<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidFl8QTzHAtqSD" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Lin Hui, a 21-year-old giant panda who became a country favourite in Thailand died on Wednesday at the Chiang Mai Zoo in Chiang Mai province - six months before she was due to return home in China. Lin was sent to Thailand on a long-term loan from China as part of the 'panda' diplomacy programme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cause of Lin's death is not immediately clear but according to Thai media, she became ill on Tuesday morning as her nose was seen bleeding when she laid down after a meal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wutthichai Muangmun, the zoo director stated that she was rushed to a joint Thai-Chinese veterinarian team but her condition deteriorated and she died early Wednesday morning. Muangmun informed that the zoo had a $435,000 insurance policy in the name of Lin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“China is saddened by the death of the giant panda Lin Hui,” Wang Wenbin, a foreign ministry spokesperson, said in Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that China “immediately organised experts to guide the Thai side to carry out rescue work through video link" after hearing about Lin's health but unfortunately, it could not be enough. Beijing has stated that a team of experts will be constituted to carry out a joint investigation into the cause of Lin's death.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millions-of-chinese-watch-farewell-party-for-panda-soon-to-come-home-582011" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Millions of Chinese watch farewell party for panda soon to come home</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Last giant panda in Thailand</strong></h2>

<p>Notably,<strong>&nbsp;</strong>Lin Hui was the last of the three pandas in Thailand. She was brought to the south-east Asian country in 2003 on a 10-year loan but managed to stay beyond it for being a crowd favourite.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lin Hui and her mate Chuang Chuang made headlines across the globe when they were shown "panda pornography" in an attempt to improve their physical intimacy.</p>

<p>After the efforts yielded no result, the zoo officials used artificial insemination to impregnate Lin who gave birth to Lin Ping in 2009. A 24-hour "Panda Channel" that aired between 2009 and 2012 in Thailand managed to turn Lin into a household name.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/giant-panda-tuan-tuan-gifted-by-china-to-taiwan-dies-535709"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Giant Panda Tuan Tuan, gifted by China to Taiwan, dies</strong></a></p>

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<p>After her death, Srettha Thavisin, a prime ministerial candidate for the country's opposition Pheu Thai Party tweeted a message, remembering how the panda had brought joy to Thais over the years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thank you Lin Hui or "Kham Euai", the Lanna name of this female giant panda. Goodwill Ambassador between Thailand and the People's Republic of China who has spent nearly 20 years creating happiness for Thai people to smile and enjoy the cuteness," tweeted Thavisin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But another angle reminds us of the hearts of animals that have been raised in zoos all their lives. whether this is the best thing for them or not."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="th">ขอบคุณ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%B8%AB%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%AE%E0%B8%B8%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%A2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#หลินฮุ่ย</a> หรือ "คำเอื้อย" ชื่อล้านนาของแพนด้ายักษ์เพศเมียตัวนี้ ทูตสันถวไมตรีระหว่างไทยและสาธารณรัฐประชาชนจีน ที่ได้ใช้เวลาเกือบ 20 ปีสร้างความสุข ให้คนไทยได้ยิ้ม และสนุกเพลิดเพลินไปกับความน่ารักน่าชัง… <a href="https://t.co/0Piph5YoTQ">pic.twitter.com/0Piph5YoTQ</a></p>
— Srettha Thavisin (@Thavisin) <a href="https://twitter.com/Thavisin/status/1648541726645305344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The average life expectancy of a giant panda is about 15 years. However, in captivity, some have managed to live for as long as 38 years. Though keeping pandas away from their natural habitat may not go down well with some, it is part of decades-old conservation efforts that have led to an increase in their population.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The species was facing extinction at a time with fewer than 1,000 remaining but since the start of conservation efforts, the numbers have increased to 1,800 in the wild and captivity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Lin Hui, a 21-year-old giant panda who became a country favourite in Thailand died on Wednesday at the Chiang Mai Zoo in Chiang Mai province - six months before she was due to return home in China.

Lin Hui, a 21-year-old giant panda who became a country favourite in Thailand died on Wednesday at the Chiang Mai Zoo in Chiang Mai province - six months before she was due to return home in China. Lin was sent to Thailand on a long-term loan from China as part of the 'panda' diplomacy programme. The cause of Lin's death is not immediately clear but according to Thai media, she became ill on Tuesday morning as her nose was seen bleeding when she laid down after a meal. Wutthichai Muangmun, the zoo director stated that she was rushed to a joint Thai-Chinese veterinarian team but her condition deteriorated and she died early Wednesday morning. Muangmun informed that the zoo had a $435,000 insurance policy in the name of Lin. “China is saddened by the death of the giant panda Lin Hui,” Wang Wenbin, a foreign ministry spokesperson, said in Beijing. He added that China “immediately organised experts to guide the Thai side to carry out rescue work through video link" after hearing about Lin's health but unfortunately, it could not be enough. Beijing has stated that a team of experts will be constituted to carry out a joint investigation into the cause of Lin's death. ALSO READ | Millions of Chinese watch farewell party for panda soon to come home Last giant panda in Thailand Notably, Lin Hui was the last of the three pandas in Thailand. She was brought to the south-east Asian country in 2003 on a 10-year loan but managed to stay beyond it for being a crowd favourite. Lin Hui and her mate Chuang Chuang made headlines across the globe when they were shown "panda pornography" in an attempt to improve their physical intimacy. After the efforts yielded no result, the zoo officials used artificial insemination to impregnate Lin who gave birth to Lin Ping in 2009. A 24-hour "Panda Channel" that aired between 2009 and 2012 in Thailand managed to turn Lin into a household name. WATCH | Giant Panda Tuan Tuan, gifted by China to Taiwan, dies × After her death, Srettha Thavisin, a prime ministerial candidate for the country's opposition Pheu Thai Party tweeted a message, remembering how the panda had brought joy to Thais over the years. "Thank you Lin Hui or "Kham Euai", the Lanna name of this female giant panda. Goodwill Ambassador between Thailand and the People's Republic of China who has spent nearly 20 years creating happiness for Thai people to smile and enjoy the cuteness," tweeted Thavisin. "But another angle reminds us of the hearts of animals that have been raised in zoos all their lives. whether this is the best thing for them or not." ขอบคุณ #หลินฮุ่ย หรือ "คำเอื้อย" ชื่อล้านนาของแพนด้ายักษ์เพศเมียตัวนี้ ทูตสันถวไมตรีระหว่างไทยและสาธารณรัฐประชาชนจีน ที่ได้ใช้เวลาเกือบ 20 ปีสร้างความสุข ให้คนไทยได้ยิ้ม และสนุกเพลิดเพลินไปกับความน่ารักน่าชัง… pic.twitter.com/0Piph5YoTQ — Srettha Thavisin (@Thavisin) April 19, 2023 × The average life expectancy of a giant panda is about 15 years. However, in captivity, some have managed to live for as long as 38 years. Though keeping pandas away from their natural habitat may not go down well with some, it is part of decades-old conservation efforts that have led to an increase in their population. The species was facing extinction at a time with fewer than 1,000 remaining but since the start of conservation efforts, the numbers have increased to 1,800 in the wild and captivity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Female giant panda on loan from China dies suddenly in Thai zoo, Beijing to investigate cause of death

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<p>The Eastern European country of Moldova on Wednesday summoned the Russian ambassador to expel a member of embassy staff. The envoy was called to declare the embassy member persona non grata.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Daniel Vode, the government press secretary, the decision was related to actions of the Russian embassy staff towards the Moldovan border guards who denied entry to a delegation led by Russian politician Rustam Minnikhanov earlier this week at the Chisinau airport&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Minnikhanov, governor of Russia's Tatarstan region was scheduled to attend a forum in the semi-autonomous Gagauzia region, which holds elections on April 30 to name the head of its government. However, Moldova perceived Minnikhanov's visit as an attempt to interfere with the internal politics of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Supporting a candidate at local elections in Moldova is not a valid reason and the authorities ask Russian bureaucrats to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of our country," the border guard service said in a statement released.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moldova is wary of Moscow attempting to destabilise the country, especially in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. It is perhaps one of the reasons why Moldova applied to join the European Union last year alongside Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leaked-document-reveals-russias-secret-plans-to-destabilise-neighbour-moldova-over-10-years-572807" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Clandestine document reveals Russia's secret plans to destabilise neighbour Moldova over a 10 year period</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Russia plans to destabilise Moldova: Report</strong></h2>

