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Archaeologists in Egypt on Saturday unearthed human and animal mummification workshops and tombs dating back 4,000 years in the ancient burial ground of Saqqara, around 30 kilometres (roughly 18.5 miles) south of Egypt’s capital Cairo.

Egypt’s tourism and antiquities ministry said that the workshops, which house the mummified humans and animals, date back to ancient Egypt's 30th dynasty, which reigned about 2,400 years ago.

In one of the workshops, the researchers had "found several rooms equipped with stony beds where the deceased lay down for mummification," the ministry said.

Apart from that, clay pots and other items apparently used to mummify humans and sacred animals were also found at the site in Saqqara.

Saqqara was once a part of Egypt’s ancient capital of Memphis, said Mostafa Waziri, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities.

“We discovered the biggest embalming — we call it house — or workshop, one for humans and one for animals,” Waziri told reporters at the UNESCO World Heritage site, reported Reuters news agency.

The workshops and tombs date back to the 30th pharaonic dynasty (380 BC to 343 BC) and to the Ptolemaic period (305 BC to 30 BC), he said.

The animal workshop was made with mud and stone floors, and was found alongside bronze tools that would have been used in the mummification process.

Five beds made out of stone were found standing still inside the room, which would have been used to mummify the most sacred animals.&nbsp;

<h2>Tombs belong to two protests </h2>

The discovered tombs are of two priests, one dating back to the 24th century BC and the other to the 14th century BC.

The earliest belonged to Ne Hesut Ba, who was the head of scribes and priest of the gods Horus and Maat in the Old Kingdom's fifth dynasty.

The second tomb belonged to Qadish priest named Men Kheber from the 18th dynasty (around 1400 BC). His tomb was carved in rock and had depictions of himself "in different positions."

It also contained a 1-metre-long (roughly 1 yard)&nbsp;alabaster statue.

Mohamed Youssef, director of the Saqqara archaeological site said the tomb walls were decorated with depictions of ‘daily life, agriculture, and hunting scenes’.

<h2>Egypt banking on archaeological findings to boost tourism </h2>

The Egyptian government has been strongly pushing for new archaeological discoveries and showcasing them to international media and diplomats in the hope&nbsp;of reviving the beleaguered&nbsp;tourism industry in the country.

Cairo aims to revive the industry that suffered from political turmoil and the COVID-19 pandemic and fallout from the conflict in Ukraine.

Economic data showed tourism revenues climbing to $7.3 billion in the second half of 2022, a 25.7 per cent increase compared with the previous year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Archaeologists in Egypt on Saturday unearthed human and animal mummification workshops and tombs dating back 4,000 years in the ancient burial ground of Saqqara, around 30 kilometres (roughly 18.

Archaeologists in Egypt on Saturday unearthed human and animal mummification workshops and tombs dating back 4,000 years in the ancient burial ground of Saqqara, around 30 kilometres (roughly 18.5 miles) south of Egypt’s capital Cairo. Egypt’s tourism and antiquities ministry said that the workshops, which house the mummified humans and animals, date back to ancient Egypt's 30th dynasty, which reigned about 2,400 years ago. In one of the workshops, the researchers had "found several rooms equipped with stony beds where the deceased lay down for mummification," the ministry said. Apart from that, clay pots and other items apparently used to mummify humans and sacred animals were also found at the site in Saqqara. Saqqara was once a part of Egypt’s ancient capital of Memphis, said Mostafa Waziri, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities. “We discovered the biggest embalming — we call it house — or workshop, one for humans and one for animals,” Waziri told reporters at the UNESCO World Heritage site, reported Reuters news agency. The workshops and tombs date back to the 30th pharaonic dynasty (380 BC to 343 BC) and to the Ptolemaic period (305 BC to 30 BC), he said. The animal workshop was made with mud and stone floors, and was found alongside bronze tools that would have been used in the mummification process. Five beds made out of stone were found standing still inside the room, which would have been used to mummify the most sacred animals. Tombs belong to two protests The discovered tombs are of two priests, one dating back to the 24th century BC and the other to the 14th century BC. The earliest belonged to Ne Hesut Ba, who was the head of scribes and priest of the gods Horus and Maat in the Old Kingdom's fifth dynasty. The second tomb belonged to Qadish priest named Men Kheber from the 18th dynasty (around 1400 BC). His tomb was carved in rock and had depictions of himself "in different positions." It also contained a 1-metre-long (roughly 1 yard) alabaster statue. Mohamed Youssef, director of the Saqqara archaeological site said the tomb walls were decorated with depictions of ‘daily life, agriculture, and hunting scenes’. Egypt banking on archaeological findings to boost tourism The Egyptian government has been strongly pushing for new archaeological discoveries and showcasing them to international media and diplomats in the hope of reviving the beleaguered tourism industry in the country. Cairo aims to revive the industry that suffered from political turmoil and the COVID-19 pandemic and fallout from the conflict in Ukraine. Economic data showed tourism revenues climbing to $7.3 billion in the second half of 2022, a 25.7 per cent increase compared with the previous year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Egypt unearths tombs, mummification workshops from ancient burial site

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was "shocked" by a letter he received on Friday from Sudan's military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan demanding the removal of his ambassador to Sudan, according to his spokesperson.

"The Secretary-General is proud of the work done by (UN Special Representative to Sudan) Volker Perthes and reaffirms his full confidence in his Special Representative," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric in a written statement on Friday.

Burhan had written to Guterres, requesting that Perthes be removed from his position, according to Reuters, citing officials in Sudan's presidency.

Weeks of intense combat in Sudan between Burhan's Sudanese Armed Forces and the country's Rapid Support Forces commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo have shattered expectations for a peaceful transition to civilian government, reported CNN.

Perthes, who was nominated to his position in 2021, has expressed deep worry about the dispute. He criticised both leaders of Sudan's warring groups in a presentation to the UN Security Council earlier this week, warning of "a growing ethnicisation of the conflict."

Despite a seven-day truce that is set to expire this weekend, combat between both sides has persisted. According to the US embassy in Khartoum, media have lately witnessed the use of artillery and military aircraft and drones, airstrikes, prolonged combat in the heart of the Khartoum Industrial Area, and battles in Zalingei, Darfur.

Perthes told the Security Council that blame for the violence "rests with those who are waging it daily: the leadership of the two sides who share accountability for choosing to settle their unresolved conflict on the battlefield rather than at the table."

According to UNICEF, the Sudanese violence has taken a devastating toll on civilians, with over 700 people killed, including 190 children, and 6,000 others&nbsp;injured.

Over a million people have been displaced, seeking refuge in rural regions, neighbouring Sudanese states, or crossing Sudanese borders.

<h2>Over one million displaced</h2>

According to the United Nations refugee agency, five weeks of violence in Sudan has&nbsp;displaced more than one million people, including a quarter-million refugees.

Sudan has been at war since April 15, when differences between army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Hamdan "Hemedti" Dagalo, erupted into an armed confrontation. Hundreds of people have been slain in the conflict&nbsp;that has&nbsp;transformed Khartoum's streets and other parts of the country into battlegrounds.

Speaking to reporters in Geneva on Friday, Matthew Saltmarsh, a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), said 843,000 people have been internally displaced as a result of the violence, reported Al Jazeera.

Around 250,000 people have left Sudan's borders, largely into Egypt, Chad, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, according to Saltmarsh, who said that Egypt has accepted the greatest number of Sudanese refugees so far, at around 110,000. 
&nbsp;

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UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was "shocked" by a letter he received on Friday from Sudan's military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan demanding the removal of his ambassador to Sudan, according to his spokesperson.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was "shocked" by a letter he received on Friday from Sudan's military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan demanding the removal of his ambassador to Sudan, according to his spokesperson. "The Secretary-General is proud of the work done by (UN Special Representative to Sudan) Volker Perthes and reaffirms his full confidence in his Special Representative," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric in a written statement on Friday. Burhan had written to Guterres, requesting that Perthes be removed from his position, according to Reuters, citing officials in Sudan's presidency. Weeks of intense combat in Sudan between Burhan's Sudanese Armed Forces and the country's Rapid Support Forces commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo have shattered expectations for a peaceful transition to civilian government, reported CNN. Perthes, who was nominated to his position in 2021, has expressed deep worry about the dispute. He criticised both leaders of Sudan's warring groups in a presentation to the UN Security Council earlier this week, warning of "a growing ethnicisation of the conflict." Despite a seven-day truce that is set to expire this weekend, combat between both sides has persisted. According to the US embassy in Khartoum, media have lately witnessed the use of artillery and military aircraft and drones, airstrikes, prolonged combat in the heart of the Khartoum Industrial Area, and battles in Zalingei, Darfur. Perthes told the Security Council that blame for the violence "rests with those who are waging it daily: the leadership of the two sides who share accountability for choosing to settle their unresolved conflict on the battlefield rather than at the table." According to UNICEF, the Sudanese violence has taken a devastating toll on civilians, with over 700 people killed, including 190 children, and 6,000 others injured. Over a million people have been displaced, seeking refuge in rural regions, neighbouring Sudanese states, or crossing Sudanese borders. Over one million displaced According to the United Nations refugee agency, five weeks of violence in Sudan has displaced more than one million people, including a quarter-million refugees. Sudan has been at war since April 15, when differences between army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Hamdan "Hemedti" Dagalo, erupted into an armed confrontation. Hundreds of people have been slain in the conflict that has transformed Khartoum's streets and other parts of the country into battlegrounds. Speaking to reporters in Geneva on Friday, Matthew Saltmarsh, a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), said 843,000 people have been internally displaced as a result of the violence, reported Al Jazeera. Around 250,000 people have left Sudan's borders, largely into Egypt, Chad, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, according to Saltmarsh, who said that Egypt has accepted the greatest number of Sudanese refugees so far, at around 110,000. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UN chief ‘shocked’ by letter from Sudan’s military ruler urging removal of special envoy

The rival factions in Sudan continue to clash despite the ceasefire in the capital city of Khartoum, on Wednesday (May 24), reported Reuters citing residents. This comes amid fears that the fighting could break the fragile United States-Saudi Arabia brokered weeklong ceasefire deal. Meanwhile, the International Organization for Migration (IMO) said that more than a million people have been displaced within the country since the fighting began over a month ago.&nbsp;

<h2>US and Saudi Arabia&nbsp; monitoring ceasefire</h2>

The weeklong ceasefire which is being monitored by the US and Saudi Arabia was off to a shaky start after witnesses since late Monday&nbsp;in the capital, Khartoum, have been reporting&nbsp;fighter jets over the city and continued fighting in some areas. Meanwhile, the observers from the two countries noted that the “fighting in Khartoum appeared to be less intense”.&nbsp;

The agreement came after the warring Sudanese army and paramilitary faction Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had previously violated multiple ceasefire agreements. Washington and Riyadh addressing the reports said there is some indication that “both sides violated the agreement” but stressed that the efforts to deliver “lifesaving assistance” to the people of Sudan are underway.&nbsp;

<h2>'Heartbreaking': UN Human Rights chief about&nbsp;Sudan</h2>

According to recent data from Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED), more than 1,800 people have lost their lives since the fighting began on April 15. The conflict has also worsened the country’s humanitarian crisis as over a million people have been forced to flee their homes.&nbsp;

The IMO, on Wednesday, said 319,000 people have sought refuge in neighbouring countries out of which, over 132,000 refugees arrived in Egypt; 80,000 in Chad; and 69,000 in South Sudan. “In spite of successive ceasefires, civilians continue to be exposed to serious risk of death and injury,” said UN Human Rights chief Volker Turk.&nbsp;

He also called the situation in Sudan “heartbreaking,” at a press briefing in Geneva and went on to address the two warring generals directly and said, “General (Abdel Fattah) al-Burhan, General (Mohamed Hamdan) Dagalo, you must issue clear instructions, in no uncertain terms to all those under your command, that there is zero tolerance for sexual violence...civilians must be spared and you must stop this senseless violence now.”&nbsp;

Turk also said that his office has found at least 25 cases of sexual violence so far but believes that the real number is much higher.&nbsp;

<h2>Fighting continues with some respite</h2>

Columns of black smoke could be seen rising into the air in areas west of central Khartoum, while witnesses told Reuters, on Wednesday that there was shelling near an army camp in the southern part of the capital city.&nbsp;

In Omdurman, witnesses said that an army fighter plane had been shot down, the footage of which appeared on social media but could not independently be verified. Additionally, gunfire was heard in the Jabra neighbourhood of southern Khartoum.&nbsp;

Ali Mohammed, a resident of the Sudanese capital city, as per AFP&nbsp;said that the water supply had not been restored as of Wednesday “but at least I was able to go out and buy water for my family”.&nbsp;

Another resident, 55-year-old, Mohammed Taher, said he was finally able to go to the city’s central market “five kilometres away to buy food and return without incident”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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The rival factions in Sudan continue to clash despite the ceasefire in the capital city of Khartoum, on Wednesday (May 24), reported Reuters citing residents. This comes amid fears that the fighting could break the fragile United States-Saudi Arabia brokered weeklong ceasefire deal.

