The United States is expanding its campaign against drug cartels across Latin America as Colombia joins the U.S.-led Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that Colombia has authorised joint military operations targeting terrorist organisations and narco-terror networks.

Hegseth also signalled a more aggressive approach to cartel networks, comparing the planned campaign with tactics used against ISIS and al-Qaeda. The latest move could significantly deepen military and intelligence cooperation between Washington and Bogotá.

U.S. Leads New Anti-Cartel Bloc, as Hegseth Vows 'ISIS-Style' Ops Against Cartels

#Gravitas According to an internal assessment by the US Drug Enforcement Administration, America's military campaign has failed to reduce either the supply or the street price of cocaine in the United States. Instead, investigators reportedly say trafficking networks have rapidly changed their methods to avoid US Operations.   


221 dead, 67 boats destroyed: Trump's drug war fails to stop cocaine trafficking 

The United States has designated Mexico’s Juarez Cartel and Los Alegres group as foreign terrorist organizations, marking a major escalation in Washington’s fight against drug cartels. The US State Department said the groups were involved in attacks affecting American citizens and interests, including a 2019 attack that killed nine members of the Mormon community in Mexico.

US designates Mexican cartels as terror groups in major drug war escalation

Federal investigators have uncovered a sophisticated 2,000-foot-long tunnel running beneath the US-Mexico border, revealing what authorities describe as a major drug-smuggling route. Hidden beneath a warehouse linked to a supposed discount store in San Diego, the tunnel featured electricity, reinforced walls, ventilation systems and even a rail track. The discovery followed a months-long investigation that led to the arrest of four suspects accused of trafficking more than $45 million worth of cocaine. If convicted, they could face life in prison.

US Finds Huge Drug Tunnel Under Mexico Border 

Colombian President Gustavo Petro rejected allegations that he has ties to drug traffickers after reports emerged that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has designated him a “priority target” amid a federal probe in New York examining his alleged connections to the drug trade.


Drug Enforcement Administration Labels Colombian Prez Gustavo Petro A 'Priority Target'

Colombian President Gustavo Petro on US Drug Agency's Priority List; Petro Denies Links

In a bizarre turn of events, a talking parrot played an unlikely role in busting a major drugs operation in England when the pet repeated drug-related phrases taught by the dealers, authorities revealed this week. The narcotics network was operating from inside a prison and allegedly trafficked drugs across Blackpool between February 2023 and July 2024. The Lancashire Constabulary have announced charges against 15 people in connection with the gang. The group was led by Adam Garnett, 35, who was already serving a prison sentence when the police discovered their operation.&nbsp;The gang’s illegal activities came to light after a number of mobile phones and Wi-Fi routers were discovered in Garnett’s cell during a search. Following this, police identified his associates, including Dalbir Sandhu, Shannon Hilton and Jason Gerrand. After searching their homes, police found large quantities of drugs, cash, and phones, which linked the gang members to each other.&nbsp;As part of the search, the phone of Garnett’s girlfriend, Shannon Hilton, was discovered. The device contained videos of her pet parrot Mango repeating the phrase “two for 25”, which is a drug deal reference. Another video showed the bird playing with drugs linked to money.&nbsp;Posting the video of the parrot, Lancashire Police wrote on Facebook, “What’s the most talented thing your pet can do? Sit? Give paw? How about speak? One drug dealer's parrot learned to say ‘two for 25’ - a phrase picked up as part of common language used by the organised crime gang run by her boyfriend. Not a phrase you want your parrot squawking when the police come knocking!”&nbsp;The investigators also found video calls and other clips flaunting drugs on her phone. Despite being jailed, Garnett continued to run his criminal network. He was sentenced to an additional 19 years and six months in prison, which he will serve consecutively with his existing 15-year term. Hilton, 29, was awarded a 12-year prison sentence, while Sandhu, 41, will be spending 10 years behind bars.&nbsp;Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw applauded the busting of gang operations as part of Operation Warrior. “This sends a clear message: we will not tolerate organised crime in our communities. I remain committed to giving law enforcement the resources they need to take down these gangs and protect the public,” he said.&nbsp;Watch | Organized Drug Gangs Fuel Surge in Youth Violence Across ‘Fragile’ French Cities&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/organized-drug-gangs-fuel-surge-in-youth-violence-across-fragile-french-cities-1753705742879/embed

In an unusual incident, a drug dealer’s pet parrot helped reveal their illegal activities to police after it recited drug-related phrases taught by its owner.

In a bizarre turn of events, a talking parrot played an unlikely role in busting a major drugs operation in England when the pet repeated drug-related phrases taught by the dealers, authorities revealed this week. The narcotics network was operating from inside a prison and allegedly trafficked drugs across Blackpool between February 2023 and July 2024. The Lancashire Constabulary have announced charges against 15 people in connection with the gang. The group was led by Adam Garnett, 35, who was already serving a prison sentence when the police discovered their operation. The gang’s illegal activities came to light after a number of mobile phones and Wi-Fi routers were discovered in Garnett’s cell during a search. Following this, police identified his associates, including Dalbir Sandhu, Shannon Hilton and Jason Gerrand. After searching their homes, police found large quantities of drugs, cash, and phones, which linked the gang members to each other. As part of the search, the phone of Garnett’s girlfriend, Shannon Hilton, was discovered. The device contained videos of her pet parrot Mango repeating the phrase “two for 25”, which is a drug deal reference. Another video showed the bird playing with drugs linked to money. Posting the video of the parrot, Lancashire Police wrote on Facebook, “What’s the most talented thing your pet can do? Sit? Give paw? How about speak? One drug dealer's parrot learned to say ‘two for 25’ - a phrase picked up as part of common language used by the organised crime gang run by her boyfriend. Not a phrase you want your parrot squawking when the police come knocking!” The investigators also found video calls and other clips flaunting drugs on her phone. Despite being jailed, Garnett continued to run his criminal network. He was sentenced to an additional 19 years and six months in prison, which he will serve consecutively with his existing 15-year term. Hilton, 29, was awarded a 12-year prison sentence, while Sandhu, 41, will be spending 10 years behind bars. Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw applauded the busting of gang operations as part of Operation Warrior. “This sends a clear message: we will not tolerate organised crime in our communities. I remain committed to giving law enforcement the resources they need to take down these gangs and protect the public,” he said. Watch | Organized Drug Gangs Fuel Surge in Youth Violence Across ‘Fragile’ French Cities https://www.wionews.com/videos/organized-drug-gangs-fuel-surge-in-youth-violence-across-fragile-french-cities-1753705742879/embed

In an unusual incident, a drug dealer’s pet parrot helped reveal their illegal activities to police after it recited drug-related phrases taught by its owner.

Drug dealer’s talking parrot helps British cops uncover gang’s illegal activities - Here’s how

The Sinaloa Cartel, considered one of the most powerful drug trafficking organisations in the world, has operated with near-sovereign control over parts of Mexico. Here’s what you need to know about its rise, operations, and global impact.

This drug syndicate controls an entire state in Mexico! All about Sinaloa Cartel

Mexican cartels, like Sinaloa, CJNG, and the Juarez Cartel, dominate global drug trafficking, operating in over 50 countries. They smuggle drugs like cocaine, meth, and fentanyl into the US, Europe, and Asia, using violence, corruption, and strategic alliances to maintain power.


Sinaloa, Juarez, Tijuana and more! Top 5 Drug cartels that rule the worldwide syndicate business

Once an Olympic snowboarder, Ryan Wedding is now one of the FBI’s top-10 most wanted fugitives. Accused of leading a billion-dollar drug trafficking ring, authorities are offering a $10 million reward for information on his whereabouts. How did he fall from grace?

