Airports are one of the biggest transit points for smuggling all kinds of contraband including drugs. Almost all the airports in the world are vulnerable to smuggling, but some are more favoured by smugglers like Cayenne airport in French Guiana, the departure point of cocaine to Europe.

Cayenne airport, the departure point of Cocaine to Europe

Europe has become a spectator to a tsunami of cocaine. Getting drugs in the big cities has become as easy as ordering a pizza. People are using messaging applications like WhatsApp and Signal to place an order for required drugs and within 20 minutes, a dealer shows up at the door with the parcel.

UK: Drug cartels bringing in more crimes to Europe

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<p>The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday approved an experimental medicine named lecanemab for Alzheimer's treatment.&nbsp;FDA Director Dr Billy Dunn in a statement said the medicine targets the underlying disease process of Alzheimer's instead of treating the symptoms only.&nbsp;“Alzheimer’s disease immeasurably incapacitates the lives of those who suffer from it and has devastating effects on their loved ones. This treatment option is the latest therapy to target and affect the underlying disease process of Alzheimer’s, instead of only treating the symptoms of the disease.”</p>

<p>Japan-based Eisai and American company Biogen have jointly developed the medicine. They claim that lecanemab slows down cognitive and functional decline by almost 27 per cent over 18 months.</p>

<p>The medicine will be sold under the name Leqembi and its treatment is expected to cost $26,500 per year in the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The clinical trials of the medicine were published in November last year. Based on the results, some experts hailed it as the next big breakthrough to treat Alzheimer's patients.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-breakthrough-in-alzheimers-treatment-538902"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Breakthrough in Alzheimer's treatment</strong></a></p>

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<p>“Treatments that deliver tangible benefits to those living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to Alzheimer’s and early Alzheimer’s dementia are as valuable as treatments that extend the lives of those with other terminal diseases," said US-based Alzheimer’s Association whilst welcoming the test results.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the approval process for&nbsp;Leqembi was expedited after a US congressional report tore into the&nbsp;regulatory agency for approving another Alzheimer's medicine viz. Aduhelm, without proper due diligence.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/experimental-drug-slows-down-cognitive-decline-in-alzheimers-patients-heres-what-you-need-to-know-538818" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Experimental drug slows down cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients: Here’s what you need to know</strong></a></p>

<p>Despite test results showing that Aduhelm carried&nbsp;risks of brain swelling and bleeding when administered to patients, the FDA passed it for&nbsp;monoclonal antibody treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The FDA has the authority to fast-track the medicines it believes can help patients suffering from serious conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, over 6.5 million individuals in the US suffer from Alzheimer's disease. The disease destroys memory, and cognitive skills, often rendering the patient incapable of performing simple, day-to-day tasks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though there is no cure for the disease, doctors say that treatment therapies and medicines can slow down the effects.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday approved an experimental medicine named lecanemab for Alzheimer's treatment. FDA Director Dr Billy Dunn in a statement said the medicine targets the underlying disease process of Alzheimer's instead of treating the symptoms only.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday approved an experimental medicine named lecanemab for Alzheimer's treatment. FDA Director Dr Billy Dunn in a statement said the medicine targets the underlying disease process of Alzheimer's instead of treating the symptoms only. “Alzheimer’s disease immeasurably incapacitates the lives of those who suffer from it and has devastating effects on their loved ones. This treatment option is the latest therapy to target and affect the underlying disease process of Alzheimer’s, instead of only treating the symptoms of the disease.” Japan-based Eisai and American company Biogen have jointly developed the medicine. They claim that lecanemab slows down cognitive and functional decline by almost 27 per cent over 18 months. The medicine will be sold under the name Leqembi and its treatment is expected to cost $26,500 per year in the US. The clinical trials of the medicine were published in November last year. Based on the results, some experts hailed it as the next big breakthrough to treat Alzheimer's patients. WATCH | Gravitas: Breakthrough in Alzheimer's treatment × “Treatments that deliver tangible benefits to those living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to Alzheimer’s and early Alzheimer’s dementia are as valuable as treatments that extend the lives of those with other terminal diseases," said US-based Alzheimer’s Association whilst welcoming the test results. Notably, the approval process for Leqembi was expedited after a US congressional report tore into the regulatory agency for approving another Alzheimer's medicine viz. Aduhelm, without proper due diligence. Read more: Experimental drug slows down cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients: Here’s what you need to know Despite test results showing that Aduhelm carried risks of brain swelling and bleeding when administered to patients, the FDA passed it for monoclonal antibody treatment. The FDA has the authority to fast-track the medicines it believes can help patients suffering from serious conditions. Currently, over 6.5 million individuals in the US suffer from Alzheimer's disease. The disease destroys memory, and cognitive skills, often rendering the patient incapable of performing simple, day-to-day tasks. Though there is no cure for the disease, doctors say that treatment therapies and medicines can slow down the effects. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US FDA approves new ‘breakthrough’ medicine for Alzheimer’s. Here’s what it does

<p>A 28-year-old Irish man is accused of allegedly smuggling almost 120 grammes (4.2 ounces) of cocaine inside six&nbsp;chocolate capsules&nbsp;in Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the authorities, the man brought drugs inside sealed&nbsp;Kinder Surprise yellow egg capsules that were not edible, CNN reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/violence-grips-mexico-after-the-arrest-of-el-chapos-son-ovidio-guzman-lopez-549882"><strong>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;Violence grips Mexico after the arrest of El Chapo's son Ovidio Guzman Lopez</strong></a></p>

<p>The Australian Border Forces (ABF) and Australian Federal Police (AFP) in a joint press conference said that the man was stopped at the Melbourne International Airport when his luggage turned positive for the presence of cocaine. He was taken to a nearby hospital for a CT scan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He later excreted the capsules containing cocaine and is being charged for bringing a marketable amount of cocaine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Christmas themed police seize record amounts of cocaine ahead of the holiday season</strong></p>

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<p>In a press release, Chris Slamon, detective superintendent said, "Smuggling drugs internally is idiotic – there is the real risk that something could go wrong, resulting in a potentially fatal drug overdose or permanent damage to internal organs."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that such arrest clearly shows the extent to which people try to avoid getting detained at the border.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-diabetes-drug-that-helps-lose-weight-is-all-the-rage-on-social-media-since-musk-tweeted-about-it-528125"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;The diabetes drug that helps lose weight is all the rage on social media ever since Musk tweeted about it</strong></a></p>

<p>Last year, on Dec 30, the man appeared at the Melbourne Magistrates Court. He was remanded in custody to appear for a committal mention- a preliminary hearing before the committal hearing on March 27.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Usually in Australia, the maximum penalty for such offences is&nbsp;25 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A 28-year-old Irish man is accused of allegedly smuggling almost 120 grammes (4.2 ounces) of cocaine inside six chocolate capsules in Australia. According to the authorities, the man brought drugs inside sealed Kinder Surprise yellow egg capsules that were not edible, CNN reported.

