRISE: News monitor, anti-Palin group among those landing US Gulf spill contracts

AP ENTERPRISE: A look at who got gov’t Gulf work
WASHINGTON – The federal government hired a New Orleans man for $18,000 to appraise whether news stories about its actions in the Gulf oil spill were positive or negative for the Obama administration, which was keenly sensitive to comparisons between its response and former …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : AP ENTERPRISE: News monitor, anti-Palin group among those landing US Gulf spill contracts.

Six killed as bus rams into truck

LUCKNOW – At least six people, including a child and two women, were killed and 14 injured when the bus in which they were travelling ploughed into a stationary truck in Uttar Pradesh Monday morning.

The bus was carrying 63 people from Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur district. They were visiting religious places in the state and in …. Read the original article  : Six killed as bus rams into truck.

13 injured as classroom ceiling collapses

LUCKNOW – Twelve Class 4 children and a teacher were injured Monday when the ceiling of their classroom collapsed in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur district, police said.

The accident took place at the private Child Career Public School in Nagla town, about 400 km from here.
“The ceiling of the fourth standard classroom collapsed while the …. Original source  : 13 injured as classroom ceiling collapses.

Tropical Storm Julia nearing southern Cape Verde Islands

Tropical Storm Julia nearing Cape Verde Islands

MIAMI – Forecasters say Tropical Storm Julia is nearing the southern Cape Verde Islands.
The National Hurricane Center said Julia is about 30 miles (50 kilometers) south-southwest of the southernmost islands early Monday. The storm has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph).
Officials have issued a tropical storm warning …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tropical Storm Julia nearing southern Cape Verde Islands.

Curfew in Punjab town after rumours of Quran burning in US

CHANDIGARH – Curfew was imposed in Punjab’s Malerkotla town Monday following communal tension in which the property of a church was set on fire by a mob enraged after rumours that the Quran has been burnt in the US.

Police officials in Malerkotla, about 150 km from here, said curfew would continue till tension subsides in … Read more : Curfew in Punjab town after rumours of Quran burning in US.

$4.2 mn found in two barrels in El Salvador

San Salvador, sep 13 (IANS/EFE) Police have found more than $4.2 million inside two barrels buried in El Salvador, raising the total amount of cash found in the area during the past two weeks to $15 million, officials said.

The National Civilian Police, or PNC, and prosecutors found the two barrels buried in Lourdes Colon, a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Malaysian tycoon’s killer also killed Indian, suspect cops

KUALA LUMPUR – Police in Malaysia are investigating whether two brothers suspected to be behind the murders of a woman tycoon and three others had earlier killed an Indian national.

Police did not identify the Indian national but said he had been “missing” and that he had opened a restaurant in partnership with two lawyer brothers … Original article on : Malaysian tycoon’s killer also killed Indian, suspect cops.

Man who shot dead Kerala cop kills wife, self

MALAPPURAM – A day after shooting a policeman dead, a man in Kerala killed his wife before turning the gun on himself. Their bodies were found in a rubber estate near his home here, police said.

Mujib, who killed sub-inspector Vijayakrishnan Sunday, first shot his wife and then shot himself, Additional Director General of Police Mahesh …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Man who shot dead Kerala cop kills wife, self.

Woman hooked to online game neglects kids

LONDON – A British woman, who was hooked to an online game, neglected her three children and allowed her two dogs to starve to death. The kids had no hot food to eat and when the dogs died, their bodies were left rotting in the dining room.

The 33-year-old widow became addicted to the online game … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Woman hooked to online game neglects kids.

Oil jumps above $77 in Asia amid US pipeline leak, strong Chinese manufacturing growth

Oil jumps above $77 on US crude pipeline leak

SINGAPORE – Oil prices jumped above $77 a barrel Monday in Asia, extending gains for a second trading day after a leak forced the closure of a Chicago-area oil pipeline and disrupted supplies to U.S. Midwest refineries.
Benchmark crude for October delivery was up 70 cents to $77.15 … Read more »».

1 dead, 50 hurt in El Salvador prison fight

San Salvador, Sep 13 (IANS/EFE) One inmate died and at least 50 were wounded during a brawl at a prison in El Salvador, a media report said Sunday.

The fight broke out Saturday in the Sendero de Libertad youth rehabilitation centre in the town of Ilobasco, 55 km northeast of San Salvador.
The violence erupted over … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 1 dead, 50 hurt in El Salvador prison fight.

British troops smuggled drugs from Afghanistan?

LONDON – Britain’s military police are investigating claims that soldiers from the country stationed in Afghanistan may have trafficked heroin from there.

The ministry of defence has said there have been “unsubstantiated” reports about troops using military aircraft to ship drugs out of Afghanistan, the BBC reported.
An inquiry has been launched focusing on British and … Read : British troops smuggled drugs from Afghanistan?.

SKorea announces rice and other aid shipment plans for flood-hit NKorea, as US envoy in Seoul

SKorea announces aid plans for flood-hit NKorea
SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea announced plans Monday to send 5,000 tons of rice and other aid to flood-stricken North Korea in a sign of easing tension between the divided countries.
The aid would mark South Korea’s first major aid shipment to North Korea since … Read more »».

Tropical Storm Julia forms in the Atlantic with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph).

Tropical Storm Julia forms with winds of 40 mph

MIAMI – Tropical Storm Julia has formed in the Atlantic with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph).
Meanwhile, Hurricane Igor continued to strengthen far from land.
Officials have issued a tropical storm warning for parts of the Cape Verde Islands on Sunday, including Maio, Sao Tiago, Fogo …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tropical Storm Julia forms in the Atlantic with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph)..

Japan frees 14 Chinese ship crew after collision near disputed islets, but holds captain

Japan frees 14 crew members of Chinese ship

TOKYO – Japan freed 14 crew members of a Chinese fishing ship Monday nearly a week after their vessel collided with two Japanese patrol boats near disputed southern islets, but kept the captain in custody in a case that has angered China.
The Chinese boat collided with the patrol … Original source on Gaea Times at : Japan frees 14 Chinese ship crew after collision near disputed islets, but holds captain.

30,000 prisoners in Iraq without trial: Amnesty

CAIRO – Iraqi authorities are holding some 30,000 people without trial and denying them access to lawyers, leaving them at risk of torture, the leading human rights organisation Amnesty International said Monday in a report.

Secret prisons are allegedly being used to house detainees. The report – entitled New Order, Same Abuses: Unlawful detentions and torture … Read : 30,000 prisoners in Iraq without trial: Amnesty.

Arms seized from Mexican gangs come from US: Report

San Diego, Sep 13 (IANS/EFE) A vast majority of firearms seized from criminal organisations in Mexico come from the US, a study has claimed.

The study by the University of San Diego’s Trans-Border Institute said one of the most significant trends has been the increased cross-border trafficking of military-style rifles and ammunition.
The study titled “US …. Source article  : Arms seized from Mexican gangs come from US: Report.

Mexico Navy arrests suspected drug kingpin

MEXICO CITY – Mexican marines Sunday said they had arrested Sergio Villareal Barragan, one of the country’s most-wanted drug traffickers.