Olympian-turned-fugitive: FBI hunts Ryan Wedding in drug case

In New Zealand, candies laced with dangerous, potentially fatal quantities of methamphetamine landed three individuals — a child, a teenager, and a charity worker in the hospital.

The candies were distributed by a charity, the Auckland City Mission, known for providing essential supplies to those in need. The New Zealand charity has issued a public apology,&nbsp;"to say we are devastated is an understatement," it said.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:133,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1883}">How did this happen?</h2>

The Auckland City Mission in a statement to the press said that it discovered the contamination on Tuesday (Aug 13) after recipients reported the candies' foul taste.

Three individuals — a child, a teenager, and a charity worker — who sought medical attention after consuming the sweets are well, and are currently not hospitalised, reported Reuters citing Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin from Auckland police.&nbsp;

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There was no indication of wrongdoing by the charity itself, said Baldwin.

"Drug importation is complex, and organised criminal groups use a range of measures and techniques to try and evade enforcement agencies, not only in New Zealand but around the world," he added.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:426,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2176}">How much meth did the candies contain?</h2>

The candies, which were donated by an unknown individual, were tested by the New Zealand Drug Foundation.&nbsp;

Tests revealed that each sweet contained up to three grams of the drug—equivalent to 300 typical doses.&nbsp;

Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm noted that a "common dose to swallow is between 10-25mg, so this contaminated lolly contained up to 300 doses".

"Swallowing that much methamphetamine is extremely dangerous and could result in death," she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jk-rowling-elon-musk-sued-for-spewing-online-hate-against-olympic-winner-imane-khelif-749989">JK Rowling, Elon Musk sued for spewing online hate against Olympic winner Imane Khelif</a>

Police believe the candies are likely the by-product of an international drug trafficking operation and have urged the public to hand over any they may have received.&nbsp;

"We need to round these up as quickly as we can," said Baldwin. He reported that 16 of the sweets had been found so far.

A criminal investigation has been launched to determine how the contaminated sweets entered the country, and efforts are underway to retrieve up to 400 remaining pieces.

Rinda Food, the Malaysian sweet maker whose packaging the meth-laced sweets carried, said that its "branding" had been misused and that it did not "condone the use of any illegal drugs in our products".&nbsp;

"Our company is dedicated to ensuring that our products meet the highest safety and regulatory standards."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:932,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2682}">How dangerous can the candy be?</h2>

Methamphetamine can cause severe symptoms such as chest pain, seizures, and loss of consciousness.&nbsp;

The New Zealand Drug Foundation spokeswoman Sarah Helm, speaking on Radio New Zealand, noted that it is not uncommon for drug smugglers to disguise illegal narcotics in food products but said: "We suspect somebody hasn't intentionally sought to poison children."

(With inputs from agencies)

In New Zealand, candies laced with dangerous, potentially fatal quantities of methamphetamine landed three individuals — a child, a teenager, and a charity worker in the hospital.

In New Zealand, candies laced with dangerous, potentially fatal quantities of methamphetamine landed three individuals — a child, a teenager, and a charity worker in the hospital. The candies were distributed by a charity, the Auckland City Mission, known for providing essential supplies to those in need. The New Zealand charity has issued a public apology, "to say we are devastated is an understatement," it said. How did this happen? The Auckland City Mission in a statement to the press said that it discovered the contamination on Tuesday (Aug 13) after recipients reported the candies' foul taste. Three individuals — a child, a teenager, and a charity worker — who sought medical attention after consuming the sweets are well, and are currently not hospitalised, reported Reuters citing Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin from Auckland police. Also read | Banksy's street art defaced by vandal; new art piece moved to secure location There was no indication of wrongdoing by the charity itself, said Baldwin. "Drug importation is complex, and organised criminal groups use a range of measures and techniques to try and evade enforcement agencies, not only in New Zealand but around the world," he added. How much meth did the candies contain? The candies, which were donated by an unknown individual, were tested by the New Zealand Drug Foundation. Tests revealed that each sweet contained up to three grams of the drug—equivalent to 300 typical doses. Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm noted that a "common dose to swallow is between 10-25mg, so this contaminated lolly contained up to 300 doses". "Swallowing that much methamphetamine is extremely dangerous and could result in death," she said. Also read | JK Rowling, Elon Musk sued for spewing online hate against Olympic winner Imane Khelif Police believe the candies are likely the by-product of an international drug trafficking operation and have urged the public to hand over any they may have received. "We need to round these up as quickly as we can," said Baldwin. He reported that 16 of the sweets had been found so far. A criminal investigation has been launched to determine how the contaminated sweets entered the country, and efforts are underway to retrieve up to 400 remaining pieces. Rinda Food, the Malaysian sweet maker whose packaging the meth-laced sweets carried, said that its "branding" had been misused and that it did not "condone the use of any illegal drugs in our products". "Our company is dedicated to ensuring that our products meet the highest safety and regulatory standards." How dangerous can the candy be? Methamphetamine can cause severe symptoms such as chest pain, seizures, and loss of consciousness. The New Zealand Drug Foundation spokeswoman Sarah Helm, speaking on Radio New Zealand, noted that it is not uncommon for drug smugglers to disguise illegal narcotics in food products but said: "We suspect somebody hasn't intentionally sought to poison children." (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand: Candy laced with fatal levels of meth distributed by charity; 400 candies still 'out there'

A fugitive Brazilian drug lord, Ronald Roland, who had been&nbsp;evading the law for two years, was arrested by the police after&nbsp;Instagram posts by his wife, Andrezza De Lima, accidentally gave clues about his location to the police.

The authorities have been monitoring De Lima's social media activity in a bid to track her husband's whereabouts. The police were able to track the couple through the pictures shared by her on Instagram which contained geo-tagged locations and recognisable landmarks.

De Lima owned a bikini shop and shared pictures and videos frequently on social media. She posted about her luxurious trips to various iconic destinations including Dubai, Paris, Maldives, and Colombia. Last week, she posted a picture that had a particular landmark, through which the police could identify their exact location.

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According to the authorities, Roland was apprehended last Tuesday from his condominium in Guaruja, a coastal town in Brazil. He is&nbsp;suspected of being involved in a money laundering scheme and supplying drugs to Mexican cartels. The drug lord bundled up 860.2 million pounds in five years and shuffled the amount through over 100 shell firms and businesses.

De Lima was also involved in criminal activities with her husband and used her bikini shop as a front to launder money and receive payments which exceeded 30,000 dollars in a day.

After his arrest, Roland is facing multiple charges related to organised crime, drug trafficking, and evading arrest.

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This incident was not for the first time for Roland. He had been previously arrested in 2019 when his ex-wife had revealed his whereabouts by tagging the location in a social media post.

According to reports, Roland has been tailed by the police since the time he worked as an airline pilot in 2012. The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) warned the Federal Police of Brazil about a group of Brazilian pilots being involved in smuggling of cocaine, in a letter. Since then, Roland has been a person of interest in the Brazilian police investigations related to drug trafficking networks.

(With inputs from agencies)

A fugitive Brazilian drug lord, Ronald Roland, who had been evading the law for two years, was arrested by the police after Instagram posts by his wife, Andrezza De Lima, accidentally gave clues about his location to the police.

