Why Norway is making artificial snow in winter

A Portuguese hacker, Rui Pinto, leaked information relating to Angola's former president's daughter Isabel dos Santos syphoning off state funds to build her own business empire, his lawyers said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/angola-vows-to-bring-isabel-dos-santos-back-to-the-country-by-all-possible-means-275666">Also Read:&nbsp;Angola vows to bring Isabel dos Santos by 'all possible means'</a> 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Isabel dos Santos, who is reportedly also the founder of "Football Leaks", was represented by his lawyers William Bourdon and Francisco Teixeira da Mota who said Pinto gave a hard drive with the documents to the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa (PPLAAF) in 2018 who then sent it to New York-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) who were responsible for releasing the data on Isabel dos Santos.

The lawyers added that Pinto, 31, was behind the "Luanda Leaks" and said that he is a "very important European whistleblower".

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-angolas-isabel-dos-santos-stole-a-fortune-275559/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Pinto is currently in detention in a Portugal jail over an alleged hacking of an investment fund Doyen Sports.

Pinto's lawyers said the documents on Isabel contained "all the actors that might be involved in the fraudulent operations committed at the expense of the Angolan State".

Angola's chief prosecutor had said on Friday that Isabel had invested money in Portugal which was embezzled from the country by "illicit means" even as Isabel dos Santos denied the charges declaring it "misleading and untrue".

Angola's prosecutor general Helder Pitra Gros had said his government will use all possible means to bring back Isabel dos Santos.

Isabel who is considered the richest woman in Africa gathered $2.2 billion allegedly by profiteering from her father ex-president Jose Eduardo dos Santos who ruled the country for nearly four decades.

At least 7,15,000 emails, contracts, accounts and audits of Isabel dos Santos business deals were leaked in an investigation called "Luanda leaks".

A Portuguese hacker, Rui Pinto, leaked information relating to Angola's former president's daughter Isabel dos Santos syphoning off state funds to build her own business empire, his lawyers said.

A Portuguese hacker, Rui Pinto, leaked information relating to Angola's former president's daughter Isabel dos Santos syphoning off state funds to build her own business empire, his lawyers said. Also Read: Angola vows to bring Isabel dos Santos by 'all possible means' Isabel dos Santos, who is reportedly also the founder of "Football Leaks", was represented by his lawyers William Bourdon and Francisco Teixeira da Mota who said Pinto gave a hard drive with the documents to the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa (PPLAAF) in 2018 who then sent it to New York-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) who were responsible for releasing the data on Isabel dos Santos. The lawyers added that Pinto, 31, was behind the "Luanda Leaks" and said that he is a "very important European whistleblower". Watch Video: Pinto is currently in detention in a Portugal jail over an alleged hacking of an investment fund Doyen Sports. Pinto's lawyers said the documents on Isabel contained "all the actors that might be involved in the fraudulent operations committed at the expense of the Angolan State". Angola's chief prosecutor had said on Friday that Isabel had invested money in Portugal which was embezzled from the country by "illicit means" even as Isabel dos Santos denied the charges declaring it "misleading and untrue". Angola's prosecutor general Helder Pitra Gros had said his government will use all possible means to bring back Isabel dos Santos. Isabel who is considered the richest woman in Africa gathered $2.2 billion allegedly by profiteering from her father ex-president Jose Eduardo dos Santos who ruled the country for nearly four decades. At least 7,15,000 emails, contracts, accounts and audits of Isabel dos Santos business deals were leaked in an investigation called "Luanda leaks".

Portuguese hacker behind leaking Angola ex-president daughter's fortune: Lawyers

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-trip-to-get-costlier-as-schengen-visa-fee-hiked-to-eu80-from-february-2-274424">Europe</a>'s main equity markets plunged at the open on Monday, mirroring losses elsewhere on investor panic over the deadly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-china-reports-2744-confirmed-cases-of-80-deaths-276738">coronavirus</a>.

In initial trades, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/london-braces-for-republic-day-protest-by-pakistan-backed-groups-276458">London</a>'s benchmark FTSE 100 index of major blue-chip companies sank 1.6 per cent to 7,468.72 points compared with the close on Friday.

In the eurozone, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/deutsche-bank-predicts-meagre-growth-due-to-low-rates-267435">Frankfurt</a>'s DAX 30 index also lost 1.6 percent to 13,359.03 points and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-cancels-lunar-new-year-parade-due-to-chinas-viral-outbreak-276669">Paris</a> CAC 40 dived 1.7 per cent to 5,923.36.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-economy-at-its-weakest-pace-since-global-financial-crisis-international-monetary-fund-256126"> World economy at its weakest pace since global financial crisis: International Monetary Fund</a>

"Market participants in Europe have grave concerns about&nbsp;coronavirus&nbsp;as the death toll increased to 80&nbsp;and more than 2,700 victims infected in China," said Ava Trade analyst Naeem Aslam.

He added: "The bottom line is that the virus has become deadly and it has caused a major panic in markets."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-coronavirus-dos-and-donts-symptoms-276479">Also read:Wuhan coronavirus: Dos and don'ts, symptoms&nbsp;</a>

The outbreak of the&nbsp;coronavirus&nbsp;has led <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-china-reports-2744-confirmed-cases-of-80-deaths-276738">China</a> to lock down the epicentre of the disease, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-coronavirus-dos-and-donts-symptoms-276479">Wuhan</a>,&nbsp;a city of 11 million people, while also imposing tight travel restrictions on a number of other cities including Beijing.

Europe's main equity markets plunged at the open on Monday, mirroring losses elsewhere on investor panic over the deadly coronavirus. In initial trades, London's benchmark FTSE 100 index of major blue-chip companies sank 1.

