Report: US, EU must work better together to stop radicalized Westerners from waging terror

Report: US, EU must join to stop homegrown terror

WASHINGTON – Counterterrorism experts are warning that the U.S. and Europe must work together better to stop radicalized Westerners who travel to terrorist training camps and return home to wage attacks.
The warning comes as Western officials this week investigate an active terror plot they say was aimed …. Read the original article  : Report: US, EU must work better together to stop radicalized Westerners from waging terror.

Police spokesman says kidnappers have released 15 children taken from school bus in Nigeria

Nigeria: Kidnapped school children released

LAGOS, Nigeria – Kidnappers released 15 school children Friday that they abducted from a bus on their way to school near Nigeria’s oil-rich and restive southern delta, a brazen attack highlighting the growing insecurity in the West African nation, a police spokesman said.
Federal police spokesman Emmanuel Ojukwu told The Associated Press … Read more : Police spokesman says kidnappers have released 15 children taken from school bus in Nigeria.

Man shoots his 3 teenage sons, 2 fatally, at home in Camden, NJ, suburb before police kill him

Police kill NJ man who shoots 3 sons, 2 fatally

PENNSAUKEN, N.J. – A man shot his three teenage sons, fatally wounding two, at their southern New Jersey home, which was set ablaze, before police shot him dead, authorities said Friday.
Police started receiving calls shortly after 10:30 p.m. Thursday when two teens were found on streets … Read more »».

Australian mother jailed 6 years after starving and beating 5 of her children

Australian mother jailed for starving her children

ADELAIDE, Australia – An Australian mother who admitted spending welfare money on cigarettes and gambling was sentenced Friday to six years in prison for starving, beating, and neglecting her children.
Prosecutor Jim Pearce told the court the children were starved and sometimes forced to vomit if they ate when they …. Source  : Australian mother jailed 6 years after starving and beating 5 of her children.

Man shoots 3 teenagers, 2 fatally, at home in Camden, NJ, suburb before police kill him

NJ man shoots 3, 2 fatally, before being killed

PENNSAUKEN, N.J. – Authorities say a man shot three teenagers, two fatally, in southern New Jersey before police killed him.
Jason Laughlin, a spokesman for the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, says the shootings occurred late Thursday at a home in Pennsauken, a Camden suburb.
Laughlin identified the dead as … Read more >>.

27 NATO oil tankers torched in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – More than 27 oil tankers carrying supplies for NATO troops in Afghanistan were burnt Friday when some attackers fired rockets at the vehicles parked at a fuel station in southern Pakistan, Geo News reported.

NATO sources told media, the ambush took place around 2 a.m. near Shikarpur Super Highway where over 30 …. Source article  : 27 NATO oil tankers torched in Pakistan.

Officials says 4 people shot, at least 2 fatally, in Camden, NJ, suburb; gunman among shot

Officials: 4 shot outside Camden, NJ; 2 dead

PENNSAUKEN, N.J. – Authorities say four people have been shot, at least two fatally, in southern New Jersey.
Jason Laughlin, a spokesman for the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, says the shooting occurred late Thursday in Pennsauken, a Camden suburb.
Laughlin says the dead include a 12-year-old and an 18-year-old. He …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Officials says 3 people shot, at least 1 fatally, in Camden, NJ, suburb

Officials: 3 shot outside Camden, NJ; 1 dead

PENNSAUKEN, N.J. – Authorities say three people have been shot, at least one fatally, in southern New Jersey.
Jason Laughlin, a spokesman for the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, says the shooting occurred late Thursday in Pennsauken, a Camden suburb.
Laughlin confirms that three people were shot and there is at … Read : Officials says 3 people shot, at least 1 fatally, in Camden, NJ, suburb.

Officials says 3 people shot, at least 1 fatally, in New Jersey suburb of Philadelphia

Officials: 3 shot in NJ suburb of Philly; 1 dead

PENNSAUKEN, N.J. – Authorities say three people have been shot, at least one fatally, in a New Jersey suburb of Philadelphia.
Jason Laughlin, a spokesman for the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, says the shooting occurred late Thursday in Pennsauken.
Laughlin confirms that three people were shot and there … Read more »»».

Mich. man who used 2-year-old daughter as shield to cop’s Taser gets jail, parenting classes

Mich. dad who used 2-year-old as shield gets jail

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – A Michigan judge has sentenced a father to a year in jail and parenting classes after he used his 2-year-old daughter as a shield during a confrontation with a Taser-wielding police officer.
The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press report that 27-year-old Joseph Cox …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Newt Gingrich critical on counterterror in Denver talk, mum on presidential plans

Newt Gingrich critical on counterterror
DENVER – Republican Newt Gingrich took aim at the Obama administration’s counterterror efforts Thursday, saying government officials aren’t keeping America secure.

In a Denver talk sponsored by an anti-terrorism center, Gingrich poked fun at Homeland Security officials for what he said were missed clues about the attempted Christmas bombing of a Detroit-bound … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Newt Gingrich critical on counterterror in Denver talk, mum on presidential plans.

29 women allege sexual assault by Toronto doctor while under anesthetic

Toronto anesthesiologist accused of 29 sex attacks

TORONTO – Twenty-nine women have alleged that a doctor sexually assaulted them while they were under anesthetic, and police warned Thursday there could be more victims.
Anesthesiologist George Doodnaught, 61, was already facing three counts of sexual assault before police announced 26 more charges Thursday.
North York General Hospital said 25 … Read more >>>.

Condemned ‘Texas 7??? escapee seeks resentencing, says document shows he was least dangerous

‘Texas 7′ escapee on death row seeks resentencing

DALLAS – One of the five surviving members of the “Texas 7″ gang of escaped fugitives is seeking a new sentencing trial.
Condemned inmate Randy Halprin was in a Dallas courtroom under heavy security Thursday.
Halprin contends authorities considered him the least dangerous of the escapees and that a jury … Read more >>.

Sheriff: US man shot in Mexican waters after being approached by gunmen in boats

Sheriff: Pirates shoot US man in Mexican waters

SAN ANTONIO – An American tourist was shot in the back of the head in Mexican waters on Thursday after being ambushed by armed boaters, a Texas sheriff said. It happened near the U.S. boundary of a lake where run-ins with pirates already had fishermen and Texas officials … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sheriff: US man shot in Mexican waters after being approached by gunmen in boats.

Correction: People-Kid Cudi story

Correction: People-Kid Cudi story
NEW YORK – In a Sept. 28 story about a court hearing on drug charges against rapper Kid Cudi, The Associated Press, relying on information provided by Manhattan prosecutors, erroneously reported that Cudi pleaded guilty to misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance.

The Manhattan district attorney’s office said Thursday that a judge adjourned …. Original article  : Correction: People-Kid Cudi story.

Argentina grants political asylum to leftist accused of killing Chilean senator

Argentina gives asylum to alleged Chilean assassin

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Argentina granted asylum Thursday to a former leftist guerrilla charged in his native Chile with assassinating a senator and kidnapping a businessman, a decision sure to sour relations between the neighboring countries.
Chile’s government had been urging Argentina to extradite Galvarino Apablaza Guerra to face trial … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Argentina grants political asylum to leftist accused of killing Chilean senator.

Friend said Neb. hospital gunman distraught about marital problems before he fired at police

Friend: Marital woes drove Neb. hospital gunman

OMAHA, Neb. – The man who opened fire on police inside an Omaha hospital told relatives shortly beforehand that he no longer wanted to live because of his marital problems, according to a friend.
Police are still working to answer the many remaining questions about Jeff Layten’s final hours between …. Original article  : Friend said Neb. hospital gunman distraught about marital problems before he fired at police.

APNewsBreak: Calif court rules medical, other records should be public for friars in sex cases

Court: Make records public in friars’ sex cases

LOS ANGELES – A California appeals court ruled Thursday that psychiatric and other confidential records of Franciscan friars accused of sex abuse should be made public in a long-awaited decision that could speed the release of similar documents about dozens of other accused priests and religious figures.
Unless the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : APNewsBreak: Calif court rules medical, other records should be public for friars in sex cases.

Police: Puerto Rico couple charged with raping, forcing 6 young children into orgies

PR police: 6 siblings raped, forced into orgies

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Puerto Rico police have charged a couple with repeatedly raping their six children and forcing them to participate in drug-fueled orgies.
The man faces 90 charges including 30 counts of rape and another 30 for sodomy. His partner faces 26 charges including lascivious acts … Original source on Gaea Times at : Police: Puerto Rico couple charged with raping, forcing 6 young children into orgies.

Feds want charges dropped against brother-in-law of Osama bin Laden’s bodyguard in Calif

Feds want case dropped against Afghan in Calif

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Federal prosecutors have asked a judge to drop charges against the Afghan-born brother-in-law of Osama bin Laden’s bodyguard, saying a key overseas witness was unavailable to testify.
The decision was a striking reversal in the case against Ahmadullah Sais Niazi, who had been accused by … Original source on Gaea Times at : Feds want charges dropped against brother-in-law of Osama bin Laden’s bodyguard in Calif.

Cecilia Chang Accused

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- The law enforcement officials said that the former vice president and dean of St. John’s University forced her students to cook, clean and do all the labor works and threatened that they will not be granted scholarship if they deny it. FBI Special Agent Kenneth F. Hosey said in the affidavit … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cecilia Chang Accused.

Nine killed in US drone strike in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least nine people were killed and four injured in a US surveillance plane attack Saturday in Pakistan’s tribal area bordering Afghanistan, a media report said.

Two drone planes fired at least four missiles at a house in Anzarkas village of Dattakhel area in North Waziristan, killing nine people, Geo News said quoting … Read more : Nine killed in US drone strike in Pakistan.

Suspected US missile strike kills three in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least three people were killed and four more injured Saturday in a suspected US missile strike in Pakistan’s tribal region along the Afghan border, security officials said.

An unmanned aircraft fired four missiles at a house in Datta Khel area of the North Waziristan tribal district.
“So far three people have been … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Suspected US missile strike kills three in Pakistan.

Intel officials: US missiles kill 8 people in northwest Pakistan amid high border tensions

Intel: US missiles kill 8 militants in NW Pakistan

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – A suspected American missile strike killed eight alleged militants in a northwest Pakistani tribal region Saturday, two intelligence officials said, a sign the U.S. is unwilling to stop using the unpopular tactic despite heightened tensions between the two countries over recent border incursions by …. Source  : Intel officials: US missiles kill 8 people in northwest Pakistan amid high border tensions.

Prosecutors offer to read actor John Stamos’ lines at sentencing in Mich. extortion case

Stamos wants to be heard at Mich. court hearing

MARQUETTE, Mich. – Actor John Stamos can’t make it to federal court in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula next week, but he still wants to be heard.
Federal prosecutors are asking a judge to allow them to read a statement from Stamos when two people are sentenced Friday for trying …. Source article  : Prosecutors offer to read actor John Stamos’ lines at sentencing in Mich. extortion case.

Blagojevich defense team scaled down for retrial as lead attorney leaves case

Blagojevich retrial defense team scaled down

CHICAGO – A defense team of more than a dozen attorneys and legal aides, who huddled around former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich talking strategy or even comforting their client during his first corruption trial, won’t be there for his second.
The official number of attorneys for the retrial is – two.
The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Blagojevich defense team scaled down for retrial as lead attorney leaves case.

R&B singer Mario charged with assaulting his mother at their Baltimore home

R&B singer Mario charged with assaulting mother

BALTIMORE – R&B singer and former “Dancing with the Stars” contestant Mario has been charged with assaulting his mother at their Baltimore home.
Officers were called to an apartment building in the Fells Point neighborhood early Friday, where police say Shawntia Hardaway told officers her 24-year-old son, Mario Barrett, had …. Source  : R&B singer Mario charged with assaulting his mother at their Baltimore home.

Former Seton Hall basketball player pleads guilty in robbery at home near campus

Ex-Seton Hall player pleads guilty in robbery

NEWARK, N.J. – A former Seton Hall basketball player has pleaded guilty in an armed robbery at a house near the school’s northern New Jersey campus.
Robert Mitchell, 24, of Brooklyn, N.Y., pleaded guilty Friday to criminal restraint and burglary charges.
Mitchell admitted entering the private home in South Orange on … Read more >>.

Recent allegations against Colorado prosecutor includes claim of a sexually suggestive text

Colo. DA allegations involve suggestive text

DENVER – Recent allegations against a western Colorado district attorney suspected of unlawful sexual contact include a claim that he sent a sexually suggestive text message to an ex-girlfriend.
The 40-year-old woman requested restraining orders in October 2008 and on Sept. 20 against Myrl Serra, a western Colorado district attorney who …. Original article  : Recent allegations against Colorado prosecutor includes claim of a sexually suggestive text.

Colombian police say attempt to kidnap brother of slain drug lord Pablo Escobar foiled

Colombia: Attempt to kidnap Escobar brother foiled

BOGOTA, Colombia – Colombian police foiled an attempt to abduct the brother of slain narco kingpin Pablo Escobar, authorities said Friday.
Roberto Escobar was traveling with family and bodyguards near his home in Medellin Thursday night when they were intercepted by would-be kidnappers, Police Gen. Jesus Guatibonza said.
Around the same …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Colombian police say attempt to kidnap brother of slain drug lord Pablo Escobar foiled.

Michigan prosecutor’s blog raises questions about public workers’ rights to unpleasant speech

Mich. worker’s blog sparks debate on free speech

LANSING, Mich. – An assistant attorney general in Michigan who used his personal blog to attack the openly gay student body president at the University of Michigan has spurred debate about the right of public employees to say terrible things on their own time.
Andrew Shirvell, 30, started a …. Original article  : Michigan prosecutor’s blog raises questions about public workers’ rights to unpleasant speech.

Judge dismisses case against brother-in-law of Osama bin Laden’s bodyguard

Case tossed against man linked to bin Laden guard

SANTA ANA, Calif. – A federal judge in California has dismissed a case against the brother-in-law of Osama bin Laden’s bodyguard who was accused of lying about terrorism ties.
Court papers dated Thursday show the judge dismissed the case after federal prosecutors asked to drop the charges against …. Original source  : Judge dismisses case against brother-in-law of Osama bin Laden’s bodyguard.

DA: Singer-songwriter Bruno Mars faces cocaine charge following Las Vegas arrest

Singer Bruno Mars facing cocaine charge in Vegas

LAS VEGAS – Bruno Mars, singer of the hit R&B song “Just the Way You Are,” faces a felony cocaine charge stemming from his arrest after a performance at a Las Vegas nightclub last month.
The Clark County district attorney’s office filed a criminal complaint Friday alleging the rising … Read : DA: Singer-songwriter Bruno Mars faces cocaine charge following Las Vegas arrest.

Army investigators seize photos of soldiers posing with Afghan corpses, severed body parts

Photos show US soldiers posing with Afghan corpses

SEATTLE – Those who have seen the photos say they are grisly: soldiers beside newly killed bodies, decaying corpses and severed fingers.
The dozens of photos, described in interviews and in e-mails and military documents obtained by The Associated Press, were seized by Army investigators and are a crucial … Read more : Army investigators seize photos of soldiers posing with Afghan corpses, severed body parts.

NJ student’s death becomes touchstone for those fighting bullying, suicides of young gays

NJ student’s suicide resonates on campus, beyond

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. – “Things will get easier; people’s minds will change,” Ellen DeGeneres pleads in an Internet video, staring into the camera, her voice breaking. “And you should be alive to see it.”
Just as the murder of Matthew Shepard galvanized the gay community around hate-crime legislation more than …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NJ student’s death becomes touchstone for those fighting bullying, suicides of young gays.

Judge in Illinois dismisses weapons charge against former police officer Drew Peterson

Judge dismisses Drew Peterson weapons charge

JOLIET, Ill. – A judge has dismissed a felony weapons charge against former suburban Chicago police officer Drew Peterson.
Peterson was charged with possession of an illegal firearm after authorities learned he gave a short-barreled rifle to his son for safe keeping.
Peterson is awaiting trial in the 2004 death of his … Read more : Judge in Illinois dismisses weapons charge against former police officer Drew Peterson.

Grand jury indicts accused kidnappers of woman held for 18 years in California

Grand jury indicts accused California kidnappers

PLACERVILLE, Calif. – California kidnapping victim Jaycee Dugard and her two young daughters will be spared from having to testify in open court any time soon following a grand jury indictment of the couple charged with kidnapping and holding her captive for 18 years, a prosecutor said Friday.
Phillip and Nancy …. Read the original article  : here.

Grocer Aldi says customer info exposed by vandalized payment machines in 11 states, cities

Grocer Aldi says vandals compromised payments

BATAVIA, Ill. – Grocery chain Aldi Inc. says the names, account numbers and secret codes of customers in 11 states were exposed to potential theft when they used payment cards at machines that had been tampered with.
The company said in a statement Friday that altered payment terminals were illegally placed …. Source article  : Grocer Aldi says customer info exposed by vandalized payment machines in 11 states, cities.

Pa. lawyer, arts supporter convicted of federal sex crimes involving Russian ballet student

Pa. lawyer found guilty in Russian child-sex case

PHILADELPHIA – A suburban Philadelphia lawyer has been convicted of sexually abusing a Russian ballet dancer he helped support.
Kenneth Schneider of Berwyn was found guilty Friday of sex tourism.
Prosecutors say Schneider began a long relationship with a 12-year-old Russian boy in 1998. They say he paid for the …. Original article  : Pa. lawyer, arts supporter convicted of federal sex crimes involving Russian ballet student.

Search teams look for US tourist shot by suspected pirates on Mexican side of border lake

Search teams seek US man shot in Mexican waters

SAN ANTONIO – Texas officials renewed warnings Friday about pirates marauding on a U.S.-Mexico border lake after a Colorado tourist was gunned down in Mexican waters while his wife dodged bullets and raced her Jet Ski back to American soil.
Search teams combed the U.S. side of Falcon …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Prosecutors: Imprisoned former CIA spy passed messages to Russians from prison

Former spy accused of espionage from prison

PORTLAND, Ore. – An ex-CIA spy slipped messages to his son from prison through paper napkins wadded into balls, despite the best efforts of the intelligence agency to monitor his communications, government prosecutors said in a pretrial filing.
The Oregonian newspaper reports that according to court papers prosecutors filed Friday, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Prosecutors: Imprisoned former CIA spy passed messages to Russians from prison.

Gunmen kidnap 20 men traveling together in Mexican resort town of Acapulco

20 kidnapped in Mexican resort city of Acapulco

ACAPULCO, Mexico – Gunmen kidnapped 20 men who were traveling together in Mexico’s Pacific coast resort city of Acapulco, authorities said Saturday.
A shootout between drug gangs, meanwhile, left 14 people dead in remote town in the northern state of Durango, Mexican newspapers reported.
The group of men in Acapulco … Original article on : Gunmen kidnap 20 men traveling together in Mexican resort town of Acapulco.

CBS Radio News correspondent Howard Arenstein arrested on pot charges in DC

CBS Radio’s Arenstein arrested on marijuana charge

WASHINGTON – CBS Radio News correspondent Howard Arenstein has been arrested on marijuana charges in Washington.
D.C. police spokesman Lt. Nicholas Breul said Arenstein and his wife were arrested early Saturday and charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
Breul says vice units had received a complaint of marijuana growing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : CBS Radio News correspondent Howard Arenstein arrested on pot charges in DC.

US to warn Americans in Europe to be vigilant due over terror threats

US to warn Americans to be vigilant in Europe

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration will warn U.S. citizens to be vigilant as they travel in Europe, providing updated guidance prompted by al-Qaida threats, American and European officials told The Associated Press on Saturday.
Such a move could have negative implications for European tourism, business and diplomacy if …. Original source  : US to warn Americans in Europe to be vigilant due over terror threats.

3 Ecuadorean police colonels under investigation following revolt that left 5 dead

3 police colonels investigated in Ecuador revolt

QUITO, Ecuador – Three police colonels were under criminal investigation Saturday for failing to prevent a massive protest by their subordinates against President Rafael Correa that spun out of control, claiming at least five lives.
The three are being investigated for negligence, rebellion and attempted assassination, said Prosecutor Gonzalo Marco …. Source  : 3 Ecuadorean police colonels under investigation following revolt that left 5 dead.

Wife of US man shot by suspected pirates on Mexican side of border lake recounts attack

Border lake shooting victim’s wife recounts ordeal

DENVER – An American woman says it’s a miracle she survived an attack by pirates who fired bullets at her on a lake on the U.S.-Mexico border after they shot her husband.
Berthoud, Colo., native Tiffany Hartley, 29, told The Denver Post she and her husband, David, were sightseeing Thursday … Read more >>.

US considers telling Americans in Europe to be vigilant due to fresh terror threats

US may tell US citizens to be vigilant in Europe

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is considering telling U.S. citizens to be vigilant as they travel in Europe, updated guidance prompted by fresh al-Qaida threats, American and European officials told The Associated Press on Saturday.
Such a move could have negative implications for European tourism, business and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US considers telling Americans in Europe to be vigilant due to fresh terror threats.

3 Ecuadorean police colonels under investigation following protests that left 5 dead

3 police colonels investigated in Ecuador protests

QUITO, Ecuador – Ecuadorean officials are considering possible charges against three police colonels for failing to prevent massive protests by their subordinates that left five dead.
Prosecutor Gonzalo Marco Freire tells The Associated Press that the three “should have known what their subordinates were doing.”
Freire says the colonels were detained …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 3 Ecuadorean police colonels under investigation following protests that left 5 dead.