A fugitive Brazilian drug lord, Ronald Roland, who had been evading the law for two years, was arrested by the police after Instagram posts by his wife, Andrezza De Lima, accidentally gave clues about his location to the police. The authorities have been monitoring De Lima's social media activity in a bid to track her husband's whereabouts. The police were able to track the couple through the pictures shared by her on Instagram which contained geo-tagged locations and recognisable landmarks. De Lima owned a bikini shop and shared pictures and videos frequently on social media. She posted about her luxurious trips to various iconic destinations including Dubai, Paris, Maldives, and Colombia. Last week, she posted a picture that had a particular landmark, through which the police could identify their exact location. Also Read | Startup founder Chris Kirchner sentenced to 20 years in prison for misappropriation of funds According to the authorities, Roland was apprehended last Tuesday from his condominium in Guaruja, a coastal town in Brazil. He is suspected of being involved in a money laundering scheme and supplying drugs to Mexican cartels. The drug lord bundled up 860.2 million pounds in five years and shuffled the amount through over 100 shell firms and businesses. De Lima was also involved in criminal activities with her husband and used her bikini shop as a front to launder money and receive payments which exceeded 30,000 dollars in a day. After his arrest, Roland is facing multiple charges related to organised crime, drug trafficking, and evading arrest. Also Read | UK crossbow attack: Man suspected of killing 3 women formally arrested This incident was not for the first time for Roland. He had been previously arrested in 2019 when his ex-wife had revealed his whereabouts by tagging the location in a social media post. According to reports, Roland has been tailed by the police since the time he worked as an airline pilot in 2012. The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) warned the Federal Police of Brazil about a group of Brazilian pilots being involved in smuggling of cocaine, in a letter. Since then, Roland has been a person of interest in the Brazilian police investigations related to drug trafficking networks. (With inputs from agencies)

Wife’s social media post gets Brazilian drug lord arrested

The Astana Declaration was adopted by the participating countries in the 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Thursday (Jul&nbsp;4).&nbsp;

The nation-states also approved 25 strategic documents which emphasised energy, security, trade, finance, and information security.

SCO members, during the summit, endorsed the Initiative On World Unity for a Just Peace, Harmony and Development, which was earlier proposed by the host country Kazakhstan.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-left-unchecked-jaishankar-takes-veiled-dig-at-pak-china-at-sco-summit-737849">'If left unchecked..': Jaishankar takes veiled dig at Pak, China at SCO summit</a>

As per the Astana Declaration, the role of the SCO was underscored by the member states in ensuring security and stability, bolstering global peace, establishing a new democratic, equitable international political and economic order, and inviting the global community to take part in the initiative.&nbsp;

<h2>SCO member states adopt Development Strategy till 2035</h2>

The SCO's Council of Heads of State – Members adopted the SCO Development Strategy till 2035 which outlined the collective contributions in the wake of Belarus getting membership status.&nbsp;

As part of the key resolutions were the co-operation programmes to combat separatism, terrorism, and extremism for 2025-2027.

They also adopted the Anti-Drug Strategy for the next five years and the corresponding Action Programme.

They also approved the Economic Development Strategy’s Action Plan until 2030 and strategies for energy cooperation till 2030.

The countries also committed to signing a memorandum of understanding between the Central Asian Regional Information Coordination Centre and the SCO Secretariat to combat illicit drug trafficking.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;SCO Summit: China, Russia hold bilateral meet on SCO sidelines; Putin, Xi hail stable ties

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At the summit, they also adopted an interaction plan among member states on the issues of international information security.

The resolutions also covered the Association of Investors, programmes for developing mechanisms for financing SCO project activities and co-operation in protected areas and eco-tourism.

The member states further signed statements which affirmed principles of good neighbourliness, trust, and partnership, promoting effective waste management and ensuring the safety of drinking water and sanitation.

An agreement was also formalised by them on environmental protection co-operation among SCO governments.

After the conclusion of the Summit, the SCO chairmanship will be assumed by the People’s Republic of China for the next term. Meanwhile, they will appoint Qingdao as the SCO’s tourism and cultural capital for 2024-2025.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Astana Declaration was adopted by the participating countries in the 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Thursday (Jul 4).

The Astana Declaration was adopted by the participating countries in the 24th summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Thursday (Jul 4). The nation-states also approved 25 strategic documents which emphasised energy, security, trade, finance, and information security. SCO members, during the summit, endorsed the Initiative On World Unity for a Just Peace, Harmony and Development, which was earlier proposed by the host country Kazakhstan. Also Read: 'If left unchecked..': Jaishankar takes veiled dig at Pak, China at SCO summit As per the Astana Declaration, the role of the SCO was underscored by the member states in ensuring security and stability, bolstering global peace, establishing a new democratic, equitable international political and economic order, and inviting the global community to take part in the initiative. SCO member states adopt Development Strategy till 2035 The SCO's Council of Heads of State – Members adopted the SCO Development Strategy till 2035 which outlined the collective contributions in the wake of Belarus getting membership status. As part of the key resolutions were the co-operation programmes to combat separatism, terrorism, and extremism for 2025-2027. They also adopted the Anti-Drug Strategy for the next five years and the corresponding Action Programme. They also approved the Economic Development Strategy’s Action Plan until 2030 and strategies for energy cooperation till 2030. The countries also committed to signing a memorandum of understanding between the Central Asian Regional Information Coordination Centre and the SCO Secretariat to combat illicit drug trafficking. Watch: SCO Summit: China, Russia hold bilateral meet on SCO sidelines; Putin, Xi hail stable ties At the summit, they also adopted an interaction plan among member states on the issues of international information security. The resolutions also covered the Association of Investors, programmes for developing mechanisms for financing SCO project activities and co-operation in protected areas and eco-tourism. The member states further signed statements which affirmed principles of good neighbourliness, trust, and partnership, promoting effective waste management and ensuring the safety of drinking water and sanitation. An agreement was also formalised by them on environmental protection co-operation among SCO governments. After the conclusion of the Summit, the SCO chairmanship will be assumed by the People’s Republic of China for the next term. Meanwhile, they will appoint Qingdao as the SCO’s tourism and cultural capital for 2024-2025. (With inputs from agencies)

SCO Summit: Countries agree on bolstering global peace, commit to combatting drug trafficking

Juan Orlando Hernandez, the former president of Honduras, has been sentenced to 45 years in prison for his conviction on drugs and weapons charges.

US District Judge P. Kevin Castel in a Manhattan federal court on Wednesday (June 26), sentenced 55-year-old Hernandez.&nbsp;

Prosecutors had sought a life sentence, emphasising the seriousness of Hernandez's actions and aiming to deter similar crimes in the future,&nbsp;arguing that it would send a firm message to other politicians who use their power to protect powerful criminal groups.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-grants-us-extradition-request-for-former-honduras-president-463216" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-grants-us-extradition-request-for-former-honduras-president-463216&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi1l8m-jvuGAxUNcWwGHeCiBG8QFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw15xvHFfotN1VDL6gcXj_t-&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-grants-us-extradition-request-for-former-honduras-president-463216" target="_blank">Judge grants US extradition request for former Honduras president</a>

Prosecutors said Hernandez used drug money to support his political rise and use his influence to help traffickers bring hundreds of thousands of kilogrammes of cocaine into the US.

Hernandez allegedly received millions of dollars in bribe money from drug traffickers in return for military support for the illegal enterprise throughout his time in office, according to the US.

During a two-week trial, prosecutors said Hernandez used the money he received from drug trafficking to bribe officials and manipulate voting results during Honduras’s 2013 and 2017 presidential elections.&nbsp;

Several convicted traffickers testified they bribed Hernandez.

Testifying in his own defence, Hernandez denied accepting bribes from drug cartels.