Europe's main equity markets plunged at the open on Monday, mirroring losses elsewhere on investor panic over the deadly coronavirus. In initial trades, London's benchmark FTSE 100 index of major blue-chip companies sank 1.6 per cent to 7,468.72 points compared with the close on Friday. In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX 30 index also lost 1.6 percent to 13,359.03 points and the Paris CAC 40 dived 1.7 per cent to 5,923.36. Also read: World economy at its weakest pace since global financial crisis: International Monetary Fund "Market participants in Europe have grave concerns about coronavirus as the death toll increased to 80 and more than 2,700 victims infected in China," said Ava Trade analyst Naeem Aslam. He added: "The bottom line is that the virus has become deadly and it has caused a major panic in markets." Also read:Wuhan coronavirus: Dos and don'ts, symptoms The outbreak of the coronavirus has led China to lock down the epicentre of the disease, Wuhan, a city of 11 million people, while also imposing tight travel restrictions on a number of other cities including Beijing.

European stocks sink as coronavirus sparks investor panic

The United States on Thursday slapped economic sanctions on four petroleum firms that US officials accuse of moving oil exports for the Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-esmail-qaani-a-look-at-new-leader-of-irans-quds-force-272083">Also Read:&nbsp;Man who replaces Soleimani -&nbsp;Meet Iran's Quds Force's new chief, Esmail Qaani</a>

The new sanctions come three weeks after the US killing of the Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani in a missile strike that Washington claimed was preemptive.

The US Treasury identified four entities -- two based in Hong Kong, one in Shanghai and another in Dubai -- saying they had together transferred "hundreds of millions of dollars' worth" of exports from the National Iranian Oil Company, thereby helping finance the Quds Force.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gave-dramatic-account-of-soleimanis-last-minutes-before-death-report-275139">Also Read: Trump gave dramatic account of Soleimani's last minutes before death</a>

"Iran's petrochemical and petroleum sectors are a primary source of funding for the Iranian regime's global terrorist activities and enable its persistent use of violence against its own people," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.

Washington has recently also targeted other Iranian entities in the commodities, including metals companies and oil companies accused of supporting the Revolutionary Guards.

The firms targeted Tuesday are Triliance Petrochemical Co Ltd and Sage Energy HK Limited, both in Hong Kong, Peakview Industry Co Limited in Shanghai and Beneathco DMCC of Dubai.

The United States on Thursday slapped economic sanctions on four petroleum firms that US officials accuse of moving oil exports for the Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

The United States on Thursday slapped economic sanctions on four petroleum firms that US officials accuse of moving oil exports for the Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Also Read: Man who replaces Soleimani - Meet Iran's Quds Force's new chief, Esmail Qaani The new sanctions come three weeks after the US killing of the Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani in a missile strike that Washington claimed was preemptive. The US Treasury identified four entities -- two based in Hong Kong, one in Shanghai and another in Dubai -- saying they had together transferred "hundreds of millions of dollars' worth" of exports from the National Iranian Oil Company, thereby helping finance the Quds Force. Also Read: Trump gave dramatic account of Soleimani's last minutes before death "Iran's petrochemical and petroleum sectors are a primary source of funding for the Iranian regime's global terrorist activities and enable its persistent use of violence against its own people," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. Washington has recently also targeted other Iranian entities in the commodities, including metals companies and oil companies accused of supporting the Revolutionary Guards. The firms targeted Tuesday are Triliance Petrochemical Co Ltd and Sage Energy HK Limited, both in Hong Kong, Peakview Industry Co Limited in Shanghai and Beneathco DMCC of Dubai.

US sanctions 4 petroleum firms linked to Iran's Quds Force

Angola's chief prosecutor said on Friday that funds that Isabel dos Santos, who is accused of stealing millions of dollars from state companies, invested in Portugal had been embezzled from her home country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/angolas-ex-first-daughter-isabel-dos-santos-charged-with-fraud-276090">Also Read:&nbsp;Africa’s richest woman Isabel dos Santos charged with money laundering</a>

"Angola believes that the money used for business conducted by Isabel dos Santos in Portugal left Angola by illicit means," Helder Pitta Gros told the RTP television station on a trip to Lisbon.

The accusation comes a day after dos Santos, the tycoon daughter of Angola's ex-president, vowed she was ready to fight against what she called "misleading and untrue" allegations which have stretched across Angola's state oil and diamond industries and banks to Lisbon.

Angola's prosecutors accused dos Santos of mismanagement and embezzlement of funds during her tenure at Sonangol, Angola's state-owned oil giant which she headed during her father's rule.

Much of the allegedly misappropriated money was invested in Portugal, prosecutors believe.

Portuguese bank Eurobic said Wednesday that dos Santos had decided to sell her shares in the lender.

Angola's chief prosecutor said on Friday that funds that Isabel dos Santos, who is accused of stealing millions of dollars from state companies, invested in Portugal had been embezzled from her home country.

Angola's chief prosecutor said on Friday that funds that Isabel dos Santos, who is accused of stealing millions of dollars from state companies, invested in Portugal had been embezzled from her home country. Also Read: Africa’s richest woman Isabel dos Santos charged with money laundering "Angola believes that the money used for business conducted by Isabel dos Santos in Portugal left Angola by illicit means," Helder Pitta Gros told the RTP television station on a trip to Lisbon. The accusation comes a day after dos Santos, the tycoon daughter of Angola's ex-president, vowed she was ready to fight against what she called "misleading and untrue" allegations which have stretched across Angola's state oil and diamond industries and banks to Lisbon. Angola's prosecutors accused dos Santos of mismanagement and embezzlement of funds during her tenure at Sonangol, Angola's state-owned oil giant which she headed during her father's rule. Much of the allegedly misappropriated money was invested in Portugal, prosecutors believe. Portuguese bank Eurobic said Wednesday that dos Santos had decided to sell her shares in the lender.

