Accidents & Disasters – Weekly Newsletter for February 1-7, 2011

Bihar junior doctors on strike, legislator’s guards held

PATNA – Health services in Bihar were severely hit as junior doctors in all six government-run hospitals struck work Monday, demanding action against a Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) legislator and his bodyguard who fired at three interns of a Gaya hospital. Police said two guards were held and that the legislator would also be …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Andhra youth gets lifer for killing girl’s parents

HYDERABAD – A youth was Monday sentenced to life imprisonment by a court in Andhra Pradesh for murdering a couple and injuring their daughter because she had spurned his advances more than a year back.

A local court in Rajhamundry town sentenced M. Rajesh after holding him guilty of murdering the couple Sep 17, … Read : Andhra youth gets lifer for killing girl’s parents.

Five of family burnt to death in Uttar Pradesh

MUZAFFARNAGAR – A couple and three of their children were burnt to death here, while their three other children received multiple injuries after their house caught fire under mysterious circumstances early Monday, police said.

The incident took place in Bhopa area, when Mehboob Qureshi, 50, was sleeping inside his one-room house along with his wife …. Original source  : Five of family burnt to death in Uttar Pradesh.

Main accused in burning of Sonawane dies of injuries

MUMBAI – Popat Shinde, the main accused in the burning of Nashik district’s additional collector Yashwant Sonawane in Malegaon, succumbed to his burns at the J.J. Hospital here Monday afternoon, said a senior hospital official.

“Shinde was declared dead at 1.10 p.m. after he succumbed to more than 70 percent burns,” dean of the hospital … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Main accused in burning of Sonawane dies of injuries.

Karmapa not a Chinese spy, says Beijing

BEIJING – Beijing has said that speculation over Ugyen Trinley Dorje, the 17th Karmapa of the Karma Kagyu sect, being a Chinese spy “shows that India is keeping its mistrustful attitude toward China”, an official said.

A Chinese official denied reports that the Karmapa was part of a Chinese plan to control monasteries along the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Karmapa not a Chinese spy, says Beijing.

Russian woman rescued from drowning in Goa

PANAJI – A Russian woman was rescued from drowning off Ashwem beach, a popular haunt for Russian tourists, lifeguards said.

A spokesperson for a lifeguard management agency responsible for beach safety in the state said 27-year-old tourist Mila Usenko Bakrainy had ventured into a ‘no swim’ zone on the Ashwem shore despite caution from … Read : Russian woman rescued from drowning in Goa.

Three eunuchs raped in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Three eunuchs, who had gone to perform at a wedding in Pakistan’s Punjab province, were abducted and raped by armed men, police said.

The incident took place in Dera Ghazi Khan district where the three eunuchs had gone to take part in a wedding ceremony.
We had been invited for a dance performance … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Three eunuchs raped in Pakistan.

Wanted gangster killed in Uttar Pradesh

KANPUR – A gangster, who was wanted for several cases of murder and abduction, was gunned down by police here early Monday, but his accomplice managed to escape, an official said.

Shanu alias Boss carried a reward of Rs.50,000 for his capture.
He had over 20 cases of heinous crimes pending against him, and … Original article on : Wanted gangster killed in Uttar Pradesh.

Maoists kill three youths, torch bus in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoist guerrillas slit throats of three people and set a bus on fire at two places of Jharkhand, police said Monday.

The guerrillas of Jharkhand Liberation Tiger (JLT) raided Hulsu village situated on the outskirts of Ranchi late Sunday.
Around 10 to 15 JLT Maoists abducted three youths Alok, Mahabali and Bhola, … Read more >>>.

Karmapa cash row: police custody for hotelier, banker

DHARAMSALA – A Dharamsala hotelier and a Haryana bank manager have been sent to police remand after they were arrested following the recovery of nearly Rs.7 crore in unaccounted foreign and Indian currency from Tibetan leader Karmapa Lama’s monastery, an official said here Monday.

“Both K.P. Bhardwaj (the hotelier) and D.K. Dhar (manager of the …. Source article  : Karmapa cash row: police custody for hotelier, banker.

Warship on fire post collision, efforts on to douse blaze

MUMBAI – Frantic efforts were on Monday to save Indian Navy warship INS Vindhyagiri after a major fire engulfed it following a collision with a merchant vessel off Mumbai Harbour, official sources said here.

The warship of the Nilgiri class had collided with the container vessel MV Nordlake around 5 p.m. Sunday but there were … Read more : Warship on fire post collision, efforts on to douse blaze.

Polish first lady may visit plane crash site

Warsaw, Jan 31 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Polish first lady Anna Komorowska, wife of President Bronislaw Komorowski, is planning to go to the site of the Polish presidential plane crash in Smolensk, Russia, on the first anniversary of the incident.

The Tu-154 aircraft crashed April 10 last year when it attempted to land in thick fog, killing …. Source  : Polish first lady may visit plane crash site.

2.5 mn Chinese suffering from drought

BEIJING – Around 2.57 million people in China are facing shortage of drinking water, the national drought control authorities have said.

Due to the ongoing drought situation, 5.16 million acres of crops have been damaged, according to Xinhua.
The local governments in the affected regions must make efforts to monitor drought conditions, speed up construction …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2.5 mn Chinese suffering from drought.

10 members of Colombian soccer team injured in accident

Bogota, Jan 31 (IANS/EFE) Eight players, the coach and assistant coach of a second-division soccer club in Colombia were injured when their bus overturned in a rural area in the northeastern part of the country.

The vehicle – carrying the members of the Alianza Petrolera club – flipped over near San Alberto town on way …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

10,000 people evacuated after fire in Venezuela arms depot

CARACAS – Around 10,000 people had to be evacuated after a fire broke out in an arms depot in Venezuela, killing at least one person, officials said.

The fire broke out Sunday in the Anonymous Venezuelan Campaign of Military Industries in Maracy city in Aragua state, Xinhua reported.
Aragua Governor Rafael Isea said the victim …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 10,000 people evacuated after fire in Venezuela arms depot.

Candlelight procession in Karmapa’s support

DHARAMSALA – Hundreds of Tibetans and foreigners took out a candlelight procession here Sunday evening to express solidarity with the spiritual head of the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, who is in controversy after a large amount of unaccounted money was recovered from him.

Nearly Rs.70 million worth of unaccounted foreign and Indian currency recovered …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Candlelight procession in Karmapa’s support.

Child brain tumour patient sodomised

NEW DELHI – An eight-year-old boy suffering a brain tumour was allegedly sodomised by a doctor at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here, hospital sources said Sunday.

The hospital administration has set up a panel to inquire into the incident but no police complaint has been filed so far.
According to the …. Original article  : Child brain tumour patient sodomised.

