Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa has now issued a gazette that prohibits anyone from being in public spaces like parks, recreation spots, railways, seashore public roads and more unless they have a written permission to do so.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa declares public emergency

Economic crisis in Sri Lanka has taken an ugly turn. After protests turned violent,&nbsp;President Gotabaya Rajapaksa&nbsp;has declared a state of emergency in the country on Saturday.

Now, police and the military is patrolling the capital city, Colombo as shops have slowly opened.

A day earlier, angry protesters had demonstrated near the president’s home to demand his resignation. Plans also seem to have been made for a nationwide protest. &nbsp;

Invoking sections of the Public Security Ordinance, president has the power to make regulations in the interests of suppression of mutiny, preservation of public order, public security, riot or civil commotion or for the maintenance of essential supplies. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-sri-lankas-economy-spiralled-into-crisis-467476" hreflang="en">How Sri Lanka's economy spiralled into crisis</a>

The president can also take possession of any property, authorise detentions and search any premises under the regulations of emergency. &nbsp;

Not just this, he can also bring changes or suspend any law.

The Ministry of Public Defense has also said that steps have been taken to tighten security in several places as per the intelligence received.

Minister of Public Defense, Retired Rear Admiral Dr&nbsp;Sarath Weerasekera, said that relevant departments have been instructed to take necessary steps.

The Minister also added that he respects the constitutional right of the people to protest peacefully. &nbsp;

This comes a day after numerous protesters were arrested following protests near the home of president. Several calls for a nationwide public protest on Sunday have also been made. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Sri Lanka declares public emergency after violent protests over the economic crisis

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The office of president has blamed 'organized extremists' for violence during Thursday night's demonstration. &nbsp;

In the protests, more than 5,000 people marched towards president's house in the Sri Lankan capital. To end it, the Special Task Force, a paramilitary police squad, had to be brought in. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In the incident, at least 10 people, including journalists, were injured. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Economic crisis in Sri Lanka has taken an ugly turn. After protests turned violent, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has declared a state of emergency in the country on Saturday.

Economic crisis in Sri Lanka has taken an ugly turn. After protests turned violent, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has declared a state of emergency in the country on Saturday. Now, police and the military is patrolling the capital city, Colombo as shops have slowly opened. A day earlier, angry protesters had demonstrated near the president’s home to demand his resignation. Plans also seem to have been made for a nationwide protest. Invoking sections of the Public Security Ordinance, president has the power to make regulations in the interests of suppression of mutiny, preservation of public order, public security, riot or civil commotion or for the maintenance of essential supplies. Also Read: How Sri Lanka's economy spiralled into crisis The president can also take possession of any property, authorise detentions and search any premises under the regulations of emergency. Not just this, he can also bring changes or suspend any law. The Ministry of Public Defense has also said that steps have been taken to tighten security in several places as per the intelligence received. Minister of Public Defense, Retired Rear Admiral Dr Sarath Weerasekera, said that relevant departments have been instructed to take necessary steps. The Minister also added that he respects the constitutional right of the people to protest peacefully. This comes a day after numerous protesters were arrested following protests near the home of president. Several calls for a nationwide public protest on Sunday have also been made. Watch: Sri Lanka declares public emergency after violent protests over the economic crisis × The office of president has blamed 'organized extremists' for violence during Thursday night's demonstration. In the protests, more than 5,000 people marched towards president's house in the Sri Lankan capital. To end it, the Special Task Force, a paramilitary police squad, had to be brought in. In the incident, at least 10 people, including journalists, were injured. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka Crisis Updates: After declaration of emergency, security forces patrol Colombo

An emergency has been imposed in the small central American nation of El Salvador after the country recorded over 60 killings in the last 48 hours. El Salvador has been split by multiple street gangs and reported a series of violent incidents from different regions of the country.

60 killings in last 48 hours, El Salvador imposes state of emergency amid increased deaths

Preparing for a potential all-out Russian offensive amid rising threats, Ukraine's security council today approved plans to declare a state of national emergency throughout the country.

Ukraine's security council approves plans for emergency

Ethiopia's parliament has voted for an early end to a six-month state of emergency, which was imposed in last November as Tigray forces fighting the government and their allies advanced towards the capital Addis Ababa.

