Violent crimes like murders and assault have witnessed a spike in many American cities during the global pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-record-number-of-aid-workers-were-murdered-in-2019-across-the-globe-321193" hreflang="en">A record number of aid workers were murdered in 2019 across the globe</a>

According to a new data from the nonpartisan Council on Criminal Justice (CCJ) think tank, from May to June homicides in 20 major US cities have witnessed an increase by 37 per cent, led by Chicago, Philadelphia and Milwaukee.&nbsp;

Aggravated assaults jumped by 35 per cent over the same period, while other types of crime were down.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-steps-up-sanctions-against-chinas-huawei-blacklists-38-affiliates-321272" hreflang="en">Trump administration steps up sanctions against China's Huawei, blacklists 38 'affiliates'</a>

According to Chicago police, nearly 30 people shot and three people killed in the city this weekend alone. The injured included a 12-year-old boy, a 14-year-old boy and two 16-year-old boys in separate shooting incidents.

New York City reported that over 40 people were shot in the 48 hours as of Sunday morning. In a data released by the NYPD, there were 20 victims after 12 shooting incidents Friday and 23 victims were the results of 20 shooting incidents on Sunday.&nbsp;

The think tank's data comes in light after Gallup released a new public opinion polling data that asks if Americans' confidence in law enforcement. The polling data has fallen to the lowest level in 27 years, with just 48 per cent of respondents indicating a positive view of the police force.&nbsp;

Violent crimes like murders and assault have witnessed a spike in many American cities during the global pandemic. Also read: A record number of aid workers were murdered in 2019 across the globe According to a new data from the nonpartisan Council on Criminal Justice (CCJ) think tank, from May to June homicides in 20 major US cities have witnessed an increase by 37 per cent, led by Chicago, Philadelphia and Milwaukee.

Violent crimes like murders and assault have witnessed a spike in many American cities during the global pandemic. Also read: A record number of aid workers were murdered in 2019 across the globe According to a new data from the nonpartisan Council on Criminal Justice (CCJ) think tank, from May to June homicides in 20 major US cities have witnessed an increase by 37 per cent, led by Chicago, Philadelphia and Milwaukee. Aggravated assaults jumped by 35 per cent over the same period, while other types of crime were down. Also read: Trump administration steps up sanctions against China's Huawei, blacklists 38 'affiliates' According to Chicago police, nearly 30 people shot and three people killed in the city this weekend alone. The injured included a 12-year-old boy, a 14-year-old boy and two 16-year-old boys in separate shooting incidents. New York City reported that over 40 people were shot in the 48 hours as of Sunday morning. In a data released by the NYPD, there were 20 victims after 12 shooting incidents Friday and 23 victims were the results of 20 shooting incidents on Sunday. The think tank's data comes in light after Gallup released a new public opinion polling data that asks if Americans' confidence in law enforcement. The polling data has fallen to the lowest level in 27 years, with just 48 per cent of respondents indicating a positive view of the police force.

Violent crimes witness steep rise in American cities during pandemic: Report

Scotland Yard detectives have launched an appeal for witnesses after an Indian-origin man was found dead following an assault in an alleyway in west London.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/white-houses-official-twitter-handle-unfollows-prime-minister-narendra-modi-295536" hreflang="en">White House's official Twitter handle unfollows Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>

Baljit Singh, 37, who lived in the Hayes area of London, was pronounced dead at the scene after the Metropolitan Police and London Ambulance Service were called to Station Road on Saturday night.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/american-dream-comes-crashing-down-as-over-200000-h-1b-workers-face-the-threat-of-losing-legal-status-by-june-295464" hreflang="en">American dream comes crashing down as over 200,000 H-1B workers face the threat of losing legal status by June</a>

Singh was formally identified by police on Wednesday after his next of kin were informed.

A forensic post-mortem examination held at Fulham Mortuary in London on Monday gave the cause of his death as compression to the neck. Officers from the Met Police's Specialist Crime Command (Homicide) are investigating the case.

Mr Singh was subjected to a vicious assault; the severity of which has caused him to lose his life. My officers are working through hours of CCTV footage and speaking with people in the area to establish what has happened and identify those responsible,&nbsp;said Detective Chief Inspector Helen Rance, who is leading the Met Police investigation.

I would like to appeal directly to anyone who was in the vicinity of Station Road, Hayes, from around 2200hrs onwards on Saturday night who may have seen the victim in company with two individuals. Alternatively, if anyone is aware of the victim's movements earlier that day we would be keen to hear from them,? Rance said.

The Met's Homicide team wants to trace two people Singh was in the company of just prior to his death. It is believed a disagreement may have taken place during which the victim was assaulted.

Scotland Yard detectives have launched an appeal for witnesses after an Indian-origin man was found dead following an assault in an alleyway in west London. Also read: White House's official Twitter handle unfollows Prime Minister Narendra Modi Baljit Singh, 37, who lived in the Hayes area of London, was pronounced dead at the scene after the Metropolitan Police and London Ambulance Service were called to Station Road on Saturday night.

Scotland Yard detectives have launched an appeal for witnesses after an Indian-origin man was found dead following an assault in an alleyway in west London. Also read: White House's official Twitter handle unfollows Prime Minister Narendra Modi Baljit Singh, 37, who lived in the Hayes area of London, was pronounced dead at the scene after the Metropolitan Police and London Ambulance Service were called to Station Road on Saturday night. Also read: American dream comes crashing down as over 200,000 H-1B workers face the threat of losing legal status by June Singh was formally identified by police on Wednesday after his next of kin were informed. A forensic post-mortem examination held at Fulham Mortuary in London on Monday gave the cause of his death as compression to the neck. Officers from the Met Police's Specialist Crime Command (Homicide) are investigating the case. Mr Singh was subjected to a vicious assault; the severity of which has caused him to lose his life. My officers are working through hours of CCTV footage and speaking with people in the area to establish what has happened and identify those responsible, said Detective Chief Inspector Helen Rance, who is leading the Met Police investigation. I would like to appeal directly to anyone who was in the vicinity of Station Road, Hayes, from around 2200hrs onwards on Saturday night who may have seen the victim in company with two individuals. Alternatively, if anyone is aware of the victim's movements earlier that day we would be keen to hear from them,? Rance said. The Met's Homicide team wants to trace two people Singh was in the company of just prior to his death. It is believed a disagreement may have taken place during which the victim was assaulted.

Indian-origin man found dead following assault in alleyway in United Kingdom

The Egyptian police force, in tandem with the National Security Agency has been accused of forced disappearances, torture of children. Human Rights Watch and Belady: An Island for Humanity in report which was released today claim that the legal system ignored the abuse.

The report titled “No one cared he was a child: Egyptian Security Forces’ Abuse of Children in Detention” claims 20 children aged 12-17 were arrested and abused by forces.

“The harrowing accounts of these children and their families reveal how Egypt’s machinery of repression has subjected children to grave abuses,” said Aya Hijazi, co-director of Belady.&nbsp;

“Egyptian authorities act as though they are above all laws when it comes to children in detention”, Hijazi added.

Based on the account mentioned on the Human Rights Watch website, 15 out of 20 children claim to have been tortured during interrogation. A child was also badly assaulted during the process.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a46e3b-cfeb-42c6-9627-f4e2fbce268c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%285%29_28.jpg" /> 
A picture taken during a guided tour organised by Egypt's State Information Service on February 11, 2020, shows Egyptian policemen at the entrance of the Tora prison in the Egyptian capital Cairo | AFP 
 
&nbsp;</h6>

As many as seven children claim that they were tortured using sophisticated electricity driven tools like stun guns.

“Egyptian authorities act as though they are above all laws when it comes to children in detention”, Hijazi added.

Many children were tied with arms behind their backs which led to the dislocation of their shoulders. A 14-year-old boy claimed that his joints had be put back into place with manipulation from another prison, who is allegedly a doctor.

Many human rights abuses have been reported under the government of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Even though most abuse was allegedly committed by the National Security Agency’s officers, the police and army have also been complicit.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/egypt-extends-state-of-emergency-to-three-years-275532" hreflang="en">Egypt extends state of emergency to three years</a>

“Children are describing being waterboarded and electrocuted on their tongues and genitals, and yet Egypt’s security forces are facing no consequences,” said Bill Van Esveld, associate children’s rights director at Human Rights Watch.&nbsp;

Many human rights abuses have been reported under the government of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Even though most abuse was allegedly committed by the National Security Agency’s officers, the police and army have also been complicit.

“Governments that want to end these horrors should end support to Egyptian security services and condition any future agreements on there being real reforms”, Esveld added.

Even though children were put into detention, their families were not informed. Many of them were missing in action for over 13 months.&nbsp;

A child was given the death sentence, which is in direct violation of international human rights protocols in place. Additionally, three were indefinitely put in solitary confinement. When families tried to reach out to their kids, their requests were denied.

<img alt="p" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7671e0c9-e525-4f66-a949-68248371e340" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_30.jpg" />

Many narratives claim that there was not enough room for everybody to sleep, owing to which most kids slept in shifts.

A harrowing account released by Human Rights Watch suggests that kids were threatened were re-detention if they didn’t confess to the crime they were being held for.

According to Egyptian law, all detainees have to be presented in front of a prosecutor within 24 hours of taking them into custody. However, the authorities circumvented this law by claiming that the kids were “arrested”.

The law states that children cannot be tried before criminal courts, however, two kids were tried in military courts, which clearly disregards the law in place.

Under the 1996 Child Law and the subsequent amendments, special protection is accorded to children, and they cannot be detained and penalised along the same lines as adults.

A loophole in the Child Law enables officers to send children to criminal courts if their accomplices were adults, which is abused to prosecute children.

According to the human rights group, the allies of Egypt, including the US and many European countries need to end their support to the country in order for them to be held accountable for their trespassing.

(With inputs from the report released by Human Rights Watch)

The Egyptian police force, in tandem with the National Security Agency has been accused of forced disappearances, torture of children. Human Rights Watch and Belady: An Island for Humanity in report which was released today claim that the legal system ignored the abuse.

The Egyptian police force, in tandem with the National Security Agency has been accused of forced disappearances, torture of children. Human Rights Watch and Belady: An Island for Humanity in report which was released today claim that the legal system ignored the abuse. The report titled “No one cared he was a child: Egyptian Security Forces’ Abuse of Children in Detention” claims 20 children aged 12-17 were arrested and abused by forces. “The harrowing accounts of these children and their families reveal how Egypt’s machinery of repression has subjected children to grave abuses,” said Aya Hijazi, co-director of Belady. “Egyptian authorities act as though they are above all laws when it comes to children in detention”, Hijazi added. Based on the account mentioned on the Human Rights Watch website, 15 out of 20 children claim to have been tortured during interrogation. A child was also badly assaulted during the process. A picture taken during a guided tour organised by Egypt's State Information Service on February 11, 2020, shows Egyptian policemen at the entrance of the Tora prison in the Egyptian capital Cairo | AFP As many as seven children claim that they were tortured using sophisticated electricity driven tools like stun guns. “Egyptian authorities act as though they are above all laws when it comes to children in detention”, Hijazi added. Many children were tied with arms behind their backs which led to the dislocation of their shoulders. A 14-year-old boy claimed that his joints had be put back into place with manipulation from another prison, who is allegedly a doctor. Many human rights abuses have been reported under the government of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Even though most abuse was allegedly committed by the National Security Agency’s officers, the police and army have also been complicit. Also read: Egypt extends state of emergency to three years “Children are describing being waterboarded and electrocuted on their tongues and genitals, and yet Egypt’s security forces are facing no consequences,” said Bill Van Esveld, associate children’s rights director at Human Rights Watch. Many human rights abuses have been reported under the government of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Even though most abuse was allegedly committed by the National Security Agency’s officers, the police and army have also been complicit. “Governments that want to end these horrors should end support to Egyptian security services and condition any future agreements on there being real reforms”, Esveld added. Even though children were put into detention, their families were not informed. Many of them were missing in action for over 13 months. A child was given the death sentence, which is in direct violation of international human rights protocols in place. Additionally, three were indefinitely put in solitary confinement. When families tried to reach out to their kids, their requests were denied. Many narratives claim that there was not enough room for everybody to sleep, owing to which most kids slept in shifts. A harrowing account released by Human Rights Watch suggests that kids were threatened were re-detention if they didn’t confess to the crime they were being held for. According to Egyptian law, all detainees have to be presented in front of a prosecutor within 24 hours of taking them into custody. However, the authorities circumvented this law by claiming that the kids were “arrested”. The law states that children cannot be tried before criminal courts, however, two kids were tried in military courts, which clearly disregards the law in place. Under the 1996 Child Law and the subsequent amendments, special protection is accorded to children, and they cannot be detained and penalised along the same lines as adults. A loophole in the Child Law enables officers to send children to criminal courts if their accomplices were adults, which is abused to prosecute children. According to the human rights group, the allies of Egypt, including the US and many European countries need to end their support to the country in order for them to be held accountable for their trespassing. (With inputs from the report released by Human Rights Watch)

Egyptian security forces allegedly torture, detain children in direct violation of law

The United States recently issued a security alert for people planning to travel to Spain on account rampant sexual assault in the country.&nbsp;

The advisory asks US citizens who are visiting or studying in Spain to exercise caution.

The alert takes into account the information given by the Spanish Ministry, which reported "a steady increase in the number of sexual assaults nationally over the past five years", CNN reported.

"This includes a rise in sexual assault against young US citizen visitors and students throughout Spain", the alert said.

On New Year's Eve, three American women were raped in the city of Murcia in southeastern Spain.

<h6><img alt="kkk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="266f5b84-43dd-4487-993d-40edee2ab94f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_46.jpg" /> 
Protests in Spain | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

"US citizen victims of sexual assault in Spain can find it very difficult to navigate the local criminal justice system, which differs significantly from the US system," the embassy alert read.

A ruling in November triggered a series of protests in Spain. Five men were cleared of the sexual assault charges against them. However, the report clearly said that the men took turns to rape the unconscious teenager.

All were convicted of a much lighter charge of sexual abuse.

Spanish law clearly states that an attack can be classified as rape or assault only if the perpetrators use violence or intimidation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/many-arrested-worldwide-as-spain-police-smash-global-pedophile-ring-267532">Many arrested worldwide as Spain police smash global pedophile ring</a>

The United States recently issued a security alert for people planning to travel to Spain on account rampant sexual assault in the country. The advisory asks US citizens who are visiting or studying in Spain to exercise caution.

The United States recently issued a security alert for people planning to travel to Spain on account rampant sexual assault in the country. The advisory asks US citizens who are visiting or studying in Spain to exercise caution. The alert takes into account the information given by the Spanish Ministry, which reported "a steady increase in the number of sexual assaults nationally over the past five years", CNN reported. "This includes a rise in sexual assault against young US citizen visitors and students throughout Spain", the alert said. On New Year's Eve, three American women were raped in the city of Murcia in southeastern Spain. Protests in Spain | Reuters "US citizen victims of sexual assault in Spain can find it very difficult to navigate the local criminal justice system, which differs significantly from the US system," the embassy alert read. A ruling in November triggered a series of protests in Spain. Five men were cleared of the sexual assault charges against them. However, the report clearly said that the men took turns to rape the unconscious teenager. All were convicted of a much lighter charge of sexual abuse. Spanish law clearly states that an attack can be classified as rape or assault only if the perpetrators use violence or intimidation. Also read: Many arrested worldwide as Spain police smash global pedophile ring

New US advisory requests its citizens in Spain to exercise caution against sexual assault

A student from&nbsp;Indonesia&nbsp;was identified as Britain's most prolific rapist on Monday after being convicted of more than 150 offences, including 136 rapes.

