At a time when the US is looking to come up with tougher gun laws, a lawmaker, Republican Representative Greg Steube from Florida, showed off his guns to make his point. The incident happened in the middle of a Thursday hearing for a new gun violence prevention legislation, which has been proposed by congressional Democrats. To protest the proposed changes to gun laws, Steube tuned in remotely from his home office through video and began brandishing his own guns. The Republican argued that these guns would be banned if the new changes to gun laws are made. &nbsp;

Steube displayed a Sig Sauer P365XL Pistol and said he carries it "every single day" to "protect myself, my family, my wife, my home." &nbsp;

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On the display, Democratic Representative of Texas, Sheila Jackson Lee, said, "I hope that gun is not loaded." In reply, Steube said, "I'm at my house, I can do whatever I want with my guns." Then, Steube compared the gun restrictions and homicide rates in several American states and cities. He talked about Washington, Maryland, Illinois and Florida. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US: Multiple people injured in a shooting at Wisconsin cemetery during funeral

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Repeating five times, committee chairman Representative of New York, Jerry Nadler, said, "Would the gentleman yield for questions?" "No, I'm trying to get my point across in the two minutes that I have left. The murder rate was more — now let me start back over, and I hope you give me my 10 or 15 seconds back that you just took," Steube replied. &nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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At a time when the US is looking to come up with tougher gun laws, a lawmaker, Republican Representative Greg Steube from Florida, showed off his guns to make his point.

At a time when the US is looking to come up with tougher gun laws, a lawmaker, Republican Representative Greg Steube from Florida, showed off his guns to make his point. The incident happened in the middle of a Thursday hearing for a new gun violence prevention legislation, which has been proposed by congressional Democrats. To protest the proposed changes to gun laws, Steube tuned in remotely from his home office through video and began brandishing his own guns. The Republican argued that these guns would be banned if the new changes to gun laws are made. Steube displayed a Sig Sauer P365XL Pistol and said he carries it "every single day" to "protect myself, my family, my wife, my home." Also Read: US man blames surgeon for back pain after surgery, kills him, three others On the display, Democratic Representative of Texas, Sheila Jackson Lee, said, "I hope that gun is not loaded." In reply, Steube said, "I'm at my house, I can do whatever I want with my guns." Then, Steube compared the gun restrictions and homicide rates in several American states and cities. He talked about Washington, Maryland, Illinois and Florida. Watch: US: Multiple people injured in a shooting at Wisconsin cemetery during funeral Repeating five times, committee chairman Representative of New York, Jerry Nadler, said, "Would the gentleman yield for questions?" "No, I'm trying to get my point across in the two minutes that I have left. The murder rate was more — now let me start back over, and I hope you give me my 10 or 15 seconds back that you just took," Steube replied. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

US lawmaker shows off guns at House hearing for new gun violence prevention legislation to make a point

A committee in the United States house of representatives here in Washington is to convene an emergency session to discuss limited gun control legislative proposals in light of the series of recent mass shootings across the US.

United States: 41-page draft proposes raising legal age to buy guns

Ilene Steur, one of the victims of the April New York subway shooting is suing gunmaker Glock, manufacturer of the firearm used in the attack. The perpetrator of the Subway attack had used a Glock 17, 9mm pistol purchased in 2011, in Ohio State. The lawsuit comes as the United States is still reeling from two high-profile mass shootings this month. One at a Buffalo, New York supermarket that killed ten people and another at a Uvalde, Texas elementary school that led to the death of&nbsp;21 people; 19 students and 2 teachers.&nbsp;One of the 10 people shot on April 12, Ilene says that the gunmaker uses its marketing efforts to appeal to criminals.

She has filed a civil suit in the federal court, where she has accused the Austrian company Glock of using "marketing that emphasises firearm characteristics such as their high capacity and ease of concealment, that appeal to prospective purchasers with criminal intent."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/americas-love-for-military-style-weapons-and-ar-15-the-assault-rifle-used-in-texas-school-shooting-482652">America's love for military style weapons and AR-15, the assault rifle used in Texas school shooting</a>

Steur also alleges that the company neglected to instruct dealers on how to avoid illegal firearms acquisitions and also intentionally supplied more firearms than the legitimate market could bear in order to stimulate secondary market sales.

"Gun manufacturers do not live in a bubble," said Mark Shirian, one of Steur's attorneys.

Watch |&nbsp;As US grapples with gun terror, this is how NZ, Canada, Australia changed laws after mass shootings

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They are well aware that their marketing methods enable consumers with nefarious motives, putting the lives of innocent individuals at jeopardy he said in a statement, adding that "this lawsuit seeks to hold the gun industry accountable."

A study by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives shows a vivid picture of a nation armed to the teeth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/americas-gun-culture-kills-hundreds-every-day-is-2nd-amendment-worth-the-lives-lost-heres-the-data-482632">America's gun culture kills hundreds every day. Is 2nd amendment worth the lives lost? Here's the data</a>

In the United States, the number of firearms per 100 individuals has climbed to 120.5 from 88 in 2011. This is far more than any other country.

The United States is in the midst of a massive gun-buying boom that shows no signs of slowing down, according to the most comprehensive official tally of gun commerce in two decades. Since 2000, the annual number of firearms manufactured has nearly tripled, and the previous three years have seen a significant increase.

In the last 20 years, gun production in the United States has more than tripled, with 11.3 million weapons estimated to be sold in 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ilene Steur, one of the victims of the April New York subway shooting is suing gunmaker Glock, manufacturer of the firearm used in the attack. The perpetrator of the Subway attack had used a Glock 17, 9mm pistol purchased in 2011, in Ohio State.

Ilene Steur, one of the victims of the April New York subway shooting is suing gunmaker Glock, manufacturer of the firearm used in the attack. The perpetrator of the Subway attack had used a Glock 17, 9mm pistol purchased in 2011, in Ohio State. The lawsuit comes as the United States is still reeling from two high-profile mass shootings this month. One at a Buffalo, New York supermarket that killed ten people and another at a Uvalde, Texas elementary school that led to the death of 21 people; 19 students and 2 teachers. One of the 10 people shot on April 12, Ilene says that the gunmaker uses its marketing efforts to appeal to criminals. She has filed a civil suit in the federal court, where she has accused the Austrian company Glock of using "marketing that emphasises firearm characteristics such as their high capacity and ease of concealment, that appeal to prospective purchasers with criminal intent." Also read | America's love for military style weapons and AR-15, the assault rifle used in Texas school shooting Steur also alleges that the company neglected to instruct dealers on how to avoid illegal firearms acquisitions and also intentionally supplied more firearms than the legitimate market could bear in order to stimulate secondary market sales. "Gun manufacturers do not live in a bubble," said Mark Shirian, one of Steur's attorneys. Watch | As US grapples with gun terror, this is how NZ, Canada, Australia changed laws after mass shootings They are well aware that their marketing methods enable consumers with nefarious motives, putting the lives of innocent individuals at jeopardy he said in a statement, adding that "this lawsuit seeks to hold the gun industry accountable." A study by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives shows a vivid picture of a nation armed to the teeth. Also read | America's gun culture kills hundreds every day. Is 2nd amendment worth the lives lost? Here's the data In the United States, the number of firearms per 100 individuals has climbed to 120.5 from 88 in 2011. This is far more than any other country. The United States is in the midst of a massive gun-buying boom that shows no signs of slowing down, according to the most comprehensive official tally of gun commerce in two decades. Since 2000, the annual number of firearms manufactured has nearly tripled, and the previous three years have seen a significant increase. In the last 20 years, gun production in the United States has more than tripled, with 11.3 million weapons estimated to be sold in 2020. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New York subway shooting victim sues gunmaker Glock

The subjects of gun ownership and gun violence have always been quite polarising in the United States and a new set of data shows quite an alarming problem when it comes to stolen guns.

