Accidents & Disasters – Monthly Newsletter December 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.

Scare at Obama hotel; Cop accidentally shoots self

MUMBAI – In a major security scare, a policeman accidentally fired his service revolver and injured his leg Saturday outside the Taj hotel, where US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle are staying.

Even as the US and Indian security went into a tizzy, the injured Assistant Police Inspector Suhas Chaudhari was rushed to …. Original article  : Scare at Obama hotel; Cop accidentally shoots self.

No evidence of blast on board crashed US plane: UAE

Dubai, Nov 6 (IANS/WAM) The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Saturday said the evidence collected from the wreckage of a US cargo plane doesn’t prove there was any blast on board at the time of the crash.

The UBS cargo plane had crashed in Dubai in September this year. The probe, to find …. Source article  : No evidence of blast on board crashed US plane: UAE.

Two Andhra girls rescued from Nepali youths

LUCKNOW – Two teenaged girls from Andhra Pradesh were rescued from three young Nepali men after they were arrested from Uttar Pradesh Saturday, police said.

The men, in their mid 20s, were caught from the Jhansi railway station following a joint operation of the district police and Railway Protection Force (RPF).
Police officer Satyendra Yadav … Read more : Two Andhra girls rescued from Nepali youths.

Six policemen injured as mob chases them away

LUCKNOW – Six policemen were injured when a group of people in Deoria district of Uttar Pradesh attacked them for trying to arrest a criminal belonging to their village, police said Monday.

Armed with sticks and stones, the locals in the Parsia village clashed with the police team that had gone to arrest Harendra Kumar, … Original article on : Six policemen injured as mob chases them away.

Swetha Sreeram Dies After Fall From Building

CHENNAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- National award winning cinematographer P.C. Sreeram’s daughter Swetha Sreeram lost her life when she fell from an apartment building during the early hours of Sunday. Although the 24-year-old girl who was a software engineer by profession, was rushed to a hospital without any delay, she was declared brought dead. Police …. Source article  : Swetha Sreeram Dies After Fall From Building.

Cyclone Jal To Lash Orissa With Rainfall

BHUBANESWAR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Despite weather officials predicting that Cyclone Jal has lost momentum on Sunday, parts of Orissa are expected to be lashed by heavy rains in the upcoming days. According to weather officials, the deep depression that was hovering over the southwest part of the Bay of Bengal has been downgraded into a …. Read the original article  : Cyclone Jal To Lash Orissa With Rainfall.

Cyclone In Chennai Weakened Considerably

CHENNAI (GaeaTimes.com)- As the people of Tamil Nadu braced themselves for rough weather by shutting down all educational institutions, offices etc., the Regional Cyclone Warning Centre in Chennai has announced that Cyclone Jal has weakened considerably by Sunday night. Cyclone Jal was expected to hit the coast between Chennai and Nellore in southern …. Read the original article  : here.

Mozart music helps cops combat crime

WELLINGTON – The music by 18th century classical composer Mozart has helped police combat crime in a city of New Zealand, a media report said Monday.

According to newspaper The Press, the introduction of speakers playing Mozart and other classical music in a mall in Christchurch in June 2009 has led to a steep fall … Read : Mozart music helps cops combat crime.

Restive Philippine volcano ejects ash

MANILA – A volcano in the eastern Philippines Monday ejected more ash in a growing sign of restiveness, government volcanologists said.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said Monday morning that it also had recorded 28 volcanic earthquakes during the past 24 hours at Mount Bulusan in Sorsogon province, 250 km southeast of Manila.
…. Source article  : Restive Philippine volcano ejects ash.

Hurricane Tomas leaves eight dead

Port-au-PRINCE – The death toll from Hurricane Tomas rose to eight in Haiti Sunday, as officials expressed fear that flooding from the storm could worsen the cholera outbreak in the impoverished Caribbean nation.

The storm left two others missing and at least 11 injured, even as it largely spared Haiti the worst of its fury … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hurricane Tomas leaves eight dead.

Mexican mayor dies from stroke after ambush

Mexico City, Nov 8 (IANS/EFE) The mayor of a Mexican city died from a heart attack after being ambushed, beaten and robbed on a highway by gunmen, officials said.

Jaime Lozoya Avila, mayor of San Bernardo city, died at a hospital after he, his secretary and one of his daughters were attacked Friday by gunmen, … Read more : Mexican mayor dies from stroke after ambush.

Abu Dhabi road deaths drop 17 percent

Abu Dhabi, Nov 7 (IANS/WAM) Improved traffic managament in Abu Dhabi has seen fatal road accidents dropping by 17 percent in the first nine months of this year and there are plans to reduce this further, police said Sunday.

The toll in the first nine months of this year was 276 compared to 331 in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Toll from Indonesia volcanic eruptions rises to 135

SLEMAN – The death toll from the eruptions of Indonesia’s Mount Merapi rose to 135 Sunday, as the burial of dozens of the victims was held.

Earlier rescue workers had battled hot ash from the volcano, about 500 km southeast of Jakarta, in the search for more victims of last week’s eruptions.
The National Disaster …. Read the original article  : here.

Bhopal gas victims protest to seek Obama’s help

BHOPAL – US President Barack Obama’s visit to India seems to have infused a new zeal in the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy survivors who organised a protest here Sunday demanding action against American companies allegedly responsible for the disaster.

Their campaign started gaining momentum a few days before obama’s arrival.
On Nov 3, the …. Source article  : Bhopal gas victims protest to seek Obama’s help.

Italy’s ancient gladiator training centre collapses

LONDON – An ancient building, which was used by Roman gladiators as their training centre, has collapsed, officials said.

The building in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii collapsed Saturday morning, Sky News reported quoting the office of Pompeii’s archaeological superintendent. The site was closed to the public at the time and no one was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Italy’s ancient gladiator training centre collapses.

Kenyan cop kills 10 in shooting rampage

NAIROBI – A police officer in Kenya killed 10 people, including two colleagues, in a shooting rampage after he failed to locate his girlfriend in town bars, Xinhua reported Sunday.

The officer who was assigned to guard the residence of the local district commissioner went on rampage Saturday midnight in Eastern Province town of Siakago, …. Read the original article  : Kenyan cop kills 10 in shooting rampage.

Chopper crashes, crew killed in bid to rescue Japanese climber (Second Lead)

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

The crashed helicopter and the bodies of the dead crew members have been …. Source article  : Chopper crashes, crew killed in bid to rescue Japanese climber (Second Lead).

Police tight-lipped on Bangladeshi arrest ahead of Obama visit

PANAJI – The Goa Police arrested a 25-year-old Bangladeshi national, found in a restricted naval area, a few days ahead of US President Barak Obama’s visit to India — particularly Mumbai. Police officials are, however, tight-lipped about the arrest.

Police source told IANS that Rehman Naushir, a resident of Bangladesh, was nabbed by Indian … Read : Police tight-lipped on Bangladeshi arrest ahead of Obama visit.

Drunk government employee jumps to death

LUCKNOW – A drunk government employee jumped to his death from the third floor of the Secretariat Annexe building in Hazratganj area here Tuesday, police said.

Anil Kumar, aged around 40 years, died on the spot. Police inspector K.N. Mishra said he was a Class IV employee. “We are investigating why he committed suicide,” Mishra … Read more »».

Indonesian Volcano Eruptions Continue

MOUNT MERAPI, INDONESIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The incessant eruptions of Mount Merapi the active Indonesian Volcano has kept the government in the country on tenterhooks and it has also compelled a number of international airlines operating around the region to suspend their flight operations. The airlines that have been affected by the volcanic eruptions include Cathay Pacific, … Read more : Indonesian Volcano Eruptions Continue.

Carnival Splendor Hit By Fire

COAST OF MEXICO (GaeaTimes.com)- The mighty Carnival Splendor which is the Carnival Cruise Lines’s largest ship till date caught fire in the morning and the huge ship went powerless after that. It became motionless on the sea for a long time adjacent to the Coast of Mexico. The fire took its toll on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Carnival Splendor Hit By Fire.

Accountant dies on hearing corruption charge

LAHORE – An accountant of a school in Pakistan’s Multan city suffered a heart attack and died after the teaching staff levelled corruption allegations against him and the principal.

Ehsan Ghauri, chief accountant of the Multan Public School, died Monday following a heart attack after the teaching staff, during a protest demonstration, charged him and …. Original source  : Accountant dies on hearing corruption charge.

Drunk government staffer jumps to death in Lucknow

LUCKNOW – A middle-aged government staffer jumped to his death in an inebriated condition Tuesday from the third floor of the Secretariat Annexe building here, police said.

“Anil Kumar Srivastava was a peon in the chief secretary’s office,” police said.
Srivastava was depressed for the past few days, his colleagues told police.
Srivastava, a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Drunk government staffer jumps to death in Lucknow.

Fire breaks out in Delhi toy factory, no casualties

NEW DELHI – Fire broke out in a toy factory in Delhi Tuesday, but no one was injured, officials said.

The fire started around 3 a.m. on the third floor of the factory in Madawali area of east Delhi.
“The fire was massive. The firefighters are still at work to douse the flames. … Original article on : Fire breaks out in Delhi toy factory, no casualties.

Over 200 missing after eruptions in Indonesia

JAKARTA – Indonesian rescue workers intensified the search for bodies and survivors on the slopes of Mount Merapi with more than 200 people reported missing in the volcano’s eruptions, officials said Tuesday.

Soldiers, police and volunteers combed villages as thick, hot ash that blanketed them began to cool.
Rescuers found one body Tuesday morning in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Over 200 missing after eruptions in Indonesia.

Four pilgrims killed as vehicle overturns in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – At least four pilgrims, including two women, were killed and 12 others were injured when their vehicle overturned Tuesday in Chitrakoot district of Uttar Pradesh. Five of the injured are in a critical condition, police said.

“Of the 12 injured, five have been transferred to a hospital in Allahabad as their … Original article on : Four pilgrims killed as vehicle overturns in Uttar Pradesh.

Pakistan customs seize goods worth Rs 300 mn

ISLAMABAD – The customs department in Pakistan recovered smuggled goods worth Rs 311 million in the month of October, an official statement said here.

The department – officially known as the Directorate General Intelligence and Investigation of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) – said it made 98 seizures of smuggled goods during the month, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan customs seize goods worth Rs 300 mn.

Seven dogs kill two women in Chile

SANTIAGO – A 56-year-old woman and her 25-year-old daughter died in Chile after being attacked by seven dogs.

According to Chilean police, the two women stepped out Monday onto the garden of their home in the town of Talagante, about 40 km outside Santiago, where three St Bernard dogs were fighting four mixed breed dogs.
… Read this article on Gaea Times at : Seven dogs kill two women in Chile.

Cyclone Jal Claims 11 lives in Andhra Pradesh

CHENNAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — The Jal cyclone has finally weakened and has drifted towards Chennai, but not before claiming the lives of 11 people in Andhra Pradesh. According to reports, the heavy rains caused by the cyclonic storm have left some destruction in the south coastal districts.
Heavy rains are expected in the coastal districts …. Source article  : Cyclone Jal Claims 11 lives in Andhra Pradesh.

16 injured as boulder hits train

PANAJI – At least 16 railway passengers were injured after a boulder crashed onto a compartment of the Matsyagandha Express near Karwar station in Karnataka Monday night, police here said.

Karwar’s Superintendent of Police Raman Gupta told IANS that the incident occurred at around 8 p.m. on the Konkan railway track near Todur village … Original source on Gaea Times at : 16 injured as boulder hits train.

Cop murdered in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A policeman was murdered in Uttar Pradesh’s Muzaffarnagar district Monday, an official said.

Constable Rajiv Kumar, 28, was found dead in a forested area of the Ramlank town, some 350 km from Lucknow.
“It appears that the policeman died of injuries inflicted by some sharp-edged weapons,” police inspector K.P. Sharma told reporters in … Read more >>>.

Maoist held in West Bengal

KOLKATA – A Maoist squad member has been arrested from West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district, police said Monday.

“Ajoy Das, who was also a member of Nadia-Murshidabad and Burdwan zonal committee, was arrested by the criminal investigation department (CID) from Kancharapara late Sunday night,” said Additional Director General of CID Raj Kanojia.
Das was …. Source  : Maoist held in West Bengal.

Uttar Pradesh lawmaker gets police clean chit in murder

LUCKNOW – A legislator of Uttar Pradesh’s ruling Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Monday got a clean chit from the police in the murder of a revenue official in October.

“No evidence was found against BSP MLA Chandra Bhadra Singh that could prove his involvement in the murder of Ram Kumar Yadav,” Additional Director General of … Read more : Uttar Pradesh lawmaker gets police clean chit in murder.

Earthquake blamed for rise in divorce cases in China

BEIJING – More people are getting divorced in China’s Sichuan province than in other areas of the country and experts blame a devastating earthquake for this.

The civil affairs ministry said some 1.3 million couples got divorced nationwide in the first nine months of this year, and Sichuan topped the list of divorcees with 102,596 …. Original source  : Earthquake blamed for rise in divorce cases in China.

Five killed, 28 injured as bus overturns

RAIPUR – Five people were killed and 28 seriously injured Monday when a speeding private bus carrying about 75 passengers overturned in Surguja district of Chhattisgarh, police said.

“The bus was on its way to Ambikapur from Korba. Five people died on the spot, while 28 others are battling for life in hospital,” a police …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

More bodies found near erupting Indonesian volcano

SLEMAN – Rescue workers found six more bodies on the slopes of Indonesia’s Merapi Volcano Monday, bringing the death toll to 141.

Teams of soldiers, police and volunteers battled hot ash and other volcanic debris as they combed through villages searching for bodies and survivors from eruptions that began last month.
Rescue leader Suseno said … Read : More bodies found near erupting Indonesian volcano.

Man murdered, body parts strewn across Andhra town

HYDERABAD – Residents of Nalgonda district, some 100 km from here, were shocked when they discovered a severed head on a road divider Monday morning. Within hours, other body parts too were found strewn across various public places, bringing to light a gruesome murder.

“The victim has been identified as Appala Naidu, 40 years, a … Read : Man murdered, body parts strewn across Andhra town.

B.K. Gupta is the new Delhi Police chief

NEW DELHI – B.K. Gupta Wednesday replaced Y.S. Dadwal as Delhi’s new police commissioner, and called for a “new culture” in one of the largest police forces in the country.

Dadwal will take over as chief of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) — a paramilitary force tasked with guarding India’s borders with Nepal … Read more »»».

Four killed in Haryana road accident

ROHTAK – Four people, including a district public relations officer, were killed Wednesday when their official vehicle collided with a truck near here, police said.

According to the police, those killed were identified as Rajender Prasad Panchal — public relations officer, Ratan Prakash — junior engineer of public health department, Pramod Sharma and Dharampal.
“The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

JPSC ex-secretary arrested on corruption charges

RANCHI – Former secretary and examination controller of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) was arrested by the state vigilance bureau in connection with the JPSC job scam, an official said Wednesday.

Alis Usha Rani Singh was arrested from Hazaribagh district Tuesday night. She was absconding since the last few months.
According to vigilance sources, …. Read the original article  : JPSC ex-secretary arrested on corruption charges.

Punjabi man perpetuates $20-million fraud on Grammy winner

NEW YORK – A Punjabi computer repairman put the secret cult Opus Dei in Dan Brown’s epic novel ‘The Da Vinci Code’ to great use to fleece a Latin Grammy-winning pianist and oil-family heir to the tune of $20 million.

Vickram Bedi, 36, and his girlfriend Helga Invarsdottir, 39, of small town of Chappaqua in …. Original source  : Punjabi man perpetuates $20-million fraud on Grammy winner.

Life term for man who murdered Andhra ex-minister’s killer

HYDERABAD – A court in Andhra Pradesh Wednesday sentenced a man to life imprisonment for killing in jail a key accused in the murder of former state minister Paritala Ravi.

Om Prakash, already facing cases of triple murder and dacoities, was handed down the life term by the fourth additional sessions court in Anantapur.
…. Read the original article  : Life term for man who murdered Andhra ex-minister’s killer.

Verdict in Aman Kachru’s ragged-to-death case Thursday

DHARAMSALA – The verdict in the ragged-to-death case of medical student Aman Kachru in a Himachal Pradesh college that shook the nation will be pronounced Thursday — almost two years after the incident took place.

Aman, 19, died March 8 last year after he was llegedly ragged by four seniors – Ajay Verma, Naveen Verma, … Read more »».

ICC offers PCB help to probe cricketer who fled

DUBAI – The International Cricket Council (ICC) Wednesday offered help to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to find out what prompted wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider to flee to England from Dubai.

In a statement, ICC said it was in communication with PCB and it would provide assistance to unravel the reasons Haider decided to leave …. Source  : ICC offers PCB help to probe cricketer who fled.

12 killed in Karachi shooting spree

ISLAMABAD – At least 12 people were killed and 10 injured in separate firing incidents in Pakistan’s Karachi city since Tuesday, a media report said Wednesday.

Some bodies, showing signs of torture, have been recovered from Kachra Mandi, Kemari, Gulistan-i-Johar and Baldia Town areas, Geo TV quoted officials as saying. At least two of the … Original source on Gaea Times at : 12 killed in Karachi shooting spree.

Facebook helps save woman from sex-slavery in Italy

Messina (Italy), Nov 10 (IANS/AKI) A message posted to the social networking site Facebook helped save a young woman from sex slavery in southern Italy and led to the arrests of three men.

The 23-year-old woman was forced to work as a prostitute in the Sicilian coastal city of Messina, but a female friend … Read more >>>.

Pastor arrested for multiple child abuse in El Salvador

SAN SALVADOR – An evangelical pastor has been arrested for having sexually abused at least 15 children in El Salvador, Salvadorian police said.

The suspect, aged 28, is a pastor in the San Patricio neighbourhood in San Salvador.
Complaints were filed by the parents of at least 13 girls and two boys, aged 8-13. The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pastor arrested for multiple child abuse in El Salvador.

Nearly 100 arrested in US child prostitution racket

WASHINGTON – A total of 99 people have been arrested and at least 69 minors were rescued in an anti-child prostitution operation in the US, a media report said.

The operation was carried out by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) in 40 cities across 30 states, Prensa Latina reported.
FBI spokesman Jason Pack said …. Source  : Nearly 100 arrested in US child prostitution racket.

18 killed in Brazilian jail fight

RIO DE JANEIRO – A 30-hour prison house melee that ended Tuesday claimed the lives of 18 inmates at the Sao Luis jail in the northern Brazilian state of Maranhao.

The fight broke out Monday between rival gangs of inmates.
The state government confirmed 15 deaths in Sao Luis, and Tuesday authorities confirmed that three …. Source article  : 18 killed in Brazilian jail fight.

Fire on ‘Carnival Splendor’ leaves 4,500 stranded in Pacific

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com) — More than 4,500 people on board Carnival Splendor are stranded with minimal power in the Pacific off the coast of Mexico. An engine room fire has disrupted all the basic services on that cruise ship and The ship has been operating on auxiliary generators and engineers have been unable to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Fire on ‘Carnival Splendor’ leaves 4,500 stranded in Pacific.

Miraculous escape for 140 AI passengers

JAMMU – More than 140 passengers and crew members of an Air India flight from Srinagar to Delhi had a miraculous escape after the aircraft’s tyre caught fire while taking off from Jammu airport Tuesday evening, officials said.

According to airport sources, the tyre caught fire while the plane was about to take off but …. Read the original article  : Miraculous escape for 140 AI passengers.

11 people held for man’s escape from police custody

KOLKATA – Eleven suspected Trinamool Congress supporters, involved in helping an arms-smuggler escape from police custody in West Bengal’s East Midnapore district, were arrested Tuesday, police said.

They had helped the smuggler escape Monday, police said.
“We have arrested 11 people in connection with the escape of arms-smuggler Surajit Jana from police custody. We are … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 11 people held for man’s escape from police custody.

Guard murdered by construction company official

ROHTAK – A security guard of a private construction company was beaten to death by a senior official of the company at a project site in Sector-6 here, police said Tuesday.

According to police, the victim was identified as Arvind, a resident of Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh.
“We have registered a case of murder …. Read the original article  : here.

PM flayed for overlooking gas disaster

BHOPAL – A leading activist Tuesday flayed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for not taking up the plight of the Bhopal gas disaster victims with US President Barack Obama.

“Manmohan Singh has betrayed the people of Bhopal. He is not only insensitive but a coward,” said Abdul Jabbar, coordinator of the Bhopal Gas Peedit Mahila Udhyog … Read : PM flayed for overlooking gas disaster.

CWG was my biggest test: Outgoing Delhi Police chief

NEW DELHI – Outgoing Delhi Police Commissioner Y.S. Dadwal Tuesday termed preparing for and managing the Commonwealth games as his biggest test during his stint as police chief in the national capital.

“Around 40 venues had to be secured, transportation and accommodation of 200 companies of paramilitary force had to be arranged, and there were …. Source article  : CWG was my biggest test: Outgoing Delhi Police chief.