Money used for business conducted by Isabel dos Santos in Portugal left Angola by illicit means: Prosecutor

The rate at which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/carbon-dioxide-concentration-in-atmosphere-hits-new-high-warns-un-7852">carbon dioxide</a> is being accumulated and emitted in the atmosphere can double the intensity of climate disasters within 21 years, according to a study.

The study describes how the atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) accumulation and its associated changes in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-action-on-climate-change-gets-stuck-and-what-to-do-about-it-275736">climatic patterns</a> contribute to the increased frequency of these disasters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/carbon-dioxide-concentration-in-atmosphere-hits-new-high-warns-un-7852">Carbon dioxide concentration in atmosphere hits new high, warns UN</a>

The study published in Climate, Disaster and Development journal&nbsp;used&nbsp;climate data from 155 countries from 1970 to 2016.&nbsp;

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/storm-gloria-swept-across-spain-with-strong-winds-heavy-snowfall-and-low-temperatures-276338">How storm Gloria swept across Spain with strong winds, heavy snowfall and low temperatures</a>

In a span of 46 years, the research assessed the factors that have contributed to the increase in the frequency of intense <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-floods-two-dead-in-flash-floods-that-shuts-tel-aviv-city-272234">flood</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/storm-gloria-swept-across-spain-with-strong-winds-heavy-snowfall-and-low-temperatures-276338">storm</a> events.

For this purpose, it&nbsp;adopted a statistical and econometric approach instead of climate models.

The results showed that a continuous increase in the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide along with socioeconomic factors&nbsp;significantly correlated with the increase in the number of extreme flood and storm events during the past four decades.

Moreover, the results reflected&nbsp;global climate conditions significantly affect the frequency of these disasters.

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/decarbonisation-is-name-of-the-game-climate-experts-tell-davos-leaders-276193/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The estimates in this study further suggest that if current trends in environmental degradation and the accumulation of carbon dioxide is not curbed, then the frequency of climate disasters is bound to increase.

The study also suggested&nbsp;that the intensity of floods and storms can double in 13 years.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-action-on-climate-change-gets-stuck-and-what-to-do-about-it-275736">Why action on climate change gets stuck and what to do about it</a>

The research is different from previous ones as it examines how the effects of climate are examined within a socio-economic framework.

This includes factors that turn natural hazards into intense disasters.&nbsp;These factors include people’s increasing exposure and their vulnerability to these hazards.

The rate at which carbon dioxide is being accumulated and emitted in the atmosphere can double the intensity of climate disasters within 21 years, according to a study.

The rate at which carbon dioxide is being accumulated and emitted in the atmosphere can double the intensity of climate disasters within 21 years, according to a study. The study describes how the atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) accumulation and its associated changes in climatic patterns contribute to the increased frequency of these disasters. Also read: Carbon dioxide concentration in atmosphere hits new high, warns UN The study published in Climate, Disaster and Development journal used climate data from 155 countries from 1970 to 2016. Also see: How storm Gloria swept across Spain with strong winds, heavy snowfall and low temperatures In a span of 46 years, the research assessed the factors that have contributed to the increase in the frequency of intense flood and storm events. For this purpose, it adopted a statistical and econometric approach instead of climate models. The results showed that a continuous increase in the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide along with socioeconomic factors significantly correlated with the increase in the number of extreme flood and storm events during the past four decades. Moreover, the results reflected global climate conditions significantly affect the frequency of these disasters. The estimates in this study further suggest that if current trends in environmental degradation and the accumulation of carbon dioxide is not curbed, then the frequency of climate disasters is bound to increase. The study also suggested that the intensity of floods and storms can double in 13 years. Also read: Why action on climate change gets stuck and what to do about it The research is different from previous ones as it examines how the effects of climate are examined within a socio-economic framework. This includes factors that turn natural hazards into intense disasters. These factors include people’s increasing exposure and their vulnerability to these hazards.

Intensity of floods, storms can double in 13 years: Study

US health officials confirmed today a woman in Chicago had contacted the SARS-like coronavirus with over fifty suspected cases under investigation.

This is the second case of the virus on US soil.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-26-dead-and-millions-on-lockdown-china-to-build-new-hospital-within-10-days-276334">Also Read:&nbsp;China Coronavirus -&nbsp;26 dead and millions on lockdown</a>

"I'm pleased to report she is clinically doing well and is in stable condition," Allison Arwady, commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health, said.&nbsp;

China's deadly coronavirus has now claimed 26 lives with around 887 people infected as authorities clampdown ten cities depriving it of public transport in an effort to control the outbreak.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-indian-embassy-in-beijing-opens-hotline-for-indians-276329">Also Read: First case of coronavirus reported in Nepal</a>

While China lockdown&nbsp;more cities to curb the spread of the virus, the World Health Organization(WHO) has not declared a global health emergency yet.

"Make no mistake, this is though an emergency in China but it has not yet become a global health emergency. It may yet become one," Adhanom, WHO director-general, said.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-present-latest-report-on-chinas-coronavirus-276383/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Currently, a record 41 million now face travel restrictions, Huangshi city in Hubei province became the latest to be under lockdown on Friday.

