As many as 46 lawmakers of the ruling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-nepal-sri-lanka-confirms-first-case-of-coronavirus-276941">Nepal</a> Communist Party have registered a motion in Parliament urging the government to legalise the cultivation of marijuana and ban the import of alcohol.

The farming, production and trade of marijuana and cannabis are banned in Nepal since 1973.

The lawmakers claim that over 65 countries, including the US, Canada, and Germany who had led the movements for banning marijuana in the 1970s, have already legalised it.

Lawmaker Birodh Khatiwada, from Makawanpur district, proposed the motion, which got support from 45 others lawmakers of the party in the House of Representatives.

Makawanpur is one of the districts that produce the highest amount of marijuana illegally.

The lawmakers have argued that the legalisation can be economically beneficial for the country and would help improve people's standard of living.

"Marijuana has multiple uses. It also helps earn foreign currencies and produce medicines," Khatiwada said.

The government spokesperson and Minister for Information and Communications Technology Gokul Baskota said the government was yet to take any steps towards legalising it.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jay-z-goes-into-the-marijuana-business-234650">Jay-Z goes into the marijuana business</a>

As many as 46 lawmakers of the ruling Nepal Communist Party have registered a motion in Parliament urging the government to legalise the cultivation of marijuana and ban the import of alcohol.

As many as 46 lawmakers of the ruling Nepal Communist Party have registered a motion in Parliament urging the government to legalise the cultivation of marijuana and ban the import of alcohol. The farming, production and trade of marijuana and cannabis are banned in Nepal since 1973. The lawmakers claim that over 65 countries, including the US, Canada, and Germany who had led the movements for banning marijuana in the 1970s, have already legalised it. Lawmaker Birodh Khatiwada, from Makawanpur district, proposed the motion, which got support from 45 others lawmakers of the party in the House of Representatives. Makawanpur is one of the districts that produce the highest amount of marijuana illegally. The lawmakers have argued that the legalisation can be economically beneficial for the country and would help improve people's standard of living. "Marijuana has multiple uses. It also helps earn foreign currencies and produce medicines," Khatiwada said. The government spokesperson and Minister for Information and Communications Technology Gokul Baskota said the government was yet to take any steps towards legalising it. Also read: Jay-Z goes into the marijuana business

Legal marijuana in Nepal? 46 MPs put forward the demand to government

Acting on a tip-off, officers of Kolkata Police’s Special Task Force (STF) carried out a late-night raid at Kolkata’s Paikpara area under Tala Police Station limits on Tuesday.&nbsp;

On search of the spot, police recovered a huge quantity of banned contraband drug - Heroin weighing more than 25 kilograms.&nbsp;

The officers of Kolkata Police’s STF have informed that the seized drug is worth more than Rs.100 crores. Sources say that it is one of the biggest seizures in West Bengal and the entire North East region.&nbsp;

<img alt="drugs" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f2e6217-8092-459b-a6dc-4f91001d1812" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Drug.jpeg" />

Police arrested two persons - an Uttar Pradesh based drug dealer and his Manipur based counterpart.&nbsp;

”A Specific case has been registered vide STF PS Case No 04 Dated 21.01.2020 U/s 21(c)/29 NDPS Act and investigation into the case is going on,” said a senior official of Kolkata Police’s STF.&nbsp;

The arrested persons have been identified as Juber hailing from Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh and Moulana Fayazuddin hailing from Thoubal district of Manipur.&nbsp;

”The arrested accused persons will be produced before Ld. Special Judge, NDPS Act, City Sessions Court, Bankshall today and police remand will be sought for,” added the officer.

Acting on a tip-off, officers of Kolkata Police’s Special Task Force (STF) carried out a late-night raid at Kolkata’s Paikpara area under Tala Police Station limits on Tuesday.

Acting on a tip-off, officers of Kolkata Police’s Special Task Force (STF) carried out a late-night raid at Kolkata’s Paikpara area under Tala Police Station limits on Tuesday. On search of the spot, police recovered a huge quantity of banned contraband drug - Heroin weighing more than 25 kilograms. The officers of Kolkata Police’s STF have informed that the seized drug is worth more than Rs.100 crores. Sources say that it is one of the biggest seizures in West Bengal and the entire North East region. Police arrested two persons - an Uttar Pradesh based drug dealer and his Manipur based counterpart. ”A Specific case has been registered vide STF PS Case No 04 Dated 21.01.2020 U/s 21(c)/29 NDPS Act and investigation into the case is going on,” said a senior official of Kolkata Police’s STF. The arrested persons have been identified as Juber hailing from Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh and Moulana Fayazuddin hailing from Thoubal district of Manipur. ”The arrested accused persons will be produced before Ld. Special Judge, NDPS Act, City Sessions Court, Bankshall today and police remand will be sought for,” added the officer.

North East's biggest drug bust: Drugs worth Rs 100 crores seized, two arrested

The&nbsp;WADA&nbsp;report detailing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russia-to-announce-decision-on-appeal-against-wadas-doping-ban-269074">doping offences</a> during 2017 counted 1,804 cases, which was up sharply from the 1,595 recorded in 2016 although down from 1,929 in 2015.

The country with the most violations was Italy with 171 followed by France (128) and the United States (103).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russia-to-appeal-against-wadas-four-year-doping-ban-269167">Russia</a>, which earlier this month was hit with a four-year&nbsp;WADA&nbsp;ban from international sporting competition - including the next two Olympics - over doping, was fifth with 82 violations.

The country said on Thursday it will appeal the sanctions barring athletes from competing under its flag.

Body building, which was a medal sport at the 2019 Pan Am Games and is bidding to get on the Olympic program, had the most ADRVs with 266 followed by athletics (242) and cycling (218).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wada-committee-head-urges-russia-not-to-drag-out-ban-appeal-268194">WADA</a>&nbsp;director general Olivier Niggli said the results showed progress was being made in the fight against doping particularly in the area of investigation and intelligence-based testing.

The majority of violations (1,459) were positive tests with the other 345 classified as non-analytical, where no prohibited substance was detected but investigations found athletes or their support staff were in violation of the&nbsp;WADA&nbsp;Code.

"While in and out-of-competition testing remains critical to detect doping, events have recently shown that investigative work is becoming even more important as we look to protect clean athletes’ rights worldwide," said Niggli in a statement.

"...the report also reminds us of the importance of evidence-based education to prevent doping in the first place."

A total of 245,232 samples were collected in 2017 with the 1,804 ADRVs coming from 93 sports and disciplines involving athletes from 114 countries.

The WADA report detailing doping offences during 2017 counted 1,804 cases, which was up sharply from the 1,595 recorded in 2016 although down from 1,929 in 2015.

The WADA report detailing doping offences during 2017 counted 1,804 cases, which was up sharply from the 1,595 recorded in 2016 although down from 1,929 in 2015. The country with the most violations was Italy with 171 followed by France (128) and the United States (103). Russia, which earlier this month was hit with a four-year WADA ban from international sporting competition - including the next two Olympics - over doping, was fifth with 82 violations. The country said on Thursday it will appeal the sanctions barring athletes from competing under its flag. Body building, which was a medal sport at the 2019 Pan Am Games and is bidding to get on the Olympic program, had the most ADRVs with 266 followed by athletics (242) and cycling (218). WADA director general Olivier Niggli said the results showed progress was being made in the fight against doping particularly in the area of investigation and intelligence-based testing. The majority of violations (1,459) were positive tests with the other 345 classified as non-analytical, where no prohibited substance was detected but investigations found athletes or their support staff were in violation of the WADA Code. "While in and out-of-competition testing remains critical to detect doping, events have recently shown that investigative work is becoming even more important as we look to protect clean athletes’ rights worldwide," said Niggli in a statement. "...the report also reminds us of the importance of evidence-based education to prevent doping in the first place." A total of 245,232 samples were collected in 2017 with the 1,804 ADRVs coming from 93 sports and disciplines involving athletes from 114 countries.

New WADA report shows jump in global doping cases

Police have&nbsp;arrested&nbsp;334&nbsp;people&nbsp;in one of the largest anti-mob&nbsp;operations ever seen in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/italy-ready-to-take-18-stake-in-ilva-steel-plant-266996">Italy</a>, highlighting the growing reach of the 'Ndrangheta mafia, prosecutors said on Thursday.

The 'Ndrangheta is based in the southern region of Calabria, the toe of Italy's boot, and has surpassed Sicily's&nbsp;more&nbsp;famous Cosa Nostra to become the most powerful mafia group in the country - and one of the largest criminal gangs in the world.

Police said they seized hundreds of suspects in early morning&nbsp;swoops around the country, with some arrests also carried out in Germany, Switzerland and Bulgaria.

Amongst the possible charges facing those detained were mafia conspiracy, murder, extortion, loan sharking, corporate fraud and money laundering.

"Politicians were involved, as well as lawyers, accountants, public officials, court clerks. All&nbsp;people&nbsp;who had jobs and did not need to put themselves at the service of the 'Ndrangheta," said prosecutor Nicola Gratteri, who led the investigation.

"The&nbsp;mobsters are not in a position to carry out sophisticated money laundering. To do that they need professionals," he added.

Gratteri said it was the largest haul of suspected&nbsp;mobsters in Italy since a massive anti-mafia&nbsp;swoop&nbsp;in Sicily in 1984 which led to the so-called Palermo maxi-trial when&nbsp;more&nbsp;than&nbsp;450 members of Cosa Nostra were tried.

The Palermo trial marked a turning point in the battle against the Sicilian crime gang, and their influence has waned dramatically over the past three decades, allowing 'Ndrangheta to surge to prominence.

Italian&nbsp;investigators say the group, which is made up of dozens of smaller clans that all answer nominally to senior leaders in Calabria, is now Europe's top cocaine broker.

Amongst those&nbsp;arrested&nbsp;on Thursday was a former lawmaker from Silvio Berlusconi's centre-right Forza Italia (Go Italy!) party, the centre-left mayor of a Calabrian coastal town and a senior official in the Carabinieri police.

"This has inflicted a very hard blow on the 'Ndrangheta," said Interior Minister Luciana Lamorgese.

Investigators say that while the 'Ndrangheta is still centred on Calabria, one of the poorest regions in Europe, it has successfully managed to infiltrate the wealthy north.

The head of the Valle D'Aosta region, which borders France and Switzerland, resigned last week after being placed under investigation for alleged vote-rigging linked to 'Ndrangheta at 2018 local elections. He has denied the accusation.

Police have arrested 334 people in one of the largest anti-mob operations ever seen in Italy, highlighting the growing reach of the 'Ndrangheta mafia, prosecutors said on Thursday.