<p>Recently, a 'clandestine' document accessed by CNN showed Russia's secret plan to destabilise Moldova over a 10-year period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The document titled "Strategic objectives of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Moldova" was written in 2021 by the Russian security service FSB. It lays out a 10-year strategy to bring the former Soviet republic nation to its knees.</p>

<p>Five pages long and divided into short, medium and long-term aims, the secret document goes into detail about how to bring Moldova into the Russian sphere of influence.</p>

<p>The report states that Moscow will support pro-Russian groups in Moldova, make use of the orthodox church and eventually threaten to cut off supplies of natural gas after making the nation dependent on Russian supplies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/secret-kremlin-document-how-russia-plans-to-overturn-moldova-573089"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Secret Kremlin Document: How Russia PLANS to overturn Moldova</strong></a></p>

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<p>When quizzed about the report, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said they [Moscow] knew nothing about the existence of such a report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I do not rule out that this is another fake. Russia has always been and remains open to building good-neighbourly, mutually beneficial relations, including with Moldova," said Peskov.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to the release of the report, USA's National Security Council coordinator for strategic communications John Kirby said that Moscow is wary of the pro-western government in Moldova and hence deployed individuals connected to Russian intelligence in order to foment insurrection.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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The Eastern European country of Moldova on Wednesday summoned the Russian ambassador to expel a member of embassy staff. The envoy was called to declare the embassy member persona non grata.

The Eastern European country of Moldova on Wednesday summoned the Russian ambassador to expel a member of embassy staff. The envoy was called to declare the embassy member persona non grata. According to Daniel Vode, the government press secretary, the decision was related to actions of the Russian embassy staff towards the Moldovan border guards who denied entry to a delegation led by Russian politician Rustam Minnikhanov earlier this week at the Chisinau airport Notably, Minnikhanov, governor of Russia's Tatarstan region was scheduled to attend a forum in the semi-autonomous Gagauzia region, which holds elections on April 30 to name the head of its government. However, Moldova perceived Minnikhanov's visit as an attempt to interfere with the internal politics of the country. "Supporting a candidate at local elections in Moldova is not a valid reason and the authorities ask Russian bureaucrats to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of our country," the border guard service said in a statement released. Moldova is wary of Moscow attempting to destabilise the country, especially in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. It is perhaps one of the reasons why Moldova applied to join the European Union last year alongside Ukraine. ALSO READ | Clandestine document reveals Russia's secret plans to destabilise neighbour Moldova over a 10 year period Russia plans to destabilise Moldova: Report Recently, a 'clandestine' document accessed by CNN showed Russia's secret plan to destabilise Moldova over a 10-year period. The document titled "Strategic objectives of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Moldova" was written in 2021 by the Russian security service FSB. It lays out a 10-year strategy to bring the former Soviet republic nation to its knees. Five pages long and divided into short, medium and long-term aims, the secret document goes into detail about how to bring Moldova into the Russian sphere of influence. The report states that Moscow will support pro-Russian groups in Moldova, make use of the orthodox church and eventually threaten to cut off supplies of natural gas after making the nation dependent on Russian supplies. WATCH | Secret Kremlin Document: How Russia PLANS to overturn Moldova × When quizzed about the report, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said they [Moscow] knew nothing about the existence of such a report. "I do not rule out that this is another fake. Russia has always been and remains open to building good-neighbourly, mutually beneficial relations, including with Moldova," said Peskov. Prior to the release of the report, USA's National Security Council coordinator for strategic communications John Kirby said that Moscow is wary of the pro-western government in Moldova and hence deployed individuals connected to Russian intelligence in order to foment insurrection. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moldova summons Russian ambassador to fire embassy staffer after altercation with border guards

<p>Lawmakers in USA's Iowa state senate on Tuesday passed a controversial bill that allows minors to work longer hours and&nbsp;serve alcohol in restaurants, which is banned under current labour laws. The bill passed 32-17 with most Republicans supporting it barring two.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sens. Charlie McClintock and Jeff Taylor protested against the legislation and joined the Democratic party in the opposition. Under the bill's language, minors between 16 and 17 will be allowed to work till 9:00 pm during the school year and until 11:00 pm over the summer. Kids in the same age bracket can serve alcohol at restaurants if their parents sign a declaration, granting them permission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the bill states that anyone under the age of 18 can do 'light' assembly line or packaging work s long as machines are not involved. It prohibits 14 and 15-year-olds from any mining or manufacturing work.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-begins-crackdown-against-child-labour-566870"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US&nbsp;begins crackdown against child labour</strong></a></p>

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<p>To become a law, the bill will have to be passed by the House, which may not be a big issue since it is controlled by the Republicans. Afterwards, Governor Kim Reynolds will have to approve the law and she appears to be in its favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Ultimately, parents and kids will decide if they want to work or not. It teaches the kids a lot. And if they have the time to do it and they want to earn some additional money, I don’t think we should discourage that," said Reynolds.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Democrats against the legislation&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Democrats have staunchly protested against the legislation saying it will endanger children by allowing them to work in dangerous fields.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“No Iowa teenager should be working in America’s deadliest jobs.&nbsp;Iowa Republican politicians want to solve the...workforce crisis on the literal backs of children," said&nbsp;Zach Wahls, the senate minority leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Democrats attempted to include additional amendments to the bill like offering additional workers' compensation benefits to any teen that got injured on the job but could not be successful.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Every parent wants their kids to grow up with every opportunity to succeed, not risk an early death by working in dangerous jobs.The legislation passed by the Senate tonight is every parent's worst nightmare," Charlie Wishman, the president of the Iowa Federation of Labor AFL-CIO was quoted as saying by Insider.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-moves-to-contain-alarming-increase-in-child-labour-566778"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;US moves to contain 'alarming' increase in child labour</strong></a></p>

<p>Since 2018, the number of illegally employed minors has increased by two-thirds in the USA. This uptick in child labour coincided with the massive influx of unaccompanied children trying to escape poverty and violence in Latin America. In the last fiscal year alone, 130,000 children were referred to US government shelters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Lawmakers in USA's Iowa state senate on Tuesday passed a controversial bill that allows minors to work longer hours and serve alcohol in restaurants, which is banned under current labour laws.

Lawmakers in USA's Iowa state senate on Tuesday passed a controversial bill that allows minors to work longer hours and serve alcohol in restaurants, which is banned under current labour laws. The bill passed 32-17 with most Republicans supporting it barring two. Sens. Charlie McClintock and Jeff Taylor protested against the legislation and joined the Democratic party in the opposition. Under the bill's language, minors between 16 and 17 will be allowed to work till 9:00 pm during the school year and until 11:00 pm over the summer. Kids in the same age bracket can serve alcohol at restaurants if their parents sign a declaration, granting them permission. Additionally, the bill states that anyone under the age of 18 can do 'light' assembly line or packaging work s long as machines are not involved. It prohibits 14 and 15-year-olds from any mining or manufacturing work. WATCH | US begins crackdown against child labour × To become a law, the bill will have to be passed by the House, which may not be a big issue since it is controlled by the Republicans. Afterwards, Governor Kim Reynolds will have to approve the law and she appears to be in its favour. “Ultimately, parents and kids will decide if they want to work or not. It teaches the kids a lot. And if they have the time to do it and they want to earn some additional money, I don’t think we should discourage that," said Reynolds. Democrats against the legislation Democrats have staunchly protested against the legislation saying it will endanger children by allowing them to work in dangerous fields. “No Iowa teenager should be working in America’s deadliest jobs. Iowa Republican politicians want to solve the...workforce crisis on the literal backs of children," said Zach Wahls, the senate minority leader. The Democrats attempted to include additional amendments to the bill like offering additional workers' compensation benefits to any teen that got injured on the job but could not be successful. "Every parent wants their kids to grow up with every opportunity to succeed, not risk an early death by working in dangerous jobs.The legislation passed by the Senate tonight is every parent's worst nightmare," Charlie Wishman, the president of the Iowa Federation of Labor AFL-CIO was quoted as saying by Insider. ALSO READ | US moves to contain 'alarming' increase in child labour Since 2018, the number of illegally employed minors has increased by two-thirds in the USA. This uptick in child labour coincided with the massive influx of unaccompanied children trying to escape poverty and violence in Latin America. In the last fiscal year alone, 130,000 children were referred to US government shelters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Iowa passes controversial bill to allow teens to work longer hours, serve alcohol