Man behind ink attack on minister evades arrest

RAIPUR – A Chhattisgarh Congress worker, who masterminded an ink attack on a union minister here last month, is evading arrest, police said Tuesday.

Pappu Farishta was suspended from the party for six years after his name cropped up for masterminding the attack on union Minister of State for Planning V. Narayanasamy Oct 19.
“We …. Original article  : Man behind ink attack on minister evades arrest.

10 prisoners escape from Bhopal court lockup

BHOPAL – At least 10 prisoners escaped from a district court lockup in Bhopal Tuesday, police said.

Senior Superintendent of Police Adarsh Katiyar said none of the undertrials, who escaped from a bathroom in the lockup, was facing trial in a serious offence like murder.
One prisoner was nabbed while trying to escape, he …. Original source  : 10 prisoners escape from Bhopal court lockup.

Leather goods warehouse gutted, no casualty

LUCKNOW – Goods worth lakhs of rupees were gutted when a major fire broke out in a leather products warehouse in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur district, police said Thursday. But no casualty was reported.

The fire engulfed the leather goods warehouse in the Jai Jawan Complex of Moolganj area late Wednesday. Fire-fighters were able to bring … Read : Leather goods warehouse gutted, no casualty.

Fritzl planned to kill his dungeon family in acid bath

LONDON – Josef Frizl, who raped his daughter up to 3,000 times over a 24 year period after locking her up in a dungeon, planned to kill his cellar family by dipping them in an acid bath, said the Austrian’s prison cell mate.

Fritzl told his cell mate, 19-year-old Patrick Jakob, that he was … Read more >>>.

Four convicted in Aman Kachru ragged-to-death case

DHARAMSALA – A court here Thursday held four medical students guilty of ragging to death their junior Aman Kachru in March last year.

Ajay Verma, Naveen Verma, Abhinav Verma and Mukul Sharma from the Rajendra Prasad Medical College and Hospital in Tanda in Kangra district were found guilty of culpable homicide not amounting to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Four convicted in Aman Kachru ragged-to-death case.

Timeline of Aman Kachru ragged-to-death case

DHARAMSALA – The following is the timeline of the Aman Kachru ragged-to-death case in the Rajendra Prasad Medical College and Hospital at Tanda town in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh:

2009
March 7: First-year students of the college subjected to intense physical ragging by their seniors in the early hours.
March 8: Aman Kachru succumbs …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Timeline of Aman Kachru ragged-to-death case.

Shelterless flood-hit Pakistanis dread approaching winter

ISLAMABAD – Millions of flood-hit people across Pakistan, who suffer from loss of shelter, are having sleepless nights as the approaching harsh winter ushers in the biting cold.

The flash floods that started from the northern areas of Pakistan in the last week of July devastated human life and infrastructure for almost two months, leaving …. Source article  : Shelterless flood-hit Pakistanis dread approaching winter.

Probe begins into Air India flight emergency landing

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – And inquiry into the emergency landing of a Saudi Arabia-bound Air India flight at the international airport here Wednesday night has commenced, an official said Thursday.

The Dammam-bound AI 915 flight of the national carrier took off at 6 p.m. Wednesday. But it returned to the airport 40 minutes later after the captain …. Source article  : Probe begins into Air India flight emergency landing.

Five oil tankers of goods train derailed in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Thousands of litres of diesel were spilled and train services on the Sitapur-Delhi route were disrupted after five oil tankers of a goods train derailed in Uttar Pradeshs Shahjahanpur district Thursday, officials said. No casualty was reported.

The mishap took place two km from the Roja junction and resulted in a massive …. Source  : Five oil tankers of goods train derailed in Uttar Pradesh.

Pakistani city jails two dozen bakers

PESHAWAR – Over two dozen bakers were jailed as their association observed a shutdown in this Pakistani city to demand an increase in price of unleavened bread.

The bakers are demanding that either they should be provided wheat flour at subsidised rates or they should be allowed to revise the price of roti, Dawn reported …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistani city jails two dozen bakers.

Four students guilty of ragging to death Aman Kachru

DHARAMSALA – A fast track court here Thursday convicted four medical students for ragging to death their junior Aman Kachru in 2009.

Aman, 19, died March 8 last year after he was ragged by four seniors – Ajay Verma, Naveen Verma, Abhinav Verma and Mukul Sharma — of the Rajendra Prasad Medical College and … Read more »».

20 years after crash, pilot’s body found in Bolivian Andes

La Paz, Nov 11 (IANS/EFE) The body of a pilot missing for two decades has been recovered from a crash site on a mountain in the Andes near Bolivia’s La Paz city, a media report said.

Benjamin Pabon Galindo’s remains were recovered from Huayna Potosi mountain, where his plane crashed due to mechanical problems. The … Original article on : 20 years after crash, pilot’s body found in Bolivian Andes.

Fire kills 16 in El Salvador prison

San Salvador, Nov 11 (IANS/EFE) At least 16 people were killed and more than 20 injured in a fire at a prison in El Salvador’s Ilobasco city, authorities said.

“There are 16 dead,” Salvadoran Red Cross spokesman Carlos Lopez said, adding that 26 people were injured.
Justice and Security Ministry spokesmen, however, put the number … Read more : Fire kills 16 in El Salvador prison.

Uttar Pradesh IT commissioner faces arrest for forgery

LUCKNOW – A Kanpur-based Income Tax commissioner is on the run after the court of chief judicial magistrate here issued a non-bailable warrant of arrest against him earlier this week, police said Thursday.

The police had earlier charge sheeted Bhartendu Pratap Singh in a case of forgery involving misuse of letter-heads of two MPs and … Original article on : Uttar Pradesh IT commissioner faces arrest for forgery.

‘Pakistan must learn from India on action against corruption’

ISLAMABAD – India has “lived up to its status as an emerging major player” by holding its leaders accountable and two top politicians facing corruption charges being told to resign, an editorial in a Pakistani daily said, adding that “Pakistan must do the same”.

An editorial in Express Tribune, titled “Learning from India”, said Thursday …. Original article  : ‘Pakistan must learn from India on action against corruption’.

Close shave for 250 as bird hits plane in Goa

PANAJI – A chartered plane to Moscow with 250 passengers on board had a narrow escape early Thursday when it suffered a bird hit at the runway of Goa’s Dabolim international airport.

Airport Authority of India (AAI) officials said that immediately after the bird hit, the pilot of the Moscow-bound Aerofloat Boeing flight that was … Read more »»».

Britain bribes foreign prisoners to return homes

LONDON – Criminals from other countries who have been serving in British prisons have been offered 1,500 pounds each as “bribe” if they agree to return their home, a media report said.

Foreign rapists and muggers are being offered cash. When they leave they receive a cash card loaded with 500 pounds. A further 1,000 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Britain bribes foreign prisoners to return homes.

400,000 counterfeit toys seized in Italy

Rome, Nov 11 (IANS/AKI) Almost 400,000 counterfeit children’s Christmas toys and decorations valued at two million euros has been seized here over the last 15 days, police said.

The potentially hazardous items were destined to reach consumers during the busy Christmas season.
According to the police, the items recently arrived in Italy from China via …. Original article  : 400,000 counterfeit toys seized in Italy.

Woman gets killer relative’s body after 189 years

LONDON – A woman in Britain has won the legal battle to bury her relative’s body, which had been put on display at a university for 189 years after the person was hanged for a murder.

Mary Halliwell while researching her family tree discovered the skeleton displayed in Bristol University.
She launched a battle to …. Read the original article  : Woman gets killer relative’s body after 189 years.

French nationals kidnapped by pirates released

PARIS – Three French nationals who were kidnapped by pirates off the West African coast in September have been released, the French government said Wednesday.

Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner made the announcement with “great joy and relief” that, based on information from authorities in Nigeria, the trio were freed. He gave no further details.
The …. Source  : French nationals kidnapped by pirates released.

16 killed in El Salvador fire

SAN SALVADOR – At least 16 minors died and a further 24 were injured in a fire at a youth detention centre in the Salvadoran town of Ilobasco, El Salvador’s police said Wednesday.

The authorities did not mention the likely causes of the early morning fire at the facility in Ilobasco, about 25 km from … Original article on : 16 killed in El Salvador fire.

Boeing suspends Dreamliner flights after on-board fire

SAN FRANCISCO – Boeing suspended test flights of its 787 Dreamliner planes Wednesday after an electrical fire forced the emergency landing of one of the next-generation passenger jets.

The incident has fanned fears of further delays to the Dreamliner programme, which is already almost three years behind schedule with the first planes due for delivery …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

British judge sentences thief in verse

LONDON – A car thief who wrote poems about his criminal past has been sentenced by a British judge in verse.

Steven Snell, 26, wrote odes about his crimes while he was in remand waiting for his sentence.
Judge Richard Bray of the Northampton Crown Court sent him to 20 months in prison, while announcing … Original source on Gaea Times at : British judge sentences thief in verse.

Briton jailed for showing finger in Dubai

LONDON – A Briton has been sentenced to two months in jail for showing the finger to a woman worker at the Dubai airport, it was reported here.

Paul Anthony, 34, got into a row with a woman airport employee when she reportedly refused to let him use a customer services desk phone. He “cursed” … Original article on : Briton jailed for showing finger in Dubai.

Splendor Cruise Ship At San Diego

SAN DIEGO (GaeaTimes.com)- The disabled cruise ship Carnival Splendor which caught fire on Monday morning and subsequently became immobile near the coast of Mexico has been brought to San Diego port, says the latest update. The passengers finally breathed a sigh of relief after staying without many facilities for three days at a stretch. … Read more >>.

Haryana honour killing: Man shoots brother-in-law

FATEHABAD – In another case of honour killing in Haryana, a 28-year-old man was shot dead by his wife’s brother as he hailed from a different caste, police say.

The shooting took place at Tohana town late Thursday, said police. The killed man was identified as Sukhbir Singh, a resident of Rajgarh village in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Haryana honour killing: Man shoots brother-in-law.

Indian radio station ordered to pay defamation damages

VANCOUVER – A prominent Indian radio station owner, who was targeted in a drive-by shooting in the Indian-dominated suburb of Surrey in September, has been ordered to pay damages in a defamation case.

Maninder Gill, 47, who owns the popular Radio India, and some of his staff have been ordered by the provincial British Columbia … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian radio station ordered to pay defamation damages.

Four cops accused of rape inside police station complex

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh’s Dharmjaigarh town Thursday was outraged at alleged rape of two girls, including a minor, by four policemen within the police station complex earlier this week.

A first information report (FIR) against the policemen was filed late Thursday, the town’s police said, adding that the small town in Raigarh district, about 280 …. Read the original article  : Four cops accused of rape inside police station complex.

Canoeing trainee’s body recovered from Hyderabad lake

HYDERABAD – The body of a 17-year-old canoeing trainee was Friday recovered from Hussainsagar lake in the heart of the city.

Ranjan, hailing from Nagaland, drowned in the lake Thursday while practising on his canoe – apparently without a life jacket.
Search by special teams of military and police personnel till late Thursday evening proved [..] Read the original article: here.

Cult member vandalises Facebook tribute pages

SYDNEY – A member of right-wing cult Ku Klux Klan has vandalised several Facebook tribute pages for dead Australian teenagers, a media report said Friday.

Jarred Hensley, 28, told a couple of Australians in an online chat that he and his group were responsible for defacing many pages, Australian news agency AAP reported.
Hensley, a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cult member vandalises Facebook tribute pages.

Two Pakistani kids killed, stuffed into box

LAHORE – A seven-year-old girl and her brother, 5, were strangled and then crammed into an iron box used for storing wheat in this Pakistani city. The police suspect that the girl was raped.

Medical examiners have concluded that the children whose bodies were found in a wheat-storage iron box on their rooftop about two [..] Read the original article: here.

30 students hurt in Uttar Pradesh accident

LUCKNOW – At least 30 school students were injured, 10 of them seriously, when their bus was hit by a speeding truck in Uttar Pradesh’s Kaushambhi district Friday morning, police said.

The accident took place along the Allahabad-Kanpur highway in Saini town when the truck collided head-on with the bus of Little Flower Convent, carrying … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 30 students hurt in Uttar Pradesh accident.

American held for carrying bullets in Lahore

LAHORE – A 70-year-old US national has been arrested at the international airport here after a cache of cartridges was found in his possession, a media report said.

Gary George William was arrested Thursday at the Allama Iqbal international airport after airport personnel recovered 30 cartridges from his luggage.
William was on his way to … Original article on : American held for carrying bullets in Lahore.

10 die in South Korea hospital fire

SEOUL – At least 10 women were killed and 17 injured when a fire engulfed a hospital for women Friday in a port city in South Korea, a media report said.

The fire broke out at around 4.30 a.m., scorching the two-storey building in Pohang city, 374 km south of Seoul. Twenty fire trucks were …. Source article  : 10 die in South Korea hospital fire.

One killed in Sudan plane crash

KHARTOUM – One person was killed and five people were injured Thursday when a plane crashed in Sudan, officials said.

The accident took place at Zalinge airport in Sudan’s West Darfur state when the back tires of the aircraft exploded and it caught fire, Xinhua quoted an official at TARCO Air, owner of the … Original source on Gaea Times at : One killed in Sudan plane crash.

IT raids Visa Steel in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Income Tax (IT) department sleuths carried out raids Thursday at different premises of Visa Steel in Chhattisgarh’s industrial town of Raigarh, officials said.

“The IT department officials have raided different establishments of Visa Steel,” Raigarh Superintendent of Police Rahul Sharma said. The raids were carried out at Visa Steel’s office in Friends …. Read the original article  : here.

Two held for abducting, killing minor

LUCKNOW – Two people, including a teenager, were arrested Thursday for abducting a minor boy for ransom and then killing him in Uttar Pradesh’s Shahjahanpur district, police said.

Narendra Kumar (19) masterminded the abduction of four-year-old Neeraj, the son of his neighbour, for ransom and and later killed him. Kumar’s accomplice was named as …. Source article  : Two held for abducting, killing minor.

Ruchika case: Supreme Court grants bail to Rathore (Night Lead)

New Delhi, Nov. 11 (IANS) The Supreme Court Thursday granted bail to former Haryana director general of police S.P.S. Rathore, who is serving an 18-month jail sentence in the 1990 Ruchika Girhotra molestation case.

He (Rathore) shall not leave the country without specific permission of the chief judicial magistrate, Chandigarh,” said an apex court bench …. Read the original article  : Ruchika case: Supreme Court grants bail to Rathore (Night Lead).

Family blames Rakhi Sawant for their son’s death

LUCKNOW – A 24-year-old man from Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh who appeared on a reality show featuring Rakhi Sawant was so upset by the reportedly “indecent remarks” made against him by the Bollywood item girl that he stopped eating and died, his family alleged Thursday.

Laksham Prasad, a resident of Jhansi’s Prem Nagar town, was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Family blames Rakhi Sawant for their son’s death.

One dead as Sri Lankan capital, suburbs hit by floods

COLOMBO – At least one person drowned and more than 260,000 were affected by floods Thursday as heavy rains hit Sri Lanka’s capital and surrounding areas, interrupting the power supply, a government spokesman said.

“We have received the highest rainfall in 18 years in Colombo,” the spokesman said.
He said the city had received more [..] Read the original article: here.

Iraqis extradited to Britain, jailed for honour killing

LONDON – Two Iraqi men, who fled to their home country after killing their cousin in 2006 for falling in love with a man disapproved of by her family, were sentenced to life imprisonment by a British court after their extradition.

Mohammed Ali and Omar Hussain were found guilty of murdering Banaz Mahmod, 20, in … Read more : Iraqis extradited to Britain, jailed for honour killing.

Staines killing worse than carnage, apex court told

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Thursday was told that the 1999 lynching of Australian missionary Graham Staines and his two minor sons by Dara Singh and his band of Hindu fanatics was worse than a carnage.

Staines’ two sons Philip Staines, 10, and Timoti Staines, 7, were also burnt alive by the assailants. After …. Original article  : Staines killing worse than carnage, apex court told.

Youths murder auto driver for gambling money, arrested

CHANDIGARH – Two teenagers who robbed and murdered an auto-rickshaw driver, and spent his money on firecrackers and gambling, were arrested from Sector 25 area of the city, police said Saturday.

Vijay Shankar Diwedi, 45, was found lying in a pool of blood near Gate No. 3 of the Punjab University Nov 6, police said. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Youths murder auto driver for gambling money, arrested.

Manipal Hospital ICU ransacked in Nepal

KATHMANDU – The Manipal Teaching Hospital run by Indias Manipal Group in Nepal stopped all but emergency services for a day after vandals attacked its intensive care unit (ICU), injuring even some of the patients undergoing treatment there.

We resumed services today after a meeting at the police station and were assured of security, B.M. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Manipal Hospital ICU ransacked in Nepal.

Serial killer hanged in Iran

TEHRAN – A serial killer who murdered 16 women was hanged Saturday in south-western Iran, Fars news agency reported.

The man, identified as Farid B, killed the women from 2004 to 2008. He was hanged in a prison in the city of Ahvaz after his death verdict was confirmed by the Supreme Court.
Murder, rape, …. Read the original article  : Serial killer hanged in Iran.

Briton jailed for filming naked woman on iPod

SYDNEY – A 24-year-old Briton has been jailed in Australia for using his iPod to film a woman undressing, using the toilet and then showering, a media report said Saturday.

Tristan Francis Alain Maubec admitted to filming the 23-year-old Belgian woman Nov 7 in a unisex bathroom at a hostel in Magnetic Island off the … Read more : Briton jailed for filming naked woman on iPod.

Another Qantas plane makes emergency landing

SYDNEY – Australia’s Qantas airlines was plagued with more engine problems Saturday, with a plane carrying 234 passengers to Melbourne forced to return to Perth, making it the third such incident this month. No one was hurt in the incident.

The crew noticed the problem at an altitude of about 7,000 feet, and sought clearance …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Another Qantas plane makes emergency landing.

Police officer probed in teen’s rape absconding

MUMBAI – A senior police inspector was on the run Saturday after his name came up as a suspect in the rape of a 15-year-old girl who was forced into prostitution, police said.

“Yes, a police officer’s name has come up in the case. The investigations are on. We cannot reveal much before we are … Original source on Gaea Times at : Police officer probed in teen’s rape absconding.

Prisoners in Bihar celebrate Chhath

PATNA – Hundreds of prisoners in Bihar, including women undertrials, observed the Chhath festival Saturday by fasting and offering prayers inside the jail premises – with prison authorities providing help in the form of new clothes and puja material.

The four-day-long Chhath festival ended Saturday morning in Bihar with millions braving the chill to take …. Read the original article  : Prisoners in Bihar celebrate Chhath.

Death toll from Indonesia’s volcano eruptions is 240

YOGYAKARTA – The death toll from the eruptions of Indonesia’s Mount Merapi rose to 240 Saturday as the search for more victims was ongoing, a disaster official said.

Television footage showed military rescuers finding charred bones of victims as they dug through thick volcanic debris that incinerated homes near the mountain.
The death toll could … Read more : Death toll from Indonesia’s volcano eruptions is 240.

Spanish priest arrested on child porn charges

SYDNEY – A 52-year-old priest has been arrested in Spain for allegedly possessing around 21,000 computer files containing child pornography, it was reported here Saturday.

The unnamed priest was arrested Wednesday after police found computer files containing pornographic images of children in his parish church of Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion in Spain’s Vilafames town, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Spanish priest arrested on child porn charges.

Indian American hired ‘hit man’ to kill rape accuser

NEW YORK – An Indian American limo driver jailed on a rape charge here tried to hire a hit man to kill the victim – using a picture of her from an evidence file, according to a media report

Rajeev Kumar’s scheme to silence his accuser was blown open in a sting operation and now …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian American hired ‘hit man’ to kill rape accuser.

Student knifes man trying to sodomise him

FIROZABAD – A Class 9 student in Uttar Pradesh killed a 31-year-old man for allegedly attempting to sodomise him, police said Saturday, adding the boy has been arrested.

The 14-year-old boy, a resident of Kashmiri Gate locality, attacked Danish, a quack, late Friday with a knife. The boy worked as a helper at Danish’s clinic …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Student knifes man trying to sodomise him.

Two Punjab cops suspended for custodial death

FATEHGARH SAHIB – Two Punjab Police officials have been suspended over the custodial death of a man following alleged harassment and torture, police said Saturday.

Hardeep Singh, a 28-year-old who was arrested for the theft of 15 cell phones, ended his life in the lock-up at Khamano police station in this district earlier this week. … Original article on : Two Punjab cops suspended for custodial death.

Man jailed for posting ex-lover’s nude photo on Facebook

AUCKLAND – A New Zealand man has been jailed for posting a nude photo of his ex-girlfriend on Facebook, a media report said Saturday.