The rival factions in Sudan continue to clash despite the ceasefire in the capital city of Khartoum, on Wednesday (May 24), reported Reuters citing residents. This comes amid fears that the fighting could break the fragile United States-Saudi Arabia brokered weeklong ceasefire deal. Meanwhile, the International Organization for Migration (IMO) said that more than a million people have been displaced within the country since the fighting began over a month ago. US and Saudi Arabia monitoring ceasefire The weeklong ceasefire which is being monitored by the US and Saudi Arabia was off to a shaky start after witnesses since late Monday in the capital, Khartoum, have been reporting fighter jets over the city and continued fighting in some areas. Meanwhile, the observers from the two countries noted that the “fighting in Khartoum appeared to be less intense”. The agreement came after the warring Sudanese army and paramilitary faction Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had previously violated multiple ceasefire agreements. Washington and Riyadh addressing the reports said there is some indication that “both sides violated the agreement” but stressed that the efforts to deliver “lifesaving assistance” to the people of Sudan are underway. 'Heartbreaking': UN Human Rights chief about Sudan According to recent data from Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED), more than 1,800 people have lost their lives since the fighting began on April 15. The conflict has also worsened the country’s humanitarian crisis as over a million people have been forced to flee their homes. The IMO, on Wednesday, said 319,000 people have sought refuge in neighbouring countries out of which, over 132,000 refugees arrived in Egypt; 80,000 in Chad; and 69,000 in South Sudan. “In spite of successive ceasefires, civilians continue to be exposed to serious risk of death and injury,” said UN Human Rights chief Volker Turk. He also called the situation in Sudan “heartbreaking,” at a press briefing in Geneva and went on to address the two warring generals directly and said, “General (Abdel Fattah) al-Burhan, General (Mohamed Hamdan) Dagalo, you must issue clear instructions, in no uncertain terms to all those under your command, that there is zero tolerance for sexual violence...civilians must be spared and you must stop this senseless violence now.” Turk also said that his office has found at least 25 cases of sexual violence so far but believes that the real number is much higher. Fighting continues with some respite Columns of black smoke could be seen rising into the air in areas west of central Khartoum, while witnesses told Reuters, on Wednesday that there was shelling near an army camp in the southern part of the capital city. In Omdurman, witnesses said that an army fighter plane had been shot down, the footage of which appeared on social media but could not independently be verified. Additionally, gunfire was heard in the Jabra neighbourhood of southern Khartoum. Ali Mohammed, a resident of the Sudanese capital city, as per AFP said that the water supply had not been restored as of Wednesday “but at least I was able to go out and buy water for my family”. Another resident, 55-year-old, Mohammed Taher, said he was finally able to go to the city’s central market “five kilometres away to buy food and return without incident”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sudan witnesses clashes amid ceasefire; more than a million people displaced due to fighting

The Sudan crisis continues to escalate and considering the current security situation in the African country, India has temporarily relocated its embassy from the violence-hit capital city of Khartoum to Port Sudan.&nbsp;

Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday: "In view of the prevailing security situation in Sudan, including attacks in Khartoum city, it has been decided that the Indian Embassy in Khartoum will be temporarily relocated to Port Sudan."&nbsp;

"The situation will be assessed in the light of further developments," the MEA further added. Port Sudan is a port city on the Red Sea in eastern Sudan and is located at a distance of around 850 kilometres from Khartoum.&nbsp;

The embassy was shifted after news agency Reuters reported that India's embassy in Khartoum was stormed and looted, Sudan's army said in a statement, citing a report from the ambassador. But the incident hasn't been conformed by India yet.&nbsp;

The report further added that Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry said early on Wednesday that its building in Khartoum that houses its cultural mission was similarly vandalised and looted by an armed group.&nbsp;

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New Delhi launched "Operation Kaveri", an ongoing evacuation conducted by the Indian Armed Forces to move safely Indian citizens from Sudan and an embassy in Port Sudan will be beneficial for the authorities as the Indian embassy in Khartoum is located just opposite the airport in the city and that zone has seen a lot of fighting.&nbsp;

Under the evacuation programme, Indians stuck in Sudan are being brought back home in either commercial flights or the IAF's aircraft. Separate control rooms have been&nbsp;set up in Jeddah and Port Sudan.

The MEA said in a statement: "The Embassy may be approached at the following numbers: +249 999163790; +249 119592986; +249 915028256 and E-mail: cons1.Khartoum@mea.Gov.In."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h2>Ceasefire in Sudan</h2>

The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced a seven-day ceasefire. But Reuters reported that there were more air strikes and shooting in the capital region, undercutting the latest supposed truce.&nbsp;

The UN migration agency said that some 330,000 Sudanese have also been displaced inside Sudan's borders by the war and about 800,000 people could eventually leave.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Sudan crisis continues to escalate and considering the current security situation in the African country, India has temporarily relocated its embassy from the violence-hit capital city of Khartoum to Port Sudan.

The Sudan crisis continues to escalate and considering the current security situation in the African country, India has temporarily relocated its embassy from the violence-hit capital city of Khartoum to Port Sudan. Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday: "In view of the prevailing security situation in Sudan, including attacks in Khartoum city, it has been decided that the Indian Embassy in Khartoum will be temporarily relocated to Port Sudan." "The situation will be assessed in the light of further developments," the MEA further added. Port Sudan is a port city on the Red Sea in eastern Sudan and is located at a distance of around 850 kilometres from Khartoum. The embassy was shifted after news agency Reuters reported that India's embassy in Khartoum was stormed and looted, Sudan's army said in a statement, citing a report from the ambassador. But the incident hasn't been conformed by India yet. The report further added that Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry said early on Wednesday that its building in Khartoum that houses its cultural mission was similarly vandalised and looted by an armed group. Watch this video: × New Delhi launched "Operation Kaveri", an ongoing evacuation conducted by the Indian Armed Forces to move safely Indian citizens from Sudan and an embassy in Port Sudan will be beneficial for the authorities as the Indian embassy in Khartoum is located just opposite the airport in the city and that zone has seen a lot of fighting. Under the evacuation programme, Indians stuck in Sudan are being brought back home in either commercial flights or the IAF's aircraft. Separate control rooms have been set up in Jeddah and Port Sudan. The MEA said in a statement: "The Embassy may be approached at the following numbers: +249 999163790; +249 119592986; +249 915028256 and E-mail: cons1.Khartoum@mea.Gov.In." Ceasefire in Sudan The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced a seven-day ceasefire. But Reuters reported that there were more air strikes and shooting in the capital region, undercutting the latest supposed truce. The UN migration agency said that some 330,000 Sudanese have also been displaced inside Sudan's borders by the war and about 800,000 people could eventually leave. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Clashes in Sudan: India relocates embassy from Khartoum to Port Sudan amid crisis

The fierce fight between Sudan’s army and paramilitary forces entered the third week on Sunday, as two top generals jostle&nbsp;to take control of the country.

More than 500 people have been killed since battles erupted on April 15 between the forces of army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his number two Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), AFP news agency reports.

In Khartoum, which houses around five million people, gunfire and artillery fire continued to persist as thousands of residents tried to flee the capital city due to massive shortages of food, water, and electricity.

The situation was no different in other parts of the country where thousands of people have been uprooted from their place and forced to go on arduous trips to neighbouring Chad, Egypt, South Sudan and Ethiopia to flee the battles.

According to the United Nations (UN), more than 50,000 Sudanese refugees&nbsp;— mostly women and children — have crossed over to Chad, Egypt, South Sudan and the Central African Republic, amidst fears of regional instability.

Whereas around 75,000 have been displaced by the fighting in Khartoum and the states of Blue Nile, North Kordofan, as well as the western region of Darfur, the UN said.

<h2>Sudan violence enters third week, UN says country "Falling apart"</h2>

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Ethnic fighting and turmoil have scarred South Sudan and the Central African Republic for years while a 2021 coup has derailed Chad's own democratic transition.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres rued over the continued violence.

"There is no right to go on fighting for power when the country is falling apart," Antonio Guterres told Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television.

Despite agreeing to multiple truces, both forces have remained steadfast in their resolve even as civilian casualties continued to mount.

The recent three-day ceasefire —due to expire at midnight (2200 GMT) Sunday —was agreed on Thursday after it was brokered by the United States, Saudi Arabia, the African Union and the United Nations.

UN chief Guterres called for African-led mediation efforts for an ever-lasting peace in the conflict-torn country.

"My appeal is for everything to be done to support an African-led initiative for peace in Sudan," he told Al Arabiya.

The fighting has also triggered a mass exodus of foreigners and international staff.

Britons blocked from boarding rescue flights

According to the Guardian newspaper, thousands of British nations are stranded in Sudan after they were prevented by the country’s armed forces from reaching the last rescue flights out of the war-torn country on Saturday.

It was announced that 1,888 people on 21 flights have been evacuated from Sudan – the vast majority of them British nationals and their dependents – but the last flight was yet to leave despite being scheduled to depart at 6 pm.

The Conservative chair of the foreign affairs select committee, Alicia Kearns, told the&nbsp;newspaper that she had received information that elements of the Sudanese Armed Forces had blocked British nationals as they attempted to navigate the treacherous route to an airbase north of Khartoum.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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The fierce fight between Sudan’s army and paramilitary forces entered the third week on Sunday, as two top generals jostle to take control of the country. More than 500 people have been killed since battles erupted on April 15 between the forces of army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his number two Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), AFP news agency reports.

The fierce fight between Sudan’s army and paramilitary forces entered the third week on Sunday, as two top generals jostle to take control of the country. More than 500 people have been killed since battles erupted on April 15 between the forces of army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his number two Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), AFP news agency reports. In Khartoum, which houses around five million people, gunfire and artillery fire continued to persist as thousands of residents tried to flee the capital city due to massive shortages of food, water, and electricity. The situation was no different in other parts of the country where thousands of people have been uprooted from their place and forced to go on arduous trips to neighbouring Chad, Egypt, South Sudan and Ethiopia to flee the battles. According to the United Nations (UN), more than 50,000 Sudanese refugees — mostly women and children — have crossed over to Chad, Egypt, South Sudan and the Central African Republic, amidst fears of regional instability. Whereas around 75,000 have been displaced by the fighting in Khartoum and the states of Blue Nile, North Kordofan, as well as the western region of Darfur, the UN said. Sudan violence enters third week, UN says country "Falling apart" Ethnic fighting and turmoil have scarred South Sudan and the Central African Republic for years while a 2021 coup has derailed Chad's own democratic transition. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres rued over the continued violence. "There is no right to go on fighting for power when the country is falling apart," Antonio Guterres told Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television. Despite agreeing to multiple truces, both forces have remained steadfast in their resolve even as civilian casualties continued to mount. The recent three-day ceasefire —due to expire at midnight (2200 GMT) Sunday —was agreed on Thursday after it was brokered by the United States, Saudi Arabia, the African Union and the United Nations. UN chief Guterres called for African-led mediation efforts for an ever-lasting peace in the conflict-torn country. "My appeal is for everything to be done to support an African-led initiative for peace in Sudan," he told Al Arabiya. The fighting has also triggered a mass exodus of foreigners and international staff. Britons blocked from boarding rescue flights According to the Guardian newspaper, thousands of British nations are stranded in Sudan after they were prevented by the country’s armed forces from reaching the last rescue flights out of the war-torn country on Saturday. It was announced that 1,888 people on 21 flights have been evacuated from Sudan – the vast majority of them British nationals and their dependents – but the last flight was yet to leave despite being scheduled to depart at 6 pm. The Conservative chair of the foreign affairs select committee, Alicia Kearns, told the newspaper that she had received information that elements of the Sudanese Armed Forces had blocked British nationals as they attempted to navigate the treacherous route to an airbase north of Khartoum. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sudan violence enters third week: UN says country falling apart as casualties top 500

Amid a power struggle, the clashes between the military led by army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary resulted in the killing of at least 56 civilians, while injuring 595 others. Those killed include&nbsp;three United Nations staff members belonging to the&nbsp;World Food Programme (WFP).

Later on Sunday, the UN&nbsp;food agency said it was suspending work in Sudan. Fighting is raging between&nbsp;the army and paramilitaries in the restive Darfur region.

"While we review the evolving security situation, we are forced to temporarily halt all operations in Sudan," Cindy McCain, executive director of the World Food Programme, said in a statement.&nbsp;

Sudanese Doctors' Union in a tweet said the clashes resulted in a large number of deaths and moderate and critical injuries. "The total number of civilian deaths was 56. Dozens of deaths among the military (some of them were treated in regular hospitals, and some of them are outside our scope.) The total number of injuries reached 595, including military injuries, dozens of whom were in critical condition," it said.&nbsp;

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لجنة أطباء السودان المركزية 
 
حصر مبدئي أحداث يوم 15 أبريل 
 
استيقظ السودانيون والسودانيات صباح 15 أبريل 2023 على فاجعة اشتباكات بين قوات الشعب المسلحة وقوات الدعم السريع، أدت هذه الاشتباكات إلى وقوع عدد كبير من القتلى والإصابات المتوسطة والحرجة. <a href="https://t.co/rRPu9tJvmL">pic.twitter.com/rRPu9tJvmL</a>
— لجنة أطباء السودان المركزية CCSD’S (@SD_DOCTORS) <a href="https://twitter.com/SD_DOCTORS/status/1647435592911708160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Reports suggest that three of the killed were UN staffers of the World Food Programme (WFP).&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="Also Read | US: Train carrying hazardous material derails in Maine due to track washout">US: Train carrying hazardous material derails in Maine due to track washout</a>

"An initial count of the regrettable events of Saturday... has left 27 people killed" including in the capital Khartoum, the doctors' union said in an earlier statement before providing updated death toll.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Reuters, which&nbsp;cited sources, two people were killed&nbsp;at the airport in Khartoum, four in the nearby city of&nbsp;Omdurman, five in El Fasher, eight in Nyala and six in El Obeid.&nbsp;

<h2>Military, RSF clash&nbsp;</h2>

The Sudanese army claimed its jets were bombing RSF sites and advised residents to stay inside their homes on Saturday night while it performed a thorough aerial inspection of paramilitary activities.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-bans-food-imports-from-ukraine-to-ease-farmers-582856">Poland bans food imports from Ukraine to ease farmers</a>

“The Rapid Support Forces were surprised Saturday with a large force from the army entering camps in Soba in Khartoum and laying siege to paramilitaries there,” reported AFP. It added that the army had “launched a sweeping attack with all kinds of heavy and light weapons.”&nbsp;

<h2>Statement by Indian embassy in Sudan&nbsp;</h2>

The Indian embassy in Sudan has cautioned Indians in the country to “stay indoors” as the clashes between the Sudanese military and RSF intensified on Saturday.&nbsp;

Watch | What is next in Syrian Civil War?; The rapid development of AI | This World

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In a statement, the mission urged everyone to take “utmost precautions, stay indoors, and stop venturing outside with immediate effect”. 
 