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak believes 100 per cent of individuals who do not have penises are women. In an interview with the website ConservativeHome, Sunak was asked to lend his opinion after opposition leader Keir Starmer said 99.9 per cent of women haven't got a penis, when faced with&nbsp;questions on the ongoing transgender debate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Sir Keir said recently that ‘99 per cent of women of course haven’t got a penis’. What percentage would you put it at?” the interviewer asked Sunak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Tory leader laughed initially before saying he had a “slightly different point of view to him on this.”</p>

<p>“I’ve been very clear that when it comes...on this topic, I think the first,' said Sunak before he was cut short and asked, “Do you think it’s 100 per cent?”</p>

<p>To which Sunak replied in the affirmative before adding, “But I think the first thing to say is we should always have compassion and understanding and tolerance for those who are thinking about their gender. Of course we should, right? We’re a compassionate and understanding society and we’ll always remember that.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-wont-happen-overnight-sunak-appears-defeatist-on-small-boats-channel-crossings-582456"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;'It won't happen overnight...': UK PM Rishi Sunak appears defeatist on illegal migrants issue</strong></a></p>

<p>The Conservatives are planning to go ahead with the pledge made during last year's leadership election to reform the legal definition of sex. If the said proposal goes through, sporting events organisers could exclude trans women from participating in women's competitions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sir Keir Starmer on 'what is a woman'</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, Labour chief Sir Keir Starmer caused a bit of row when he said trans rights cannot override women's rights, adding that 99.9 per cent&nbsp;of women "of course haven't got a penis."</p>

<p>Starmer asserted that a 'very small number' of people identified differently to the gender they were born with and called for an end to 'toxic divide' on trans issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, there has been a growing trend of sorts where politicians are asked what they mean by a 'woman' or who is a woman.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-risks-provoking-conservative-mps-says-migrant-pledge-is-complicated-wion-582431"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK PM Rishi Sunak risks provoking Conservative MPs, says 'migrant pledge is complicated' | WION</strong></a></p>

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<p>While the answer might have been simple back in the day, most politicians trudge a careful line so as not to offend a minority that does not cater to the traditional gender divisions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Newly crowned New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins was the prime example of that when he was asked the same question. Hipkins appeared hesitant and floundered while answering the question.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Um...to be honest that question has come slightly out of left field for me," said Hipkins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Well biology, sex, gender. Um," he paused before saying, "I wasn't expecting that question, so it wasn't something I pre-formulated an answer on. But in terms of gender identity, people identify for themselves."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak believes 100 per cent of individuals who do not have penises are women. In an interview with the website ConservativeHome, Sunak was asked to lend his opinion after opposition leader Keir Starmer said 99.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak believes 100 per cent of individuals who do not have penises are women. In an interview with the website ConservativeHome, Sunak was asked to lend his opinion after opposition leader Keir Starmer said 99.9 per cent of women haven't got a penis, when faced with questions on the ongoing transgender debate. “Sir Keir said recently that ‘99 per cent of women of course haven’t got a penis’. What percentage would you put it at?” the interviewer asked Sunak. The Tory leader laughed initially before saying he had a “slightly different point of view to him on this.” “I’ve been very clear that when it comes...on this topic, I think the first,' said Sunak before he was cut short and asked, “Do you think it’s 100 per cent?” To which Sunak replied in the affirmative before adding, “But I think the first thing to say is we should always have compassion and understanding and tolerance for those who are thinking about their gender. Of course we should, right? We’re a compassionate and understanding society and we’ll always remember that.” ALSO READ | 'It won't happen overnight...': UK PM Rishi Sunak appears defeatist on illegal migrants issue The Conservatives are planning to go ahead with the pledge made during last year's leadership election to reform the legal definition of sex. If the said proposal goes through, sporting events organisers could exclude trans women from participating in women's competitions. Sir Keir Starmer on 'what is a woman' Earlier this month, Labour chief Sir Keir Starmer caused a bit of row when he said trans rights cannot override women's rights, adding that 99.9 per cent of women "of course haven't got a penis." Starmer asserted that a 'very small number' of people identified differently to the gender they were born with and called for an end to 'toxic divide' on trans issues. Recently, there has been a growing trend of sorts where politicians are asked what they mean by a 'woman' or who is a woman. WATCH | UK PM Rishi Sunak risks provoking Conservative MPs, says 'migrant pledge is complicated' | WION × While the answer might have been simple back in the day, most politicians trudge a careful line so as not to offend a minority that does not cater to the traditional gender divisions. Newly crowned New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins was the prime example of that when he was asked the same question. Hipkins appeared hesitant and floundered while answering the question. "Um...to be honest that question has come slightly out of left field for me," said Hipkins. "Well biology, sex, gender. Um," he paused before saying, "I wasn't expecting that question, so it wasn't something I pre-formulated an answer on. But in terms of gender identity, people identify for themselves." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

British PM Sunak wades into trans debate, declares 100% women do not have penises

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<p>US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said the economic sanctions imposed by the US on countries across the board have put the dollar's dominance at stake. As the US continues to plaster sanctions willy-nilly, targeted nations are seeking alternatives which puts the USD in jeopardy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is a risk when we use financial sanctions that are linked to the role of the dollar that over time it could undermine the hegemony of the dollar," Yellen was quoted as saying by CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Of course, it does create a desire on the part of China, of Russia, of Iran to find an alternative," she said before adding, "But the dollar is used as a global currency for reasons that are not easy for other countries to find an alternative with the same properties."&nbsp;</p>

<p>After casting aspersions over the health of the USD, Yellen added that sanctions were an 'extremely important tool' if used by the US and its allies as "a coalition of partners acting together".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-releases-new-russia-sanctions-list-top-energy-telecom-firm-prime-target-in-list-582007" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | US releases new Russia sanctions list, top energy, telecom firm prime target in list</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-releases-fresh-sanctions-list-targetting-firms-individuals-supporting-russias-invasion-of-ukraine-582157#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<h2><strong>US imposes fresh sanctions</strong></h2>

<p>Yellen's response comes days after the US Treasury and State Departments sanctioned nearly 120 targets, including Chinese, UAE and Turkish firms to squeeze Russia for its ongoing war with Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts at the time suggested that sanctioning Turkish and UAE firms, which are US ally countries could have a negative effect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a miffed China released a statement calling USA's action&nbsp;an 'illegal' move.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It is a typical unilateral sanction and a form of ‘long-arm jurisdiction’ which seriously damages the legitimate rights and interests of enterprises and affects the security and stability of the global supply chain. China firmly opposes this,” read a statement released by the Chinese Commerce Ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-lodges-protests-after-us-sanctions-chinese-firms-dealing-with-russia-582783"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Beijing lodges protest after US sanctions Chinese firms dealing with Russia</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Has de-dollarisation started?</strong></h2>

<p>The USD has been the king of currencies since 1944 when it officially became the reserve currency of the world, Since then, the dollar has enjoyed a sort of domination that very few other currencies have experienced. Additionally, it has granted the US an insurmountable influence over other economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the de-dollarisation started especially since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war. Nations across the board have started asking&nbsp;if they can drop the USD and use other currencies to break the hegemony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, India inked an agreement with as many as 18 countries to trade in Indian rupees. More recently, New Delhi announced it had signed an agreement with Malaysia to start trading in INR.</p>

<p>Iran has also fully abandoned USD in its trade with China and Russia. Saudi Arabia, the centre of Islamic power and an OPEC member said it will abandon PetroDollar and accept PetroYuan.</p>

