The police in Toronto claimed to have arrested a man suspected of killing 21-year-old Indian student Kartik Vasudev near the Sherbourne subway station last week.

The killer has been identified as 39-year-old Richard Jonathan Edwin, who is charged in another murder case that took place just two days after Vasudev was shot dead

According to police, Edwin’s second victim was Elijah Eleazar Mahepath (35), who was walking westbound on the north side of Dundas Street East near George Street.

Edwin was arrested Sunday evening with a cache of loaded guns at his disposal, police said.

Briefing the reporters on Tuesday, Toronto police chief James Ramer said both the attacks were random killings and completely “unprovoked”.

"Kartik was just outside the Sherbourne subway station last Thursday when he was approached by a stranger...Unprovoked, this man shot Kartik multiple times, killing him," Ramer told reporters.

“Any death is tragic, but these men were completely innocent, and their murders were absolutely random acts of violence," he added.

Police said that Edwin has no prior murder cases against him and was in “lawful” possession of these guns.

Ramer believes that had the suspect not been caught sooner, there could have been a string of random attacks across the city.

"When, I don't know, but he had an arsenal at home. Frankly, I believe this might have just been a first step," Ramer said.

The police have now launched a probe to find out about his background and if he is associated with any organisation.

Vasudev hailed from Ghaziabad city in Uttar Pradesh. He had moved to Canada in January to pursue higher studies, according to his family.

He was shot on Thursday evening at the Glen Road entrance to Sherbourne TTC station in St James Town. He was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Watch |&nbsp;Canada: Suspected killer of Indian student Kartik Vasudev arrested

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/suspected-killer-of-indian-student-kartik-vasudev-in-canada-arrested-470695/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

The police in Toronto claimed to have arrested a man suspected of killing 21-year-old Indian student Kartik Vasudev near the Sherbourne subway station last week.

The police in Toronto claimed to have arrested a man suspected of killing 21-year-old Indian student Kartik Vasudev near the Sherbourne subway station last week. The killer has been identified as 39-year-old Richard Jonathan Edwin, who is charged in another murder case that took place just two days after Vasudev was shot dead According to police, Edwin’s second victim was Elijah Eleazar Mahepath (35), who was walking westbound on the north side of Dundas Street East near George Street. Edwin was arrested Sunday evening with a cache of loaded guns at his disposal, police said. Briefing the reporters on Tuesday, Toronto police chief James Ramer said both the attacks were random killings and completely “unprovoked”. "Kartik was just outside the Sherbourne subway station last Thursday when he was approached by a stranger...Unprovoked, this man shot Kartik multiple times, killing him," Ramer told reporters. “Any death is tragic, but these men were completely innocent, and their murders were absolutely random acts of violence," he added. Police said that Edwin has no prior murder cases against him and was in “lawful” possession of these guns. Ramer believes that had the suspect not been caught sooner, there could have been a string of random attacks across the city. "When, I don't know, but he had an arsenal at home. Frankly, I believe this might have just been a first step," Ramer said. The police have now launched a probe to find out about his background and if he is associated with any organisation. Vasudev hailed from Ghaziabad city in Uttar Pradesh. He had moved to Canada in January to pursue higher studies, according to his family. He was shot on Thursday evening at the Glen Road entrance to Sherbourne TTC station in St James Town. He was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Watch | Canada: Suspected killer of Indian student Kartik Vasudev arrested (With inputs from agencies)

Alleged killer of Indian student arrested with large ‘cache of guns at home’, says Canadian Police

International kabbadi player Sandeep Singh from Nangal Ambiyan village was shot dead by assailants during a match at Malian village in Jalandhar district on Monday.

At least 20 bullets were pumped into his head and chest. The disturbing video of the crime went viral.

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A former captain of the Indian kabaddi team, Sandeep hailed from Nangal Ambian village in Shahkot. He is survived by his wife and two sons, who are currently in England, where he was settled.

International kabbadi player Sandeep Singh from Nangal Ambiyan village was shot dead by assailants during a match at Malian village in Jalandhar district on Monday.

International kabbadi player Sandeep Singh from Nangal Ambiyan village was shot dead by assailants during a match at Malian village in Jalandhar district on Monday. At least 20 bullets were pumped into his head and chest. The disturbing video of the crime went viral. ALSO READ: Formula One star Lewis Hamilton to change his name to honour his mother Carmen Larbalestier A former captain of the Indian kabaddi team, Sandeep hailed from Nangal Ambian village in Shahkot. He is survived by his wife and two sons, who are currently in England, where he was settled.

International Kabaddi player Sandeep Singh Nangal shot dead in Punjab

A court in&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;on Friday sentenced a&nbsp;mother&nbsp;to six years in jail for allowing her&nbsp;son&nbsp;to&nbsp;fight&nbsp;for the Islamic State (IS) group as a child soldier in Syria.

The 49-year-old was convicted of &nbsp;aggravated of war crimes, violations of international law and for "not stopping her&nbsp;son, then aged 12 to 15, from being recruited and used as a child soldier for IS in the armed conflict in Syria," the Stockholm district court said in a statement.

The woman and her husband had been part of a "cult-like" Islamist environment and in April 2013 she brought her&nbsp;son&nbsp;to join his father and an older&nbsp;son&nbsp;in Syria.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/52-year-old-drunk-airline-pilot-removed-from-cockpit-of-flight-in-us-458917">&nbsp;52-year-old drunk airline pilot removed from cockpit of flight in US</a>

The court found that she must have understood that her&nbsp;son&nbsp;was used as a child soldier.

"She has not taken adequate steps to stop this, neither has she wanted to stop it, but his role as a child soldier had been in accordance with her convictions," the court said.

When she was charged in January, the prosecution authority said it was "the first time charges are being brought in&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;for the war crime of using a child soldier".

It also said that from August 2013 and to May of 2016 the boy allegedly&nbsp;took&nbsp;part "in hostilities performed by armed groups, including the terrorist organisation IS".

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The authority added that he died in 2017, without providing the cause of death.

Around 300 Swedes or Swedish residents, a quarter of whom are women, joined IS in Syria and Iraq, mostly in 2013 and 2014, according to the Sapo intelligence service.

Sweden&nbsp;did not have existing legislation at the time to prosecute people for membership in a terrorist organisation, so prosecutors instead sought other crimes with which to charge returnees.

A court in Sweden on Friday sentenced a mother to six years in jail for allowing her son to fight for the Islamic State (IS) group as a child soldier in Syria. The 49-year-old was convicted of aggravated of war crimes, violations of international law and for "not stopping her son, then aged 12 to 15, from being recruited and used as a child soldier for IS in the armed conflict in Syria," the Stockholm district court said in a statement.

A court in Sweden on Friday sentenced a mother to six years in jail for allowing her son to fight for the Islamic State (IS) group as a child soldier in Syria. The 49-year-old was convicted of aggravated of war crimes, violations of international law and for "not stopping her son, then aged 12 to 15, from being recruited and used as a child soldier for IS in the armed conflict in Syria," the Stockholm district court said in a statement. The woman and her husband had been part of a "cult-like" Islamist environment and in April 2013 she brought her son to join his father and an older son in Syria. Also read | 52-year-old drunk airline pilot removed from cockpit of flight in US The court found that she must have understood that her son was used as a child soldier. "She has not taken adequate steps to stop this, neither has she wanted to stop it, but his role as a child soldier had been in accordance with her convictions," the court said. When she was charged in January, the prosecution authority said it was "the first time charges are being brought in Sweden for the war crime of using a child soldier". It also said that from August 2013 and to May of 2016 the boy allegedly took part "in hostilities performed by armed groups, including the terrorist organisation IS". Also read | Florida lawmakers vote to ban abortions after 15 weeks The authority added that he died in 2017, without providing the cause of death. Around 300 Swedes or Swedish residents, a quarter of whom are women, joined IS in Syria and Iraq, mostly in 2013 and 2014, according to the Sapo intelligence service. Sweden did not have existing legislation at the time to prosecute people for membership in a terrorist organisation, so prosecutors instead sought other crimes with which to charge returnees.

Sweden jails mother who took son to fight for IS

There has been evidence of the Russian military committing war crimes in Ukraine. Eliot Higgins, who happens to be the founder of the investigative journalism site Bellingcat, in a report by The Guardian said there was evidence of Russia causing “civilian harm."&nbsp;

As per United Nations, intentionally targeting civilians or civilian buildings is considered a war crime under international humanitarian law. Also, attacks on military targets that cause excessive civilian casualties fall under the same category.

This is being done through the use of “cluster bombs in civilian areas”, claimed Eliot, by using credible video and stills of the conflict.

The evidence includes footage that has been collected. For instance, footage of an attack on a car park in Kharkiv has been described by a Bellingcat researcher as a cluster bomb strike.&nbsp;

It shows residents walking in a nearby park just as the bombs go off. The area in the footage appears to be residential.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-russia-claims-to-have-besieged-two-big-cities-in-ukraine-455211">Also read |&nbsp;LIVE | Ukraine war - Putin planning to proclaim Yanukovych as Ukraine president: Report</a>

Further evidence of the use of cluster munitions has also emerged. This includes the remains of a rocket motor from a BMP-30 Russian cluster munition found on a road in Kharkiv.&nbsp;

There is also a video of a similar bomb part landing in Bucha, which is northwest of Kyiv.

Various NGOs have highlighted a kindergarten attack in Okhtyrka, which is about 60 miles west of Kharkiv.

Drone footage shows multiple blackened explosion spots. It also shows dead or severely injured people by the entrance.

Agnès Callamard, the secretary general of Amnesty International, in a report by The Guardian said, "There is no possible justification for dropping cluster munitions in populated areas, let alone near a school."

(With inputs from agencies)

There has been evidence of the Russian military committing war crimes in Ukraine. Eliot Higgins, who happens to be the founder of the investigative journalism site Bellingcat, in a report by The Guardian said there was evidence of Russia causing “civilian harm.

There has been evidence of the Russian military committing war crimes in Ukraine. Eliot Higgins, who happens to be the founder of the investigative journalism site Bellingcat, in a report by The Guardian said there was evidence of Russia causing “civilian harm." As per United Nations, intentionally targeting civilians or civilian buildings is considered a war crime under international humanitarian law. Also, attacks on military targets that cause excessive civilian casualties fall under the same category. This is being done through the use of “cluster bombs in civilian areas”, claimed Eliot, by using credible video and stills of the conflict. The evidence includes footage that has been collected. For instance, footage of an attack on a car park in Kharkiv has been described by a Bellingcat researcher as a cluster bomb strike. It shows residents walking in a nearby park just as the bombs go off. The area in the footage appears to be residential. Also read | LIVE | Ukraine war - Putin planning to proclaim Yanukovych as Ukraine president: Report Further evidence of the use of cluster munitions has also emerged. This includes the remains of a rocket motor from a BMP-30 Russian cluster munition found on a road in Kharkiv. There is also a video of a similar bomb part landing in Bucha, which is northwest of Kyiv. Various NGOs have highlighted a kindergarten attack in Okhtyrka, which is about 60 miles west of Kharkiv. Drone footage shows multiple blackened explosion spots. It also shows dead or severely injured people by the entrance. Agnès Callamard, the secretary general of Amnesty International, in a report by The Guardian said, "There is no possible justification for dropping cluster munitions in populated areas, let alone near a school." (With inputs from agencies)

From cluster munitions to targeting schools: Researchers accuse Russia of war crimes in Ukraine

A 15-year-old Spanish boy was arrested on Saturday for allegedly shooting dead his parents and 10-year-old brother following a row over bad school grades, police said.

The incident took place on Tuesday evening in a rural area just outside Elche, about 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the southeastern port city of Alicante, reports AFP.

The police were informed only on Friday after a relative who came to check up on them discovered the three lying in a poll of blood near their house’s shed.

Local and national police officers, as well as a team of psychologists, arrived at the scene which was cordoned off on Friday, Spanish media reported.

"The woman’s sister came to the house because she had heard nothing from the family and that's when her nephew told her he'd killed his father, mother and brother," a police spokesperson told AFP.

Autopsies on the victims are scheduled to take place on Saturday.

The 15-year-old minor was then arrested by police after he was found alone in the house with the bodies for three days.

Spanish newspaper El Pais citing sources said that while confessing to the crime, the teenager displayed “unusual coldness, without expressing remorse” at any time.

He told them he had “argued with his mother over his school grades” and then used his father's hunting rifle to kill her, then his 10-year-old brother and lastly his father.

The mayor of the city has announced three-day mourning for the relatives of the deceased.