Meanwhile, Beijing and Shanghai have launched highest level emergency responses to the virus with authorities suspending plane operations and train services in and out of Wuhan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/wuhan-city-imposes-transport-lockdown-as-death-toll-rises-to-seventeen-276036">In Pics: Wuhan city imposes transport lockdown as death toll rises</a>

Authorities in Wuhan are now building a new hospital in less than ten days for patients affected by the virus which reportedly will have a capacity of 1,000 beds.

Reports say that the hospital will be located in the vicinity of Wuhan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-indian-embassy-in-beijing-opens-hotline-for-indians-276329">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian Embassy in Beijing opens hotline for Indians</a>

The Wuhan governor said while it was a tough choice, it was a necessary one.

"The government in Wuhan has made a decision to close all outbound ways. It was a tough choice. What worries us most is the inconvenience caused to local residents. Although we have taken some countermeasures to alleviate the situation, there are still many difficulties. We aim to use the temporary inconvenience in exchange for longstanding safety," Wang Xiaodong, Hubei's provincial governor said, adding, "We expect understanding and support from local people."

Amid the new restrictions, China's defence ministry said it is organising military medical experts to take part in the fight against the virus also&nbsp;Shanghai Disneyland announced on Friday that it would be closed from Saturday even as China's Lunar New Year begins from January 25.

US health officials confirmed today a woman in Chicago had contacted the SARS-like coronavirus with over fifty suspected cases under investigation. This is the second case of the virus on US soil.

US health officials confirmed today a woman in Chicago had contacted the SARS-like coronavirus with over fifty suspected cases under investigation. This is the second case of the virus on US soil. Also Read: China Coronavirus - 26 dead and millions on lockdown "I'm pleased to report she is clinically doing well and is in stable condition," Allison Arwady, commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health, said. China's deadly coronavirus has now claimed 26 lives with around 887 people infected as authorities clampdown ten cities depriving it of public transport in an effort to control the outbreak. Also Read: First case of coronavirus reported in Nepal While China lockdown more cities to curb the spread of the virus, the World Health Organization(WHO) has not declared a global health emergency yet. "Make no mistake, this is though an emergency in China but it has not yet become a global health emergency. It may yet become one," Adhanom, WHO director-general, said. Watch Video: Currently, a record 41 million now face travel restrictions, Huangshi city in Hubei province became the latest to be under lockdown on Friday. Meanwhile, Beijing and Shanghai have launched highest level emergency responses to the virus with authorities suspending plane operations and train services in and out of Wuhan. In Pics: Wuhan city imposes transport lockdown as death toll rises Authorities in Wuhan are now building a new hospital in less than ten days for patients affected by the virus which reportedly will have a capacity of 1,000 beds. Reports say that the hospital will be located in the vicinity of Wuhan Also Read: Indian Embassy in Beijing opens hotline for Indians The Wuhan governor said while it was a tough choice, it was a necessary one. "The government in Wuhan has made a decision to close all outbound ways. It was a tough choice. What worries us most is the inconvenience caused to local residents. Although we have taken some countermeasures to alleviate the situation, there are still many difficulties. We aim to use the temporary inconvenience in exchange for longstanding safety," Wang Xiaodong, Hubei's provincial governor said, adding, "We expect understanding and support from local people." Amid the new restrictions, China's defence ministry said it is organising military medical experts to take part in the fight against the virus also Shanghai Disneyland announced on Friday that it would be closed from Saturday even as China's Lunar New Year begins from January 25.

US confirms second case of coronavirus, at least 50 under investigation

Russia's defence minister said on Friday it is sending out invitations to NATO states to take part in annual Moscow-led military drills called the "International Army Games."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-years-of-delays-nato-receives-us-made-spy-drones-268798">Also Read:&nbsp;After years of delays, NATO receives US-made spy drones</a>

Defence minister Sergei Shoigu has invited "troops from 90 countries including NATO members," the ministry said on its website.

The games include events such as tank biathlon, where tank crews practise shooting, as well as an obstacle course.&nbsp;

This year's games will focus on "security as a whole, medical care and logistics," and should be visually entertaining, Shoigu said.

Around 6,000 troops were expected to take part in the event that runs from late August to early September, the ministry said.

Last year, several EU countries sent observers and Greece took part.

The games, which have been held since 2015, usually include former Communist regimes such as China, Vietnam and Angola, as well as Moscow allies like Iran.

NATO and Russia often spook each other with war games close to the border between Russia and eastern flank NATO allies.

Russia's defence minister said on Friday it is sending out invitations to NATO states to take part in annual Moscow-led military drills called the "International Army Games.

Russia's defence minister said on Friday it is sending out invitations to NATO states to take part in annual Moscow-led military drills called the "International Army Games." Also Read: After years of delays, NATO receives US-made spy drones Defence minister Sergei Shoigu has invited "troops from 90 countries including NATO members," the ministry said on its website. The games include events such as tank biathlon, where tank crews practise shooting, as well as an obstacle course. This year's games will focus on "security as a whole, medical care and logistics," and should be visually entertaining, Shoigu said. Around 6,000 troops were expected to take part in the event that runs from late August to early September, the ministry said. Last year, several EU countries sent observers and Greece took part. The games, which have been held since 2015, usually include former Communist regimes such as China, Vietnam and Angola, as well as Moscow allies like Iran. NATO and Russia often spook each other with war games close to the border between Russia and eastern flank NATO allies.

Russia to invite NATO members for international Army games: Defence minister Shoigu

At least six people were killed and several more injured in a shooting in southwestern Germany, police said on Friday.

The shooter, believed to have a personal motive, launched an assault in the town of Rot am See.

A police spokesman in nearby Aalen told AFP that "several" people were wounded.