“Please also stay calm and wait for updates," the statement added.&nbsp;

<h2>Military and RSF disagreements&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier in the month, reports said the signing of a deal to establish a civilian administration was delayed by Sudanese authorities as talks on reorganising the military failed.

The major source of disagreement was the timeline for merging the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) into the military. Military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF head Mohamed Hamdan Daglo are at odds.&nbsp;

In October 2021, the Sudanese military staged a coup and overthrew the civilian government, plunging the country into a political crisis. The military-led transitional government has since faced widespread protests and condemnation from the international community.&nbsp; 
 
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Amid a power struggle, the clashes between the military led by army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary resulted in the killing of at least 56 civilians, while injuring 595 others.

Amid a power struggle, the clashes between the military led by army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary resulted in the killing of at least 56 civilians, while injuring 595 others. Those killed include three United Nations staff members belonging to the World Food Programme (WFP). Later on Sunday, the UN food agency said it was suspending work in Sudan. Fighting is raging between the army and paramilitaries in the restive Darfur region. "While we review the evolving security situation, we are forced to temporarily halt all operations in Sudan," Cindy McCain, executive director of the World Food Programme, said in a statement. Sudanese Doctors' Union in a tweet said the clashes resulted in a large number of deaths and moderate and critical injuries. "The total number of civilian deaths was 56. Dozens of deaths among the military (some of them were treated in regular hospitals, and some of them are outside our scope.) The total number of injuries reached 595, including military injuries, dozens of whom were in critical condition," it said. لجنة أطباء السودان المركزية حصر مبدئي أحداث يوم 15 أبريل استيقظ السودانيون والسودانيات صباح 15 أبريل 2023 على فاجعة اشتباكات بين قوات الشعب المسلحة وقوات الدعم السريع، أدت هذه الاشتباكات إلى وقوع عدد كبير من القتلى والإصابات المتوسطة والحرجة. pic.twitter.com/rRPu9tJvmL — لجنة أطباء السودان المركزية CCSD’S (@SD_DOCTORS) April 16, 2023 × Reports suggest that three of the killed were UN staffers of the World Food Programme (WFP). Also Read | US: Train carrying hazardous material derails in Maine due to track washout "An initial count of the regrettable events of Saturday... has left 27 people killed" including in the capital Khartoum, the doctors' union said in an earlier statement before providing updated death toll. According to Reuters, which cited sources, two people were killed at the airport in Khartoum, four in the nearby city of Omdurman, five in El Fasher, eight in Nyala and six in El Obeid. Military, RSF clash The Sudanese army claimed its jets were bombing RSF sites and advised residents to stay inside their homes on Saturday night while it performed a thorough aerial inspection of paramilitary activities. Also Read | Poland bans food imports from Ukraine to ease farmers “The Rapid Support Forces were surprised Saturday with a large force from the army entering camps in Soba in Khartoum and laying siege to paramilitaries there,” reported AFP. It added that the army had “launched a sweeping attack with all kinds of heavy and light weapons.” Statement by Indian embassy in Sudan The Indian embassy in Sudan has cautioned Indians in the country to “stay indoors” as the clashes between the Sudanese military and RSF intensified on Saturday. Watch | What is next in Syrian Civil War?; The rapid development of AI | This World × In a statement, the mission urged everyone to take “utmost precautions, stay indoors, and stop venturing outside with immediate effect”. “Please also stay calm and wait for updates," the statement added. Military and RSF disagreements Earlier in the month, reports said the signing of a deal to establish a civilian administration was delayed by Sudanese authorities as talks on reorganising the military failed. The major source of disagreement was the timeline for merging the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) into the military. Military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF head Mohamed Hamdan Daglo are at odds. In October 2021, the Sudanese military staged a coup and overthrew the civilian government, plunging the country into a political crisis. The military-led transitional government has since faced widespread protests and condemnation from the international community. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sudan unrest: World Food Programme suspends work following death of 3 staff members

The Kenyan police have launched an investigation into the death of four people suspected to have starved to death, following the commands of a controversial cult leader.

The Kenyan police have launched an investigation into the death of four people suspected to have starved to death, following the commands of a controversial cult leader. The police found 15 frail, haggard-looking parishioners on the property of the said cult leader who acted as a church pastor in the coastal area of Kilifi. The police have identified the pastor as Makenzie Nthenge who told his followers to starve themselves as a way to meet Jesus and gain a place in heaven. When the authorities found them, most of the followers could barely stand up, walk or even talk. "A contingent under the command of SCPC and SCCIO Malindi visited the scene for fact-finding. The team was able to reach few households and managed to rescue fifteen people among them six who were emaciated," read the police report. "We found them in a very bad state, others fainted on the way to hospital," a security officer told Kenya's Nation Media Group. The police said they began the operation after receiving a secret tip that 'ignorant' followers of Good News International Church were 'starving themselves to death' on the pretext that they will meet Jesus after being brainwashed by a suspect. ALSO READ | Kenya: Man poses as woman wearing 'niqab' at chess championship, nearly cheats his way through Of the 15 rescued, only 11 made it to the hospital alive. The local law enforcement agencies are now looking into reports of a mass grave in the nearby forest. There have suspicions that the controversial pastor buried his dead followers in the cemetery. "The team was unable to identify the mass grave by virtue of vast land (area) and hostile residents in the forest. It is further suspected that there are many victims in the forest land believed to belong to the suspect," the report added. Local reports stated that Nthenge was arrested last month after two children were starved to death by the parents, based on his advice. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: People in Kenya struggle to feed their families due to drought × Previous instances of cult killing Kenya is a highly religious country and this is not the first instance when a cult leader has seemingly led their followers down an astray path. One of the most infamous cases remains the death of British woman Lutfunisa Kwandwalla who died in 2020 at the house of a spiritual leader in Mombasa. Kwandwalla resided in the city of Leicester but went to Kenya in August 2019 to visit members of her husband's family. However, she joined a controversial cult upon reaching there. Kwandwalla was to return to England after a few months but a coronavirus lockdown and travel restrictions meant that her stay was prolonged and she was pushed deeper into the cult. Her family alleged that the cult members killed her and buried the body quickly to hide evidence. Meanwhile, local officials blamed "natural causes" and no arrests were made. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kenya: Four cult members starve to death after being told they will ‘meet’ Jesus

Explosions and gunfire were heard around the Sudanese capital of Khartoum, on Saturday (April 15) as clashes were reported between the military led by army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary, shared several media reports and eyewitness accounts.&nbsp;

Hours later, in a statement, the RSF claimed that they had taken “full control” of the presidential palace and key areas. Meanwhile, the Indian embassy in Sudan has asked Indians in the country to “stay indoors”.&nbsp;

Warning to all Indians in Sudan&nbsp;

The Embassy of India in Khartoum, in a statement, in light of recent clashes and firings to take “utmost precautions, stay indoors, and stop venturing outside with immediate effect”. It added, “Please also stay calm and wait for updates.”&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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NOTICE TO ALL INDIANS 
 
IN VIEW OF REPORTED FIRINGS AND CLASHES, ALL INDIANS ARE ADVISED TO TAKE UTMOST PRECAUTIONS, STAY INDOORS AND STOP VENTURING OUTSIDE WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT. PLEASE ALSO STAY CALM AND WAIT FOR UPDATES.
— India in Sudan (@EoI_Khartoum) <a href="https://twitter.com/EoI_Khartoum/status/1647161816919969793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Clashes and claims

The fighting comes after tensions escalated between the generals for months and years of political unrest after the October 2021 military coup. 
 
Sounds of explosions and gunfire were heard across the Sudanese capital amid clashes between the country’s army and the paramilitary RSF. Witnesses reported “confrontations” and loud explosions and gunfire near a base held by the RSF in south Khartoum, said a report by AFP, whose reporters heard gunfire near Khartoum airport as well in north Khartoum.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sudan-power-struggle-within-military-as-army-attacks-paramilitary-rsf-582761">Sudan: Power struggle within military as Army attacks Paramilitary RSF</a>

Subsequently, the RSF, which is headed by former militia leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, better known as Hemedti, in a statement said that the army had entered their camps in south Khartoum and laid siege to paramilitary forces there.&nbsp;

“The Rapid Support Forces were surprised Saturday with a large force from the army entering camps in Soba in Khartoum and laying siege to paramilitaries there,” reported AFP. It added that the army had “launched a sweeping attack with all kinds of heavy and light weapons.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Sudanese army said that the paramilitaries attacked “several army camps in Khartoum and elsewhere around Sudan,” spokesman Brigadier General Nabil Abdallah told AFP. He added, “Clashes are ongoing and the army is carrying out its duty to safeguard the country.” 
 
The clashes came as tensions between the military and RSF escalated in recent months, forcing a delay in the signing of deal with political parties to revive the democratic transition.

RSF claims to have seized the presidential palace and other key sites

Hours after the clashes broke out, the RSF claimed that they had taken control of the presidential palace, the residence of the army chief, Khartoum international airport, as well as airports in the northern city of Merowe and El-Obeid in the west. According to a Reuters journalist, cannons and armoured vehicles were deployed in the streets, and the sound of heavy weapons fire was heard near the headquarters of both the army and RSF.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-army-paramilitaries-clash-live-updates-rsf-claims-to-have-taken-full-control-of-khartoum-presidential-palace-582742">Sudan army, paramilitaries clash LIVE updates: Paramilitaries claim to have entered presidential palace in apparent coup attempt</a>

Escalating tensions&nbsp;

This comes after days of tensions between the army and the RSF which had sparked fears of a confrontation that would undermine long-running efforts to return Sudan to civilian rule after years of power struggles and military coups.

On Thursday, the army said that some of the recent movements in Merowe by the RSF were illegal and took place without coordination.&nbsp;

However, the paramilitaries said that the actions by the leadership of the armed forces and “some officers” were an attack on its forces with the intention of creating instability. Eyewitnesses told Reuters that there has been a heavy exchange of gunfire in Merowe, on Saturday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Explosions and gunfire were heard around the Sudanese capital of Khartoum, on Saturday (April 15) as clashes were reported between the military led by army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary, shared several media reports and eyewitness accounts.

Explosions and gunfire were heard around the Sudanese capital of Khartoum, on Saturday (April 15) as clashes were reported between the military led by army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary, shared several media reports and eyewitness accounts. Hours later, in a statement, the RSF claimed that they had taken “full control” of the presidential palace and key areas. Meanwhile, the Indian embassy in Sudan has asked Indians in the country to “stay indoors”. Warning to all Indians in Sudan The Embassy of India in Khartoum, in a statement, in light of recent clashes and firings to take “utmost precautions, stay indoors, and stop venturing outside with immediate effect”. It added, “Please also stay calm and wait for updates.” NOTICE TO ALL INDIANS IN VIEW OF REPORTED FIRINGS AND CLASHES, ALL INDIANS ARE ADVISED TO TAKE UTMOST PRECAUTIONS, STAY INDOORS AND STOP VENTURING OUTSIDE WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT. PLEASE ALSO STAY CALM AND WAIT FOR UPDATES. — India in Sudan (@EoI_Khartoum) April 15, 2023 × Clashes and claims The fighting comes after tensions escalated between the generals for months and years of political unrest after the October 2021 military coup. Sounds of explosions and gunfire were heard across the Sudanese capital amid clashes between the country’s army and the paramilitary RSF. Witnesses reported “confrontations” and loud explosions and gunfire near a base held by the RSF in south Khartoum, said a report by AFP, whose reporters heard gunfire near Khartoum airport as well in north Khartoum. ALSO WATCH | Sudan: Power struggle within military as Army attacks Paramilitary RSF Subsequently, the RSF, which is headed by former militia leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, better known as Hemedti, in a statement said that the army had entered their camps in south Khartoum and laid siege to paramilitary forces there. “The Rapid Support Forces were surprised Saturday with a large force from the army entering camps in Soba in Khartoum and laying siege to paramilitaries there,” reported AFP. It added that the army had “launched a sweeping attack with all kinds of heavy and light weapons.” Meanwhile, the Sudanese army said that the paramilitaries attacked “several army camps in Khartoum and elsewhere around Sudan,” spokesman Brigadier General Nabil Abdallah told AFP. He added, “Clashes are ongoing and the army is carrying out its duty to safeguard the country.” The clashes came as tensions between the military and RSF escalated in recent months, forcing a delay in the signing of deal with political parties to revive the democratic transition. RSF claims to have seized the presidential palace and other key sites Hours after the clashes broke out, the RSF claimed that they had taken control of the presidential palace, the residence of the army chief, Khartoum international airport, as well as airports in the northern city of Merowe and El-Obeid in the west. According to a Reuters journalist, cannons and armoured vehicles were deployed in the streets, and the sound of heavy weapons fire was heard near the headquarters of both the army and RSF. ALSO READ | Sudan army, paramilitaries clash LIVE updates: Paramilitaries claim to have entered presidential palace in apparent coup attempt Escalating tensions This comes after days of tensions between the army and the RSF which had sparked fears of a confrontation that would undermine long-running efforts to return Sudan to civilian rule after years of power struggles and military coups. On Thursday, the army said that some of the recent movements in Merowe by the RSF were illegal and took place without coordination. However, the paramilitaries said that the actions by the leadership of the armed forces and “some officers” were an attack on its forces with the intention of creating instability. Eyewitnesses told Reuters that there has been a heavy exchange of gunfire in Merowe, on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indians in Sudan asked to ‘stay indoors’ amid clashes between paramilitary, army

Ethiopia witnessed a sixth day of turmoil on Tuesday as several people in the Amhara region were shot during demonstrations against federal government plans to integrate local defence forces into the police and national army. Amhara is the second biggest of Ethiopia's 11 regions and has been shrouded by days of protests against the government's plans. Protesters say the move would leave Amhara vulnerable to attack from other regions.