Boulder police plan new round of interviews in JonBenet Ramsey case

Police plan new interviews in JonBenet Ramsey case

BOULDER, Colo. – Police investigating the death of child beauty queen JonBenet Ramsey are conducting a new round of interviews, based on recommendations from an advisory committee.
The committee, which included investigators from several state and federal agencies, met in 2009 after police took the lead in the case … Read more »»».

Former Colorado woman recounts shooting on Mexican side of border lake

Ex-Colo. woman recounts shooting in Mexican waters

DENVER – A former Colorado resident says it’s a miracle she survived an attack by pirates who fired bullets at her on a lake on the U.S.-Mexico border after they gunned down her husband.
Berthoud, Colo., native Tiffany Hartley, 29, told The Denver Post she and her husband, David, were … Original source on Gaea Times at : Former Colorado woman recounts shooting on Mexican side of border lake.

Gunmen kidnap 22 men traveling together in Mexican resort town of Acapulco

22 kidnapped in Mexican resort city of Acapulco

ACAPULCO, Mexico – Gunmen kidnapped 22 men who were traveling together in Mexico’s Pacific coast resort city of Acapulco, authorities said Saturday.
The group was visiting from the western city of Morelia and looking for a place to stay when they were abducted Thursday, said Fernando Monreal, director of … Original article on : Gunmen kidnap 22 men traveling together in Mexican resort town of Acapulco.

Explosion rocks Afghan capital

KABUL – An explosion late Saturday rattled Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, injuring at least two people, a media report said.

It was a rocket attack, local residents told Xinhua.
A government official, however, said it was a suicide attack.
…. Read the original article  : here.

Contender for Nobel Peace Prize is a jailed Chinese dissident who called for political reform

Contender for Nobel prize is in Chinese prison

BEIJING – When the police came for Liu Xiaobo on a December night nearly two years ago, they didn’t tell the dissident author why he was being taken away again. The line in the detention order for his “suspected crime” was left blank.
But Liu and the dozen officers … Read more : Contender for Nobel Peace Prize is a jailed Chinese dissident who called for political reform.

Reported child sex abuse on the rise in Africa amid new helplines, police work and legislation

Kenya sees rise in reports of child sex abuse

KABAZI, Kenya – Emma has gone to court every month for 2?? years to try and prove that a neighbor raped her mentally disabled 14-year-old daughter.
The process is excruciating. Evidence went missing. The court file disappeared. Officials mock and ignore her. But the illiterate single mother perseveres, … Read more : Reported child sex abuse on the rise in Africa amid new helplines, police work and legislation.

Favorite for Nobel Peace Prize is a jailed Chinese dissident who called for political reform

Top bet for Nobel Peace Prize is in Chinese prison

BEIJING – When the police came for Liu Xiaobo on a December night nearly two years ago, they didn’t tell the dissident author why he was being taken away again. The line in the detention order for his “suspected crime” was left blank.
But Liu and the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Biological war’ if demands not met, says Assam terror group

GUWAHATI – A terror group claiming to be the Indian Mujahideen (Assam) Saturday threatened to launch a biological war in Assam if their supporters are not released from the Guwahati Central Jail within the next 24 hours (by Sunday evening).

The email from Indian Mujahideen (Assam) was received by News Live, a satellite TV channel …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Biological war’ if demands not met, says Assam terror group.

Now that Vick is the Eagles ‘top dog,’ will fans opposed to his signing finally embrace him?

Are Eagles fans ready to embrace Michael Vick?

PHILADELPHIA – Michael Vick’s ascendancy to starting quarterback has won over some Philadelphia Eagles fans who originally balked at his signing.
But many animal-loving football fans, who were among the most incensed upon his arrival in 2009, remain adamant in their opposition.
Debbie Sanville and her husband are Eagles season-ticket …. Source  : Now that Vick is the Eagles ‘top dog,’ will fans opposed to his signing finally embrace him?.

3 boys murdered, 3 teens convicted: Ark. case that drew stars’ protests is up for appeal again

Appeal puts 3 Ark. boys’ murders back in spotlight

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – With the fervor of a religious revival, more than 2,000 people packed an auditorium in Little Rock and shouted alongside movie and music icons like Johnny Depp and Eddie Vedder: “Free the West Memphis Three!”
But the real star of the late August rally … Read : 3 boys murdered, 3 teens convicted: Ark. case that drew stars’ protests is up for appeal again.

Osama ordered Mumbai-style attack on Britain

LONDON – US intelligence agencies have said that Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden had personally ordered Mumbai-style commando attacks on Britain, a media report said Saturday.

The Al Qaeda leader, whose direct link to the plot was released by intelligence officials via National Public Radio in the US Friday, is said to have sent … Read more »»».

Officials: Suspected US missile strikes kill 16 in Pakistan amid tension over NATO incursions

Pakistani officials: Suspected US missiles kill 16

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – Two suspected American missile strikes killed 16 alleged militants in a northwestern Pakistani tribal region Saturday, intelligence officials said, a sign the U.S. is unwilling to stop using the tactic despite heightened tensions between the two countries over NATO’s recent border incursions.
A surge in drone-fired missile … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Officials: Suspected US missile strikes kill 16 in Pakistan amid tension over NATO incursions.

Lawyers take center stage for final arguments in Anna Nicole Smith trial

Final arguments next in Anna Nicole Smith trial

LOS ANGELES – Attorneys in the Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy trial are set with final arguments aimed at swaying jurors who will deliberate on an array of charges against two doctors and the deceased model’s former boyfriend.
At issue is whether the former reality TV star was given …. Source  : Lawyers take center stage for final arguments in Anna Nicole Smith trial.

Attack on NATO tanker convoy leaves three dead

ISLAMABAD – Three people were killed in an attack in Pakistan on a convoy of NATO tankers carrying fuel for international troops in Afghanistan, police said Monday.

Three tankers were destroyed while 12 were damaged.
The attackers opened fire on the tankers late Sunday at an industrial site in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad. Another seven people [..] Read the original article: here.

Supreme Court set to open new term with new Justice Elena Kagan on the bench

New Supreme Court set to start new term
WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court is starting its new term with a new justice, Elena Kagan, and bad news for hundreds of parties trying to get their cases heard at the nation’s highest court.

The justices are expected to start work Monday by denying many of the nearly 2,000 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court set to open new term with new Justice Elena Kagan on the bench.

Anti-Left forces killing its workers, says Forward Bloc

NEW DELHI – The All India Forward Bloc, the second largest constituent in the ruling Left Front in West Bengal, Monday alleged that “anti-Left forces”, including the Trinamool Congress, were using the Maoists to kill their activists.

Condemning the killing of three party activists by Maoists in West Bengal’s Purulia district Sunday night, Forward Bloc … Original article on : Anti-Left forces killing its workers, says Forward Bloc.

Hate speech trial of Dutch politician who called for Quran ban to begin in Amsterdam

Dutch politician on trial on hate speech charges

AMSTERDAM – Dutch anti-Islam politician Geert Wilders went on trial Monday for alleged hate speech, even as his popularity and influence in the Netherlands are near all time highs.
Prosecutors say Wilders incited hatred against Muslims with remarks comparing Islam to Naziism and by calling for a ban on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hate speech trial of Dutch politician who called for Quran ban to begin in Amsterdam.

Maoists kill three Forward Bloc activists

KOLKATA – Maoists shot dead three Forward Bloc activists in West Bengal’s Purulia district, police said Monday.

The killings took place late Sunday in Pardi village, Inspector General of Police (Western Range) Zulfikar Hassan said.
“A gang of 40 armed Maoists from Ayodhya Hills attacked the village and dragged the three out of their houses … Read more »».

Attack on NATO tanker convoy leaves six dead

ISLAMABAD – Six people were killed in an attack on a convoy of NATO tankers carrying fuel for international troops in Afghanistan, according to media reports Monday.

Twenty-eight tankers burst into flames from the attack, the Pakistan broadcaster Geo TV reported on its website.
Unknown attackers opened fire on the tankers late Sunday at an … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Attack on NATO tanker convoy leaves six dead.

US, allies on global hunt for terror plotters

WASHINGTON – US and allied intelligence agencies are on a near-global manhunt for teams of Al Qaeda-affiliated terrorists thought to be preparing multiple attacks on major European cities, according to US media reports.

US and allied services were examining multiple plots as well as multiple modes of attacks ranging from paramilitary-style raids similar to the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US, allies on global hunt for terror plotters.

Reputed Russian arms smuggler in Thai court for crucial hearing as US awaits extradition

Viktor Bout wears flak jacket to Bangkok court

BANGKOK – Alleged Russian arms smuggler Viktor Bout arrived at a Bangkok court Monday in a bulletproof vest for a crucial hearing that could finally determine if he will be extradited to the United States.
Bout, a 43-year-old former Soviet air force officer, is reputed to be one of …. Read the original article  : Reputed Russian arms smuggler in Thai court for crucial hearing as US awaits extradition.

Terrorist targets named in Berlin, Paris: Report

WASHINGTON – US broadcaster Fox News has reported that possible European terrorist targets included a hotel and train station in Berlin and two major landmarks in Paris.

The broadcaster said Sunday it had confirmed the information through two intelligence sources about the plots, which prompted the US government Sunday to issue a travel alert against …. Source  : Terrorist targets named in Berlin, Paris: Report.

Global survey of lawyers finds corruption tainting legal profession in many countries

Survey finds corruption tainting legal profession

BEIJING – A worldwide survey shows that lawyers in many countries think corruption has tainted their profession, with more than one in five saying they have been asked to take part in possibly shady transactions, according to results released Monday.
The London-based International Bar Association said nearly half of the 642 …. Read the original article  : Global survey of lawyers finds corruption tainting legal profession in many countries.

Preliminary Bosnian election results show ethnic divisions perpetuated

Preliminary results show Bosnians divided on vote

SARAJEVO, Bosnia-Herzegovina – Preliminary election results released Sunday indicate that Bosnia’s three-person presidency will remain deadlocked over the nation’s future, with two leaders of the ethnically divided country advocating unity and a third pushing for the country’s breakup.
Some 3 million voters in a country uneasily split between Serbs, Bosniaks … Original source on Gaea Times at : Preliminary Bosnian election results show ethnic divisions perpetuated.

Rapper TI, wife raise money for Alzheimer’s disease; won’t comment on recent arrest

Rapper TI, wife raise money for Alzheimer’s

ATLANTA – Facing fallout from a recent arrest, T.I. raised money on Sunday for his family’s new Alzheimer’s disease charity and explained how the idea for it took shape during a previous period of legal trouble.
The rapper, whose real name is Clifford Harris Jr., and his wife, Tameka “Tiny” …. Source  : Rapper TI, wife raise money for Alzheimer’s disease; won’t comment on recent arrest.

Guatemala captures alleged drug trafficker wanted in the United States

Guatemala captures drug suspect wanted in US

GUATEMALA CITY – Guatemalan police captured a suspected drug trafficker wanted in the United States for cocaine smuggling and seized nearly $2 million in cash that his brother was carrying in two bags, authorities said Sunday.
Mauro Ramirez Barrios, alias “The Purple One,” was arrested Saturday in the southern town …. Source  : Guatemala captures alleged drug trafficker wanted in the United States.

Israeli police kill Palestinian laborer who sneaked into Israel by scaling separation barrier

Palestinian worker killed as he sneaks into Israel

SAIR, West Bank – Israeli police killed a West Bank construction worker as he tried to sneak into Jerusalem on Sunday, shedding rare light on the risks taken by thousands of Palestinians who are desperate for jobs but are denied permits to enter Israel.
Also Sunday, an Israeli military …. Source  : Israeli police kill Palestinian laborer who sneaked into Israel by scaling separation barrier.

Conn. man accused of stabbing NH man in what police say was Yankees-Red Sox argument

Police: Red Sox-Yankees rivalry led to stabbing

BRANFORD, Conn. – Police say a New Hampshire man has been stabbed in a bar fight over the New York Yankees-Boston Red Sox rivalry.
Police in the Connecticut shoreline town Branford arrested New Haven resident John Mayor on Saturday night. They say he stabbed Nashua, N.H., resident Monte Freire.
Police say … Read : Conn. man accused of stabbing NH man in what police say was Yankees-Red Sox argument.

US terror warning could hurt European economy struggling to emerge from debt crisis

US terror warning could hurt Europe’s economy

MADRID – A rare advisory for U.S. travelers to beware of potential terrorist threats in Europe drew American shrugs Sunday from Paris to Rome, but tourism officials worried that it could deter would-be visitors from moving ahead with plans to cross the Atlantic.
The travel alert is a step below … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US terror warning could hurt European economy struggling to emerge from debt crisis.

Emergency landing by Russian plane after bomb threat

Moscow, Oct 3 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A Yak-42 plane with 73 passengers on board flying from Moscow to Chechen capital Grozny was forced to make an emergency landing after a bomb threat, an official said Sunday.

“The plane left Moscow for Grozny at 16.14 p.m. local time. Several minutes later it received an anonymous call threatening …. Read the original article  : Emergency landing by Russian plane after bomb threat.

French terrorism suspect arrested in Italy, suspected of recruiting fighters for Afghanistan

French terrorism suspect arrested in Italy

PARIS – Italian police have arrested a Frenchman suspected of links to a network recruiting fighters for Afghanistan, a French official said Sunday.
The man was arrested in Naples in southern Italy in early September, based on a French probe underway for several months into alleged involvement in a terrorist enterprise, … Read more : French terrorism suspect arrested in Italy, suspected of recruiting fighters for Afghanistan.

Pakistan intelligence: Dozens of Europeans in tribal region training for terror missions

Pakistan: Dozens of Europeans in terror training

ISLAMABAD – Dozens of Muslim militants with European citizenship are believed to be hiding out in the lawless tribal area of northwestern Pakistan, Pakistani and Western intelligence officials say, training for missions that could include terror attacks in European capitals.
Officials have used phone intercepts and voice tracking software to …. Original article  : Pakistan intelligence: Dozens of Europeans in tribal region training for terror missions.

Catholic acolyte convicted of sexually abusing minors, handed 4-year prison sentence

Catholic acolyte convicted of sexual abuse

BERLIN – A German court has convicted a former Roman Catholic acolyte and church youth director of sexually abusing children and sentenced him to four years and nine months in prison.
The state court in the central city of Darmstadt found the 31-year-old man guilty on Monday of abusing six boys, …. Source article  : Catholic acolyte convicted of sexually abusing minors, handed 4-year prison sentence.

Soaring cabbage prices catch kimchi-loving South Koreans in inflationary pickle

Soaring cabbage prices hit kimchi-loving SKoreans

SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea is struggling to secure its supply of kimchi – the spicy, pickled food that serves as the national dish – after an unusually long stretch of bad weather nearly halved the latest crop of Napa cabbage, its main ingredient.
Seeking an immediate substitute, the government …. Original source  : Soaring cabbage prices catch kimchi-loving South Koreans in inflationary pickle.

Thai court drops second case against Viktor Bout, clearing way for US extradition

Thai court drops case against Viktor Bout
BANGKOK – A Thai court ruled Tuesday to dismiss a new trial against alleged Russian arms smuggler Viktor Bout, removing a key legal obstacle to his long-awaited extradition to the United States.

The Bangkok Criminal Court’s decision was the latest phase in a long-running legal battle that has put Thailand …. Original source  : Thai court drops second case against Viktor Bout, clearing way for US extradition.

Decks being cleared for Assam-ULFA talks

GUWAHATI – The Assam government and the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) are treading cautiously but cleverly in paving the way for formal peace talks to end more than three decades of insurgency in the state.

Soon after the arrest of top ULFA leaders in Bangladesh last year, discussions on possible peace talks …. Read the original article  : Decks being cleared for Assam-ULFA talks.

Maoists strike again, 7 security men injured

GADCHIROLI – A day after killing at least four police personnel, Maoists again struck in the dense forests of eatern Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district Tuesday morning and injured seven security personnel, police said.

According to reports reaching the district headquarters here, a police van was ambushed and blown up with a mine near Tallewada, around 130 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Corruption-riddled Calif. city cancels council meeting after indicted members fail to show

Corruption-riddled city cancels council meeting

BELL, Calif. – It was the first regularly scheduled City Council meeting in the corruption-riddled Los Angeles suburb of Bell since eight current and former city officials were charged with looting city funds – but it didn’t happen.
The Monday night meeting was canceled when four council members facing criminal charges didn’t …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Corruption-riddled Calif. city cancels council meeting after indicted members fail to show.

Prosecutor portrays Anna Nicole Smith as coconspirator who pressured defendants for drugs

Anna Nicole Smith portrayed as coconspirator

LOS ANGELES – In a new twist at the Anna Nicole Smith drug trial, prosecutors are casting the dead celebrity model in the role of coconspirator who pressured her two doctors and her lawyer-boyfriend to provide her with excessive prescription drugs.
In closing arguments Monday, Deputy District Attorney David Barkhurst portrayed …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gainesville Shooting Rampage Shocks Citizens

GAINESVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- A shooting in Gainesville left two people dead including the gunman and five injured, the police reported. The horrific incident happened yesterday afternoon after the gunman fatally killed himself after shooting six people at a random spree. The law enforcement officials after investigation found out that the gunman is Clifford L. Miller …. Read the original article  : here.

POLITICAL INSIDER: Michelle Obama asks supporters to open wallets for Democrats

POLITICAL INSIDER: Michelle Obama asks for cash

First lady Michelle Obama is asking her husband’s supporters to pitch in with cash to help Democrats recreate the get-out-the-vote machine that helped deliver Barack Obama the White House two years ago.
In an e-mail sent Monday from the president’s political arm, Mrs. Obama asked for donations as small as …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

With video of test blast as evidence, NY prosecutors seek life term for Times Square bomber

Times Square bomber faces sentencing in NYC

NEW YORK – The scene in a remote spot in Pennsylvania was exactly what authorities say failed bomber Faisal Shahzad had wanted on a busy evening in Times Square on May 1.
An improvised car bomb – a 1993 Pathfinder fitted with 250 pounds of ammonium nitrate and diesel fuel, …. Source article  : With video of test blast as evidence, NY prosecutors seek life term for Times Square bomber.

It’s alarming that Taliban can attack us, Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – It is an “alarming thought” that the Taliban is still able to stage terrorist strikes across the country despite the war against terror, an editorial in a Pakistani daily said after the group claimed responsibility for attacks on two NATO oil tankers.

The editorial in the News International said: “Ominously…a Taliban spokesman has … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : It’s alarming that Taliban can attack us, Pakistani daily.

Venezuela’s Chavez dismisses account that suspected ETA militants got training in country

Venezuela denies links to Basque militants

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez dismissed a claim that Basque militants received weapons training in his country, calling it a farce aimed at discrediting his government.
Chavez reacted Monday night in a telephone call to state television after a Spanish judge said two suspected members of the armed Basque … Original source on Gaea Times at : Venezuela’s Chavez dismisses account that suspected ETA militants got training in country.

No evidence yet against Mumbai attack suspect Lakhvi: counsel

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has not been able to provide concrete evidence against Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, who is accused of masterminding the Mumbai terror attack, his counsel has said.

Shahbaz Ahmed Janjua told reporters in Rawalpindi Monday that the FIA had failed to furnish concrete evidence against Lakhvi despite a lapse of … Read : No evidence yet against Mumbai attack suspect Lakhvi: counsel.

Car bomb blast outside Ireland shopping mall

LONDON – A car bomb exploded Tuesday outside a shopping centre in Northern Ireland, police said.

A spokesman for the Police Service of Northern Ireland said the blast site has been cordoned off, Xinhua reported.
“Initial inquiries suggest there were no injuries,” he said, adding that “substantial damage has been caused to the …. Original article  : Car bomb blast outside Ireland shopping mall.

Colorado prison escapee charged with kidnapping, other crimes

Colo. prison escapee charged with several crimes

DENVER – An inmate who broke out of a maximum security prison in northeast Colorado has been charged with escape, holding hostages and kidnapping.
The Denver Post reports that 48-year-old Douglas Alward also was charged Monday with being a habitual criminal, first-degree burglary and possession of a weapon by a …. Original article  : Colorado prison escapee charged with kidnapping, other crimes.

California man who cited HIV panic convicted of killing sex client over valuable flutes

Man convicted in Calif. ‘golden flute’ slaying

MARTINEZ, Calif. – A Northern California man has been convicted of killing a retiree as part of an elaborate plan to steal the older man’s sterling silver and solid gold flutes.
A Contra Costa County jury deliberated for about two days before finding 24-year-old Alejandro Hernandez Rivera of Vallejo guilty … Read this article on Gaea Times at : California man who cited HIV panic convicted of killing sex client over valuable flutes.

Small, scandal-plagued Calif. city cancels council meeting after indicted members fail to show

Scandal-plagued Calif city cancels council meeting

BELL, Calif. – The City Council for the corruption-riddled Los Angeles suburb of Bell had to cancel its regularly scheduled meeting Monday when four members facing criminal charges didn’t show up.
One of the four, George Mirabal, was in jail. Another, Luis Artiga, resigned earlier in the day. Mayor Oscar Hernandez …. Source article  : Small, scandal-plagued Calif. city cancels council meeting after indicted members fail to show.

Attorney for former transit officer seeks retrial in California train station shooting case

Attorney seeks retrial in CA train station death

SAN FRANCISCO – The attorney representing a white former San Francisco Bay Area rapid transit officer convicted of fatally shooting an unarmed black passenger is asking a Los Angeles judge for a new trial.
Lawyer Michael Rains said in a 134-page filing Friday that Johannes Mehserle’s (yoh-HAH’-nes MEZ’-ur-leez) involuntary …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Attorney for former transit officer seeks retrial in California train station shooting case.

