Accidents & Disasters – Weekly Newsletter for January 10-17, 2011

Monday, January 17, 2011

Handwritten note reveals plan to kill US congresswoman

WASHINGTON – A note written by Jared L. Loughner ahead of his shooting rampage Saturday in Tucson, Arizona appears to show that he had planned to assassinate US congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, a media report said.

Prosecutors charged Loughner, a troubled 22-year-old college dropout, with five federal counts Sunday, including the attempted assassination of Giffords in …. Original source : Handwritten note reveals plan to kill US congresswoman.

Apex court issues notices to government, 11 firms in 2G saga

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued notices to the union government and 11 firms on a plea seeking cancellation of aiwaves issued for second generation (2G) telecom services during the tenure of former communications minister A. Raja.

The apex court bench of Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice A.K. Ganguly issued the notices … Original source on Gaea Times at : Apex court issues notices to government, 11 firms in 2G saga.

Three dead, thousands evacuated as floods hit Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR – Three children have drowned and about 3,300 people have been displaced after their homes were inundated by floodwaters in northeastern Malaysia, a police spokesman said Monday.

Almost 3,200 people remained in 22 temporary shelters set up in Kelantan state, a state police spokesman told the official Bernama news agency.
He said the …. Read the original article : Three dead, thousands evacuated as floods hit Malaysia.

Australia’s flood crisis creeps toward Brisbane

SYDNEY – Residents were warned to get ready to defend their properties as Queensland’s flood crisis rolled south toward Brisbane, Australia’s third-biggest city.

The warning came too late for the 90,000 people of Toowoomba, 126 km west of the capital of the northeastern state, as a flash flood raced through city streets.
National broadcaster ABC … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Australia’s flood crisis creeps toward Brisbane.

Jharkhand delays sanction to prosecute tainted bureaucrat

RANCHI – The Arjun Munda-led Jharkhand government is delaying granting approval to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to prosecute a senior bureaucrat accused of a Rs.130-crore health scam, an official said.

According to sources, the CBI had sought approval from the Jharkhand government to prosecute former health secretary and senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) …. Original source : Jharkhand delays sanction to prosecute tainted bureaucrat.

Atlanta Experiences Winter Deluge

ATLANTA (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems like Atlanta has been struck amidst a winter deluge after a heavy snow storm blasted on the city on Sunday night. The snow storm blanketed the city under a thick layer which caused a major trouble for the Atlanta traffic. As a result of this Sonny Perdue who acted as the [..] Read the original article: here.

Supreme Court issues notice to government on 2G scam

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday issued notice to the central government on a plea seeking cancellation of 2G spectrum licences allocated during the tenure of former communications minister A. Raja.

The apex court also issued notices to 11 telecom companies which allegedly did not fulfil obligations as per the terms and conditions … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court issues notice to government on 2G scam.

Two more killed as Assam-Meghalaya border tense

SHILLONG – Two more people were killed and 12 injured in fresh violence in riot-hit areas of Meghalaya-Assam border, officials said Monday.

Several houses and trucks carrying supplies to the riot-hit areas in Meghalaya were also torched Sunday night at Paikan area on the tense inter-state border.
The central government has rushed in …. Original article : Two more killed as Assam-Meghalaya border tense.

Eight asphyxiated to death in Haryana

CHANDIGARH – Eight people were killed over the weekend due to suffocation caused by carbon monoxide gas in different parts of Haryana when they resorted to lighting angithi fire (coal fire) to keep themselves warm.

According to police, four Nepali nationals, who were working at a hotel in Tohana town, in Fatehabad district, were found …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Majority offences in UAE are cyber crimes

DUBAI – Of all criminal offences committed in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a whopping 70 percent are cyber crimes, a top official has said.

Cyber criminals are keeping up with new developments in information technology, and make the maximum use of any new software or system that comes with any security gap or loophole, [..] Read the original article: here.

72 killed in Iran plane crash (Third Lead)

TEHRAN – Seventy-two people, including 12 crew members, were killed when a plane with 105 people on board crashed in northwest Iran.

The remaining 33 people were seriously injured in the accident that occurred Sunday evening in Iran’s West Azerbaijan province, Xinhua said, citing reports from the semi-official Fars news agency.
The Boeing-727, belonging …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Two poachers held with over 40 tortoises

LUCKNOW – Two poachers were arrested with over 40 tortoises in Hathras in Uttar Pradesh, police said Monday.

Mohammad Qayam and Ramesh Chandra, around 35 years, were nabbed Sunday from Jairara area.
“Acting on a tip-off, we intercepted a Tata Sumo car in which the two were travelling. They were arrested after two sacks containing …. Source : Two poachers held with over 40 tortoises.

Three children injured in south Delhi factory fire

NEW DELHI – Three children were critically injured after a fire broke out in a chemical factory in south Delhi Monday, a fire official said.

The incident took place around 8.30 a.m. in Okhla industrial area Phase II when a chemical drum blasted. The fire was brought under control in some time, the official said.
…. Source : Gaea News Network.

Between 55 and 70 killed in Iran plane crash (Second Lead)

TEHRAN – The initial optimism by the Iranian transportation and health ministry about a low death toll faded Sunday after reports that between 55 and 70 people died in a a plane crash or emergency landing near Orumieh in Azerbaijan province.

A Red Crescent official told official news agency IRNA that 70 people were killed …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Charges filed against shooting suspect of US congresswoman

WASHINGTON – Federal officials Sunday filed five charges against the suspect in the shooting of US Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.

Six people were killed Saturday in the attack on Giffords, who was outside a supermarket holding a citizen’s outreach event in her district in Tucson, Arizona. Giffords survived a gunshot which put a bullet through her …. Source article : Charges filed against shooting suspect of US congresswoman.

18 dead after Iranian plane makes emergency landing

TEHRAN – At least 18 people were killed in a deadly emergency landing Sunday near Orumieh in the Azerbaijan province of northwestern Iran, the head of the country’s emergency centre told the ISNA news agency.

Gholam-Reza Massoumi said that, so far, there has been confirmation that 50 people have survived the incident. Forty of those …. Source article on Gaea Times at : 18 dead after Iranian plane makes emergency landing.

10 killed, 13 injured in Bengal accident

KOLKATA – Ten people were killed and 13 others were injured when a pick-up van carrying picnickers collided with a truck at Binaguri in West Bengals Jalpaiguri district Sunday night, police said.

The truck was returning to Cooch Behar from Chamurchi. Ten people died on the spot, said an officer manning the police control room …. Original article on Gaea Times at : 10 killed, 13 injured in Bengal accident.