Joshua Simon Ashby, a 20-year-old painter from Wellington, was sentenced to four months in prison by the Wellington District Court Friday after he pleaded guilty to charges of distributing indecent material, … Read more >>.

11 killed in Mexico violence

Mexico City, Nov 13 (IANS/EFE) Eleven people were killed in separate incidents of violence in the northern Mexican state of Tamaulipas, authorities have said.

The bodies were found in the towns of Jimenez and San Fernando Friday, an official said.
One of those killed in San Fernando, the scene in August of a massacre of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 11 killed in Mexico violence.

Ship with 29 Chinese hijacked on Arabian Sea

BEIJING – A Panama-flagged freighter with 29 Chinese sailors on board has been hijacked by pirates in the Arabian Sea, the China Marine Rescue Centre (CMRC) said Saturday.

CMRC received a report from the Ningbo Hongyuan Ship Management Co. Ltd at 11.26 p.m. (1526 GMT) Friday, saying the company’s sailors on board the ‘Yuan …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ship with 29 Chinese hijacked on Arabian Sea.

Haiti cholera toll crosses 800

GENEVA/WASHINGTON – A cholera epidemic sweeping across Haiti has killed more than 800 people, hospitalised 12,000 and put an estimated 200,000 at risk, the UN said Friday, as it appealed for $163 million in donor aid.

The first outbreak of the disease, which is contracted through contaminated water and causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting, was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Haiti cholera toll crosses 800.

Two, including woman, arrested for selling arms

NEW DELHI – Two people, including a woman, were arrested for allegedly selling semi-automatic weapons and ammunition to criminals in Delhi and the National Capital Region, police said Friday.

Zainab Nisha, 20 who is pursuing Class 12 through open school, and Riyaz Mohammed, 42 were arrested Tuesday by the special cell of Delhi Police from …. Read the original article  : Two, including woman, arrested for selling arms.

‘Barbaric’ murder of wife deserves noose: Apex court

NEW DELHI – Crimes against women are “social crimes” and “disrupt the entire social fabric”, the Supreme Court Friday noted and asked a man convicted of murdering his wife why his life imprisonment should not be enhanced to death sentence.

The “brutal and barbaric” murder of a wife that “outrages the modern conscience” belongs to …. Original article  : ‘Barbaric’ murder of wife deserves noose: Apex court.

Rakhi Sawant booked in connection with man’s death

LUCKNOW – Police in Uttar Pradesh’s Jhansi district Friday registered a criminal case against Bollywood item girl Rakhi Sawant in connection with the death of a young man who had featured on a reality show hosted by her, an official said.

Lakshman Prasad, 24, a resident of Jhansi’s Prem Nagar town, who appeared on reality … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rakhi Sawant booked in connection with man’s death.

Rathore walks out of jail, smile still intact

CHANDIGARH – The smile was intact on the face of former Haryana police chief S.P.S. Rathore, who walked out of jail Friday after spending nearly six months of his 18-month prison term for molesting teenager Ruchika Girhotra.

A smiling Rathore, 69, came out of the premises of high-security Burail jail here and had to make … Read more »».

Somali pirates free British couple

MOGADISHU – A British couple held captive by pirates in Somalia for more than a year was released Sunday, a media report said.

Pirates had captured them after attacking their yacht off the Somalia coast, Xinhua reported.
The couple – Paul and Rachel Chandler – were set free after long negotiations with their captors, and …. Source  : Somali pirates free British couple.

Tripura to use satellites to track terrorists

AGARTALA – Tripura will soon use satellites to track terrorists in the state, director general of police K. Saleem Ali said here Sunday, saying that the state’s three-decade old militancy will be “flushed out within the next few months”.

Tripura would be the third state in India, after Jammu and Kashmir and Jharkhand, to introduce … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tripura to use satellites to track terrorists.

Palm Beach Crash Claims 3 Lives

WEST PALM BEACH (GaeaTimes.com)- On Thursday, Florida’s Palm Beach International Airport saw a twin engine aircraft crash which claimed three lives and injured one, the airport spokeswoman Casandra Davis confirmed the news to the media. She also said that the injured person was airlifted to the hospital immediately after the crash, however, he later …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Notebook in pocket saves policeman’s life

SYDNEY – It was a notebook that saved his life. An Australian policeman is happy to be alive after an attacker lunged to stab him in the heart, but the knife could only penetrate a notebook kept in his shirt’s left pocket.

The incident occurred when police went to a house in Austinmer town on …. Source article  : Notebook in pocket saves policeman’s life.

No rape by cops, girls tell Chhattisgarh court

RAIPUR – Two days after accusing four policemen of gang raping them in a police station complex in Chhattisgarh’s Raigarh district, the two ‘victims’ Friday retracted their earlier statements in a court Saturday.

The girls told a local court at Gharghora town Friday that they were not raped by policemen.
The girls, one of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : No rape by cops, girls tell Chhattisgarh court.

Girls drop rape charges against Chhattisgarh cops

RAIPUR – Two days after accusing four policemen of gang rape in a police station complex in Raigarh district, the two ‘victims’ retracted from their earlier statements in a court in Chhattisgarh Saturday.

The girls told a local court at Gharghora town Friday that they were not raped by policemen.
The girls, one of … Read : Girls drop rape charges against Chhattisgarh cops.

Huge cache of pirated CDs, DVDs seized, 27 arrested

LUCKNOW – In one of the biggest hauls of blue films and pirated CDs and DVDs in the country, police here Saturday seized over one million such CDs and DVDs and arrested 27 people, an official said.

“Acting on a tip-off, we raided a hideout in the Arya Nagar area and made the seizure,” Additional …. Original source  : Huge cache of pirated CDs, DVDs seized, 27 arrested.

Epileptic boy in Britain dies after drug overdose

LONDON – A five-year-old boy in Britain who was admitted to hospital after suffering from epilepsy has died after being given a massive drug overdose, a media report said Saturday.

Bailey Ratcliffe was admitted to a NHS hospital after having several seizures. He was given seven times too much of an anti-epilepsy drug by … Original article on : Epileptic boy in Britain dies after drug overdose.

Goa serial killer acquitted in fifth murder case

PANAJI – An alleged 41-year-old serial killer was acquitted in a fifth murder case by a local court here Saturday due to lack of evidence.

Mahanand Naik has been lodged in a Goa prison since last year for allegedly murdering 16 women over 16 years, according to the police.
On Saturday, principal sessions … Original article on : Goa serial killer acquitted in fifth murder case.

Scottish prisons go green, flat screen TVs for prisoners

LONDON – In a bid to save energy, Scottish officials have proposed energy-efficient flat screen TV sets for prisoners, a media report said Saturday.

The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) has ordered 1,600 of the 19-inch flat screen TV sets to allow prisoners to watch programmes in their cells, Daily Telegraph reported.
Though the opposition … Read more >>.

CBI files first charge sheet against Koda in graft case

RANCHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed the first charge sheet against jailed former Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda and his two associates in a graft case, a source in the federal agency said Saturday.

The charge sheet against Koda, Vinod Sinha and Sanjay Chaudhary was filed in a Ranchi vacation CBI …. Read the original article  : CBI files first charge sheet against Koda in graft case.

Woman, two children injured as truck rams into car in Delhi

NEW DELHI – A woman and her two children were injured when a truck collided with their car in Kalindi Kunj area of east Delhi, police said Saturday.

“The accident took place around 1 a.m. last night. The woman was taking a U-turn at the Jasola T-point intersection when the vehicles collided,” a police officer …. Source  : Woman, two children injured as truck rams into car in Delhi.

Former BJP MP shot dead, driver injured

MEERUT – Former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Amarpal Singh, who had recently joined the Congress, was Monday shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut district, police said.

Amarpal Singh, a three-time BJP MP, was killed in Mawana town, police said, adding that his driver was also injured by the assailants who managed …. Read the original article  : Former BJP MP shot dead, driver injured.

Indian-origin woman on honeymoon killed in South Africa

LONDON – An Indian-origin woman, who was on her honeymoon with her wealthy British husband after they married in India, was murdered in a South African township, it was reported here.

Anni Dewani, 28, and her husband 31-year-old Shrien had left a restaurant with a driver in a car when they were hijacked by two …. Source article  : Indian-origin woman on honeymoon killed in South Africa.

Mexican drug cartel hires boy to cut victims’ genitals

Mexico City, Nov 15 (IANS/EFE) A 12-year-old boy has been hired by a drug cartel in Mexico and put in charge of cutting off the heads and genitals of his victims, a media report said.

The boy, known as “El Ponchis”, was detained recently by the army, but it later released him because he was … Read more >>.

Air India flight suffers tyre burst, passengers safe

LUCKNOW – An Air India flight arriving here from Mumbai suffered a tyre burst during landing at the Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport here Monday, but all passengers on board were safe, an official said.

“Air India Flight IC-195 had a tyre burst during landing this afternoon. All the passengers have been safely deplaned,” Airport … Read : Air India flight suffers tyre burst, passengers safe.

Rs.20 lakh ransom demanded for Bihar student

PATNA – A Rs.20 lakh ransom has been demanded for the release of a school student kidnapped from Bihar’s Muzaffarpur district, his family members said Monday, even as the police remain clueless more than three weeks after the abduction.

Abhisek Kumar alias Kittu, studies in class 12 of a school in Muzaffarpur, some 70 km … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rs.20 lakh ransom demanded for Bihar student.

Australian man slices partner’s mouth

SYDNEY – An Australian man sliced open both sides of his partner’s mouth, cut her tongue in half and beat her with a rum bottle after she refused to repair their relationship, a court was told Monday.

Mohamed Tasleem Tahir, 21, is now in custody and faces charges of torture, committing acts intended to disfigure …. Read the original article  : Australian man slices partner’s mouth.

Fire damages 99-year-old varsity building in China

BEIJING – A fire broke out in a 99-year-old building at Tsinghua University that was built on the site of a former royal garden here.

Tsinghua University, located in the northwestern suburbs of Beijing, was established in 1911 on the site of “Qing Hua Yuan” – a former royal garden of the Qing dynasty.
The …. Read the original article  : Fire damages 99-year-old varsity building in China.

Grand Riviera Princess, Playa Del Carmen Blast Kills 7

PLAYA DEL CARMEN, MEXICO (GaeaTimes.com)- For people residing at the Grand Riviera Princess hotel which is located in the Mexican resort city of Playa del Carmen, holiday mood turned into their worst nightmare when an explosion ripped through the resort claiming seven lives. According to Mexican authorities, as many as seven people which includes … Original source on Gaea Times at : Grand Riviera Princess, Playa Del Carmen Blast Kills 7.

Hizbul commander arrested from Delhi

NEW DELHI – A man described as a commander of the Hizbul Mujahideen militant group was arrested after a gunfight in the capital, police said Monday.

The man was caught after a brief firefight around 9.30 p.m. in Hauz Khas area, a police officer told IANS. “He fired at us and tried to escape, but …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hizbul commander arrested from Delhi.

Walky-talky too costly! British cops asked to send SMS

LONDON – As a cost-cutting measure, police officers in Britain are being asked to send text messages and avoid speaking on radio to contact each other on duty.

The tariff charged by Airwave Solutions’, which operates the police communication network, is said to be putting a severe strain on police budgets. Officers from forces all … Read : Walky-talky too costly! British cops asked to send SMS.

What is the 2G spectrum scam about?

NEW DELHI – Here is a background on the 2G spectrum controversy that resulted in Communications and IT Minister A. Raja of DMK resigning Sunday:

The issue dates to 2008 when nine telecom companies were issued scarce airwaves and licences for second generation (2G) mobile phone services at Rs.1,658 crore (less that $350 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Four girls terrorise Mexican city with massacre joke

Mexico City, Nov 15 (IANS/EFE) Four high school girl students have been sent for psychological treatment after their joke about an upcoming massacre created panic in a Mexican city, officials said.

Police found a message written in the front of a bank building that warned of a coming massacre in Ciudad Aldama city in Chihuahua … Original article on : Four girls terrorise Mexican city with massacre joke.

Man charged with tattooing genitals on friend’s back

SYDNEY – A 21-year-old Australian man was charged by a court Monday with committing grievous bodily harm to a friend by getting the male genitalia tattooed on his back.

Matthew Francis Brady, from Ipswich near Brisbane, appeared in the Ipswich magistrates court Monday, after he allegedly had a tattoo of a 40cm-long image of male …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Man charged with tattooing genitals on friend’s back.

Qantas’ woes continue, jet returns to Sydney

SYDNEY – Australia’s Qantas airlines was hit by another problem Monday when a jumbo jet bound for Argentina was forced to return to Sydney after smoke came out from the cockpit’s electrical system. This is the airline’s fourth such incident this month.

The flight QF17 – with 199 passengers and 21 flight crew on board …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Qantas’ woes continue, jet returns to Sydney.

Over 100 trafficked people rescued in Mexico

Mexico City, Nov 15 (IANS/EFE) Mexican marines have rescued 103 people, including three newborns and a pregnant 12-year-old girl, who were held captive by human traffickers at a banana plantation in Mexico, officials said.

Eight suspects have been arrested and will be charged with people trafficking, the attorney general’s office said Sunday.
The rescue operation … Read more >>>.

Argentine kidnaps girl he met on Facebook

Buenos Aires, Nov 15 (IANS/EFE) A 39-year-old man in the Argentine capital was arrested on charges of kidnapping a teenaged girl he met on social networking website Facebook, authorities said.

The kidnapper was arrested in La Tablada area on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, where he had taken the teenager after abducting her at the …. Original article  : Argentine kidnaps girl he met on Facebook.

18 killed in Peru road accidents

LIMA – At least 18 people died and many injured in four separate road accidents in Peru, police said.

Thirteen people were killed and 13 more injured Sunday morning when a vehicle fell into a 50-metre deep gorge outside Camana city in Arequipa region, south of the country, Xinhua reported.
Another accident occurred Sunday … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 18 killed in Peru road accidents.

Four killed in Mexico gas explosion

MEXICO CITY – Four people were killed in a gas explosion that demolished part of a luxury hotel near the Mexican Caribbean resort of Cancun Sunday, a German consular official said.

Eight people were injured in the blast, which is believed to have occurred in one of the restaurants of the Princess Hotel, located on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Four killed in Mexico gas explosion.

Clashes in Lucknow after Shia clerics arrested

LUCKNOW – Tension gripped large parts of the old city Sunday following prolonged clashes between the police and agitated mobs protesting against the arrest of leading Shia clerics Maulana Kalbe Jawaad and Maulana Agha Roohi.

Apart from pelting stones at police, the mob also resorted to arson, vandalism and staged road blocks for more than … Read more »»».

Seven dead in blaze at French foreign-worker housing complex

PARIS – At least seven men died early Sunday in a blaze at a residence for foreign workers in eastern France.

Four people were also seriously injured, while another 130 sustained minor injuries.
“They are mostly people who had to be treated for smoke inhalation,” Jean-Louis Marc of the CODIS dispatch centre told journalists.
Three … Original article on : Seven dead in blaze at French foreign-worker housing complex.

Inter-state drug gang busted, heroin worth Rs.2 crore seized

LUCKNOW – Three drug peddlers, who operated in several states of the country, were arrested in Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh, police said Tuesday. Heroin worth Rs.2 crore was recovered from them.

The three were nabbed in the wee hours of Tuesday in a joint operation carried by district police and the special operation group …. Original article  : Inter-state drug gang busted, heroin worth Rs.2 crore seized.

Desperate families look out for sounds of survival

NEW DELHI – The cries for help are becoming fainter, the mobiles are dying out slowly… But the intermittent sounds from the debris of the collapsed building are keeping hopes alive for the distraught families gathered at east Delhi’s Laxmi Nagar.

A day after the five-storey building caved in Monday night, workers Tuesday scrambled to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Desperate families look out for sounds of survival.

100 lashes for lovers who had sex

SHARJAH – A Filipina housemaid and her Bangladeshi boyfriend will be given 100 lashes each, jailed for a year and then deported for having illicit sex, a court in the United Arab Emirates has ruled.

The Sharjah Sharia Court ordered the lashing of the housemaid – known only as N.M. – and her lover – …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 100 lashes for lovers who had sex.

Four held as Shanghai blaze toll rises to 53

SHANGHAI – Four people were detained Tuesday over a massive fire in Shanghai that engulfed a 28-storey building and left 53 people dead and over 70 injured, a media report said.

The high-rise building, which housed 156 families of retired school teachers and is situated at the intersection of Jiaozhou Road and Yuyao Road, was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Four held as Shanghai blaze toll rises to 53.

New Delhi Building Collapse Claims 64

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- A residential building located in eastern New Delhi’s Laxmi Nagar area was witness to a major disaster on Monday when it collapsed claiming as many as 64 lives. Around 80 residents who were inside the building during the collapse are reported to have suffered severe injuries and they were immediately … Original source on Gaea Times at : New Delhi Building Collapse Claims 64.

Unsafe buildings will be demolished: LG Tejender Khanna

NEW DELHI – A day after a five-storeyed building collapsed in east Delhi, killing at least 65 people and injuring 78, Lt Governor Tejender Khanna Tuesday said a survey of the area would be conducted and any building found unsafe demolished.

“I have spoken to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) commissioner and told him … Read more : Unsafe buildings will be demolished: LG Tejender Khanna.

Rs.2 lakh compensation for Delhi building collapse victims

NEW DELHI – Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit Tuesday announced compensation of Rs.2 lakh each to families of those killed in the building collapse in east Delhi. At least 65 people died and 78 were injured in the incident.

“Normally we give a compensation amount of Rs.1 lakh in such cases, but in this …. Read the original article  : Rs.2 lakh compensation for Delhi building collapse victims.

Delhi death toll rises to 60, rescuers hunt for survivors

NEW DELHI – Rescuers continued to search for possible survivors under tonnes of debris of an illegally-built high-rise building here that caved in killing at least 60 people, authorities said Tuesday, the day after the tragedy.

Police slapped a case of negligence against the building’s owner, Amrik Singh, who is on the run ever …. Source  : Delhi death toll rises to 60, rescuers hunt for survivors.

Argentine man rapes daughter, fathers five kids

Buenos Aires, Nov 16 (IANS/EFE) An Argentine man has been arrested on charges of raping his daughter for over 10 years and fathering five children by her.

The young woman, now 23 years old, complained to judicial authorities in Santiago del Estero province that her father, whose identity and age were not revealed, had threatened …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Delhi building toll 55, rescue work on

NEW DELHI – Rescuers Tuesday continued to search for possible survivors in the rubble of a high-rise building that collapsed here overnight, killing at least 55 people and injuring over 80.

Hours after the tragedy, officials said the number of dead may rise because victims have been buried under tonnes of rubble in Laxmi Nagar …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Shanghai fire toll rises to 53

SHANGHAI – The toll in a massive fire that engulfed a 28-storey skyscraper in Shanghai rose to 53 Tuesday morning, authorities said.

Over 70 people injured in the inferno were hospitalised, Xinhua reported.
The high-rise building, which housed 156 families of retired school teachers and is situated at the intersection of Jiaozhou road and Yuyao … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Shanghai fire toll rises to 53.

Iowa Plane Crash Claims Life of 1 person

MILFORD, IOWA (GaeaTimes.com) — A plane crash near Milford, Iowa has claimed the life of a businessman from Texas on Wednesday afternoon.
The officials have identified the body as 67-year-old Geary Gearn of Hereford, Texas. Gearn was the owner of cattle feed mill business named Gearn Industries Inc. for about 40 years. Office manager Deena …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Iowa Plane Crash Claims Life of 1 person.

11 killed, 11 injured in Colombia shootings

BOGOTA – Eleven people died and another 11 were injured in two separate shootings in Colombia, police said Monday.

Gunmen opened fire late Sunday in a house in the city of Barranquilla where a party was being held, killing five people and injuring 11 others including a five-year-old boy.
According to witnesses, six men arrived … Read : 11 killed, 11 injured in Colombia shootings.

Five killed, 9 injured in Colombia shooting

BOGOTA – Gunmen opened fire during a party in Colombia killing five people and injuring nine others, police said Monday.

The attack late Sunday targeted a house in the city of Barranquilla where a party was being held. According to witnesses, six men arrived on three motorcycles and opened fire with machine guns and handguns, …. Original source  : Five killed, 9 injured in Colombia shooting.

32 killed, 90 injured in Delhi house collapse (Fourth Lead)

NEW DELHI – At least 32 people were killed and around 90 injured when a five-storeyed house collapsed in east Delhi’s Laxmi Nagar Monday night. Scores of people are believed to be trapped under the rubble, officials said.

Delhi police commissioner B.K. Gupta said late in the night that 32 people had been killed in … Original source on Gaea Times at : 32 killed, 90 injured in Delhi house collapse (Fourth Lead).

Rescuers work with hope among mangled human remains

NEW DELHI – A cursory glance showed up five mangled bodies, hanging out from under the mounds of rubble. Many more bodies and trapped people were buried under the debris of the five-storeyed building that came crashing down like a pack of cards late Monday evening.