Spanish media reported on Friday that the teenager would be taken to the Juvenile Prosecutor's Office where he would be assigned a defence attorney. He will be placed in a reform centre for minors.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 15-year-old Spanish boy was arrested on Saturday for allegedly shooting dead his parents and 10-year-old brother following a row over bad school grades, police said.

A 15-year-old Spanish boy was arrested on Saturday for allegedly shooting dead his parents and 10-year-old brother following a row over bad school grades, police said. The incident took place on Tuesday evening in a rural area just outside Elche, about 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the southeastern port city of Alicante, reports AFP. The police were informed only on Friday after a relative who came to check up on them discovered the three lying in a poll of blood near their house’s shed. Local and national police officers, as well as a team of psychologists, arrived at the scene which was cordoned off on Friday, Spanish media reported. "The woman’s sister came to the house because she had heard nothing from the family and that's when her nephew told her he'd killed his father, mother and brother," a police spokesperson told AFP. Autopsies on the victims are scheduled to take place on Saturday. The 15-year-old minor was then arrested by police after he was found alone in the house with the bodies for three days. Spanish newspaper El Pais citing sources said that while confessing to the crime, the teenager displayed “unusual coldness, without expressing remorse” at any time. He told them he had “argued with his mother over his school grades” and then used his father's hunting rifle to kill her, then his 10-year-old brother and lastly his father. The mayor of the city has announced three-day mourning for the relatives of the deceased. Spanish media reported on Friday that the teenager would be taken to the Juvenile Prosecutor's Office where he would be assigned a defence attorney. He will be placed in a reform centre for minors. (With inputs from agencies)

15-year-old Spanish boy mercilessly kills parents, 10-year-old brother in argument over bad grades

Mexico&nbsp;is&nbsp;on&nbsp;course for one of its&nbsp;deadliest&nbsp;years&nbsp;yet for the press, with five journalists murdered already in 2022, prompting calls for authorities to end a culture of impunity.

Reporters in the Latin American country are killed "because it's cheap," Juan Vazquez, spokesman for&nbsp;media&nbsp;rights group Article 19, told AFP.

"Those who run the greatest risk are the journalists with their pen, computer, recorder or microphone. In the end those who run the least risk are those who pull the trigger," he said.

The latest victim was Heber Lopez Vazquez, the 39-year-old manager of news website Noticias Web in the southern state of Oaxaca who was shot dead&nbsp;on&nbsp;Thursday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-most-dangerous-countries-for-journalists-another-journalist-killed-in-mexico-the-fifth-this-year-452407">'World's most dangerous countries for journalists': Another journalist killed in Mexico, the fifth this year</a>

Two suspects were arrested as they tried to flee the scene of the crime, according to prosecutors.

Lopez had previously received threats that he believed were linked to allegations of corruption against a local mayor, said Balbina Flores, representative for&nbsp;media&nbsp;watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

Even so, he was not part of a government program providing protection for around 500 journalists.

His murder puts&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;on&nbsp;course to surpass the toll of seven journalists killed in 2021.

"The first six weeks of 2022 have been the&nbsp;deadliest&nbsp;for the Mexican press in over a decade," said Jan-Albert Hootsen, representative of the Committee to Protect Journalists.

The&nbsp;media&nbsp;rights group said it "urges Mexican authorities to immediately and transparently investigate all murders and bring the perpetrators to justice."

Mexican authorities said Wednesday that three men had been arrested over the murder of journalist Lourdes Maldonado last month&nbsp;in Tijuana.

Her death came in the wake of the shooting of photographer Margarito Martinez in the same northwestern border city.

Roberto Toledo, who worked with a news site in the central state of Michoacan, as well as Jose Luis Gamboa, a journalist and social&nbsp;media&nbsp;activist in eastern Veracruz state, were also killed in January.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-mexico-fourth-journalist-killed-in-less-than-a-month-449402">In Mexico, fourth journalist killed in less than a month</a>

'Zero impunity'

Around 150 journalists have been murdered since 2000 in&nbsp;Mexico, and only a fraction of the crimes have resulted in convictions, according to RSF.

Around 100 of them were killed under presidents Felipe Calderon (2006-2012) and Enrique Pena Nieto (2012-2018), whose terms were marked by a bloody war&nbsp;on&nbsp;drug trafficking.

Another 29 murders have been registered since President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador took office in 2018 championing a "hugs not bullets" strategy to tackle violent crime at its roots by fighting poverty and inequality.

"This six-year term (of Lopez Obrador) will be classified as one of the bloodiest" for the press, Flores predicted.

Mexico's president&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday promised "zero impunity" for the latest murder.

His critics argue that his outspoken attacks against a&nbsp;media&nbsp;that he calls "mercenary" and accuses of serving the interests of his opponents only add to the difficulties facing journalists.

The fact that more than 90 percent of the murders of&nbsp;media&nbsp;workers go unpunished in&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;is a major driver of the violence, according to activists.

If the authorities had taken tougher action to prevent such crimes, relatives would not be burying more victims, said Vazquez.

Mexico&nbsp;was failing to comply with its obligations in terms of protection and prevention of deadly attacks against journalists, he said.

This country of 126 million people plagued by drug cartel-related violence, ranks 143rd out of 180 nations in RSF's World Press Freedom Index.

Watch |&nbsp;Mexicans protest journalist killings, calls for protection

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mexicans-protest-journalist-killings-calls-for-protection-447751/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Most of the crimes against Mexican&nbsp;media&nbsp;involve small outlets whose journalists are "very vulnerable" and sometimes unaware of the protection mechanisms available to them, Flores said.

Given the poor pay this kind of work offers, they often combine journalism with other jobs.

This means authorities can sometimes be quick to separate the crimes from the victims'&nbsp;media&nbsp;activities and not to investigate them as violations of press freedom.

Journalism is a "very precarious" way of eking out a living in&nbsp;Mexico, said Flores.

Mexico is on course for one of its deadliest years yet for the press, with five journalists murdered already in 2022, prompting calls for authorities to end a culture of impunity.

Mexico is on course for one of its deadliest years yet for the press, with five journalists murdered already in 2022, prompting calls for authorities to end a culture of impunity. Reporters in the Latin American country are killed "because it's cheap," Juan Vazquez, spokesman for media rights group Article 19, told AFP. "Those who run the greatest risk are the journalists with their pen, computer, recorder or microphone. In the end those who run the least risk are those who pull the trigger," he said. The latest victim was Heber Lopez Vazquez, the 39-year-old manager of news website Noticias Web in the southern state of Oaxaca who was shot dead on Thursday. Also read | 'World's most dangerous countries for journalists': Another journalist killed in Mexico, the fifth this year Two suspects were arrested as they tried to flee the scene of the crime, according to prosecutors. Lopez had previously received threats that he believed were linked to allegations of corruption against a local mayor, said Balbina Flores, representative for media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Even so, he was not part of a government program providing protection for around 500 journalists. His murder puts Mexico on course to surpass the toll of seven journalists killed in 2021. "The first six weeks of 2022 have been the deadliest for the Mexican press in over a decade," said Jan-Albert Hootsen, representative of the Committee to Protect Journalists. The media rights group said it "urges Mexican authorities to immediately and transparently investigate all murders and bring the perpetrators to justice." Mexican authorities said Wednesday that three men had been arrested over the murder of journalist Lourdes Maldonado last month in Tijuana. Her death came in the wake of the shooting of photographer Margarito Martinez in the same northwestern border city. Roberto Toledo, who worked with a news site in the central state of Michoacan, as well as Jose Luis Gamboa, a journalist and social media activist in eastern Veracruz state, were also killed in January. Also read | In Mexico, fourth journalist killed in less than a month 'Zero impunity' Around 150 journalists have been murdered since 2000 in Mexico, and only a fraction of the crimes have resulted in convictions, according to RSF. Around 100 of them were killed under presidents Felipe Calderon (2006-2012) and Enrique Pena Nieto (2012-2018), whose terms were marked by a bloody war on drug trafficking. Another 29 murders have been registered since President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador took office in 2018 championing a "hugs not bullets" strategy to tackle violent crime at its roots by fighting poverty and inequality. "This six-year term (of Lopez Obrador) will be classified as one of the bloodiest" for the press, Flores predicted. Mexico's president on Friday promised "zero impunity" for the latest murder. His critics argue that his outspoken attacks against a media that he calls "mercenary" and accuses of serving the interests of his opponents only add to the difficulties facing journalists. The fact that more than 90 percent of the murders of media workers go unpunished in Mexico is a major driver of the violence, according to activists. If the authorities had taken tougher action to prevent such crimes, relatives would not be burying more victims, said Vazquez. Mexico was failing to comply with its obligations in terms of protection and prevention of deadly attacks against journalists, he said. This country of 126 million people plagued by drug cartel-related violence, ranks 143rd out of 180 nations in RSF's World Press Freedom Index. Watch | Mexicans protest journalist killings, calls for protection Most of the crimes against Mexican media involve small outlets whose journalists are "very vulnerable" and sometimes unaware of the protection mechanisms available to them, Flores said. Given the poor pay this kind of work offers, they often combine journalism with other jobs. This means authorities can sometimes be quick to separate the crimes from the victims' media activities and not to investigate them as violations of press freedom. Journalism is a "very precarious" way of eking out a living in Mexico, said Flores.

Mexico on track for one of deadliest years for media

A&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;was shot dead Thursday in&nbsp;Mexico, an official said, the&nbsp;fifth&nbsp;such killing this&nbsp;year&nbsp;in a country notoriously dangerous for reporters.

Heber Lopez Vazquez, who ran a news website called Noticias Web in the southern state of Oaxaca, was shot in his car, state prosecutor Arturo Calvo told the TV channel Milenio.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/violent-crimes-on-the-rise-in-us-survey-452354">Violent crimes on the rise in US: Survey</a>

Two suspects were arrested as they tried to flee the scene of the crime and their guns were recovered, Calvo said, adding it was not known who ordered the killing.

Lopez's death brings the number of journalists&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;this&nbsp;year&nbsp;to five, according to an AFP tally based on data from press freedom advocacy organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

Mexico&nbsp;is considered one of the world's most dangerous countries for journalists.

At least seven were murdered last&nbsp;year, according to RSF, although it is not known whether in all of those cases the killing was linked to their work.

Watch |&nbsp;Mexicans protest journalist killings, calls for protection

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mexicans-protest-journalist-killings-calls-for-protection-447751/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">
Mexican authorities said Wednesday that three men had been arrested over the murder of&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;Lourdes Maldonado, whose killing last month&nbsp;in Tijuana sparked international condemnation and calls for the government to do more to protect media workers.

Her death came in the wake of the shooting of photographer Margarito Martinez in Tijuana.&nbsp;
Roberto Toledo, who worked with a news site in the central state of Michoacan, as well as Jose Luis Gamboa, a&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;and social media activist in eastern Veracruz state, were also&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in January.</div>

A journalist was shot dead Thursday in Mexico, an official said, the fifth such killing this year in a country notoriously dangerous for reporters. Heber Lopez Vazquez, who ran a news website called Noticias Web in the southern state of Oaxaca, was shot in his car, state prosecutor Arturo Calvo told the TV channel Milenio.

A journalist was shot dead Thursday in Mexico, an official said, the fifth such killing this year in a country notoriously dangerous for reporters. Heber Lopez Vazquez, who ran a news website called Noticias Web in the southern state of Oaxaca, was shot in his car, state prosecutor Arturo Calvo told the TV channel Milenio. Also read | Violent crimes on the rise in US: Survey Two suspects were arrested as they tried to flee the scene of the crime and their guns were recovered, Calvo said, adding it was not known who ordered the killing. Lopez's death brings the number of journalists killed in Mexico this year to five, according to an AFP tally based on data from press freedom advocacy organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Mexico is considered one of the world's most dangerous countries for journalists. At least seven were murdered last year, according to RSF, although it is not known whether in all of those cases the killing was linked to their work. Watch | Mexicans protest journalist killings, calls for protection Mexican authorities said Wednesday that three men had been arrested over the murder of journalist Lourdes Maldonado, whose killing last month in Tijuana sparked international condemnation and calls for the government to do more to protect media workers. Her death came in the wake of the shooting of photographer Margarito Martinez in Tijuana. Roberto Toledo, who worked with a news site in the central state of Michoacan, as well as Jose Luis Gamboa, a journalist and social media activist in eastern Veracruz state, were also killed in January.