105 feared dead in Iran plane crash

TEHRAN – An Iranian passenger plane crashed Sunday near Orumieh in the Azerbaijan province in northwestern Iran, the ISNA news agency reported.

The plane had 105 passengers and crew members on board, ISNA said. All are feared dead.
According to ISNA, the plane was a Boeing belonging to the national state-airline Iran Air. It apparently … Original source on Gaea Times at : 105 feared dead in Iran plane crash.

Passenger plane crashes in Iran

TEHRAN – An Iranian passenger plane crashed Sunday near Orumieh in the Azerbaijan province in northwestern Iran, the ISNA news agency reported.

The plane had 105 passenger and crew members on board, ISNA said, without giving further details.
… Read more »».

Doctors optimistic about US Congresswoman day after shooting

WASHINGTON – Doctors remained optimistic Sunday about the health of US Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, a day after she was shot through the head in an incident that left six people dead in the US city of Tucson, Arizona.

Peter Rhee, medical director of University Medical Center’s Trauma and Critical Care, where Giffords was treated, said … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Doctors optimistic about US Congresswoman day after shooting.

Fire in Noida’s Ambedkar park, no injuries

NOIDA – A fire that broke out Tuesday in the Ambedkar park being developed in this suburb of the national capital was doused within an hour, an official said. No one was injured.

According to the official, a dome was under construction in a section of the park and iron girders were being welded next … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Fire in Noida’s Ambedkar park, no injuries.

Cop arrested for murdering subordinate

LUCKNOW – A police sub-inspector in Uttar Pradesh’s Mirzapur district has been arrested for killing his subordinate after the latter threatened to expose a recruitment racket being run by him, police said Tuesday.

Sajan Kumar, posted in the office of the Mirzapur police chief, was arrested Monday along with one of his three accomplices involved … Read more : Cop arrested for murdering subordinate.

Nine killed, over 60 missing in Australian floods

MELBOURNE – At least nine people were killed and over 60 others missing as flash floods swept through southeastern Queensland state of Australia, authorities said Tuesday. Prime Minister Julia Gillard warned the nation to brace for a rising toll from the deluge.

A total of nine deaths have been confirmed from Queensland’s flash floods and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nine killed, over 60 missing in Australian floods.

Smuggler arrested with 14 kg heroin in Punjab

AMRITSAR – A man was arrested here with 14 kg of heroin worth Rs.70 crore, police said Tuesday. A pistol and some cartridges were also recovered from him.

Sukhbir Singh alias Sukha was arrested from the Chheharta area here Monday. However, his accomplice Angrez Singh managed to escape, police said. They described Sukhbir Singh …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Smuggler arrested with 14 kg heroin in Punjab.

Doctor abducted in Bihar

PATNA – The spate of kidnappings continued unabated in Bihar as a doctor has been abducted in Sitamarhi district by an unidentified group.

Police said Tuesday Yogendra Prasad, posted at primary health centre in Sonbarsa in Sitamarhi district, about 200 km from here, was abducted from Manhjaul village late Monday night.
“Prasad was abducted … Read more »».

Residents flee Brisbane as flood threat grows in Australia

SYDNEY – Floodwaters rolled into Brisbane Tuesday as Queenslanders were primed for deaths by the dozen, massive destruction and a recovery that could take years and cost billions of dollars.

Roads were closed and residents of low-lying West End began moving out as the floods that have affected half of Queensland hit Brisbane, the state …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Residents flee Brisbane as flood threat grows in Australia.

Four killed, 10 injured as trucks collide

LUCKNOW – At least four labourers were killed and 10 critically injured in a head-on collision between two speeding trucks in Uttar Pradesh’s Aligarh district early Tuesday, police said.

The accident took place in Gabhana area where the two trucks carrying labourers collided, killing four people on the spot. While one truck was heading towards … Read more : Four killed, 10 injured as trucks collide.

Indian American charged in biggest US insider-trading case

WASHINGTON – US Federal regulators have charged the co-founder of a New York hedge fund and three others including an Indian American executive in what has been called the biggest insider-trading case in US history.

Sunil Bhalla, a former senior Indian American executive of tech company Polycom, was charged Monday with hedge fund Trivium Capital … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Indian American charged in biggest US insider-trading case.

Saudi man beheaded for murder

DUBAI – A Saudi national was beheaded Monday in capital Riyadh after being convicted of murder, a media report said.

Mohammed al-Matrafi was found guilty of killing his compatriot, Marzouq al-Hafi, according to state-run SPA news agency.
Al-Matrafi shot his victim with a pistol after a dispute, Xinhua reported citing an interior ministry statement.
According … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Saudi man beheaded for murder.

Delhi police bust gang of women snatchers

NEW DELHI – Delhi Police said Monday it had busted a gang of women snatchers, nabbing one of them and are now after the other two.

The three-women gang was involved in looting and snatching passersby on the lonely stretch of the Ridge Road close to Rajender Nagar, a police officer said Monday.
These women …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Property dealer shot by friend, dies in hospital

NEW DELHI – A property dealer was allegedly shot at by his friend in Rani Bagh area in north Delhi and succumbed to his injuries Monday morning, police said. A business dispute was said to be behind the attack and a search is on for the assailant.

The incident came to light at around … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Property dealer shot by friend, dies in hospital.

1984 anti-Sikh riots: Witness accuses Sajjan Kumar of threats

NEW DELHI – A woman witness in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots case Monday told a Delhi court that Congress leader Sajjan Kumar and others had threatened her family for being vocal about her father’s murder in the carnage.

Nirpreet Kaur (42) said before Additional Sessions Judge Sunita Gupta that police did not record her …. Read the original article : here.

Thirst for lavish life turned two teens to crime

NEW DELHI – They joined a rock band while in school, but the craving for a lavish lifestyle led them to crime. Two 19-year-olds were arrested along with two others for alleged auto theft and 12 vehicles recovered from them, police said Monday.

The arrested have been identified as Hafiz, 22, Istkar Khan, … Read more : Thirst for lavish life turned two teens to crime.

Farmer attempts suicide, Chouhan government on defensive

BHOPAL – Depressed over his crop getting damaged due to frost, a farmer attempted suicide by consuming pesticide in Madhya Pradesh’s Damoh district Monday. It was the second such incident in the past three days in the district. The BJP government denied that any farmer had tried to kill himself due to debt.

State Minister …. Original source : Farmer attempts suicide, Chouhan government on defensive.

Malaysian businesswoman gets 120 years for fraud

KUALA LUMPUR – A former woman director of a Malaysian company has been sentenced to 120 years in prison for swindling investors and money laundering, a media report said Monday.

