A shocking case of mass murder has emerged from Venjaramoodu in Kerala&rsquo;s Thiruvananthapuram district, where a 23-year-old man allegedly killed five people across three locations before surrendering himself to the police. The accused, identified as Afan, reportedly confessed to the killings on Monday, revealing the grim details of his crime.&nbsp;
The victims include his teenage brother, grandmother, paternal uncle, aunt, and a young woman believed to be his girlfriend. He also admitted to attacking his mother, who survived the assault but remains in critical condition. &nbsp;
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<h2>Hammer used as murder weapon</h2>
According to initial investigations, Afan used a hammer to kill his victims, striking them repeatedly. Among the victims, his uncle, Latheef, suffered the most violent assault. A witness told PTI that when Latheef&rsquo;s body was lifted, fingers inadvertently slipped into a gaping hole in his skull, illustrating the sheer brutality of the attack. His wife, Sajitha, was killed in the kitchen while making tea for Afan.&nbsp;
<h2>Teen brother lured with food, then killed</h2>
Afan&rsquo;s 13-year-old brother, Afsan, was reportedly very close to him. However, he lured the child home under the pretext of offering him Kuzhimanthi, an Arabian rice dish, before striking him multiple times on the head. Shockingly, Rs 500 notes were scattered around Afsan&rsquo;s body after the murder.&nbsp;
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The killing spree allegedly began with his grandmother, 88-year-old Salma Beevi, before he moved on to his uncle&rsquo;s family. His final victim was a young woman, believed to be his girlfriend, whom he attacked so viciously that her face was unrecognisable.
<h2>Drug abuse angle under investigation</h2>
Investigators suspect Afan was a drug abuser but have yet to confirm whether he was under the influence at the time of the murders. Authorities are examining possible motives and psychological factors behind the horrific incident.
<h2>Plan to trigger explosion, yet no signs of distress</h2>
Before heading to the police station, Afan left an LPG valve open, seemingly planning an explosion if anyone entered the house at night. Despite the extreme violence, locals reported that he appeared calm and showed no signs of distress while moving between crime scenes.&nbsp;
When he reached the police station, Afan told officers he had assaulted six people, adding that they would all be dead by now.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

India News | The victims include his teenage brother, grandmother, paternal uncle, aunt, and a young woman, believed to be his girlfriend. He also admitted to attacking his mother, who survived the assault but remains in critical condition.

A shocking case of mass murder has emerged from Venjaramoodu in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district, where a 23-year-old man allegedly killed five people across three locations before surrendering himself to the police. The accused, identified as Afan, reportedly confessed to the killings on Monday, revealing the grim details of his crime. The victims include his teenage brother, grandmother, paternal uncle, aunt, and a young woman believed to be his girlfriend. He also admitted to attacking his mother, who survived the assault but remains in critical condition. Also Read | Indian-origin Tushar Mehta joins Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin crew on historic 10th space tourism mission Hammer used as murder weapon According to initial investigations, Afan used a hammer to kill his victims, striking them repeatedly. Among the victims, his uncle, Latheef, suffered the most violent assault. A witness told PTI that when Latheef’s body was lifted, fingers inadvertently slipped into a gaping hole in his skull, illustrating the sheer brutality of the attack. His wife, Sajitha, was killed in the kitchen while making tea for Afan. Teen brother lured with food, then killed Afan’s 13-year-old brother, Afsan, was reportedly very close to him. However, he lured the child home under the pretext of offering him Kuzhimanthi, an Arabian rice dish, before striking him multiple times on the head. Shockingly, Rs 500 notes were scattered around Afsan’s body after the murder. Also Read | Shashi Tharoor’s future in Congress uncertain as rift with leadership deepens The killing spree allegedly began with his grandmother, 88-year-old Salma Beevi, before he moved on to his uncle’s family. His final victim was a young woman, believed to be his girlfriend, whom he attacked so viciously that her face was unrecognisable. Drug abuse angle under investigation Investigators suspect Afan was a drug abuser but have yet to confirm whether he was under the influence at the time of the murders. Authorities are examining possible motives and psychological factors behind the horrific incident. Plan to trigger explosion, yet no signs of distress Before heading to the police station, Afan left an LPG valve open, seemingly planning an explosion if anyone entered the house at night. Despite the extreme violence, locals reported that he appeared calm and showed no signs of distress while moving between crime scenes. When he reached the police station, Afan told officers he had assaulted six people, adding that they would all be dead by now. (With inputs from agencies)

