Storm Isha, which was set to batter “everybody” in the United Kingdom, as per forecasters, did just that. However, the impact was not limited to the ground in the UK and Ireland, whose weather agencies had issued a number of warnings ahead of the storm, but also the skies.&nbsp;

<h2>UK flights diverted to Germany and France</h2>

Thousands of people in the UK and parts of Ireland were placed under warnings for the storm which wreaked havoc bringing heavy rains and strong winds of up to 159 km/h. Notably, some parts of the UK witnessed their strongest winds in 10 to 20 years.

Images and videos from airports in the UK and Ireland showed chaos as many flights were cancelled, including more than 160 flights from Dublin Airport. Additionally, clips show some planes struggling to land or shaking violently before ultimately landing at London airports.&nbsp;

This led to chaos as some passengers were taken to the wrong destinations, and others were taken to a whole other country, which ultimately led them to spend the night on terminal floors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-isha-thousands-left-without-power-in-uk-ireland-over-100-flights-cancelled-at-dublin-airport-682503">Storm Isha: Thousands left without power in UK, Ireland; over 100 flights cancelled at Dublin airport</a>

Flights heading to Bristol, London and Dublin were diverted to Paris, while a plane which was supposed to land in Edinburgh ended up in the German city of Cologne.&nbsp;

Since some of these flights were on domestic routes, the passengers were travelling without a passport and could not pass through immigration now that they were in another country.&nbsp;

Speaking about his experience, Luke Bromage-Henry, whose flight was supposed to land in London from Jersey, but ended up in Paris, said they sat on the runway for several hours. “Worst trip to Paris ever,” he told the BBC.&nbsp;

“I slept for about two hours underneath some chairs in the transfer terminal,” said Bromage-Henry, who spent the night in the terminal at Charles de Gaulle Airport.

<h2>What about Ireland?</h2>

Ryanair, an Irish carrier was particularly affected since its base is Dublin where a whopping 166 flights to and from the airport were cancelled, on Sunday, according to Kevin Cullinane, group head of communications at Dublin Airport, reported CNN.&nbsp;

The airport also diverted 36 flights and saw 34 go-arounds, which is when a plane abandons landing mid-process and decides to “go around” for another try.&nbsp;

Ryanair flights from the Spanish cities of Tenerife and Seville headed for Edinburgh, ended up in Germany’s Cologne. Passengers on another Ryanair flight from Budapest to London flew back to Hungary after several attempts to land and before ultimately giving up.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a Ryanair flight from Lanzarote to Dublin made it to the Irish capital before turning around and was diverted to Bordeaux, France, without attempting to land.&nbsp;

Another flight by the Irish carrier from Manchester to Dublin which is typically a 30-minute route turned into a two-and-a-half hour one after it made a go-around and was diverted to Paris.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-isha-uk-braces-for-strong-winds-heavy-rains-amid-rare-weather-cycle-682058">Storm Isha: UK braces for strong winds, heavy rains amid ‘rare’ weather cycle</a>

A separate plane on the same route went back and forth between the UK and Ireland for over three hours before it landed in Liverpool, around 50 kilometres from the departure airport.

<h2>Two killed due to Storm Isha</h2>

At least two people were killed in storm-related incidents on Monday (Jan 22), as per media reports. A man in Scotland died after the car he was in was hit by a tree, and another man in Northern Ireland passed away after a tree fell on his car.

Isha also left thousands without power in several parts of the UK, as the country braces for another storm, on Tuesday (Jan 23) named Storm Jocelyn, which is expected to bring heavy rains and possible flooding.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Storm Isha, which was set to batter “everybody” in the United Kingdom, as per forecasters, did just that. However, the impact was not limited to the ground in the UK and Ireland, whose weather agencies had issued a number of warnings ahead of the storm, but also the skies.

Storm Isha, which was set to batter “everybody” in the United Kingdom, as per forecasters, did just that. However, the impact was not limited to the ground in the UK and Ireland, whose weather agencies had issued a number of warnings ahead of the storm, but also the skies. UK flights diverted to Germany and France Thousands of people in the UK and parts of Ireland were placed under warnings for the storm which wreaked havoc bringing heavy rains and strong winds of up to 159 km/h. Notably, some parts of the UK witnessed their strongest winds in 10 to 20 years. Images and videos from airports in the UK and Ireland showed chaos as many flights were cancelled, including more than 160 flights from Dublin Airport. Additionally, clips show some planes struggling to land or shaking violently before ultimately landing at London airports. This led to chaos as some passengers were taken to the wrong destinations, and others were taken to a whole other country, which ultimately led them to spend the night on terminal floors. ALSO READ | Storm Isha: Thousands left without power in UK, Ireland; over 100 flights cancelled at Dublin airport Flights heading to Bristol, London and Dublin were diverted to Paris, while a plane which was supposed to land in Edinburgh ended up in the German city of Cologne. Since some of these flights were on domestic routes, the passengers were travelling without a passport and could not pass through immigration now that they were in another country. Speaking about his experience, Luke Bromage-Henry, whose flight was supposed to land in London from Jersey, but ended up in Paris, said they sat on the runway for several hours. “Worst trip to Paris ever,” he told the BBC. “I slept for about two hours underneath some chairs in the transfer terminal,” said Bromage-Henry, who spent the night in the terminal at Charles de Gaulle Airport. What about Ireland? Ryanair, an Irish carrier was particularly affected since its base is Dublin where a whopping 166 flights to and from the airport were cancelled, on Sunday, according to Kevin Cullinane, group head of communications at Dublin Airport, reported CNN. The airport also diverted 36 flights and saw 34 go-arounds, which is when a plane abandons landing mid-process and decides to “go around” for another try. Ryanair flights from the Spanish cities of Tenerife and Seville headed for Edinburgh, ended up in Germany’s Cologne. Passengers on another Ryanair flight from Budapest to London flew back to Hungary after several attempts to land and before ultimately giving up. Meanwhile, a Ryanair flight from Lanzarote to Dublin made it to the Irish capital before turning around and was diverted to Bordeaux, France, without attempting to land. Another flight by the Irish carrier from Manchester to Dublin which is typically a 30-minute route turned into a two-and-a-half hour one after it made a go-around and was diverted to Paris. ALSO READ | Storm Isha: UK braces for strong winds, heavy rains amid ‘rare’ weather cycle A separate plane on the same route went back and forth between the UK and Ireland for over three hours before it landed in Liverpool, around 50 kilometres from the departure airport. Two killed due to Storm Isha At least two people were killed in storm-related incidents on Monday (Jan 22), as per media reports. A man in Scotland died after the car he was in was hit by a tree, and another man in Northern Ireland passed away after a tree fell on his car. Isha also left thousands without power in several parts of the UK, as the country braces for another storm, on Tuesday (Jan 23) named Storm Jocelyn, which is expected to bring heavy rains and possible flooding. (With inputs from agencies)

Passengers end up in ‘wrong’ countries as Storm Isha creates travel chaos in UK, Ireland

A newborn infant is currently receiving medical care in a hospital after being located in a shopping bag by a dog walker in east London. The Metropolitan police is currently searching for the baby's mother, underscoring the urgency of her immediate medical attention.