A new data analysis, conducted by the nonprofit Everytown for Gun Safety, stated that more guns are being stoles from vehicles in the United States. This has given rise to the number of illegal firearms around the country and as shootings rise, this makes it difficult to trace the weapons.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-economic-crisis-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-announces-decision-to-resign-477587" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka economic crisis: PM Mahinda Rajapaksa resigns as pressure mounts up</a>

According to the data, 180 cities around the country saw a rise in guns stolen from vehicles between 2019 and 2022. It also pointed out that vehicles are the major source of stolen guns at the moment.

In 2020 alone, around 77,000 guns were reported stolen in the 271 cities included in the study and almost half of them were taken from the vehicles of the gun owners. This is a relatively new trend in the US where burglaries were the main source of stolen guns for a very long stretch of time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-must-protect-child-influencers-from-exploitation-through-labour-laws-says-report-477618" hreflang="en">UK must protect 'kidfluencers' from exploitation through labour laws - Report</a>

The data showed that the trend is more or less consistent in a number of states in the country and according to police records, a number of these stolen guns have turned up at various crime scenes.

The study did not offer any specific reason behind this trend but according to NBC News, the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to the rise of guns stolen from vehicles as most people were indoors and the cars were left unattended for a long time making it easier for the guns to be stolen.

WATCH:&nbsp;Report: One gun stolen&nbsp;from a car every 15 mins on an average in America

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The subjects of gun ownership and gun violence have always been quite polarising in the United States and a new set of data shows quite an alarming problem when it comes to stolen guns.

The subjects of gun ownership and gun violence have always been quite polarising in the United States and a new set of data shows quite an alarming problem when it comes to stolen guns. A new data analysis, conducted by the nonprofit Everytown for Gun Safety, stated that more guns are being stoles from vehicles in the United States. This has given rise to the number of illegal firearms around the country and as shootings rise, this makes it difficult to trace the weapons. Also read | Sri Lanka economic crisis: PM Mahinda Rajapaksa resigns as pressure mounts up According to the data, 180 cities around the country saw a rise in guns stolen from vehicles between 2019 and 2022. It also pointed out that vehicles are the major source of stolen guns at the moment. In 2020 alone, around 77,000 guns were reported stolen in the 271 cities included in the study and almost half of them were taken from the vehicles of the gun owners. This is a relatively new trend in the US where burglaries were the main source of stolen guns for a very long stretch of time. Also read | UK must protect 'kidfluencers' from exploitation through labour laws - Report The data showed that the trend is more or less consistent in a number of states in the country and according to police records, a number of these stolen guns have turned up at various crime scenes. The study did not offer any specific reason behind this trend but according to NBC News, the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to the rise of guns stolen from vehicles as most people were indoors and the cars were left unattended for a long time making it easier for the guns to be stolen. WATCH: Report: One gun stolen from a car every 15 mins on an average in America

More guns are being stolen out of cars in the United States, study finds

An auto shop in Kyiv used to repair cars. It is now converting Russian weapons for Ukrainian soldiers. These weapons can be used to Ukrainian troops on ground.

From repairing cars to converting Russian guns, this auto shop in Kyiv is helping Ukrainians

Ukrainians line up outside gun shops in Lviv. People were seen buying rifles and shotguns. This comes amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Watch: Ukrainians line up outside gun shops to defend against Russian invasion

As per the data in the year 2021, Law enforcement agencies in America's biggest cities have seized or recovered near decade-high numbers of firearms. Several police departments have also reported the recovery of a high number of ghost guns. What are 'ghost guns' and how are they fueling the violence epidemic in the United States? WION tells you in this report.

US: Police department report high numbers 'ghost guns' seizures

Personalized smart guns that can be fired only by verified users could soon be available across American markets. Pistols that will read your fingerprints and may perhaps also require passcode before you can fire them could potentially lead a new era of smart guns.

Smart guns that can be fired only by verified users could soon be available across American markets

Smart guns: Guns that feature fingerprint locks, pin codes and more

Gun violence seems to have become an everyday affair in the United States. The situation is grim to an extent that just days after four teenagers died in a shooting at a high school in Michigan, a US congressman posted a picture for Christmas on Saturday with him and his family, what it appears to be, smiling while holding several guns. &nbsp;

Along with the picture, US Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky, tweeted, "Merry Christmas! ps Santa, please bring ammo." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-president-donald-trumps-social-media-company-gets-agreements-for-1-billion-in-capital-434233">Trump's social media company gets agreements for $1 billion in capital</a>

In the photo, Massie and six others can be seen posing while holding firearms, which resemble an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, M60 machine gun and Thompson submachine gun. &nbsp;

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Merry Christmas! 🎄 
ps. Santa, please bring ammo. 🎁 <a href="https://t.co/NVawULhCNr">pic.twitter.com/NVawULhCNr</a>
— Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepThomasMassie/status/1467197523127422979?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The country has already been marred by a long slew of deadly shooting incidents. They have prompted fierce debates over gun control, gun rights and school safety. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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And once again, wishing all your loved ones (who haven't been shot) a VERY Merry Christmas from the Massies!<a href="https://twitter.com/RepThomasMassie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepThomasMassie</a> <a href="https://t.co/WtC1tNZbUc">pic.twitter.com/WtC1tNZbUc</a>
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The posing of the family with an assortment of guns has not been well received in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cnn-prime-time-anchor-chris-cuomo-terminated-for-helping-his-brother-in-sexual-harassment-scandal-434238" hreflang="en">CNN prime time anchor Chris Cuomo terminated for helping his brother in sexual harassment scandal</a>

Democratic US Representative John Yarmuth, who also chairs the US House of Representatives Budget Committee, has criticised Massie’s post. &nbsp;

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Thomas Massie, U.S. congressman posts family Christmas picture with guns, days after school shooting where 4 Students DIED! Merry Christmas to the families of the deceased. <a href="https://t.co/qvP00AgseE">pic.twitter.com/qvP00AgseE</a>
— Jason (@Politics4ever1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Politics4ever1/status/1467404523748487175?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Under US law, weapons, such as machine guns, can be used by only law enforcement, military and civilians, who have special licenses for weapons made before May 1986. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Gun violence seems to have become an everyday affair in the United States. The situation is grim to an extent that just days after four teenagers died in a shooting at a high school in Michigan, a US congressman posted a picture for Christmas on Saturday with him and his family, what it appears to be, smiling while holding several guns.