The protests present a fresh security challenge to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government after it signed a truce with Tigrayan leaders to end a devastating two-year war in the neighbouring Tigray region last November&nbsp;

Violent clashes were seen in Kombolcha, residents said. Kombolcha Mayor Mohammed Amin said that clashes erupted after rumours spread that federal soldiers had abducted some members of the Amhara regional force.&nbsp;

"There were those who were injured from stones, and gunshots and were taken to hospital. It includes the members of the city security, ENDF (federal army) and the protesters," he said.

Meanwhile, a Kombolcha resident, on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that federal soldiers did try to arrest regional troops, leading protesters to intervene. He said he saw the bodies of five people killed by gunshots and 10 others who were wounded.

At least 12 of those injured in Kombolcha were received at a hospital in Dessie, a doctor said, adding that he heard that others had died.

The number of those dead from the violence is not known yet.&nbsp;

Just a day earlier, an explosion occurred at a bar in the regional capital Bahir Dar, killing two people and wounding several others, according to a police officer. It was unclear what caused the explosion or whether it was linked to the protests.

The United Nations World Food Programme has suspended food deliveries in Amhara, citing the security situation.

Two aid workers from Catholic Relief Services were shot and killed earlier on Sunday. The Ethiopia Red Cross also reported incidents of violence on Tuesday, saying that unidentified gunmen shot and wounded a midwife and an ambulance driver elsewhere in Amhara.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ethiopia witnessed a sixth day of turmoil on Tuesday as several people in the Amhara region were shot during demonstrations against federal government plans to integrate local defence forces into the police and national army.

Ethiopia witnessed a sixth day of turmoil on Tuesday as several people in the Amhara region were shot during demonstrations against federal government plans to integrate local defence forces into the police and national army. Amhara is the second biggest of Ethiopia's 11 regions and has been shrouded by days of protests against the government's plans. Protesters say the move would leave Amhara vulnerable to attack from other regions. The protests present a fresh security challenge to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government after it signed a truce with Tigrayan leaders to end a devastating two-year war in the neighbouring Tigray region last November Violent clashes were seen in Kombolcha, residents said. Kombolcha Mayor Mohammed Amin said that clashes erupted after rumours spread that federal soldiers had abducted some members of the Amhara regional force. "There were those who were injured from stones, and gunshots and were taken to hospital. It includes the members of the city security, ENDF (federal army) and the protesters," he said. Meanwhile, a Kombolcha resident, on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that federal soldiers did try to arrest regional troops, leading protesters to intervene. He said he saw the bodies of five people killed by gunshots and 10 others who were wounded. At least 12 of those injured in Kombolcha were received at a hospital in Dessie, a doctor said, adding that he heard that others had died. The number of those dead from the violence is not known yet. Just a day earlier, an explosion occurred at a bar in the regional capital Bahir Dar, killing two people and wounding several others, according to a police officer. It was unclear what caused the explosion or whether it was linked to the protests. The United Nations World Food Programme has suspended food deliveries in Amhara, citing the security situation. Two aid workers from Catholic Relief Services were shot and killed earlier on Sunday. The Ethiopia Red Cross also reported incidents of violence on Tuesday, saying that unidentified gunmen shot and wounded a midwife and an ambulance driver elsewhere in Amhara. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ethiopia's Amhara witnesses violent clashes over government's plans for local defence forces

A convicted rapist and murderer, Thabo Bester, who had escaped from a prison in South Africa&nbsp;by faking his&nbsp;death, was arrested in Tanzania, said the government&nbsp;in a statement&nbsp;on Saturday (April 8). Bester, who is also known as the “Facebook rapist” for using the social media platform to lure his victims, escaped from a privately-run prison in Bloemfontein.&nbsp;

Bester’s arrest in Tanzania

Notably, while the "Facebook rapist"&nbsp;had escaped from prison last year, South African police found it out only last month. The arrest took place late Friday when Bester and two of his suspected accomplices were apprehended in the city of Arusha in Tanzania.&nbsp;

One of the two alleged accomplices is said to be his girlfriend, who along with the third suspect will be extradited to South Africa. The arrest was confirmed in a statement by the South African police who said that Bester along with his “accomplice Dr Nandipha Maguduma along with a Mozambican national have been arrested in Tanzania late last night (Friday).”&nbsp;

The police also believe that the trio was “heading for the border of another country,” said South Africa's Police Minister Bheki Cele, on Saturday. He added that they had arrived in Arusha from Dar es Salaam. Reportedly, they also had several passports with fake aliases.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Justice Minister Ronald Lamola said that a South African delegation will travel to Tanzania to bring the fugitives back. “We are confident that we will receive maximum cooperation from our sister nation, Tanzania, to assist us to bring these fugitives to justice,” said the justice minister.&nbsp;

How Bester faked his own death

Bester, who was reportedly at large for at least a year, was thought to be dead after setting himself on fire in his prison cell at the maximum security facility, Bloemfontein, operated by multinational company G4S. The British-owned security company has since dismissed three prison employees in connection with the incident who&nbsp;have also been accused of helping him flee.

However, it was not until months of reporting by the South African non-profit news agency GroundUp suggested that he was alive. Last month, the prison admitted that the body found burned in the cell was not Bester’s.&nbsp;

Subsequently, the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, ordered that the investigation into the Mangaung prison escape be prioritised, said the police statement.&nbsp;

Additionally, a murder case was also registered and is currently being investigated after DNA analysis that confirmed that the body of the deceased which was found, was not&nbsp;Bester's. The body's identity is still unknown.&nbsp;

“The autopsy report went on to further reveal that the deceased had died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head, and was already dead, prior to the arson incident,” said the police statement.&nbsp;

The case of the ‘Facebook rapist’

Dubbed the “Facebook rapist”, Bester was convicted in 2012 for the rape and murder of his model girlfriend Nomfundo Tyhulu and a year after he was found guilty of raping and robbing two other women. Prior to his escape, Bester also reportedly ran a scam media business from prison using a false name.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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A convicted rapist and murderer, Thabo Bester, who had escaped from a prison in South Africa by faking his death, was arrested in Tanzania, said the government in a statement on Saturday (April 8).

A convicted rapist and murderer, Thabo Bester, who had escaped from a prison in South Africa by faking his death, was arrested in Tanzania, said the government in a statement on Saturday (April 8). Bester, who is also known as the “Facebook rapist” for using the social media platform to lure his victims, escaped from a privately-run prison in Bloemfontein. Bester’s arrest in Tanzania Notably, while the "Facebook rapist" had escaped from prison last year, South African police found it out only last month. The arrest took place late Friday when Bester and two of his suspected accomplices were apprehended in the city of Arusha in Tanzania. One of the two alleged accomplices is said to be his girlfriend, who along with the third suspect will be extradited to South Africa. The arrest was confirmed in a statement by the South African police who said that Bester along with his “accomplice Dr Nandipha Maguduma along with a Mozambican national have been arrested in Tanzania late last night (Friday).” The police also believe that the trio was “heading for the border of another country,” said South Africa's Police Minister Bheki Cele, on Saturday. He added that they had arrived in Arusha from Dar es Salaam. Reportedly, they also had several passports with fake aliases. Furthermore, Justice Minister Ronald Lamola said that a South African delegation will travel to Tanzania to bring the fugitives back. “We are confident that we will receive maximum cooperation from our sister nation, Tanzania, to assist us to bring these fugitives to justice,” said the justice minister. How Bester faked his own death Bester, who was reportedly at large for at least a year, was thought to be dead after setting himself on fire in his prison cell at the maximum security facility, Bloemfontein, operated by multinational company G4S. The British-owned security company has since dismissed three prison employees in connection with the incident who have also been accused of helping him flee. However, it was not until months of reporting by the South African non-profit news agency GroundUp suggested that he was alive. Last month, the prison admitted that the body found burned in the cell was not Bester’s. Subsequently, the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, ordered that the investigation into the Mangaung prison escape be prioritised, said the police statement. Additionally, a murder case was also registered and is currently being investigated after DNA analysis that confirmed that the body of the deceased which was found, was not Bester's. The body's identity is still unknown. “The autopsy report went on to further reveal that the deceased had died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head, and was already dead, prior to the arson incident,” said the police statement. The case of the ‘Facebook rapist’ Dubbed the “Facebook rapist”, Bester was convicted in 2012 for the rape and murder of his model girlfriend Nomfundo Tyhulu and a year after he was found guilty of raping and robbing two other women. Prior to his escape, Bester also reportedly ran a scam media business from prison using a false name. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Africa’s ‘Facebook rapist’ who faked his death to flee prison arrested in Tanzania

Tunisia state water distribution company SONEDE said in a statement on Friday that it will cut water supply to citizens for seven hours a night. This decision is being taken in response to the country's worst drought on record. Earlier, Tunisia's agricultural ministry introduced a quota system for potable water banning its use in agriculture till September 30. The drought in Tunisia is now in its fourth year.

SONEDE said in a statement that the water will be cut off daily from 9 p.m until 4 a.m, with immediate effect.

Mosbah Hlali, its head, said the drought in the country was unprecedented due to the scarcity of rain for four consecutive years, and called on Tunisians to understand the decision which it attributed to climate change.

Senior agriculture ministry official Hamadi Habib said that Tunisia had recorded a drop in its dam capacity to around 1 billion cubic metres or 30 per cent of the maximum.

The agriculture ministry has also banned the use of potable water to wash cars, water green areas and clean streets and public places. Violators face a fine and imprisonment for a period of between six days to six months.

Residents said Tunisian authorities have been cutting off drinking water at night in some areas of the capital and other cities for the last two weeks in a bid to cut consumption, a move that has sparked widespread anger.

The new decision threatens to fuel social tension in a country whose people suffer from poor public services, high inflation and a weak economy.

The Sidi Salem Dam in the north of the country, a key provider of drinking water to several regions, has declined to only 16% of its maximum capacity of 580 million cubic metres, official figures showed.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Tunisia state water distribution company SONEDE said in a statement on Friday that it will cut water supply to citizens for seven hours a night. This decision is being taken in response to the country's worst drought on record.

Tunisia state water distribution company SONEDE said in a statement on Friday that it will cut water supply to citizens for seven hours a night. This decision is being taken in response to the country's worst drought on record. Earlier, Tunisia's agricultural ministry introduced a quota system for potable water banning its use in agriculture till September 30. The drought in Tunisia is now in its fourth year. SONEDE said in a statement that the water will be cut off daily from 9 p.m until 4 a.m, with immediate effect. Mosbah Hlali, its head, said the drought in the country was unprecedented due to the scarcity of rain for four consecutive years, and called on Tunisians to understand the decision which it attributed to climate change. Senior agriculture ministry official Hamadi Habib said that Tunisia had recorded a drop in its dam capacity to around 1 billion cubic metres or 30 per cent of the maximum. The agriculture ministry has also banned the use of potable water to wash cars, water green areas and clean streets and public places. Violators face a fine and imprisonment for a period of between six days to six months. Residents said Tunisian authorities have been cutting off drinking water at night in some areas of the capital and other cities for the last two weeks in a bid to cut consumption, a move that has sparked widespread anger. The new decision threatens to fuel social tension in a country whose people suffer from poor public services, high inflation and a weak economy. The Sidi Salem Dam in the north of the country, a key provider of drinking water to several regions, has declined to only 16% of its maximum capacity of 580 million cubic metres, official figures showed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tunisia: Public water supply to be cut overnight due to drought, fine and jail for wastage

Rwandan government critic Paul Rusesabagina, who was portrayed as a hero in the&nbsp;Hollywood film "Hotel Rwanda" about the Rwandan genocide, arrived in the United States after being freed from prison, the White House said on Wednesday (March 29).&nbsp;

"I'm pleased to welcome Paul Rusesabagina back to the United States. We're glad to have him back on US soil &amp; reunited with his family &amp; friends who've long waited for this day to come," US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan tweeted.

Rusesabagina, 68, was&nbsp;serving a 25-year sentence on terrorism charges. He was transferred from prison to the residence of Qatar’s ambassador in the Rwandan capital Kigali late on Friday. He was escorted by a US embassy representative, reported CNN. &nbsp;

The announcement that his sentence had been commuted followed intense diplomacy by the United States, where Rusesabagina has permanent residency.

Washington's historically close ties with Rwanda have been strained by the case and by U.S. allegations, denied by Kigali, that Rwanda has sent troops into neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo and supports rebels there.

The spokesperson for Rwandan President Pauk Kagame tweeted that Rusesabagina's release was "the result of a shared desire to reset US-Rwanda relationship".

Rusesabagina, who is now 68-years-old received the prison sentence in September 2021 over his ties to a group that was opposed to President Kagame. He denied the charges and boycotted the trial, which he and his supporters called a political sham.