The 49-year-old unnamed accused was also fined five million ringgit ($1.63 million) by a court in Kuala Lumpur Monday, Xinhua reported.
The businesswoman admitted in … Read more : Malaysian businesswoman gets 120 years for fraud.

Man shot at, thrown off flyover by robbers

NEW DELHI – A man was Monday shot at and thrown off a flyover in east Delhi by two motorcycle-borne assailants, who fled with the Rs.6 lakhs he was carrying, police said. He was admitted to hospital where his condition is said to be critical.

According to police, Kuldeep, 32, a supervisor at a television … Read more »»».

Lalgarh killings: Kolkata lawyers seek CBI probe

KOLKATA – The Bar Association of Calcutta High Court Monday filed a public interest litigation (PIL), seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the Jan 7 killings of villagers in West Midnapore district.

The PIL also sought adequate compensation for the families of the seven who were killed and the 20 others wounded … Read more »».

Sohrabuddin killing: Accused cop’s bail plea rejected

GANDHINAGAR – The Gujarat High Court Monday rejected the bail plea of Rajkumar Pandian, a policeman accused of involvement in the 2005 Sohrabuddin Sheikh staged shootout case.

Justice M.R. Shah rejected Pandian’s plea. The policeman wanted bail on the grounds that co-accused and former state minister Amit Shah was given bail earlier. …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Sohrabuddin killing: Accused cop’s bail plea rejected.

2,000 Haiti quake orphans sold as sex slaves

LONDON – Over 2,000 children, orphaned after the devastating earthquake in Haiti in January 2010, have been sold as sex slaves by child traffickers, officials said.

The Jan 12, 2010, quake killed around 230,000 people in the counrty.
Babies and toddlers have also been taken from makeshift camps in the capital Port-au-Prince and sold …. Original article : 2,000 Haiti quake orphans sold as sex slaves.

Lax US gun laws in spotlight after lawmakers shooting

WASHINGTON – As US federal authorities charged the suspect in the weekend shooting of a lawmaker at an Arizona political meet-and-greet, lax gun laws that allow Americans to buy weapons freely have again come under the spotlight.

Federal authorities have accused Jared Lee Loughner of opening fire outside a Tucson supermarket, where US Democrat … Original source on Gaea Times at : Lax US gun laws in spotlight after lawmakers shooting.

Brisbane awash as deadly flood arrives

SYDNEY – Floods barrelled through Brisbane Wednesday, threatening almost 20,000 dwellings and sending residents of the Queensland state capital scurrying to be safe from raging waters expected to crest within 24 hours.

Australia’s third-biggest city braced for a soaking worse than in 1974, when the Brisbane river peaked at 5.45 metres and 9,700 houses had … Read more »»».

Arizona shooting suspect’s parents apologise

WASHINGTON – The family of Jared Loughner, the suspect in Arizona shooting rampage, has apologised to the relatives of those killed, saying, “we are so very sorry for their loss”.

According to the USA Today, a statement handed to reporters Tuesday by Loughner’s parents said: “There are no words that can possibly express how …. Read the original article : Arizona shooting suspect’s parents apologise.

Capital rage again – man killed after dispute in shop

NEW DELHI – In another killing triggered by blinding rage, a 19-year-old youth allegedly stabbed to death a man following an argument in a north Delhi shop when he was asked to stop joking around and speed up his purchases, police said Wednesday.

The incident took place in Samaipur Badli area Tuesday night, shortly after …. Read the original article : here.

Haiti needs continued support for quake recovery: Ban

NEW YORK – The international community must “renew and redouble” efforts to support Haiti one year after an earthquake inflicted one of the largest natural catastrophes in the world, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said late Tuesday.

Ban said in a message on the eve of the anniversary of the disaster, which struck Jan …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Haiti needs continued support for quake recovery: Ban.

18 killed in Sri Lanka floods

COLOMBO – Floods in Sri Lanka have killed 18 people and swamped the homes of nearly one million, officials said Wednesday.

Nearly 200,000 people have been forced out of their homes, a spokesman for the Disaster Management Centre said.
Floods covered large areas of the east and northeast while heavy rains in the central part …. Source : 18 killed in Sri Lanka floods.

New life amid devastation, baby born in Queensland

SYDNEY – Amid devastating floods, a baby was born in Australia’s Queensland state with help from family members, a media report said Wednesday.

The little boy was born in his home in the flood-ravaged Lockyer Valley, located to the west of state capital Brisbane, after his mother Kristie went into labour late Tuesday, the Australian … Read more »».

Posing as cops, miscreants loot jewellery showroom

CHANDIGARH – A group of 10-15 miscreants dressed up in police uniform looted jewellery worth crores of rupees from Tanishq showroom in Manimajra town in this union territory, an official said Wednesday.

The accused, who were wearing police uniforms, overpowered two security guards and gained entry into the showroom after breaking its locks Tuesday night.
… Read more >>>.

CBI readies to probe Bihar legislator’s murder

PATNA – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) will probe the sensational murder of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator Raj Kishore Kesri by a woman teacher who had accused him of rape, Bihar Police chief Neelmani said Wednesday.

“CBI director A.P. Singh has assured us that the country’s premier investigative agency will soon take up …. Original article : CBI readies to probe Bihar legislator’s murder.

Three drug peddlers held with Rs.1 crore smack

LUCKNOW – Three drug peddlers were arrested with around 1.25 kg smack – a highly addictive morphine derivative – worth around Rs.1 crore in Uttar Pradesh’s Sitapur district, police said Wednesday.

The three men, aged around 30 years, were nabbed Tuesday night from Hargaon town in a joint action by the Special Operations Group (SOG) …. Read the original article : Three drug peddlers held with Rs.1 crore smack.

Samajwadi Party leader shot dead in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A Samajwadi Party (SP) leader was shot dead in his home in Uttar Pradesh’s Gorakhpur town by unidentified assailants, triggering demonstrations by party workers, police said Wednesday.

Om Kumar Yadav, 55, a member of the Samajwadi Party district unit, was killed late Tuesday inside his house in Jatepur locality. Yadav’s family rushed him …. Read the original article : Samajwadi Party leader shot dead in Uttar Pradesh.

Bihar cops rescue abducted doctor

PATNA – A doctor abducted by five people posing as relatives of a patient has been rescued and one of his captors arrested in Bihar’s Sitamarhi district, police said Wednesday.

Police rescued Yogendra Prasad on a tip-off late Tuesday night and arrested Devendra Thakur, Sitamarhi Superintendent of Police Rakesh Rathi said.
Prasad, posted at the … Read : Bihar cops rescue abducted doctor.