Gun violence seems to have become an everyday affair in the United States. The situation is grim to an extent that just days after four teenagers died in a shooting at a high school in Michigan, a US congressman posted a picture for Christmas on Saturday with him and his family, what it appears to be, smiling while holding several guns. Along with the picture, US Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky, tweeted, "Merry Christmas! ps Santa, please bring ammo." Also Read: Trump's social media company gets agreements for $1 billion in capital In the photo, Massie and six others can be seen posing while holding firearms, which resemble an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, M60 machine gun and Thompson submachine gun. Merry Christmas! 🎄 ps. Santa, please bring ammo. 🎁 pic.twitter.com/NVawULhCNr — Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) December 4, 2021 × The country has already been marred by a long slew of deadly shooting incidents. They have prompted fierce debates over gun control, gun rights and school safety. And once again, wishing all your loved ones (who haven't been shot) a VERY Merry Christmas from the Massies!@RepThomasMassie pic.twitter.com/WtC1tNZbUc — Paul Lee Teeks (@PaulLeeTeeks) December 5, 2021 × The posing of the family with an assortment of guns has not been well received in the country. Also Read: CNN prime time anchor Chris Cuomo terminated for helping his brother in sexual harassment scandal Democratic US Representative John Yarmuth, who also chairs the US House of Representatives Budget Committee, has criticised Massie’s post. Thomas Massie, U.S. congressman posts family Christmas picture with guns, days after school shooting where 4 Students DIED! Merry Christmas to the families of the deceased. pic.twitter.com/qvP00AgseE — Jason (@Politics4ever1) December 5, 2021 × Under US law, weapons, such as machine guns, can be used by only law enforcement, military and civilians, who have special licenses for weapons made before May 1986. (With inputs from agencies)

US lawmaker posts family picture with several guns, faces backlash

According to Europol, around 150 suspects have been arrested including several high-profile targets set to be involved in buying or selling illegal goods online, this is one of the largest-ever stings on the dark web.

Europol: Drugs, guns and Crypto seized by officials, police arrests 150 people globally

The new Taliban governor of Helmand, a province in the south of Afghanistan, has urged western countries to come back to the country but with money instead of guns.

A month after Taliban took control of Afghanistan, Talib Mawlawi, a local of Helmand, has asked foreign governments to sit and interact with Taliban in non-war conditions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-leaders-abdul-ghani-baradar-and-khalil-ur-rahman-haqqani-involved-in-a-major-dispute-report-413277" hreflang="en">Taliban leaders Baradar and Haqqani involved in a major dispute: Report</a>

"We faced each other in battle, we didn’t get to know each other in normal times,"&nbsp;Mawlawi said. "Now you can win our hearts and make us happy if you recognise this government."

His statement has come as reports are surfacing about an economic collapse in the province, much like the rest of the country. Like all other Taliban leaders, Mawlawi is also asking world leaders to come in Afghanistan with their financial aid and help bridge the gap between the poor and rich.

"All those foreign countries invaded and killed our women and our children and our old people, and destroyed everything," he said. "Now the international community should help us with humanitarian aid and focus on developing education, business and trade."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/talibans-takeover-of-afghanistan-nears-one-month-413289">WATCH |</a>

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He also reiterated that Taliban have successfully brought peace to the region — Hemland has been observing civil fights between the Afghan forces and Taliban militants for the past two decades. "The international community helps the countries that have the support of their civilians. We have brought security, and we have the support of our people, so they should help us and recognise our government."

Meanwhile, Hemland is still awaiting decision on whether or not high schools will reopen for girls. As of now, girls are seen coming to colleges and universities with a stricter dress code and are allowed to study only in segregated classrooms. "The government recommended them not to come as free as they were before, they should wear burqa or Arabic hijab."

The new Taliban governor of Helmand, a province in the south of Afghanistan, has urged western countries to come back to the country but with money instead of guns.

The new Taliban governor of Helmand, a province in the south of Afghanistan, has urged western countries to come back to the country but with money instead of guns. A month after Taliban took control of Afghanistan, Talib Mawlawi, a local of Helmand, has asked foreign governments to sit and interact with Taliban in non-war conditions. Also read | Taliban leaders Baradar and Haqqani involved in a major dispute: Report "We faced each other in battle, we didn’t get to know each other in normal times," Mawlawi said. "Now you can win our hearts and make us happy if you recognise this government." His statement has come as reports are surfacing about an economic collapse in the province, much like the rest of the country. Like all other Taliban leaders, Mawlawi is also asking world leaders to come in Afghanistan with their financial aid and help bridge the gap between the poor and rich. "All those foreign countries invaded and killed our women and our children and our old people, and destroyed everything," he said. "Now the international community should help us with humanitarian aid and focus on developing education, business and trade." WATCH | He also reiterated that Taliban have successfully brought peace to the region — Hemland has been observing civil fights between the Afghan forces and Taliban militants for the past two decades. "The international community helps the countries that have the support of their civilians. We have brought security, and we have the support of our people, so they should help us and recognise our government." Meanwhile, Hemland is still awaiting decision on whether or not high schools will reopen for girls. As of now, girls are seen coming to colleges and universities with a stricter dress code and are allowed to study only in segregated classrooms. "The government recommended them not to come as free as they were before, they should wear burqa or Arabic hijab."

Afghanistan: Helmand's Taliban governor asks western nations to return with 'money, not guns'

Mexican children toting replica rifles march alongside armed members of a self-defense force who say they have been left to defend their village against drug traffickers all by themselves.

Mexican villagers take anti-narco fight into own hands

A gunman in New York City who opened fire from the stairs of Cathedral Church of St John the Divine was shot dead by police on Sunday.

Reuters reported that the gunman was shouting “Kill me!” Before being accosted by the police, where he showed up right after an outdoor choir performance.

No injuries were reported as officers who were present on the scene immediately dealt with the suspect.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ufo-sightings-in-new-york-city-jumped-by-over-283-this-year-compared-to-2018-349410" hreflang="en">UFO sightings in New York City jumped by over 283% this year compared to 2018</a>

The yet-to-be identified subject was hit by a bullet in the head once during the exchange of gunfire, after which he was taken to a local hospital, where he succumbed to the wounds.

According to New York City Police Commissioner Dermot Shea, the suspect was shot at by the police at least 15 times.

Soon after the encounter, the police found two semiautomatic handguns from the scene. Shea claimed that they also found a bag which contained a can of petrol, a rope and wire, several knives, a copy of the Bible, and tape.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/indoor-dining-will-shut-down-in-new-york-city-again-349290" hreflang="en">Indoor dining will shut down in New York City again</a>

"I think we can all surmise the ill intentions of the proceeds of this bag," he added. The man had started firing just 15 minutes after an outdoor choir performance attended by around 200 people had concluded.

To keep in line with COVID-19 safety requirements, the choir’s annual Christmas holiday concert was moved outdoors. By the time the shooting had begun, the audience had either left the spot, or had moved inside the church.