Kerala mass murder: Youth admits to killing family, using hammer to ‘shatter’ skulls

New Mexico, United States
In New Mexico, a 16-year-old boy has been detained in what is believed to be a shocking and tragic case of "family annihilation."
Identified as Diego Leyva, the teenager in an intoxicated state is believed to have shot and killed four members of his family, including his younger brother aged 14.
<h2>What happened?</h2>
According to a Facebook post by the New Mexico police, the teen was arrested in New Mexico's Belén, a small city in Valencia county. 
Before dawn on Saturday (Dec 14), the Valencia County Sheriff's Office received a 911 emergency call from the minor "who told the dispatcher he had killed his family".
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When deputies arrived at the location, the 16-year-old boy "walked out of the residence with his hands in the air," in an "extremely intoxicated" condition.
Police have identified the victims as Diego Leyva's parents, 42-year-old Leonardo Leyva, 35-year-old Adriana Bencomo, and his two siblings, 16-year-old Adrian Leyva and 14-year-old Alexander Leyva. All were found "deceased from suspected gunshot wounds. A handgun was located on the kitchen table," added the state police.
One of the victims is believed to have been a middle school student and another a local volunteer firefighter.
Valencia County Fire Department Chief Matt Propp, in a statement, said, "We have every reason to believe that one of the victims is a volunteer firefighter." 
The suspect teen has been charged on the suspicion of four counts of first-degree murder. Diego was taken to the hospital for detoxification after his arrest. The murder motive is yet to be released.
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<h2>America's gun epidemic</h2>
According to the Gun Violence Archive till Dec 15, 2024, across America, there have been at least 486 mass shootings. Furthermore, Saturday's shooting is the 29th mass murder this year—an incident with four or more murder victims. 
The Guardian reports that while local communities typically treat such cases as isolated tragedies, a 2023 Indianapolis Star investigation found that such tragedies across the US occurred on average once every five days.
(With inputs from agencies)

Identified as Diego Leyva, the teenager in an intoxicated state is believed to have shot and killed four members of his family, including his younger brother aged 14



New Mexico, United States In New Mexico, a 16-year-old boy has been detained in what is believed to be a shocking and tragic case of "family annihilation." Identified as Diego Leyva, the teenager in an intoxicated state is believed to have shot and killed four members of his family, including his younger brother aged 14. What happened? According to a Facebook post by the New Mexico police, the teen was arrested in New Mexico's Belén, a small city in Valencia county. Before dawn on Saturday (Dec 14), the Valencia County Sheriff's Office received a 911 emergency call from the minor "who told the dispatcher he had killed his family". Also read | Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions When deputies arrived at the location, the 16-year-old boy "walked out of the residence with his hands in the air," in an "extremely intoxicated" condition. Police have identified the victims as Diego Leyva's parents, 42-year-old Leonardo Leyva, 35-year-old Adriana Bencomo, and his two siblings, 16-year-old Adrian Leyva and 14-year-old Alexander Leyva. All were found "deceased from suspected gunshot wounds. A handgun was located on the kitchen table," added the state police. One of the victims is believed to have been a middle school student and another a local volunteer firefighter. Valencia County Fire Department Chief Matt Propp, in a statement, said, "We have every reason to believe that one of the victims is a volunteer firefighter." The suspect teen has been charged on the suspicion of four counts of first-degree murder. Diego was taken to the hospital for detoxification after his arrest. The murder motive is yet to be released. Also read | Who is Han Duck-soo, South Korea's acting President that replaced Yoon? America's gun epidemic According to the Gun Violence Archive till Dec 15, 2024, across America, there have been at least 486 mass shootings. Furthermore, Saturday's shooting is the 29th mass murder this year—an incident with four or more murder victims. The Guardian reports that while local communities typically treat such cases as isolated tragedies, a 2023 Indianapolis Star investigation found that such tragedies across the US occurred on average once every five days. (With inputs from agencies)

'Family annihilation': 16-year-old in New Mexico allegedly kills four, turns himself in

In New Mexico, a 16-year-old boy has been detained in what is believed to be a shocking and tragic case of "family annihilation."