5 killed in Maharashtra accident

BEED – Five people were killed and 22 others were injured as a state transport bus rammed into a container in this Maharashtra district, police said.

“Initial reports say that the driver of the bus lost control and rammed into a container on the Jalna road,” a police official said.
Of the 22 injured, 14 …. Source  : 5 killed in Maharashtra accident.

Apprehended pirates to be interrogated in Mumbai

NEW DELHI – The 15 Somali pirates, apprehended by the Indian Navy from the Arabian Sea Friday, will be interrogated by police and central agencies in Mumbai, where they are being brought, a navy officer said here Sunday.

The navy’s fast attack craft INS Cankarso had destroyed the pirates’ mother-ship, the hijacked Thai fishing …. Original article  : Apprehended pirates to be interrogated in Mumbai.

Cargo vessel hits naval warship, no casualties

NEW DELHI – A naval warship returning after a day out for service families had a close shave Sunday when a cargo vessel collided with it in the Mumbai harbour, causing minor damage. No one was injured, an officer said here.

INS Vindhyagiri was entering the Mumbai harbour after a day out at sea Sunday … Original article on : Cargo vessel hits naval warship, no casualties.

Chicago Blizzard To Rock U.S.

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard watch from Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday owing to the bad weather condition in Chicago. The officials reported that foot snow is expected along with rough winds of 40-miles-an-hour. The Weather Service officials said that this could be the third worst blizzard in Chicago.
Tom Skilling, … Read : Chicago Blizzard To Rock U.S..

Man sentenced to death for raping nine in China

BEIJING – A man was sentenced to death for keeping two girls in a dungeon as sex slaves for one year and raping nine other women in China.

Zeng Qiangbao, a 40-year-old worker in a steel factory in Wuhan, was convicted of rape, illegally imprisoning, robbery and forcible seizure by a court in central China’s … Read more >>.

Duped Indian students in US face uncertain future

HYDERABAD – The Indian students duped by a fake university in the US face an uncertain future as their appeal is not likely to be heard in a court there before September.

The 1,555 students, mostly from Andhra Pradesh, feel they are being subjected to inhuman treatment by the US authorities for no fault …. Source  : Duped Indian students in US face uncertain future.

Kerosene mafia attack police team in Nagpur

NAGPUR – Exactly a week after the additional collector of Nashik district was burnt alive by the oil mafia, a team of 10 policemen were Tuesday attacked by a kerosene seller and his men here, police said.

“The incident happened in Rajurwadi village of Umred tehsil of the district when a team of policemen went …. Read the original article  : Kerosene mafia attack police team in Nagpur.

Man burns mother alive in Haryana

SONEPAT – A 50-year-old man poured kerosene on his 70-year-old mother and burnt her alive here after they had an argument over his drinking, police said Tuesday.

The gruesome incident happened in Shamri village, near Gohana town of this district, late Monday.
According to the police, Raj Kumar, a farmer, is a drug addict and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Man burns mother alive in Haryana.

12 prisoners booked for attack on Hyderabad jail officials

HYDERABAD – A dozen prisoners of Cherlapally Central Jail here were Tuesday booked for attacking prison officials a day earlier. After police baton charged the attackers, two political parties have alleged it was an “assault on Muslim prisoners”.

A case against the 12 prisoners was booked at Kushaiguda police station under Cyberabad police commissionerate following …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 12 prisoners booked for attack on Hyderabad jail officials.

December crash takes toll on Nepal airline’s Bhutan flights

KATHMANDU – A deadly air crash in December that killed 18 Bhutanese pilgrims in Nepal has now claimed another victim – a Nepali airline’s direct flights between Nepal and Bhutan.

Nepal’s private-sector Buddha Air, which graduated to an international airline in August 2010 with flights to Bhutan’s Paro, has been forced to discontinue the operation … Read : December crash takes toll on Nepal airline’s Bhutan flights.

ITBP aspirants go on rampage

BAREILLY – Thousands of aspirants for the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) here Tuesday indulged in arson and vandalism alleging mismanagement in the force’s recruitment drive, an official said.

“Angry over arrangements made by the ITBP for recruitment of Grade IV posts, candidates targeted a number of vehicles, setting some of them afire. The candidates also …. Source  : ITBP aspirants go on rampage.

Doctors’ strike continues in Bihar

PATNA – Health services in Bihar were severely hit Tuesday as hundreds of junior doctors continued their indefinite strike for the second day, demanding the arrest of a legislator and enforcement of the medical protection act.

Police have arrested Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) legislator Surendra Prasad Yadav’s two bodyguards who fired at three interns …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Doctors’ strike continues in Bihar.

5 shot dead during Colombian carnival

Bogota, Feb 1 (IANS/EFE) Five people were killed and 10 wounded when an assailant opened fire in a dance hall during carnival celebrations in the southern Colombian town of Tuquerres, an official said.

The dead were all members of a single family, said Fabio Trujillo, an official of the Nario provincial government.
The massacre followed [..] Read the original article: here.

6 partially burned bodies found in Mexico

Monterrey (Mexico), Feb 1 (IANS/EFE) Army troops found the partially burned bodies of six men on a highway outside Monterrey, the capital of the northern Mexican state of Nuevo Leon, police said.

The bodies were found just after midday Sunday on the Monterrey-Colombia highway in Escobedo, a city in the Monterrey metropolitan area, said the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 6 partially burned bodies found in Mexico.

18 arrested for making fake eye drug in China

SHANGHAI – Eighteen people have been arrested on charges of manufacturing and selling fake eye medication that left 61 patients suffering from adverse reactions in Shanghai, authorities said.

A total of 116 patients were treated with the fake version of Avastin – originally produced by Swiss pharmaceutical company Roche Group – in September last year … Read more >>>.

Chinese man sentenced to death in demolition case

BEIJING – A man in north China’s Shanxi province has been sentenced to death after he killed one man and injured another during an illegal demolition last year.

Gao Haidong was given the death penalty after being convicted of intentional injury and property damage, Xinhua reported citing the verdict by a court in Taiyuan city.
… Read more >>>.

Interpol seizes fake goods worth $200 mn in South America

PARIS – The International Criminal Police Organisation – or Interpol – has seized fake goods worth $200 million in year-long operations in South America targeting organised criminal counterfeiting networks.

Nearly 1,000 people were arrested in the operations, Xinhua reported citing a statement by the France-based organisation.
In coordination with the World Customs Organisation (WCO), Interpol …. Original source  : Interpol seizes fake goods worth $200 mn in South America.

Somali pirates kill two Sri Lankan fishermen

COLOMBO – Two Sri Lankan fishermen were killed and three taken hostage by Somali pirates after their vessel went adrift, the ministry of fisheries said Monday.