'World's most dangerous countries for journalists': Another journalist killed in Mexico, the fifth this year

At least 3 high school students were stabbed by a teenager. The incident occured right outside Tokyo's university premises ahead of the nationwide college entrance exams. The attacker was apprehended afterwards.

Japan: At least 3 high school students stabbed by teenager in Tokyo

It takes a deranged mind to commit a murder, but more so when the criminal helps in police investigation by taking part in crime-scene reconstruction. French police on Thursday questioned such a man who was arrested in an unsolved murder of British family in the Alps in 2012. prosecutors said the man took part three months ago as a witness in a crime-scene investigation

The detention of the unnamed man has raised hopes of a breakthrough in one of the country's most notorious murder cases that saw three members of a British family gunned down in front of their two young daughters.

A French cyclist was also killed nearby on a remote mountain road near Lake Annecy.

Local newspaper Le Dauphine Libere identified the arrested man as a mystery motorcyclist seen near the scene of the crime who was cleared in 2015 after a more than two-year hunt by police to find him.

Local prosecutor Line Bonnet declined to confirm the report when contacted by AFP on Thursday, but said that the individual was among four witnesses "returned to the scene" to participate in a reconstruction just over three months ago.

She wrote on Twitter that his detention had been extended, giving police another 24 hours to question him and potentially bring charges.

French investigators have continued to work on the more than nine-year-old cold case, but have always struggled to identify a motive for the killings of the Al-Hilli family.

Saad al-Hilli, a 50-year-old Iraqi-born British tourist, was gunned down along with his 47-year-old wife Iqbal and her 74-year-old mother in a woodland car park close to the village of Chevaline in the hills above Lake Annecy.

Each was shot several times in their British-registered BMW estate car and more than two dozen spent bullet casings were found near the vehicle.

The couple's two daughters, aged seven and four at the time, survived the attack, but the older girl was shot and badly beaten.

A 45-year-old French cyclist, Sylvain Mollier, was also killed after apparently stumbling upon the scene.

(With inputs from agencies)

It takes a deranged mind to commit a murder, but more so when the criminal helps in police investigation by taking part in crime-scene reconstruction. French police on Thursday questioned such a man who was arrested in an unsolved murder of British family in the Alps in 2012.

It takes a deranged mind to commit a murder, but more so when the criminal helps in police investigation by taking part in crime-scene reconstruction. French police on Thursday questioned such a man who was arrested in an unsolved murder of British family in the Alps in 2012. prosecutors said the man took part three months ago as a witness in a crime-scene investigation The detention of the unnamed man has raised hopes of a breakthrough in one of the country's most notorious murder cases that saw three members of a British family gunned down in front of their two young daughters. A French cyclist was also killed nearby on a remote mountain road near Lake Annecy. Local newspaper Le Dauphine Libere identified the arrested man as a mystery motorcyclist seen near the scene of the crime who was cleared in 2015 after a more than two-year hunt by police to find him. Local prosecutor Line Bonnet declined to confirm the report when contacted by AFP on Thursday, but said that the individual was among four witnesses "returned to the scene" to participate in a reconstruction just over three months ago. She wrote on Twitter that his detention had been extended, giving police another 24 hours to question him and potentially bring charges. French investigators have continued to work on the more than nine-year-old cold case, but have always struggled to identify a motive for the killings of the Al-Hilli family. Saad al-Hilli, a 50-year-old Iraqi-born British tourist, was gunned down along with his 47-year-old wife Iqbal and her 74-year-old mother in a woodland car park close to the village of Chevaline in the hills above Lake Annecy. Each was shot several times in their British-registered BMW estate car and more than two dozen spent bullet casings were found near the vehicle. The couple's two daughters, aged seven and four at the time, survived the attack, but the older girl was shot and badly beaten. A 45-year-old French cyclist, Sylvain Mollier, was also killed after apparently stumbling upon the scene. (With inputs from agencies)

Murder in the Alps: Man suspected of killing a family takes part in crime-scene reconstruction

Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan's president, highlighted the island's struggle to maintain its independence and democracy in the face of China's escalating military and diplomatic pressure.

President Tsai remarked in her New Year's Day address, "The pursuit of democracy and freedom is not illegal, and Taiwan will not modify its support for Hong Kong.Apart from expressing our concern, we will treasure even more our own hard-won freedom and democracy. "&nbsp;

"We will make Taiwan even better and show the world that democratic Taiwan has the courage to step out from the shadow of authoritarian China, and that we will not bow to pressure," Tsai said.

Even after decades of self-government, China still considers Taiwan to be a renegade province.

Even as Beijing continues to threaten "Taiwan's independence" with war, Taipei has fought Chinese aggression by strengthening strategic ties with democracies, especially the United States.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-take-drastic-measures-if-taiwan-demands-independence-china-441059">Also read | Will take drastic measures if Taiwan demands independence: China</a>

In the face of mounting military and diplomatic pressure from China, Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou acknowledged the challenge of maintaining the country's freedom, democracy, and consensus in order to connect with the rest of the world.&nbsp;

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-embassy-in-meltdown-over-wion-report-432849/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Continuing our global engagement, maintaining our economic momentum, strengthening our social security network, and safeguarding our nation's sovereignty are the four pillars of our plan for stable governance in 2022," she was quoted as saying by Taiwan Focus.

In response to the DPP's recent claims, the Chinese Defense Ministry stated that the mainland conducted 940 warplane sorties near Taiwan this year, according to state media outlet Global Times.

In a threatening tone, China announced on Thursday that it had sent more than 940 fighter jets for normal drills, which is more than Taiwanese authorities have said.&nbsp;

So far in 2021, the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has made 950 incursions into Taiwan's Air Defense Identification Zone, a 60% increase over the previous year.

Furthermore, Taiwanese media said that the island is bracing for an increase in the number of invasions as China has increased sorties in recent years.

According to Taiwan News, when tensions mount over big political events on both sides of the Taiwan Strait in 2022, the number of flights is projected to increase even more.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan's president, highlighted the island's struggle to maintain its independence and democracy in the face of China's escalating military and diplomatic pressure.

Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan's president, highlighted the island's struggle to maintain its independence and democracy in the face of China's escalating military and diplomatic pressure. President Tsai remarked in her New Year's Day address, "The pursuit of democracy and freedom is not illegal, and Taiwan will not modify its support for Hong Kong.Apart from expressing our concern, we will treasure even more our own hard-won freedom and democracy. " "We will make Taiwan even better and show the world that democratic Taiwan has the courage to step out from the shadow of authoritarian China, and that we will not bow to pressure," Tsai said. Even after decades of self-government, China still considers Taiwan to be a renegade province. Even as Beijing continues to threaten "Taiwan's independence" with war, Taipei has fought Chinese aggression by strengthening strategic ties with democracies, especially the United States. Also read | Will take drastic measures if Taiwan demands independence: China In the face of mounting military and diplomatic pressure from China, Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou acknowledged the challenge of maintaining the country's freedom, democracy, and consensus in order to connect with the rest of the world. Watch: "Continuing our global engagement, maintaining our economic momentum, strengthening our social security network, and safeguarding our nation's sovereignty are the four pillars of our plan for stable governance in 2022," she was quoted as saying by Taiwan Focus. In response to the DPP's recent claims, the Chinese Defense Ministry stated that the mainland conducted 940 warplane sorties near Taiwan this year, according to state media outlet Global Times. In a threatening tone, China announced on Thursday that it had sent more than 940 fighter jets for normal drills, which is more than Taiwanese authorities have said. So far in 2021, the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has made 950 incursions into Taiwan's Air Defense Identification Zone, a 60% increase over the previous year. Furthermore, Taiwanese media said that the island is bracing for an increase in the number of invasions as China has increased sorties in recent years. According to Taiwan News, when tensions mount over big political events on both sides of the Taiwan Strait in 2022, the number of flights is projected to increase even more. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan's pursuit of democracy and freedom is not a crime: Tsai Ing-wen

The story is straight out of a movie: A man who attempted to fake his death by murdering a builder and trying to pass&nbsp;off&nbsp;his victim's body as his own has been arrested in India.

According to the police, he did it to avoid being charged with another murder.&nbsp;

The man who has been identified as Sudesh Kumar&nbsp;has been charged in connection with the elopement and killing of his daughter in 2018,&nbsp;but not convicted of the killing. He is alleged to have killed his daughter after she eloped.

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Kumar was released last year when the authorities released some prisoners in order to decongest or reduce overcrowding in prisons and prevent Coronavirus outbreaks.

Last month, police located a body in Ghaziabad, on the outskirts of the Indian capital, New Delhi. The corpse was wearing Kumar's clothing and carrying his identification card.

An AFP report quotes the&nbsp;police superintendent Iraj Raja as saying that&nbsp;"The body was partially burnt and its face was beyond recognition."

"We traced it (the body) back to (Kumar's) home and got his wife to identify the body. She promptly identified it as his husband's body. However, we were not convinced."

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Police caught Kumar outside his home on Friday after getting a tip that he was still alive.

"Upon being interrogated, he spilled the beans," Raja said.

Reportedly Kumar had befriended a mason and invited him to his house on the pretext of doing some repair work, giving him a set of clothes to wear and plying him with alcohol before beating him to death.&nbsp;

Apparently, Kumar had befriended a mason and invited him to his house on the pretext of doing some repair work. He then gave the mason a set of clothes to put on before plying him with alcohol. Finally, when the man was in an inebriated state, Kumar proceeded to beat him to death, before burning the corpse so as to mislead the police and mess up identification.

Kumar and his wife have both been charged with murder, according to the police superintendent.

(With inputs from agencies)

The story is straight out of a movie: A man who attempted to fake his death by murdering a builder and trying to pass off his victim's body as his own has been arrested in India.

The story is straight out of a movie: A man who attempted to fake his death by murdering a builder and trying to pass off his victim's body as his own has been arrested in India. According to the police, he did it to avoid being charged with another murder. The man who has been identified as Sudesh Kumar has been charged in connection with the elopement and killing of his daughter in 2018, but not convicted of the killing. He is alleged to have killed his daughter after she eloped. Also read | Wait, what!? Scientists say water in our oceans has alien origins Kumar was released last year when the authorities released some prisoners in order to decongest or reduce overcrowding in prisons and prevent Coronavirus outbreaks. Last month, police located a body in Ghaziabad, on the outskirts of the Indian capital, New Delhi. The corpse was wearing Kumar's clothing and carrying his identification card. An AFP report quotes the police superintendent Iraj Raja as saying that "The body was partially burnt and its face was beyond recognition." "We traced it (the body) back to (Kumar's) home and got his wife to identify the body. She promptly identified it as his husband's body. However, we were not convinced." Also read | Outrage as school shows Nanjing massacre’s unsettling video to young kids in Hong Kong Police caught Kumar outside his home on Friday after getting a tip that he was still alive. "Upon being interrogated, he spilled the beans," Raja said. Reportedly Kumar had befriended a mason and invited him to his house on the pretext of doing some repair work, giving him a set of clothes to wear and plying him with alcohol before beating him to death. Apparently, Kumar had befriended a mason and invited him to his house on the pretext of doing some repair work. He then gave the mason a set of clothes to put on before plying him with alcohol. Finally, when the man was in an inebriated state, Kumar proceeded to beat him to death, before burning the corpse so as to mislead the police and mess up identification. Kumar and his wife have both been charged with murder, according to the police superintendent. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian man tries to fake his own death, arrested for murder

An 18-year-old boy and his mother have been arrested in Aurangabad District of western Indian state of Maharashtra for murdering his pregnant sister. The duo killed the 19-year old girl as they were unhappy with her decision of eloping and marrying her friend.

The incident took place in Ladgaon village in rural area of the district around 12:30 pm on Sunday. Police suspect that mother and son even took a selfie with the severed head.

The accused, Shobhabai Mote and her 18-year-old son were unhappy about Kirti's (19) decision of marrying her friend Avinash (21). Kirti stayed with Avinash in latter's house in Ladgaon. She was two-months pregnant.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Mote along with her son went to Kirti's house on a bike. Kirti, who was working in field, was delighted to see them and ushered them inside.

Once in the house, Kirti's brother attacked her from behind while their mother held her feet. Media reports quoting police officials have said that there is a suspicion that mother-son duo took selfie with Kirti's severed head. The phone has been sent for forensic analysis to retrieve the images.

At the time of Kirti's murder, her husband Avinash was resting in the house not anticipating such a situation.

An 18-year-old boy and his mother have been arrested in Aurangabad District of western Indian state of Maharashtra for murdering his pregnant sister. The duo killed the 19-year old girl as they were unhappy with her decision of eloping and marrying her friend.