Delhi road rage: Jet Airways pilot granted bail

NEW DELHI – Jet Airways pilot Vikas Agarwal was granted bail Wednesday morning, a day after he allegedly ran his car over another driver in a case of road rage in the capital’s upscale Khan Market, police said.

“It was a bailable offence,” a senior police official told IANS.
The accused was charged under Section …. Read the original article : Delhi road rage: Jet Airways pilot granted bail.

Capital rage: Jet Airways pilot granted bail

“It was a bailable offence… He was granted bail in the morning,” a senior police official told IANS.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at : Capital rage: Jet Airways pilot granted bail.

Floods, landslides kill 40 in Philippines

MANILA – At least 40 people have been killed and over one million displaced in flash floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains in central and southern Philippines, officials said Wednesday.

The heavy rains brought by the northeast monsoon damaged about $20 million worth of crops and property, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management …. Source article : Floods, landslides kill 40 in Philippines.

Israelis, drugs and spy cam video wars in Goa (Letter from Goa)

PANAJI – One sensational spy cam video after another seems to be dropping like ripe fruit from the scandal-laden boughs of Goa Police, laying bare a furious feud within the state police hierarchy. And the only side to benefit from this infighting seems to be the notorious Israeli drug mafia.

There’s a pattern to the …. Source : Israelis, drugs and spy cam video wars in Goa (Letter from Goa).

Pakistani Islamists criticise Pope’s anti-blasphemy law comments

Islamabad, Jan 12 (IANS/AKI) An alliance of Pakistani Islamist organisations said they would hold rallies to protest Pope Benedict XVI’s remarks that called on the country to scrap an anti-blasphemy law which allows for the death penalty for insulting Islam.

“The Pope’s statement is part of a conspiracy to pit the world’s religions against each … Read more »».

Lights out as Brisbane awaits deadly flood

SYDNEY – Power was cut to Brisbane homes for safety reasons and residents ordered to higher ground as Australia’s third-biggest city braced for its worst soaking in living memory.

Floodwaters barreling toward the Queensland state capital were set to inundate 9,000 properties – 10 percent of the city’s stock – and a further 30,000 were …. Read the original article : Lights out as Brisbane awaits deadly flood.

Jackson’s doctor ordered to stand trial

LOS ANGELES – Michael Jackson’s doctor, Conrad Murray, will stand trial on a charge of involuntary manslaughter after a judge in his preliminary hearing ruled Tuesday that there was sufficient evidence for him to face a jury.

The ruling by Judge Michael Pastor came after six days of hearings in which the prosecutor presented evidence … Read : Jackson’s doctor ordered to stand trial.

UN to observe moment of silence for Haiti’s dead

NEW YORK – The UN will observe a moment of silence Wednesday to mark the exact time the mammoth earthquake struck Haiti a year ago and killed an estimated 230,000 people, including 102 UN personnel in Port-au-Prince.

The UN deaths in Haiti Jan 12, 2010 were the largest ever in a single day in UN …. Read the original article : UN to observe moment of silence for Haiti’s dead.

Father was not insane: Suicide victim’s son

BHOPAL – Two days after a farmer committed suicide in Madhya Pradesh Sehore’s district due to his mounting debt, his family Tuesday alleged that the district administration was forcing them to term him “insane”.

“The collector and the superintendent of police are forcing us to say that my father was insane. They have also taken … Read : Father was not insane: Suicide victim’s son.

Human fury claims another leopard, probe ordered

BHUBANESWAR – Another leopard fell prey to human fury as angry villagers Thursday hammered it to death with wooden sticks and cricket bats on the outskirts of this Orissa capital after it mauled two people. A probe has been ordered, an official said.

The leopard, which reportedly strayed into the area near Gandarpur village from … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Human fury claims another leopard, probe ordered.

Two Tamil Nadu businessmen held captive near Agra?

AGRA – Two Tamil Nadu businessmen remain untraced 10 days after they were suspected to have been abducted from a guesthouse in Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, but police are now zeroing in on areas near Agra as the place of captivity.

The two traders, Senthil Kumar, 28, and his agent Karunanidhi had come to Gwalior … Read : Two Tamil Nadu businessmen held captive near Agra?.

BSP leader, aides booked for assaulting official

LUCKNOW – A Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader and his three aides have been booked for brutally assaulting an irrigation department employee who objected to their illegal mining of sand in Uttar Pradesh’s Auraiya district, police said Thursday.

Police said the politician and two of his supporters are absconding. One of the aides has …. Source : BSP leader, aides booked for assaulting official.

Italy’s ex-minister gets threat mail with bullet

Ceppaloni (Italy), Jan 13 (IANS/AKI) A former Italian justice minister received a threat mail along with a bullet at his home in northeast of Naples, warning him against fighting in a local body election.

The letter containing bullet allegedly mailed by the far-Left Red Brigades was sent to former justice minister Clemente Mastella’s home in …. Source : Gaea News Network.

Worst over for Brisbane as deadly flood runs out of puff

SYDNEY – Australia’s third-biggest city woke up Thursday to the good news that the Brisbane River had peaked below the forecast and flood damage had come in below expectations.

The river reached 4.46 metres in Brisbane, well short of the 5.2 that hydrologists had predicted and nearly 1 metre below the 5.45 metres that touched … Read more : Worst over for Brisbane as deadly flood runs out of puff.

Heavy rains leave 250 dead in Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, Jan 13 (IANS/EFE) At least 250 people have died due to heavy rains, flooding and mudslides in Brazil during the past two days, authorities said.

In the mountainous Teresopolis, the most heavily affected area, the toll stands at 122, while in the neighbouring town of Nova Friburgo 97 people have died, firefighters … Read : Heavy rains leave 250 dead in Brazil.

Road accident kills six in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO – At least six people were killed and eight others injured when a bus collided with a van in western Sri Lanka Thursday morning, police said.

Both vehicles were travelling at high speed when they crashed into each other at Kosgama, 38 km south of Colombo, officers said.
The van was also carrying passengers, … Read more >>>.

Haiti remembers earthquake, 222,000 victims

Port-au-PRINCE – Life stood still for 47 seconds in Haiti Wednesday as a moment of silence fell over the disaster-ravaged Caribbean country.

The commemoration was dedicated to the 222,000 people who died in the magnitude-7 quake, which struck at 4:53 p.m. (2153 GMT) Jan 12, 2010. The whole country ground to a halt at that … Original article on : Haiti remembers earthquake, 222,000 victims.

Brisbane spared as deadly flood runs out of puff

SYDNEY – The residents of Australia’s third-biggest city Thursday woke up to the good news that the Brisbane River had peaked below the forecast and they had been spared even more flood damage.

