Accidents & Disasters – Weekly Newsletter for November 1-8, 2010

Monday, November 8, 2010

Cops take woman to husband in Kerala, parents cry foul

AGRA – An Agra woman, who was allegedly being confined by her parents here, is being taken back by police to her husband’s home in Kerala on court orders. But her parents as well as her own statement to police here say she was forced into the marriage.

Kerala Police took the 21-year-old woman into …. Original article : Cops take woman to husband in Kerala, parents cry foul.

Policemen from 40 countries to attend Kochi meet

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Top police officials from 40 countries, among them the US, Britain, South Africa, Australia and Sweden, will attend a two-day meeting on community policing in Kochi beginning Wednesday.

State Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan Monday said that such a meeting was being held for the first time in the country.
“Kerala has led the …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Policemen from 40 countries to attend Kochi meet.

Man sexually abused kids for 27 years

AUCKLAND – A 78-year-old man in New Zealand raped and sexually abused his children, a niece, a step-daughter and his sons’ ex-girlfriends for a period of 27 years, a court was told Monday.

The man from Palmerston North, around 400 km from Auckland, has been convicted on 21 sex and child cruelty charges, including three … Read more »»».

Police take Agra woman back to husband in Kerala

AGRA – Acting on court orders, police are escorting a married woman back to her husband’s home in Kerala as she was allegedly being illegally confined by her parents in Agra.

Kerala Police took her into custody Sunday evening on the order of the state high court.
Her husband, Vipin had filed a … Read : Police take Agra woman back to husband in Kerala.

Pakistani minister’s diktat: end corruption in 7 days

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Interior Minister Rehman Malik has given heads of various departments under his ministry a one week deadline to end corruption.

Heads of departments would be responsible for monitoring corruption in their departments and they have been given a period of one week, till Nov 7, to eliminate corruption, Malik said during … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistani minister’s diktat: end corruption in 7 days.

Megan Duskey Dies After Fall

CHICAGO(GaeaTimes.com)- A 23 year old teacher Megan Duskey died at a Halloween party Saturday night when she fell trying to slide down a staircase. The incident took place in Chicago’s Palmer House Hilton Hotel when she fell from the staircase and died instantly. Cook Country medical examiner’s office confirmed her death.
Megan Duskey, the Chicago … Original source on Gaea Times at : Megan Duskey Dies After Fall.

Death toll in Bengal trawler tragedy rises to 30

KOLKATA – The death count in the West Bengal trawler tragedy in Muriganga river has shot up to 30 after seven more bodies were found Monday. Over 100 people are still missing.

“We have confirmed reports about seven more bodies being found Monday. The death count is now 30,” South 24 Parganas District Magistrate Narayan …. Source : Death toll in Bengal trawler tragedy rises to 30.

170,000 affected by cyclone in Myanmar: UN

YANGON – Over 170,000 people have been affected by Cyclone Giri that struck Myanmar’s western coastal Rakhine state in October, the UN said Monday.

The Oct 22 cyclone caused widespread damage to 71 villages in the state – Myebon, Kyaukphyu, Min Bye and Kyauktaw villages suffered the most, the local Flower News quoted the UN …. Source : 170,000 affected by cyclone in Myanmar: UN.

Piece of wood helps boy survive after boat tragedy

KOLKATA – A piece of wood from a capsized trawler in West Bengal provided a lifeline to a 15-year-old boy, who floated in the Muriganga river for 24 hours by clinging on to it till he was rescued Sunday morning.

Tajuddin Molla of Kakdwip in South 24-Parganas had boarded the ill-fated vessel with his …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Piece of wood helps boy survive after boat tragedy.

Bengal trawler capsize toll rises to 23, 100 missing (Second Lead)

KAKDWIP – The deaths in the West Bengal trawler capsize in the Muriganga river rose to 23 after five more bodies were fished out Sunday, even as divers from the Indian Navy, Coast Guard and Kolkata Port Trust conducted a massive operation to look for about 100 still missing.

“We have confirmed reports about …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Suspected Maoists abduct two BJP leaders

RANCHI – Suspected Maoists abducted two local Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders from Jharkhand’s Latehar district Sunday afternoon, police said.

According to police, three people, including the two BJP leaders, were going to Betla from Barwadih of Latehar district, around 140 km from Ranchi, when suspected Maoists fired gun shots at them at Garu Road.
…. Read the original article : Suspected Maoists abduct two BJP leaders.

Ghaziabad cops question firm’s staff on Rs.1 crore gold loot

GHAZIABAD – Suspecting an insider hand, investigators Sunday questioned employees of a finance company from where gold worth over Rs.1 crore was looted by armed dacoits in Ghaziabad a day earlier, police said.

About a dozen armed dacoits looted cash, mobile phones and jewellery worth over Rs.1 crore from Muthoot Finance Limited’s office in Shalimar … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ghaziabad cops question firm’s staff on Rs.1 crore gold loot.

Five highway robbers arrested in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Five highway robbers were arrested Sunday in Jharkhand’s capital Ranchi, police said.

“These criminals were involved in highway robbery and other crimes like murder,” said Praveen Singh, Ranchi’s senior superintendent of police.
Police seized three country-made revolvers, one pistol and live cartridges from them. The gang was active on the Ranchi-Patna and the [..] Read the original article: here.

Defeated candidate chops off rival’s hand in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A candidate defeated in the recently-concluded panchayat polls in Uttar Pradesh chopped off a hand of his rival, who too had lost the election, police said Sunday.

Assailants not only cut off the right hand of 50-year-old Dev Narayan Pandey but also severed one hand of his driver Laddan, 21, when he intervened … Original article on : Defeated candidate chops off rival’s hand in Uttar Pradesh.

Haryana woman held for selling minor girl

PANCHKULA – Himachal Pradesh Police with their Haryana counterparts here Sunday arrested a woman for selling a minor girl, police said.

According to police, the woman was identified as Anju alias Anjana, who lives in Chakki village here with her husband and her four-year-old son.
“We received a complaint from Babli, a resident of Chamba …. Original article : Haryana woman held for selling minor girl.

Bengal trawler capsize: Toll now 20

KAKDWIP – The death toll in the West Bengal trawler capsize rose to 20 after two more bodies were fished out Sunday, even as divers from the Indian Navy, coast guard and Kolkata Port Trust continued a massive search operation.

We have confirmed reports about two more bodies being found today. The death count is … Read more : Bengal trawler capsize: Toll now 20.

Girl-dominated gang running loan racket busted

NEW DELHI – Eight people, including five girls, were arrested in the capital for duping more than 500 students in an education loan racket, police said Sunday.