A man with a personal connection to the victims had been arrested, the spokesman said.

The Bild newspaper reported that the people killed were all family members of the shooter, adding that the perpetrator was a man born in 1983.

The shooting took place at around 12:45 local time (11:45 GMT) near the train station at Rot am See, a town of 5,200 residents near Heidelberg.&nbsp;

Mass shootings are a comparatively rare occurrence in Germany, although in October a far-right attacker shot two people dead in eastern city Halle after trying to get into a packed synagogue with home-made weapons.

In July 2016, a teenager used a pistol bought illegally online to kill nine people in a shooting spree at a Munich shopping centre, before turning the weapon on himself.

At least six people were killed and several more injured in a shooting in southwestern Germany, police said on Friday. The shooter, believed to have a personal motive, launched an assault in the town of Rot am See.

At least six people were killed and several more injured in a shooting in southwestern Germany, police said on Friday. The shooter, believed to have a personal motive, launched an assault in the town of Rot am See. A police spokesman in nearby Aalen told AFP that "several" people were wounded. A man with a personal connection to the victims had been arrested, the spokesman said. The Bild newspaper reported that the people killed were all family members of the shooter, adding that the perpetrator was a man born in 1983. The shooting took place at around 12:45 local time (11:45 GMT) near the train station at Rot am See, a town of 5,200 residents near Heidelberg. Mass shootings are a comparatively rare occurrence in Germany, although in October a far-right attacker shot two people dead in eastern city Halle after trying to get into a packed synagogue with home-made weapons. In July 2016, a teenager used a pistol bought illegally online to kill nine people in a shooting spree at a Munich shopping centre, before turning the weapon on himself.

At least 6 killed, several injured after man opens fire in southwestern Germany

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-arrives-at-un-court-for-genocide-hearings-267407">Myanmar</a> has put in place measures to protect Rohingya Muslims, a spokesman for the ruling party said on Friday, shrugging off an order from the International Court of Justice a day earlier to stop genocidal acts against the ethnic minority.

The Hague-based court-ordered Myanmar to protect the persecuted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-rohingya-crisis-what-to-watch-for-in-2019-187973">Rohingya</a> against further atrocities and preserve evidence of alleged crimes, after mostly Muslim Gambia launched a lawsuit in November accusing Myanmar of genocide.

"The government is already doing most of the orders," Myo Nyunt, a spokesman for the ruling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-court-frames-new-charges-against-saffron-revolution-leader-1522">National League for Democracy</a>, told Reuters by phone, without elaborating.

"One more thing we need to do is submit reports," he said, referring to one of several measures approved by the court requiring Myanmar to write regular summaries of its progress.

But he said the civilian government, who rule jointly with the military in an awkward constitutional arrangement that reserves great powers for the commander-in-chief, could not control troops.

"Under the current political circumstances, we have difficulties solving some issues - such as the (order) that the government must ensure its military or armed insurgents do not commit genocide or attempt to commit genocide against Rohingya or Bengali," he said.

More than 730,000 Rohingya fled western Rakhine state for neighbouring Bangladesh in 2017 to escape a military-led crackdown that the U.N has said was executed with genocidal intent. Myanmar says the military campaign was a legitimate counter-insurgency operation launched in response to militant attacks on security forces.

Some 600,000 Rohingya remain inside Myanmar, confined in apartheid-like conditions to camps and villages, unable to freely access healthcare and education.

They are derided as "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-call-them-bengalis-call-them-bangladesh-says-pakistan-skipper-sarfaraz-ahmed-to-journo-234088">Bengalis</a>", implying they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, despite tracing their history in Rakhine back centuries.

The court said in its judgment on Thursday it did not accept Myanmar’s assertion that it has been taking steps to facilitate the return of refugees, promote peace in Rakhine, and hold the military accountable through domestic mechanisms.

"In particular, the Court notes that Myanmar has not presented to the Court concrete measures aimed specifically at recognizing and ensuring the right of the Rohingya to exist as a protected group under the Genocide Convention," it said.

While Thursday's ruling was an emotional victory for the minority, who have for decades fought to prove their existence as an ethnic group, legal analysts said it will be difficult to force Myanmar to comply.

In a statement late Thursday, the ministry of foreign affairs said it had noted the ruling but did not mention specific steps it was taking. The next morning the front page of the state-run newspaper the Global New Light of Myanmar read: "Myanmar takes note of ICJ decision. There was no genocide in Rakhine".

While the measures are legally binding, there is no enforcement mechanism.

In separate statements on Friday, Britain and Malaysia urged Myanmar to fully implement the measures. UN&nbsp;human rights spokeswoman Liz Throssell told a UN&nbsp;briefing in Geneva the office "calls on Myanmar to immediately and unconditionally implement them in full".

"We know that there are limitations but it’s very important for the Rohingya community in Bangladesh and in Myanmar to know that the world has heard them, the highest court in the land has made this decision," said human rights lawyer Antonia Mulvey.

Kobsak Chutikul, a Thai diplomat who in 2018 quit a government-appointed panel set up to probe the alleged atrocities, said he feared the government would "delay and obfuscate" once the spotlight faded.

Of dozens of people interviewed by Reuters in Yangon, Myanmar's commercial capital, only two were aware of the judgment, and neither of them paid much heed.

"I already knew that Myanmar would lose this case since the other side is funded by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-times-islamic-countries-honoured-pm-modi-with-their-highest-awards-245560">Islamic countries</a>," said a civil servant, who also asked not to be named.

Myanmar has put in place measures to protect Rohingya Muslims, a spokesman for the ruling party said on Friday, shrugging off an order from the International Court of Justice a day earlier to stop genocidal acts against the ethnic minority.