Identified as Diego Leyva, the teenager in an intoxicated state is believed to have shot and killed four members of his family, including his younger brother aged 14.

<h2>What happened?</h2>

According to a Facebook post by the New Mexico police, the teen was arrested in New Mexico's Belén, a small city in Valencia county.&nbsp;

Before dawn on Saturday (Dec 14), the Valencia County Sheriff's Office received a 911 emergency call from the minor "who told the dispatcher he had killed his family".

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When deputies arrived at the location, the 16-year-old boy "walked out of the residence with his hands in the air," in an "extremely intoxicated" condition.

Police have identified the victims as Diego Leyva's parents, 42-year-old Leonardo Leyva, 35-year-old Adriana Bencomo, and his two siblings, 16-year-old Adrian Leyva and 14-year-old Alexander Leyva. All were found "deceased from suspected gunshot wounds. A handgun was located on the kitchen table," added the state police.

One of the victims is believed to have been a middle school student and another a local volunteer firefighter.

Valencia County Fire Department Chief Matt Propp, in a statement, said, "We have every reason to believe that one of the victims is a volunteer firefighter."&nbsp;

The suspect teen has been charged on the suspicion of four counts of first-degree murder. Diego was taken to the hospital for detoxification after his arrest. The murder motive is yet to be released.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-han-duck-soo-south-koreas-acting-president-that-replaced-yoon-784330">Who is Han Duck-soo, South Korea's acting President that replaced Yoon?</a>

<h2>America's gun epidemic</h2>

According to the Gun Violence Archive till Dec 15, 2024, across America, there have been at least 486 mass shootings. Furthermore, Saturday's shooting is the 29th mass murder this year—an incident with four or more murder victims.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The Guardian reports that while local communities typically treat such cases as isolated tragedies, a 2023 Indianapolis Star investigation found that such tragedies across the US occurred on average once every five days.

(With inputs from agencies)

In New Mexico, a 16-year-old boy has been detained in what is believed to be a shocking and tragic case of "family annihilation." Identified as Diego Leyva, the teenager in an intoxicated state is believed to have shot and killed four members of his family, including his younger brother aged 14.

In New Mexico, a 16-year-old boy has been detained in what is believed to be a shocking and tragic case of "family annihilation." Identified as Diego Leyva, the teenager in an intoxicated state is believed to have shot and killed four members of his family, including his younger brother aged 14. What happened? According to a Facebook post by the New Mexico police, the teen was arrested in New Mexico's Belén, a small city in Valencia county. Before dawn on Saturday (Dec 14), the Valencia County Sheriff's Office received a 911 emergency call from the minor "who told the dispatcher he had killed his family". Also read | Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions When deputies arrived at the location, the 16-year-old boy "walked out of the residence with his hands in the air," in an "extremely intoxicated" condition. Police have identified the victims as Diego Leyva's parents, 42-year-old Leonardo Leyva, 35-year-old Adriana Bencomo, and his two siblings, 16-year-old Adrian Leyva and 14-year-old Alexander Leyva. All were found "deceased from suspected gunshot wounds. A handgun was located on the kitchen table," added the state police. One of the victims is believed to have been a middle school student and another a local volunteer firefighter. Valencia County Fire Department Chief Matt Propp, in a statement, said, "We have every reason to believe that one of the victims is a volunteer firefighter." The suspect teen has been charged on the suspicion of four counts of first-degree murder. Diego was taken to the hospital for detoxification after his arrest. The murder motive is yet to be released. Also read | Who is Han Duck-soo, South Korea's acting President that replaced Yoon? America's gun epidemic According to the Gun Violence Archive till Dec 15, 2024, across America, there have been at least 486 mass shootings. Furthermore, Saturday's shooting is the 29th mass murder this year—an incident with four or more murder victims. The Guardian reports that while local communities typically treat such cases as isolated tragedies, a 2023 Indianapolis Star investigation found that such tragedies across the US occurred on average once every five days. (With inputs from agencies)

In a significant development, Iran has announced plans to consult with regional nations prior to any potential military action against Israel. This move aims to foster dialogue and gauge the reactions of neighboring countries, highlighting the complex geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions and concerns about escalating conflicts in the region. Analysts suggest that Iran's strategy may seek to build alliances or at least mitigate backlash before taking any decisive steps.