In four separate trials, Reynhard Sinaga, 36, was found guilty of assaulting 48 men whom he drugged after taking them back to his apartment from outside bars and clubs in the city of Manchester.

Many of the victims were lured by the offer of a place to sleep or more drink, and Sinaga filmed the assaults on his mobile phone, the Crown Prosecution Service said.

<img alt="Reynhard Sinaga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b1d63d7-f1ac-444f-aacc-5faa6cf48e4c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_41.jpg" />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Image:&nbsp;Reynhard Sinaga, 36, is seen in this undated handout photo released on January 6, 2020 | Reuters

At a court in Manchester, a judge ruled that Sinaga must serve at least 30 years in prison for 159 offences committed between&nbsp;January 2015 and May 2017, and lifted reporting restrictions.

Ian Rushton, a government prosecutor, described Sinaga as the "most prolific rapist in British legal history".

Sinaga, who has lived in the United Kingdom since 2007, targeted young men who looked drunk or vulnerable and rendered them unconscious with a sedative, probably the party drug gamma-hydroxybutyric acid that is known as GHB, the court was told.

The victims were mainly heterosexual and had little or no memory of the attacks. But Sinaga was arrested after one of his victims woke up during an attack, fought him off and went to the police with one of his phones.

<img alt="A combination of still images used in evidence in convicting Reynhard Sinaga, (L to R) CCTV image, alcohol bottles in Sinaga's flat, sleeping area in Sinaga's flat, are seen in this undated handout photo released on January 6, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d55bc08e-8e77-4ae2-a21b-ede5f0a440b9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_37.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;A combination of still images used in evidence in convicting Reynhard Sinaga, (L to R) CCTV image, alcohol bottles in Sinaga's flat, sleeping area in Sinaga's flat, are seen in this undated handout photo released on January 6, 2020 | Reuters

Police discovered graphic material – equivalent to 250 DVDs or 300,000 photos – depicting sexual assaults on Sinaga's digital devices. Sinaga had said his victims were acting out sexual fantasies.

The court was told Sinaga kept men’s belongings as trophies and looked them up on Facebook.

The rape investigation is the largest in British legal history. It is the first time prosecutors have split charges across four separate trials.

Police said there could be many more victims and are appealing for others who may have been targeted to come forward.

A student from Indonesia was identified as Britain's most prolific rapist on Monday after being convicted of more than 150 offences, including 136 rapes. In four separate trials, Reynhard Sinaga, 36, was found guilty of assaulting 48 men whom he drugged after taking them back to his apartment from outside bars and clubs in the city of Manchester.

A student from Indonesia was identified as Britain's most prolific rapist on Monday after being convicted of more than 150 offences, including 136 rapes. In four separate trials, Reynhard Sinaga, 36, was found guilty of assaulting 48 men whom he drugged after taking them back to his apartment from outside bars and clubs in the city of Manchester. Many of the victims were lured by the offer of a place to sleep or more drink, and Sinaga filmed the assaults on his mobile phone, the Crown Prosecution Service said. Image: Reynhard Sinaga, 36, is seen in this undated handout photo released on January 6, 2020 | Reuters At a court in Manchester, a judge ruled that Sinaga must serve at least 30 years in prison for 159 offences committed between January 2015 and May 2017, and lifted reporting restrictions. Ian Rushton, a government prosecutor, described Sinaga as the "most prolific rapist in British legal history". Sinaga, who has lived in the United Kingdom since 2007, targeted young men who looked drunk or vulnerable and rendered them unconscious with a sedative, probably the party drug gamma-hydroxybutyric acid that is known as GHB, the court was told. The victims were mainly heterosexual and had little or no memory of the attacks. But Sinaga was arrested after one of his victims woke up during an attack, fought him off and went to the police with one of his phones. Image: A combination of still images used in evidence in convicting Reynhard Sinaga, (L to R) CCTV image, alcohol bottles in Sinaga's flat, sleeping area in Sinaga's flat, are seen in this undated handout photo released on January 6, 2020 | Reuters Police discovered graphic material – equivalent to 250 DVDs or 300,000 photos – depicting sexual assaults on Sinaga's digital devices. Sinaga had said his victims were acting out sexual fantasies. The court was told Sinaga kept men’s belongings as trophies and looked them up on Facebook. The rape investigation is the largest in British legal history. It is the first time prosecutors have split charges across four separate trials. Police said there could be many more victims and are appealing for others who may have been targeted to come forward.

United Kingdom's 'most prolific rapist' convicted of 150 offences

The last rites of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-demands-of-unnao-rape-victims-family-accepted-lucknow-commissioner-266937">Unnao rape victim</a> were conducted by her family amidst heavy security on Sunday, after receiving assurance from the administration that all their demands will be met. 
 
The last rites were performed on a piece of land belonging to the victim's family. 
 
Cabinet ministers in the Uttar Pradesh government Swami Prasad Maurya and Kamal Rani Varun also arrived in Unnao to meet the bereaved family and attend the last rites of the deceased. 
 
"We are committed to punishing the culprits and we, including the Chief Minister, are standing in solidarity with the bereaved family. We will do anything to punish the culprits, a fast track court has been set up to nail them," Maurya told reporters here. 
 
The minister also urged the Opposition parties to stop politicising the matter of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unnao-rape-case-government-gives-rs-25-lakh-compensation-to-victims-family-trial-in-fast-track-court-266837">death of the Unnao rape victim</a>. 
 
Earlier, the Uttar Pradesh administration had said that all the demands of the victim's family have been accepted. 
 
Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Mukesh Meshram said that they held talks with the victim's family and assured them of all possible help and assistance. 
 
"Whatever their demands,&nbsp;that case should be put to trial in fast track court so that culprits are given strictest punishment on time...apart from that, the family of the deceased victim is poor, and their resources are very limited. We would provide them facilities which can be sanctioned by the government," Meshram said while speaking to reporters here. 
 
The administration had also assured of giving round the clock protection to the victim's sister and issuance of an arms license to her brother based on their demands and apart from this the family's demand to meet Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had also been accepted. 
 
Along with these, Meshram, during the course of his meeting with the victim's family, had also assured two houses under Prime Minister Awas Yojna to them. 
 
After battling for life at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital, the victim, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-86-rape-cases-in-unnao-up-justice-minister-vows-not-to-spare-culprits-266778">who was set ablaze</a> while on her way to a court hearing on Thursday morning, died at 11:40 pm on Friday. 
 
The 23-year-old was airlifted from Lucknow's SMC Government Hospital to Delhi for treatment at Safdarjung Hospital on Thursday. 
 
According to the police, the five accused had allegedly thrown kerosene on the woman and set her ablaze when she was on her way to a local court for the hearing of the case she had filed in March.

The last rites of the Unnao rape victim were conducted by her family amidst heavy security on Sunday, after receiving assurance from the administration that all their demands will be met.

The last rites of the Unnao rape victim were conducted by her family amidst heavy security on Sunday, after receiving assurance from the administration that all their demands will be met. The last rites were performed on a piece of land belonging to the victim's family. Cabinet ministers in the Uttar Pradesh government Swami Prasad Maurya and Kamal Rani Varun also arrived in Unnao to meet the bereaved family and attend the last rites of the deceased. "We are committed to punishing the culprits and we, including the Chief Minister, are standing in solidarity with the bereaved family. We will do anything to punish the culprits, a fast track court has been set up to nail them," Maurya told reporters here. The minister also urged the Opposition parties to stop politicising the matter of the death of the Unnao rape victim. Earlier, the Uttar Pradesh administration had said that all the demands of the victim's family have been accepted. Lucknow Divisional Commissioner Mukesh Meshram said that they held talks with the victim's family and assured them of all possible help and assistance. "Whatever their demands, that case should be put to trial in fast track court so that culprits are given strictest punishment on time...apart from that, the family of the deceased victim is poor, and their resources are very limited. We would provide them facilities which can be sanctioned by the government," Meshram said while speaking to reporters here. The administration had also assured of giving round the clock protection to the victim's sister and issuance of an arms license to her brother based on their demands and apart from this the family's demand to meet Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had also been accepted. Along with these, Meshram, during the course of his meeting with the victim's family, had also assured two houses under Prime Minister Awas Yojna to them. After battling for life at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital, the victim, who was set ablaze while on her way to a court hearing on Thursday morning, died at 11:40 pm on Friday. The 23-year-old was airlifted from Lucknow's SMC Government Hospital to Delhi for treatment at Safdarjung Hospital on Thursday. According to the police, the five accused had allegedly thrown kerosene on the woman and set her ablaze when she was on her way to a local court for the hearing of the case she had filed in March.

UP: Last rites of Unnao victim conducted with cabinet ministers in attendance

Doctors at government hospitals in Karnataka have been staging a sit-in for five days to protest against repeated cases of assault, demanding action against the attackers.

''I am not a terrorist, I am a doctor and I don't deserve to die at my workplace'', read a placard held by one of the 1000 government doctors protesting against another case of assault. The junior residents have been staging a sit-in for five days now, demanding action against the attackers. The incident itself took place on November 1 at Minto Hospital run by the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute. At 3.30 pm, 30-35 members from Kannada Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada organisation, barged into the hospital OPD premises.&nbsp;

The protesters were demanding compensation for several patients who had lost their eyesight following cataract surgeries in July this year. When the junior female doctor refused to speak to them, they allegedly heckled her and assaulted her physically.&nbsp;

''They demanded that the junior resident answer the questions being raised by the association. The doctor responded by saying 'I know Kannada. But I do not wish to speak with you'' which was inferred as 'I do not wish to speak in Kannada'. There was another case of assault on a male doctor on the same day for which we have also submitted the evidence. There is also evidence of mental abuse and physical manhandling by using expletives on the female doctor. They are not supposed to barge into the hospital without prior intimation. We have filed an FIR and they are non-bailable offences which warrants immediate action. But no action has been taken so far. This protest is to demand action against those responsible for this attack'', says Dr Venugopal, member of the Resident Doctors' Association.&nbsp;

The government on Monday announced compensation of Rs 3 lacs for patients who lost their eyesight and asked the protesting doctors to return to duty. But the doctors have been adamant on not returning to duty until the perpetrators are punished. ''Even the victims who lost their eyesight have grievances. The doctors have their own grievances. The police are taking action as per law. Forcing a procedure is not fair. We are educated people. The system is built for the people. Whatever their concern, we are here to address it. If they don't have confidence, how can the system run?'' said Ashwath Narayan, Deputy CM, Karnataka.&nbsp;

Female doctors were particularly shaken up after the incident where the doctor was physically assaulted by Ashwini Gowda. ''We work round the clock in casualty and ICU irrespective of gender. We are all doctors here. But it is a very sensitive issue that a female doctor got attacked. The government should take up the matter. There will be fear among students and parents. Our parents send us here to achieve well in our profession. But now they are worried for the safety and lives of their children. This is an important issue that is not getting the attention it deserves from the common man'', says Dr Rekha.&nbsp;

Doctors from Vani Vilas Hospital, Bowring Hospital, Minto Hospital and Victoria Hospital participated in the sit-in and have threatened to make it an indefinite strike if there is a delay in taking action against the attackers. ''There are many laws that have been brought to protect us. But numerous incidents of violence occur against medicos. None of the laws are effectively implemented. Every time we protest, they promise to tighten protection. But action against the culprits is never taken. This encourages more such acts'', says Dr Rekha.

Doctors at government hospitals in Karnataka have been staging a sit-in for five days to protest against repeated cases of assault, demanding action against the attackers.

Doctors at government hospitals in Karnataka have been staging a sit-in for five days to protest against repeated cases of assault, demanding action against the attackers. ''I am not a terrorist, I am a doctor and I don't deserve to die at my workplace'', read a placard held by one of the 1000 government doctors protesting against another case of assault. The junior residents have been staging a sit-in for five days now, demanding action against the attackers. The incident itself took place on November 1 at Minto Hospital run by the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute. At 3.30 pm, 30-35 members from Kannada Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada organisation, barged into the hospital OPD premises. The protesters were demanding compensation for several patients who had lost their eyesight following cataract surgeries in July this year. When the junior female doctor refused to speak to them, they allegedly heckled her and assaulted her physically. ''They demanded that the junior resident answer the questions being raised by the association. The doctor responded by saying 'I know Kannada. But I do not wish to speak with you'' which was inferred as 'I do not wish to speak in Kannada'. There was another case of assault on a male doctor on the same day for which we have also submitted the evidence. There is also evidence of mental abuse and physical manhandling by using expletives on the female doctor. They are not supposed to barge into the hospital without prior intimation. We have filed an FIR and they are non-bailable offences which warrants immediate action. But no action has been taken so far. This protest is to demand action against those responsible for this attack'', says Dr Venugopal, member of the Resident Doctors' Association. The government on Monday announced compensation of Rs 3 lacs for patients who lost their eyesight and asked the protesting doctors to return to duty. But the doctors have been adamant on not returning to duty until the perpetrators are punished. ''Even the victims who lost their eyesight have grievances. The doctors have their own grievances. The police are taking action as per law. Forcing a procedure is not fair. We are educated people. The system is built for the people. Whatever their concern, we are here to address it. If they don't have confidence, how can the system run?'' said Ashwath Narayan, Deputy CM, Karnataka. Female doctors were particularly shaken up after the incident where the doctor was physically assaulted by Ashwini Gowda. ''We work round the clock in casualty and ICU irrespective of gender. We are all doctors here. But it is a very sensitive issue that a female doctor got attacked. The government should take up the matter. There will be fear among students and parents. Our parents send us here to achieve well in our profession. But now they are worried for the safety and lives of their children. This is an important issue that is not getting the attention it deserves from the common man'', says Dr Rekha. Doctors from Vani Vilas Hospital, Bowring Hospital, Minto Hospital and Victoria Hospital participated in the sit-in and have threatened to make it an indefinite strike if there is a delay in taking action against the attackers. ''There are many laws that have been brought to protect us. But numerous incidents of violence occur against medicos. None of the laws are effectively implemented. Every time we protest, they promise to tighten protection. But action against the culprits is never taken. This encourages more such acts'', says Dr Rekha.

Karnataka: Government doctors stage sit-in to protest assault

Turkey pounded Kurdish militia in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-faces-us-sanctions-from-hell-after-syria-kurd-assault-255061">northeast Syria</a> for a second day on Thursday, forcing tens of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-60000-displaced-by-turkey-assault-on-syria-monitor-255034">thousands of people to flee </a>and killing dozens, in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-military-operation-in-syria-what-does-ankara-wants-255040">cross-border assault</a> on US allies that has turned the Washington establishment against Donald Trump.

The Turkish offensive against the US-allied Syrian Democratic Forces, launched days after Trump pulled US troops out of the way, opens one of the biggest new fronts in years in an eight-year-old civil war that has drawn in global powers.