When the gunman started screaming “Kill me” and “shoot me”, around 15 people were present on the scene, who scrambled to safety soon after he started firing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/several-injured-after-car-rams-into-black-lives-matter-protesters-in-new-york-city-349190" hreflang="en">Several injured after car rams into Black Lives Matter protesters in New York City</a>

According to Reuters, police officers had urged the suspect to drop his weapons several times before shooting him. The choir members were safely inside the church by the time the shooting had begun.

"Thankfully, this year with COVID, there was a much smaller event than normal… It is by the grace of God today that we don’t have anyone struck”, She added.

A gunman in New York City who opened fire from the stairs of Cathedral Church of St John the Divine was shot dead by police on Sunday. Reuters reported that the gunman was shouting “Kill me!

A gunman in New York City who opened fire from the stairs of Cathedral Church of St John the Divine was shot dead by police on Sunday. Reuters reported that the gunman was shouting “Kill me!” Before being accosted by the police, where he showed up right after an outdoor choir performance. No injuries were reported as officers who were present on the scene immediately dealt with the suspect. Also read: UFO sightings in New York City jumped by over 283% this year compared to 2018 The yet-to-be identified subject was hit by a bullet in the head once during the exchange of gunfire, after which he was taken to a local hospital, where he succumbed to the wounds. According to New York City Police Commissioner Dermot Shea, the suspect was shot at by the police at least 15 times. Soon after the encounter, the police found two semiautomatic handguns from the scene. Shea claimed that they also found a bag which contained a can of petrol, a rope and wire, several knives, a copy of the Bible, and tape. Also read: Indoor dining will shut down in New York City again "I think we can all surmise the ill intentions of the proceeds of this bag," he added. The man had started firing just 15 minutes after an outdoor choir performance attended by around 200 people had concluded. To keep in line with COVID-19 safety requirements, the choir’s annual Christmas holiday concert was moved outdoors. By the time the shooting had begun, the audience had either left the spot, or had moved inside the church. When the gunman started screaming “Kill me” and “shoot me”, around 15 people were present on the scene, who scrambled to safety soon after he started firing. Also read: Several injured after car rams into Black Lives Matter protesters in New York City According to Reuters, police officers had urged the suspect to drop his weapons several times before shooting him. The choir members were safely inside the church by the time the shooting had begun. "Thankfully, this year with COVID, there was a much smaller event than normal… It is by the grace of God today that we don’t have anyone struck”, She added.

Gunman wielding guns, screaming 'kill me' shot dead by police in New York City

A grand jury considering the March killing of Breonna Taylor, a Black medical worker, in her home in Louisville, Kentucky, on Wednesday voted to indict at least one of three white police officers for wanton endangerment, a judge said.

Jefferson Circuit Judge Annie O'Connell read the grand jury's decision in open court.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/tennis-ace-naomi-osaka-wears-mask-in-memory-of-breonna-taylor-at-us-open-324775" hreflang="en">Tennis ace Naomi Osaka wears mask in memory of Breonna Taylor at US Open</a>

Police shot Taylor, 26, in front of her boyfriend after they forced their way into her apartment with a so-called "no knock" warrant.

Taylor's death, alongside that of George Floyd, a Black man who died in May after a white Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck, helped spark a nationwide wave of protests demanding racial justice and an end to the use of excessive force by law enforcement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/beyonce-pens-open-letter-seeking-justice-for-breonna-taylor-306041" hreflang="en">Beyonce pens open letter seeking justice for Breonna Taylor</a>

Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron was due to hold a news conference to announce about the grand jury's decision Detective Brett Hankison, Sergeant Jonathan Mattingly and Detective Myles Cosgrove.

Ahead of the announcement, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer announced a 72-hour curfew for the city beginning at 9 p.m., with exceptions for those going to work or to seek medical treatment.

A grand jury considering the March killing of Breonna Taylor, a Black medical worker, in her home in Louisville, Kentucky, on Wednesday voted to indict at least one of three white police officers for wanton endangerment, a judge said.

A grand jury considering the March killing of Breonna Taylor, a Black medical worker, in her home in Louisville, Kentucky, on Wednesday voted to indict at least one of three white police officers for wanton endangerment, a judge said. Jefferson Circuit Judge Annie O'Connell read the grand jury's decision in open court. Also read: Tennis ace Naomi Osaka wears mask in memory of Breonna Taylor at US Open Police shot Taylor, 26, in front of her boyfriend after they forced their way into her apartment with a so-called "no knock" warrant. Taylor's death, alongside that of George Floyd, a Black man who died in May after a white Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck, helped spark a nationwide wave of protests demanding racial justice and an end to the use of excessive force by law enforcement. Also read: Beyonce pens open letter seeking justice for Breonna Taylor Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron was due to hold a news conference to announce about the grand jury's decision Detective Brett Hankison, Sergeant Jonathan Mattingly and Detective Myles Cosgrove. Ahead of the announcement, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer announced a 72-hour curfew for the city beginning at 9 p.m., with exceptions for those going to work or to seek medical treatment.

Kentucky grand jury indicts at least one of three officers in Breonna Taylor case

Global spending on defence rose by four per cent in 2019, the largest growth in 10 years, led by big increases from the US and China, a study said Friday (Feb 14).

Beijing's military modernisation programme -&nbsp;which includes developing new hard-to-detect hypersonic missiles -&nbsp;is alarming Washington and helping drive US defence spending, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) said.

The IISS's annual "Military Balance" report said the increase alone in US spending from 2018 to 2019 - US$53.4 billion - was almost as big as Britain's entire defence budget.

Both China and the US increased spending by 6.6 per cent, the report said, while Europe - driven by ongoing concerns about Russia - stepped up by 4.2 per cent.

But this growth only brought European defence spending back to levels seen in 2008, before the global financial crisis saw budgets slashed.

European NATO members have been seeking to increase spending to placate President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly accused them of freeloading on the US.

Trump has railed at European allies, particularly Germany, for not living up to a 2014 NATO pledge to spend two percent of GDP on defence.

The mercurial president's anger over spending has fuelled concern about his commitment to the transatlantic alliance, culminating in an explosive 2018 summit where he launched a blistering public attack on Germany in a televised meeting with Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Global spending on defence rose by four per cent in 2019, the largest growth in 10 years, led by big increases from the US and China, a study said Friday (Feb 14).

Global spending on defence rose by four per cent in 2019, the largest growth in 10 years, led by big increases from the US and China, a study said Friday (Feb 14). Beijing's military modernisation programme - which includes developing new hard-to-detect hypersonic missiles - is alarming Washington and helping drive US defence spending, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) said. The IISS's annual "Military Balance" report said the increase alone in US spending from 2018 to 2019 - US$53.4 billion - was almost as big as Britain's entire defence budget. Both China and the US increased spending by 6.6 per cent, the report said, while Europe - driven by ongoing concerns about Russia - stepped up by 4.2 per cent. But this growth only brought European defence spending back to levels seen in 2008, before the global financial crisis saw budgets slashed. European NATO members have been seeking to increase spending to placate President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly accused them of freeloading on the US. Trump has railed at European allies, particularly Germany, for not living up to a 2014 NATO pledge to spend two percent of GDP on defence. The mercurial president's anger over spending has fuelled concern about his commitment to the transatlantic alliance, culminating in an explosive 2018 summit where he launched a blistering public attack on Germany in a televised meeting with Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Biggest jump in world defence spending in 10 years: Study

The Pentagon announced today that it would enforce new restrictions on international military students in terms of access to guns on United States bases.