Iran-Israel War: Iran Is Preparing For A 'Major' Retaliation

In South Africa, a tavern owner opened fire following an altercation, resulting in the tragic deaths of seven people. The incident occurred after a fight broke out at the establishment, escalating into gun violence. Authorities have registered the case as a mass murder and launched an investigation into the shooting. The event has shocked the local community, with calls for justice and stricter gun control measures in the wake

South Africa: Tavern Owner Opens Fire After Fight, Seven Murders Registered

Iran has accused Israel of committing "mass murder" following a series of pager explosions across Lebanon, killing 12 and injuring nearly 3,000 Hezbollah members. Watch in for more details!

Pager Blasts: Iran Accuses Israel of 'Mass Murder'

Police in Ottawa, Canada, confirmed on Thursday that six Sri Lankans, including a mother and four little children, had been fatally stabbed with knives late on Wednesday. This shocking incident occurred in a nation where mass killings are uncommon.

Six Sri Lankans found dead inside two-storey house in Canada's Ottawa

Tomohiro Kato, a 39-year-old man who killed seven people in Tokyo in 2008, was hanged at the behest of the Japanese government on Tuesday morning.

Justice Minister Yoshihisa Furukawa told reporters that Kato was hanged at the Tokyo detention centre.

"The case has been fully tried in the courts and the courts' final conclusion was the death sentence... I have taken the greatest care possible in considering this case," BBC quoted Furukawa as saying.

Kato was 25 at the time when he drove a truck into pedestrians in the Akihabara shopping district on June 8 and then went into a stabbing spree, killing seven people and injuring 10.

He was later caught by the police on the spot and during his trial, he admitted to his crimes saying that he had been enraged by online bullying.

"I came to Akihabara to kill people. It didn't matter who I'd kill,” Kato told police at the time of his arrest.

In 2011, Kato was sentenced to death, and it was later upheld by the Supreme Court in 2015, who had cancelled his plea to commute the sentence.

The crime had triggered a massive debate in Japan at that time as concerns were raised over online influence on random killings and the failure to put up effective mental health support for the youth. The officials had also tightened laws on knife ownership in response.

According to reports, Kato comes from a wealthy family and used to be a top student in high school. However, he failed his university entrance exams and struggled to maintain steady employment afterwards.

During his trial, the prosecutors dubbed Kato as a troubled young man, who had posted several times in online forums about his anger and alienation from society.

Local reports said that Kato was particularly demoralised after a woman he was chatting with online stopped emailing him.

Jilted over the rejection, he had declared his intention to carry out mass murder.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tomohiro Kato, a 39-year-old man who killed seven people in Tokyo in 2008, was hanged at the behest of the Japanese government on Tuesday morning. Justice Minister Yoshihisa Furukawa told reporters that Kato was hanged at the Tokyo detention centre.

Tomohiro Kato, a 39-year-old man who killed seven people in Tokyo in 2008, was hanged at the behest of the Japanese government on Tuesday morning. Justice Minister Yoshihisa Furukawa told reporters that Kato was hanged at the Tokyo detention centre. "The case has been fully tried in the courts and the courts' final conclusion was the death sentence... I have taken the greatest care possible in considering this case," BBC quoted Furukawa as saying. Kato was 25 at the time when he drove a truck into pedestrians in the Akihabara shopping district on June 8 and then went into a stabbing spree, killing seven people and injuring 10. He was later caught by the police on the spot and during his trial, he admitted to his crimes saying that he had been enraged by online bullying. "I came to Akihabara to kill people. It didn't matter who I'd kill,” Kato told police at the time of his arrest. In 2011, Kato was sentenced to death, and it was later upheld by the Supreme Court in 2015, who had cancelled his plea to commute the sentence. The crime had triggered a massive debate in Japan at that time as concerns were raised over online influence on random killings and the failure to put up effective mental health support for the youth. The officials had also tightened laws on knife ownership in response. According to reports, Kato comes from a wealthy family and used to be a top student in high school. However, he failed his university entrance exams and struggled to maintain steady employment afterwards. During his trial, the prosecutors dubbed Kato as a troubled young man, who had posted several times in online forums about his anger and alienation from society. Local reports said that Kato was particularly demoralised after a woman he was chatting with online stopped emailing him. Jilted over the rejection, he had declared his intention to carry out mass murder. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan hangs man who went on stabbing spree at Tokyo shopping mall in 2008