“They advertised extensively in local dailies in NCR (National Capital Region) offering easy education loans,” police said.
People who responded to the ads would be convinced by …. Original article : Girl-dominated gang running loan racket busted.

Meghalaya chief minister condemns attack on temple

SHILLONG – Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul M. Sangma Sunday condemned the grenade attack at a Durga temple in East Garo Hills district Friday.

“This is an act of cowardice by miscreants to disrupt peace and tranquility. The government will make every effort to nab the culprits,” Sangma said.
In a suspected attack by …. Read the original article : Meghalaya chief minister condemns attack on temple.

Am yet to discuss Adarsh matter with Antony: Pranab

JANGIPUR – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, who along with Defence Minister A.K. Antony has been asked by Congress chief Sonia Gandhi to probe the Mumbai housing society scam, Sunday said the panel was yet to discuss the matter.

Gandhi Saturday formed the two-member panel to probe how the 31-storeyed plush Adarsh Cooperative Housing Society … Read more »».

Over 20 quintals adulterated sweets seized in Punjab

CHANDIGARH – With the festival of Diwali round the corner, over 20 quintals of adulterated sweets were seized from a wholesale sweetmeats manufacturer in Punjab’s Jalandhar district Tuesday, health officials said.

“Working on a tip-off, we raided the premises of a leading sweets manufacturer. We seized over 20 quintals of spurious sweets which were later …. Read the original article : here.

Bangladesh changes rules to detain 1971 war criminals

DHAKA – A tribunal in Bangladesh preparing to try former Islamist militants on the charge of killing unarmed civilians during the 1971 freedom movement has amended rules to facilitate their detention.

The International Crimes Tribunal Monday amended its rules of procedure to stipulate that anyone being investigated for “crimes against humanity” will be considered …. Source article : Bangladesh changes rules to detain 1971 war criminals.

Extortionists, stalkers push crime graph in Bangladesh

DHAKA – Extortion and stalking have pushed up the crime graph in Bangladesh, media reports said as a Kali temple here was vandalised in dispute over extortion money.

The historic Ramna Kali temple in the heart of the national capital was vandalised early Sunday by students of Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), a ruling party front, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Extortionists, stalkers push crime graph in Bangladesh.

Rs 1.5 mn robbery in Chandigarh

CHANDIGARH – A trader here was robbed of Rs.1.5 million (Rs.15 lakh) at gun-point Tuesday morning, police said.

According to the police, the trader had withdrawn the money from a Western Union money transfer office in the busy Sector 35 market. Just a few minutes later, his car was stopped by two men who …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Pakistan targets Transparency International with probe

ISLAMABAD – A central probe agency has begun a drive against corruption by targetting Transparency International Pakistan (TIP) that said the country had climbed up the corruption index, a media report said.

The organisation had said that Pakistan had gone up the corruption index from the 42nd position in 2009 to 34th this year. … Read more »».

Large trees discourage criminals

WASHINGTON – Large trees seem to discourage crimes while small trees have an opposite effect, says a new study.

“We believe that large street trees can reduce crime by signalling to a potential criminal that a neighbourhood is better cared for and, therefore, a criminal is more likely to be caught,” said Geoffrey Donovan, … Read more >>>.

Sex abuse victims meet Vatican spokesman

Vatican City, Nov 2 (IANS/AKI) Vatican spokesperson Father Federico Lombardi has met survivors of clerical sex abuse, Vatican Radio has reported on its website.

Lombardi told the group the Catholic church could and must do more to support abuse survivors and ensure all children in its care were protected. But he said paedophilia was … Read more >>.

Sicilian Robin Hood’s skeleton exhumed

Palermo, Nov 2 (IANS/AKI) The skeleton exhumed from the tomb of one of Italy’s most legendary bandits, Salvatore Giuliano, is that of a person of shorter stature than Giuliano, said sources close to the coroner.

Giuliano gained fame among his fellow Sicilians during World War II when he led a group of bandits in … Read : Sicilian Robin Hood’s skeleton exhumed.

Three die in Orissa accident

BHUBANESWAR – At least three people were killed when a multi-utility vehicle carrying them collided with a parked truck in Orissa’s Bhadrak district Tuesday, police said.

Three people were injured in the accident that occurred on national highway-five at district headquarters town of Bhadrak, some 142 km from here.
The victims were returning to … Read more : Three die in Orissa accident.

Quake-hit Pakistani town still lives in fear

QUETTA – People in Sorab, a small town with a population of around 5,000 in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, have been living in fear and anguish for almost two and a half months as help from the government has been insufficient in the aftermath of a strong earthquake in August that shattered their lives.

Sorab is …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Quake hits Mexico

MEXICO CITY – An earthquake measuring 5.0 on the Richter scale jolted southern Mexico, but no casualties were reported, authorities said.

The quake occurred at 5.16 p.m. (2316 GMT) Monday, with its epicentre at a depth of 124 km, Xinhua reported.
… Read more : Quake hits Mexico.

Three US citizens killed in Mexico

WASHINGTON – Three US citizens were killed in a northern Mexican city sharing borders with the US state of Texas, the State Department said.

State Department spokesman Philip Crowley said two were fatally shot early Sunday in Ciudad Juarez.
In a separate incident, another US citizen was killed in Ciudad Juarez itself, he … Read more : Three US citizens killed in Mexico.

168 kg of heroin seized in Australia

LONDON – Australian authorities have seized 168 kg of heroin, the fifth biggest shipment of the contraband ever to be smuggled into the country, hidden inside a consignment of wooden doors from Malaysia to Sydney, a media report said Monday.

The street value of the drug is more than 400 million Australian dollars (about $395 …. Read the original article : 168 kg of heroin seized in Australia.

20 robbers loot cash from train

GHAZIABAD – About 20 robbers looted cash and other articles from the Saptkranti Express train in Ghaziabad, police officials said Monday.

The incident occurred 3.30 p.m. over Hindon river.
The police said 15 to 20 robbers barged into the pantry car of the train, and robbed cash and other articles from the employees. They ransacked … Original article on : 20 robbers loot cash from train.

Human trafficking network busted in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhi Police Monday said they have busted a major human trafficking ring with the arrest of a man who transported illegal immigrants from India to Mexico, Canada and the US through Guatemala.

“Adil Vali Mohammad, 38, was arrested Saturday when 31 passports, apart from his own, were confiscated from his possession at [..] Read the original article: here.

Four held with black buck in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Four suspected poachers have been arrested with a black buck, an endangered antelope species, in Uttar Pradesh, officials said Monday.