The baby was discovered at the intersection of Greenway and High Street South in Newham by an individual walking its dog at approximately 9:13 pm on Thursday.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Temple inauguration becomes global phenomenon

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The infant&nbsp;wrapped in a towel within the bag, was confirmed to be in good health and unharmed, as per the police statement. It is noteworthy that the Met Office recorded a temperature as low as -3°C in London at the time of this discovery.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-willing-to-assist-canadas-extortion-probe-if-ottawa-requests-says-envoy-681565">India willing to assist Canada's extortion probe if Ottawa requests, says envoy</a>

Chief Superintendent Crick, overseeing law enforcement in Newham expressed gratitude towards individuals from the public who remained at the scene, cooperating with both officers and medical professionals. He acknowledged that their intervention played a pivotal role in preserving the baby's life.

“I am grateful to the members of the public who stayed at the scene to speak with officers and medics – your actions contributed to saving the baby’s life," said&nbsp;Crick.

Additionally, he emphasised the growing concern within the force for the well-being of the baby's mother, acknowledging the likely traumatic experience she has undergone and the immediate need for medical attention following the childbirth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mitsuko-tottori-former-flight-attendant-appointed-as-first-female-prez-of-japan-airlines-681570">Who is Mitsuko Tottori? Former flight attendant appointed as first female prez of Japan Airlines</a>

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A newborn infant is currently receiving medical care in a hospital after being located in a shopping bag by a dog walker in east London. The Metropolitan police is currently searching for the baby's mother, underscoring the urgency of her immediate medical attention.

A newborn infant is currently receiving medical care in a hospital after being located in a shopping bag by a dog walker in east London. The Metropolitan police is currently searching for the baby's mother, underscoring the urgency of her immediate medical attention. The baby was discovered at the intersection of Greenway and High Street South in Newham by an individual walking its dog at approximately 9:13 pm on Thursday. Also watch | Ram Temple inauguration becomes global phenomenon The infant wrapped in a towel within the bag, was confirmed to be in good health and unharmed, as per the police statement. It is noteworthy that the Met Office recorded a temperature as low as -3°C in London at the time of this discovery. Also read | India willing to assist Canada's extortion probe if Ottawa requests, says envoy Chief Superintendent Crick, overseeing law enforcement in Newham expressed gratitude towards individuals from the public who remained at the scene, cooperating with both officers and medical professionals. He acknowledged that their intervention played a pivotal role in preserving the baby's life. “I am grateful to the members of the public who stayed at the scene to speak with officers and medics – your actions contributed to saving the baby’s life," said Crick. Additionally, he emphasised the growing concern within the force for the well-being of the baby's mother, acknowledging the likely traumatic experience she has undergone and the immediate need for medical attention following the childbirth. Also read | Who is Mitsuko Tottori? Former flight attendant appointed as first female prez of Japan Airlines (With inputs from agencies)

Infant found in shopping bag by dog walker in London's Newham area

In a shocking incident, a two-year-old boy died due to starvation almost two weeks after his father succumbed to a heart attack.

His family revealed that Bronson Battersby was found dead curled up alongside his 60-year-old father, Kenneth, at their residence in the United Kingdom's Lincolnshire on Jan 9.

This was 14 days after they were last seen.

The Lincolnshire County Council launched a rapid review into the death of Bronson who was indexed as vulnerable and was also subject to checks at least once a month by the social services.

The tragic incident came to light following social services' visit to the deceased's rented house on Jan 2 after speaking to Kenneth on Dec 27 where they&nbsp;did not receive any response.&nbsp;

A social worker again went to their residence unannounced and contacted the police as there was still no answer.

The bodies were discovered after the worker barged into the house using a key from the landlord days later, according to the Sun.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baby-dragons-to-rescue-china-here-is-why-beijing-is-counting-on-2024-to-fix-its-population-woes-681243">Baby dragons to rescue China? Here is why Beijing is counting on 2024 to fix its population woes</a>

<h2>'Bronson starved to death because his dad died', says toddler's mother</h2>

The toddler's mother, Sarah Piesse, said that she last saw her son before Christmas after a row with her ex Kenneth.

WATCH |&nbsp;UK: PM Rishi Sunak's Rwanda Bill passes third reading in commons

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&nbsp;

Piesse while talking to the Sun said that the postmortem examination showed that Bronson died of starvation and dehydration.

“Bronson starved to death because his dad died,” she said. “They think Kenneth died no earlier than 29 December.”

“I couldn’t pick him up because his body was too fragile,” she told the Sun. "I could only touch him. He had been left there too long," she added.

The 2-year-old's&nbsp;sister Melanie Battersby took to her Facebook account and paid a heartfelt tribute to Bronson.

“Beautiful little boy deserved so much better than this life. We love you, Bronson, forever a part of us, and forever my baby brother,” she wrote.

“A lot of anger inside at minute when I just want to remember his little smile and soft nature instead. He were perfect,” she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a shocking incident, a two-year-old boy died due to starvation almost two weeks after his father succumbed to a heart attack. His family revealed that Bronson Battersby was found dead curled up alongside his 60-year-old father, Kenneth, at their residence in the United Kingdom's Lincolnshire on Jan 9.

In a shocking incident, a two-year-old boy died due to starvation almost two weeks after his father succumbed to a heart attack. His family revealed that Bronson Battersby was found dead curled up alongside his 60-year-old father, Kenneth, at their residence in the United Kingdom's Lincolnshire on Jan 9. This was 14 days after they were last seen. The Lincolnshire County Council launched a rapid review into the death of Bronson who was indexed as vulnerable and was also subject to checks at least once a month by the social services. The tragic incident came to light following social services' visit to the deceased's rented house on Jan 2 after speaking to Kenneth on Dec 27 where they did not receive any response. A social worker again went to their residence unannounced and contacted the police as there was still no answer. The bodies were discovered after the worker barged into the house using a key from the landlord days later, according to the Sun. Also read: Baby dragons to rescue China? Here is why Beijing is counting on 2024 to fix its population woes 'Bronson starved to death because his dad died', says toddler's mother The toddler's mother, Sarah Piesse, said that she last saw her son before Christmas after a row with her ex Kenneth. WATCH | UK: PM Rishi Sunak's Rwanda Bill passes third reading in commons × Piesse while talking to the Sun said that the postmortem examination showed that Bronson died of starvation and dehydration. “Bronson starved to death because his dad died,” she said. “They think Kenneth died no earlier than 29 December.” “I couldn’t pick him up because his body was too fragile,” she told the Sun. "I could only touch him. He had been left there too long," she added. The 2-year-old's sister Melanie Battersby took to her Facebook account and paid a heartfelt tribute to Bronson. “Beautiful little boy deserved so much better than this life. We love you, Bronson, forever a part of us, and forever my baby brother,” she wrote. “A lot of anger inside at minute when I just want to remember his little smile and soft nature instead. He were perfect,” she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Toddler dies of starvation in UK, body found curled up next to dead father

London remains the world's slowest city to drive through, data by the TomTom Traffic Index revealed on Wednesday (Jan 10). The carbon dioxide (CO2) impact of London's petrol vehicles increased by 1.5 per cent, as per the new data based on traffic trends that were observed in 2023 in 387 cities across 55 countries.

The index focuses on ranking some of the major cities based on their average travel time.