Kashmiris remember October 22, 1947 as the day of commencement of hell, till Indian soldiers rushed in to protect them. October 22, 1947 was when six to seven thousand Pakistani raiders, backed by the Pakistan army, which had embedded some of its soldiers within the raiders, crossed the Neelam River and began looting, plundering, raping, kidnapping and killing thousands of innocents, all with the intention of capturing Kashmir under the code name of Operation Gulmarg. Pakistan’s 7 Infantry Division was located close by seeking to exploit success achieved by its raiders. The target was to capture all territory upto the Banihal Pass. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
With Kashmir still an independent state, India could only watch as atrocities mounted. It was only when Srinagar was under direct threat did Maharaja Hari Singh, accede to India and Indian forces landed in Srinagar on October 27. The end result was that Kashmir, which till then was a paradise and had people of all religions living in harmony became a hell. Pakistan’s actions divided the state into Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir and Jammu and Kashmir, a scenario which continues to date. By the end of the war over 35,000 Kashmiri’s from all religions were killed, thousands were kidnapped and taken to western Pakistan to be sold as slaves.&nbsp;

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Parents in Kashmir gave poison or killed their daughters to save them from Pakistani invaders. A survivor from the 1947 massacre, Suchwant Singh, then a resident of Kotli in Muzaffarabad district, states that his mother and sister were shot dead by their uncle to, ‘save them from rape and painful death,’ at the hands of Pakistani raiders. There are many more survivors from all religions for whom the horrors of the period continue to haunt. Those who recounted the incidents of the period state that the raiders claimed they were liberators but in reality, they were there to pillage, rape and loot. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Pakistan, which blames India for not adhering to UN resolutions was the first to back down from implementing the resolution passed in May 1948. Knowing it was hated on both sides of the LOC and the resolution would be detrimental to its interests, it refused to withdraw troops as the first step in the resolution. Today, this shameless nation, responsible for mass killings and rapes, desires the same resolution to be implemented.&nbsp;

Pakistan continues to breed terrorist groups which claim innocent lives in Kashmir, all on the pretext that Kashmiri’s desire to be a part of Pakistan. It brought anti-national elements with illicit funds to incite violence and turned religion into a dividing factor. It attempted the same in Bangladesh in 1971 but failed miserably and was compelled into the largest surrender post the Second World War. It will never succeed in Kashmir too as the people of the region have understood Pakistan’s dirty games.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-the-battle-for-the-soul-of-islam-will-the-real-reformer-of-the-faith-stand-up-415259">Opinion | The Battle for the soul of Islam: Will the real reformer of the faith stand up?</a>

The BBC news, in an article titled, ‘Partition 70 years hence: When tribal warriors invaded Kashmir,’ of Oct 2017 mentions, ‘Pakistan repeated this strategy in Kashmir in 1965, during the Kashmir insurgency of 1988-2003, as well as in the Kargil War of 1999. It also used non-state actors in Afghanistan. But instead of liberating Kashmir or taming Afghanistan, it has led to the weakening of political processes, and has militarised society not only in Kashmir and Afghanistan, but also in Pakistan.’ Pakistan’s security issues, unrest in its western provinces, protests in POK and Sindh are a fallout of its philosophy of employing terrorism as an instrument of state policy.&nbsp;

The treachery of Pakistan impacted not only Kashmir but also Baluchistan. On August 12, 1947, it signed a standstill agreement with Kashmir, promising not to disturb its Status Quo, only to break it two weeks later by threatening it to join Pakistan. It launched Operation Gulmarg on October 22. This was repeated in 1948. Pakistan signed a similar standstill agreement with the Khan of Kalat on August 4, 1947, assuring that it would be an independent country. Like in the case of Kashmir, it broke that agreement, too and in March 1948 invaded and forcibly annexed Baluchistan. The Balochis fight for freedom stems from dishonouring of agreements by Pakistan.