Authorities said at least 24 people were killed and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rescuers work with hope among mangled human remains.

24 killed, 90 injured in Delhi house collapse (Third Lead)

NEW DELHI – At least 24 people were killed and around 90 injured when a five-storeyed house collapsed in east Delhi’s Laxmi Nagar Monday night. Scores of people are believed to be trapped under the rubble, officials said.

Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit said that 24 people were killed in the house collapse at Lalita …. Original article  : 24 killed, 90 injured in Delhi house collapse (Third Lead).

24 killed in Delhi house collapse (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – At least 24 people were killed and and more than 40 injured when a five-storeyed house collapsed in east Delhi’s Laxmi Nagar Monday night. More than 40 people are believed to be trapped under the rubble, officials said.

Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit said that 24 people were killed in the house …. Original article  : 24 killed in Delhi house collapse (Second Lead).

One killed, 30 injured in Delhi house collapse

NEW DELHI – At least one person was killed and around 30 were injured when a five-storeyed house collapsed in east Delhi’s Laxmi Nagar Monday night. More than 40 people are believed to be trapped under the rubble, officials said.

Delhi Fire Service chief fire officer R.C. Sharma said that at least 30 people have … Original source on Gaea Times at : One killed, 30 injured in Delhi house collapse.

Five-storey building collapses in Delhi, scores injured

NEW DELHI – A five-storey house collapsed in east Delhi’s Laxmi Nagar Monday night, leaving at least one person dead and scores injured.

Delhi Fire Service chief fire officer R.C. Sharma said that at least 30 people have been rescued and sent to the hospital. Their condition is said to be critical
According to sources, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Delhi building collapse: People pitch in with relief work

NEW DELHI – With little or no government help, survivors of the east Delhi building collapse are relying on voluntary organisations to help them in rehabilitation.

Members of an NGO, South Asian Forum for People Against Terror, Wednesday distributed food and water to about 100 survivors, who are living on the roadside since Monday night, … Read more »».

Government confirms cases of theft from CWG offices

NEW DELHI – The home ministry has confirmed that a total of five cases of theft have been reported from various Commonwealth Games (CWG) offices in the capital.

All the cases relate to thefts of computer hardware from the CWG headquarters in Connaught Place and other CWG offices at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and Malviya Nagar. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Villagers attack policemen over land dispute

LUCKNOW – Six policemen were injured in Uttar Pradesh’s Pilibhit district when a mob attacked them for freeing government land being used illegally for agriculture, an official said Wednesday.

Armed with wooden sticks and stones, a large number of people from Bharapachpera village late Tuesday evening attacked the policemen as they tried to free the … Original article on : Villagers attack policemen over land dispute.

MCD orders evacuation of 38 buildings near accident site

NEW DELHI – The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) Wednesday ordered the immediate evacuation of 38 buildings near the site of the collapsed five-storey building in east Delhi.

“The civic agency has served a 24-hour vacation notice to 38 buildings for water in the basement in Lalita Park locality,” said Municipal Corporation of Delhi … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : MCD orders evacuation of 38 buildings near accident site.

Woman helps to rob bank in Pakistan

KARACHI – A woman accompanied by two armed men robbed a bank in this Pakistani city – in five minutes flat.

The gang arrived at the bank in a car at around noon Monday. They entered the bank and snatched the weapons from the security guards, the Daily Times reported Wednesday.
They took the staff …. Source  : Woman helps to rob bank in Pakistan.

Delhi building collapse: 20 still buried under debris

NEW DELHI – Rescue operations continued Wednesday at the site of the collapsed five-storey building in east Delhi to search for the 20 people still feared buried under the debris, officials said.

Officials said no more bodies have been recovered since Tuesday night and the toll still stands at 66. However, the number of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Delhi building collapse: 20 still buried under debris.

Indian-origin doctor jailed for rape in Australia

MELBOURNE – An Indian-origin doctor has been jailed for six years in Australia for raping a woman seven times in one night and taking photographs, a media report said Wednesday.

Arvind Sharma, 37, was found guilty by a jury of seven counts of rape and three of indecent assaults, the Herald Sun reported Wednesday.
… Read more : Indian-origin doctor jailed for rape in Australia.

Now, database of scalp hair to help nab criminals

SYDNEY – Thanks to a new database of scalp hair characteristics, a single hair found at a crime scene can help reveal the culprit’s identity.

Paul Barton, forensic scientist from Queensland University of Technology, Australia, analysed donated scalp hair from 70 people of each gender from African, Caucasian and Asian backgrounds using infra-red radiation … Read more »».

Qantas plane forced to return after bird strike

SYDNEY – A Qantas flight with 171 passengers on board was forced to return to Johannesburg in South Africa after birds hit one of its engines, the Australian airline said Wednesday.

Birds struck one of the four engines on flight QF64 from Johannesburg to Sydney just after take-off about 6 p.m. local time Tuesday, the … Read : Qantas plane forced to return after bird strike.

Man fined for acrobatic dives in Italian fountain

Rome, Nov 17 (IANs/AKI) A homeless Romanian, dubbed ‘Attila the Hun’, was fined 160 euros by police after he staged a spectacular diving display in Rome’s famous 17th-century Trevi fountain.

The Romanian showed the agility of a gymnast, repeatedly climbing to the top of the fountain and performing a series of dives to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Man fined for acrobatic dives in Italian fountain.

Fire in Uttar Pradesh warehouse

LUCKNOW – Property worth lakhs of rupees was destroyed in a massive fire that broke out in a paint warehouse in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut district early Wednesday, police said. There was no casualty.

The fire engulfed the warehouse in the multi-storey Amit Complex in the Lal Kurti area at around 1 a.m.
Inflammable raw materials …. Original article  : Fire in Uttar Pradesh warehouse.

Toll in El Salvador prison fire rises to 26

San Salvador, Nov 17 (IANS/EFE) The number of fatalities caused by a fire in a Salvadoran prison increased Tuesday to 26 with the death of another inmate, authorities said.

Francisco Javier Dominguez, 19, who had been taken to Zacamil Hospital in San Salvador, died from “cardiorespiratory arrest”, officials at the medical center told EFE.
The … Original source on Gaea Times at : Toll in El Salvador prison fire rises to 26.

Strong quake strikes off Indonesia

JAKARTA – An earthquake measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale stuck early Wednesday off Indonesia’s Maluku islands, but there were no reports of damage, the geophysics agency said.

The quake occurred at 3:06 a.m. Jakarta time (2006 GMT Tuesday), with the epicentre 210 km southwest of Tual town at a depth of 128 km, the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Poacher held with tiger skins

LUCKNOW – A poacher was arrested from Uttar Pradesh’s Chandauli district with skins of tigers and a leopard, police said Tuesday.

“Rakesh Kumar, 28, a native of Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi district, was nabbed late Monday from the Sayedraza town following a joint operation conducted by police and forest officials,” police inspector R.K. Ram told reporters …. Read the original article  : here.

Haiti cholera toll tops 1,000

Moscow, Nov 16 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The toll in Haiti’s cholera outbreak has topped 1,000 people, the Caribbean country’s health ministry said, as efforts to contain the disease continue.

At least 1,034 people have died and over 14,500 have been hospitalized since the disease broke out more than three weeks ago, the ministry said.
Haiti is … Original article on : Haiti cholera toll tops 1,000.

Rahul backs plea for CBI probe into official’s murder

AMETHI – Calling on the widow of a slain revenue official, Ram Kumar Yadav, allegedly killed by a ruling Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) lawmaker in Uttar Pradesh, Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi Tuesday backed her demand for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the murder.

Gandhi, who is on a three-day visit of …. Read the original article  : Rahul backs plea for CBI probe into official’s murder.

Delhi building collapse: Rs.1 lakh compensation for victims from Bengal

KOLKATA – The West Bengal government Tuesday announced Rs.1 lakh compensation for the next of kin of each of the 24 people from the state who died in the building collapse in east Delhi Monday night, it was announced here Tuesday.

The disaster took place at 8.15 p.m. Monday when the building, occupied by … Read : Delhi building collapse: Rs.1 lakh compensation for victims from Bengal.

Delhi building collapse toll 66, owner caught (Intro Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Rescue workers Tuesday night continued to dig through the rubble of a collapsed five-storeyed building in east Delhi, searching frantically for the over 30 people feared still trapped. The toll in the accident has reached 66 and 74 injured, while the owner of illegally-constructed building has been arrested.

“Police arrested the owner, …. Original article  : Delhi building collapse toll 66, owner caught (Intro Roundup).

Four held for poaching tiger, smuggling wildlife goods

KOLKATA – Four people, involved in poaching of the Royal Bengal tiger and smuggling of wildlife goods, were arrested in West Bengal’s South 24-Parganas district, an official said Tuesday.

“A trap was laid to catch the culprits red-handed. Posing as customers, we contacted the gang members and asked them to deliver the tiger’s skin at …. Original source  : Four held for poaching tiger, smuggling wildlife goods.

Hope of finding kin fades under collapsed building

NEW DELHI – In the space of a second, Biswajit Ghosh’s life came crashing down. His wife, son and daughter were buried under tonnes of concrete of the collapsed building in east Delhi’s Laxmi Nagar.

But Ghosh, a sales person who hails from West Bengal, did not let his personal tragedy overtake him. He joined … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hope of finding kin fades under collapsed building.

Briton filmed kid he tortured, killed

LONDON – A man in Britain shot the video of a screaming baby boy whom he repeatedly tortured, leading to his death from horrific injuries.

Charlie Hunt, who was 15 months old, died of severe head injuries after Darren Newton allegedly carried out a string of sadistic attacks. The attacks were recorded on a mobile … Read more »».

Shanghai residents ill-prepared for fire, shows survey

SHANGHAI – Around half of Shanghai residents couldn’t locate fire-fighting equipment in buildings where they work or live, revealed a survey that was undertaken after a fire in a high-rise building here left at least 53 people dead.

Most city residents have not participated in fire escape exercises, reported Shanghai Daily Thursday citing the survey … Original source on Gaea Times at : Shanghai residents ill-prepared for fire, shows survey.

Rajya Sabha mourns victims of Delhi building collapse

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha Thursday mourned the deaths of 69 people in the building collapse in east Delhi.

As the house assembled for the day, Deputy Chairman K. Rahman Khan paid homage to those who died in the building collapse. The chair extended condolences and sympathy to the families who lost their …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rajya Sabha mourns victims of Delhi building collapse.

Doctor arrested for selling corpses

LUCKNOW – Three people, including a doctor in a government hospital, were arrested in Moradabad district of Uttar Pradesh for selling unclaimed corpses to private medical colleges, police said Thursday.

“The three sold unclaimed bodies brought for autopsy at the Civil Lines Postmortem House,” police inspector Anil Kumar Raghav said in Moradabad, about 350 …. Original source  : Doctor arrested for selling corpses.

Two held for raping widow

JAMMU – Two of three government employees in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district who raped a widow after promising to give her a job have been arrested, police said Thursday.

The woman from Lamberi village in Nowshera was assaulted by the employees of the sheep and animal husbandry department Wednesday evening.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Two held for raping widow.

Pakistani police involved in rape, rights violations

ISLAMABAD – A large number of police officials across Pakistan have been booked for rape and human rights violations in the last three years, says an official report submitted to the interior ministry.

The report submitted by the National Police Bureau to the ministry of interior said that 78 police officials in Sindh province were … Read more : Pakistani police involved in rape, rights violations.

F-22 Crash Wreckage Found

JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON (GaeaTimes.com)- Air Force officials have initiated a thorough probe to know the whereabouts of the missing pilot of the F-22 fighter jet which crashed near Anchorage on Tuesday. The wreckage of the plane was found on Wednesday morning by rescue teams which were dispatched after the plane went out of the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : F-22 Crash Wreckage Found.

Here’s how to dejargonise Karnataka land scam (Letter from Bangalore)

BANGALORE – ‘G’ category sites, denotification, KIADB, ‘putra vyamoha’… among the frequently uttered words these days in Karnataka where land grabbing has reached scandalous proportions with allegations levelled against no less than the chief minister.

To fathom what exactly has been alleged, read on.
‘G’ category sites are sought after as they are mostly in … Read more >>>.

Malaysian Indian lawyer knifed to death

KUALA LUMPUR – A Malaysian Indian lawyer was slashed to death by two masked men outside his home in Ipoh, the capital of Perak state, a media report said Thursday.

The two men are believed to have trailed G. Balasundram from his office Tuesday evening and attacked him just as he reached home, The Star … Original article on : Malaysian Indian lawyer knifed to death.

Man rams car into own house after argument

MELBOURNE – An Australian man rammed his car into his home and allegedly injured a police officer after having an argument with his partner, a media report said Thursday.

It is believed the 22-year-old man had argued with his partner before ramming his Toyota LandCruiser car into the front of his home in Melbourne Wednesday, …. Read the original article  : here.

10 killed in Mexico violence

Mexico City, Nov 18 (IANS/EFE) Ten people were killed and several wounded in separate incidents in the western Mexican state of Jalisco, officials said.

Five gunmen died early Wednesday in a battle with police on a highway, the state’s public safety office said. One person was injured in the shootout while four people were arrested … Read more >>>.

Swedish diplomat says Haiti cholera strain came from Nepal

STOCKHOLM – A Swedish diplomat claimed Wednesday that Haiti’s cholera outbreak originated in Nepal.

“Unfortunately that is the case. It has proved that the cholera came from Nepal,” Claes Hammar, Sweden’s ambassador to Haiti, told daily Svenska Dagbladet.
Hammar, who visited Haiti two weeks ago, said the information came from “a diplomatic source. It is … Original article on : Swedish diplomat says Haiti cholera strain came from Nepal.

‘Survivor’ producer arrested in wife’s killing

LOS ANGELES – A former producer of the ground-breaking hit reality show “Survivor” has been arrested by US authorities in connection with the death of his wife earlier this year in Mexico, the Los Angeles Times reported Wednesday.

Bruce Beresord-Redman, who is also co-creator of the MTV show “Pimp My Ride”, was taken into custody … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Survivor’ producer arrested in wife’s killing.

17 dead, 45 injured in Somalia fighting

MOGADISHU – At least 17 people died and 45 others were injured in the Somali capital Mogadishu Wednesday during fighting between Islamist insurgents and African Union (AU) peacekeepers.

Heavy shelling and exchanges of fire followed an insurgent attack on an AU peacekeeping base, killing civilians, according to witnesses and officials.
“We have collected 17 dead … Original article on : 17 dead, 45 injured in Somalia fighting.

China mine safety official gets life for bribe

BEIJING – A coal mine safety official in China was Wednesday sentenced to life in prison for taking nine million yuan ($1.35 million) in bribes, a media report said.

The Intermediate People’s Court in Chongqing municipality announced the verdict in which Wang Xiping, former deputy director of coal mine safety in the Chongqing municipal administration … Read more »».

Italy arrests top mafia boss

Casal di Principe (Italy), Nov 17 (IANS/AKI) Italian Police Wednesday arrested fugitive mafia boss Antonio Iovine near the country’s southern Caserta city. He had been on the run for 14 years.

The head of the Naples mafia or Camorra’s powerful Casalesi clan, Iovine was among the Italy’s 30 most wanted mafia fugitives.
“This is …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pope appeals to spare life of Pakistani Christian woman

Vatican City, Nov 17 (IANS/AKI) Pope Benedict XVI Wednesday made an appeal for a Pakistani Christian mother of five who has been sentenced to death for blasphemy after she collected water from a well to be drunk by Muslims.

“I today express my spiritual closeness to Ms Asia Bibi and her family while asking that, … Read more >>.

Pharma company’s officials booked for two workers’ death

DERA BASSI – A case of negligence was registered against the management of a pharmaceutical company here Wednesday for the death of its two workers in a fire in its premises in Punjab’s Mohali district, police said.

According to the police, a major fire broke out on the premises of Anuja Healthcare in Dera Bassi …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pharma company’s officials booked for two workers’ death.

Delhi minister denies building owner’s claim

NEW DELHI – Delhi Finance Minister A.K. Walia Wednesday denied an allegation that the owner of a building which collapsed in east Delhi, killing 67 people earlier this week, had informed him about water stagnation in its basement.

The stagnant water in the building’s basement is said to have led to the caving-in Monday … Read more »»».

IIT Kanpur girl commits suicide

KANPUR – A final year engineering student of the premiere Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IIT-K), Wednesday committed suicide in her hostel room on the campus, police said.

“The girl, aged around 22 years, was found hanging from the ceiling fan of her hostel room. Prima-facie, it appears to be a case of suicide,” Deputy … Original source on Gaea Times at : IIT Kanpur girl commits suicide.

IAF chopper crashes in Arunachal, 11 feared killed

GUWAHATI – An MI 17 helicopter of the Indian Air Force (IAF), carrying 11 defence personnel, crashed due to dense fog in Arunachal Pradesh Friday, a defence official said. All those on board were feared killed.

The accident took place at 12.05 p.m. near Bombdir, at Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh bordering China, at an altitude … Original article on : IAF chopper crashes in Arunachal, 11 feared killed.

Two absconding minors traced in Punjab

HOSHIARPUR – Two of the six minors who had escaped from a juvenile home here in Punjab were traced Friday, police said.

The six minors fled Thursday after breaking the grills of the barrack where they were lodged. One was a Bangladeshi.
“We have nabbed two of the minors and sent police teams to …. Source article  : Two absconding minors traced in Punjab.

Ex-chief of China’s n-firm gets life for corruption

BEIJING – A Chinese court Friday sentenced the former head of the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) to life imprisonment for corruption, reports Xinhua.

Kang Rixin, former general manager of CNNC, was punished for accepting about $1 million in bribes between 2004 and 2009, the Beijing No.1 intermediary court said in a statement.
… Read more >>.

Briton killed baby girl who interrupted his video game

LONDON – A man playing video games was so enraged by the crying of a 15-month-old girl who was seeking his attention that he hit her hard, rupturing her internal organs and leading to her death.

Gary Alcock was angry with his girlfriend’s daughter, 15-month-old Violet Mullen, when she began to cry. He hit …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Briton killed baby girl who interrupted his video game.

Four more held for Shanghai high-rise blaze

SHANGHAI – Four more people have been detained in connection with the blaze in a Shanghai high-rise that left 58 people dead, Xinhua reported Friday.

So far 12 people have been detained in connection with the case, police said. The managers of the firms involved in the building’s construction are among those detained.
Fifty-eight … Original article on : Four more held for Shanghai high-rise blaze.

Fumes force Australian plane to land

MELBOURNE – A Sydney-bound Virgin Blue aircraft with 122 passengers on board made an emergency landing at the Melbourne airport Friday morning after fumes were detected in the cockpit, a media report said.

About 20 minutes after the flight DJ807 took off from Melbourne at 6.30 a.m., the captain reported an unusual odour in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Haitians, UN troops clash over cholera; epidemic spreads

Port-au-PRINCE – Protesters clashed with police and UN peacekeepers in Haitian capital Port-au-Prince over the spreading cholera epidemic, as US health experts warned of a substantial increase in cases.

More than 1,100 people have died from cholera and an additional 18,000 have been sickened by the disease, which is contracted through contaminated water and causes … Original article on : Haitians, UN troops clash over cholera; epidemic spreads.

Brazil busts human trafficking ring

Rio de Janeiro, Nov 19 (IANS/EFE) Twelve people were arrested in Brazil Thursday in an operation against a gang accused of smuggling people into the US and then holding them to extract ransom from their families back in Brazil, authorities said.

The gang charged emigrants up to $15,000 each for false documents to enter the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brazil busts human trafficking ring.

Argentine cops charged with kidnapping

Buenos Aires, Nov 19 (IANS/EFE) Two Argentine policemen are under arrest and a retired cop is being sought on charges that they took part in the kidnapping of a Peruvian citizen in Buenos Aires, official sources said Thursday.

While patrolman Gaston Eduardo Aragon and Deputy Inspector Mariano Comello Potes were detained at their respective precincts … Original source on Gaea Times at : Argentine cops charged with kidnapping.

China n-firm’s ex-chief gets life for corruption

BEIJING – A Chinese court Friday sentenced the former head of the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) to life imprisonment for corruption, Xinhua reported.

Kang Rixin, former general manager of CNNC, was convicted for taking bribes and abusing his power while in office, the Beijing No. 1 intermediary court said in a statement.
… Read more »»».

Granny, 54, caught with big drug haul

WELLINGTON – A 54-year-old New Zealand grandmother on welfare benefits was caught with a suitcase full of crystal methamphetamine and other drugs which she planned to deal from her state house in Wellington, police told a court.

The 220 grams of the drug known as P in New Zealand was the biggest seizure in Wellington …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Abducted youths released after 66 days

AGRA – Two youths, kidnapped by a dacoit group which sent a parcel containing four severed fingers to the family to pressurise them to pay the ransom, returned home Thursday after 66 days in captivity. Their fingers were intact.