He also said he had been kidnapped from Dubai in 2019 and returned to Rwanda by force. Kagame denied any abduction, but suggested Rusesabagina had been tricked in Dubai into boarding a plane to Rwanda.

Washington designated him as "wrongly detained", partly because of what it called a lack of guarantees of a fair trial.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Rwandan government critic Paul Rusesabagina, who was portrayed as a hero in the Hollywood film "Hotel Rwanda" about the Rwandan genocide, arrived in the United States after being freed from prison, the White House said on Wednesday (March 29).

Rwandan government critic Paul Rusesabagina, who was portrayed as a hero in the Hollywood film "Hotel Rwanda" about the Rwandan genocide, arrived in the United States after being freed from prison, the White House said on Wednesday (March 29). "I'm pleased to welcome Paul Rusesabagina back to the United States. We're glad to have him back on US soil & reunited with his family & friends who've long waited for this day to come," US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan tweeted. Rusesabagina, 68, was serving a 25-year sentence on terrorism charges. He was transferred from prison to the residence of Qatar’s ambassador in the Rwandan capital Kigali late on Friday. He was escorted by a US embassy representative, reported CNN. The announcement that his sentence had been commuted followed intense diplomacy by the United States, where Rusesabagina has permanent residency. Washington's historically close ties with Rwanda have been strained by the case and by U.S. allegations, denied by Kigali, that Rwanda has sent troops into neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo and supports rebels there. The spokesperson for Rwandan President Pauk Kagame tweeted that Rusesabagina's release was "the result of a shared desire to reset US-Rwanda relationship". Rusesabagina, who is now 68-years-old received the prison sentence in September 2021 over his ties to a group that was opposed to President Kagame. He denied the charges and boycotted the trial, which he and his supporters called a political sham. He also said he had been kidnapped from Dubai in 2019 and returned to Rwanda by force. Kagame denied any abduction, but suggested Rusesabagina had been tricked in Dubai into boarding a plane to Rwanda. Washington designated him as "wrongly detained", partly because of what it called a lack of guarantees of a fair trial. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘Hotel Rwanda’ hero arrives in US after being freed from prison

Paul Rusesabagina, an outspoken Rwandan government critic, has reached the United States after being released from the prison. His efforts to save people during the 1994 genocide inspired the Hollywood movie 'Hotel Rwanda.

Paul Rusesabagina, an outspoken Rwandan government critic, has reached the United States after being released from the prison. His efforts to save people during the 1994 genocide inspired the Hollywood movie 'Hotel Rwanda.' The US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan welcomed Paul Rusesabagina back to the United States. He tweeted, "We're glad to have him back on US soil & reunited with his family & friends who've long waited for this day to come." The Rwandan administration released him on March 25 after 900 days in jail. The Kigali government reduced his 25-year sentence on terrorism charges. In 2021, Rwandan authorities charged Paul Rusesabagina with 'backing an armed rebel group.' However, his supporters denounced his trial as a sham. His arrest highlighted Rwanda's record of suppressing political dissent and free speech under President Paul Kagame. Here's everything you need to know about Paul Rusesabagina, the hero of Hotel Rwanda. Paul Rusesabagina: Hero of Hotel Rwanda Paul Rusesabagina was a hotel manager for Hotel des Mille Collines in Kigali. During the Rwandan genocide, the hotel housed 1,268 Hutu and Tutsi refugees fleeing the Interahamwe militia. Paul Rusesabagina's efforts saved these refugees from getting hurt or killed during the attacks. Hotel Rwanda (2004) depicts his actions during the genocide. Don Cheadle portrayed the role of Paul Rusesabagina. The movie received critical acclaim worldwide. On November 9, 2005, Rusesabagina received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour in the United States, from President George W Bush for "remarkable courage and compassion in the face of genocidal terror." Currently, he has Belgian citizenship with US permanent residency. Paul Rusesabagina: Family Paul Rusesabagina's adopted daughter Carine Kanimba has protested against his arrest and called it politically motivated. His family is a part of the 'Bring Our Families Home' campaign. Moreover, they are suing GainJet airlines for not disclosing the accurate destination of the flight to Rusesabagina and aiding his kidnapping in 1996. Carine also tweeted about his father's return from her official handle. She said, "PAUL RUSESABAGINA IS FREE. Dad just arrived in San Antonio, Texas. Thank you to EVERYONE who worked soooo hard to bring him home. Our family is finally reunited today." His family said he was tortured during his 939 days in prison. PAUL RUSESABAGINA IS FREE 🤩🤩🥳🥳❤️❤️🛬🛬🛬 Dad has just arrived in San Antonio, Texas🛬🛬🛬 Thank you to EVERYONE who worked soooo hard to bring him home. 🙏❤️🙏 Our Family is finally reunited today. 💞💞#FreeRusesabagina @freethehero #TheHeroIsFree #FreedHero #HotelRwanda pic.twitter.com/BXxQsPWxnx — Carine Kanimba (@ckanimba) March 30, 2023 × Paul Rusesabagina: Books & Awards In April 2006, Zach Bell published Paul Rusesabagina's autobiography, An Ordinary Man. US President Joe Biden also welcomed him on his arrival. Here's the list of Awards won by Paul Rusesabagina. 2000 Immortal Chaplains Prize for Humanity 2005 Wallenberg Medal of the University of Michigan 2005 National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award 2005 Presidential Medal of Freedom 2005 Conrad N. Hilton Foundation Humanitarian Award 2007 Honorary Doctorate of Law from the University of Guelph 2008 Honorary Degree from Gustavus Adolphus College 2009 Honorary Degree from Loyola University Chicago 2011 Tom Lantos Human Rights Prize from the Lantos Foundation for Human Rights and Justice WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Paul Rusesabagina? Rwandan human rights activist who arrived in the US after prison stay

Jean-Pierre Bemba, a former rebel leader in Congo jailed by the International Criminal Court (ICC), was appointed as the country's deputy prime minister and defence minister in a cabinet reshuffle. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday (March 24), Bemba's appointment was announced on Thursday on state television by President Felix Tshisekedi’s spokesperson.&nbsp;

Bemba was Congo's vice president from 2003 and 2006 and was later imprisoned by the ICC for over 10 years, accused of murder, rape and pillaging committed by his Movement for the Liberation of Congo forces in the neighbouring country of Central African Republic.

He was acquitted by the ICC in 2018. His return to politics comes nine months ahead of the presidential election in Congo. According to analysts, Bemba's comeback was likely decided to help Tshisekedi win votes in Congo’s northeast, where Bemba’s rebel group was popular in the 1990s and 2000s, the Associated Press reported.&nbsp;

Benjamin Hunter, Africa analyst for Verisk Maplecroft,&nbsp;a risk assessment firm, said, “This is clearly a pre-election reshuffle and Jean-Pierre Bemba has been appointed to bring his supporters in line to rally behind the president ahead of the race."

Hunter added that despite Bemba's previous imprisonment by the ICC, he is a political heavyweight with patronage networks and a contact book to help Tshisekedi’s election campaign.&nbsp;

Conflict in eastern Congo has been simmering for decades, and President Felix Tshisekedi came to office in 2019 promising to stop the country's instability and violence, but it only increased.&nbsp;

Apart from Bemba's appointment, other new government postings in Thursday's cabinet reshuffle include Tshisekedi’s former chief of staff, Vital Kamerhe, who was named the minister of the economy, the report said. And Antipas Mbusa Nyamwisi, a former warlord in Ituri province was appointed minister of state for national integration.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Jean-Pierre Bemba, a former rebel leader in Congo jailed by the International Criminal Court (ICC), was appointed as the country's deputy prime minister and defence minister in a cabinet reshuffle.

Jean-Pierre Bemba, a former rebel leader in Congo jailed by the International Criminal Court (ICC), was appointed as the country's deputy prime minister and defence minister in a cabinet reshuffle. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday (March 24), Bemba's appointment was announced on Thursday on state television by President Felix Tshisekedi’s spokesperson. Bemba was Congo's vice president from 2003 and 2006 and was later imprisoned by the ICC for over 10 years, accused of murder, rape and pillaging committed by his Movement for the Liberation of Congo forces in the neighbouring country of Central African Republic. He was acquitted by the ICC in 2018. His return to politics comes nine months ahead of the presidential election in Congo. According to analysts, Bemba's comeback was likely decided to help Tshisekedi win votes in Congo’s northeast, where Bemba’s rebel group was popular in the 1990s and 2000s, the Associated Press reported. Benjamin Hunter, Africa analyst for Verisk Maplecroft, a risk assessment firm, said, “This is clearly a pre-election reshuffle and Jean-Pierre Bemba has been appointed to bring his supporters in line to rally behind the president ahead of the race." Hunter added that despite Bemba's previous imprisonment by the ICC, he is a political heavyweight with patronage networks and a contact book to help Tshisekedi’s election campaign. Conflict in eastern Congo has been simmering for decades, and President Felix Tshisekedi came to office in 2019 promising to stop the country's instability and violence, but it only increased. Apart from Bemba's appointment, other new government postings in Thursday's cabinet reshuffle include Tshisekedi’s former chief of staff, Vital Kamerhe, who was named the minister of the economy, the report said. And Antipas Mbusa Nyamwisi, a former warlord in Ituri province was appointed minister of state for national integration. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Congo's former rebel leader Jean-Pierre Bemba appointed as country's deputy PM, defence minister

Suspected militants of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) killed at least 17 people and injured four others in eastern DR Congo's North Kivu province on Sunday (March 12). The attack took place in the early hours of Sunday at Kirindera village in North Kivu's Beni territory. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Kirindera's chief Katembo Kahongya said the militants also set fire to the buildings.&nbsp;

"They used bladed weapons and fire to execute the population," Kahongya said. Meanwhile, a resident Mukondano Kambale told the news agency that the militants killed people in a hotel and a health clinic before being chased away. "It's fear and desolation in the centre of Kirindera," Kambale added.&nbsp;

This attack in eastern DR Congo comes just days after ADF militants killed more than 40 people in twin attacks in neighbouring North Kivu villages on Wednesday. According to an army spokesperson, the attacks were carried out in retaliation for the army detaining more than 22 ADF collaborators and closing down pharmacies allegedly supplying the group with chemicals to make bombs.

A day later, a delegation from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in the country assessed the security and humanitarian situation in North Kivu.

The ADF, which the Islamic State claims as its central African affiliate, is one of the main militant groups behind the bloodshed in eastern Congo, where around 10,000 people have been killed since 2017, as per the Kivu Security Tracker.&nbsp;

Since 2021, a joint operation launched by the militaries of Congo and Uganda has been targeting militia in eastern DR Congo, but attacks have nonetheless continued.&nbsp;

Last week, the United States offered a reward of up to $5 million for information concerning ADF leader Seka Musa Baluku. Two years back, Washington designated Baluku as a global terrorist and his group as a foreign terrorist organisation, blocking assets and property interests.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Suspected militants of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) killed at least 17 people and injured four others in eastern DR Congo's North Kivu province on Sunday (March 12).

Suspected militants of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) killed at least 17 people and injured four others in eastern DR Congo's North Kivu province on Sunday (March 12). The attack took place in the early hours of Sunday at Kirindera village in North Kivu's Beni territory. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Kirindera's chief Katembo Kahongya said the militants also set fire to the buildings. "They used bladed weapons and fire to execute the population," Kahongya said. Meanwhile, a resident Mukondano Kambale told the news agency that the militants killed people in a hotel and a health clinic before being chased away. "It's fear and desolation in the centre of Kirindera," Kambale added. This attack in eastern DR Congo comes just days after ADF militants killed more than 40 people in twin attacks in neighbouring North Kivu villages on Wednesday. According to an army spokesperson, the attacks were carried out in retaliation for the army detaining more than 22 ADF collaborators and closing down pharmacies allegedly supplying the group with chemicals to make bombs. A day later, a delegation from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in the country assessed the security and humanitarian situation in North Kivu. The ADF, which the Islamic State claims as its central African affiliate, is one of the main militant groups behind the bloodshed in eastern Congo, where around 10,000 people have been killed since 2017, as per the Kivu Security Tracker. Since 2021, a joint operation launched by the militaries of Congo and Uganda has been targeting militia in eastern DR Congo, but attacks have nonetheless continued. Last week, the United States offered a reward of up to $5 million for information concerning ADF leader Seka Musa Baluku. Two years back, Washington designated Baluku as a global terrorist and his group as a foreign terrorist organisation, blocking assets and property interests. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Suspected ADF militants kill at least 17 in eastern DR Congo province

After striking Madagascar for the second time on Monday, Cyclone Freddy might make landfall in Mozambique later this week. Four people died on the Indian Ocean island, raising Freddy's death toll to 21. The storm initially caused damage in southern Africa in late February, displacing thousands of people in both nations.

It has been whirling over the Indian Ocean for 32 days and may become the longest-lasting storm on record. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) describes the storm's loop as "exceptional" from a meteorological standpoint. Hurricane John, sometimes known as Typhoon John, was the most elongated storm on record, lasting 31 days in 1994.&nbsp;

Given that Cyclone Freddy has been weakening over the previous 32 days, the World Meteorological Organization said it would take several months to determine if it has surpassed John's record. Freddy has already smashed records for its strength and the 8,000-kilometer (5,000-mile) journey across the Indian Ocean.

The cyclone formed off the north Australian coast in early February and travelled hundreds of kilometres across the southern Indian Ocean, impacting Mauritius and La Réunion before the landfall in Madagascar and Mozambique two weeks later.

Mozambique is now ready for a second landfall while dealing with the storm's rains and flooding. According to the UN World Food Programme, Freddy has already touched over 160,000 people. Meanwhile, Madagascar has received around three times its monthly regular rainfall in the last week.