Police: Gainesville, Fla., gunman kills self, 1 other in shooting spree; 5 wounded

Police: Florida gunman killed self, 1 other

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A gunman killed himself Monday afternoon after he fatally shot a person and wounded five others around Gainesville, police said.
The gunman shot himself in his red pickup truck after he drove through the neighborhood picking off victims, Gainesville police Cpl. Tscharna Senn said at a Monday …. Original source  : Police: Gainesville, Fla., gunman kills self, 1 other in shooting spree; 5 wounded.

Police say college student shot, killed in dorm at Bible college in coastal North Carolina

Police: NC Bible college student killed in dorm

ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – A student at a Bible college in North Carolina was shot and killed in his dorm room, and school officials say another student is responsible.
Mid-Atlantic Christian University says on its website that sophomore Jonathan Schipper was shot and killed Sunday.
The school’s statement said the … Read more »»».

Gunmen fire rocket against British Embassy convoy in Yemen, wounding 4 people

Yemen explosion targets British diplomats
SAN’A, Yemen – Gunmen fired a rocket against a convoy carrying a senior British diplomat in Yemen’s capital on Wednesday, damaging a car and wounding four people amid heightened fears about growing al-Qaida influence in the impoverished Arab nation.

Nobody immediately claimed responsibility for the blast, but Yemeni authorities recently boosted security … Read more : Gunmen fire rocket against British Embassy convoy in Yemen, wounding 4 people.

Thai government will decide ‘Merchant of Death’s’ fate, weighing ties with US and Russia

Thai government will decide Viktor Bout’s fate

BANGKOK – Thailand’s government will hold a special meeting to discuss the pros and cons of extraditing Russian arms smuggler Viktor Bout to the U.S., weighing concerns about relations with Moscow and Washington, the prime minister said.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva made the comments to Thai reporters traveling with him … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Thai government will decide ‘Merchant of Death’s’ fate, weighing ties with US and Russia.

Drone attacks in Pakistan ‘linked’ to Europe terror plot

LONDON – US drone attacks have been stepped up in Pakistan to disrupt a suspected Al Qaeda plot to attack European targets, a media report said Wednesday.

The drone attacks include one on Monday which killed eight militants, among them five German nationals, Pakistan’s ambassador to the US told the BBC.
The strikes have targeted …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Drone attacks in Pakistan ‘linked’ to Europe terror plot.

Defense lawyer for Anna Nicole Smith doctor says it’s no crime to prescribe drugs for friend

Defense gets turn in Anna Nicole Smith drug trial

LOS ANGELES – After prosecutors depicted Anna Nicole Smith as a victim of her friends, defense lawyers will their chance Wednesday to tell jurors that the former Playboy model was actually being rescued from constant pain by those who gave her prescription drugs.
Attorney Brad Brunon, who began …. Original source  : Defense lawyer for Anna Nicole Smith doctor says it’s no crime to prescribe drugs for friend.

Judge asked to declare innocence of executed Texas man convicted in disputed arson case

Judge asked to declare executed Texas man innocent

AUSTIN, Texas – Prosecutors connected to the case of a Texas man who was executed for setting fire to his home and killing his three daughters are fighting a new effort to clear him.
John Bradley, the top prosecutor in Williamson County who also chairs the Texas Forensic Science … Read more »».

The stripper and the judge: FBI claims federal jurist used drugs, paid for sex with dancer

FBI: Stripper, drugs, guns and judge don’t mix

ATLANTA – The 67-year-old federal judge’s wild relationship with a stripper started with just a lap dance, prosecutors said, but quickly escalated into escapades of prostitution and gun-toting drug deals involving cocaine and prescription pills.
Senior Judge Jack T. Camp, a veteran jurist who had achieved a status that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Police investigate deaths of Colorado Springs mom, 13-year-old twins as homicides; no arrests

Police probe Colo. mom, twins’ deaths as homicides

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Police said Tuesday they are investigating the deaths of a Colorado Springs woman and her 13-year-old twins as homicides and have not ruled out anyone as suspects.
Police Sgt. Steve Noblitt identified the three found dead in their home Monday as Rene Ogden, 38, and …. Source  : Police investigate deaths of Colorado Springs mom, 13-year-old twins as homicides; no arrests.

22 NATO oil tankers torched in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Twenty-two NATO oil tankers were set ablaze early Wednesday near the southwestern Pakistani city of Quetta, Xinhua reported.

The attack took place around 6 a.m. when motorcycle-borne gunmen opened fire at NATO oil tankers near Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province. The firing triggered the blaze. The convoy included 40 NATO supply trucks.
… Read more : 22 NATO oil tankers torched in Pakistan.

W.Pa. mother accused of conspiring with boyfriend to drug, impregnate girl, 13, pleads guilty

W.Pa. mom pleads guilty in plot to impregnate girl

UNIONTOWN, Pa. – A western Pennsylvania woman accused of conspiring with her boyfriend to drug her 13-year-old daughter so he could try to impregnate her has pleaded guilty in a deal with prosecutors.
The 34-year-old Uniontown woman was slated for trial Monday in Fayette County Court of Common …. Original source  : W.Pa. mother accused of conspiring with boyfriend to drug, impregnate girl, 13, pleads guilty.

Mass. congressman’s wife to plead guilty to tax charges related to brother’s gambling business

Rep. Tierney’s wife to plead guilty to tax charges

BOSTON – The wife of U.S. Rep. John Tierney has agreed to plead guilty to charges she helped her brother conceal what authorities say was an illegal offshore gambling business that generated millions of dollars, federal prosecutors said late Tuesday.
Patrice Tierney, 59, of Salem, is set to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Judge orders Mexican singer Jenni Rivera to face trial for failing to declare cash at airport

Jenni Rivera to face trial for cash smuggling

MEXICO CITY – Singer Jenni Rivera has been ordered to face trial for failing to declare thousands of dollars in cash at Mexico City’s international airport.
Rivera says a judge ruled she could be free while the trial proceeds but must report to court ever week.
She promises, in her …. Source article  : Judge orders Mexican singer Jenni Rivera to face trial for failing to declare cash at airport.

Mexican investigators: 20 men kidnapped in Acapulco had no criminal records

20 kidnapped in Acapulco had no criminal records

MORELIA, Mexico – Twenty men kidnapped last week in the Pacific resort city of Acapulco had no criminal records and may have been targeted by mistake, Mexican investigators said Tuesday.
Police have found no trace of the men, whose kidnapping is one of the biggest blows yet to a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mexican investigators: 20 men kidnapped in Acapulco had no criminal records.

Defense says defendant in Anna Nicole Smith drug case was only trying to help her friend

Defense says Smith case defendant tried to help

LOS ANGELES – A prosecutor in the Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy case accused the model’s boyfriend and doctors of providing her with drugs to enhance their friendships, but a defense attorney countered Tuesday that it was not a crime for a doctor to prescribe medication for a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Defense says defendant in Anna Nicole Smith drug case was only trying to help her friend.

Suspected German terrorist arrested in Kenya

NAIROBI – Authorities in Kenya have arrested a German national suspected to be involved in terrorist activities.

Sascha Alessadro Bottcher, 23, was arrested Tuesday in the coastal town of Mtwapa following a countrywide alert, police spokesman Erick Kiraithe said.
The German is a Muslim convert who arrived in Kenya through the Moi international airport in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Suspected German terrorist arrested in Kenya.

9 longshoremen at East Coast’s biggest shipping port arrested, revealing security breakdown

9 arrests show security breach at NJ shipping port

NEW YORK – Authorities say the East Coast’s largest shipping port has experienced a security breach as eight dock workers have been charged in New York with cocaine trafficking and another has been charged in a stock fraud scheme.
Authorities said Tuesday the arrests of longshoremen from the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 9 longshoremen at East Coast’s biggest shipping port arrested, revealing security breakdown.

Prosecutors finish closing arguments in Anna Nicole Smith drug trial; defense to make its case

Anna Nicole Smith prosecutors wrap up arguments

LOS ANGELES – Prosecutors have concluded two days of closing arguments in the Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy case.
Deputy District Attorney Renee Rose wrapped up more than four hours of closing arguments on Tuesday by listing the name of every drug prescribed to the former Playboy model during the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Former Hartford, Conn., mayor appeals corruption conviction, faults 2 cases put on trial as 1

Former Conn. mayor appeals corruption conviction

HARTFORD, Conn. – Lawyers for the former mayor of Hartford, Conn., have filed an appeal of his conviction on five corruption charges.
Eddie Perez’s lawyers argued that the court made an error in consolidating his two cases into one trial. One case accused him of bribe-receiving and being an accessory to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Former Hartford, Conn., mayor appeals corruption conviction, faults 2 cases put on trial as 1.

Former Marine pleads guilty to accepting $25,000 bribe for contracts to Lebanese-based company

Former Marine pleads guilty to accepting bribes

WASHINGTON – A former Marine has pleaded guilty to accepting a $25,000 bribe in exchange for awarding numerous contracts to a Lebanon-based company at Camp Fallujah in Iraq.
Mariam Mendoza Steinbuch, who was a staff sergeant deployed as a contracting specialist in 2006, was arraigned Tuesday in federal court in …. Source  : Former Marine pleads guilty to accepting $25,000 bribe for contracts to Lebanese-based company.

Vt. police confirm remains found in woods are those of grandmother who went missing last month

Vt. police: Body is missing 78-year-old grandma’s

WATERBURY, Vt. – The curious disappearance of a 78-year-old grandmother is now a murder mystery: A body found in the woods by two bird hunters has been identified as hers, and police on Tuesday called it a homicide.
Investigators used dental records to identify the remains of Pat O’Hagan, a … Read : Vt. police confirm remains found in woods are those of grandmother who went missing last month.

Police: Abducted Calif. girl sexually assaulted before escaping with Good Samaritan’s help

Cops: Abducted Calif. girl was sexually assaulted

FRESNO, Calif. – Police say an 8-year-old girl who was abducted while playing outside a Fresno home was sexually assaulted before managing to escape her captor when another driver cut him off in traffic.
Fresno Police Chief Jerry Dyer says the child told investigators that 24-year-old Gregorio Gonzalez took her …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Police: Abducted Calif. girl sexually assaulted before escaping with Good Samaritan’s help.

Suspected Maoists damage rail tracks in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Suspected Maoists damaged rail tracks and removed fish-plates after holding captive a railway employee in Uttar Pradesh’s Sonbhadra district, police said Thursday. Movement of trains along the route was stopped.

The incident took place late Wednesday near the Churk railway station, over 250 km from here.
“Nearly 40 people held the railway employee …. Original source  : Suspected Maoists damage rail tracks in Uttar Pradesh.

Ex-Titans backup QB Chris Simms due in NYC court for hearing in drugged-driving case

Ex-Titans backup QB Chris Simms due in NYC court

NEW YORK – Free-agent quarterback Chris Simms caught a pass on his last court date, but his timeout is over.
The former Tennessee Titans backup quarterback was due in court Thursday for a hearing and possible trial in his drugged-driving case. Simms, his agents and his lawyers didn’t … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ex-Titans backup QB Chris Simms due in NYC court for hearing in drugged-driving case.

Texas gov. tangles with Mexican government over handling of reported shooting at border lake

Texas gov. pressuring Mexico over lake shooting

AUSTIN, Texas – The search for an American tourist reportedly shot dead on a border lake has led Texas Gov. Rick Perry to tangle with the Mexican government over the investigation and efforts to recover the body.
Perry said Wednesday that Mexico needs to use every resource available to find … Read more : Texas gov. tangles with Mexican government over handling of reported shooting at border lake.

Taliban destroy over 50 NATO vehicles in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – More than 50 oil tankers carrying fuel for NATO forces in Afghanistan were destroyed in two separate Taliban attacks in Pakistan, a media report said.

Twenty-five tankers were destroyed after militants attacked a terminal Wednesday in the Akhtarabad area of Quetta, the capital of southwestern Balochistan province.
The tankers caught fire …. Source  : Taliban destroy over 50 NATO vehicles in Pakistan.

Canadian ex-commander who flew queen due in court on murder and sexual assault charges

Canada top commander to appear in court
TORONTO – A military commander charged with several counts of murder and sexual assault in a case that shocked Canadians was to appear in court in person for the first time Thursday.

Col. Russell Williams – an elite pilot who once flew Queen Elizabeth II and other dignitaries around the …. Source  : Canadian ex-commander who flew queen due in court on murder and sexual assault charges.

US shies from comment on Musharraf admission

WASHINGTON – The US has taken a hands-off approach to former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf’s admission that his regime trained militant groups to fight India in Kashmir, saying it was an issue between New Delhi and Islamabad.

Asked to comment on Musharraf’s admission, State Department spokesman Phillip Crowley responded with a plain “No.”
“This is …. Source  : US shies from comment on Musharraf admission.

Priyadarshini Mattoo Case: Capital Punishment Commuted

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The 1996 rape and murder case of Priyadarshini Mattoo took a new turn when the death sentence of convict Santosh Kumar Singh was commuted to life sentence by the Supreme Court on Wednesday. While explaining the decision to reduce the punishment that should be meted out to Santosh Kumar Singh, …. Original source  : Priyadarshini Mattoo Case: Capital Punishment Commuted.

Mets closer Rodriguez, accused of attacking girlfriend’s father, to appear in Queens court

K-Rod to appear in Queens court in assault case

NEW YORK – New York Mets closer Francisco Rodriguez is due in court to face charges that he assaulted his girlfriend’s father and then violated a restraining order stemming from the incident.
Rodriguez is accused of grabbing 53-year-old Carlos Pena after an Aug. 11 game at Citi Field … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mets closer Rodriguez, accused of attacking girlfriend’s father, to appear in Queens court.

Pakistan not doing enough to confront Taliban, says US

WASHINGTON – While claiming in public that Pakistan is working hard to crack down on militants, a private White House review suggests it is not doing nearly enough to confront the Taliban and Al Qaeda.

Using unusually tough language, the report suggests that from March to June, the Pakistani military “continued to avoid military engagements …. Original source  : Pakistan not doing enough to confront Taliban, says US.

Two senior Maoists held in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Two senior cadres of the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) were Thursday arrested in the restive Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, police said.

“The two youths in their late 20s were active in Bastar district for years. They had been involved in a few attacks in the past two years,” Superintendent of Police … Read more »».

`Devastating impact if West terror strike traced to Pakistan’

ISLAMABAD – A terror attack in the West that is traced back to Pakistan “could have devastating consequences” for the country, said an editorial in a leading Pakistani daily.

An editorial in the Dawn said US drones have been carrying out attacks in North Waziristan Agency, “the stamping ground of the Haqqani network, Al Qaeda …. Read the original article  : `Devastating impact if West terror strike traced to Pakistan’.

Sheriff’s deputies bust drug dealers at medical pot clinics in Southern California

Deputies bust drug dealers at medical pot clinics

LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies have seized marijuana and conducted raids at 16 locations across Southern California.
Sheriff’s officials say 11 people were arrested on suspicion of drug dealing Wednesday but their names were not released.
Capt. Ralph Ornelas says the raids targeted a single group of … Read more »».

Family, wife of man reportedly shot on Texas-Mexico border lake visits area, lays wreath

Wife visits border lake where man reportedly shot

AUSTIN, Texas – The wife and family members of an American reportedly shot to death on a lake on the Texas-Mexico border took boats out onto the water of the U.S. side to lay a wreath for him.
Tiffany Hartley visited Falcon Lake on Wednesday for the first time …. Read the original article  : Family, wife of man reportedly shot on Texas-Mexico border lake visits area, lays wreath.

Police say Ohio man forced girlfriend to drive to health clinic at gunpoint, wanted abortion

Police: Ohioan forced girlfriend to women’s clinic

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Police say an Ohio man who wanted his pregnant girlfriend to get an abortion forced her to drive to a health clinic at gunpoint.
Columbus police say 27-year-old Dominic Holt-Reid became angry with the woman Wednesday because she refused to go through with an abortion scheduled at …. Original source  : Police say Ohio man forced girlfriend to drive to health clinic at gunpoint, wanted abortion.

Child who survived attack that killed 6 in Memphis, Tenn. testifies against uncle at trial

Memphis, Tenn. boy testifies, says uncle killed 6

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – A boy who was left to die in a bathtub with a knife sticking out of his skull testified Wednesday that his uncle was the one who attacked him in a rampage that left six people dead, including his parents and two siblings.
Cecil Dotson Jr., … Original article on : Child who survived attack that killed 6 in Memphis, Tenn. testifies against uncle at trial.

NJ senator calls for federal anti-bullying legislation after student’s bridge suicide leap

NJ senator calls for anti-bully law after suicide

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. – Colleges should adopt a code of conduct that prohibits bullying and harassment in the wake of the suicide of a Rutgers University student whose gay sexual encounter in his dorm room was streamed online, U.S. Sen. Frank Lautenberg said at a town meeting on …. Source  : NJ senator calls for federal anti-bullying legislation after student’s bridge suicide leap.

US apologises to Pakistan over mistaken airstrike

WASHINGTON – The US apologised Wednesday to Pakistan over a cross-border helicopter raid last month that mistakenly targeted and killed two Pakistani soldiers.

Anne Patterson, US ambassador to Pakistan, formally issued an apology to the Pakistani government, as did General David Petraeus, the head of international forces in Afghanistan, the Washington Post reported.
Their statements … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US apologises to Pakistan over mistaken airstrike.

Police say Ohio man forced pregnant girlfriend to drive to abortion clinic at gunpoint

Police: Ohio man forced woman to abortion clinic

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Police say an Ohio man who wanted his pregnant girlfriend to get an abortion forced her to drive to a health clinic at gunpoint.
Columbus police say 27-year-old Dominic Holt-Reid became angry with the woman Wednesday because she refused to go through with an abortion scheduled …. Source article  : Police say Ohio man forced pregnant girlfriend to drive to abortion clinic at gunpoint.

Democrat’s supporter sues Vermont over refusal to release DUI video of GOP state auditor

Vt. sued over refusal to release auditor DUI video

MONTPELIER, Vt. – Vermont races for governor and state auditor are figuring into a federal lawsuit over the state’s recent refusal to release a police video of a drunken driving arrest.
A supporter of Doug Hoffer, the Democratic nominee for auditor, filed the lawsuit after the state refused …. Read the original article  : here.

SoCal man convicted of conspiring to smuggle missiles into the US

SoCal man convicted in missile smuggling case

LOS ANGELES – A Southern California man was convicted Wednesday on a conspiracy charge for attempting to arrange the smuggling of shoulder-fired, surface-to-air missiles from his homeland into the United States.
Yi Qing Chen, 46, of Rosemead, was found guilty of five felony counts, including drug conspiracy and conspiracy to … Read : SoCal man convicted of conspiring to smuggle missiles into the US.

EU Naval Force: Somali pirates seize Taiwanese fishing boat in southernmost hijacking to date

Somali pirates seize Taiwanese fishing vessel

NAIROBI, Kenya – Somali pirates seized a Taiwanese fishing vessel with 14 crew onboard in the southernmost hijacking yet, the European Union Naval Force said on Friday.
The seizure of Feng Guo No 168 and the expansion of the pirates’ range could threaten vessels serving oil platforms in the Mozambique Channel.
There …. Source article  : EU Naval Force: Somali pirates seize Taiwanese fishing boat in southernmost hijacking to date.

Mexican authorities say boats, helicopters, divers being used in search for missing tourist

Mexico says search for missing tourist intensified

ZAPATA, Texas – Hundreds of people using speedboats, helicopters and all-terrain vehicles are searching for a missing American tourist presumably shot and killed by Mexican pirates on a border lake, authorities in Mexico say.
Word that the search had intensified came after U.S. officials said threats of an ambush from … Read : Mexican authorities say boats, helicopters, divers being used in search for missing tourist.

Despite uproar, Mississippi judge again asks courtroom to stand, say the Pledge of Allegiance

Miss. judge again asks courtroom to say pledge

TUPELO, Miss. – A Mississippi judge again asked everyone in his courtroom to stand and pledge allegiance to the flag, despite an uproar over whether he has the right to make such a request.
The furor began Wednesday when an attorney with a reputation for fighting free speech battles … Original source on Gaea Times at : Despite uproar, Mississippi judge again asks courtroom to stand, say the Pledge of Allegiance.

Attack on NATO trucks: New group claims responsibility

ISLAMABAD – Claiming responsibility for the attacks on NATO oil tankers, a new terror group has threatened that it would continue with the strikes till the coalition force leaves Afghanistan.

The militant group that calls itself Mujahid-e-Islami Buraq Thursday claimed responsibility for the attacks on NATO oil-tankers in Nowshera district, The News International reported …. Original article  : Attack on NATO trucks: New group claims responsibility.

New breed of terrorists are from cities: Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – The new breed of terrorists “come not from the tribal areas but from cities”, an editorial in a leading Pakistani daily said while noting that extremism was an issue “no longer confined to minds that have been rendered susceptible by poverty, or the lack of awareness and education”.

The life imprisonment sentence for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : New breed of terrorists are from cities: Pakistani daily.

Mexico pres: Vote to legalize pot in California shows ‘terrible inconsistency’ in US drug war

Mexico: US wavers in drug war with Calif. pot vote

TIJUANA, Mexico – President Felipe Calderon said Thursday that a California ballot measure to legalize marijuana represents hypocrisy in U.S. drug policy for encouraging consumption while at the same time demanding that Mexico and other countries crack down on drug trafficking.
“For me, it reflects a terrible …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mexico pres: Vote to legalize pot in California shows ‘terrible inconsistency’ in US drug war.