Villareal Barragan, called “El Grande”, is believed to be a powerful leader of the Beltran Leyva cartel. The former policeman was arrested in the state of Puebla, southeast of Mexico City, television reports said.
His arrest … Original article on : Mexico Navy arrests suspected drug kingpin.

Evacuees return to scorched Colo. homes as investigators probe cause of devastating wildfire

Second Colo fire erupts, destroys at least 1 home

LOVELAND, Colo. – A new wildfire tore through northern Colorado Sunday, forcing hundreds of residents to flee and destroying one home just as residents 35 miles away returned to their scorched homes in Boulder after one of the most worst fires in state history.
The wildfire near Loveland … Original article on : Evacuees return to scorched Colo. homes as investigators probe cause of devastating wildfire.

Hurricane Julia forms in the Atlantic Ocean with winds near 75 mph

Hurricane Julia forms in the Atlantic Ocean

MIAMI – Hurricane Julia has formed far out over the Atlantic, becoming the fifth hurricane of the season.
Julia has maximum sustained winds Tuesday near 75 mph (120 kph) with some additional strengthening expected during the next day or so.
The hurricane is located about 330 miles (535 kilometers) west of … Original article on : Hurricane Julia forms in the Atlantic Ocean with winds near 75 mph.

Punjab town quiet, curfew relaxed for three hours

CHANDIGARH – Curfew was relaxed in Punjab’s Malerkotla town Tuesday for three hours after there were no fresh incidents of violence.

However, the administration imposed orders prohibiting the assembly of five or more people at a place as a precautionary measure. The curfew was relaxed from 11 a.m. till 2 p.m.
Curfew was imposed in Sangrur …. Read the original article  : here.

Emirati investigators send ‘black boxes’ from UPS Dubai crash to US lab for analysis

Recorders in UPS Dubai plane crash sent to US

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The Emirati aviation authority leading the investigation into this month’s crash of a UPS plane in Dubai says the Boeing 747’s “black boxes” have been sent to the U.S. for analysis.
The director-general of the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority told The Associated … Read more »».

10 policemen injured in Uttar Pradesh mob attack

LUCKNOW – About 10 policemen in Uttar Pradesh’s Banda district were Tuesday injured as a mob indulged in heavy brick-batting and arson attack, angered by the death of a school student who was mowed down by a speeding truck in the district, an official said.

Sushil Kumar, 17, a student of Satya Narain Inter College, was … Read more »»».

NTSB seeks cause of mid-air collision between plane and tour helicopter over Hudson River

Safety board seeks cause of mid-air collision

WASHINGTON – A yearlong probe of a mid-air collision between a small plane and a tour helicopter over the Hudson River that claimed nine lives is culminating with a federal safety panel meeting to decide the cause of the accident.
The National Transportation Safety Board already has released much of … Original source on Gaea Times at : NTSB seeks cause of mid-air collision between plane and tour helicopter over Hudson River.

Opening statements to begin in trial of man accused of killing Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart

Opening statements to begin in Adenhart case

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Rookie Los Angeles Angels player Nick Adenhart died just hours after pitching the best game of his brief major league career, hurling six scoreless innings before his proud father and a cheering hometown crowd.
Adenhart was one of three people killed when the car he was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Opening statements to begin in trial of man accused of killing Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart.

Musharraf raises Rs.240 mn for Pakistan flood relief

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s former president Pervez Musharraf raised Rs.250 million through a televised campaign seeking relief for the flood-affected people in the country, a media report said Tuesday.

Taking part from London in a three-hour live “telethon” on Pakistan’s Dunya TV Sunday night, Musharraf appealed for funds and people from across the world responded generously, pledging … Original source on Gaea Times at : Musharraf raises Rs.240 mn for Pakistan flood relief.

Curfew in Hisar, army help sought as violence intensifies

HISAR – Curfew was imposed in several parts of Haryana’s Hisar district Tuesday after Jat community members seeking reservation in government jobs and educational institutions went on the rampage, targeting government and private property.

The district administration sought the help of the army to control the situation after the violence erupted again, following Monday’s clashes when … Read more »»».

Canadian company shuts down third oil pipeline as spill cleanup continues outside Chicago

Canadian company shuts down third oil pipeline

CHICAGO – A Canadian company that is working to clean up oil spills outside Chicago and in southern Michigan has closed a third pipeline after a possible leak was found in New York.
Enbridge Inc. said a 91-mile pipeline that runs from Ontario, Canada, to New York was shut down … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Canadian company shuts down third oil pipeline as spill cleanup continues outside Chicago.

Virginity for sale: Sex gang busted in Britain

LONDON – A gang that offered to sell the virginity of girls to the wealthy has been busted in Britain by the Scotland Yard. An undercover officer was told that the girls were virgins and could be ‘broken’ by a client he was pretending to represent.

Daily Mail reported Tuesday that the sex trafficking gang was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian lawyer missing after meeting friends in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR – A housewife, who hails from India’s Chennai city, has alleged that her husband ‘disappeared’ after he met in Malaysia two lawyer brothers who were his friends and business partners.

M. Usharani, who was here to lodge a complaint with the police and now has returned to Chennai, told The Star newspaper …. Read the original article  : here.

Drunken youths vandalise Hindu temple in Bangladesh

CHITTAGONG – Six drunken young men vandalised a Hindu temple in Gosaildanga here, provoking protests by the minority community, a newspaper reported Tuesday.

The incident occurred Saturday when the majority Muslims were observing Eid-ul-Fitr, which coincided with the Ganesh festival celebrated by the Hindus.
Led by Mohammed Masud, resident of the neighbouring Muslim-majority area, the youths … Read more : Drunken youths vandalise Hindu temple in Bangladesh.

Hurricane Igor Threatening Caribbean Islands

MIAMI (GaeaTimes.com)- Early on Monday the Miami-based National Hurricane Center reported that a powerful Category four storm, Hurricane Igor, is gaining strength over the central Atlantic and moving west at a speed of 10 miles (17 kilometers) per hour. At around 1500 GMT, the center reported that the storm’s maximum sustained winds has …. Original article  : Hurricane Igor Threatening Caribbean Islands.

Brahmaputra crosses danger mark, Assam flood situation critical

GUWAHATI – The flood situation in Assam turned critical Tuesday with the main river Brahmaputra crossing the danger level at several places, taking the total number of displaced people to 500,000 in 10 districts, officials said.

A government spokesperson said floods have spread to 10 districts with the worst hit being Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Morigaon, Golaghat and …. Source article  : Brahmaputra crosses danger mark, Assam flood situation critical.

Sex was Russian spy Anna’s greatest weapon, say ex-lovers

NEW YORK – Russian spy Anna Chapman’s secret weapon was sex and she “was expert at using her femininity” to seduce her prey, the spy’s former lovers have revealed.

Chapman’s departure from the US back to her home country as part of a spy-swap deal apparently left a few broken hearts in Manhattan — but … Read : Sex was Russian spy Anna’s greatest weapon, say ex-lovers.

Bangladesh ill-prepared for disasters, warn experts

DHAKA – Bangladesh is ill-prepared for disasters, experts warned four days after an earthquake hit the country.

Two earthquakes hit the country last Friday as people prepared to end the holy Ramadan and celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr.
Most buildings essential for providing earthquake victims with support, shelter and treatment are themselves vulnerable even to moderate tremors, indicating … Read more »».

