The former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been indicted for corruption and influence peddling. France's highest court has passed a judgment ordering Nicolas Sarkozy to wear an electronic tag for a period of a year. Watch in for more details!

France: Ex-Prez Nicolas Sarkozy Indicted For Bribery & Influence Peddling

Dominique Pelicot was found guilty by a French court of five judges on Thursday (Dec 19) of drugging and the mass rape of his then-wife Gisèle Pelicot. The 72-year-old man has been handed the maximum sentence for his charges, 20 years in prison. He had been accused of repeatedly raping, and enlisting strangers to abuse, his heavily sedated wife for over a decade. Watch in for more details!

France Mass Rape Trial: Gisèle Pelicot's Ex-Husband Dominique Sentenced To 20 Years In Prison

France Mass Rape Trial: Dominique Pelicot Faces 20 Years In Prison; All Defendants Convicted

France’s highest court upheld on Wednesday former President Nicolas Sarkozy’s conviction for corruption and influence peddling. Watch this report for more details!

France: Sarkozy First Former Head of State Ordered to Wear Electronic Tag

Paris, France
Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors. 
Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands including LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers.
In recent weeks, upscale French luxury department store Printemps announced it was teaming up with the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, and French financial tech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum in its stores in France – becoming the first European department store to do so. The move, coming as bitcoin rises, has been noticed by other brands and retailers who are showing interest in joining in.
“There have been quite a few calls – it’s generated interest,” said David Princay, president of Binance France, who said the company is in talks with other luxury labels.
Luxury lighter and pen maker S.T. Dupont told Reuters it aims to accept cryptocurrency payments in two Paris stores before the holidays.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bitcoin-hits-106000-amid-trumps-pro-crypto-push-784305">Also read: Bitcoin hits $106,000 amid Trump’s pro-crypto push</a>
In the realm of experiences, cruise company Virgin Voyages began this month offering its first product accepting Bitcoin as a payment option – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships.
Regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited uses in the real world. High volatility has been another barrier to wide adoption as a means of payment.
But pledges of support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to bring in more friendly e-currency regulation, have fueled record-breaking rises for Bitcoin. S&amp;P analysts say the narrative is starting to shift, noting that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase predictability for cryptocurrencies.
<h2>Seeking innovative branding</h2>
Luxury labels have long sought to cater to affluent shoppers from the tech industry by opening stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and issuing products like the Hermes Apple Watch, for example, which combines signature, stitched leather straps of the French Birkin bag maker with tech giant Apple’s connected timepiece. 
Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s recent highs – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes as the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years and searches for new sources of growth.
Offering cryptocurrency payments can be a way for companies to brand themselves as innovative rather than “a stuffy old brand that’s only selling to the boomers,” said Andrew O’Neill, digital assets lead analyst at S&amp;P Global Ratings.
The payment option remains largely symbolic. Retailers usually reconvert the funds to euros or dollars to offset risks of volatility, while for most shoppers, payment methods are seen overall as “something that’s been solved” already by such transaction platforms as PayPal or Venmo, said O’Neill. 
Watch | Bitcoin Smashes Records as Trump Signals Strategic Reserve Plans
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But for bitcoin investors who have seen a strong rise in the value of their investment, luxury goods – a designer handbag or high-end watch – are an obvious choice for diversifying one’s portfolio, analysts say.
In a sign of growing interest from designer labels, Balenciaga recently issued a leather card holder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. The black leather accessory, which retails for 350 euros ($368), includes a keychain and Eiffel Tower charm, and an NFC chip fitted underneath the brand logo. Ledger’s Stax Crypto hardware, its recently developed higher-end hardware with a curved touch screen, sells for $399 at Best Buy . The company’s “Flex” hardware, which resembles a mini Amazon Kindle, sells for $249 while the “Nano” version, which looks like a USB key, sells for $79. 
Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer for luxury conglomerate Kering, has described the group’s strategy when it comes to technology as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see.” He emphasized the embrace of new technologies as key to reaching younger and Asian clientele.
Kering’s star label, Gucci, has since 2022 made purchases available through 10 cryptocurrencies for most of its products in the United States. 
Printemps is working to expand its crypto payments service to New York City, where it plans to open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March.
Bitcoin’s rise in late 2021 prompted an initial flurry of interest from luxury brands with Tag Heuer, headed at the time by LVMH luxury scion Frederic Arnault, as well as Gucci, accepting payments in cryptocurrency the following year for some purchases in the United States. 
One crypto advocate who recently used digital assets to make luxury purchases is Eunice Wong, an investor and influencer known as “Eunicorn.”
Wong said she used cryptocurrency to buy several high-end watches this year including an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. However she is not interested in being drawn in by high-end brands seeking to build a closer client relationship, preferring to bypass traditional retail stores and sales routines. That takes too much time, in her view. “If I will buy, I’ll buy on the secondary market, not through them,” she told Reuters. “I want it now.”
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands like LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers.



Paris, France Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors. Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands including LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers. In recent weeks, upscale French luxury department store Printemps announced it was teaming up with the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, and French financial tech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum in its stores in France – becoming the first European department store to do so. The move, coming as bitcoin rises, has been noticed by other brands and retailers who are showing interest in joining in. “There have been quite a few calls – it’s generated interest,” said David Princay, president of Binance France, who said the company is in talks with other luxury labels. Luxury lighter and pen maker S.T. Dupont told Reuters it aims to accept cryptocurrency payments in two Paris stores before the holidays. Also read: Bitcoin hits $106,000 amid Trump’s pro-crypto push In the realm of experiences, cruise company Virgin Voyages began this month offering its first product accepting Bitcoin as a payment option – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships. Regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited uses in the real world. High volatility has been another barrier to wide adoption as a means of payment. But pledges of support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to bring in more friendly e-currency regulation, have fueled record-breaking rises for Bitcoin. S&P analysts say the narrative is starting to shift, noting that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase predictability for cryptocurrencies. Seeking innovative branding Luxury labels have long sought to cater to affluent shoppers from the tech industry by opening stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and issuing products like the Hermes Apple Watch, for example, which combines signature, stitched leather straps of the French Birkin bag maker with tech giant Apple’s connected timepiece. Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s recent highs – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes as the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years and searches for new sources of growth. Offering cryptocurrency payments can be a way for companies to brand themselves as innovative rather than “a stuffy old brand that’s only selling to the boomers,” said Andrew O’Neill, digital assets lead analyst at S&P Global Ratings. The payment option remains largely symbolic. Retailers usually reconvert the funds to euros or dollars to offset risks of volatility, while for most shoppers, payment methods are seen overall as “something that’s been solved” already by such transaction platforms as PayPal or Venmo, said O’Neill. Watch | Bitcoin Smashes Records as Trump Signals Strategic Reserve Plans × But for bitcoin investors who have seen a strong rise in the value of their investment, luxury goods – a designer handbag or high-end watch – are an obvious choice for diversifying one’s portfolio, analysts say. In a sign of growing interest from designer labels, Balenciaga recently issued a leather card holder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. The black leather accessory, which retails for 350 euros ($368), includes a keychain and Eiffel Tower charm, and an NFC chip fitted underneath the brand logo. Ledger’s Stax Crypto hardware, its recently developed higher-end hardware with a curved touch screen, sells for $399 at Best Buy . The company’s “Flex” hardware, which resembles a mini Amazon Kindle, sells for $249 while the “Nano” version, which looks like a USB key, sells for $79. Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer for luxury conglomerate Kering, has described the group’s strategy when it comes to technology as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see.” He emphasized the embrace of new technologies as key to reaching younger and Asian clientele. Kering’s star label, Gucci, has since 2022 made purchases available through 10 cryptocurrencies for most of its products in the United States. Printemps is working to expand its crypto payments service to New York City, where it plans to open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March. Bitcoin’s rise in late 2021 prompted an initial flurry of interest from luxury brands with Tag Heuer, headed at the time by LVMH luxury scion Frederic Arnault, as well as Gucci, accepting payments in cryptocurrency the following year for some purchases in the United States. One crypto advocate who recently used digital assets to make luxury purchases is Eunice Wong, an investor and influencer known as “Eunicorn.” Wong said she used cryptocurrency to buy several high-end watches this year including an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. However she is not interested in being drawn in by high-end brands seeking to build a closer client relationship, preferring to bypass traditional retail stores and sales routines. That takes too much time, in her view. “If I will buy, I’ll buy on the secondary market, not through them,” she told Reuters. “I want it now.” Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Luxury brands to consider accepting crypto payments as bitcoin soars

Several EU countries including France and Italy on Tuesday upped pressure on Brussels to ditch fines for embattled European carmakers that do not meet carbon emission reduction targets in 2025. Watch this report for more details!