A 28-year-old Irish man is accused of allegedly smuggling almost 120 grammes (4.2 ounces) of cocaine inside six chocolate capsules in Australia. According to the authorities, the man brought drugs inside sealed Kinder Surprise yellow egg capsules that were not edible, CNN reported. Also read | Violence grips Mexico after the arrest of El Chapo's son Ovidio Guzman Lopez The Australian Border Forces (ABF) and Australian Federal Police (AFP) in a joint press conference said that the man was stopped at the Melbourne International Airport when his luggage turned positive for the presence of cocaine. He was taken to a nearby hospital for a CT scan. He later excreted the capsules containing cocaine and is being charged for bringing a marketable amount of cocaine. Watch | Christmas themed police seize record amounts of cocaine ahead of the holiday season In a press release, Chris Slamon, detective superintendent said, "Smuggling drugs internally is idiotic – there is the real risk that something could go wrong, resulting in a potentially fatal drug overdose or permanent damage to internal organs." He added that such arrest clearly shows the extent to which people try to avoid getting detained at the border. Also read | The diabetes drug that helps lose weight is all the rage on social media ever since Musk tweeted about it Last year, on Dec 30, the man appeared at the Melbourne Magistrates Court. He was remanded in custody to appear for a committal mention- a preliminary hearing before the committal hearing on March 27. Usually in Australia, the maximum penalty for such offences is 25 years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Australia: 28-year-old Irish man accused of smuggling cocaine in chocolate capsules

<p>Jordan officials have found six million pills of Captagon, also known as the cocaine of the poor, inside two refrigerator lorries at the Iraq border. It was the most extensive drug haul the Jordanian Customs Department has ever intercepted.</p>

<p>Jordan officials seized the most recent batch of the amphetamine pills at the Al-Karamah border crossing between Iraq and Jordan, BBC reported.</p>

<p>Syria produces Captagon, the amphetamine pill, in large quantities. Currently, the decade-long war has turned into a narcotic state. When the conflict was at its peak, militant groups supplied the drug to fighters to boost their courage because it had large quantities of caffeine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-alarming-increase-in-drug-abuse-among-students-546527">Sri Lanka: Alarming increase in drug abuse among students</a></p>

<p>The trade is now far more worth than legal exports, due to which many poor Syrians work in the manufacture of such drugs. Although the Syrian government has denied such allegations, some reports link famous names in trade and the army to the manufacturing and allocation of Captagon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Drug dealers of Captagon smuggle the pills into neighbouring countries like Jordan and Lebanon. However, most sales are in the Gulf states due to the presence of a big market.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, little or no information is available about the number of arrests made after the haul or the number of pills meant for sale.</p>

<p><strong>Watch|&nbsp;China property slumps further in November</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>On December 15, the state security court of Jordan convicted a Syrian national to 20 years in prison for attempting to smuggle 2 million Captagon pills into the nation from Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report by the Cyprus-based think tank, Captagon has a market value of about $3.5 billion in the previous year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Due to the increase in raids, the altercations between the Jordanian military and drug traffickers are also growing. Due to the current scenarios, soldiers have opted for a shoot-to-kill policy. In January, the Jordanian army shot 27 traffickers attempting to cross the border illegally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jordan authorities have tensed up things at the border and elevated their efforts to fight the problem of drug trafficking in recent years.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Jordan officials have found six million pills of Captagon, also known as the cocaine of the poor, inside two refrigerator lorries at the Iraq border. It was the most extensive drug haul the Jordanian Customs Department has ever intercepted.

Jordan officials have found six million pills of Captagon, also known as the cocaine of the poor, inside two refrigerator lorries at the Iraq border. It was the most extensive drug haul the Jordanian Customs Department has ever intercepted. Jordan officials seized the most recent batch of the amphetamine pills at the Al-Karamah border crossing between Iraq and Jordan, BBC reported. Syria produces Captagon, the amphetamine pill, in large quantities. Currently, the decade-long war has turned into a narcotic state. When the conflict was at its peak, militant groups supplied the drug to fighters to boost their courage because it had large quantities of caffeine. Also read | Sri Lanka: Alarming increase in drug abuse among students The trade is now far more worth than legal exports, due to which many poor Syrians work in the manufacture of such drugs. Although the Syrian government has denied such allegations, some reports link famous names in trade and the army to the manufacturing and allocation of Captagon. Drug dealers of Captagon smuggle the pills into neighbouring countries like Jordan and Lebanon. However, most sales are in the Gulf states due to the presence of a big market. However, little or no information is available about the number of arrests made after the haul or the number of pills meant for sale. Watch| China property slumps further in November On December 15, the state security court of Jordan convicted a Syrian national to 20 years in prison for attempting to smuggle 2 million Captagon pills into the nation from Syria. According to a report by the Cyprus-based think tank, Captagon has a market value of about $3.5 billion in the previous year. Due to the increase in raids, the altercations between the Jordanian military and drug traffickers are also growing. Due to the current scenarios, soldiers have opted for a shoot-to-kill policy. In January, the Jordanian army shot 27 traffickers attempting to cross the border illegally. Jordan authorities have tensed up things at the border and elevated their efforts to fight the problem of drug trafficking in recent years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Jordanian Customs Department seizes 6 million amphetamine pills from Iraq border

<p>Brother of Nemesio Oseguera, one of Mexico's most wanted cartel chiefs, was arrested by authorities on Tuesday morning (December 20). The arrest was made in the state of Jalisco, dealing a blow to the catel.</p>

<p>Antonio Oseguera Cervantes, brother of Nemesio, was captured in a town on the outskirts of Guadalajara in a joint operation with the army, national guard and other authorities, the armed forces said in a statement.</p>

<p>He was then taken to a detention centre.</p>

<p>Nemesio Oseguera is the head of the violent Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) group. He is arguably the most-wanted kingpin in all of Mexico. In 2018, a $10 million bounty was placed on his head by US authorities.</p>

<p>Also known as "El Mencho," he is one of the few long-term cartel leaders in Mexico to have evaded capture while leading the gang's continent-spanning empire.</p>

<p>Mexican authorities have accused Antonio Oseguera, Nemesio's brother, of being the "logistic operator" behind the cartel's activities. He has also been accused of money laundering and purchasing massive amounts of weapons. The US Tresury sanctioned Antonio in 2016 for his allege involvement with the cartel.</p>

<p>The CJNG is accused of smuggling massive quantities of drugs, increasingly including the synthetic opioid fentanyl, into the United States. More than 71,000 people died from synthetic opioid-related overdoses in 2021, according to U.S. data.</p>

<p>Nemesio Oseguera's wife was arrested last year for a slew of crimes related to the cartel. His daughter pleaded guilty in a US court to carrying out business transactions for the cartel in 2020.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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Brother of Nemesio Oseguera, one of Mexico's most wanted cartel chiefs, was arrested by authorities on Tuesday morning (December 20). The arrest was made in the state of Jalisco, dealing a blow to the catel.