Burglar texts cops to get his phone back!

LONDON – A burglar, who dropped his mobile phone at a house, was easily nabbed by the police after he texted asking them to return his phone.

Anthony Gawthorp, 24, left his mobile phone at a house in Cambridge where he stole a laptop, Daily Mail reported Tuesday. The house was burgled Aug 28.
He later … Original source on Gaea Times at : Burglar texts cops to get his phone back!.

Why victims identify innocents as suspects?

LONDON – Witnesses may point out a suspect in an identification parade simply because of the way he looks. And may unwittingly book an innocent.

Initial research suggests that people are more likely to identify those they dislike and less likely to identify someone they like.
Jim Sauer of the University of Portsmouth in Britain … Read more : Why victims identify innocents as suspects?.

China postpones senior official’s visit to Japan amid diplomatic dispute over ship collision

China postpones visit to Japan amid ship dispute

TOKYO – Japan said Tuesday that China has postponed a senior official’s visit to Tokyo in an escalating diplomatic battle over the arrest of a Chinese fishing boat captain after a ship collision near islands claimed by both countries.
The captain was arrested after his ship collided nearly a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : China postpones senior official’s visit to Japan amid diplomatic dispute over ship collision.

Briton hid stillborn babies in wardrobe for 25 years

LONDON – A woman in Britain has admitted that she hid three stillborn babies in her wardrobe for up to 25 years. The babies were wrapped in rags and newspapers and placed in a small bin.

Bernadette Quirk, 55, also illegally buried a fourth dead baby in a cemetery.
At Liverpool Crown Court, Quirk, of St … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Briton hid stillborn babies in wardrobe for 25 years.

Family abandons abducted Mexican politician: Kidnappers

Mexico City, Sep 15 (IANS/EFE) Kidnappers of a Mexican politician said his family has abandoned the former presidential candidate who has been kept hostage since May.

Several media outlets received a letter from the kidnappers, claiming that Fernandez de Cevallos’s “own friends don’t care what his fate is”.
Fernandez de Cevallos, who also served as president … Read more : Family abandons abducted Mexican politician: Kidnappers.

NKorea: Typhoon Kompasu killed dozens, destroyed thousands of homes this month

NKorea: Typhoon Kompasu killed dozens of people

SEOUL, South Korea – A typhoon killed dozens of people and destroyed roads, railways and thousands of homes in North Korea early this month, the reclusive state’s media reported Wednesday.
It was the first confirmation from the North of the extent of the damage inflicted by Typhoon Kompasu that hit … Read more : NKorea: Typhoon Kompasu killed dozens, destroyed thousands of homes this month.

Italian Police seize ‘mafia assets’ worth $1.9 bn

Palermo (Italy), Sep 15 (IANS/AKI) Italian Police have seized assets worth 1.5 billion euros (about $1.9 billion) from a Sicilian businessman who is suspected of having ties with the mafia.

It was the country’s biggest property seizure in the war it has declared against organised crime networks like the Sicilian Cosa Nostra and the Camorra … Read : Italian Police seize ‘mafia assets’ worth $1.9 bn.

Investigators probing delay in shutting down Calif. pipe to check if PG&E followed procedures

Feds probe time it took to shut down gas pipe

SAN BRUNO, Calif. – Federal investigators are examining whether Pacific Gas & Electric workers at a Northern California control center followed proper emergency procedures after a gas transmission line exploded into inferno that caused at least four deaths and destroyed nearly 40 homes in San Bruno.
National …. Source  : Investigators probing delay in shutting down Calif. pipe to check if PG&E followed procedures.

Hisar limping back to normalcy after violence

HISAR – Life started limping back to normal here Wednesday, a day after curfew was imposed in parts of Hisar district due to widespread violence by the Jat community that was demanding reservations in jobs and educational institutions, said police.

“Curfew has been lifted from the district. All the routes where traffic was either disrupted …. Source article  : Hisar limping back to normalcy after violence.

Five of a family killed in Himachal house collapse

SHIMLA – Five of a family, including two children, were killed when the house they were sleeping in was hit by rolling boulders in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district, police said Wednesday.

“Three women and two children were killed on the spot last (Tuesday) night when boulders from the hill-top rolled down and hit the house in … Original article on : Five of a family killed in Himachal house collapse.

Pakistani minister blames militants for attacks on Christians

Rome, Sep 15 (IANS/AKI) The Taliban and Al Qaeda militant groups are partly to be blamed for recent violent attacks on Christians in Pakistan, visiting Pakistani Minority Rights Minister Shahbaz Bhatti, who is a Catholic, told reporters here.

“The responsibility for violence against ethnic and religious minorities is connected to independence movements and foreign terrorist groups … Read : Pakistani minister blames militants for attacks on Christians.

Tibetan market opens after flooding, but still deserted

NEW DELHI – The normally busy Tibetan market in northeast Delhi bustling with college students looking to buy things at dirt cheap prices was deserted Wednesday. After a weekend of flooding from the Yamuna river, shops have reopened, but pools of stagnant water bear testimony to the nightmare it was.

“The Yamuna water was released Friday [..] Read the original article: here.

Serial killings in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR – The killings of 17 people, including four ethnic Indians, are being linked to last week’s sensational murders of four people in Malaysia for which two lawyer brothers have been detained.

The lawyer brothers have been detained over the gruesome murder of businesswoman Sosilawati Lawiya and three others.
Past cases of murdered people [..] Read the original article: here.

Trapped Chilean miner is blessed with a daughter

Santiago, Sep 15 (IANS/EFE) One of the 33 miners trapped in a Chilean mine since Aug 5 has been blessed with a daughter after his wife gave birth to their child in a hospital.

Esperanza, which means “hope”, was delivered at 12.00 p.m. Tuesday in a hospital in Copiapo city, some 800 km from Santiago. She … Original source on Gaea Times at : Trapped Chilean miner is blessed with a daughter.

Court cancels driving licence of woman, 81, for speeding

MELBOURNE – An 81-year-old woman has been disqualified from getting a driving licence for one year and fined $850 after being convicted of dangerous driving on a highway in Australia.

Judith Slade, from Heathcote in Victoria, pleaded guilty before the Bendigo Magistrate’s Court to driving at a dangerous speed and failing to obey her licence conditions. …. Source article  : Court cancels driving licence of woman, 81, for speeding.

Gangster gunned down

LUCKNOW – A gangster who carried a reward of Rs.50,000 on his head was shot dead by police in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district even as his two aides managed to escape, police said Wednesday.

Yogesh Chaudhary, 26, who faced over a dozen criminal cases including murder, was killed Tuesday night.
Four policemen were injured in the [..] Read the original article: here.

Julia becomes major hurricane; Tropical Storm Karl heads toward Mexican coast, warnings issued

Julia major hurricane; TS Karl headed to Mexico

CANCUN, Mexico – A strengthening Tropical Storm Karl neared the Yucatan Peninsula on Wednesday, bearing down on the resort beaches of the Mayan Riviera.
Karl had maximum sustained winds of about 45 mph (75 kph) and was located about 185 miles (295 kph) east of Chetumal, Mexico, the U.S. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Julia becomes major hurricane; Tropical Storm Karl heads toward Mexican coast, warnings issued.