France, Italy Push To Scrap Car Emission Fines

France
France's new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Tuesday fended off a torrent of criticism after he chaired a provincial town hall meeting as the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte grappled with the devastation of a cyclone.
The controversy erupted less than a week after Bayrou was named as the sixth prime minister of  President Emmanuel Macron's mandate with the task of ending months of political crisis.
The veteran centrist had already ruffled some feathers by insisting that he would keep his post as mayor of the southwestern city of Pau while serving as prime minister.
Bayrou went to Pau Monday evening to attend the town hall meeting where he confirmed that he would stay on in the post that he has held for the last decade.
His presence there meant he had to attend a meeting called by Macron on the Mayotte crisis by video. Hundreds are feared to have died in the storm.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-ramshackle-housing-left-mayotte-exposed-to-cyclone-chidos-fury-784759">Also read: How ramshackle housing left Mayotte exposed to Cyclone Chido's fury</a>
French National Assembly speaker Yael Braun-Pivet, a member of Macron's centrist party, criticised the trip to Pau.
"In the face of such a catastrophe -- of a kind that has not been seen on French territory for decades -- it is important to be side-by-side with the people."
"I would have preferred that the prime minister, instead of taking a plane for Pau, took a plane for Mamoudzou," she told Franceinfo radio, referring to Mayotte's capital.
The head of the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) in parliament Mathilde Panot said that after "20 years of the politics of abandonment" of Mayotte, Bayrou "did not understand the symbol" he had sent by going to Pau.
On the right, Republicans (LR) MP Thibault Bazin said that the municipal council could have "done without" the presence of its mayor" given the events in Mayotte and the urgency of France needing a 2025 budget.
Watch | Mayotte Reels From Cyclone Chido's Devastation
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'My responsibility' 
But quizzed about the trip in parliament, Bayrou defended his travel to Pau and remaining its mayor, saying, "We do not have the right to separate the province and the circle of power in Paris."
"Pau is in France," he argued.
"I chaired the municipal council of my city... and I consider that, in doing so, I was also carrying out my responsibility as a citizen," he added.
Bayrou sparked further controversy by declaring "it is not customary for the prime minister and the president to leave the national territory at the same time." Macron has said he will go to Mayotte. But critics pointed out that Mayotte as an overseas territory is an integral part of France.
Appointed on Friday, Bayrou has still to name a government, with ministers from the previous administration staying on in a caretaker capacity.
Bayrou met Macron on Tuesday to discuss the cabinet and was to hold further talks with the head of state, a source close to the prime minister said.
Bayrou told reporters he hoped to have a government formed "in the next days".
In a day of high political drama when Bayrou was unveiled as premier on Friday, sources said Bayrou had effectively strong-armed Macron into naming him by threatening to withdraw the support of the centrist MoDem party that he leads.
Proud of his rural origins in southwestern France, Bayrou has written a biography of one of Pau's most famous natives and his personal hero, King Henry IV, who ruled from 1589 till his assassination in 1610.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bayrou went to Pau Monday evening to attend the town hall meeting where he confirmed that he would stay on in the post that he has held for the last decade.



France France's new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Tuesday fended off a torrent of criticism after he chaired a provincial town hall meeting as the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte grappled with the devastation of a cyclone. The controversy erupted less than a week after Bayrou was named as the sixth prime minister of President Emmanuel Macron's mandate with the task of ending months of political crisis. The veteran centrist had already ruffled some feathers by insisting that he would keep his post as mayor of the southwestern city of Pau while serving as prime minister. Bayrou went to Pau Monday evening to attend the town hall meeting where he confirmed that he would stay on in the post that he has held for the last decade. His presence there meant he had to attend a meeting called by Macron on the Mayotte crisis by video. Hundreds are feared to have died in the storm. Also read: How ramshackle housing left Mayotte exposed to Cyclone Chido's fury French National Assembly speaker Yael Braun-Pivet, a member of Macron's centrist party, criticised the trip to Pau. "In the face of such a catastrophe -- of a kind that has not been seen on French territory for decades -- it is important to be side-by-side with the people." "I would have preferred that the prime minister, instead of taking a plane for Pau, took a plane for Mamoudzou," she told Franceinfo radio, referring to Mayotte's capital. The head of the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) in parliament Mathilde Panot said that after "20 years of the politics of abandonment" of Mayotte, Bayrou "did not understand the symbol" he had sent by going to Pau. On the right, Republicans (LR) MP Thibault Bazin said that the municipal council could have "done without" the presence of its mayor" given the events in Mayotte and the urgency of France needing a 2025 budget. Watch | Mayotte Reels From Cyclone Chido's Devastation × 'My responsibility' But quizzed about the trip in parliament, Bayrou defended his travel to Pau and remaining its mayor, saying, "We do not have the right to separate the province and the circle of power in Paris." "Pau is in France," he argued. "I chaired the municipal council of my city... and I consider that, in doing so, I was also carrying out my responsibility as a citizen," he added. Bayrou sparked further controversy by declaring "it is not customary for the prime minister and the president to leave the national territory at the same time." Macron has said he will go to Mayotte. But critics pointed out that Mayotte as an overseas territory is an integral part of France. Appointed on Friday, Bayrou has still to name a government, with ministers from the previous administration staying on in a caretaker capacity. Bayrou met Macron on Tuesday to discuss the cabinet and was to hold further talks with the head of state, a source close to the prime minister said. Bayrou told reporters he hoped to have a government formed "in the next days". In a day of high political drama when Bayrou was unveiled as premier on Friday, sources said Bayrou had effectively strong-armed Macron into naming him by threatening to withdraw the support of the centrist MoDem party that he leads. Proud of his rural origins in southwestern France, Bayrou has written a biography of one of Pau's most famous natives and his personal hero, King Henry IV, who ruled from 1589 till his assassination in 1610. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

France's new PM faces criticism for chairing town hall meeting amid Mayotte cyclone tragedy

Cyclone Chido, described as the "century’s worst storm," has wreaked havoc on the island of Mayotte, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. The death toll continues to rise as rescue efforts intensify in the affected areas. Watch in for more details!

Cyclone Chido: France Fears Heavy Toll As Cyclone Chido Batters Mayotte

Cyclone Chido, described as the "century’s worst storm," has wreaked havoc on the island of Mayotte, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. The death toll continues to rise as rescue efforts intensify in the affected areas.



Cyclone Chido: 'Century’s Worst Storm' Wrecks Mayotte, Death Toll Increases

Dominique Pelicot, the 71-year-old at the center of a shocking rape trial in France, took the stand for the final time today. Pelicot apologized to his family and thanked the court for considering his medical conditions. Watch in for more details!

French Rape Trial Nears Verdict: Dominique Pelicot Apologises To Family As Rape Trial Concludes

France's new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Tuesday fended off a torrent of criticism after he chaired a provincial town hall meeting as the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte grappled with the devastation of a cyclone.

The controversy erupted less than a week after Bayrou was named as the sixth prime minister of &nbsp;President Emmanuel Macron's mandate with the task of ending months of political crisis.

The veteran centrist had already ruffled some feathers by insisting that he would keep his post as mayor of the southwestern city of Pau while serving as prime minister.

Bayrou went to Pau Monday evening to attend the town hall meeting where he confirmed that he would stay on in the post that he has held for the last decade.