Ethiopia: Early end to a 6-month state of emergency

Justin Trudeau was heckled in parliament after he tried to defend his bid to invoke emergency powers. Will an extreme crackdown trigger a violent response from anti-vaxxers? Palki Sharma tells you why Trudeau must take responsibility for this mess.

Gravitas: Trudeau heckled in parliament amid Emergency bid

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced heckling in the House of Commons after he invoked the rarely used emergency powers against the ongoing truckers protests. It is only the second time Canadian history that such powers have been invoked in peace time.

Canada: Opposition heckles Trudeau in Parliament after invoking emergency powers

A bloody conflict between the government and the rebellious forces in second largest African nation might be easing. Ethiopian parliament is voted for an early end to a six-month state of emergency effective immediately, diplomats who are mediating between the two sides are cautiously optimistic as Ethiopia imposed the state of emergency in November 2021.

Ethiopian parliament lifts state of emergency early

Justin Trudeau invoked emergency provisions amid the arrest of armed anti-vax protesters near the US border. What are Trudeau's emergency powers? Are Canadians supporting this move? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Trudeau invokes emergency powers to crush anti-vaxxers

Ina bid to quell protests popping up across the nation, and hampering key cross border trade, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau became the only Canadian leader since his father 50 years ago to declare a state of emergency in peacetime.

Canadian PM Trudeau invokes emergency powers to deal with covid-19 led 'freedom convoy' protests

Aiming to cut off financial support for protesters who are staging blockades at border crossings, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced to invoke the country's Emergencies Act.

Trudeau said he was invoking the Act for the first time since it became law in 1988 to negate the impact of ‘Freedom Convoy’ protests.

The protests began when a group of truckers moved into Ottawa, Canada's capital, on January 29, clogging the streets surrounding the Parliament building and other areas of downtown in opposition to a new mandate requiring them to be fully vaccinated when crossing the Canadian-US border or face a two-week quarantine.

The demonstrations shut a main economic corridor between Canada and the United States for six days before it was reopened on Sunday.

What is the Emergencies Act?

The rule gives the government temporary powers to impose special restrictions on public assembly and travel.&nbsp;It gives the federal government power to implement temporary measures to ensure safety and security during national emergencies.

A declaration of a public welfare emergency allows the government to regulate the distribution of essential goods, decide what are essential services, and impose fines on violations of the act. It sets out a compensation scheme for those who suffer damages as a result of its application.

Trudeau said the government is not overriding the charter of rights and freedoms, nor limiting the right to peaceful assembly.

"We are not preventing people from exercising their right to protest legally," he added.

What are the key provisions of the act?

Financial institutions will now have the power to freeze personal or corporate accounts they believe are being used to fund illegal protests.

The government is also taking action on crowd-funding sites and the payment service providers they use, requiring them to register with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada and report any large suspicious donations, including digital payments and cryptocurrencies.

The government said that some sites have raised millions of dollars.

The act will broaden the scope of the government's anti-money laundering and terrorist financing rules to cover crowdfunding platforms.

The emergency measures would also allow the government to order towing companies to provide their services to clear blockades.

Trudeau said the measures would be “geographically specific and targeted only to where they are needed.” They will also be “time limited”.

How many times has the Emergencies Act been imposed?

The Emergencies Act, earlier known as the War Measures Act, has been used only three times in the country’s history.

The first time it was used during the two world wars and in 1970 by Trudeau's father, late prime minister Pierre Trudeau, after militant Quebec separatists kidnapped a British diplomat and a provincial Cabinet minister.

Justin Trudeau considered using the act at the start of the pandemic.

How can the act be invoked?

The Canadian Parliament needs to approve the act, once promulgated, within seven days of the government invoking the emergency measures. Parliament also has the power to revoke its approval.

Trudeau's Liberal minority government needs help from the opposition to pass his use of the act in Parliament.

On Monday, New Democrat leader Jagmeet Singh said his left-leaning party would be willing to back the move if it means ending the protests.

Any temporary laws made under the act can be challenged in court and are subject to the Charter of Rights and Freedoms of Canada's Constitution.