Coffee machine explodes in Britain, seven hurt

LONDON – A coffee machine exploded at a supermarket cafe in Britain, injuring seven people.

The explosion was so powerful that it hurled the machine across the room and it slammed into a wall of the Sainsbury’s store, Daily Express reported Wednesday.
Six of the injured were taken to hospital and one of them had head, … Read more »»».

Battle of Britain pilots remember as 70th anniversary marked with statue of wartime commander

70 years on, Battle of Britain pilots remember

LONDON – Owen Burns remembers the cold, the howling wind, and the silk underwear he wore to protect him from the bitter cold. Ken Wilkinson recalls the solitude of combat, Nigel Rose the perverse disappointment of coming back from a mission unscathed.
They are a dwindling band, these men … Read more >>>.

Mexican drug cartel infiltrates Australia

SYDNEY – One of the world’s most powerful organised crime syndicates, the Sinaloa drug cartel of Mexico, has infiltrated Australia, importing up to half of the cocaine used on the east coast over the past two years, media reports said Wednesday.

Australian and overseas police suspect the cartel already dominated Australia’s cocaine trade when authorities … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mexican drug cartel infiltrates Australia.

300 Chinese officials caught in sauna during working hours

BEIJING – About 300 government officials in China’s Shanxi province were caught while enjoying a sauna or a foot massage during working hours.

As many as 296 officials face punishment for visiting entertainment venues during the working day, the provincial discipline inspection authorities said, China Daily reported Tuesday.
The Shanxi provincial disciplinary body and the police … Read more >>.

Hurricane Julia stronger; Tropical Storm Karl heads toward Mexican coast, warnings issued

Hurricane Julia stronger; TS Karl headed to Mexico

MIAMI – Hurricane Julia has intensified in the open Atlantic and Tropical Storm Karl in the northwestern Caribbean is on a path toward the Yucatan Peninsula.
Forecasters late Tuesday said Karl had maximum sustained winds of about 45 mph (75 kph) and is located about 185 miles (295 kph) …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hurricane Julia stronger; Tropical Storm Karl heads toward Mexican coast, warnings issued.

Hitmen accused of 200 murders held in Spain

MADRID – Two hitmen from Colombia, accused in over 200 cases of murder, kidnapping and torture, have been arrested in Spain, the Spanish interior ministry said.

The arrested suspects – identified as Henry Norberto Valdes Marin, 36, and Mauricio Alberto Gonzalez Sepulveda, 44 – are the most dangerous Colombian nationals to be detained in Spain till … Read more »»».

Death toll from remnants of Tropical Storm Hermine reaches 8 after 2 bodies found in Texas

Hermine death toll at 8 after 2 more bodies found

AUSTIN, Texas – The death toll from flooding caused by the remnants of Tropical Storm Hermine (hur-MEEN’) has reached eight after two more bodies were found in Texas.
One body was identified Tuesday as that of 51-year-old Jennifer Ring of Austin. The mother of two children had …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Australian child rapist jailed for 26 years

SYDNEY – A 58-year-old Australian man has been sentenced to 26 years in prison for sexually assaulting 18 children in 25 years, a media report said Thursday.

Dennis Alfred Goudge, formerly of Bendigo, had shown no remorse or insight into his offending, the Victorian County Court heard, the Age reported on its website.
The 26-year sentence … Original article on : Australian child rapist jailed for 26 years.

An 1,800-year-old murder

LONDON – In a shallow grave in Britain lay a girl with injuries to her head. An investigation is being carried out not by the police, but by archaeologists as her death took place over 1,800-years back.

The child’s remains were found in a pit in the corner of a barrack room floor at Vindolanda Roman … Read more >>.

8 killed in blast aboard minibus in southeast Turkey

8 killed in minibus blast in Turkey
ANKARA, Turkey – A roadside bomb attack killed at least eight people Thursday in the latest violence that shook Turkey’s turbulent southeast where Kurdish guerrillas fought a bitter war for autonomy for decades, authorities said.

The incident occurred near the village of Gecitli in the rugged Hakkari province, bordering Iran … Read : 8 killed in blast aboard minibus in southeast Turkey.

NTSB: 2 float planes collide near Dillingham, Alaska; both pilots survive

2 float planes collide in Alaska; pilots survive

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal investigator says two pilots in Alaska have survived the collision of two float planes that took off from a pond.
National Transportation Safety Board investigator Larry Lewis tells KTUU-TV in Anchorage that one pilot had major but non-life-threatening injuries, while the other pilot suffered … Original source on Gaea Times at : NTSB: 2 float planes collide near Dillingham, Alaska; both pilots survive.

600 booked for violence

LUCKNOW – Cases have been slapped against nearly 600 people in Uttar Pradesh’s Banda district for indulging in violence after a truck ran over a student, police said Thursday.

Sushil Kumar’s death Tuesday in Chapad village triggered violence that left about 10 policemen injured. Fellow students also set fire to a dozen vehicles.
Police inspector Rakesh … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 600 booked for violence.

‘Smuggling, trafficking key issues on India-Bangladesh border’

DINAJPUR – Smuggling and human trafficking are the “key issues that sometimes create problem in the border areas of Bangladesh and India”, the country’s border guard chief has said.

“Borders of the two countries generally remain calm, but smugglers of drugs and other goods and human traffickers, who are always active across the borders, often …. Read the original article  : ‘Smuggling, trafficking key issues on India-Bangladesh border’.

Police officer’s cook arrested

CHANDIGARH – A Punjab police officer’s cook has been arrested for allegedly entering the house of a journalist here to steal, police said Thursday.

The incident took place at Sector 39 around 12.30 a.m.
“The accused worked with an inspector general. He was in an inebriated condition and entered the house to steal. The house owner … Read more : Police officer’s cook arrested.

Congress MP from Orissa attacked in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Congress MP Hemananda Biswal from Orissa was attacked at his official residence in the capital Thursday morning.

Sources at the MP’s residence at 7, Kamraj Lane near Connaught Place said that a person named Pravat Kumar Sharma alias Swamy, who had worked with the MP earlier, forcibly entered his residence and attempted …. Original source  : Congress MP from Orissa attacked in Delhi.

Report: 12 killed in blast aboard minibus in southeast Turkey

Report: 12 killed in minibus blast in Turkey

ANKARA, Turkey – CNN-Turk television says a blast has killed 12 people aboard a minibus in southeast Turkey.
There are conflicting reports about how the explosion occurred Thursday near the city of Hakkari, bordering Iran and Iraq. NTV television says the minibus hit a land mine while Dogan news … Read : Report: 12 killed in blast aboard minibus in southeast Turkey.

Fierce air, ground attack help slow advance of forest fire in southern Sierra Nevada

Fierce air, ground attack help slow fire’s advance

LAKE ISABELLA, Calif. – A fierce air and ground attack helped slow the advance of a California forest fire in the southern Sierra Nevada that has charred more than 6,100 acres and destroyed one home, authorities said.
Light winds aided the firefighting effort Wednesday as bulldozers carved firebreaks and … Read : Fierce air, ground attack help slow advance of forest fire in southern Sierra Nevada.