The poachers were arrested Sunday following a joint operation carried out by forest officials and police in the Mohammadabad area of Farrukhabad district, some 200 km from Lucknow.
“We intercepted a car in …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Bengal trawler tragedy toll rises to 66 (Third Lead)

KAKDWIP – The death count in the West Bengal trawler capsize in the Muriganga river shot up to 66 Monday as divers and locals fished out 43 more bodies during search operations. Sixty-five people are still missing.

“The death toll is now 66,” South 24-Parganas Superintendent of Police L.N. Meena told IANS.
The trawler ferrying …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Bengal trawler tragedy toll rises to 66 (Third Lead).

Spate of crimes against jewellers in Agra

AGRA – The recent spate of crimes targeting Agra’s jewellers has left businessmen dealing in the yellow metal here worried.

Three bikers looted 35 kg of silver from two jewellers in the busy Peepal Mandi area of the city Sunday.
“The victims, Mukul Bansal and Bobby, were on a two-wheeler and going to their … Read more : Spate of crimes against jewellers in Agra.

Man attacked for giving land to police in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Suspected Maoists in a Jharkhand village Monday shot and injured a ration dealer who had donated land for a police picket, a police official said.

Chedi Singh a ration dealer of Chatti village, around 75 km from here, was taken to a hospital in a critical condition. He is recuperating, the police official …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Man who duped students of Rs.2 crore arrested

NEW DELHI – Delhi Police Monday said they have arrested a man who allegedly duped around 30 students of Rs.2 crore in the past two years promising them admissions in reputed management institutes.

Shashi Shekhar Sharma, 35, of Bihar was wanted in nine criminal cases in Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur.
Sharma was arrested Wednesday and … Read more »»».

Securitymen attacked, rifles snatched away

LUCKNOW – Two armed men in Uttar Pradesh’s Muzaffarnagar district attacked a policeman and a Home Guard and shot one of them before making away with their rifles early Wednesday.

Constable Onkar Singh and Home Guard Dharam Singh were attacked while patrolling Garhipukhta area, some 400 km from Lucknow.
“The men assaulted them first and … Read more : Securitymen attacked, rifles snatched away.

West Bengal trawler capsize toll now 77

KAKDWIP – The deaths in the West Bengal trawler capsize in the Muriganga river rose to 77 Wednesday, as yet another body was recovered. Fifty-four people are still missing.

“One more body was found floating today. The number of deaths is now 77,” South 24-Parganas police superintendent L.N. Meena told IANS over phone … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : West Bengal trawler capsize toll now 77.

Supporters of SP, Ulema Council clash in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Security has been tightened in Azamgarh district of Uttar Pradesh following a clash between members of the Ulema Council and supporters of a Samajwadi Party (SP) leader, police said Wednesday.

The clash erupted late Tuesday in Jhaun village, where people from both sides indulged in heavy brickbatting and damaged many vehicles.
According to …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Supporters of SP, Ulema Council clash in Uttar Pradesh.

Haryana man killed over love affair, hunt on for attackers

ROHTAK – Haryana Police are on the lookout for two youths who allegedly shot dead a 22-year-old for having an affair with a girl in their village. Raids are being conducted in Chandigarh, towns of Haryana and Delhi to arrest the attackers, police said.

According to police, the killed man was identified as Ajay Kumar … Read more >>>.

Fire in west Delhi timber warehouse

NEW DELHI – Fire broke out at a timber warehouse in the capital Wednesday but nobody was injured, an official said.

The flames engulfed the entire timber warehouse in Tilak Nagar area of west Delhi.
“About 15 fire tenders were rushed to the spot and the blaze was brought under control. Nobody was …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Traffic cop set ablaze by autorickshaw driver dies

THANE – After battling death for a week, a traffic police constable who was set ablaze by an autorickshaw driver, died of his burns here Wednesday, a police official said.

Anil Aitawadekar, 42, suffered serious burn injuries when he was set on fire by Mahendra Kewat, 23, last Wednesday in a fit of rage and … Read more >>>.

Two Pakistan Army generals caught in Rs.75 mn loan scam

ISLAMABAD – Two Pakistan Army generals have been found to be involved in a Rs.75 million scam, a parliamentary committee was told. The top army officers gave a huge loan to a power company without any guarantees.

The Public Accounts Committee meeting Tuesday was informed that the two top army generals, who were with the … Read more : Two Pakistan Army generals caught in Rs.75 mn loan scam.

Brazil urged to probe murders of journalists

Paris, Nov 3 (IANS/EFE) Reporters Without Borders asked Tuesday for an investigation into the murders of three journalists that took place in the last two weeks.

The owner and editor of the newspaper Entre-Rios Jornal, Jose Rubem Pontes de Souza, was slain last Saturday night with a shot in the back of his neck, Paris-based … Original source on Gaea Times at : Brazil urged to probe murders of journalists.

Six killed, dumped on road in Mexico

Veracruz (Mexico), Nov 3 (IANS/EFE) Six slain men were hurled out of two moving SUVs on a highway near the boundary between the Gulf coast states of Tamaulipas and Veracruz, Mexican authorities said.

The murdered men were discovered at 5.25 a.m. Tuesday on the road from Tampico, Tamaulipas, to Panuco, Veracruz, the Veracruz state Attorney … Read more >>>.

Andhra faces cyclone threat, 20 killed in rains (Second Lead)

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh is facing the threat of a cyclonic storm while heavy rains in the coastal region have claimed 20 lives and damaged crops in over 100,000 hectares, officials said Tuesday.

Nearly 400,000 people were affected, dozens of villages and residential areas in several towns remained inundated as rains under the influence of … Read more »»».

Human skeleton in sack found in Kanpur

LUCKNOW – Panic gripped an area of Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur district Tuesday after a human skeleton was recovered from an unclaimed sack, police said.

The sack was found late Tuesday evening from the Kidwai Nagar area, some 80 km from Lucknow.
“Some passers-by first noticed the sack lying unclaimed and approached us,” police inspector Satyendra …. Source article : Human skeleton in sack found in Kanpur.

Nearly 300 Pakistani cops found guilty of crimes

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Interior Minister Rehman Malik Tuesday told the national assembly that a total of 288 police officials have been found guilty of human rights violation and other crimes, including rape, a media report said.

The minister submitted a document which said that of a total of 288 police officers found guilty of being … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nearly 300 Pakistani cops found guilty of crimes.

Woman arrested for drugs smuggling

CHANDIGARH – A woman has been arrested in Haryana’s Ambala city on charges of drugs smuggling, police said.