Ecuador court OK’s jailing of police colonel, 12 officers during probe of police uprising

Ecuador court orders 13 police held during probe

QUITO, Ecuador – A court issued an order Thursday authorizing the jailing of 12 police officers and a police colonel while prosecutors investigate last week’s police uprising that resulted in five deaths.
After a seven-hour hearing, Criminal Court Judge Tania Molina ratified an arrest warrant that will let authorities … Original article on : Ecuador court OK’s jailing of police colonel, 12 officers during probe of police uprising.

Attorney says Calif city owes money to former city manager charged in corruption scandal

Attorney: Calif. city owes money to ousted manager

LOS ANGELES – An attorney for a former city manager charged in a corruption scandal claims the Southern California city of Bell owes his client a severance package and other benefits.
Lawyer James Spertus told the Los Angeles Times on Thursday that Bell agreed to pay Robert Rizzo back …. Original article  : Attorney says Calif city owes money to former city manager charged in corruption scandal.

Attorney: SC Sen. candidate Greene was just flirting in incident that led to obscenity charge

Attorney: Greene was just flirting with student

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina Democratic Senate nominee Alvin Greene was just trying to flirt with a teenage college student when he allegedly showed her online pornography in a campus computer lab last year, his attorney said Thursday.
“He was attempting to flirt with a young lady who had no … Read more >>.

Dunn’s attorney says Baylor has suspended star guard from classes

Attorney: Dunn suspended from classes at Baylor

DALLAS – Baylor guard LaceDarius Dunn was suspended from classes by the university Thursday amid allegations that the star player hit his girlfriend during a domestic dispute, his attorney said.
Attorney Vikram Deivanayagam told The Associated Press it was too early to know whether the suspension would cause Dunn to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Dunn’s attorney says Baylor has suspended star guard from classes.

Sheriff’s office: Shirt backs up Arizona deputy’s story of shooting in the desert

Sheriff’s office: Shirt backs up deputy’s story

FLORENCE, Ariz. – Independent testing of a bloodied shirt backs up the story of a deputy who contends he was shot by drug smugglers in the remote desert, officials said Thursday. The deputy dismissed speculation that he staged the incident to publicize drug and human smuggling.
The Pinal County Sheriff’s … Read more »»».

‘For sale’ sign posted outside closed clinic of murdered Kan. late-term abortion doctor

Murdered Kansas abortion doctor’s clinic for sale

WICHITA, Kan. – A “for sale” sign has been posted outside the Kansas medical clinic formerly operated by murdered abortion provider Dr. George Tiller.
Tiller was among the few late-term abortion providers in the U.S. before he was fatally shot in his church last year by anti-abortion activist Scott Roeder.
Tiller … Read : ‘For sale’ sign posted outside closed clinic of murdered Kan. late-term abortion doctor.

Colo. city won’t display artwork denounced as obscene after alleged attack by Montana woman

Controversial artwork won’t be returned to display

LOVELAND, Colo. – A piece of artwork denounced as obscene by church members and allegedly ripped up by a Montana woman using a crowbar won’t be returned to display because of safety concerns, city officials said Thursday.
“The incident yesterday was very troubling and also very impactful on the city … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Colo. city won’t display artwork denounced as obscene after alleged attack by Montana woman.

Colorado museum won’t replace controversial artwork allegedly ripped by by Montana woman

Colo. museum won’t replace torn controversial art

LOVELAND, Colo. – A piece of artwork denounced as obscene by church members and allegedly ripped up by a Montana woman using a crowbar won’t be returned to display because of safety concerns, city officials said Thursday.
“The incident yesterday was very troubling and also very impactful on the city …. Original source  : Colorado museum won’t replace controversial artwork allegedly ripped by by Montana woman.

SEC accuses ‘CHiPs’ actor Wilcox, others of securities fraud in penny stocks

SEC charges ‘CHiPs’ actor of securities fraud

WASHINGTON – Federal regulators have accused the actor who played a California highway officer in the 1970s TV series “CHiPs” of securities fraud.
The scheme involving actor Larry Wilcox was one of several kickback operations run by more than a dozen small-company stock promoters, the Securities and Exchange Commission said …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : SEC accuses ‘CHiPs’ actor Wilcox, others of securities fraud in penny stocks.

US officials say search for missing tourist thwarted by threats from drug gangs

Search for missing tourist thwarted by drug gangs

ZAPATA, Texas – A search for a missing American tourist presumably shot and killed by Mexican pirates on a border lake has been thwarted by threats of an ambush from drug gangs, U.S. officials said Thursday.
U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar told reporters that Mexican authorities are doing everything they … Read more : US officials say search for missing tourist thwarted by threats from drug gangs.

Fort Hood shooting suspect’s attorney blocks military-ordered mental exam

Mental exam for Ft. Hood suspect blocked by lawyer

FORT WORTH, Texas – A defense attorney on Thursday blocked a mental evaluation for the Army psychiatrist accused in last year’s shooting rampage at Fort Hood, saying it should not be conducted before a hearing to determine whether his client will stand trial.
John Galligan, the lead defense … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fort Hood shooting suspect’s attorney blocks military-ordered mental exam.

Recite the pledge or go to jail? Mississippi attorney sent to the slammer for keeping quiet

Recite pledge or go to jail? Lawyer sent to lockup

TUPELO, Miss. – When a Mississippi judge entered a courtroom and asked everyone to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, an attorney with a reputation for fighting free speech battles stayed silent as everyone else recited the patriotic oath. The lawyer was jailed.
Attorney Danny Lampley spent …. Source article  : Recite the pledge or go to jail? Mississippi attorney sent to the slammer for keeping quiet.

Sean Sutton to return to basketball as adviser to brother’s program at Oral Roberts U.

Oral Roberts U. hires Sean Sutton as adviser

OKLAHOMA CITY – The reclamation of Sean Sutton’s coaching career has begun.
The former Oklahoma State basketball coach, who pleaded guilty in August to illegally obtaining prescription drugs and acknowledged an addiction to painkillers, will serve as an adviser to the Oral Roberts program led by his brother, Scott …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Search for American tourist reported shot on border lake thwarted by threats from drug gangs

Search for man missing on lake thwarted by gangs

ZAPATA, Texas – U.S. officials say the search for an American tourist reportedly shot dead on a border lake by Mexican pirates has been hampered by threats of an ambush from drug gangs.
U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas said the search for David Hartley was temporarily halted … Read more »»».

Man thought to be Karachi suicide bomber walks home!

ISLAMABAD – One of the two men suspected to be involved in Thursday’s suicide attack on a shrine in Pakistan’s Karachi city has returned home, a media report said Saturday.

Naseebullah Gul, whose name police had announced as one of the suicide bombers who struck at Hazrat Abdullah Shah Ghazis shrine in Karachi, arrived home … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Man thought to be Karachi suicide bomber walks home!.

No word from China’s imprisoned Nobel winner as wife’s phone cut off

No word from China’s imprisoned Nobel winner

JINZHOU, China – The world’s newest Nobel Peace Prize winner remained unreachable in a Chinese prison Saturday, while his wife’s mobile phone was cut off and the authoritarian government continued to censor reports about democracy campaigner Liu Xiaobo’s honor.
Police kept reporters away from the prison where Liu is serving …. Read the original article  : No word from China’s imprisoned Nobel winner as wife’s phone cut off.

Kelly Elementary Carlsbad Shooting Fiasco

CARLSBAD (GaeaTimes.com)- The Carlsbad shooting episode which rocked the Kelly elementary School left a deep impression on the students as well as their parents. A gunman whose identity is yet to be revealed came to the school campus and before anyone could suspect what he would do got into the campus and opened fie. … Read more : Kelly Elementary Carlsbad Shooting Fiasco.

27 more NATO oil tankers destroyed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Twenty-seven more oil tankers carrying fuel for NATO forces in Afghanistan were destroyed by gunmen in Pakistan, a media report said Saturday.

The tankers caught fire after gunmen opened fire at the vehicles late Friday in the Mithri area of Balochistan province, Geo TV reported.
This is the fifth attack on NATO …. Source article  : 27 more NATO oil tankers destroyed in Pakistan.

Gunmen attack NATO tankers in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Several NATO oil tankers were destroyed Saturday when unknown armed men attacked them in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, a media report said.

According to sources, the assailants fired a rocket, targeting the tankers parked near a hotel in the Mithri area of Bolan district early Saturday, Dawn News reported. Several tankers immediately caught … Original article on : Gunmen attack NATO tankers in Pakistan.

FBI: Tractor-trailer in Conn. is carrying no explosives and is not a danger to the public

FBI: Semitrailer in Conn. not a danger to public

BRANFORD, Conn. – FBI agents and police officers surrounded a tractor-trailer at a travel stop on Interstate 95 in Connecticut on Friday night after a report of suspicious activity, but they found that the truck posed no danger to the public, authorities said.
A town official had said [..] Read the original article: here.

Court tells Madonna fan who tried to show signs of his love near her NY apartment to stay away

Fan told to stay away from Madonna’s NYC home

NEW YORK – He might want to tell Madonna he’s crazy for her, but a fan who was arrested while proclaiming his love near her New York City apartment is being told to stay at least 10 blocks away.
A judge made that a condition as he set … Read more : Court tells Madonna fan who tried to show signs of his love near her NY apartment to stay away.

Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy case against lawyer-boyfriend, 2 doctors goes to jury

Anna Nicole drug conspiracy case goes to jury

LOS ANGELES – The Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy case, charging her lawyer-boyfriend and two doctors with providing the former Playboy model with excessive amounts of drugs, was placed in the hands of a jury Friday.
In a full week of final arguments, opposing lawyers battled over whether the …. Source article  : Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy case against lawyer-boyfriend, 2 doctors goes to jury.

California man who looted home of family killed in crash gets 8 years in prison

8 years for Calif man who stole from family killed

SONOMA, Calif. – A 27-year-old Redwood City man who admitted to looting the home of four family members days after they were killed in a car crash has been sentenced to eight years in prison.
The Santa Rosa Press Democrat reports that Michael Gutierrez was sentenced Thursday …. Original source  : California man who looted home of family killed in crash gets 8 years in prison.

APNewsBreak: Source says grand jury eyeing broader case tied to Kan. abortion doctor’s murder

AP source: Grand jury probing anti-abortion murder

WICHITA, Kan. – A federal grand jury is investigating whether last year’s murder of a Kansas abortion doctor was connected to a broader case involving radical anti-abortion activists, a federal law enforcement official familiar with the case said Friday.
The official spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : APNewsBreak: Source says grand jury eyeing broader case tied to Kan. abortion doctor’s murder.

Irish police arrest 9 suspected IRA dissidents, seize bomb parts and gun

Irish police arrest 9 IRA dissidents, seize arms

DUBLIN – Ireland’s police force says its detectives have arrested nine suspected Irish Republican Army dissidents and seized weapons.
Friday’s arrests follow a British government decision to raise its warning of possible attacks by IRA splinter groups in England. Irish authorities say they agree with that threat assessment.
The dissidents …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Irish police arrest 9 suspected IRA dissidents, seize bomb parts and gun.

Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy case charging lawyer-boyfriend, 2 doctors, goes to jury

Anna Nicole Smith drug case goes to jury
LOS ANGELES – The Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy case, charging her lawyer-boyfriend and two doctors with providing the former Playboy model with excessive amounts of drugs, in the hands of a jury.

After nine weeks of testimony and arguments, the last word to jurors Friday came from the …. Source  : Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy case charging lawyer-boyfriend, 2 doctors, goes to jury.

Former 49ers running back Glen Coffee, who left team for ministry, arrested on gun charge

Former 49ers RB Glen Coffee arrested in Florida

FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. – Former San Francisco 49ers running back Glen Coffee has been arrested on a gun charge in the Florida Panhandle.
Fort Walton Beach police say he was arrested Thursday night and charged with possession of a concealed firearm. He was released from jail Friday morning.
According …. Source article  : Former 49ers running back Glen Coffee, who left team for ministry, arrested on gun charge.

Calif man pleads guilty to sending military equipment to Yemen, faces up to 5 years prison

Calif man admits illegally working as Yemeni agent

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – A California man has admitted to working illegally as a Yemeni agent.
Amen Ahmed Ali of Bakersfield pleaded guilty Thursday to illegally exporting military equipment, possession of stolen U.S. property and conspiracy to act as an illegal agent for a foreign country.
In his plea agreement, Ali … Read more >>>.

Lawyer for GOP candidate for Minn. governor calls ex-client’s malpractice lawsuit ’shakedown’

Ex-client sues GOP candidate for Minn. governor

ST. PAUL, Minn. – It’s a late-campaign distraction Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Tom Emmer vigorously tried to head off, even to the point of enlisting a private investigator.
With less than four weeks left, the Republican has found himself confronting a recently filed malpractice lawsuit by a former client, Steven Hackbarth, …. Original article  : Lawyer for GOP candidate for Minn. governor calls ex-client’s malpractice lawsuit ’shakedown’.

Bahamas jury finds man guilty of attempted murder in shooting of vacationing US police officer

Bahamian found guilty in shooting of US policeman

NASSAU, Bahamas – A jury in the Bahamas has convicted a 19-year-old man of attempted murder in the 2008 shooting of a New Jersey police officer who tried to prevent a robbery while on vacation.
Ebenezer Sherman is expected to be sentenced in November. His lawyer, Godfrey Pinder, says … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bahamas jury finds man guilty of attempted murder in shooting of vacationing US police officer.

2 students injured as man opens fire at SoCal school, construction workers tackle suspect

2 injured when man opens fire at SoCal school

CARLSBAD, Calif. – A gunman opened fire on a crowded school playground Friday, striking two children before construction workers tackled him, authorities said.
The suspect parked his car around noon, jumped a fence and opened fire as he walked across campus in the north San Diego suburb, said … Read : 2 students injured as man opens fire at SoCal school, construction workers tackle suspect.

2 students injured when man opens fire at San Diego-area school; suspect tackled

2 injured after man opens fire at SoCal school

CARLSBAD, Calif. – Police say two students were injured when a man opened fire at a San Diego-area elementary school.
He was quickly tackled by bystanders, and the children suffered only minor injuries to their arms.
Carlsbad police spokeswoman Fiona Everett couldn’t immediately say if the injuries were gunshot … Original article on : 2 students injured when man opens fire at San Diego-area school; suspect tackled.

Police: Shots fired at San Diego-area school; no report of death; suspect in custody

Police: Shots fired at San Diego-area school

CARLSBAD, Calif. – Police say a man suspected of firing a gun at or near a San Diego-area elementary school has been taken into custody after being tackled by bystanders.
Carlsbad police spokesman Fiona Everett says it is unknown if anyone was injured or killed when the man opened fire … Read more >>.

Witnesses say police issued threat, sought evidence destruction in Pa. immigrant beating

Pa. police accused of cover-up in beating case

SCRANTON, Pa. – The trial of two white teenagers charged with a federal hate crime in the beating death of a Mexican immigrant focused Friday on an alleged cover-up orchestrated by police officers with close ties to the defendants.
Shenandoah police threatened witnesses, sought the destruction of evidence and … Original article on : Witnesses say police issued threat, sought evidence destruction in Pa. immigrant beating.

Drone attack kills seven in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least seven people were killed in a US drone strike in Pakistan’s northwestern tribal region Sunday morning, a media report said.

The drone fired two missiles at a house in Shoh area of North Waziristan bordering Afghanistan, Xinhua reported.
Details about the dead people were not immediately available.
Sunday’s strike was the … Read more >>>.

Maoist arrested in Jharkhand

RANCHI – A Maoist who specialized in making rocket launchers has been arrested in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district, an official said Sunday, claiming it was a big success for police.

Nalla Bhikshapati alias Raviji was arrested from Dudur village, around 170 km from here, Saturday.
“He is an expert in making rocket launchers, explosive …. Source  : Maoist arrested in Jharkhand.

Seven injured in Meghalaya blast

SHILLONG – Seven people were injured in a bomb explosion at a crowded market in Tura in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district, forcing authorities to sound an alert across the state, police said.

“We have sounded general alert across the state following the explosion at a bakery shop,” Dalton P. Marak, the police chief …. Original article  : Seven injured in Meghalaya blast.

India, Pakistan had almost agreed on a Kashmir solution: Musharraf

LONDON – India and Pakistan had almost reached an agreement on Kashmir issue, said Pakistan’s former president Pervez Musharraf, and tried to clarify his earlier remarks on training militants by stressing many “motivated” outfits had existed before he came to power.

“We were as close as drafting the final agreement,” Musharraf said, referring to a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : India, Pakistan had almost agreed on a Kashmir solution: Musharraf.

British hostage dead in Afghanistan during rescue effort

LONDON – Linda Norgrove, 36, a British social worker with a US aid agency who was kidnapped in Afghanistan Sep 26, died Friday night during a rescue effort, the British Foreign Office reported Saturday.

The Press Association reported that Norgrove was killed by her captors during a US-led rescue attempt in which seven of her … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : British hostage dead in Afghanistan during rescue effort.

US drone strike kills key Al Qaeda leader in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Atiyah Abd al-Rahman, an alleged key Al Qaeda operative of Libyan origin, has been killed in a suspected US drone strike in Pakistan’s lawless tribal region, security officials said Saturday.

The US had placed a $1-million bounty on al-Rahman, who was killed Thursday when a CIA-operated unmanned aircraft fired two missiles on a … Read more »».

Trinamool helping Maoists: Buddhadeb

NADIA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Saturday criticised the Trinamool Congress for demanding the withdrawal of joint forces from Maoist-hit areas of the state, alleging the party was helping the left-wing rebels.

“We will defeat the Maoists as we have defeated the Naxals during the 1970s. The people of West Midnapore have stood … Original source on Gaea Times at : Trinamool helping Maoists: Buddhadeb.

Bihar legislator kidnapped by Maoists

PATNA – A Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) legislator was Saturday abducted by alleged Maoists while campaigning in Bihar’s Aurangabad district, police said.

Mohd Nehaluddin, who represented Rafiganj in the outgoing assembly and contesting the October-November poll, was kidnapped from Laltenganj village.
A search operation has been launched to rescue Nehaluddin, police said.
Aurangabad is one … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bihar legislator kidnapped by Maoists.

Linda Norgrove Lost her Life During her Rescue Attempt from Afghanistan

LONDON, ENGLAND (GaeaTimes.com) — Linda Norgrove, a British worker lost her life while she was being rescued from a hostage in Afghanistan on Friday night.
Linda Norgrove was held by two Talibans according to an Afghanistan intelligence. She was kidnapped last month on 26 September.
Foreign Secretary William Hague said that the officials have tried their … Original article on : Linda Norgrove Lost her Life During her Rescue Attempt from Afghanistan.

Afghanistan News: Roadside Bombing killed four Italian soldiers, injured one

A car carrying Italian soldiers was blown up by a bomb explosion in Afghanistan today. The explosion left one soldier injured while taking the life of four others.
Italian Minister of Defence Ignazio La Russa said, the soldiers were attacked near Farah in western Afghanistan while escorting a convoy of civilian trucks.
Europe was threatened of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Afghanistan News: Roadside Bombing killed four Italian soldiers, injured one.

Brian Dorian Charged With First Degree Murder

LYNWOOD (Gaea Times.com)- Brian Dorian, a police officer, who was on off duty, was arrested on Friday on charges of committing First degree murder. The officer was on one year’s medical leave owing to a shoulder injury and is accused of having killed a man and wounding two others. Brian Dorian, 37 is …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brian Dorian Charged With First Degree Murder.

State Bank Of India Employee Nabbed By CBI

AHMEDABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- In a shocking development the Central Bureau of Investigation arrested Tulsi P. Ladani who is the employee of State Bank of India’s Kutiyana Branch at Porbandar for misappropriation of funds. The Bank assistant allegedly was involved in a scam worth INR 5.24 crore. Owing to his misappropriation almost 259 savings …. Original source  : State Bank Of India Employee Nabbed By CBI.

ISI not supporting Taliban, claims Musharraf

WASHINGTON – Former Pakistani president Pervez Musharraf has termed it as a “misunderstanding” that the Pakistani intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), continues to give sustenance and support to the Taliban.

“I take very strong exception to these statements which have been going on maybe since 2004 because of a misunderstanding of ground realities,” Musharraf told … Read more >>.

Two Indians die in Afghanistan terror attack

ISLAMABAD – Two Indians were killed in a missile attack launched by the Taliban on an Indian NGO’s office in Afghanistan’s Kunar province, a media report said Monday.

Qari Omar Haqqani, a spokesperson for the Afghan Taliban, told reporters from an undisclosed location that the rebels had attacked the office of the Indian NGO with …. Read the original article  : Two Indians die in Afghanistan terror attack.

Chhattisgarh Maoists surrender but rarely with weapons

RAIPUR – In the last six years, not a single Maoist in Chhattisgarh has surrendered with a light machine gun (LMG) or an AK-47 assault rifle, though over 2,600 rebels have given up violence during the period, say police.

Police estimate that about 10,000 Maoists armed with LMGs and AK-47 rifles are active in the …. Original article  : Chhattisgarh Maoists surrender but rarely with weapons.

Unofficial talks going on with Taliban: Karzai

WASHINGTON – Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has said unofficial negotiations are taking place with the Taliban, who are like “kids who have run away from the family”.

Karzai said the formation of a peace council would help continue the talks “officially and more rigorously”.
“We have been talking to the Taliban as countryman to countryman, … Read : Unofficial talks going on with Taliban: Karzai.