The fishermen clashed with the pirates Jan 27, about two weeks after leaving port to fish off the south coast of Sri Lanka, according to information received by the … Original article on : Somali pirates kill two Sri Lankan fishermen.

Police file FIR in AIIMS child abuse case (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Police Monday registered a case accusing a junior resident doctor of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences of molesting an eight-year-old boy who had come to the hospital for treatment, an official said. The FIR has been filed on the basis of a complaint registered by the boy’s father.

…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Police file FIR in AIIMS child abuse case (Second Lead).

ATM trickster arrested

NEW DELHI – A man who cheated people using ATMs by withdrawing money from their cards on the pretext of “securely locking their accounts” has been arrested, police said Monday.

Paras Luthra, 30, was present in an ATM centre in Adarsh Nagar in west Delhi. A couple after completing the transaction was on their way … Original article on : ATM trickster arrested.

Man shot dead resisting robbery

NEW DELHI – A 40-year-old man was shot dead in east Delhi Monday as he resisted attempts by two motorcycle-borne assailants to snatch his bag containing several lakh rupees, police said.

The incident happened around 4.30 p.m. when Vinod, a cashier in a scrap shop, was on his way from Patparganj to his employer’s … Original article on : Man shot dead resisting robbery.

Man held for killing wife, two sons

YAMUNANAGAR – A middle-aged man was Monday arrested for murdering his wife and two sons after a family dispute in Haryana’s Yamunanagar district, officials said.

Sarabjit Singh, resident of Bruthal village, was arrested Monday evening.
Sarabjit shot dead his wife Sukhwinder Kaur (46) and two sons – Jagdish Singh and Kuldeep Singh – this morning. … Read more »».

Suspected Maoists kill villager

BANKURA – Suspected Maoists shot dead one person while three rebels surrendered in West Bengals Bankura district Monday, police said.

The body of a villager earlier abducted by suspected Maoists was found in Sutan village under Barikul police station. He had been shot dead, Superintendent of Police Pranav Kumar told IANS over phone.
Another …. Original source  : Suspected Maoists kill villager.

Man sued for calling out wrong name during sex

WELLINGTON – A New Zealand man faces a legal suit for allegedly crying out another woman’s name while making love with his ex-partner.

The complainant told the court that the 30-year-old man, who is also the father of her children, called out another woman’s name while having sex after a Saturday night party last year, …. Source article  : Man sued for calling out wrong name during sex.

Two army pilots killed as chopper crashes in Nashik locality

NASHIK – Two army majors were killed when the chopper they were flying crashed in a residential area here, minutes after take off from an army base Wednesday morning, police said.

This is India’s first military air crash of the year.
The Cheetah helicopter, carrying Major Atul Gargi and Major Bhanu Chander, had …. Original article  : Two army pilots killed as chopper crashes in Nashik locality.

Quake hits China, damages 678 homes

BEIJING – A 4.8-magnitude earthquake jolted southwest China, affecting more than 80,000 people and damaging over 600 homes, authorities said Wednesday.

The quake occurred at 3.11 p.m. Tuesday in Yunnan Province. The epicentre was recorded 10 km deep at Yingjiang County of Dai-Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture of Dehong, Xinhua reported.
The tremor forced the emergency evacuation …. Source  : Quake hits China, damages 678 homes.

Ex-Indian Army soldier dupes Nepal banks to ‘malign’ Maoists

KATHMANDU – A 32-year-old man from western Nepal has been arrested for defrauding four banks in what he said was a bid to take revenge against Nepal’s Maoist party for allegedly causing him to be sacked from the Indian Army.

Ishwari Prasad Pokhrel, who claims to have served with the Indian Army for five years …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Briton, 74, nabbed in Nepal on suspicion of child abuse

KATHMANDU – A 74-year-old British tourist, identified as Peter James Sexton, has been arrested in Kathmandu on the suspicion of sexually abusing two street children after befriending them.

Preliminary reports said the Briton had been living in Nepal for about two months.
He was found to have befriended two underage street boys and taken them …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

I was sold every few months, recounts Pakistani woman

ISLAMABAD – Recounting a harrowing tale of rape, torture and exploitation, a Pakistani woman who escaped after a year in captivity says she was sold to someone new every few months since being abducted by her husband’s friend.

“Every few months I was sold off to someone new and eventually I even began to forget … Read more >>>.

University Of Illinois Remains Closed

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- As heavy snow storm and gusty winds engulfed the city of Chicago and many other states surrounding it, the Government of the country is leaving no stones unturned to ensure the safety of the citizens. The Governor of Illinois, Pat Quinn has already declared a State of Emergency to ensure safety of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

CBI quizzes Raja in 2G spectrum case

NEW DELHI – DMK leader and former communications minister A. Raja was Wednesday questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the the 2G spectrum scam for the second time this week.

Raja, who reached the CBI headquarters here Wednesday morning for further questioning, had also been quizzed Dec 24 and 25, … Read more : CBI quizzes Raja in 2G spectrum case.

Chicago Blizzard Slams U.S.

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- The National Weather Service predicted two days back that a massive blizzard would hit the city of Chicago along with 30 other states all across the country in 48 hours. A monster blizzard with 20 inches of snow, whiteout condition and 60 mph winds hit the area on Tuesday. The Governors … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chicago Blizzard Slams U.S..

Train rooftop accident toll 17, blame game on

LUCKNOW – Three more youths succumbed to their injuries in the train rooftop accident in Uttar Pradesh, taking the death toll to 17, officials said Wednesday. The authorities continue to pass the buck over why hundreds of youths were allowed to sit atop a train, which led to the victims being crushed by an overbridge.

…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Train rooftop accident toll 17, blame game on.

Government doctor hangs self in Uttar Pradesh

SITAPUR – A government doctor, who had just got engaged, allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself from a ceiling fan at his residence here, police said Wednesday.

Ashish Rajani, 28, posted at the Sitapur district hospital, took the step Tuesday.
“After his engagement ceremony in Lucknow, Ashish returned Tuesday and joined his duty. We are … Original source on Gaea Times at : Government doctor hangs self in Uttar Pradesh.

Two pilots killed as chopper crashes into Nashik locality

NASHIK – Two pilots were killed when a defence helicopter crashed into a thickly-populated residential area of this city Wednesday morning, police said.

The chopper crashed on a private bungalow shed in the Jai Bhavani Nagar area, little before 9 a.m., the Nashik police said.
The cause of the accident or the identity of the [..] Read the original article: here.

Chinese hair care company found using banned chemicals

BEIJING – A hair care products company in east China has been fined for using banned chemicals in its products, China’s food and drug watchdog said Tuesday.

The Zhangguang 101 Co. Ltd. – based in Zhejiang province – paid 245,040 yuan (over $37,000) in fines and had its illegal gains confiscated, Xinhua reported citing a … Read more >>.