Meanwhile, his lawyers claimed that the convicted traffickers were seeking revenge for Hernandez’s anti-drug policies.

Notably, a jury convicted him in March of three counts, including conspiring to import cocaine into the US and to use weapons to flood the country with an almost unimaginable quantity of the drug.

Hernandez faced a mandatory minimum sentence of 40 years in prison.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/honduran-ex-president-to-remain-in-custody-as-us-seeks-extradition-454131" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/honduran-ex-president-to-remain-in-custody-as-us-seeks-extradition-454131&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi1l8m-jvuGAxUNcWwGHeCiBG8QFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Qa9LdyLP1Q9QRpn2Drz63&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/honduran-ex-president-to-remain-in-custody-as-us-seeks-extradition-454131" target="_blank">Honduran ex-president to remain in custody as US seeks extradition</a>

A few weeks after completing his second term, he was arrested in 2022. His brother, Juan Antonio “Tony” Hernandez, also a former Honduran politician, was sentenced in the US to life in prison in 2021&nbsp;on drug trafficking charges.

(With inputs from agencies)

Juan Orlando Hernandez, the former president of Honduras, has been sentenced to 45 years in prison for his conviction on drugs and weapons charges. US District Judge P.

Juan Orlando Hernandez, the former president of Honduras, has been sentenced to 45 years in prison for his conviction on drugs and weapons charges. US District Judge P. Kevin Castel in a Manhattan federal court on Wednesday (June 26), sentenced 55-year-old Hernandez. Prosecutors had sought a life sentence, emphasising the seriousness of Hernandez's actions and aiming to deter similar crimes in the future, arguing that it would send a firm message to other politicians who use their power to protect powerful criminal groups. Also read: Judge grants US extradition request for former Honduras president Prosecutors said Hernandez used drug money to support his political rise and use his influence to help traffickers bring hundreds of thousands of kilogrammes of cocaine into the US. Hernandez allegedly received millions of dollars in bribe money from drug traffickers in return for military support for the illegal enterprise throughout his time in office, according to the US. During a two-week trial, prosecutors said Hernandez used the money he received from drug trafficking to bribe officials and manipulate voting results during Honduras’s 2013 and 2017 presidential elections. Several convicted traffickers testified they bribed Hernandez. Testifying in his own defence, Hernandez denied accepting bribes from drug cartels. Meanwhile, his lawyers claimed that the convicted traffickers were seeking revenge for Hernandez’s anti-drug policies. Notably, a jury convicted him in March of three counts, including conspiring to import cocaine into the US and to use weapons to flood the country with an almost unimaginable quantity of the drug. Hernandez faced a mandatory minimum sentence of 40 years in prison. Also read: Honduran ex-president to remain in custody as US seeks extradition A few weeks after completing his second term, he was arrested in 2022. His brother, Juan Antonio “Tony” Hernandez, also a former Honduran politician, was sentenced in the US to life in prison in 2021 on drug trafficking charges. (With inputs from agencies)

US jails ex-Honduran president for 45 years in drug trafficking case

In a collaborative effort between Canadian and American law enforcement, five people, including three Indo-Canadians, are set to be extradited to the United States following the busting of an alleged narcotics trafficking network. The joint operation, named Dead Hand, involved the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's (RCMP) Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU).

The RCMP announced the arrest of Ivan Gravel Gonzalez, Roberto Scoppa, Ayush Sharma, Guramrit Sidhu, and Subham Kumar, all allegedly connected to a drug trafficking network operating between Mexico, the United States, and Canada. They were apprehended under an international arrest warrant and are slated for extradition to face trial in the United States.

Also watch |&nbsp;Indian-origin couple in the UK exports cocaine worth of $70 million

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<h2>Criminal organisation smuggling drugs across borders</h2>

According to the FBI, the accused individuals were allegedly part of a criminal organisation involved in smuggling drugs, including cocaine, from the United States into Canada by land.

US Attorney Martin Estrade, speaking at a press conference in Los Angeles, revealed that the conspiracy spanned three countries. The operation involved drug suppliers linked to Mexican cartels, distributors in Los Angeles, Canadian truck drivers, and an associate of the Italian mafia in Montreal.

Guramrit Sidhu was accused of purchasing methamphetamine from suppliers in Mexico and Los Angeles, utilising a network of long-haul truck drivers to transport narcotics into Canada. Ayush Sharma and Subham Kumar were identified as the truck drivers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-origin-breaking-bad-couple-jailed-in-uk-for-33-years-over-drug-smuggling-685537">Also read |&nbsp;Indian-origin ‘Breaking Bad’ couple jailed in UK for 33 years over drug smuggling</a>

The American indictment outlined that the network trafficked substantial quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin, valued between $16 million and $28 million. Law enforcement in Canada seized 940,000 Canadian dollars in cash, 70kg of cocaine, and 4kg of heroin.

Roberto Scoppa was alleged to be connected to the Italian mafia, adding a layer of complexity to the transnational criminal organisation.

<h2>Statement by RCMP</h2>

Chief Superintendent Mathieu Bertrand, Director General of Serious and Organised Crime &amp; Border Integrity at RCMP Federal Policing, emphasised the RCMP's commitment to disrupting the flow of illegal drugs and collaboration with international partners to combat transnational organised crime, ensuring the safety of communities on both sides of the border.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a collaborative effort between Canadian and American law enforcement, five people, including three Indo-Canadians, are set to be extradited to the United States following the busting of an alleged narcotics trafficking network.

In a collaborative effort between Canadian and American law enforcement, five people, including three Indo-Canadians, are set to be extradited to the United States following the busting of an alleged narcotics trafficking network. The joint operation, named Dead Hand, involved the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's (RCMP) Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU). The RCMP announced the arrest of Ivan Gravel Gonzalez, Roberto Scoppa, Ayush Sharma, Guramrit Sidhu, and Subham Kumar, all allegedly connected to a drug trafficking network operating between Mexico, the United States, and Canada. They were apprehended under an international arrest warrant and are slated for extradition to face trial in the United States. Also watch | Indian-origin couple in the UK exports cocaine worth of $70 million Criminal organisation smuggling drugs across borders According to the FBI, the accused individuals were allegedly part of a criminal organisation involved in smuggling drugs, including cocaine, from the United States into Canada by land. US Attorney Martin Estrade, speaking at a press conference in Los Angeles, revealed that the conspiracy spanned three countries. The operation involved drug suppliers linked to Mexican cartels, distributors in Los Angeles, Canadian truck drivers, and an associate of the Italian mafia in Montreal. Guramrit Sidhu was accused of purchasing methamphetamine from suppliers in Mexico and Los Angeles, utilising a network of long-haul truck drivers to transport narcotics into Canada. Ayush Sharma and Subham Kumar were identified as the truck drivers. Also read | Indian-origin ‘Breaking Bad’ couple jailed in UK for 33 years over drug smuggling The American indictment outlined that the network trafficked substantial quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin, valued between $16 million and $28 million. Law enforcement in Canada seized 940,000 Canadian dollars in cash, 70kg of cocaine, and 4kg of heroin. Roberto Scoppa was alleged to be connected to the Italian mafia, adding a layer of complexity to the transnational criminal organisation. Statement by RCMP Chief Superintendent Mathieu Bertrand, Director General of Serious and Organised Crime & Border Integrity at RCMP Federal Policing, emphasised the RCMP's commitment to disrupting the flow of illegal drugs and collaboration with international partners to combat transnational organised crime, ensuring the safety of communities on both sides of the border. (With inputs from agencies)

Extradition ordered: Three Indo-Canadians among five to face trial in US for drug trafficking

The Philippines said on Saturday (Dec 2) that China executed two Filipinos for drug trafficking despite Manila's appeals to commute their death sentences to life in prison. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the Philippines' department of foreign affairs said that it did not announce the Nov 24 executions until the government was formally notified by China.