Myanmar has put in place measures to protect Rohingya Muslims, a spokesman for the ruling party said on Friday, shrugging off an order from the International Court of Justice a day earlier to stop genocidal acts against the ethnic minority. The Hague-based court-ordered Myanmar to protect the persecuted Rohingya against further atrocities and preserve evidence of alleged crimes, after mostly Muslim Gambia launched a lawsuit in November accusing Myanmar of genocide. "The government is already doing most of the orders," Myo Nyunt, a spokesman for the ruling National League for Democracy, told Reuters by phone, without elaborating. "One more thing we need to do is submit reports," he said, referring to one of several measures approved by the court requiring Myanmar to write regular summaries of its progress. But he said the civilian government, who rule jointly with the military in an awkward constitutional arrangement that reserves great powers for the commander-in-chief, could not control troops. "Under the current political circumstances, we have difficulties solving some issues - such as the (order) that the government must ensure its military or armed insurgents do not commit genocide or attempt to commit genocide against Rohingya or Bengali," he said. More than 730,000 Rohingya fled western Rakhine state for neighbouring Bangladesh in 2017 to escape a military-led crackdown that the U.N has said was executed with genocidal intent. Myanmar says the military campaign was a legitimate counter-insurgency operation launched in response to militant attacks on security forces. Some 600,000 Rohingya remain inside Myanmar, confined in apartheid-like conditions to camps and villages, unable to freely access healthcare and education. They are derided as "Bengalis", implying they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, despite tracing their history in Rakhine back centuries. The court said in its judgment on Thursday it did not accept Myanmar’s assertion that it has been taking steps to facilitate the return of refugees, promote peace in Rakhine, and hold the military accountable through domestic mechanisms. "In particular, the Court notes that Myanmar has not presented to the Court concrete measures aimed specifically at recognizing and ensuring the right of the Rohingya to exist as a protected group under the Genocide Convention," it said. While Thursday's ruling was an emotional victory for the minority, who have for decades fought to prove their existence as an ethnic group, legal analysts said it will be difficult to force Myanmar to comply. In a statement late Thursday, the ministry of foreign affairs said it had noted the ruling but did not mention specific steps it was taking. The next morning the front page of the state-run newspaper the Global New Light of Myanmar read: "Myanmar takes note of ICJ decision. There was no genocide in Rakhine". While the measures are legally binding, there is no enforcement mechanism. In separate statements on Friday, Britain and Malaysia urged Myanmar to fully implement the measures. UN human rights spokeswoman Liz Throssell told a UN briefing in Geneva the office "calls on Myanmar to immediately and unconditionally implement them in full". "We know that there are limitations but it’s very important for the Rohingya community in Bangladesh and in Myanmar to know that the world has heard them, the highest court in the land has made this decision," said human rights lawyer Antonia Mulvey. Kobsak Chutikul, a Thai diplomat who in 2018 quit a government-appointed panel set up to probe the alleged atrocities, said he feared the government would "delay and obfuscate" once the spotlight faded. Of dozens of people interviewed by Reuters in Yangon, Myanmar's commercial capital, only two were aware of the judgment, and neither of them paid much heed. "I already knew that Myanmar would lose this case since the other side is funded by the Islamic countries," said a civil servant, who also asked not to be named.

Myanmar already protecting Rohingyas, says ruling party after ICJ order

Gold edged down on Friday as the dollar rose and appetite for riskier assets improved after the World Health Organisation tempered fears of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gold-climbs-to-two-week-high-as-china-flu-scare-spurs-safe-haven-bids-275730">global coronavirus outbreak</a>.

Spot gold was 0.1 per cent lower at $1,561.18 per ounce by 1039 GMT but holding above the key $1,550 support level and en route to a post small weekly gain of about 0.3 per cent, as bets on easy monetary policy globally and lingering uncertainties on the world stage buoyed appetite for the safe haven.

US gold futures slipped 0.3 per cent to $1,560.80 per ounce. "Gold prices are facing headwinds from gaining equities and a stronger dollar but it is unlikely to fall below $1,520 as a bunch of geopolitical uncertainties still exist," Saxo Bank analyst Ole Hansen said.

European shares gained after the WHO designated the coronavirus outbreak an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-risk-assets-slip-on-chinese-virus-anxiety-275925">emergency for China</a> but not yet for the rest of the world. However, the spread of the virus ahead of the Lunar New Year, a peak period of travel and gold demand in China, kept investor concerns heightened.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/gold-climbs-to-two-week-high-as-china-flu-scare-spurs-safe-haven-bids-275730">Gold prices climb to two week high as China flu scare spurs safe haven bids</a>

Further, the dollar hovered close to a more than one and a half month high against a basket of currencies, making gold expensive for buyers holding other currencies. "With a low-interest-rate environment, geopolitical risks and uncertainties such as US President's impeachment, the conditions are still quite conducive to further upside in gold," ANZ analyst Daniel Hynes said.

<img alt="Effects of the virus evident on Chinese public" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba00019e-24c9-469e-a5ba-17cff2a92528" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2861%29_3.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Effects of the virus evident on Chinese public (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

After the European Central Bank left rates unchanged on Thursday, investors are looking to the US Federal Reserve's first meeting of the year scheduled on January 28-29.

However in the short-term, "the Libya oil issue and the coronavirus have not helped (gold) much and if this continues, we might see a challenging quarter ahead," Saxo Bank's Hansen said. Libya earlier this week declared force majeure on two major oilfields following a military blockade, and protests escalated in Iraq, pushing investors towards safe-haven assets.