The data revealed that the average travel times increased in 21 of the 25 UK cities. The increase was 2.7 per cent in London and Leeds as compared with 2022.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-post-office-scandal-pm-sunak-announces-emergency-law-to-overturn-convictions-678728">UK Post Office scandal: PM Sunak announces new emergency law to overturn convictions</a>&nbsp;

Coventry and Glasgow were the only two cities recording a fall in average travel times by one per cent and 1.1 per cent year-on-year, respectively.&nbsp;

Traffic congestion had the biggest impact during peak hours, with Brits driving an average of 43 minutes per day while commuting during rush hours.&nbsp;

As per a report by Fleet News, the timings are on a six-mile home-to-work distance driven at morning and evening peaks, up one minute from 2022 and four from 2021.&nbsp;

City Hall data published last year noted that the ongoing impact of congestion occurs despite overall air pollution and carbon emissions from road traffic declining in central London since the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) was implemented four years ago.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-government-mulls-clearing-names-of-post-office-scandal-convicts-677851">UK government mulls clearing names of Post Office scandal convicts</a>&nbsp;

Talking about the reason behind it, TomTom said that the lack of multi-lane highways and speed limit adjustments to 20mph resulted in a low base speed. This means that even in light traffic, the average speed in London is slower than in any other metropolis in the world.&nbsp;

Stephanie Leonard, head of government and regulatory affairs at TomTom, weighed in on the usage of electric vehicles but warned that better traffic management will still be needed to ensure viable traffic flow despite EVs becoming a norm.&nbsp;

According to Business Green, Leonard said, "Real-time data intelligence will play a significant role here in transforming how people move around UK cities, supporting our transition to less diesel and petrol consumption and more sustainable transportation."&nbsp;

She added, "Low emission zones (LEZs) across Europe have proven to make a long-term difference to the levels of pollutants and greenhouse gases in urban environments. Above all, they ensure that drivers of polluting vehicles are disincentivised from driving into city centres by levying heavy charges."&nbsp;

"However, the best thing to hope for is the UK's LEZs become irrelevant as the volume of electric vehicles (EVs) increases in line with other regulations that ban the sale of combustion engine vehicles," she further said.&nbsp;

London remains the world's slowest city to drive through, data by the TomTom Traffic Index revealed on Wednesday (Jan 10). The carbon dioxide (CO2) impact of London's petrol vehicles increased by 1.

London remains the world's slowest city to drive through, data by the TomTom Traffic Index revealed on Wednesday (Jan 10). The carbon dioxide (CO2) impact of London's petrol vehicles increased by 1.5 per cent, as per the new data based on traffic trends that were observed in 2023 in 387 cities across 55 countries. The index focuses on ranking some of the major cities based on their average travel time. The data revealed that the average travel times increased in 21 of the 25 UK cities. The increase was 2.7 per cent in London and Leeds as compared with 2022. Also read: UK Post Office scandal: PM Sunak announces new emergency law to overturn convictions Coventry and Glasgow were the only two cities recording a fall in average travel times by one per cent and 1.1 per cent year-on-year, respectively. Traffic congestion had the biggest impact during peak hours, with Brits driving an average of 43 minutes per day while commuting during rush hours. As per a report by Fleet News, the timings are on a six-mile home-to-work distance driven at morning and evening peaks, up one minute from 2022 and four from 2021. City Hall data published last year noted that the ongoing impact of congestion occurs despite overall air pollution and carbon emissions from road traffic declining in central London since the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) was implemented four years ago. Also read: UK government mulls clearing names of Post Office scandal convicts Talking about the reason behind it, TomTom said that the lack of multi-lane highways and speed limit adjustments to 20mph resulted in a low base speed. This means that even in light traffic, the average speed in London is slower than in any other metropolis in the world. Stephanie Leonard, head of government and regulatory affairs at TomTom, weighed in on the usage of electric vehicles but warned that better traffic management will still be needed to ensure viable traffic flow despite EVs becoming a norm. According to Business Green, Leonard said, "Real-time data intelligence will play a significant role here in transforming how people move around UK cities, supporting our transition to less diesel and petrol consumption and more sustainable transportation." She added, "Low emission zones (LEZs) across Europe have proven to make a long-term difference to the levels of pollutants and greenhouse gases in urban environments. Above all, they ensure that drivers of polluting vehicles are disincentivised from driving into city centres by levying heavy charges." "However, the best thing to hope for is the UK's LEZs become irrelevant as the volume of electric vehicles (EVs) increases in line with other regulations that ban the sale of combustion engine vehicles," she further said.

London ranked as world's slowest city to drive in globally

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is in London the Indian minister is on a three-day visit to the United Kingdom with a focus on all sides of the UK India defenCe partnership. Singh held talks with UK defence minister Grant Shapps in London.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in UK for three-day visit

The star of 'Luther' helped launch a new campaign called 'don't stop your future' with an art installation in London's Parliament Square. The installation is made up of several neatly folded outfits. Watch the video to know more.

Idris Elba's 'don't stop your future' campaign, calls for immediate ban on machetes | WION

The UK's opposition Labour Party, gearing up for the general elections, has targeted PM Rishi Sunak, alleging that in his tax cuts the public is getting a "raw deal". The ad which attacked Sunak's economic policies said that for every 10 euros of extra taxes on working people, the Sunak government would give 2 euros back to the public. "Families will be 1200 euros worse off," the advertorial further read.&nbsp;The ad was unveiled by Labour in the Conservative-held seat of Wellingborough as the town readies for by-elections in 2024.&nbsp;

Wife of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Akshata Murty's now-liquidated firm Catamaran Ventures has also come under scrutiny once again. While commenting on the recent liquidation of Akshata Murty's investment venture, Catamaran Ventures, Labour's national campaign coordinator and shadow minister Pat MacFadden, shared a letter on social media dated January 4.

The letter was addressed to UK Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden and raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the closure of Murty's firm. "In the past few months, numerous reports about the business dealings of Catamaran Ventures have circulated," stated MacFadden's letter.

"It was revealed that the firm run by the Prime Minister's wife received GBP 2m through government Covid support schemes devised by Rishi Sunak himself. It then emerged businesses in which Ms. Murty had invested went bust, costing taxpayers GBP 1m."

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The letter further flagged that there is an impact of Catamaran Ventures' closure on government-backed education start-up Study Halls. MacFadden said, "The decision by Ms. Murty to liquidate her company raises several questions that I believe need to be clarified in the public interest."

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Previously, the personal finances of Sunak and his wife faced scrutiny over Murty's legal non-domicile tax status.

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After relinquishing this status amid opposition criticism, she committed to paying all her taxes in the UK to prevent any distractions from her husband's political career.

(With inputs from agencies)

The UK's opposition Labour Party, gearing up for the general elections, has targeted PM Rishi Sunak, alleging that in his tax cuts the public is getting a "raw deal".