An 18-year-old boy and his mother have been arrested in Aurangabad District of western Indian state of Maharashtra for murdering his pregnant sister. The duo killed the 19-year old girl as they were unhappy with her decision of eloping and marrying her friend. The incident took place in Ladgaon village in rural area of the district around 12:30 pm on Sunday. Police suspect that mother and son even took a selfie with the severed head. The accused, Shobhabai Mote and her 18-year-old son were unhappy about Kirti's (19) decision of marrying her friend Avinash (21). Kirti stayed with Avinash in latter's house in Ladgaon. She was two-months pregnant. On Sunday, Mote along with her son went to Kirti's house on a bike. Kirti, who was working in field, was delighted to see them and ushered them inside. Once in the house, Kirti's brother attacked her from behind while their mother held her feet. Media reports quoting police officials have said that there is a suspicion that mother-son duo took selfie with Kirti's severed head. The phone has been sent for forensic analysis to retrieve the images. At the time of Kirti's murder, her husband Avinash was resting in the house not anticipating such a situation.

India: Teenager kills pregnant sister with sickle, mother helps

The murder rate in Canada last year rose to its highest level since 2005, pushed up in part by the country's worst-ever mass shooting, in which 22 people died, Statistics Canada said on Thursday.

Statscan also noted societal stresses it said had been caused by lockdowns linked to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Canadian police reported 743 murders in 2020, up from 687 in 2019. The murder rate increased to 1.95 per 100,000 people, the highest in 15 years, from 1.83 per 100,000 people in 2019.

The Canadian rate has gradually declined since its last recent peak in 1991 of 2.69 homicides per 100,000 population.

"While homicide continues to be a relatively rare occurrence, representing less than 0.2% of all violent crimes in Canada in 2020, homicide rates are considered benchmarks for levels of violence," Statscan said in a commentary.

By comparison, the overall U.S. murder rate in 2020 was around 6.5 homicides per 100,000 people, according to FBI data.

The Canadian increase was driven by more murders in the provinces of Alberta and Nova Scotia.

Gabriel Wortman killed 13 people in Nova Scotia on the night of April 18, 2020, and another nine the next day before police shot him dead.

This contributed to an "uncharacteristically high homicide count and rate for the province," Statscan said.

The two most populated cities in Alberta, Calgary and Edmonton, recorded large increases, and each contributed 15 more murders to the national tally than in 2019.

Toronto, Canada's largest city, saw a 22% decrease in the rate of firearm-related homicides from 1.03 per 100,000

population to 0.80.

There were 15 more firearm-related killings in Canada last year, compared with 2019, and gang-related murders decreased 10% in the same period.

The murder rate in Canada last year rose to its highest level since 2005, pushed up in part by the country's worst-ever mass shooting, in which 22 people died, Statistics Canada said on Thursday.

The murder rate in Canada last year rose to its highest level since 2005, pushed up in part by the country's worst-ever mass shooting, in which 22 people died, Statistics Canada said on Thursday. Statscan also noted societal stresses it said had been caused by lockdowns linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. Canadian police reported 743 murders in 2020, up from 687 in 2019. The murder rate increased to 1.95 per 100,000 people, the highest in 15 years, from 1.83 per 100,000 people in 2019. The Canadian rate has gradually declined since its last recent peak in 1991 of 2.69 homicides per 100,000 population. "While homicide continues to be a relatively rare occurrence, representing less than 0.2% of all violent crimes in Canada in 2020, homicide rates are considered benchmarks for levels of violence," Statscan said in a commentary. By comparison, the overall U.S. murder rate in 2020 was around 6.5 homicides per 100,000 people, according to FBI data. The Canadian increase was driven by more murders in the provinces of Alberta and Nova Scotia. Gabriel Wortman killed 13 people in Nova Scotia on the night of April 18, 2020, and another nine the next day before police shot him dead. This contributed to an "uncharacteristically high homicide count and rate for the province," Statscan said. The two most populated cities in Alberta, Calgary and Edmonton, recorded large increases, and each contributed 15 more murders to the national tally than in 2019. Toronto, Canada's largest city, saw a 22% decrease in the rate of firearm-related homicides from 1.03 per 100,000 population to 0.80. There were 15 more firearm-related killings in Canada last year, compared with 2019, and gang-related murders decreased 10% in the same period.

Pushed up by mass shooting, Canada murder rate in 2020 hit 15-year high

A New York county prosecutor on Friday asked a judge to delay for two months the arraignment of former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on a misdemeanor sex offense charge, saying a local sheriff may have botched the case by rushing to file the complaint.

Cuomo resigned in August in the middle of his third term as governor after a five-month official inquiry found that he had sexually harassed 11 women.

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Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple filed a "forcible touching" charge against Cuomo last month based on one woman's accusation that Cuomo groped her under her blouse at the Executive Mansion in the New York state capital of Albany.

But the charge against Cuomo was "potentially defective," Albany County District Attorney David Soares wrote in a letter to the judge dated Thursday because it failed to include a sworn statement from the accuser.

Soares asked Albany City Court Judge Holly Trexler to delay Cuomo's arraignment, which had been scheduled for Nov. 17, for 60 days to give his office more time to review the case and possibly avoid a procedural dismissal. Cuomo's attorney supported the request, and the judge granted the delay, scheduling Cuomo's arraignment for January&nbsp;7, a spokesperson for Soares said.

Soares said in his letter that his office had been investigating Cuomo for months when the sheriff surprised him with a criminal filing.

"We were in the middle of that investigation when the Sheriff unilaterally and inexplicably filed a complaint in this Court. Unfortunately the filings is this matter are potentially defective in that the police-officer-complainant failed to include a sworn statement by the victim such that the (state) could proceed with a prosecution," the Soares letter said.

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Soares also said his office was still reviewing hundreds of hours of videotaped testimony and volumes of documents produced by the five-month probe that was conducted by independent lawyers under the direction of state Attorney General Tish James.

Sheriff Apple did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. In comments to the Albany Times Union, he said his office followed proper procedures.

"There was sworn testimony included, and we followed the policies and protocols set to interview victims of sex crimes," Apple said.

Apple previously regretted that Soares and others were surprised by his charge, saying his office filed the paperwork for review and intended to meet with prosecutors to determine whether a criminal arrest warrant or a criminal summons would be issued.

The process, however, moved much more quickly than planned, and the information was leaked to the news media, he said.

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Apple also rejected Cuomo's accusations of political motivations, saying his office had conducted a "comprehensive and methodical" investigation.

Cuomo, who has maintained his innocence, said he only resigned in order to avoid putting the state through the turmoil that would follow his efforts to fight the charges.

If convicted on the misdemeanor charge, he would face a possible sentence of up to a year in jail.

A New York county prosecutor on Friday asked a judge to delay for two months the arraignment of former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on a misdemeanor sex offense charge, saying a local sheriff may have botched the case by rushing to file the complaint.

A New York county prosecutor on Friday asked a judge to delay for two months the arraignment of former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on a misdemeanor sex offense charge, saying a local sheriff may have botched the case by rushing to file the complaint. Cuomo resigned in August in the middle of his third term as governor after a five-month official inquiry found that he had sexually harassed 11 women. Also Read | At least 8 dead, many hurt at Travis Scott’s Astroworld music festival in US Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple filed a "forcible touching" charge against Cuomo last month based on one woman's accusation that Cuomo groped her under her blouse at the Executive Mansion in the New York state capital of Albany. But the charge against Cuomo was "potentially defective," Albany County District Attorney David Soares wrote in a letter to the judge dated Thursday because it failed to include a sworn statement from the accuser. Soares asked Albany City Court Judge Holly Trexler to delay Cuomo's arraignment, which had been scheduled for Nov. 17, for 60 days to give his office more time to review the case and possibly avoid a procedural dismissal. Cuomo's attorney supported the request, and the judge granted the delay, scheduling Cuomo's arraignment for January 7, a spokesperson for Soares said. Soares said in his letter that his office had been investigating Cuomo for months when the sheriff surprised him with a criminal filing. "We were in the middle of that investigation when the Sheriff unilaterally and inexplicably filed a complaint in this Court. Unfortunately the filings is this matter are potentially defective in that the police-officer-complainant failed to include a sworn statement by the victim such that the (state) could proceed with a prosecution," the Soares letter said. Also Read | Chinese spy convicted of trying to steal US aviation trade secrets Soares also said his office was still reviewing hundreds of hours of videotaped testimony and volumes of documents produced by the five-month probe that was conducted by independent lawyers under the direction of state Attorney General Tish James. Sheriff Apple did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. In comments to the Albany Times Union, he said his office followed proper procedures. "There was sworn testimony included, and we followed the policies and protocols set to interview victims of sex crimes," Apple said. Apple previously regretted that Soares and others were surprised by his charge, saying his office filed the paperwork for review and intended to meet with prosecutors to determine whether a criminal arrest warrant or a criminal summons would be issued. The process, however, moved much more quickly than planned, and the information was leaked to the news media, he said. Also Read | Eight camels, a llama on loose: Spanish cops end circus animals’ night out Apple also rejected Cuomo's accusations of political motivations, saying his office had conducted a "comprehensive and methodical" investigation. Cuomo, who has maintained his innocence, said he only resigned in order to avoid putting the state through the turmoil that would follow his efforts to fight the charges. If convicted on the misdemeanor charge, he would face a possible sentence of up to a year in jail.

New York county prosecutor casts doubt on sex offense charge against Cuomo

In a shocking case of honour killing, a man in Pakistan allegedly burnt alive his seven family members, including his two daughters and four grandchildren, because one of the women married against his wishes. The man has been identified as Manzoor Hussain. The incident happened in Pakistan's Punjab.

Honour killing in Pakistan: Man burns alive 7 family members

When it was announced that the winner of the 2021 Premio Planeta literary prize —worth one million euros — was the renowned female Spanish crime author, Cameron Mola, the audience, and the spectators worldwide had a shock of their life.

Three middle-aged men rose to the podium to collect the coveted award on Friday for the currently unreleased work “The Beast”.

Jorge Díaz, Agustín Martínez, and Antonio Mercero were the writers who penned numerous best-selling crime thriller books under the pseudonym ‘Cameron Mola’.

They decided to write under the pseudonym for no “particular reason” and without “consideration of the name’s gender”.

“Carmen Mola is not, like all the lies we've been telling, a university professor,” Díaz said shortly after accepting the Planeta prize, according to the Financial Times.

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“We are three friends who one day four years ago decided to combine our talent to tell a story.”

Mola, which the trio showcased as a university professor and mother of three who wrote gritty crime drama on her off-time, has been praised for “her” depiction of strong female protagonists, with her latest award-winning work focusing on the investigation of child murders in nineteenth-century Spain.

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Mola’s other works have also garnered acclaim, like "La Novia Gitana," which has been translated into 11 languages and will be developed into a television series.

&nbsp;Castille-La Mancha, a branch of Spain's Women's Institute, included her book “La Nena” in a list of 50 feminist titles that help readers “understand the reality and experiences of women.”

“I don’t know if a female pseudonym would sell more than a male one, I don't have the faintest idea, but I doubt it,” Mercero told Spain's El País newspaper. “We didn't hide behind a woman, we hid behind a name.”

Notably, there have been past instances where women have gone to publish works under male pseudonyms to protect their identity and dodge social biases.

(With inputs from agencies)

When it was announced that the winner of the 2021 Premio Planeta literary prize —worth one million euros — was the renowned female Spanish crime author, Cameron Mola, the audience, and the spectators worldwide had a shock of their life.

When it was announced that the winner of the 2021 Premio Planeta literary prize —worth one million euros — was the renowned female Spanish crime author, Cameron Mola, the audience, and the spectators worldwide had a shock of their life. Three middle-aged men rose to the podium to collect the coveted award on Friday for the currently unreleased work “The Beast”. Jorge Díaz, Agustín Martínez, and Antonio Mercero were the writers who penned numerous best-selling crime thriller books under the pseudonym ‘Cameron Mola’. They decided to write under the pseudonym for no “particular reason” and without “consideration of the name’s gender”. “Carmen Mola is not, like all the lies we've been telling, a university professor,” Díaz said shortly after accepting the Planeta prize, according to the Financial Times. Also see | In pics: Grand Mosque in Mecca drops social distancing, first time since Covid outbreak “We are three friends who one day four years ago decided to combine our talent to tell a story.” Mola, which the trio showcased as a university professor and mother of three who wrote gritty crime drama on her off-time, has been praised for “her” depiction of strong female protagonists, with her latest award-winning work focusing on the investigation of child murders in nineteenth-century Spain. Also read | Bakery in UK stops producing its bestselling biscuit, here’s why Mola’s other works have also garnered acclaim, like "La Novia Gitana," which has been translated into 11 languages and will be developed into a television series. Castille-La Mancha, a branch of Spain's Women's Institute, included her book “La Nena” in a list of 50 feminist titles that help readers “understand the reality and experiences of women.” “I don’t know if a female pseudonym would sell more than a male one, I don't have the faintest idea, but I doubt it,” Mercero told Spain's El País newspaper. “We didn't hide behind a woman, we hid behind a name.” Notably, there have been past instances where women have gone to publish works under male pseudonyms to protect their identity and dodge social biases. (With inputs from agencies)

Renowned Spanish female crime author turns out be three middle-aged men

14 people have died of alcohol poisoning in Russia, officials said Friday, with investigators launching criminal probes.