His presence there meant he had to attend a meeting called by Macron on the Mayotte crisis by video. Hundreds are feared to have died in the storm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-ramshackle-housing-left-mayotte-exposed-to-cyclone-chidos-fury-784759">Also read:&nbsp;How ramshackle housing left Mayotte exposed to Cyclone Chido's fury</a>

French National Assembly speaker Yael Braun-Pivet, a member of Macron's centrist party, criticised the trip to Pau.

"In the face of such a catastrophe -- of a kind that has not been seen on French territory for decades -- it is important to be side-by-side with the people."

"I would have preferred that the prime minister, instead of taking a plane for Pau, took a plane for Mamoudzou," she told Franceinfo radio, referring to Mayotte's capital.

The head of the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) in parliament Mathilde Panot said that after "20 years of the politics of abandonment" of Mayotte, Bayrou "did not understand the symbol" he had sent by going to Pau.

On the right, Republicans (LR) MP Thibault Bazin said that the municipal council could have "done without" the presence of its mayor" given the events in Mayotte and the urgency of France needing a 2025 budget.

Watch |&nbsp;Mayotte Reels From Cyclone Chido's Devastation

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'My responsibility'&nbsp;

But quizzed about the trip in parliament, Bayrou defended his travel to Pau and remaining its mayor, saying, "We do not have the right to separate the province and the circle of power in Paris."

"Pau is in France," he argued.

"I chaired the municipal council of my city... and I consider that, in doing so, I was also carrying out my responsibility as a citizen," he added.

Bayrou sparked further controversy by declaring "it is not customary for the prime minister and the president to leave the national territory at the same time." Macron has said he will go to Mayotte. But critics pointed out that Mayotte as an overseas territory is an integral part of France.

Appointed on Friday, Bayrou has still to name a government, with ministers from the previous administration staying on in a caretaker capacity.

Bayrou met Macron on Tuesday to discuss the cabinet and was to hold further talks with the head of state, a source close to the prime minister said.

Bayrou told reporters he hoped to have a government formed "in the next days".

In a day of high political drama when Bayrou was unveiled as premier on Friday, sources said Bayrou had effectively strong-armed Macron into naming him by threatening to withdraw the support of the centrist MoDem party that he leads.

Proud of his rural origins in southwestern France, Bayrou has written a biography of one of Pau's most famous natives and his personal hero, King Henry IV, who ruled from 1589 till&nbsp;his assassination in 1610.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

France's new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Tuesday fended off a torrent of criticism after he chaired a provincial town hall meeting as the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte grappled with the devastation of a cyclone.

France's new Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Tuesday fended off a torrent of criticism after he chaired a provincial town hall meeting as the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte grappled with the devastation of a cyclone. The controversy erupted less than a week after Bayrou was named as the sixth prime minister of President Emmanuel Macron's mandate with the task of ending months of political crisis. The veteran centrist had already ruffled some feathers by insisting that he would keep his post as mayor of the southwestern city of Pau while serving as prime minister. Bayrou went to Pau Monday evening to attend the town hall meeting where he confirmed that he would stay on in the post that he has held for the last decade. His presence there meant he had to attend a meeting called by Macron on the Mayotte crisis by video. Hundreds are feared to have died in the storm. Also read: How ramshackle housing left Mayotte exposed to Cyclone Chido's fury French National Assembly speaker Yael Braun-Pivet, a member of Macron's centrist party, criticised the trip to Pau. "In the face of such a catastrophe -- of a kind that has not been seen on French territory for decades -- it is important to be side-by-side with the people." "I would have preferred that the prime minister, instead of taking a plane for Pau, took a plane for Mamoudzou," she told Franceinfo radio, referring to Mayotte's capital. The head of the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) in parliament Mathilde Panot said that after "20 years of the politics of abandonment" of Mayotte, Bayrou "did not understand the symbol" he had sent by going to Pau. On the right, Republicans (LR) MP Thibault Bazin said that the municipal council could have "done without" the presence of its mayor" given the events in Mayotte and the urgency of France needing a 2025 budget. Watch | Mayotte Reels From Cyclone Chido's Devastation × 'My responsibility' But quizzed about the trip in parliament, Bayrou defended his travel to Pau and remaining its mayor, saying, "We do not have the right to separate the province and the circle of power in Paris." "Pau is in France," he argued. "I chaired the municipal council of my city... and I consider that, in doing so, I was also carrying out my responsibility as a citizen," he added. Bayrou sparked further controversy by declaring "it is not customary for the prime minister and the president to leave the national territory at the same time." Macron has said he will go to Mayotte. But critics pointed out that Mayotte as an overseas territory is an integral part of France. Appointed on Friday, Bayrou has still to name a government, with ministers from the previous administration staying on in a caretaker capacity. Bayrou met Macron on Tuesday to discuss the cabinet and was to hold further talks with the head of state, a source close to the prime minister said. Bayrou told reporters he hoped to have a government formed "in the next days". In a day of high political drama when Bayrou was unveiled as premier on Friday, sources said Bayrou had effectively strong-armed Macron into naming him by threatening to withdraw the support of the centrist MoDem party that he leads. Proud of his rural origins in southwestern France, Bayrou has written a biography of one of Pau's most famous natives and his personal hero, King Henry IV, who ruled from 1589 till his assassination in 1610. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cyclone Chido has caused widespread devastation in Mayotte, with France fearing a heavy toll as the storm continues to batter the region. The powerful cyclone has brought heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous flooding, leading to significant damage to infrastructure and homes. Authorities are working to assess the extent of the destruction and provide relief to affected residents.

Mayotte Reels From Cyclone Chido's Devastation

Cyclone Chido has caused widespread devastation in Mayotte, with France fearing a heavy toll as the storm continues to batter the region. The powerful cyclone has brought heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous flooding, leading to significant damage to infrastructure and homes. Authorities are working to assess the extent of the destruction and provide relief to affected residents. 

Cyclone Chido, described as the "century’s worst storm," has wreaked havoc on the island of Mayotte, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. The death toll continues to rise as rescue efforts intensify in the affected areas.

Dominique Pelicot, the 71-year-old at the center of a shocking rape trial in France, took the stand for the final time today. Pelicot apologized to his family and thanked the court for considering his medical conditions. Watch in for more details!



France
The French man who has admitted to enlisting dozens of strangers to rape his heavily-sedated wife asked forgiveness from his family on Monday and hailed the courage of his now ex-spouse during his trial.
"I would like to start by hailing the courage of my ex-wife" Gisele Pelicot, her ex-husband Dominique Pelicot said in his final statement to the court ahead of the verdict later in the week. 
"I regret what I did, making (my family) suffer... I ask them for forgiveness," he said, asking the family to "accept my apologies".
In a trial that shocked the country, Dominique Pelicot, 72, has admitted to drugging his then-wife Gisele Pelicot for almost a decade so he and strangers he recruited online could rape her.
Gisele Pelicot, 72, has become a feminist hero at home and abroad for refusing to be ashamed, waiving her right to a closed trial and standing up to her aggressors in court.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prosecutors-demand-maximum-term-for-husband-who-drugged-wife-in-french-rape-trial-779115">Also read: Prosecutors demand maximum term for husband who drugged wife in French rape trial</a>
Alongside her ex-husband, 50 other men aged 27 to 74 are on trial, including one who did not abuse her but raped his own wife with Dominique Pelicot's help.
Sitting in the glass defendants' box, Dominique Pelicot reaffirmed that he had told "the whole truth" since the beginning of the trial on September 2 in the southern French city of Avignon.
He also thanked the court for allowing him to remain seated on a special chair because of his fragile state of health, which "could have been interpreted as nonchalance" but which was not, he added. 
<h2>'Rest of my life in your hands' </h2>
He added that "I have been called many things" but "I rather intend to be forgotten," saying he felt an "inner shame".
"I can tell my whole family that I love them," he said.
Turning to the five judges who will issue the verdict, he said: "There you go, you have the rest of my life in your hands." 
The verdict for him and the other defendants is expected Thursday morning but the timing could slip, presiding judge Roger Arata said as he adjourned the trial.
Watch | France: Gisele Pelicot Gives Closing Statement In Shocking French Trial | World News | WION
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"We will head to the deliberation chamber and will not leave until we have made our decision," Arata told the court, saying the delivery of the verdict had been scheduled for 0830 GMT Thursday, but cautioning the timing was "theoretical" and it could be postponed to Thursday afternoon or Friday morning.
As she left the court, Gisele Pelicot was greeted with applause and shouts of "bravo Gisele!" by supporters.
On November 25, prosecutors requested the maximum possible sentence -- 20 years behind bars -- against Dominique Pelicot for aggravated rape.
The prosecution has requested 10 to 18 years in prison against the 49 defendants also charged with aggravated rape.
One more accused -- facing the lesser charge of groping -- risks up to four years in prison.
Several defence lawyers have attempted to shift the totality of the responsibility to Dominique Pelicot, arguing their clients were victims of a "monster" who had manipulated them into assaulting Gisele Pelicot.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

In a trial that shocked the country, Dominique Pelicot, 72, has admitted to drugging his then-wife Gisele Pelicot for almost a decade so that he and strangers he recruited online could rape her.