Shark attacks tourist in Mexico

Cancun (Mexico), Feb 2 (IANS/EFE) A Canadian tourist was seriously injured when a shark attacked her off a beach in Cancun resort city in Mexico, officials said.

The emergency management office said the 38-year-old woman was attacked Monday when she was riding a water bike with other tourists off the Park Royal Hotel.
The woman … Original article on : Shark attacks tourist in Mexico.

Brazil mudslides: Toll reaches 860

Rio de Janeiro, Feb 2 (IANS/EFE) The number of deaths caused by mudslides triggered by torrential rains in the southeastern Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro has risen to 860, authorities said.

Floods and mudslides in the Serrana region, according to figures released by Agencia Brasil news service, have left 416 dead in Nova Friburgo, … Read more : Brazil mudslides: Toll reaches 860.

Ashok Chavan made undue recommendations in Adarsh, says FIR

MUMBAI – Former Maharashtra chief minister Ashok Chavan allegedly made undue recommendations to allow allocation to civilians in the scam-hit Adarsh Society during his tenure as the state’s revenue minister, said the FIR filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

A few details of the FIR that was filed Saturday came out Tuesday stating … Original article on : Ashok Chavan made undue recommendations in Adarsh, says FIR.

Three trucks catch fire, one dead

GHAZIABAD – A man was killed when three trucks parked in a row caught fire on G.T. Road here, police said Tuesday.

A truck was being loaded with goods near Lal Kuan Monday night when Shakku, the truck helper, accidentally touched an overhead high-tension wire triggering sparking which led to the fire.
The driver Naushad [..] Read the original article: here.

Youth stabbed by brother-in-law

NEW DELHI – A 25-year-old man was stabbed allegedly by his brother-in-law in east Delhi Tuesday evening as he was angry over the victim having an affair with his niece, police said.

The incident took place in Kalyanpuri when Daler Singh, a 30-year-old autorickshaw driver stabbed Gaurav, 25, a resident of Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Youth stabbed by brother-in-law.

Fake US dollars seized in Dubai

Dubai, Feb 1 (IANS/WAM) Authorities in Dubai Tuesday foiled an attempt to smuggle fake dollars with face value of about $220,000.

The counterfeit money in the denomination of $100 was being carried by a passenger from a European country who arrived at the Dubai International Airport with a tourist visa.
Dubai Customs officers found …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Fake US dollars seized in Dubai.

Queensland braces for Cyclone Yasi

SYDNEY – Suburbs and hospitals in Cairns city in Australia were being emptied in a mass flight from the “deadly” power of tropical Cyclone Yasi, as it began lashing the far north Queensland coast, a media report said Tuesday.

In unprecedented scenes, the RAAF laid on medically equipped aircraft to spearhead an airlift of 255 …. Read the original article  : Queensland braces for Cyclone Yasi.

Australia Storm To Bring Rain

QUEENSLAND (GaeaTimes.com)- The Category 5 Cyclone Yasi hit the shores of Queensland on Wednesday midnight and left thousands of people homeless. However, the meteorologists reported that the Cyclone Yasi has diminished to category 1 storm on Thursday and it is expected to bring in heavy rain in Queensland. The weather forecast of the upcoming … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Australia Storm To Bring Rain.

We want enquiry, say survivors of train tragedy

LUCKNOW – Survivors and victims’ families Thursday sought an enquiry into the train rooftop accident that claimed the lives of 18 Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) aspirants in Uttar Pradesh.

“By holding the ITBP aspirants responsible for the accident, the state government or the ITBP or any government agency linked to the recruitment drive can’t wash … Original source on Gaea Times at : We want enquiry, say survivors of train tragedy.

Australian Cyclone Yasi’s Victims Promised Help

QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The prime minister of Australia Julia Gillard assured the residents of Queensland of all possible help in rebuilding their homes and compensation for the damage they suffered from Cyclone Yasi. The weather experts agreed that it was the worst tropical storm to hit Queensland in a century. Before being hit by … Original source on Gaea Times at : Australian Cyclone Yasi’s Victims Promised Help.

Raja, aides presented in court

NEW DELHI – Former communications minister A. Raja, arrested for his role in the award of spectrum to telecom players that has been dubbed the biggest scam in Indian history, was Thursday presented in the Patiala House Court along with his two aides.

Raja and his aides — former telecom secretary Siddharth Behura and … Read more »».

Pakistan jail prison officials flee police custody

ISLAMABAD – A Pakistani jail’s former superintendent and a deputy superintendent have escaped from police custody, after the Lahore High Court turned down their bail plea in a case related to eleven missing inmates, a media report said.

Adiyala Jail former superintendent Saeedullah Gondal and Deputy Superintendent Khalid Bashir were arrested from the court …. Source article  : Pakistan jail prison officials flee police custody.

Two Punjab women dupe six with lure of Canada

MOHALI – Punjab Police have filed cases against a mother-daughter duo for duping at least six people of several lakhs of rupees on the pretext of helping them get permanent residency in Canada, police said here Thursday.

According to the police, the accused have been identified as Sukhwinder Kaur and her daughter Sumeet Kaur. They … Read more >>.

Arrested Bihar editor begins fast over bad jail food

PATNA – Navlesh Pathak, editor of an English weekly arrested for the murder of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator Raj Kishore Kesri, Thursday went on an indefinite fast at Bihar’s Purnia jail to protest the poor quality of food served to him.

“Navlesh Pathak has appealed to the jail officials in his letter to provide … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Arrested Bihar editor begins fast over bad jail food.

Lake Shore Drive Closed

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive was closed Tuesday evening after three unfortunate accidents took place and whiteout conditions turned it misleading. The commuters were stranded on the road for about 12 hours and the authorities say that about 700 to 900 cars were abandoned on the road. Mayor Richard Daley’s chief staff Raymond … Read : Lake Shore Drive Closed.

Jail guard shoots inmate, self

NANDED – A policeman shot dead a prisoner before killing himself early Thursday, police said.

Constable P.M. Marwade, 47, fired at Sandeep Ghorbandh with his .303 rifle at the Kandhar sub-jail, police officer Geeta Chauhan told IANS.
Marwade then shot himself with the same weapon after writing in the official register that he was being … Original source on Gaea Times at : Jail guard shoots inmate, self.

Raja’s arrest to fool people: Jayalalithaa

CHENNAI – AIADMK chief J. Jayalalithaa Thursday reiterated her charge that the arrest of DMK leader and former communications minister A. Raja was meant to fool people.

“The arrest by the CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) is to hoodwink the people and to make the Supreme Court think that action is being taken in the …. Original article  : Raja’s arrest to fool people: Jayalalithaa.