CPI-M ‘reclaims’ Lalgarh after one-and-a-half years

KOLKATA – One-and-a half years after being ousted from Lalgarh in West Bengal by the Maoists and their supporters, thousands of Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) supporters Sunday marched into the area amid tight security and “reclaimed” the area.

Holding party flags, an estimated 12,000 cadres, including women, led by CPI-M zonal committee secretary of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : CPI-M ‘reclaims’ Lalgarh after one-and-a-half years.

Linda Norgrove Killed

KABUL (GaeaTimes.com)- Foreign Secretary William Hague announced yesterday that a British aid worker Linda Norgrove, 36, who was abducted in north eastern Afghanistan two weeks ago was killed in attempted rescue mission by NATO troops. The unfortunate incident happened on Friday during the rescue effort. Linda Norgrove was kidnapped on September 26 in the …. Read the original article  : Linda Norgrove Killed.

Nepal Maoist army denies training Indian peers

KATHMANDU – The guerrilla army of Nepal’s opposition Maoist party Tuesday denied a report in the Indian media that had claimed that “hundreds” of Indian Maoists were being trained in Nepal.

Nanda Kishore Pun, who led the Maoists’ “People’s Liberation Army” (PLA) into a 10-year war against the government before his party signed a peace … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal Maoist army denies training Indian peers.

Chhattisgarh to step up Maoist offensive

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh has decided to step up the offensive against Maoist guerrillas.

The offensive against the banned Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) had slackened since July as the security forces found it difficult to operate in the thick jungles that serve as Maoist hideouts.
“After a let up during monsoon, we will now step …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chhattisgarh to step up Maoist offensive.

Militants bomb girls school in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Unidentified militants bombed a girls school Tuesday morning in Pakistan’s Mohmand tribal region bordering Afghanistan, a media report said.

The number of schools destroyed by militants in the region has risen to 57 so far, Xinhua reported.
Two girls schools and a boys school were destroyed in blasts Sunday morning.
Over 200 schools …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rs.20 mn for security at shrines in Pakistan province

ISLAMABAD – A sum of Rs.20 million has been allocated for bolstering security at the shrines spread across Pakistan’s Sindh province. The move comes after a terror attack on a shrine in provincial capital Karachi left seven people dead.

Abdul Haseeb, a provincial minister, said that Rs.20 million have been earmarked in the current development …. Source article  : Rs.20 mn for security at shrines in Pakistan province.

Afghan Taliban occupy abandoned checkposts

ISLAMABAD – The Afghan Taliban have taken control of several key checkposts close to the Pakistan border after the coalition forces abandoned them, a media report said Tuesday.

The News International reported that Afghan Taliban guerrillas occupied the strategically important border checkpoints at Ghakhi Pass soon after the NATO forces and the Afghan National Army …. Source  : Afghan Taliban occupy abandoned checkposts.

Pakistani Taliban resort to kidnapping to raise money

ISLAMABAD – Taliban guerrillas in Pakistan are resorting to kidnapping to raise money and they are now hunting for high-value targets, a media report said Monday.

Daily Times reported that Taliban have changed their strategy in the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and have adopted a new approach of abduction for ransom.
The Taliban were now … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistani Taliban resort to kidnapping to raise money.

Two Indians killed in Afghan missile attack

ISLAMABAD – Two Indians were killed in a missile attack launched by the Taliban on an Indian NGO’s office situated near a US airbase in Afghanistan’s Kunar province, a media report said Monday.

Qari Omar Haqqani, a spokesperson for the Afghan Taliban, told reporters from an undisclosed location that the outfit had attacked the office … Read more >>.

Five family members killed in blast in Afghanistan

KABUL – A couple and three of their children were killed when a roadside bomb struck their vehicle in southeastern Afghanistan, a government spokesman said Monday.

The explosion occurred Sunday in the Zurmat district of Paktia province, Rohullah Samoon, spokesman for the provincial governor, said.
“The couple, one daughter and two of their sons were … Read : Five family members killed in blast in Afghanistan.

Poster girl of Taliban oppression gets new nose

LONDON – The young Afghan woman whose nose was chopped off by her husband and who later went on to become the poster girl of Taliban oppression has now got a new nose, thanks to surgery in the US, it was reported here.

The photograph of 19-year-old Aisha without a nose sparked an outpouring of … Read more : Poster girl of Taliban oppression gets new nose.

Zahra Clare Baker Case: A Homicide?

HICKORY (GaeaTimes.com)- The police has been searching for a North Carolina girl Zahra Clare Baker, who disappeared last Saturday. What seemed to be a normal case of a missing girl has turned into an investigation of homicide, Hickory Police Chief Tom Adkins announced Tuesday. The Police Chief also said that Elisa Baker, the disabled … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Zahra Clare Baker Case: A Homicide?.

Al-Qaeda English language magazine published

Rome, Oct 13 (IANS/AKI) Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula has posted the second issue of its English-language magazine “Inspire” to jihadist forums, US intelligence website SITE reports.

The 74-page issue with a Oct 11 dateline features two articles by radical American-Yemen cleric Anwar al-Awlaki. There is also an article by Samir Khan, an American from … Read more »»».

Maoists kill CPI-M leader in Bengal

KOLKATA – Maoist guerrillas Wednesday shot dead a Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) leader in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said.

(CPI-M leader) Tapan Dolui was shot dead from a point blank range by Maoists while he was ploughing his agricultural land adjacent to his village in Jhargram sub-division, West Midnapore Police Superintendent Manoj …. Source article  : Maoists kill CPI-M leader in Bengal.

Maoists gun down two Chhattisgarh cops

RAIPUR – Maoist guerrillas Tuesday gunned down two policemen in Chhattisgarhs restive Bastar region, officials said.

The killings took place in Pamer area in Bijapur district, about 500 km south of here.
A group of about 20 armed Maoists sprayed bullets on the two constables, identified as Ritesh and Rajendra, when they had gone out … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maoists gun down two Chhattisgarh cops.

Two Manipur militants arrested in Guwahati

GUWAHATI – Two militants of the outlawed United National Liberation Front (UNLF) of Manipur were arrested Tuesday from a rented accommodation in Assam’s main city of Guwahati, officials said.

A police spokesperson said the two UNLF militants, Jai Singh and Ashok Singh, were arrested from Guwahatis Panbazar area.
“Based on specific inputs about the presence …. Source article  : Two Manipur militants arrested in Guwahati.

BKI terrorist Jagtar Hawara’s death sentence commuted to life

CHANDIGARH – The Punjab and Haryana High Court Tuesday commuted to a life term the death sentence awarded to notorious Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist Jagtar Singh Hawara.

Hawara was a mastermind of the assassination of then Punjab chief minister Beant Singh at the high-security state secretariat complex here Aug 31, 1995.
The high court, … Read more : BKI terrorist Jagtar Hawara’s death sentence commuted to life.

Security up on Chhattisgarh-Orissa border

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh has heightened security along with Orissa’s border following reports that Maoists were ordering the locals to join the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist).

Extra forces have been rushed to Mahasamund and Raipur districts, a senior official at police headquarters told IANS.
Mahasamund and Raipur were considered largely untouched by Maoists. But …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Security up on Chhattisgarh-Orissa border.

Pakistani-origin terror suspect freed in Canada

TORONTO – A Canadian court in Ottawa Wednesday freed on bail a Pakistani-origin doctor who was arrested in August for his links to an al-Qaeda-linked terror plot.

Khurram Syed Sher, a 28-year-old Pakistani-origin doctor who took part in the Canadian Idol contest in 2008, was arrested along with two other suspects under ‘Project Samosa’ by …. Original article  : Pakistani-origin terror suspect freed in Canada.

Pakistanis held for collecting terror funds in Thailand

Bangkok, Oct 14 (IANS/AKI) Fifteen Pakistanis suspected of collecting funds earmarked for use by terrorist organisations in their homeland have been arrested in Thailand, police said Wednesday.

Police were tipped off to the activity by a bank in the southern Yala province after the suspects tried to wire funds to a person in Pakistan whose …. Read the original article  : here.

NATO-led forces to remain in Afghanistan another year

NEW YORK – The UN Security Council decided Wednesday to extend the mandate of NATO-led military forces in Afghanistan another 12 months so they can continue work on strengthening Afghan security.

The mandate of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) was extended until Oct 13, 2011. ISAF’s 120,000 troops are mostly from NATO and the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Congenial environment for peace talks yet to be created’

GUWAHATI – Jailed chairman of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) Arabinda Rajkhowa said here Wednesday that a congenial environment for beginning formal peace talks with the government was yet to be created.

I would say the atmosphere for peace talks has not yet been created since we are still in jail. But … Original article on : ‘Congenial environment for peace talks yet to be created’.

Jaya TV gets threat call, Jayalalithaa warned

CHENNAI – Tamil television channel Jaya TV Wednesday said it received a threatening call, warning of an attack if it aired news against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). It also asked AIADMK general secretary J.Jayalalithaa not to address a rally in Madurai Oct 18.

Jaya TV, run by close associates of Jayalalithaa, … Original article on : Jaya TV gets threat call, Jayalalithaa warned.

New York prepares for Mumbai-style attack

NEW YORK – With US officials proclaiming an alleged European terror plot still active, New York City police conducted a drill that simulated a Mumbai-style attack on civilians on a crowded street in Manhattan’s financial district.

The drill Thursday simulated an attack in lower Manhattan’s financial district, near Wall Street and Ground Zero, on a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New York prepares for Mumbai-style attack.

US pressing Pakistan ‘very hard’ to go after Taliban

WASHINGTON – The United States says it is pressing Pakistan “very hard” to go after Taliban segments connected with Al Qaeda crossing into Afghanistan as they pose a threat to nations around the world.

“And we’re going to keep pressing because we think there’s no way to divide this threat,”Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said … Original source on Gaea Times at : US pressing Pakistan ‘very hard’ to go after Taliban.

NATO to ‘facilitate’ Afghan dialogue with Taliban

BRUSSELS – NATO troops are ready to help the Afghan government reach out to former Taliban combatants, the Western military alliance’s chief confirmed Thursday.

Speaking after a meeting in Brussels of NATO defence and foreign ministers, Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen insisted that the “reconciliation process is Afghan-led”.
“Our position is that if we can … Original source on Gaea Times at : NATO to ‘facilitate’ Afghan dialogue with Taliban.

Four Maoists held in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Four armed Maoists were arrested in Chhattisgarh Thursday after a brief gun battle with the police in restive Bastar region, officials said.

A strong contingent of heavily armed police personnel raided a forested hideout of Maoists in Bijapur district and opened fire on rebels who retaliated, Superintendent of Police R.N. Das told reporters.
…. Original source  : Four Maoists held in Chhattisgarh.

Karzai pardons Pakistani would-be suicide bomber

KABUL – Afghan President Hamid Karzai pardoned Thursday a Pakistani child who had been arrested by the security forces after he attempted to carry out a suicide attack in the country, the presidential palace said.

The teenage boy belonged to a poor family in Pakistan had been sent to Afghanistan by “enemies” of the country’s … Read more »»».

Al Qaeda calls for ‘lone-wolf’ attacks on US

WASHINGTON – A gunman on a shooting spree in a restaurant or a single man unit placing a bomb in a crowded place, an Al Qaeda-affiliated online journal is pushing would-be terrorists to launch ‘lone-wolf’ attacks on the US instead of travelling abroad to join extremist groups.

According to a Washington Times report, the … Original article on : Al Qaeda calls for ‘lone-wolf’ attacks on US.

Pakistan foils plot to assassinate prime minister

ISLAMABAD – Police Thursday claimed to have foiled a plot to kill Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani and to have arrested seven suspects.

The law enforcement agencies came to know about the purported plan during the interrogation of a group of alleged militants arrested Wednesday after a shoot-out in Ahmadpur Sharqia near Bahawalpur district …. Read the original article  : here.

US checking report if FBI ignored tip on Headley

NEW DELHI – The US Saturday said it was looking into a media report that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had a tip about David Coleman Headley’s links with a terror group in Pakistan three years before terrorists struck Mumbai in 2008.

“We are looking into published reports about possible information related to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US checking report if FBI ignored tip on Headley.

Eight killed by US drones in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least eight militants were killed in two US drone attacks in Pakistan’s northwestern tribal area, a media report said Saturday.

A Friday attack targeted a militant compound in Mir Ali town of North Waziristan region, a hub of Taliban and Al Qaeda-linked militants, Geo TV reported.
“A US drone fired … Read more »».

Maoists release three abducted officials

RAIPUR – Three government officials taken hostage by Maoists from a passenger bus were released after 24 hours in a forested pocket of Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region, a senior official said Saturday.

Maoists released the three government officials in a remote area of Bijapur district last (Friday) night. The officials were taken hostage from a … Original article on : Maoists release three abducted officials.

Before Mumbai attacks, wife warned of Headley’s terror ties in Pakistan

WASHINGTON – Three years before Pakistani terrorists struck Mumbai in 2008, federal agents in New York City investigated a tip that David Coleman Headley was training in Pakistan with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), according to an investigative report.

The previously undisclosed allegations against Pakistani American Headley, who has confessed to his role in the plot that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

NATO allowed Taliban commander into Kabul

LONDON – NATO-led forces facilitated the passage of a senior Taliban commander to Kabul to hold talks with the Afghan government, a media report said Friday.

US General David Petraeus, commander of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), said the move was part of the US and NATO support for President Hamid Karzai’s reconciliation discussions …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NATO allowed Taliban commander into Kabul.

Pakistan Taliban kill five soldiers

ISLAMABAD – Taliban militants killed five soldiers Friday at a checkpost in Pakistan’s South Waziristan region, hours after a rebel commander was killed in a US drone attack, Xinhua reported.

The checkpost is located in the Sararogha area. The security forces have launched a counter attack.
The attack came just hours after a US …. Original source  : Pakistan Taliban kill five soldiers.

UN doubts Nepal will meet deadline on Maoist guerrillas

KATHMANDU – A top UN envoy who visited Nepal earlier this month to assess the republic’s halted peace process has expressed doubts if the political parties can decide the fate of the Maoist guerrilla army by mid-January, after which the UN agency supervising it will exit Nepal.

B. Lynn Pascoe, UN undersecretary-general for political affairs, …. Source  : UN doubts Nepal will meet deadline on Maoist guerrillas.

Two Bangalore blast suspects sent to jail

BANGALORE – Two more suspects in the 2008 serial blasts in Bangalore, arrested Friday, were sent to jail till Oct 25 by a court here, police said Sunday.

The two – Umar Farooq and Ibrahim Moulavi – were brought to Bangalore late Saturday and were produced before the First Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Venkatesh Hulagi …. Source article  : Two Bangalore blast suspects sent to jail.

Another Headley wife also warned of his terror and India links

WASHINGTON – Less than a year before the Mumbai terrorists attacks, a second wife of David Coleman Headley warned US officials in Pakistan that she believed her husband was plotting an attack, according to the New York Times. She also told them he was passionately anti-Indian yet travelled to India all the time but …. Source  : Another Headley wife also warned of his terror and India links.

Yemen puts $100,000 reward for eight Al Qaida men

SANAA – Yemen’s interior ministry has offered a reward of $100,000 for providing information about eight militants linked to Al Qaida, state media reported.

According to official Saba news agency, the ministry has announced the name of the all eight wanted terrorists and sought help from people to arrest them, Xinhua reported.
Meanwhile, the ministry … Original source on Gaea Times at : Yemen puts $100,000 reward for eight Al Qaida men.

Two LeT militants killed in Kashmir

JAMMU – Two militants of Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were killed in a gunfight Saturday with a joint army and police team in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri area, police said.

Police said the operation had started early Saturday morning and lasted for several hours.
“Two Pakistani terrorists of the LeT were killed in …. Source  : Two LeT militants killed in Kashmir.

Explosives recovered from Ranchi’s outskirts

RANCHI – Explosives were recovered from Maoist hideouts on the outskirts of Ranchi Saturday, police said.

According to police, the explosives were recovered during anti-Maoist operations in the jungle area of Bundu, around 45 Km from Ranchi. Two gunny bags full of gelatin sticks, live wires and other explosives were recovered during the operation.
Bundu …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Britain must ban burqa to beat terrorism’

LONDON – Britain must ban the burqa if it wants to win the battle against Islamic extremism, an ally of French President Nicolas Sarkozy has said.

Jacques Myard, a senior ally of Sarkozy, said relaxed British policies “opened the door to terrorism”, express.co.uk reported Saturday.
Britain is “losing the battle against Islamic extremism” by failing … Read more >>>.

‘Pakistan should resist US call for North Waziristan operation’

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s political and military leadership must rebuff the US demand for an operation against militants in North Waziristan, a Pakistani paper said Saturday, terming it an “American ploy to drag the country into the Afghan war”.

“For more than a year, America has been quietly urging us to take action in …. Original source  : ‘Pakistan should resist US call for North Waziristan operation’.

Over 4,000 ex-LTTE rebels rehabilitated in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO – Over 4,000 former Tamil rebels in Sri Lanka have been rehabilitated and reintegrated in the society, officials said Saturday.

“We have rehabilitated over 4,000 former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels and sent them back to their families. Six thousand more are to be rehabilitated,” Xinhua quoted commissioner general of Rehabilitation Brigadier …. Source article  : Over 4,000 ex-LTTE rebels rehabilitated in Sri Lanka.

Two more suspects in Bangalore blast case held

BANGALORE – Two more suspects in the 2008 serial blasts in Bangalore have been arrested, a senior police official said Saturday.

One of the suspects was identified as Umar Farooq and the other as Ibrahim Moulavi.
“Umar was held in Ajmer in Rajasthan and Ibrahim in Kasargod in Kerala,” Bangalore Police Commissioner Shankar Bidari told …. Original article  : Two more suspects in Bangalore blast case held.

Report on police firing after Mecca Masjid blast submitted

HYDERABAD – The Justice Bhaskar Rao Commission submitted to the Andhra Pradesh government here Saturday its report on the police firing after a bomb blast at the historic Mecca Masjid in 2007.

Justice V. Bhaskar Rao met Chief Minister K. Rosaiah at his camp office here and handed over the report.
The contents of the … Read : Report on police firing after Mecca Masjid blast submitted.

US drones kill 10 in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Two suspected US drone strikes in Pakistan’s tribal region along the Afghan border have claimed 10 lives, security officials said Saturday.

Unmanned drone aircraft fired six missiles into two suspected militant hideouts in Meer Ali area of North Waziristan tribal district, a known hotbed of fighters allegedly linked to Taliban and Al Qaeda.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US drones kill 10 in Pakistan.

India and Germany ink cultural accord, push UN reforms

NEW DELHI – India and Germany Monday imparted fresh momentum to their joint efforts for expansion of the UN Security Council and discussed ways to deepen counter-terror cooperation.

External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna held talks with his German counterpart Guido Westerwelle that focused on UN reforms, enhanced counter-terror cooperation, climate change and the intensification …. Source article  : India and Germany ink cultural accord, push UN reforms.

Two Maoists arrested after gunfight in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Two Maoist guerrillas were arrested after a gunbattle in Jharkhand’s Palamau district Monday, police said.

The gun battle between police and Jharkhand Prastuti Committee (JPC), a Maoist front, took place near Chaudhasa village in Palamau, around 180 km from Ranchi.
JPC leader Girivar Chaudhary and another Maoist rebel, Vijay, were arrested. Two … Original article on : Two Maoists arrested after gunfight in Jharkhand.

Bomb explosions rock Iraq

BAGHDAD – A series of bomb explosions followed by gunfire rocked this Iraqi capital Sunday, an official said.

At least six bomb explosions went off successively at about 2 p.m. (1100 GMT) in Baghdad’s western neighbourhood of Mansour where sporadic heavy gunfire was heard, Xinhua reported.
An Iraqi interior ministry source confirmed the attacks but … Read more »»».

Two Taliban commanders killed in Afghanistan

KABUL – Two Taliban commanders were killed during an operation by security forces against the militants in Afghanistan’s Kandahar province, Xinhua reported.

“The operation covered two villages in Jalai district Saturday during which two commanders of insurgents were killed,” an official statement said.
Taliban militants have yet to comment.
Kandahar has been the scene …. Read the original article  : Two Taliban commanders killed in Afghanistan.

‘Taliban cannot be defeated militarily’

MELBOURNE – A top Australian combat soldier in Afghanistan has warned that the Taliban militants cannot be defeated by military means and called for a fundamental change in strategy, a media report said Sunday.

Brigadier Mark Smethurst says securing Afghanistan could take decades, but success is uncertain without a fundamental change in strategy, The Age …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Taliban cannot be defeated militarily’.

Taliban trainer of suicide bombers still alive

ISLAMABAD – The master trainer of suicide bombers and a key Taliban commander, Qari Hussain Mehsud, survived last week’s drone attack that killed five suspected terrorists in Pakistan’s northwest.

Qari was believed to have been killed in the attack. But reports from the restive South Waziristan, bordering the Afghan border, suggest he is still alive. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Taliban trainer of suicide bombers still alive.

Another Headley wife warned of his terror links

WASHINGTON – Less than a year before the November 2008 Mumbai terror mayhem, a second wife of David Coleman Headley warned US officials in Pakistan that she believed her husband was plotting an attack, but she appeared not to have been taken seriously, the New York Times said.

Headley’s wife, a young Moroccan woman, had …. Read the original article  : Another Headley wife warned of his terror links.

Kashmir guerrilla holed up in mosque dies

SRINAGAR – The stand off between security forces and an guerrilla holed up in a mosque in the Kashmir Valley ended Tuesday morning after the gunman succumbed to injuries, police said.

The security forces removed the cordon around the mosque in Dabban village in Bandipora district after the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) member died.
The mosque …. Source article  : Kashmir guerrilla holed up in mosque dies.