Police said they recovered one kilogram of ‘ganja’ from Pinki Devi of Mahesh Nagar in Ambala, 45 km from here. “It is the first time a woman has been arrested with so much ganja,” a spokesman said.
… Read more >>.

Iranian ‘adultress’ to be executed Wednesday

Tehran, Nov 2 (IANS/AKI) An Iranian woman who was sentenced to death by stoning after being found guilty of adultery and helping kill her husband, will be executed Wednesday, according to a statement by a group that opposes stoning in Iran.

“The Islamic regime of Iran plans to execute Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani immediately,” the International …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Iranian ‘adultress’ to be executed Wednesday.

Delhi may get new police chief

NEW DELHI – Delhi may get a new police chief after the high profile visit of US President Barack Obama with incumbent Y.S. Dadwal moving to a new assignment, informed sources said Tuesday.

Dadwal, who was praised by Home Minister P. Chidambaram for his successful security management of the Commonwealth Games, is likely to be …. Original source : Delhi may get new police chief.

Students injured after crackers explode inside classroom

LUCKNOW – Seven students of a convent school in Bareilly district of Uttar Pradesh were injured Tuesday when crackers hidden inside the switchboard of their classroom exploded, police said.

“Preliminary investigations have revealed that some students of the class had hidden the crackers inside the switchboard as a prank. The firecrackers exploded following an electrical … Read more : Students injured after crackers explode inside classroom.

Gangster arrested in Ghaziabad

GHAZIABAD – A gangster, involved in several cases of bank robbery, abduction and murder, was arrested here after a gun-battle Monday night, police said.

“Shiv Kumar, 36, a resident of Bondra village of Bulandshahr had a series of criminal cases registered against him in different police stations of Ghaziabad and surrounding districts. He carried … Original article on : Gangster arrested in Ghaziabad.

11 injured in Britain gas explosion

LONDON – At least 11 people, including six children, were taken to hospital, while a 76-year-old woman was fighting for her life after a gas explosion ripped through a row of houses in Manchester early Tuesday.

Firefighters and emergency services personnel were searching through the rubble of the destroyed houses in Salford area, The Guardian … Read more >>>.

Truck runs over schoolgirl in Ghaziabad

GHAZIABAD – A 16-year old girl, returning home from school, was crushed to death by a truck Tuesday afternoon in the Aryanagar area of the city, police said.

“Sakshi Tyagi, a student of class 11th, was hit by the truck on the Delhi-Meerut road. We have arrested the driver, and the girl’s body has been …. Read the original article : Truck runs over schoolgirl in Ghaziabad.

Bengal trawler capsize toll rises to 76

KAKDWIP – The death count in the West Bengal trawler capsize in the Muriganga river rose to 76 Tuesday, as divers and locals recovered ten more bodies during search operations. Fifty-five people are still missing.

“The death toll is now 76. Today we recovered 10 more bodies,” South 24 Parganas additional district magistrate (relief) Nilanjan … Read more : Bengal trawler capsize toll rises to 76.

Chandigarh promises bitter Diwali for spurious sweet makers

CHANDIGARH – The Chandigarh administration will take stern action against sweetmeat shops selling spurious or unhygienically prepared sweets, officials said Thursday.

“We are raiding sweet shops in Chandigarh and strict action will be taken against the violators,” said P.S. Shergill, additional deputy commissioner of Chandigarh, who is leading the team of health department officials … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chandigarh promises bitter Diwali for spurious sweet makers.

Two gang-raped nurses expelled from hostel in Pakistan

PESHAWAR – A hospital probe committee has decided to expel from the hostel two trainee nurses who were gang-raped in this Pakistani city. The reason: The victims violated the rules.

The three-member committee, which was set up to investigate the gang rape of the two trainee nurses of the Khyber Teaching Hospital here, decided …. Original article : Two gang-raped nurses expelled from hostel in Pakistan.

Australian woman jailed for plying son with alcohol

MELBOURNE – An Australian woman who plied her five-year-old son with drink was jailed Thursday, a media report said.

Kylie Eastwood, 36, appeared at a court in Latrobe city in eastern Victoria to be sentenced over the July 20, 2008, incident, the Herald Sun reported.
Eastwood will serve eight months for giving her son at … Read more »».

Flash flood kills 16 in Indonesia

JAKARTA – A flash flood swept through two villages in the eastern Indonesian province of East Nusa Tenggara, killing at least 16 people and destroying more than 180 homes, media reports said Thursday.

Hours of torrential rain caused rivers in Timor to burst their banks, washing away as many as 182 homes in two villages … Read more »»».

Rain-battered coastal Andhra braces for cyclone

HYDERABAD – The coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh, already battered by heavy rains that have claimed 26 lives so far, is now threatened by a cyclonic storm, officials said Thursday.

Fearing further damage and loss of lives and property during the cyclone, the army, air force and navy, besides the Disaster Management Response Force, have …. Source : Rain-battered coastal Andhra braces for cyclone.

Bengal trawler capsize toll rises to 82

KAKDWIP – The toll in the trawler capsize in Muriganga river of West Bengal rose to 82 as yet another body was recovered Thursday morning. As many as 71 people are still missing.

“One more body was found floating today (Thursday). The number of deaths is now 82,” South 24-Parganas police superintendent L.N. Meena told …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Bengal trawler capsize toll rises to 82.

Qantas plane makes emergency landing in Singapore

SINGAPORE – A Qantas plane made an emergency landing in Singapore after dumping fuel over Indonesia’s Batam island Thursday, officials said.

Australia’s Qantas Airways confirmed that there had been no crash, saying one of its planes had experienced engine trouble and had safely returned to Singapore airport after circling the island republic to use up … Original article on : Qantas plane makes emergency landing in Singapore.

Blast at Colombian airport

BOGOTA – An explosion took place Wednesday in a warehouse of an airport in Colombia, police said.

The explosion occurred in the warehouse of the Villavicencio airport, but no casualties were reported. Apparently a packet exploded in the warehouse, Xinhua said.
The airport was closed for a short while …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Qantas plane dumps fuel over Indonesia’s Batam island

JAKARTA – A Qantas plane dumped fuel over Indonesia’s Batam island Thursday to make an emergency landing in Singapore, an Indonesian flight safety official told local television.

Singapore’s aviation authority confirmed that there had been no crash. “The plane is attempting to land” in Singapore, an official told DPA.
Indonesia’s Metro TV reported residents …. Read the original article : Qantas plane dumps fuel over Indonesia’s Batam island.