Brother of Nemesio Oseguera, one of Mexico's most wanted cartel chiefs, was arrested by authorities on Tuesday morning (December 20). The arrest was made in the state of Jalisco, dealing a blow to the catel. Antonio Oseguera Cervantes, brother of Nemesio, was captured in a town on the outskirts of Guadalajara in a joint operation with the army, national guard and other authorities, the armed forces said in a statement. He was then taken to a detention centre. Nemesio Oseguera is the head of the violent Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) group. He is arguably the most-wanted kingpin in all of Mexico. In 2018, a $10 million bounty was placed on his head by US authorities. Also known as "El Mencho," he is one of the few long-term cartel leaders in Mexico to have evaded capture while leading the gang's continent-spanning empire. Mexican authorities have accused Antonio Oseguera, Nemesio's brother, of being the "logistic operator" behind the cartel's activities. He has also been accused of money laundering and purchasing massive amounts of weapons. The US Tresury sanctioned Antonio in 2016 for his allege involvement with the cartel. The CJNG is accused of smuggling massive quantities of drugs, increasingly including the synthetic opioid fentanyl, into the United States. More than 71,000 people died from synthetic opioid-related overdoses in 2021, according to U.S. data. Nemesio Oseguera's wife was arrested last year for a slew of crimes related to the cartel. His daughter pleaded guilty in a US court to carrying out business transactions for the cartel in 2020. (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 ×

Mexico: Authorities arrest brother of one of the most wanted cartel chiefs

<p>As the United States continues to struggle with an epidemic of drug overdose deaths, it might not be close to over. The country’s Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), on Tuesday, said that this year they seized enough fentanyl in 2022 to kill every American.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after a study found drug overdoses among people aged 10 to 18 more than doubled between 2019 and 2021, earlier this year. Reports suggest that recently the American markets have been flooded with fentanyl.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What is fentanyl?</strong></p>

<p>According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl is a synthetic opioid which is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It is also highly possible to get addicted to fentanyl. There are two types of fentanyl:&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Pharmaceutical fentanyl</strong></p>

<p>While both are considered synthetic opioids, this type of fentanyl was developed for pain management in patients with advanced-stage cancer and is typically administered by a patch or injection at hospitals. These are also prescribed by doctors to mitigate severe pain usually after surgery.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-drug-overdose-deaths-crosses-100000-mark-12000-pounds-of-fentanyl-seized-in-2021-430250">United States: Drug overdose deaths crosses 100,000-mark, 12,000 pounds of Fentanyl seized in 2021</a></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Illicitly manufactured fentanyl&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF) is found in the drug market in different forms including powder and liquid. As mentioned earlier, fentanyl is also diverted for abuse because of its powerful opioid properties and heroin-like effect. Furthermore, it is also usually mixed or added with other drugs, “because of its extreme potency, which makes drugs cheaper, more powerful, more addictive, and more dangerous,” said the CDC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is mixed with other illicit drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, and sold as other prescription opioids which is extremely dangerous since many people are unaware that their drugs are laced with fentanyl, which can also be disguised as highly potent heroin which often results in overdose-related deaths.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fentanyl in its liquid form can be found in the form of nasal sprays, eye drops, and dropped onto paper or small candies, said the CDC.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Why is it used and how does it affect the body?</strong></p>

<p>According to the DEA, fentanyl is used for, intense, short-term highs, temporary feelings of euphoria, slowed respiration and reduced blood pressure, nausea, fainting and seizures. It essentially affects the central nervous system and the brain to block pain signals to the rest of the body and also reduces anxiety and stress caused by the pain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-walmart-proposes-to-pay-31-billion-legal-settlement-for-opioid-lawsuits-534525">US: Walmart proposes to pay $3.1 billion legal settlement for opioid lawsuits</a></strong></p>

<p>Fentanyl also produces bodily responses like&nbsp;euphoria, relaxation, pain relief, sedation, confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, urinary retention, pupillary constriction, and respiratory depression, said the DEA.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>DEA’s seizure of millions of deadly doses of fentanyl this year</strong></p>

<p>In a statement, on Tuesday (December 20) the US drug enforcement agency said that it had seized more than 379 million potentially deadly doses of fentanyl which included more than 50.6 million fentanyl-laced, fake prescription pills and more than 10,000 pounds of fentanyl powder in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat facing this country,” said the DEA, giving the example of just two milligrams of fentanyl being considered as a potentially deadly dose. “In the past year, the men and women of the DEA have relentlessly worked to seize over 379 million deadly doses of fentanyl from communities across the country,” said the US Administrator Anne Milgram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drug-overdose-deaths-surged-to-record-93000-in-2020-398098">US drug overdose deaths surged to record 93,000 in 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>The illicit drug is primarily manufactured in secret factories in Mexico, and trafficked by the Sinaloa and CJNG cartels to the US made from chemicals sourced from China, said the DEA.&nbsp;The US federal agency’s “top operational priority is to defeat the two Mexican drug cartels…that are primarily responsible for the fentanyl that is killing Americans today.”&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
In 2022, the DEA also seized more than double the number of fake prescription pills which were laced with fentanyl when compared to last year. This was in addition to the nearly 131,000 pounds of methamphetamine, more than 4,300 pounds of heroin, and over 444,000 pounds of cocaine, said the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, the agency also issued a Public Safety Alert after fentanyl-laced, fake prescription pills were “readily found on social media”. These pills are made to look identical to real prescription medications like Xanax, Percocet and OxyContin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Fentanyl and overdose</strong></p>

<p>Earlier this month, a new study by the CDC said that drug overdoses among people aged 10 to 18 more than doubled in the US between 2019 and 2021. Additionally, the average monthly rate of overdose among adolescents also increased by 109 per cent. This health agency had largely attributed this to the illegally manufactured fentanyl which increased by 182 per cent in the same time duration.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fentanyl-overdose-major-concern-in-the-us-easy-availability-causes-alarm-498249">Fentanyl overdose major concern in the US, easy availability causes alarm</a></strong><br />
<br />
Even small doses of fentanyl can be deadly and it is also “the most common drug involved in overdose deaths”, said the CDC. It added, over 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Furthermore, finding out if fentanyl is present in prescription drugs is “nearly impossible”, since it is not visible or has any distinct taste or smell.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, there are test strips that one might use to check the presence of the illicit drug which typically show the result in five minutes but do not detect more potent fentanyl-like drugs, like carfentanil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Echoing a similar warning as the DEA, the CDC in its report had said, “The proliferation of counterfeit pills is particularly concerning for adolescents given marketing aimed toward this population and the availability of such pills via social media.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, many states have passed policies and Good Samaritan laws which protect those who overdose on opioids and the people who seek medical help for those individuals. While these laws differ from state to state, they also provide some protection against prosecution for possessing illegal drugs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/painkiller-epidemic-us-targets-chinese-firms-for-addiction-that-claimed-100000-lives-last-year-437262">'Painkiller epidemic': US targets Chinese firms for addiction that claimed 100,000 lives last year</a></strong><br />
<br />
Aside from the test strips, the CDC also recommends administering Narcan which consists of an active drug called naloxone, a life-saving medication which is a nasal spray used to treat an opioid overdose and is available in all 50 states and can be without a prescription in most states. However, it is not a substitute for medical treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Potential “fentanyl vaccine” on the horizon?</strong></p>

<p>Earlier this year, a research team led by the University of Houston, Texas, said that they have developed a vaccine which targets fentanyl and could block its ability to enter the brain and eliminate the “high” which is often achieved by using these drugs. The breakthrough could have major implications for the opioid epidemic in the country and also act as a “relapse prevention agent” for people who are trying to quit, said the researchers in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-police-seizes-countrys-largest-shipment-of-opioid-509199">Australian police seizes country's largest shipment of opioid</a></strong></p>

<p>The findings were first published in the journal Pharmaceuticals, in late October. Researchers also note that while Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is treatable, at least 80 per cent of people once dependent on the drug, relapse. “We believe these findings could have a significant impact on a very serious problem plaguing society for years – opioid misuse,” said the study’s lead author Colin Haile and a founding member of the UH Drug Discovery Institute. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Our vaccine is able to generate anti-fentanyl antibodies that bind to the consumed fentanyl and prevent it from entering the brain, allowing it to be eliminated out of the body via the kidneys. Thus, the individual will not feel the euphoric effects and can ‘get back on the wagon’ to sobriety.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-overdose-deaths-among-10-18yr-olds-more-than-doubled-between-2019-and-2021-says-study-543695">US: Overdose deaths among 10-18yr olds more than doubled between 2019 and 2021, says study</a></strong></p>

<p>So far, the vaccine has been tested on immunized rats and did not have any adverse effects while the team reportedly plans to begin human trials in the upcoming months. Additionally, since the “anti-fentanyl antibodies” are specific to fentanyl and its derivatives the vaccine does not react with other opioids like morphine, which means that a vaccinated person can still use opioids for pain relief, said the researchers.&nbsp;</p>

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As the United States continues to struggle with an epidemic of drug overdose deaths, it might not be close to over. The country’s Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), on Tuesday, said that this year they seized enough fentanyl in 2022 to kill every American.