(With inputs from agencies)

Aiming to cut off financial support for protesters who are staging blockades at border crossings, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced to invoke the country's Emergencies Act.

Aiming to cut off financial support for protesters who are staging blockades at border crossings, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced to invoke the country's Emergencies Act. Trudeau said he was invoking the Act for the first time since it became law in 1988 to negate the impact of ‘Freedom Convoy’ protests. The protests began when a group of truckers moved into Ottawa, Canada's capital, on January 29, clogging the streets surrounding the Parliament building and other areas of downtown in opposition to a new mandate requiring them to be fully vaccinated when crossing the Canadian-US border or face a two-week quarantine. The demonstrations shut a main economic corridor between Canada and the United States for six days before it was reopened on Sunday. What is the Emergencies Act? The rule gives the government temporary powers to impose special restrictions on public assembly and travel. It gives the federal government power to implement temporary measures to ensure safety and security during national emergencies. A declaration of a public welfare emergency allows the government to regulate the distribution of essential goods, decide what are essential services, and impose fines on violations of the act. It sets out a compensation scheme for those who suffer damages as a result of its application. Trudeau said the government is not overriding the charter of rights and freedoms, nor limiting the right to peaceful assembly. "We are not preventing people from exercising their right to protest legally," he added. What are the key provisions of the act? Financial institutions will now have the power to freeze personal or corporate accounts they believe are being used to fund illegal protests. The government is also taking action on crowd-funding sites and the payment service providers they use, requiring them to register with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada and report any large suspicious donations, including digital payments and cryptocurrencies. The government said that some sites have raised millions of dollars. The act will broaden the scope of the government's anti-money laundering and terrorist financing rules to cover crowdfunding platforms. The emergency measures would also allow the government to order towing companies to provide their services to clear blockades. Trudeau said the measures would be “geographically specific and targeted only to where they are needed.” They will also be “time limited”. How many times has the Emergencies Act been imposed? The Emergencies Act, earlier known as the War Measures Act, has been used only three times in the country’s history. The first time it was used during the two world wars and in 1970 by Trudeau's father, late prime minister Pierre Trudeau, after militant Quebec separatists kidnapped a British diplomat and a provincial Cabinet minister. Justin Trudeau considered using the act at the start of the pandemic. How can the act be invoked? The Canadian Parliament needs to approve the act, once promulgated, within seven days of the government invoking the emergency measures. Parliament also has the power to revoke its approval. Trudeau's Liberal minority government needs help from the opposition to pass his use of the act in Parliament. On Monday, New Democrat leader Jagmeet Singh said his left-leaning party would be willing to back the move if it means ending the protests. Any temporary laws made under the act can be challenged in court and are subject to the Charter of Rights and Freedoms of Canada's Constitution. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada’s Emergencies Act: Here’s how Justin Trudeau govt will quell protests

Justin Trudeau invokes emergency powers, rules out military

For the first time in four years, a major blizzard has hit the US east coast. It expected to stretch from the Carolinas to Maine.

Emergency has been declared in five states so far - &nbsp;New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Rhode Island and Virginia.

As per experts, the storm will undergo bombogenesis, which means that colder air is expected to mix with warmer sea air. This will lead to a drop in atmospheric pressure, further leading to a bomb cyclone.

The term 'bombogenesis' has a scientific reference.&nbsp;

Boston Mayor Michelle said that the storm could be "historic".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-to-move-troops-to-eastern-europe-amid-russia-tensions-448630">Also read |&nbsp;US President Biden to move troops to eastern Europe amid Russia tensions</a>

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Boston has warned that the travel should be restricted and people should only step out if there is an emergency.&nbsp;

"If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle," the service said.

New York Mayor Eric Adams has cancelled outdoor dining for Saturday. Vaccine appointments have also been cancelled. New York Governor Kathy Hochul suggested that residents stay should stayhome "with a six pack of beer and wait it out".

Florida is also expected to see some of its coldest temperatures in years.

The storm which has began to hit the country's east coast is expected to intensify. As per the NWS and Accuweather, winds are expected to strengthen and can also hurricane-level speeds.

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time in four years, a major blizzard has hit the US east coast. It expected to stretch from the Carolinas to Maine. Emergency has been declared in five states so far - New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Rhode Island and Virginia.