Aussies take to Facebook amid disaster

MELBOURNE – Australians shared real-time experiences on Facebook and Twitter as a devastating cyclone hit the northeastern coast.

A total of 23,141 tweets from 10,000 people were posted in the past 24 hours, The Age reported Thursday.
Others turned to Facebook to seek help with the most popular page, Cyclone Yasi Update, garnering close to … Read : Aussies take to Facebook amid disaster.

Five hurt as building collapses in Kolkata

KOLKATA – Five people were injured Thursday morning when a portion of an old multi-storey building collapsed in central Kolkata, police said.

The building collapsed in Indian Exchange Place area. The injured were admitted to the hospital. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot and had started the rescue operations.
“Five people were injured when …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lahore shooting: court extends remand of American

ISLAMABAD – A Pakistani court Thursday extended till Feb 11 the custody of the US government official held for gunning down two Pakistanis in Lahore.

Raymond Davis was arrested for killing two youngsters in Lahore last week.
Davis was produced in court under a tight security cover after his six-day remand period ended Thursday, Dawn … Original article on : Lahore shooting: court extends remand of American.

Drug peddler held with Rs.1 crore brown sugar

GORAKHPUR – An inter-state drug peddler has been arrested in this district with brown sugar worth over Rs.1 crore, police said Thursday.

Ramesh Singh, aged around 25 years, was nabbed late Wednesday from Gulriasahai area following a joint operation by the special operation group (SOG) and the district police.
“Acting on a tip-off, we nabbed …. Source  : Drug peddler held with Rs.1 crore brown sugar.

Canadian jailed for beating his puppy to death

TORONTO – A Canadian man has been locked up for six months for beating his puppy to death.

A court in Victoria, which is the capital of British Columbia province, Wednesday sentenced 24-year-old Brent Malcolm Connors for beating his dog to death last month.
“I am really sorry for what’s happened. It really affected me. … Read more »»».

Mexican kidnapper becomes first woman to be jailed for life

Mexico City, Feb 3 (IANS/EFE) The leader of a gang that carried out kidnappings in Mexico’s northern state of Chihuahua has become the first woman in the country to be sentenced to life in prison.

Erika Patricia Alonso Sandoval, 28, was found guilty in the abduction and subsequent murder of two businessmen, the state government … Original article on : Mexican kidnapper becomes first woman to be jailed for life.

Brazil mudslides: Toll rises to 869

Rio de Janeiro, Feb 3 (IANS/EFE) The toll due to mudslides triggered by heavy rains that have deluged the mountainous region of the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro has risen to 869, authorities said.

The floods and mudslides have killed 418 people in Nova Friburgo, 354 in Teresopolis, 71 in Petropolis, 21 in Sumidouro, [..] Read the original article: here.

Cyclone Yasi hits Queensland

MELBOURNE – Cyclone Yasi hit Australia’s north Queensland town of Tully just before Wednesday midnight and the damage caused by the storm is expected to be widespread, a media report said.

Tully, Innisfail, Mission Beach and Dunk Island have been the hardest hit communities so far as category 5 cyclone slammed into the north …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cyclone Yasi hits Queensland.

Man held for abducting boy, throwing him before train

NEW DELHI – A man has been arrested in north Delhi for kidnapping an eight-year-old boy and throwing him in front of a train, police said Wednesday. The child survived but his right hand had to be amputated.

Karambir, a resident of Mangolpuri area, abducted Rahul, whose father was getting married to Karambir’s sister-in-law. The …. Original source  : Man held for abducting boy, throwing him before train.

Noida to get new communication system for crime control

NOIDA – Noida, Greater Noida and the Yamuna Expressway Authority area in Uttar Pradesh will soon have an integrated communication and intelligence system to support crime control and traffic management, an official said Wednesday.

The integrated system will be backed by a dedicated broadband metropolitan area (fiber optic) network.
New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (NOIDA) … Read more : Noida to get new communication system for crime control.

26/11 martyr’s uncle critical after attempted suicide

NEW DELHI – K. Mohanan, the paternal uncle of 26/11 martyr Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, was in a critical state Friday after immolating himself Thursday evening, doctors said.

“He is still critical. We are constantly keeping an eye on his position. He is on the ventilator and has 95 percent burn injuries,” T.S. Sidhu, medical superintendent …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 26/11 martyr’s uncle critical after attempted suicide.

Opposition protests in Assam assembly – without naming corrupt

GUWAHATI – From cymbals to placards, many things made an unusual appearance in the Assam assembly Friday as part of vociferous opposition protests to demand the dismissal of ministers allegedly involved in the multimillion rupee scam in North Cachar Hills district.

The only thing missing was the names of the allegedly corrupt ministers.
We don’t …. Read the original article  : Opposition protests in Assam assembly – without naming corrupt.

MiG fighter crashes, no loss to life

GWALIOR – A MiG-21 fighter of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed in Madhya Pradesh Friday but there were no casualties as the pilot ejected safely, an official said.

The crash occurred at around 11.20 a.m. at Anup Nagar, 150 km southwest of this Madhya Pradesh town, an IAF spokesperson said here.
“The pilot …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

IT searches homes, offices of TDP MP

HYDERABAD – Income Tax officials Friday searched the homes and offices of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MP Nama Nageswara Rao across several cities including Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, New Delhi and Hyderabad.

Suspecting tax evasion, IT sleuths conducted simultaneous searches at the residences and premises of the companies owned by Rao at Khammam and in major …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : IT searches homes, offices of TDP MP.

Goa officer sold drugs from police warehouse, CBI told

PANAJI – A now suspended Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) officer sold drugs from a police warehouse in Goa to foreign clients, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was informed in a letter that was tabled in the state assembly Friday.

The officer, sub-inspector Sunil Guddler, was caught in a sting operation selling drugs to two …. Original source  : Goa officer sold drugs from police warehouse, CBI told.

RJD legislator surrenders in Bihar court

PATNA – Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) legislator Surendra Prasad Yadav surrendered in a Gaya court Friday, the fifth day of the junior doctors strike in the state after his security guards allegedly fired at interns of a medical college.

The government was under pressure to nab Yadav, who surrendered before a chief judicial magistrate’s … Read : RJD legislator surrenders in Bihar court.

Apex court issues notice in 2004 Tamil Nadu school fire case

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday issued notice to the central and Tamil Nadu governments on a petition seeking compensation for the 94 students who died in a fire in a primary school in Tamil Nadu’s Kumbakonam town in July 2004.

An apex court bench of Justice Dalveer Bhandari and Justice Deepak Verma issued … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Apex court issues notice in 2004 Tamil Nadu school fire case.