As the United States continues to struggle with an epidemic of drug overdose deaths, it might not be close to over. The country’s Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), on Tuesday, said that this year they seized enough fentanyl in 2022 to kill every American. This comes after a study found drug overdoses among people aged 10 to 18 more than doubled between 2019 and 2021, earlier this year. Reports suggest that recently the American markets have been flooded with fentanyl. What is fentanyl? According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl is a synthetic opioid which is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It is also highly possible to get addicted to fentanyl. There are two types of fentanyl: Pharmaceutical fentanyl While both are considered synthetic opioids, this type of fentanyl was developed for pain management in patients with advanced-stage cancer and is typically administered by a patch or injection at hospitals. These are also prescribed by doctors to mitigate severe pain usually after surgery. ALSO WATCH | United States: Drug overdose deaths crosses 100,000-mark, 12,000 pounds of Fentanyl seized in 2021 Illicitly manufactured fentanyl On the other hand, illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF) is found in the drug market in different forms including powder and liquid. As mentioned earlier, fentanyl is also diverted for abuse because of its powerful opioid properties and heroin-like effect. Furthermore, it is also usually mixed or added with other drugs, “because of its extreme potency, which makes drugs cheaper, more powerful, more addictive, and more dangerous,” said the CDC. It is mixed with other illicit drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, and sold as other prescription opioids which is extremely dangerous since many people are unaware that their drugs are laced with fentanyl, which can also be disguised as highly potent heroin which often results in overdose-related deaths. Fentanyl in its liquid form can be found in the form of nasal sprays, eye drops, and dropped onto paper or small candies, said the CDC. Why is it used and how does it affect the body? According to the DEA, fentanyl is used for, intense, short-term highs, temporary feelings of euphoria, slowed respiration and reduced blood pressure, nausea, fainting and seizures. It essentially affects the central nervous system and the brain to block pain signals to the rest of the body and also reduces anxiety and stress caused by the pain. ALSO READ | US: Walmart proposes to pay $3.1 billion legal settlement for opioid lawsuits Fentanyl also produces bodily responses like euphoria, relaxation, pain relief, sedation, confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, urinary retention, pupillary constriction, and respiratory depression, said the DEA. DEA’s seizure of millions of deadly doses of fentanyl this year In a statement, on Tuesday (December 20) the US drug enforcement agency said that it had seized more than 379 million potentially deadly doses of fentanyl which included more than 50.6 million fentanyl-laced, fake prescription pills and more than 10,000 pounds of fentanyl powder in 2022. “Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat facing this country,” said the DEA, giving the example of just two milligrams of fentanyl being considered as a potentially deadly dose. “In the past year, the men and women of the DEA have relentlessly worked to seize over 379 million deadly doses of fentanyl from communities across the country,” said the US Administrator Anne Milgram. ALSO READ | US drug overdose deaths surged to record 93,000 in 2020 The illicit drug is primarily manufactured in secret factories in Mexico, and trafficked by the Sinaloa and CJNG cartels to the US made from chemicals sourced from China, said the DEA. The US federal agency’s “top operational priority is to defeat the two Mexican drug cartels…that are primarily responsible for the fentanyl that is killing Americans today.” In 2022, the DEA also seized more than double the number of fake prescription pills which were laced with fentanyl when compared to last year. This was in addition to the nearly 131,000 pounds of methamphetamine, more than 4,300 pounds of heroin, and over 444,000 pounds of cocaine, said the statement. Last year, the agency also issued a Public Safety Alert after fentanyl-laced, fake prescription pills were “readily found on social media”. These pills are made to look identical to real prescription medications like Xanax, Percocet and OxyContin. Fentanyl and overdose Earlier this month, a new study by the CDC said that drug overdoses among people aged 10 to 18 more than doubled in the US between 2019 and 2021. Additionally, the average monthly rate of overdose among adolescents also increased by 109 per cent. This health agency had largely attributed this to the illegally manufactured fentanyl which increased by 182 per cent in the same time duration. ALSO WATCH | Fentanyl overdose major concern in the US, easy availability causes alarm Even small doses of fentanyl can be deadly and it is also “the most common drug involved in overdose deaths”, said the CDC. It added, over 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Furthermore, finding out if fentanyl is present in prescription drugs is “nearly impossible”, since it is not visible or has any distinct taste or smell. However, there are test strips that one might use to check the presence of the illicit drug which typically show the result in five minutes but do not detect more potent fentanyl-like drugs, like carfentanil. Echoing a similar warning as the DEA, the CDC in its report had said, “The proliferation of counterfeit pills is particularly concerning for adolescents given marketing aimed toward this population and the availability of such pills via social media.” So far, many states have passed policies and Good Samaritan laws which protect those who overdose on opioids and the people who seek medical help for those individuals. While these laws differ from state to state, they also provide some protection against prosecution for possessing illegal drugs. ALSO READ | 'Painkiller epidemic': US targets Chinese firms for addiction that claimed 100,000 lives last year Aside from the test strips, the CDC also recommends administering Narcan which consists of an active drug called naloxone, a life-saving medication which is a nasal spray used to treat an opioid overdose and is available in all 50 states and can be without a prescription in most states. However, it is not a substitute for medical treatment. Potential “fentanyl vaccine” on the horizon? Earlier this year, a research team led by the University of Houston, Texas, said that they have developed a vaccine which targets fentanyl and could block its ability to enter the brain and eliminate the “high” which is often achieved by using these drugs. The breakthrough could have major implications for the opioid epidemic in the country and also act as a “relapse prevention agent” for people who are trying to quit, said the researchers in a statement. ALSO READ | Australian police seizes country's largest shipment of opioid The findings were first published in the journal Pharmaceuticals, in late October. Researchers also note that while Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is treatable, at least 80 per cent of people once dependent on the drug, relapse. “We believe these findings could have a significant impact on a very serious problem plaguing society for years – opioid misuse,” said the study’s lead author Colin Haile and a founding member of the UH Drug Discovery Institute. He added, “Our vaccine is able to generate anti-fentanyl antibodies that bind to the consumed fentanyl and prevent it from entering the brain, allowing it to be eliminated out of the body via the kidneys. Thus, the individual will not feel the euphoric effects and can ‘get back on the wagon’ to sobriety.” ALSO READ | US: Overdose deaths among 10-18yr olds more than doubled between 2019 and 2021, says study So far, the vaccine has been tested on immunized rats and did not have any adverse effects while the team reportedly plans to begin human trials in the upcoming months. Additionally, since the “anti-fentanyl antibodies” are specific to fentanyl and its derivatives the vaccine does not react with other opioids like morphine, which means that a vaccinated person can still use opioids for pain relief, said the researchers. 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.

Explained: Fentanyl seized in 2022 enough to kill every American, says US federal drug agency

As the world prepares to celebrate Christmas, some countries are already celebrating a different kind of 'white Christmas'. From South America to Europe, police officials are busting drug cartels.