For the first time in four years, a major blizzard has hit the US east coast. It expected to stretch from the Carolinas to Maine. Emergency has been declared in five states so far - New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Rhode Island and Virginia. As per experts, the storm will undergo bombogenesis, which means that colder air is expected to mix with warmer sea air. This will lead to a drop in atmospheric pressure, further leading to a bomb cyclone. The term 'bombogenesis' has a scientific reference. Boston Mayor Michelle said that the storm could be "historic". Also read | US President Biden to move troops to eastern Europe amid Russia tensions The National Weather Service (NWS) in Boston has warned that the travel should be restricted and people should only step out if there is an emergency. "If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle," the service said. New York Mayor Eric Adams has cancelled outdoor dining for Saturday. Vaccine appointments have also been cancelled. New York Governor Kathy Hochul suggested that residents stay should stayhome "with a six pack of beer and wait it out". Florida is also expected to see some of its coldest temperatures in years. The storm which has began to hit the country's east coast is expected to intensify. As per the NWS and Accuweather, winds are expected to strengthen and can also hurricane-level speeds. (With inputs from agencies)

'Bombogenesis' snow storm hits US, emergency declared in five states

A Russia-led military contingent completed its withdrawal from Kazakhstan as the country lifted a state of emergency after unprecedented unrest.

Russia-led troops complete withdrawal as Kazakhstan ends state of emergency

Russian troops in Kazakhastan on peacekeeping duty have completed their withdrawal from the country, confirmed Russian defence ministry. The troops left Kazakhstan after the country lifted the state of emergency which was declared after unprecedented unrest in the Central Asian state.

The Russian defence ministry said that four military planes carrying its last remaining troops had departed from the capital Nur-Sultan and Kazakhstan's largest city Almaty.

"The last units of the peacekeepers and the command of the Russian peacekeeping contingent headed by Colonel General Andrei Serdyukov will return home on these planes," it said, according to Russian news agencies.

Images published by the Russian defence ministry showed military airplanes landing at an airport in the southern Russian city of Ulyanovsk, where a ceremony was held to mark the troops' return.

Ex-Soviet Kazakhstan has been roiled by clashes that followed peaceful protests over a New Year fuel price increase and which left at least 225 people dead, including 19 fatalities among servicemen.

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Troops from the bloc that includes ex-Soviet states Armenia, Belarus, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Russia began arriving on January 6 following an invitation from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The withdrawal began on Thursday.

Serdyukov confirmed the completion of the mission under the auspices of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), a six-member military bloc led by Moscow.

"The peacekeeping operation...on the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan has been completed," said Serdyukov.

The withdrawal comes on the same day that oil-rich Kazakhstan ended states of emergency across the country imposed after violence erupted that authorities blamed on bandits and "terrorists".

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian troops in Kazakhastan on peacekeeping duty have completed their withdrawal from the country, confirmed Russian defence ministry. The troops left Kazakhstan after the country lifted the state of emergency which was declared after unprecedented unrest in the Central Asian state.

Russian troops in Kazakhastan on peacekeeping duty have completed their withdrawal from the country, confirmed Russian defence ministry. The troops left Kazakhstan after the country lifted the state of emergency which was declared after unprecedented unrest in the Central Asian state. The Russian defence ministry said that four military planes carrying its last remaining troops had departed from the capital Nur-Sultan and Kazakhstan's largest city Almaty. "The last units of the peacekeepers and the command of the Russian peacekeeping contingent headed by Colonel General Andrei Serdyukov will return home on these planes," it said, according to Russian news agencies. Images published by the Russian defence ministry showed military airplanes landing at an airport in the southern Russian city of Ulyanovsk, where a ceremony was held to mark the troops' return. Ex-Soviet Kazakhstan has been roiled by clashes that followed peaceful protests over a New Year fuel price increase and which left at least 225 people dead, including 19 fatalities among servicemen. × Troops from the bloc that includes ex-Soviet states Armenia, Belarus, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Russia began arriving on January 6 following an invitation from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The withdrawal began on Thursday. Serdyukov confirmed the completion of the mission under the auspices of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), a six-member military bloc led by Moscow. "The peacekeeping operation...on the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan has been completed," said Serdyukov. The withdrawal comes on the same day that oil-rich Kazakhstan ended states of emergency across the country imposed after violence erupted that authorities blamed on bandits and "terrorists". (With inputs from agencies)

Russian troops withdraw from Kazakhstan as state of emergency ends

A winter storm packing heavy snow and strong winds engulfed parts of the U.S. Southeast and mid-Atlantic states, forcing federal offices and schools to close as it threatened to make travel dangerous and knock out power.