This news came in after a Saudi officer killed three American sailors at a naval base in Florida last month. 
 
"Getting back to work does not mean getting back to business as usual. Going forward we will put several new policies and security procedures in place," Garry Reid, a senior Pentagon intelligence official, said in a statement.

<h6><img alt="naval" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dafe4ee-d01a-459e-b8be-40b7c0c721bc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_18.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;This handout photo released on December 7, 2019 by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) shows FBI Evidence Response Team after a shooting incident at a naval base in Pensacola, Florida on December 6, 2019 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Besides the three sailors who were killed, eight others were injured in the attack at the Pensacola Naval Air Station in Florida. The gunman, Saudi Air Force Second Lieutenant Mohammed Saeed Alshamrani was later shot dead by a deputy sheriff.

In the aftermath of the attack, the US retaliated by grounding all Saudi pilots and restricting the 850 Saudi military personnel by limiting them to classroom training as part of a ''safety stand-down''. New vetting procedures may also show up.

<h6><img alt="Pensacola" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f74135e4-4463-431b-bc6b-681f78a7b572" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_35.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;Traffic on and off base is restricted after a member of the Saudi Air Force visiting the United States for military training was the suspect in a shooting at Naval Air Station&nbsp;Pensacola, in&nbsp;Pensacola, Florida, US&nbsp;December 6, 2019 | Reuters 
 
Reid further added that normal functioning and training across military departments would resume soon once new procedures are put in place.&nbsp;</h6>

The US Defence Secretary Mark Esper will visit the base in Pensacola in Florida next week. Esper is expected to brief the base leadership.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The Pentagon announced today that it would enforce new restrictions on international military students in terms of access to guns on United States bases. This news came in after a Saudi officer killed three American sailors at a naval base in Florida last month.

The Pentagon announced today that it would enforce new restrictions on international military students in terms of access to guns on United States bases. This news came in after a Saudi officer killed three American sailors at a naval base in Florida last month. "Getting back to work does not mean getting back to business as usual. Going forward we will put several new policies and security procedures in place," Garry Reid, a senior Pentagon intelligence official, said in a statement. Image: This handout photo released on December 7, 2019 by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) shows FBI Evidence Response Team after a shooting incident at a naval base in Pensacola, Florida on December 6, 2019 | AFP Besides the three sailors who were killed, eight others were injured in the attack at the Pensacola Naval Air Station in Florida. The gunman, Saudi Air Force Second Lieutenant Mohammed Saeed Alshamrani was later shot dead by a deputy sheriff. In the aftermath of the attack, the US retaliated by grounding all Saudi pilots and restricting the 850 Saudi military personnel by limiting them to classroom training as part of a ''safety stand-down''. New vetting procedures may also show up. Image: Traffic on and off base is restricted after a member of the Saudi Air Force visiting the United States for military training was the suspect in a shooting at Naval Air Station Pensacola, in Pensacola, Florida, US December 6, 2019 | Reuters Reid further added that normal functioning and training across military departments would resume soon once new procedures are put in place. The US Defence Secretary Mark Esper will visit the base in Pensacola in Florida next week. Esper is expected to brief the base leadership. (With inputs from Reuters)

Pentagon restricts access to guns for foreign trainees

Police in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-protesters-face-off-with-police-in-mall-protests-269485">Hong Kong</a> arrested a man for shooting at officers on Friday.&nbsp;

The police seized two guns and 255 bullets from the suspect. According to the police, the suspect wanted to cause chaos in public assemblies.

No injuries and deaths were reported in the shooting, with a P80 semi-automatic pistol getting seized on the site. Additionally, a female suspect escaped.

The same suspect, 19, was arrested on December 31, 2018, for illegal possession of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-allow-foreign-forces-to-interfere-in-hong-kong-macau-chinese-president-xi-269413">firearms</a>. He has been on bail since February 28, 2019.

Watch: China vows unwavering support to Hong Kong's Carrie Lam

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In the two days of December 7-8, Hong Kong police arrested 42 people for possessing firearms without a license, possessing offensive weapons, and the conspiracy to do bodily harm and unlawful assembly.

From the pool of 42 people who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-say-suspect-fired-shot-during-protest-related-arrest-269472">were arrested</a>, 11 were taken into custody in a December 8 operation.&nbsp;

On this day, the police seized a large number of weapons that were allegedly used by radicals in a demonstration on the same day. They had recovered a semi-automated pistol and over 100 bullets.

According to the Senior Superintendent, Li Kwai-wah, Organised Crime and Triad Bureau said that during an arrest operation on Friday night outside Tai Po's Jade Plaza in the New Territories, a male suspect fired a shot at police officers, who then subdued him.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Police in Hong Kong arrested a man for shooting at officers on Friday. The police seized two guns and 255 bullets from the suspect. According to the police, the suspect wanted to cause chaos in public assemblies.

Police in Hong Kong arrested a man for shooting at officers on Friday. The police seized two guns and 255 bullets from the suspect. According to the police, the suspect wanted to cause chaos in public assemblies. No injuries and deaths were reported in the shooting, with a P80 semi-automatic pistol getting seized on the site. Additionally, a female suspect escaped. The same suspect, 19, was arrested on December 31, 2018, for illegal possession of firearms. He has been on bail since February 28, 2019. Watch: China vows unwavering support to Hong Kong's Carrie Lam In the two days of December 7-8, Hong Kong police arrested 42 people for possessing firearms without a license, possessing offensive weapons, and the conspiracy to do bodily harm and unlawful assembly. From the pool of 42 people who were arrested, 11 were taken into custody in a December 8 operation. On this day, the police seized a large number of weapons that were allegedly used by radicals in a demonstration on the same day. They had recovered a semi-automated pistol and over 100 bullets. According to the Senior Superintendent, Li Kwai-wah, Organised Crime and Triad Bureau said that during an arrest operation on Friday night outside Tai Po's Jade Plaza in the New Territories, a male suspect fired a shot at police officers, who then subdued him. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong: Police arrest man who shot at officers, seize guns

The Parliament today passed the Arms (Amendment) Bill 2019, which seeks to increase the punishment for illegally procuring, making, and selling prohibited arms and ammunition in the country.

The Rajya Sabha passed the bill one day after it was cleared in the Lok Sabha.

According to the bill, a prison sentence of seven years extending to life imprisonment will now be possible. The sentence will be given for possession of illegal weapons while perpetrators may face life imprisonment for snatching the weapons of police personnel.

The bill serves as an amendment to the Arms Act of 1959 ''to effectively curb crimes committed using illegal firearms''.

Proceedings in the Lok Sabha have been adjourned till 11 am Wednesday.