Christmas themed police seize record amounts of cocaine ahead of the holiday season

<p>A worldwide operation against a Serbian drug network on Saturday resulted in the arrest of nine individuals, as Belgian officials seized almost 115 kilogrammes of cocaine, according to the prosecution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The raid took place in a warehouse in the city of Arlon in Belgium's southeast, where the suspects were discovered trying to conceal cocaine for export under concrete slabs, according to a statement from Belgian prosecutors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the statement, five of the prisoners were taken into custody in Belgium, two in the Netherlands, one in Luxembourg, and another in Serbia.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/freedom-or-slavery-imran-khan-spells-out-ptis-political-future-in-rawalpindi-537748">Pakistan: Imran Khan announces PTI members will quit all assemblies</a></p>

<p>103 parcels weighing 115 kg&nbsp;(254 pounds) and valued at 11.5 million euros ($12 million) were seized by law authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly 100 police officers participated in simultaneous searches in Serbia, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands as part of an operation to find a "Serbian criminal organisation active in the international cocaine trade," according to the prosecutors.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A worldwide operation against a Serbian drug network on Saturday resulted in the arrest of nine individuals, as Belgian officials seized almost 115 kilogrammes of cocaine, according to the prosecution.

A worldwide operation against a Serbian drug network on Saturday resulted in the arrest of nine individuals, as Belgian officials seized almost 115 kilogrammes of cocaine, according to the prosecution. The raid took place in a warehouse in the city of Arlon in Belgium's southeast, where the suspects were discovered trying to conceal cocaine for export under concrete slabs, according to a statement from Belgian prosecutors. According to the statement, five of the prisoners were taken into custody in Belgium, two in the Netherlands, one in Luxembourg, and another in Serbia. Also Read: Pakistan: Imran Khan announces PTI members will quit all assemblies 103 parcels weighing 115 kg (254 pounds) and valued at 11.5 million euros ($12 million) were seized by law authorities. Nearly 100 police officers participated in simultaneous searches in Serbia, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands as part of an operation to find a "Serbian criminal organisation active in the international cocaine trade," according to the prosecutors. (With inputs from agencies)

Nine arrested in international operation against Serbian drug network

FBI Director Christopher Wray has said that bomb-laden drones are circulating in the U.S. He has further claimed that these drones can carry drugs or launch weaponry withing America. Priyanka Sharma reports.

Gravitas: FBI Director says bomb-laden drones are circulating in America

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid2ZZ5ob2WjTxY" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The British Royal Navy and its warship HMS Montrose recently confiscated illicit drugs worth more than $17 million from a boat in the Arabian Sea.</p>

<p>The warship and its crew managed to seize hundreds of kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine from a small local ship after a gruelling six-hour-long operation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially, the crew members aboard the frigate sent a helicopter to track the suspected boat. After the boat's movement raised the suspicion further, the Royal Marines from 42 Commando took charge and dropped sail in the choppy waters.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-send-warships-to-pacific-on-extended-deployment-411788"><strong>Read more: UK to send warships to Pacific on extended deployment</strong></a></p>

<p>"HMS Montrose pounced, after her Wildcat helicopter located and tracked the suspect dhow until the frigate was in range to launch her boarding teams in her boats,"&nbsp;the Navy said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The initial search yielded some drugs but the Marines prodded further and managed to find a hidden compartment where approximately 870 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine was stashed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Royal Marines from 42 Commando, the UK military's specialists in these operations, seized control of the vessel in choppy conditions, before sailors moved in to search the craft for any illegal cargo, while overhead the Wildcat observed proceedings and provided cover for those scouring the dhow for her illicit cargo," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The National Crime Agency priced the seized illict drugs around $17 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Disrupting terrorist organisations, criminals and their funding lines is key to keeping to UK, and rest of the world, safe," said Commander Claire Thompson overseeing the operation.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smuggled-iranian-missiles-seized-by-british-navy-495547" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Smuggled Iranian missiles seized by British Navy</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, HMS Montrose has been sailing in the waters of West Asia since 2019 and in the fifth operation of this year, the frigate has managed to reel narcotics worth $52 million.</p>

<p>The frigate&nbsp;is part of a multi-national force of 33 nations currently led by the Royal Canadian Navy, working in the Gulf region to disrupt criminal and terrorist organizations and their illicit activity.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The British Royal Navy and its warship HMS Montrose recently confiscated illicit drugs worth more than $17 million from a boat in the Arabian Sea. The warship and its crew managed to seize hundreds of kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine from a small local ship after a gruelling six-hour-long operation.

The British Royal Navy and its warship HMS Montrose recently confiscated illicit drugs worth more than $17 million from a boat in the Arabian Sea. The warship and its crew managed to seize hundreds of kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine from a small local ship after a gruelling six-hour-long operation. Initially, the crew members aboard the frigate sent a helicopter to track the suspected boat. After the boat's movement raised the suspicion further, the Royal Marines from 42 Commando took charge and dropped sail in the choppy waters. Read more: UK to send warships to Pacific on extended deployment "HMS Montrose pounced, after her Wildcat helicopter located and tracked the suspect dhow until the frigate was in range to launch her boarding teams in her boats," the Navy said in a statement. The initial search yielded some drugs but the Marines prodded further and managed to find a hidden compartment where approximately 870 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine was stashed. "Royal Marines from 42 Commando, the UK military's specialists in these operations, seized control of the vessel in choppy conditions, before sailors moved in to search the craft for any illegal cargo, while overhead the Wildcat observed proceedings and provided cover for those scouring the dhow for her illicit cargo," it added. The National Crime Agency priced the seized illict drugs around $17 million. "Disrupting terrorist organisations, criminals and their funding lines is key to keeping to UK, and rest of the world, safe," said Commander Claire Thompson overseeing the operation. Read more: Smuggled Iranian missiles seized by British Navy Notably, HMS Montrose has been sailing in the waters of West Asia since 2019 and in the fifth operation of this year, the frigate has managed to reel narcotics worth $52 million. The frigate is part of a multi-national force of 33 nations currently led by the Royal Canadian Navy, working in the Gulf region to disrupt criminal and terrorist organizations and their illicit activity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

British Royal Navy seizes $17 million worth of drugs in Arabian Sea

<p>A Pakistani boat carrying 40 kilograms of heroin worth Rs 2 billion ($25 million approx.) was apprehended in the Arabian Sea off the western Gujarat coast during a joint operation by the Indian Coast Guard and the state's Anti-Terrorist Squad.</p>

<p>Six crew members belonging to Pakistan have been arrested and the boat, which was six nautical miles inside the Indian waters, was seized.</p>

<p>“The fishing boat carrying drugs was intercepted mid-sea by a joint team of the Coast Guard and ATS near Jakhau harbour in Kutch district,” the official said, according to PTI news agency.</p>

<p>The ATS and Coast Guard officials along with the seized boat are expected to reach the Jakhau coast later in the day.</p>

<p>The enforcement officials said the drugs was intended for Punjab after delivering them on&nbsp;the Gujarat coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The heroin was meant to be transported to Punjab by road after being offloaded on the Gujarat coast. Based on a specific tip-off, we intercepted the boat which left from Pakistan, and caught six Pakistani nationals with 40 kg of heroin,” the official added.</p>

<p>Of late, the Gujarat coast has emerged as the preferred route to smuggle the contrabands. The state ATS and the Indian Coast Guard had foiled similar attempts of drug smuggling in the past and also caught foreign nationals with huge quantities of narcotics which they planned to smuggle into India.</p>

<p>In October last year, officials seized a consignment of 2,988 kg of heroin from Gujarat’s Mundra port, which was estimated to be Rs 210 billion, making it one of the biggest drug hauls near the Gujarat coast.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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A Pakistani boat carrying 40 kilograms of heroin worth Rs 2 billion ($25 million approx.) was apprehended in the Arabian Sea off the western Gujarat coast during a joint operation by the Indian Coast Guard and the state's Anti-Terrorist Squad.