Police have arrested 334 people in one of the largest anti-mob operations ever seen in Italy, highlighting the growing reach of the 'Ndrangheta mafia, prosecutors said on Thursday. The 'Ndrangheta is based in the southern region of Calabria, the toe of Italy's boot, and has surpassed Sicily's more famous Cosa Nostra to become the most powerful mafia group in the country - and one of the largest criminal gangs in the world. Police said they seized hundreds of suspects in early morning swoops around the country, with some arrests also carried out in Germany, Switzerland and Bulgaria. Amongst the possible charges facing those detained were mafia conspiracy, murder, extortion, loan sharking, corporate fraud and money laundering. "Politicians were involved, as well as lawyers, accountants, public officials, court clerks. All people who had jobs and did not need to put themselves at the service of the 'Ndrangheta," said prosecutor Nicola Gratteri, who led the investigation. "The mobsters are not in a position to carry out sophisticated money laundering. To do that they need professionals," he added. Gratteri said it was the largest haul of suspected mobsters in Italy since a massive anti-mafia swoop in Sicily in 1984 which led to the so-called Palermo maxi-trial when more than 450 members of Cosa Nostra were tried. The Palermo trial marked a turning point in the battle against the Sicilian crime gang, and their influence has waned dramatically over the past three decades, allowing 'Ndrangheta to surge to prominence. Italian investigators say the group, which is made up of dozens of smaller clans that all answer nominally to senior leaders in Calabria, is now Europe's top cocaine broker. Amongst those arrested on Thursday was a former lawmaker from Silvio Berlusconi's centre-right Forza Italia (Go Italy!) party, the centre-left mayor of a Calabrian coastal town and a senior official in the Carabinieri police. "This has inflicted a very hard blow on the 'Ndrangheta," said Interior Minister Luciana Lamorgese. Investigators say that while the 'Ndrangheta is still centred on Calabria, one of the poorest regions in Europe, it has successfully managed to infiltrate the wealthy north. The head of the Valle D'Aosta region, which borders France and Switzerland, resigned last week after being placed under investigation for alleged vote-rigging linked to 'Ndrangheta at 2018 local elections. He has denied the accusation.

More than 300 people arrested in huge Italian mob swoop

Two customs agents have been charged in connection with Australia's largest ever onshore seizure of the drug "ice", a bust worth a record US$840 million, police said Thursday.

Australian Border Force agents in April found 1.6 tonnes of methylamphetamine and 37 kilograms&nbsp;of heroin in vacuum-sealed packages hidden inside stereo speakers shipped from Thailand to Melbourne.

Police arrested two men and a woman in their late thirties on Wednesday following raids in suburban Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city.

"Two of the three were customs agents. They are trusted insiders within the industry," Australian Federal Police deputy commissioner Neil Gaughan said.

He added they were not government employees but private contractors.

"They used their position of trust to circumvent the border controls that exist within Australia," he was quoted as saying by national broadcaster ABC.

Police said they were cooperating with authorities in Thailand where an investigation was ongoing.

Two customs agents have been charged in connection with Australia's largest ever onshore seizure of the drug "ice", a bust worth a record US$840 million, police said Thursday.

Two customs agents have been charged in connection with Australia's largest ever onshore seizure of the drug "ice", a bust worth a record US$840 million, police said Thursday. Australian Border Force agents in April found 1.6 tonnes of methylamphetamine and 37 kilograms of heroin in vacuum-sealed packages hidden inside stereo speakers shipped from Thailand to Melbourne. Police arrested two men and a woman in their late thirties on Wednesday following raids in suburban Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. "Two of the three were customs agents. They are trusted insiders within the industry," Australian Federal Police deputy commissioner Neil Gaughan said. He added they were not government employees but private contractors. "They used their position of trust to circumvent the border controls that exist within Australia," he was quoted as saying by national broadcaster ABC. Police said they were cooperating with authorities in Thailand where an investigation was ongoing.

Customs agents charged over record Australian drug bust

The death of a teenage Dutch model who fell naked from an upmarket apartment, allegedly after drug-fuelled group sex, is being treated as murder, Malaysian police said.

Ivana Smit tumbled from the 20th floor of a Kuala Lumpur condominium and landed on a sixth-floor balcony in December 2017.

Her death made headlines after claims emerged that 18-year-old Smit, the American living there and his Kazakh wife consumed large quantities of drugs and alcohol and had group sex.

Police at first dismissed suggestions of foul play and a coroner ruled earlier this year that no one was criminally involved while conceding there was likely a struggle before she fell.

But Smit's family lodged a legal challenge and the High Court last week overturned the coroner's decision, ruling that "persons knew or unknown" were involved and ordered a new probe.

Police announced Wednesday that the death of Smit, who reportedly lived in Malaysia since childhood, had been reclassified as murder and they were re-opening investigations.

A task force will be formed for the case, said Huzir Mohamed, head of the police's criminal investigation department.

"We will recall witnesses from whom we have taken statements, and call witnesses who were not previously interviewed," he said.

Police did not say who they planned to question. The couple linked to the case are reported to have left the country.

The death of a teenage Dutch model who fell naked from an upmarket apartment, allegedly after drug-fuelled group sex, is being treated as murder, Malaysian police said.

The death of a teenage Dutch model who fell naked from an upmarket apartment, allegedly after drug-fuelled group sex, is being treated as murder, Malaysian police said. Ivana Smit tumbled from the 20th floor of a Kuala Lumpur condominium and landed on a sixth-floor balcony in December 2017. Her death made headlines after claims emerged that 18-year-old Smit, the American living there and his Kazakh wife consumed large quantities of drugs and alcohol and had group sex. Police at first dismissed suggestions of foul play and a coroner ruled earlier this year that no one was criminally involved while conceding there was likely a struggle before she fell. But Smit's family lodged a legal challenge and the High Court last week overturned the coroner's decision, ruling that "persons knew or unknown" were involved and ordered a new probe. Police announced Wednesday that the death of Smit, who reportedly lived in Malaysia since childhood, had been reclassified as murder and they were re-opening investigations. A task force will be formed for the case, said Huzir Mohamed, head of the police's criminal investigation department. "We will recall witnesses from whom we have taken statements, and call witnesses who were not previously interviewed," he said. Police did not say who they planned to question. The couple linked to the case are reported to have left the country.

Dutch model's death plunge was murder, say Malaysian police

French prosecutors said Sunday that they had opened an investigation after finding a "significant amount" of cocaine and other drugs on beaches all along the Atlantic coast since last month.

The cocaine is particularly pure and therefore dangerous, according to the prosecutor's office in the western city of Rennes, urging people who come across the packages not to touch them.

"Suspect packages have been found on all beaches... from the Loire Atlantique department down to the Landes department",&nbsp;more than 500 kilometres,&nbsp;the office said in a statement.

A "very significant number" of packages have been found, it said, without detailing the amount.

The Sud-Ouest newspaper reported that two people discovered two packages on the beach at Arcachon, southwest of Bordeaux, on Friday containing a total of three kilograms&nbsp;of cocaine.

It said some of the packages were marked "Diamante" or "Brillante," which were also reported to have washed up in Florida during hurricane Dorian in September.

A source close to the inquiry told AFP that tides started washing up the packages a month ago on beaches stretching from Nantes as far south as the resort town of Biarritz.

French prosecutors said Sunday that they had opened an investigation after finding a "significant amount" of cocaine and other drugs on beaches all along the Atlantic coast since last month.

French prosecutors said Sunday that they had opened an investigation after finding a "significant amount" of cocaine and other drugs on beaches all along the Atlantic coast since last month. The cocaine is particularly pure and therefore dangerous, according to the prosecutor's office in the western city of Rennes, urging people who come across the packages not to touch them. "Suspect packages have been found on all beaches... from the Loire Atlantique department down to the Landes department", more than 500 kilometres, the office said in a statement. A "very significant number" of packages have been found, it said, without detailing the amount. The Sud-Ouest newspaper reported that two people discovered two packages on the beach at Arcachon, southwest of Bordeaux, on Friday containing a total of three kilograms of cocaine. It said some of the packages were marked "Diamante" or "Brillante," which were also reported to have washed up in Florida during hurricane Dorian in September. A source close to the inquiry told AFP that tides started washing up the packages a month ago on beaches stretching from Nantes as far south as the resort town of Biarritz.

France probes drug packages washing up on Atlantic coast

The residents of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-admits-bungled-arrest-of-el-chapos-son-after-mayhem-256973">Mexican city overwhelmed late last week</a> by a small army of drug cartel gunmen spent the weekend picking up the pieces of their bullet-riddled homes and businesses.

While many struggled to make sense of how easily dozens of gunmen poured into the city to thwart the attempted arrest of Ovidio Guzman, a son of jailed drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, others busied themselves with the cleanup.

Just off the entrance of a local seafood restaurant that found itself at the heart of Thursday's hours-long siege in the city's Tres Rios neighbourhood, workers scrubbed away the dried blood from the steps.

The workers said the spot marked the final resting place of cartel gunmen following what officials described as 14 separate, armed attacks launched by the Sinaloa Cartel's convoys of pickup trucks against Mexico's outmatched military at different points in the city.

Upon finding out authorities sought to capture Ovidio Guzman and extradite him to the United States, the cartel strategically erected 19 blockades backed up by heavily-armed gunmen during a roughly four-hour stretch in the afternoon that prevented additional military and police from responding as terrorized locals scurried for cover.

One of the most intense firefights took place on the block behind the restaurant where local residents said several military vehicles had stopped along with a nondescript building with tall, white walls, in a bid to extract El Chapo's son from a residence inside.

The walls were covered with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fierce-gun-battles-as-el-chapos-son-arrested-in-mexico-256591">hundreds of bullet holes</a> as if the building had broken out in a rash.

The soldiers in the vehicles came under heavy fire from a hill across an adjacent drainage canal, and several homes in between were caught in the crossfire.

"The walls are all full of holes," said Jose Manuel Murrieta, whose home is located just below the hill where he said gunmen had taken up positions to fire upon the military vehicles.

He pointed out, with fingers covered in paint from the repairs he had started, where his mattress was now covered by a blanket of glass.

An avocado tree in the lush garden outside his bedroom had been split open by bullets and Murrieta estimated that he had already found around 500 bullet casings nearby.

He spotted another on the ground, squatted down to pick it up and then handed it over like it was a souvenir.

Like other local residents, he wonders about the possible infiltration of the cartel into local and state police but said there is no doubt that the cartel proved itself to be the stronger force, at least for one violent afternoon last week.

And then his face turned angry and he pursed his lips. "It's infuriating," he said, "because you have to ask yourself, 'Who's really in charge?'"