The UK's opposition Labour Party, gearing up for the general elections, has targeted PM Rishi Sunak, alleging that in his tax cuts the public is getting a "raw deal". The ad which attacked Sunak's economic policies said that for every 10 euros of extra taxes on working people, the Sunak government would give 2 euros back to the public. "Families will be 1200 euros worse off," the advertorial further read. The ad was unveiled by Labour in the Conservative-held seat of Wellingborough as the town readies for by-elections in 2024. Wife of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Akshata Murty's now-liquidated firm Catamaran Ventures has also come under scrutiny once again. While commenting on the recent liquidation of Akshata Murty's investment venture, Catamaran Ventures, Labour's national campaign coordinator and shadow minister Pat MacFadden, shared a letter on social media dated January 4. The letter was addressed to UK Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden and raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the closure of Murty's firm. "In the past few months, numerous reports about the business dealings of Catamaran Ventures have circulated," stated MacFadden's letter. "It was revealed that the firm run by the Prime Minister's wife received GBP 2m through government Covid support schemes devised by Rishi Sunak himself. It then emerged businesses in which Ms. Murty had invested went bust, costing taxpayers GBP 1m." Also Read | Exclusive: India raises concerns over derogatory comments by Maldives minister against PM Modi The letter further flagged that there is an impact of Catamaran Ventures' closure on government-backed education start-up Study Halls. MacFadden said, "The decision by Ms. Murty to liquidate her company raises several questions that I believe need to be clarified in the public interest." Also Read | Horrifying on cam footage shows Iran bomb attack on Soleimani's death anniversary Previously, the personal finances of Sunak and his wife faced scrutiny over Murty's legal non-domicile tax status. Watch | Bangladesh General Elections: Irregularities reported in 37 polling stations, 8 detained × After relinquishing this status amid opposition criticism, she committed to paying all her taxes in the UK to prevent any distractions from her husband's political career. (With inputs from agencies)

What is Rishi’s ‘raw deal’? Labour party attacks Sunak in latest ad campaign

A 43-year-old Indian-origin man was awarded a jail term of nine months in the United Kingdom for masturbating in front of a woman on a London Underground train.

Identified as Mukesh Shah from Wembley in north London, the 43-year-old boarded the train at around 11:40 pm when the victim was travelling in an empty Piccadilly Line carriage between Sudbury Town and Acton Town.

He then sat diagonally opposite the woman, who noticed him staring at her before he exposed his genitals and started masturbating.&nbsp;

Shah's indecent act was captured by the victim who later reported the incident to British Transport Police (BTP) along with that video.

“This was a frightening and upsetting experience for the victim and I commend her bravery in confronting the offender, managing to capture an image of Shah and reporting this,” said BTP Investigating Officer, Detective Constable Mark Luker.

“Shah's disgusting actions have not only secured him time behind bars but restrictions following his release to prevent him from repeating his actions in the future. We will always take reports of sexual offences seriously and will do everything in our power to bring offenders to justice," he said.

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The British Transport Police (BTP) said that Shah will be subjected to a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order over the incident, which took place on Nov 4, 2022.

“Despite the empty carriage, Shah sat diagonally opposite the victim and she noticed him staring at her, making her feel uncomfortable. It was then that she noticed he was exposing himself and masturbating,” BTP said in a statement.

“Bravely, the victim captured Shah on camera hoping it would deter him, when he didn't, she confronted him and told him to stop and move away from her. He protested he hadn't done anything wrong but moved along the carriage. The victim reported the incident to BTP along with the video, which was circulated within the police and led to the identification of Shah,” it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 43-year-old Indian-origin man was awarded a jail term of nine months in the United Kingdom for masturbating in front of a woman on a London Underground train. Identified as Mukesh Shah from Wembley in north London, the 43-year-old boarded the train at around 11:40 pm when the victim was travelling in an empty Piccadilly Line carriage between Sudbury Town and Acton Town.

A 43-year-old Indian-origin man was awarded a jail term of nine months in the United Kingdom for masturbating in front of a woman on a London Underground train. Identified as Mukesh Shah from Wembley in north London, the 43-year-old boarded the train at around 11:40 pm when the victim was travelling in an empty Piccadilly Line carriage between Sudbury Town and Acton Town. He then sat diagonally opposite the woman, who noticed him staring at her before he exposed his genitals and started masturbating. Shah's indecent act was captured by the victim who later reported the incident to British Transport Police (BTP) along with that video. “This was a frightening and upsetting experience for the victim and I commend her bravery in confronting the offender, managing to capture an image of Shah and reporting this,” said BTP Investigating Officer, Detective Constable Mark Luker. “Shah's disgusting actions have not only secured him time behind bars but restrictions following his release to prevent him from repeating his actions in the future. We will always take reports of sexual offences seriously and will do everything in our power to bring offenders to justice," he said. Also read: Britain likely go to polls in last six months of 2024, Rishi Sunak indicates The British Transport Police (BTP) said that Shah will be subjected to a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order over the incident, which took place on Nov 4, 2022. “Despite the empty carriage, Shah sat diagonally opposite the victim and she noticed him staring at her, making her feel uncomfortable. It was then that she noticed he was exposing himself and masturbating,” BTP said in a statement. “Bravely, the victim captured Shah on camera hoping it would deter him, when he didn't, she confronted him and told him to stop and move away from her. He protested he hadn't done anything wrong but moved along the carriage. The victim reported the incident to BTP along with the video, which was circulated within the police and led to the identification of Shah,” it added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Indian-origin man gets 9 months in jail for masturbating in front of woman on London train

Flooding in a railway tunnel near London forced the cancellation of more than a dozen trains linking Britain with the European mainland early on Saturday, international rail operator Eurostar said.

"Eurostar services to and from London are being cancelled and there are severe delays to services due to infrastructure issues caused by flooding in one of the Thames tunnels located between St Pancras International and Ebbsfleet", the company said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-unleashes-biggest-aerial-attack-of-war-on-ukraine-zelensky-says-they-hit-us-with-almost-everything-674689">Russia unleashes biggest aerial attack on Ukraine, killing 30; Zelensky says 'they hit us with everything'</a>

The cancellations, which so far concern at least 14 trips between London and Paris, Amsterdam or Brussels, are the second blow for Eurostar customers during this year's holiday season. On Dec. 21, a French surprise strike action thwarted Christmas travel plans for thousands.

It was not immediately clear when rail traffic would be able to resume.

Flooding in a railway tunnel near London forced the cancellation of more than a dozen trains linking Britain with the European mainland early on Saturday, international rail operator Eurostar said.

Flooding in a railway tunnel near London forced the cancellation of more than a dozen trains linking Britain with the European mainland early on Saturday, international rail operator Eurostar said. "Eurostar services to and from London are being cancelled and there are severe delays to services due to infrastructure issues caused by flooding in one of the Thames tunnels located between St Pancras International and Ebbsfleet", the company said. Also read: Russia unleashes biggest aerial attack on Ukraine, killing 30; Zelensky says 'they hit us with everything' The cancellations, which so far concern at least 14 trips between London and Paris, Amsterdam or Brussels, are the second blow for Eurostar customers during this year's holiday season. On Dec. 21, a French surprise strike action thwarted Christmas travel plans for thousands. It was not immediately clear when rail traffic would be able to resume.

Flooded tunnels near London disrupt Eurostar train services, thousands of passengers stranded

As businesses aim to slash emissions while looking to beat the traffic cargo bikes are emerging as the ultimate winners. Cutting down on road congestion and pollution these bikes are now a common sight on the Streets of London.

UK lags behind in adopting cargo bikes

UK slower than European counterparts in adopting cargo bikes

At least 14 Eurostar trains on Saturday were cancelled due to flooding in tunnels in southern England, stranding thousands of passengers shortly before New Year's Eve.

London: 14 Eurostar trains cancelled amid wind, rain and snow warnings

Thank you for the music, London's authorities might say, after Swedish pop group ABBA's digital concert residency raked in 178 million pounds ($225 million) in terms of net economic benefit to the British capital in its first year. ABBA Voyage recreates Bjorn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, Agnetha Faltskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad as high-tech, digital versions of themselves from their 1970s heyday, thanks to motion-capture technology.