Bengal trawler capsize: Toll rises to 81 (Second Lead)

KAKDWIP – Five more bodies were fished out Wednesday from the Muriganga river, taking the death count in the West Bengal trawler tragedy to 81, an official said. A total of 72 people are still untraced.

“Five more bodies were found today (Wednesday). The number of deaths is now 81. The search operation is still … Read : Bengal trawler capsize: Toll rises to 81 (Second Lead).

Ajmer blast: Rajasthan cops arrest man in Gujarat

AHMEDABAD – A man was arrested by Rajasthan Police Wednesday from Gujarat’s Godhra town in connection with the 2007 Ajmer blast, which killed three people and injured 30, a police source said.

The anti-terrorist squad (ATS) of Rajasthan Police picked up Ramesh Vasani Wednesday night, the source said, adding that he was being taken to … Original article on : Ajmer blast: Rajasthan cops arrest man in Gujarat.

Sohrabuddin case: farmhouse owner’s bail plea rejected

AHMEDABAD – A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Gujarat Wednesday rejected the bail plea of a farmhouse owner held in connection with the 2005 allged staged shootout of Sohrabuddin Sheikh and his wife Kauserbi’s disappearance.

Rajendra Jirawala, owner of Arham farmhouse on the outskirts of Gandhinagar, was arrested following indications that … Read more : Sohrabuddin case: farmhouse owner’s bail plea rejected.

UAE holds cyber crime workshop

Abu Dhabi, Nov 3 (IANS/WAM) The United Arab Emirates (UAE) held a workshop on cyber crime for its law enforcement officials on how to deal with digital evidence and curb internet related crimes.

The workshop, organised by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) and Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), discussed various types of cyber crime, methods …. Read the original article : here.

Italian held in Himachal for illegal stay

SHIMLA – An Italian, arrested in Himachal Pradeshs Kullu district for staying illegally in the country, was Wednesday sent to police custody for a day, an official said.

The travel documents of Galeno Orazi, 65, expired in June last year and since then he had been staying here illegally, Superintendent of Police Abhishek Dular told …. Original source : Italian held in Himachal for illegal stay.

Taiwan raises death toll from Typhoon Megi to 36

TAIPEI – Taiwan Wednesday raised the number of people killed by Typhoon Megi to 36 after declaring dead 21 people missing since last month.

The 19 Chinese tourists and two Taiwan farmers were in two buses that were carried into a ravine by rockslides on a narrow mountain highway in the northeast of the island.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at : Taiwan raises death toll from Typhoon Megi to 36.

Andhra rains cause havoc, toll rises to 25

HYDERABAD – Heavy rains in coastal Andhra Pradesh during the last four days have claimed 25 lives so far, with five more deaths reported Wednesday, forcing chief minister K. Rosaiah to ask Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for central assistance.

“At least six districts received 1,000-times excess rainfall during last four days, causing widespread damage to …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Andhra rains cause havoc, toll rises to 25.

Court notice to police on Geelani, Arundhati speeches

NEW DELHI – A city court Wednesday issued notice to Delhi Police over a plea seeking registration of criminal cases against separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani and writer-activist Arundhati Roy for their remarks on Kashmir at a seminar here Oct 21.

The court asked police to respond by Nov 16 on the complaint … Read more : Court notice to police on Geelani, Arundhati speeches.

Chennai boy’s kidnappers nabbed, Rs.1 crore ransom seized

CHENNAI – Two men, one a management graduate from Britian and the other an engineering student, were Wednesday arrested for kidnapping a schoolboy two days back. The Rs.1 crore ransom money his parents paid for his release was also recovered, police said.

Chennai police had Tuesday overseen the ransom paid to the duo to secure … Read more >>.

Bengal trawler capsize: Toll rises to 80, over 50 still missing

KAKDWIP – The death count in the West Bengal trawler capsize in the Muriganga river rose to 80, with four more bodies being recovered Wednesday. Fifty-one people still remain untraced.

“Four more bodies were found today. The number of deaths is now 80. Search operation is still on,” South 24-Parganas additional district magistrate (relief) … Original article on : Bengal trawler capsize: Toll rises to 80, over 50 still missing.

Serbia Quake Leaves 2 Dead

BELGRADE,SERBIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Central Serbia was struck by an earthquake of moderate intensity which caused 2 casualties and reportedly 50 people got injured. The epicentre of the quake was close to Kraljevo almost 150 km from the capital. It had a intensity of 5.3. The US geological survey later said that the quake hit the …. Source : Serbia Quake Leaves 2 Dead.

Mistaken for Maoists, cops beaten up by villagers

RAIPUR – Five policemen were held hostage and severely beaten up by dozens of villagers in Chhattisgarh who mistook them for Maoists as they were carrying out raids in civilian clothes, officials said Friday.

The incident took place Thursday in Rawai village when the police team led by Additional Superintendent of Police Hemant Kumar raided … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mistaken for Maoists, cops beaten up by villagers.

Japan to investigate leaked videos of boat collision

TOKYO – Japanese government officials said they were investigating Friday’s leaking of a video clip purporting to show the collision of a Chinese boat with Japanese coast guards which sparked a diplomatic row in September.

Authorities were investigating the authenticity of the clip, which was posted on the video sharing website Youtube and then …. Source : Japan to investigate leaked videos of boat collision.

Plane with 68 on board crashes in Cuba, no survivors (Second Lead)

HAVANA – A Cuban passenger plane has crashed in the centre of the country, killing all 68 people on board, including seven crew and 28 foreigners, Cuban state-run news media said early Friday.

A statement by the Cuban Civil Aeronautics Institute (IACC) late Thursday confirmed an ATR-72-212 aircraft of Cuba’s Aerocaribbean SA airlines, en route …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Plane with 68 on board crashes in Cuba, no survivors (Second Lead).

Man held for supplying fake notes from Bangladesh

LUCKNOW – A man involved in bringing fake currency notes into India from Bangladesh has been arrested in Uttar Pradesh’s Moradabad district but his two aides managed to escape, police said Friday.

Naushad, 25, was held Thursday with counterfeit currency notes worth around Rs.50,000 near the Gulabbadi area while Salim Mistri and Mohd Zakir managed …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Cuban plane crashes with 68 on board

HAVANA – A Cuban plane crashed late Thursday with 68 people on board, among them 28 foreigners, the authorities said without specifying nationalities or whether there had been any survivors.

According to a statement by the Cuban civil aeronautics institute (IACC), an ATR-72-212 aircraft of Cuba’s Aerocaribbean SA airlines, en route from Santiago de … Read more : Cuban plane crashes with 68 on board.