Sources, not wanting to be identified, said the efforts of the family members and a possible … Read more »».

Planes prevented from colliding over Israel airport

TEL AVIV – An alert air traffic controller at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport prevented what could have been a major air disaster Thursday, when he spotted a flight which had just taken off straying into the path of an airplane preparing to land.

According to reports in the Israeli media, the Air Berlin plane, …. Original source  : Planes prevented from colliding over Israel airport.

Swedish court approves detention of WikiLeaks founder

STOCKHOLM – A Swedish court Thursday approved a prosecutor’s request to detain the founder of whistle-blowing website WikiLeaks, Julian Assange, as part of a probe into alleged rape.

The decision was announced after a closed-door hearing at the Stockholm district court.
Assange is suspected of “rape, sexual molestation and unlawful coercion”, Marianne Ny, director of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Swedish court approves detention of WikiLeaks founder.

Violence near Osmania varsity, police fire rubber bullets

HYDERABAD – Police fired rubber bullets near Osmania University Thursday night as students demanding postponement of examination for recruiting sub-inspectors of police in Telangana turned violent.

Police fired teargas shells and rubber bullets at Tarnaka as students tried to take out a procession and resorted to violence, hours after Chief Minister K.Rosaiah ruled out … Original article on : Violence near Osmania varsity, police fire rubber bullets.

Building collapse toll 69, political blame game goes on (Night Lead)

NEW DELHI – Three days after a building collapsed in east Delhi, the toll has risen to 69, and political recriminations have broken out in full force over the tragedy, while authorities have yet to make arrangements for hundreds of people who have been asked to vacate their homes in dangerous buildings.

The debris of … Read more »».

Domestic help murdered in Gurgaon home

GURGAON – A domestic help was found murdered in a Gurgaon house where she worked for the past one month, police said Thursday.

“We are also exploring the angle of rape and waiting for the medical examination report,” said a senior police officer. A murder case has been registered.
The victim, Sangeeta, was hired through …. Read the original article  : Domestic help murdered in Gurgaon home.

Rathore’s pension: Home ministry seeks time to file reply

CHANDIGARH – The union home ministry Thursday sought three weeks’ time from the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) here to submit its reply on release of former Haryana police chief S.P.S. Rathore’s pension, withheld from June, after his conviction in the Ruchika Girhotra molestation case.

Rathore had moved the tribunal Sep 2 against the ministry’s decision … Read : Rathore’s pension: Home ministry seeks time to file reply.

Six minors escape from Punjab juvenile home

HOSHIARPUR – Six minors, lodged in the juvenile home in this Punjab city, escaped Thursday, police said.

The accused children, lodged in the same barrack, ran away after breaking the grills. One of them is a Bangladesh national, according to the police.
We were informed by the juvenile home about this incident. We have sent …. Original article  : Six minors escape from Punjab juvenile home.

Indian American woman embezzled $34 mn for ‘wild shopping sprees’

WASHINGTON – Indian American Sujata “Sue” Sachdeva, a former executive of Koss Corp has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for embezzling $34 million from the Milwaukee stereo headphone manufacturer for “wild shopping sprees”.

US District Judge Lynn Adelman imposed the sentence Wednesday after Sachdeva made a tearful statement – her first public comments …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian American woman embezzled $34 mn for ‘wild shopping sprees’.

Sikh pilgrims’ tents in Pakistan catches fire; no casualties

ISLAMABAD – At least 20 tents of Sikh pilgrims were burnt to ashes in Pakistan’s Nankana Sahib city where they had gone to participate in the 542nd birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak, a media report said Saturday. No casualties were reported.

“Rescue officials and fire brigade have reached the spot and the situation … Read more >>>.

Bank officer robbed of car, mobile in Chandigarh

CHANDIGARH – The senior manager of a nationalised bank was robbed of his car and mobile by gun-wielding youths in Chandigarh’s Sector 8, one of the busiest stretches of this union territory, police said Saturday.

According to police, the victim was identified as Gyan Chand Kaushik, 55, who worked as senior manager at the State …. Original source  : Bank officer robbed of car, mobile in Chandigarh.

MCD seeks more time to enquire on building collapse

NEW DELHI – The Municipal Corporation of Delhi’s chief vigilance officer has sought more time to complete the enquiry into the building collapse in east Delhi four days ago, an official said Friday.

The civic body Tuesday ordered a vigilance probe a day after the illegal five-storeyed building collapsed killing 69 people and …. Source  : MCD seeks more time to enquire on building collapse.

Girl electrocuted while plucking flowers in school

LUCKNOW – The manager of a private school in Uttar Pradesh’s Unnao district was booked Friday in connection with the death of a minor girl, who got electrocuted while plucking flowers from the flower bed in the school garden, which had been connected to a live wire by the school administration.

Twelve-year-old Radha Singh was …. Source article  : Girl electrocuted while plucking flowers in school.

Delhi Police do not help stop illegal construction: MCD

NEW DELHI – The blame game continues even four days after the east Delhi building collapse. A senior Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) official Friday blamed Delhi Police for not providing enough force to the civic body in its campaign to stop encroachments and spread of unauthorised buildings.

“Whenever Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) chalks … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delhi Police do not help stop illegal construction: MCD.

La Marts principal, 3 teachers charged with abetting Rawla’s suicide

KOLKATA – A city court Friday ordered that the principal and three teachers of the prestigious La Martiniere School for Boys be slapped with an additional charge of abetting the suicide of class 8 student Rouvanjit Rawla.

The 12th metropolitan judge of the Bankshall court, Apurva Kumar Ghosh ordered reframing of charges following an appeal … Read more »».

Russian fighter crashes, crew untraced

Moscow, Nov 19 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A MiG-31 Foxhound fighter aircraft crashed Friday in Russia’s Perm region. Though the two crew members ejected safely, they were yet to be located, officials said.

A security official confirmed the crash. He said the plane “was not carrying any weapons” and posed no danger to residential areas.
Defence Ministry … Original article on : Russian fighter crashes, crew untraced.

Zardari stays execution of Christian woman

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari Friday stayed the execution of a Christian woman who was sentenced to death on charges of blasphemy.

The woman, Aasia Bibi, was given the death sentence by an additional sessions judge in Nankana Sahib district a week ago on charges of committing blasphemy under the Pakistan Penal Code.
…. Source  : Zardari stays execution of Christian woman.

Indian-origin teacher found guilty of sex with students

LONDON – An Indian-origin woman has been found guilty of sexual misconduct after she confessed she had sex with two 15-year-old students earlier this year, a media report said Friday.

Hina Patel, a 37-year-old teacher at Birkdale High School for Boys in Merseyside, Friday pleaded guilty to two charges of abusing her position of trust [..] Read the original article: here.

Building collapse: NHRC issues notices to Delhi government, MCD

NEW DELHI – The Delhi government and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) have been issued notices by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) over the collapse of a five-storey building in east Delhi in which at least 69 people were killed and several injured, a NHRC statement said Friday.

“The commission has taken …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Building collapse: NHRC issues notices to Delhi government, MCD.

Fake passport case: Court sentences Salem to four years jail

BHOPAL – A court in the Madhya Pradesh capital Friday sentenced underworld don Abu Salem to four years jail in a 2001 fake passport case. However, he will spend less then a year in prison as he has already been imprisoned for more than three years.

Chief Judicial Magistrate Ram Gopal Singh also slapped a … Read : Fake passport case: Court sentences Salem to four years jail.

Koda aide remanded in ED custody for 12 days

RANCHI – A Ranchi court Friday sent Vinod Sinha, a close aide of jailed former Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda, to 12 days of Enforcement Directorate (ED) remand.

The Enforcement Directorate had moved a petition in the Prevention of Money laundering Act (PMLA) court of G.K. Singh, seeking 14 days of remand for Vindo Sinha. … Read : Koda aide remanded in ED custody for 12 days.

Building collapse nightmare for local residents

NEW DELHI – Even four days after the building collapse in east Delhi, three-year-old Asthmi still shivers on hearing a small thud and starts weeping. It’s not just her, but the accident has also turned into a nightmare for other residents of the area.

The collapse Monday of the illegal five-storey building in Lalita Park … Read more >>>.

Abu Salem gets four years jail in fake passport case

BHOPAL – A court in the Madhya Pradesh capital Friday sentenced underworld don Abu Salem to four years jail in a 2001 fake passport case.

Chief Judicial Magistrate Ram Gopal Singh also slapped a fine of Rs.10,000 on Salem.
The court Tuesday convicted Salem under section 471 of the Indian Penal Code and 12A …. Source  : Abu Salem gets four years jail in fake passport case.

Delhi building collapse shatters dreams in Bengal village (Lead, superseding earlier story)

MALDA/MURSHIDABAD – A phone call from her grandson Biswajit was the last time that Ashalata Halder heard from him. Two days later, Ashalata was shattered to learn that six of of her family, including Biswajit, had perished in the Delhi building collapse.

Ashalata, in her seventies, received a phone call from Biswajit late Monday night … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delhi building collapse shatters dreams in Bengal village (Lead, superseding earlier story).

Child rights commission takes up rehabilitation of orphans

NEW DELHI – Six children, including a brother-sister duo, left orphaned in the east Delhi building collapse should be provided the services of a counsellor to help them cope with the trauma, the Delhi Commission of Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) has said.

The child rights organisation has issued notice to the Delhi chief secretary …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Child rights commission takes up rehabilitation of orphans.

12 defence personnel killed as IAF chopper crashes in Arunachal (Lead, changing dateline)

TAWANG – Twelve Indian defence personnel – 11 of them from the air force – were killed in a helicopter crash Friday in Arunachal Pradesh close to the Chinese border, officials said.

A defence spokesperson said the MI-17 helicopter of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed around midday soon after take off from Tawang, perched …. Read the original article  : 12 defence personnel killed as IAF chopper crashes in Arunachal (Lead, changing dateline).

Chinese worker trapped under sea for 18 hours

BEIJING – A Chinese worker has been trapped in a one-metre diameter canister under sea for almost 18 hours as the rescue work continues, a media report said Friday.

The accident occurred around 9 a.m. Thursday off the coast of China’s eastern Zhejiang province, when the steel shielding canister in which he was working, deformed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chinese worker trapped under sea for 18 hours.

Bodies found in tree hollow in US

WASHINGTON – The bodies of three people who disappeared last week were found in a tree hollow in the US state of Ohio, days after the teenage daughter of one of the victims was rescued, a media report said Friday.

The remains of Tina Herrmann, 32, her 10-year-old son, Kody Maynard, and her 41-year-old … Read : Bodies found in tree hollow in US.

Five dead as car falls into Maharashtra river

MUMBAI – Five people were killed after their car fell into a river alongside the Mumbai-Pune highway near New Panvel, police said here Sunday.

“We suspect the driver lost control, and the car fell into the river last night,” a police officer told IANS.
The bodies and the vehicle were recovered Sunday morning, he added.
…. Original source  : Five dead as car falls into Maharashtra river.

Seven killed as bomb explodes in Bihar (Second Lead)

PATNA – At least seven people, mostly children, were killed and around half a dozen seriously injured Sunday morning when a cylinder bomb exploded at Pachokhar village in Bihar’s Aurangabad district, police said.

The bomb was recovered during the final phase of the Bihar assembly polls Saturday but the police had failed to defuse it. … Read : Seven killed as bomb explodes in Bihar (Second Lead).

Natural disasters since 1970 take heavy toll in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A string of natural disasters, including floods and earthquakes, have left over 3.3 million people dead and caused a staggering loss of $2,300 billion between 1970 and 2008 in Pakistan, said a new book.

The book “Natural Hazards, UN-Natural Disasters: The Economics of Effective Prevention” said that a lot could be done to … Original article on : Natural disasters since 1970 take heavy toll in Pakistan.

Over 2,500 kids went missing in Karachi last year

KARACHI – More than 2,500 children were reported as missing in Karachi last year, an NGO has revealed.

Roshni Helpline, an NGO that deals with childrens’ rights, said that as many as 2,582 children went missing in Karachi and these figures don’t include the many disappearances that are not reported by their families.
Our … Original source on Gaea Times at : Over 2,500 kids went missing in Karachi last year.

Laboratory producing cocaine found in Bogota

Bogota, Nov 21 (IANS/EFE) A laboratory for producing cocaine has been found in Bogota, the first of its kind ever to be found in the Colombian capital, with a capacity for producing 200 kg of the drug per month, police said.

Anti-narcotics police said in a communique Saturday that they occupied the facility in the …. Source article  : Laboratory producing cocaine found in Bogota.

Seven killed as bomb explodes in Bihar village

PATNA – At least seven people were killed Sunday morning when a cylinder bomb exploded at Pachokhar village in Bihar’s Aurangabad district, police said.

The bomb was recovered during the final phase of the Bihar assembly polls Saturday but the police had failed to defuse it. On Sunday morning, villagers gathered to see the bomb … Read more : Seven killed as bomb explodes in Bihar village.

No progress on rescue for 29 trapped in mine

WELLINGTON – Three days after a gas explosion trapped 29 men in a New Zealand coal mine, officials said Sunday it was still too dangerous to send rescuers underground to look for them.

“If we send people underground we could lose lives, and I’m not prepared to do that,” police superintendent Gary Knowles told a … Read more : No progress on rescue for 29 trapped in mine.

Mob attacks police team in Bengal, 11 cops injured

KOLKATA – At least eleven policemen, including one officer, were injured in West Bengal’s North 24-Parganas district Saturday in attack by locals during a security check prior to Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee’s visit Sunday.

“Acting on specific inputs that some miscreants are hiding with arms in Dugdia village near Barasat, a police team raided the … Read more : Mob attacks police team in Bengal, 11 cops injured.

Massive fire in plywood factory, no casualty

SITAPUR – Property worth lakhs of rupees was destroyed in a massive fire that broke out in a plywood factory in this Uttar Pradesh district Saturday, police said. No casualties were reported.

The fire engulfed the plywood factory in the Tambaur area and soon started spreading to nearby establishments.
“As the fire came in contact … Read : Massive fire in plywood factory, no casualty.

14 get jail terms for Kandhamal riots

BHUBANESWAR – A fast track court in Orissa Saturday sentenced 14 people to three years of rigorous imprisonment for their involvement in the communal riots in Kandhamal district of the state in 2008.

Judge C.R. Das of the fast track court No. 2 at district headquarters of Phulbani sentenced seven people to three years’ …. Source  : 14 get jail terms for Kandhamal riots.

Fate of New Zealand’s 29 trapped miners still unclear

WELLINGTON – Families of 29 men trapped underground after an explosion in a New Zealand coal mine faced a second sleepless night Saturday as rescuers continued to wait for the all-clear to go in and look for them.

Police superintendent Gary Knowles told Television New Zealand that air samples taken from the mine 24 hours …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fate of New Zealand’s 29 trapped miners still unclear.

Boycotted Dalit woman commits suicide in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – A Dalit woman leader, who fought on behalf of two Dalit cooks who were sacked due to upper-caste protests, hanged herself late Friday, an organisation working for Dalit rights said Saturday.

Saraswati Sethy, 28, was a resident of Sanamarichapalli village in the coastal district of Kendrapada, some 150 km from here.
“She was …. Original article  : Boycotted Dalit woman commits suicide in Orissa.

Many Punjab women entering Greece illegally, say gurdwaras

JALANDHAR – Many young women from Punjab in search of jobs abroad end up illegally in Greece, where they are forced into the flesh trade, says an NGO that has taken up their cause after a request from gurdwaras in that country.

Managing committees of Greece-based gurdwaras have written to Punjab NGO Lok Bhalai Party … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Many Punjab women entering Greece illegally, say gurdwaras.

Doctors group protests Desai’s election to Gujarat University senate

NEW DELHI – A doctors group has written to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi protesting against tainted former Medical Council of India (MCI) chief Ketan Desai getting elected uncontested to the Gujarat University senate.

The letter by Kunal Saha, president of People for Better Treatment, Saturday called for Modi’s attention on the matter.
It …. Original source  : Doctors group protests Desai’s election to Gujarat University senate.

Prison teacher shoots sex movie with murderer in Britain

LONDON – A 59-year-old woman teacher at a prison in Britain has been suspended after she shot a pornographic movie of her having sex with a murderer, 29, in the jail.

Beverley Van-de-Velde shot the 17-minute movie with Richard Francis in a high security jail’s staff room.
The Sun reported Monday that the DVD … Original article on : Prison teacher shoots sex movie with murderer in Britain.

Punjab drug scene hits a new ‘high’

CHANDIGARH – It is one of the most prosperous states of India and produces the bulk of the country’s foodgrain, but Punjab may soon take the lead in a dubious field – narcotics. Police have seized hundreds of kilograms of drugs in the first seven months of the year, the highest in the country.

The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Punjab drug scene hits a new ‘high’.

Boy uses Twitter to help nab thief

LONDON – A boy in Britain helped catch a thief by clicking his photograph and posting it on Twitter.

Alex Wilson, 10, and his father Dylan were driving past when Craig Royal snatched an iPhone from a pedestrian, The Sun reported.
Alex clicked Royal’s photograph when he was fleeing and then posted the picture … Read more >>>.

China sends warships to escort ship from pirates

BEIJING – China has sent three warships to escort a Chinese cargo ship that was attacked by the pirates in the Arabian Sea, a media report said Monday.

The China Maritime Search and Rescue Centre (CMSRC) said the crew of the Taishankou hid in a safety compartment when the pirates boarded the ship Saturday.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China sends warships to escort ship from pirates.

Worker rescued after 80 hours undersea in China

BEIJING – A worker who was trapped in a steel shaft undersea for 80 hours has been rescued, a media report said Monday.

Fan, 43, was brought to the surface Sunday afternoon from a depth of 18 metres in Jiaxing Harbour in China’s eastern Zhejiang province, People’s Daily reported citing officials.
He was rushed to … Read : Worker rescued after 80 hours undersea in China.

One dead, eight trapped as Jharkhand mine caves in

RANCHI – One woman was killed as a mine caved in Monday morning in Jharkhand’s coal city Dhanbad, police said. Eight miners are feared trapped.

The accident occurred at the closed Khudia colliery of Eastern Coalfield Limited (ECL) in Dhanbad, some 260 km from here.
“Around 10 to 12 illegal miners were working at … Read more : One dead, eight trapped as Jharkhand mine caves in.

Four hurt as truck rams into Delhi shop

NEW DELHI – Four people were critically injured when a truck rammed into a juice shop in central Delhi early Monday, police said.

The accident took place around 3.30 a.m. on Panchkuian Road when people were asleep inside the shop, a police officer said.
“Four people who were sleeping in the shop were …. Read the original article  : Four hurt as truck rams into Delhi shop.

Facebook-addict crooks make it easier for US cops

NEW YORK – Criminals in the US are bragging about their murders, rapes and robberies on social networking websites, often with photos or video clips, which has made it easier for policemen to track them down.

Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and YouTube have become “everyday crime-fighting tools”, the New York Post quoted police as saying.
Manhattan …. Source  : Facebook-addict crooks make it easier for US cops.

Ten held after fatal coalmine dispute in China

BEIJING – Ten people have been detained in China after a dispute between coalmine contractors left nine people dead and 48 injured, Xinhua reported Monday.

A blast was deliberately carried out around 9 a.m. last Thursday after the dispute in the Luxi county of the southwestern Yunnan province, resulting in the casualties.
The blast …. Read the original article  : Ten held after fatal coalmine dispute in China.

Spanish boat repels pirate attack

Vitoria (Spain), Nov 22 (IANS/EFE) The security team on board a Spanish tuna boat Sunday repelled an attack by pirates in the Indian Ocean, sources said.

The attack came in the early morning hours about 400 miles from the island of Mahe, the largest in the Seychelles archipelago.
The pirates’ pursuit in skiffs of the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

29 miners remain trapped in China

BEIJING – Twenty-nine miners remained trapped in a coalmine in southweat China Monday, a day after work began to rescue them from a flooded pit, reports Xinhua.

The accident occurred at 11 a.m. Sunday when 35 miners were working underground in Sichuan province.
Rescuers are pumping water from the flooded pit and the water …. Read the original article  : here.

Haiti cholera toll rises to 1,250

Port-au-PRINCE – An estimated 1,250 people have died from cholera and an additional 21,000 have been sickened by the disease, Haiti’s health ministry said.

Nearly half of the deaths — 673 — from cholera, which is contracted through contaminated water and causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting, were reported in the lower Artibonite region, north … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Haiti cholera toll rises to 1,250.

17 killed in Colombia bus accident

BOGOTA – At least 17 people were killed and 35 injured when a bus fell into a ravine in southern Colombia, authorities said.

The accident occurred Saturday night in Cauca province, Xinhua reported.
“The last report was 17 deaths, including three children, and we sent 35 injured to different hospitals of the region,” an …. Original source  : 17 killed in Colombia bus accident.