At least 23 fighters with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and six fighters with a Turkish-backed Syrian rebel group had been killed, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors Syria's eight-year-old war.

Watch:

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The SDF said Turkish air strikes and shelling had also killed nine civilians. In an apparent attempt by Kurdish-led forces to retaliate, mortar fire from Syria killed three people including a child in the Turkish border town of Akcakale, hospital and security sources said.

The International Rescue Committee said 64,000 people in Syria have fled since the campaign began, the Observatory said. The towns of Ras al-Ain and Darbasiya, some 60 km (37 miles) to the east, have been largely deserted as a result of the attack.

The Observatory said Turkish forces had seized two villages near Ras al-Ain and five near the town of Tel Abyad.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan told members of his AK Party in Ankara that 109 militants had been killed so far. Kurds said they were resisting the assault.

According to a senior Turkish security official, the armed forces struck weapons and ammunition depots, gun and sniper positions, tunnels and military bases.

Jets flew operations up to 30 km (18 miles) into Syria. A Reuters journalist saw shells exploding just outside Tel Abyad.

"The operation is currently continuing with the involvement of all our units," Erdogan said in a speech.

Trump, who has faced rare criticism from senior figures in his own Republican Party who accuse him of deserting loyal U.S. allies, said on Twitter he was talking to "both sides". He warned Ankara it would be hit hard financially if it did not "play by the rules".

The SDF have been the main allies of US forces on the ground in the battle against Islamic State since 2014. They have been holding thousands of captured IS fighters and tens of thousands of their relatives in detention.

"SAFE ZONE"

NATO member Turkey has said it intends to create a "safe zone" for the return of millions of refugees to Syria.

But world powers fear the operation could intensify Syria's eight-year-old conflict, and runs the risk of Islamic State prisoners escaping from camps amid the chaos.

Erdogan sought to assuage those concerns, saying that militants from the jihadist group would not be allowed to rebuild a presence in the region.

Erdogan aimed at the European Union and Arab powers Saudi Arabia and Egypt which have voiced opposition to the operation.

"They are not honest, they just make up words," Erdogan said in a combative speech. "We, however, take action and that is the difference between us."

He threatened to permit Syrian refugees in Turkey to move to Europe if EU countries described his forces' move as an occupation. Turkey is hosting around 3.6 million people who have fled the conflict in Syria. 
Ankara brands the Syrian Kurdish YPG militia as terrorists because of their ties to militants who have waged an insurgency in Turkey. But many members of Congress, and US officials, credit the Kurds with fighting alongside American troops to defeat Islamic State militants.

"BAD IDEA"

The Kurdish-led authority in northern Syria said a prison that holds "the most dangerous criminals from more than 60 nationalities" had been struck by Turkish shelling, and Turkey's attacks on its prisons risked "a catastrophe".

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Turkey will be responsible only for Islamic State prisoners located within the safe zone it aims to form. Turkey would ask countries from which the prisoners came to take them back.

Trump has called the Turkish assault a "bad idea" and said he did not endorse it. He said he expected Turkey to protect civilians and religious minorities and prevent a humanitarian crisis.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, usually a vocal Trump ally, has been one of the most outspoken critics of his decision to withdraw U.S. troops from northeastern Syria. He unveiled a framework for sanctions on Turkey with Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen.

Their proposed sanctions would target the assets of senior officials including Erdogan, mandate sanctions over Turkey's purchase of a Russian S-400 missile defence system and impose visa restrictions.

They also would sanction anyone who conducted military transactions with Turkey or supported energy production for use by its armed forces, apart from U.S. military assistance. The measure would require a report on Erdogan's net worth and assets.

The United Nations Security Council was due to meet on Thursday to discuss Syria at the request of the five European members: Britain, France, Germany, Belgium and Poland.

In a letter to the 15-member Council seen by Reuters, Turkey said its military operation would be "proportionate, measured and responsible". 
The 22-member Arab League said it would hold an emergency meeting on Saturday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Turkey's military incursion and cautioned about the possibility of ethnic cleansing.&nbsp; 
"Israel is prepared to extend humanitarian assistance to the gallant Kurdish people," he wrote on Twitter.

Russia said it planned to push for dialogue between the Syrian and Turkish governments following the incursion.

Turkey pounded Kurdish militia in northeast Syria for a second day on Thursday, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee and killing dozens, in a cross-border assault on US allies that has turned the Washington establishment against Donald Trump.

Turkey pounded Kurdish militia in northeast Syria for a second day on Thursday, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee and killing dozens, in a cross-border assault on US allies that has turned the Washington establishment against Donald Trump. The Turkish offensive against the US-allied Syrian Democratic Forces, launched days after Trump pulled US troops out of the way, opens one of the biggest new fronts in years in an eight-year-old civil war that has drawn in global powers. At least 23 fighters with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and six fighters with a Turkish-backed Syrian rebel group had been killed, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors Syria's eight-year-old war. Watch: The SDF said Turkish air strikes and shelling had also killed nine civilians. In an apparent attempt by Kurdish-led forces to retaliate, mortar fire from Syria killed three people including a child in the Turkish border town of Akcakale, hospital and security sources said. The International Rescue Committee said 64,000 people in Syria have fled since the campaign began, the Observatory said. The towns of Ras al-Ain and Darbasiya, some 60 km (37 miles) to the east, have been largely deserted as a result of the attack. The Observatory said Turkish forces had seized two villages near Ras al-Ain and five near the town of Tel Abyad. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan told members of his AK Party in Ankara that 109 militants had been killed so far. Kurds said they were resisting the assault. According to a senior Turkish security official, the armed forces struck weapons and ammunition depots, gun and sniper positions, tunnels and military bases. Jets flew operations up to 30 km (18 miles) into Syria. A Reuters journalist saw shells exploding just outside Tel Abyad. "The operation is currently continuing with the involvement of all our units," Erdogan said in a speech. Trump, who has faced rare criticism from senior figures in his own Republican Party who accuse him of deserting loyal U.S. allies, said on Twitter he was talking to "both sides". He warned Ankara it would be hit hard financially if it did not "play by the rules". The SDF have been the main allies of US forces on the ground in the battle against Islamic State since 2014. They have been holding thousands of captured IS fighters and tens of thousands of their relatives in detention. "SAFE ZONE" NATO member Turkey has said it intends to create a "safe zone" for the return of millions of refugees to Syria. But world powers fear the operation could intensify Syria's eight-year-old conflict, and runs the risk of Islamic State prisoners escaping from camps amid the chaos. Erdogan sought to assuage those concerns, saying that militants from the jihadist group would not be allowed to rebuild a presence in the region. Erdogan aimed at the European Union and Arab powers Saudi Arabia and Egypt which have voiced opposition to the operation. "They are not honest, they just make up words," Erdogan said in a combative speech. "We, however, take action and that is the difference between us." He threatened to permit Syrian refugees in Turkey to move to Europe if EU countries described his forces' move as an occupation. Turkey is hosting around 3.6 million people who have fled the conflict in Syria. Ankara brands the Syrian Kurdish YPG militia as terrorists because of their ties to militants who have waged an insurgency in Turkey. But many members of Congress, and US officials, credit the Kurds with fighting alongside American troops to defeat Islamic State militants. "BAD IDEA" The Kurdish-led authority in northern Syria said a prison that holds "the most dangerous criminals from more than 60 nationalities" had been struck by Turkish shelling, and Turkey's attacks on its prisons risked "a catastrophe". Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Turkey will be responsible only for Islamic State prisoners located within the safe zone it aims to form. Turkey would ask countries from which the prisoners came to take them back. Trump has called the Turkish assault a "bad idea" and said he did not endorse it. He said he expected Turkey to protect civilians and religious minorities and prevent a humanitarian crisis. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, usually a vocal Trump ally, has been one of the most outspoken critics of his decision to withdraw U.S. troops from northeastern Syria. He unveiled a framework for sanctions on Turkey with Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen. Their proposed sanctions would target the assets of senior officials including Erdogan, mandate sanctions over Turkey's purchase of a Russian S-400 missile defence system and impose visa restrictions. They also would sanction anyone who conducted military transactions with Turkey or supported energy production for use by its armed forces, apart from U.S. military assistance. The measure would require a report on Erdogan's net worth and assets. The United Nations Security Council was due to meet on Thursday to discuss Syria at the request of the five European members: Britain, France, Germany, Belgium and Poland. In a letter to the 15-member Council seen by Reuters, Turkey said its military operation would be "proportionate, measured and responsible". The 22-member Arab League said it would hold an emergency meeting on Saturday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Turkey's military incursion and cautioned about the possibility of ethnic cleansing. "Israel is prepared to extend humanitarian assistance to the gallant Kurdish people," he wrote on Twitter. Russia said it planned to push for dialogue between the Syrian and Turkish governments following the incursion.

Thousands flee, dozens reported killed as Turkey pushes Syria assault

The Turkish military has begun a ground offensive into northeast Syria, releasing airstrikes and artillery barrages aimed at Kurdish soldiers who control the area.

The withdrawal of US troops from northern Syria and Turkey's war preparation in public glare kept no one in doubt that another front may open up soon.

Turkey has two immediate goals. It wasn't to drive Kurdish People's Protection Units or Yekîneyên Parastina Gel (YPG) militia away from its border. It considers YPG a security threat. Turkey feels that a strong Kurdish presence on its border can lead to Kurdish sub-nationalism. A large Kurd population is spread across Turkey.

Turkey also wants two million refugees to go back to Syria. It is for this reason Turkey wants to sanitise 32 km of a 'safe zone' inside the Syrian border.

How will Kurds be affected?

Syrian democratic forces are dominated by Kurdish YPG group. YPG militia established autonomous governing council during their intense collaboration with us in the war against ISIS in West Asia.&nbsp;

Kurds have always maintained that they want autonomy and not independence.&nbsp;

A full us withdrawal can sink the area into more violence as it will allow regional players to push each other more.

How far can Turkey go?

The northern border of Syria is controlled by Kurdish led forces which is 480 km long. It starts from Euphrates river in the west to Iraq border in the east.&nbsp;

Currently, Turkey is focussed on a section of border which is between the town Ras al-Ayn and Tell Abiad which are 100 km apart. This area enjoys a substantial Arab population and the Turkish government has good relations with them.&nbsp;

It means that the YPG group find this area very difficult to hold.

<img alt="Syria-Turkey" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a5bad07-1f9a-4408-9f60-09b616da0fff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MAP_WAR_ZONE_0.jpg" />

("Safe zone" [marked in red on the map] running for 480km along the Syrian side of the Turkish border.The Turkish offensive began on October 9 with airstrikes in Tel Abyad and Ras al-Ayn (marked along the red area in the map), in an operation called Operation Peace Spring by Recep Tayyip Erdogan. )

Will Iran and Russia back Turks?

Russia and Iran support Bashar al-Assad's government. Complete US pullout will mean that Assad backed by Russia and Iran can take back areas which are currently not controlled by him.

The European Union angle

Under a 2016 agreement with the EU, Turkey agreed to prevent refugees from leaving towards Europe in exchange for six billion euros and visa-free travel for its citizens but has frequently criticised the lack of assistance from Brussels.

What does West think about Turkey's plan?

Many experts feel that it will be impossible for Turkey to resettle Syrians back home like this. West of the opinion that a plan of this scale cannot be implemented as many would not like to go back to war zones

What does it mean for Assad?

It means that areas will switch hands from non-hostile Kurds to a hostile Turkey. Damascus views Turkey as an occupying power. Damascus wanted to strike a deal with Kurds but negotiations did not make any headway.

What does it mean for the Islamic state?

Chaos could present an Islamic State with an opportunity to make a comeback.&nbsp;

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has been conducting operations against IS Sleeper cells to weaken the hidden ISIS infrastructure in the region

SDF formed in 2015 was is an alliance between the biggest Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Northern Syria with local Arab militias.

Kurds currently hold 5000 Islamic fighters of Syrian and Iraqi nationality. They also hold 1000 ISIS fighters from 55 countries. The new front could weaken the capacity of the Kurds to hold terrorists in detention.

The Turkish military has begun a ground offensive into northeast Syria, releasing airstrikes and artillery barrages aimed at Kurdish soldiers who control the area.

The Turkish military has begun a ground offensive into northeast Syria, releasing airstrikes and artillery barrages aimed at Kurdish soldiers who control the area. The withdrawal of US troops from northern Syria and Turkey's war preparation in public glare kept no one in doubt that another front may open up soon. Turkey has two immediate goals. It wasn't to drive Kurdish People's Protection Units or Yekîneyên Parastina Gel (YPG) militia away from its border. It considers YPG a security threat. Turkey feels that a strong Kurdish presence on its border can lead to Kurdish sub-nationalism. A large Kurd population is spread across Turkey. Turkey also wants two million refugees to go back to Syria. It is for this reason Turkey wants to sanitise 32 km of a 'safe zone' inside the Syrian border. How will Kurds be affected? Syrian democratic forces are dominated by Kurdish YPG group. YPG militia established autonomous governing council during their intense collaboration with us in the war against ISIS in West Asia. Kurds have always maintained that they want autonomy and not independence. A full us withdrawal can sink the area into more violence as it will allow regional players to push each other more. How far can Turkey go? The northern border of Syria is controlled by Kurdish led forces which is 480 km long. It starts from Euphrates river in the west to Iraq border in the east. Currently, Turkey is focussed on a section of border which is between the town Ras al-Ayn and Tell Abiad which are 100 km apart. This area enjoys a substantial Arab population and the Turkish government has good relations with them. It means that the YPG group find this area very difficult to hold. ("Safe zone" [marked in red on the map] running for 480km along the Syrian side of the Turkish border.The Turkish offensive began on October 9 with airstrikes in Tel Abyad and Ras al-Ayn (marked along the red area in the map), in an operation called Operation Peace Spring by Recep Tayyip Erdogan. ) Will Iran and Russia back Turks? Russia and Iran support Bashar al-Assad's government. Complete US pullout will mean that Assad backed by Russia and Iran can take back areas which are currently not controlled by him. The European Union angle Under a 2016 agreement with the EU, Turkey agreed to prevent refugees from leaving towards Europe in exchange for six billion euros and visa-free travel for its citizens but has frequently criticised the lack of assistance from Brussels. What does West think about Turkey's plan? Many experts feel that it will be impossible for Turkey to resettle Syrians back home like this. West of the opinion that a plan of this scale cannot be implemented as many would not like to go back to war zones What does it mean for Assad? It means that areas will switch hands from non-hostile Kurds to a hostile Turkey. Damascus views Turkey as an occupying power. Damascus wanted to strike a deal with Kurds but negotiations did not make any headway. What does it mean for the Islamic state? Chaos could present an Islamic State with an opportunity to make a comeback. Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has been conducting operations against IS Sleeper cells to weaken the hidden ISIS infrastructure in the region SDF formed in 2015 was is an alliance between the biggest Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Northern Syria with local Arab militias. Kurds currently hold 5000 Islamic fighters of Syrian and Iraqi nationality. They also hold 1000 ISIS fighters from 55 countries. The new front could weaken the capacity of the Kurds to hold terrorists in detention.