Winter storm engulfs US states

The Sudanese capital of Khartoum witnessed a fresh wave of violence on Thursday after security forces killed three protesters during the latest anti-coup protests.

A fresh wave of violence in Sudan's capital after security forces kill three protesters

Thousands rally against the military rule as Sudan unrest continues

In Pics: Kazakhstan unrest turns deadly, 'dozens' of protesters killed in unprecedented violence

Kazakhstan has been gripped by turmoil. The scale of turbulence is unprecedented. The Prime Minister has resigned. The President has imposed a state of emergency. Russia has warned of foreign interference. Palki Sharma tells you what's happening.

Gravitas: Kazakhstan is in a 'state of emergency'

Protest against a rising fuel prices in Kazakhstan have in fact turned violent and also spiraled into an anti-government type of a movement. The situation has escalated so much the very first batch of Russian-led peacekeeping forces have now been deployed to try and stabilize the country.

Russia-led military alliance deploys 'peacekeepers' in protest-hit Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan declared a nationwide state of emergency on Wednesday. The step was taken after protests over fuel price hike erupted into clashes and even involved protesters storming government buildings. State of emergency had been declared on Wednesday morning in some cities hit by violence. The emergency was extended across the country late in the evening.

US and the United Nations have urged Kazakh authorities to show 'restraint' while dealing with civil unrest.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the United States supports "calls for calm" and said protesters should be able to "express themselves peacefully," urging the authorities "to exercise restraint."

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The United Nations also called for all parties to "exercise restraint, refrain from violence and promote dialogue."

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the international body was following events in the Central Asian country "with concern."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-protests-over-fuel-price-hike-kazakhstan-declares-state-of-emergency-in-cities-hit-by-unrest-442311">Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency in cities hit by unrest</a>

Psaki said "crazy Russian claims" about a US hand behind the mass demonstrations are "absolutely false and clearly a part of the standard Russian disinformation playbook."

The country has been roiled by protests since the start of the year which escalated Wednesday into clashes with police.

Authorities cut internet and mobile phone access nationwide and earlier declared states of emergency in the epicentres of the rallies -- financial capital Almaty and the Mangystau province -- as well as in the capital Nur-Sultan, where no demonstrations have so far been reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kazakhstan declared a nationwide state of emergency on Wednesday. The step was taken after protests over fuel price hike erupted into clashes and even involved protesters storming government buildings.

Kazakhstan declared a nationwide state of emergency on Wednesday. The step was taken after protests over fuel price hike erupted into clashes and even involved protesters storming government buildings. State of emergency had been declared on Wednesday morning in some cities hit by violence. The emergency was extended across the country late in the evening. US and the United Nations have urged Kazakh authorities to show 'restraint' while dealing with civil unrest. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the United States supports "calls for calm" and said protesters should be able to "express themselves peacefully," urging the authorities "to exercise restraint." × The United Nations also called for all parties to "exercise restraint, refrain from violence and promote dialogue." UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the international body was following events in the Central Asian country "with concern." Also Read | Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency in cities hit by unrest Psaki said "crazy Russian claims" about a US hand behind the mass demonstrations are "absolutely false and clearly a part of the standard Russian disinformation playbook." The country has been roiled by protests since the start of the year which escalated Wednesday into clashes with police. Authorities cut internet and mobile phone access nationwide and earlier declared states of emergency in the epicentres of the rallies -- financial capital Almaty and the Mangystau province -- as well as in the capital Nur-Sultan, where no demonstrations have so far been reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Nationwide emergency declared in Kazakhstan, US and UN urge restraint

As protests over a regional energy price hike engulfed other regions of the vast former Soviet country, Kazakhstan's president declared states of emergency in Almaty and an oil-rich western region Wednesday.