ABBA's virtual show boosts London's economy to the tune of $225 million

According to police, the 23-year-old was reported missing since December 14 following a night out with friends. Officers then conducted extensive probe. Police divers have found the body in the water near South Quay. Final identification of the body not done yet. Watch to know more!

Indian student, missing since December 14, found dead in London lake

UK: Indian student found dead in London lake, final identification not done yet

A top British cop has warned that the use of strong synthetic drugs has surged in many cities, especially in London, and they are at risk of turning into drug-ravaged San Fransico, due to strong opioids flooding the global market.

Donna Jones, chairwoman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, has warned that an epidemic of drug overdose would soon hit the UK, as is occurring in California and many US cities, which are gripped by the opioid crisis.

Jones said it was "inevitable" that London and other UK cities could face a similar spike due to the shortage of heroin, caused by the Taliban's ban on poppy farming.

As a result, she said, there has been a 90 per cent drop in exports from Afghanistan, which is the world's largest producer of the drug.

<h2>Void left by Taliban is being filled by Chinese gangs&nbsp;</h2>

The void left by the Taliban’s ban is being filled by the Chinese gangs who are providing synthetic opioids which are as much as 300 times stronger than street heroin, Jones said, Express news outlet reported.

She said that the rapid decline of the Afghan heroin trade will enable alternative suppliers to claim their share of the market.

"That will completely dry up the heroin supply down to Africa and up through Europe over the next 12 months, which means the Chinese synthetic opioid market is going to explode,” Jones said.

"It’s already happening in America, and heroin addicts in America are dying in their plenty because synthetic opioids like fentanyl are literally 50 times stronger than street heroin. And it is so tragic."

<h2>Many alternatives cropping up</h2>

"The Chinese gangs have been keeping a close eye on the supply of heroin around the world and have clearly seen an opportunity to exploit the market with a massive explosion in synthetic opioids,” she added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-authorities-start-closing-bridges-with-mexico-to-contain-surge-in-immigration-671644">US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration</a>

According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) published on Tuesday, drug poisoning death in England and Wales are already at the highest they've ever been in the 30 years that they've been being recorded,

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-passes-controversial-bill-to-toughen-immigration-rules-despite-macron-party-rebellion-671679">France passes controversial bill to toughen immigration rules despite Macron party rebellion</a>

National Crime Agency (NCA) said there have been 54 deaths linked to street drugs that are six times more powerful than fentanyl in the past six months. There are 40 more cases awaiting test results.

(With inputs from agencies)

A top British cop has warned that the use of strong synthetic drugs has surged in many cities, especially in London, and they are at risk of turning into drug-ravaged San Fransico, due to strong opioids flooding the global market.

A top British cop has warned that the use of strong synthetic drugs has surged in many cities, especially in London, and they are at risk of turning into drug-ravaged San Fransico, due to strong opioids flooding the global market. Donna Jones, chairwoman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, has warned that an epidemic of drug overdose would soon hit the UK, as is occurring in California and many US cities, which are gripped by the opioid crisis. Jones said it was "inevitable" that London and other UK cities could face a similar spike due to the shortage of heroin, caused by the Taliban's ban on poppy farming. As a result, she said, there has been a 90 per cent drop in exports from Afghanistan, which is the world's largest producer of the drug. Void left by Taliban is being filled by Chinese gangs The void left by the Taliban’s ban is being filled by the Chinese gangs who are providing synthetic opioids which are as much as 300 times stronger than street heroin, Jones said, Express news outlet reported. She said that the rapid decline of the Afghan heroin trade will enable alternative suppliers to claim their share of the market. "That will completely dry up the heroin supply down to Africa and up through Europe over the next 12 months, which means the Chinese synthetic opioid market is going to explode,” Jones said. "It’s already happening in America, and heroin addicts in America are dying in their plenty because synthetic opioids like fentanyl are literally 50 times stronger than street heroin. And it is so tragic." Many alternatives cropping up "The Chinese gangs have been keeping a close eye on the supply of heroin around the world and have clearly seen an opportunity to exploit the market with a massive explosion in synthetic opioids,” she added. Also read | US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) published on Tuesday, drug poisoning death in England and Wales are already at the highest they've ever been in the 30 years that they've been being recorded, Also read | France passes controversial bill to toughen immigration rules despite Macron party rebellion National Crime Agency (NCA) said there have been 54 deaths linked to street drugs that are six times more powerful than fentanyl in the past six months. There are 40 more cases awaiting test results. (With inputs from agencies)

Strong opioids which are 300 times stronger than heroin infesting UK cities: Top cop

Vish Dhamija is a British Indian crime-fiction writer. In an exclusive conversation with WION's Samarpita Das, the author shares with us, how he started his journey as an author and why he feels India's capital Delhi is more developed than London.

Vish Dhamija shares how Delhi is more developed than London

India's vaccine king, Adar Poonawalla, has closed the deal to buy London's most expensive house of 2023. The billionaire has splashed out a whopping £138 million for the house, a 1920s mansion that will be acquired by the UK subsidiary of his company, the Serum Institute of India.

Gravitas | London's most expensive mansion of 2023 sold for £138 million | Here's Who Bought It

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said that the government's plans to curb legal migration will trigger a recruitment crisis in the British capital.

High levels of legal migration have particularly ruled the political landscape of Britain for over ten years and have been a significant factor in the 2016 vote for Brexit.

Last week, Britain announced plans to slash the number of migrants that were arriving via legal routes and raise the minimum salary they must earn in a skilled job by a third&nbsp;amid pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to tackle record net migration figures.

Home Secretary (interior minister) James Cleverly said the new measures could reduce that number by 300,000.

Cleverly said that the government would raise the minimum salary threshold for foreign skilled workers to 38,700 pounds ($48,900), from its current level of 26,200 pounds, though health and social workers would be exempt.

Describing the policies as misguided, Khan said that the failure to train the domestic workforce will make it difficult for London businesses to function without the required staff.

“One of the reasons that London is the greatest city in the world is the contribution of successive generations of immigrants working side by side with trained Brits. Migrants are absolutely integral to our economy and public services, whether running our care homes and our bars and restaurants or helping power our world-leading arts and creative sector," the Guardian quoted Khan as saying.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-nations-adopted-historic-deal-to-transition-away-from-fossil-fuels-what-is-it-about-669389">COP28 summit: Nations adopt historic deal to transition away from fossil fuels</a>

“It is vital that more is done to train up British workers with the right skills. But the government needs to realise that these latest immigration policies will lead to a full-blown recruitment crisis. This will have severe consequences for public services and the economy, not just here in London but across the UK.”

<h2>'New immigration salary'</h2>

Cleverly said the government would put an end to the current system that lets employers pay migrants only 80 per cent&nbsp;of the going rate to do jobs where there is a significant worker shortage.

"We will stop immigration undercutting the salary of British workers," Cleverly told lawmakers. "We will create a new immigration salary list with a reduced number of occupations."