The department said that it provided all possible help to both Filipinos, including funding for their legal defence from the time they were arrested in 2013 until their 2016 convictions by a lower Chinese court. The department also did not identify them, citing the wishes of their families for privacy.&nbsp;

“The government of the Republic of the Philippines further exhausted all measures available to appeal to the relevant authorities of the People’s Republic of China to commute their sentences to life imprisonment on humanitarian grounds,” the department said on Saturday.

“The Chinese government, citing their internal laws, upheld the conviction and the Philippines must respect China’s criminal laws and legal processes,” it added.

The foreign affairs department also said that while the government would continue to exhaust all possible avenues to assist Filipinos overseas, “ultimately it is the laws and sovereign decisions of foreign countries, and not the Philippines, which will prevail in these cases.”

These executions renewed a reminder for Filipinos travelling abroad to be vigilant against drug syndicates, which recruit travellers to serve as “drug mules” or couriers and to refuse to carry any uninspected package from other people.

The department said that while it was saddened by the executions, their deaths strengthened the government’s resolve to continue relentless efforts to rid the country of drug syndicates that prey on the vulnerable.

Meanwhile, two other penalty cases involving Filipinos were on appeal and under final review in China, as per the department.&nbsp;

One other Filipino, Mary Jabe Veloso, was facing execution in Indonesia after being convicted of drug trafficking. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appealed for a commutation of her death sentence or a pardon but it remained to be seen whether it would be granted.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippines said on Saturday (Dec 2) that China executed two Filipinos for drug trafficking despite Manila's appeals to commute their death sentences to life in prison.

The Philippines said on Saturday (Dec 2) that China executed two Filipinos for drug trafficking despite Manila's appeals to commute their death sentences to life in prison. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the Philippines' department of foreign affairs said that it did not announce the Nov 24 executions until the government was formally notified by China. The department said that it provided all possible help to both Filipinos, including funding for their legal defence from the time they were arrested in 2013 until their 2016 convictions by a lower Chinese court. The department also did not identify them, citing the wishes of their families for privacy. “The government of the Republic of the Philippines further exhausted all measures available to appeal to the relevant authorities of the People’s Republic of China to commute their sentences to life imprisonment on humanitarian grounds,” the department said on Saturday. “The Chinese government, citing their internal laws, upheld the conviction and the Philippines must respect China’s criminal laws and legal processes,” it added. The foreign affairs department also said that while the government would continue to exhaust all possible avenues to assist Filipinos overseas, “ultimately it is the laws and sovereign decisions of foreign countries, and not the Philippines, which will prevail in these cases.” These executions renewed a reminder for Filipinos travelling abroad to be vigilant against drug syndicates, which recruit travellers to serve as “drug mules” or couriers and to refuse to carry any uninspected package from other people. The department said that while it was saddened by the executions, their deaths strengthened the government’s resolve to continue relentless efforts to rid the country of drug syndicates that prey on the vulnerable. Meanwhile, two other penalty cases involving Filipinos were on appeal and under final review in China, as per the department. One other Filipino, Mary Jabe Veloso, was facing execution in Indonesia after being convicted of drug trafficking. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appealed for a commutation of her death sentence or a pardon but it remained to be seen whether it would be granted. (With inputs from agencies)

China executes two Filipinos convicted of drug trafficking: Manila

As part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and connectivity with the vital region, India has volunteered to help Central Asian governments combat terrorism, drug trafficking, and strengthen their defenses against cyberattacks.

India offers to help Central Asia fight terror and drug trafficking

China has executed a&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean&nbsp;national for drug trafficking, Beijing's foreign ministry said, the first time&nbsp;such a sentence has been carried out on a citizen of that country in almost a decade.

A court in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou "lawfully pronounced a verdict and executed the&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean&nbsp;defendant... for drug trafficking" on Friday, the foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

"When defendants of different nationalities commit crimes on Chinese territory, Chinese law shall be applied equally", it added.

An official from Seoul's foreign ministry told reporters Friday that "the death penalty was carried out today for a&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean&nbsp;citizen who was sentenced to death for selling drugs in China".

Beijing said the individual, who Chinese officials named as Jiang -- which would be rendered Kang in&nbsp;Korean&nbsp;-- had had their "legitimate rights and interests" protected.

South&nbsp;Korea expressed "regret that the death penalty has been carried out against our citizen".

"The government has made multiple requests for reconsideration or postponement of the execution on humanitarian grounds through various channels since the death sentence was announced," the official said.

It is the first execution of a&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean&nbsp;drug offender by China in nine years,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's Yonhap news agency reported.

The individual was arrested in China in 2014 in possession of five kilograms of methamphetamine, according to Yonhap.

He was sentenced to death in 2019, the agency said.

China, the world's top executioner, frequently carries out the death penalty by lethal injection for very serious crimes.

The Chinese legal system is tightly controlled by the ruling Communist Party and courts have a near-100 percent conviction rate in criminal cases.

Like many countries in the region, China has strict drug laws, and several foreign nationals have been handed death penalties for trafficking in recent years.

In 2020, an Australian was sentenced to death in China for drug trafficking.&nbsp;

According to Chinese media, he was arrested at Guangzhou airport in December 2013 with more than 7.5 kilograms of methamphetamine in his luggage.

And in 2019, China sentenced two Canadian nationals accused of drug trafficking to death at a time when relations with Ottawa were nosediving.

Seoul said Friday's execution was "unrelated to the relationship between China and&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea".

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China has executed a South Korean national for drug trafficking, Beijing's foreign ministry said, the first time such a sentence has been carried out on a citizen of that country in almost a decade.

China has executed a South Korean national for drug trafficking, Beijing's foreign ministry said, the first time such a sentence has been carried out on a citizen of that country in almost a decade. A court in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou "lawfully pronounced a verdict and executed the South Korean defendant... for drug trafficking" on Friday, the foreign ministry said in a statement. "When defendants of different nationalities commit crimes on Chinese territory, Chinese law shall be applied equally", it added. An official from Seoul's foreign ministry told reporters Friday that "the death penalty was carried out today for a South Korean citizen who was sentenced to death for selling drugs in China". Beijing said the individual, who Chinese officials named as Jiang -- which would be rendered Kang in Korean -- had had their "legitimate rights and interests" protected. South Korea expressed "regret that the death penalty has been carried out against our citizen". "The government has made multiple requests for reconsideration or postponement of the execution on humanitarian grounds through various channels since the death sentence was announced," the official said. It is the first execution of a South Korean drug offender by China in nine years, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported. The individual was arrested in China in 2014 in possession of five kilograms of methamphetamine, according to Yonhap. He was sentenced to death in 2019, the agency said. China, the world's top executioner, frequently carries out the death penalty by lethal injection for very serious crimes. The Chinese legal system is tightly controlled by the ruling Communist Party and courts have a near-100 percent conviction rate in criminal cases. Like many countries in the region, China has strict drug laws, and several foreign nationals have been handed death penalties for trafficking in recent years. In 2020, an Australian was sentenced to death in China for drug trafficking. According to Chinese media, he was arrested at Guangzhou airport in December 2013 with more than 7.5 kilograms of methamphetamine in his luggage. And in 2019, China sentenced two Canadian nationals accused of drug trafficking to death at a time when relations with Ottawa were nosediving. Seoul said Friday's execution was "unrelated to the relationship between China and South Korea". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China executes South Korean for drug trafficking

Singapore has carried out its third hanging in just over a week, executing a 39-year-old man who had been charged with trafficking&nbsp;heroin. This comes just days after the first execution in nearly 20 years of a woman convict.