A Pakistani boat carrying 40 kilograms of heroin worth Rs 2 billion ($25 million approx.) was apprehended in the Arabian Sea off the western Gujarat coast during a joint operation by the Indian Coast Guard and the state's Anti-Terrorist Squad. Six crew members belonging to Pakistan have been arrested and the boat, which was six nautical miles inside the Indian waters, was seized. “The fishing boat carrying drugs was intercepted mid-sea by a joint team of the Coast Guard and ATS near Jakhau harbour in Kutch district,” the official said, according to PTI news agency. The ATS and Coast Guard officials along with the seized boat are expected to reach the Jakhau coast later in the day. The enforcement officials said the drugs was intended for Punjab after delivering them on the Gujarat coast. “The heroin was meant to be transported to Punjab by road after being offloaded on the Gujarat coast. Based on a specific tip-off, we intercepted the boat which left from Pakistan, and caught six Pakistani nationals with 40 kg of heroin,” the official added. Of late, the Gujarat coast has emerged as the preferred route to smuggle the contrabands. The state ATS and the Indian Coast Guard had foiled similar attempts of drug smuggling in the past and also caught foreign nationals with huge quantities of narcotics which they planned to smuggle into India. In October last year, officials seized a consignment of 2,988 kg of heroin from Gujarat’s Mundra port, which was estimated to be Rs 210 billion, making it one of the biggest drug hauls near the Gujarat coast. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian officials seize Pakistani boat carrying 40 kg heroin worth $25 million

<p>Sanna Marin, the Finnish prime minister tested negative for drugs after she underwent them to clear doubts following backlash from videos showing the 36-year-old partying with her friends went viral.</p>

<p>"Drug test taken from Prime Minister Sanna Marin on 19 August 2022 did not reveal the presence of drugs," her office said.</p>

<p>Lida Vallin, an adviser to the prime minister, said Marin’s urine samples were examined for the presence of numerous drugs like cocaine and cannabis. She said, "The test was a comprehensive drug test. We did not choose how the test was done," AFP reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-finnish-women-share-party-videos-showing-their-support-for-pm-sanna-marin-508793">Hundreds of Finnish women share party videos in support of PM Sanna Marin</a></strong></p>

<p>The videos sparked outrage all around the world, with people calling out reference to drugs in them, which were hotly disputed on social media, but the Finnish minister strongly rejected claims of drug use. She claimed the videos were filmed on private premises and that she was having fun with her pals.</p>

<p>Marin had on Friday declared that she’ll be taking a drug test to dispel any rumours. She acknowledged having consumed alcohol but denied consuming drugs, asserting also that she did not see any other attendees using drugs.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-are-finnish-pm-sanna-marins-party-videos-bothering-you-508687">Why are Finnish PM Sanna Marin’s party videos bothering you?</a></strong></p>

<p>Marin said, "Never in my life, not even in my youth, have I ever used any drugs," AFP reported.</p>

<p>Defending Marin, many Finnish women came forward and posted their dancing and partying videos on social media.</p>

<p>She received harsh criticism in 2021 after it was discovered that she had been exposed to COVID-19 but still continued to party for hours.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Sanna Marin, the Finnish prime minister tested negative for drugs after she underwent them to clear doubts following backlash from videos showing the 36-year-old partying with her friends went viral.

Sanna Marin, the Finnish prime minister tested negative for drugs after she underwent them to clear doubts following backlash from videos showing the 36-year-old partying with her friends went viral. "Drug test taken from Prime Minister Sanna Marin on 19 August 2022 did not reveal the presence of drugs," her office said. Lida Vallin, an adviser to the prime minister, said Marin’s urine samples were examined for the presence of numerous drugs like cocaine and cannabis. She said, "The test was a comprehensive drug test. We did not choose how the test was done," AFP reported. Also read | Hundreds of Finnish women share party videos in support of PM Sanna Marin The videos sparked outrage all around the world, with people calling out reference to drugs in them, which were hotly disputed on social media, but the Finnish minister strongly rejected claims of drug use. She claimed the videos were filmed on private premises and that she was having fun with her pals. Marin had on Friday declared that she’ll be taking a drug test to dispel any rumours. She acknowledged having consumed alcohol but denied consuming drugs, asserting also that she did not see any other attendees using drugs. Also read | Why are Finnish PM Sanna Marin’s party videos bothering you? Marin said, "Never in my life, not even in my youth, have I ever used any drugs," AFP reported. Defending Marin, many Finnish women came forward and posted their dancing and partying videos on social media. She received harsh criticism in 2021 after it was discovered that she had been exposed to COVID-19 but still continued to party for hours. (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.

Finnish PM Sanna Marin clears all doubts, tests negative for drugs amid party video controversy

<p>According to Euronews, a new leaked video shows Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin dancing passionately with a man. Social media users are sharing the footage, which allegedly depicts Marin in what looks to be a club. The second video purports to show the politician having a good time. This week, Marin, 36,&nbsp;faced backlash for a video that showed her dancing at a party with friends. There were claims that she was under the influence of narcotics when the first video was taken. The most recent video is probably going to intensify political scepticism.</p>

<p>"A new video has emerged of Prime Minister Sanna Marin dancing closely with a man who isn't her husband, a day after leaked images showed her partying with friends. While Marin has faced backlash, the response to the videos at home and abroad has been broadly positive," tweeted Euronews.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Finland’s Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/MarinSanna?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MarinSanna</a> is in the headlines after a video of her partying was leaked today.<br />
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She has previously been criticized for attending too many music festivals &amp; spending too much on partying instead of ruling.<br />
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The critics say it’s not fitting for a PM. <a href="https://t.co/FbOhdTeEGw">pic.twitter.com/FbOhdTeEGw</a></p>
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) <a href="https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/1560015797367488517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, few current or former heads of state or governments can move like Marin, as social media has quickly noted. Here is a reminder of how some other prominent politicians performed on the dance floor.</p>

<p><strong>Canada’s prime minister, Justin Trudeau</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Justin Trudeau, definitiv mit fortgeschrittenen Moves <a href="https://t.co/fzBif29Sqm">pic.twitter.com/fzBif29Sqm</a></p>
— Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonOfUs/status/1560363439972917250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Theresa May at Henley festival</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Theresa May living it up at the Henley Festival just hours after Boris resigned is kind of everything. <a href="https://t.co/ZHeoTc6291">pic.twitter.com/ZHeoTc6291</a></p>
— Omid Scobie (@scobie) <a href="https://twitter.com/scobie/status/1545357896518615040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Wolodymyr Selenskyj, der vermutlich am besten tanzende Staatschef der Welt, hier weit vor seiner Präsidentschaft <a href="https://t.co/wEPch6qOom">pic.twitter.com/wEPch6qOom</a></p>
— Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonOfUs/status/1560364611651641345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Boris Johnson at his belated wedding bash</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Former German chancellor Angela Merkel</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Angela Merkel, auch Konservative können, naja, nennen wir es Tanzen <a href="https://t.co/KTJcNdHBnb">pic.twitter.com/KTJcNdHBnb</a></p>
— Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonOfUs/status/1560363025131098121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>&nbsp;Olaf Scholz before his election</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Olaf Scholz, noch nicht im Amt aber Tanzen ist Tanzen <a href="https://t.co/sL1bYnUolN">pic.twitter.com/sL1bYnUolN</a></p>
— Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonOfUs/status/1560363145742409729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Dutch prime minister&nbsp;Mark Rutte</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Bonus: Mark Rutte, Ministerpräsident der Niederlande mit freundlichem Dank an <a href="https://twitter.com/RA_Conrad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RA_Conrad</a> <a href="https://t.co/fbLuPdPjrp">pic.twitter.com/fbLuPdPjrp</a></p>
— Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonOfUs/status/1560384796186087427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>France’s Emmanuel Macron at a stage in Lagos</strong></p>