Pakistan’s ISI involved in Mumbai terror attack

LONDON – Pakistan’s Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) was heavily involved in the 2008 Mumbai attack and the spy agency held a string of meetings with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives over the operation that killed over 160 people, classified documents reveal.

Basing its exhaustive story on classified Indian government documents, the Guardian reported that the Pakistani … Read : Pakistan’s ISI involved in Mumbai terror attack.

Maoist squad leader held in West Bengal

KOLKATA – A Maoist squad leader has been arrested from West Midnapore district of West Bengal, police said Tuesday.

According to police, the Maoist leader was arrested Monday night. He was presented before a local court Tuesday morning.
“Subhas Modi, a close aide of Sashadhar Mahato, and his wife Suchitra Mahato are top ultra Left [..] Read the original article: here.

Three dead as militants attack Chechen parliament

Grozny, Oct 19 (IANS/RIA Novosti) At least three people died and 13 were injured Tuesday morning when militants attacked parliament of Russias republic of Chechnya, authorities said.

A vehicle carrying terrorists drove in with cars carrying lawmakers. One of them blew himself up and the other two headed toward parliament, a police source told RIA [..] Read the original article: here.

Pakistan court given Times Square bomber’s friends list

ISLAMABAD – A list of friends of Faisal Shahzad, the Pakistani-American who attempted to bomb Times Square in New York in May, has been submitted to a court in Pakistan’s Rawalpindi city.

Police informed the Anti-Terrorist Court (ATC) of Judge Malik Muhammad Akram Awan that those named in the list are members of the Tehrik-e-Taliban … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan court given Times Square bomber’s friends list.

Four convicted in New York’s synagogue-bombing plot

WASHINGTON – Four men have been convicted for planting bombs outside synagogues and plotting missile attacks on military planes in New York, a media report said.

A jury of six women and five men in Federal District Court in Manhattan deliberated for eight days. They were convicted Monday, New York Times reported on its website. …. Source article  : Four convicted in New York’s synagogue-bombing plot.

Hardline Hurriyat leader may be shifted to Jammu jail

JAMMU – Hurriyat Conference leader Masarat Alam is likely to be shifted to Jammu where several other separatist leaders are lodged, an official said Tuesday, a day after the general secretary of the Geelani-led hardline group was arrested in Srinagar.

Alam — considered close to Syed Ali Geelani, chief of the hardline faction of the …. Source article  : Hardline Hurriyat leader may be shifted to Jammu jail.

US denies Headley wives’ warnings ignored

WASHINGTON – The United States has admitted that one of the wives of David Headley twice warned the US embassy in Pakistan about her husband’s terrorist links, but denied the warnings were ignored. It said there was no “specific information” in those warnings.

There was nothing specific to follow up on in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US denies Headley wives’ warnings ignored.

Maoists set road construction vehicles ablaze

RAIPUR – Dozens of armed Maoists set afire vehicles engaged in road construction in Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region Monday, officials said.

The vehicles, mainly ‘tippers’, were engaged in work on national highway 221 in Dantewada district, over 400 km south of state capital Raipur.
“Maoists stopped the road construction work near Kukanar area and … Read more : Maoists set road construction vehicles ablaze.

Kashmir mosque siege on as militant refuses to give up

SRINAGAR – The standoff between an injured guerrilla hiding in a mosque in Kashmir’s Bandipora district and the security forces continued Monday evening as a village cleric and elders failed to persuade the militant to surrender.

“The injured militant lobbed a grenade at the surrounding security men who did not retaliate in deference to the … Read more »».

Pakistan denies presence of bin Laden

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Monday rejected US media reports that Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden and his deputy, Ayman al-Zawahiri, were hiding in its northwestern region near the Afghan border.

“Stories like this keep on surfacing. Our reaction from day one to such stories is clear – he is not here,” deputy information minister Samsam …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan denies presence of bin Laden.

Bin Laden, deputy hiding in Pakistan, says NATO official

WASHINGTON – Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden and his deputy Ayman al-Zawahiri are believed to be hiding close to each other in houses in northwest Pakistan. But they are not together, according to multiple media reports citing a NATO official.

“Nobody in Al Qaeda is living in a cave,” an unnamed senior NATO …. Original article  : Bin Laden, deputy hiding in Pakistan, says NATO official.

Chandra Levy Trial Today

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- The much awaited murder trial of Federal Bureau of Prisons intern Chandra Levy will begin today. The intern suddenly disappeared on 2001 and after searching frantically, the police discovered the skeletal remains of her body in Rock Creek Park in May 2002. Previously Congressman Gary Condit was suspected for the murder, however, … Read : Chandra Levy Trial Today.

Chandra Levy Death Case: Trial Begins Monday

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — The trial of the man, charged with the murder of Washington intern Chandra Levy, begins today. The Jury selection board starts querying the convict after nine years of disappearance of Levy.
The accused is Ingmar Guandique, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador. He is convicted with the charge of rape attempt, kidnapping …. Source  : Chandra Levy Death Case: Trial Begins Monday.

Taliban warn of terror attack in the Netherlands

AMSTERDAM – The Taliban have warned of a possible terrorist attack against the Netherlands in the wake of the government’s decision to form a minority government backed by anti-Islam politician Geert Wilders, a press report Monday said.

“If the Netherlands enforce its anti-Islamic policies, it will ensure that they will be the target of an …. Read the original article  : here.

Babbar Khalsa terrorist escapes from Punjab police custody

HOSHIARPUR – A Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist, who was planning a major blast in Punjab, escaped from the custody of Punjab police here early Monday.

Police officials here confirmed that BKI terrorist Karanbir Singh escaped from the custody of the CIA (crime investigation agency) staff building here early in the morning.
Police officials …. Source article  : Babbar Khalsa terrorist escapes from Punjab police custody.

Literacy rate up in Maoist stronghold of Dantewada

RAIPUR – Dantewada, labelled as India’s worst Maoist violence-hit district, has recorded a 20 percent rise in literacy rate in the last nine years, the Chhattisgarh government said Monday claiming credit for the development.

The literacy rate in Dantewada district was 24.56 percent in 2001, but has gone up to 45.19 percent with an increase … Original article on : Literacy rate up in Maoist stronghold of Dantewada.

Anita Hill asked to Apologize by Wife of Clarence Thomas

Virginia Thomas, the wife of US Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has asked Anita Hill to apologize for her allegation of sexual harassment against her husband.
Justice Thomas was accused of sexual harassment during his confirmation hearings in 1991. Thomas denied the allegations and was confirmed.
Ms Thomas said on Tuesday that she left a voicemail …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Anita Hill asked to Apologize by Wife of Clarence Thomas.

European Union to open anti-terror centre in Bangladesh

DHAKA – The European Union (EU) will set up a counter-terrorism centre in Bangladesh in order to provide special training to police and other law enforcement officials across South Asia on how to combat terrorism.

Ambassador of EU Delegation to Bangladesh, Stefan Frowein, has announced that countries like India and Pakistan have agreed with the … Read : European Union to open anti-terror centre in Bangladesh.

US expects Pakistan to bring Mumbai attackers to justice

WASHINGTON – The United States has said it fully expects Pakistan to carry out its pledges of cooperation in bringing the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks to justice.

“Well, these are allegations we’ve heard before,” State Department spokesman Mark Toner told reporters when asked to comment on reports that some members of Pakistani … Original article on : US expects Pakistan to bring Mumbai attackers to justice.

9/11 terrorists didn’t come from Canada, US told

TORONTO – Canada has once again rebutted the charges by American politicians that 9/11 hijackers entered the US from its northern neighbour.

The rebuttal came after US Republican Senate candidate Sharron Angle last week said that her country’s “most porous” border with Canada was a cause for concern.
“What we know is that our northern … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 9/11 terrorists didn’t come from Canada, US told.

CIA cites mistakes in deadly suicide bombing

WASHINGTON – The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has concluded that it failed to fully vet a double agent who carried out an attack in Afghanistan in December and killed seven agency employees.

CIA Director Leon Panetta released a statement on the findings of a task force investigating the attack saying the agency encountered shortcomings in … Read : CIA cites mistakes in deadly suicide bombing.

US soldier in custody after Taliban prisoner’s death

KABUL – A US soldier is in custody after the death of a Taliban militant from gunshot wounds at a detention facility in Afghanistan’s restive Kandahar province, Xinhua reported Tuesday.

The victim’s body was found Sunday. He was captured Saturday in Arghandab district of the province.
The militant was held at an Afghan government facility …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US soldier in custody after Taliban prisoner’s death.

Militants torch plane in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Militants Tuesday torched a plane in Pakistan, a media report said.

The aircraft, which belonged to a private airline company, was parked at an airport in Parachinar, the headquarter of the Kurram Agency, when it was set ablaze.
The plane used to fly between Peshawar and Parachinar once a week, the Online …. Source  : Militants torch plane in Pakistan.

UN envoy survives Iraq bomb attack

BAGHDAD – UN’s top envoy to Iraq, Ad Melkert, escaped unhurt in a bomb attack on his convoy Tuesday, Xinhua reported.

The attack took place when he was enroute to Baghdad after meeting Shia cleric Ali al-Sistani in southern Najaf city, 160 km south of the capital, an official said requesting anonymity. One policeman … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : UN envoy survives Iraq bomb attack.

CRPF to stay in Bengal till Maoists flushed out: Vijay Kumar

KOLKATA – The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel deployed in the Maoist-affected districts of West Bengal will not be withdrawn till the rebels are flushed out, CRPF Director General K. Vijay Kumar said Tuesday.

Vijay Kumar also said that he had not received any complaints about the state’s ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) …. Source article  : CRPF to stay in Bengal till Maoists flushed out: Vijay Kumar.

Mamata again seeks joint forces out of Maoist-hit areas

KOLKATA – Apparently annoyed with the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Tuesday said her party would continue to demand withdrawal of the joint security forces from West Bengal’s Maoist-affected districts.

A visibly angry Banerjee said she had repeatedly brought to the notice of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, [..] Read the original article: here.

Government funds used to aid Assam terror group: NIA

NEW DELHI – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) Tuesday filed charges in an Assam court against 16 people, including politicians and government servants, for allegedly channelising crores of rupees of developmental funds to a terrorist gang to procure arms.

A charge sheet submitted to the chief judicial magistrate at a special court in Guwahati …. Original article  : Government funds used to aid Assam terror group: NIA.

CRPF will not be withdrawn from West Bengal: Vijay Kumar

KOLKATA – Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel deployed in the Maoist-affected districts of West Bengal will not be withdrawn, CRPF director general K. Vijay Kumar said Tuesday.

“There is no question of withdrawing the forces. The personnel are working independently and will continue to work in this manner,” said Kumar.
Kumar’s comments came a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Delhi was target after ISI-aided Mumbai attack, says Headley (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI/LONDON – Pakistani-American terror suspect David Headley has told Indian investigators that he had scouted Delhi for potential strike targets, including the prime minister’s residence and key defence complexes, four months after the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in which Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) had a major role to play.

Headley, who has confessed his [..] Read the original article: here.

10 killed in Iraq bomb attack

BAGHDAD – At least 10 people were killed Tuesday when a bomb exploded in the house of a police officer in Iraq, Xinhua reported.

Eight bodies were retrieved and two more were still under the debris of the house which collapsed after the bomb explosion in Tikrit, the capital city of Salahudin province, a …. Source article  : 10 killed in Iraq bomb attack.

Maoists fire at passenger bus in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoist militants Tuesday evening opened fire at a passenger bus in a forested stretch of Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region, officials said.

“Maoists fired at a bus at Awapalli in Bijapur district when it was on way to Usur from the district headquarters of Bijapur town,” a source at the police headquarters here told …. Original source  : Maoists fire at passenger bus in Chhattisgarh.

It could have been Delhi after Mumbai, Headley admits

NEW DELHI – Pakistani American terror suspect David Headley has told Indian investigators that he had scouted Delhi just four months after the 26/11 Mumbai attack and surveyed potential targets, including the prime minister’s residence and key defence complexes.

Headley, who has confessed his role in plotting the 2008 Mumbai attack with Lashkar-e-Taiba leaders and … Original article on : It could have been Delhi after Mumbai, Headley admits.

It was Delhi after Mumbai, Headley tells investigators

NEW DELHI – Pakistani American terror suspect David Headley has told Indian investigators that he had scouted Delhi for another strike at potential targets, including the prime minister’s residence and key defence complexes.

Headley, who has confessed his role in plotting the 2008 Mumbai attack with Lashkar-e-Taiba leaders and was arrested last year in …. Original article  : It was Delhi after Mumbai, Headley tells investigators.

Three killed in militant attack on Chechen parliament

Grozny, Oct 19 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Three people were killed and 17 injured Tuesday morning when militants attacked the parliament of Russia’s republic of Chechnya, authorities said.

“At around 8.45 a.m. three militants opened fire at parliamentary security guards,” Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov said, adding that two police officers and a parliamentary administrative manager were killed.
… Original article on : Three killed in militant attack on Chechen parliament.

Kasab spits on video camera, wants to go to US

MUMBAI – Pakistani terrorist Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab, caught alive during the 26/11 Mumbai mayhem, Tuesday spat on the video-conferencing camera in the Arthur Road Central Jail from where he ‘attends’ the proceedings in the Mumbai High Court where arguments on confirming his death sentence are going on.

Though the jail officials discreetly switched … Read more : Kasab spits on video camera, wants to go to US.

ISI involved in Mumbai terror attack, says Headley

LONDON – Pakistan’s Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) was heavily involved in the Mumbai attack and held meetings with terrorist leaders over the operation that killed more than 160 people, Pakistani American David Headley has told Indian interrogators.

The stunning revelations were made by Headley at the Metropolitan Correction Centre in Chicago when he met officials … Read more »»».

Man who tried selling arms to LTTE convicted in US

WASHINGTON – A Singapore man who tried to sell arms to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has been convicted by a court in the US.

A Baltimore federal court jury Monday convicted Balraj Naidu, 48, for attempting to sell the weapons to the Tamil Tigers. Four co-conspirators pleaded guilty in the case, said …. Source article  : Man who tried selling arms to LTTE convicted in US.

India isn’t a threat to Pakistan, US tells Islamabad

WASHINGTON – The US Wednesday reiterated it has clearly told Islamabad that “existential threat to Pakistan is not India; the existential threat to Pakistan involves extremism within its own borders”.

It also said that Pakistan, India and Iran can play a “constructive role” in a regional solution to Afghanistan.
“We have made no secret … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India isn’t a threat to Pakistan, US tells Islamabad.

Mamata focuses on Maoist-hit areas ahead of assembly poll

KOLKATA – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Wednesday said that her party plans to undertake a trust building exercise in West Bengal’s Maoist-affected areas ahead of next year’s assembly election.

She said the party also planned to divide the state into three zones to smoothly carry out ground work ahead of the … Read more »».

India had only non-specific information on 26/11: Krishna

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Wednesday said India had received only “general and non-specific” information prior to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

“Well, we had some general and non-specific information which we had received prior to the heinous Mumbai attack. But it was not so specific. It was by and large general,” [..] Read the original article: here.

Kasab judicial panel: India asks Pakistan to clarify terms

NEW DELHI – India Wednesday asked Pakistan for details of the judicial commission it plans to send here to verify statements of officials who recorded the confessional of Ajmal Amir Kasab, the 26/11 terror convict, and ruled out their cross-examination.

“India has sought clarifications from the Pakistan side on, inter alia, the law under which … Read more »»».

Kasab absent for court proceedings Wednesday

MUMBAI – Pakistani terrorist Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab Wednesday remained absent for the proceedings of the Bombay High Court where arguments on confirming his death sentence are going on. He attended the first two days of the proceeding via video-camera in the Arthur Road Central Jail here.

“The court has allowed him to decide whether … Original article on : Kasab absent for court proceedings Wednesday.

Australian PM slams union leader for saying 9/11 a US plot

MELBOURNE – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard Wednesday dismissed as “stupid and wrong” a trade union leader’s remarks that the Sep 11, 2001 terror attacks in the US were a conspiracy.

Kevin Bracken, the secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia and Victorian Trades Hall Council (VTHC) president, Wednesday asked for a fresh inquiry into …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Australian PM slams union leader for saying 9/11 a US plot.

Taliban helped Times Square bomber, Pakistan court told

ISLAMABAD – Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) had extended financial support to Faisal Shahzad, the Pakistani-American who attempted to bomb Times Square in New York in May, a court was informed.

The revelation has been made by Islamabad police in their investigation report following the arrest of three suspects – Hunbal Akhtar, Muhammad Shoaib Mughal and …. Original article  : Taliban helped Times Square bomber, Pakistan court told.

Chechnya’s Parliament Attacked

GROZNY, RUSSIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The parliament in the trouble-torn Russian republic of Chechnya was witness to a bloody battle today when it was stormed by around four militants on early Monday morning. The situation was brought under control after an intense gun battle between the militants and the security forces ensued leading to the death … Read more : Chechnya’s Parliament Attacked.

Russell Williams’s Sordid Past Unveiled

OTTAWA, CANADA (GaeaTimes.com)- An Air force pilot and colonel who once was given the responsibility of flying none other than Queen Elizabeth in Canada has been found guilty of rape, sexual assaults and murders. The development has left the army of Canada red faced and the former pilot Russell Williams has pleaded guilty in … Read more >>>.

Roseville Galleria Fire Severely Damages Mall

ROSEVILLE, CALIFORNIA (Gaea Times.com) Roseville Galleria Mall, located in Roseville, California, was heavily damaged on Wednesday, when a retail store inside the mall was set on fire. An armed man, Alexander Piggee had reportedly entered the store at about 10:30 am and claimed that he had a gun, he asked the people to go … Original article on : Roseville Galleria Fire Severely Damages Mall.

Jammu and Kashmir fears terror strike on eve of Obama trip

JAMMU – Fearing a major terror attack ahead of US President Barack Obama’s visit to India early next month, a security strategy will be chalked out in Jammu and Kashmir, an official said.

The Unified Command, which is the state’s highest decision making agency on security, will meet in the next couple of days to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jammu and Kashmir fears terror strike on eve of Obama trip.

Roadside bomb kills six Pakistani troops

ISLAMABAD – A roadside bomb hit a paramilitary vehicle in Pakistan’s restive tribal region along the Afghan border Friday, killing one senior officer and five soldiers, a security official said.

Three more troopers of the paramilitary Frontier Corps were injured in the bombing, which took place in Orakzai, a known hotbed of Taliban and Al …. Original article  : Roadside bomb kills six Pakistani troops.

Maoist nabbed from West Bengal forest

KOLKATA – A Maoist leader wanted in nine murder cases has been arrested in West Bengal’s Bankura district, police said Friday.

“Acting on a tip-off, security personnel late Thursday raided Paradihi forest in Bankura district and arrested Haren Singh Sardar,” a police official said.
“Haren was wanted in at least 21 cases, including nine murder … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoist nabbed from West Bengal forest.

US warns Pakistan to fight Taliban or lose funding: WSJ

WASHINGTON – The United States has warned Pakistani leaders that continued inaction against Taliban and Al Qaeda havens bordering Afghanistan could jeopardise some large US cash payouts to Islamabad, the Wall Street Journal said in a report.

The warnings from Obama administration officials have raised the stakes in their ongoing strategic dialogue here after months …. Original article  : US warns Pakistan to fight Taliban or lose funding: WSJ.

Yemen arrests five Pakistanis for promoting Al Qaeda

SANAA – Five Pakistanis were arrested in Yemen Thursday for disseminating Al Qaeda ideology and inciting people to kill non-Muslims, Xinhua reported.

The accused, aged between 27 and 65, were arrested in the Yemeni capital, the interior ministry said on its website.
Five Yemenis were also held for helping the Pakistanis. Police …. Source article  : Yemen arrests five Pakistanis for promoting Al Qaeda.

Maoists kill ex-village head for corruption

RAIPUR – A former village head abducted two days ago was executed by Maoists Thursday in front of villagers in Chhattisgarh after being charged with financial irregularities, officials said.

Gulab Singh was kidnapped Tuesday from Narayanpur district in Bastar region. On Thursday, the Maoists convened a ‘jan adalat’ or people’s court where dozens of locals … Read more : Maoists kill ex-village head for corruption.

Maoist posters found in Bengal town

KOLKATA – Maoist posters were found in West Bengal’s troubled West Midnapore district Thursday, police said.

Several Maoist posters were found from various areas of Jhargram town. The posters appealed to the lower rank police personnel and the central paramilitary troopers not to follow the diktats of the ruling Marxists, a police officer said.
“Be … Read more >>>.

Gunfight outside Srinagar ends, two militants killed (Roundup)

SRINAGAR – The over 10-hour-long gunfight between three guerrillas of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) outfit and security forces in a village on the outskirts of Srinagar ended Thursday evening with two militants being shot dead and the third caught alive, police said.

“Two militants including a commander of the Jaish outfit have been killed in the Malura encounter …. Source article  : Gunfight outside Srinagar ends, two militants killed (Roundup).

Kashmir gunfight: Third militant caught alive

SRINAGAR – The third Jaish-e-Mohammed militant, involved in the over 10-hour long gunfight with security forces in a village on the outskirts of Srinagar Thursday, has been caught alive, police said.

The guerrilla jumped out of the besieged house in Malura village where the three were holed up and started indiscriminate firing before taking …. Original article  : Kashmir gunfight: Third militant caught alive.

Kashmir gunfight ends, two militants die

SRINAGAR – The 10-hour gunfight between two guerrillas of Jaish-e-Muhammad outfit and security forces in a village on the outskirts of Srinagar ended with both militants being shot dead, police said.
… Read more »»».