<p>Beijing is aggressively moving to present Yuan as an alternative to USD. It has been using global platforms such as the BRICS, SCO and OPEC to do its bidding.&nbsp;Russia is also increasingly using Yuan in international trade. It is also mulling launching a joint BRICS currency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to an IMF report, USD's global foreign-exchange reserves fell below 59 per cent in the final quarter of last year. The trend is expected to continue this year and Yellen's warning may suggest that the situation may have turned pear-shaped.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said the economic sanctions imposed by the US on countries across the board have put the dollar's dominance at stake. As the US continues to plaster sanctions willy-nilly, targeted nations are seeking alternatives which puts the USD in jeopardy.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said the economic sanctions imposed by the US on countries across the board have put the dollar's dominance at stake. As the US continues to plaster sanctions willy-nilly, targeted nations are seeking alternatives which puts the USD in jeopardy. "There is a risk when we use financial sanctions that are linked to the role of the dollar that over time it could undermine the hegemony of the dollar," Yellen was quoted as saying by CNN. "Of course, it does create a desire on the part of China, of Russia, of Iran to find an alternative," she said before adding, "But the dollar is used as a global currency for reasons that are not easy for other countries to find an alternative with the same properties." After casting aspersions over the health of the USD, Yellen added that sanctions were an 'extremely important tool' if used by the US and its allies as "a coalition of partners acting together". WATCH | US releases new Russia sanctions list, top energy, telecom firm prime target in list × US imposes fresh sanctions Yellen's response comes days after the US Treasury and State Departments sanctioned nearly 120 targets, including Chinese, UAE and Turkish firms to squeeze Russia for its ongoing war with Ukraine. Experts at the time suggested that sanctioning Turkish and UAE firms, which are US ally countries could have a negative effect. Meanwhile, a miffed China released a statement calling USA's action an 'illegal' move. “It is a typical unilateral sanction and a form of ‘long-arm jurisdiction’ which seriously damages the legitimate rights and interests of enterprises and affects the security and stability of the global supply chain. China firmly opposes this,” read a statement released by the Chinese Commerce Ministry. ALSO READ | Beijing lodges protest after US sanctions Chinese firms dealing with Russia Has de-dollarisation started? The USD has been the king of currencies since 1944 when it officially became the reserve currency of the world, Since then, the dollar has enjoyed a sort of domination that very few other currencies have experienced. Additionally, it has granted the US an insurmountable influence over other economies. However, the de-dollarisation started especially since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war. Nations across the board have started asking if they can drop the USD and use other currencies to break the hegemony. Last month, India inked an agreement with as many as 18 countries to trade in Indian rupees. More recently, New Delhi announced it had signed an agreement with Malaysia to start trading in INR. Iran has also fully abandoned USD in its trade with China and Russia. Saudi Arabia, the centre of Islamic power and an OPEC member said it will abandon PetroDollar and accept PetroYuan. Beijing is aggressively moving to present Yuan as an alternative to USD. It has been using global platforms such as the BRICS, SCO and OPEC to do its bidding. Russia is also increasingly using Yuan in international trade. It is also mulling launching a joint BRICS currency. According to an IMF report, USD's global foreign-exchange reserves fell below 59 per cent in the final quarter of last year. The trend is expected to continue this year and Yellen's warning may suggest that the situation may have turned pear-shaped. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US dollar may lose its dominance if nations are sanctioned, warns Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen

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<p>Atiq Ahmed, the notorious gangster, five-time MLA and once an MP from the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh was killed on live TV along with his brother Ashraf by a gang of three assassins on Saturday night. The incident took place when Ahmed&nbsp;and&nbsp;his brother Ashraf were being taken for a mandatory medical checkup in the Prayagraj district of the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>No sooner did Ahmed step out of the police car and start&nbsp;addressing the media that three assassins, posing as reporters, took everyone by surprise and&nbsp;pumped bullets into his head from a point-blank range.&nbsp;Before the police could react, several rounds of bullets were fired and Ahmed siblings were lying cold and lifeless on the asphalt. The assassins identified as Lavlesh Tiwari, Arun Maurya and Sunny threw their weapons and were instantly captured by the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though facing criminal charges in myriad cases, Ahmed was brought to Prayagraj from Sabarmati jail in the western Indian state of Gujarat for a hearing in the Umesh Pal murder case. Ahmed and his coterie of gangsters had indulged in the barbaric killing of Pal, who was a key witness in the 2005 Raju Pal murder case, in which Ahmed was charge-sheeted.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The killing of Ahmed has divided the public. While some argue that the gangster had it coming for his cauldron of crimes had&nbsp;been filled to the brim, others say it was a win for mobocracy, setting&nbsp;a dangerous precedent as India takes pride in being one of the biggest democracies in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Whatever end of the moral spectrum one finds themselves nestled in, one fact is clear that a gangster who had more than 100 cases lodged against him met a fate that he had predicted long ago. But who was Atiq Ahmed and why did the authorities remain hapless against him all these years?&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The genesis of Atiq Ahmed</strong></h2>

<p>Ahmed first made an impression in the crime alleys&nbsp;of Prayagraj (Allahabad as it was known back then) when he was accused of murder at the age of 17 in 1979. In 1983, the first FIR was registered against him and it was his formal foray into the criminal world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahmed remained at large from law enforcement authorities, primarily due to his political connections. He first contested the assembly elections from the Allahabad West seat in 1989 and emerged victorious. He went on to win the MLA election&nbsp;for five consecutive times, switching parties twice in between.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Having tasted power as an MLA, Ahmed took a step ahead and contested the Lok Sabha elections in 2004 on a Samajwadi Party ticket. He fought from Phulpur and secured access to the parliament and became a member of the 14th Lok Sabha. Notably, this was the same seat from where India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru won the general elections, a record three times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When it was pointed out that Ahmed contested from the same seat, he had this to say, “<em>Pandit ji ki tarah hum Naini Jail me bhi rahe hain. Woh kitab likhe wahan, humein apni history-sheet ki wajah se jana pada tha</em>&nbsp;(I have also stayed in Naini jail, like Nehru. There, he penned books and I went because of my history-sheet).”</p>

<p>By this point of time, Ahmed had amassed significant crime credit. However, it was the killing of BSP MLA Raju Pal that would eventually lead to his downfall and his murder which was broadcast&nbsp;live on primetime TV.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/atiq-ahmed-brother-ashraf-ahmed-shot-dead-in-prayagraj-a-day-after-sons-encounter-582837"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;India: Gangster Atiq Ahmad, brother Ashraf shot dead in Prayagraj, three attackers arrested</strong></a></p>

<p>After becoming a Member of Parliament (MP), Atiq left the assembly seat and gave&nbsp;the ticket to his brother Khalid Azim aka Ashraf. However, his opponent, Raju Pal, an OBC candidate, pitched by BSP, managed to defeat Ashraf.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To settle scores, Atiq launched several deadly attacks&nbsp;on Pal before eventually brutally murdering him in the Dhoomanganj area of the city on January 25, 2005. After court proceedings, both brothers were sent to prison but soon got out due to political affiliations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Atiq's end came just two days after his son Asad Ahmed, accused in the Umesh Pal murder case, was shot dead by the UP Special Task Force (STF) in an encounter in Jhansi.</p>

<p>In one of his meetings with journalists in the early 2000s, Ahmed prophesied that he knew how he would meet his maker.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>"Sab ko pata hota hai anjaam kya hona hai. Kab tak taala ja sakta hai, yeh sab (contesting election) iski hi jaddojahad hai&nbsp;</em>(We all know, as criminals, what will be our fate. Everyday is a struggle to escape this ordeal, and delay the inevitable)," he had philosophised.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-gangster-atiq-ahmed-and-his-brother-shot-dead-by-assailants-in-prayagraj-up-582884"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother shot dead by assailants in Prayagraj, UP&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What next from here?</strong></h2>

<p>Rarely has a killing taken place live on camera with an entire country watching on a late Saturday evening and shocked everyone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It might have been an instant catharsis for people who had been fighting a lost battle against Ahmed for years. As for others, it was another 'normal day' in the reign of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who has been waging a war against criminals and organised crime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the meantime, a&nbsp;three-member judicial enquiry committee has been formed to prepare a report on the killing of Atiq and his brother.</p>

<p>Retired Justice Arvind Kumar Tripathi of Allahabad High Court, retired IPC officer Subesh Kumar Singh and retired district judge Brijesh Kumar Soni have been included in the panel and ordered to submit a report to the state government in two months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of the last update, the three shooters have been sent to 14-day judicial custody by a court in Prayagraj.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Atiq Ahmed, the notorious gangster, five-time MLA and once an MP from the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh was killed on live TV along with his brother Ashraf by a gang of three assassins on Saturday night.