Chinese mom, Indian father continue search for lost child

KUALA LUMPUR – The parents of a two-year-old Indian girl, who has been missing since June, are still searching for her, and her mother who is of Chinese origin, believes she is alive and is being held captive somewhere.

Wong Lai Lan, the mother of Nisha Chandramohan, believes her daughter is alive and being …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chinese mom, Indian father continue search for lost child.

Put out too much on Facebook and risk burglary

LONDON – People who post too much personal information on social networking sites could be at risk from burglary, a media report said Thursday.

Wisbech magistrates’ court heard that Peter Trower, 22, and Joseph McLennan, 18, monitored Facebook accounts waiting for the “perfect opportunity” to rob a home in the town, Daily Telegraph reported on … Read more >>.

Malaysia to probe missing people linked to lawyer brothers

KUALA LUMPUR – The police in Malaysia are to investigate all reports of missing people who were known to two lawyer brothers arrested for the murder of a businesswoman and three others.

Sosilawati Lawiya, 47, who owned a cosmetics making firm, went missing last week and she was found murdered along with three others at a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysia to probe missing people linked to lawyer brothers.

Firefighters gain ground on forest fire in southern Sierra Nevada, now 50 percent contained

Firefighters make progress against canyon wildfire

LAKE ISABELLA, Calif. – Firefighters were beginning to gain ground on a forest fire in the southern Sierra Nevada that charred more than 6,100 acres and destroyed one home, authorities said Wednesday.
The fire got “very active” Wednesday afternoon, but a fierce air and ground attack kept the flames away from …. Original source  : Firefighters gain ground on forest fire in southern Sierra Nevada, now 50 percent contained.

Firefighters begin to gain ground on forest fire in southern Sierra Nevada

Firefighters begin to gain ground on canyon fire

LAKE ISABELLA, Calif. – Firefighters are gaining ground on a California forest fire in the southern Sierra Nevada that has blackened more than 6,100 acres and destroyed one home.
U.S. Forest Service spokeswoman Cindy Thill says the fire “got very active” Wednesday afternoon, but a fierce air and ground … Original article on : Firefighters begin to gain ground on forest fire in southern Sierra Nevada.

Sohrabuddin case witness faked shootout, friend questioned: police

UDAIPUR – Azam Khan, a key witness in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh killing, tried to fabricate a story about an attempt on his life by shooting himself in the shoulder, say police. He along with his friend and cousin are being questioned.

Khan, who had given evidence in the killing of Tulsiram Prajapati – a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sohrabuddin case witness faked shootout, friend questioned: police.

Hundreds evacuated after tropical storm hits Mexico

Cancun (Mexico), Sep 16 (IANS/EFE) Hundreds of people have been evacuated from Mexico’s Quintana Roo state after tropical storm Karla hit the region with wind speeds of up to 95 kmph.

The storm made landfall Wednesday morning.
Power and telephone lines were cut as heavy rains and gusts of wind lashed the region, Quintana Roo state …. Original source  : Hundreds evacuated after tropical storm hits Mexico.

War of words over France’s Gypsy expulsions threatens to overshadow EU summit

War of words with France may overshadow EU summit

BRUSSELS – A bitter rift over France’s Gypsy expulsions was set to dominate a summit of European Union leaders Thursday, after French ministers angrily hit back at comments likening the crackdown to World War II deportations.
In an emotional statement Tuesday, European Justice Commissioner Viviane Reding called France’s …. Source article  : War of words over France’s Gypsy expulsions threatens to overshadow EU summit.

Reducing software piracy can inject $142 bn into economy

WASHINGTON – Reducing software piracy by 10 percentage points in four years would inject over $142 billion into the global economy, create nearly 500,000 jobs and generate close to $32 billion in tax revenues, according to a new study.

Moreover, reducing software theft at a faster rate in two years could boost the economic benefits another … Read : Reducing software piracy can inject $142 bn into economy.

Tropical Storm Karl crosses Yucatan and moves to Gulf of Mexico; gov’t issues hurricane watch

Tropical Storm Karl heads to Gulf of Mexico

CANCUN, Mexico – Tropical Storm Karl dumped heavy rains on the Yucatan Peninsula on Thursday as it moved toward the Gulf of Mexico, where it is expected to pick up steam and become a hurricane threatening Mexico’s central coast by the weekend.
In the Atlantic, forecasters say Hurricane Igor … Read more >>.

62 killed in Sri Lanka blast (Second Lead)

COLOMBO – At least 60 policemen and two Chinese nationals were killed Friday in a massive blast in containers filled with explosives at a police station in eastern Sri Lanka, the Daily News reported quoting a military official.

The toll in the blast at the Karadiyanaru police station, some 260 km from Colombo, has risen to … Read : 62 killed in Sri Lanka blast (Second Lead).

Hurricane Karl reaches Category 3 strength in the Gulf of Mexico; now a major hurricane

Hurricane Karl now a Category 3 storm in the Gulf

MIAMI – Hurricane Karl has strengthened to a Category 3 storm as it roars toward ports and oil installations on Mexico’s Gulf Coast.
Karl’s maximum sustained winds increased to near 120 mph (195 kph) early Friday with some additional strengthening possible before the hurricane makes landfall.
Karl is … Read more »»».

Government says 60 feared killed in accidental blast in eastern Sri Lanka

Government: 60 feared killed in Sri Lanka blast

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Three containers filled with explosives meant for road construction detonated Friday outside a police station in eastern Sri Lanka, killing as many as 60 people in a blast government officials called an accident.
Military spokesman Maj. Gen. Ubaya Medawala said it was unclear what triggered …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BP’s Gulf oil well close to being plugged for good after relief well intersects it

Gulf oil well on verge of being plugged for good

NEW ORLEANS – After five months, the oil well that had spewed thousands of gallons into the Gulf of Mexico is on the verge of being plugged once and for all.
A relief well drilled nearly 2.5 miles beneath the floor of the Gulf of Mexico intersected … Read : BP’s Gulf oil well close to being plugged for good after relief well intersects it.

13th century slab of stone carving stolen from Goa

PANAJI – A historic one-metre-long stone slab with carvings of battle scene, dating back to the late 13th century, has been stolen from a remote village in north Goa. Only a museum could have stolen it, an archeology official said here Friday.

The state government has launched an investigation into the disappearance of the stone …. Original article  : 13th century slab of stone carving stolen from Goa.

Pakistan’s largest city Karachi gripped by fear, mourning after politician killed in London

Fears of violence in Pakistan after London slaying

KARACHI, Pakistan – Pakistan’s largest city came to a near-halt Friday amid fears of violence following the slaying in London of a senior politician from the local ruling party. Witnesses said a shop and two buses were set on fire, in signs of rising tension.
Gas stations, schools and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sri Lanka: Accidental blast kills more than 20 including 2 Chinese

Sri Lanka: Accidental blast kills more than 20

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – An accidental blast triggered by industrial dynamite intended for use in road construction killed more than 20 people Friday in eastern Sri Lanka, including two Chinese nationals, a government spokesman said.
The blast took place in the Batticaloa district, a former conflict area where the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sri Lanka: Accidental blast kills more than 20 including 2 Chinese.