Turkey's military operation in Syria: What does Erdogan want?

Turkey's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-strikes-in-syrian-iraqi-border-ahead-of-planned-offensive-254608">military offensive</a> on northeastern Syria has displaced more than 60,000 people in less than a day, a war monitor said Thursday.

"Since Wednesday, more than 60,000 people fled border areas," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, adding that most of the displaced travelled east towards the city of Hasakeh.

Rami Abdel Rahman, the head of the Britain-based monitor, said the biggest displacement was from the border areas of Ras al-Ain, Tal Abyad and Derbasiyeh.

The Turkish military, supported by Syrian proxies, launched an offensive against Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria on Wednesday, despite widespread international warnings.

After an initial phase of airstrikes and artillery fire, troops moved across the border and attacked some of the key towns in the area.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-the-world-is-reacting-to-turkeys-assault-in-syria-255001">How the world is reacting to Turkey's assault in Syria</a>

Ankara aims to create a buffer about 30 kilometres deep in Syria territory in which to send back some of the 3.6 million Syrians who found refuge on Turkish soil since the start of the war in Syria in 2011.

Humanitarian organisations warned that this latest episode in the deadly eight-year-old conflict could once again have disastrous consequences on civilian populations.

"An estimated 450,000 people live within five kilometres of the Syria-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-threatens-eu-with-refugee-influx-if-criticises-syria-operation-255000">Turkey</a> border and are at risk if all sides do not exercise maximum restraint and prioritise the protection of civilians," a joint statement said.

The text signed by 14 humanitarian organisations warned that large numbers of civilians could soon be cut off from the vital aid they had been receiving.

"The life-saving humanitarian response will be threatened if instability forces aid agencies to suspend or relocate their programming and staff, as is already happening," said the statement.

Among the organisations that signed the appeal were several of the largest aid providers in the area, including the Norwegian Refugee Council and Mercy Corps.

In a separate statement, the Save The Children charity warned of "an impending humanitarian disaster".

It emphasised the risks facing the children among the latest wave of displacement, which includes thousands of people who had already been uprooted multiple times since the start of the war.

"With winter around the corner, they will face additional challenges as they search for shelter," Save The Children said.

Turkish forces are expected to move deeper into Syria, and the International Rescue Committee warned Wednesday that the operation could displace up to 300,000 people. 
&nbsp;

Turkey's military offensive on northeastern Syria has displaced more than 60,000 people in less than a day, a war monitor said Thursday. "Since Wednesday, more than 60,000 people fled border areas," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, adding that most of the displaced travelled east towards the city of Hasakeh.

Turkey's military offensive on northeastern Syria has displaced more than 60,000 people in less than a day, a war monitor said Thursday. "Since Wednesday, more than 60,000 people fled border areas," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, adding that most of the displaced travelled east towards the city of Hasakeh. Rami Abdel Rahman, the head of the Britain-based monitor, said the biggest displacement was from the border areas of Ras al-Ain, Tal Abyad and Derbasiyeh. The Turkish military, supported by Syrian proxies, launched an offensive against Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria on Wednesday, despite widespread international warnings. After an initial phase of airstrikes and artillery fire, troops moved across the border and attacked some of the key towns in the area. Also read: How the world is reacting to Turkey's assault in Syria Ankara aims to create a buffer about 30 kilometres deep in Syria territory in which to send back some of the 3.6 million Syrians who found refuge on Turkish soil since the start of the war in Syria in 2011. Humanitarian organisations warned that this latest episode in the deadly eight-year-old conflict could once again have disastrous consequences on civilian populations. "An estimated 450,000 people live within five kilometres of the Syria-Turkey border and are at risk if all sides do not exercise maximum restraint and prioritise the protection of civilians," a joint statement said. The text signed by 14 humanitarian organisations warned that large numbers of civilians could soon be cut off from the vital aid they had been receiving. "The life-saving humanitarian response will be threatened if instability forces aid agencies to suspend or relocate their programming and staff, as is already happening," said the statement. Among the organisations that signed the appeal were several of the largest aid providers in the area, including the Norwegian Refugee Council and Mercy Corps. In a separate statement, the Save The Children charity warned of "an impending humanitarian disaster". It emphasised the risks facing the children among the latest wave of displacement, which includes thousands of people who had already been uprooted multiple times since the start of the war. "With winter around the corner, they will face additional challenges as they search for shelter," Save The Children said. Turkish forces are expected to move deeper into Syria, and the International Rescue Committee warned Wednesday that the operation could displace up to 300,000 people.

More than 60,000 displaced by Turkey assault on Syria: Monitor

Walmart Inc said on Tuesday it would discontinue sales of ammunition for handguns and some assault-style rifles in stores across the United States, in response to the recent mass shootings in Texas and Ohio.

The largest US arms retailer, which has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/walmart-faces-pressure-to-stop-gun-sales-after-latest-us-mass-shootings-240961">under pressure to change its policies</a> on gun sales, also said it would discontinue handgun sales in Alaska, the only state where it still sells these guns.

Walmart has already ended sales of assault rifle and raised the minimum age for gun purchases to 21. The latest move will leave it focused on weapons for hunting, including deer rifles, shotguns and related ammunition.

The company will stop selling all handgun ammunition and some short-barrel rifle ammunition, such as the .223 caliber and 5.56 caliber after clearing current stock. While short-barrel ammunition is commonly used in some hunting rifles for small animals such as prairie dogs, they can also be used in military-style weapons with high-capacity magazines.

The retailer said it took the action following the death of 22 people in a mass shooting in a Walmart store in Texas as well as deadly shootings in Ohio and Saturday's incident in Midland and Odessa, Texas.

Just last month, the company said it would not change its policy on selling firearms even as it took down signs and playable demos of violent video games.

"As a company, we experienced two horrific events in one week, and we will never be the same," Chief Executive Officer Doug McMillon said in a letter to Walmart's associates.

Walmart Inc said on Tuesday it would discontinue sales of ammunition for handguns and some assault-style rifles in stores across the United States, in response to the recent mass shootings in Texas and Ohio.

Walmart Inc said on Tuesday it would discontinue sales of ammunition for handguns and some assault-style rifles in stores across the United States, in response to the recent mass shootings in Texas and Ohio. The largest US arms retailer, which has been under pressure to change its policies on gun sales, also said it would discontinue handgun sales in Alaska, the only state where it still sells these guns. Walmart has already ended sales of assault rifle and raised the minimum age for gun purchases to 21. The latest move will leave it focused on weapons for hunting, including deer rifles, shotguns and related ammunition. The company will stop selling all handgun ammunition and some short-barrel rifle ammunition, such as the .223 caliber and 5.56 caliber after clearing current stock. While short-barrel ammunition is commonly used in some hunting rifles for small animals such as prairie dogs, they can also be used in military-style weapons with high-capacity magazines. The retailer said it took the action following the death of 22 people in a mass shooting in a Walmart store in Texas as well as deadly shootings in Ohio and Saturday's incident in Midland and Odessa, Texas. Just last month, the company said it would not change its policy on selling firearms even as it took down signs and playable demos of violent video games. "As a company, we experienced two horrific events in one week, and we will never be the same," Chief Executive Officer Doug McMillon said in a letter to Walmart's associates.

Walmart to stop selling ammunition for handguns, assault-style weapons

A 24-year-old Indian man has been charged with kidnapping, assault and theft after he drove off in an elderly woman's car from outside a medical centre in the US with her grandchildren inside the vehicle.

Dalvir Singh, a heroin addict, was taken into custody and charged with two counts of kidnapping, felonious assault for dragging Nita Coburn, 69 and grand theft, Middletown Division of Police said in a statement.

Coburn was injured when as she tried to stop Singh as the kids jumped out of the car.

The police is also hailing Coburn's 8-year old grandson Chance as a hero for saving his 10-year old sister's life by pulling her out of the car as Singh took off in it.

The Middletown Police said that on the evening of April 25, it received a call that a car with children inside had been stolen at a medical centre in Middletown, Ohio and that an elderly lady was injured.&nbsp;

Coburn had taken another woman to the hospital and her two grandchildren were with her in the back seat. When they got to the emergency room, she pulled up close to the door and was helping the other woman into the emergency room.

About 10 seconds after she got out of the car, Singh jumped into the driver's seat and took off with the children still in the back.&nbsp;

The little boy opened the door to escape and his sister Skylar started to jump out also but Singh grabbed the hoodie of the little girl not allowing her to leave. As she tried to get away, Chance grabbed hold of her and pulled her away from Singh and they both tumbled out of the vehicle as it was moving.

Police said Coburn did not realise that the children were able to escape because they flew out of the passenger side and by that time she was chasing the car on the driver's side.&nbsp;

She opened the driver's door to regain control of the vehicle she thought her grandchildren were in, but Singh slammed the door shut again and locked the door.&nbsp;

She hung onto the vehicle panicking because she thought the children were still inside. The vehicle dragged her until it accelerated at a high rate of speed and she was forced to let go.

Two police officers observed the stolen vehicle fleeing the scene and chased Singh, who was then taken into custody and charged.

Middletown Police Chief Rodney Muterspaw lauded the heroic attempt by Chance to save himself and his sister from the kidnapping attempt.

"This little guy is a hero. No question. He pulled his sister out of the car&nbsp;with no concern for his own safety. That is incredible at his age," he said.

The Middletown Division of Police said it will be recognising the little boy's quick action to not only get out of the vehicle but also making sure that his sister got out with him.&nbsp;

A 24-year-old Indian man has been charged with kidnapping, assault and theft after he drove off in an elderly woman's car from outside a medical centre in the US with her grandchildren inside the vehicle.

A 24-year-old Indian man has been charged with kidnapping, assault and theft after he drove off in an elderly woman's car from outside a medical centre in the US with her grandchildren inside the vehicle. Dalvir Singh, a heroin addict, was taken into custody and charged with two counts of kidnapping, felonious assault for dragging Nita Coburn, 69 and grand theft, Middletown Division of Police said in a statement. Coburn was injured when as she tried to stop Singh as the kids jumped out of the car. The police is also hailing Coburn's 8-year old grandson Chance as a hero for saving his 10-year old sister's life by pulling her out of the car as Singh took off in it. The Middletown Police said that on the evening of April 25, it received a call that a car with children inside had been stolen at a medical centre in Middletown, Ohio and that an elderly lady was injured. Coburn had taken another woman to the hospital and her two grandchildren were with her in the back seat. When they got to the emergency room, she pulled up close to the door and was helping the other woman into the emergency room. About 10 seconds after she got out of the car, Singh jumped into the driver's seat and took off with the children still in the back. The little boy opened the door to escape and his sister Skylar started to jump out also but Singh grabbed the hoodie of the little girl not allowing her to leave. As she tried to get away, Chance grabbed hold of her and pulled her away from Singh and they both tumbled out of the vehicle as it was moving. Police said Coburn did not realise that the children were able to escape because they flew out of the passenger side and by that time she was chasing the car on the driver's side. She opened the driver's door to regain control of the vehicle she thought her grandchildren were in, but Singh slammed the door shut again and locked the door. She hung onto the vehicle panicking because she thought the children were still inside. The vehicle dragged her until it accelerated at a high rate of speed and she was forced to let go. Two police officers observed the stolen vehicle fleeing the scene and chased Singh, who was then taken into custody and charged. Middletown Police Chief Rodney Muterspaw lauded the heroic attempt by Chance to save himself and his sister from the kidnapping attempt. "This little guy is a hero. No question. He pulled his sister out of the car with no concern for his own safety. That is incredible at his age," he said. The Middletown Division of Police said it will be recognising the little boy's quick action to not only get out of the vehicle but also making sure that his sister got out with him.

Indian charged with kidnapping after driving away two children in car in US

A military court on Sunday handed three Israeli soldiers prison sentences for committing acts of violence against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/car-rams-into-israeli-troops-palestinian-attackers-killed-military-201080">detained Palestinians</a>, the army said.

"The military court sentenced three combat soldiers who were convicted as part of a plea bargain for aggravated abuse as a result of violence against Palestinian detainees," the Israeli army said in a statement.

The soldiers confessed to assaulting and injuring two Palestinian detainees shortly after an attack in which two soldiers were killed by Palestinian gunfire at a bus stop in the occupied West Bank on December 13.

In Sunday's ruling, the Israeli military court sentenced the three to at least six and a half months imprisonment and demoted them to the rank of private, the army said.

Israel on Thursday razed the home of a Palestinian accused of shooting dead the soldiers at the bus stop and aiding another attack that caused a baby's death.

The attacks in December raised fears of an outbreak of violence in the territories occupied by Israel for more than 50 years.

Around 400,000 Israelis live in settlements that dot the West Bank and range in size from tiny hamlets to large towns, in addition to 200,000 living in settlements in occupied East Jerusalem.

A military court on Sunday handed three Israeli soldiers prison sentences for committing acts of violence against detained Palestinians, the army said. "The military court sentenced three combat soldiers who were convicted as part of a plea bargain for aggravated abuse as a result of violence against Palestinian detainees," the Israeli army said in a statement.

A military court on Sunday handed three Israeli soldiers prison sentences for committing acts of violence against detained Palestinians, the army said. "The military court sentenced three combat soldiers who were convicted as part of a plea bargain for aggravated abuse as a result of violence against Palestinian detainees," the Israeli army said in a statement. The soldiers confessed to assaulting and injuring two Palestinian detainees shortly after an attack in which two soldiers were killed by Palestinian gunfire at a bus stop in the occupied West Bank on December 13. In Sunday's ruling, the Israeli military court sentenced the three to at least six and a half months imprisonment and demoted them to the rank of private, the army said. Israel on Thursday razed the home of a Palestinian accused of shooting dead the soldiers at the bus stop and aiding another attack that caused a baby's death. The attacks in December raised fears of an outbreak of violence in the territories occupied by Israel for more than 50 years. Around 400,000 Israelis live in settlements that dot the West Bank and range in size from tiny hamlets to large towns, in addition to 200,000 living in settlements in occupied East Jerusalem.

Israel court sentences three soldiers for assault on Palestinians

Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin was arrested and charged with assault on Friday after allegedly punching a 49-year-old man in the face during a New York parking dispute, police said.

The 60-year-old, who has famously impersonated President Donald Trump and who lives in downtown Manhattan with his second wife and their four young children, was arrested in Greenwich Village.

"Police got a call around 1:30 pm (1730 GMT) regarding an assault in progress. When we got there, we discovered that it looked like two individuals were fighting over a parking spot," a spokeswoman said.

The younger man had already parked his vehicle and was attempting to purchase a parking ticket, when he got into a dispute with Baldwin, "who then punched him in the face," the officer said.

She said the unnamed man was taken to hospital in a "stable" condition, while Baldwin was in custody.&nbsp;

He was subsequently charged with assault in the third degree and harassment in the second degree, and ordered to appear in court on November 26, police said.

Baldwin is well known for his hot temper and for impersonating Trump on satirical US television show "Saturday Night Live." The Oscar nominee recently launched a Sunday night talk show on ABC television.

In 2014, he was detained by New York police for riding his bicycle the wrong way down a street.

In late 2013, NBC scrapped his late-night chat show after he allegedly subjected a photographer to a homophobic slur outside his apartment on the day that a Canadian actress convicted of stalking him was jailed.