The residents of the Mexican city overwhelmed late last week by a small army of drug cartel gunmen spent the weekend picking up the pieces of their bullet-riddled homes and businesses.

The residents of the Mexican city overwhelmed late last week by a small army of drug cartel gunmen spent the weekend picking up the pieces of their bullet-riddled homes and businesses. While many struggled to make sense of how easily dozens of gunmen poured into the city to thwart the attempted arrest of Ovidio Guzman, a son of jailed drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, others busied themselves with the cleanup. Just off the entrance of a local seafood restaurant that found itself at the heart of Thursday's hours-long siege in the city's Tres Rios neighbourhood, workers scrubbed away the dried blood from the steps. The workers said the spot marked the final resting place of cartel gunmen following what officials described as 14 separate, armed attacks launched by the Sinaloa Cartel's convoys of pickup trucks against Mexico's outmatched military at different points in the city. Upon finding out authorities sought to capture Ovidio Guzman and extradite him to the United States, the cartel strategically erected 19 blockades backed up by heavily-armed gunmen during a roughly four-hour stretch in the afternoon that prevented additional military and police from responding as terrorized locals scurried for cover. One of the most intense firefights took place on the block behind the restaurant where local residents said several military vehicles had stopped along with a nondescript building with tall, white walls, in a bid to extract El Chapo's son from a residence inside. The walls were covered with hundreds of bullet holes as if the building had broken out in a rash. The soldiers in the vehicles came under heavy fire from a hill across an adjacent drainage canal, and several homes in between were caught in the crossfire. "The walls are all full of holes," said Jose Manuel Murrieta, whose home is located just below the hill where he said gunmen had taken up positions to fire upon the military vehicles. He pointed out, with fingers covered in paint from the repairs he had started, where his mattress was now covered by a blanket of glass. An avocado tree in the lush garden outside his bedroom had been split open by bullets and Murrieta estimated that he had already found around 500 bullet casings nearby. He spotted another on the ground, squatted down to pick it up and then handed it over like it was a souvenir. Like other local residents, he wonders about the possible infiltration of the cartel into local and state police but said there is no doubt that the cartel proved itself to be the stronger force, at least for one violent afternoon last week. And then his face turned angry and he pursed his lips. "It's infuriating," he said, "because you have to ask yourself, 'Who's really in charge?'"

Grim cleanup underway in Mexican city rocked by cartel onslaught

The Haryana Police has seized 1,204 kilograms of narcotics worth crores of rupees during a month-long special anti-narcotic drive across the state in the lead up to the assembly polls, said Director-General of Police, Manoj Yadava on Monday.

They have also arrested 483 persons by registering 386 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act&nbsp;(NDPS), Yadava added.

"A special drive was launched between August 20 and September 20, 2019, ahead of the announcement of Vidhan Sabha polls, to bust the network of supplying drugs and tightening the noose on those involved in the peddling them in the state," the Director-General of Police said.

As part of the crackdown, the DGP said that 559 kg marijuana, 1 kg&nbsp;heroin, 630 kg poppy husk, 5 kg&nbsp;opium, 3 kg&nbsp;charas, over 2 kg of smack and 458 gram&nbsp;sulfa have been seized from the&nbsp;arrested.

In addition to the above, police teams have also seized prohibited medicines including 1,43,483 tablets, 196 bottles of syrup, 15,469 capsules and 827 injections.

Sharing further details, the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Navdeep Singh Virk said that the maximum number of cases - 129 cases were&nbsp;registered in the district of Sirsa, where 178 accused were arrested under the NDPS Act.

Similarly, 30 cases were registered in Fatehabad with the arrest of 85 accused, 23 cases each were registered in Ambala and Panipat, 20 in Gurugram, 18 in Rohtak, 16 in Kurukshetra, 13 in Karnal and 10 in Yamunanagar by recovering huge consignments of drugs including heroin, poppy husk, marijuana and opium.

Virk said that the Police Department under the guidance of DGP Manoj Yadava has made elaborate security arrangements to implement a multi-pronged pre-poll strategy to ensure free, fair and peaceful polling in the state.

The Haryana Police has seized 1,204 kilograms of narcotics worth crores of rupees during a month-long special anti-narcotic drive across the state in the lead up to the assembly polls, said Director-General of Police, Manoj Yadava on Monday.

The Haryana Police has seized 1,204 kilograms of narcotics worth crores of rupees during a month-long special anti-narcotic drive across the state in the lead up to the assembly polls, said Director-General of Police, Manoj Yadava on Monday. They have also arrested 483 persons by registering 386 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS), Yadava added. "A special drive was launched between August 20 and September 20, 2019, ahead of the announcement of Vidhan Sabha polls, to bust the network of supplying drugs and tightening the noose on those involved in the peddling them in the state," the Director-General of Police said. As part of the crackdown, the DGP said that 559 kg marijuana, 1 kg heroin, 630 kg poppy husk, 5 kg opium, 3 kg charas, over 2 kg of smack and 458 gram sulfa have been seized from the arrested. In addition to the above, police teams have also seized prohibited medicines including 1,43,483 tablets, 196 bottles of syrup, 15,469 capsules and 827 injections. Sharing further details, the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Navdeep Singh Virk said that the maximum number of cases - 129 cases were registered in the district of Sirsa, where 178 accused were arrested under the NDPS Act. Similarly, 30 cases were registered in Fatehabad with the arrest of 85 accused, 23 cases each were registered in Ambala and Panipat, 20 in Gurugram, 18 in Rohtak, 16 in Kurukshetra, 13 in Karnal and 10 in Yamunanagar by recovering huge consignments of drugs including heroin, poppy husk, marijuana and opium. Virk said that the Police Department under the guidance of DGP Manoj Yadava has made elaborate security arrangements to implement a multi-pronged pre-poll strategy to ensure free, fair and peaceful polling in the state.

Haryana police arrests 483 people, seize over 1000 kg of contraband before polls

The troops of Assam Rifles&nbsp;have seized drugs worth Rs 1.23 crore in Khudengthabi area of Assam's Tengnoupal district. 
 
The search teams, after receiving specific inputs regarding the transportation of drugs, increased vigilance in the area. They tracked two persons and chased them. 
 
The men evaded the teams by running into the nearby forest area. However, a bag containing brown sugar was recovered from the spot. The incident happened on October 5. 
 
"The recovered items have been handed over to the Moreh police station for further investigation," Assam Rifles said in an official statement.

The troops of Assam Rifles have seized drugs worth Rs 1.23 crore in Khudengthabi area of Assam's Tengnoupal district. The search teams, after receiving specific inputs regarding the transportation of drugs, increased vigilance in the area.

The troops of Assam Rifles have seized drugs worth Rs 1.23 crore in Khudengthabi area of Assam's Tengnoupal district. The search teams, after receiving specific inputs regarding the transportation of drugs, increased vigilance in the area. They tracked two persons and chased them. The men evaded the teams by running into the nearby forest area. However, a bag containing brown sugar was recovered from the spot. The incident happened on October 5. "The recovered items have been handed over to the Moreh police station for further investigation," Assam Rifles said in an official statement.

Assam Rifles seizes drugs worth Rs 1.2 crore

Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested five people and seized 129 kilograms of drugs along with over Rs one crore in cash from their possession.

The ATS has arrested them from Mumbai on Monday and Tuesday. According to the police, three accused have been sent to custody till September 16 while two others will be produced in court on Wednesday.&nbsp;

"ATS team had conducted search yesterday and today and we have seized 129 kilograms of MD drug. Initially, we had recovered 9 kilograms of drugs and later during or investigation we had also recovered one factory premise in Navi Mumbai, where the search is still underway. We had recovered another 120 kilograms of drugs from there which makes a total os 129 kilograms of drugs," said a police official while addressing a presser.

"We have also recovered Rs 1 crore 4 lakh in cash from the factory premise.

According to the information we have received, this network was operating on a large scale in Mumbai.

These are one of the main suppliers of drugs in the city. They used to handle everything from manufacturing to supplying," he added.

The police are further probing the case and trying to search for other connections in this network.

Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested five people and seized 129 kilograms of drugs along with over Rs one crore in cash from their possession. The ATS has arrested them from Mumbai on Monday and Tuesday.

Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested five people and seized 129 kilograms of drugs along with over Rs one crore in cash from their possession. The ATS has arrested them from Mumbai on Monday and Tuesday. According to the police, three accused have been sent to custody till September 16 while two others will be produced in court on Wednesday. "ATS team had conducted search yesterday and today and we have seized 129 kilograms of MD drug. Initially, we had recovered 9 kilograms of drugs and later during or investigation we had also recovered one factory premise in Navi Mumbai, where the search is still underway. We had recovered another 120 kilograms of drugs from there which makes a total os 129 kilograms of drugs," said a police official while addressing a presser. "We have also recovered Rs 1 crore 4 lakh in cash from the factory premise. According to the information we have received, this network was operating on a large scale in Mumbai. These are one of the main suppliers of drugs in the city. They used to handle everything from manufacturing to supplying," he added. The police are further probing the case and trying to search for other connections in this network.

Mumbai: 5 arrested with 129 kg drugs, over Rs 1 crore cash

There is sufficient stock of medicines and other medical products in Kashmir Valley and the Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) is conducting regular surveys of retail outlets to ensure this, said the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir government.

"No shortage of essential drugs, other medical products in the Kashmir region. Regular survey of retail outlets being conducted by DFCO. Medicines worth approximately Rs 50 crore supplied to distributors in the Valley since July 20 till date," a tweet by the official handle of DIPR, Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday read.

The DIPR added that major drug manufacturing companies have been providing medicines regularly through their supply chains without any breaks.

"Major companies providing regular supplies of almost all categories of drugs viz antidiabetic (Human Insulin), antihypertensive, anticancer and other specialized categories of medical products to their supply chain located across Kashmir unhindered," another tweet by the DIPR read while also urging stakeholders to register their genuine concerns with the State Drugs Controller at Jammu and Srinagar offices.Several restrictions were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir last month after the government scrapped some provisions of Article 370.

However, the administration is lifting restrictions in a phased manner.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

There is sufficient stock of medicines and other medical products in Kashmir Valley and the Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) is conducting regular surveys of retail outlets to ensure this, said the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir government.

There is sufficient stock of medicines and other medical products in Kashmir Valley and the Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) is conducting regular surveys of retail outlets to ensure this, said the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir government. "No shortage of essential drugs, other medical products in the Kashmir region. Regular survey of retail outlets being conducted by DFCO. Medicines worth approximately Rs 50 crore supplied to distributors in the Valley since July 20 till date," a tweet by the official handle of DIPR, Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday read. The DIPR added that major drug manufacturing companies have been providing medicines regularly through their supply chains without any breaks. "Major companies providing regular supplies of almost all categories of drugs viz antidiabetic (Human Insulin), antihypertensive, anticancer and other specialized categories of medical products to their supply chain located across Kashmir unhindered," another tweet by the DIPR read while also urging stakeholders to register their genuine concerns with the State Drugs Controller at Jammu and Srinagar offices.Several restrictions were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir last month after the government scrapped some provisions of Article 370. However, the administration is lifting restrictions in a phased manner.