The execution has ignited debates over the country's strict anti-drug laws and its stance on capital punishment.

Mohamed Shalleh Adul Latiff, had been sentenced to death for possessing approximately 55g of heroin with the intent to traffick it in 2019, reported the Guardian.

The execution, which took place on a Thursday (August 3), was confirmed by the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) through an official statement.

<h2>Background and trial</h2>

Before his arrest in 2016, Mohamed Shalleh worked as a delivery driver. During his trial, he claimed that he believed he was transporting contraband cigarettes to repay a debt to a friend.

Despite his defence, he was sentenced to death, becoming the 16th person to be executed since Singapore resumed executions in March 2022 following a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also watch |&nbsp;Indian woman jumps from cruise ship, dies in Singapore strait

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<h2>Recent executions</h2>

This particular execution follows a grim pattern, being the fifth hanging of the year. It comes shortly after the execution of Saridewi Binte Djamani, a 45-year-old Singaporean woman who was put to death for trafficking around 30g of heroin. Her execution, which occurred less than a week prior, marked the first time Singapore had executed a woman in nearly two decades. Just two days before Saridewi's execution, a 57-year-old man named Mohd Aziz bin Hussain was hanged for trafficking approximately 50g of heroin.

Also read | I<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-woman-jumps-from-cruise-ship-dies-in-singapore-strait-621606">SRO successfully launches seven Singaporean satellites onboard PSLV workhorse</a>

<h2>International response and Singapore's stance</h2>

The United Nations has strongly criticised these recent executions, urging Singapore to impose a moratorium on the death penalty.

However, Singapore remains steadfast in its position, asserting that capital punishment serves as a powerful deterrent against drug trafficking.

Despite mounting international pressure, the country continues to uphold some of the world's strictest anti-drug laws. For instance, the possession of over 500 grams of cannabis or more than 15g of heroin can lead to a sentence of death.

The recent spate of executions in Singapore, particularly for drug-related offences, has reignited the global discourse on the death penalty and its efficacy in deterring crime.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Singapore has carried out its third hanging in just over a week, executing a 39-year-old man who had been charged with trafficking heroin. This comes just days after the first execution in nearly 20 years of a woman convict.

Singapore has carried out its third hanging in just over a week, executing a 39-year-old man who had been charged with trafficking heroin. This comes just days after the first execution in nearly 20 years of a woman convict. The execution has ignited debates over the country's strict anti-drug laws and its stance on capital punishment. Mohamed Shalleh Adul Latiff, had been sentenced to death for possessing approximately 55g of heroin with the intent to traffick it in 2019, reported the Guardian. The execution, which took place on a Thursday (August 3), was confirmed by the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) through an official statement. Background and trial Before his arrest in 2016, Mohamed Shalleh worked as a delivery driver. During his trial, he claimed that he believed he was transporting contraband cigarettes to repay a debt to a friend. Despite his defence, he was sentenced to death, becoming the 16th person to be executed since Singapore resumed executions in March 2022 following a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Also watch | Indian woman jumps from cruise ship, dies in Singapore strait Recent executions This particular execution follows a grim pattern, being the fifth hanging of the year. It comes shortly after the execution of Saridewi Binte Djamani, a 45-year-old Singaporean woman who was put to death for trafficking around 30g of heroin. Her execution, which occurred less than a week prior, marked the first time Singapore had executed a woman in nearly two decades. Just two days before Saridewi's execution, a 57-year-old man named Mohd Aziz bin Hussain was hanged for trafficking approximately 50g of heroin. Also read | ISRO successfully launches seven Singaporean satellites onboard PSLV workhorse International response and Singapore's stance The United Nations has strongly criticised these recent executions, urging Singapore to impose a moratorium on the death penalty. However, Singapore remains steadfast in its position, asserting that capital punishment serves as a powerful deterrent against drug trafficking. Despite mounting international pressure, the country continues to uphold some of the world's strictest anti-drug laws. For instance, the possession of over 500 grams of cannabis or more than 15g of heroin can lead to a sentence of death. The recent spate of executions in Singapore, particularly for drug-related offences, has reignited the global discourse on the death penalty and its efficacy in deterring crime. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Third drug trafficking convict executed in Singapore in less than a week

Singapore on Friday (July 28) executed a 45-year-old citizen for drug trafficking, in the first execution of a woman in the city-state in nearly 20 years.

"The capital sentence of death imposed on Saridewi Binte Djamani was carried out on 28 July 2023," said the Central Narcotics Bureau.

The woman was convicted of trafficking "not less than 30.72 grams" of heroin, which is more than twice the volume that paves the way for the death penalty in Singapore.

Djamani, who was sentenced by the court in 2018, "was accorded full due process under the law, and was represented by legal counsel throughout the process," said the bureau in a statement.

"She appealed against her conviction and sentence, and the Court of Appeal dismissed her appeal on 6 October 2022," the bureau stated, adding that the court also rejected her plea for presidential clemency.&nbsp;

Djamani was the first woman who has faced execution in the city-state since 2004, said the bureau.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-first-time-in-20-years-singapore-to-hang-woman-convicted-of-drug-trafficking-619261">For first time in 20 years, Singapore to hang woman convicted of drug trafficking</a>

She is the 15th prisoner who has been hanged since executions were resumed by the government in March 2022 after putting a two-year pause to it during the Covid pandemic.

Earlier, a 57-year-old local man, Mohd Aziz bin Hussain, was hanged after getting convicted for trafficking about 50 grams of heroin.&nbsp;

Some of the world's toughest anti-drug laws have been in place in Singapore where a person caught trafficking more than 500 grams of cannabis or over 15 grams of heroin can face the death penalty.&nbsp;

“Capital punishment is used only for the most serious crimes, such as the trafficking of significant quantities of drugs which cause very serious harm, not just to individual drug abusers, but also to their families and the wider society,” the CNB stated.&nbsp;

<h2>Hanging triggers outrage among rights groups</h2>

The hanging of Djamani has triggered renewed outrage among rights groups. “The government of Singapore violates human belief in redemption and the capacity for rehabilitation by insisting instead on taking a drastic and irreversible action,” stated Celia Ouellette, founder of the non-profit group Responsible Business Initiative for Justice.

“Singapore risks not only its international reputation but its financial future as well. It’s time for it to abolish capital punishment once and for all," she added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Singapore PM Lee Hsien Loong's brother hit with fake news notice | World Newspoint

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Secretary General of France-based NGO International Federation for Human Rights Adilur Rahman Khan called Djamani’s execution a “grim milestone” and appealed to the Singaporean government to stop executions.

Amnesty International’s death penalty expert Chiara Sangiorgio said that the woman's execution “defied international safeguards on the use of the death penalty.”

“There is no evidence that the death penalty has a unique deterrent effect or that it has any impact on the use and availability of drugs. As countries around the world do away with the death penalty and embrace drug policy reform, Singapore’s authorities are doing neither,” she added in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Singapore on Friday (July 28) executed a 45-year-old citizen for drug trafficking, in the first execution of a woman in the city-state in nearly 20 years. "The capital sentence of death imposed on Saridewi Binte Djamani was carried out on 28 July 2023," said the Central Narcotics Bureau.