Peace interlocutor meets ULFA leaders in Guwahati jail

GUWAHATI – The deadlocked peace process between the government and the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) gathered momentum with New Delhi’s peace interlocutor P.C. Haldar Thursday holding a meeting with the top rebel leadership inside the Guwahati Central Jail.

Haldar met jailed ULFA leaders, including chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa, and discussed modalities for formal … Read more »».

Al Qaeda man linked to 9/11 had lunch at Pentagon

LONDON – An Al Qaeda leader who has been on the radar of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for his links with the Sep 11, 2001 terror strikes was invited for lunch at the Pentagon within months of the attack, a media report said.

Anwar Al-Awlaki, a US citizen on the CIA’s kill or … Read : Al Qaeda man linked to 9/11 had lunch at Pentagon.

Three Bodo militants arrested in Guwahati

GUWAHATI – Three tribal separatists of the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) were arrested Thursday in a raid by security forces from Assams main city of Guwahati, officials said.

A police spokesperson said the three NDFB militants were staying in rented accommodation for the past few weeks.
“The NDFB militants were in the … Read more : Three Bodo militants arrested in Guwahati.

Sabotage caused Gyaneshwari train mishap, probe reveals

NEW DELHI – A probe panel has confirmed that sabotage caused the May 28 mishap of the Gyaneshwari Express train that led to the deaths of 150 passengers and injuries to 157, the railway ministry said Thursday.

The probe has revealed that the accident had occurred due to tampering of track, including removal of … Read : Sabotage caused Gyaneshwari train mishap, probe reveals.

India for global cooperation to combat terror: President

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil Thursday said “the foremost threat” the world faces today was terrorism and India wanted the menace to be combated by using all the force at its command and in close cooperation with the international community.

“One of the foremost threats that the civilized world is confronted with is from … Original source on Gaea Times at : India for global cooperation to combat terror: President.

Nine dead in bomb blast inside Philippine bus

COTABATO CITY – Nine people were killed Thursday in a bombing inside a passenger bus in the southern Philippines, the military and police said.

The bus was travelling along a national highway in Matalam town in North Cotabato province, 930 km south of Manila, when the blast occurred.
Lieutenant Colonel Randolph Cabangbang, a regional military …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists abduct intelligence officer in Bengal

KOLKATA – An Intelligence Branch officer and an NGO worker were reportedly abducted by the Maoists from West Bengal’s Purulia district, police said Saturday.

An Intelligence Branch officer from Kolkata came to Purulia Friday. We were initially unaware of his visit. We came to know that he had been abducted by the Maoists and we … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoists abduct intelligence officer in Bengal.

Maoists blow up panchayat godown in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – About 30 Maoists early Saturday blew up an empty panchayat godown in Orissa’s Malkangiri district, police said.

“The rebels blew up the godown at Niliguda village using land mines,” police officer Debashis Mishra told IANS over phone.
The district of Malkangiri, some 600 km from here, is considered a Maoists stronghold.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maoists blow up panchayat godown in Orissa.

Pakistan air force pounds militant hideouts, 13 killed

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani fighter aircraft Saturday targeted alleged militants in northwestern tribal region, killing at least 13, officials said.

The airstrikes were carried out in Maomazai area of Orakzai district, one of seven tribal regions, and a known hotbed of Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters.
A security official said on the condition of anonymity that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan air force pounds militant hideouts, 13 killed.

Maoist shutdown hits life in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar

RAIPUR – Normal life continued to remain hit in Chhattisgarh’s Maoist stronghold of Bastar region Saturday, the second and final day of shutdown by rebels, as buses did not ply and shops were closed.

The shutdown has made a strong impact in five districts of Bastar – Dantewada, Bijapur, Bastar, Narayanpur and Kanker as buses … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoist shutdown hits life in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar.

Three terrorists killed, gunfight on in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Three terrorists from across the border were Saturday killed in a gunbattle with the army that continues to rage in Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district, an official said.

Three infiltrating terrorists have been killed so far in Uri sector of the Line of Control (LoC) in Baramulla,” Lieutenant Colonel J.S. Brar, spokesman of …. Read the original article  : here.

Pakistani jailed in US for helping Taliban

WASHINGTON – A 33-year-old Pakistani who came to the US on a student visa was sentenced to 15 years of imprisonment after being convicted of possessing firearms and planning to help the Taliban.

Adnan Mirza was given 15 years jail without parole for unlawfully possessing firearms and conspiring to provide material support to the extremist … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistani jailed in US for helping Taliban.

US seeks wider CIA role to fight militants in Pakistan

WASHINGTON – The US is pushing to expand the presence of its Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officers in Pakistan in order to help Islamabad target the safe havens of Al Qaeda and other militants more aggressively, a media report said.

The push comes as the White House seeks ways to prod Islamabad into more aggressive … Read more : US seeks wider CIA role to fight militants in Pakistan.

Security up in Bihar after Maoists kill six policemen

PATNA – Security was tightened in Bihar’s Sheohar district Saturday, a day after Maoist guerrillas triggered a landmine blast killing six policemen ahead of the second phase of assembly elections in the state Sunday.

“Combing operations were intensified. Security has been tightened to give sense of confidence among people a day ahead of polls following …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Security up in Bihar after Maoists kill six policemen.

Five die, 30 hurt in Peshawar mosque blast

ISLAMABAD – Five people were killed and 30 others injured Friday in a bomb attack at a mosque in Pakistan’s northwestern Peshawar city.

The blast took place when people were coming out after offering Friday prayers at the mosque in Pishta Khara area of Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
Five people were killed, … Read more >>>.

Five Bihar cops killed in landmine blast

PATNA – Five policemen, including an inspector, were killed and one seriously injured Friday when Maoists triggered a landmine blast in Bihar’s Sheohar district, where polling is due Oct 24.

The policemen were returning to the Shyampur Bhitta police station after patrolling when Maoists set off the mine, hidden beneath a culvert, as the police …. Source article  : Five Bihar cops killed in landmine blast.

India, US differ over Headley 26/11 info

NEW DELHI – India Friday reiterated that it did not get any specific information from the US over the 26/11 attacks even as Washington maintained that it has shared all the information with New Delhi.

“Before 26/11, we did not have anything more than general and non-specific information,” Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao told reporters …. Original article  : India, US differ over Headley 26/11 info.

Six Maoists nabbed from West Bengal

KOLKATA – Six ultra-left leaders and linkmen were arrested from West Bengals Maoist-affected Bankura and Purulia districts, police said Friday.

“Acting on a tip-off, security personnel late Thursday raided Paradihi forest in Bankura district and arrested Haren Sign Sardar – a member of a Maoist action squad active in Belpahari of West Midnapore district. A …. Source article  : Six Maoists nabbed from West Bengal.

Al Qaeda warns Bulgaria over involvement in Afghanistan

SOFIA – Bulgaria has made itself a target for terrorist attacks since it sent its soldiers to Iraq and Afghanistan, a representative of an Islamic extremist group said in an interview published Friday.

“Your soldiers deployed to fight in a Muslim land, so Bulgaria became a legal and legitimate target of Al Qaeda,” Sheik Abu … Read more >>>.

Three die in Peshawar mosque blast

ISLAMABAD – At least three people were killed and more than 20 injured in a blast inside a mosque situated in northwestern Pakistan’s Peshawar district Friday.

The windowpanes of the mosque in Pishta Khara area were broken after the blast that occurred when people were coming out after offering Friday prayers. It was a locally …. Original article  : Three die in Peshawar mosque blast.

Two killed in Pakistan mosque blast

ISLAMABAD – At least two people were killed and 15 were injured Friday in a blast at mosque in Peshawar.

According to Geo News, the explosives planted inside the mosque of the Pushta Khara area went off when a number of people were gathered for a traditional Friday prayer.
The explosion also shattered the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Two killed in Pakistan mosque blast.

Alexander Piggee Arrested For Roseville Mall Fire

ROSEVILLE (Gaea Times.com) Alexander Piggee has been arrested on the grounds of having set Roseville Galleria Mall on fire, on Wednesday. The 23 year old suspect was arrested from inside the mall where he took shelter after having set fire to the merchandise in a video game retail store, which quickly spread to …. Original source  : Alexander Piggee Arrested For Roseville Mall Fire.

Growing Islamic extremism in India a concern: Musharraf

WASHINGTON – Growing Islamic extremism among the youth in India is a matter of concern and New Delhi “needs to look into that”, says former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf.

The former military ruler also said that Pakistan faced threats from Al Qaeda who exist “in small numbers” in the country’s western tribal areas, the Pakistani … Read more »»».

Antinette Keller’s Body Found?

DEKALB (GaeaTimes.com)- DeKalb Police reclassified the missing Northern Illinois University Antinette Keller’s case as death investigation yesterday. Police chief Bill Feithen announced on Saturday that the human remains and items which was “consistent” with the belongings of the missing 18-year-old girl have been found in DeKalb’s Prairie Park and it prompted the police to … Read more : Antinette Keller’s Body Found?.

Voting under way in Bihar amid Maoist disruptions (Third Lead)

PATNA – Voting was under way in 45 constituencies in the second phase of Bihar assembly elections Sunday as Maoists attempted to disrupt polling in two places in Sitamarhi district, officials said.

Voting began at 7 a.m. amid tight security across the Tirhut-Mithilanchal belt.
Maoists tried to disrupt polling in two separate incidents in Runni … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Voting under way in Bihar amid Maoist disruptions (Third Lead).

UN chief condemns attack on Afghan UN office

UNITED NATIONS – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has strongly condemned the suicide attack on a UN office in Afghanistan’s Herat province.

Saturday’s attack did not disrupt UN activities in Herat and no UN staff members were hurt.
However, at least two security guards were injured in the attack, Xinhua reported citing the UN Assistance Mission …. Read the original article  : UN chief condemns attack on Afghan UN office.

Man killed by Maoists during Chhattisgarh shutdown

RAIPUR – A man was found murdered in Chhattisgarh’s Maoist stronghold of Bastar region Saturday while normal life continued to remain hit on the second and final day of a shutdown by rebels, as buses did not ply and shops were closed.

The shutdown has made a strong impact in five districts of Bastar … Original article on : Man killed by Maoists during Chhattisgarh shutdown.

NATO soldier, civilians killed in Afghanistan

KABUL – A NATO soldier and three civilians were killed in southern Afghanistan, while a journalist working for The New York Times newspaper was injured, officials said Saturday.

The soldier died following an “insurgent attack” in the volatile region Saturday, the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said in a statement. The military did not …. Original source  : NATO soldier, civilians killed in Afghanistan.

Two militants killed in Russia

Moscow, Oct 23 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Two militants were killed in a shootout in Russia’s volatile southern republic of Dagestan Saturday, police said.

“The incident occurred in the Kizilyurtovsk region of Dagestan. Police were searching for militants who earlier shot at a police officer and his brother,” the police said.
Terrorist attacks and shootouts with police …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Two militants killed in Russia.

Intelligence official abducted by Maoists in Bengal

KOLKATA – An Intelligence Branch (IB) officer and an NGO worker were abducted by the Maoists from West Bengal’s Purulia district, police said Saturday.

“Partha Biswas, an officer of IB from Kolkata, came to Purulia Friday. We were initially unaware of his visit. We came to know that he had been abducted by the Maoists …. Read the original article  : Intelligence official abducted by Maoists in Bengal.

Senior RSS leader named suspect in Ajmer blast case, denies charge

JAIPUR/NEW DELHI – Senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Indresh Kumar was present when the conspiracy to carry out a blast at Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s shrine in Ajmer was hatched, according to the charge-sheet in the case. He has denied the charges.

However, Indresh Kumar has not been named as accused in the charge-sheet filed [..] Read the original article: here.

Suicide bombers attack UN office in Afghanistan

KABUL – Suicide bombers attacked United Nations offices in western Afghanistan Saturday, an Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman said.

Zemary Bashir confirmed the attack, saying that an unspecified number of gunmen with suicide vests had entered a UN compound in the western province of Herat.
“The police are surrounding the UN compound in Herat,” he said.
…. Source article  : Suicide bombers attack UN office in Afghanistan.

Pamela Smart Opens Up In Interview

LOS ANGELES (Gaea Times.com) Death is often preferable over life at times. Pamela Smart while on national television said that she finds death more preferable than spending twenty years of her life in prison. Pamela Smart was convicted in 1990, for involvement in the murder of her husband. The investigation had found that … Original article on : Pamela Smart Opens Up In Interview.

Mizoram to hold talks with militant outfit

AIZAWL – The Mizoram government will hold talks with the radical outfit Hmar People’s Convention-Democrats (HPC-D), officials said Saturday.

“The HPC-D had recently approached the Mizoram government for talks and the latter agreed immediately,” a Mizoram home department official told IANS.
The official said that though details of the talks are yet to be finalised, [..] Read the original article: here.

Three blasts rock UN office in Afghanistan

KABUL – A UN office in Afghanistan’s Herat city was hit by three blasts Saturday when a group of militants stormed the premises, a media report said.

“Armed militants attacked the office of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) in Herat city with explosions and gunfire,” Xinhua news agency quoted a security official …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Three blasts rock UN office in Afghanistan.

Maoists for boycott of Jharkhand panchayat polls

RANCHI – Maoists Monday asked people to boycot Jharkhand’s first panchayat elections scheduled to begin in the state Nov 27.

“The polls are being conducted when the state is suffering from drought and a famine-like situation,” the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) said, urging people to stay away from the elections.
“Millions of rupees … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maoists for boycott of Jharkhand panchayat polls.

Eight in Maoist captivity in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Eight people continued to be in Maoist captivity in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region even as the rebels released three others they had abducted, police said Monday.

The guerrillas kidnapped five members of a special police officer’s (SPO) family Friday from a bus in Bijapur district, about 500 km from Raipur. On Saturday, five youths …. Source article  : Eight in Maoist captivity in Chhattisgarh.

Six killed in Pakistan Sufi shrine blast

ISLAMABAD – At least six people, including three women, were killed and eight injured when a powerful blast ripped through a Sufi shrine in Pakistan’s Punjab province Monday.

Eye witnesses said two motorcycle riders came at the eastern gate of the shrine of Sufi saint Hazrat Baba Farid Ganj Shakkar in Pakpattan and threw a … Read more >>.

Five killed in Pakistan blast

ISLAMABAD – A bomb ripped through a Sufi shrine in Pakistan’s central province of Punjab Monday, killing at least five people. Several others were injured, media reports said.
…. Source article  : Five killed in Pakistan blast.

Four traders held for supplying explosives to Maoists

BHUBANESWAR – Four traders were arrested in Orissa’s Sundergarh district Sunday on charges of supplying explosives and other materials to Maoists, police said.

The traders, arrested from Bisra town, are all related to one another. Several gelatin sticks, detonators, fuse wires and other materials were seized from them, Superintendent of Police Diptesh Patnaik told IANS.
[..] Read the original article: here.

No Headley but counter terror on Obama-Manmohan agenda

TOKYO – Pakistani American terror suspect David Coleman Headley’s name might not crop up in discussions between Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and US President Barack Obama when he comes visiting next month but the two leaders will definitely be discussing counter terrorism.

“That’s not what leaders do,” a source said, responding to whether Manmohan … Original article on : No Headley but counter terror on Obama-Manmohan agenda.

23 militants killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani forces have attacked militant hideouts in northwestern tribal region, killing 23 militants and injuring 19, a media report said Sunday.

Troops backed by helicopter gunships Saturday targeted militant positions in different areas of Orakzai Agency, destroying several hideouts, Dawn News reported. According to sources, 18 militants were killed and 12 …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 23 militants killed in Pakistan.

Al Qaeda kingpin escaped as chopper had no fuel

LONDON – A British military helicopter ran out of fuel, allowing Osama bin Laden’s Iraqi commander to evade capture for further 15 months, the Guardian reported Sunday after studying the Iraq war documents released by WikiLeaks.

The astonishing blunder in March 2005 gave Abu Musab al-Zarqawi – a Jordanian associate of bin Laden with a … Original article on : Al Qaeda kingpin escaped as chopper had no fuel.

Maoists abduct five youths

RAIPUR – Five youths who planned to become special police officers (SPOs) were abducted by Maoists in Chhattisgarhs Bastar region, police said Sunday.

The youths were picked up Saturday from Awapalli area in Bijapur district, some 500 km south of Raipur.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Search launched for missing intelligence officer

KOLKATA – Security forces were conducting combing operations in several parts of West Bengals Purulia district Sunday looking for an Intelligence Branch (IB) officer and an NGO worker who are believed to have been abducted by Maoists, police said.

IB officer Partha Biswas and NGO worker Surojit Bose have been missing since Saturday.
Purulia … Read : Search launched for missing intelligence officer.

Maoists kill supervisor in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Maoists Tuesday shot dead a 33-year-old construction supervisor after dragging him out of his home in Nabrangpur district in Orissa, police said.

Four men killed Gadadhar Singh Rajput in Sambalpur village, Superintendent of Police P.C. Barik told IANS.
Rajput was supervising construction work taken up by a contractor, Barik said, suspecting extortion to …. Original source  : Maoists kill supervisor in Orissa.

Taliban runs schools to brainwash us: suicide bomber

ISLAMABAD – The Taliban have established schools on the outskirts of Pakistan’s Karachi city where sermons are delivered to woo youths, said a teenaged would-be suicide bomber arrested Monday.

Sixteen-year-old Mohammad Salaam, a student of Class IX, had met Tehreek-e-Taliban leader Zahir Shah at one of these schools.
Shah said that becoming a suicide bomber …. Original article  : Taliban runs schools to brainwash us: suicide bomber.

Child soldier pleads guilty to killing US medic in Afghanistan

TORONTO – Toronto-born Omar Khadr, the only child soldier and last western prisoner held at Guantanamo, Monday pleaded guilty to killing an American in Afghanistan and all other terror charges.

Twenty-four-year-old Khadr, whose father was a close aide of al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, was 15 when he was arrested in a gunbattle with …. Read the original article  : Child soldier pleads guilty to killing US medic in Afghanistan.

“Hiccup Girl” Jennifer Mee Arrested

ST. PETERSBURG (GaeaTimes.com)- Jennifer Mee a.k.a. “Hiccup Girl” who hogged limelight in 2007 with her non-stop hiccupping and landed herself in the NBC’s “The Today Show” has again made headlines, but this time for all the wrong reasons. The 19-year-old Florida girl and her other two associates are charged with first-degree murder of Shannon …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Taliban killed Benazir Bhutto: Probe

ISLAMABAD – Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was responsible for the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, concluded a probe carried out by the country’s Federal Investigation Agency.

The agency is likely to submit its report before an anti-terrorism court Oct 30, Dawn reported Tuesday.
The investigation report has accused slain TTP chief Baitullah Mehsud … Original article on : Taliban killed Benazir Bhutto: Probe.

Mass-murder terror plotter in Canada gets 16-year jail

TORONTO – Canada Monday sentenced to 16 years the main leader in the country’s first Al Qaeda-inspired mass-murder plot unearthed in 2006. Known as the Toronto-18 terror plot, it was uncovered with the arrest of 18 Muslims, mostly of Pakistani origin, in June 2006.

The plotters had planned to storm the Canadian parliament, take Prime … Read more : Mass-murder terror plotter in Canada gets 16-year jail.

Four Maoists held in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Four cadres of the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) were arrested Monday in Chhattisgarh, police officials said.

The rebels, who are village-level cadres of the banned outfit, were picked up from a forested village, Hallur, under Bhairamgarh area of Bijapur district, a part of restive Bastar region.
The arrests were made by … Original article on : Four Maoists held in Chhattisgarh.

Court seeks details on boat hijacked by 26/11 terrorists

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court Monday sought details about the probe relating to the fishing vessel ‘Kuber’ which was used by the 10 Pakistani terrorists to sail to Mumbai and carry out the Nov 26, 2008 terror attacks.

A division bench comprising Justice Ranjana Desai and Justice R.V. More sought the details from government [..] Read the original article: here.

Maoist threat forces RBI to use choppers to ferry currency

RAIPUR – The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the country’s apex bank, has been using helicopters for remitting currency notes to banks located in the restive pockets of Maoist-insurgency hit Chhattisgarh, official sources said.

“About 150 branches of different commercial banks are located in the Maoist violence-hit areas of Bastar region, and due to Maoist …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

15 killed in NATO strikes in Afghanistan

KABUL – At least 15 suspected insurgents were killed Monday by NATO air and ground operations in southern Afghanistan, officials said.

But the Taliban and local residents claimed that 25 civilians were killed in the strikes.
The military said combined Afghan and NATO troops conducted an operation in Baghran district of Helmand province against …. Read the original article  : 15 killed in NATO strikes in Afghanistan.

Don’t make hasty claims after terror strike: Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – The government must restrain itself from revealing the names of suspects every time there is a terror attack, a Pakistani daily said in an editorial after a man, named as suspected suicide bomber, returned home.

The government and the law enforcement officials need to seriously rethink their habit of immediately jumping to …. Read the original article  : Don’t make hasty claims after terror strike: Pakistani daily.

US drones kill 1,863 in Pakistan since 2004

ISLAMABAD – More than 1,800 people have been killed in missile strikes by US unmanned aircraft targeting militants in Pakistan since June 2004, a media report said Monday.

A total of 1,863 people, including civilians, were killed in 184 attacks by US drones, The News International reported quoting sources.
There has been a surge in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US drones kill 1,863 in Pakistan since 2004.