The river reached 4.6 metres, well short of the 5.45 metres that touched off the catastrophic flooding of 1974.
Brisbane Lord Mayor … Read more >>.

Chinese trial of New Zealand murder suspect provokes protests

WELLINGTON – China’s refusal to allow a Chinese citizen accused of murder in New Zealand to be returned to that country for trial provoked protests Thursday.

One legal expert even called the refusal and “insult” to New Zealand.
Zhen Xiao, 23, was arrested in China where he fled after allegedly murdering Hiren Mohini, 39, an …. Source article : Chinese trial of New Zealand murder suspect provokes protests.

Bellamy arrested on suspicion of assault: reports

LONDON – Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy has been arrested and bailed on suspicion of assault, media reports said Wednesday.

The Wales international, who is on loan at Cardiff City, was taken into custody at around 2.45 a.m. Sunday, after two men were injured in an early morning incident on Caroline Street in Cardiff.
The …. Source : Bellamy arrested on suspicion of assault: reports.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar seeks corruption watchdog

MUMBAI – Spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Wednesday said there was a need to set up an “independent body” to keep a check on corruption and financial scams.

“Agencies that are supposed to check the scams are also involved in the same scams. We need to have people of character and honesty to check … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sri Sri Ravi Shankar seeks corruption watchdog.

Haiti remembers those killed in 2010 quake

Port-au-PRINCE – A funeral service in the ruins of Port-au-Prince cathedral Wednesday included ceremonies to remember the 230,000 people killed in a quake that devastated Haiti a year ago.

Thousands gathered for mass at the site of the cathedral, which was destroyed in the Jan 12, 2010 quake along with much of the city and …. Original article : Haiti remembers those killed in 2010 quake.

Two engineering students held for vehicle thefts

NOIDA – Two engineering students have been arrested for stealing vehicles in Noida, police said Wednesday.

Mukul Mittal, a second year B.Tech student of RKGIT Engineering College on Meerut Road in Ghaziabad, and Sumit De, a second year B.Tech student of Skyline College in Meerut, were arrested Tuesday night.
The police also seized … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two engineering students held for vehicle thefts.

Onion prices: Surveys yield over Rs.70 mn in Punjab

CHANDIGARH – Income tax surveys carried out by the department earlier this month in different parts of Punjab amidst soaring prices of onions and other vegetables have yielded over Rs.7 crore (Rs.70 million) in undeclared incomes, officials said Wednesday.

“The survey was conducted in Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana and Chandigarh to check hoarding of vegetables in … Read more >>>.

Rs.100 mn robbery in Chandigarh jewellery store (Second Lead)

CHANDIGARH – In what is believed to be the biggest heist in the history of this union territory, a gang of 10-15 robbers dressed in police uniforms looted jewellery worth over Rs.10 crore (Rs.100 million) from the Tanishq showroom in Manimajra town, police said.

The accused, dressed in Uttar Pradesh Police uniforms, overpowered two security …. Source : Rs.100 mn robbery in Chandigarh jewellery store (Second Lead).

379 Maoists on hunger strike in Chhattisgarh jail

RAIPUR – As many as 379 Maoists lodged in a jail in Chhattisgarhs insurgency-hit Dantewada district continued their hunger strike for the second day Wednesday, demanding that they be released as they had been held on “false charges”.

“Their demands are quite surprising… they are seeking bail claiming to be arrested on false charges and …. Read the original article : 379 Maoists on hunger strike in Chhattisgarh jail.

1,800 displaced people returned home in Meghalaya

MENDIPATHAR – Around 1,800 people, who were displaced following the ethnic clashes in Meghalaya and Assam, have returned home and no reports of fresh violence were reported in the region, an official said Wednesday.

In Assam’s Goalpara district, two relief camps were closed after the displaced wanted to go back to their homes, Goalpara District … Read more »».

Modi questions Chennai Police’s statements

MUMBAI – Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has shot off a letter to Chennai Police Commissioner T. Rajendran questioning his recent statements on the police inability to serve summons to him.

Modi has also questioned media reports quoting Rajendran that since he refused to accept the summons, the Chennai Police was planning to prosecute him …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Modi questions Chennai Police’s statements.

Winnie Mandela embroiled in speeding dispute

JOHANNESBURG – A white police officer is under investigation after stopping Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, the former wife of anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela, for recklessly weaving through traffic at speeds of 150 km per hour, according to South African media reports Wednesday.

The policeman told the Beeld newspaper he had not recognised the driver “since she had … Read more >>>.

Mosque demolition: Friday prayers held outside police station

NEW DELHI – Around 1,500 people offered Friday prayers outside the Nizamuddin police station in south Delhi amid tight security as they were not allowed to do so at the site of a mosque that was demolished by civic authorities two days earlier, sparking protests.

“Friday prayers were held peacefully and nobody was allowed …. Source : Mosque demolition: Friday prayers held outside police station.

Manhunt launched for leopard killers in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – A day after a leopard was brutally killed by a mob on the outskirts of this Orissa capital, wildlife officials Friday launched a manhunt to nab those involved in the gory crime.

“We have booked six people under the Wildlife Protection Act. We have launched a manhunt to arrest them,” a senior state … Read : Manhunt launched for leopard killers in Orissa.

Lalgarh carnage toll rises to eight

KOLKATA – The deaths in the Netai village carnage rose to eight as one of the injured died of her injuries at a state-run premier hospital here Friday.

Geetali Adak, 40, died at SSKM Hospital 6.35 a.m., triggering protests by Trinamool Congress activists who alleged negligence in her treatment.
The woman sustained bullet injuries in …. Original source : Lalgarh carnage toll rises to eight.

16 women troopers injured in accident

LUCKNOW – Sixteen women paramilitary personnel posted along the India-Nepal border were injured, six of them critically, when the vehicle carrying them was hit by a state-owned bus in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district Friday, police said.

The constables of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) were injured in Babanagar town when a speeding Uttar Pradesh Road …. Original article : 16 women troopers injured in accident.

Records gutted in Delhi police station, none injured

NEW DELHI – A fire broke out in the record room of a police station in west Delhi Friday, an official said. No one was injured in the blaze.

“Some old papers in the record room of Nand Nagri police station caught fire at 11.15 a.m. No injuries in the incident were reported,” an official …. Original article : Records gutted in Delhi police station, none injured.

Murder case solved after two months

NEW DELHI – Two men accused of murdering a 25-year-old man some months ago have been arrested from north Delhi, police said Friday.

The accused, Dharma and Dinesh alias Mintu, were arrested from Sultanpuri area Thursday night.
A senior police official said: “The body of a 25-year-old unidentified man was found at Jalebi Chowk in …. Source article : Murder case solved after two months.