(With inputs from agencies)

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said that the government's plans to curb legal migration will trigger a recruitment crisis in the British capital. High levels of legal migration have particularly ruled the political landscape of Britain for over ten years and have been a significant factor in the 2016 vote for Brexit.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said that the government's plans to curb legal migration will trigger a recruitment crisis in the British capital. High levels of legal migration have particularly ruled the political landscape of Britain for over ten years and have been a significant factor in the 2016 vote for Brexit. Last week, Britain announced plans to slash the number of migrants that were arriving via legal routes and raise the minimum salary they must earn in a skilled job by a third amid pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to tackle record net migration figures. Home Secretary (interior minister) James Cleverly said the new measures could reduce that number by 300,000. Cleverly said that the government would raise the minimum salary threshold for foreign skilled workers to 38,700 pounds ($48,900), from its current level of 26,200 pounds, though health and social workers would be exempt. Describing the policies as misguided, Khan said that the failure to train the domestic workforce will make it difficult for London businesses to function without the required staff. “One of the reasons that London is the greatest city in the world is the contribution of successive generations of immigrants working side by side with trained Brits. Migrants are absolutely integral to our economy and public services, whether running our care homes and our bars and restaurants or helping power our world-leading arts and creative sector," the Guardian quoted Khan as saying. Also read: COP28 summit: Nations adopt historic deal to transition away from fossil fuels “It is vital that more is done to train up British workers with the right skills. But the government needs to realise that these latest immigration policies will lead to a full-blown recruitment crisis. This will have severe consequences for public services and the economy, not just here in London but across the UK.” 'New immigration salary' Cleverly said the government would put an end to the current system that lets employers pay migrants only 80 per cent of the going rate to do jobs where there is a significant worker shortage. "We will stop immigration undercutting the salary of British workers," Cleverly told lawmakers. "We will create a new immigration salary list with a reduced number of occupations." (With inputs from agencies)

UK's plan to curb legal migration will push London into 'recruitment crisis', says Mayor Sadiq Khan

Indian billionaire&nbsp;Adar Poonawalla, the CEO of&nbsp;Serum Institute of India (SII), has closed a deal to buy a 25,000-square-foot Aberconway House in Mayfair, London priced at $174 million, according to a Financial Times report.

The sprawling 1920s property,&nbsp;located near Hyde Park is expected to be the most expensive home sale of the year and the second-most expensive overall.&nbsp;

The property will be acquired by Serum Life Scenes, a British subsidiary of SII - the largest vaccine maker in the world, based in Pune.&nbsp;Dominika Kulczyk, the daughter of the late businessman Jan Kulczyk who was Poland's richest man will reportedly sell the property to Poonawalla.

The property is named after&nbsp;Henry Duncan McLaren, Baron Aberconway, a turn-of-the-century industrialist who built the Grosvenor Square mansion.

The publication, citing a source said the Poonawalla family had no immediate plan to move to the UK permanently but the "house will serve as a base for the company and the family when they are in the UK".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-received-threats-says-serum-institute-ceo-adar-poonawalla-382348">Also read |&nbsp;'I received threats', says Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla&nbsp;</a>

<h2>Adar Poonawalla's investments&nbsp;</h2>

Poonawalla oversees the working of SII which manufactured Covishield,&nbsp;the vaccine developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. He took&nbsp;over the position in the company from his father in 2011.&nbsp;

Notably, the newly bought property by the Poonawalla family follows the&nbsp;multimillion-pound investments in vaccine research and manufacturing facilities near Oxford.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hurun-india-360-one-wealth-release-2023-rich-list-645241">Watch |&nbsp;Hurun India &amp; 360 One Wealth release 2023 rich list</a>

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In 2021, the family donated over $60 million to Oxford University for a new&nbsp;Poonawalla Vaccines Research Building.

The most expensive residential property ever sold in the UK remains the&nbsp;2-8a Rutland Gate which was sold for a record-breaking $263&nbsp;million to Hui Ka Yan, the founder and chair of Evergrande.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Indian billionaire Adar Poonawalla, the CEO of Serum Institute of India (SII), has closed a deal to buy a 25,000-square-foot Aberconway House in Mayfair, London priced at $174 million, according to a Financial Times report.

Indian billionaire Adar Poonawalla, the CEO of Serum Institute of India (SII), has closed a deal to buy a 25,000-square-foot Aberconway House in Mayfair, London priced at $174 million, according to a Financial Times report. The sprawling 1920s property, located near Hyde Park is expected to be the most expensive home sale of the year and the second-most expensive overall. The property will be acquired by Serum Life Scenes, a British subsidiary of SII - the largest vaccine maker in the world, based in Pune. Dominika Kulczyk, the daughter of the late businessman Jan Kulczyk who was Poland's richest man will reportedly sell the property to Poonawalla. The property is named after Henry Duncan McLaren, Baron Aberconway, a turn-of-the-century industrialist who built the Grosvenor Square mansion. The publication, citing a source said the Poonawalla family had no immediate plan to move to the UK permanently but the "house will serve as a base for the company and the family when they are in the UK". Also read | 'I received threats', says Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla Adar Poonawalla's investments Poonawalla oversees the working of SII which manufactured Covishield, the vaccine developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. He took over the position in the company from his father in 2011. Notably, the newly bought property by the Poonawalla family follows the multimillion-pound investments in vaccine research and manufacturing facilities near Oxford. Watch | Hurun India & 360 One Wealth release 2023 rich list × In 2021, the family donated over $60 million to Oxford University for a new Poonawalla Vaccines Research Building. The most expensive residential property ever sold in the UK remains the 2-8a Rutland Gate which was sold for a record-breaking $263 million to Hui Ka Yan, the founder and chair of Evergrande. (With inputs from agencies)

Billionaire vaccine maker Adar Poonawalla to buy most expensive house in London. Here's how much it will cost

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has announced that it has entered into a share purchase agreement to acquire a 10% stake in TopCo, the holding company of Heathrow Airport Holdings. This deal is subject to regulatory approval. This year, Heathrow Airport has faced financial difficulties as a result of significant debt, which has been exacerbated by sharp increases in borrowing costs.

Saudi set to buy more stake in Heathrow: London's biggest airport

According to an army spokesman, dozens of terrorists in the northern Strip gave up their weapons to soldiers, complaining that "Hamas leadership is out of touch."

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli army spokesperson says dozen of 'terrorists have surrendered'

Israel-Hamas war: "Don't die for Sinwar, surrender now", warns Israeli PM Netanyahu to Hamas

Aid agencies issued a warning, stating that families' only chance of survival is being severely limited by the ongoing Israeli offensive, which is pushing Palestinians in Gaza to the verge of mass starvation. The grave situation surfaced one day after the United States vetoed a resolution calling for a cease-fire in the United Nations, impeding the provision of food and other necessities to the area.

Israel-Hamas war: Aid groups warn of 'dire situation' in Gaza | WHO calls for immediate aid help

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh has said that the United States should also be held responsible for Israeli attacks on Gaza and the loss of Palestinian lives. The Prime Minister made the statement that the 21st Doha Forum. WION's correspondent talks to Palestinian PM Shtayyeh.