Atiq Ahmed, the notorious gangster, five-time MLA and once an MP from the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh was killed on live TV along with his brother Ashraf by a gang of three assassins on Saturday night. The incident took place when Ahmed and his brother Ashraf were being taken for a mandatory medical checkup in the Prayagraj district of the state. No sooner did Ahmed step out of the police car and start addressing the media that three assassins, posing as reporters, took everyone by surprise and pumped bullets into his head from a point-blank range. Before the police could react, several rounds of bullets were fired and Ahmed siblings were lying cold and lifeless on the asphalt. The assassins identified as Lavlesh Tiwari, Arun Maurya and Sunny threw their weapons and were instantly captured by the police. Though facing criminal charges in myriad cases, Ahmed was brought to Prayagraj from Sabarmati jail in the western Indian state of Gujarat for a hearing in the Umesh Pal murder case. Ahmed and his coterie of gangsters had indulged in the barbaric killing of Pal, who was a key witness in the 2005 Raju Pal murder case, in which Ahmed was charge-sheeted. The killing of Ahmed has divided the public. While some argue that the gangster had it coming for his cauldron of crimes had been filled to the brim, others say it was a win for mobocracy, setting a dangerous precedent as India takes pride in being one of the biggest democracies in the world. Whatever end of the moral spectrum one finds themselves nestled in, one fact is clear that a gangster who had more than 100 cases lodged against him met a fate that he had predicted long ago. But who was Atiq Ahmed and why did the authorities remain hapless against him all these years? The genesis of Atiq Ahmed Ahmed first made an impression in the crime alleys of Prayagraj (Allahabad as it was known back then) when he was accused of murder at the age of 17 in 1979. In 1983, the first FIR was registered against him and it was his formal foray into the criminal world. Ahmed remained at large from law enforcement authorities, primarily due to his political connections. He first contested the assembly elections from the Allahabad West seat in 1989 and emerged victorious. He went on to win the MLA election for five consecutive times, switching parties twice in between. Having tasted power as an MLA, Ahmed took a step ahead and contested the Lok Sabha elections in 2004 on a Samajwadi Party ticket. He fought from Phulpur and secured access to the parliament and became a member of the 14th Lok Sabha. Notably, this was the same seat from where India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru won the general elections, a record three times. When it was pointed out that Ahmed contested from the same seat, he had this to say, “Pandit ji ki tarah hum Naini Jail me bhi rahe hain. Woh kitab likhe wahan, humein apni history-sheet ki wajah se jana pada tha (I have also stayed in Naini jail, like Nehru. There, he penned books and I went because of my history-sheet).” By this point of time, Ahmed had amassed significant crime credit. However, it was the killing of BSP MLA Raju Pal that would eventually lead to his downfall and his murder which was broadcast live on primetime TV. ALSO READ | India: Gangster Atiq Ahmad, brother Ashraf shot dead in Prayagraj, three attackers arrested After becoming a Member of Parliament (MP), Atiq left the assembly seat and gave the ticket to his brother Khalid Azim aka Ashraf. However, his opponent, Raju Pal, an OBC candidate, pitched by BSP, managed to defeat Ashraf. To settle scores, Atiq launched several deadly attacks on Pal before eventually brutally murdering him in the Dhoomanganj area of the city on January 25, 2005. After court proceedings, both brothers were sent to prison but soon got out due to political affiliations. Atiq's end came just two days after his son Asad Ahmed, accused in the Umesh Pal murder case, was shot dead by the UP Special Task Force (STF) in an encounter in Jhansi. In one of his meetings with journalists in the early 2000s, Ahmed prophesied that he knew how he would meet his maker. "Sab ko pata hota hai anjaam kya hona hai. Kab tak taala ja sakta hai, yeh sab (contesting election) iski hi jaddojahad hai (We all know, as criminals, what will be our fate. Everyday is a struggle to escape this ordeal, and delay the inevitable)," he had philosophised. WATCH | Indian gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother shot dead by assailants in Prayagraj, UP × What next from here? Rarely has a killing taken place live on camera with an entire country watching on a late Saturday evening and shocked everyone. It might have been an instant catharsis for people who had been fighting a lost battle against Ahmed for years. As for others, it was another 'normal day' in the reign of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who has been waging a war against criminals and organised crime. In the meantime, a three-member judicial enquiry committee has been formed to prepare a report on the killing of Atiq and his brother. Retired Justice Arvind Kumar Tripathi of Allahabad High Court, retired IPC officer Subesh Kumar Singh and retired district judge Brijesh Kumar Soni have been included in the panel and ordered to submit a report to the state government in two months. As of the last update, the three shooters have been sent to 14-day judicial custody by a court in Prayagraj. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | Who was Atiq Ahmed? Indian gangster-turned-politician shot dead on live TV

<p>Indian mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed was killed by at least eight bullets according to a preliminary postmortem report released. The first bullet went through Ahmed's temple as was caught on live TV.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After being shot, Ahmed instantly fell down while his brother Ashraf Ahmed&nbsp;attempted to look at what happened but was also shot in flash. The full autopsy report is expected to reveal the extent of damage both brothers took.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The assassins identified as Lavlesh Tiwari, Arun Maurya and Sunny threw their weapons after firing over 20 rounds and were instantly apprehended by the police.&nbsp;As of the last update, the three shooters have been sent to 14-day judicial custody by a court in Prayagraj</p>

<p>Some media reports have claimed that Ahmed was ambushed just as he was starting to speak about the involvement of foreign actors.&nbsp;According to FIR registered in the case, Atiq claimed he had links with terror outfit&nbsp;Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) as well as Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In a statement Atiq had said that he had links with LeT and ISI. He said that an arms dealer who also arranges weapons for LeT supplied him weapons that came via drones from across the border. These included a 45 bore pistol, an AK 47, sten gun, RDX that came via Punjab border,” the FIR accessed by The Print noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-was-atiq-ahmed-indian-gangster-turned-politician-shot-dead-live-on-tv-583016"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Explained | Who was Atiq Ahmed? Indian</strong></a> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-was-atiq-ahmed-indian-gangster-turned-politician-shot-dead-live-on-tv-583016"><strong>gangster-turned-politician shot dead on live TV</strong></a></p>

<p>Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered the formation of a&nbsp;three-member judicial enquiry committee to prepare a comprehensive report on the killing of Atiq and his brother.</p>

<p>Retired Justice Arvind Kumar Tripathi of Allahabad High Court, retired IPC officer Subesh Kumar Singh and retired district judge Brijesh Kumar Soni have been included in the panel and ordered to submit a report in two months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the Prayagraj incident. He immediately convened a high-level meeting and issued instructions that the case be probed,"&nbsp;the government said in a press release.</p>

<p>The chief minister also issued instructions that a three-member judicial commission be set up. All three attackers have been arrested. The police are conducting an inquiry,” it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-gangster-atiq-ahmed-and-his-brother-shot-dead-by-assailants-in-prayagraj-up-582884"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother shot dead by assailants in Prayagraj, UP&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-gangster-atiq-ahmed-and-his-brother-shot-dead-by-assailants-in-prayagraj-up-582884/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

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<p>In the aftermath of Ahmed's death, the central government is mulling implementing a&nbsp;Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the safety and security of journalists. The shooting was caught on camera with several policemen as well as media personnel around. Any of the journalists on the spot could have easily received a bullet.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Indian mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed was killed by at least eight bullets according to a preliminary postmortem report released. The first bullet went through Ahmed's temple as was caught on live TV.

Indian mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed was killed by at least eight bullets according to a preliminary postmortem report released. The first bullet went through Ahmed's temple as was caught on live TV. After being shot, Ahmed instantly fell down while his brother Ashraf Ahmed attempted to look at what happened but was also shot in flash. The full autopsy report is expected to reveal the extent of damage both brothers took. The assassins identified as Lavlesh Tiwari, Arun Maurya and Sunny threw their weapons after firing over 20 rounds and were instantly apprehended by the police. As of the last update, the three shooters have been sent to 14-day judicial custody by a court in Prayagraj Some media reports have claimed that Ahmed was ambushed just as he was starting to speak about the involvement of foreign actors. According to FIR registered in the case, Atiq claimed he had links with terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) as well as Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI. “In a statement Atiq had said that he had links with LeT and ISI. He said that an arms dealer who also arranges weapons for LeT supplied him weapons that came via drones from across the border. These included a 45 bore pistol, an AK 47, sten gun, RDX that came via Punjab border,” the FIR accessed by The Print noted. ALSO READ | Explained | Who was Atiq Ahmed? Indian gangster-turned-politician shot dead on live TV Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered the formation of a three-member judicial enquiry committee to prepare a comprehensive report on the killing of Atiq and his brother. Retired Justice Arvind Kumar Tripathi of Allahabad High Court, retired IPC officer Subesh Kumar Singh and retired district judge Brijesh Kumar Soni have been included in the panel and ordered to submit a report in two months. “Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the Prayagraj incident. He immediately convened a high-level meeting and issued instructions that the case be probed," the government said in a press release. The chief minister also issued instructions that a three-member judicial commission be set up. All three attackers have been arrested. The police are conducting an inquiry,” it added. WATCH | Indian gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother shot dead by assailants in Prayagraj, UP × In the aftermath of Ahmed's death, the central government is mulling implementing a Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the safety and security of journalists. The shooting was caught on camera with several policemen as well as media personnel around. Any of the journalists on the spot could have easily received a bullet. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Atiq Ahmed's autopsy report reveals he was shot eight times