Kazakstan's financial capital Almaty has been in chaos since late Tuesday after police fired tear gas and stun grenades to quell protests that began in the west of the country over a spike in Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/check-out-cdcs-new-covid-guidelines-and-the-scientific-rationale-behind-them-442306">Check out CDC's new COVID guidelines and the scientific rationale behind them</a>

According to the presidential website, President Qasym-Jomart Tokayev declared states of emergency in Almaty and the hydrocarbon-rich western region of Mangystau from January 5 until January 19. &nbsp;

In both territories, a curfew will be in effect from 23:00 to 7:00.

Earlier, Tokayev had called for the return of the order in a video posted on Facebook by his press secretary Berik Uali.

"Don't submit to provocations from within and without. Do not heed calls to assault government buildings. This is a crime for which you will be punished. The government will not be felled, but we don't need conflict," Tokayev said in the address.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-launches-unidentified-projectile-into-the-sea-442293">North Korea launches unidentified projectile into the sea</a>

As protesters marched through Almaty's central streets shouting anti-government slogans and sometimes attacking vehicles, police fired stun grenades and tear gas at a crowd of over five thousand people.&nbsp;

"Old man out" was chanted in reference to Tokayev's still-powerful predecessor and mentor Nursultan Nazarbayev. "Government resign" was screamed before police moved in, sparking battles between protesters and police in the city square.&nbsp;

Two independent news websites that reported on the protests appeared to have been blocked, as well as the messaging apps Telegram, Signal and WhatsApp.&nbsp;

Across the country of 19 million, smaller protests have been taking place since Sunday, beginning in Zhanaozen in Mangystau. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;State of emergency declared in Kazakhstan after protests over rising fuel prices turned violent

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To begin with, an increase in LPG prices in hydrocarbon-rich Mangystau sparked the unrest, though a government move to lower the prices failed to calm the protesters.

President Qasym-Jomart Tokayev tweeted late on Tuesday that authorities had decided to lower LPG prices in Mangystau "to ensure stability."

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Правительство в рамках данных ему полномочий в целях обеспечения стабильности в стране приняло решение снизить в Мангистауской области цену за сжиженный газ до 50 тенге за литр.
— Qasym-Jomart Toqayev (@TokayevKZ) <a href="https://twitter.com/TokayevKZ/status/1478363933903925250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to independent media reports, his announcement of a new price of 50 tenges per litre (11 US cents), down from 120 at the beginning of the year, barely dampened protests in Zhanaozen and Aktau, the capital of Mangystau.

Small spontaneous marches and arrests of activists were reported in Nur-Sultan, the national capital.

Mangystau relies on cheap LPG as the main fuel for its automobiles, and any jump in prices would have affected food prices, which have risen steeply since the beginning of the Coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As protests over a regional energy price hike engulfed other regions of the vast former Soviet country, Kazakhstan's president declared states of emergency in Almaty and an oil-rich western region Wednesday.