12 killed in Karachi plane crash (Third Lead)

ISLAMABAD – At least 12 people were killed Friday when a private aircraft with 21 on board, most of them employees of a US oil company, crashed a few minutes after taking off near Karachi airport in southern Pakistan, Geo TV reported.

The accident took place at 7.15 a.m. due to engine failure and authorities …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Bodies of three women recovered from fields

LUCKNOW – The decomposed bodies of three young women were recovered from fields in a village in Uttar Pradesh’s Deoria district, police said Friday.

The bodies were half-buried and found late Thursday from the fields in Singideeh village.
“The locals spotted the bodies after they noticed several dogs digging up mud at the site where … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bodies of three women recovered from fields.

48 killed as Indonesian volcano erupts again

JAKARTA – At least 48 people were killed and 66 seriously injured Friday by clouds of searing ash and lava from the latest eruptions of Indonesia’s Mount Merapi volcano, hospital staff said.

In the nearby city of Yogyakarta, Sardjito General Hospital spokesman Trisno Heru Nugroho said at least 48 bodies and 66 injured people had … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 48 killed as Indonesian volcano erupts again.

Tamils want refugee centre in SE Asia to stop human smuggling

TORONTO – The Sri Lankan Tamil diaspora here has urged Canada and Australia, which are struggling to stop illegal refugees or so-called boat people from Sri Lanka, to quickly set up a refugee centre in South-East Asia to process cases of genuine people.

Thousands of Sri Lankan Tamils, who have fled to South-Est Asia … Read more >>>.

Plane crashes in Karachi, 20 on board (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – A private plane with 20 people on board, most of them employees of a US oil company, crashed a few minutes after taking off near Karachi airport in southern Pakistan Friday, Geo TV reported.

The accident took place at 7.15 a.m. due to engine failure and authorities said chances of survivors were thin.
… Read more >>.

Plane crashes in Karachi, casualties feared

ISLAMABAD – A plane carrying around 20 people, most of them employees of an American oil company, crashed in Pakistan’s southern port city of Karachi Friday, minutes after it took off, government officials and media reports said.

Casualties were feared.
…. Source : Plane crashes in Karachi, casualties feared.

Plane crashes in Karachi

ISLAMABAD – A private plane crashed near the Karachi airport shortly after take-off Friday, Dawn News reported.

The cause of the crash is yet to be determined.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at : Plane crashes in Karachi.

Plane with 68 on board crashes in Cuba

HAVANA – A Cuban passenger plane with 68 people on board, 28 among them foreigners, crashed late Thursday, authorities said, without specifying whether there were any survivors.

According to the Cuban civil aeronautics institute (IACC), an aircraft of Cuba’s Aerocaribbean SA airlines, en route from Santiago de Cuba to Havana, crashed in the central … Read more >>>.

13 die as Indonesian volcano erupts again

JAKARTA – Thirteen people were killed and about a million people are facing displacement after a volcano erupted again in Indonesia’s Central Java province, Xinhua reported Friday.

Fifty-seven people were injured when the Mount Merapi volcano erupted for the second time since since Wednesday.
The 2,968 meters high volcano erupted at around 12.00 a.m., spewing … Read more : 13 die as Indonesian volcano erupts again.

Myanmar’s internet link hit by cyber attack

SAN FRANCISCO – Myanmar’s internet link to the world has been overwhelmed by a massive cyber attack, just days before the country’s first election in two decades, according to US network security firm Arbor Networks.

The so-called Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack started in late October, but has grown in the last few days … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Myanmar’s internet link hit by cyber attack.

Maoists kill two tribals in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoists Thursday killed two tribals who were abducted from their village earlier this week in Chhattisgarh, police said.

The incident was reported from a forested area of Rajnandgaon district, some 175 km from state capital Raipur.
“Bodies of two tribal civilians were recovered from Khargaon village. The deceased were identified as … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoists kill two tribals in Chhattisgarh.

Lucknow police in dock for illegally detaining boy

LUCKNOW – Police here have come under the scanner for the alleged illegal detention of a minor boy on charges of duping people.

The 10-year-old boy, who is not able to speak clearly about his whereabouts and parents, is in the lock-up of the Chowk Kotwali here.
The boy Thursday told reporters that he has … Read more : Lucknow police in dock for illegally detaining boy.

Over Rs.10 bn distributed to Pakistan flood-hit

ISLAMABAD – Over Rs.10 billion have been distributed to flood-affected families in Pakistan through a government scheme called watan card, a minister said Thursday.

The “watan card”, launched by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), makes each flood-hit family eligible to receive Rs.20,000 in cash as part of the government’s flood relief measures.
…. Source article : Over Rs.10 bn distributed to Pakistan flood-hit.

Police to fast track Chennai boy abduction case

CHENNAI – Following the arrest of two engineering graduates Wednesday in connection with the kidnapping of a 14-year-old boy, the city police is taking necessary actions to impound their passport as well as fast track the case.

According to the police, impounding their passports is essential so that they do not flee the country once … Read : Police to fast track Chennai boy abduction case.

20 sentenced to life for murder of 3 Dalits

MYSORE – Twenty people were sentenced to life imprisonment by a court here Thursday for killing three Dalits 17 years ago during a clash over allowing members of the Dalit community to enter a village temple.

Additional Sessions Special Judge L.F. Malavalli also ordered the 20 to pay a fine of Rs.15,000 each.
The court …. Original article on Gaea Times at : 20 sentenced to life for murder of 3 Dalits.

Cuba Plane Crash: Black Box Recovered

GUASIMAL, CUBA (GaeaTimes.com)- The black box of the ill-fated Aero Caribbean Flight 883 which crashed on Thursday in Cuba killing all 68 people on board, has been recovered by rescue officials. After a vigorous search operation was launched by officials, the cockpit voice recorder as well as the black box was finally found in …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Cuba Plane Crash: Black Box Recovered.

Pakistanis jailed for sexual crimes in Britain

LONDON – Five British-born Pakistanis have been jailed in Britain for sexually abusing girls as young as 12, a media report said Saturday.

The “sexual predators” preyed on their victims over several months and threatened them with violence if they refused their advances, the Daily Mail reported.
The men attacked four girls in play areas, …. Read the original article : Pakistanis jailed for sexual crimes in Britain.

Cyclone Jal To Hit Andhra Pradesh

HYDERABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Officials in the state of Andhra Pradesh are bracing themselves for unfavorable weather conditions after Cyclone Jal gradually neared the coastline of the state from the southwestern part of Bay of Bengal. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a deep depression gained strength and intensified into a severe cyclonic storm …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Cyclone Jal To Hit Andhra Pradesh.