France The French man who has admitted to enlisting dozens of strangers to rape his heavily-sedated wife asked forgiveness from his family on Monday and hailed the courage of his now ex-spouse during his trial. "I would like to start by hailing the courage of my ex-wife" Gisele Pelicot, her ex-husband Dominique Pelicot said in his final statement to the court ahead of the verdict later in the week. "I regret what I did, making (my family) suffer... I ask them for forgiveness," he said, asking the family to "accept my apologies". In a trial that shocked the country, Dominique Pelicot, 72, has admitted to drugging his then-wife Gisele Pelicot for almost a decade so he and strangers he recruited online could rape her. Gisele Pelicot, 72, has become a feminist hero at home and abroad for refusing to be ashamed, waiving her right to a closed trial and standing up to her aggressors in court. Also read: Prosecutors demand maximum term for husband who drugged wife in French rape trial Alongside her ex-husband, 50 other men aged 27 to 74 are on trial, including one who did not abuse her but raped his own wife with Dominique Pelicot's help. Sitting in the glass defendants' box, Dominique Pelicot reaffirmed that he had told "the whole truth" since the beginning of the trial on September 2 in the southern French city of Avignon. He also thanked the court for allowing him to remain seated on a special chair because of his fragile state of health, which "could have been interpreted as nonchalance" but which was not, he added. 'Rest of my life in your hands' He added that "I have been called many things" but "I rather intend to be forgotten," saying he felt an "inner shame". "I can tell my whole family that I love them," he said. Turning to the five judges who will issue the verdict, he said: "There you go, you have the rest of my life in your hands." The verdict for him and the other defendants is expected Thursday morning but the timing could slip, presiding judge Roger Arata said as he adjourned the trial. Watch | France: Gisele Pelicot Gives Closing Statement In Shocking French Trial | World News | WION × "We will head to the deliberation chamber and will not leave until we have made our decision," Arata told the court, saying the delivery of the verdict had been scheduled for 0830 GMT Thursday, but cautioning the timing was "theoretical" and it could be postponed to Thursday afternoon or Friday morning. As she left the court, Gisele Pelicot was greeted with applause and shouts of "bravo Gisele!" by supporters. On November 25, prosecutors requested the maximum possible sentence -- 20 years behind bars -- against Dominique Pelicot for aggravated rape. The prosecution has requested 10 to 18 years in prison against the 49 defendants also charged with aggravated rape. One more accused -- facing the lesser charge of groping -- risks up to four years in prison. Several defence lawyers have attempted to shift the totality of the responsibility to Dominique Pelicot, arguing their clients were victims of a "monster" who had manipulated them into assaulting Gisele Pelicot. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Accept my apologies,' says Gisele Pelicot's ex-husband in French rape trial

Cyclone Chido has caused widespread devastation in Mayotte, with France fearing a heavy toll as the storm continues to batter the region. The powerful cyclone has brought heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous flooding, leading to significant damage to infrastructure and homes. Authorities are working to assess the extent of the destruction and provide relief to affected residents. With Mayotte being one of France's overseas territories, the French government has pledged support to help the island recover from this devastating natural disaster.



Cyclone Chido: Houses Damaged, Uprooted Trees After Cyclone Chido Hits Mayotte

Mayotte, France
Cyclone Chido, the most devastating storm in nearly a century, has wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory. The death toll is feared to be in the hundreds and may rise to thousands, according to the island's top government official. 
The cyclone, with winds reaching 226 km/h, caused widespread destruction on Saturday (Dec 14), uprooting trees, destroying homes and crippling essential infrastructure.  
<h2>Hospitals and schools damaged</h2>
The mayor of Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, described the situation as "devastating," with nine people critically injured and 246 suffering serious injuries.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-greenlights-11-million-plan-to-double-golan-heights-population-amid-regional-tensions-784232">Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions</a>
Hospitals, schools and informal settlements have been severely damaged, leaving many residents without shelter or access to basic services.
Shantytowns, which housed a large portion of Mayotte's population, were flattened.
Many undocumented residents fear seeking help due to concerns over deportation.  
<h2>Emergency response underway amid challenges</h2>
France is ramping up rescue operations by deploying additional soldiers, firefighters and medical personnel to Mayotte.
Supplies, including medical equipment and blood for transfusions, are being sent from nearby Reunion Island. However, the rescue efforts are hampered by damaged airports and power outages.  
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-admits-to-diplomatic-contact-with-syrias-hts-rebel-group-despite-terror-designation-784230">UK admits to 'diplomatic contact' with Syria’s HTS rebel group despite terror designation</a>
<h2>Global assistance and concerns for neighbouring nations</h2>
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed readiness to assist, while the regional Red Cross organisation, PIROI, has mobilised resources.
Cyclone Chido has also affected Mozambique, causing three deaths and prompting UNICEF to provide assistance.
The United Nations warned that 1.7 million people in Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia could face flooding due to the storm's aftermath.  
<h2>Lockdown and relief efforts</h2>
Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown ahead of the cyclone, which has left the territory grappling with extensive damage.
Emergency supplies and personnel continued to arrive by air and sea, as authorities work to restore essential services and provide relief to the island's vulnerable population.
(With inputs from agencies)

The cyclone, with winds reaching 226 km/h, caused widespread destruction on Saturday (Dec 14), uprooting trees, destroying homes and crippling essential infrastructure  



Mayotte, France Cyclone Chido, the most devastating storm in nearly a century, has wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory. The death toll is feared to be in the hundreds and may rise to thousands, according to the island's top government official. The cyclone, with winds reaching 226 km/h, caused widespread destruction on Saturday (Dec 14), uprooting trees, destroying homes and crippling essential infrastructure. Hospitals and schools damaged The mayor of Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, described the situation as "devastating," with nine people critically injured and 246 suffering serious injuries. Also read | Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions Hospitals, schools and informal settlements have been severely damaged, leaving many residents without shelter or access to basic services. Shantytowns, which housed a large portion of Mayotte's population, were flattened. Many undocumented residents fear seeking help due to concerns over deportation. Emergency response underway amid challenges France is ramping up rescue operations by deploying additional soldiers, firefighters and medical personnel to Mayotte. Supplies, including medical equipment and blood for transfusions, are being sent from nearby Reunion Island. However, the rescue efforts are hampered by damaged airports and power outages. Also read | UK admits to 'diplomatic contact' with Syria’s HTS rebel group despite terror designation Global assistance and concerns for neighbouring nations WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed readiness to assist, while the regional Red Cross organisation, PIROI, has mobilised resources. Cyclone Chido has also affected Mozambique, causing three deaths and prompting UNICEF to provide assistance. The United Nations warned that 1.7 million people in Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia could face flooding due to the storm's aftermath. Lockdown and relief efforts Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown ahead of the cyclone, which has left the territory grappling with extensive damage. Emergency supplies and personnel continued to arrive by air and sea, as authorities work to restore essential services and provide relief to the island's vulnerable population. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Chido devastates France's Mayotte: Death toll could reach thousands

The French man who has admitted to enlisting dozens of strangers to rape his heavily-sedated wife asked forgiveness from his family on Monday and hailed the courage of his now ex-spouse during his trial.