Singapore on Friday (July 28) executed a 45-year-old citizen for drug trafficking, in the first execution of a woman in the city-state in nearly 20 years. "The capital sentence of death imposed on Saridewi Binte Djamani was carried out on 28 July 2023," said the Central Narcotics Bureau. The woman was convicted of trafficking "not less than 30.72 grams" of heroin, which is more than twice the volume that paves the way for the death penalty in Singapore. Djamani, who was sentenced by the court in 2018, "was accorded full due process under the law, and was represented by legal counsel throughout the process," said the bureau in a statement. "She appealed against her conviction and sentence, and the Court of Appeal dismissed her appeal on 6 October 2022," the bureau stated, adding that the court also rejected her plea for presidential clemency. Djamani was the first woman who has faced execution in the city-state since 2004, said the bureau. ALSO READ | For first time in 20 years, Singapore to hang woman convicted of drug trafficking She is the 15th prisoner who has been hanged since executions were resumed by the government in March 2022 after putting a two-year pause to it during the Covid pandemic. Earlier, a 57-year-old local man, Mohd Aziz bin Hussain, was hanged after getting convicted for trafficking about 50 grams of heroin. Some of the world's toughest anti-drug laws have been in place in Singapore where a person caught trafficking more than 500 grams of cannabis or over 15 grams of heroin can face the death penalty. “Capital punishment is used only for the most serious crimes, such as the trafficking of significant quantities of drugs which cause very serious harm, not just to individual drug abusers, but also to their families and the wider society,” the CNB stated. Hanging triggers outrage among rights groups The hanging of Djamani has triggered renewed outrage among rights groups. “The government of Singapore violates human belief in redemption and the capacity for rehabilitation by insisting instead on taking a drastic and irreversible action,” stated Celia Ouellette, founder of the non-profit group Responsible Business Initiative for Justice. “Singapore risks not only its international reputation but its financial future as well. It’s time for it to abolish capital punishment once and for all," she added. WATCH | Singapore PM Lee Hsien Loong's brother hit with fake news notice | World Newspoint Secretary General of France-based NGO International Federation for Human Rights Adilur Rahman Khan called Djamani’s execution a “grim milestone” and appealed to the Singaporean government to stop executions. Amnesty International’s death penalty expert Chiara Sangiorgio said that the woman's execution “defied international safeguards on the use of the death penalty.” “There is no evidence that the death penalty has a unique deterrent effect or that it has any impact on the use and availability of drugs. As countries around the world do away with the death penalty and embrace drug policy reform, Singapore’s authorities are doing neither,” she added in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Singapore hangs woman for drug trafficking in first execution of nearly 20 years

Venezuela's former intelligence chief General Hugo Armando Carvajal was on Wednesday (July 19) extradited from Spain to the United States on drug trafficking charges.

Venezuela's former intelligence chief General Hugo Armando Carvajal was on Wednesday (July 19) extradited from Spain to the United States on drug trafficking charges. Speaking to the news agency AFP, General Carvajal's lawyer Maria Dolores de Arguelles confirmed that the former intelligence chief left Spain bound for the US. He is expected to make a court appearance on Thursday. Carvajal, 63, had served as the intelligence chief under former Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez. Carvajal has been long sought by US Treasury officials who suspect him of providing support to drug trafficking by the FARC guerrilla group in Colombia. The allegations The report said prosecutors in New York alleged that he used his office to coordinate the smuggling of approximately 5,600kg of cocaine from Venezuela to Mexico in 2006 that was destined for the US. The extradition comes after the European Court of Human Rights last week rejected Carvajal's appeal, the AFP report on Wednesday said. The court argued it was not proven that the former intelligence chief aces a real risk of being sentenced to life imprisonment without chance of parole in the US. This prompted Spain's National Court, which has been charged with extradition, to order Interpol to immediately deliver Carvajal to American authorities. Nicknamed 'El Pollo', Carvajal was stripped of his rank by President Nicolas Maduro's government after coming out in support of opposition leader Juan Guaido as the acting president in February 2019. He then left Venezuela and was arrested in Spain two months later, but a court ordered his release arguing the US extradition request was politically motivated. This decision was later reversed and Carvajal then went on the run. The 63-year-old was again arrested in Madrid in 2021. The police said he remained in Spain the whole time, changing residences frequently and getting plastic surgery done to avoid being caught. He has repeatedly denied links to drug traffickers or the FARC. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ex-Venezuelan intel chief extradited from Spain, to face drug charges in US

Singapore on Wednesday hanged a man for trafficking drugs, said the authorities, marking its second execution in three weeks.&nbsp;

The alleged accused was convicted in 2019 of trafficking around 1.5 kilos (3.3 pounds) of cannabis, Kokila Annamalai of local rights group Transformative Justice Collective told news agency AFP.

Singapore has one of the toughest anti-narcotics laws and as per the law, trafficking more than 500 grams of cannabis can result in the death penalty.

"A 36-year-old Singaporean man had his capital sentence carried out today at Changi Prison Complex," a spokesman for the city-state's prison service told AFP.

Singapore's Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) released a statement saying that it would not reveal the name of the man in order to respect his family's wish for privacy.

"The person was accorded full due process under the law, and had access to legal counsel throughout the process," CNB added.

"A last-ditch appeal to review the case and stay his execution was dismissed on Tuesday", Annamalai said.

Despite growing calls for the city-state to abolish the death penalty and halt drug-related executions, Singapore presses that it is an effective impediment against trafficking.

<h2>Singapore executes Indian-origin man for conspiring to traffic cannabis</h2>

Earlier, on April 26,&nbsp;Singapore executed an Indian-origin man, who was convicted of conspiring to traffic one kilogramme of cannabis. The decision to hang him was taken despite pleas for clemency from his family, activists and also the United Nations.&nbsp;

A spokesman for the Singapore Prison Service told the news agency AFP that the "Singaporean Tangaraju Suppiah, 46, had his capital sentence carried out today at Changi Prison Complex."&nbsp;

Reuters reported that Kokila Annamalai, who is a Singapore-based rights activist representing the family, confirmed that Suppiah had been executed by hanging. It also mentioned that the president had rejected pleas for clemency on the eve of the execution.&nbsp;

The United Nations Human Rights Office for Singapore had urged the authorities to "urgently reconsider" the decision of hanging, and British tycoon Richard Branson also asked to halt it.

Branson, who is a member of the Geneva-based Global Commission on Drug Policy, wrote a blog earlier this week about Tangaraju. He mentioned that the Singaporean man was "not anywhere near" the drugs at the time of his arrest and that Singapore may be about to put an innocent man to death.&nbsp;

He was convicted in 2017 of "abetting by engaging in a conspiracy to traffic" 1,017.9 grammes of cannabis. The quantity was twice the minimum volume required for a death sentence in Singapore. In 2018, Tangaraju was sentenced to death and the Court of Appeal upheld the decision.&nbsp;

<h2>Activists to push for Singapore to abolish death penalty</h2>

Activists said they will keep making efforts to push for Singapore to abrogate capital punishment as it has not proven any deterrent effect on crime.

"The call to the Singapore government (to scrap the death penalty) has been loud and clear globally, and we will repeat the call: Singapore has to halt the executions," Amnesty International's executive director for Malaysia Katrina Jorene Maliamauv told reporters in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday.

"They have to commute all existing death sentences."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Singapore on Wednesday hanged a man for trafficking drugs, said the authorities, marking its second execution in three weeks. The alleged accused was convicted in 2019 of trafficking around 1.