Plane makes emergency landing in New York

NEW YORK – A Delta airliner bound for Moscow made an emergency landing shortly after takeoff at New York’s John F Kennedy International Airport Sunday after the pilot reported engine trouble, according to CNN.

There were an estimated 193 passengers on board.
More than 100 firefighters and rescue workers rushed to the airport amid conflicting …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Plane makes emergency landing in New York.

New Zealand mine drama in fourth day with no end in sight

WELLINGTON – The New Zealand mine drama went into its fourth day Monday with still no word of when a bid to rescue 29 men trapped after an underground explosion will be made.

Rescue teams of miners remain on round-the-clock standby at the Pike River coal mine awaiting approval that it is safe to go …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nuremberg war crimes court opens as museum

BERLIN – The Nuremberg courtroom in which a dozen senior Nazis were sentenced to death in 1946 was opened as a museum Sunday.

The sombre ceremony was attended by both Germany’s Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle and his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov. British, French and US officials were also present, representing the four Allied World War …. Original article  : Nuremberg war crimes court opens as museum.

Quake hits Taiwan

BEIJING/TAIPEI – An earthquake measuring 5.6 on the Richter scale struck off the eastern coast of Taiwan Sunday, but there were no immediate reports of casualties, Xinhua reported.

The epicentre of the quake that hit the sea off coast of east Taiwan’s Hualien city at 8.31 p.m. was about 10 kilometres deep, the China Earthquake …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Quake hits Taiwan.

Another Kalmadi aide arrested

NEW DELHI – Another aide of Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi was arrested Sunday by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for his alleged involvement in the Queen’s Baton Relay scam, an official said.

M. Jayachandran, who was sacked as the committee’s treasurer, has been arrested for making suspicious payments to Indian-owned London-based … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Another Kalmadi aide arrested.

Debt-ridden man’s daughter rescued from money lender

GHAZIABAD – A teenaged girl, handed over to a money lender by her father who failed to repay a loan of Rs.15,000, was rescued by police from Ghaziabad Sunday, an official said.

Sub-divisional magistrate Pushpa Devrar said: “Police have informed me that the girl has been rescued today (Sunday) evening. The police are looking …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists kill three CPI-M activists

KOLKATA – Three activists of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) were killed by suspected Maoists Sunday in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said.

The dead body of 55-year-old Ganesh Aich, a CPI-M activist who was missing since Saturday night, was found near Binpur area in West Midnapore district.
“Ganesh (Aich) was missing since … Read more >>.

Hopes for survival of trapped New Zealand miners fading

WELLINGTON – The bid to rescue 29 men trapped underground in a New Zealand coal mine five days ago struck problems Tuesday amid growing fears that they may no longer be alive.

An army robot with cameras sent into the mine’s access tunnel broke down after only 500 metres, and drillers making a borehole to … Read more : Hopes for survival of trapped New Zealand miners fading.

339 dead in Cambodian festival stampede (Fourth Lead)

PHNOM PENH – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said early Tuesday that 339 people died and more than 300 were injured in a stampede on the final day of Cambodia’s annual water festival.

That was a drastic boost in the death toll from a statement Sen had made just about an hour beforehand.
The victims …. Source article  : 339 dead in Cambodian festival stampede (Fourth Lead).

180 killed in Cambodia stampede (Third Lead)

PHNOM PENH – At least 180 people were killed in a stampede as thousands of people celebrated Cambodia’s annual water festival, Prime Minister Hun Sen said early Tuesday.

He said that hundreds of people were injured and the death toll could rise, Xinhua reported. The premier also ordered an investigation into the cause … Original source on Gaea Times at : 180 killed in Cambodia stampede (Third Lead).

Cambodia stampede toll reaching 100 (Second Lead)

PHNOM PENH – The death toll from a stampede at a festival in the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh Monday night is climbing toward 100, according to emergency workers.

A DPA reporter at the scene said the victims were mainly young people who panicked while crossing a bridge during water-festival celebrations. The incident happened around …. Original source  : Cambodia stampede toll reaching 100 (Second Lead).

Crowd stampede in Cambodia kills 30

PHNOM PENH – At least 30 people were killed late Monday in a stampede in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh.

A DPA reporter at the scene said the victims were mainly young people who panicked while crossing a bridge during water-festival celebrations. The incident happened around 9.30 p.m. local time (0230 GMT).
The bridge has been …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Stampede in Cambodia kills 30

PHNOM PENH – At least 30 people were killed late Monday in a stampede in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh.

A DPA reporter at the scene said the victims were mainly young people who panicked while crossing a bridge during water-festival celebrations.
…. Source article  : Stampede in Cambodia kills 30.

Police raid home ministry official’s office, home

NEW DELHI – The office and home of an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer posted in the home ministry was raided Monday by Delhi Police for allegedly leaking sensitive information to a private company.

Speaking to IANS, P.N. Aggarwal, joint commissioner of police, Special Cell, said: “The Delhi Police raided the North Block office and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Police raid home ministry official’s office, home.

Court summons Taj hotel officials for poor quality food items

CHANDIGARH – A local court here Monday issued summons to the managing director, director and chief beverage officer of five-star Taj hotel here for violating guidelines of the Chandigarh health department.

In a surprise raid Sep 8, the health department collected four samples from the hotel. During the tests, samples of curd and sauces tested … Original source on Gaea Times at : Court summons Taj hotel officials for poor quality food items.

Software executive shot dead

NEW DELHI – A software executive was shot dead here Monday when he resisted two robbers, police said.

Pratik Trika was in his car about half a kilometer from his Saraswati Vihar home when two men on a motorcycle stopped him.
“He was shot dead as soon as he resisted the robbery, said a police … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Software executive shot dead.

Police, journalists can reduce road accident deaths

NEW DELHI – Police and journalists can help reduce by nearly half deaths and serious brain injuries caused by road accidents — if only they learnt the basic medicare, experts here said Monday.

Police and journalists play a major role as first responders in case of road accidents. They are the first to reach an … Read more >>.

Delhi building collapse: Survey continues, samples collected

NEW DELHI – A team of experts from the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) were Monday continuing their survey of the Delhi’s Lalita Park area, including the multi-storeyed house that collapsed Nov 15, killing at least 69 people.

According to MCD officials, the CBRI experts and MCD engineers are collecting samples of the …. Original source  : Delhi building collapse: Survey continues, samples collected.

Police seek extradition of man from Canada

GREATER NOIDA – The Noida police are seeking the extradition of a Canada-based man who hired a contract killer to kill the ‘boyfriend’ of his wife who had deserted him.

The killers attempted to kill Ravi Nagar Nov 5 when the swimming coach was travelling in a car with the Canadian’s wife at the …. Original article  : Police seek extradition of man from Canada.

Bride robbed of gold ornaments

GHAZIABAD – A bride was robbed of gold ornaments and cash worth over Rs.2.80 lakh while she was going to her new home with the groom in Ramprastha Colony of Ghaziabad early Monday.

Yogesh Lamba and Shalini were headed to the groom’s house in a car from the wedding venue when two young men riding …. Original article  : Bride robbed of gold ornaments.

10 injured as ceiling of building under construction collapses

LUCKNOW – At least 10 labourers were critically injured when a major portion of the ceiling of an under-construction government medical college collapsed in Uttar Pradeshs Banda district Monday, an official said.

The ceiling of the building along the Naraini road came crashing down Monday afternoon while the labourers were resting after lunch.
Though theres …. Source article  : 10 injured as ceiling of building under construction collapses.

Cab driver named suspect in Indian-origin woman’s murder

LONDON – The taxi driver who was behind the wheel when an Indian-origin woman was murdered after a car hijacking incident in Cape Town has been named as one of the three suspects in her killing, a media report said Monday.

Anni Dewani, 28, a mechanical engineer of Ugandan-Indian descent from Sweden, was killed Nov … Read more >>.

Teenaged boy raped at knife-point by 10 women

SYDNEY – A 17-year-old boy was gang raped by 10 knife-wielding women in Papua New Guinea, a media report said Monday.

The gang of women attacked the schoolboy near Mendi town in Southern Highlands province during the weekend, police official Teddy Tei said.
“More than 10 women with kitchen knives attacked him and four women …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Four hurt as truck rams into shop

NEW DELHI – A truck driven by a drunk driver smashed into a juice shop here early Monday, seriously injuring four men who were asleep inside, police said.

The accident took place around 3.30 a.m. on Panchkuian Road in the heart of the capital.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Four hurt as truck rams into shop.

Contempt plea against Gujarat disposed in Ishrat Jahan killing

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Monday disposed a contempt of court petition in the 2004 Ishrat Jahan staged shootout case following the state government’s decision to form a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the matter.

The state government, through an affidavit filed in the court, said that the home department issued a notification …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Court acquits two in Russian girl’s molestation

PANAJI – Two people were acquitted by a local court Monday in a case related to molestation of a nine-year-old Russian girl at Arambol beach here early this year.

Anil Raghuvanshi and Aman Bharadwaj from Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, respectively, were released by the Goa Childrens Court.
The court gave them the benefit … Read more >>.

Darbari and Mohindroos CBI custody extended

NEW DELHI – A Delhi court Monday extended, by three days, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody of T.S. Darbari and Sanjay Mohindroo, two key aides of Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chief Suresh Kalmadi.

“The court has extended their (Darbari and Mohindroo) custody by three more days,” a CBI official said.
The two officials, …. Source  : Darbari and Mohindroos CBI custody extended.

MCD acted on only 357 of 8,030 illegal construction complaints

NEW DELHI – A total of 8,030 complaints of illegal construction of buildings were received by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) in the last three years but only 357 were taken up for investigation, the Lok Sabha was told Tuesday.

“Out of the 357 cases investigated by the vigilance department of the MCD, investigations … Original source on Gaea Times at : MCD acted on only 357 of 8,030 illegal construction complaints.

India-Nepal border vulnerable to fake currency smuggling: Maken

NEW DELHI – The India-Nepal border remains vulnerable to smuggling of fake Indian currency notes, with more instances of international rackets coming to the notice of Indian authorities, Minister of State for Home Ajay Maken said Tuesday.

Indo-Nepal border has also proved vulnerable to infiltration of fake Indian currency notes (FICN), with border districts being …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India-Nepal border vulnerable to fake currency smuggling: Maken.

Home ministry official leaking sensitive information grilled

NEW DELHI – A senior home ministry official detained for allegedly leaking sensitive information of commercial interest to some private firms was being questioned Tuesday, officials said, adding that he had not been arrested.

Police sources said the accused West Bengal cadre civil service officer, Ravi Inder Singh, who is director internal security in the …. Original article  : Home ministry official leaking sensitive information grilled.

Four engineering students booked for friend’s death

GHAZIABAD – Four B. Tech students of a private engineering college in Ghaziabad were booked for causing death of a fellow student by negligence in Masuri area, police said Tuesday.

According to Masuri station officer Pramod Kumar, a case was registered Monday evening under section 304A, causing death by negligence, against four students of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Four engineering students booked for friend’s death.

Armed assailants rob car in Noida

NOIDA – A travel agency’s car was robbed by unidentified armed assailants in Noida, police said Tuesday.

According to police, Bal Govind Tripathi, a driver registered with a travel firm at Godavari Complex in Noida’s Sector 37, was going towards Surajpur when the incident took place around 11 p.m. Monday.
The two assailants … Original article on : Armed assailants rob car in Noida.

Mirchpur caste violence: Apex court makes strong observations

NEW DELHI – “What is happening in the country”, an upset Supreme Court remarked Tuesday when told of how people belonging to the Valmiki community of Mirchpur village in Haryana’s Hissar district were deserting their village due to threats from those accused in an arson attack on the community in April.

Witness after witness in … Read : Mirchpur caste violence: Apex court makes strong observations.

Container ship stranded in Hooghly after collision, crew safe (Second Lead)

KOLKATA – A container ship was stranded in the Hooghly river Tuesday after colliding with another container vessel in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district, police said. The 12 crew members of the ship were safe.

A Bahama-registered container ship – Green Valley – collided with a Gibraltar-registered vessel – Tiger spring – at the [..] Read the original article: here.

30 fall ill due to China gas leak

BEIJING – At least 30 people fell ill Tuesday due to leakage of toxic chlorine gas from a plant in China’s Jiangsu province, officials said.

The gas leaked out of the Dahe Chlor-Alkli Co. Ltd. in the morning and travelled downwind, poisoning in the process employees of the Zhijiang Chemicals Co. Ltd. in Yancheng city, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 30 fall ill due to China gas leak.

Hideout busted, recoveries made in north Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Two solar rockets, four explosive rods and other arms and ammunition were recovered Tuesday after security forces busted a terrorist hideout in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district. A man was also arrested.

A police spokesman said the recoveries were made after the police and troops of 29 Rashtriya Rifles jointly busted a hideout in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hideout busted, recoveries made in north Kashmir.

Mumbai legislator moots ‘mobile police posts’

MUMBAI – With a view to bringing police services virtually to the doorstep of citizens, a Mumbai legislator Tuesday proposed setting up of mobile police outposts.

Congress legislator Krishna Hegde from Vile Parle met state Home Minister R.R. Patil and discussed the proposal.
Patil assured Hegde that he would consider the proposal positively.
Hegde said … Original article on : Mumbai legislator moots ‘mobile police posts’.

Drugs worth Rs.400 mn seized in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – In a massive operation, Pakistan’s anti-narcotics officials Tuesday seized drugs and liquor worth Rs.400 million in Islamabad and Rawalpindi and arrested 27 people, including three women.

The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) raided various places in the two cities and recovered 34 kg heroin, 740 kg charas, 19 kg opium and 550 litres of liquor. …. Original article  : Drugs worth Rs.400 mn seized in Pakistan.

Navy, Coast Guard intercept runaway ship

MUMBAI – The Indian Navy and Coast Guard Tuesday intercepted a runaway Panamanian merchant ship that had slipped out of Mumbai Port Monday after defaulting on a cargo delivery despite taking part payment, officials said.

The Indian Navy and Coast Guard joint operation followed a request from the Mumbai Police that had registered a complaint … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Navy, Coast Guard intercept runaway ship.

Court frames charges against former narcotics bureau official

CHANDIGARH – A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court here Tuesday framed corruption charges against S.K. Sekhri, the former zonal director of Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Chandigarh.

Sekhri was arrested by the CBI Sep 6 last year, for accepting a bribe of Rs.200,000 from the owner of a Himachal Pradesh-based pharmaceutical company in Delhi.
… Original article on : Court frames charges against former narcotics bureau official.

Indian Navy intercepts foreign ship fleeing Mumbai

MUMBAI – The Indian Navy Tuesday intercepted a foreign merchant ship off the coast of Diu by firing a warning shot at the fleeing vessel.

According to a navy spokesperson, the Coast Guard received a tip off from police about the Bahamas flagged merchant ship, Dynamic Striker, fleeing Mumbai port without completing necessary formalities.
A … Original article on : Indian Navy intercepts foreign ship fleeing Mumbai.

Haryana bureaucrat gets five years’ jail for fraud

CHANDIGARH – A Haryana bureaucrat has been sentenced by a court in Karnal to five years’ imprisonment in a case of fraud, an official of the state vigilance bureau said Tuesday.

Additional District and Sessions Judge Ravi Kumar sentenced Haryana Civil Services officer Deveshwar Dayal to five years’ imprisonment and imposed a penalty of Rs.45,000 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Haryana bureaucrat gets five years’ jail for fraud.

Gang of inter-state gun runners held

NEW DELHI – Seven people have been arrested for allegedly running an inter-state arms and ammunition racket in the national capital region (NCR), an official said Tuesday.

Sandeep Dahiya, the 25-year-old kingpin, along with Vicky Sharma, 20, were arrested Monday. The other accused — Surender, 30, Anil Sharma, Surender, 24, Abdul Sattar, 22 and Mohd … Read : Gang of inter-state gun runners held.

Ship starts sinking in Hooghly after collision, crew safe

KOLKATA – A container ship was sinking in the Hooghly river Tuesday after colliding with another container vessel in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district, police said. The 12 crew members of the ship were safe.

“The container ship – Tiger Spring – after unloading its containers at Kolkata Dock System (KDS) of Kolkata Port …. Original source  : Ship starts sinking in Hooghly after collision, crew safe.

Test can tell suspect’s age from blood drop

LONDON – A crime-busting test that can reveal the age of a suspect from a drop of blood has been devised by scientists.

Detectives using the test can narrow someone’s age to within nine years using tell-tale markers in their DNA.
The profiling technique even works on dried bloodstain and could shed light … Read : Test can tell suspect’s age from blood drop.

Schoolkids man traffic in Ghaziabad

GHAZIABAD – Around 150 students from different schools stepped into the shoes of traffic policemen for a day here as part of an awareness programme.

“These school children challaned 450 people, recovered three weapons and collected fines amounting to Rs.87,000 from Old Bus Stand and Chaudhary More intersections,” traffic inspector Pawan Kumat told IANS Monday.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Schoolkids man traffic in Ghaziabad.

Karunanidhi asks ministers to help in flood relief

CHENNAI – With heavy rains lashing Tamil Nadu and a flood warning issued in many districts, Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi Tuesday appealed to ministers and DMK party men to assist in the rescue efforts in affected areas.

The northeast monsoon has been active over Tamil Nadu since Oct 29 and the southern districts in the … Read : Karunanidhi asks ministers to help in flood relief.

Man to be tried 18 years after daughter’s suicide

Palermo (Italy), Nov 25 (IANS/AKI) A Sicilian man will be put on trial for driving his 14-year-old daughter to suicide 18 years after she jumped to her death from the seventh floor of a building.

Michele Mercurio, 53, faces prison for allegedly abusing his daughter Ivana by threatening her with a knife while drunk … Read more : Man to be tried 18 years after daughter’s suicide.

Argentinian arrested for fathering 10 children with daughter

BUENOS AIRES – A 62-year-old Argentinian man has been arrested on suspicion of abusing his daughter for 30 years and fathering 10 children with her, a news report said.

The 43-year-old woman only dared to report the crimes to police in Santa Fe province when her father was arrested for cattle theft, the Notife …. Source article  : Argentinian arrested for fathering 10 children with daughter.

Five soldiers die in Mexico plane crash

Monterrey (Mexico), Nov 25 (IANS/EFE) Five soldiers died Wednesday when the Mexican air force plane they were travelling in crashed at the Monterrey airport, a spokesman for the National Security Council said.

Alejandro Poire announced that the five air force troops lost their lives in a “regrettable accident” involving an Antonov aircraft of the 301st …. Read the original article  : here.

Indian man to hang in Malaysia for drug trafficking

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s High Court has sentenced an Indian man to hang for trafficking in more than 12 kg of ketamine, news reports said Thursday.

Habeeb Nashtar Abdul Mutalif, 51, was caught upon his arrival from New Delhi at Penang international airport in March 2009, with the drugs stored in stainless steel containers.
Habeeb, … Read : Indian man to hang in Malaysia for drug trafficking.

Punjabi youth stranded in Libya after being promised jobs

CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR – Less than a year ago, 24-year-old Sukhwinder Singh was promised a cushy job in a factory in Libya by a travel agent. His family took a loan of Rs.1 lakh and sent him there. But its dreams were shattered when it received his call a few weeks later. The factory did not exist, … Read more : Punjabi youth stranded in Libya after being promised jobs.

21 killed in drug violence, police raid in Brazil

RIO DE JANEIRO – At least 21 people have died since Sunday in a wave of drug violence and clashes between traffickers and police in Rio de Janeiro, authorities said.

On Wednesday alone, a massive police raid aimed at ending the attacks in the city left 13 dead, police spokesman Lima Castro said. Two police … Read more >>.

Ten killed in Rio de Janeiro police raid

RIO DE JANEIRO – At least 10 people died Wednesday in a major police raid in Rio de Janeiro aimed at ending a wave of attacks in the city.

The latest attacks have caused panic among residents. They were allegedly planned by two drug-trafficking gangs – Red Commando and Friends of Friends – which are … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ten killed in Rio de Janeiro police raid.

Five dead, four trapped in Colombia mining accidents

BOGOTA – Five miners died and four were trapped in accidents in two coal mines in central Colombia, officials said Wednesday.

The accidents took place Tuesday in rural areas of the municipalities of Lenguazaque and Guacheta, in the province of Cundinamarca of which Bogota is the capital.
The director of Cundinamarca’s Emergency Prevention Office, Jaime … Read : Five dead, four trapped in Colombia mining accidents.

CEO’s arrest may hit future plans of LIC Housing Finance

CHENNAI – The arrest of LIC Housing Finance Limited’s CEO Ramachandran Nair by India’s federal probe agency Wednesday would be a setback for the company’s ambitious plans of floating a private equity focussed on reality sector and also a bank.

Speaking to reporters here in September, Nair said the company would be floating a real …. Read the original article  : CEO’s arrest may hit future plans of LIC Housing Finance.