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Throughout its history, Pakistan has been known to break agreements. The latest is hosting Osama Bin Laden as a state guest and backing the Taliban with coalition funds from the US to target US forces, despite claiming to be a member in the fight against global terrorism. Pakistan’s pro-terrorist policies have been the bane of the region and grew from the world not sanctioning it for its misdeeds.&nbsp;

The incidents of 1947 were largely ignored by the world still grappling to pick up pieces after the Second World War. Kashmir was the last agenda for the global community. The fact that this was ignored, and Pakistan not chastised led to it breaking its agreement with the Khan of Kalat in 1948, Bangladesh genocide in 1971, killing of innocents in Baluchistan and Waziristan that goes on even today. Also, support to Taliban and Islamic State (Khorasan province) in Afghanistan leading to mass killing of innocents. Its support to terrorists operating in Kashmir is leading to loss of innocent lives.&nbsp;

It is time for the world to back Bangladesh’s call and term 25th March as world genocide day and globally recognise October 22 as black day. In addition, Pakistan must be sanctioned for its strategy of supporting terrorist groups operating across the region. Unless this is done, Pakistan will not change and innocent lives in the region will always be lost.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Kashmiris remember October 22, 1947 as the day of commencement of hell, till Indian soldiers rushed in to protect them. October 22, 1947 was when six to seven thousand Pakistani raiders, backed by the Pakistan army, which had embedded some of its soldiers within the raiders, crossed the Neelam River and began looting, plundering, raping, kidnapping and killing thousands of innocents, all with the intention of capturing Kashmir under the code name of Operation Gulmarg.

Kashmiris remember October 22, 1947 as the day of commencement of hell, till Indian soldiers rushed in to protect them. October 22, 1947 was when six to seven thousand Pakistani raiders, backed by the Pakistan army, which had embedded some of its soldiers within the raiders, crossed the Neelam River and began looting, plundering, raping, kidnapping and killing thousands of innocents, all with the intention of capturing Kashmir under the code name of Operation Gulmarg. Pakistan’s 7 Infantry Division was located close by seeking to exploit success achieved by its raiders. The target was to capture all territory upto the Banihal Pass. With Kashmir still an independent state, India could only watch as atrocities mounted. It was only when Srinagar was under direct threat did Maharaja Hari Singh, accede to India and Indian forces landed in Srinagar on October 27. The end result was that Kashmir, which till then was a paradise and had people of all religions living in harmony became a hell. Pakistan’s actions divided the state into Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir and Jammu and Kashmir, a scenario which continues to date. By the end of the war over 35,000 Kashmiri’s from all religions were killed, thousands were kidnapped and taken to western Pakistan to be sold as slaves. Also Read | Opinion | Moscow talks are a chance for India to influence Afghan situation Parents in Kashmir gave poison or killed their daughters to save them from Pakistani invaders. A survivor from the 1947 massacre, Suchwant Singh, then a resident of Kotli in Muzaffarabad district, states that his mother and sister were shot dead by their uncle to, ‘save them from rape and painful death,’ at the hands of Pakistani raiders. There are many more survivors from all religions for whom the horrors of the period continue to haunt. Those who recounted the incidents of the period state that the raiders claimed they were liberators but in reality, they were there to pillage, rape and loot. Pakistan, which blames India for not adhering to UN resolutions was the first to back down from implementing the resolution passed in May 1948. Knowing it was hated on both sides of the LOC and the resolution would be detrimental to its interests, it refused to withdraw troops as the first step in the resolution. Today, this shameless nation, responsible for mass killings and rapes, desires the same resolution to be implemented. Pakistan continues to breed terrorist groups which claim innocent lives in Kashmir, all on the pretext that Kashmiri’s desire to be a part of Pakistan. It brought anti-national elements with illicit funds to incite violence and turned religion into a dividing factor. It attempted the same in Bangladesh in 1971 but failed miserably and was compelled into the largest surrender post the Second World War. It will never succeed in Kashmir too as the people of the region have understood Pakistan’s dirty games. Also Read | Opinion | The Battle for the soul of Islam: Will the real reformer of the faith stand up? The BBC news, in an article titled, ‘Partition 70 years hence: When tribal warriors invaded Kashmir,’ of Oct 2017 mentions, ‘Pakistan repeated this strategy in Kashmir in 1965, during the Kashmir insurgency of 1988-2003, as well as in the Kargil War of 1999. It also used non-state actors in Afghanistan. But instead of liberating Kashmir or taming Afghanistan, it has led to the weakening of political processes, and has militarised society not only in Kashmir and Afghanistan, but also in Pakistan.’ Pakistan’s security issues, unrest in its western provinces, protests in POK and Sindh are a fallout of its philosophy of employing terrorism as an instrument of state policy. The treachery of Pakistan impacted not only Kashmir but also Baluchistan. On August 12, 1947, it signed a standstill agreement with Kashmir, promising not to disturb its Status Quo, only to break it two weeks later by threatening it to join Pakistan. It launched Operation Gulmarg on October 22. This was repeated in 1948. Pakistan signed a similar standstill agreement with the Khan of Kalat on August 4, 1947, assuring that it would be an independent country. Like in the case of Kashmir, it broke that agreement, too and in March 1948 invaded and forcibly annexed Baluchistan. The Balochis fight for freedom stems from dishonouring of agreements by Pakistan. Also Read | Two months of Taliban 2.0: Challenges and threats Throughout its history, Pakistan has been known to break agreements. The latest is hosting Osama Bin Laden as a state guest and backing the Taliban with coalition funds from the US to target US forces, despite claiming to be a member in the fight against global terrorism. Pakistan’s pro-terrorist policies have been the bane of the region and grew from the world not sanctioning it for its misdeeds. The incidents of 1947 were largely ignored by the world still grappling to pick up pieces after the Second World War. Kashmir was the last agenda for the global community. The fact that this was ignored, and Pakistan not chastised led to it breaking its agreement with the Khan of Kalat in 1948, Bangladesh genocide in 1971, killing of innocents in Baluchistan and Waziristan that goes on even today. Also, support to Taliban and Islamic State (Khorasan province) in Afghanistan leading to mass killing of innocents. Its support to terrorists operating in Kashmir is leading to loss of innocent lives. It is time for the world to back Bangladesh’s call and term 25th March as world genocide day and globally recognise October 22 as black day. In addition, Pakistan must be sanctioned for its strategy of supporting terrorist groups operating across the region. Unless this is done, Pakistan will not change and innocent lives in the region will always be lost. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | October 22, 1947, the black day of Pakistani atrocities in Kashmir