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<p><strong>US President Barack Obama</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Donald Trump, noch im Wahlkampf und etwas holprig aber stets bemüht <a href="https://t.co/DuqWSkMyoR">pic.twitter.com/DuqWSkMyoR</a></p>
— Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonOfUs/status/1560364184721920002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to Euronews, a new leaked video shows Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin dancing passionately with a man. Social media users are sharing the footage, which allegedly depicts Marin in what looks to be a club.

According to Euronews, a new leaked video shows Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin dancing passionately with a man. Social media users are sharing the footage, which allegedly depicts Marin in what looks to be a club. The second video purports to show the politician having a good time. This week, Marin, 36, faced backlash for a video that showed her dancing at a party with friends. There were claims that she was under the influence of narcotics when the first video was taken. The most recent video is probably going to intensify political scepticism. "A new video has emerged of Prime Minister Sanna Marin dancing closely with a man who isn't her husband, a day after leaked images showed her partying with friends. While Marin has faced backlash, the response to the videos at home and abroad has been broadly positive," tweeted Euronews. Finland’s Prime Minister @MarinSanna is in the headlines after a video of her partying was leaked today. She has previously been criticized for attending too many music festivals & spending too much on partying instead of ruling. The critics say it’s not fitting for a PM. pic.twitter.com/FbOhdTeEGw — Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) August 17, 2022 × However, few current or former heads of state or governments can move like Marin, as social media has quickly noted. Here is a reminder of how some other prominent politicians performed on the dance floor. Canada’s prime minister, Justin Trudeau Justin Trudeau, definitiv mit fortgeschrittenen Moves pic.twitter.com/fzBif29Sqm — Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) August 18, 2022 × Theresa May at Henley festival Theresa May living it up at the Henley Festival just hours after Boris resigned is kind of everything. pic.twitter.com/ZHeoTc6291 — Omid Scobie (@scobie) July 8, 2022 × Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky Wolodymyr Selenskyj, der vermutlich am besten tanzende Staatschef der Welt, hier weit vor seiner Präsidentschaft pic.twitter.com/wEPch6qOom — Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) August 18, 2022 × Boris Johnson at his belated wedding bash × Former German chancellor Angela Merkel Angela Merkel, auch Konservative können, naja, nennen wir es Tanzen pic.twitter.com/KTJcNdHBnb — Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) August 18, 2022 × Olaf Scholz before his election Olaf Scholz, noch nicht im Amt aber Tanzen ist Tanzen pic.twitter.com/sL1bYnUolN — Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) August 18, 2022 × Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte Bonus: Mark Rutte, Ministerpräsident der Niederlande mit freundlichem Dank an @RA_Conrad pic.twitter.com/fbLuPdPjrp — Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) August 18, 2022 × France’s Emmanuel Macron at a stage in Lagos × US President Barack Obama Donald Trump, noch im Wahlkampf und etwas holprig aber stets bemüht pic.twitter.com/DuqWSkMyoR — Jon Of Us ☀️ (@JonOfUs) August 18, 2022 ×

WATCH: Multiple times when world leaders hit the dancefloor, why blame Sanna Marin alone?

<p>A Brazillian drug lord was arrested by police while he was watching a football match. Official statement from police in Rio De Jeneiro said that the police arrested Marco Aurelio dos Santos Rocha (nicknamed Foka) while he was watching a football match in Brazil's Maracana stadium. The Copa do Brasil match was being played between clubs Fluminense and Fortaleza. The arrest was made on Wednesday (August 17).</p>

<p>When he was arrested, the drug lord was clad in a number 13 Fluminense jersey with&nbsp;'Foka' printed on it.</p>

<p>The police statement said that Foka is the alleged leader of a drug trafficking racket operated from the favela complex in Rio de Janeiro. Foka is a wanted fugitive with two arrest warrants against him. According to officials, he is also responsible for two killings.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-banned-the-vlc-media-player-is-there-a-chinese-connection-508324">India has banned the VLC Media Player. Is there a Chinese connection?</a></strong></p>

<p>The game Foka was watching in the stadium resulted in a draw. Each team scored 2 goals. In spite of the draw, Fluminense advanced to the semifinals of Copa de Brasil tournament. They will meet the Corinthians.</p>

<p>South American countries have presence of huge drug cartels. These organised syndicates have money and muscle power and often have political influence. Police and security forces over the decades, have found it tough to control operations of these drug cartels.</p>

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A Brazillian drug lord was arrested by police while he was watching a football match. Official statement from police in Rio De Jeneiro said that the police arrested Marco Aurelio dos Santos Rocha (nicknamed Foka) while he was watching a football match in Brazil's Maracana stadium.

A Brazillian drug lord was arrested by police while he was watching a football match. Official statement from police in Rio De Jeneiro said that the police arrested Marco Aurelio dos Santos Rocha (nicknamed Foka) while he was watching a football match in Brazil's Maracana stadium. The Copa do Brasil match was being played between clubs Fluminense and Fortaleza. The arrest was made on Wednesday (August 17). When he was arrested, the drug lord was clad in a number 13 Fluminense jersey with 'Foka' printed on it. The police statement said that Foka is the alleged leader of a drug trafficking racket operated from the favela complex in Rio de Janeiro. Foka is a wanted fugitive with two arrest warrants against him. According to officials, he is also responsible for two killings. Also Read | India has banned the VLC Media Player. Is there a Chinese connection? The game Foka was watching in the stadium resulted in a draw. Each team scored 2 goals. In spite of the draw, Fluminense advanced to the semifinals of Copa de Brasil tournament. They will meet the Corinthians. South American countries have presence of huge drug cartels. These organised syndicates have money and muscle power and often have political influence. Police and security forces over the decades, have found it tough to control operations of these drug cartels. 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 ×

Brazil drug lord arrested while watching football match in stadium

After facing violent protests in various cities, Ecuador imposed an emergency in three provinces. The decree enables the President to suspend civil rights.

Ecuador imposes an emergency in three provinces in response to violent protests

<p>Everyone was taken aback when grocery workers in stores across the Czech Republic began finding powder-filled boxes in banana crates. A record amount of cocaine was found in a shipment for supermarkets in the country.</p>

<p>After being supplied to Czech supermarkets before being intercepted in Germany, drug smugglers lost out on a consignment of cocaine hidden in banana crates.</p>

<p>A police officer and a sniffer dog investigate a cargo of several boxes of bananas that had supposedly originated in Colombia, according to footage received from the Czech police.</p>

<p>Employees in stores in the northern towns of Jicin and Rychnov nad Kneznou discovered 840 kilos (1,852 pounds) of cocaine in cardboard boxes with bananas. Officers are also checking other retailers across the country for banana boxes delivered by the same overseas cargo.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Gravitas: YouTube exposes children to cocaine &amp; gun clips</strong></p>

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<p>The police claimed they were working together on the case with counterparts from other unnamed countries. The cocaine most likely originated in Central America, according to Jakub Frydrych, the chief of the police anti-narcotics section.The drug's street value is estimated to be in excess of 2 billion Czech crowns ($86 million).</p>

<p>In a similar event in 2015, a supermarket in Prague was discovered with over 100 kilogrammes (220 pounds) of cocaine. At 1999, authorities discovered 117 kilogrammes (258 pounds) of cocaine concealed among dry fruit in a warehouse north of Prague.</p>

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Everyone was taken aback when grocery workers in stores across the Czech Republic began finding powder-filled boxes in banana crates. A record amount of cocaine was found in a shipment for supermarkets in the country.