<p>Two days after being summonded by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday appeared before the central probe agency in the alleged excise policy scam case. Kejriwal is expected to appear as a witness in the case in which former deputy CM Manish Sisodia has already been jailed. With a faction of the party fearing that Kejriwal may also be jailed, some Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders met Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for an emergency meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to multiple reports seniors leaders such as Gopal Rai, Pankaj Gupta and other congregated at Mann's Kaurthala House in New Delhi to chart a future course of action.</p>

<p>The meeting was necessitated after party leaders including&nbsp;Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Atishi, Kailash Gahlot and Saurabh Bharadwaj were rounded up for protesting in front of the CBI office and detained to Najafgarh police station.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"More than 1500 people protesting in support of Arvind Kejriwal have been arrested by the police. Out of which 1379 people have been kept in different police stations and others are being rotated in buses," said AAP's Gopal Rai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kejriwal released a video message, prior to heading to the CBI office where he insinuated that CBI officers might dispatch him to jail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They (CBI) have called me today and I will definitely go. They are very powerful, they can send anyone to jail," said Kejriwal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-deputy-chief-minister-manish-sisodia-arrested-after-8-hour-grilling-566157"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia arrested after 8-hour grilling</strong></a></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, senior AAP leader Atishi said the entire country was standing with Kejriwal as CBI continued to hound&nbsp;him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Arvind Kejriwal has been called for questioning by CBI. They say that it is a scam of thousands of crores but till now they have not been able to prove that even a single rupee was embezzled. The entire country is with Arvind Kejriwal," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What is the excise policy scam?</strong></p>

<p>The AAP government brought in the excise policy to revolutionise the sale of liquor in Delhi by bringing in more private players. The rationale given was that the new policy will help generate optimum revenue while eradicating bootlegging and sale of spurious liquor.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-politician-manish-sisodia-arrested-by-indias-top-investigation-body-in-liquor-policy-row-566115" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: India: Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia arrested by CBI in liquor policy graft case</strong></a></p>

<p>However, corruption in the distribution of permits, bribery and fraud in the funneling of tender amounts meant that the initiative collapsed within a year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has been alleged that AAP leaders formulated the policy at the peak of pandemic to create illegal channels of funding.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Two days after being summonded by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday appeared before the central probe agency in the alleged excise policy scam case.

Two days after being summonded by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday appeared before the central probe agency in the alleged excise policy scam case. Kejriwal is expected to appear as a witness in the case in which former deputy CM Manish Sisodia has already been jailed. With a faction of the party fearing that Kejriwal may also be jailed, some Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders met Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for an emergency meeting. According to multiple reports seniors leaders such as Gopal Rai, Pankaj Gupta and other congregated at Mann's Kaurthala House in New Delhi to chart a future course of action. The meeting was necessitated after party leaders including Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Atishi, Kailash Gahlot and Saurabh Bharadwaj were rounded up for protesting in front of the CBI office and detained to Najafgarh police station. "More than 1500 people protesting in support of Arvind Kejriwal have been arrested by the police. Out of which 1379 people have been kept in different police stations and others are being rotated in buses," said AAP's Gopal Rai. Kejriwal released a video message, prior to heading to the CBI office where he insinuated that CBI officers might dispatch him to jail. “They (CBI) have called me today and I will definitely go. They are very powerful, they can send anyone to jail," said Kejriwal. WATCH | Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia arrested after 8-hour grilling × Meanwhile, senior AAP leader Atishi said the entire country was standing with Kejriwal as CBI continued to hound him. "Arvind Kejriwal has been called for questioning by CBI. They say that it is a scam of thousands of crores but till now they have not been able to prove that even a single rupee was embezzled. The entire country is with Arvind Kejriwal," she said. What is the excise policy scam? The AAP government brought in the excise policy to revolutionise the sale of liquor in Delhi by bringing in more private players. The rationale given was that the new policy will help generate optimum revenue while eradicating bootlegging and sale of spurious liquor. Read more: India: Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia arrested by CBI in liquor policy graft case However, corruption in the distribution of permits, bribery and fraud in the funneling of tender amounts meant that the initiative collapsed within a year. It has been alleged that AAP leaders formulated the policy at the peak of pandemic to create illegal channels of funding. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: AAP leaders conduct emergency meeting as CBI grills Kejriwal in excise scam

<p>After having changed the French President Emmanuel Macron's stance regarding the Taiwan issue, China is hoping that Germany starts accepting its version as well. Beijing's top diplomat Wang Yi said he&nbsp;“hopes and believes” Germany will support China’s “peaceful reunification” with Taiwan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wang made the statement during his meeting with German&nbsp;Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock who is on a state visit to the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“To maintain stability in the Taiwan Strait, it is necessary to firmly oppose separatist activities related to ‘Taiwan independence’,” said Wang, who added that Taiwan's 'return to China' was an important part of post-World War II international order.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Baerbock, meanwhile, did not deviate from the normal and stated that any escalation in the region would not be an ideal situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A military escalation in the Taiwan Strait, through which 50 per cent&nbsp;of world trade goes every day, would be a horror scenario for the entire world," said Baerbock.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/german-foreign-minister-baerbock-concludes-3-day-china-visit-582997"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;German Foreign Minister Baerbock concludes 3-day China visit</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>French president and his Taiwan version</strong></h2>

<p>The German side's comments were seemingly different from what Macron had said following his three-day state trip to Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron warned that the European Union must not take the US or Chinese side when it comes to the Taiwan issue. It was the first instance that Macron had displayed such clarity on the issue which has not gone down well with the allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The question Europeans need to answer...is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction,”&nbsp;Macron was quoted as saying in an interview after his recent visit to China.</p>

<p>“Stability in the Taiwan Strait is of paramount importance. The threat [of] the use of force to change the status quo is unacceptable," said the French president.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-backs-macrons-remarks-against-following-us-policy-on-taiwan-581808"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;China backs French President Macron’s remarks against following US policy on Taiwan</strong></a></p>

<p>Afterwards, Wang appreciated Macron and said his statements should not come as a surprise to anyone.</p>

<p>"We have noticed President Macron's view that Europe should insist on strategic autonomy and avoid getting involved in group confrontations has attracted some criticism, especially from the United States. We are not surprised by this."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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After having changed the French President Emmanuel Macron's stance regarding the Taiwan issue, China is hoping that Germany starts accepting its version as well.

After having changed the French President Emmanuel Macron's stance regarding the Taiwan issue, China is hoping that Germany starts accepting its version as well. Beijing's top diplomat Wang Yi said he “hopes and believes” Germany will support China’s “peaceful reunification” with Taiwan. Wang made the statement during his meeting with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock who is on a state visit to the country. “To maintain stability in the Taiwan Strait, it is necessary to firmly oppose separatist activities related to ‘Taiwan independence’,” said Wang, who added that Taiwan's 'return to China' was an important part of post-World War II international order. Baerbock, meanwhile, did not deviate from the normal and stated that any escalation in the region would not be an ideal situation. "A military escalation in the Taiwan Strait, through which 50 per cent of world trade goes every day, would be a horror scenario for the entire world," said Baerbock. WATCH | German Foreign Minister Baerbock concludes 3-day China visit × French president and his Taiwan version The German side's comments were seemingly different from what Macron had said following his three-day state trip to Beijing. Macron warned that the European Union must not take the US or Chinese side when it comes to the Taiwan issue. It was the first instance that Macron had displayed such clarity on the issue which has not gone down well with the allies. “The question Europeans need to answer...is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction,” Macron was quoted as saying in an interview after his recent visit to China. “Stability in the Taiwan Strait is of paramount importance. The threat [of] the use of force to change the status quo is unacceptable," said the French president. ALSO READ | China backs French President Macron’s remarks against following US policy on Taiwan Afterwards, Wang appreciated Macron and said his statements should not come as a surprise to anyone. "We have noticed President Macron's view that Europe should insist on strategic autonomy and avoid getting involved in group confrontations has attracted some criticism, especially from the United States. We are not surprised by this." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China 'hopes' Germany will support its 'peaceful reunification' with Taiwan