British team in Punjab to probe murder case

PHAGWARA – A special four-member team of the British police has come to this Punjab town to probe a nearly three-year-old murder of an Indian origin British woman, allegedly for dowry.

Led by David Reid, the team reached Punjab Thursday and recorded the statements of the woman’s family members, who have alleged she was harassed … Read : British team in Punjab to probe murder case.

60 feared dead in accidental explosion in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO – At least 60 people were feared killed when a stock of dynamite exploded Friday inside a police station in eastern Sri Lanka, a military spokesman said.

Major General Udaya Medawala said the explosives detonated on a truck in the Karadiyanaru police station, 260 km east of Colombo.
The dynamite were intended for road construction … Read more »»».

Officials to assess whether tornado touched down in NYC storm that killed 1, disrupted trains

Probe into whether tornado hit NYC in deadly storm

NEW YORK – Residents, utility crews and railroad workers were cleaning up debris Friday after a brief but fierce storm barreled through the city, tearing up trees, stripping roofs from homes, disrupting train service and killing at least one person.
The National Weather Service was to dispatch investigators …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Residents return home as crews slow advance of forest fire in southern Sierra Nevada

Residents return home as crews slow fire’s advance

LAKE ISABELLA, Calif. – Hundreds of California residents have been allowed to return to their homes in mountain communities in the southern Sierra Nevada where a forest fire burned more than 8,100 acres.
Fire officials called off evacuation orders Thursday as a fierce air and ground attack helped slow … Original article on : Residents return home as crews slow advance of forest fire in southern Sierra Nevada.

BHU student threatens suicide, four arrested for ragging

LUCKNOW – Four students of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi have been arrested, one year after they assaulted and stripped a physically challenged youth and forced him to perform obscene acts that were even filmed by them, police said Friday.

The arrests came after the affected student, a native of Bihar, threatened to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BHU student threatens suicide, four arrested for ragging.

Brooklyn Storm Creates Havoc

STATEN ISLANDS (GaeaTimes.com)- A powerful tornado struck Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan on Thursday evening. The National Weather Service issued a warning to the residents in the area at around 5:30pm. The NWS reported that the storm touched down at Staten Islands and caused extensive damage in the area. Wind speeds up to 70mph were …. Read the original article  : Brooklyn Storm Creates Havoc.

Orissa newspaper owner being framed, say media, opposition

BHUBANESWAR – A newspaper publisher was arrested here for allegedly duping a student, but media groups and opposition parties are protesting the move and allege that he has been framed for writing against the government.

Bikash Swain, the owner, publisher and printer of vernacular Oriya daily Suryaprava was arrested Thursday for allegedly duping a student of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Orissa newspaper owner being framed, say media, opposition.

NYC Tornado Disrupts City Life, Claims life of One

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Last Thursday evening New York City faced a powerful tornado which caused several damage across the city. It even claimed the life of one person while injuring several others.
According to reports, the storm was a tornado with a funnel cloud. Although the National Weather Service had issued a Tornado warning …. Read the original article  : NYC Tornado Disrupts City Life, Claims life of One.

Remains of 20 people found in Malaysian farmhouse

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian investigators probing the murder of four people have stumbled upon bones that could belong to as many as 20 people.

The Malaysian Police have linked a fifth murder, that of an ethnic Indian woman, with those of four who were slashed and burnt last week at Banting in Selangor state.
Two … Read : Remains of 20 people found in Malaysian farmhouse.

New system to monitor seismic activity in northeast

AGARTALA – An ambitious project to modernise the seismic monitoring system in India’s northeast — said to be the sixth most quake-prone belt in the world — has been taken up by the union ministry of earth sciences (MoES), officials said here Friday.

“A VSAT-based real time seismic monitoring network (RTSMN) over the northeast consisting of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New system to monitor seismic activity in northeast.

Experts warn of earthquakes in Bangladesh

DHAKA – Scientists at the Dhaka University Earth Observatory have recorded 10 tremors in the last one week and warned that more earthquakes can hit the country anytime.

The warning comes after a moderate quake, whose epicentre was at the India-Bangladesh border, shook parts of Bangladesh last Friday.
Two of the milder ones with the epicentre … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Experts warn of earthquakes in Bangladesh.

Rescue, relief intensified after Bihar river breach

PATNA – A day after the Gandak river breached its embankments in Bihar’s Gopalganj district, the government intensified rescue and relief operations as the fear of floods led thousands to flee their homes, officials said Friday.

Floods caused by the breach could affect one million people in Gopalganj, Saran and Siwan district in the coming days …. Read the original article  : Rescue, relief intensified after Bihar river breach.

Peruvian teen admits he murdered 10 people

Lima, Sep 17 (IANS/EFE) A 15-year-old boy in Peru has confessed to killing 10 people, including a pregnant woman, in the past three years, local media reported.

The boy, nicknamed Gringacho, surrendered before the authorities and said he was recruited by a criminal network in the city of Trujillo, 570 km north of Lima, when he [..] Read the original article: here.

Indian doctor dies in Nepal highway crash

KATHMANDU – A 32-year-old eye doctor from eastern India died in Nepal after being injured in a highway crash.

Anjum Medi from Anil Nagar in Guwahati died in eastern Nepal after the ambulance he was travelling in hit a cement-laden truck on the highway, police said. Medi was working in the Ram Lal Golcha Eye Hospital … Original article on : Indian doctor dies in Nepal highway crash.

Maharashtra village pays homage to 17 killed in jeep crash

GONDIA – About 1,500 people of Navegaon village in this Maharashtra district Saturday observed a voluntary shutdown and paid homage to 17 people who died in a road accident the day before, police here said.

“The accident took place Friday evening when a milk tanker and a jeep collided. Around 20 people were travelling in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maharashtra village pays homage to 17 killed in jeep crash.

Kerala girl defies threats, wears jeans – not burqa

KASARGODE – An aeronautical engineer by qualification and preparing for the civil services exam, a 23-year-old Muslim girl here refuses to wear the burqa and often sports jeans despite constant threats to her life.

Rayana R. Khasi, a resident of Kasargode, 600 km from state capital Thiruvananthapuram, has handed over the threat letters she received to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rapist school cab driver attacked by angry kin

NEW DELHI – A school cab driver accused of sexually abusing a 12-year-old girl and her two brothers for over a year and a half was assaulted by angry family members and neighbours of the children while being taken to the court Saturday.

The accused driver, Lalit Ratawal, 32, was being taken to the court by …. Source article  : Rapist school cab driver attacked by angry kin.

Fake voter cards seized during Afghan parliamentary polls

KABUL – Fake voter registration cards were seized and allegations of fraud were reported across Afghanistan Saturday after parliamentary elections began, witnesses and officials said.

A man was seized by police in Kabul with at least 15 fake voters’ cards near a polling station, Ahmad Zia Rafhat, spokesman for the UN-backed Election Complaint Commission (ECC), said. … Read more »»».

NY woman admits targeting South Asians for gold

WASHINGTON – A New York City woman has admitted that she and two men targeted homes of South Asian families in the Washington suburbs, stealing gold jewellery, coins and religious icons.