Israel-Hamas war: Wion's exclusive interview with Palestinian PM Mohammad Shtayyeh

Israeli tanks battled their way to the heart of Khan Younis on Sunday in a major new push into the main city of the southern Gaza Strip, as health authorities in Hamas-run Gaza said about 18,000 Palestinians had been killed in the war.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli troop continue their offensive in Gaza strip

Prominent mosque chairman Mohammed Kozbar, who had praised the founder of the Palestinian militant group Hamas was invited to a dinner hosted by the London Met&nbsp;commissioner, reported the Sunday Telegraph, on Saturday (Dec 9).&nbsp;

The event was hosted months after Kozbar’s remarks about the Hamas founder, raising&nbsp;questions about Met’s links to the activist&nbsp;amid criticism over its response to the pro-Palestinian protests in London.&nbsp;

The British capital city like many major cities across the world has witnessed pro-Palestinian protests and pro-Israel rallies since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. In the UK several people at pro-Palestinian rallies have been detained for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antisemitic-banners-during-pro-palestinian-march-in-london-calling-for-permanent-ceasefire-in-gaza-662995">raising antisemitic slogans</a>.&nbsp;

<h2>About the event at Scotland Yard</h2>

According to the Telegraph, Kozbar attended an evening event alongside senior Met officers in July, &nbsp;five months after he praised Hamas’ founder as “the master of the martyrs of the resistance” and was cited in the official counter-extremism review.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-gaza-death-toll-mounts-to-17770-as-heavy-fighting-continues-668051">Israel-Hamas war: Gaza death toll mounts to 17,770 as heavy fighting continues, claims Hamas</a>

When asked by the British media about Kozbar’s presence at Scotland Yard, Met police’s headquarters, the London police force told the Telegraph, “We can confirm that Mr Mohammed Kozbar is a member of the London Muslim Communities Forum.”&nbsp;

The event was reportedly organised by the London Muslim Communities Forum or LMCF, a Met “strategic advisory body” and was also addressed by Attiq Malik, a hard-left activist who led the LMCF until November.&nbsp;

The Sunday Telegraph also revealed that he had been filmed chanting “from the river to the sea” and railing against “global censorship by the Zionists”.

Hamas launched one of the deadliest attacks on Israel, on October 7, killing at least 1,200 people and taking around 240 people as hostages, according to Israeli officials.

Israel has since retaliated with constant bombardment of Gaza and a ground operation which according to the Hamas-run government and health ministry has killed more than 17,700 people.&nbsp; 
 
Amid the mounting death toll in Gaza, the Israeli government has faced pressure and criticism to minimise civilian casualties in the Palestinian enclave.&nbsp;

<h2>Met cuts ties with Malik</h2>

Earlier this year, in an official review of Prevent, the government’s counter-extremism programme, raised concerns that the London branch of the National Association of Muslim Police had praised Kozbar despite evidence that he had “previously supported the founder…of Hamas.”

The Telegraph, citing an image of the event on July 7 said Malik and Kozbar were seen having a conversation which was attended by around 50 representatives of the Muslim community in London to mark Eid.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-sunaks-political-enemies-allegedly-plotting-the-end-of-his-career-in-london-restaurant-report-668134">UK PM Sunak's political enemies were allegedly plotting end of his career in London restaurant: Report</a>

The Met police has since cut ties with Malik saying that some “past language and views” were “contrary with our values”.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kozbar&nbsp;and his deputy secretary-general of the Muslim Council of Britain in recent posts on X have&nbsp;repeatedly accused Israel of carrying out a “genocide” in Gaza.

Hamas was proscribed by the UK in March 2001, according to the British government’s website.&nbsp;

In response to The Telegraph’s recent report, Kozbar claimed that he was being subjected to “repeated attempts to smear me as I pursue work to foster better community relations”.&nbsp;

He added, “I condemn the targeting of all civilians, whoever they are. It is criminal to indiscriminately murder innocent men, women, and children.”&nbsp;

The mosque chairman also told The Telegraph, that he supports “the Palestinian people and their quest for freedom, as clearly expressed as a basic right within international law”.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Prominent mosque chairman Mohammed Kozbar, who had praised the founder of the Palestinian militant group Hamas was invited to a dinner hosted by the London Met commissioner, reported the Sunday Telegraph, on Saturday (Dec 9).

Prominent mosque chairman Mohammed Kozbar, who had praised the founder of the Palestinian militant group Hamas was invited to a dinner hosted by the London Met commissioner, reported the Sunday Telegraph, on Saturday (Dec 9). The event was hosted months after Kozbar’s remarks about the Hamas founder, raising questions about Met’s links to the activist amid criticism over its response to the pro-Palestinian protests in London. The British capital city like many major cities across the world has witnessed pro-Palestinian protests and pro-Israel rallies since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. In the UK several people at pro-Palestinian rallies have been detained for raising antisemitic slogans. About the event at Scotland Yard According to the Telegraph, Kozbar attended an evening event alongside senior Met officers in July, five months after he praised Hamas’ founder as “the master of the martyrs of the resistance” and was cited in the official counter-extremism review. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Gaza death toll mounts to 17,770 as heavy fighting continues, claims Hamas When asked by the British media about Kozbar’s presence at Scotland Yard, Met police’s headquarters, the London police force told the Telegraph, “We can confirm that Mr Mohammed Kozbar is a member of the London Muslim Communities Forum.” The event was reportedly organised by the London Muslim Communities Forum or LMCF, a Met “strategic advisory body” and was also addressed by Attiq Malik, a hard-left activist who led the LMCF until November. The Sunday Telegraph also revealed that he had been filmed chanting “from the river to the sea” and railing against “global censorship by the Zionists”. Hamas launched one of the deadliest attacks on Israel, on October 7, killing at least 1,200 people and taking around 240 people as hostages, according to Israeli officials. Israel has since retaliated with constant bombardment of Gaza and a ground operation which according to the Hamas-run government and health ministry has killed more than 17,700 people. Amid the mounting death toll in Gaza, the Israeli government has faced pressure and criticism to minimise civilian casualties in the Palestinian enclave. Met cuts ties with Malik Earlier this year, in an official review of Prevent, the government’s counter-extremism programme, raised concerns that the London branch of the National Association of Muslim Police had praised Kozbar despite evidence that he had “previously supported the founder…of Hamas.” The Telegraph, citing an image of the event on July 7 said Malik and Kozbar were seen having a conversation which was attended by around 50 representatives of the Muslim community in London to mark Eid. ALSO READ | UK PM Sunak's political enemies were allegedly plotting end of his career in London restaurant: Report The Met police has since cut ties with Malik saying that some “past language and views” were “contrary with our values”. Meanwhile, Kozbar and his deputy secretary-general of the Muslim Council of Britain in recent posts on X have repeatedly accused Israel of carrying out a “genocide” in Gaza. Hamas was proscribed by the UK in March 2001, according to the British government’s website. In response to The Telegraph’s recent report, Kozbar claimed that he was being subjected to “repeated attempts to smear me as I pursue work to foster better community relations”. He added, “I condemn the targeting of all civilians, whoever they are. It is criminal to indiscriminately murder innocent men, women, and children.” The mosque chairman also told The Telegraph, that he supports “the Palestinian people and their quest for freedom, as clearly expressed as a basic right within international law”. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Prominent mosque chairman who praised Hamas founder invited to dinner with London’s Met police: Report

A humorous incident occurred at 10 Downing Street as UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte were briefly locked out of the iconic London residence during their meeting on Friday. Videos and images circulating online capture the leaders attempting to enter but facing a temporarily locked door.

Despite the doorstep hiccup, the leaders engaged in crucial discussions. An official press release from Sunak's office outlined their talks, expressing regret over the breakdown of the fighting pause to release hostages and emphasizing the importance of delivering more aid to Gaza.