In a subsequent profanity-laden article in New York Magazine, the actor said he was finished with public life and that the Big Apple no longer offered his then baby daughter a "normal" life.

The near 5,300-word rant denied allegations that he insulted gays and lashed out furiously against the media, the city where he has lived since 1979, and US public life in general.

Despite that February 2014 article, the actor still lives in Manhattan with second wife Hilaria. The couple have four young children together.

His anger made headlines as long ago as 2007, when he left a notorious message for his then 11-year-old daughter with first wife Kim Basinger, calling her a "rude, thoughtless little pig."

Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin was arrested and charged with assault on Friday after allegedly punching a 49-year-old man in the face during a New York parking dispute, police said.

Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin was arrested and charged with assault on Friday after allegedly punching a 49-year-old man in the face during a New York parking dispute, police said. The 60-year-old, who has famously impersonated President Donald Trump and who lives in downtown Manhattan with his second wife and their four young children, was arrested in Greenwich Village. "Police got a call around 1:30 pm (1730 GMT) regarding an assault in progress. When we got there, we discovered that it looked like two individuals were fighting over a parking spot," a spokeswoman said. The younger man had already parked his vehicle and was attempting to purchase a parking ticket, when he got into a dispute with Baldwin, "who then punched him in the face," the officer said. She said the unnamed man was taken to hospital in a "stable" condition, while Baldwin was in custody. He was subsequently charged with assault in the third degree and harassment in the second degree, and ordered to appear in court on November 26, police said. Baldwin is well known for his hot temper and for impersonating Trump on satirical US television show "Saturday Night Live." The Oscar nominee recently launched a Sunday night talk show on ABC television. In 2014, he was detained by New York police for riding his bicycle the wrong way down a street. In late 2013, NBC scrapped his late-night chat show after he allegedly subjected a photographer to a homophobic slur outside his apartment on the day that a Canadian actress convicted of stalking him was jailed. In a subsequent profanity-laden article in New York Magazine, the actor said he was finished with public life and that the Big Apple no longer offered his then baby daughter a "normal" life. The near 5,300-word rant denied allegations that he insulted gays and lashed out furiously against the media, the city where he has lived since 1979, and US public life in general. Despite that February 2014 article, the actor still lives in Manhattan with second wife Hilaria. The couple have four young children together. His anger made headlines as long ago as 2007, when he left a notorious message for his then 11-year-old daughter with first wife Kim Basinger, calling her a "rude, thoughtless little pig."

Alec Baldwin charged in New York after 'punching' man

US rapper Cardi B surrendered to police in New York on Monday, charged with assault and reckless endangerment over an ugly brawl in a strip club that injured a female employee.

The 25-year-old star was in the Angels Strip Club in Queens on August 29 when someone in her group lobbed furniture inside the nightclub, causing an employee to suffer "some bruising to her legs," police said.

The fast-rising rapper turned herself in at a Queens police station and was instructed to appear in criminal court on October 29, charged with one count of assault and two counts of reckless endangerment, police said.

Celebrity gossip website TMZ said she allegedly ordered an attack on two bartenders at the club, sisters who accuse her of harbouring a grudge because one of them slept with her husband, the rapper Offset.

Cardi, who was at the club because Offset was performing in the hard-living hip-hop trio Migos, allegedly told her group to attack the bartenders with bottles, chairs and a hookah smoking device, TMZ said.

On Monday, she was filmed exiting the police station in Queens, dressed in a beige skirt suit and white blouse, escorted by burly bodyguards into a waiting SUV, making no comment to a bevvy of cameras.

Hard past

The singer, real name Belcalis Almanzar, is one of the most prominent women in hip-hop and shares a child with Offset. Earlier this year, she confirmed reports that the pair had secretly married.

Monday's police booking comes just weeks after she was involved in a fracas with fellow rapper Nicki Minaj at New York Fashion Week in which Cardi B accused her rival of throwing a shoe at her.

Cardi B was photographed with a bump on her forehead. Minaj, one of the best-selling musical artists now performing and who was reportedly not hurt, declined to press charges.

The "I Like It" songstress later took to Instagram to imply that the older Minaj had questioned her parenting skills. She gave birth to a daughter, Kulture, in July.

Cardi B has become one of the biggest new stars in US music since the runaway success last year of her song "Bodak Yellow," which touches on her former life making ends meet as a stripper.

A Bronx native, she is the first female rapper to have had multiple No. 1 songs on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

She performed in New York on Saturday at the Global Citizen festival, an unofficial closing event following the weeklong United Nations General Assembly, in what was her first concert since giving birth.

She urged young people to pay attention ahead of the November 6 midterm elections, in which President Donald Trump's Republican Party risks losing control of Congress.

US rapper Cardi B surrendered to police in New York on Monday, charged with assault and reckless endangerment over an ugly brawl in a strip club that injured a female employee.

US rapper Cardi B surrendered to police in New York on Monday, charged with assault and reckless endangerment over an ugly brawl in a strip club that injured a female employee. The 25-year-old star was in the Angels Strip Club in Queens on August 29 when someone in her group lobbed furniture inside the nightclub, causing an employee to suffer "some bruising to her legs," police said. The fast-rising rapper turned herself in at a Queens police station and was instructed to appear in criminal court on October 29, charged with one count of assault and two counts of reckless endangerment, police said. Celebrity gossip website TMZ said she allegedly ordered an attack on two bartenders at the club, sisters who accuse her of harbouring a grudge because one of them slept with her husband, the rapper Offset. Cardi, who was at the club because Offset was performing in the hard-living hip-hop trio Migos, allegedly told her group to attack the bartenders with bottles, chairs and a hookah smoking device, TMZ said. On Monday, she was filmed exiting the police station in Queens, dressed in a beige skirt suit and white blouse, escorted by burly bodyguards into a waiting SUV, making no comment to a bevvy of cameras. Hard past The singer, real name Belcalis Almanzar, is one of the most prominent women in hip-hop and shares a child with Offset. Earlier this year, she confirmed reports that the pair had secretly married. Monday's police booking comes just weeks after she was involved in a fracas with fellow rapper Nicki Minaj at New York Fashion Week in which Cardi B accused her rival of throwing a shoe at her. Cardi B was photographed with a bump on her forehead. Minaj, one of the best-selling musical artists now performing and who was reportedly not hurt, declined to press charges. The "I Like It" songstress later took to Instagram to imply that the older Minaj had questioned her parenting skills. She gave birth to a daughter, Kulture, in July. Cardi B has become one of the biggest new stars in US music since the runaway success last year of her song "Bodak Yellow," which touches on her former life making ends meet as a stripper. A Bronx native, she is the first female rapper to have had multiple No. 1 songs on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. She performed in New York on Saturday at the Global Citizen festival, an unofficial closing event following the weeklong United Nations General Assembly, in what was her first concert since giving birth. She urged young people to pay attention ahead of the November 6 midterm elections, in which President Donald Trump's Republican Party risks losing control of Congress.

Cardi B charged with assault, endangerment over strip-club brawl

Armaan Kohli the former contestant of Bigg Boss has been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-armaan-kohli-accused-of-physically-assaulting-live-in-partner-142253">booked for physically assaulting his girlfriend </a>Neeru Randhawa.

Now more shocking details of their troublesome relationship have come out

Bollywoodlife.com spoke to Neeru and asked her about her relationship with Armaan. &nbsp;

Armaan reportedly never made their relationship official and Neeru did not have a problem with it.&nbsp;

“We were introduced by a common friend and he asked me to work with him. That same year, I came to Mumbai, and soon, we grew closer. A few months later, I moved in with him. Since then, I have been taking care of his work, parents, and brother. We have been seen together at events, but Armaan never made our relationship official. He wanted to keep it under wraps and I didn’t really care about it. He has had a string of relationships where the girls have often accused him of abuse, so I thought he didn’t want to put me out there to be judged. I took care of his house and put up with his bratty attitude.”

She also told how her fights had already started and how ugly they had become since a very long time since Armaan was very short tempered.

“The argument started on a frivolous matter. I manage Armaan’s villa in Goa, which is often rented out, and had made a booking for a client. However, the client had made the payment to the villa staff and when Armaan asked me about the money, I told him that I will ask the staff to transfer it. Suddenly, he started verbally abusing me. Before I realized what was happening, he caught me by my hair and banged my head against the floor. I begged him to allow me to go to the hospital, promising that I wouldn’t approach the police. The wound was so deep that I had to undergo a surgery. The doctor told me that the scar would be visible even after the surgery, as the assault has damaged my skin tissues. He had assaulted me in February this year, and nearly broke my nose.”

She further added that Armaan has been trying to call and apologize to her “Armaan has been sending me text messages since Sunday, asking me to come back home, and he is even promising to marry me right away, but I have had enough!”

This is not the first time Armaan has assaulted her. Neeru revealed that she had left him and gone to Dubai but he pleaded her to come back. 
&nbsp; 
“This relationship has been a huge mistake, but I continued to give him chances despite being warned by friends and family. In fact, I had called time on the relationship in September last year and left for Dubai. I got a job and was living there peacefully. However, three months later, Armaan came to take me back home. When I told him that I didn’t want to get back to the vicious circle, he begged and pleaded with me and said that he would change. He told me that he needs me as I have made him a better person and taken care of his parents and brother. I left everything and returned to India with him.”

This time Armaan's anger had no control and directly landed his girlfriend to the hospital.

A case has been registered under sections 323, 326, 504 and 506 against the actor and the police are on a lookout for Mr. Kohli for further investigation.

Armaan Kohli's girlfriend has revealed shocking details about their relationship.

Armaan Kohli the former contestant of Bigg Boss has been booked for physically assaulting his girlfriend Neeru Randhawa. Now more shocking details of their troublesome relationship have come out Bollywoodlife.com spoke to Neeru and asked her about her relationship with Armaan. Armaan reportedly never made their relationship official and Neeru did not have a problem with it. “We were introduced by a common friend and he asked me to work with him. That same year, I came to Mumbai, and soon, we grew closer. A few months later, I moved in with him. Since then, I have been taking care of his work, parents, and brother. We have been seen together at events, but Armaan never made our relationship official. He wanted to keep it under wraps and I didn’t really care about it. He has had a string of relationships where the girls have often accused him of abuse, so I thought he didn’t want to put me out there to be judged. I took care of his house and put up with his bratty attitude.” She also told how her fights had already started and how ugly they had become since a very long time since Armaan was very short tempered. “The argument started on a frivolous matter. I manage Armaan’s villa in Goa, which is often rented out, and had made a booking for a client. However, the client had made the payment to the villa staff and when Armaan asked me about the money, I told him that I will ask the staff to transfer it. Suddenly, he started verbally abusing me. Before I realized what was happening, he caught me by my hair and banged my head against the floor. I begged him to allow me to go to the hospital, promising that I wouldn’t approach the police. The wound was so deep that I had to undergo a surgery. The doctor told me that the scar would be visible even after the surgery, as the assault has damaged my skin tissues. He had assaulted me in February this year, and nearly broke my nose.” She further added that Armaan has been trying to call and apologize to her “Armaan has been sending me text messages since Sunday, asking me to come back home, and he is even promising to marry me right away, but I have had enough!” This is not the first time Armaan has assaulted her. Neeru revealed that she had left him and gone to Dubai but he pleaded her to come back. “This relationship has been a huge mistake, but I continued to give him chances despite being warned by friends and family. In fact, I had called time on the relationship in September last year and left for Dubai. I got a job and was living there peacefully. However, three months later, Armaan came to take me back home. When I told him that I didn’t want to get back to the vicious circle, he begged and pleaded with me and said that he would change. He told me that he needs me as I have made him a better person and taken care of his parents and brother. I left everything and returned to India with him.” This time Armaan's anger had no control and directly landed his girlfriend to the hospital. A case has been registered under sections 323, 326, 504 and 506 against the actor and the police are on a lookout for Mr. Kohli for further investigation.

Armaan Kohli had assaulted me before, reveals girlfriend Neeru Randhava

Disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein pled not guilty to the charges of rape and other acts of sexual misconduct.

Weinstein appeared in a Manhattan court on Tuesday to enter his plea, as&nbsp;reported.

When asked how he pleaded to first-degree criminal sexual act and other charges against him, Weinstein replied, "Not guilty."

The charges involve two alleged victims.

The first, Lucia Evans, claims that Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex at his Tribeca office in 2004.

The other woman has not been named, but she is alleging that Weinstein held her against her will and raped her at a Manhattan hotel room in 2013.

It was Weinstein`s first court appearance since his May 25 arrest on charges that he sexually assaulted two women in New York.

Weinstein`s not-guilty plea was expected as he has always denied he forced any of the dozens of women who have accused him of sexual misconduct to have sex with him.

His lawyer, Benjamin Brafman, said two sexual encounters described in the indictment handed up last week were consensual.

More than 80 women, including the actresses Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow, Ashley Judd, and Rose McGowan have come forward with similar stories about Weinstein.

Some accused him of using physical force to compel them to have sex.

Others said he tried to barter parts in movies for sex or threatened to ruin their careers if they did not comply.

Despite investigations in London, Los Angeles, and New York, none of the matters ever lead to a criminal prosecution, until two weeks ago, when the Manhattan district attorney, Cyrus R. Vance Jr, became the first prosecutor to say he had enough evidence to arrest Weinstein.&nbsp;

Disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein pled not guilty to the charges of rape and other acts of sexual misconduct. Weinstein appeared in a Manhattan court on Tuesday to enter his plea, as reported. When asked how he pleaded to first-degree criminal sexual act and other charges against him, Weinstein replied, "Not guilty." The charges involve two alleged victims. The first, Lucia Evans, claims that Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex at his Tribeca office in 2004. The other woman has not been named, but she is alleging that Weinstein held her against her will and raped her at a Manhattan hotel room in 2013. It was Weinstein`s first court appearance since his May 25 arrest on charges that he sexually assaulted two women in New York. Weinstein`s not-guilty plea was expected as he has always denied he forced any of the dozens of women who have accused him of sexual misconduct to have sex with him. His lawyer, Benjamin Brafman, said two sexual encounters described in the indictment handed up last week were consensual. More than 80 women, including the actresses Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow, Ashley Judd, and Rose McGowan have come forward with similar stories about Weinstein. Some accused him of using physical force to compel them to have sex. Others said he tried to barter parts in movies for sex or threatened to ruin their careers if they did not comply. Despite investigations in London, Los Angeles, and New York, none of the matters ever lead to a criminal prosecution, until two weeks ago, when the Manhattan district attorney, Cyrus R. Vance Jr, became the first prosecutor to say he had enough evidence to arrest Weinstein.

Harvey Weinstein pleads not guilty to sexual assault charges

Ferrari president Sergio Marchionne has clarified that the contract extension of Kimi Raikkonen will not be affected by a sexual assault case involving the Formula One driver.

It is learnt that Raikkonen had filed a police complaint after a woman had accused him of sexually assaulting her in Montreal at the 2016 Canadian Grand Prix.

However, Marchionne insisted that Raikkonen is not involved in the least in the case, adding that Ferrari are primarily focusing on his on-track performance to decide his future.