The southwest Indian Ocean has cyclone season from November to April. Environment experts believe climate change is increasing cyclones, making them longer, wetter, and more frequent. After spanning the whole Indian Ocean for a month, Freddy is on track to become the longest-lived tropical cyclone in history, according to the United Nations meteorological organisation.

After striking Madagascar for the second time on Monday, Cyclone Freddy might make landfall in Mozambique later this week. Four people died on the Indian Ocean island, raising Freddy's death toll to 21.

After striking Madagascar for the second time on Monday, Cyclone Freddy might make landfall in Mozambique later this week. Four people died on the Indian Ocean island, raising Freddy's death toll to 21. The storm initially caused damage in southern Africa in late February, displacing thousands of people in both nations. It has been whirling over the Indian Ocean for 32 days and may become the longest-lasting storm on record. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) describes the storm's loop as "exceptional" from a meteorological standpoint. Hurricane John, sometimes known as Typhoon John, was the most elongated storm on record, lasting 31 days in 1994. Given that Cyclone Freddy has been weakening over the previous 32 days, the World Meteorological Organization said it would take several months to determine if it has surpassed John's record. Freddy has already smashed records for its strength and the 8,000-kilometer (5,000-mile) journey across the Indian Ocean. The cyclone formed off the north Australian coast in early February and travelled hundreds of kilometres across the southern Indian Ocean, impacting Mauritius and La Réunion before the landfall in Madagascar and Mozambique two weeks later. Mozambique is now ready for a second landfall while dealing with the storm's rains and flooding. According to the UN World Food Programme, Freddy has already touched over 160,000 people. Meanwhile, Madagascar has received around three times its monthly regular rainfall in the last week. The southwest Indian Ocean has cyclone season from November to April. Environment experts believe climate change is increasing cyclones, making them longer, wetter, and more frequent. After spanning the whole Indian Ocean for a month, Freddy is on track to become the longest-lived tropical cyclone in history, according to the United Nations meteorological organisation.

Cyclone Freddy update: After Madagascar, rising alerts in Mozambique; Might set new record with return

A helicopter operated by the African Union (AU) peace mission crashed in Somalia's Lower Shabelle region on Saturday (February 25), killing three people and injuring eight others. A statement by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) on Sunday said 11 passengers, including officers from Somalia's army, were aboard the helicopter. The helicopter was on a joint familiarisation training mission for Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) drills.&nbsp;

"Regrettably, three of the eleven passengers on board lost their lives. Eight injured officers have been evacuated to Mogadishu for urgent medical attention. The SRCC and Head of ATMIS, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, commiserates with the families of the deceased and wishes the injured officers quick recovery," the statement said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-shabaab-militants-attack-officials-house-in-somalia-10-dead-564645">Al Shabaab militants attack officials' house in Somalia, 10 dead</a>

The statement added that an investigation has been launched into the crash but did not divulge details about the nationalities of the deceased.&nbsp;

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PRESS RELEASE: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATMIS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATMIS</a> statement on helicopter crash. Read the full message below. <a href="https://t.co/5jayIMVUEh">pic.twitter.com/5jayIMVUEh</a>
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The ATMIS has been helping Somalia in its war against the Al Shabaab. On Tuesday, ten people were killed in an attack in the capital city of Mogadishu claimed by the Al-Shabaab. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, a witness said the attack began with a car bomb blast followed by a gunfight that went on for hours at a house where several lawmakers were believed to be staying.&nbsp;

A suicide bomber first detonated a car outside the house and then Al Shabaab militants stormed in while firing guns. The gunfight between the group and security forces lasted for about eight hours. In a statement, Somalia's information ministry said that four soldiers and three civilians were injured before the fighting ended.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A helicopter operated by the African Union (AU) peace mission crashed in Somalia's Lower Shabelle region on Saturday (February 25), killing three people and injuring eight others.

A helicopter operated by the African Union (AU) peace mission crashed in Somalia's Lower Shabelle region on Saturday (February 25), killing three people and injuring eight others. A statement by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) on Sunday said 11 passengers, including officers from Somalia's army, were aboard the helicopter. The helicopter was on a joint familiarisation training mission for Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) drills. "Regrettably, three of the eleven passengers on board lost their lives. Eight injured officers have been evacuated to Mogadishu for urgent medical attention. The SRCC and Head of ATMIS, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, commiserates with the families of the deceased and wishes the injured officers quick recovery," the statement said. ALSO READ | Al Shabaab militants attack officials' house in Somalia, 10 dead The statement added that an investigation has been launched into the crash but did not divulge details about the nationalities of the deceased. PRESS RELEASE: #ATMIS statement on helicopter crash. Read the full message below. pic.twitter.com/5jayIMVUEh — ATMIS (@ATMIS_Somalia) February 26, 2023 × The ATMIS has been helping Somalia in its war against the Al Shabaab. On Tuesday, ten people were killed in an attack in the capital city of Mogadishu claimed by the Al-Shabaab. Speaking to the news agency Reuters, a witness said the attack began with a car bomb blast followed by a gunfight that went on for hours at a house where several lawmakers were believed to be staying. A suicide bomber first detonated a car outside the house and then Al Shabaab militants stormed in while firing guns. The gunfight between the group and security forces lasted for about eight hours. In a statement, Somalia's information ministry said that four soldiers and three civilians were injured before the fighting ended. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Somalia: Helicopter crashes in Lower Shabelle region, killing 3, injuring 8

Nigeria started the vote counting after conducting a tightly contested election on Saturday, as three frontrunners competed for the country's presidency in a ballot hit by long delays in some areas.

Around 90 million citizens were eligible to cast vote for the successor of President Muhammadu Buhari, as many Nigerians expect&nbsp;that their new leader will tackle issues of increasing poverty, the sluggish economy and a widening security crisis.

After the military rule's end in 1999, for the first time a third serious candidate is contesting elections with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-voting-for-general-election-begins-opposition-lawmaker-arrested-with-nearly-500k-a-day-before-poll-565770">Nigeria: Voting for general election begins; opposition lawmaker arrested with nearly $500k a day before poll</a>

In this election race, the APC candidate, who was also former Lagos governor, Bola Tinubu is facing PDP's leader and former vice president Atiku Abubakar and third party candidate, Labour's leader Peter Obi, who was at one-time Anambra State governor.

The crowds gathered in Lagos and other cities to watch the counting of votes in polling centres, where the officials tallied ballots with their hands before sending them on electronically.

"One! Two! Three!" the crowd counted together loudly as the ballot papers were held up to the crowds by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) presiding officer at one polling station in southern Port Harcourt.

"I want to make sure it’s transparent and that the election is free and fair,” stated Juliette Ogbonda, a hotel receptionist, who was watching the counting.

WATCH | Nigeria: 18 candidates on ballot for the top position

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"Polling units in a large number of areas have closed and we started the counting of ballot papers," said INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu.

The voting process was to end at 1330 GMT, however, angry voters were waiting in queue by nightfall to cast ballots after the voting process was started late by INEC or the system encountered problems with identification technology which disrupted the voting process in parts of Lagos, southern Port Harcourt and the northwest state of Kano.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Nigeria started the vote counting after conducting a tightly contested election on Saturday, as three frontrunners competed for the country's presidency in a ballot hit by long delays in some areas.

Nigeria started the vote counting after conducting a tightly contested election on Saturday, as three frontrunners competed for the country's presidency in a ballot hit by long delays in some areas. Around 90 million citizens were eligible to cast vote for the successor of President Muhammadu Buhari, as many Nigerians expect that their new leader will tackle issues of increasing poverty, the sluggish economy and a widening security crisis. After the military rule's end in 1999, for the first time a third serious candidate is contesting elections with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). ALSO READ | Nigeria: Voting for general election begins; opposition lawmaker arrested with nearly $500k a day before poll In this election race, the APC candidate, who was also former Lagos governor, Bola Tinubu is facing PDP's leader and former vice president Atiku Abubakar and third party candidate, Labour's leader Peter Obi, who was at one-time Anambra State governor. The crowds gathered in Lagos and other cities to watch the counting of votes in polling centres, where the officials tallied ballots with their hands before sending them on electronically. "One! Two! Three!" the crowd counted together loudly as the ballot papers were held up to the crowds by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) presiding officer at one polling station in southern Port Harcourt. "I want to make sure it’s transparent and that the election is free and fair,” stated Juliette Ogbonda, a hotel receptionist, who was watching the counting. WATCH | Nigeria: 18 candidates on ballot for the top position "Polling units in a large number of areas have closed and we started the counting of ballot papers," said INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu. The voting process was to end at 1330 GMT, however, angry voters were waiting in queue by nightfall to cast ballots after the voting process was started late by INEC or the system encountered problems with identification technology which disrupted the voting process in parts of Lagos, southern Port Harcourt and the northwest state of Kano. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Nigeria: Nation counts votes after tightly contested polls and high turnout

Nigeria's presidential election was marked by long delays at some polling stations on Saturday, however, it did not deter large crowds of voters hoping for a reset after years of worsening violence and hardship under outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari.&nbsp;

According to reports in Reuters, several hours of delay in some places was witnessed, while voting got underway more swiftly in others. &nbsp;

"As you can see, our people have turned out hugely. Voter enlightenment was high and people are excited to take part in the election," said Emmanuel Nwosu, a voter waiting for his polling station to open in the southeastern city of Onitsha.&nbsp;

"We will wait. They were supposed to start accreditation by 8:30 a.m. but even if they come at 9 p.m. today we will stay and vote." &nbsp;

Officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in several states said they had been delayed due to the late arrival of vehicles to transport them. &nbsp;

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, head of the World Trade Organisation, said on Twitter that her polling station in her home village in southeastern Abia State opened about three hours late. &nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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"The turnout is unbelievable, the largest I have ever seen in all the years I have voted in the village. Young and very old all are here," she said just after voting. &nbsp;

Buhari, a retired army general, is stepping down after serving the maximum eight years allowed by the constitution but failing to deliver on his pledge to bring back order and security across Nigeria, Africa's top oil-producing nation. &nbsp;

The candidates from two parties that have alternated in power since the end of army rule in 1999 are facing an unusually strong challenge from a minor party candidate popular among young voters. &nbsp;

With seats in the National Assembly also up for grabs, more than 93 million people are registered to vote at some 176,600 polling stations — which were supposed to be open between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. (0730 GMT to 1330 GMT). &nbsp;

INEC made no comment on the delays but had said before election day that anyone who joined the queue on time would be able to vote even after the official closing time.

The final tally from the 36 states and federal capital Abuja is expected within five days of voting. &nbsp;

The election comes as Nigerians are struggling to cope with a shortage of cash caused by a botched plan to swap old banknotes for new ones that wreaked havoc on people's daily lives and led to scenes of violence at banks and cash machines.&nbsp;

The new president will also have to grapple with problems ranging from high inflation, deep poverty and energy shortages, to an Islamist insurgency in the northeast, industrial-scale oil theft in the south and rampant crime everywhere. &nbsp;

"I hope that whoever becomes president will alleviate the suffering of the masses," said Umar Abdullahi, a tea seller waiting to vote in the northern city of Kano.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The main contenders to succeed Buhari are former Lagos governor Bola Tinubu, 70, of the ruling All Progressives Congress, former vice president Atiku Abubakar, 76, of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, 61, of the smaller Labour Party.&nbsp;

&nbsp;All three voted in their home states, surrounded by chaotic scrums of reporters and supporters.&nbsp;

Tinubu and Atiku, as he is known in Nigeria, are both political heavyweights with decades of networking behind them. Both Muslims, Tinubu is an ethnic Yoruba from the southwest and Atiku is a Fulani from the northeast.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Nigeria's presidential election was marked by long delays at some polling stations on Saturday, however, it did not deter large crowds of voters hoping for a reset after years of worsening violence and hardship under outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari.