In attack on Kerala professor, police name 54 accused

KOCHI – At least 54 people were named by police in a list of accused submitted to a court here Friday for last year’s assault on a Kerala college professor whose right palm was chopped off.

Of them, 27 have been charge sheeted.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Sabu Mathew, who investigated the case, …. Original source : In attack on Kerala professor, police name 54 accused.

Unidentified bodies to be treated decently in Agra

AGRA – The Agra police have announced measures to ensure that unidentified bodies, earlier allegedly thrown into the Yamuna river, are not callously disposed of without any records.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Aseem Arun told reporters here that he has instructed that the teeth of the dead should be preserved for DNA identification later, … Read more : Unidentified bodies to be treated decently in Agra.

Hackers help fight natural disasters too!

WASHINGTON – During the biannual event called the Random Hacks of Kindness (RHoK), hackers worldwide develop software that can help identify and reduce risks from natural hazards.

It’s a far cry from the darker side of hackers who recently disrupted the computer operations of companies trying to shut down WikiLeaks, says Christian Science Monitor.
During … Read more >>>.

Boat capsizes, leaving four dead and five missing in Vietnam

HANOI – Four people died and five were missing after an overloaded boat capsized in a northern Vietnamese river, authorities said Friday.

Although the search for the missing continued Friday, authorities held out little hope of finding them alive.
“To be sure, the missing have died,” Mai Ngoc Phan, chairman of Tuyen Quang City, said …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Boat capsizes, leaving four dead and five missing in Vietnam.

Journalist among 14 killed in Pakistan violence (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – A journalist of a private television channel was shot dead by a group of assailants in Pakistan’s southern city of Karachi, where at least 14 others were also killed in a series of target killings, police said.

Wali Khan Babar, 29, who was working with the Geo News, was attacked near Liaquatabad Dak … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Journalist among 14 killed in Pakistan violence (Second Lead).

Receding floodwaters reveal Queensland as ‘war zone’

SYDNEY – Those who fled Brisbane’s worst flooding since 1974 were trudging Friday through the Queensland state capital’s mud-laden streets to assess damage to homes and businesses.

Anna Bligh, the premier of the northeastern state, warned of the grief awaiting many of them in a “war zone” where 33,000 properties in Australia’s third-largest city have …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Receding floodwaters reveal Queensland as ‘war zone’.

Six killed in Jharkhand road accident

RANCHI – Six people were killed when a sports utility vehicle collided with a truck on the outskirts of Jharkhand’s steel city Jamshedpur Friday morning, police said.

The accident took place around 9 a.m. near Nayagram village situated in Jamshedpur district, around 135 km from Ranchi.
Six of the eight people travelling in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Six killed in Jharkhand road accident.

PIL seeks CBI probe into Goa’s cops-politician-drug nexus

PANAJI – The Bombay High Court bench in Goa will next week hear a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking handing over of the infamous police-politician-drug nexus case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The petition filed by National Students Union of India (NSUI) president Sunil Kavathankar Friday sought that the case, allegedly … Original source on Gaea Times at : PIL seeks CBI probe into Goa’s cops-politician-drug nexus.

Journalist among eight killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A journalist of a private television channel was shot dead by a group of unidentified assailants in Pakistan’s southern city of Karachi, where at least seven others were also killed in different incidents of target killing, police said.

Wali Khan Babar, 29, who was working with the Geo News, was attacked near Liaquatabad … Read more »».

Piracy costs world economy up to $12 bn a year

NEW YORK – Somali pirates have driven up shipping costs in the Indian Ocean, resulting in world economic losses estimated at $7 billion to $12 billion a year, a study by One Earth Future Foundation said Thursday.

Armed with AK-47s, pirates in rickety skiffs have carried out brazen hijackings, seizing massive oil tankers, cargo vessels [..] Read the original article: here.

Geo News reporter shot dead in Karachi

ISLAMABAD – A reporter of Geo News was shot dead in Pakistan’s southern Karachi city, the news channel said Thursday.

Wali Khan Babar was on his way home from office when he was attacked in the Liaquatabad area of the city, Geo News said.
The gunmen opened fire at close range, killing him instantly. … Read more »».

7.2-magnitude quake jolts Pacific islands

BEIJING – An earthquake measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale Friday jolted the New Caledonia’s Loyalty Islands in the South Pacific, reports Xinhua.

It occurred at 12.16 a.m., according to the China Earthquake Networks Centre.
The epicentre was located at 20.6 degrees south latitude and 168.6 degrees east longitude, with a depth of about 10 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 7.2-magnitude quake jolts Pacific islands.

Barge with 2,400 tonnes of acid capsizes in Germany

ST GOARSHAUSEN – A motorised barge carrying 2,400 tonnes of sulphuric acid capsized and sank Thursday in Germany’s scenic Rhine river gorge, leaving two of the four crew members missing in the flood-swollen river.

Authorities said tests showed none of the acid had escaped into the river.
The gorge is one of Europe’s main tourist … Original source on Gaea Times at : Barge with 2,400 tonnes of acid capsizes in Germany.

Doctor, wife suffocate to death at home

NEW DELHI – A 65-year-old homoeopathy doctor and his wife suffocated to death after gas from a heater filled their bedroom in their south Delhi home Thursday, police said.

A police official said that the incident was reported from Paryavaran Complex in south Delhi’s Lado Sarai at around 2.30 p.m. and the victims were identified … Read : Doctor, wife suffocate to death at home.

India donates $500,000 for Benin flood victims

UNITED NATIONS – India has made a cash donation of $500,000 in assistance to Benin, the west African nation that suffered devastation in massive floods since late last year.

India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Hardeep Singh Puri Friday handed over a cheque for the amount in New York to the Permanent Representative of the … Read more »».

High court prompts Mayawati to release Banda rape victim

LUCKNOW – Prompted by an Allahabad High Court directive, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati Saturday ordered the release of a 17-year-old rape victim whom a ruling Bahujan Samaj party lawmaker had falsely implicated in a theft case.

Though it was a court holiday, senior judge Justice Rajesh Agrawal decided to take suo motto cognizance …. Original article on Gaea Times at : High court prompts Mayawati to release Banda rape victim.

20 from Karnataka among Sabarimala victims

BANGALORE – At least 20 people from Karnataka are among the over 100 pilgrims who died in a stampede near Kerala’s Sabarimala temple, officials here said Saturday.

Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa announced Rs.100,000 compensation to the next of kin of each killed in the stampede and Rs.25,000 for every injured person, an official spokesperson said.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at : 20 from Karnataka among Sabarimala victims.