An additional eight people were hospitalised in the region of Orenburg, around 1,500 kilometres (930 miles) southeast of Moscow in the southern Urals.

"As of now we know of 22 victims, 14 of whom have died," the governor's office said on messaging app Telegram.

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Governor Denis Pasler said regional authorities had launched inspections of alcohol distributors.

"Before the results of the checks are received consumption of alcohol can threaten your life," Pasler was quoted as saying.

The Orenburg branch of the Investigative Committee said on Friday it had opened five probes including into the sale of goods not meeting safety standards. Three people had been detained in connection with the deaths.&nbsp;

One of them, a 29-year-old man from the town of Orsk --is suspected of producing surrogate alcohol, investigators said in a statement. The workshop producing alcohol has also been uncovered.

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Homemade spirits and household products containing alcohol are popular throughout the former Soviet Union as a cheap alternative to standard brands, but are also blamed for a large number of alcohol-related deaths.

Those who buy them to drink are usually the most socially disadvantaged.

In 2016, dozens of people died in the Siberian city of Irkutsk after drinking bath essence containing methanol, a toxic substance used in anti-freeze.

14 people have died of alcohol poisoning in Russia, officials said Friday, with investigators launching criminal probes. An additional eight people were hospitalised in the region of Orenburg, around 1,500 kilometres (930 miles) southeast of Moscow in the southern Urals.

14 people have died of alcohol poisoning in Russia, officials said Friday, with investigators launching criminal probes. An additional eight people were hospitalised in the region of Orenburg, around 1,500 kilometres (930 miles) southeast of Moscow in the southern Urals. "As of now we know of 22 victims, 14 of whom have died," the governor's office said on messaging app Telegram. Also Read | In a first, Russia launches Tsirkon hypersonic missile from submarine Governor Denis Pasler said regional authorities had launched inspections of alcohol distributors. "Before the results of the checks are received consumption of alcohol can threaten your life," Pasler was quoted as saying. The Orenburg branch of the Investigative Committee said on Friday it had opened five probes including into the sale of goods not meeting safety standards. Three people had been detained in connection with the deaths. One of them, a 29-year-old man from the town of Orsk --is suspected of producing surrogate alcohol, investigators said in a statement. The workshop producing alcohol has also been uncovered. Also Read | NATO expels eight Russians from its mission, claiming they were working as intelligence officers Homemade spirits and household products containing alcohol are popular throughout the former Soviet Union as a cheap alternative to standard brands, but are also blamed for a large number of alcohol-related deaths. Those who buy them to drink are usually the most socially disadvantaged. In 2016, dozens of people died in the Siberian city of Irkutsk after drinking bath essence containing methanol, a toxic substance used in anti-freeze.

14 die of alcohol poisoning in Russia

Four people were wounded and police were shot at on Saturday in a new clash between prisoners at the Ecuadorian prison where 118 people were killed just days earlier in the country's deadliest inmate riot.

Police commander Tannya Varela said there was a shootout between inmates at the prison in Guayaquil.

Officers neutralized the confrontation and maintained control of the prison, the police force said.

Elite police teams entered the facility, supported by soldiers and a military tank, according to video released by the force.

Two rifles, three pistols, ammunition and cell phones were seized in the prison, police said.

The jail has space for 5,300 inmates, but it houses 8,500 -&nbsp;60 percent more than capacity.

On Saturday, at least 118 inmates were killed, six of them beheaded, as rival gangs armed with guns and grenades went to war at the prison.

Another 86 wounded were wounded, six critically, according to Ecuador's prisons authority.

It was the latest in a string of bloody clashes in Ecuador's broken prison system, with 237 inmates killed so far this year -&nbsp;up from 103 in 2020.

Ecuador on Friday deployed thousands of police and soldiers to secure its prisons, in an attempt to prevent further clashes.

The prison system has 65 facilities designed for about 30,000 inmates but houses 39,000.

The country has about 1,500 guards -&nbsp;a shortfall of about 3,000, according to experts.

At a neighboring prison on Saturday, inmates climbed up to the rooftops to wave white clothing and display signs calling for peace, AFP saw.

The inmates held up signs that read "We want peace" and "The law is killing us."

They have asked not to be transferred to other prisons because "there are no problems" in their current institution.

Authorities are planning to relocate some of the Guayaquil prisoners after the riot, as relatives of the inmates continue to gather outside the complex, begging for information about their family members.

So far, 101 bodies have been identified, 44 of which have been given to their families, police said.

Four people were wounded and police were shot at on Saturday in a new clash between prisoners at the Ecuadorian prison where 118 people were killed just days earlier in the country's deadliest inmate riot.

Four people were wounded and police were shot at on Saturday in a new clash between prisoners at the Ecuadorian prison where 118 people were killed just days earlier in the country's deadliest inmate riot. Police commander Tannya Varela said there was a shootout between inmates at the prison in Guayaquil. Officers neutralized the confrontation and maintained control of the prison, the police force said. Elite police teams entered the facility, supported by soldiers and a military tank, according to video released by the force. Two rifles, three pistols, ammunition and cell phones were seized in the prison, police said. The jail has space for 5,300 inmates, but it houses 8,500 - 60 percent more than capacity. On Saturday, at least 118 inmates were killed, six of them beheaded, as rival gangs armed with guns and grenades went to war at the prison. Another 86 wounded were wounded, six critically, according to Ecuador's prisons authority. It was the latest in a string of bloody clashes in Ecuador's broken prison system, with 237 inmates killed so far this year - up from 103 in 2020. Ecuador on Friday deployed thousands of police and soldiers to secure its prisons, in an attempt to prevent further clashes. The prison system has 65 facilities designed for about 30,000 inmates but houses 39,000. The country has about 1,500 guards - a shortfall of about 3,000, according to experts. At a neighboring prison on Saturday, inmates climbed up to the rooftops to wave white clothing and display signs calling for peace, AFP saw. The inmates held up signs that read "We want peace" and "The law is killing us." They have asked not to be transferred to other prisons because "there are no problems" in their current institution. Authorities are planning to relocate some of the Guayaquil prisoners after the riot, as relatives of the inmates continue to gather outside the complex, begging for information about their family members. So far, 101 bodies have been identified, 44 of which have been given to their families, police said.

Four wounded in fresh inmate clash at riot-hit Ecuador prison

A militant group accused of killing a popular Rohingya leader in a Bangladesh refugee camp said on Friday it was "shocked and saddened" by his death, pointing the finger at "unidentified criminals".

Mohib Ullah was gunned down late Wednesday in one of the camps in east Bangladesh which are home to over 700,000 Rohingya Muslims who fled a 2017 military crackdown in Myanmar.&nbsp;

He had received death threats from the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), who were enraged by his growing popularity in the camps, activists told AFP. His brother has openly accused ARSA of his murder.&nbsp;

But in a Twitter statement on Friday, ARSA said Mohib Ullah was "reportedly assassinated by unidentified transnational border-based criminals".&nbsp;

"It is time for bringing the criminals to their accountability instead of finger-pointing with baseless and heavy accusations," the statement added.

AFP has contacted the group for comment.

On Friday UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet called for a "prompt, thorough, and independent investigation" into the killing.

A 28-year-old Rohingya man has been arrested over the murder, Bangladesh police said Friday.

"I don't know if he is a member of ARSA," commanding officer Naimul Haque told AFP.&nbsp;

"More information will be known after interrogation."

ARSA were behind a spate of attacks on Myanmar security posts in 2017 and are also blamed for attacks on Hindus living in Rohingya villages in the country's western Rakhine province.

Mohib Ullah had set up the Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights, a rights group that documented atrocities allegedly committed against the Rohingya by the Myanmar military during its 2017 offensive.

The military crackdown prompted hundreds of thousands of the long-oppressed mostly Muslim minority to flee into Bangladesh, where they remain four years later in squalid refugee camps.&nbsp;

The former schoolteacher rose to prominence after his group held a grand rally on the second anniversary of the crackdown in 2019, which an estimated 200,000 Rohingya attended.

That year, Mohib Ullah also met then US president Donald Trump at the White House during a meeting on religious freedom, and spoke at a UN Human Rights meeting in Geneva.

Up to 25,000 people attended his funeral prayers at the main Kutupalong camp on Thursday, police said. Nazir Hossain, a Rohingya leader, said there were 200,000. 
&nbsp;

A militant group accused of killing a popular Rohingya leader in a Bangladesh refugee camp said on Friday it was "shocked and saddened" by his death, pointing the finger at "unidentified criminals".

A militant group accused of killing a popular Rohingya leader in a Bangladesh refugee camp said on Friday it was "shocked and saddened" by his death, pointing the finger at "unidentified criminals". Mohib Ullah was gunned down late Wednesday in one of the camps in east Bangladesh which are home to over 700,000 Rohingya Muslims who fled a 2017 military crackdown in Myanmar. He had received death threats from the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), who were enraged by his growing popularity in the camps, activists told AFP. His brother has openly accused ARSA of his murder. But in a Twitter statement on Friday, ARSA said Mohib Ullah was "reportedly assassinated by unidentified transnational border-based criminals". "It is time for bringing the criminals to their accountability instead of finger-pointing with baseless and heavy accusations," the statement added. AFP has contacted the group for comment. On Friday UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet called for a "prompt, thorough, and independent investigation" into the killing. A 28-year-old Rohingya man has been arrested over the murder, Bangladesh police said Friday. "I don't know if he is a member of ARSA," commanding officer Naimul Haque told AFP. "More information will be known after interrogation." ARSA were behind a spate of attacks on Myanmar security posts in 2017 and are also blamed for attacks on Hindus living in Rohingya villages in the country's western Rakhine province. Mohib Ullah had set up the Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights, a rights group that documented atrocities allegedly committed against the Rohingya by the Myanmar military during its 2017 offensive. The military crackdown prompted hundreds of thousands of the long-oppressed mostly Muslim minority to flee into Bangladesh, where they remain four years later in squalid refugee camps. The former schoolteacher rose to prominence after his group held a grand rally on the second anniversary of the crackdown in 2019, which an estimated 200,000 Rohingya attended. That year, Mohib Ullah also met then US president Donald Trump at the White House during a meeting on religious freedom, and spoke at a UN Human Rights meeting in Geneva. Up to 25,000 people attended his funeral prayers at the main Kutupalong camp on Thursday, police said. Nazir Hossain, a Rohingya leader, said there were 200,000.

Militant group accused of Rohingya leader's death blame 'unidentified criminals'

In a scene straight out of movies, gang rivalry led to assailants dressed as lawyers storming a courtroom in Indian capital New Delhi and gunning down a rival gangster on Friday.

Jitender Gogi, the now-dead gangster, was being produced in court. Two out of three attackers were dressed as lawyers. All of them were killed by the police in retaliatory fire. As per media reports, three other people have been injured which includes a woman lawyer. The incident at a court in Delhi's Rohini area was partially caught on camera.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Visuals of the shootout at Delhi's Rohini court today 
 
As per Delhi Police, assailants opened fire at gangster Jitender Mann 'Gogi', who has died. Three attackers have also been shot dead by police. <a href="https://t.co/dYgRjQGW7J">pic.twitter.com/dYgRjQGW7J</a>
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The gangster Jitender Gogi was killed by the attackers who reportedly belonged to rival 'Tillu' gang. News agency IANS has quoted sources as saying that the incident took place in court no 207.

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Gogi was arrested in April this year by special cell of the police. He is a known criminal&nbsp;who has been involved in numerous crimes for many years.

He was also involved in killing of a 22-year-old singer in north Indian state of Haryana. She was gunned down in 2017.