Two Orissa ports on alert over cyclone ‘Jal’

BHUBANESWAR – Storm warning signals were hoisted in two Orissa ports as cyclonic storm ‘Jal over southwest Bay of Bengal intensified into a severe cyclonic storm, officials said.

The storm warning signals were kept hoisted since Friday at Gopalpur port in Ganjam district and Paradip port in Jagatsinghpur district as part of precautionary measures, an …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Two Orissa ports on alert over cyclone ‘Jal’.

Alert in Andhra as cyclone threatens coast

HYDERABAD – Authorities in Andhra Pradesh were on high alert Saturday as a severe cyclone ‘Jal’ neared the state’s coastline from southwest Bay of Bengal.

In south coastal districts, authorities began evacuating people from areas close to the coast and low-lying villages to minimise loss of life in view of the warning from the India …. Read the original article : Alert in Andhra as cyclone threatens coast.

Mexican drug cartel chief killed in shootout

MEXICO CITY – A leader of the Gulf drug cartel in Mexico was killed in a battle with the military in a town on the US-Mexican border, the government said.

Antonio Ezequiel Cardenas Guillen, 48, died Friday along with three other cartel members, two soldiers and a local reporter in the battle that lasted several …. Original source : Mexican drug cartel chief killed in shootout.

Man killed on Diwali night in row over crackers

BHUBANESWAR – A man was killed in Orissa’s Sambalpur district when he prevented some boys from bursting firecrackers on a city road Diwali night, police said Saturday.

The man was killed Friday night in Sambalpur town, about 320 km from here. Two boys have been arrested, a police official said.
In separate firecracker-related incidents, over …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Black box of crashed plane found in Cuba

Havana, Nov 6 (IANS/EFE) The black box and cockpit voice recorder of a plane that crashed in Cuba, killing all 68 people on board, have been recovered, a media report said.

Aero Caribbean Flight 883, en route to Havana from the eastern city of Santiago de Cuba, crashed late Thursday in the central province … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Black box of crashed plane found in Cuba.

19 killed in China mall fire

BEIJING – Nineteen people were killed and 27 injured after a fire broke out at a shopping mall in China, authorities said Saturday.

The fire broke out Friday at the five-storey shopping centre in northeastern Jilin city, Xinhua reported.
Liu Qizhi, a spokesman with the city government, said 24 of the 27 injured people were … Read more : 19 killed in China mall fire.

BJP leader shot dead in Bihar

PATNA – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Punam Pandey was shot dead by unidentified men in Bihar’s Rohtas district on Diwali night, police said Saturday.

Punam Pandey, BJP vice-president in Rohtas, was killed in front of her residence in Rajapur locality in Sasaram late Friday, when people were busy celebrating Diwali, a police official said.
…. Read the original article : BJP leader shot dead in Bihar.

Pakistan released 560 Indian prisoners since 2009: Minister

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has released a total of 562 Indian nationals from the country’s prisons since 2009, a federal minister told the national assembly.

However, only 157 Pakistani prisoners have been released from Indian jails since 2009, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Malik Imad Khan said Friday, according to Online news agency.
The … Read more >>.

Boards flight as old white man, comes out as a young Chinese!

TORONTO – In a story that reads like a spy thriller, a young Chinese fooled customs and security at Hong Kong airport last week to board an Air Canada flight faking as an elderly white man and land in Vancouver to seek asylum.

But his mask was blown off halfway through the journey when he …. Read the original article : here.

Fire in Rome hospital injures 50

Rome, Nov 6 (IANS/RIA Novosti) About 50 people, including several children, were injured after a fire broke out in a children’s hospital in Rome. No casualties have been reported.

The fire broke out Friday in the intensive care unit of the Bambin Gesu hospital, one of the largest children’s clinics in Europe.
Forty-eight people, who …. Original source : Fire in Rome hospital injures 50.

19,000 Colombian kids involved in prostitution: Report

BOGOTA – Nearly two million children are working as child labourers in Colombia and about 19,000 of them are involved in prostitution, a media report said.

Over half of the two million children are also not being paid, Prensa Latina reported citing a statement from the country’s attorney general.
The document was presented at the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 19,000 Colombian kids involved in prostitution: Report.

Australia’s Qantas reeling after second mid-air scare

SINGAPORE – It was coincidence that on consecutive days Qantas passenger jets experienced engine problems that forced them to return to Singapore shortly after take-off, the Australian airline said Saturday.

Qantas spokeswoman Olivia Wirth, commenting on the latest incident, exonerated foreign maintenance facilities over the Boeing 747 that abandoned its flight Friday to Sydney after …. Read the original article : here.

12 killed, house set afire in Russia

MOSCOW – A horrific crime has been reported in Russia in which 12 people, including four children, were murdered and their house set on fire.

The incident occurred in Kushchevskaya village in Krasnodar region, Xinhua reported citing Interfax news agency.
According to officials, 10 people were stabbed to death, one child was strangled and another … Read more >>>.

13 die in China mall blaze

BEIJING – Thirteen people died Friday after a fire broke out at a shopping mall in China, Xinhua reported.

The fire broke out around 9.15 a.m. at the Huichu Street Shopping Mall in northeastern Jilin city, officials said.
Rescuers have retrieved 11 bodies after hours of searching. Two people who were severely burnt died … Original article on : 13 die in China mall blaze.

Another Foxconn worker falls to death in China

BEIJING – Another employee of a Foxconn Technology plant in China’s southern Shenzhen city fell to death Friday, months after a series of such deaths occurred at the company’s plants in the city, Xinhua reported.

The Shenzhen government has confirmed the incident. No further detail was immediately available.
Prior to this incident, … Read more »»».

Shopkeeper shot for not paying bribe, traders allege

AGRA – Traders at Shah Ganj market here downed shutters and staged a protest Friday, after one of their fellow shop owners was fired at by a policeman after he allegedly refused to pay him a bribe.

Shopkeepers alleged that a group of police personnel roughed up shopkeeper Javed after he refused their demand for …. Read the original article : here.

Lucknow family holds thief captive for two days

LUCKNOW – A man was caught and tied with chains in a dingy place here for two days by a family from whose house he had allegedly stolen three tractor trolleys but was caught on a second attempt to burgle, police said Friday.

A police official said action would be taken against the family of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Lucknow family holds thief captive for two days.

19 soldiers implicated in plane theft in Honduras

Tegucigalpa, Nov 7 (IANS/EFE) At least 19 soldiers were implicated in the theft of a plane from a Honduran air base last week, officials said.