Government official immolates self, senior booked

AURAIYA – Alleging that he was being harassed by his senior, a government official here immolated himself, police said Friday. The senior official has been booked for abetment of suicide.

Rajesh Kumar, 32, a class IV government employee who worked at the Babarpur Nagar Panchayat, succumbed to his injuries Thursday in a hospital. Kumar had … Read more >>>.

Growing crime: Radio, Facebook to Chandigarh police’s rescue

CHANDIGARH – Police are grappling with a rising number of crimes and road accidents in Chandigarh, but radio channels and social networking site Facebook are coming to their rescue.

Chandigarh Police recently tied up with two private radio channels: Reliance-owned Big 92.7 FM and Bhaskar group-owned 94.3 MY FM. The idea is police will be …. Source  : Growing crime: Radio, Facebook to Chandigarh police’s rescue.

Over 200 kidnap victims killed in Mexico in 2010

Mexico City, Feb 4 (IANS/EFE) At least 209 kidnap victims were murdered last year in Mexico, double the number in 2009, a coalition of civic groups has said.

The Movimiento Blanco coalition said the total includes 72 Central American migrants who were kidnapped and massacred in August 2010 in northern Tamaulipas state by armed gunmen … Read : Over 200 kidnap victims killed in Mexico in 2010.

Cases lodged against ITBP, rail rooftop riders

LUCKNOW – The Uttar Pradesh Police late Thursday lodged criminal cases against 20,000 unidentified youth for allegedly going on rampage in Bareilly city after a last minute cancellation of a recruitment rally by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and also causing overcrowding of trains, leading to a serious accident that left 19 aspirants dead.

Simultaneously, …. Read the original article  : Cases lodged against ITBP, rail rooftop riders.

Jobless man commits suicide after wife leaves him

NEW DELHI – A man, allegedly depressed over losing his job and his wife walking out on him, committed suicide in east Delhi Thursday, police said.

Hemant, 23, was found hanging inside his room on the first floor of the house by his landlord who informed police.
Although no suicide note was recovered, police …. Original article  : Jobless man commits suicide after wife leaves him.

Karmapa cash row: Couple arrested in Delhi

DHARAMSALA – Himachal Pradesh Police Thursday arrested a couple in New Delhi in connection with seizure of Rs.1 crore from two people that was meant as part-payment by the Karmapa’s trust to buy land in Kangra district, police said.

“The couple, Karma Thapa and his wife Rinzin, was charged with arranging money for the monastery. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Karmapa cash row: Couple arrested in Delhi.

Two arrested with fake currency

KANPUR – Two men were arrested in this Uttar Pradesh city Thursday with counterfeit currency having a face value of over Rs.4 lakh, police said.

Sanjeev Awasthi and Ramu were arrested from Collectorganj area with fake currency notes with a face value of Rs.4.21 lakh.
“Prima facie it appears that the two worked for an …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Two arrested with fake currency.

Property dealer looted

NEW DELHI – Motorcycle-borne robbers held up a property dealer near his home in north Delhi Thursday afternoon and snatched the Rs.8 lakh he was carrying, police said.

The incident took place at around 1.45 p.m. near Sector-5 in Rohini area when Ashok Kumar, 44, was on his way home in the same area …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chhattisgarh town tense after cop killed by thieves

RAIPUR – A town in Chhattisgarhs Bilaspur district observed a total shutdown Thursday to protest the killing of a constable, when he went to a village to apprehend some people accused of theft. A sub-inspector was also killed in the incident.

A four-member Railway Protection Force (RPF) team was attacked Wednesday when they tried … Read more >>.

Man, wife crushed by train

KOLKATA – A 63-year-old man and his wife were crushed by a speeding train at Belur station Thursday in West Bengal’s Howrah district. He was trying to help her after her foot got trapped in the track.

The incident occurred when Balasore residents Padmalochan Banerjee and Nandita Banerjee (61) were about to board a …. Original article  : Man, wife crushed by train.

26/11 martyr’s uncle attempts self-immolation outside parliament (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – A 56-year-old man, identified as the paternal uncle of 26/11 martyr Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, attempted self-immolation outside the Parliament House Thursday evening allegedly disturbed over the government’s response towards the victims of the Mumbai terror attacks.

According to police, K. Mohanan, a native of Kozhikode in Kerala, poured kerosene over his body …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 26/11 martyr’s uncle attempts self-immolation outside parliament (Second Lead).

14-year-old raped by neighbour

NEW DELHI – A 14-year old girl was raped by a neighbour in Mehrauli in south Delhi, police said Thursday.

The incident took place at around 5.40 p.m. Wednesday at Paryavaran apartments in Mehrauli locality. The accused has been identified as Prabhat Kumar, 20.
The accused was a neighbour of the victim. Wednesday, when the … Read more »»».

Forced to tonsure heads for fee delay, allege Dalit students

GHAZIABAD – Thirty Dalit students of a privately-run institute in Ghaziabad, affiliated to the Uttar Pradesh Technical University, were forced to tonsure their heads as the state government delayed payment of their fees, a student said Thursday. The institute has denied the allegations.

The incident took place last month at the engineering division of the …. Source  : Forced to tonsure heads for fee delay, allege Dalit students.

26/11 martyr’s uncle succumbs to self-immolation bid

NEW DELHI – K. Mohanan, the paternal uncle of 26/11 martyr Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, succumbed to injuries sustained in a self-immolation bid, doctors said Saturday.

Mohanan, who suffered 98 percent burn injuries after a self-immolation attempt Thursday evening, died Friday around midnight. He was admitted to the Ram Manohar Lohia hospital following the self-immolation attempt. …. Source article  : 26/11 martyr’s uncle succumbs to self-immolation bid.

We need time to decide US official’s case: Islamabad

ISLAMABAD – Islamabad has told Washington that it needs time to decide the case of Raymond Davis who shot dead two Pakistanis in Lahore late last month.

The government, which is yet to decide on whether Davis enjoys diplomatic immunity, has informed the US about domestic compulsions as well as public backlash to any move [..] Read the original article: here.

Blast at Egypt gas pipeline

Cairo, Feb 5 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The Egyptian Army has stopped the gas flow at a pipeline in Egypt’s North Sinai following an explosion, the governor of the province said Saturday.

The explosion at the pipeline, which supplies gas to Israel, occurred Saturday morning near the Egyptian town of El Arish, close to the Egyptian-Israeli border.
… Read more : Blast at Egypt gas pipeline.

Notices served on 17 Indians over black money abroad: Mukherjee

KOLKATA – Notices have been served on 17 Indians suspected of having stashed black money in tax havens abroad but it will not be possible to reveal their names as yet, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said here Saturday.

“We have received a few names. We have already served notices on 17 persons and …. Original source  : Notices served on 17 Indians over black money abroad: Mukherjee.