Reggie Doucet Shot Dead By LAPD

PLAYA VISTA (GaeaTimes.com)- A young model who used to be a MTSU football player earlier, was shot by a LAPD officer in Playa Vista region near his condo and he succumbed to his death yesterday. The sad incident took place on Friday morning and the death of the 25-year-old Reggie Doucet has left the …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Reggie Doucet Shot Dead By LAPD.

Kerala in mourning as Sabarimala toll mounts to 104 (Second Lead)

VANDIPERIYAR/KUMILY – As grieving relatives thronged hospitals to identify their kin among the dead in Kerala’s Sabarimala tragedy, which has claimed 104 lives so far, a government report Saturday said the stampede in the Pulumedu forest was caused after a tiff between taxi, autorickshaw drivers and pilgrims turned violent.

Meanwhile, Kerala has declared three days … Read more >>>.

Sankranti Marred By Accidents

JAMSHEDPUR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The citizens in various parts of India are yet to come out of the Sankranti celebration mood but the festive occasion did not pass without its shares of mishaps. A number of road accidents took place on the auspicious day in various parts of the country resulting in casualty and injury. …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Sankranti Marred By Accidents.

13 killed in Uttar Pradesh bus accident

LUCKNOW – At least 13 people were killed and over 20 others were injured when the bus they were travelling in spun out of control and fell into a river in Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi district Saturday, police said.

“The accident took place in the Kapsethi area when the bus fell into the Varuna river. … Original article on : 13 killed in Uttar Pradesh bus accident.

Mirchpur violence: Jat conclave wants fresh CBI probe

JIND – Tension prevailed in this Haryana district Saturday as members of the Jat Mahapanchayat, a congregation of leaders from over 42 khap panchayats, threatened to block roads and railway crossings demanding a fresh CBI probe into the Mirchpur caste violence last year for which more than 90 Jat youths were arrested.

The protesters … Read more »».

Mayawati orders release of Banda rape victim

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati Saturday announced the release from jail of a 17-year-old rape victim who had been implicated in a theft case by a ruling Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MLA from Banda.

Mayawati made the announcement soon after her 55th birthday celebrations here.
The girl was implicated in a false case … Read more >>>.

Fire breaks out in power corporation office in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A major fire broke out in a multi-storeyed government building housing the office of Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) here Saturday, an official said. A man suffered minor injuries in the incident.

The fire erupted on the first floor of the Shakti Bhawan building along Ashok Marg in Hazratganj, the heart … Read : Fire breaks out in power corporation office in Uttar Pradesh.

Congress MP Biswal’s attacker arrested

NEW DELHI – Delhi Police arrested the man who allegedly attacked former Orissa Chief Minister and Congress parliamentarian Hemananda Biswal here, police Saturday said.

Prabhat Kumar Sharma alias Swamy was arrested from South Avenue late Friday evening after he went there to meet some relative.
“Acting on a tip-off, he was … Original article on : Congress MP Biswal’s attacker arrested.

Seven Sabarimala injured admitted to Tamil Nadu hospital

CHENNAI – Seven people, six from Tamil Nadu and one from Andhra Pradesh, injured in the Sabarimala stampede have been admitted to the Theni Medical College Hospital, on the border with Kerala.

Three of the six from Tamil Nadu belong to Dharmapuri, two are from Coimbatore and one is from Tiruttani district, while the seventh … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Seven Sabarimala injured admitted to Tamil Nadu hospital.

Man burnt alive in Bihar

PATNA – A man was burnt alive in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur town Saturday morning by some unidentified people, police said.

Prabhu Mahato was burnt to death at Ram Dayalu locality in Muzaffarpur town, about 70 km from here.
Tension prevailed in the locality after the incident. Police were deployed in the area by the district …. Original source : Man burnt alive in Bihar.

Mud, toil, tears and sweat as Brisbane cleans up

SYDNEY – An estimated 7,000 volunteers deluged Brisbane Saturday as Australia’s third-largest city got cracking on a clean-up after the worst floods in 36 years.

Armed with buckets and spades, they formed work gangs in the low-lying areas of the Queensland state capital that took the brunt of the floodwaters when the Brisbane River peaked …. Original article : Mud, toil, tears and sweat as Brisbane cleans up.

Four students killed, 15 injured as train rams autorickshaw

CHANDIGARH – At least four school students were killed and 15 injured when an autorickshaw they were riding in collided with a train in a dense fog at a railway crossing in Punjab’s Ferozepur district Saturday morning, police said.

The victims were all under 10 years of age and belonged to Chandimaara village. …. Source : Four students killed, 15 injured as train rams autorickshaw.

Sabarimala stampede toll 104, Kerala in mourning

VANDIPERIYAR/KUMILY – Kerala declared three days of mourning as the toll in the stampede near Kerala’s famed Sabarimala temple climbed to 104 Saturday with more bodies being brought to hospitals. More than 60 people are injured.

The bodies were first brought to the Vandiperiyar government hospital and from there it was moved to the government … Read more »».

Sabarimala Accident Shocks Nation

VANDIPERIYAR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- More than 100 people died and nearly 50 were injured during a stampede near the hill shrine of Sabarimala on Friday, law enforcement officials have reported. Home Secretary Jai Kumar told media sources that the pilgrims were returning from the temple, when a vehicle overturned, resulting in the stampede. Jai Kumar … Read more >>.

Sabarimala tragedy: 60 doctors conduct autopsies, kin identify dead

KUMILY – As the death toll in the stampede near the Sabarimala temple mounted to 104 Saturday, doctors at a government hospital in this Kerala town busied themselves in one of the biggest post-mortem procedures in the state.

A team of 60 doctors began the grim task at the Kumily government hospital, some 15 km … Original article on : Sabarimala tragedy: 60 doctors conduct autopsies, kin identify dead.

Sabarimala stampede toll reaches 104

VANDIPERIYAR/KUMILY – The toll in the stampede near Kerala’s famed Sabarimala temple climbed to 104 Saturday as more bodies and the injured continued to be brought to hospitals in the area.

The stampede occurred around 8.00 p.m. Friday when the pilgrims were returning after watching the celestial Makara Jyothi light, the most important event of … Read more >>>.

Sabarimala stampede toll rises to 97 (Fourth Lead)

VANDIPERIYAR – The toll in a stampede of pilgrims in Kerala’s Idukki district rose to 97 Saturday after more bodies were recovered. The stampede occurred when the pilgrims were returning after watching the celestial Makara Jyothi light, the most important event of the pilgrimage, from a hillock some 30 km from the Sabarimala temple.

The … Read more »».