Holdings of the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, SPDR Gold Trust, rose 0.2 per cent to 900.58 tonnes on Thursday. 
Elsewhere, palladium dipped 0.2 per cent to $2,457.10 per ounce and was on track to register its first weekly fall in five at about 0.7 per cent. 
Silver rose 0.3 per cent to $17.84 per ounce but was set to post its biggest weekly decline since early-December at nearly 1 per cent. Platinum rose 0.3 per cent to $1,004.64 but was down 1.3 per cent for the week, its worst since the week ended December 20. 
&nbsp;

Gold edged down on Friday as the dollar rose and appetite for riskier assets improved after the World Health Organisation tempered fears of a global coronavirus outbreak.

Gold edged down on Friday as the dollar rose and appetite for riskier assets improved after the World Health Organisation tempered fears of a global coronavirus outbreak. Spot gold was 0.1 per cent lower at $1,561.18 per ounce by 1039 GMT but holding above the key $1,550 support level and en route to a post small weekly gain of about 0.3 per cent, as bets on easy monetary policy globally and lingering uncertainties on the world stage buoyed appetite for the safe haven. US gold futures slipped 0.3 per cent to $1,560.80 per ounce. "Gold prices are facing headwinds from gaining equities and a stronger dollar but it is unlikely to fall below $1,520 as a bunch of geopolitical uncertainties still exist," Saxo Bank analyst Ole Hansen said. European shares gained after the WHO designated the coronavirus outbreak an emergency for China but not yet for the rest of the world. However, the spread of the virus ahead of the Lunar New Year, a peak period of travel and gold demand in China, kept investor concerns heightened. Also Read: Gold prices climb to two week high as China flu scare spurs safe haven bids Further, the dollar hovered close to a more than one and a half month high against a basket of currencies, making gold expensive for buyers holding other currencies. "With a low-interest-rate environment, geopolitical risks and uncertainties such as US President's impeachment, the conditions are still quite conducive to further upside in gold," ANZ analyst Daniel Hynes said. [ Effects of the virus evident on Chinese public (Courtesy: Reuters) ] After the European Central Bank left rates unchanged on Thursday, investors are looking to the US Federal Reserve's first meeting of the year scheduled on January 28-29. However in the short-term, "the Libya oil issue and the coronavirus have not helped (gold) much and if this continues, we might see a challenging quarter ahead," Saxo Bank's Hansen said. Libya earlier this week declared force majeure on two major oilfields following a military blockade, and protests escalated in Iraq, pushing investors towards safe-haven assets. Holdings of the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, SPDR Gold Trust, rose 0.2 per cent to 900.58 tonnes on Thursday. Elsewhere, palladium dipped 0.2 per cent to $2,457.10 per ounce and was on track to register its first weekly fall in five at about 0.7 per cent. Silver rose 0.3 per cent to $17.84 per ounce but was set to post its biggest weekly decline since early-December at nearly 1 per cent. Platinum rose 0.3 per cent to $1,004.64 but was down 1.3 per cent for the week, its worst since the week ended December 20.

Gold prices ease after WHO tempers coronavirus fears

UN officials have been instructed not to use Whatsapp, the app owned by Facebook. “The senior officials at the UN have been instructed not to use WhatsApp, it’s not supported as a secure mechanism,” was the justification given by UN spokesman Farhan Haq. The&nbsp;statement comes amid accusations levelled by Jeff Bezos on Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as the latter allegedly used a Whatsapp message to hack the Amazon CEO's iPhone.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in China, the&nbsp;fatal coronavirus death toll&nbsp;rose to 26 on Friday, with the Chinese government locking down millions in their cities in an attempt to control the spread of the deadly SARS-like virus.

Here are the top-10 world news of the day:

Coronavirus: 26 dead and millions on lockdown; China to build new hospital within 10 days

China is hurrying to assemble another emergency clinic in just 10 days to treat patients at the focal point of a fatal virus outbreak that has stricken several individuals, state media announced Friday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-26-dead-and-millions-on-lockdown-china-to-build-new-hospital-within-10-days-276334">Read More.</a>

Donald Trump 'should be removed': Adam Schiff

Lead House&nbsp;impeachment&nbsp;manager&nbsp;Adam Schiff&nbsp;called dramatically for the Senate to remove President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;from office, saying the US leader cannot be trusted to put the country's interests ahead of his own. "The American people deserve a president they can count on, to put their interest first," said Schiff.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-should-be-removed-impeachment-trial-276268">Read More</a>

UN instructs officials not to use WhatsApp; not supported as a secure mechanism, says spokesman

A UN spokesman has informed that UN officials not to&nbsp;use Facebook-owned Whatsapp to communicate.&nbsp;UN spokesman Farhan Haq said: “The senior officials at the UN have been instructed not to use WhatsApp, it’s not supported as a secure mechanism.” <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-instructs-officials-not-to-use-whatsapp-not-supported-as-a-secure-mechanism-says-spokesman-276367">Read More.</a>

Angry Saudis tweet to boycott Amazon over Crown Prince's alleged involvement in hacking Bezos' phone

Twitter is being flooded by pro-Saudi posts in defence of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who has been accused of&nbsp;hacking Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos' iPhone.&nbsp;Riyadh dismissed the accusations on Tuesday and called them&nbsp;absurd. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/angry-saudis-tweet-to-boycott-amazon-over-crown-princes-alleged-involvement-in-hacking-bezos-phone-276374">Read More.</a>