Nigeria's presidential election was marked by long delays at some polling stations on Saturday, however, it did not deter large crowds of voters hoping for a reset after years of worsening violence and hardship under outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari. According to reports in Reuters, several hours of delay in some places was witnessed, while voting got underway more swiftly in others. "As you can see, our people have turned out hugely. Voter enlightenment was high and people are excited to take part in the election," said Emmanuel Nwosu, a voter waiting for his polling station to open in the southeastern city of Onitsha. "We will wait. They were supposed to start accreditation by 8:30 a.m. but even if they come at 9 p.m. today we will stay and vote." Officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in several states said they had been delayed due to the late arrival of vehicles to transport them. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, head of the World Trade Organisation, said on Twitter that her polling station in her home village in southeastern Abia State opened about three hours late. Watch this report: × "The turnout is unbelievable, the largest I have ever seen in all the years I have voted in the village. Young and very old all are here," she said just after voting. Buhari, a retired army general, is stepping down after serving the maximum eight years allowed by the constitution but failing to deliver on his pledge to bring back order and security across Nigeria, Africa's top oil-producing nation. The candidates from two parties that have alternated in power since the end of army rule in 1999 are facing an unusually strong challenge from a minor party candidate popular among young voters. With seats in the National Assembly also up for grabs, more than 93 million people are registered to vote at some 176,600 polling stations — which were supposed to be open between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. (0730 GMT to 1330 GMT). INEC made no comment on the delays but had said before election day that anyone who joined the queue on time would be able to vote even after the official closing time. The final tally from the 36 states and federal capital Abuja is expected within five days of voting. The election comes as Nigerians are struggling to cope with a shortage of cash caused by a botched plan to swap old banknotes for new ones that wreaked havoc on people's daily lives and led to scenes of violence at banks and cash machines. The new president will also have to grapple with problems ranging from high inflation, deep poverty and energy shortages, to an Islamist insurgency in the northeast, industrial-scale oil theft in the south and rampant crime everywhere. "I hope that whoever becomes president will alleviate the suffering of the masses," said Umar Abdullahi, a tea seller waiting to vote in the northern city of Kano. The main contenders to succeed Buhari are former Lagos governor Bola Tinubu, 70, of the ruling All Progressives Congress, former vice president Atiku Abubakar, 76, of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, 61, of the smaller Labour Party. All three voted in their home states, surrounded by chaotic scrums of reporters and supporters. Tinubu and Atiku, as he is known in Nigeria, are both political heavyweights with decades of networking behind them. Both Muslims, Tinubu is an ethnic Yoruba from the southwest and Atiku is a Fulani from the northeast. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Voting starts late across parts of Nigeria in crucial election amid high voter turnout

The wave of arrests in Tunisia has continued for weeks as the authorities have made more than a dozen key arrests which include opposition politicians, prominent activists, a businessman, a media figure as well as two judges for supposedly criticising the north African country’s President Kais Saied. Additionally, the Tunisian authorities also said they arrested nearly 70 migrants over 48 hours for illegally attempting to enter the country, on Thursday (February 23) after Saied called for “urgent measures” against irregular immigrants.&nbsp;

Saied’s stance on migrants receives criticism from African Union

The arrests on Thursday near the Algerian border came two days after the Tunisian president ordered his security forces to stop all illegal migration and expel all undocumented migrants. This prompted additional arrests and fear among the sub-Saharan Africans as well as Black Tunisians, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

In his remarks, Saied said they needed to address the issue of “irregular immigrants from sub-Saharan countries, “with their lot of violence, crimes and unacceptable practices,” reported Associated Press.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-president-sacks-foreign-minister-amid-political-slugfest-economic-turmoil-559795">Tunisia president sacks foreign minister amid political slugfest, economic turmoil</a>

The Tunisian president also alleged that this uptick in undocumented immigration was a conspiracy for changing the country’s demographic makeup and stopping it from being an Arab and Muslim country. The comments made at the National Security Council meeting sparked outrage on social media from rights groups.

They also drew strong criticism and condemnation from&nbsp;the African Union (AU), which released a statement, late Friday, saying that it was in “deep shock and concern at the form and substance of the statement” by the Tunisian president. Subsequently, it went on to remind the country of its obligation as a part of the 55-nation bloc to treat migrants with dignity and avoid this “racialised hate speech” against them.&nbsp;

The next day, Tunisia’s Foreign Ministry called these accusations “baseless” and that they misunderstood the Saied government’s position. Additionally, Saied also said he was not being racist and that migrants living in Tunisia legally have nothing to fear. This incident also sparked protests in the capital city of Tunis where hundreds of people gathered against controversial remarks by the Tunisian President.&nbsp; 
 
Migrants arrested near&nbsp;Algerian border 
 
The authorities in Tunisia said on Thursday, they arrested&nbsp;69 migrants of various nationalities in the span of 48 hours for illegally entering the country. According to AP, while there is no official data on the number of&nbsp;sub-Saharan migrants,&nbsp;the approximate number could be nearly&nbsp;21,000 who are said to be entering predominantly from&nbsp;Algeria and Libya to eventually get to Europe.&nbsp;

Pre-detention trial for prominent critics of the president

According to the defence team of three prominent politicians and a high-profile businessman, an anti-terrorism investigative judge, on Saturday (February 25) decided to hold them in pre-trial detention, reported Reuters. This comes after they were arrested amid a wave of crackdowns on alleged Saied critics which led to dozens of arrests this month.&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-thousands-protests-against-pres-policies-govt-expels-european-trade-union-chief-for-participating-563644">Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies</a> 
 
The four men in question will be the first to face a judicial hearing&nbsp;after being charged with conspiring against state security. However, some of the lawyers for the detainees of the four men as well as others said they were boycotting the hearings as the conditions of a fair trial were not met. Meanwhile, the Tunisian police, interior ministry and justice ministry have not commented on these allegations, as per Reuters.

The four men currently facing pre-trial detention are Abdelhamid Jlassi, a former senior official in the Islamist Ennahda party, former Finance Minister Khayam Turki, Republican Party leader Issam Chebbi and businessman Kamel Ltaif.&nbsp;

Notably, these arrests are seen as one of the biggest crackdowns on opponents and dissents since Saied’s power grab in 2021 where he sacked the government, froze parliament, and seized almost total power of the country after writing a new constitution, a move that many have termed a power grab and rivals called a coup.&nbsp;

Tunisian police arrest Ghazi Chaouachi

The Tunisian police, on Friday (February 24) arrested a prominent critic of the north African nation’s leader, Ghazi Chaouachi, said his son Elyess, as per Reuters. According to his son, at least 20 policemen searched their house and arrested Ghazi.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-police-arrest-prominent-political-activists-and-influential-businessman-561237">Tunisian police arrest prominent political activists and influential businessman</a>

Tunisian opposition announces new round of protests over the recent arrests

A Tunisian protest coalition, on Friday, announced holding a demonstration on March 5 against the ongoing arrests after senior figures of the National Salvation Front, an umbrella organisation which has brought political parties and protest groups together, reported Reuters. On the same day, the Tunisian police arrested one of the movement’s leaders, Jawher Ben Mbarek.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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The wave of arrests in Tunisia has continued for weeks as the authorities have made more than a dozen key arrests which include opposition politicians, prominent activists, a businessman, a media figure as well as two judges for supposedly criticising the north African country’s President Kais Saied.

The wave of arrests in Tunisia has continued for weeks as the authorities have made more than a dozen key arrests which include opposition politicians, prominent activists, a businessman, a media figure as well as two judges for supposedly criticising the north African country’s President Kais Saied. Additionally, the Tunisian authorities also said they arrested nearly 70 migrants over 48 hours for illegally attempting to enter the country, on Thursday (February 23) after Saied called for “urgent measures” against irregular immigrants. Saied’s stance on migrants receives criticism from African Union The arrests on Thursday near the Algerian border came two days after the Tunisian president ordered his security forces to stop all illegal migration and expel all undocumented migrants. This prompted additional arrests and fear among the sub-Saharan Africans as well as Black Tunisians, as per Reuters. In his remarks, Saied said they needed to address the issue of “irregular immigrants from sub-Saharan countries, “with their lot of violence, crimes and unacceptable practices,” reported Associated Press. ALSO READ | Tunisia president sacks foreign minister amid political slugfest, economic turmoil The Tunisian president also alleged that this uptick in undocumented immigration was a conspiracy for changing the country’s demographic makeup and stopping it from being an Arab and Muslim country. The comments made at the National Security Council meeting sparked outrage on social media from rights groups. They also drew strong criticism and condemnation from the African Union (AU), which released a statement, late Friday, saying that it was in “deep shock and concern at the form and substance of the statement” by the Tunisian president. Subsequently, it went on to remind the country of its obligation as a part of the 55-nation bloc to treat migrants with dignity and avoid this “racialised hate speech” against them. The next day, Tunisia’s Foreign Ministry called these accusations “baseless” and that they misunderstood the Saied government’s position. Additionally, Saied also said he was not being racist and that migrants living in Tunisia legally have nothing to fear. This incident also sparked protests in the capital city of Tunis where hundreds of people gathered against controversial remarks by the Tunisian President. Migrants arrested near Algerian border The authorities in Tunisia said on Thursday, they arrested 69 migrants of various nationalities in the span of 48 hours for illegally entering the country. According to AP, while there is no official data on the number of sub-Saharan migrants, the approximate number could be nearly 21,000 who are said to be entering predominantly from Algeria and Libya to eventually get to Europe. Pre-detention trial for prominent critics of the president According to the defence team of three prominent politicians and a high-profile businessman, an anti-terrorism investigative judge, on Saturday (February 25) decided to hold them in pre-trial detention, reported Reuters. This comes after they were arrested amid a wave of crackdowns on alleged Saied critics which led to dozens of arrests this month. ALSO READ | Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies The four men in question will be the first to face a judicial hearing after being charged with conspiring against state security. However, some of the lawyers for the detainees of the four men as well as others said they were boycotting the hearings as the conditions of a fair trial were not met. Meanwhile, the Tunisian police, interior ministry and justice ministry have not commented on these allegations, as per Reuters. The four men currently facing pre-trial detention are Abdelhamid Jlassi, a former senior official in the Islamist Ennahda party, former Finance Minister Khayam Turki, Republican Party leader Issam Chebbi and businessman Kamel Ltaif. Notably, these arrests are seen as one of the biggest crackdowns on opponents and dissents since Saied’s power grab in 2021 where he sacked the government, froze parliament, and seized almost total power of the country after writing a new constitution, a move that many have termed a power grab and rivals called a coup. Tunisian police arrest Ghazi Chaouachi The Tunisian police, on Friday (February 24) arrested a prominent critic of the north African nation’s leader, Ghazi Chaouachi, said his son Elyess, as per Reuters. According to his son, at least 20 policemen searched their house and arrested Ghazi. ALSO READ | Tunisian police arrest prominent political activists and influential businessman Tunisian opposition announces new round of protests over the recent arrests A Tunisian protest coalition, on Friday, announced holding a demonstration on March 5 against the ongoing arrests after senior figures of the National Salvation Front, an umbrella organisation which has brought political parties and protest groups together, reported Reuters. On the same day, the Tunisian police arrested one of the movement’s leaders, Jawher Ben Mbarek. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tunisian president calls for expulsion of migrants as crackdown on his critics continues

The Vice President of the West African nation of Gambia, Badara Alieu Joof passed away after a short illness in India, said the country’s President Adama Barrow, on Wednesday (January 18). The 65-year-old took office last year as the vice president and had served as Gambia’s education minister from 2017 to 2022.&nbsp;

The announcement was made by the West African nation’s president on Twitter who said that Joof passed away “after a short illness” but did not provide any further details about his health condition.&nbsp;

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Fellow <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gambians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gambians</a>, it is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing away of my <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VicePresident?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VicePresident</a>, His Excellency, Badara Alieu Joof. The sad event took place in India after a short illness. May Allah grant him Jannahtul Firdawsi.
— President Barrow (@BarrowPresident) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarrowPresident/status/1615622485772304386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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This comes after the VP left Gambia three weeks ago to seek medical treatment and was reportedly not seen in public for months before his trip. The late VP had also worked in Gambian civil service as well as in the World Bank as an Education Specialist for West and Central Africa, reported Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, rumours about his deteriorating health had begun circulating in December last year. He was appointed as the VP by Barrow who became the president after a historic win in the 2016 election against Yahya Jammeh. Joof was sworn in a year after the incumbent president won his re-election bid in 2021.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Vice President of the West African nation of Gambia, Badara Alieu Joof passed away after a short illness in India, said the country’s President Adama Barrow, on Wednesday (January 18).

The Vice President of the West African nation of Gambia, Badara Alieu Joof passed away after a short illness in India, said the country’s President Adama Barrow, on Wednesday (January 18). The 65-year-old took office last year as the vice president and had served as Gambia’s education minister from 2017 to 2022. The announcement was made by the West African nation’s president on Twitter who said that Joof passed away “after a short illness” but did not provide any further details about his health condition. Fellow #Gambians, it is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing away of my #VicePresident, His Excellency, Badara Alieu Joof. The sad event took place in India after a short illness. May Allah grant him Jannahtul Firdawsi. — President Barrow (@BarrowPresident) January 18, 2023 × This comes after the VP left Gambia three weeks ago to seek medical treatment and was reportedly not seen in public for months before his trip. The late VP had also worked in Gambian civil service as well as in the World Bank as an Education Specialist for West and Central Africa, reported Al Jazeera. According to local media reports, rumours about his deteriorating health had begun circulating in December last year. He was appointed as the VP by Barrow who became the president after a historic win in the 2016 election against Yahya Jammeh. Joof was sworn in a year after the incumbent president won his re-election bid in 2021. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Gambian vice-president Badara Alieu Joof passes away in India after ‘short illness’

At least five people were killed and 15 others were injured on Sunday (January 15) in a suspected militant bombing during a church service in DR Congo's Kasindi in North Kivu- which is on the border with Uganda. A spokesperson of the army told the news agency Reuters that the attack was most likely carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF)- a Ugandan militant group that pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) in 2019. "Despite the security measures put in place, the first indications show that it is the ADF which is behind this bomb attack," army spokesperson Anthony Mualushay told the news agency.

The ADF has not yet claimed responsibility for the attack. DR Congo's communications ministry, meanwhile said an investigation is underway to detect the origin of the attack.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dr-congo-military-court-upholds-nine-execution-orders-in-connection-with-the-murder-of-two-chinese-gold-miners-547158">DR Congo military court upholds nine execution orders in connection with the murder of two Chinese gold miners</a>

Alain Kitsa, a resident of Kasindi, told Reuters "I just came back from the scene, where I saw the bodies of children on the ground," and described the atmosphere in the city as tense. If the news about ADF behind the bombing is confirmed, this would be the first time the militant group targeted Kasindi since 2014, according to local administrator Charles Omeonga who told the news agency the estimated death toll in the bombing was at least 10.&nbsp;

The ADF has been accused of killing thousands of civilians in the Central African country along with carrying out bombings in Uganda. For the last two years, the militaries of Congo and Uganda have launched a joint operation to target the ADF in North Kivu and the neighbouring Ituri province, a report by the news agency AFP said.&nbsp;

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidcio37mhFJOdI" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The bomb attack on Sunday comes after more than 60 people were killed in Ituri province in a week. On January 8, a teacher belonging to the Lendu community was killed, triggering reprisal attacks from the CODECO militia, which claims to represent the ethnic group. Following the teachers killing, the militia killed at least 24 civilians in attacks on several different villages in the&nbsp;Djugu territory, AFP reported on Saturday (January 14) citing local civil society representatives and humanitarian workers. A CODECO leader told AFP attacks were to "avenge the death" of the teacher, whom he said was killed by Zaire militants.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-eight-killed-in-roadside-bombing-al-shabaab-claims-responsibility-552848">Somalia: Eight killed in roadside bombing, Al-Shabaab claims responsibility</a>

Meanwhile, in another African nation Somalia, eight people were killed in a roadside bombing in Hiran district's Buloburde city on Saturday. The Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for this attack. A local police commander told AFP on Sunday that the bomber detonated a car laden with explosives near an administrative building in Buloburde, adding that among the casualties, five were killed on the spot while three died overnight in a hospital. On the same day, two separate incidents were reported in Somalia for which the Al Shabaab claimed responsibility.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At least five people were killed and 15 others were injured on Sunday (January 15) in a suspected militant bombing during a church service in DR Congo's Kasindi in North Kivu- which is on the border with Uganda.