"Kimi has nothing to do with this story. As to how it will affect his contract, then in any case they are two completely unrelated things," Sport24 quoted Marchionne, as saying.Raikkonen`s contract with Ferrari is set to expire at the end of the season, with Red Bull`s Daniel Ricciardo or Sauber`s Charles Leclerc are speculated to be lined up to partner Sebastian Vettel next season.

The Finnish driver has enjoyed an impressive form for Ferrari this year, having secured three podium finishes to secure fifth spot in the driver`s standings.&nbsp

Raikkonen filed a police complaint after a woman accused him of sexually assaulting her in Montreal at the 2016 Canadian Grand Prix

Ferrari president Sergio Marchionne has clarified that the contract extension of Kimi Raikkonen will not be affected by a sexual assault case involving the Formula One driver. It is learnt that Raikkonen had filed a police complaint after a woman had accused him of sexually assaulting her in Montreal at the 2016 Canadian Grand Prix. However, Marchionne insisted that Raikkonen is not involved in the least in the case, adding that Ferrari are primarily focusing on his on-track performance to decide his future. "Kimi has nothing to do with this story. As to how it will affect his contract, then in any case they are two completely unrelated things," Sport24 quoted Marchionne, as saying.Raikkonen`s contract with Ferrari is set to expire at the end of the season, with Red Bull`s Daniel Ricciardo or Sauber`s Charles Leclerc are speculated to be lined up to partner Sebastian Vettel next season. The Finnish driver has enjoyed an impressive form for Ferrari this year, having secured three podium finishes to secure fifth spot in the driver`s standings.

Assault case won't affect Raikkonen's Ferrari contract

A 26-year-old woman was allegedly molested in Bengaluru by an Ola driver who forced her to strip, news reports said Tuesday.&nbsp;

The news reports said the Ola driver got the woman to strip by threatening to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she did not do his bidding. The driver then allegedly took photos of the woman.&nbsp;

The incident took place in the early hours of June 1 while the woman, a city-based architect, was on her way to the airport to catch a flight to Mumbai.&nbsp;

The news reports said the woman had caught the Ola cab from her home in JB Nagar.&nbsp;

The driver however&nbsp;stopped the car at a deserted spot near the airport,&nbsp;locked her in, and assaulted her.&nbsp;

He allegedly snatched her phone, and threatened to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she alerted anybody.&nbsp;

To get away from him, the reports said the woman assured him she would not tell anyone.&nbsp;

The driver then dropped her to the airport, from where she complained to the police.&nbsp;

The reports said the driver was arrested within 3 hours.&nbsp;

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We regret the unfortunate experience the customer had. We've zero tolerance for such incidents&driver's been blacklisted. Safety of customers our top priority. We're extending full support to police in probe: Ola spox on Ola driver arrested for molesting woman passenger in K'taka <a href="https://t.co/dm5XxXyYpI">pic.twitter.com/dm5XxXyYpI</a>
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Ola meanwhile released a statement saying they had "zero tolerance for such incidents" and had "blacklisted" the driver.&nbsp;

The Ola driver got the woman to strip by threatening to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she did not do his bidding. The driver then allegedly photos of the woman

A 26-year-old woman was allegedly molested in Bengaluru by an Ola driver who forced her to strip, news reports said Tuesday. The news reports said the Ola driver got the woman to strip by threatening to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she did not do his bidding. The driver then allegedly took photos of the woman. The incident took place in the early hours of June 1 while the woman, a city-based architect, was on her way to the airport to catch a flight to Mumbai. The news reports said the woman had caught the Ola cab from her home in JB Nagar. The driver however stopped the car at a deserted spot near the airport, locked her in, and assaulted her. He allegedly snatched her phone, and threatened to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she alerted anybody. To get away from him, the reports said the woman assured him she would not tell anyone. The driver then dropped her to the airport, from where she complained to the police. The reports said the driver was arrested within 3 hours. We regret the unfortunate experience the customer had. We've zero tolerance for such incidents&driver's been blacklisted. Safety of customers our top priority. We're extending full support to police in probe: Ola spox on Ola driver arrested for molesting woman passenger in K'taka pic.twitter.com/dm5XxXyYpI — ANI (@ANI) June 5, 2018 × Ola meanwhile released a statement saying they had "zero tolerance for such incidents" and had "blacklisted" the driver.

Bengaluru: Ola driver allegedly molests passenger, forces her to strip

The alleged physical assault on Delhi Minister Imran Hussain on February 20, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) alleged on Tuesday in the secretariat, was &ldquo;pre-meditated&rdquo; and the result of a &ldquo;conspiracy&rdquo; hatched at Raj Niwas by LG Anil Baijal, chief secretary Anshu Prakash and IAS Association.&nbsp;

The party said the BJP-led Centre was also backing the IAS association for boycotting work of the Delhi government following the alleged attack on the chief secretary on the intervening night of February 19 and 20 by AAP MLAs Prakash Jarwal and Amanatullah Khan.&nbsp;

&quot;The physical assault on Delhi minister Imran Hussain on February 20 was pre-meditated and result of a conspiracy hatched at the LG House by the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Secretary and the IAS Association,&quot; Saurabh Bharadwaj, chief spokesperson of AAP&#39;s Delhi unit alleged.&nbsp;

 
AAP&rsquo;s chief spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj claimed a meeting of the IAS Association was held at the Secretariat on Tuesday.&nbsp;

&ldquo;At the meeting, the officers and employees were provoked and given the go-ahead to attack the ministers and their associates. They were assured that no action would be taken against them because the police and the Centre will support them,&rdquo; Bharadwaj alleged.&nbsp;

It was in the afternoon, the party claimed that an FIR was registered and happened to be &ldquo;a tailor-made police complaint by the Chief Secretary&rdquo;.

&ldquo;As the Delhi Police reports to the L-G, there has been no action against the officers in spite of video evidence available in public domain. Mr Hussain approached the Delhi court against police inaction and the court has ordered the police to preserve the CCTV footage of the Delhi Secretariat. The court on Monday ordered the police to preserve the call details of Mr Prakash,&rdquo; the party said.

(With inputs from PTI)

AAP’s chief spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj claimed a meeting of the IAS Association was held at the Secretariat on Tuesday

The alleged physical assault on Delhi Minister Imran Hussain on February 20, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) alleged on Tuesday in the secretariat, was “pre-meditated” and the result of a “conspiracy” hatched at Raj Niwas by LG Anil Baijal, chief secretary Anshu Prakash and IAS Association. The party said the BJP-led Centre was also backing the IAS association for boycotting work of the Delhi government following the alleged attack on the chief secretary on the intervening night of February 19 and 20 by AAP MLAs Prakash Jarwal and Amanatullah Khan. "The physical assault on Delhi minister Imran Hussain on February 20 was pre-meditated and result of a conspiracy hatched at the LG House by the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Secretary and the IAS Association," Saurabh Bharadwaj, chief spokesperson of AAP's Delhi unit alleged. AAP’s chief spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj claimed a meeting of the IAS Association was held at the Secretariat on Tuesday. “At the meeting, the officers and employees were provoked and given the go-ahead to attack the ministers and their associates. They were assured that no action would be taken against them because the police and the Centre will support them,” Bharadwaj alleged. It was in the afternoon, the party claimed that an FIR was registered and happened to be “a tailor-made police complaint by the Chief Secretary”. “As the Delhi Police reports to the L-G, there has been no action against the officers in spite of video evidence available in public domain. Mr Hussain approached the Delhi court against police inaction and the court has ordered the police to preserve the CCTV footage of the Delhi Secretariat. The court on Monday ordered the police to preserve the call details of Mr Prakash,” the party said. (With inputs from PTI)

Assault on Imran Hussain pre-meditated, says AAP

Delhi Police have told the court hearing the case that CCTV footage of the assault on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash was tampered with.&nbsp;

Police added that the footage will be examined by the Forensic Science Laboratory.&nbsp;

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Alleged assault of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiChiefSecretary?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiChiefSecretary</a> Anshu Prakash: Delhi Police said the CCTV was tampered and that the Forensic Science Laboratory(FSL) would examine it. Court reserves order for tomorrow
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/968017067696971776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The alleged <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/breakdown-of-governance-say-ias-officers-after-delhi-chief-secretary-alleges-assault-by-aap-mlas-33465" target="_blank">assault on Prakash</a> by two Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs took place last Monday night, with the chief secretary saying Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was present during the attack.&nbsp;

The medical report of the attack has confirmed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chief-secretary-assault-case-medical-report-confirms-injuries-33606" target="_blank">injuries</a> to Prakash&#39;s face.&nbsp;

The two AAP ministers accused of attacking Prakash have since surrendered to police and have been remanded in police custody.&nbsp;

Delhi&#39;s Arvind Kejiwal-led Aam Aadmi Party government has had a running tiff with the city&#39;s Lieutenant Governor.&nbsp;

AAP has also accused the city&#39;s bureaucrats of putting up hurdles in the way of their work.&nbsp;

Since the alleged attack on the chief secretary, Delhi&#39;s officers have not been attending meetings of the chief minister and his cabinet colleagues, demanding that Kejriwal apologise for the incident.&nbsp;

The Delhi Administrative Subordinate Services meanwhile have gone on strike.&nbsp;

Anshu Prakash was allegedly assaulted by two AAP ministers in the presence of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal

Delhi Police have told the court hearing the case that CCTV footage of the assault on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash was tampered with. Police added that the footage will be examined by the Forensic Science Laboratory. Alleged assault of #DelhiChiefSecretary Anshu Prakash: Delhi Police said the CCTV was tampered and that the Forensic Science Laboratory(FSL) would examine it. Court reserves order for tomorrow — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2018 × The alleged assault on Prakash by two Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs took place last Monday night, with the chief secretary saying Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was present during the attack. The medical report of the attack has confirmed injuries to Prakash's face. The two AAP ministers accused of attacking Prakash have since surrendered to police and have been remanded in police custody. Delhi's Arvind Kejiwal-led Aam Aadmi Party government has had a running tiff with the city's Lieutenant Governor. AAP has also accused the city's bureaucrats of putting up hurdles in the way of their work. Since the alleged attack on the chief secretary, Delhi's officers have not been attending meetings of the chief minister and his cabinet colleagues, demanding that Kejriwal apologise for the incident. The Delhi Administrative Subordinate Services meanwhile have gone on strike.

Delhi Chief Secretary assault case: Cops tell court CCTV footage tampered with

Another shocking incident of harassment emerged from the IT hub of the country, Bengaluru, after a video showing a group of drunk revellers beating a biker went viral.

&nbsp;A close look at the video shows a group of drunk men stop a biker and hurl punches at him.

The biker was accompanying a girl who tried getting away from the situation but was hit by a couple of men from the mob.

The incident took place in Bengaluru&#39;s plush Indiranagar locality.&nbsp;

Additional Commissioner Police, Seemanthkumar Singh, confirmed the arrest of two people.

Karnataka government tightened security measures to avoid any mishap from taking place during this year&#39;s new year celebrations in Bengaluru.

Last year, media reported incidents of sexual harassment and molestation during New Year celebrations in Bengaluru&#39;s Brigade Road and MG Road areas.

A close look at the video shows a group of drunk men stop a biker and hurl punches at him

Another shocking incident of harassment emerged from the IT hub of the country, Bengaluru, after a video showing a group of drunk revellers beating a biker went viral. A close look at the video shows a group of drunk men stop a biker and hurl punches at him. The biker was accompanying a girl who tried getting away from the situation but was hit by a couple of men from the mob. The incident took place in Bengaluru's plush Indiranagar locality. Additional Commissioner Police, Seemanthkumar Singh, confirmed the arrest of two people. Karnataka government tightened security measures to avoid any mishap from taking place during this year's new year celebrations in Bengaluru. Last year, media reported incidents of sexual harassment and molestation during New Year celebrations in Bengaluru's Brigade Road and MG Road areas.

Video: Drunk revellers assault Northeast biker, girl on New Year's eve in Bengaluru

A man was arrested on Saturday evening for allegedly raping his 15-year-old daughter for over a year.&nbsp;

The accused, who was from Jagatpuri in east Delhi was booked under the protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act after the girl&#39;s mother filed a complaint when she found out that the daughter had been stealing money to buy painkillers, reports said.&nbsp;

The girl told her mother that she was being raped for over a year by her father and did not tell anyone as he had threated to kill her and that no one would believe her.&nbsp;

According to reports, the man worked as a daily wage labourer with his wife and teenage son in Jagatpuri while the girl was a class IX student.&nbsp;

It was reported that the father had come home drunk one day, upon finding the girl alone he raped her and told her not to tell anyone and had since been assaulting the girl whenever he would find her alone.&nbsp;

The girl has suffered from some medical problems due to continuous sexual encounters, she is now being counselled by psychologists and receiving treatment.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the father is being investigated to understand how long the incident had been going on for, reports said.&nbsp;

The girl told her mother that she was being raped for over a year by her father and did not tell anyone as he had threated to kill her and that no one would believe her.

A man was arrested on Saturday evening for allegedly raping his 15-year-old daughter for over a year. The accused, who was from Jagatpuri in east Delhi was booked under the protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act after the girl's mother filed a complaint when she found out that the daughter had been stealing money to buy painkillers, reports said. The girl told her mother that she was being raped for over a year by her father and did not tell anyone as he had threated to kill her and that no one would believe her. According to reports, the man worked as a daily wage labourer with his wife and teenage son in Jagatpuri while the girl was a class IX student. It was reported that the father had come home drunk one day, upon finding the girl alone he raped her and told her not to tell anyone and had since been assaulting the girl whenever he would find her alone. The girl has suffered from some medical problems due to continuous sexual encounters, she is now being counselled by psychologists and receiving treatment. Meanwhile, the father is being investigated to understand how long the incident had been going on for, reports said.

Delhi: Man arrested for raping her daughter for a year

Hollywood actor Billy Baldwin responded to&nbsp;Donald Trump Jr.&#39;s sexual assault&nbsp;allegations against&nbsp;Senator Al Franken on Thursday with the Tweet targetting senior Trump.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Talk amongst yourselves: Two more women accuse Sen Al Franken of inappropriate touching <a href="https://t.co/rM17xQdbz6">https://t.co/rM17xQdbz6</a> # via <a href="https://twitter.com/HuffPostPol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HuffPostPol</a>
&mdash; Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) <a href="https://twitter.com/DonaldJTrumpJr/status/933492047738052609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The actor took to Twitter to respond to the president&#39;s son allegations against&nbsp;Al Franken,&nbsp;by calling&nbsp;the President Donald Trump&nbsp;a&nbsp;&#39;5th-degree black belt in sexual impropriety allegations&#39; and added that his wife had then &#39;shown his fat ass&#39; to out of the party.&nbsp;

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Your Dad is a 5th degree black belt when it comes to sexual impropriety allegations. 
In fact&hellip; I once had a party at the Plaza Hotel&hellip; your father showed up uninvited &amp; hit on my wife&hellip; invited her on his helicopter to Atlantic City. 
 
She showed his fat ass the door.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrumpRussia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrumpRussia</a> <a href="https://t.co/A8BInetbbZ">https://t.co/A8BInetbbZ</a>
&mdash; Billy Baldwin (@BillyBaldwin) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillyBaldwin/status/933577244273811456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Trump had previously been accused of sexually harassing around 12 women, forcing himself on them without their consent.