"I would like to start by hailing the courage of my ex-wife" Gisele Pelicot, her ex-husband Dominique Pelicot said in his final statement to the court ahead of the verdict later in the week.&nbsp;

"I regret what I did, making (my family) suffer... I ask them for forgiveness," he said, asking the family to "accept my apologies".

In a trial that shocked the country, Dominique Pelicot, 72, has admitted to drugging his then-wife Gisele Pelicot for almost a decade so he and strangers he recruited online could rape her.

Gisele Pelicot, 72, has become a feminist hero at home and abroad for refusing to be ashamed, waiving her right to a closed trial and standing up to her aggressors in court.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prosecutors-demand-maximum-term-for-husband-who-drugged-wife-in-french-rape-trial-779115">Also read:&nbsp;Prosecutors demand maximum term for husband who drugged wife in French rape trial</a>

Alongside her ex-husband, 50 other men aged 27 to 74 are on trial, including one who did not abuse her but raped his own wife with Dominique Pelicot's help.

Sitting in the glass defendants' box, Dominique Pelicot reaffirmed that he had told "the whole truth" since the beginning of the trial on September 2 in the southern French city of Avignon.

He also thanked the court for allowing him to remain seated on a special chair because of his fragile state of health, which "could have been interpreted as nonchalance" but which was not, he added.&nbsp;

<h2>'Rest of my life in your hands'&nbsp;</h2>

He added that "I have been called many things" but "I rather intend to be forgotten," saying he felt an "inner shame".

"I can tell my whole family that I love them," he said.

Turning to the five judges who will issue the verdict, he said: "There you go, you have the rest of my life in your hands."&nbsp;

The verdict for him and the other defendants is expected Thursday morning but the timing could slip, presiding judge Roger Arata said as he adjourned the trial.

Watch |&nbsp;France: Gisele Pelicot Gives Closing Statement In Shocking French Trial | World News | WION

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"We will head to the deliberation chamber and will not leave until we have made our decision," Arata told the court, saying the delivery of the verdict had been scheduled for 0830 GMT Thursday, but cautioning the timing was "theoretical" and it could be postponed to Thursday afternoon or Friday morning.

As she left the court, Gisele Pelicot was greeted with applause and shouts of "bravo Gisele!" by supporters.

On November 25, prosecutors requested the maximum possible sentence -- 20 years behind bars -- against Dominique Pelicot for aggravated rape.

The prosecution has requested 10 to 18 years in prison against the 49 defendants also charged with aggravated rape.

One more accused -- facing the lesser charge of groping -- risks up to four years in prison.

Several defence lawyers have attempted to shift the totality of the responsibility to Dominique Pelicot, arguing their clients were victims of a "monster" who had manipulated them into assaulting Gisele Pelicot.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The French man who has admitted to enlisting dozens of strangers to rape his heavily-sedated wife asked forgiveness from his family on Monday and hailed the courage of his now ex-spouse during his trial.

The French man who has admitted to enlisting dozens of strangers to rape his heavily-sedated wife asked forgiveness from his family on Monday and hailed the courage of his now ex-spouse during his trial. "I would like to start by hailing the courage of my ex-wife" Gisele Pelicot, her ex-husband Dominique Pelicot said in his final statement to the court ahead of the verdict later in the week. "I regret what I did, making (my family) suffer... I ask them for forgiveness," he said, asking the family to "accept my apologies". In a trial that shocked the country, Dominique Pelicot, 72, has admitted to drugging his then-wife Gisele Pelicot for almost a decade so he and strangers he recruited online could rape her. Gisele Pelicot, 72, has become a feminist hero at home and abroad for refusing to be ashamed, waiving her right to a closed trial and standing up to her aggressors in court. Also read: Prosecutors demand maximum term for husband who drugged wife in French rape trial Alongside her ex-husband, 50 other men aged 27 to 74 are on trial, including one who did not abuse her but raped his own wife with Dominique Pelicot's help. Sitting in the glass defendants' box, Dominique Pelicot reaffirmed that he had told "the whole truth" since the beginning of the trial on September 2 in the southern French city of Avignon. He also thanked the court for allowing him to remain seated on a special chair because of his fragile state of health, which "could have been interpreted as nonchalance" but which was not, he added. 'Rest of my life in your hands' He added that "I have been called many things" but "I rather intend to be forgotten," saying he felt an "inner shame". "I can tell my whole family that I love them," he said. Turning to the five judges who will issue the verdict, he said: "There you go, you have the rest of my life in your hands." The verdict for him and the other defendants is expected Thursday morning but the timing could slip, presiding judge Roger Arata said as he adjourned the trial. Watch | France: Gisele Pelicot Gives Closing Statement In Shocking French Trial | World News | WION × "We will head to the deliberation chamber and will not leave until we have made our decision," Arata told the court, saying the delivery of the verdict had been scheduled for 0830 GMT Thursday, but cautioning the timing was "theoretical" and it could be postponed to Thursday afternoon or Friday morning. As she left the court, Gisele Pelicot was greeted with applause and shouts of "bravo Gisele!" by supporters. On November 25, prosecutors requested the maximum possible sentence -- 20 years behind bars -- against Dominique Pelicot for aggravated rape. The prosecution has requested 10 to 18 years in prison against the 49 defendants also charged with aggravated rape. One more accused -- facing the lesser charge of groping -- risks up to four years in prison. Several defence lawyers have attempted to shift the totality of the responsibility to Dominique Pelicot, arguing their clients were victims of a "monster" who had manipulated them into assaulting Gisele Pelicot. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hundreds, and possibly thousands, of people, are feared dead in Mayotte after the French Indian Ocean territory was devastated by a powerful cyclone.

Several Hundreds, Maybe Thousands Feared Dead After Mayotte Cyclone: Officials

Cyclone Chido has caused widespread devastation in Mayotte, with France fearing a heavy toll as the storm continues to batter the region. The powerful cyclone has brought heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous flooding, leading to significant damage to infrastructure and homes. Authorities are working to assess the extent of the destruction and provide relief to affected residents. With Mayotte being one of France's overseas territories, the French government has pledged support to help the island recover from this devastating natural disaster.

Cyclone Chido, the most devastating storm in nearly a century, has wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory. The death toll is feared to be in the hundreds and may rise to thousands, according to the island's top government official.&nbsp;

The cyclone, with winds reaching 226 km/h, caused widespread destruction on Saturday (Dec 14), uprooting trees, destroying homes and crippling essential infrastructure. &nbsp;

<h2>Hospitals and schools damaged</h2>

The mayor of Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, described the situation as "devastating," with nine people critically injured and 246 suffering serious injuries.

&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-greenlights-11-million-plan-to-double-golan-heights-population-amid-regional-tensions-784232">Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions</a>

Hospitals, schools and informal settlements have been severely damaged, leaving many residents without shelter or access to basic services.

Shantytowns, which housed a large portion of Mayotte's population, were flattened.

Many undocumented residents fear seeking help due to concerns over deportation. &nbsp;

<h2>Emergency response underway amid challenges</h2>

France is ramping up rescue operations by deploying additional soldiers, firefighters and medical personnel to Mayotte.

Supplies, including medical equipment and blood for transfusions, are being sent from nearby Reunion Island. However, the rescue efforts are hampered by damaged airports and power outages. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-admits-to-diplomatic-contact-with-syrias-hts-rebel-group-despite-terror-designation-784230">UK admits to 'diplomatic contact' with Syria’s HTS rebel group despite terror designation</a>

<h2>Global assistance and concerns for neighbouring nations</h2>

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed readiness to assist, while the regional Red Cross organisation, PIROI, has mobilised resources.

Cyclone Chido has also affected Mozambique, causing three deaths and prompting UNICEF to provide assistance.