On&nbsp;the incident at Rohini court, a Delhi Police spokesperson said a police team took swift action and launched counter firing.

Two of the assailants were in lawyers' attire and attacked the undertrial&nbsp;Gogi. "Both assailants died along with Gogi," the spokesperson said.

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"They killed Gogi and the cops shot them dead," sources said adding that the judge was present in the court at the time of the incident. A woman lawyer was also injured during the firing.

Delhi Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana also confirmed that the attackers have been neutralised.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a scene straight out of movies, gang rivalry led to assailants dressed as lawyers storming a courtroom in Indian capital New Delhi and gunning down a rival gangster on Friday.

In a scene straight out of movies, gang rivalry led to assailants dressed as lawyers storming a courtroom in Indian capital New Delhi and gunning down a rival gangster on Friday. Jitender Gogi, the now-dead gangster, was being produced in court. Two out of three attackers were dressed as lawyers. All of them were killed by the police in retaliatory fire. As per media reports, three other people have been injured which includes a woman lawyer. The incident at a court in Delhi's Rohini area was partially caught on camera. #WATCH | Visuals of the shootout at Delhi's Rohini court today As per Delhi Police, assailants opened fire at gangster Jitender Mann 'Gogi', who has died. Three attackers have also been shot dead by police. pic.twitter.com/dYgRjQGW7J — ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2021 × The gangster Jitender Gogi was killed by the attackers who reportedly belonged to rival 'Tillu' gang. News agency IANS has quoted sources as saying that the incident took place in court no 207. Also Read | Indian salon ordered to pay Rs 20 million as damages for a 'traumatic' haircut Gogi was arrested in April this year by special cell of the police. He is a known criminal who has been involved in numerous crimes for many years. He was also involved in killing of a 22-year-old singer in north Indian state of Haryana. She was gunned down in 2017. On the incident at Rohini court, a Delhi Police spokesperson said a police team took swift action and launched counter firing. Two of the assailants were in lawyers' attire and attacked the undertrial Gogi. "Both assailants died along with Gogi," the spokesperson said. Also Read | 'Scomosas': Australian PM Scott Morrison nicknamed Indian fried snack after himself "They killed Gogi and the cops shot them dead," sources said adding that the judge was present in the court at the time of the incident. A woman lawyer was also injured during the firing. Delhi Police Commissioner Rakesh Asthana also confirmed that the attackers have been neutralised. (With inputs from agencies)

Straight from a crime film: Attackers dressed as lawyers kill Indian gangster inside courtroom

A man in Austria was arrested by the police after he mummified his dead mother in order to keep receiving her benefit money. Police have recovered the body of his 89-year-old mother. The 66-year-old man has been charged with fraud and for hiding a corpse. He kept the body hidden in the cellar of the house for more than a year.

The man lived with his mother near Innsbruck in Tyrol region. After his mother passed away in June last year he froze her body using icepacks. He wrapped her body in bandages to absorb fluids and covered her body in cat litter. Finally, the corpse was mummified. He then hid the body inside his house.

When his brother came around asking for his mother he told him that she was in hospital. The man pocketed his mother's benefit money that came by post each month.

He has pocketed nearly 60,000 dollars till now.

The game was up when a new postman came to deliver the money. The postman demanded to see the beneficiary to ensure that money was handed to the right person. The man refused. The postman then informed the authorities who later recovered the dead body.

A man in Austria was arrested by the police after he mummified his dead mother in order to keep receiving her benefit money. Police have recovered the body of his 89-year-old mother.

A man in Austria was arrested by the police after he mummified his dead mother in order to keep receiving her benefit money. Police have recovered the body of his 89-year-old mother. The 66-year-old man has been charged with fraud and for hiding a corpse. He kept the body hidden in the cellar of the house for more than a year. The man lived with his mother near Innsbruck in Tyrol region. After his mother passed away in June last year he froze her body using icepacks. He wrapped her body in bandages to absorb fluids and covered her body in cat litter. Finally, the corpse was mummified. He then hid the body inside his house. When his brother came around asking for his mother he told him that she was in hospital. The man pocketed his mother's benefit money that came by post each month. He has pocketed nearly 60,000 dollars till now. The game was up when a new postman came to deliver the money. The postman demanded to see the beneficiary to ensure that money was handed to the right person. The man refused. The postman then informed the authorities who later recovered the dead body.

Man keeps dead mother mummified to pocket benefits

In the United States, the number of homicides continues to rise in all major American Cities. Gun assaults rose by 5% compared to last year whereas aggravated assaults also increased by 9% in 2021.

US: Record increase in murders across America

An ex-US Marine has been charged with murdering his wife in Australia. The charge says that he killed her by pouring Gasoline on her and setting her on fire.

Brian Earl Johnston (34) has been charged with murder and breaking restraining order. He allegedly killed his wife in the backyard of her Gold Coast house. News reports say that the murder took place in front of their children aged 2 and 9.

Authorities have said that after setting his wife on fire, he set fire to himself but jumped in a pool to douse the flames.

Surprisingly, he turned down the opportunity to apply for bail. His lawyer said that he took this decision due "concerns" about his own "safety". This is being interpreted as him wanting to avoid wrath of the community for his heinous crime. He has preferred staying in jail.&nbsp;

News reports have mentioned witnesses who rushed to help Johnston's wife of 10 years having been traumatised by the visuals of her burning in the backyard of the house.

Police found Johnston in semi-conscious state and recovered a can of gasoline, three knives and a duffel bag with rope and duct tape from the crime scene.

An ex-US Marine has been charged with murdering his wife in Australia. The charge says that he killed her by pouring Gasoline on her and setting her on fire. Brian Earl Johnston (34) has been charged with murder and breaking restraining order.

An ex-US Marine has been charged with murdering his wife in Australia. The charge says that he killed her by pouring Gasoline on her and setting her on fire. Brian Earl Johnston (34) has been charged with murder and breaking restraining order. He allegedly killed his wife in the backyard of her Gold Coast house. News reports say that the murder took place in front of their children aged 2 and 9. Authorities have said that after setting his wife on fire, he set fire to himself but jumped in a pool to douse the flames. Surprisingly, he turned down the opportunity to apply for bail. His lawyer said that he took this decision due "concerns" about his own "safety". This is being interpreted as him wanting to avoid wrath of the community for his heinous crime. He has preferred staying in jail. News reports have mentioned witnesses who rushed to help Johnston's wife of 10 years having been traumatised by the visuals of her burning in the backyard of the house. Police found Johnston in semi-conscious state and recovered a can of gasoline, three knives and a duffel bag with rope and duct tape from the crime scene.

Ex-US Marine kills wife by pouring gasoline on her

The Croatian government proposed Thursday amendments to the country's criminal code to make "revenge pornography" a criminal act, a move hailed by the women's rights group which initiated the move.

Sharing online sexually explicit images made with consent and for private use, by a former partner without their ex's approval will be punishable with up to three years in jail, according to the amendments that need to be adopted by lawmakers.

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So-called deepfake porn, in which technology is used to fake or manipulate images , will be included in the same category, the government decided at a session.

The move was hailed by the B.a.B.e. women's rights group which initiated it and launched an online petition 'Stop revenge pornography' signed by nearly 10,000 people in little over a month.

The association in April opened an advisory centre for women facing online attacks and has so far received 12 reports on revenge porn, its coordinator Dean Sarcevic said.

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"This is only a tip of an iceberg," he told AFP, adding that the group had also received dozens of anonymous reports of revenge porn.

Earlier this month the European Union member country launched a campaign to stop domestic violence against women, as it saw a 30-percent surge in the number of cases in 2020 compared with the previous year.

The Croatian government proposed Thursday amendments to the country's criminal code to make "revenge pornography" a criminal act, a move hailed by the women's rights group which initiated the move.

The Croatian government proposed Thursday amendments to the country's criminal code to make "revenge pornography" a criminal act, a move hailed by the women's rights group which initiated the move. Sharing online sexually explicit images made with consent and for private use, by a former partner without their ex's approval will be punishable with up to three years in jail, according to the amendments that need to be adopted by lawmakers. Also read | Rising cases of sexual harassment in UK schools alarming So-called deepfake porn, in which technology is used to fake or manipulate images , will be included in the same category, the government decided at a session. The move was hailed by the B.a.B.e. women's rights group which initiated it and launched an online petition 'Stop revenge pornography' signed by nearly 10,000 people in little over a month. The association in April opened an advisory centre for women facing online attacks and has so far received 12 reports on revenge porn, its coordinator Dean Sarcevic said. Also read | German police smash darknet child porn network with 400,000 members "This is only a tip of an iceberg," he told AFP, adding that the group had also received dozens of anonymous reports of revenge porn. Earlier this month the European Union member country launched a campaign to stop domestic violence against women, as it saw a 30-percent surge in the number of cases in 2020 compared with the previous year.

Croatia moves to sanction 'revenge porn'

Police arrested 800 people in a huge global sting involving encrypted phones used by criminals that were secretly planted by law enforcement agencies, the EU police agency Europol said Tuesday. 
 
"This information led over the last week to hundreds of law enforcement operations on a global scale from New Zealand to Australia to Europe and the USA, with impressive results," Jean-Philippe Lecouffe, Deputy Director Operations at Europol, told a press conference. 
 
"More than 800 arrests, more than 700 locations searched, more than 8 tonnes of cocaine."

More than 100 "threats to life" were prevented by a huge global crime sting involving encrypted phones that were secretly planted by law enforcement agencies, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation said Tuesday.

"Over the last 18 months the FBI provided criminal organisations with over 300 encrypted devices in over 100 countries that allowed us to monitor their communications," FBI Assistant Director Calvin Shivers told reporters at Europol's HQ in The Hague.

"Not only have we heard about the number of arrests and the number of seizures, but over 100 threats to life that were mitigated," added Shivers.

Police arrested 800 people in a huge global sting involving encrypted phones used by criminals that were secretly planted by law enforcement agencies, the EU police agency Europol said Tuesday.

Police arrested 800 people in a huge global sting involving encrypted phones used by criminals that were secretly planted by law enforcement agencies, the EU police agency Europol said Tuesday. "This information led over the last week to hundreds of law enforcement operations on a global scale from New Zealand to Australia to Europe and the USA, with impressive results," Jean-Philippe Lecouffe, Deputy Director Operations at Europol, told a press conference. "More than 800 arrests, more than 700 locations searched, more than 8 tonnes of cocaine." More than 100 "threats to life" were prevented by a huge global crime sting involving encrypted phones that were secretly planted by law enforcement agencies, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation said Tuesday. "Over the last 18 months the FBI provided criminal organisations with over 300 encrypted devices in over 100 countries that allowed us to monitor their communications," FBI Assistant Director Calvin Shivers told reporters at Europol's HQ in The Hague. "Not only have we heard about the number of arrests and the number of seizures, but over 100 threats to life that were mitigated," added Shivers.

Europol says 800 arrested worldwide in huge crime sting

Venezuela&nbsp;on Saturday condemned what it said was the "kidnapping" of&nbsp;eight&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;by&nbsp;armed&nbsp;groups&nbsp;operating on the&nbsp;Colombian&nbsp;border, where clashes have been ongoing for nearly two months.

'During the fighting,&nbsp;eight&nbsp;professional&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;were captured and on May 9 we received proof of life,'&nbsp;Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said in a televised statement.

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'We denounce before the international community... the appalling&nbsp;kidnapping&nbsp;of these&nbsp;soldiers,'&nbsp;he said.

Venezuela's&nbsp;armed&nbsp;forces have engaged in clashes with&nbsp;Colombian&nbsp;armed&nbsp;groups&nbsp;along the border since March 21, displacing thousands of civilians who fled to Colombia.

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Venezuela&nbsp;does not name the&nbsp;armed&nbsp;groups&nbsp;it blames for the unrest, apart from calling them 'terrorists'&nbsp;or linking them to drug trafficking or to&nbsp;Colombian&nbsp;President Ivan Duque.

However, security sources in Colombia say they are likely dissidents of the now-disbanded Revolutionary&nbsp;Armed&nbsp;Forces of Colombia (FARC) rebel group, an analysis Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has conceded was possible.

'We will spare no effort and we will exhaust all possible ways to recover them safe and sound,'&nbsp;Padrino said of the&nbsp;soldiers, surrounded by members of the country's military brass.

Last Monday, Fundaredes, an NGO that is critical of Maduro, published documents from alleged FARC dissidents detailing how the&nbsp;eight&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;were 'captured as prisoners of war,'&nbsp;in clashes with&nbsp;Venezuela.