Singapore on Wednesday hanged a man for trafficking drugs, said the authorities, marking its second execution in three weeks. The alleged accused was convicted in 2019 of trafficking around 1.5 kilos (3.3 pounds) of cannabis, Kokila Annamalai of local rights group Transformative Justice Collective told news agency AFP. Singapore has one of the toughest anti-narcotics laws and as per the law, trafficking more than 500 grams of cannabis can result in the death penalty. "A 36-year-old Singaporean man had his capital sentence carried out today at Changi Prison Complex," a spokesman for the city-state's prison service told AFP. Singapore's Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) released a statement saying that it would not reveal the name of the man in order to respect his family's wish for privacy. "The person was accorded full due process under the law, and had access to legal counsel throughout the process," CNB added. "A last-ditch appeal to review the case and stay his execution was dismissed on Tuesday", Annamalai said. Despite growing calls for the city-state to abolish the death penalty and halt drug-related executions, Singapore presses that it is an effective impediment against trafficking. Singapore executes Indian-origin man for conspiring to traffic cannabis Earlier, on April 26, Singapore executed an Indian-origin man, who was convicted of conspiring to traffic one kilogramme of cannabis. The decision to hang him was taken despite pleas for clemency from his family, activists and also the United Nations. A spokesman for the Singapore Prison Service told the news agency AFP that the "Singaporean Tangaraju Suppiah, 46, had his capital sentence carried out today at Changi Prison Complex." Reuters reported that Kokila Annamalai, who is a Singapore-based rights activist representing the family, confirmed that Suppiah had been executed by hanging. It also mentioned that the president had rejected pleas for clemency on the eve of the execution. The United Nations Human Rights Office for Singapore had urged the authorities to "urgently reconsider" the decision of hanging, and British tycoon Richard Branson also asked to halt it. Branson, who is a member of the Geneva-based Global Commission on Drug Policy, wrote a blog earlier this week about Tangaraju. He mentioned that the Singaporean man was "not anywhere near" the drugs at the time of his arrest and that Singapore may be about to put an innocent man to death. He was convicted in 2017 of "abetting by engaging in a conspiracy to traffic" 1,017.9 grammes of cannabis. The quantity was twice the minimum volume required for a death sentence in Singapore. In 2018, Tangaraju was sentenced to death and the Court of Appeal upheld the decision. Activists to push for Singapore to abolish death penalty Activists said they will keep making efforts to push for Singapore to abrogate capital punishment as it has not proven any deterrent effect on crime. "The call to the Singapore government (to scrap the death penalty) has been loud and clear globally, and we will repeat the call: Singapore has to halt the executions," Amnesty International's executive director for Malaysia Katrina Jorene Maliamauv told reporters in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday. "They have to commute all existing death sentences." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Singapore executes second citizen in three weeks for trafficking drugs

International police have arrested 288 suspects as part of an international law enforcement operation, the announcement of which was made on Tuesday (May 2). The multi-continental crackdown,&nbsp;coordinated by Europol and involving nine countries, was carried out under&nbsp; Operation SpecTor, which also led to the seizure of $54.8 million in cash and virtual currency.&nbsp;

The operation was conducted by multiple law enforcement agencies across the United States, Europe, and South America. The Hague-based Europol in a statement said they have “seized the illegal dark web marketplace ‘Monopoly Market’,” adding that the arrests were made of people suspected of “buying or selling drugs on the dark web.” &nbsp;

It added that the officials also seized more than 800 kilogrammes of drugs which included, over 258 kilogrammes of amphetamines, 43 kilogrammes of cocaine, 43 kilogrammes of MDMA and over 10 kilogrammes of LSD and ecstasy pills.

Out of the 288 arrests, 153 defendants were arrested in the US, said United States Attorney General Merrick Garland, while addressing a press conference on Tuesday. “Our message to criminals on the dark web is this: You can try to hide in the furthest reaches of the internet, but the Justice Department will find you and hold you accountable for your crimes,” said Garland.&nbsp;

The US Justice Department had also indicated that several suspects have already been convicted or were being prosecuted following Operation SpecTor and described it as the “largest international operation against dark net trafficking of fentanyl and opioids”.

“A number of these suspects were considered high-value targets,” said Europol. The US marked the highest number of arrests made out of the nine countries involved&nbsp;and was followed by the United Kingdom which took 55 people into custody. The other arrests were made in Germany (52), the Netherlands (10), Austria (9), France (5), Switzerland (2), Poland (1) and Brazil (1).

“A number of investigations to identify additional individuals behind dark web accounts are still ongoing,” the European policing agency stated. Operation SpecTor was also deemed more successful when compared to the 2021 operation codenamed ‘DarkHunTor’ where 150 people were arrested, which was followed by ‘DisrupTor’ (2020) with 179 arrests.&nbsp;

Speaking about the operation, Europol’s Executive Director, Catherine De Bolle, said, “Our coalition of law enforcement authorities across three continents proves that we all do better when we work together.”&nbsp; 
 
She added, “This operation sends a strong message to criminals on the dark web: international law enforcement has the means and the ability to identify and hold you accountable for your illegal activities, even on the dark web.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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International police have arrested 288 suspects as part of an international law enforcement operation, the announcement of which was made on Tuesday (May 2). The multi-continental crackdown, coordinated by Europol and involving nine countries, was carried out under Operation SpecTor, which also led to the seizure of $54.

International police have arrested 288 suspects as part of an international law enforcement operation, the announcement of which was made on Tuesday (May 2). The multi-continental crackdown, coordinated by Europol and involving nine countries, was carried out under Operation SpecTor, which also led to the seizure of $54.8 million in cash and virtual currency. The operation was conducted by multiple law enforcement agencies across the United States, Europe, and South America. The Hague-based Europol in a statement said they have “seized the illegal dark web marketplace ‘Monopoly Market’,” adding that the arrests were made of people suspected of “buying or selling drugs on the dark web.” It added that the officials also seized more than 800 kilogrammes of drugs which included, over 258 kilogrammes of amphetamines, 43 kilogrammes of cocaine, 43 kilogrammes of MDMA and over 10 kilogrammes of LSD and ecstasy pills. Out of the 288 arrests, 153 defendants were arrested in the US, said United States Attorney General Merrick Garland, while addressing a press conference on Tuesday. “Our message to criminals on the dark web is this: You can try to hide in the furthest reaches of the internet, but the Justice Department will find you and hold you accountable for your crimes,” said Garland. The US Justice Department had also indicated that several suspects have already been convicted or were being prosecuted following Operation SpecTor and described it as the “largest international operation against dark net trafficking of fentanyl and opioids”. “A number of these suspects were considered high-value targets,” said Europol. The US marked the highest number of arrests made out of the nine countries involved and was followed by the United Kingdom which took 55 people into custody. The other arrests were made in Germany (52), the Netherlands (10), Austria (9), France (5), Switzerland (2), Poland (1) and Brazil (1). “A number of investigations to identify additional individuals behind dark web accounts are still ongoing,” the European policing agency stated. Operation SpecTor was also deemed more successful when compared to the 2021 operation codenamed ‘DarkHunTor’ where 150 people were arrested, which was followed by ‘DisrupTor’ (2020) with 179 arrests. Speaking about the operation, Europol’s Executive Director, Catherine De Bolle, said, “Our coalition of law enforcement authorities across three continents proves that we all do better when we work together.” She added, “This operation sends a strong message to criminals on the dark web: international law enforcement has the means and the ability to identify and hold you accountable for your illegal activities, even on the dark web.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US-Europe announce 288 arrests, seizures in crackdown on dark web drug trafficking