Watch the video here:

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Rishi Sunak gets locked out of 10 downing street while meeting with the dutch prime minister <a href="https://t.co/jlkZ8WBDsY">pic.twitter.com/jlkZ8WBDsY</a>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-uk-pm-sunaks-task-force-for-grooming-gang-crackdown-will-not-adhere-to-political-correctness-578650">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | UK PM Sunak’s task force for grooming gang crackdown will not adhere to ‘political correctness’</a>

The leaders shared a similar outlook on the situation and pledged continued close cooperation in supporting Ukraine's defense. The conversation also delved into addressing the scourge of illegal migration, with Sunak updating Rutte on the UK's recent steps, including the Rwanda policy and the Illegal Migration Act.

<h2>Controversial immigration plan and minister's resignation</h2>

The meeting took place amid controversy surrounding Sunak's anti-immigration plan, "Stop The Boats," proposing asylum seekers be sent to Rwanda. This plan has caused internal divisions, leading to the resignation of Sunak's immigration minister, Robert Jenrick.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-sunaks-political-enemies-allegedly-plotting-the-end-of-his-career-in-london-restaurant-report-668134">Also read | UK PM Sunak's political enemies were allegedly plotting end of his career in London restaurant: Report</a>

In his resignation letter, Jenrick highlighted the high stakes and the necessity for stronger protections to prevent legal challenges. Sunak defended the plan, attributing opposition to a fundamental misunderstanding of the situation.

Also watch |&nbsp;Microsoft's ties with OpenAI comes under US-UK scrutiny

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(With inputs from agencies)

A humorous incident occurred at 10 Downing Street as UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte were briefly locked out of the iconic London residence during their meeting on Friday.

A humorous incident occurred at 10 Downing Street as UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte were briefly locked out of the iconic London residence during their meeting on Friday. Videos and images circulating online capture the leaders attempting to enter but facing a temporarily locked door. Despite the doorstep hiccup, the leaders engaged in crucial discussions. An official press release from Sunak's office outlined their talks, expressing regret over the breakdown of the fighting pause to release hostages and emphasizing the importance of delivering more aid to Gaza. Watch the video here: Rishi Sunak gets locked out of 10 downing street while meeting with the dutch prime minister pic.twitter.com/jlkZ8WBDsY — UB1UB2 West London (Southall) (@UB1UB2) December 9, 2023 × Also read | Explained | UK PM Sunak’s task force for grooming gang crackdown will not adhere to ‘political correctness’ The leaders shared a similar outlook on the situation and pledged continued close cooperation in supporting Ukraine's defense. The conversation also delved into addressing the scourge of illegal migration, with Sunak updating Rutte on the UK's recent steps, including the Rwanda policy and the Illegal Migration Act. Controversial immigration plan and minister's resignation The meeting took place amid controversy surrounding Sunak's anti-immigration plan, "Stop The Boats," proposing asylum seekers be sent to Rwanda. This plan has caused internal divisions, leading to the resignation of Sunak's immigration minister, Robert Jenrick. Also read | UK PM Sunak's political enemies were allegedly plotting end of his career in London restaurant: Report In his resignation letter, Jenrick highlighted the high stakes and the necessity for stronger protections to prevent legal challenges. Sunak defended the plan, attributing opposition to a fundamental misunderstanding of the situation. Also watch | Microsoft's ties with OpenAI comes under US-UK scrutiny (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Rishi Sunak, Dutch PM briefly locked out of 10 Downing Street. Video

A deputy US marshal who was on his way to London for extradition of a person was himself taken into custody by British authorities after allegations that he sexually abused a female passenger on Delta Airlines flight, multiple media reports have said.

The federal marshal was travelling along with another deputy marshal from New York's John F Kennedy International Airport to London when the female passenger made a complaint to the flight crew that he touched her inappropriately, said the reports.

A spokesman for Delta Airlines has confirmed the incident.

“Due to unruly passenger behavior while in flight, Delta Flight 1, JFK to London-Heathrow, was met by local law enforcement upon landing, and Delta is cooperating with their investigation,” said the spokesperson as quoted by NBC News.

Watch | US gun violence: Nevada University shooting ends with suspect's death

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The news network has reported that the two marshals were drinking during the flight. The second official has not been slapped with charges and was being sent back to New York.

It has been reported that both deputy marshals are assigned to the Eastern District of New York. They were travelling to London to bring back a suspect who was wanted in Brooklyn on federal charges.

As per a statement released by London Metropolitan Police, its officers were informed at Heathrow Airport that the marshal had “sexually assaulted other passengers and crew” during the flight. The 39-year-old marshal has been arrested and is in custody.

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The US Marshal Service (USMS) has said that it was aware of the incident during which its officer “engaged in serious alleged misconduct while intoxicated on an inbound flight.”

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Spokesman for the marshal service said that USMS was co-operating with law enforcement authorities in the UK along with other agencies.

“The US Marshals Service takes seriously any allegations of misconduct by its employees. The alleged actions of the employees do not reflect the professionalism of the thousands of employees of the USMS or its core values,” said the statement from USMS.

(With inputs from agencies)

A deputy US marshal who was on his way to London for extradition of a person was himself taken into custody by British authorities after allegations that he sexually abused a female passenger on Delta Airlines flight, multiple media reports have said.

A deputy US marshal who was on his way to London for extradition of a person was himself taken into custody by British authorities after allegations that he sexually abused a female passenger on Delta Airlines flight, multiple media reports have said. The federal marshal was travelling along with another deputy marshal from New York's John F Kennedy International Airport to London when the female passenger made a complaint to the flight crew that he touched her inappropriately, said the reports. A spokesman for Delta Airlines has confirmed the incident. “Due to unruly passenger behavior while in flight, Delta Flight 1, JFK to London-Heathrow, was met by local law enforcement upon landing, and Delta is cooperating with their investigation,” said the spokesperson as quoted by NBC News. Watch | US gun violence: Nevada University shooting ends with suspect's death × The news network has reported that the two marshals were drinking during the flight. The second official has not been slapped with charges and was being sent back to New York. It has been reported that both deputy marshals are assigned to the Eastern District of New York. They were travelling to London to bring back a suspect who was wanted in Brooklyn on federal charges. As per a statement released by London Metropolitan Police, its officers were informed at Heathrow Airport that the marshal had “sexually assaulted other passengers and crew” during the flight. The 39-year-old marshal has been arrested and is in custody. Also Read | India mentioned in US hearing on dissenters being targeted abroad amid 'Pannun murder plot' row The US Marshal Service (USMS) has said that it was aware of the incident during which its officer “engaged in serious alleged misconduct while intoxicated on an inbound flight.” Also Read | Biden cannot 'physically' make it through another term: Trump mocks US president's age, cognitive function Spokesman for the marshal service said that USMS was co-operating with law enforcement authorities in the UK along with other agencies. “The US Marshals Service takes seriously any allegations of misconduct by its employees. The alleged actions of the employees do not reflect the professionalism of the thousands of employees of the USMS or its core values,” said the statement from USMS. (With inputs from agencies)

US marshal on extradition duty sexually abuses woman passenger during flight to London

A Christmas tree gifted by Norway has arrived in London's Trafalgar Square - it is a tradition that the city of Oslo honours every year and the tree comes from the snowy forests of Norway.

Norwegian Christmas tree arrives in London; gifted every year since 1947 | World News | WION

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