In the documents, the dissidents appealed to the Red Cross to act as an intermediary for handing over the captives.

The Red Cross told AFP it was aware of the text, but would not comment on it at present.

According to Padrino,&nbsp;Venezuela's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating with the Red Cross to 'serve as a link in the delivery'&nbsp;of the&nbsp;soldiers.

'We have established the necessary contacts for an early release,'&nbsp;he said.

A total of 16 members of the Venezuelan&nbsp;armed&nbsp;forces have died since the clashes began, according to an official report by the Venezuelan Ministry of Defense.

Venezuela&nbsp;and Colombia, which share a 2,200-kilometer (1,370-mile) border, severed ties in January 2019, after Duque's government recognized opposition leader Juan Guaido as the leader of&nbsp;Venezuela&nbsp;over Maduro.

Venezuela on Saturday condemned what it said was the "kidnapping" of eight soldiers by armed groups operating on the Colombian border, where clashes have been ongoing for nearly two months.

Venezuela on Saturday condemned what it said was the "kidnapping" of eight soldiers by armed groups operating on the Colombian border, where clashes have been ongoing for nearly two months. 'During the fighting, eight professional soldiers were captured and on May 9 we received proof of life,' Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said in a televised statement. Also read: Colombians in Madrid march to support protests in home country 'We denounce before the international community... the appalling kidnapping of these soldiers,' he said. Venezuela's armed forces have engaged in clashes with Colombian armed groups along the border since March 21, displacing thousands of civilians who fled to Colombia. Also read: Venezuela government wants to use funds frozen in US to pay for vaccines Venezuela does not name the armed groups it blames for the unrest, apart from calling them 'terrorists' or linking them to drug trafficking or to Colombian President Ivan Duque. However, security sources in Colombia say they are likely dissidents of the now-disbanded Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) rebel group, an analysis Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has conceded was possible. 'We will spare no effort and we will exhaust all possible ways to recover them safe and sound,' Padrino said of the soldiers, surrounded by members of the country's military brass. Last Monday, Fundaredes, an NGO that is critical of Maduro, published documents from alleged FARC dissidents detailing how the eight soldiers were 'captured as prisoners of war,' in clashes with Venezuela. In the documents, the dissidents appealed to the Red Cross to act as an intermediary for handing over the captives. The Red Cross told AFP it was aware of the text, but would not comment on it at present. According to Padrino, Venezuela's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating with the Red Cross to 'serve as a link in the delivery' of the soldiers. 'We have established the necessary contacts for an early release,' he said. A total of 16 members of the Venezuelan armed forces have died since the clashes began, according to an official report by the Venezuelan Ministry of Defense. Venezuela and Colombia, which share a 2,200-kilometer (1,370-mile) border, severed ties in January 2019, after Duque's government recognized opposition leader Juan Guaido as the leader of Venezuela over Maduro.

Venezuela denounces 'kidnapping' of eight soldiers by Colombian armed groups

New&nbsp;York, which has long prided itself on being one of the world's safest cities, is experiencing a surge in&nbsp;crime, with the topic becoming a central theme of a&nbsp;mayoral&nbsp;race&nbsp;set to be decided in June.

Crime&nbsp;was endemic in the Big Apple in the 1970s and 1980s when America's largest metropolis was gripped by a budgetary crisis, but it has been on a continuous downward trend since the mid-1990s.

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However, the picture has deteriorated drastically since last summer. What initially looked like a byproduct of the movement against police violence following George Floyd's murder and social dislocation caused by the pandemic appears no longer to be the case.

From knife attacks on the subway to a surge in shootings, including in Times Square last weekend, violence is 'definitely up,'&nbsp;says John Pfaff, a criminal law professor at Fordham University.

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'The spike of 2020 does run the risk of continuing into 2021,'&nbsp;he told AFP.

"I see a huge economic uncertainty, a huge emotional stress, you have institutions that are shut down across the board. All these things are going to contribute to violence and then that violence can be somewhat self-perpetuating going forward," Pfaff added.

New&nbsp;York&nbsp;is gradually beginning to emerge from the coronavirus crisis and unemployment is falling, but&nbsp;crime&nbsp;statistics are far from improving.&nbsp;

The latest figures, released on May 9, showed 505 victims of shootings since the beginning of January, the highest in 10 years. It was up from 275 for the same period in 2020.

There have been 146 murders so far this year, up 40 percent from 2019 when 104 people were killed and up 27 percent on last year.&nbsp;

Officially,&nbsp;crime&nbsp;in the subway is down 43 percent, but many experts note that is misleading as ridership plummeted with the pandemic.

A shooting in broad daylight in Times Square on May 8, which injured two women and a child, propelled&nbsp;rising&nbsp;violent&nbsp;crime&nbsp;to the forefront of the&nbsp;mayoral&nbsp;campaign, six weeks before the Democratic primary on June 22.

The primary effectively nominates the winner of the November election due to the unpopularity of Republicans in&nbsp;New&nbsp;York.

The main candidates -- which include ex-presidential candidate Andrew Yang, Brooklyn president and ex-police officer Eric Adams, and ex-Wall Street executive Raymond McGuire, have all promised decisive action to improve safety if elected.

And during their first virtual debate on Thursday night, the subject kept coming back like a boomerang.

On Friday, Pat Foye, president of the&nbsp;New&nbsp;York&nbsp;transport authority, increased the pressure, demanding 'an immediate injection'&nbsp;of hundreds of police officers at stations, where their presence has already been reinforced in recent weeks.

He even described&nbsp;New&nbsp;York's outgoing mayor, the left-leaning Democrat Bill de Blasio as 'irresponsible,'&nbsp;accusing him of 'ignoring the reality'&nbsp;of passengers.

When asked about it on local radio, De Blasio repeated his mantra:&nbsp;crime&nbsp;will drop with the resumption of economic activity, which is taking shape with almost all pandemic-era restrictions about to be lifted.

He accused Foye of "fear-mongering" at the behest of Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo, who frequently accuses the mayor of inaction on&nbsp;crime.

Republicans are also trying to use the rise in violence to their advantage. Some in the camp, like Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson, present&nbsp;New&nbsp;York&nbsp;as a no-go area, far from the reality on the ground.

Others, especially in Democratic circles, call for perspective.

"Nobody is saying to me, 'I feel so unsafe'," said Susan Kang, professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice.

'It is a way to shift the political narrative to the issue of police.'

'Even if the&nbsp;crime&nbsp;numbers are growing, the numbers are still quite low,'&nbsp;she added, especially when most US cities have witnessed an increase over the past year.

The movement against police violence has pushed some Democrats to demand a reduction in the budget of the&nbsp;New&nbsp;York&nbsp;police force, which is the largest in the country with around 35,000 officers. They want to see money redirected to underprivileged communities.

Kang regrets that the discussion is now moving towards police deployments being insufficient.

"Times Square has a significant presence of police officers already. To what extent would more police officers improve the situation?" she asked.

Whatever approach is taken, the situation is 'only going to get worse in the next few weeks,'&nbsp;believes Christopher Herrmann, another expert at John Jay.

'The&nbsp;new&nbsp;mayor is going to walk in with this pile of bad news on his desk,'&nbsp;he said.

New York, which has long prided itself on being one of the world's safest cities, is experiencing a surge in crime, with the topic becoming a central theme of a mayoral race set to be decided in June.

New York, which has long prided itself on being one of the world's safest cities, is experiencing a surge in crime, with the topic becoming a central theme of a mayoral race set to be decided in June. Crime was endemic in the Big Apple in the 1970s and 1980s when America's largest metropolis was gripped by a budgetary crisis, but it has been on a continuous downward trend since the mid-1990s. Also read: Shooting at New York Times Square injures 3, including a child However, the picture has deteriorated drastically since last summer. What initially looked like a byproduct of the movement against police violence following George Floyd's murder and social dislocation caused by the pandemic appears no longer to be the case. From knife attacks on the subway to a surge in shootings, including in Times Square last weekend, violence is 'definitely up,' says John Pfaff, a criminal law professor at Fordham University. Also read: New York Police probe 'hate crime' targetting Chinese American man 'The spike of 2020 does run the risk of continuing into 2021,' he told AFP. "I see a huge economic uncertainty, a huge emotional stress, you have institutions that are shut down across the board. All these things are going to contribute to violence and then that violence can be somewhat self-perpetuating going forward," Pfaff added. New York is gradually beginning to emerge from the coronavirus crisis and unemployment is falling, but crime statistics are far from improving. The latest figures, released on May 9, showed 505 victims of shootings since the beginning of January, the highest in 10 years. It was up from 275 for the same period in 2020. There have been 146 murders so far this year, up 40 percent from 2019 when 104 people were killed and up 27 percent on last year. Officially, crime in the subway is down 43 percent, but many experts note that is misleading as ridership plummeted with the pandemic. A shooting in broad daylight in Times Square on May 8, which injured two women and a child, propelled rising violent crime to the forefront of the mayoral campaign, six weeks before the Democratic primary on June 22. The primary effectively nominates the winner of the November election due to the unpopularity of Republicans in New York. The main candidates -- which include ex-presidential candidate Andrew Yang, Brooklyn president and ex-police officer Eric Adams, and ex-Wall Street executive Raymond McGuire, have all promised decisive action to improve safety if elected. And during their first virtual debate on Thursday night, the subject kept coming back like a boomerang. On Friday, Pat Foye, president of the New York transport authority, increased the pressure, demanding 'an immediate injection' of hundreds of police officers at stations, where their presence has already been reinforced in recent weeks. He even described New York's outgoing mayor, the left-leaning Democrat Bill de Blasio as 'irresponsible,' accusing him of 'ignoring the reality' of passengers. When asked about it on local radio, De Blasio repeated his mantra: crime will drop with the resumption of economic activity, which is taking shape with almost all pandemic-era restrictions about to be lifted. He accused Foye of "fear-mongering" at the behest of Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo, who frequently accuses the mayor of inaction on crime. Republicans are also trying to use the rise in violence to their advantage. Some in the camp, like Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson, present New York as a no-go area, far from the reality on the ground. Others, especially in Democratic circles, call for perspective. "Nobody is saying to me, 'I feel so unsafe'," said Susan Kang, professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. 'It is a way to shift the political narrative to the issue of police.' 'Even if the crime numbers are growing, the numbers are still quite low,' she added, especially when most US cities have witnessed an increase over the past year. The movement against police violence has pushed some Democrats to demand a reduction in the budget of the New York police force, which is the largest in the country with around 35,000 officers. They want to see money redirected to underprivileged communities. Kang regrets that the discussion is now moving towards police deployments being insufficient. "Times Square has a significant presence of police officers already. To what extent would more police officers improve the situation?" she asked. Whatever approach is taken, the situation is 'only going to get worse in the next few weeks,' believes Christopher Herrmann, another expert at John Jay. 'The new mayor is going to walk in with this pile of bad news on his desk,' he said.

Rising crime takes centre stage in New York mayoral race

South Africa’s Police Minister Bheki Cele on Friday released its quarter-four crime statistics for 2020-2021.

In its report, the minister revealed that even though overall crime declined by 8.5 per cent, the rate of murder and attempted murder rose by 8.4 per cent and 8.7 per cent respectively.&nbsp;

Cele said 4,976 people were killed in the first three months of 2021, which is 387 more people killed, as compared to the same months in the previous financial year. This includes 24 police officers who were killed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-experts-warn-against-third-wave-of-coronavirus-384699" hreflang="en">South Africa: Experts warn against third wave of coronavirus</a>

Minister said Eastern Cape and the Kwa-Zulu Natal provinces were of concern. Both the provinces recorded double-digit increases, standing at 21.5 per cent and 16.9 per cent respectively.&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, 1,327 people died in the places of residence of either the victim or the perpetrator, including the homes of family friends and neighbors. In some instances these people could have had some kind of domestic relationship," the minister said.&nbsp;

Cele added while there has been a decline in sexual offenses cases, 9,518 people were raped between January and March, a decrease of 387 cases as compared to the same period last year.&nbsp;

"The sexual violence melted against women in this country is simply shameful. Seemingly men and children are not spared," Cele said.&nbsp;

South Africa’s Police Minister Bheki Cele on Friday released its quarter-four crime statistics for 2020-2021. In its report, the minister revealed that even though overall crime declined by 8.