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<p>A plus-sized social media influencer in the USA has started a campaign for better accommodations in the aeroplanes for passengers that are a touch bigger. Jae’lynn Chaney from Vancouver, Washington has kicked off a petition on Change.org titled “Demand for the FAA to Protect Plus-Sized Customers" where she is demanding that air travel should be made comfortable and accessible for everyone, regardless of size.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of the last update, Chaney's petition had received over 4,000 signatures as she tagged United States Department of Transportation (USDT), Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and&nbsp;Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as the concerned authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chaney stated that she and her partner have had to experience discrimination and uncomfortable glances from the passengers when flying. She said her fiancé was subjected to hateful comments during a flight from Pasco to Denver which takes over two hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chaney added that on another flight she was forced to sit on a seat with immovable armrests that caused her bruises.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Being forced to occupy only one seat can result in pain and vulnerability to poor treatment from fellow passengers, including hateful comments, disapproving looks, and even refusal to sit next to them. This mistreatment of plus-size passengers is unacceptable, and it highlights the urgent need for better policies," read her statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, plus-size passengers often experience discomfort and discrimination when flying. The lack of a uniform customer-of-size airline policy is unacceptable and must be addressed."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-airlines-push-for-single-pilot-flights-536185" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | WION Dispatch: Airlines push for single-pilot flights</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Chaney lists the change in policies</strong></h2>

<p>In her petition, Chaney also enumerated the policies that could be implemented to ensure the flying experience becomes smoother for individuals.</p>

<p>She urged the&nbsp;FAA&nbsp;to provide accessible additional seats. The influencer said plus-size passengers should be provided with extra seat, or even two or three seats depending on their size.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, airlines should refund the plus-size passengers who purchase the additional seats which should be a 'straightforward process', according to Chaney.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Airlines must provide additional airport assistance to plus-size travellers if necessary, including wheelchair assistance and priority boarding. Airlines should also create accommodations for larger passengers, such as larger bathrooms, seat belt extenders, and alternative seating arrangements."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/delta-airlines-passenger-arrested-for-opening-emergency-door-deploying-exit-slide-at-lax-airport-576082" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Delta Airlines passenger arrested for opening emergency door, deploying exit slide at LAX airport&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>According to a Reuters report,&nbsp; FAA has no size requirement for airlines currently. The average seat width in the economy section is between 17 inches to 30 inches of legroom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, most airlines are not very accommodating when it comes to seats for the overweight or even those looking for comfort. Most budget airlines have cramped seating arrangements which makes it a nightmarish experience for even the fittest individuals to sit through a long journey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Instead of providing the service freely, the airlines charge a significant premium for seats with more legroom.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A plus-sized social media influencer in the USA has started a campaign for better accommodations in the aeroplanes for passengers that are a touch bigger. Jae’lynn Chaney from Vancouver, Washington has kicked off a petition on Change.

A plus-sized social media influencer in the USA has started a campaign for better accommodations in the aeroplanes for passengers that are a touch bigger. Jae’lynn Chaney from Vancouver, Washington has kicked off a petition on Change.org titled “Demand for the FAA to Protect Plus-Sized Customers" where she is demanding that air travel should be made comfortable and accessible for everyone, regardless of size. As of the last update, Chaney's petition had received over 4,000 signatures as she tagged United States Department of Transportation (USDT), Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as the concerned authorities. Chaney stated that she and her partner have had to experience discrimination and uncomfortable glances from the passengers when flying. She said her fiancé was subjected to hateful comments during a flight from Pasco to Denver which takes over two hours. Chaney added that on another flight she was forced to sit on a seat with immovable armrests that caused her bruises. "Being forced to occupy only one seat can result in pain and vulnerability to poor treatment from fellow passengers, including hateful comments, disapproving looks, and even refusal to sit next to them. This mistreatment of plus-size passengers is unacceptable, and it highlights the urgent need for better policies," read her statement. "Unfortunately, plus-size passengers often experience discomfort and discrimination when flying. The lack of a uniform customer-of-size airline policy is unacceptable and must be addressed." WATCH | WION Dispatch: Airlines push for single-pilot flights × Chaney lists the change in policies In her petition, Chaney also enumerated the policies that could be implemented to ensure the flying experience becomes smoother for individuals. She urged the FAA to provide accessible additional seats. The influencer said plus-size passengers should be provided with extra seat, or even two or three seats depending on their size. Moreover, airlines should refund the plus-size passengers who purchase the additional seats which should be a 'straightforward process', according to Chaney. "Airlines must provide additional airport assistance to plus-size travellers if necessary, including wheelchair assistance and priority boarding. Airlines should also create accommodations for larger passengers, such as larger bathrooms, seat belt extenders, and alternative seating arrangements." ALSO READ | Delta Airlines passenger arrested for opening emergency door, deploying exit slide at LAX airport According to a Reuters report, FAA has no size requirement for airlines currently. The average seat width in the economy section is between 17 inches to 30 inches of legroom. However, most airlines are not very accommodating when it comes to seats for the overweight or even those looking for comfort. Most budget airlines have cramped seating arrangements which makes it a nightmarish experience for even the fittest individuals to sit through a long journey. Instead of providing the service freely, the airlines charge a significant premium for seats with more legroom. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Plus-sized influencer starts petition for free and extra seats on airlines

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidKuWjBwhh55I1" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Days after being placed under house arrest, Eva Kaili, the Greek Member of European Parliament (MEP), charged with corruption in the Qatargate inquiry has said she will not return to her homeland Greece until her name is cleared.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kaili was released from prison on Friday and placed under house arrest in Belgium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If I do not succeed in convincing Belgian justice of my innocence, I shall never return to my home country," she was quoted as saying by a Greek weekly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My whole world came crashing down in December 2022 when I was informed by the media of accusations against my partner and the father of my child. There have been moments when I thought of putting an end to this torment... but the thought of my daughter kept me going," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-couple-at-the-heart-of-eu-corruption-scandal-544618"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The couple at the heart of EU Corruption scandal</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Court orders house arrest</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday, a Belgian court in its judgement placed Kaili under house arrest, pending trial. The judge ordered that kaili be fitted with a tracking bracelet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"She is under house arrest in Belgium and placed under electronic surveillance. The investigating judge has just made the decision," Antoon Schotsaert, a magistrate at the Belgian federal prosecutor's office was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-corruption-scandal-prime-accused-eva-kaili-granted-house-arrest-582013" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | EU corruption scandal: Prime accused Eva Kaili placed under house arrest</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Kaili claims innocence</strong></h2>

<p>Kaili was one of the first politicians to have been arrested in the cash-for-influence corruption probe which rocked the EU. Kaili, the former vice-president of the European Parliament has been accused of taking money from the governments of Qatar and Morocco to influence EU policy in their favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She was arrested in December last year when the Belgian police found at least $1.6 million (1.5mn euros) in cash from the houses of key suspects. Belgium's federal prosecutor released pictures of the cash found after raiding parliament offices and 19 homes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-corruption-scandal-eva-kaili-claims-innocence-says-she-feels-betrayed-by-partner-545416" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | EU corruption scandal: Eva Kaili claims innocence, says she feels betrayed by partner</strong></a></p>

<p>Nearly $164,000 was found at Kaili's apartment while a similar amount was found in her father's suitcase who was caught carrying it at the Brussels Sofitel Hotel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Essentially, the alleged&nbsp;bribe was paid to water down European criticism of Qatari labour ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, both governments have vehemently denied the allegations saying there was no wrongdoing on their part.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Days after being placed under house arrest, Eva Kaili, the Greek Member of European Parliament (MEP), charged with corruption in the Qatargate inquiry has said she will not return to her homeland Greece until her name is cleared.