No shortage of essential drugs, medical products in Kashmir: Jammu and Kashmir administration

Scientists find two drugs having high survival rates

Congo Ebola Outbreak: Ebola preventable & treatable soon?

A Myanmar court on Wednesday jailed an Australian publisher for 13 years on drugs charges, a year after police uncovered a stash of methamphetamines and opium at his home, his lawyer said.

Ross Dunkley, 62, was arrested along with business partner John Mackenzie and several Myanmar women in June 2018 bust in the commercial capital of Yangon.

Police said they found crystal methamphetamine, heroin and marijuana.

Lawyer Khun Ring Pan said Dunkley and Mackenzie were sentenced to 13 years on the charges, with five Myanmar nationals jailed for 11 years each.

"We will discuss with the client and decide what to do next," he said.

Dunkley, the co-founder of the English-language Myanmar Times newspaper, which he ran more than a decade, also published the Phnom Penh Post in Cambodia.

In 2011 he spent time in prison in Myanmar for assaulting a woman and visa offences but was released on time served.

Myanmar is one of the world's largest producers of illicit drugs, such as opium, heroin and methamphetamines, which are often smuggled into China.

A Myanmar court on Wednesday jailed an Australian publisher for 13 years on drugs charges, a year after police uncovered a stash of methamphetamines and opium at his home, his lawyer said.

A Myanmar court on Wednesday jailed an Australian publisher for 13 years on drugs charges, a year after police uncovered a stash of methamphetamines and opium at his home, his lawyer said. Ross Dunkley, 62, was arrested along with business partner John Mackenzie and several Myanmar women in June 2018 bust in the commercial capital of Yangon. Police said they found crystal methamphetamine, heroin and marijuana. Lawyer Khun Ring Pan said Dunkley and Mackenzie were sentenced to 13 years on the charges, with five Myanmar nationals jailed for 11 years each. "We will discuss with the client and decide what to do next," he said. Dunkley, the co-founder of the English-language Myanmar Times newspaper, which he ran more than a decade, also published the Phnom Penh Post in Cambodia. In 2011 he spent time in prison in Myanmar for assaulting a woman and visa offences but was released on time served. Myanmar is one of the world's largest producers of illicit drugs, such as opium, heroin and methamphetamines, which are often smuggled into China.

Co-founder of Myanmar Times jailed for 13 years on drug charges

Congress member and Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, T Subbarami Reddy on Wednesday informed the House that over 20,000 school children in the national capital are caught in the trap of drugs.&nbsp;

Reddy highlighted that the rising menace of drug mafia is not just a problem in Delhi but in the whole of North India including states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

He also said that the state governments are finding it difficult to curb the menace of drug mafia.

This comes on the day when Punjab Police arrested two persons and seized over one kilogram of heroin from their possession as part of a crackdown on drug trafficking and misdemeanours in Khanna area of the city, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in Tripura, the police on Tuesday destroyed over 6,300 kg of marijuana worth Rs 3.15 crore by burning it in RK Nagar area of West Tripura district.

On Monday, Delhi Police arrested three people and seized more than 50 kilograms of hashish and marijuana in three separate incidents in the national capital.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Congress member and Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, T Subbarami Reddy on Wednesday informed the House that over 20,000 school children in the national capital are caught in the trap of drugs.

Congress member and Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, T Subbarami Reddy on Wednesday informed the House that over 20,000 school children in the national capital are caught in the trap of drugs. Reddy highlighted that the rising menace of drug mafia is not just a problem in Delhi but in the whole of North India including states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. He also said that the state governments are finding it difficult to curb the menace of drug mafia. This comes on the day when Punjab Police arrested two persons and seized over one kilogram of heroin from their possession as part of a crackdown on drug trafficking and misdemeanours in Khanna area of the city, news agency ANI reported. Meanwhile, in Tripura, the police on Tuesday destroyed over 6,300 kg of marijuana worth Rs 3.15 crore by burning it in RK Nagar area of West Tripura district. On Monday, Delhi Police arrested three people and seized more than 50 kilograms of hashish and marijuana in three separate incidents in the national capital. (With inputs from agencies)

Rajya Sabha lawmaker says over 20,000 Delhi school kids addicted to drugs  

The U.S. Coast guard released video showing a dramatic, high speed ocean chase that ended with the capture of a purpose-built semi-submersible allegedly carrying a large sum of cocaine. The chase and seizure took place in international waters in the Eastern Pacific Ocean on June 18.

U.S. Coast Guard board semi-submersible boat loaded with drugs

Pakistan's main opposition party on Tuesday criticised as political the arrest on drugs charges of one of its senior provincial leaders who has been critical of Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Rana Sanaullah, a parliamentarian and Punjab provincial president of the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), was arrested by anti-drugs police on Monday on the motorway linking the capital Islamabad with the eastern city of Lahore. He was remanded in custody for 14 days.

Information Minister Firdous Aashiq Awan said 15 kilograms of heroin was seized from his vehicle. If convicted, he could face the death penalty.

Shehbaz Sharif, the president of the PML-N, denounced the arrest of his longtime ally as a "fake case".

"It is just unfair, brutal and the worst oppression," said Sharif, saying the arrest had demonstrated the government's frustration at failing to deliver on its promises since coming to office last year.

The episode followed a string of arrests of other opposition figures, including former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and a number of his relatives, on corruption charges.

Sanaullah, a fiery politician given to hurling insults at Khan during parliamentary debates, had been saying for months that the government was out to get him.

His lawyer, Azim Nazir Tarar, told Reuters the accusations were "ridiculous".

Tarar said that Sanaullah had told the court at his arrest hearing that police had intercepted his vehicle and driven him to their office in Lahore city without elaborating any further. Officials told him later that heroin had been seized from his car, he said.

The anti-narcotics police said Sanaullah himself pointed to a briefcase on the rear seat of the car when intercepted, and helped officers unzip a polythene bag containing the drugs.

Another main opposition group, the Pakistan People's Party, also condemned the arrest, calling it victimisation.

Pakistan's main opposition party on Tuesday criticised as political the arrest on drugs charges of one of its senior provincial leaders who has been critical of Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Pakistan's main opposition party on Tuesday criticised as political the arrest on drugs charges of one of its senior provincial leaders who has been critical of Prime Minister Imran Khan. Rana Sanaullah, a parliamentarian and Punjab provincial president of the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), was arrested by anti-drugs police on Monday on the motorway linking the capital Islamabad with the eastern city of Lahore. He was remanded in custody for 14 days. Information Minister Firdous Aashiq Awan said 15 kilograms of heroin was seized from his vehicle. If convicted, he could face the death penalty. Shehbaz Sharif, the president of the PML-N, denounced the arrest of his longtime ally as a "fake case". "It is just unfair, brutal and the worst oppression," said Sharif, saying the arrest had demonstrated the government's frustration at failing to deliver on its promises since coming to office last year. The episode followed a string of arrests of other opposition figures, including former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and a number of his relatives, on corruption charges. Sanaullah, a fiery politician given to hurling insults at Khan during parliamentary debates, had been saying for months that the government was out to get him. His lawyer, Azim Nazir Tarar, told Reuters the accusations were "ridiculous". Tarar said that Sanaullah had told the court at his arrest hearing that police had intercepted his vehicle and driven him to their office in Lahore city without elaborating any further. Officials told him later that heroin had been seized from his car, he said. The anti-narcotics police said Sanaullah himself pointed to a briefcase on the rear seat of the car when intercepted, and helped officers unzip a polythene bag containing the drugs. Another main opposition group, the Pakistan People's Party, also condemned the arrest, calling it victimisation.

Drugs arrest of Pakistan politician sparks opposition fury

Thai authorities destroyed 7 of the 16 tons of confiscated illicit drugs worth over $600 million in street value on Wednesday (June 26), in an annual event to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Thailand burns illegal drugs to mark International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Harvest season has started and it's a busy time for 20-year-old Afghan farmer, Mohammad Ahmadi. But instead of traditional wheat or corn, Ahmadi is scratching poppies -- a herbaceous plant with showy flowers and pink sap -- in the Panjwayi district of Kandahar province.

Harvesting to build a better future for some Afghan farmers

The UN's Afghanistan mission said Monday it was probing allegations of civilian casualties resulting from US air strikes against purported drug-making facilities in western Afghanistan.

The allegations centre on strikes conducted earlier this month in Farah and Nimroz provinces, where dozens of structures said to have been used to produce heroin and other illegal drugs were destroyed.

According to interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi, "150 Taliban terrorists were killed, 40 wounded" in the Farah operations.

But the Taliban have denied the facilities were used for drugs and claimed "up to 100" civilians were killed.

In a statement, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said it was "actively looking into allegations of civilian casualties resulting from International Military Forces' aerial operations in Farah and Nimroz provinces against reported drug manufacturing facilities".

"The locations are not easily accessible and there are numerous operational challenges to the verification" of civilians being harmed, UNAMA added.

The US-led NATO mission in Kabul did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Last month, UNAMA published a report saying <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-intelligence-chief-caught-by-afghan-and-us-forces-in-baghlan-218333">Afghan civilians</a> are for the first time being killed in greater numbers by US and pro-government forces than by the Taliban and other insurgent groups.

It also chastised the Taliban for an increase in deadly violence across Afghanistan during Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

The war-torn nation has seen continued violence since the start of Ramadan last week as the Taliban and the US were engaged in talks to try to find an end to the war.&nbsp;

The Taliban claimed responsibility for a May 8 attack on a US-funded aid group in Kabul that claimed the lives of nine civilians and Afghan security officials.

"There can be absolutely no justification for deliberate or indiscriminate attacks against civilians," Tadamichi Yamamoto, the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative for Afghanistan, said in the UNAMA statement.

"It is particularly egregious that a premeditated act of extreme violence was conducted against a development agency where civilians were striving to improve the lives of all citizens."

An earlier attack by the Taliban just before Ramadan saw at least 13 people killed and dozens more wounded after a suicide bomber and several gunmen attacked a police headquarters in Pul-i-Khumri in northern Afghanistan.

The UN's Afghanistan mission said Monday it was probing allegations of civilian casualties resulting from US air strikes against purported drug-making facilities in western Afghanistan.