Fake visa racket busted, three held

NEW DELHI – A fake visa racket was busted in the capital Wednesday with the arrest of three people, police said.

The accused have been identified as Jasbir Singh, 39, Simranjeet Singh, 40, and Ashok Kumar Kataria, 46. Fake visa stickers, two laptops and Rs.50,000 were recovered from them.
“They were arrested from near Lajpat … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fake visa racket busted, three held.

Appeal court upholds detention order for WikiLeaks founder

STOCKHOLM – A Swedish appeal court Wednesday upheld a detention order for the founder of whistle-blowing website WikiLeaks Julian Assange, in connection with an investigation into alleged rape.

The ruling means that prosecutors can seek assistance from other countries to have him arrested, including via the international crime fighting organisation Interpol.
A lower court last … Read more »»».

Fresh violence erupts in Bengal, seven held

KOLKATA – At least seven activists of the Trinamool Congress and the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) were arrested in West Bengal’s East Midnapore district for their alleged involvement in clashes that continued in the area Wednesday, police said.

“A clash broke out between supporters of the Trinamool and CPI-M at Kamarda area near Khejuri … Original article on : Fresh violence erupts in Bengal, seven held.

Psychologists to counsel Delhi building collapse victims

NEW DELHI – The Delhi government has roped in psychological experts to help the survivors of the east Delhi building collapse come out of the emotional trauma of losing their shelter and, in some cases, their loved ones.

“They have lost their shelter and many have lost their family members in the incident. They are …. Original source  : Psychologists to counsel Delhi building collapse victims.

ED quizzes lobbyist Radia, records her statement

NEW DELHI – The Enforcement Directorate (ED) Wednesday quizzed corporate lobbyist Nira Radia here for more than eight hours over the spectrum allocation scam.

ED Deputy Director Prabhakant said: “We have recorded (her) statement. She has promised to submit some papers… We will call her as and when required.”
Coming out of the ED’s …. Original article  : ED quizzes lobbyist Radia, records her statement.

Home ministry official sent to six days’ police custody

NEW DELHI – A city court Wednesday ordered six days’ police custody for a senior home ministry official arrested for allegedly leaking sensitive information of commercial interest to some private firms.

Delhi Police told the court that they needed some more time to question Ravi Inder Singh, a 1994 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Now, Delhi Police to join Facebook

NEW DELHI – Following in the footsteps of Delhi Traffic Police, Delhi Police too have decided to open a Facebook page, Police Commissioner B.K. Gupta said Wednesday.

“The force is planning to open an account on Facebook, one of the popular social networking sites, so the public can easily get in touch and communicate with … Original article on : Now, Delhi Police to join Facebook.

Jailed criminal from Nitish’s camp wins

PATNA – A criminal-turned-politician now in jail for murder Wednesday won in Bihar — on the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) ticket. And many such candidates have made it to the Bihar assembly.

Notwithstanding the murder charges, the chief minister had sought votes for Ran Vijay Singh, who won from Goh constituency. He is in the …. Source article  : Jailed criminal from Nitish’s camp wins.

ED records lobbyist Nira Radia’s statement

NEW DELHI – The Enforcement Directorate (ED) Wednesday recorded the statement of corporate lobbyist Nira Radia, whose name figures in the scandal involving 2G spectrum allocation to mobile companies, and said she may be quizzed again.

We have recorded (her) statement. She has promised to submit some papers, which she will be submitting, ED’s … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ED records lobbyist Nira Radia’s statement.

Businesses would have to pay us first: Assam student body

GUWAHATI – The influential All Assam Students Union (AASU) Wednesday admitted to accepting donations from business houses, and said it is not doing “anything wrong”.

“Yes, we have to depend on donations and we shall continue to take donations to run AASU. Whoever does business in Assam and reaps profits shall have to donate money … Read more »».

Top bank officials arrested on alleged graft charges

MUMBAI – At least eight top officers of some state-run banks and financial institutions were arrested by India’s federal probe agency Wednesday for allegedly accepting bribes to extend loans to corporate houses in a housing finance scam.

The officials include the chief executive of LIC Housing Finance, a general manager of the Central Bank of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Top bank officials arrested on alleged graft charges.

Seven cops suspended for partying with criminals

LUCKNOW – Seven Uttar Pradesh policemen were suspended for partying with four criminals and their associates at a hotel here, police said Friday.

The policemen had brought the criminals from Gorakhpur to Lucknow for a hearing in the Allahabad High Court bench here Wednesday in connection with a booth capturing case. The policemen reached here … Original article on : Seven cops suspended for partying with criminals.

British schoolgirl arrested for burning Quran

LONDON – A 15-year-old schoolgirl has been arrested in Britain after a video of her burning the Quran was posted on Facebook, a media report said Friday.

The girl from Sandwell in Birmingham reportedly set fire to an English language copy of the Islamic holy book, and was watched by other pupils in her school …. Source  : British schoolgirl arrested for burning Quran.

Indian man killed in attack in Philippines

MANILA – An Indian man was killed and another wounded in an attack by suspected robbers in a southern Philippine town, a police official said Friday.

The victims were riding on a motorcycle when unidentified gunmen fired at them late Thursday in President Quirino town in Sultan Kudarat province, 990 km south of Manila.
…. Read the original article  : here.

Third blast rocks New Zealand coal mine where 29 died

WELLINGTON – A third explosion rocked a New Zealand coal mine Friday, shortly before the nation observed a minute’s silence to mark the time the initial blast led to the death of 29 men a week earlier.

Although emergency services personnel were working on plans to try to recover the bodies of the men, after …. Source  : Third blast rocks New Zealand coal mine where 29 died.

Post-floods, Leh looks for ‘lost’ tourists

LEH – The flash floods that washed away parts of Leh in Jammu and Kashmir also scared away the tourists who had become synonymous with the town, leaving the region and its economy in a state of suspended animation.

“Right after the flash floods, television channels flooded their air-time showing the devastation and wreck of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Post-floods, Leh looks for ‘lost’ tourists.

Pakistan paramilitary detains 500 ANP activists

KARACHI – Pakistan Rangers paramilitary personnel launched multiple raids in Karachi Thursday evening and detained over 500 activists of the Awami National Party (ANP), which described it as a “target operation”, a media report said Friday.

ANP spokesperson Major Farooq Bilal rejected television reports that said the operation was against terrorists and said the Rangers [..] Read the original article: here.

Nearly 1,200 women killed in Pakistan in 2010: Report

ISLAMABAD – Of the 1,195 women murdered in Pakistan this year, 98 were killed after being raped, says a report by the country’s first helpline for women and children.

The Madadgaar helpline released a report in Karachi Thursday on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Geo News reported … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nearly 1,200 women killed in Pakistan in 2010: Report.

More home-made explosives found in California

WASHINGTON – More home-made explosives were found in a California residence described as a “bomb-making factory” by police, US broadcaster CNN reported.

Authorities found two home-made explosive devisives and some pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), an explosive used by Al Qaeda and the reason for controversial enhanced airport scanners currently being unveiled at US airports, the report … Read : More home-made explosives found in California.

Nine die in Dominican Republic fire

Santo Domingo, Nov 26 (IANS/EFE) At least nine people died in a fire started by an explosion at a hospital in Dominican Republic, officials said.

The fire engulfed a wing of the hospital that is still under construction late Wednesday in Santo Domingo Norte city, killing the people working inside, an official said.
“We …. Read the original article  : here.

Haiti cholera deaths top 1,500

Port-au-PRINCE – An estimated 1,523 people have died of cholera and the epidemic could last for years in Haiti, the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) has said.

According to the organisation, the cholera outbreak has also sent 27,933 Haitians to hospital since the first detection of the disease in October, Xinhua reported Friday. PAHO …. Original source  : Haiti cholera deaths top 1,500.

Former priest jailed for sexually abusing 155 children

BERLIN – A former Catholic priest was sentenced to seven years’ jail Thursday for sexually abusing 155 children over several years, after admitting to some of the charges in a German court.

The former priest, 50, who worked at a school near the city of Kassel, said he had sexually abused six altar boys between …. Read the original article  : here.

Probe into Kerry-Lugar funds’ embezzlement by NGOs in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has decided to investigate reports of alleged corruption in the funds being disbursed to NGOs for development projects under the Kerry-Lugar bill.

A two-member delegation of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) met NAB chairman Justice (retd.) Deedar Hussain Shah Thursday and requested him to look … Read more >>>.

Lawyer shot at outside home

NEW DELHI – A lawyer was seriously injured when unidentified assailants opened fire at him outside his home in east Delhi Thursday night, police said.

“The victim, Rishiraj, 50, was just a few meters from his residence at Karkardooma when shots were fired at him around 9 p.m.,” said a senior police official.
The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lawyer shot at outside home.

Chhattisgarh engineer has assets of Rs.40 million

RAIPUR – Simultaneous raids Thursday on two houses of a junior engineer in Chhattisgarh’s Bilaspur town revealed that the official owns assets worth Rs.40 million, sources said.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau raided two locations of Chandrakant Manik, sub-engineer posted with Bilaspur Municipal Corporation, and seized documents, cash and jewellery that confirmed that he has amassed properties …. Read the original article  : Chhattisgarh engineer has assets of Rs.40 million.

Capt Kohli’s mother dejected over Antony’s reply, wants CBI probe

CHANDIGARH – Defence Minister A.K. Antony’s comment in the Rajya Sabha that young army officer Captain Sumit Kohli had committed suicide and no further inquiry is required in the case has saddened the officer’s mother Veena Kohli who is now demanding a CBI probe into the death.

Antony’s answer has come as a big … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Capt Kohli’s mother dejected over Antony’s reply, wants CBI probe.

Rare conviction for possessing banned diamonds

SURAT – In the first conviction of its kind in the country, two foreign nationals were Thursday convicted by a court here for possession of banned diamonds.

Two Lebanese nationals, S. Yusuf and Roboi Hussain, were sentenced to four years imprisonment and slapped a fine of Rs.1 lakh by Chief Judicial Magistrate V.G. Trivedi on … Read more »»».

Mirwaiz roughed up at Chandigarh seminar (Second Lead)

CHANDIGARH – Kashmiri separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was roughed up by displaced Kashmiri Pandits and Hindu right-wing activists at a seminar here Thursday for his alleged anti-India comments.

The Chandigarh police arrested 21 accused, including seven women, and booked them for rioting. Those arrested included over a dozen Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) activists. They …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mirwaiz roughed up at Chandigarh seminar (Second Lead).

Kanpur police open Facebook account

KANPUR – In an attempt to make themselves easily accessible to the public, police in this Uttar Pradesh district have opened an account on popular social networking site Facebook.

“The main objective behind opening the account is to generate a direct medium of communication with the public. The exercise is aimed at facilitating better communication …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kanpur police open Facebook account.

MCD razes unauthorised property

NEW DELHI – Waking up to the threat posed by illegal constructions after the collapse of a building in east Delhi, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi Thursday demolished unauthorised floors of nine properties in south Delhi.

The nine properties were situated in New Friends Colony, Govindpuri, Sangam Vihar, Sarita Vihar, Okhla Industrial Area, Bhogal and … Read : MCD razes unauthorised property.

BPO employee gangrape: Eyewitness questioned, CCTV footage obtained

NEW DELHI – A day after a call centre employee was gangraped in south Delhi, the police Thursday obtained CCTV footage that captured the four accused and questioned a crucial eye-witness.

“We are checking the CCTV footage that have captured the assailants on lens. Simultaneously, a sketch is also being drawn to identify the culprits,” …. Source article  : BPO employee gangrape: Eyewitness questioned, CCTV footage obtained.

126 people lynched in 2010 in Bangladesh

DHAKA – A total of 126 people have been lynched in Bangladesh this year, which indicates people are losing trust in the authorities’ capability to book law breakers, a media report said Saturday.

The repeated incidents of lynching and the attackers’ ferocity are causing concern among lawmen, psychologists and sociologists who believe people are taking …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 126 people lynched in 2010 in Bangladesh.

100 drunk drivers nabbed in Melbourne

MELBOURNE – A total of 100 drivers were nabbed because of drunk driving during a police operation in Melbourne Saturday, a media report said.

A 24-year-old woman had a blood alcohol reading five times over the legal limit, while an 18-year-old learner driver tested positive for methamphetamines and cannabis, after being pulled over for displaying …. Read the original article  : here.

Some Adarsh society papers missing, police complaint filed

MUMBAI – Some documents relating to the Adarsh Cooperative Housing Society scam have reportedly gone missing from the society office files, according to a complaint with the Mumbai police.

A complaint has been lodged Saturday by a state government officer, Gurudutt Vajpeyi, with the Marine Drive police station.
According to preliminary information, certain documents dated …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Some Adarsh society papers missing, police complaint filed.

Trafficking, smuggling at Indo-Bangladesh border discussed

KOLKATA – The problems of human trafficking, smuggling and sexual harassment of locals by security personnel at the Indo-Bangladesh border were brought into focus by NGOs, researchers, academicians and journalists from the two nations at a conclave here.

Organised by Kolkata-based NGO Sanjog, the two-day event that began Friday saw a general resentment against the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Trafficking, smuggling at Indo-Bangladesh border discussed.

1,000 herdsmen trapped in Inner Mongolia’s snowstorm

BEIJING – One of the heaviest snowstorms in 30 years has led to at least 1,000 herdsmen being trapped in the interior of China’s Inner Mongolia region, a media report said Saturday.

The snowstorm hit Xing’an prefecture, 1,500 km northeast of Inner Mongolia capital Hohhot, last week. Snow piled up to 30 cm in … Original article on : 1,000 herdsmen trapped in Inner Mongolia’s snowstorm.

‘Munni Badnam Hui’ song gets Pakistani cops into trouble

ISLAMABAD – Officers at a police station in Pakistan’s Gujranwala district paid a heavy price for being enamoured with the “Dabangg” super-hit song “Munni Badnam Hui” when they were suspended Friday for forcing three female dancers to perform it at the police station.

Three dancers of a musical troupe in Lahore were on their …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Munni Badnam Hui’ song gets Pakistani cops into trouble.

Two poachers held with leopard skins in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Two poachers who operated in several states have been arrested with leopard skins in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district, police said Saturday.

The two men in their mid-30s were nabbed late Friday from Risia area during a joint operation carried out by the Special Operations Group (SOG) and the district police but two of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Two poachers held with leopard skins in Uttar Pradesh.

34,000 women paramedics go missing after Pakistan floods

ISLAMABAD – According to the UN, around 34,000 women paramedical workers have gone missing from the flood affected districts of Pakistan, a media report said Saturday.

Noted social activist Tahira Abdullah said the mindboggling disclosure in the UN report has so far failed to have an impact on the government, The NewsInternational reported.
“Even the … Read more >>>.

5,000 Mexican families flee amid violence

Mexico City, Nov 27 (IANS/EFE) Over 5,000 families have fled Mexico’s Ciudad Juarez city on the border with the US in the last six months amid intensifying drug-related violence, officials said.

More than 2,700 people have been killed so far this year, the National Fund for Worker Housing Institute said Friday.
In a separate report, … Read more : 5,000 Mexican families flee amid violence.

Brazilian police occupy Rio slums; 38 dead

RIO DE JANEIRO – An estimated 800 Brazilian Army parachutists were Friday occupying the main routes of access to the Complexo do Alemao slum in Rio de Janeiro, where 200 alleged criminals fled for refuge after a raid on another slum.

The death toll in the week-long action to rout out drug gangs had reached … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Brazilian police occupy Rio slums; 38 dead.

Obama elbowed, gets 12 stitches after basketball game

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama received 12 stitches in his upper lip after being socked in the mouth by an errant elbow during a holiday basketball game with friends and family, the White House said in a statement.

Spokesman Robert Gibbs said the surgery was done Friday at the White House. Doctors hoped to [..] Read the original article: here.

Sub-inspector arrested for acid attack on woman

MORADABAD – A police sub-inspector and his wife were arrested after they threw acid on a woman after a dispute over money in this Uttar Pradesh district Friday, police said.

Victim Lakshmi Devi, the wife of a police constable, suffered multiple burns and is being treated at a hospital.
“Her (Lakshmi’s) condition is stated to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sub-inspector arrested for acid attack on woman.

Cops suspended in Pakistan for forcing women to perform ‘Munni Badnam Hui’

ISLAMABAD – Officers at a police station in Pakistan’s Gujranwala district had to pay a heavy price for being enamoured with the “Dabangg” super-hit song Munni Badnam Hui when they were suspended Friday for forcing three female dancers to perform it at the police station.

Three dancers of a musical troupe in Lahore were … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Cops suspended in Pakistan for forcing women to perform ‘Munni Badnam Hui’.

CBI claims politically motivated: Amit Shah

NEW DELHI – Gujarat’s former minister of state for home Amit Shah has told the Supreme Court that the Central Bureau of Investigation’s case about his involvement in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh staged killing was “politically motivated” to “tarnish” his image.

In his 120-page reply to the CBI’s appeal seeking the cancellation of his bail …. Read the original article  : CBI claims politically motivated: Amit Shah.

Police release sketch of one assailant in BPO employee’s rape

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Police Friday released the sketch of one of the four men who abducted and gangraped a BPO employee from the northeast two days ago.

The sketch was released on the basis of the CCTV footage that captured the four accused and from questioning of the girl’s friend, the main witness … Read : Police release sketch of one assailant in BPO employee’s rape.

Bank officials, businessmen arrested for fraud

MUMBAI – Top officials of the Raigad-based Pen Urban Co-Operative Bank and some businessmen have been arrested for cheating the state-run Metals Scrap Trading Corporation and the bank of Rs.4.8 billion (Rs.480 crore) in the gold jewellery exports scam, an official said Friday.

The scam was busted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
… Read more : Bank officials, businessmen arrested for fraud.

Tamil Nadu ordnance factory blast toll five

CHENNAI – The five people who were reported missing in the blast at defence ministry’s cordite factory in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri distrct Thursday, were confirmed dead Friday. One body was recovered while the other four were torn apart, officials said.

Those killed were identified as B. Anandan, P. Gopi, R. Subramani, T. Jeyaraj and … Read more »»».

Delhi Police to drop women stranded late at night

NEW DELHI – After two incidents of gangrape in two weeks, Delhi Police are now taking a number of measures for safety of women in the city, including dropping women stranded late night to their homes.

“Such women are advised to call PCR helpline at 100. A PCR van will drop her at her residence,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Delhi Police to drop women stranded late at night.

Honeymoon murder: Husband won’t return to South Africa for probe

LONDON – An Indian-origin man whose newly-wedded wife was murdered while they were honeymooning in South Africa, would not return to that country, his publicist said Friday after a media report claimed he was wanted by the police for questioning.

A South African newspaper claimed Friday that detectives want the millionaire businessman, 31, to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Honeymoon murder: Husband won’t return to South Africa for probe.

Eight get jail terms for Kandhamal violence

BHUBANESWAR – Eight people were sentenced to jail Friday by fast track courts in Orissa for their involvement in the communal violence in Kandhamal district, a lawyer said.

“Judge Sobhan Kumar Das of the fast track court 1 at district headquarters of Phulbani sentenced four people to four years of rigorous imprisonment and asked them … Read : Eight get jail terms for Kandhamal violence.

New Zealand to use pepper spray to tackle prison inmates

AUCKLAND – Police officials in 10 prisons in New Zealand have been trained to use pepper sprays to tackle rowdy inmates.

Over 300 staff from the 10 prisons were trained for a period of 12 months on how to use two types of sprays, the New Zealand Herald reported Sunday.
This was part of a … Original source on Gaea Times at : New Zealand to use pepper spray to tackle prison inmates.

Man stabbed to death while playing game

LONDON – A “test of nerve” game in Britain ended in tragedy after a man stabbed his friend to death thinking he was wearing a pierce-proof vest. The attacker was jailed.

Thirtyone-year-old David Baxter knifed his friend Christopher Baker through the heart as he thought the latter was wearing a pierce-proof vest, The Sun reported. …. Original article  : Man stabbed to death while playing game.

Two arrested for honour killing in Haryana

FATEHABAD – In a case of honour killing over caste, a young man in Haryana’s Jind district was murdered by his wife’s brother and an accomplice for belonging to a different caste, police said Sunday.

Sukhbir Singh, in his early 20s and a resident of Rajgarh village in Jind district, was killed by his wife’s … Read more : Two arrested for honour killing in Haryana.

Three cheats held in Punjab

JALANDHAR – Three people have been arrested in Punjab for running a bogus finance company that duped scores of people here, police said Sunday.

Those arrested were identified as Shakti Arora, Rakesh Arora and Sunny Mahindru, all from Punjab. Two other accused, Dharmender Singh and Vishal, were still at large, police said.
According to …. Source article  : Three cheats held in Punjab.

Thai police charged with gang raping colleague

BANGKOK – A Thai policeman and two of his female colleagues have been charged with conspiring in the gang rape of a woman officer, media reports said Sunday.