The United Nations warned that 1.7 million people in Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia could face flooding due to the storm's aftermath. &nbsp;

<h2>Lockdown and relief efforts</h2>

Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown ahead of the cyclone, which has left the territory grappling with extensive damage.

Emergency supplies and personnel continued to arrive by air and sea, as authorities work to restore essential services and provide relief to the island's vulnerable population.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Chido, the most devastating storm in nearly a century, has wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory. The death toll is feared to be in the hundreds and may rise to thousands, according to the island's top government official.

Cyclone Chido, the most devastating storm in nearly a century, has wreaked havoc on Mayotte, a French Indian Ocean territory. The death toll is feared to be in the hundreds and may rise to thousands, according to the island's top government official. The cyclone, with winds reaching 226 km/h, caused widespread destruction on Saturday (Dec 14), uprooting trees, destroying homes and crippling essential infrastructure. Hospitals and schools damaged The mayor of Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, described the situation as "devastating," with nine people critically injured and 246 suffering serious injuries. Also read | Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions Hospitals, schools and informal settlements have been severely damaged, leaving many residents without shelter or access to basic services. Shantytowns, which housed a large portion of Mayotte's population, were flattened. Many undocumented residents fear seeking help due to concerns over deportation. Emergency response underway amid challenges France is ramping up rescue operations by deploying additional soldiers, firefighters and medical personnel to Mayotte. Supplies, including medical equipment and blood for transfusions, are being sent from nearby Reunion Island. However, the rescue efforts are hampered by damaged airports and power outages. Also read | UK admits to 'diplomatic contact' with Syria’s HTS rebel group despite terror designation Global assistance and concerns for neighbouring nations WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed readiness to assist, while the regional Red Cross organisation, PIROI, has mobilised resources. Cyclone Chido has also affected Mozambique, causing three deaths and prompting UNICEF to provide assistance. The United Nations warned that 1.7 million people in Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia could face flooding due to the storm's aftermath. Lockdown and relief efforts Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown ahead of the cyclone, which has left the territory grappling with extensive damage. Emergency supplies and personnel continued to arrive by air and sea, as authorities work to restore essential services and provide relief to the island's vulnerable population. (With inputs from agencies)

Saint-Denis de la Reunion, France
Local authorities said Sunday that the likely death toll from Cyclone Chido's passage across Mayotte was "definitely several hundred" though the disruption means reaching an exact count will be difficult.
Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages.
A previous toll shared with AFP by a security source had confirmed only 14 deaths.
"I think there will definitely be several hundred, perhaps we will come close to a thousand or even several thousand" deaths, prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville said on broadcaster Mayotte la Premiere.
He added that it would be "very difficult to reach a final count" given that most residents are Muslim, traditionally burying their dead within 24 hours.
The mayor of Mayotte's capital, Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, had earlier told AFP that nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, while 246 more were seriously injured.
"The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing".
Mayotte's 320,000 residents had been ordered into lockdown Saturday as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique with gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour.
Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oil-tanker-splits-in-half-spilling-thousands-of-tonnes-of-oil-into-kerch-strait-784177">Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait</a>
Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP.
One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself.
<h2>Scramble for supplies</h2>
Interior Minister Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands.
Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar.
A first aid plane landed in Mayotte at around 3:30 pm local time (1230 GMT) with three tonnes of medical supplies, blood for transfusions, and 17 medical staff, authorities in La Reunion said, with two military aircraft expected to follow.
A navy patrol ship was also to depart La Reunion with personnel and equipment, including for electricity supplier EDF.
Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte's residents.
<h2>Storm hits Mozambique</h2>
Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage.
Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall early Sunday around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said.
Buildings were damaged and power knocked out in some areas of Mozambique's northern coastal provinces of Nampula and Cabo Delgado early Saturday, authorities said.
But by the afternoon, Chido was travelling over the inland province of Niassa and had weakened, said the president of the National Institute for Risk and Disaster Management, Luisa Meque.
UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage.
"Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed, and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement.
Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts.
The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively.
It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods.
Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages



Saint-Denis de la Reunion, France Local authorities said Sunday that the likely death toll from Cyclone Chido's passage across Mayotte was "definitely several hundred" though the disruption means reaching an exact count will be difficult. Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages. A previous toll shared with AFP by a security source had confirmed only 14 deaths. "I think there will definitely be several hundred, perhaps we will come close to a thousand or even several thousand" deaths, prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville said on broadcaster Mayotte la Premiere. He added that it would be "very difficult to reach a final count" given that most residents are Muslim, traditionally burying their dead within 24 hours. The mayor of Mayotte's capital, Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, had earlier told AFP that nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, while 246 more were seriously injured. "The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing". Mayotte's 320,000 residents had been ordered into lockdown Saturday as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique with gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour. Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population. Also read | Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP. One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself. Scramble for supplies Interior Minister Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands. Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar. A first aid plane landed in Mayotte at around 3:30 pm local time (1230 GMT) with three tonnes of medical supplies, blood for transfusions, and 17 medical staff, authorities in La Reunion said, with two military aircraft expected to follow. A navy patrol ship was also to depart La Reunion with personnel and equipment, including for electricity supplier EDF. Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte's residents. Storm hits Mozambique Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage. Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall early Sunday around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said. Buildings were damaged and power knocked out in some areas of Mozambique's northern coastal provinces of Nampula and Cabo Delgado early Saturday, authorities said. But by the afternoon, Chido was travelling over the inland province of Niassa and had weakened, said the president of the National Institute for Risk and Disaster Management, Luisa Meque. UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage. "Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed, and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement. Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts. The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively. It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods. Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Definitely several hundred' killed after Cyclone Chido wreaks havoc in Mayotte

Lille, France
A man who turned himself in saying he was responsible for five murders in northern France had no criminal record, authorities said Sunday.
The 22-year-old suspect was taken into custody on Saturday after surrendering at a police station in Ghyvelde just outside the Channel port city of Dunkirk around 5:20 pm (1620 GMT) on Saturday afternoon – two hours after the first killing.
He is "unknown to the police service and judicial authorities," Dunkirk's chief prosecutor Charlotte Huet said in a statement.
A charge of murder combined with other crimes and possession of restricted firearms – several of which were found in the suspect's car – carries a maximum sentence of life in jail.
"Many inquiries are underway," prosecutor Huet said, especially "to clarify the reasons that led the suspect to commit these crimes".
A source familiar with the case said police are investigating whether the man had a professional falling-out with the companies where the first three victims worked.
All five murders were committed within less than two hours in the Dunkirk area.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oil-tanker-splits-in-half-spilling-thousands-of-tonnes-of-oil-into-kerch-strait-784177">Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait</a>
In the first incident, a 29-year-old man was killed with several gunshots outside his house in Wormhout, a village just south of the city, prosecutors said.
The local town hall hailed the man as a local business owner and young father who ran a trucking company employing around 30 people.
"People in town are stunned," Wormhout mayor David Calcoen told AFP, adding that he hoped "the justice system will soon have information to decipher these unthinkable events".
Then at around 4:00 pm, two security guards aged 33 and 37 were killed as they patrolled an industrial zone adjacent to the port in Loon-Plage, just west of Dunkirk.
Tributes were posted on Facebook to the two men, one known locally for working as bouncers at carnival events and the other as a volunteer at the local motorbike club.
Minutes later, still on the outskirts of Loon-Plage, two final victims believed to be Iranians aged 19 and 30 were shot dead.
Local police and the prefecture said the men were living in a local camp for migrants.
Many migrants hoping to reach Britain make their way to northern France before attempting perilous Channel crossings in small inflatable boats.
"We don't understand at all why two exiled people were targeted," said Salome Bahri of the Utopia 56 aid group.
She added that authorities have "planned nothing" to aid other camp residents with psychological support or shelter – even though "many of them saw what happened".
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The 22-year-old suspect was taken into custody on Saturday after surrendering at a police station in Ghyvelde just outside the Channel port city of Dunkirk around 5:20 pm (1620 GMT) on Saturday afternoon – two hours after the first killing