Musharraf seeks mercy from Pakistan President Alvi over death penalty

Former&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;President and ex-army general Pervez Musharaff has forwarded a mercy plea to&nbsp;President&nbsp;Dr Arif Alvi. In the&nbsp;petition sent by Musharaff to the President of Pakistan, he argued that he was unlawfully given the death penalty without being given an opportunity to contest the verdict.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/musharraf-pleas-pakistans-president-for-mercy-276378">Read More.</a>

Thousands join anti-US rally in Baghdad, rattling rival protesters

Thousands of supporters of volatile Iraqi cleric Moqtada Sadr gathered in&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;on Friday for a "million-strong" march to demand the ouster of US troops, putting the protest-hit capital on edge. "Get out, get out, occupier!" some shouted, while others chanted, "Yes to sovereignty!"&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-join-anti-us-rally-in-baghdad-rattling-rival-protesters-276332">Read More.</a>

Trump administration rolls back law preventing pollution in drinking water sources

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalised a move that removes millions of miles of streams and around 50 per cent of America’s wetlands from federal oversight, which will potentially give a free hand to pesticides and other pollutants be dumped without penalty. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-rolls-back-law-preventing-pollution-in-drinking-water-sources-276317">Read More.</a>

Malaysian rights group sues Singapore minister over false news law

Singapore's interior minister was sued Friday by a&nbsp;Malaysian&nbsp;human rights group in a bid to prevent the city-state from enforcing its law against false information in Malaysia. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-rights-group-sues-singapore-minister-over-false-news-law-276299">Read More.</a>

Philippines President Duterte threatens to end US military pact

Philippine President&nbsp;Rodrigo Duterte&nbsp;has threatened to end a pact key to annual war games with American troops if the US does not restore the travel visa of an official who oversaw his drug war. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-threatens-to-end-us-military-pact-276289">Read More.</a>

Locust plague devastates crops in Horn of Africa

Swarms of desert locusts are wreaking havoc across the Horn of Africa, having&nbsp;damaged tens of thousands of hectares&nbsp;so far, according to reports from the Food and Agriculture Organization.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/locust-plague-devastates-crops-in-horn-of-africa-276267">Read More.</a>

UN officials have been instructed not to use Whatsapp, the app owned by Facebook. “The senior officials at the UN have been instructed not to use WhatsApp, it’s not supported as a secure mechanism,” was the justification given by UN spokesman Farhan Haq.

UN officials have been instructed not to use Whatsapp, the app owned by Facebook. “The senior officials at the UN have been instructed not to use WhatsApp, it’s not supported as a secure mechanism,” was the justification given by UN spokesman Farhan Haq. The statement comes amid accusations levelled by Jeff Bezos on Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as the latter allegedly used a Whatsapp message to hack the Amazon CEO's iPhone. Meanwhile, in China, the fatal coronavirus death toll rose to 26 on Friday, with the Chinese government locking down millions in their cities in an attempt to control the spread of the deadly SARS-like virus. Here are the top-10 world news of the day: Coronavirus: 26 dead and millions on lockdown; China to build new hospital within 10 days China is hurrying to assemble another emergency clinic in just 10 days to treat patients at the focal point of a fatal virus outbreak that has stricken several individuals, state media announced Friday. Read More. Donald Trump 'should be removed': Adam Schiff Lead House impeachment manager Adam Schiff called dramatically for the Senate to remove President Donald Trump from office, saying the US leader cannot be trusted to put the country's interests ahead of his own. "The American people deserve a president they can count on, to put their interest first," said Schiff.Read More UN instructs officials not to use WhatsApp; not supported as a secure mechanism, says spokesman A UN spokesman has informed that UN officials not to use Facebook-owned Whatsapp to communicate. UN spokesman Farhan Haq said: “The senior officials at the UN have been instructed not to use WhatsApp, it’s not supported as a secure mechanism.” Read More. Angry Saudis tweet to boycott Amazon over Crown Prince's alleged involvement in hacking Bezos' phone Twitter is being flooded by pro-Saudi posts in defence of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who has been accused of hacking Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos' iPhone. Riyadh dismissed the accusations on Tuesday and called them absurd. Read More. Musharraf seeks mercy from Pakistan President Alvi over death penalty Former Pakistan President and ex-army general Pervez Musharaff has forwarded a mercy plea to President Dr Arif Alvi. In the petition sent by Musharaff to the President of Pakistan, he argued that he was unlawfully given the death penalty without being given an opportunity to contest the verdict. Read More. Thousands join anti-US rally in Baghdad, rattling rival protesters Thousands of supporters of volatile Iraqi cleric Moqtada Sadr gathered in Baghdad on Friday for a "million-strong" march to demand the ouster of US troops, putting the protest-hit capital on edge. "Get out, get out, occupier!" some shouted, while others chanted, "Yes to sovereignty!" Read More. Trump administration rolls back law preventing pollution in drinking water sources The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalised a move that removes millions of miles of streams and around 50 per cent of America’s wetlands from federal oversight, which will potentially give a free hand to pesticides and other pollutants be dumped without penalty. Read More. Malaysian rights group sues Singapore minister over false news law Singapore's interior minister was sued Friday by a Malaysian human rights group in a bid to prevent the city-state from enforcing its law against false information in Malaysia. Read More. Philippines President Duterte threatens to end US military pact Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has threatened to end a pact key to annual war games with American troops if the US does not restore the travel visa of an official who oversaw his drug war. Read More. Locust plague devastates crops in Horn of Africa Swarms of desert locusts are wreaking havoc across the Horn of Africa, having damaged tens of thousands of hectares so far, according to reports from the Food and Agriculture Organization. Read More.

Top 10 world news today: Coronavirus death toll rises in China, UN on WhatsApp and more

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