(With inputs from ANI)

The Parliament today passed the Arms (Amendment) Bill 2019, which seeks to increase the punishment for illegally procuring, making, and selling prohibited arms and ammunition in the country.

The Parliament today passed the Arms (Amendment) Bill 2019, which seeks to increase the punishment for illegally procuring, making, and selling prohibited arms and ammunition in the country. The Rajya Sabha passed the bill one day after it was cleared in the Lok Sabha. According to the bill, a prison sentence of seven years extending to life imprisonment will now be possible. The sentence will be given for possession of illegal weapons while perpetrators may face life imprisonment for snatching the weapons of police personnel. The bill serves as an amendment to the Arms Act of 1959 ''to effectively curb crimes committed using illegal firearms''. Proceedings in the Lok Sabha have been adjourned till 11 am Wednesday. (With inputs from ANI)

Parliament passes Arms (Amendment) Bill, 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-injured-in-shooting-at-hawaiis-pearl-harbour-base-266276">A US sailor fatally shot two people</a> and wounded a third at the Pearl Harbour Naval Shipyard in Hawaii on Wednesday before committing suicide, an official said.

The two people killed were Department of Defence civilian employees, while a third civilian was wounded but "in stable condition at (an) area hospital," the official said.

A spokeswoman for the Joint Base Pearl Harbour-Hickam confirmed that a shooting had taken place but declined to give any further details.

"The incident occurred at approximately 2:30 pm. Due to the ongoing security incident, access/gates to #JBPHH are closed," the base said on Twitter.

NBC affiliate Hawaii News Now, citing a base spokesman, said at least three people had been wounded in the attack, which took place at Drydock 2 of the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard.

An unnamed witness told Hawaii News Now in an on-air interview that he had seen the gunman put a gun to his head and shoot himself. The gunman was wearing a US&nbsp;Navy uniform, the witness told the station.

Watch: United States' bloody history of mass shootings

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Hawaii News Now earlier reported that two of the victims were in grave condition at local hospitals.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam is a combined US&nbsp;Air Force and Navy Installation located 13 km&nbsp;from Honolulu.

The base was put on lockdown for about two hours after the shooting.

The incident comes three days before the anniversary of the December&nbsp;7, 1941 attack on the naval base that led the United States to enter World War Two by declaring war on Japan.

(With inputs from agencies)

A US sailor fatally shot two people and wounded a third at the Pearl Harbour Naval Shipyard in Hawaii on Wednesday before committing suicide, an official said. The two people killed were Department of Defence civilian employees, while a third civilian was wounded but "in stable condition at (an) area hospital," the official said.

A US sailor fatally shot two people and wounded a third at the Pearl Harbour Naval Shipyard in Hawaii on Wednesday before committing suicide, an official said. The two people killed were Department of Defence civilian employees, while a third civilian was wounded but "in stable condition at (an) area hospital," the official said. A spokeswoman for the Joint Base Pearl Harbour-Hickam confirmed that a shooting had taken place but declined to give any further details. "The incident occurred at approximately 2:30 pm. Due to the ongoing security incident, access/gates to #JBPHH are closed," the base said on Twitter. NBC affiliate Hawaii News Now, citing a base spokesman, said at least three people had been wounded in the attack, which took place at Drydock 2 of the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. An unnamed witness told Hawaii News Now in an on-air interview that he had seen the gunman put a gun to his head and shoot himself. The gunman was wearing a US Navy uniform, the witness told the station. Watch: United States' bloody history of mass shootings Hawaii News Now earlier reported that two of the victims were in grave condition at local hospitals. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam is a combined US Air Force and Navy Installation located 13 km from Honolulu. The base was put on lockdown for about two hours after the shooting. The incident comes three days before the anniversary of the December 7, 1941 attack on the naval base that led the United States to enter World War Two by declaring war on Japan. (With inputs from agencies)

Hawaii: Two killed, one injured in Pearl Harbour shooting

Greek police said Saturday they had arrested three people and seized an arms cache in an ongoing anti-terrorist operation officials likened to high profile arrests of Revolutionary Struggle group members in 2010.

Greek police stated two men,&nbsp;a 41 and a 45-year-old,&nbsp;and a 39-year-old woman, allegedly implicated in terrorism, were arrested during a "wide operation" launched in Athens on Friday. They added a 46-year-old man remained at large.&nbsp;

During the raids on 13 houses, Greek anti-terrorist squad seized weapons including five AK-47 automatic rifles, detonators, dynamite and grenades.

The 41-year-old man arrested was also detained in 2010 accused of being a member of far-left group Revolutionary Struggle (EA), behind a series of "anti-capitalist" attacks. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Citizen Protection Ministry said one of the assault rifles found during the raids was used in an October robbery in a betting shop in the northern suburb of Cholargos.&nbsp;

Another AK-47 was used in multiple attacks carried out by the 'Organisation of Revolutionary Self-Defense' group against PASOK socialist party headquarters in Athens, as well as against the Mexican embassy in Athens in 2016.&nbsp;

The group also claimed responsibility for a grenade attack on the French Embassy in Athens in 2016.&nbsp;

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed the operation as "a very big success".

"Let me repeat, for one more time, our commitment to put a definitive and irreversible end to the problem of domestic terrorism", he added.&nbsp;

A top police official told AFP the operation could be compared to the arrests in 2010 of Revolutionary Struggle leaders Paula Roupa and Nikos Maziotis.&nbsp;

Their group, which first emerged in 2003, was once deemed by authorities to be the country's most dangerous far-left organisation.

The United States put a bounty on the group after it fired a rocket at the US embassy in Athens in 2007, though nobody was injured.

In 2014, the group also exploded a booby-trapped car outside a Bank of Greece office in central Athens as the country prepared to make a highly symbolic debt sale. Again, no-one was hurt.

Greek police said Saturday they had arrested three people and seized an arms cache in an ongoing anti-terrorist operation officials likened to high profile arrests of Revolutionary Struggle group members in 2010.

Greek police said Saturday they had arrested three people and seized an arms cache in an ongoing anti-terrorist operation officials likened to high profile arrests of Revolutionary Struggle group members in 2010. Greek police stated two men, a 41 and a 45-year-old, and a 39-year-old woman, allegedly implicated in terrorism, were arrested during a "wide operation" launched in Athens on Friday. They added a 46-year-old man remained at large. During the raids on 13 houses, Greek anti-terrorist squad seized weapons including five AK-47 automatic rifles, detonators, dynamite and grenades. The 41-year-old man arrested was also detained in 2010 accused of being a member of far-left group Revolutionary Struggle (EA), behind a series of "anti-capitalist" attacks. The Citizen Protection Ministry said one of the assault rifles found during the raids was used in an October robbery in a betting shop in the northern suburb of Cholargos. Another AK-47 was used in multiple attacks carried out by the 'Organisation of Revolutionary Self-Defense' group against PASOK socialist party headquarters in Athens, as well as against the Mexican embassy in Athens in 2016. The group also claimed responsibility for a grenade attack on the French Embassy in Athens in 2016. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed the operation as "a very big success". "Let me repeat, for one more time, our commitment to put a definitive and irreversible end to the problem of domestic terrorism", he added. A top police official told AFP the operation could be compared to the arrests in 2010 of Revolutionary Struggle leaders Paula Roupa and Nikos Maziotis. Their group, which first emerged in 2003, was once deemed by authorities to be the country's most dangerous far-left organisation. The United States put a bounty on the group after it fired a rocket at the US embassy in Athens in 2007, though nobody was injured. In 2014, the group also exploded a booby-trapped car outside a Bank of Greece office in central Athens as the country prepared to make a highly symbolic debt sale. Again, no-one was hurt.