The UN's Afghanistan mission said Monday it was probing allegations of civilian casualties resulting from US air strikes against purported drug-making facilities in western Afghanistan. The allegations centre on strikes conducted earlier this month in Farah and Nimroz provinces, where dozens of structures said to have been used to produce heroin and other illegal drugs were destroyed. According to interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi, "150 Taliban terrorists were killed, 40 wounded" in the Farah operations. But the Taliban have denied the facilities were used for drugs and claimed "up to 100" civilians were killed. In a statement, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said it was "actively looking into allegations of civilian casualties resulting from International Military Forces' aerial operations in Farah and Nimroz provinces against reported drug manufacturing facilities". "The locations are not easily accessible and there are numerous operational challenges to the verification" of civilians being harmed, UNAMA added. The US-led NATO mission in Kabul did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Last month, UNAMA published a report saying Afghan civilians are for the first time being killed in greater numbers by US and pro-government forces than by the Taliban and other insurgent groups. It also chastised the Taliban for an increase in deadly violence across Afghanistan during Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. The war-torn nation has seen continued violence since the start of Ramadan last week as the Taliban and the US were engaged in talks to try to find an end to the war. The Taliban claimed responsibility for a May 8 attack on a US-funded aid group in Kabul that claimed the lives of nine civilians and Afghan security officials. "There can be absolutely no justification for deliberate or indiscriminate attacks against civilians," Tadamichi Yamamoto, the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative for Afghanistan, said in the UNAMA statement. "It is particularly egregious that a premeditated act of extreme violence was conducted against a development agency where civilians were striving to improve the lives of all citizens." An earlier attack by the Taliban just before Ramadan saw at least 13 people killed and dozens more wounded after a suicide bomber and several gunmen attacked a police headquarters in Pul-i-Khumri in northern Afghanistan.

UN probes casualty claims from US strikes in Afghanistan

Indian industrialist and co-owner of IPL team Kings XI Punjab, Ness Wadia has been sentenced to a two-year jail term by a court in Japan over alleged possession of drugs.

A leading Indian daily reported that Wadia, who was on a skiing holiday was arrested in early March at New Chitose Airport in the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido after customs officials found 25 grams of "what appeared to be cannabis resin in his trouser pocket".

Reacting to the report, a Wadia group spokesperson said Ness Wadia is in India.

"The judgement is clear. It is a suspended sentence. Hence, it will not impact Ness Wadia in the discharge of any of his responsibilities and he will continue to play the role that he has done hitherto, both within the Group and outside," the spokesperson added.

According to the report, the Sapporo District Court handed Wadia a two-year prison sentence, which was suspended for five years.

He spent a period in detention before his indictment on March 20 and an undisclosed period of detention before a court hearing, it added.

Ness Wadia is a director in major firms of the Wadia group, including Bombay Dyeing and Bombay Burmah Trading Corporation Ltd.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Indian industrialist and co-owner of IPL team Kings XI Punjab, Ness Wadia has been sentenced to a two-year jail term by a court in Japan over alleged possession of drugs.

Indian industrialist and co-owner of IPL team Kings XI Punjab, Ness Wadia has been sentenced to a two-year jail term by a court in Japan over alleged possession of drugs. A leading Indian daily reported that Wadia, who was on a skiing holiday was arrested in early March at New Chitose Airport in the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido after customs officials found 25 grams of "what appeared to be cannabis resin in his trouser pocket". Reacting to the report, a Wadia group spokesperson said Ness Wadia is in India. "The judgement is clear. It is a suspended sentence. Hence, it will not impact Ness Wadia in the discharge of any of his responsibilities and he will continue to play the role that he has done hitherto, both within the Group and outside," the spokesperson added. According to the report, the Sapporo District Court handed Wadia a two-year prison sentence, which was suspended for five years. He spent a period in detention before his indictment on March 20 and an undisclosed period of detention before a court hearing, it added. Ness Wadia is a director in major firms of the Wadia group, including Bombay Dyeing and Bombay Burmah Trading Corporation Ltd.

Wadia Group scion Ness Wadia gets two-year jail term by Japanese court for drug possession

England batsman <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-batsman-alex-hales-takes-break-for-personal-reasons-211972&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjT4rWynfDhAhXJdn0KHQlZAUQQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0ABTaWwDrGL-2j0i_Xro_t">Alex Hales</a> is serving a suspension for an 'off-field' incident reported to involve recreational drug use.

A Guardian report on Friday claimed Hales, named last week in England's preliminary World Cup squad, is serving a 21-day ban from cricket for the drug incident.

The 30-year-old has been sanctioned under the England and Wales Cricket Board's disciplinary policy for a second time, according to the report.

A spokesman for Hales on Friday confirmed the Nottinghamshire batsman had been suspended "following an off-field incident last year".

The ban is a blow for Hales, who has been selected in the England squad for the forthcoming one-day series against Pakistan ahead of the World Cup.

Hales will still be involved with England's training camp in Cardiff this weekend, with the team's first one-day match of the summer coming against Ireland in Dublin next Friday.

"He will be joining the squad in preparation for next week's games and will be available for selection," the spokesman said.&nbsp;

Nottinghamshire issued a statement last week confirming Hales had "made himself unavailable for selection for personal reasons", and "no timetable has been set for his return to action".

As a consequence, Hales missed the start of the national One-Day Cup campaign.

Last year, Hales was suspended and fined by the ECB following his involvement with Ben Stokes in an incident outside a Bristol nightclub during September 2017.&nbsp;

Stokes was subsequently found not guilty of affray following a six-day trial at Bristol Crown Court.

The drugs violation is believed to have been detected after Hales underwent a hair follicle test, which all professional cricketers have at the start and finish of every season

For a first drugs offence, which is treated as a health and welfare issue, players are offered advice and support with only the county director of cricket being notified.

A second violation can invoke a three-week ban and a five percent fine of the player's annual salary, at which point the player's county is informed, as well as the ECB chief executive, Tom Harrison, and PCA chief executive, David Leatherdale.

Hales could be a valuable member of Eoin Morgan's England side as they attempt to win their first 50-over World Cup.

Hales memorably hit 147 from 92 balls when England scored a record 481-6 in a win against Australia at Trent Bridge last year.

England batsman Alex Hales is serving a suspension for an 'off-field' incident reported to involve recreational drug use. A Guardian report on Friday claimed Hales, named last week in England's preliminary World Cup squad, is serving a 21-day ban from cricket for the drug incident.

England batsman Alex Hales is serving a suspension for an 'off-field' incident reported to involve recreational drug use. A Guardian report on Friday claimed Hales, named last week in England's preliminary World Cup squad, is serving a 21-day ban from cricket for the drug incident. The 30-year-old has been sanctioned under the England and Wales Cricket Board's disciplinary policy for a second time, according to the report. A spokesman for Hales on Friday confirmed the Nottinghamshire batsman had been suspended "following an off-field incident last year". The ban is a blow for Hales, who has been selected in the England squad for the forthcoming one-day series against Pakistan ahead of the World Cup. Hales will still be involved with England's training camp in Cardiff this weekend, with the team's first one-day match of the summer coming against Ireland in Dublin next Friday. "He will be joining the squad in preparation for next week's games and will be available for selection," the spokesman said. Nottinghamshire issued a statement last week confirming Hales had "made himself unavailable for selection for personal reasons", and "no timetable has been set for his return to action". As a consequence, Hales missed the start of the national One-Day Cup campaign. Last year, Hales was suspended and fined by the ECB following his involvement with Ben Stokes in an incident outside a Bristol nightclub during September 2017. Stokes was subsequently found not guilty of affray following a six-day trial at Bristol Crown Court. The drugs violation is believed to have been detected after Hales underwent a hair follicle test, which all professional cricketers have at the start and finish of every season For a first drugs offence, which is treated as a health and welfare issue, players are offered advice and support with only the county director of cricket being notified. A second violation can invoke a three-week ban and a five percent fine of the player's annual salary, at which point the player's county is informed, as well as the ECB chief executive, Tom Harrison, and PCA chief executive, David Leatherdale. Hales could be a valuable member of Eoin Morgan's England side as they attempt to win their first 50-over World Cup. Hales memorably hit 147 from 92 balls when England scored a record 481-6 in a win against Australia at Trent Bridge last year.

England's Alex Hales to serve ban after 'off-field' incident involving recreational drug use

Drugs are "not cool" and its use is not a style statement, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-breaks-protocol-to-receive-saudi-arabias-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-198391">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> said Tuesday.

In a video message played out to mark the Drug Free India Campaign, he also said narcotics trade is a big threat to the safety and security of India.

Terming, drugs as a great menace to society, the prime minister said, as per WHO estimates, over three crore people around the world are suffering from drug addiction.

It is alarming, he said, to see so many youngsters indulging in substance abuse.

Drugs are not cool. It is a big misconception that drugs are a style statement, Modi said according to a statement from his office.

The prime minister said in addition, to health problems and destruction of families due to substance abuse, narcotics trade is a great threat to the safety and security of the country.

Modi pointed out that narcotics trade is one of the biggest sources of income for terrorists and anti-national elements, and the money sourced by these elements through drug trade is used to destabilize the nation.

He said those having self-confidence and self-belief will not easily fall prey to drugs use, and also asked the young generation to support and help those suffering from drug addiction.&nbsp;

The prime minister highlighted the various initiatives taken by the government to curb the menace of drug addiction.

Students from colleges all across the country, listened to the Prime Minister's address through video conference, the statement said.&nbsp;

Drugs are "not cool" and its use is not a style statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday. In a video message played out to mark the Drug Free India Campaign, he also said narcotics trade is a big threat to the safety and security of India.

Drugs are "not cool" and its use is not a style statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday. In a video message played out to mark the Drug Free India Campaign, he also said narcotics trade is a big threat to the safety and security of India. Terming, drugs as a great menace to society, the prime minister said, as per WHO estimates, over three crore people around the world are suffering from drug addiction. It is alarming, he said, to see so many youngsters indulging in substance abuse. Drugs are not cool. It is a big misconception that drugs are a style statement, Modi said according to a statement from his office. The prime minister said in addition, to health problems and destruction of families due to substance abuse, narcotics trade is a great threat to the safety and security of the country. Modi pointed out that narcotics trade is one of the biggest sources of income for terrorists and anti-national elements, and the money sourced by these elements through drug trade is used to destabilize the nation. He said those having self-confidence and self-belief will not easily fall prey to drugs use, and also asked the young generation to support and help those suffering from drug addiction. The prime minister highlighted the various initiatives taken by the government to curb the menace of drug addiction. Students from colleges all across the country, listened to the Prime Minister's address through video conference, the statement said.