Five people and an unborn child were found dead Sunday in Indianapolis in what the mayor called an act of mass murder.

The victims were pronounced dead after being found at a home in Indianapolis in what police described as the most significant mass shooting the city has experienced in more than a decade.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the shooting had brought "terror to our community."

"This morning the city of Indianapolis was targeted with an act of depravity that has become all too common across the country and will never cease to shock the conscience," he told reporters.

The fatal shootings were discovered by police who had been called about 4 am to investigate reports of a person shot on the city's near northeast side but first discovered a juvenile male with gunshot wounds, said Sgt. Shane Foley with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department. 
 
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said both local police and federal authorities are investigating the case.

"What happened this morning was not a simple act of gun violence," he said. "What happened this morning was a mass murder."

(With inputs from agencies)

Five people and an unborn child were found dead Sunday in Indianapolis in what the mayor called an act of mass murder. The victims were pronounced dead after being found at a home in Indianapolis in what police described as the most significant mass shooting the city has experienced in more than a decade.

Five people and an unborn child were found dead Sunday in Indianapolis in what the mayor called an act of mass murder. The victims were pronounced dead after being found at a home in Indianapolis in what police described as the most significant mass shooting the city has experienced in more than a decade. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the shooting had brought "terror to our community." "This morning the city of Indianapolis was targeted with an act of depravity that has become all too common across the country and will never cease to shock the conscience," he told reporters. The fatal shootings were discovered by police who had been called about 4 am to investigate reports of a person shot on the city's near northeast side but first discovered a juvenile male with gunshot wounds, said Sgt. Shane Foley with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said both local police and federal authorities are investigating the case. "What happened this morning was not a simple act of gun violence," he said. "What happened this morning was a mass murder." (With inputs from agencies)