Three arrested, guns seized in Greek anti-terrorism raid

Despite two deadly shootings at its stores in less than a week, American retail giant Walmart has no plans to stop selling guns and ammunition, a spokesman said Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-paso-shooting-walmart-massacre-to-be-probed-as-domestic-terror-case-240685">A man opened fire with an assault rifle</a> at a Walmart in Texas on Saturday, killing 20 people, just four days after a disgruntled employee shot dead two coworkers and wounded a responding police officer at one of the massive chain's stores in Mississippi.

"We are focused on supporting our associates, our customers and the entire El Paso community," spokesman Randy Hargrove said.

Following the El Paso shooting, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon posted a note on Instagram saying he "can't believe" it was the second such in a week.

"My heart aches for the community in El Paso, especially the associates and customers at store 2201 and the families of the victims," he wrote.

"I'm praying for them and I hope you will join me."

Walmart founder Sam Walton loved guns -- so much so that the American gun manufacturer Remington named a hunting rifle model after him. But the retail giant maintains that its target audience is sport shooters and hunters.

Walmart has made gun policy changes over the years, such as in 1993, when it stopped selling handguns.

The company stopped selling semi-automatic rifles in 2015, and after the Parkland, Florida shooting in February 2018 -- which saw 17 people killed at a high school -- Walmart raised the minimum age to buy guns and ammunition in its stores to 21.

Watch:&nbsp;Gunman kills 20 at Texas Walmart store

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Additionally, "Walmart goes beyond federal law requiring all customers to pass a background check before purchasing any firearm," said Hargrove.

He also noted that all new Walmart employees are required to complete an active shooter training program, which they then must pass on a computer four times a year.

But since it is the largest retail chain in the United States, Walmart continues to attract criticism for its enduring stock of firearms.

When the company tweeted it was "in shock" after the tragedy in El Paso, many Twitter users replied: "Stop selling guns."

Despite two deadly shootings at its stores in less than a week, American retail giant Walmart has no plans to stop selling guns and ammunition, a spokesman said Sunday.

Despite two deadly shootings at its stores in less than a week, American retail giant Walmart has no plans to stop selling guns and ammunition, a spokesman said Sunday. A man opened fire with an assault rifle at a Walmart in Texas on Saturday, killing 20 people, just four days after a disgruntled employee shot dead two coworkers and wounded a responding police officer at one of the massive chain's stores in Mississippi. "We are focused on supporting our associates, our customers and the entire El Paso community," spokesman Randy Hargrove said. Following the El Paso shooting, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon posted a note on Instagram saying he "can't believe" it was the second such in a week. "My heart aches for the community in El Paso, especially the associates and customers at store 2201 and the families of the victims," he wrote. "I'm praying for them and I hope you will join me." Walmart founder Sam Walton loved guns -- so much so that the American gun manufacturer Remington named a hunting rifle model after him. But the retail giant maintains that its target audience is sport shooters and hunters. Walmart has made gun policy changes over the years, such as in 1993, when it stopped selling handguns. The company stopped selling semi-automatic rifles in 2015, and after the Parkland, Florida shooting in February 2018 -- which saw 17 people killed at a high school -- Walmart raised the minimum age to buy guns and ammunition in its stores to 21. Watch: Gunman kills 20 at Texas Walmart store Additionally, "Walmart goes beyond federal law requiring all customers to pass a background check before purchasing any firearm," said Hargrove. He also noted that all new Walmart employees are required to complete an active shooter training program, which they then must pass on a computer four times a year. But since it is the largest retail chain in the United States, Walmart continues to attract criticism for its enduring stock of firearms. When the company tweeted it was "in shock" after the tragedy in El Paso, many Twitter users replied: "Stop selling guns."

Walmart to keep selling guns despite recent shootings at its stores in El Paso

New Zealanders have begun handing in weapons in response to government appeals following the Christchurch massacre, but the gesture has put some squarely in the social media firing line.

John Hart, a farmer in the North Island district of Masterton, decided to give his semi-automatic rifle to police after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-pm-ardern-vows-mosque-gunman-will-face-full-force-of-law-204206">Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern</a> announced on Monday plans to tighten gun laws in light of the slaughter Friday of 50 Muslim worshippers.

She also encouraged owners to surrender unnecessary firearms after it emerged that the accused mosque attacker, Australia white nationalist Brenton Tarrant, had legally acquired the guns he used in the rampage.

Hart said it was an easy decision for him to hand in his semi-automatic and tweeted that "on the farm they are a useful tool in some circumstances, but my convenience doesn't outweigh the risk of misuse. We don't need these in our country".&nbsp;

The tweet drew a barrage of derogatory messages to his Facebook account -- most apparently from the US, where the pro-gun lobby is powerful and vociferous.

Hart deleted the messages but posted online: "A warm kia ora to all my new American Facebook friends."

"I'm not familiar with your local customs, but I assume 'Cuck' is a traditional greeting," he said of the insult, short for "cuckold', frequently used by far-right extremists. &nbsp;

Hart told AFP many of the messages made inaccurate references to his sexuality.&nbsp;

"It was very sudden. It started about the time the US east coast was waking up. There seemed to have been a rallying call," he said.

A more mild message, from Kaden Heaney asked: "What's the point of giving up yalls personal guns? Yall do realize what happens to societies that give up their guns right? Evil people will get their hands on guns, knives, bombs or whatever they want to kill no matter what the intentions of good people are. Who will protect you."

Christopher @offwhiteblogger said: "You did the right thing then; you clearly aren't responsible enough to own a firearm."

Police said they did not have data available on the number of weapons handed in since Friday.

But they issued a statement saying that "due to heightened security and the current environment, we would ask that people please call us first before attempting to surrender a firearm."&nbsp;

A person calling himself Blackstone tweeted: "this is one of the easiest decisions I have ever made. Have owned a firearm for 31 years ... Once I realised that, the only way I could go forward with a clear conscience was to hand it into the police for destruction."

Ardern has said that details of the government's proposed law changes on gun ownership will be announced by next week, but she indicated that gun buybacks and a ban on some semi-automatic rifles were under consideration.&nbsp;

"As the Cabinet, we were absolutely unified and very clear: the terror attack in Christchurch on Friday was the worst act of terrorism on our shores, it was in fact one of the worst globally in recent times, it has exposed a range of weaknesses in New Zealand's gun laws," she said.

New Zealand police, meanwhile, were investigating a suspicious fire at a gun club in the far north of the country, but were not immediately linking it to the current gun debate.