Drugs are 'not cool', narcotics trade threat to safety and security of country: PM Modi

The world's most infamous cartel boss <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/el-chapo-drugged-and-raped-teenage-girls-witness-claims-194807">Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman</a>, who rose from poverty in rural Mexico to amass billions of dollars, was found guilty in a US court on Tuesday of smuggling tons of drugs to the United States over a violent, colourful, decades-long career.

Jurors in federal court in Brooklyn convicted <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/el-chapo-dreamed-of-biopic-for-years-before-capture-says-trial-witness-190401">Guzman</a>, 61, head of the Sinaloa Cartel, on all 10 counts brought by US prosecutors.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/the-rise-and-fall-of-el-chapo-mexicos-most-wanted-gangster-197028">The rise and fall of 'El Chapo,' Mexico's most wanted gangster</a>

Richard Donoghue, the US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said he expected Guzman to receive life without parole when sentenced on June 25. "It is a sentence from which there is no escape and no return," Donoghue told reporters.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-drug-lord-el-chapo-faces-biggest-us-drugs-trial-175595">Guzman</a>, one of the major figures in Mexican drug wars that have roiled the country since 2006, become almost legendary for escaping from Mexican high-security jails twice and avoiding massive manhunts. He cultivated a Robin Hood image among the poor in his home state of Sinaloa.

Guzman sat and showed no emotion while the verdict was read. Once the jury left the room, he and his wife Emma Coronel, put their hands to their hearts and gave each other the thumbs up sign. His wife shed tears.

Guzman, whose nickname means "Shorty," was extradited to the United States for trial in 2017 after he was arrested in Mexico the year before.

Though other high-ranking cartel figures had been extradited previously, Guzman was the first to go to trial instead of pleading guilty.

The 11-week trial, with testimony from more than 50 witnesses, offered an unprecedented look at the inner workings of the Sinaloa Cartel, named for the state in northwestern Mexico where Guzman was born in a poor mountain village.

The US government said Guzman trafficked tons of cocaine, heroin, marijuana and methamphetamine into the United States over more than two decades, consolidating his power in Mexico through murders and wars with rival cartels.

Small in stature, Guzman's smuggling exploits, the violence he used and the sheer size of his illicit business made Guzman the world's most notorious drug baron since Colombia's Pablo Escobar, who was shot dead by police in 1993.

Guzman's lawyers say he was set up as a “fall guy” by Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, a powerful drug lord from Sinaloa who remains at large.

Jeffrey Lichtman, a lawyer for Guzman, told reporters after the verdict that the defence faced an uphill fight, given the amount of evidence the government presented, and the widespread perception that Guzman was already guilty.

"This was a case that was literally an avalanche, avalanche of evidence," Lichtman said. "Of course we're going to appeal."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/el-chapos-hometown-sceptical-much-will-change-after-verdict-197062">El Chapo's hometown sceptical much will change after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/el-chapos-hometown-sceptical-much-will-change-after-verdict-197062">verdict</a>

DRUG WARS

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador was elected last year after promising a change to the deadly military-led war against drug gangs, suggesting a negotiated peace and amnesty for non-violent drug dealers, traffickers and farmers.

The most detailed evidence against Guzman came from more than a dozen former associates who struck deals to cooperate with U.S. prosecutors.

They told jurors how the Sinaloa Cartel gained power in the 1990s, eventually coming to control almost the entire Pacific coast of Mexico.

Guzman made a name for himself in the 1980s by building cross-border tunnels that allowed him to move cocaine from Mexico into the United States faster than anyone else.

The witnesses, who included some of Guzman's top lieutenants, a communications engineer and a onetime mistress, described how he built a sophisticated organization reminiscent of a multinational corporation.

He sent drugs northward with fleets of planes and boats, and had detailed accounting ledgers and an encrypted electronic communication system run through secret computer servers in Canada, the court heard.

Guzman's attempt to take territory from a rival cartel was one of the main reasons for an explosion of drug violence in Mexico. The government has registered more than 250,000 homicides since it launched an aggressive war on cartels in 2006. A report by the US Congressional Research Service last year estimated 150,000 of those deaths were tied to organised crime.

A former bodyguard testified that he watched Guzman kill three rival drug cartel members, including one victim who he shot and then ordered to be buried even as he was still gasping for air.

US District Judge Brian Cogan told the jurors after the verdict that it was up to them to decide to talk to the media, but that he would advise against it. “Once that door is open, it can’t be closed again,” he said.&nbsp;

Estimates of how much money Guzman made from drugs vary. In 2009, Forbes Magazine put him on its list of the world’s richest people, with an estimated $1 billion. It later dropped him from the list, saying it was too difficult to quantify his assets.

The US Justice Department said in 2017 it sought forfeiture of more than $14 billion in drug proceeds and illicit profits from Guzman.

The most shocking allegation of corruption during the trial came from Guzman's former top aide Alex Cifuentes, who accused former Mexican president Enrique Pena Nieto of taking a $100 million bribe from Guzman. A spokesman for the ex-president has denied the claim.

In one of the trial's final days, Guzman told the judge he would not testify in his own defence. The same day, he grinned broadly at audience member Alejandro Edda, the Mexican actor who plays Guzman in the Netflix drama "Narcos."

Despite his ties to government officials, Guzman often lived on the run. Imprisoned in Mexico in 1993, he escaped in 2001 hidden in a laundry cart and spent the following years moving from one hideout to another in the mountains of Sinaloa, guarded by a private army.

He was seized again in 2014, but pulled off his best known escape the following year when he disappeared into a tunnel dug into his cell in a maximum security prison.

But the Mexican government says he blew his cover through a series of slip ups, including an attempt to make a movie about his life. He was finally recaptured in January 2016.

Despite Guzman's downfall, the Sinaloa Cartel still has the biggest US distribution presence of Mexican cartels, followed by the fast-growing Jalisco New Generation Cartel, according to the US Drug Enforcement Administration.

Together, they are the biggest producers of drugs sold on US streets.

The world's most infamous cartel boss Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, who rose from poverty in rural Mexico to amass billions of dollars, was found guilty in a US court on Tuesday of smuggling tons of drugs to the United States over a violent, colourful, decades-long career.

The world's most infamous cartel boss Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, who rose from poverty in rural Mexico to amass billions of dollars, was found guilty in a US court on Tuesday of smuggling tons of drugs to the United States over a violent, colourful, decades-long career. Jurors in federal court in Brooklyn convicted Guzman, 61, head of the Sinaloa Cartel, on all 10 counts brought by US prosecutors. Also read: The rise and fall of 'El Chapo,' Mexico's most wanted gangster Richard Donoghue, the US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said he expected Guzman to receive life without parole when sentenced on June 25. "It is a sentence from which there is no escape and no return," Donoghue told reporters. Guzman, one of the major figures in Mexican drug wars that have roiled the country since 2006, become almost legendary for escaping from Mexican high-security jails twice and avoiding massive manhunts. He cultivated a Robin Hood image among the poor in his home state of Sinaloa. Guzman sat and showed no emotion while the verdict was read. Once the jury left the room, he and his wife Emma Coronel, put their hands to their hearts and gave each other the thumbs up sign. His wife shed tears. Guzman, whose nickname means "Shorty," was extradited to the United States for trial in 2017 after he was arrested in Mexico the year before. Though other high-ranking cartel figures had been extradited previously, Guzman was the first to go to trial instead of pleading guilty. The 11-week trial, with testimony from more than 50 witnesses, offered an unprecedented look at the inner workings of the Sinaloa Cartel, named for the state in northwestern Mexico where Guzman was born in a poor mountain village. The US government said Guzman trafficked tons of cocaine, heroin, marijuana and methamphetamine into the United States over more than two decades, consolidating his power in Mexico through murders and wars with rival cartels. Small in stature, Guzman's smuggling exploits, the violence he used and the sheer size of his illicit business made Guzman the world's most notorious drug baron since Colombia's Pablo Escobar, who was shot dead by police in 1993. Guzman's lawyers say he was set up as a “fall guy” by Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, a powerful drug lord from Sinaloa who remains at large. Jeffrey Lichtman, a lawyer for Guzman, told reporters after the verdict that the defence faced an uphill fight, given the amount of evidence the government presented, and the widespread perception that Guzman was already guilty. "This was a case that was literally an avalanche, avalanche of evidence," Lichtman said. "Of course we're going to appeal." Also read: El Chapo's hometown sceptical much will change after verdict DRUG WARS President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador was elected last year after promising a change to the deadly military-led war against drug gangs, suggesting a negotiated peace and amnesty for non-violent drug dealers, traffickers and farmers. The most detailed evidence against Guzman came from more than a dozen former associates who struck deals to cooperate with U.S. prosecutors. They told jurors how the Sinaloa Cartel gained power in the 1990s, eventually coming to control almost the entire Pacific coast of Mexico. Guzman made a name for himself in the 1980s by building cross-border tunnels that allowed him to move cocaine from Mexico into the United States faster than anyone else. The witnesses, who included some of Guzman's top lieutenants, a communications engineer and a onetime mistress, described how he built a sophisticated organization reminiscent of a multinational corporation. He sent drugs northward with fleets of planes and boats, and had detailed accounting ledgers and an encrypted electronic communication system run through secret computer servers in Canada, the court heard. Guzman's attempt to take territory from a rival cartel was one of the main reasons for an explosion of drug violence in Mexico. The government has registered more than 250,000 homicides since it launched an aggressive war on cartels in 2006. A report by the US Congressional Research Service last year estimated 150,000 of those deaths were tied to organised crime. A former bodyguard testified that he watched Guzman kill three rival drug cartel members, including one victim who he shot and then ordered to be buried even as he was still gasping for air. US District Judge Brian Cogan told the jurors after the verdict that it was up to them to decide to talk to the media, but that he would advise against it. “Once that door is open, it can’t be closed again,” he said. Estimates of how much money Guzman made from drugs vary. In 2009, Forbes Magazine put him on its list of the world’s richest people, with an estimated $1 billion. It later dropped him from the list, saying it was too difficult to quantify his assets. The US Justice Department said in 2017 it sought forfeiture of more than $14 billion in drug proceeds and illicit profits from Guzman. The most shocking allegation of corruption during the trial came from Guzman's former top aide Alex Cifuentes, who accused former Mexican president Enrique Pena Nieto of taking a $100 million bribe from Guzman. A spokesman for the ex-president has denied the claim. In one of the trial's final days, Guzman told the judge he would not testify in his own defence. The same day, he grinned broadly at audience member Alejandro Edda, the Mexican actor who plays Guzman in the Netflix drama "Narcos." Despite his ties to government officials, Guzman often lived on the run. Imprisoned in Mexico in 1993, he escaped in 2001 hidden in a laundry cart and spent the following years moving from one hideout to another in the mountains of Sinaloa, guarded by a private army. He was seized again in 2014, but pulled off his best known escape the following year when he disappeared into a tunnel dug into his cell in a maximum security prison. But the Mexican government says he blew his cover through a series of slip ups, including an attempt to make a movie about his life. He was finally recaptured in January 2016. Despite Guzman's downfall, the Sinaloa Cartel still has the biggest US distribution presence of Mexican cartels, followed by the fast-growing Jalisco New Generation Cartel, according to the US Drug Enforcement Administration. Together, they are the biggest producers of drugs sold on US streets.