As protests over a regional energy price hike engulfed other regions of the vast former Soviet country, Kazakhstan's president declared states of emergency in Almaty and an oil-rich western region Wednesday. Kazakstan's financial capital Almaty has been in chaos since late Tuesday after police fired tear gas and stun grenades to quell protests that began in the west of the country over a spike in Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices. Also read | Check out CDC's new COVID guidelines and the scientific rationale behind them According to the presidential website, President Qasym-Jomart Tokayev declared states of emergency in Almaty and the hydrocarbon-rich western region of Mangystau from January 5 until January 19. In both territories, a curfew will be in effect from 23:00 to 7:00. Earlier, Tokayev had called for the return of the order in a video posted on Facebook by his press secretary Berik Uali. "Don't submit to provocations from within and without. Do not heed calls to assault government buildings. This is a crime for which you will be punished. The government will not be felled, but we don't need conflict," Tokayev said in the address. Also read | North Korea launches unidentified projectile into the sea As protesters marched through Almaty's central streets shouting anti-government slogans and sometimes attacking vehicles, police fired stun grenades and tear gas at a crowd of over five thousand people. "Old man out" was chanted in reference to Tokayev's still-powerful predecessor and mentor Nursultan Nazarbayev. "Government resign" was screamed before police moved in, sparking battles between protesters and police in the city square. Two independent news websites that reported on the protests appeared to have been blocked, as well as the messaging apps Telegram, Signal and WhatsApp. Across the country of 19 million, smaller protests have been taking place since Sunday, beginning in Zhanaozen in Mangystau. Watch | State of emergency declared in Kazakhstan after protests over rising fuel prices turned violent To begin with, an increase in LPG prices in hydrocarbon-rich Mangystau sparked the unrest, though a government move to lower the prices failed to calm the protesters. President Qasym-Jomart Tokayev tweeted late on Tuesday that authorities had decided to lower LPG prices in Mangystau "to ensure stability." Правительство в рамках данных ему полномочий в целях обеспечения стабильности в стране приняло решение снизить в Мангистауской области цену за сжиженный газ до 50 тенге за литр. — Qasym-Jomart Toqayev (@TokayevKZ) January 4, 2022 × According to independent media reports, his announcement of a new price of 50 tenges per litre (11 US cents), down from 120 at the beginning of the year, barely dampened protests in Zhanaozen and Aktau, the capital of Mangystau. Small spontaneous marches and arrests of activists were reported in Nur-Sultan, the national capital. Mangystau relies on cheap LPG as the main fuel for its automobiles, and any jump in prices would have affected food prices, which have risen steeply since the beginning of the Coronavirus pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency in cities hit by unrest

Brazil’s government has declared a state of emergency in almost 50 cities due to heavy rains that caused floods and killed at least three people.

Brazil government declares a state of emergency in almost 50 cities due to heavy rains

Japan's former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe warned Xi Jinping against invading Taiwan, saying it would be economic suicide. What explains Japan's growing ties with Taiwan? Will it be enough to deter China's ambitions? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Japan's former PM warns China over Taiwan

Former Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said that "a Taiwan emergency is a Japanese emergency, and therefore an emergency for the Japan-US alliance".

Former Japan PM Shinzo Abe tells China, ‘Taiwan emergency is Japanese emergency'

Environment Canada has issued a "red alert" for British Columbia, warning of more rainfall that could be bad or even worst. Earlier this month, British Columbia had experienced a catastrophic flooding event.

Canada issues 'red alert' for British Columbia as it braces for more rain

Canada is dealing with a 'once-in-a-500-year-event' Torrential rains have flooded British Columbia. Vancouver has been cut off from the rest of the country. The Canadian Air Force has been deployed for rescue OPs. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Floods cut off Vancouver from rest of Canada | Emergency declared in British Columbia

The Canadian province of British Columbia has declared a state of emergency following massive floods and landslides caused by record-breaking rainfall in the last several days.

British Columbia declares state of emergency due to massive flooding

Parts of the Canadian province of British Columbia are under a state of emergency after an unrelenting downpour triggered widespread flooding and mudslides across the area. The unprecedented flooding has claimed one life so far, officials fear that the number could rise.

Major flooding in Canadian provinces, British Columbia declares emergency

UN officials are alarmed by a surge in arrests since Ethiopia introduced a state of emergency on November 2. Within just a matter of two weeks, more than 1000 people have been arrested.

The UN human rights office said Tuesday that most of those detained in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, Gondar, Bahir Dar, and other locations are Tigrayans.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-lies-ahead-for-ethiopia-as-war-enters-second-year-428831">In Pics - What lies ahead for Ethiopia as war enters second year</a>

"According to reports, at least 1,000 individuals are believed to have been detained... with some reports putting the figure much higher," spokeswoman Liz Throssell told reporters in Geneva.

The arrests have occurred since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government declared a state of emergency two weeks ago when Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) fighters threatened to march on the capital.

In addition, lawyers say that thousands of Tigrayans have been arbitrarily detained since the government announced the measures, which allow officials to detain without a warrant anyone suspected of supporting "terrorist groups".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopian-authorities-round-up-high-profile-tigrayans-including-bank-ceos-and-un-staff-428435">Ethiopian authorities round up high-profile Tigrayans, including bank CEOs and UN staff</a>

A number of UN employees are among those arrested since the state of emergency was declared.

In a statement released by Stephane Dujarric, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres again called for the immediate release of the employees.