Everyone was taken aback when grocery workers in stores across the Czech Republic began finding powder-filled boxes in banana crates. A record amount of cocaine was found in a shipment for supermarkets in the country. After being supplied to Czech supermarkets before being intercepted in Germany, drug smugglers lost out on a consignment of cocaine hidden in banana crates. A police officer and a sniffer dog investigate a cargo of several boxes of bananas that had supposedly originated in Colombia, according to footage received from the Czech police. Employees in stores in the northern towns of Jicin and Rychnov nad Kneznou discovered 840 kilos (1,852 pounds) of cocaine in cardboard boxes with bananas. Officers are also checking other retailers across the country for banana boxes delivered by the same overseas cargo. Watch | Gravitas: YouTube exposes children to cocaine & gun clips The police claimed they were working together on the case with counterparts from other unnamed countries. The cocaine most likely originated in Central America, according to Jakub Frydrych, the chief of the police anti-narcotics section.The drug's street value is estimated to be in excess of 2 billion Czech crowns ($86 million). In a similar event in 2015, a supermarket in Prague was discovered with over 100 kilogrammes (220 pounds) of cocaine. At 1999, authorities discovered 117 kilogrammes (258 pounds) of cocaine concealed among dry fruit in a warehouse north of Prague. 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.

Cocaine worth $86 million gets delivered to supermarkets in banana shipment

Authorities in Mexico have discovered a tunnel connecting Tijuana and the United States that was utilised in drug trafficking, according to officials.

Drug tunnel discovered by Mexico leading to the US

<p>Gilberto&nbsp;Rodriguez&nbsp;Orejuela, a&nbsp;former&nbsp;leader of Colombia's once-powerful Cali cartel, has died in the United States while serving a 30-year&nbsp;drug&nbsp;trafficking sentence, his family said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Sometimes known by his alias 'Chessplayer,'&nbsp;Rodriguez&nbsp;was extradited to the United States in 2004. The 83-year-old was serving time at a federal&nbsp;prison&nbsp;in Butner, North Carolina.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombian-drug-lord-dairo-usuga-otoniel-extradited-to-the-us-president-ivan-duque-announces-476510">Colombian drug lord Dairo Usuga 'Otoniel' extradited to the US, President Ivan Duque announces</a></strong></p>

<p>"The children and wife of Gilberto&nbsp;Rodriguez&nbsp;Orejuela&nbsp;regretfully inform that yesterday, Tuesday May 31, 2022, at 6:54 p.m., our father and husband died of a lymphoma," the family said in a statement shared by&nbsp;Rodriguez's daughter Alexandra.</p>

<p>They were beginning the process of extraditing his remains back to Colombia, his family said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Colombia: Drug cartels found shipping weapons, officials say trade fueling violence</strong></p>

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<p>Rodriguez's 1995 arrest by&nbsp;Colombian&nbsp;authorities marked the beginning of the disintegration of the Cali cartel, which once controlled 80 per cent&nbsp;of the global cocaine market, according to a contemporary report from the&nbsp;US&nbsp;Drug&nbsp;Enforcement Administration.</p>

<p>Rodriguez's brother Miguel was captured two months later and is also serving a sentence in the United States.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-euthanasia-colombia-approves-assisted-medical-suicide-for-seriously-ill-patients-478584">Now, Colombia approves assisted medical suicide for seriously ill patients</a></strong></p>

<p>The brothers deployed bombs and vigilantes against their&nbsp;drug&nbsp;trafficker enemy Pablo Escobar, who was killed in a police operation in 1993, and his associates.</p>

<p>They also confessed to financing political campaigns, including that of Liberal Party president Ernesto Samper in 1994, who has denied having any knowledge of the donations at the time.</p>

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Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela, a former leader of Colombia's once-powerful Cali cartel, has died in the United States while serving a 30-year drug trafficking sentence, his family said on Wednesday.

Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela, a former leader of Colombia's once-powerful Cali cartel, has died in the United States while serving a 30-year drug trafficking sentence, his family said on Wednesday. Sometimes known by his alias 'Chessplayer,' Rodriguez was extradited to the United States in 2004. The 83-year-old was serving time at a federal prison in Butner, North Carolina. Also read | Colombian drug lord Dairo Usuga 'Otoniel' extradited to the US, President Ivan Duque announces "The children and wife of Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela regretfully inform that yesterday, Tuesday May 31, 2022, at 6:54 p.m., our father and husband died of a lymphoma," the family said in a statement shared by Rodriguez's daughter Alexandra. They were beginning the process of extraditing his remains back to Colombia, his family said. Watch | Colombia: Drug cartels found shipping weapons, officials say trade fueling violence Rodriguez's 1995 arrest by Colombian authorities marked the beginning of the disintegration of the Cali cartel, which once controlled 80 per cent of the global cocaine market, according to a contemporary report from the US Drug Enforcement Administration. Rodriguez's brother Miguel was captured two months later and is also serving a sentence in the United States. Also read | Now, Colombia approves assisted medical suicide for seriously ill patients The brothers deployed bombs and vigilantes against their drug trafficker enemy Pablo Escobar, who was killed in a police operation in 1993, and his associates. They also confessed to financing political campaigns, including that of Liberal Party president Ernesto Samper in 1994, who has denied having any knowledge of the donations at the time. 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.

Former Colombian drug lord Rodriguez Orejuela dies in US prison

British Columbia in Canada is set to decriminalize the possession of some illegal drugs temporarily meaning adults will be able to possess small amounts of illegal drugs including Cocaine, MDMA and opioids for up to three years.

Canada to decriminalize possession of certain drugs

Canadian government has announced that it will allow the province of British Columbia to try a three-year experiment in decriminalising possession of small amounts of drugs.

Canada to temporarily decriminalise certain drugs in British Columbia

Officials have discovered a tunnel linking US & Mexico. It is suspected that the tunnel was used to smuggle drugs. The tunnel runs from Mexico to a warehouse in California. The tunnel reportedly has rail & ventilation systems, electricity & reinforced walls. US authorities said it was unknown how long the tunnel had been operating. The owner of the property said he was unaware of the tunnel’s existence

This secret drug tunnel was used to smuggle drugs

Nepal was once the cannabis capital of the world, attracting thousands of high-seeking Westerners. The booming industry was banned after America declared a war on drugs. Decades later, Nepal is rethinking the cannabis ban. Mariam Wardak gets you a report.

South Asia Diary: Nepal rethinks cannabis ban

In 2015, YouTube released an app and website solely for children named YouTube Kids it's supposed to be a safer and curated version of the original video sharing website but a new investigation has found that YouTube Kids is showing videos to children that promotes weight loss, drug culture and firearms.

Videos on drugs, guns found on YouTube Kids application

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