Melinda M. Soto, 34, of Queens, detailed in federal court in Alexandria Friday how the gang of three burglarised 37 homes in Fairfax and Loudoun … Read more : NY woman admits targeting South Asians for gold.

Malaysia seeks India’s help to trace missing Indian

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian police have sought help from their Indian counterparts and the Interpol to trace an Indian millionaire who has been missing since January when he arrived here to seal a business deal.

A. Muthuraja, a Chennai-based millionaire, was allegedly last seen with the two lawyer brothers who were arrested last month for …. Read the original article  : Malaysia seeks India’s help to trace missing Indian.

Chinese hold anti-Japan protests over boat incident on sensitive political anniversary

Chinese hold anti-Japan protests over boat dispute

BEIJING – Protesters in several cities across China marked a politically sensitive anniversary Saturday with anti-Japan chants and banners, as authorities tried to stop anger over a diplomatic spat between the Asian giants from getting out of control.
As some chanted “Wipe out the Japanese devils!” and stamped on Japanese … Read : Chinese hold anti-Japan protests over boat incident on sensitive political anniversary.

Quake hits Afghanistan, tremors felt in north India

NEW DELHI – An earthquake measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale hit the Hindu Kush region in Afganistan early Saturday and tremors were felt in several parts of north India, including Chandigarh, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab, officials said.

“Earthquake tremors were felt at 12.51 a.m. They lasted for 55 to 59 seconds. … Read more »».

Tremor jolts Kashmir Valley as violence continues

SRINAGAR – A moderate intensity tremor Saturday jolted the Kashmir Valley, already rocked by the massive three-month long violence which has claimed 96 lives.

No loss of life or property was reported from anywhere because of the tremor, but the toll kept on mounting with two more deaths Saturday. A total of 96 people have lost …. Original article  : Tremor jolts Kashmir Valley as violence continues.

Earthquake In Delhi: Tremors Felt

(Gaea Times.com)- On Saturday September 18, AT 12:51 am the people in Delhi felt the ground trembling, something which was not normal and there was immediately fear in the minds of the people which jumped rightly to the worst conclusion, earthquake. The panic though did not last long as luckily for them the …. Original source  : Earthquake In Delhi: Tremors Felt.

Cement flows as BP crews work to permanently seal the blown-out oil well in the Gulf of Mexico

Cement flows for permanent plug of BP’s Gulf well

NEW ORLEANS – Crews are pumping cement into BP’s blown-out oil well thousands of feet below the sea bottom, working to permanently seal the runaway well.
Engineers initially had planned to pump in mud before the cement, but a BP spokesman said that would not be necessary. There …. Original source  : Cement flows as BP crews work to permanently seal the blown-out oil well in the Gulf of Mexico.

Chileans search souls as trapped miners, hunger-striking Indians crash bicentennial party

Trapped miners force Chileans to re-examine image

SAN JOSE MINE, Chile – The survival of 33 miners trapped a half-mile underground and the government’s unblinking effort to pull them out alive are giving Chileans reason to be proud as they celebrate their nation’s bicentennial this weekend.
Chile is poised to enter the world’s club of developed nations, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chileans search souls as trapped miners, hunger-striking Indians crash bicentennial party.

Hurricane Karl kills 2 in landslide, remnants drench mountains of central Mexico

Hurricane Karl kills 2, remnants drench C Mexico

CORDOBA, Mexico – Authorities in central Mexico were on alert early Saturday for possible mudslides and flooding as the remnants of Hurricane Karl pushed inland hours after the storm swept onto the Gulf coast and killed two people.
Out in the Atlantic, meanwhile, Hurricane Igor strengthened into a Category …. Read the original article  : Hurricane Karl kills 2 in landslide, remnants drench mountains of central Mexico.

Punjab doctor held for murder attempt a year earlier

PANCHKULA – A Punjab-based doctor, wanted by the police for over year for attempted murder, has finally been arrested, police here said Saturday.

Sumit Sofat, who runs a leading infertility centre in Punjab’s industrial hub Ludhiana, was wanted since August 2009. His bail application had been rejected by the Punjab and Haryana High Court … Original article on : Punjab doctor held for murder attempt a year earlier.

US scientist, wife held for selling N-weapon detail

Washington, Sep 18 (IANS/EFE) A US scientist ans his wife have been arrested for passing on secret information to a man posing as Venezuelan spy to help that country develop a nuclear weapon, the US justice department has said.

“The indictment does not allege that the government of Venezuela or anyone acting on its behalf … Read : US scientist, wife held for selling N-weapon detail.

Voters list recovered from Bihar jail

PATNA – A voters list, a mobile phone and some cash were seized from inmates of a Bihar jail early Saturday, police said.

The four-page voters list and other objectionable items were recovered from the Siwan district jail in Siwan district.
“During a surprise raid, we recovered a voters list ahead of the upcoming assembly polls,” …. Original source  : Voters list recovered from Bihar jail.

Tremors felt in Punjab, Haryana

CHANDIGARH – Mild tremors were felt in most parts of Punjab and Haryana in the early hours of Saturday, officials said here. However, no loss of life or damage to property was reported.

“Earthquake tremors were felt at 12.51 a.m. and they lasted for 55 to 59 seconds. They were of moderate intensity and so far … Read more »».

Afghans vote amid threats in 1st election since fraud-marred presidential ballot last year

Afghans vote amid threats and scattered attacks

KABUL, Afghanistan – Men in traditional tunics and women covered in sky-blue burqas trickled into polling centers to vote in Afghanistan’s parliamentary election Saturday, as scattered attacks and the closure of some voting sites by insurgents underscored the difficulty of trying to hold a vote in a country at …. Read the original article  : here.

Afghans vote in parliamentary election despite scattered rocket attacks, Taliban threats

Afghans vote for parliament despite some attacks

KABUL, Afghanistan – Polling stations formally opened for voting in Afghanistan’s parliamentary election Saturday, though scattered rocket attacks struck in the early morning and Taliban insurgents managed to block at least a couple of stations from opening.
The vote – the first since a fraud-marred presidential poll last year – … Original article on : Afghans vote in parliamentary election despite scattered rocket attacks, Taliban threats.

Gunmen fire at tourist bus outside New Delhi mosque, wounding 2 Taiwanese

Gunmen fire at tourist bus in Delhi, wounding 2

NEW DELHI – Two gunmen on a motorcycle shot and injured two Taiwanese tourists Sunday near one of India’s biggest mosques, police said.
The gunmen randomly opened fire near the Jama Masjid, hitting the tourists as they were about to board a bus parked near the mosque, police …. Original source  : Gunmen fire at tourist bus outside New Delhi mosque, wounding 2 Taiwanese.

Car bomb kills 12 in western Baghdad, says Iraqi army official

Car bomb kills 12 in western Baghdad
BAGHDAD – An Iraqi army official says 12 people were killed when a car bomb exploded near the offices of a mobile phone company in western Baghdad.

Army Brig. Gen. Ali Fathal, who is responsible for security in the western Baghdad area, told The Associated Press that 10 people were … Read more : Car bomb kills 12 in western Baghdad, says Iraqi army official.