The aircraft had been seized from drug traffickers two years back.
The people who participated “directly or indirectly” in the theft of the aircraft from the Armando Escalon Air Base … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 19 soldiers implicated in plane theft in Honduras.

21 killed in three accidents in Madhya Pradesh

BHOPAL – A total of 21 people were killed and 36 injured in three road accidents in Madhya Pradesh since midnight, police said Sunday.

The first accident took place around midnight at Sahagi Pahadi in Rewa district when a truck carrying 52 people turned turtle. Sixteen people, including five women and a child, were killed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 21 killed in three accidents in Madhya Pradesh.

Inmates attack police in Sri Lanka prison, 50 injured

COLOMBO – At least 50 policemen and guards were injured in an attack by inmates of a prison in Sri Lanka’s capital Sunday during a search for drugs, a senior police official said.

More than 500 policemen deployed in the search at Colombo’s Welikada prison in Colombo were resisted by inmates wielding clubs and stones, …. Read the original article : Inmates attack police in Sri Lanka prison, 50 injured.

Haiti’s Hurricane Leaves 6 Dead

PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI (GaeaTimes.com)- Hurricane Tomas killed around six people and destroyed land and homes in Haiti as it continued to change its position and move away from land today. However, the natural disaster made people homeless and they would still have to grapple with effects after Hurricane Tomas dissipates. National Hurricane Center in Miami, …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Haiti’s Hurricane Leaves 6 Dead.

New eruption halts search, flights cancelled in Indonesia

JAKARTA – Eruptions from Merapi volcano sent clouds of ash and smoke up to 6,000 metres high Sunday, forcing rescue workers to halt searches in the danger zone and prompting many international airlines to cancel flights to and from Jakarta.

Air Asia, Emirates, EvaAir, Philippines Airlines, Brunei Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines cancelled flights, …. Source article on Gaea Times at : New eruption halts search, flights cancelled in Indonesia.

Chopper searching for Japanese climber crashes in Nepal

KATHMANDU – An aerial search and rescue operation for two Japanese climbers stranded on a Himalayan range in northeastern Nepal ended bleakly Sunday with the helicopter looking for them crashing above 16,000 ft and the pilot and his crew member reported missing.

“We are sitting in the control tower of the airport, awaiting further … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chopper searching for Japanese climber crashes in Nepal.

IMD: Chennai On Cyclone Jal’s Path

CHENNAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that the Cyclone Jal is headed towards the country and has gathered great momentum. The IMD reports indicate that the storm could turned into a severe cyclonic storm and might hit Chennai and adjacent areas of the state. The storm remained almost stationary on … Read more : IMD: Chennai On Cyclone Jal’s Path.

Thieves target baby buggies in Britain

LONDON – British parents have been asked to keep their baby buggies safe as thieves are now targeting them because of their high demand in the market.

Thousands of such buggies are disappearing from car parks and outside homes, fuelling a thriving black market worth an estimated 30 million pounds, the Daily Express reported Sunday.
… Read more : Thieves target baby buggies in Britain.

Kachru’s college principal forced to retire a day earlier

SHIMLA – A day before he was to retire officially, the principal of the medical college where Aman Kachru was allegedly ragged to death was sent on compulsory retirement over his failure to check ragging.

Suresh Sankhyan, the principal of the Rajendra Prasad Medical College at Tanda in Kangra district, was compulsorily retired by the …. Source : Gaea News Network.

18 bodies found at mass grave in Mexico

Mexico City, Nov 7 (IANS/EFE) The bodies of six kidnapped tourists were among the 18 corpses found this week at a clandestine grave near Mexico’s Pacific resort of Acapulco, authorities said.

The head of the Guerrero state investigative police force, Fernando Monreal, told EFE Saturday that six of the bodies corresponded to members of a … Read more : 18 bodies found at mass grave in Mexico.

Tamil Nadu braces for cyclone Jal

CHENNAI – Authorities in Tamil Nadu braced themselves as cylonic storm ‘Jal’ moved closer to the coast, bringing with it rain and strong winds, officials said.

The storm lay centred around 400 km southeast of Chennai and 500 km southeast of Nellore in Andhra Pradesh. The weatherman said Jal would cross north Tamil Nadu … Original source on Gaea Times at : Tamil Nadu braces for cyclone Jal.

Chopper on rescue operation crashes in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Less than three months after an aircraft crashed in Nepal, killing all 14 people on board, a private helicopter running a rescue operation for two stranded mountaineers met with an accident in northeastern Nepal Sunday, police said.

The helicopter belonging to a private company, Fishtail Air, crashed around 8.30 a.m. in the Ama …. Read the original article : here.

Cyclone Jal To Bring Heavy Rainfall

HYDERABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- It has been reported by India Meteorological Department (IMD) that Tropical Cyclone Jal which has gained strength, could intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and hit Chennai and its neighboring areas by later today. The cyclone has already hit Sri Lanka and there is a huge possibility of heavy rainfall in …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Over 100 hurt in Iran quake

TEHRAN – At least 104 people were injured in a magnitude 4.9 earthquake that hit Iran Saturday, a media report said.

The quake occurred at 0352 GMT Saturday in Doroud town in the western province of Lorestan and was followed by several minor aftershocks, causing severe damage to residential buildings, Xinhua reported citing Mehr news agency.
… Original article on : Over 100 hurt in Iran quake.

21 dead in Mexico accident

MEXICO CITY – At least 21 people died in a bus accident in western Mexico when a fuel truck drifted into the lane of the oncoming bus, officials in Sinaloa province confirmed Saturday.

The accident happened Friday evening near the town of Palmillas in the south of Sinaloa. The fuel truck carried 20,000 litres of … Original article on : 21 dead in Mexico accident.

600 arrested in Asian Games security check

BEIJING – In a massive security operation ahead of the Asian Games, police in China have arrested 611 people near the host city of Guangzhou, officials said.

The Guangzhou Asian Games are scheduled to be held Nov 12-27.
The ministry of public security Saturday said that police have checked over one million vehicles and more …. Read the original article : 600 arrested in Asian Games security check.

Somali pirates free South Korean tanker: Report

SEOUL – Somali pirates have freed a South Korean oil tanker seized off the coast of East Africa seven months ago, South Korean news agency Yonhap reported.

The 300,000-tonne Samho Dream was released along with its 24-man crew of five South Koreans and 19 Filipinos, Yonhap quoted the East African Seafarers Assistance Programme as saying.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at : Somali pirates free South Korean tanker: Report.