"As far as the Secretary-General is aware, the staff members are being held without charge, and no specific information has been provided regarding the reasons for their arrest," Dujarric said.

Watch |&nbsp;Ethiopia: Ethiopian police detains ethnic Tigrayans on suspicion

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ethiopia-ethiopian-police-detains-ethnic-tigrayans-on-suspicion-428957/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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Throssell said 10 local UN staff, as well as 34 UN subcontracted drivers, are still in detention.

"We call for all those still in detention to be immediately released," she said, adding that if that does not happen, "a court or other independent and impartial tribunal should review the reasons for their detention, or they should be formally charged".
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According to her, it is "challenging" for the remaining UN rights agency staff to do their work, adding that "we have reports of at least 1,000 people detained" but are not able to provide a more definite number.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absolutely-ridiculous-rebels-in-ethiopia-play-down-reports-of-causing-bloodbath-427500">'Absolutely ridiculous': Rebels in Ethiopia play down reports of causing 'bloodbath'</a>

In general, she said, detention conditions were poor, with many detainees being held in overcrowded police stations.

Many of those detained had reportedly not even been informed of the reason for their detention, let alone charged formally.

"We are also concerned at reports of ill-treatment in detention," she said, adding that even though they had no specific evidence of torture, the reports were still concerning.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 70 women raped in Ethiopia's Amhara region

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-70-women-raped-in-ethiopias-amhara-region-428564/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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The conflict between Ethiopian authorities and the TPLF has killed thousands, displaced over two million people, and left hundreds of thousands in famine-like conditions over the past year.

All sides involved in the conflict have committed serious human rights violations, according to the UN.
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UN officials are alarmed by a surge in arrests since Ethiopia introduced a state of emergency on November 2. Within just a matter of two weeks, more than 1000 people have been arrested.

UN officials are alarmed by a surge in arrests since Ethiopia introduced a state of emergency on November 2. Within just a matter of two weeks, more than 1000 people have been arrested. The UN human rights office said Tuesday that most of those detained in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, Gondar, Bahir Dar, and other locations are Tigrayans. Also read | In Pics - What lies ahead for Ethiopia as war enters second year "According to reports, at least 1,000 individuals are believed to have been detained... with some reports putting the figure much higher," spokeswoman Liz Throssell told reporters in Geneva. The arrests have occurred since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government declared a state of emergency two weeks ago when Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) fighters threatened to march on the capital. In addition, lawyers say that thousands of Tigrayans have been arbitrarily detained since the government announced the measures, which allow officials to detain without a warrant anyone suspected of supporting "terrorist groups". Also read | Ethiopian authorities round up high-profile Tigrayans, including bank CEOs and UN staff A number of UN employees are among those arrested since the state of emergency was declared. In a statement released by Stephane Dujarric, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres again called for the immediate release of the employees. "As far as the Secretary-General is aware, the staff members are being held without charge, and no specific information has been provided regarding the reasons for their arrest," Dujarric said. Watch | Ethiopia: Ethiopian police detains ethnic Tigrayans on suspicion Throssell said 10 local UN staff, as well as 34 UN subcontracted drivers, are still in detention. "We call for all those still in detention to be immediately released," she said, adding that if that does not happen, "a court or other independent and impartial tribunal should review the reasons for their detention, or they should be formally charged". According to her, it is "challenging" for the remaining UN rights agency staff to do their work, adding that "we have reports of at least 1,000 people detained" but are not able to provide a more definite number. Also read | 'Absolutely ridiculous': Rebels in Ethiopia play down reports of causing 'bloodbath' In general, she said, detention conditions were poor, with many detainees being held in overcrowded police stations. Many of those detained had reportedly not even been informed of the reason for their detention, let alone charged formally. "We are also concerned at reports of ill-treatment in detention," she said, adding that even though they had no specific evidence of torture, the reports were still concerning. Watch | Gravitas: 70 women raped in Ethiopia's Amhara region The conflict between Ethiopian authorities and the TPLF has killed thousands, displaced over two million people, and left hundreds of thousands in famine-like conditions over the past year. All sides involved in the conflict have committed serious human rights violations, according to the UN.

Ethiopia state of emergency: With over 1000 arrested in just two weeks, UN raises alarm

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