Powerful typhoon knocks out power, transportation in Taiwan; 6,000 flee mountains

Typhoon knocks out power, transportation in Taiwan

TAIPEI, Taiwan – A powerful typhoon ripped into Taiwan on Sunday, crippling transportation around the island and shutting off power as thousands of residents fled mountainous areas prone to devastating landslides.
Typhoon Fanapi was the first major storm to strike the island this year and was forecast to move into … Original source on Gaea Times at : Powerful typhoon knocks out power, transportation in Taiwan; 6,000 flee mountains.

Interpol chief’s Facebook identity misused

LONDON – Interpol chief Ron Noble has said his identity was used on the online social network Facebook by criminals who tried to get details of an operation launched by the international police agency against a global crime nexus.

“Interpol’s information security incident response team discovered two Facebook profiles attempting to assume my identity as Interpol’s …. Source article  : Interpol chief’s Facebook identity misused.

Sheriff’s officials say 13 members of ‘cult-like’ group reported missing by families

Sheriff’s search for 13 members of LA-area ‘cult’

LOS ANGELES – Five adults and eight children from a “cult-like” group in Southern California were reported missing by their families Saturday, and the group left behind letters that they were awaiting “the Rapture or some other catastrophic event,” a sheriff’s official said.
Husbands of two group members, who … Read more »»».

Four killed in Jharkhand road accident

RANCHI – Four people were killed and 13 injured when a bus and a truck collided on the outskirts of the Jharkhand capital Sunday morning, police said.

The accident took place when a bus coming from Bihar, headed towards Jamshedpur, rammed into a truck coming from the opposite direction, a police officer said.
The injured were … Read more : Four killed in Jharkhand road accident.

Big waves pounding Bermuda as islanders rush to get ready before Hurricane Igor sweeps in

Big waves pound Bermuda as Hurricane Igor nears

HAMILTON, Bermuda – Big waves are pounding Bermuda’s beaches while islanders rush to board up windows, fill sandbags and stock up on water, food and other supplies before Hurricane Igor’s expected arrival late Sunday.
In Mexico, people are cleaning up from flooding and wind damage caused by the now … Read more : Big waves pounding Bermuda as islanders rush to get ready before Hurricane Igor sweeps in.

Afghan vote counting begins as credibility of election cast in doubt by turnout, fraud claims

Afghan observers question election as tally starts

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan election observers said they had serious concerns about the legitimacy of this weekend’s parliamentary balloting as officials began Sunday to tally the results – a process that could take months.
Saturday’s balloting holds a chance of redemption for a government that lost much of its credibility [..] Read the original article: here.

Super fit cop outruns teenager after brawl

LONDON – A Briton who taunted a policeman and then ran away after a brawl got more than he bargained for as the official was an endurance sportsman who easily outran the stunned teenager.

The teenager didn’t have the faintest clue that the policeman was one of the fittest men on the planet and he didn’t …. Original article  : Super fit cop outruns teenager after brawl.

Rathore applies for parole again

CHANDIGARH – Disgraced former Haryana police chief S.P.S. Rathore, who is serving an 18-month jail term at Burail jail here for molesting teenager Ruchika Girhotra, has once again applied for parole of 42 days, officials said Sunday.

This is the second time Rathore has applied for parole before the inspector general of police (prisons), Chandigarh. Last …. Original article  : Rathore applies for parole again.

Pele sends autographed jersey to trapped Chile miners

Sao Paulo, Sep 19 (IANS/EFE) Brazilian soccer legend Pele has sent a message of support and an autographed jersey to 33 Chilean miners who have been trapped underground since Aug 5.

“Dear friends: I’m praying for you” was the message Pele sent to the men trapped inside the San Jose copper and gold mine in northern …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pele sends autographed jersey to trapped Chile miners.

Powerful typhoon forces evacuation of thousands and halts transportation in Taiwan

6,000 evacuated in Taiwan as typhoon hits
TAIPEI, Taiwan – A powerful typhoon ripped into Taiwan on Sunday, crippling transportation around the island and prompting the evacuation of thousands of residents from mountainous areas prone to devastating landslides.

Typhoon Fanapi, the first major storm to strike the island this year, made landfall in the eastern city of …. Source article  : Powerful typhoon forces evacuation of thousands and halts transportation in Taiwan.

Pressure test needed on blown-out BP oil well, last step before declaring it dead

Last test needed before declaring BP oil well dead

NEW ORLEANS – A pressure test on the blown-out BP well in the Gulf of Mexico was set to be finished early Sunday, the last step needed before the runaway well can finally be declared dead.
There was no word from company or government officials on whether the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

10 Bihar villages flooded as Gandak river overflows

PATNA – More than 10 villages in Bihar’s Gopalganj district were flooded early Sunday after the Gandak river overflowed its banks due to release of water from Nepal following heavy rains in the area, an official said.

The supporting embankments constructed to restrict the flow of river in case of flood threat was breached after Nepal … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 10 Bihar villages flooded as Gandak river overflows.

Fire destroys Malibu beachfront rental home of Ricki Lake; actress and sons escape safely

Fire destroys Malibu beachfront home of Ricki Lake

MALIBU, Calif. – Authorities say Ricki Lake’s beachfront rental home in Malibu has burned down.
Los Angeles County sheriff’s officials say deputies answering a 911 call Saturday found the 41-year-old actress and talk show host, her two sons and their dog standing safely outside.
Firefighters put out the blaze in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fire destroys Malibu beachfront rental home of Ricki Lake; actress and sons escape safely.

BP to conduct final test on ruptured Gulf well seal

WASHINGTON – BP late Saturday was waiting for the cement to set at the bottom of the ruptured Gulf of Mexico oil well before testing the strength of the seal.

If the seal passes the test, it will mark the final, formal step in closing down the well that caused the worst known ecological disaster in … Read more »»».

Eight police officers kidnapped, killed in Mexico

MEXICO CITY – Eight police officers were found dead Saturday in the southern Mexican state of Guerrero, after a shoot-out with suspected members of a drug gang, officials said.

Nine police officers were kidnapped after the shoot-out in the town of Teloloapan. According to newspaper reports, some of the bodies had been dismembered.
One of the … Read more : Eight police officers kidnapped, killed in Mexico.

Six die in US road accident

NEW YORK – A church van crashed Saturday killing six people and injuring eight in the town of Woodbury, New York, police said.

The single vehicle accident occurred at about 3 p.m. on northbound side of Interstate 87, about an hour’s drive north of New York City, Xinhua quoted a police spokesman as saying. …. Read the original article  : Six die in US road accident.

30 die in Ghana bus accident

ACCRA – At least 30 people were killed and 80 injured Saturday evening when a passenger bus fell in a gutter in northern Ghana.

Eyewitnesses said that the accident occurred at Zagyuri, a town about 700 km north of here, Xinhua reported Sunday.
According to media reports, the death toll could increase further.
… Read : 30 die in Ghana bus accident.

At least 6 dead in wreck involving church van on New York State Thruway; 8 others injured

Authorities: 6 dead in church van crash in NY

NEW YORK – A blown tire caused a van carrying the leaders of a New York City church to lose control and flip over on the New York State Thruway, killing at least six people, including the bishop and his wife, authorities said. Eight others were injured.
Fourteen … Original source on Gaea Times at : At least 6 dead in wreck involving church van on New York State Thruway; 8 others injured.