Drug lord, escape artist 'El Chapo' convicted by US jury

Human rights groups expressed alarm at Sri Lanka's leader on Friday for praising Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and his bloody war on drugs as an "example to the whole world".

Despite international condemnation of a crackdown that has killed thousands of Filipinos, visiting Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena told Duterte during a banquet this week that he wanted to "follow your footsteps to control this hazard".

Carlos Conde, Philippines researcher for the New York-based Human Rights Watch, said Duterte's campaign was "a human rights calamity that no country in the world should even try to emulate".

"No 'drug war' that treated the drug problem purely from a crime perspective has ever succeeded," he said. "What they have wrought are untold suffering and the further destruction of the rule of law and the diminution of human rights".

The Philippine government has consistently refuted that and said the crackdown, which started in July 2016, was being administered lawfully.

On Friday, presidential spokesman, Salvador Panelo, said any allegations of state-sponsored killings were "pure hogwash".

Police say they have since killed at least 5,000 suspected drug dealers, although activists say the number could be far higher and they dispute official accounts that the killings were all in self-defence.

More than 200 people in Bangladesh have been killed by police in a similar campaign.

International drug smugglers have increasingly turned to Sri Lanka as a transit hub in Asia, authorities there have said.

Predominantly Buddhist Sri Lanka voted in favour of a UN&nbsp;resolution for a moratorium on the death penalty in 2015, but Sirisena said last year he wanted convicted traffickers caught arranging drugs deals from jail to be executed.

Philippines human rights group iDefend said that if Sirisena was serious about following Duterte's lead, he should be ready to face scrutiny by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague, which has started a preliminary examination into alleged crimes against humanity by Duterte.

"We warn Asian leaders not to emulate the Philippine model but adopt a humane, evidence-based public health approach to the drugs issue through a rights-based governance that strengthens, not erodes democratic institutions," iDefend spokesman Judy Pasimio said.

A spokesman for Sirisena did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Human rights groups expressed alarm at Sri Lanka's leader on Friday for praising Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and his bloody war on drugs as an "example to the whole world".

Human rights groups expressed alarm at Sri Lanka's leader on Friday for praising Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and his bloody war on drugs as an "example to the whole world". Despite international condemnation of a crackdown that has killed thousands of Filipinos, visiting Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena told Duterte during a banquet this week that he wanted to "follow your footsteps to control this hazard". Carlos Conde, Philippines researcher for the New York-based Human Rights Watch, said Duterte's campaign was "a human rights calamity that no country in the world should even try to emulate". "No 'drug war' that treated the drug problem purely from a crime perspective has ever succeeded," he said. "What they have wrought are untold suffering and the further destruction of the rule of law and the diminution of human rights". The Philippine government has consistently refuted that and said the crackdown, which started in July 2016, was being administered lawfully. On Friday, presidential spokesman, Salvador Panelo, said any allegations of state-sponsored killings were "pure hogwash". Police say they have since killed at least 5,000 suspected drug dealers, although activists say the number could be far higher and they dispute official accounts that the killings were all in self-defence. More than 200 people in Bangladesh have been killed by police in a similar campaign. International drug smugglers have increasingly turned to Sri Lanka as a transit hub in Asia, authorities there have said. Predominantly Buddhist Sri Lanka voted in favour of a UN resolution for a moratorium on the death penalty in 2015, but Sirisena said last year he wanted convicted traffickers caught arranging drugs deals from jail to be executed. Philippines human rights group iDefend said that if Sirisena was serious about following Duterte's lead, he should be ready to face scrutiny by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague, which has started a preliminary examination into alleged crimes against humanity by Duterte. "We warn Asian leaders not to emulate the Philippine model but adopt a humane, evidence-based public health approach to the drugs issue through a rights-based governance that strengthens, not erodes democratic institutions," iDefend spokesman Judy Pasimio said. A spokesman for Sirisena did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Activists decry Sri Lankan president's praise for Duterte's drugs war

China should rein in the methamphetamine-producing militias under its influence in eastern Myanmar and stem the flow of precursor chemicals fuelling the multi-billion-dollar drug trade, a report Tuesday said.

Myanmar's Shan state is now thought to be one of the largest producers - if not the largest producer - of meth in the world, feeding a growing market that stretches as far as Japan and Australia.

The country's restive eastern borderlands have hosted a flourishing narcotics trade for decades as the key producer in the lawless Golden Triangle, which also comprises areas of China, Laos, and Thailand.

The south-east Asian nation also remains the second biggest source country for opium and heroin after Afghanistan.

But many drugs networks have in recent years switched to synthetic methamphetamine pills - known regionally as "yaba", Thai for "crazy medicine" - and crystal meth or "ice", a much more potent and addictive version that is smoked or injected.

Various militias provide a safe haven for the booming industry, while precursor chemicals flow over the border from China, conflict specialist NGO International Crisis Group (ICG) said in a report.

Drug production and profits are now so vast that they "dwarf" the formal sector in Shan State and are at the "centre of its political economy", the report added.

The NGO urged China to "crack down" on the illegal trade of precursors across its southwestern border, where it said traffickers have been given free reign.

China should also "use its influence over the Wa and Mongla armed groups controlling enclaves on the Chinese border to end their involvement in the drug trade", the report said, referring to two of Myanmar's most powerful warlord-run ethnic groups, widely seen as the region's key narcotics producers.

Several billion dollars are estimated to be made each year in Myanmar for crystal meth, the ICG said, with Japan and Australia offering the highest street prices in the world.

A tonne has a wholesale value in Australia of at least $ 180 million and street prices several times higher.

Crystal meth is worth more than heroin gram-for-gram, the report said. The narcotic is also exported to China, South Korea, and New Zealand - often in branded tea packets - as the trade becomes "increasingly professionalised" and "dominated by transnational criminal syndicates operating at huge scale".

China's success in clamping down on its own illegal meth labs has pushed the drug networks over the border, with Australian biker gangs providing regional smuggling networks, the report said.

Meanwhile, regional prices for yaba have collapsed to the lowest prices in decades as producers dump huge quantities of Southeast Asia's favourite high on the market.&nbsp;

The southeast Asian nation also remains the second biggest source country for opium and heroin after Afghanistan.

China should rein in the methamphetamine-producing militias under its influence in eastern Myanmar and stem the flow of precursor chemicals fuelling the multi-billion-dollar drug trade, a report Tuesday said. Myanmar's Shan state is now thought to be one of the largest producers - if not the largest producer - of meth in the world, feeding a growing market that stretches as far as Japan and Australia. The country's restive eastern borderlands have hosted a flourishing narcotics trade for decades as the key producer in the lawless Golden Triangle, which also comprises areas of China, Laos, and Thailand. The south-east Asian nation also remains the second biggest source country for opium and heroin after Afghanistan. But many drugs networks have in recent years switched to synthetic methamphetamine pills - known regionally as "yaba", Thai for "crazy medicine" - and crystal meth or "ice", a much more potent and addictive version that is smoked or injected. Various militias provide a safe haven for the booming industry, while precursor chemicals flow over the border from China, conflict specialist NGO International Crisis Group (ICG) said in a report. Drug production and profits are now so vast that they "dwarf" the formal sector in Shan State and are at the "centre of its political economy", the report added. The NGO urged China to "crack down" on the illegal trade of precursors across its southwestern border, where it said traffickers have been given free reign. China should also "use its influence over the Wa and Mongla armed groups controlling enclaves on the Chinese border to end their involvement in the drug trade", the report said, referring to two of Myanmar's most powerful warlord-run ethnic groups, widely seen as the region's key narcotics producers. Several billion dollars are estimated to be made each year in Myanmar for crystal meth, the ICG said, with Japan and Australia offering the highest street prices in the world. A tonne has a wholesale value in Australia of at least $ 180 million and street prices several times higher. Crystal meth is worth more than heroin gram-for-gram, the report said. The narcotic is also exported to China, South Korea, and New Zealand - often in branded tea packets - as the trade becomes "increasingly professionalised" and "dominated by transnational criminal syndicates operating at huge scale". China's success in clamping down on its own illegal meth labs has pushed the drug networks over the border, with Australian biker gangs providing regional smuggling networks, the report said. Meanwhile, regional prices for yaba have collapsed to the lowest prices in decades as producers dump huge quantities of Southeast Asia's favourite high on the market.

China must act to stem Myanmar's meth trade: Report

In a first of its kind, the Kaski District Court here on Wednesday sentenced a rape convict with life imprisonment. The&nbsp;court pronounced the sentence to 27-year-old rape convict Kusum Poudel on charges of raping and murdering a 10-year-old girl in Pokhara.

A&nbsp;single bench of Justice Yogendra Prasad Shah made the historic verdict that was filed by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-18-dead-16-injured-after-mini-truck-plunges-into-river-184173">Nepal</a> Police on October 8 in accordance with the Criminal Act 2017. Under Clause 41, the act clearly states that Poudel would now remain in prison for the rest of his life.

The&nbsp;girl`s body was found&nbsp;a few&nbsp;metres away from her maternal home on September 23 with injuries on her neck, head, and stomach. On&nbsp;the very next day, the police arrested Poudel, who later confessed to his crime. He admitted that he had dragged the minor to a bush, raped her and strangled her to the death.

Poudel&nbsp;claimed that he was not in his senses as he was under the influence of alcohol and drugs.&nbsp;

In a first of its kind, the Kaski District Court here on Wednesday sentenced a rape convict with life imprisonment. The court pronounced the sentence to 27-year-old rape convict Kusum Poudel on charges of raping and murdering a 10-year-old girl in Pokhara.