Lille, France A man who turned himself in saying he was responsible for five murders in northern France had no criminal record, authorities said Sunday. The 22-year-old suspect was taken into custody on Saturday after surrendering at a police station in Ghyvelde just outside the Channel port city of Dunkirk around 5:20 pm (1620 GMT) on Saturday afternoon – two hours after the first killing. He is "unknown to the police service and judicial authorities," Dunkirk's chief prosecutor Charlotte Huet said in a statement. A charge of murder combined with other crimes and possession of restricted firearms – several of which were found in the suspect's car – carries a maximum sentence of life in jail. "Many inquiries are underway," prosecutor Huet said, especially "to clarify the reasons that led the suspect to commit these crimes". A source familiar with the case said police are investigating whether the man had a professional falling-out with the companies where the first three victims worked. All five murders were committed within less than two hours in the Dunkirk area. Also read | Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait In the first incident, a 29-year-old man was killed with several gunshots outside his house in Wormhout, a village just south of the city, prosecutors said. The local town hall hailed the man as a local business owner and young father who ran a trucking company employing around 30 people. "People in town are stunned," Wormhout mayor David Calcoen told AFP, adding that he hoped "the justice system will soon have information to decipher these unthinkable events". Then at around 4:00 pm, two security guards aged 33 and 37 were killed as they patrolled an industrial zone adjacent to the port in Loon-Plage, just west of Dunkirk. Tributes were posted on Facebook to the two men, one known locally for working as bouncers at carnival events and the other as a volunteer at the local motorbike club. Minutes later, still on the outskirts of Loon-Plage, two final victims believed to be Iranians aged 19 and 30 were shot dead. Local police and the prefecture said the men were living in a local camp for migrants. Many migrants hoping to reach Britain make their way to northern France before attempting perilous Channel crossings in small inflatable boats. "We don't understand at all why two exiled people were targeted," said Salome Bahri of the Utopia 56 aid group. She added that authorities have "planned nothing" to aid other camp residents with psychological support or shelter – even though "many of them saw what happened". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Five killed in shooting in northern France, police probe suspect

France
At least 14 people were killed in Mayotte when a fierce cyclone battered the French Indian Ocean territory, authorities said Sunday, with officials warning it will take days to know the full toll.
Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages.
The toll of 14 was counted in a provisional list compiled by authorities, a security source told AFP.
Nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, said Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, mayor of Mayotte's capital Mamoudzou, while 246 more were seriously injured.
"The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing".
Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique.
Watch | Cyclone Chido: France Fears Heavy Toll As Cyclone Batters Mayotte
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Its gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour had "completely destroyed" the territory's many shantytowns, acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said following a crisis meeting in Paris late Saturday.
Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted, and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population.
"It will take several days" to establish the full death toll, but "we fear that it is heavy", Retailleau said, adding that the Muslim custom of burial within a day of death could complicate the count.
Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP.
One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself.
"Even the largest companies have suffered damage," he added.
<h2>Scramble for supplies </h2>
Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands from mainland France ahead of the storm.
Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar.
Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte residents.
"Everything has been swept away, everything is razed," said Mounira, a woman whose house was destroyed in the Kaweni district in Mamoudzou's east -- France's largest shantytown.
More than 15,000 homes are without electricity, according to Environment Minister Agnes-Pannier Runacher, while telephone access is severely limited even for emergency calls.
Acting Transport Minister Francois Durovray wrote on X that the Pamandzi airport on Petite-Terre, the smaller of Mayotte's two major islands, had "suffered major damage".
Storm hits Mozambique
Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage.
Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique early Sunday, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said.
"The cyclone is already affecting Pemba with a very strong intensity. We were monitoring the situation, but there is no communication with Pemba since 7:00 am (0500 GMT)," National Institute of Meteorology director Aderito Aramuge told AFP.
UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage.
"Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement.
Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts.
The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively.
It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods.
Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages.



 



France At least 14 people were killed in Mayotte when a fierce cyclone battered the French Indian Ocean territory, authorities said Sunday, with officials warning it will take days to know the full toll. Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages. The toll of 14 was counted in a provisional list compiled by authorities, a security source told AFP. Nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, said Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, mayor of Mayotte's capital Mamoudzou, while 246 more were seriously injured. "The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing". Mayotte's 320,000 residents were ordered into lockdown as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique. Watch | Cyclone Chido: France Fears Heavy Toll As Cyclone Batters Mayotte × Its gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour had "completely destroyed" the territory's many shantytowns, acting Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said following a crisis meeting in Paris late Saturday. Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted, and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population. "It will take several days" to establish the full death toll, but "we fear that it is heavy", Retailleau said, adding that the Muslim custom of burial within a day of death could complicate the count. Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP. One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself. "Even the largest companies have suffered damage," he added. Scramble for supplies Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands from mainland France ahead of the storm. Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar. Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte residents. "Everything has been swept away, everything is razed," said Mounira, a woman whose house was destroyed in the Kaweni district in Mamoudzou's east -- France's largest shantytown. More than 15,000 homes are without electricity, according to Environment Minister Agnes-Pannier Runacher, while telephone access is severely limited even for emergency calls. Acting Transport Minister Francois Durovray wrote on X that the Pamandzi airport on Petite-Terre, the smaller of Mayotte's two major islands, had "suffered major damage". Storm hits Mozambique Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage. Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique early Sunday, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said. "The cyclone is already affecting Pemba with a very strong intensity. We were monitoring the situation, but there is no communication with Pemba since 7:00 am (0500 GMT)," National Institute of Meteorology director Aderito Aramuge told AFP. UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage. "Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement. Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts. The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively. It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods. Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mayotte hit by ‘apocalyptic’ Cyclone Chido: 14 killed, thousands left without power and water

Local authorities said Sunday that the likely death toll from Cyclone Chido's passage across Mayotte was "definitely several hundred" though the disruption means reaching an exact count will be difficult.

Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages.

A previous toll shared with AFP by a security source had confirmed only 14 deaths.

"I think there will definitely be several hundred, perhaps we will come close to a thousand or even several thousand" deaths, prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville said on broadcaster Mayotte la Premiere.

He added that it would be "very difficult to reach a final count" given that most residents are Muslim, traditionally burying their dead within 24 hours.

The mayor of Mayotte's capital, Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, had earlier told AFP that nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, while 246 more were seriously injured.

"The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing".

Mayotte's 320,000 residents had been ordered into lockdown Saturday as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique with gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour.

Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oil-tanker-splits-in-half-spilling-thousands-of-tonnes-of-oil-into-kerch-strait-784177">Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait</a>

Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP.

One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself.

<h2>Scramble for supplies</h2>

Interior Minister Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands.

Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar.

A first aid plane landed in Mayotte at around 3:30 pm local time (1230 GMT) with three tonnes of medical supplies, blood for transfusions, and 17 medical staff, authorities in La Reunion said, with two military aircraft expected to follow.

A navy patrol ship was also to depart La Reunion with personnel and equipment, including for electricity supplier EDF.

Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte's residents.

<h2>Storm hits Mozambique</h2>

Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage.

Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall early Sunday around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said.

Buildings were damaged and power knocked out in some areas of Mozambique's northern coastal provinces of Nampula and Cabo Delgado early Saturday, authorities said.

But by the afternoon, Chido was travelling over the inland province of Niassa and had weakened, said the president of the National Institute for Risk and Disaster Management, Luisa Meque.

UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage.

"Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed, and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement.

Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts.

The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively.

It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods.

Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Local authorities said Sunday that the likely death toll from Cyclone Chido's passage across Mayotte was "definitely several hundred" though the disruption means reaching an exact count will be difficult.