Days after being placed under house arrest, Eva Kaili, the Greek Member of European Parliament (MEP), charged with corruption in the Qatargate inquiry has said she will not return to her homeland Greece until her name is cleared. Kaili was released from prison on Friday and placed under house arrest in Belgium. "If I do not succeed in convincing Belgian justice of my innocence, I shall never return to my home country," she was quoted as saying by a Greek weekly. "My whole world came crashing down in December 2022 when I was informed by the media of accusations against my partner and the father of my child. There have been moments when I thought of putting an end to this torment... but the thought of my daughter kept me going," she added. WATCH | Gravitas: The couple at the heart of EU Corruption scandal Court orders house arrest On Wednesday, a Belgian court in its judgement placed Kaili under house arrest, pending trial. The judge ordered that kaili be fitted with a tracking bracelet. "She is under house arrest in Belgium and placed under electronic surveillance. The investigating judge has just made the decision," Antoon Schotsaert, a magistrate at the Belgian federal prosecutor's office was quoted as saying by AFP. ALSO READ | EU corruption scandal: Prime accused Eva Kaili placed under house arrest Kaili claims innocence Kaili was one of the first politicians to have been arrested in the cash-for-influence corruption probe which rocked the EU. Kaili, the former vice-president of the European Parliament has been accused of taking money from the governments of Qatar and Morocco to influence EU policy in their favour. She was arrested in December last year when the Belgian police found at least $1.6 million (1.5mn euros) in cash from the houses of key suspects. Belgium's federal prosecutor released pictures of the cash found after raiding parliament offices and 19 homes. ALSO READ | EU corruption scandal: Eva Kaili claims innocence, says she feels betrayed by partner Nearly $164,000 was found at Kaili's apartment while a similar amount was found in her father's suitcase who was caught carrying it at the Brussels Sofitel Hotel. Essentially, the alleged bribe was paid to water down European criticism of Qatari labour ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, both governments have vehemently denied the allegations saying there was no wrongdoing on their part. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EU corruption scandal: Prime accused Kaili says won't return to Greece until name is cleared

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<p>A week after a United Arab Emirates court rejected South Africa's request to extradite the fugitive Gupta brothers, a damning report has named a well-known launderer that helped the Guptas siphon off state assets. The report published by Al-Jazeera named&nbsp;one Mohamed Khan, also known as Mo Dollars, as the one who allegedly pulled the strings from behind.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan is dubbed as the missing link in the case and the one who helped the Guptas bleed the country's exchequer dry. He is part of the gold mafia that is into smuggling and money laundering gangs operating in Southern Africa, the publication claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the lid was blown over the corruption saga of the Gupta brothers, the South African government formed an investigation panel named the 'Zondo Commission' in 2018. The panel identified three companies viz., Varlozone, Zokubyte and Coral General Traders as the epicentre of the fraud and capture of state funds.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Money vanished in thin air</strong></h2>

<p>However, the investigators never managed to identify the lynchpin who operated these fraudulent companies. Notably, the report claims that Khan, through his companies, transferred the looted money abroad on behalf of the Guptas. The money used to vanish soon and the investigators were left chasing nothing but invisible air.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The investigators made a connection when they found out that money funnelled through Varlozone went to Griffin Line General Trading — a Dubai-based company which was reportedly owned by the Gupta brothers. However, upon investigation, they found Varlozone was owned by Shah Bukhari who was only a frontman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We were basically looking at the flow of money into this network from the state capture and we knew it was going through a money laundering network,” a Zondo Commission investigator was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report alleged that Varlozone managed to launder as much as $1.8m of state capture money over a six-month period while Zokubyte laundered at least $600,000. Coral General Traders,&nbsp;the third company, acted as a temporary safe space for the funds which was parked there before being moved offshore.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gupta-brothers-nabbed-in-uae-duo-wanted-in-16mn-fraud-485962"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gupta Brothers nabbed in UAE | Duo wanted in $1.6mn fraud</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gupta-brothers-nabbed-in-uae-duo-wanted-in-16mn-fraud-485962/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-court-dismisses-south-africas-request-to-extradite-corruption-accused-gupta-brothers-580157#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<p>The money was moved using a process called 'merchanting' wherein fake invoices are created to insinuate that advance payment is being made in lieu of the import of goods. The reports claims that&nbsp;Sasfin Bank and its employees were in on the money laundering scheme. Khan had allegedly bribed the bank employees and the money used to flow through it without any hassle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Varlozone, Zokubyte, Coral, they all played the same role.&nbsp;You couldn’t utilise the same account on a daily basis. So, you would spread your funds across different accounts at different times across the week or a month," said&nbsp;Dawood Khan, Mohamed’s brother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the publication approached&nbsp;Mohamed Khan, he denied&nbsp;the allegations saying&nbsp;he had never met the Gupta brothers and declined using any of the companies identified to launder money.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The Gupta brothers</strong></h2>

<p>The two brothers named Atul and Rajesh Gupta were arrested in the UAE last year and face charges of political corruption involving former South African president Jacob Zuma. However, last week, South Africa's&nbsp;Justice Minister Ronald Lamola informed that the Arab nation had refused to hand them over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the evening of the 6th of April 2023, we were provided with a note verbale from the UAE in which we learnt with shock and dismay that an extradition hearing had been concluded in the UAE courts on the 13th of February 2023 and our extradition request was unsuccessful," said Lamola.</p>

<p>The UAE court noted it had the jurisdiction to prosecute the Guptas for money laundering offences that were carried out in the Arab country as well as South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-court-dismisses-south-africas-request-to-extradite-corruption-accused-gupta-brothers-580157" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | UAE court dismisses South Africa's request to extradite corruption-accused Gupta brothers</strong></a></p>

<p>The Gupta brothers have been accused of building a huge business empire in myriad fields such as media, mining and&nbsp;computer equipment — primarily due to the help of Zuma who also helped siphon off state assets from South Africa. According to reports, Gupta's cauldron of corruption may have cost the South African exchequer as much as $3.2 billion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A week after a United Arab Emirates court rejected South Africa's request to extradite the fugitive Gupta brothers, a damning report has named a well-known launderer that helped the Guptas siphon off state assets.

A week after a United Arab Emirates court rejected South Africa's request to extradite the fugitive Gupta brothers, a damning report has named a well-known launderer that helped the Guptas siphon off state assets. The report published by Al-Jazeera named one Mohamed Khan, also known as Mo Dollars, as the one who allegedly pulled the strings from behind. Khan is dubbed as the missing link in the case and the one who helped the Guptas bleed the country's exchequer dry. He is part of the gold mafia that is into smuggling and money laundering gangs operating in Southern Africa, the publication claimed. After the lid was blown over the corruption saga of the Gupta brothers, the South African government formed an investigation panel named the 'Zondo Commission' in 2018. The panel identified three companies viz., Varlozone, Zokubyte and Coral General Traders as the epicentre of the fraud and capture of state funds. Money vanished in thin air However, the investigators never managed to identify the lynchpin who operated these fraudulent companies. Notably, the report claims that Khan, through his companies, transferred the looted money abroad on behalf of the Guptas. The money used to vanish soon and the investigators were left chasing nothing but invisible air. The investigators made a connection when they found out that money funnelled through Varlozone went to Griffin Line General Trading — a Dubai-based company which was reportedly owned by the Gupta brothers. However, upon investigation, they found Varlozone was owned by Shah Bukhari who was only a frontman. “We were basically looking at the flow of money into this network from the state capture and we knew it was going through a money laundering network,” a Zondo Commission investigator was quoted as saying by the publication. The report alleged that Varlozone managed to launder as much as $1.8m of state capture money over a six-month period while Zokubyte laundered at least $600,000. Coral General Traders, the third company, acted as a temporary safe space for the funds which was parked there before being moved offshore. WATCH | Gupta Brothers nabbed in UAE | Duo wanted in $1.6mn fraud × The money was moved using a process called 'merchanting' wherein fake invoices are created to insinuate that advance payment is being made in lieu of the import of goods. The reports claims that Sasfin Bank and its employees were in on the money laundering scheme. Khan had allegedly bribed the bank employees and the money used to flow through it without any hassle. “Varlozone, Zokubyte, Coral, they all played the same role. You couldn’t utilise the same account on a daily basis. So, you would spread your funds across different accounts at different times across the week or a month," said Dawood Khan, Mohamed’s brother. When the publication approached Mohamed Khan, he denied the allegations saying he had never met the Gupta brothers and declined using any of the companies identified to launder money. The Gupta brothers The two brothers named Atul and Rajesh Gupta were arrested in the UAE last year and face charges of political corruption involving former South African president Jacob Zuma. However, last week, South Africa's Justice Minister Ronald Lamola informed that the Arab nation had refused to hand them over. "In the evening of the 6th of April 2023, we were provided with a note verbale from the UAE in which we learnt with shock and dismay that an extradition hearing had been concluded in the UAE courts on the 13th of February 2023 and our extradition request was unsuccessful," said Lamola. The UAE court noted it had the jurisdiction to prosecute the Guptas for money laundering offences that were carried out in the Arab country as well as South Africa. ALSO READ | UAE court dismisses South Africa's request to extradite corruption-accused Gupta brothers The Gupta brothers have been accused of building a huge business empire in myriad fields such as media, mining and computer equipment — primarily due to the help of Zuma who also helped siphon off state assets from South Africa. According to reports, Gupta's cauldron of corruption may have cost the South African exchequer as much as $3.2 billion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Africa-based gold mafia helped corruption-accused Gupta brothers launder money: Report

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