In a first of its kind, the Kaski District Court here on Wednesday sentenced a rape convict with life imprisonment. The court pronounced the sentence to 27-year-old rape convict Kusum Poudel on charges of raping and murdering a 10-year-old girl in Pokhara. A single bench of Justice Yogendra Prasad Shah made the historic verdict that was filed by Nepal Police on October 8 in accordance with the Criminal Act 2017. Under Clause 41, the act clearly states that Poudel would now remain in prison for the rest of his life. The girl`s body was found a few metres away from her maternal home on September 23 with injuries on her neck, head, and stomach. On the very next day, the police arrested Poudel, who later confessed to his crime. He admitted that he had dragged the minor to a bush, raped her and strangled her to the death. Poudel claimed that he was not in his senses as he was under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

In a first, Nepal court delivers life imprisonment verdict to rape accused

Former 'Bigg Boss' contestant Ajaz Khan was arrested by the Anti-Narcotics Cell from a hotel in Mumbai for possession of drugs on Monday night. According to reports, the team found eight ecstasy tablets in his possession. The actor will be produced before a court on Tuesday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Mumbai: Actor Ajaz Khan arrested from a hotel in Bekasur by Anti-Narcotics Cell of the Mumbai police last night, in possession of banned narcotic substance (8 ecstasy tablets); he will be produced before a court today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1054610985737175040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

This is not the first time that Khan has been arrested. in 2016, the actor was arrested for allegedly sending obscene photos and lewd messages to a hairstylist. He was released on a bail of Rs 10,000 by a Mumbai court later.

Khan appeared in the seventh season of 'Bigg Boss'. &nbsp;He has also appeared on Comedy Nights Bachao, Box Cricket League and Comedy Nights with Kapil.

Former 'Bigg Boss' contestant Ajaz Khan was arrested by the Anti-Narcotics Cell from a hotel in Mumbai for possession of drugs on Monday night. According to reports, the team found eight ecstasy tablets in his possession.

Former 'Bigg Boss' contestant Ajaz Khan was arrested by the Anti-Narcotics Cell from a hotel in Mumbai for possession of drugs on Monday night. According to reports, the team found eight ecstasy tablets in his possession. The actor will be produced before a court on Tuesday. Mumbai: Actor Ajaz Khan arrested from a hotel in Bekasur by Anti-Narcotics Cell of the Mumbai police last night, in possession of banned narcotic substance (8 ecstasy tablets); he will be produced before a court today. #Maharashtra — ANI (@ANI) October 23, 2018 × This is not the first time that Khan has been arrested. in 2016, the actor was arrested for allegedly sending obscene photos and lewd messages to a hairstylist. He was released on a bail of Rs 10,000 by a Mumbai court later. Khan appeared in the seventh season of 'Bigg Boss'. He has also appeared on Comedy Nights Bachao, Box Cricket League and Comedy Nights with Kapil.

'Bigg Boss' star Ajaz Khan arrested for possession of drugs

Coordinated police raids in 116 countries have netted 500 tonnes of illicit pharmaceuticals available online, including fake cancer medications, counterfeit pain pills and illegal medical syringes, the Interpol police organisation said on Tuesday.

Interpol, based in the French city of Lyon, said an operation codenamed Pangea XI had led to 859 arrests worldwide and the seizure of some $14 million worth of potentially dangerous pharmaceuticals.

"Focusing on delivery services manipulated by organised criminal networks, the operation saw 3,671 web links closed down, including websites, social media pages, and online marketplaces," the organisation said.

The illegal drug trade on the internet - and in particular on what's known as the Dark Web - has been growing in recent years, despite authorities shutting down major market sites, as crime gangs have diversified and sought out new clients online.

It is the second significant drugs bust made by Interpol this month.

Coordinated police raids in 116 countries have netted 500 tonnes of illicit pharmaceuticals available online, including fake cancer medications, counterfeit pain pills and illegal medical syringes, the Interpol police organisation said on Tuesday.

Coordinated police raids in 116 countries have netted 500 tonnes of illicit pharmaceuticals available online, including fake cancer medications, counterfeit pain pills and illegal medical syringes, the Interpol police organisation said on Tuesday. Interpol, based in the French city of Lyon, said an operation codenamed Pangea XI had led to 859 arrests worldwide and the seizure of some $14 million worth of potentially dangerous pharmaceuticals. "Focusing on delivery services manipulated by organised criminal networks, the operation saw 3,671 web links closed down, including websites, social media pages, and online marketplaces," the organisation said. The illegal drug trade on the internet - and in particular on what's known as the Dark Web - has been growing in recent years, despite authorities shutting down major market sites, as crime gangs have diversified and sought out new clients online. It is the second significant drugs bust made by Interpol this month.

Interpol seizes 500 tonnes of illicit drugs in worldwide raids

A 25-year-old Brazilian woman was arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau from Indira Gandhi International Airport after she was caught smuggling cocaine that she had swallowed

The NCB recovered 930 gram of pure South American cocaine in the 106 capsules upon her arrival from Sao Paulo in Brazil on May 14. The woman was immediately rushed to Safdarjung hospital after an x-ray confirmed that she had filled her body with cocaine capsules.

She remained under medical supervision from May 14 till May 20. After recovery of the cocaine, the NCB team arrested her on May 20 and produced before the concerned Court.

She was placed under arrest under sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and remanded to judicial custody by a court.

The woman's identity has not been revealed. &nbsp;&nbsp;

She was placed under arrest under sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and remanded in judicial custody by a court

A 25-year-old Brazilian woman was arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau from Indira Gandhi International Airport after she was caught smuggling cocaine that she had swallowed The NCB recovered 930 gram of pure South American cocaine in the 106 capsules upon her arrival from Sao Paulo in Brazil on May 14. The woman was immediately rushed to Safdarjung hospital after an x-ray confirmed that she had filled her body with cocaine capsules. She remained under medical supervision from May 14 till May 20. After recovery of the cocaine, the NCB team arrested her on May 20 and produced before the concerned Court. She was placed under arrest under sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and remanded to judicial custody by a court. The woman's identity has not been revealed.

Brazil woman swallows 106 cocaine pills, caught at Delhi Airport

Prosecutors wrapped up their sexual assault case against comedian Bill Cosby on Thursday as experts offered conflicting testimony about the drugs he is accused of giving a then-friend before allegedly raping her.

Judge Steven O'Neill said he anticipated Cosby's fate would be in the hands of the jury next week. Lawyers said deliberations could begin as early as late Monday in an attempt to reach a unanimous verdict, which eluded the jury in Cosby's first trial. It ended in a mistrial in June.

Andrea Constand, 45, contends the former star of "The Cosby Show" gave her three little blue pills he said would help her relax and then sexually assaulted her at his home outside Philadelphia in 2004.

Cosby, 80, says any sexual contact with Constand was consensual. He could face 10 years in prison if convicted.

The questions of what drug Cosby gave Constand and the effects it had are central to the case.

Timothy Rohrig, a forensic toxicologist from Wichita, Kansas, called as the final prosecution witness, testified about the effects of Benadryl and Quaaludes, which Cosby in a 2005 deposition said he used to seduce women. Rohrig said the pills could have left Constand feeling incapacitated.

Constand testified last week that after swallowing the pills she experienced double vision, slurred her words, had dry mouth, and her legs felt "rubbery," even paralysed. She was an administrator for the women's basketball team at Cosby's alma mater, Temple University.

"All these symptoms she described, and the timing of the symptoms, were consistent with the ingestion of diphenhydramine," Rohrig said, using the generic name for Benadryl. The drug is commonly used for allergies.

The same symptoms also could have been caused by Quaaludes, which additionally make the user "very sleepy," he testified at Montgomery Count Courthouse in Norristown, Pennsylvania. Quaaludes are a sedative.

About 50 women have accused Cosby of sexually assaulting them, sometimes after plying them with drugs or alcohol in a series of alleged attacks dating back decades. Constand's charge is the only one recent enough to be the subject of criminal prosecution.

Cosby's defence team, which has portrayed Constand as a money-hungry con artist, aimed to cast doubt on Constand's claims the pills left her so impaired she could not resist.

A toxicologist testifying for the defence, Dr&nbspHarry Milman, called Benadryl "one of the safest drugs on the market" and said Quaaludes were not available in the Philadelphia area in 2004.

Prosecutor M&nbspStewart Ryan, during cross-examination, said Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele prosecuted a drug case in 2002 that resulted in the seizure of thousands of illegal Quaaludes.

Prosecutors wrapped up their sexual assault case against comedian Bill Cosby on Thursday as experts offered conflicting testimony about the drugs he is accused of giving a then-friend before allegedly raping her

Prosecutors wrapped up their sexual assault case against comedian Bill Cosby on Thursday as experts offered conflicting testimony about the drugs he is accused of giving a then-friend before allegedly raping her. Judge Steven O'Neill said he anticipated Cosby's fate would be in the hands of the jury next week. Lawyers said deliberations could begin as early as late Monday in an attempt to reach a unanimous verdict, which eluded the jury in Cosby's first trial. It ended in a mistrial in June. Andrea Constand, 45, contends the former star of "The Cosby Show" gave her three little blue pills he said would help her relax and then sexually assaulted her at his home outside Philadelphia in 2004. Cosby, 80, says any sexual contact with Constand was consensual. He could face 10 years in prison if convicted. The questions of what drug Cosby gave Constand and the effects it had are central to the case. Timothy Rohrig, a forensic toxicologist from Wichita, Kansas, called as the final prosecution witness, testified about the effects of Benadryl and Quaaludes, which Cosby in a 2005 deposition said he used to seduce women. Rohrig said the pills could have left Constand feeling incapacitated. Constand testified last week that after swallowing the pills she experienced double vision, slurred her words, had dry mouth, and her legs felt "rubbery," even paralysed. She was an administrator for the women's basketball team at Cosby's alma mater, Temple University. "All these symptoms she described, and the timing of the symptoms, were consistent with the ingestion of diphenhydramine," Rohrig said, using the generic name for Benadryl. The drug is commonly used for allergies. The same symptoms also could have been caused by Quaaludes, which additionally make the user "very sleepy," he testified at Montgomery Count Courthouse in Norristown, Pennsylvania. Quaaludes are a sedative. About 50 women have accused Cosby of sexually assaulting them, sometimes after plying them with drugs or alcohol in a series of alleged attacks dating back decades. Constand's charge is the only one recent enough to be the subject of criminal prosecution. Cosby's defence team, which has portrayed Constand as a money-hungry con artist, aimed to cast doubt on Constand's claims the pills left her so impaired she could not resist. A toxicologist testifying for the defence, Dr&nbspHarry Milman, called Benadryl "one of the safest drugs on the market" and said Quaaludes were not available in the Philadelphia area in 2004. Prosecutor M&nbspStewart Ryan, during cross-examination, said Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele prosecuted a drug case in 2002 that resulted in the seizure of thousands of illegal Quaaludes.

Cosby sex assault retrial to go to jury next week: Judge

drugs

Drugs, News on Drugs, stories on Drugs, articles on Drugs, Drugs stories at Wion, Drugs news, Drugs latest news