Local authorities said Sunday that the likely death toll from Cyclone Chido's passage across Mayotte was "definitely several hundred" though the disruption means reaching an exact count will be difficult. Rescue workers and supplies are being rushed in by air and sea, but their efforts are likely to be hindered by damage to airports and electricity distribution in a territory where even clean drinking water was already subject to chronic shortages. A previous toll shared with AFP by a security source had confirmed only 14 deaths. "I think there will definitely be several hundred, perhaps we will come close to a thousand or even several thousand" deaths, prefect Francois-Xavier Bieuville said on broadcaster Mayotte la Premiere. He added that it would be "very difficult to reach a final count" given that most residents are Muslim, traditionally burying their dead within 24 hours. The mayor of Mayotte's capital, Mamoudzou, Ambdilwahedou Soumaila, had earlier told AFP that nine people were gravely wounded and fighting for their lives in hospital, while 246 more were seriously injured. "The hospital is hit, the schools are hit. Houses are totally devastated," he said, adding that the hurricane "spared nothing". Mayotte's 320,000 residents had been ordered into lockdown Saturday as cyclone Chido bore down on the islands around 500 kilometres (310 miles) east of Mozambique with gusts of at least 226 kilometres per hour. Electricity poles were hurled to the ground, trees uprooted and sheet-metal roofs and walls torn off improvised structures inhabited by at least one-third of the population. Also read | Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait Information from the locked-down population, in shock and largely cut off from water and electricity supplies, is slow to filter out, a source familiar with the recovery effort told AFP. One local resident, Ibrahim, told AFP of "apocalyptic scenes" as he made his way through the main island, having to clear blocked roads for himself. Scramble for supplies Interior Minister Retailleau will travel to Mayotte on Monday, his office said, alongside 160 soldiers and firefighters to reinforce the 110 already deployed to the islands. Medical personnel and equipment were being delivered from Sunday by air and sea, said the prefecture in La Reunion, another French Indian Ocean territory some 1,400 kilometres away on the other side of Madagascar. A first aid plane landed in Mayotte at around 3:30 pm local time (1230 GMT) with three tonnes of medical supplies, blood for transfusions, and 17 medical staff, authorities in La Reunion said, with two military aircraft expected to follow. A navy patrol ship was also to depart La Reunion with personnel and equipment, including for electricity supplier EDF. Pope Francis, visiting French Mediterranean island Corsica on Sunday, urged people to pray for Mayotte's residents. Storm hits Mozambique Just northwest of Mayotte, the Comoros islands, some of which had been on red alert since Friday, were also hit but suffered only minor damage. Cyclone Chido later slammed into Mozambique, bringing gale-force winds and heavy rain when it made landfall early Sunday around 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the northern city of Pemba, weather services said. Buildings were damaged and power knocked out in some areas of Mozambique's northern coastal provinces of Nampula and Cabo Delgado early Saturday, authorities said. But by the afternoon, Chido was travelling over the inland province of Niassa and had weakened, said the president of the National Institute for Risk and Disaster Management, Luisa Meque. UNICEF said it was on the ground to help the people impacted by the storm, which had already caused some damage. "Many homes, schools, and health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed, and we are working closely with the government to ensure continuity of essential basic services," it said in a statement. Cyclone Chido is the latest in a string of storms worldwide to be fuelled by climate change, according to experts. The "exceptional" cyclone was super-charged by particularly warm Indian Ocean waters, meteorologist Francois Gourand of France's Meteo France weather service told AFP. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Friday it was similar in strength to cyclones Gombe in 2022 and Freddy in 2023, which killed more than 60 people and at least 86 in Mozambique respectively. It warned that some 1.7 million people were in danger, and said the remnants of the cyclone could also dump "significant rainfall" on neighbouring Malawi through Monday, potentially triggering flash floods. Zimbabwe and Zambia were also expected to see heavy rains, it added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A man who turned himself in saying he was responsible for five murders in northern France had no criminal record, authorities said Sunday.

The 22-year-old suspect was taken into custody on Saturday after surrendering at a police station in Ghyvelde just outside the Channel port city of Dunkirk around 5:20 pm (1620 GMT) on Saturday afternoon – two hours after the first killing.

He is "unknown to the police service and judicial authorities," Dunkirk's chief prosecutor Charlotte Huet said in a statement.

A charge of murder combined with other crimes and possession of restricted firearms – several of which were found in the suspect's car – carries a maximum sentence of life in jail.

"Many inquiries are underway," prosecutor Huet said, especially "to clarify the reasons that led the suspect to commit these crimes".

A source familiar with the case said police are investigating whether the man had a professional falling-out with the companies where the first three victims worked.

All five murders were committed within less than two hours in the Dunkirk area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oil-tanker-splits-in-half-spilling-thousands-of-tonnes-of-oil-into-kerch-strait-784177">Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait</a>

In the first incident, a 29-year-old man was killed with several gunshots outside his house in Wormhout, a village just south of the city, prosecutors said.

The local town hall hailed the man as a local business owner and young father who ran a trucking company employing around 30 people.

"People in town are stunned," Wormhout mayor David Calcoen told AFP, adding that he hoped "the justice system will soon have information to decipher these unthinkable events".

Then at around 4:00 pm, two security guards aged 33 and 37 were killed as they patrolled an industrial zone adjacent to the port in Loon-Plage, just west of Dunkirk.

Tributes were posted on Facebook to the two men, one known locally for working as bouncers at carnival events and the other as a volunteer at the local motorbike club.

Minutes later, still on the outskirts of Loon-Plage, two final victims believed to be Iranians aged 19 and 30 were shot dead.

Local police and the prefecture said the men were living in a local camp for migrants.

Many migrants hoping to reach Britain make their way to northern France before attempting perilous Channel crossings in small inflatable boats.

"We don't understand at all why two exiled people were targeted," said Salome Bahri of the Utopia 56 aid group.

She added that authorities have "planned nothing" to aid other camp residents with psychological support or shelter – even though "many of them saw what happened".

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A man who turned himself in saying he was responsible for five murders in northern France had no criminal record, authorities said Sunday. The 22-year-old suspect was taken into custody on Saturday after surrendering at a police station in Ghyvelde just outside the Channel port city of Dunkirk around 5:20 pm (1620 GMT) on Saturday afternoon – two hours after the first killing.

A man who turned himself in saying he was responsible for five murders in northern France had no criminal record, authorities said Sunday. The 22-year-old suspect was taken into custody on Saturday after surrendering at a police station in Ghyvelde just outside the Channel port city of Dunkirk around 5:20 pm (1620 GMT) on Saturday afternoon – two hours after the first killing. He is "unknown to the police service and judicial authorities," Dunkirk's chief prosecutor Charlotte Huet said in a statement. A charge of murder combined with other crimes and possession of restricted firearms – several of which were found in the suspect's car – carries a maximum sentence of life in jail. "Many inquiries are underway," prosecutor Huet said, especially "to clarify the reasons that led the suspect to commit these crimes". A source familiar with the case said police are investigating whether the man had a professional falling-out with the companies where the first three victims worked. All five murders were committed within less than two hours in the Dunkirk area. Also read | Russian oil tanker splits in half, spilling thousands of tonnes of oil into Kerch Strait In the first incident, a 29-year-old man was killed with several gunshots outside his house in Wormhout, a village just south of the city, prosecutors said. The local town hall hailed the man as a local business owner and young father who ran a trucking company employing around 30 people. "People in town are stunned," Wormhout mayor David Calcoen told AFP, adding that he hoped "the justice system will soon have information to decipher these unthinkable events". Then at around 4:00 pm, two security guards aged 33 and 37 were killed as they patrolled an industrial zone adjacent to the port in Loon-Plage, just west of Dunkirk. Tributes were posted on Facebook to the two men, one known locally for working as bouncers at carnival events and the other as a volunteer at the local motorbike club. Minutes later, still on the outskirts of Loon-Plage, two final victims believed to be Iranians aged 19 and 30 were shot dead. Local police and the prefecture said the men were living in a local camp for migrants. Many migrants hoping to reach Britain make their way to northern France before attempting perilous Channel crossings in small inflatable boats. "We don't understand at all why two exiled people were targeted," said Salome Bahri of the Utopia 56 aid group. She added that authorities have "planned nothing" to aid other camp residents with psychological support or shelter – even though "many of them saw what happened". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

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