Protests after Kashmir civilian killed in army firing

SRINAGAR – The killing of a civilian in an army ambush for guerrillas triggered protests in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district Saturday morning even as the army said the accidental death was “regrettable”.

Manzoor Ahmad Magray, 24, a resident of Chogal village in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, some 70 km from here, was killed at … Read more : Protests after Kashmir civilian killed in army firing.

Oman national held in Haryana

HISAR – An Oman national was arrested from near the military area of Haryana’s Hisar town on suspicion of being a spy, police said Saturday.

According to police, the accused has been identified as Hasan Bin Abdullah Abrahim and he was staying here illegally for the last one month.
“Acting on a tip-off, we arrested …. Original source  : Oman national held in Haryana.

Three injured in Delhi cylinder blast

NEW DELHI – Three members of a family, including two children, were injured in a cylinder blast in a west Delhi house, police said Saturday.

The blast took place in Veena Enclave of Nangloi area Friday night. The injured have been identified as Heera Chand, 38, Sumit, 10, and seven-year-old Sujit.
“They were taken to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Three injured in Delhi cylinder blast.

Four of family killed in Uttar Pradesh accident

FIROZABAD – Four members of a family were killed and three critically injured when the car they were travelling in ploughed into a stationary truck here Saturday, police said.

The accident took place in Shikohabad town when their Bolero car rammed into the truck, killing four men on the spot.
It appears that the car …. Source article  : Four of family killed in Uttar Pradesh accident.

Assassination attempt on Egypt vice president: Report

WASHINGTON – An assassination attempt on Egypt’s Vice President Omar Suleiman has failed, but it left two of his bodyguards dead, a media report said.

The attempt to kill Suleiman took place in recent days, sources told Fox News Saturday.
Embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak had appointed Suleiman as vice president to quell the unrest …. Source  : Assassination attempt on Egypt vice president: Report.

Criminal, arms supplier arrested in Mumbai with arms

MUMBAI – A member of the Chota Rajan gang and an arms supplier were arrested in two separate cases by the Mumbai Police’s Crime Branch and arms recovered from them, police said Friday.

“Zuber Abdul Hamid Jamadar, who was arrested Wednesday is an aide and cousin of slain underworld operative Farid Tanasha, Joint Commissioner … Read more : Criminal, arms supplier arrested in Mumbai with arms.

Man shot dead in south Delhi

NEW DELHI – A 30-year-old man, who worked in an education department, was shot dead near his residence by unidentified armed assailants in south Delhi’s Neb Sarai area, police said Friday.

The incident took place around 10.30 p.m. Thursday when the deceased was returning home along with his mother and relatives after attending a …. Source article  : Man shot dead in south Delhi.

Man stabbed to death

NEW DELHI – A 20-year-old man was stabbed to death in an east Delhi park Friday. Police are searching for his absconding friend with whom he had a fight a few days ago.

The deceased was identified as Prem Sharma, resident of Gharoli Dairy Farm. “We got a call that a man was lying in … Read more : Man stabbed to death.

Two held for robbery in west Delhi

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Police have arrested two men for their alleged involvement in three robberies in west Delhi, police said Friday.

The arrested are Mohammad Afjal and Sual, both aged 22 years.
“Afjal is an aspiring self-styled don and both of them are habitual offenders and have been arrested many times,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Two held for robbery in west Delhi.

Illicit liquor manufacturing unit unearthed, six held

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Police Crime Branch has unearthed a manufacturing unit making illicit premium scotch whisky, a printing press where fake stickers and labels of various premium brands were printed and arrested six people with 156 liquor bottles.

Police received a tip-off about a man in a Toyota Corolla car who was … Original article on : Illicit liquor manufacturing unit unearthed, six held.

Police pulled up for filing charges in rape case after 6 years

NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court Friday came down heavily on Delhi Police for filing a charge-sheet after six years against a person who in 2001, when he was a juvenile, allegedly eloped with his minor neighbour and raped her.

Justice Shiv Narain Dhingra said: “I consider that the prosecution owes an explanation as …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Police pulled up for filing charges in rape case after 6 years.

Ten killed in Bangladesh accident

DHAKA – At least ten political activists were killed when their minibus collided head-on with an oil-laden lorry in Bangladesh’s central Faridpur district Friday, police said.

Seven of the victims died instantly in the collision. They were on board the bus carrying supporters of a newly elected ruling party lawmaker when it hit the lorry, …. Original source  : Ten killed in Bangladesh accident.

Haryana sets up police stations to check power, water theft

CHANDIGARH – In a unique move, the Haryana government Friday announced the setting up of police stations to check the theft of power and canal water in the state.

Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda approved the proposal of setting up of eight special police stations to check the theft of power and canal water in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Haryana sets up police stations to check power, water theft.

Girl seriously injured in wall collapse

NEW DELHI – A four-year-old girl was critically injured Friday when the wall of the next-door police station collapsed on her house in north Delhi, police said. The girl has been admitted to a hospital.

A fire department official said the incident took place in Welcome area at around 1.30 p.m.
The girl …. Read the original article  : Girl seriously injured in wall collapse.

Drunken son kills mother

NEW DELHI – Enraged over his mother not agreeing to sell their house, a drunken man strangled his 80-year-old mother and then slammed her head on the floor in Mongolpuri northwest Delhi, police said Friday. The man has been arrested.

The accused Somnath, 40, allegedly strangled Amar Devi and hit her head on the …. Original source  : Drunken son kills mother.

Satyawati College student hangs self in classroom

NEW DELHI – A second-year Bachelor of Arts student of Satyawati College in north Delhi was found hanging from a ceiling fan in one of the classrooms here Friday afternoon, police said.

The incident came to light at around 3.15 p.m. when a college employee found Amir Mallik, 21, hanging in a classroom in the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Minor makes 350 obscene calls to women cops

RAIPUR – A 15-year-old boy was arrested here for making over 350 obscene calls to women cops, police said Sunday.

Women police cell in-charge Chitralekha Sharma said the boy was picked up from the Gudhiyari area late Saturday after police got the call details and located his residence.
“The boy was using his mother’s cell …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Minor makes 350 obscene calls to women cops.

Dalit girl attacked for resisting rape, one held

LUCKNOW – A teenaged Dalit girl was subjected to brutal attack and one of her ears nearly chopped off while resisting a rape attempt by three youths of her village in Uttar Pradesh’s Fatehpur district, police said Sunday. One man has been arrested.

The teenager was attacked late Saturday with a sharp-edged weapon in Udauli … Read more »»».

Vehicle hits Mexican envoy who was walking his dog

SAN SALVADOR – Mexico’s ambassador to El Salvador was injured in a hit-and-run incident Saturday while walking his dog in an exclusive residential area of this capital, police said.