There had also been a fire at the same club a year ago.

New Zealanders have begun handing in weapons in response to government appeals following the Christchurch massacre, but the gesture has put some squarely in the social media firing line.

New Zealanders have begun handing in weapons in response to government appeals following the Christchurch massacre, but the gesture has put some squarely in the social media firing line. John Hart, a farmer in the North Island district of Masterton, decided to give his semi-automatic rifle to police after Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced on Monday plans to tighten gun laws in light of the slaughter Friday of 50 Muslim worshippers. She also encouraged owners to surrender unnecessary firearms after it emerged that the accused mosque attacker, Australia white nationalist Brenton Tarrant, had legally acquired the guns he used in the rampage. Hart said it was an easy decision for him to hand in his semi-automatic and tweeted that "on the farm they are a useful tool in some circumstances, but my convenience doesn't outweigh the risk of misuse. We don't need these in our country". The tweet drew a barrage of derogatory messages to his Facebook account -- most apparently from the US, where the pro-gun lobby is powerful and vociferous. Hart deleted the messages but posted online: "A warm kia ora to all my new American Facebook friends." "I'm not familiar with your local customs, but I assume 'Cuck' is a traditional greeting," he said of the insult, short for "cuckold', frequently used by far-right extremists. Hart told AFP many of the messages made inaccurate references to his sexuality. "It was very sudden. It started about the time the US east coast was waking up. There seemed to have been a rallying call," he said. A more mild message, from Kaden Heaney asked: "What's the point of giving up yalls personal guns? Yall do realize what happens to societies that give up their guns right? Evil people will get their hands on guns, knives, bombs or whatever they want to kill no matter what the intentions of good people are. Who will protect you." Christopher @offwhiteblogger said: "You did the right thing then; you clearly aren't responsible enough to own a firearm." Police said they did not have data available on the number of weapons handed in since Friday. But they issued a statement saying that "due to heightened security and the current environment, we would ask that people please call us first before attempting to surrender a firearm." A person calling himself Blackstone tweeted: "this is one of the easiest decisions I have ever made. Have owned a firearm for 31 years ... Once I realised that, the only way I could go forward with a clear conscience was to hand it into the police for destruction." Ardern has said that details of the government's proposed law changes on gun ownership will be announced by next week, but she indicated that gun buybacks and a ban on some semi-automatic rifles were under consideration. "As the Cabinet, we were absolutely unified and very clear: the terror attack in Christchurch on Friday was the worst act of terrorism on our shores, it was in fact one of the worst globally in recent times, it has exposed a range of weaknesses in New Zealand's gun laws," she said. New Zealand police, meanwhile, were investigating a suspicious fire at a gun club in the far north of the country, but were not immediately linking it to the current gun debate. There had also been a fire at the same club a year ago.

New Zealanders give up guns after mosque attacks

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today appealed to the Centre to find a “middle path” for ending the cycle of violence in the Valley which was consuming the lives of poor youth and security forces. Five Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists including a top commander and a university professor were killed in an encounter in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir today. Five civilians died during clashes between protesters and law enforcing agencies near the encounter site.

“The tragedy in which five civilians were killed yesterday is very painful. I appeal to Government of the country (Centre) to find a way for ending this bloodshed,” she told reporters at the reopening of Civil Secretariat here as part of the traditional Darbar move practice.

She also appealed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the parents, to value life. “Allah has given us life to live it well, not to embrace death at 18 or 19 years of age,” she said. Mehbooba said a way out has to be found to end this cycle of violence which is consuming young lives in the state.

“The stones and guns are in the hands of poor (youth). We have to find a middle path to ensure that these boys do not get killed and our army men and policemen also do not get killed,” she said.

In a statement yesterday, the chief minister had said “It sounds very depressing to note that our State is losing young lives to the unending cycle of violence who could otherwise be utilized for a positive contribution to the State”. The chief minister said political issues need political intervention. “I have reiterated it time and again that political issues need political interventions. I appeal youth that their energies, youthfulness, dreams and aspirations are far more important and sacred to the society than their dead bodies or graves,” she said.

The chief minister also appealed all sections of civil society, media, students, parents and other stakeholders to rise to this critical occasion, play their role and help in putting an end to this cycle of bloodshed in the state. Mehbooba reiterated her stand that issues in Jammu and Kashmir can be resolved only through a sustained dialogue between all stakeholders.

“The three decades’ long violence in the state is a testimony to the fact that guns from either side cannot ensure peace, but a compassion driven reconciliation process based on mutual respect surely can. In this regard, I appeal the national leadership of the country to show the element of compassion and empathy as required by the present day situation here and display the statesmanship to get J-K out of the quagmire of killings by engaging in a meaningful dialogue in the State.

“The sooner it happens, the more we can get our state out of the vicious cycle of killings and destruction,” she said.

The Chief Minister also appealed to all sections of civil society, media, students, parents and other stakeholders to rise to this critical occasion, play their role and help in putting an end to this cycle of bloodshed in the state.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today appealed to the Centre to find a “middle path” for ending the cycle of violence in the Valley which was consuming the lives of poor youth and security forces. Five Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists including a top commander and a university professor were killed in an encounter in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir today. Five civilians died during clashes between protesters and law enforcing agencies near the encounter site. “The tragedy in which five civilians were killed yesterday is very painful. I appeal to Government of the country (Centre) to find a way for ending this bloodshed,” she told reporters at the reopening of Civil Secretariat here as part of the traditional Darbar move practice. She also appealed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the parents, to value life. “Allah has given us life to live it well, not to embrace death at 18 or 19 years of age,” she said. Mehbooba said a way out has to be found to end this cycle of violence which is consuming young lives in the state. “The stones and guns are in the hands of poor (youth). We have to find a middle path to ensure that these boys do not get killed and our army men and policemen also do not get killed,” she said. In a statement yesterday, the chief minister had said “It sounds very depressing to note that our State is losing young lives to the unending cycle of violence who could otherwise be utilized for a positive contribution to the State”. The chief minister said political issues need political intervention. “I have reiterated it time and again that political issues need political interventions. I appeal youth that their energies, youthfulness, dreams and aspirations are far more important and sacred to the society than their dead bodies or graves,” she said. The chief minister also appealed all sections of civil society, media, students, parents and other stakeholders to rise to this critical occasion, play their role and help in putting an end to this cycle of bloodshed in the state. Mehbooba reiterated her stand that issues in Jammu and Kashmir can be resolved only through a sustained dialogue between all stakeholders. “The three decades’ long violence in the state is a testimony to the fact that guns from either side cannot ensure peace, but a compassion driven reconciliation process based on mutual respect surely can. In this regard, I appeal the national leadership of the country to show the element of compassion and empathy as required by the present day situation here and display the statesmanship to get J-K out of the quagmire of killings by engaging in a meaningful dialogue in the State. “The sooner it happens, the more we can get our state out of the vicious cycle of killings and destruction,” she said.

Stones and guns in hands of poor youth, need to find a middle path to end cycle of violence: Mehbooba Mufti

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