Illegal arms factory busted in Meerut

LUCKNOW – An illegal arms factory was busted in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut district, leading to the arrest of two men involved in supplying firearms to various states of the country, police said Sunday.

The illegal arms factory was unearthed late Saturday in Pahsuma area following a joint operation by the district police and the special … Read more »».

Rare eye surgery performed on arrow-hit Tripura girl

AGARTALA – Doctors in Kolkata have performed a rare operation and saved the life of an 18-year-old Tripura girl who was struck in her left eye by an iron arrow which pierced through 4 mm of the rearmost part of her skull.

According to the girl’s family members, the 28 cm arrow abruptly hit Itu … Read more »»».

Sabarimala tragedy: probe begins, police insist security adequate

VANDIPERIYAR – The accident site was still strewn with victims’ belongings and offerings to Lord Ayyappa Sunday as police began its probe into the stampede near Kerala’s Sabarimala temple that claimed 102 lives. Quashing reports of inadequate security, police insisted that 279 personnel were deployed in the area.

The Crime Branch led by Superintendent … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sabarimala tragedy: probe begins, police insist security adequate.

Man held with peacock carcasses in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A man was arrested with carcasses of peacocks – India’s national bird – while three of his accomplices managed to escape in Uttar Pradesh’s Faizabad district, police said Sunday.

Ram Avtar was nabbed Saturday night from Chauri Bazar area following a joint operation by forest officials and the district police.
“Two peacock carcasses …. Source article : Man held with peacock carcasses in Uttar Pradesh.

16 missing, 51 dead in Philippine bad weather

MANILA – Sixteen fishermen were missing Sunday in choppy seas in the Philippines as the death toll from accidents caused by bad weather rose to 51, the Office of Civil Defence said.

Seven fishermen were rescued from the capsized boat off Pandan town in the eastern province of Catanduanes, according to Benito Ramos, administrator of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 16 missing, 51 dead in Philippine bad weather.

Indonesian maid survives nine-storey fall in Singapore

SINGAPORE – An Indonesian maid survived a fall from her employer’s ninth-storey flat in Singapore, a media report said Sunday.

The 23-year old, who was not identified, was found Friday at the foot of the apartment block with bamboo poles and clothes beside her, indicating that she fell while trying to collect laundry, the Sunday …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Indonesian maid survives nine-storey fall in Singapore.

Amritsar bans Chinese kite-string after death, injuries

AMRITSAR – Authorities in Amritsar have banned the sale and use of a Chinese kite-string after it left one person dead and nearly half a dozen injured.

While Amritsar police have banned the sale and use of the kite-string in the city, the administration has banned its sale throughout the Amritsar district following the incidents.
… Read more »»».

Mirchpur violence: Jats continue to block rail tracks

JIND – Tension prevailed in Jind district Sunday as hundreds of Jat community members continued to block railway tracks near here for the second day, disrupting trains over their demand for a fresh CBI probe into the Mirchpur caste violence of last year in which two Dalits were killed.

Members of the Jat Mahapanchayat, …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Mirchpur violence: Jats continue to block rail tracks.

Two held in Delhi, one in Ghaziabad for Chandigarh heist

CHANDIGARH – Three members of a gang have been arrested from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh for the biggest heist in this city in which jewellery worth over Rs.10 crore ($2.2 million) was looted from a showroom, police said Sunday.

Chandigarh Police with their counterparts in Delhi arrested the three men of the Gore Khan gang … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Two held in Delhi, one in Ghaziabad for Chandigarh heist.

Mirchpur violence: Jats continue rail blockade

JIND – Hundreds of Jat community members continued to squat on railway tracks near here for the second day Sunday, disrupting train services over their demand for a fresh CBI probe into the Mirchpur caste violence last year.

The members of the Jat Mahapanchayat, including many women, have been sitting on the railway track … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mirchpur violence: Jats continue rail blockade.

Woman ‘poses as man’ to trick women into having sex

LONDON – A British woman has been accused of pretending to be a man to have sexual contact with two female partners over a period of about nine years.

Samantha Brooks, 26, posing as a man called Lee Brooks, is even alleged to have proposed to one woman, the Daily Mail reported Saturday.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at : Woman ‘poses as man’ to trick women into having sex.

New floods hit southern Australia as north mops up

SYDNEY – More than 30 towns in southeastern Australia were hit with record floods Sunday as the north of the country mopped up from devastating floodwaters.

More than 3,000 people in towns across the State of Victoria were forced to leave their homes as floods rose to record levels, submerging 13,000 properties.
In Melbourne 8,000 …. Original article on Gaea Times at : New floods hit southern Australia as north mops up.

Brazil rains: Death toll rises to 610

Rio de Janeiro, Jan 16 (IANS/EFE) The death toll from the heavy downpour in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro has risen to 610, as the search for victims and survivors continued, according to the latest civil defence bulletin.

According to the latest figures, the floods and mudslides caused 274 deaths in Nova Friburgo … Read more >>>.

Six dead as plane crashes in Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, Jan 16 (IANS/EFE) A small plane crashed in a mountainous region of central Brazil, killing all six people on board, officials said.

The plane went down Friday night for unknown reasons near Senador Canedo town in Goias state, just 16 km from the landing strip, firefighters said Saturday.
The aircraft, a single-engine …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Six dead as plane crashes in Brazil.

Death toll in Brazil rains rises to 549

Rio de Janeiro, Jan 16 (IANS/EFE) The death toll from the heavy downpour in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro has risen to 549, as the search for victims and survivors continued.

The regional government Saturday declared seven days of official mourning in honour of those who died.
Emergency operations focused on areas that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Death toll in Brazil rains rises to 549.

Federer consults Laver over Queensland flood benefit

MELBOURNE – Tennis legend Rod Laver was the first name that came to Roger Federer’s mind when he learned of the floods which have devastated vast regions of the Australian state of Queensland.

“When I heard it hit the city of Rockhampton, I right away thought of Rod Laver,” defending Australian Open champion Federer said …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Federer consults Laver over Queensland flood benefit.

Rahul Gandhi to visit Sabarimala stampede site Sunday

VANDIPERIYAR – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi will Sunday visit the site of the stampede where 102 Sabarimala pilgrims died, party leaders said.

According to state Congress president Ramesh Chennithala, Gandhi, who is currently in the state on a private visit to attend the marriage of Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs additional private secretary R.Gopalakrishnans daughter …. Source article : Rahul Gandhi to visit Sabarimala stampede site Sunday.

Additional Sessions Judge Pinki (one name) sentenced all the six convicts to rigorous life imprisonment under the stringent Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) saying the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Six terrorists get life term for plot to kidnap Sachin, Sourav (Second Lead).