Leandro Arellano Resendiz was taken to a nearby hospital but did not suffer serious injury.
The diplomat was hit by a private vehicle Saturday morning while … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Vehicle hits Mexican envoy who was walking his dog.

Australian punches attacking croc, escapes

SYDNEY – A north Queensland man who was grabbed by a crocodile while swimming in a popular waterhole escaped by punching the reptile repeatedly on the head.

The 37-year-old man was swimming with his daughters near Weipa, the largest town on the Gulf of Carpentaria coast of the Cape York Peninsula in Queensland, when the …. Read the original article  : here.

Two die in Russian helicopter crash

Moscow, Feb 6 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Two people were killed when a helicopter crashed in Russia’s southern republic of Kalmykia, authorities said Sunday.

The Mi-2 helicopter crashed Saturday at 23:00 Moscow time (20:00 GMT).
The crew had landed the helicopter due to a technical malfunction and the flight engineer fixed the problem.
But …. Read the original article  : here.

Two killed as protesters, police clash in Tunisia

TUNIS – Two people were killed and at least 17 injured in a clash between protesters and police in Tunisia’s Kef city, a media report said.

Protesters in Kef, 220 km west of the Tunisian capital, called for the dismissal of the city’s police chief, Khaled Ghazouani, due to his relationship with ousted president Zine … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two killed as protesters, police clash in Tunisia.

Yet another theft in Maharashtra’s village without locks

AHMEDNAGAR – Known for its homes and shops with no doors or locks, the temple village of Shani-Shingnapur in this Maharashtra’s district Saturday reported yet another theft early Saturday, police said. Four thefts were reported in the village last year.

Saturday’s theft took place at the house of Dagdu Sheth, one of the members …. Source article  : Yet another theft in Maharashtra’s village without locks.

Vehicle thieves’ gang busted, 4 held

MOHALI – Punjab police Saturday said they had busted an inter-state gang of vehicle thieves, arresting four people and recovering 27 vehicles from their possession.

Working on a secret tip-off, Mohali district police arrested these four from Kharar town Feb 1.
“We have recovered 27 vehicles worth Rs. 1.46 crore. This gang was active … Original source on Gaea Times at : Vehicle thieves’ gang busted, 4 held.

Four arrested for cheating government dispensaries

NEW DELHI – Four men, including a pharmacist of Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), allegedly involved in buying medicines from government dispensaries on false pretences and then selling them in the market, have been arrested, police said Saturday.

Attar Singh, 46 working as a pharmacist in a CGHS dispensary in Nanak Pura, Satish Kumar, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Four arrested for cheating government dispensaries.

Cash returned by youths found to be fake

KOLKATA – Six months after being rewarded by West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee for returning cash worth Rs.1.5 lakh, two youths of Birbhum district will now face police interrogation as the notes were found to be fake.

Selim Khan and Salam Seikh Lal, while rescuing the victims of the July 19 Sainthia train accident, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cash returned by youths found to be fake.

Gujarat riots: Government issues notice to top cop

GANDHINAGAR – Senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Rahul Sharma was Saturday issued a show cause notice by the Gujarat government seeking an explanation why departmental action should not be taken against him for misconduct.

The charges against him related to the making of a CD containing telephone call data of officials, politicians and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Man held for stealing 4,000 litres of edible oil

NEW DELHI – A man who stole 4,000 litres of vegetable oil from a truck in west Delhi was arrested here, police said Saturday. A woman, who plotted the robbery, is still absconding.

Mahesh Gupta, 40, met the truck driver in Baprola area of west Delhi Wednesday, who told him that his truck was loaded …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Man held for stealing 4,000 litres of edible oil.

2008 Delhi serial blasts: Court to frame charges Feb 21 (Second lead)

NEW DELHI – A Delhi court Saturday found sufficient evidence to put to trial 13 suspected Indian Mujahideen (IM) terrorists in the 2008 serial blasts here in which 26 people were killed. Charges against them would be framed Feb 21.

The court discharged accused Salman in all the five cases as there was no material …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 2008 Delhi serial blasts: Court to frame charges Feb 21 (Second lead).

Delhi Police bust robbers gang, two arrested

NEW DELHI – Delhi Police busted a motorbike gang engaged in robberies in the city after the arrest of two of its members. They have also recovered Rs.3 lakh and a pistol from the two, an official said Saturday.

According to the police, Rakesh (35) and Shyam Sunder (36) are residents of Partap Nagar in …. Source article  : Delhi Police bust robbers gang, two arrested.

Five injured in Delhi cylinder blast

NEW DELHI – Five people, including two children, were injured in a cylinder blast in a west Delhi house, police said Saturday.

The blast took place in Veena Enclave of Nangloi area Friday night. Four of the injured have been identified as Harish Chand, 38, his wife Rita, 31, and their children – Sumit, 10, … Read more »».

Major fire in state power utility’s warehouse

ALLAHABAD – Equipment and goods worth around Rs.1 crore were gutted Saturday after a major fire broke out in a warehouse of the state-owned Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (UPRVUNL) here, police said. No casualty has been reported.

The fire engulfed the UPRVUNL warehouse in the industrial Naini area, and over 15 fire …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bank robbery: Rs.63.5 lakh seized in Uttar Pradesh

NEW DELHI – A week after a driver and a guard sensationally escaped in their bank van with Rs.67.5 lakh, police have seized almost the entire money and caught three of five accused, it was announced Saturday.

Delhi Police found Rs.63.5 lakh from a house in a village in Uttar Pradesh’s Etah district. The house …. Original source  : Bank robbery: Rs.63.5 lakh seized in Uttar Pradesh.

Chennai Police to seek court’s help for summoning Lalit Modi

CHENNAI – Chennai Police plans to approach a court against former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi, who is refusing to accept its summons to appear in person in a criminal complaint lodged by the Indian cricket board, a top police official said Saturday.

Speaking to reporters here, Chennai City Police Commissioner T. Rajendran …. Source  : Chennai Police to seek court’s help for summoning Lalit Modi.

Reliance petrol pump owner abducted in Meghalaya

SHILLONG – The proprietor of a Reliance petrol depot is suspected to have been abducted at gunpoint by a rebel group near the India-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya, police said Saturday.

No ransom call has so far been received by his family but police strongly suspect the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) to be behind [..] Read the original article: here.

Cash van robbery: Rs.63.5 lakh recovered from Uttar Pradesh

NEW DELHI – The Delhi police have recovered from Uttar Pradesh Rs.63.5 lakh robbed from a bank’s cash van here last month. Two of the five accused are still absconding, a police official said Saturday.

The money was recovered Friday from a village in Etah district in Uttar Pradesh from the house of … Read more >>>.