The victim accused her fellow officers of getting her drunk Nov 14 in Yala city, 700 km south of Bangkok, and then luring her to an apartment …. Original article  : Thai police charged with gang raping colleague.

Growing crime leaves Chandigarh jittery (Letter from Chandigarh)

CHANDIGARH – It is one of the most well-planned and prosperous cities of the country, but a soaring crime graph is spoiling Chandigarh’s reputation as a safe city. Residents have been shaken by a spate of murders, road rage incidents, ATM frauds and now even an assault on a Kashmiri politician.

Chandigarh Police claim to …. Read the original article  : Growing crime leaves Chandigarh jittery (Letter from Chandigarh).

Recovery of miners’ bodies in New Zealand to take weeks

WELLINGTON – It will be weeks before the bodies of the 29 men who died in a New Zealand coal mine disaster can be returned to their grieving families, a spokesman for an organisation with a key role in the recovery process said Sunday.

Paul Healy, of New South Wales Mine Rescue, said a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Recovery of miners’ bodies in New Zealand to take weeks.

Runway blackout causes air travel chaos in New Zealand

WELLINGTON – An electrical fault which blacked out the runway lights caused nearly 20 flights to be diverted from Auckland International Airport, disrupting hundreds of passengers over the weekend.

The lights went out 90 minutes before midnight Saturday and incoming flights were diverted to Wellington, Hamilton and Christchurch, while a flight from Chile turned back …. Read the original article  : here.

6.0-magnitude quake hits Indonesia

JAKARTA – A moderate quake with magnitude 6.0 on the Richter scale struck off eastern Indonesia early Sunday, officials said.

The quake occurred at 01:11 a.m. with epicentre at 246 km southeast Melonguane area of North Sulawesi province and with the depth at 10 km under sea bed, Xinhua reported quoting an official of the …. Source  : 6.0-magnitude quake hits Indonesia.

Cargo plane crashes in Karachi, eight dead (Second Lead)

KARACHI – A cargo plane crashed near Pakistan’s Karachi airport early Sunday, killing all eight crew members on board, Geo TV reported.

The Russian-made plane IL-76 crashed around 1:45 a.m. and immediately caught fire. The aircraft crashed near Dalmiya road in Gulshan-i-Jamal area which is close to a naval colony and the southern command of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Eight killed in Pakistan plane crash

KARACHI – At least eight people were killed early Sunday when a cargo plane crashed near Pakistan’s Karachi airport, Geo TV reported.

The plane crashed in Dalmia area, destroying two under-construction buildings, residents said.
The nationalities of the deceased passengers were not known.
Reports said eight people were on board the Russian-made plane which was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Cargo plane crashes in Pakistan

KARACHI – A cargo plane was crashed near Pakistan’s Karachi airport early Sunday, media reports said.

The plane crashed near Dalmia area, according to Geo TV.
At least one body was recovered from the site, Xinhua reported quoting Express TV.
Witnesses said the right engine of the plane caught fire. They said fire and … Read : Cargo plane crashes in Pakistan.

Kidnappers free top Mexican politician: Report

MEXICO CITY – A former Mexican presidential candidate kidnapped half a year ago has been freed, the El Universal newspaper reported Saturday on its website.

The family of Diego Fernandez de Cevallos had paid a large ransom, they told the paper.
According to a local radio station, the negotiators had at first denied reports that … Original article on : Kidnappers free top Mexican politician: Report.

Asaram ashram encroachment demolished in Gujarat

GANDHINAGAR – Revenue authorities Saturday demolished certain encroachments of the ashram of spiritual leader Asaram Bapu in Bhairavi village of Navsari district in south Gujarat.

The ashram was officially allocated 10 acres of land but it later encroached on another six acres of adjoining land and went on to construct a hall and a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Asaram ashram encroachment demolished in Gujarat.

Book Geelani, Arundhati, says Delhi court (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Rejecting a Delhi Police clean chit, a city court Saturday ordered registration of an FIR against Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani, writer-activist Arundhati Roy and five others for alleged anti-India speeches at a seminar here Oct 21.

“The Delhi Police are hereby directed to lodge an FIR (first information report) under … Original article on : Book Geelani, Arundhati, says Delhi court (Second Lead).

Assaulted engineer was corrupt, says Ghaziabad mayor

GHAZIABAD – An executive engineer of Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation who was assaulted Friday was employed illegally on the behest of Mayawati government, city mayor Damyanti Goel said Saturday.

A.K. Singh was never appointed as executive engineer. He was only appointed as assistant engineer and that too as an incharge for traffic for Commonwealth Games … Read : Assaulted engineer was corrupt, says Ghaziabad mayor.

Gang of cyber hackers busted in capital

NEW DELHI – Three people, including two foreign nationals, were arrested Saturday for duping people into giving their bank account related information and then making unauthorised financial transactions through them, police said.

The accused have been identified as Praveen Gupta, 27, a Nepali national, Promise Eke, 27, a Nigerian, and Tashi Wangchuk, 21, hailing from … Read more : Gang of cyber hackers busted in capital.

Fire at Kanshi Ram memorial in Lucknow

LUCKNOW – A fire broke out inside the Kanshi Ram memorial building here Saturday evening.

While officials were tight-lipped about the incident and the Rs.750-crore sprawling memorial was completely shut to the media, a thick cloud of smoke around the giant sized dome of the memorial gave the game away.
“It was a small fire …. Read the original article  : Fire at Kanshi Ram memorial in Lucknow.

Man held after trying to hijack plane with Iranian MPs

Moscow, Nov 27 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A passenger who tried to hijack an airplane en route from Tehran to Damascus Saturday was detained in-flight by the airline’s security guards, a media report said.

The man armed with a “cold weapon” claimed he had placed bombs on the aircraft and had hijacked the plane.
The Iranian Fars … Original source on Gaea Times at : Man held after trying to hijack plane with Iranian MPs.

Tripura trooper gets life for killing three colleagues

AGARTALA – After a seven-year trial, a Tripura court Saturday sentenced to life imprisonment a Tripura State Rifles (TSR) trooper for killing three colleagues and looting arms from a security camp, police said.

Additional District and Sessions Judge, North Tripura District, Bamdeb Majumder sentenced Rohit Mia, 43, to life imprisonment for looting weapons after killing … Read more : Tripura trooper gets life for killing three colleagues.

Ash from Indonesian volcano forces airport to shut

JAKARTA – Ash eruptions from Mount Bromo volcano forced the closure of a nearby airport in Indonesia’s East Java province, an official said Monday.

Transport ministry spokesman Bambang Ervan said the Abdurahman Saleh Airport in Malang district would be closed to civilian flights for at least five days.
Gede Suantika, head of the Centre of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nuclear science professor killed in Tehran

TEHRAN – An Iranian university professor of nuclear science was killed and another professor injured in attacks Monday in Tehran, the city’s police chief said.

Police Chief Hossein Sajadinia confirmed earlier news reports that the bombs were attached to both victims’ cars by assassins on motorcycles, apparently through magnets.
The victims, Majid Shahriari and Fereydoun … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nuclear science professor killed in Tehran.

New Zealand plane returns after smoke alert in cabin

WELLINGTON – A plane was forced to return to New Zealand’s Wellington International Airport shortly after take-off Monday after passengers said there was a smell of smoke in the cabin, a media report said.

The Air New Zealand plane, operated by Mount Cook Airline, was on its way to Dunedin with 59 passengers on board, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New Zealand plane returns after smoke alert in cabin.

Kalmadi says he will answer all CBI questions

NEW DELHI – Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi Monday said he has not committed any offence and is ready to answer all the questions of the Central Bureau of Investigation. He also said he will make a statement in parliament.

“I welcome the investigations (into the financial irregularities in the Commonwealth Games). …. Read the original article  : here.

Three guerrillas, one cop killed in Srinagar shootout

SRINAGAR – Three suspected guerrillas and a policeman were killed in a shootout in this Jammu and Kashmir summer capital Monday, police said.

A senior police officer said police had set up a checkpost at Qamarwari Chowk in Srinagar city, eight kilometres from city centre Lal Chowk, after specific information about the possible movement of …. Original source  : Three guerrillas, one cop killed in Srinagar shootout.

Militants kill policeman in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – Separatist guerrillas shot dead a police constable in Qamarwari area of the Jammu and Kashmir summer capital Srinagar Monday as the security forces have engaged three of the militants in a gunfight, police said.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Militants kill policeman in Srinagar.

Indian student recalls stabbing horror in Australia

MELBOURNE – An Indian student in this Australian city shuddered as he recalled the November night he was viciously stabbed in the stomach, with 26 stitches needed to sew up the gaping wound.

The cookery student in Melbourne was stabbed in the stomach by two men after he had finished work in a South Yarra … Read more »».

Teachers fired in China for thrashing kid

BEIJING – Two kindergarten women teachers in China have been fired after a video posted online showed them thrashing and kicking a four-year-old boy.

The video that appeared on internet last week was titled “Teachers at Daxing district No.1 kindergarten beating a student”.
During the five-minute video, a woman teacher pulls the four-year-old boy’s ears … Read more »»».

100 kids injured in China school stampede

BEIJING – Nearly 100 children were injured Monday in a stampede at a primary school in Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region in northwest China, officials said.

The incident occurred in the No.5 primary school in Aksu city, when the children were heading downstairs to the playground for after-class exercises. Some of the students fell and triggered …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 100 kids injured in China school stampede.

Pakistani woman’s nose cut-off by in-laws

ISLAMABAD – A Pakistani woman’s nose was cut off and her head tonsured by her in-laws who then locked her up for three days because they suspected her of having an affair with a neighbour, police said.

The incident took place in Gujranwala in Punjab province.
Aasiya Bibis brother-in-law Anwar, his wife Kalsoom and …. Original source  : Pakistani woman’s nose cut-off by in-laws.

Nepali woman nabbed with drugs in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A Nepali woman was arrested with cannabis worth around Rs.20 lakh in Uttar Pradeshs Maharajganj district, police said Monday.

Vimla Gharti, aged around 38 years, was nabbed late Sunday from Sanuali town, near the Indo-Nepal border, following a joint operation by the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and the district police.
Preliminary investigations indicate … Read more : Nepali woman nabbed with drugs in Uttar Pradesh.

Fire rages at Chandni Chowk warehouse

NEW DELHI – A major fire at a warehouse in Delhi’s congested Chandni Chowk market continued to rage Monday, a day after it broke out, officials said. Efforts are on to douse the blaze even as three firemen and a policeman injured have been injured.

The warehouse is on the ground floor of … Original article on : Fire rages at Chandni Chowk warehouse.

Efforts still on to douse fire at Delhi’s Chandni Chawk (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – A major fire broke out Sunday evening at a warehouse in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk market, officials said. Three firemen and a policemen were injured while fighting the blaze, which was still to be doused till past midnight.

“Two of our firemen have major injuries. They have been rushed to Lok Nayak Jai … Read more : Efforts still on to douse fire at Delhi’s Chandni Chawk (Second Lead).

Four injured fighting blaze in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk

NEW DELHI – A major fire broke out Sunday at a warehouse in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk market, officials said. Three firemen and a policemen were injured while fighting the blaze, which was yet to be doused at 10 p.m.

“Two of our firemen have major injuries. They have been rushed to Lok Nayak Jai …. Source article  : Four injured fighting blaze in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk.

C.M. Jatua slightly injured in collision

KOLKATA – Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting C.M. Jatua sustained minor injuries when his car was hit by a mini-truck in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district Sunday, police said.

South 24 Parganas’ Additional Superintendent of Police Murli Dhar told IANS that two people accompanying the minister in his car also sustained minor … Original article on : C.M. Jatua slightly injured in collision.

Delhi deputy speaker’s vehicle stolen

NEW DELHI – A pan-India alert was sounded after a vehicle belonging to Delhi assembly Deputy Speaker Amrish Singh Gautam was stolen from near his residence in east Delhi, police said Sunday.

Gautam’s sports utility vehicle (SUV) was stolen Saturday night after it was parked by his son around 10.30 p.m., police said.
The …. Source  : Delhi deputy speaker’s vehicle stolen.

Fire breaks out in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk

NEW DELHI – A fire broke out in a warehouse in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk area Sunday evening. The fire department rushed 27 tenders to douse the blaze that broke out around 5 p.m., an official said.

“Although it is not a major fire, we’ve sent 27 fire tenders to the spot to contain the fire, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Fire breaks out in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk.

BJP youth wing protests ‘anti-India’ speech by Mirwaiz

KOLKATA – More than 20 activists of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s youth wing were arrested Sunday for shouting slogans against Kashmiri separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq for his alleged anti-India statements at a seminar here.

The Mirwaiz, addressing a seminar at the Academy of Fine Arts here, said that Kashmir is a disputed land … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP youth wing protests ‘anti-India’ speech by Mirwaiz.

Northeastern students’ rally to protest BPO staffer’s rape

NEW DELHI – Scores of students and others from the northeast living in the capital will hold a protest rally at Jantar Mantar Monday to protest the gangrape of a BPO staffer from Mizoram earlier this week and demand speedy justice.

The rally will be organised by the Delhi Mizo Students Association and will begin …. Original source  : Northeastern students’ rally to protest BPO staffer’s rape.

Child dies in roof collapse

NEW DELHI – A child was killed and another injured when the ceiling of their house collapsed in a west Delhi slum Sunday, officials said.

The incident occurred around 1 p.m. in Dwarka Sector 19, police said.
Two children were brought to the hospital. One of them was dead and the other had injuries … Read more >>.

Hostages at US school freed; gunman shoots himself (Second Lead)

WASHINGTON – A gun-toting student released 24 people he held hostage at a high school in the northern US state of Wisconsin before shooting himself, news reports said.

The 23 pupils and one female teacher were held about five hours in Marinette before being freed Monday night uninjured, police said. When officers entered the classroom … Read : Hostages at US school freed; gunman shoots himself (Second Lead).

Long trials to blame for rapists walking free

NEW DELHI – Three out of four rape accused in India go scot-free, official data reveals. Behind the dismal conviction rate is a saga of long trials and the sabotage of court proceedings by the accused, say experts even as another gangrape in the capital has left the nation shocked.

According to the National … Read more >>.

Supreme Court questions Thomas’ credibility

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday expressed reservation on the objectivity of Central Vigilance Commissioner P.J. Thomas if he were to supervise the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the 2G spectrum scam.

The court said that as secretary of the Department of Telecom, Thomas had justified certain actions that are now under …. Original article  : Supreme Court questions Thomas’ credibility.

Four of family burnt to death in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A couple and their two young children were burnt to death early Tuesday in a fire that broke out while they were sleeping in their home in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur district, police said.

The accident took place in Uttam Nagar village of Saharanpur district, about 450 km from here. Kunwar Pal, his wife, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Four of family burnt to death in Uttar Pradesh.

Hindu girl kidnapped in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A three-and-a-half year old Hindu girl has been abducted from outside a temple in Pakistan’s Kashmore district in Sindh, a media report said.

Aanchal was kidnapped from outside a Hindu temple Thursday.
Daily Times Tuesday quoted Federal Minister for Minorities Shahbaz Bhatti as saying that the kidnappers would be dealt with iron hands.
… Read more »».

CBI books CWG officials Bhanot and Verma, conducts raids

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Tuesday filed a case against top Commonwealth Games Organising Committee (OC) officials Lalit Bhanot and V.K. Verma for alleged irregularities and raided their homes and offices.

While Bhanot is the OC secretary general, Verma is the OC director general. A case has been filed against them … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : CBI books CWG officials Bhanot and Verma, conducts raids.

BSF trooper found dead inside train

LUCKNOW – A Border Security Force (BSF) trooper posted in Jammu and Kashmir was found dead under mysterious circumstances inside a train in Uttar Pradesh, police said Tuesday.

The body of Mukesh Kumar, aged around 40, was found Monday evening inside the Jammu Tawi Express in Sultanpur district. He was on his way to his …. Read the original article  : BSF trooper found dead inside train.

Six-year-old Pakistani girl rescued from wedding venue

ISLAMABAD – A six-year-old Pakistani girl, whose marriage was to be solemnised with her 23-year-old cousin, was rescued from a secret wedding venue by the police. The unsuspecting girl had been assured that she would get many gifts.

The bridegroom Zahid was arrested from the marriage venue in Sheikhupura in Punjab province.
“We received a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Woman police chief slain in Mexico

Chihuahua (Mexico), Nov 30 (IANS/EFE) The woman leading the police department in the northern Mexican town of Meoqui was shot dead while driving to work, authorities said.

Hermila Garcia was named last month as chief of the 90-strong police force in Meoqui, located 70 km from Chihuahua city, the state capital.
Garcia was found fatally …. Read the original article  : Woman police chief slain in Mexico.

CBI raids premises of OC officials Bhanot, Verma

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Tuesday raided the homes and offices of Commonwealth Games Organising Committee (OC) Secretary General Lalit Bhanot and Director General V.K. Verma.

The raids against the two top aides of OC Chairman Suresh Kalmadi are on at 11 places in various parts of the capital, a top …. Source  : CBI raids premises of OC officials Bhanot, Verma.

Inmate kills girlfriend, stashes body in cell at Peru prison

Lima, Nov 30 (IANS/EFE) A Dutch inmate murdered his Peruvian girlfriend on visiting day at Lima’s Lurigancho prison in August and buried her body in his cell, with the killing going undetected for three months, an official said.

Jackson Sanford Staing confessed Sunday night that he murdered Leslie Dayana Paredes Silva at the prison.
The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Inmate kills girlfriend, stashes body in cell at Peru prison.

Over 1,000 arrests during Ecuador census day

Quito, Nov 30 (IANS/EFE) A total of 1,026 people were placed under arrest Sunday, the day a national census of population and housing was being taken in Ecuador. A law forbids people from leaving their homes even after being counted on that day.

According to national police chief Patricio Franco, 962 people were arrested for …. Source  : Over 1,000 arrests during Ecuador census day.

Gunman releases hostages at US school

WASHINGTON – Twenty-four hostages held by a gun-toting student at a high school in Wisconsin have been released Monday night, broadcaster CNN reported quoting police.

Police chief Jeffery Skorik was quoted as saying that the 23 students and one woman teacher were safe. The gunman had released five of the hostages earlier.
The young …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Armed student takes several hostages in US school

WASHINGTON – A gun-toting student held 18 fellow students and a teacher hostage at a high school in Wisconsin Monday night, after releasing five hostages, broadcaster CNN reported quoting police.

The young male took over a classroom at Marinette High School as the school day drew to a close and was communicating with police through … Read more »».

Three FIFA officials took bribes: BBC

LONDON – Three FIFA officials who later this week will vote on which countries stage the World Cup in 2018 and 2022 took bribes in the 1990s, a BBC television programme claimed Monday.

According to an investigation by Panorama, the officials – Nicolas Leoz of Paraguay, Issa Hayatou who represents African nations and Ricardo Teixeira … Read more »».

Five missing after ship collision in Black Sea

SOFIA – A freighter flying the flag of Sierra Leone sank after a collision with a Dutch tanker in the Black Sea Monday, leaving five crew members unaccounted for, the Bulgarian Interior Ministry said.

The Karim 1 went down during stormy weather 10 nautical miles off Cape Emine, a headland in Bulgaria. Five of its … Read more : Five missing after ship collision in Black Sea.

Six missing after ship collision in Black Sea

SOFIA – A Cambodian-flagged freighter sank after a collision with a Dutch tanker in the Black Sea Monday, leaving six crewmembers unaccounted for, the Bulgarian news agency BTA reported.

The Karim 1 went down during stormy weather off Cape Emine in Bulgaria. Four of its 10-member crew were rescued, all but one of them from … Read : Six missing after ship collision in Black Sea.

Merchant killed in Ghaziabad

GHAZIABAD – A Delhi-based flour merchant was hacked to death in Ghaziabad Monday night, police said. Enmity is suspected to be the motive as a large amount of cash was found on the body.

The body of Vinod Gupta, 48, was found at his rented house in Sector 10 of the Vasundhara area …. Original article  : Merchant killed in Ghaziabad.

Delhi Police file sedition case against Arundhati, Geelani

NEW DELHI – Acting on a court directive, the Delhi Police Monday registered a sedition case against writer-activist Arundhati Roy and Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani for their alleged anti-India speeches at a seminar here.

The Delhi Police have slapped Sections 124 A (sedition), 153 A (promoting enemity between two communities), 153 B (assertion …. Read the original article  : Delhi Police file sedition case against Arundhati, Geelani.

Court seeks views of NGOs, media in Gujarat riots case

GANDHINAGAR – A special court hearing a case related to the Gulberg Society massacre during the 2002 Ahmedabad riots Monday sought the views of NGOs and the media on various aspects of the criminal litigation.

Judge B.U. Joshi observed: “Since the matter in question is linked to national unity, it is necessary not to limit … Read : Court seeks views of NGOs, media in Gujarat riots case.