South Africa’s Police Minister Bheki Cele on Friday released its quarter-four crime statistics for 2020-2021. In its report, the minister revealed that even though overall crime declined by 8.5 per cent, the rate of murder and attempted murder rose by 8.4 per cent and 8.7 per cent respectively. Cele said 4,976 people were killed in the first three months of 2021, which is 387 more people killed, as compared to the same months in the previous financial year. This includes 24 police officers who were killed. Also read | South Africa: Experts warn against third wave of coronavirus Minister said Eastern Cape and the Kwa-Zulu Natal provinces were of concern. Both the provinces recorded double-digit increases, standing at 21.5 per cent and 16.9 per cent respectively. "Unfortunately, 1,327 people died in the places of residence of either the victim or the perpetrator, including the homes of family friends and neighbors. In some instances these people could have had some kind of domestic relationship," the minister said. Cele added while there has been a decline in sexual offenses cases, 9,518 people were raped between January and March, a decrease of 387 cases as compared to the same period last year. "The sexual violence melted against women in this country is simply shameful. Seemingly men and children are not spared," Cele said.

South Africa: Overall crime rate decreases, murder rate increased by 8.4%

Police&nbsp;in&nbsp;Honduras, whose president the United States accuses of being a "co-conspirator" in drug-trafficking, unearthed&nbsp;1.5&nbsp;tonnes&nbsp;of&nbsp;cocaine&nbsp;buried&nbsp;in the ground in a small village in the country's north.

They found some 1,450 packets of drugs in 58 sacks&nbsp;buried&nbsp;in three large holes dug with heavy machinery, a&nbsp;police&nbsp;statement said.

The drugs had apparently been brought to Francia, which is near the coast, by sea.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="US: Woman arrested after cocaine hidden in sole of shoes found in airport">US: Woman arrested after cocaine hidden in sole of shoes found in airport</a>

The haul was the result of intelligence work and served to "demonstrate the hard work done by the National&nbsp;Police&nbsp;in coordination with other institutions, with the aim of dismantling drug trafficking structures operating in the country," according to the head of the special forces&nbsp;police&nbsp;directorate, Miguel Perez.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So far this year, Honduran&nbsp;police&nbsp;have seized more than eight&nbsp;tons&nbsp;of drugs, said the statement.

President Juan Orlando Hernandez has stepped up the fight against drug cartels even as his brother, Tony, was found guilty in a US court in October 2019 of conspiring to import&nbsp;cocaine&nbsp;into the United States.

In March this year, he was sentenced to live in prison on this and other charges.

During his trial, the US government argued the former Honduran congressman was a large-scale drug trafficker who smuggled more than 185&nbsp;tons&nbsp;of&nbsp;cocaine&nbsp;into the United States.

Judge P Kevin Castel found Tony Hernandez had acted as an intermediary in providing bribes to politicians, including his president brother and the ruling National Party.

US prosecutors said the president had been a "co-conspirator" in Tony Hernandez's crimes, though he has not been charged.

Hernandez, who has styled himself as a champion in the fight against drugs, has repeatedly denied allegations of drug trafficking.

In March this year, a New York jury found Geovanny Fuentes Ramirez, an alleged associate of the president, guilty of drug trafficking.

During his trial, US prosecutors said the Honduran leader had helped Fuentes smuggle&nbsp;tons&nbsp;of&nbsp;cocaine&nbsp;into the United States.

President Hernandez accuses the US justice system of giving credibility to drug lords seeking "revenge" for having been extradited to the United States by his government.

Police in Honduras, whose president the United States accuses of being a "co-conspirator" in drug-trafficking, unearthed 1.5 tonnes of cocaine buried in the ground in a small village in the country's north.

Police in Honduras, whose president the United States accuses of being a "co-conspirator" in drug-trafficking, unearthed 1.5 tonnes of cocaine buried in the ground in a small village in the country's north. They found some 1,450 packets of drugs in 58 sacks buried in three large holes dug with heavy machinery, a police statement said. The drugs had apparently been brought to Francia, which is near the coast, by sea. Also read- US: Woman arrested after cocaine hidden in sole of shoes found in airport The haul was the result of intelligence work and served to "demonstrate the hard work done by the National Police in coordination with other institutions, with the aim of dismantling drug trafficking structures operating in the country," according to the head of the special forces police directorate, Miguel Perez. So far this year, Honduran police have seized more than eight tons of drugs, said the statement. President Juan Orlando Hernandez has stepped up the fight against drug cartels even as his brother, Tony, was found guilty in a US court in October 2019 of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States. In March this year, he was sentenced to live in prison on this and other charges. During his trial, the US government argued the former Honduran congressman was a large-scale drug trafficker who smuggled more than 185 tons of cocaine into the United States. Judge P Kevin Castel found Tony Hernandez had acted as an intermediary in providing bribes to politicians, including his president brother and the ruling National Party. US prosecutors said the president had been a "co-conspirator" in Tony Hernandez's crimes, though he has not been charged. Hernandez, who has styled himself as a champion in the fight against drugs, has repeatedly denied allegations of drug trafficking. In March this year, a New York jury found Geovanny Fuentes Ramirez, an alleged associate of the president, guilty of drug trafficking. During his trial, US prosecutors said the Honduran leader had helped Fuentes smuggle tons of cocaine into the United States. President Hernandez accuses the US justice system of giving credibility to drug lords seeking "revenge" for having been extradited to the United States by his government.

Honduras police unearth 1.5 tonnes of buried cocaine

German police said on Monday they had shut down 'one of the biggest darknet child pornography platforms in the world' and arrested four of its members in a series of raids in mid-April.

The platform, named as 'Boystown', had existed since 2019, counted over 400,000 members and was "set up for the worldwide exchange of child pornography", federal police said in a statement.&nbsp;

The darknet forum allowed users to communicate with others and share graphic image and video content which included "serious sexual abuse of toddlers", the statement said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Berlin police condemn violence during May Day protests which injured 93 officers">Berlin police condemn violence during May Day protests which injured 93 officers</a>

Three men between the ages of 40 and 64 were arrested in seven raids in Germany, while a further suspect was detained in Paraguay on the request of German authorities.

The suspect in Paraguay's Concepcion region, also a German citizen, is to be extradited back to Germany on the basis of an international arrest warrant issued by a court in Frankfurt.&nbsp;

Three of the men are accused of having managed the platform as administrators, providing technical support and advice to members on how to avoid being discovered by the authorities, while another was "one of the platform's most active users", police said.

Investigators added that the months-long, German-instigated operation had been coordinated by Europol and supported by law enforcement in the Netherlands, Sweden, the United States and Canada.&nbsp;

German police said on Monday they had shut down 'one of the biggest darknet child pornography platforms in the world' and arrested four of its members in a series of raids in mid-April.

German police said on Monday they had shut down 'one of the biggest darknet child pornography platforms in the world' and arrested four of its members in a series of raids in mid-April. The platform, named as 'Boystown', had existed since 2019, counted over 400,000 members and was "set up for the worldwide exchange of child pornography", federal police said in a statement. The darknet forum allowed users to communicate with others and share graphic image and video content which included "serious sexual abuse of toddlers", the statement said. Also read: Berlin police condemn violence during May Day protests which injured 93 officers Three men between the ages of 40 and 64 were arrested in seven raids in Germany, while a further suspect was detained in Paraguay on the request of German authorities. The suspect in Paraguay's Concepcion region, also a German citizen, is to be extradited back to Germany on the basis of an international arrest warrant issued by a court in Frankfurt. Three of the men are accused of having managed the platform as administrators, providing technical support and advice to members on how to avoid being discovered by the authorities, while another was "one of the platform's most active users", police said. Investigators added that the months-long, German-instigated operation had been coordinated by Europol and supported by law enforcement in the Netherlands, Sweden, the United States and Canada.

German police smash darknet child porn network with 400,000 members

Three&nbsp;of the&nbsp;seven&nbsp;Catholic&nbsp;clergy&nbsp;who were&nbsp;kidnapped&nbsp;in&nbsp;Haiti&nbsp;more than a week ago have been&nbsp;released, a Church spokesman told AFP on Thursday, as the island nation grapples with a rise in violence and ongoing political crisis.

A total of 10 people were abducted in Croix-des-Bouquets, a town northeast of the capital Port-au-Prince, on April 11, including the&nbsp;seven&nbsp;clergy&nbsp;-- five of them Haitian and two of them French.

Father Loudger Mazile, spokesman for the Bishop's Conference for the island nation, said "the French were not&nbsp;released. There were no lay people among those&nbsp;released."

"Three&nbsp;of the&nbsp;seven&nbsp;clergy&nbsp;kidnapped&nbsp;on April 11 were&nbsp;released," he told.

Haiti, the poorest country in the Americas, is plagued by insecurity and natural disaster.

Also read:<a href="India sends Covid vaccines to Caribbean, up next Mexico">&nbsp;India sends Covid vaccines to Caribbean, up next Mexico</a>

Kidnappings for ransom have surged in recent months in Port-au-Prince and other provinces, reflecting the growing influence of armed gangs in the Caribbean nation.

Haiti's government resigned and a new prime minister was appointed in the wake of the kidnappings, a move President Jovenel Moise said "will make it possible to address the glaring problem of insecurity and continue discussions with a view to reaching the consensus necessary for the political and institutional stability of our country."

The&nbsp;clergy&nbsp;abducted were a group of four priests and a nun from&nbsp;Haiti, as well as one&nbsp;priest&nbsp;and one nun from France. The&nbsp;three&nbsp;non-clergy&nbsp;were members of the family of a Haitian&nbsp;priest, who was not among those&nbsp;kidnapped.

The&nbsp;kidnapped&nbsp;victims&nbsp;were "on their way to the installation of a new parish&nbsp;priest" when they were abducted, Mazile previously told AFP, with the kidnappers demanding a $1 million ransom for the group.

Authorities suspect an armed gang called "400 Mawozo" -- which is active in kidnappings -- is behind the abduction, according to a police source.

Haiti's&nbsp;Catholic&nbsp;Church has slammed the government's failure to act over the country's unrest, decrying the nation's "descent into hell."

"The public authorities who are doing nothing to resolve this crisis are not immune from suspicion," the Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince said in a statement.

The abducted five priests belong to the Society of Priests of St James, which is based in France, their superior general, Paul Dossous, confirmed to AFP.

Paris, meanwhile has opened an investigation into the kidnappings, entrusting the case to France's Central Office for the Fight against Organized Crime (OCLCO), which has jurisdiction over crimes committed against French citizens abroad.

Three of the seven Catholic clergy who were kidnapped in Haiti more than a week ago have been released, a Church spokesman told AFP on Thursday, as the island nation grapples with a rise in violence and ongoing political crisis.

Three of the seven Catholic clergy who were kidnapped in Haiti more than a week ago have been released, a Church spokesman told AFP on Thursday, as the island nation grapples with a rise in violence and ongoing political crisis. A total of 10 people were abducted in Croix-des-Bouquets, a town northeast of the capital Port-au-Prince, on April 11, including the seven clergy -- five of them Haitian and two of them French. Father Loudger Mazile, spokesman for the Bishop's Conference for the island nation, said "the French were not released. There were no lay people among those released." "Three of the seven clergy kidnapped on April 11 were released," he told. Haiti, the poorest country in the Americas, is plagued by insecurity and natural disaster. Also read: India sends Covid vaccines to Caribbean, up next Mexico Kidnappings for ransom have surged in recent months in Port-au-Prince and other provinces, reflecting the growing influence of armed gangs in the Caribbean nation. Haiti's government resigned and a new prime minister was appointed in the wake of the kidnappings, a move President Jovenel Moise said "will make it possible to address the glaring problem of insecurity and continue discussions with a view to reaching the consensus necessary for the political and institutional stability of our country." The clergy abducted were a group of four priests and a nun from Haiti, as well as one priest and one nun from France. The three non-clergy were members of the family of a Haitian priest, who was not among those kidnapped. The kidnapped victims were "on their way to the installation of a new parish priest" when they were abducted, Mazile previously told AFP, with the kidnappers demanding a $1 million ransom for the group. Authorities suspect an armed gang called "400 Mawozo" -- which is active in kidnappings -- is behind the abduction, according to a police source. Haiti's Catholic Church has slammed the government's failure to act over the country's unrest, decrying the nation's "descent into hell." "The public authorities who are doing nothing to resolve this crisis are not immune from suspicion," the Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince said in a statement. The abducted five priests belong to the Society of Priests of St James, which is based in France, their superior general, Paul Dossous, confirmed to AFP. Paris, meanwhile has opened an investigation into the kidnappings, entrusting the case to France's Central Office for the Fight against Organized Crime (OCLCO), which has jurisdiction over crimes committed against French citizens abroad.

Three of seven Catholic clergy kidnapped in Haiti are released

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