India, Malaysia to deepen strategic partnership

KUALA LUMPUR – India and Malaysia Wednesday pledged to elevate their deepening relationship to a long-term and strategic partnership that would include promoting military ties and jointly fighting terror.

Prime Ministers Manmohan Singh of India and Najib Tun Razak of Malaysia decided among other things to enhance military exchanges and cooperation through regular exchanges of … Original article on : India, Malaysia to deepen strategic partnership.

India, Malaysia to step up military ties

KUALA LUMPUR – India and Malaysia Wednesday agreed to step up military exchanges and also cooperate in counter-terrorism measures.

A joint statement on India-Malaysia Strategic Partnership released during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit that began here Tuesday also underlined the need to expand and deepen relations with a bilateral strategic partnership.
“Both sides agreed to … Original article on : India, Malaysia to step up military ties.

Obama to Zardari: Act against terror groups

WASHINGTON – Days before his visit to India, US President Barack Obama telephoned Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari to talk about the need to do more to deal with terrorist groups in Pakistan that are a threat to his country and its neighbours.

Both Obama and Zardari “acknowledged that more work needed to be done …. Source article  : Obama to Zardari: Act against terror groups.

Seven killed in Iraq blasts

BAGHDAD – At least seven people were killed and four injured Tuesday in bomb blasts in Iraq, police sources said.

An Iraqi officer with the rank of captain and five soldiers were killed in a blast that targeted their patrol to the north of Baghdad in Diyala province, police sources told the Aswat al-Iraq news …. Original source  : Seven killed in Iraq blasts.

Activists want abducted officer, worker freed (Second Lead)

KOLKATA – Intellectuals and social workers in West Bengal Tuesday demanded the release of an Intelligence Bureau officer and a NGO activist believed to have been abducted by Maoists three days ago. But they appeared divided in their assessment of the Maoist movement.

“I personally believe that the Maoist movement in Bengal has gone haywire …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Activists want abducted officer, worker freed (Second Lead).

Kasab trial: Court views CCTV footage

MUMBAI – The Bombay High Court Tuesday viewed CCTV footage of the terrorists’ attack on Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus here on the night of Nov 26, 2008.

The division bench comprising Justice Ranjana Desai and Justice R.V. More viewed the footage during the proceedings for confirmation of death sentence awarded to 26/11 attack accused and …. Original article  : Kasab trial: Court views CCTV footage.

‘Sufi shrines targeted to trigger sectarian conflicts in Pakistan’

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Urdu media Monday slammed the attack on the shrine of revered Sufi saint Hazrat Baba Farid Ganj Shakkar, terming it the “latest episode in terrorists’ nefarious plan to create sectarian conflict”.

“It is extremely tragic that terrorists are targeting our sacred and holy shrines in their bid to destroy religious understanding …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Sufi shrines targeted to trigger sectarian conflicts in Pakistan’.

‘Sufi shrines being targeted to cause sectarian conflicts’

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani Urdu media Monday slammed the attack on the shrine of revered Sufi saint Hazrat Baba Farid Ganj Shakkar, terming it the “latest episode in terrorists’ nefarious plan to create sectarian conflict”, while a daily said the role of external enemy agencies, like India’s RAW, could not be ruled out.

“It is … Read more »»».

British police being trained for Mumbai-style attack

LONDON – British police are being trained and armed with more powerful weapons to prepare for any future “Mumbai-style” terror attack in the country, a media report said Tuesday.

Security chiefs in the country have ordered an acceleration in police training to prepare for any such attack in a public place, the BBC reported. …. Original source  : British police being trained for Mumbai-style attack.

Activists demand release of abducted officer, worker

KOLKATA – Intellectuals and social workers in West Bengal Tuesday demanded the release of an Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer and a non-governmental organisation (NGO) worker believed to have been abducted by Maoists from the state’s Purulia district Oct 23. But they appeared divided in their assessment of the state’s ultra Left movement.

“I … Read more »»».

Three Arrested from Nassau for Salvage Car Garage Theft

NASSAU (GaeaTimes.com) — The police officials arrested three crooks on charges of theft this Sunday responding to Dell’s Garage on Route 43.
The trio were identified to be, Robert J. Hammell, 23, James W. Rivers Jr., 20, and his brother Joel D. Rivers, 16. The police suspect that behind these teenage faces there might …. Source article  : Three Arrested from Nassau for Salvage Car Garage Theft.

Bengal police clueless about abducted intelligence officer

KOLKATA – Police remain clueless about the whereabouts of an Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer and a non-governmental organisation (NGO) worker believed to have been abducted by Maoists from West Bengal’s Purulia district Oct 23.

“We are trying all the options to bring them back safely. But we haven’t made any breakthrough yet,” said Zulfiqar Hasan, … Original article on : Bengal police clueless about abducted intelligence officer.

Jeffrey Landrigan Executed In Arizona

FLORENCE (GaeaTimes.com)- Jeffrey Landrigan, the convicted murderer of Chester Dean Dyer was executed last Tuesday after an unidentified British company supplied one of the chemicals needed for lethal injections, the Arizona Department of Corrections spokesman Barrett Marson said in his statement. Previously the convict was granted a stay of execution over the concerns … Original article on : Jeffrey Landrigan Executed In Arizona.

US drone strike kills seven suspected militants in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – An unmanned US aircraft Thursday fired two missiles into a house in Pakistan’s tribal region near the Afghan border, killing at least seven militants, security officials said.

The strike was carried out in Datta Khel area in North Waziristan district, a known bastion of Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters involved in cross-border raids … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US drone strike kills seven suspected militants in Pakistan.

Pakistani-origin man arrested in plot to attack Washington Metro

WASHINGTON – A US citizen of Pakistani origin was arrested Wednesday on charges related to plotting to attack the rail transit system in the Washington area, authorities said.

Farooque Ahmed, 34, has been charged with attempting to provide material support to a known terrorist organisation and gathering information to assist in an attack, the justice …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistani-origin man arrested in plot to attack Washington Metro.

RSS activities should be monitored, says Congress

NEW DELHI – The Congress Wednesday said that activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) should be closely monitored and it was for the government to decide if any action should be taken against the organisation.

Their (RSS) activities should be closely watched and monitored. It is for the government to decide if any …. Original source  : RSS activities should be monitored, says Congress.

Abducted intelligence officer still untraceable in Bengal

KOLKATA – Police are still unable to trace the Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer and the non-governmental organisation (NGO) activist believed to have been abducted by Maoists from West Bengal’s Purulia district Oct 23.

Whereabouts of IB officer Partho Biswas and his friend and school teacher Soumyajit Bose remain unknown even after four days of combing … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Abducted intelligence officer still untraceable in Bengal.

Bin Laden blames French ‘injustices’ for hostage taking

CAIRO – Osama bin Laden blamed France’s “injustices” towards Muslims for the recent abduction of French citizens by Al Qaeda’s affiliate in North Africa, a media report said Wednesday.

“The taking of your experts in Niger as hostages, while they were being protected by your proxy there, is a reaction to the injustice you are … Original article on : Bin Laden blames French ‘injustices’ for hostage taking.

US did not share information on Headley, asserts Pillai

NEW DELHI – Home Secretary G.K. Pillai Wednesday said that India was disappointed that the US did not share information on Pakistani-American terror suspect David Coleman Headley, now in US custody, for conspiracy in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

“They did not share Headleys name. Had they done so, at least after the horrific Mumbai …. Read the original article  : US did not share information on Headley, asserts Pillai.

Allyson Pereira A victim of Digital Dating Abuse

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com) — A question might arise in your mind that what is digital dating abuse? Digital dating abuse is similar to cyber bullying which is becoming so common now a days among teenagers. Allyson Pereira now 21 year old is a victim of digital data abusing when was 16 years old.

Allyson Pereira sadly [..] Read the original article: here.

Motivate rebels to join mainstream, Sarkar urges people

AGARTALA – Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar Wednesday urged people to motivate youths who have taken to militancy to shun the path of violence and return to normal life.

“Hundreds of tribal youths have left militancy over the past few years. The state government has provided economic resettlement to them (surrendered militants),” Sarkar said while …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Motivate rebels to join mainstream, Sarkar urges people.

Security up in Chhattisgarh’s Maoist-hit Dantewada

RAIPUR – Security was tightened in Chhattisgarh’s Maoist-hit Dantewada district Wednesday after armed rebels set a road construction vehicle on fire, police said.

“Extra police force has been sent to Chhindgarh block to provide security to workers. About 25 Maoists set on fire a major vehicle engaged in road construction work and threatened the workers … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Security up in Chhattisgarh’s Maoist-hit Dantewada.

Former Tamil rebel jailed for 290 years

COLOMBO – A former Tamil rebel was jailed for 290 years by a Sri Lankan court Wednesday for his involvement in an attempt to assassinate then president Chandrika Kumaratunga with a bomb that killed 28 people, a court official said.

Sathiyaveil Illangeshwaran, 30, pleaded guilty to smuggling the explosives used by a suicide bomber at … Original article on : Former Tamil rebel jailed for 290 years.

Suspected Al Qaeda supporters arrested in Turkey

ISTANBUL – Turkish police have arrested 12 individuals in Istanbul and Turkey’s east suspected of supporting Al Qaeda, the Turkish media reported Wednesday.

The suspects were rounded up in simultaneous operations in Istanbul and Van, a city near Turkey’s border with Iran. According to the state-run Anatolian Agency, the police found weapons and bomb-making materials …. Original article  : Suspected Al Qaeda supporters arrested in Turkey.

Texas A&M Gunman Scare Attributed To Replica Weapon

COLLEGE STATION (GaeaTimes.com)- The Texas A&M University located in College Station braced itself for a rather bizarre incident on Thursday when the campus partially shut down while a ‘Code Maroon’ alert was issued by the university authorities in the wake of suspicion that a suspected gunman was present inside the campus. The incident grabbed …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Siliguri Girl Commits Suicide over Obscene MMS Clips

SILIGURI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Another MMS scandal takes the life of a teenager in the city of Siliguri, West Bengal. A 18-year old girl committed suicide after suffering from serious depression over circulation of an MMS.
According to police, the girl has been identified as a student of Siliguri Government Polytechnic College.
The lewd MMS clips … Read more : Siliguri Girl Commits Suicide over Obscene MMS Clips.

Don’t spare Assam’s Kasab, say victims of 2008 blasts

GUWAHATI – Two years after serial bombings in Assam killed nearly 100 people and injured around 800, victims are still seething with anger as those behind the attack are still unpunished and the compensation promised by the central government is yet to reach them.

Such is the anger of victims and their family members that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Don’t spare Assam’s Kasab, say victims of 2008 blasts.

Multi-faith prayers at Sarojini Nagar blast site

NEW DELHI – Those injured in the 2005 Sarojini Nagar market pre-Diwali blast, their family members and the kin of those killed Friday offered multi-faith prayers at the site in south Delhi where 61 people lost their lives.

On the fifth anniversary of the blasts, around 60 people gathered near the site and a commemorative …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Multi-faith prayers at Sarojini Nagar blast site.

Anna Nicole Smith’s Death Cause Revealed

LOS ANGELES, (GaeaTimes.com)- The death of Late “Playboy” model, Anna Nicole Smith was not a natural one. However, ever since her death in February 8, 2007, a cloud of mystery cluttered over the incident. Yesterday, the Los Angeles Jury came to the conclusion that the late model’s boyfriend, Howard K. Stern, along with two other … Read more : Anna Nicole Smith’s Death Cause Revealed.

Peshawar bomb attack victims struggle for daily life

ISLAMABAD – The victims of a devastating car bomb attack in Pakistan’s Peshawar city in 2009 still face enormous hardships to meet their daily needs as the bombing had snatched away the lone breadwinners of the families, a media report said Thursday.

The Oct 28 bombing in Meena Bazar in Peshawar left 137 people dead … Original source on Gaea Times at : Peshawar bomb attack victims struggle for daily life.

Secrecy vital for Britain’s safety, says MI6 chief

LONDON – Britain will be at risk if its secrets are compromised, the chief of the country’s Secret Intelligence Service MI6 said Thursday in a veiled attack on the courts, which have demanded evidence from agents during a string of human rights cases.

In the first public speech by a serving MI6 chief, …. Source article  : Secrecy vital for Britain’s safety, says MI6 chief.

Family members appeal to Maoists to free abducted duo

KOLKATA – The families of the abducted Intelligence Bureau officer and an NGO ctivist Thursday appealed to the Maoists for immediate and safe release of their kins.

IB officer Partho Biswas of North 24-Parganas and NGO activist Soumyajit Bose of Hooghly were believed to have been abducted by the Maoists from Ayodhya Hills in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Family members appeal to Maoists to free abducted duo.

Zahra Baker Found? Police Says ‘No’

HICKORY (GaeaTimes.com)- Hickory Police Chief Tom Adkins announced at a conference that the search teams have found a prosthetic leg, which is believed to 10 year old missing girl Zahra Clare Baker’s. The North Carolina girl who disappeared early this month had bone cancer, which left her with a [..] Read the original article: here.

One killed in blast in Kanpur building

KANPUR – One person was killed and several others trapped under rubble after a blast brought down a two-storeyed building here Thursday.

The blast took place in the staff quarters of a state government hospital, police said.
…. Read the original article  : One killed in blast in Kanpur building.

30 killed in Iraq suicide bombing

BAQUBA – The death toll from a suicide bombing that ripped through a crowded coffee shop in Iraq’s Diyala province has reached 30, with more than 67 injured, police sources said Saturday.

The suicide bomber detonated his explosives-laden belt inside the popular coffee shop in the provincial capital Baquba, some 57 km north of Baghdad, …. Source  : 30 killed in Iraq suicide bombing.

PETN Explosive Found In U.S. Bound Packages

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- United States President Barack Obama have dubbed the discovery of the suspicious packages in two cargo planes in Dubai and United Kingdom as a ‘credible terrorist threat’ while U.S. authorities have confirmed that the packages comprised of PETN or pentaerythritol trinitrate, a chemical explosive that is often used by terrorists to carry … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PETN Explosive Found In U.S. Bound Packages.

‘Credible threat’ unlikely to affect Obama’s India trip

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama called the discovery of some suspicious packages with “explosive material” as “a credible threat against our country,” but officials considered it unlikely to affect his trip to India next week.

“Whenever the President travels, we take a very careful look at what the threat environment might be and look … Read : ‘Credible threat’ unlikely to affect Obama’s India trip.

Suspicious packages on cargo flights in threat to US

WASHINGTON/LONDON – President Barack Obama warned of a “credible terrorist threat” to the US Friday after two packages containing explosive materials were found on US-bound cargo flights at airports in Britain and Dubai.

The packages had originated in Yemen, the hub of Al Qaeda in the Arabian Penninsula, and both were addressed to Jewish synagogues … Read more »»».

25 killed in Iraq suicide bombing

BAQUBA – At least 25 people were killed and 75 injured when a suicide bomber targeted a crowded coffee shop late Friday in Iraq’s Diyala province, police sources said.

The suicide bomber detonated his explosives-laden belt inside the popular coffee shop in Baquba city, some 57 km north of Baghdad.
The cafe was located in …. Original source  : 25 killed in Iraq suicide bombing.

US sees ‘credible threat’ from cargo scare: Obama

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama said he was taking seriously a “credible threat” earlier Friday from two packages containing explosive materials that were found on cargo flights destined for the US.

The packages were intercepted on flights that originated from Yemen. One was halted during a stopover in Britain and the other in Dubai.
Obama … Read more »».

Passenger flight with possible threat lands in New York

WASHINGTON – A passenger plane that originated in Yemen landed safely Friday at New York’s John F Kennedy international airport, where US authorities were to inspect the craft for any suspicious packages.

Two US fighter jets had escorted the Emirates Airlines plane, which flew from Yemen via the United Arab Emirates, to its destination out …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Suspicious packages on cargo flights in global threat

WASHINGTON/LONDON – A global terrorism scare was triggered Friday when a series of suspicious packages were investigated on cargo flights to US destinations at airports in the US, Britain and Dubai.

The flights had originated from Yemen and were described as a “potential terrorist threat” by White House spokesman Robert Gibbs, though it appeared that … Original article on : Suspicious packages on cargo flights in global threat.

Two LeT men formally charged for Hyderabad theatre blast

NEW DELHI – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) Friday filed charge sheets in a Hyderabad court against two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives for the 2006 blast at a movie theatre in the city.

The charge sheets have been filed against Hyderabad resident Mohammed Zia-ul-Haque alias Abu Rehman alias Wali, who is in the judicial custody …. Source article  : Two LeT men formally charged for Hyderabad theatre blast.

Four get jail for life bid on Chandrababu Naidu

TIRUPATI – A court Friday sentenced to seven years jail the four accused in the failed assassination attempt on former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.

After the seven-year-long trial, Additional Senior Civil Judge Venkataramana sentenced Maoist leader Panduranga Reddy alias Sagar and three traders of gelatine sticks – Ramaswamy Reddy, Nagarjuna and Gangi …. Source  : Four get jail for life bid on Chandrababu Naidu.

Only causing death should fetch noose for hijackers: Panel

NEW DELHI – Will the death penalty for plane hijackers act as a deterrent or shut all doors for negotiation with them? And what if the hijackers are on a suicide mission? Keeping all this in mind, a lawmakers’ panel has approved the death penalty for hijackers, but only if they are directly responsible for … Read more >>.

Arms, ammunition seized from Shillong school

SHILLONG – A huge cache of arms and ammunition of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) was recovered from the Shillong Higher Secondary School in this Meghalaya capital, police said Sunday.

The recoveries were made late Saturday after Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) activists found an abandoned suitcase containing explosive materials and incriminating documents …. Original article  : Arms, ammunition seized from Shillong school.

Intercepted parcel intended to blow up plane: Britain

WASHINGTON/LONDON/SANA’A – British Prime Minister David Cameron said Saturday that a package containing explosives intercepted at a British airport had been intended to detonate aboard an aircraft.

“We believe that the device was designed to go off on the aeroplane,” Cameron said. “There is no early evidence it was designed to take place over British … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Intercepted parcel intended to blow up plane: Britain.

Cargo plot has ‘hallmarks of Al Qaeda’: US official

WASHINGTON – The cargo terror plot discovered in Britain and Dubai has the “hallmarks of Al Qaeda”, a top US official has said.

“We know that the perpetrators of this — and it has the hallmarks of Al Qaeda — they are constantly trying things to test our system,” homeland security secretary Janet Napolitano … Read more : Cargo plot has ‘hallmarks of Al Qaeda’: US official.

‘Bomb parcel found in Britain landed in Germany first’

LONDON – British premier David Cameron Saturday said that a bomb parcel from Yemen had landed in Germany before being transferred to a Britain-bound flight en route to the US.

“It just shows how united and determined we have to be to defeat terrorism,” he said prior to a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
… Read more »».

10 militants killed in Afghanistan

KABUL – NATO-led forces during a patrol in southern Afghanistan’s Helmand province killed 10 militants, Xinhua reported.

“A coalition force conducting a mounted patrol in Helmand province killed more than 10 insurgents and discovered improvised explosive device (IED) materials during combat operations Saturday,” the military alliance said.
Earlier in the day, NATO-led … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 10 militants killed in Afghanistan.

France suspends all cargo flights from Yemen

PARIS – France suspended Saturday all incoming cargo flights from Yemen after parcels containing explosives were found on board two US-bound flights originating in the country.

The civil aviation authority DGAC had called on airlines to suspend all freight flights from Yemen “following the discovery on two planes of suspect parcels from Yemen, and the … Original source on Gaea Times at : France suspends all cargo flights from Yemen.

Girl arrested for sending US bomb parcels: Yemen

SANA’A – Yemeni security officials said Saturday that a girl believed to have sent bomb parcels on two US-bound flights had been arrested in her house in the capital Sana’a.

The two parcels were found Friday at airports in London and Dubai on flights originating in Yemen.
President Ali Abdullah Saleh told reporters that Yemen …. Original article  : Girl arrested for sending US bomb parcels: Yemen.

Maoist nabbed with rifles in Jharkhand

RANCHI – A Maoist commander was arrested Saturday with five rifles and some live cartridges in Jharkhand, police said.

Santosh Lohra was arrested from Bundu jungle of Khuti district, around 45 km from here, police said.
Acting on information supplied by him during interrogation, police later seized 10 detonators and two live bombs from …. Source article  : Maoist nabbed with rifles in Jharkhand.

Explosive on plane linked to Al Qaeda: Dubai cops

Dubai, Oct 30 (IANS/WAM) A probe into the suspicious package found onboard a US-bound cargo flight here indicates the involvement of terrorist organisations like Al Qaeda, the police said Saturday.

The package found Friday onboard a Federal Express cargo plane coming from Yemen contained a computer printer with explosives loaded in its toner cartridge. The … Original article on : Explosive on plane linked to Al Qaeda: Dubai cops.

Australia on alert after US terror threat

MELBOURNE – The Australian aviation industry was Saturday asked to screen all in-bound cargo originating from Dubai and Doha after two suspicious packages bound for the US were found in Britain and Dubai, sparking a global terror threat.

There is no direct threat to Australia but transport authorities are on alert, after two suspicious packages …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Australia on alert after US terror threat.

NATO claims 30 insurgents killed in Afghanistan

KABUL – At least 30 insurgents were killed trying to storm a NATO outpost Saturday in south-eastern Afghanistan, the alliance said.

Rebels attacked a forward base in Bermal district of south-eastern Paktika province Saturday morning. Five NATO soldiers were wounded in the clash, a military statement said.
“The coalition forces repelled an insurgent attack on … Read : NATO claims 30 insurgents killed in Afghanistan.