However, the United States president had denied these allegations and&nbsp;threatened to sue the women.&nbsp;

Billy Baldwin has accused Trump of sexually harassing his wife two decades ago.

Hollywood actor Billy Baldwin responded to Donald Trump Jr.'s sexual assault allegations against Senator Al Franken on Thursday with the Tweet targetting senior Trump. Talk amongst yourselves: Two more women accuse Sen Al Franken of inappropriate touching https://t.co/rM17xQdbz6 # via @HuffPostPol — Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) November 23, 2017 × The actor took to Twitter to respond to the president's son allegations against Al Franken, by calling the President Donald Trump a '5th-degree black belt in sexual impropriety allegations' and added that his wife had then 'shown his fat ass' to out of the party. Your Dad is a 5th degree black belt when it comes to sexual impropriety allegations. In fact… I once had a party at the Plaza Hotel… your father showed up uninvited & hit on my wife… invited her on his helicopter to Atlantic City. She showed his fat ass the door.#TrumpRussia https://t.co/A8BInetbbZ — Billy Baldwin (@BillyBaldwin) November 23, 2017 × Trump had previously been accused of sexually harassing around 12 women, forcing himself on them without their consent. However, the United States president had denied these allegations and threatened to sue the women.

Billy Baldwin claims Donald Trump hit on his wife

The Special Investigation Team(SIT) probing the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/malayali-star-dileep-arrested-in-malayali-actress-molestation-case-17799">Kerala actress assault case</a> has submitted a detailed chargesheet against Malayalam actor Dileep, who has&nbsp;been accused of being a part of the abduction of a women co-star in February, media reports said.&nbsp;

The chargesheet also included the actor&#39;s former wife, Manju Warrier as a witness and 12 others allegedly accused in the case.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/malayali-superstar-dileep-sent-to-2-day-police-custody-17849">Malayali superstar Dileep sent to 2-</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/malayali-superstar-dileep-sent-to-2-day-police-custody-17849">day</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/malayali-superstar-dileep-sent-to-2-day-police-custody-17849"> police custody</a>

According to the chargesheet, Dileep along with Pulsar Soni were the prime accused of the assault and would further face gangrape and conspiracy charges, reports stated.&nbsp;

In February, the Kerala actress&nbsp;was held captive in a car for about two hours along with four other men and the former driver who reportedly had a number of contacts with people in South India&#39;s film industry.&nbsp;

According to reports, Dileep had directed the men to make a video of the assault and click pictures of the actress on their cellphones. Reports said&nbsp;that the motive behind the incident was to take &quot;revenge&quot;&nbsp;from the actress for breaking his marriage with ex-wife Warrier.&nbsp;

The actor had allegedly offered a ransom of Rs. 1.5 crore to the accused Pulsar Suni to carry out the attack. The scheme to abduct the actress had started in 2013 and was carried out four years later after failed attempts, media reports said.&nbsp;

After his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kerala-actress-abduction-hc-rejects-actor-dileeps-bail-plea-18229">request for bail was rejected</a> four times since July, the Malayali actor was finally <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/kerala-actress-abduction-case-hc-grants-bail-to-malayalam-actor-dileep-5637">released from jail in October.</a> 
&nbsp;

The chargesheet also included the actor's former wife, Manju Warrier as a witness and 12 other allegedly accused in the case.?

The Special Investigation Team(SIT) probing the Kerala actress assault case has submitted a detailed chargesheet against Malayalam actor Dileep, who has been accused of being a part of the abduction of a women co-star in February, media reports said. The chargesheet also included the actor's former wife, Manju Warrier as a witness and 12 others allegedly accused in the case. Also read: Malayali superstar Dileep sent to 2-day police custody According to the chargesheet, Dileep along with Pulsar Soni were the prime accused of the assault and would further face gangrape and conspiracy charges, reports stated. In February, the Kerala actress was held captive in a car for about two hours along with four other men and the former driver who reportedly had a number of contacts with people in South India's film industry. According to reports, Dileep had directed the men to make a video of the assault and click pictures of the actress on their cellphones. Reports said that the motive behind the incident was to take "revenge" from the actress for breaking his marriage with ex-wife Warrier. The actor had allegedly offered a ransom of Rs. 1.5 crore to the accused Pulsar Suni to carry out the attack. The scheme to abduct the actress had started in 2013 and was carried out four years later after failed attempts, media reports said. After his request for bail was rejected four times since July, the Malayali actor was finally released from jail in October.

Dileep offered Pulsar Suni 1.5 crores to assault actress: SIT probe

Goldman Sachs Group Inc&nbsp;has written down to zero the value of its stake in the Weinstein Company, the movie studio whose co-chairman Harvey Weinstein stepped down last month following sexual assault allegations, a person familiar with the matter said on Monday.

Goldman Sachs&#39; move comes as the Weinstein Company looks for fresh financing after more than 50 women claimed that Weinstein sexually harassed or assaulted them over the past three decades.

Weinstein has denied having non-consensual sex with anyone. Reuters has been unable to independently confirm any of the allegations.

Last month, Goldman Sachs said it was trying to find a buyer for its stake in the Weinstein Company. A Goldman Sachs spokesman had said at the time that the bank valued the stake at less than $1 million.&nbsp;

The source did not disclose how much of the Weinstein Company Goldman Sachs owns, but described the stake as small. He asked not to be identified because the bank has not publicly released its latest valuation.

A Weinstein Company spokeswoman did not immediately respond to multiple requests for comment.

One of the Weinstein Company&#39;s lenders, AI International Holdings Limited, an affiliate of billionaire Len Blavatnik&#39;s industrial group Access Industries, filed a lawsuit last Friday in New York State Supreme Court demanding immediate repayment of its approximately $44 million loan.

Referring to the allegations against Harvey Weinstein, AI International stated in court papers that his actions and his departure from the company have &quot;left the business&nbsp;in shambles,&quot; and &quot;exposed to potentially massive liabilities that&nbsp;have severely, if not fatally, damaged its standing in the marketplace.&quot;

A spokeswoman for Harvey Weinstein declined to comment.

The Weinstein Company&#39;s other lenders include Bank of America and MUFG Union Bank N.A., according to the lawsuit. They did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The Weinstein Company&#39;s board of directors has been receiving advice from investment bank Moelis &amp; Co on its efforts to raise cash, including by potentially selling assets and finding a rescue loan, sources have previously told Reuters. A Moelis spokeswoman declined to comment.

Investment firm Fortress Investment Group LLC&nbsp;was considering lending to the film and TV studio, but those talks ended without a deal last week, according to another person familiar with the matter. Fortress would consider providing Weinstein Co with funding to help it through a bankruptcy process, if it came to that, the person said.

A Fortress spokesman declined to comment.

The Weinstein Company&#39;s lenders have hired investment bank Houlihan Lokey Inc for financial advice in a potential restructuring, a source close to that situation said.

The Weinstein Co has been one of Hollywood&rsquo;s most influential forces since its launch in October 2005 and has produced and distributed films including &ldquo;The King&rsquo;s Speech&rdquo; and &ldquo;Silver Linings Playbook.&rdquo;

Goldman Sachs' move comes as the Weinstein Company looks for fresh financing after more than 50 women claimed that Weinstein sexually harassed or assaulted them over the past three decades.

Goldman Sachs Group Inc has written down to zero the value of its stake in the Weinstein Company, the movie studio whose co-chairman Harvey Weinstein stepped down last month following sexual assault allegations, a person familiar with the matter said on Monday. Goldman Sachs' move comes as the Weinstein Company looks for fresh financing after more than 50 women claimed that Weinstein sexually harassed or assaulted them over the past three decades. Weinstein has denied having non-consensual sex with anyone. Reuters has been unable to independently confirm any of the allegations. Last month, Goldman Sachs said it was trying to find a buyer for its stake in the Weinstein Company. A Goldman Sachs spokesman had said at the time that the bank valued the stake at less than $1 million. The source did not disclose how much of the Weinstein Company Goldman Sachs owns, but described the stake as small. He asked not to be identified because the bank has not publicly released its latest valuation. A Weinstein Company spokeswoman did not immediately respond to multiple requests for comment. One of the Weinstein Company's lenders, AI International Holdings Limited, an affiliate of billionaire Len Blavatnik's industrial group Access Industries, filed a lawsuit last Friday in New York State Supreme Court demanding immediate repayment of its approximately $44 million loan. Referring to the allegations against Harvey Weinstein, AI International stated in court papers that his actions and his departure from the company have "left the business in shambles," and "exposed to potentially massive liabilities that have severely, if not fatally, damaged its standing in the marketplace." A spokeswoman for Harvey Weinstein declined to comment. The Weinstein Company's other lenders include Bank of America and MUFG Union Bank N.A., according to the lawsuit. They did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Weinstein Company's board of directors has been receiving advice from investment bank Moelis & Co on its efforts to raise cash, including by potentially selling assets and finding a rescue loan, sources have previously told Reuters. A Moelis spokeswoman declined to comment. Investment firm Fortress Investment Group LLC was considering lending to the film and TV studio, but those talks ended without a deal last week, according to another person familiar with the matter. Fortress would consider providing Weinstein Co with funding to help it through a bankruptcy process, if it came to that, the person said. A Fortress spokesman declined to comment. The Weinstein Company's lenders have hired investment bank Houlihan Lokey Inc for financial advice in a potential restructuring, a source close to that situation said. The Weinstein Co has been one of Hollywood’s most influential forces since its launch in October 2005 and has produced and distributed films including “The King’s Speech” and “Silver Linings Playbook.”

Goldman Sachs marks stake in Weinstein Co to zero: Report

A 19-year-old British man has been charged for trying to grab a police officer&#39;s gun at a Donald Trump rally in Las Vegas in a bid to kill the Republican presidential nominee. 
 
According to a complaint filed in federal court in Nevada, Michael Sandford tried to disarm the officer at Saturday&#39;s rally at the Mystere Theatre in the Treasure Island Casino before being overpowered. 
 
It said that the young man told a Secret Service agent after his arrest that he had driven from California to Las Vegas &quot;to kill Trump,&quot; and had been to a range a day earlier to learn to shoot as he had never fired a gun before. 
 
&quot;Sandford acknowledged that he would likely only be able to fire one to two rounds and stated he was convinced he would be killed by law enforcement during his attempt on Trump&#39;s life,&quot; the complaint said. 
 
It added that Sandford told investigators he had purchased tickets for a rally in Phoenix, where he &quot;would try again to kill Trump&quot; in the event his plan in Las Vegas failed. 
 
Video of his arrest carried by US media show a skinny man with short brown hair and a grey T-shirt being escorted out of the rally by police officers with his hands behind his back. 
 
The prosecutor&#39;s office said Sandford was ordered held without bond, as he was considered dangerous and represented a flight risk. 
 
Britain&#39;s Foreign Office is &quot;providing assistance&quot; in the case, a spokesman said. 
 
&#39;Would try this again&#39; 
 
The complaint said Sandford had told investigators that he had been in the United States for about 18 months, and had lived in Hoboken, New Jersey, before traveling to California. 
 
&nbsp;Sandford told investigators that he had targeted officer Ameel Jacob&#39;s gun because it was in an unlocked position and would be the easiest way to gain access to a weapon at the rally where those attending had to go through metal detectors. 
 
&quot;Sandford further stated that if he were on the street tomorrow, he would try this again,&quot; according to the complaint. 
 
It said Sandford told the Secret Service that he had been plotting to kill Trump for about a year and finally decided to act on Saturday, as &quot;he finally felt confident to do it.&quot; 
 
His arrest comes amid one of the nastiest US presidential campaigns in recent history, dominated by violent rhetoric, with Trump lashing out at Mexicans, Muslims and other groups. 
 
The real estate billionaire enjoys Secret Service protection but also has his own private security detail that has been accused of using unnecessary force to remove people from events. 
 
A number of protesters have been arrested at his rallies where riot police are deployed in force and there have been mounting demonstrations during his campaign appearances in recent months. 
 
Sandford is due to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on July 5. He faces more than 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if found guilty on the charge of &quot;act of violence on restricted grounds.&quot; 
(AFP)

The man had apparently driven from California to Las Vegas to kill Trump and had visited a shooting range a day earlier to learn to shoot

A 19-year-old British man has been charged for trying to grab a police officer's gun at a Donald Trump rally in Las Vegas in a bid to kill the Republican presidential nominee. According to a complaint filed in federal court in Nevada, Michael Sandford tried to disarm the officer at Saturday's rally at the Mystere Theatre in the Treasure Island Casino before being overpowered. It said that the young man told a Secret Service agent after his arrest that he had driven from California to Las Vegas "to kill Trump," and had been to a range a day earlier to learn to shoot as he had never fired a gun before. "Sandford acknowledged that he would likely only be able to fire one to two rounds and stated he was convinced he would be killed by law enforcement during his attempt on Trump's life," the complaint said. It added that Sandford told investigators he had purchased tickets for a rally in Phoenix, where he "would try again to kill Trump" in the event his plan in Las Vegas failed. Video of his arrest carried by US media show a skinny man with short brown hair and a grey T-shirt being escorted out of the rally by police officers with his hands behind his back. The prosecutor's office said Sandford was ordered held without bond, as he was considered dangerous and represented a flight risk. Britain's Foreign Office is "providing assistance" in the case, a spokesman said. 'Would try this again' The complaint said Sandford had told investigators that he had been in the United States for about 18 months, and had lived in Hoboken, New Jersey, before traveling to California. Sandford told investigators that he had targeted officer Ameel Jacob's gun because it was in an unlocked position and would be the easiest way to gain access to a weapon at the rally where those attending had to go through metal detectors. "Sandford further stated that if he were on the street tomorrow, he would try this again," according to the complaint. It said Sandford told the Secret Service that he had been plotting to kill Trump for about a year and finally decided to act on Saturday, as "he finally felt confident to do it." His arrest comes amid one of the nastiest US presidential campaigns in recent history, dominated by violent rhetoric, with Trump lashing out at Mexicans, Muslims and other groups. The real estate billionaire enjoys Secret Service protection but also has his own private security detail that has been accused of using unnecessary force to remove people from events. A number of protesters have been arrested at his rallies where riot police are deployed in force and there have been mounting demonstrations during his campaign appearances in recent months. Sandford is due to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on July 5. He faces more than 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if found guilty on the charge of "act of violence on restricted grounds." (AFP)

19-year-old Briton tries to grab cop's gun and kill Trump, charged

An Indian court today sentenced a Bollywood director to seven years in jail for raping an American research scholar last year, the victim&#39;s lawyer said. 
 
Mahmood Farooqui, best known for co-directing the popular 2010 satire Peepli Live on farmer suicides, was convicted on Saturday after a fast-track court in New Delhi found him guilty of the March 2015 attack. 
 
The victim, then aged 35, had travelled to India to seek Farooqui&#39;s assistance with her research when the assault took place at his home in an upscale area of the capital.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;The court sentenced him to seven years (of imprisonment), which is the minimum jail term for this offence,&quot; the victim&#39;s lawyer, Vrinda Grover, told AFP. 
 