At least five people were killed and 15 others were injured on Sunday (January 15) in a suspected militant bombing during a church service in DR Congo's Kasindi in North Kivu- which is on the border with Uganda. A spokesperson of the army told the news agency Reuters that the attack was most likely carried out by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF)- a Ugandan militant group that pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) in 2019. "Despite the security measures put in place, the first indications show that it is the ADF which is behind this bomb attack," army spokesperson Anthony Mualushay told the news agency. The ADF has not yet claimed responsibility for the attack. DR Congo's communications ministry, meanwhile said an investigation is underway to detect the origin of the attack. ALSO READ | DR Congo military court upholds nine execution orders in connection with the murder of two Chinese gold miners Alain Kitsa, a resident of Kasindi, told Reuters "I just came back from the scene, where I saw the bodies of children on the ground," and described the atmosphere in the city as tense. If the news about ADF behind the bombing is confirmed, this would be the first time the militant group targeted Kasindi since 2014, according to local administrator Charles Omeonga who told the news agency the estimated death toll in the bombing was at least 10. The ADF has been accused of killing thousands of civilians in the Central African country along with carrying out bombings in Uganda. For the last two years, the militaries of Congo and Uganda have launched a joint operation to target the ADF in North Kivu and the neighbouring Ituri province, a report by the news agency AFP said. The bomb attack on Sunday comes after more than 60 people were killed in Ituri province in a week. On January 8, a teacher belonging to the Lendu community was killed, triggering reprisal attacks from the CODECO militia, which claims to represent the ethnic group. Following the teachers killing, the militia killed at least 24 civilians in attacks on several different villages in the Djugu territory, AFP reported on Saturday (January 14) citing local civil society representatives and humanitarian workers. A CODECO leader told AFP attacks were to "avenge the death" of the teacher, whom he said was killed by Zaire militants. ALSO READ | Somalia: Eight killed in roadside bombing, Al-Shabaab claims responsibility Meanwhile, in another African nation Somalia, eight people were killed in a roadside bombing in Hiran district's Buloburde city on Saturday. The Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for this attack. A local police commander told AFP on Sunday that the bomber detonated a car laden with explosives near an administrative building in Buloburde, adding that among the casualties, five were killed on the spot while three died overnight in a hospital. On the same day, two separate incidents were reported in Somalia for which the Al Shabaab claimed responsibility. (With inputs from agencies)

DR Congo | Five killed, 15 injured in church bombing; Ugandan militant group likely behind attack: Report

Fifty women were abducted by suspected Jihadists in northern Burkina Faso. People familiar with the developments told the news agency AFP on Sunday (January 15) that roughly 40 women were abducted about a dozen kilometres southeast of the Arbinda town on Thursday and about 20 others were abducted on Friday to the north of the town, with some escaping in the meantime. Local officials who confirmed these abductions said the army and its civilian authorities carried out unsuccessful sweeps of the area.&nbsp;

Two Arbinda residents divulged details about the abductions. One resident told AFP on Sunday that on Thursday, the women got together with their carts to go and gather leaves and wild fruits in the bush as there was nothing left to eat.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-eight-killed-in-roadside-bombing-al-shabaab-claims-responsibility-552848">Somalia: Eight killed in roadside bombing, Al-Shabaab claims responsibility</a>

Another resident, a male, said that when the women did not come back on Thursday evening, "we thought that their carts had had a problem. But three survivors came back to tell us what happened." This resident said that on Friday, eight kilometres north of Arbinda, about 20 women who were not informed of the first abduction, were in turn taken. "In both groups, some women managed to escape and returned to the village on foot. We believe that the kidnappers took them to their bases," he added.&nbsp; 
The commune of Arbinda is located in the Sahel region of northern Burkina Faso, an area under blockade by jihadist groups and with limited food supplies.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/africa/dr-congo-five-killed-15-injured-in-bombing-in-church-ugandan-militant-group-likely-behind-attack-report-552894">DR Congo | Five killed, 15 injured in bombing in church; Ugandan militant group likely behind attack: Report</a>

These abductions come after nine people were killed in a mosque attack in Goulgountou village of Sahel on Wednesday when suspected jihadists arrived on motorcycles and herded worshippers inside (mosque). "They separated the women, children and elderly and then made sermons to try to convince worshippers of abandoning their form of faith," a witness told AFP, adding "A discussion even started up with the imam, and because he refused he was executed." Eight other worshippers in the mosque, who were mainly community leaders, were killed.&nbsp;

And in November last year, at least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-14-killed-in-two-attacks-in-burkina-faso-536740">14 people were killed in two separate attacks by jihadist groups</a> in Burkina Faso's north.&nbsp;

Since 2015, the country has been battling a jihadist offensive in which thousands of civilians and security forces personnel have been killed and around two million people have been displaced.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Fifty women were abducted by suspected Jihadists in northern Burkina Faso. People familiar with the developments told the news agency AFP on Sunday (January 15) that roughly 40 women were abducted about a dozen kilometres southeast of the Arbinda town on Thursday and about 20 others were abducted on Friday to the north of the town, with some escaping in the meantime.

Fifty women were abducted by suspected Jihadists in northern Burkina Faso. People familiar with the developments told the news agency AFP on Sunday (January 15) that roughly 40 women were abducted about a dozen kilometres southeast of the Arbinda town on Thursday and about 20 others were abducted on Friday to the north of the town, with some escaping in the meantime. Local officials who confirmed these abductions said the army and its civilian authorities carried out unsuccessful sweeps of the area. Two Arbinda residents divulged details about the abductions. One resident told AFP on Sunday that on Thursday, the women got together with their carts to go and gather leaves and wild fruits in the bush as there was nothing left to eat. ALSO READ | Somalia: Eight killed in roadside bombing, Al-Shabaab claims responsibility Another resident, a male, said that when the women did not come back on Thursday evening, "we thought that their carts had had a problem. But three survivors came back to tell us what happened." This resident said that on Friday, eight kilometres north of Arbinda, about 20 women who were not informed of the first abduction, were in turn taken. "In both groups, some women managed to escape and returned to the village on foot. We believe that the kidnappers took them to their bases," he added. The commune of Arbinda is located in the Sahel region of northern Burkina Faso, an area under blockade by jihadist groups and with limited food supplies. ALSO READ | DR Congo | Five killed, 15 injured in bombing in church; Ugandan militant group likely behind attack: Report These abductions come after nine people were killed in a mosque attack in Goulgountou village of Sahel on Wednesday when suspected jihadists arrived on motorcycles and herded worshippers inside (mosque). "They separated the women, children and elderly and then made sermons to try to convince worshippers of abandoning their form of faith," a witness told AFP, adding "A discussion even started up with the imam, and because he refused he was executed." Eight other worshippers in the mosque, who were mainly community leaders, were killed. And in November last year, at least 14 people were killed in two separate attacks by jihadist groups in Burkina Faso's north. Since 2015, the country has been battling a jihadist offensive in which thousands of civilians and security forces personnel have been killed and around two million people have been displaced. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fifty women abducted by suspected Jihadists in northern Burkina Faso: Report

Thousands of people were lining up in Beijing to receive a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">Covid-19 vaccine</a> as China races to innoculate millions before the Chinese New Year mass travel season in February.

More than 73,000 people in the Chinese capital have received the first dose of the vaccine over the last couple of days, state media reported Sunday, including community workers and bus drivers.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-private-clinics-seek-indias-covaxin-vaccine-354288" hreflang="en">Brazil's private clinics seek India's COVAXIN vaccine</a>

Health authorities on New Year's Eve granted "conditional" approval to a vaccine candidate made by Chinese pharma giant Sinopharm, which the company said had a 79 per cent efficacy rate.

Footage from state broadcaster CCTV showed queues outside local hospitals and community health centres as people waited to read consent forms and have their temperatures taken before getting the jab.

Health officials said gyms and empty factories were among centres being used for the vaccination programme.

China plans to vaccinate millions this winter in the run-up to Lunar New Year in mid-February.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-approves-sii-and-bharat-biotechs-covid-19-vaccines-for-restricted-emergency-use-354141" hreflang="en">India approves SII and Bharat Biotech's Covid-19 vaccines for restricted emergency use</a>

Beijing has already administered around 4.5 million doses of largely unproven emergency vaccines this year — mostly to health workers and other state employees destined for overseas jobs, according to authorities.

But China now plans a gradual rollout for the vaccine starting with key groups considered to have a high risk of exposure to the virus, including port and logistic workers and people planning to return to studies abroad.

China — where the coronavirus first emerged late in 2019 -- has broadly stamped out the virus inside its borders, introducing swift local lockdowns and mass testing when cases emerge.&nbsp;

But the country has stepped up testing and movement controls after a recent spate of small local outbreaks, including a handful of cases in Beijing.

Thousands of people were lining up in Beijing to receive a Covid-19 vaccine as China races to innoculate millions before the Chinese New Year mass travel season in February.

Thousands of people were lining up in Beijing to receive a Covid-19 vaccine as China races to innoculate millions before the Chinese New Year mass travel season in February. More than 73,000 people in the Chinese capital have received the first dose of the vaccine over the last couple of days, state media reported Sunday, including community workers and bus drivers. Also read| Brazil's private clinics seek India's COVAXIN vaccine Health authorities on New Year's Eve granted "conditional" approval to a vaccine candidate made by Chinese pharma giant Sinopharm, which the company said had a 79 per cent efficacy rate. Footage from state broadcaster CCTV showed queues outside local hospitals and community health centres as people waited to read consent forms and have their temperatures taken before getting the jab. Health officials said gyms and empty factories were among centres being used for the vaccination programme. China plans to vaccinate millions this winter in the run-up to Lunar New Year in mid-February. Also read| India approves SII and Bharat Biotech's Covid-19 vaccines for restricted emergency use Beijing has already administered around 4.5 million doses of largely unproven emergency vaccines this year — mostly to health workers and other state employees destined for overseas jobs, according to authorities. But China now plans a gradual rollout for the vaccine starting with key groups considered to have a high risk of exposure to the virus, including port and logistic workers and people planning to return to studies abroad. China — where the coronavirus first emerged late in 2019 -- has broadly stamped out the virus inside its borders, introducing swift local lockdowns and mass testing when cases emerge. But the country has stepped up testing and movement controls after a recent spate of small local outbreaks, including a handful of cases in Beijing.

Beijing vaccinates thousands in COVID-19 jab drive

Libyans celebrate 8th anniversary of 2011 revolution

At least 29 people died when a cruise boat capsized in poor weather on Saturday in Lake Victoria, Uganda, the deputy police spokesman said on Sunday.&nbsp;

Police had said on Saturday at least 10 people were dead following the accident off Uganda’s Mukono district, close to the capital Kampala. 
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“The boat was overloaded and secondly there was bad weather,” Patrick Onyango told Reuters, adding the boat was carrying 84 people. He did not say what the boat’s capacity was.

Another 26 people had been rescued from the water, Onyango said, a lower figure than the initial 40 given by the police on Saturday. He attributed the discrepancy to some survivors’ failure to register with the police.

“Our rescue team is still on the ground trying to rescue whoever we can find,” he said. Among those rescued on Saturday was Prince Daudi Kintu Wasajja, a brother of Ronald Mutebi, the king of Buganda kingdom, Uganda’s largest, police said.

The East African nation has several kingdoms, whose kings wield considerable social clout but little political influence.

At least 29 people died when a cruise boat capsized in poor weather on Saturday in Lake Victoria, Uganda, the deputy police spokesman said on Sunday. Police had said on Saturday at least 10 people were dead following the accident off Uganda’s Mukono district, close to the capital Kampala.

At least 29 people died when a cruise boat capsized in poor weather on Saturday in Lake Victoria, Uganda, the deputy police spokesman said on Sunday. Police had said on Saturday at least 10 people were dead following the accident off Uganda’s Mukono district, close to the capital Kampala. Advertising “The boat was overloaded and secondly there was bad weather,” Patrick Onyango told Reuters, adding the boat was carrying 84 people. He did not say what the boat’s capacity was. Another 26 people had been rescued from the water, Onyango said, a lower figure than the initial 40 given by the police on Saturday. He attributed the discrepancy to some survivors’ failure to register with the police. “Our rescue team is still on the ground trying to rescue whoever we can find,” he said. Among those rescued on Saturday was Prince Daudi Kintu Wasajja, a brother of Ronald Mutebi, the king of Buganda kingdom, Uganda’s largest, police said. The East African nation has several kingdoms, whose kings wield considerable social clout but little political influence.

Death toll from Uganda boat cruise accident jumps to 29

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