Grover, who had argued for the maximum term of life imprisonment, said the court had also imposed a 50,000 Rupee ($747) fine. 
 
Farooqui, who pleaded not guilty, was taken into custody at the weekend. 
 
The woman returned to the US shortly after the incident but came back to report the matter to police. 
 
&quot;Peepli Live&quot;, which explores the divide between urban and rural India, was produced by Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan. 
 
Farooqui co-directed it with his wife, Anusha Rizwi. 
 
India introduced tough laws against sex offenders in the wake of the fatal gang-rape of a Delhi student in the capital in December 2012 that sparked mass street protests. 
 
But high levels of sexual violence against women continue. 
 
(AFP)

The victim had travelled to India to seek Mahmood Farooqui's assistance with her research when he assaulted her at his home

An Indian court today sentenced a Bollywood director to seven years in jail for raping an American research scholar last year, the victim's lawyer said. Mahmood Farooqui, best known for co-directing the popular 2010 satire Peepli Live on farmer suicides, was convicted on Saturday after a fast-track court in New Delhi found him guilty of the March 2015 attack. The victim, then aged 35, had travelled to India to seek Farooqui's assistance with her research when the assault took place at his home in an upscale area of the capital. "The court sentenced him to seven years (of imprisonment), which is the minimum jail term for this offence," the victim's lawyer, Vrinda Grover, told AFP. Grover, who had argued for the maximum term of life imprisonment, said the court had also imposed a 50,000 Rupee ($747) fine. Farooqui, who pleaded not guilty, was taken into custody at the weekend. The woman returned to the US shortly after the incident but came back to report the matter to police. "Peepli Live", which explores the divide between urban and rural India, was produced by Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan. Farooqui co-directed it with his wife, Anusha Rizwi. India introduced tough laws against sex offenders in the wake of the fatal gang-rape of a Delhi student in the capital in December 2012 that sparked mass street protests. But high levels of sexual violence against women continue. (AFP)

India court jails 'Peepli Live' director for 7 years over rape

The United Nations has documented at least 120 cases of rape since a recent flareup of violence in South Sudan and is investigating allegations that its peacekeepers did nothing to stop the violence, a spokesman said yesterday. 
 
&quot;We take very seriously the allegations that peacekeepers did not render aid to civilians in distress,&quot; said UN spokesman Farhan Haq. 
 
&quot;Of course that is exactly what they are supposed to do and there would be serious repercussions if they failed in their duty,&quot; he added. 
 
Media reports quoted witnesses who said peacekeepers looked on and did nothing during at least one assault on a woman. 
 
The Associated Press interviewed a witness who said at least 30 peacekeepers from Chinese and Nepalese battalions watched as a woman screamed for help during an assault by two soldiers near the base&#39;s gate. 
 
Haq said the command of the UN force in South Sudan, known as UNMISS, was looking into the allegations that peacekeepers failed to protect civilians. 
 
South Sudanese soldiers in uniform and men in plain clothes were allegedly involved in the sexual violence, including gang rapes, against civilians near a UN base in Juba and other areas of the capital, said Haq. 
 
Some of the victims were minors, he added. 
 
Juba was rocked by several days of heavy fighting starting on July 9 between government forces and those loyal to rebel chief Riek Machar, the latest upsurge in the two and half year war. 
 
Nearly 300 people died in the violence and thousands rushed to UN peacekeeping bases for safety. 
 
In response to the increase in rapes, UN peacekeepers have stepped up patrols around the base and in the city. 
 
They are also accompanying women who venture out of the base to collect firewood and procure other items, said Haq. 
 
UNMISS has 13,500 troops and police deployed across South Sudan under a mandate that calls for the protection of civilians. 
 
(AFP)

Chinese and Nepalese battalions watched as a woman screamed for help during an assault by two soldiers, a witness told Associated Press

The United Nations has documented at least 120 cases of rape since a recent flareup of violence in South Sudan and is investigating allegations that its peacekeepers did nothing to stop the violence, a spokesman said yesterday. "We take very seriously the allegations that peacekeepers did not render aid to civilians in distress," said UN spokesman Farhan Haq. "Of course that is exactly what they are supposed to do and there would be serious repercussions if they failed in their duty," he added. Media reports quoted witnesses who said peacekeepers looked on and did nothing during at least one assault on a woman. The Associated Press interviewed a witness who said at least 30 peacekeepers from Chinese and Nepalese battalions watched as a woman screamed for help during an assault by two soldiers near the base's gate. Haq said the command of the UN force in South Sudan, known as UNMISS, was looking into the allegations that peacekeepers failed to protect civilians. South Sudanese soldiers in uniform and men in plain clothes were allegedly involved in the sexual violence, including gang rapes, against civilians near a UN base in Juba and other areas of the capital, said Haq. Some of the victims were minors, he added. Juba was rocked by several days of heavy fighting starting on July 9 between government forces and those loyal to rebel chief Riek Machar, the latest upsurge in the two and half year war. Nearly 300 people died in the violence and thousands rushed to UN peacekeeping bases for safety. In response to the increase in rapes, UN peacekeepers have stepped up patrols around the base and in the city. They are also accompanying women who venture out of the base to collect firewood and procure other items, said Haq. UNMISS has 13,500 troops and police deployed across South Sudan under a mandate that calls for the protection of civilians. (AFP)

UN peacekeepers accused of failing to stop South Sudan rapes

DONT PUBLISH -- ANU 
 
 
The Islamic State group claimed responsibility today for its first attack in Germany, an axe and knife assault on a train carried out by a 17-year-old Afghan refugee. 
 
German authorities said they had found a hand-painted IS flag among the belongings of the asylum seeker, who seriously injured four members of a family of tourists from Hong Kong in his rampage. The teenage assailant was killed as he tried to flee. 
 
&quot;The perpetrator of the stabbing attack in Germany was one of the fighters of the Islamic State,&quot; the IS-linked Amaq news agency said. 
 
The assault on a regional train near the southern city of Wuerzburg late Monday left two of the victims critically hurt, said Joachim Herrmann, the interior minister of Bavaria state. 
 
&quot;We hope that those who were gravely injured make it,&quot; Herrmann told ZDF public television. 
 
Germany has thus far escaped the kind of large-scale jihadist attack seen in the southern French city of Nice last week, in which 31-year-old Mohamed Lahouaiej Bouhlel used a truck to mow down 84 people. That attack was also claimed by IS. 
 
The terrifying assault in Bavaria is likely to revive a heated national debate about integrating migrants and refugees after a record influx last year. 
 
&#39;Like a slaughterhouse&#39; 
 
The assailant had arrived as an unaccompanied minor in Germany about two years ago and had been staying with a foster family in the region for the last two weeks, Herrmann said. 
 
&quot;It is quite probable that this was an Islamist attack,&quot; said a ministry spokesman hours after the attack, adding that the assailant was heard shouting &quot;Allahu akbar&quot; (God is greatest). 
 
However, he stressed that the investigation was ongoing and that the teenager appeared to have acted alone. 
 
&quot;We must determine what the motive was and to what extent he really belonged to the Islamist scene or self-radicalised very recently,&quot; Herrmann said, adding that the assailant had no criminal record in Germany. 
 
The assault happened around 9:15 pm (1915 GMT) on the train which runs between the town of Treuchtlingen and Wuerzburg in Bavaria. 
 
An eyewitness who lives next to the railway station told DPA news agency that the train, which had been carrying around 25 people, looked &quot;like a slaughterhouse&quot; with blood covering the floor. 
 
The man, who declined to give his name, said he saw people crawl from the carriage and ask for a first-aid kit as other victims lay on the floor inside. 
 
&quot;The perpetrator was able to leave the train, police left in pursuit and as part of this pursuit, they shot the attacker and killed him,&quot; a police spokesman said. 
 
Herrmann later said the teenager was shot when he attacked police while trying to escape the scene. 
 
Political tensions 
 
Germany has been spared major Islamist attacks but in May, a mentally unstable 27-year-old man wielding a knife killed one person and injured three others on another Bavarian regional train. 
 
Early reports had suggested he had yelled &quot;Allahu akbar&quot; but police later said there was no evidence pointing to a religious motive. He is being held in a psychiatric hospital. 
 
In February, a 15-year-old girl of Turkish origin stabbed a policeman in the neck with a kitchen knife at Hanover train station in what prosecutors later said was an IS-inspired attack. 
 
And police in April arrested two 16-year-olds over an explosion that wounded three people at a Sikh temple, in what was believed to be an Islamist-motivated attack against an Indian wedding party at a temple in the western city of Essen. 
 
Germany let in nearly 1.1 million asylum seekers last year, with Syrians the largest group followed by Afghans. 
 
However the number of refugees arriving in Germany has fallen sharply as a result of the closure of the Balkans migration route and an EU deal with Turkey to stem the flow. 
 
Bavaria is governed by the Christian Social Union (CSU), sister party to Chancellor Angela Merkel&#39;s conservative Christian Democrats, which has been loudly critical of Merkel&#39;s welcoming stance toward asylum seekers. 
 
The split threatened the unity of the ruling coalition in Berlin and sent the government&#39;s approval ratings plunging. 
 
It has also put wind in the sails of a right-wing populist party, Alternative for Germany, which was founded as a eurosceptic protest outfit in 2013 but now mainly rails against Islam and Germany&#39;s refugee influx. 
 
Merkel&#39;s popularity has rebounded recently but the Bavaria attack is likely to stoke political tensions. 
 
(AFP)

German authorities had found a hand-painted IS flag in the belongings of the teenage Afghan attacker. The assailant was killed while fleeing

DONT PUBLISH -- ANU The Islamic State group claimed responsibility today for its first attack in Germany, an axe and knife assault on a train carried out by a 17-year-old Afghan refugee. German authorities said they had found a hand-painted IS flag among the belongings of the asylum seeker, who seriously injured four members of a family of tourists from Hong Kong in his rampage. The teenage assailant was killed as he tried to flee. "The perpetrator of the stabbing attack in Germany was one of the fighters of the Islamic State," the IS-linked Amaq news agency said. The assault on a regional train near the southern city of Wuerzburg late Monday left two of the victims critically hurt, said Joachim Herrmann, the interior minister of Bavaria state. "We hope that those who were gravely injured make it," Herrmann told ZDF public television. Germany has thus far escaped the kind of large-scale jihadist attack seen in the southern French city of Nice last week, in which 31-year-old Mohamed Lahouaiej Bouhlel used a truck to mow down 84 people. That attack was also claimed by IS. The terrifying assault in Bavaria is likely to revive a heated national debate about integrating migrants and refugees after a record influx last year. 'Like a slaughterhouse' The assailant had arrived as an unaccompanied minor in Germany about two years ago and had been staying with a foster family in the region for the last two weeks, Herrmann said. "It is quite probable that this was an Islamist attack," said a ministry spokesman hours after the attack, adding that the assailant was heard shouting "Allahu akbar" (God is greatest). However, he stressed that the investigation was ongoing and that the teenager appeared to have acted alone. "We must determine what the motive was and to what extent he really belonged to the Islamist scene or self-radicalised very recently," Herrmann said, adding that the assailant had no criminal record in Germany. The assault happened around 9:15 pm (1915 GMT) on the train which runs between the town of Treuchtlingen and Wuerzburg in Bavaria. An eyewitness who lives next to the railway station told DPA news agency that the train, which had been carrying around 25 people, looked "like a slaughterhouse" with blood covering the floor. The man, who declined to give his name, said he saw people crawl from the carriage and ask for a first-aid kit as other victims lay on the floor inside. "The perpetrator was able to leave the train, police left in pursuit and as part of this pursuit, they shot the attacker and killed him," a police spokesman said. Herrmann later said the teenager was shot when he attacked police while trying to escape the scene. Political tensions Germany has been spared major Islamist attacks but in May, a mentally unstable 27-year-old man wielding a knife killed one person and injured three others on another Bavarian regional train. Early reports had suggested he had yelled "Allahu akbar" but police later said there was no evidence pointing to a religious motive. He is being held in a psychiatric hospital. In February, a 15-year-old girl of Turkish origin stabbed a policeman in the neck with a kitchen knife at Hanover train station in what prosecutors later said was an IS-inspired attack. And police in April arrested two 16-year-olds over an explosion that wounded three people at a Sikh temple, in what was believed to be an Islamist-motivated attack against an Indian wedding party at a temple in the western city of Essen. Germany let in nearly 1.1 million asylum seekers last year, with Syrians the largest group followed by Afghans. However the number of refugees arriving in Germany has fallen sharply as a result of the closure of the Balkans migration route and an EU deal with Turkey to stem the flow. Bavaria is governed by the Christian Social Union (CSU), sister party to Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservative Christian Democrats, which has been loudly critical of Merkel's welcoming stance toward asylum seekers. The split threatened the unity of the ruling coalition in Berlin and sent the government's approval ratings plunging. It has also put wind in the sails of a right-wing populist party, Alternative for Germany, which was founded as a eurosceptic protest outfit in 2013 but now mainly rails against Islam and Germany's refugee influx. Merkel's popularity has rebounded recently but the Bavaria attack is likely to stoke political tensions. (AFP)

IS claims first German attack with train axe assault

An Israeli court today sentenced an ultra-Orthodox Jewish man to life in prison for stabbing participants at a Jerusalem Gay Pride parade, killing a 16-year-old girl and wounding others. 
 
The Jerusalem District Court convicted Yishai Schlissel in April of murder and six counts of attempted murder over the July 2015 stabbings. He was sentenced to life plus 31 years, a court statement said. 
 
The incident triggered harsh criticism of the police when it emerged that Schlissel had been released from prison only three weeks earlier after serving a 10-year sentence for a similar attack. 
 
He had also posted a letter on the Internet speaking of the &quot;abomination&quot; of a Gay Pride parade being held in the Holy City and the need to stop it, even at the cost of one`s life. 
 
Many questioned how Schlissel, 40, when he was convicted, was allowed anywhere near the parade, which saw thousands marching through central Jerusalem. 
 
Witnesses described terrifying scenes of Schlissel, dressed in the dark suit worn by ultra-Orthodox Jews, storming the parade with a knife. 
 
(AFP)

The Jerusalem District Court convicted Yishai Schlissel in April of murder and six counts of attempted murder over the July 2015 stabbings

An Israeli court today sentenced an ultra-Orthodox Jewish man to life in prison for stabbing participants at a Jerusalem Gay Pride parade, killing a 16-year-old girl and wounding others. The Jerusalem District Court convicted Yishai Schlissel in April of murder and six counts of attempted murder over the July 2015 stabbings. He was sentenced to life plus 31 years, a court statement said. The incident triggered harsh criticism of the police when it emerged that Schlissel had been released from prison only three weeks earlier after serving a 10-year sentence for a similar attack. He had also posted a letter on the Internet speaking of the "abomination" of a Gay Pride parade being held in the Holy City and the need to stop it, even at the cost of one`s life. Many questioned how Schlissel, 40, when he was convicted, was allowed anywhere near the parade, which saw thousands marching through central Jerusalem. Witnesses described terrifying scenes of Schlissel, dressed in the dark suit worn by ultra-Orthodox Jews, storming the parade with a knife. (AFP)

Jewish man who stabbed Jerusalem Gay Pride marchers sentenced to life

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