Six shot dead, including pregnant woman, in 'act of mass murder' in Indianapolis

A gunman in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia killed at least 16&nbsp;people, including a policewoman, during a 12-hour rampage, authorities said on Sunday, in the worst act of mass murder the country has seen in more than 30 years. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-city-holds-vigil-for-29-victims-of-unprecedented-mass-shooting-279614">Also read: Thai city holds vigil for 29 victims of 'unprecedented' mass shooting</a> 
 
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said the gunman, 51-year-old Gabriel Wortman, who worked as a denturist, appeared at one stage to have been wearing part of a police uniform. He had also painstakingly disguised his car to look like a police cruiser.

Wortman shot people in several locations across the Atlantic province, police told a briefing, saying the death toll was more than 10.&nbsp;

Police added they had ended the threat posed by Wortman, who was dead but would not confirm a report by the CTV network that the RCMP had shot him.

One of the victims was RCMP officer Heidi Stevenson, a 23-year veteran of the service with two children.

Police said there was no apparent link between Wortman and at least some of his victims. They said they had no idea what his motivation might have been.

"Today is a devastating day for Nova Scotia, and it will remain etched in the minds for many years to come," said Lee Bergerman, commanding officer of the RCMP in Nova Scotia.

The massacre was the worst of its kind in Canada since a gunman killed 15 women in Montreal in December 1989. Mass shootings are relatively rare in Canada, which has tighter gun control laws than the United States.

Nova Scotia, like the rest of Canada, is under a stay-at-home order because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Police discovered the killings late on Saturday after reports of shots at a house in the small coastal town of Portapique, about 130 km (80 miles) north of the provincial capital, Halifax.

"When police arrived on the scene, members located several casualties inside and outside of the home," said Chris Leather, the Nova Scotia RCMP`s criminal operations officer.

Several buildings in the town were ablaze and police exchanged gunfire at one point with Wortman. Probes subsequently disclosed he had also killed people in several other locations.

"We`re not fully aware of what (the) total might be," said Leather.

At one juncture on Saturday evening, Wortman "appears to have been wearing - if not all - then a portion of a police uniform," Leather said. But he did not specify whether the suspect had been disguised as an officer when the killings occurred.

"The fact that this individual had a uniform and a police car at his disposal certainly speaks to it not being a random act," Leather said.

"WE HEARD GUNSHOTS"

According to the websites of the Denturist Society of Nova Scotia and the province`s Better Business Bureau, Wortman operated a denture clinic in Dartmouth, close to Halifax.

In response to a question, Leather said police would look at a possible link to the coronavirus outbreak, which has forced the closure of non-essential businesses.

Portapique residents said the first sign of trouble occurred on Saturday night when police urged everyone to stay indoors. One man said he saw at least three separate fires.

A resident said she had come across two burning police vehicles while out driving on Sunday.

"There was one officer we could see on the scene and then all of a sudden, he went running toward one of the burning vehicles," Darcy Sack told the CBC.

"We heard gunshots," she added. Television footage from Portapique showed two burned-out vehicles on a road.

Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil decried "one of the most senseless acts of violence in our province`s history."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his government would help Nova Scotians "as they heal from this tragedy."

A gunman in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia killed at least 16 people, including a policewoman, during a 12-hour rampage, authorities said on Sunday, in the worst act of mass murder the country has seen in more than 30 years.

A gunman in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia killed at least 16 people, including a policewoman, during a 12-hour rampage, authorities said on Sunday, in the worst act of mass murder the country has seen in more than 30 years. Also read: Thai city holds vigil for 29 victims of 'unprecedented' mass shooting The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said the gunman, 51-year-old Gabriel Wortman, who worked as a denturist, appeared at one stage to have been wearing part of a police uniform. He had also painstakingly disguised his car to look like a police cruiser. Wortman shot people in several locations across the Atlantic province, police told a briefing, saying the death toll was more than 10. Police added they had ended the threat posed by Wortman, who was dead but would not confirm a report by the CTV network that the RCMP had shot him. One of the victims was RCMP officer Heidi Stevenson, a 23-year veteran of the service with two children. Police said there was no apparent link between Wortman and at least some of his victims. They said they had no idea what his motivation might have been. "Today is a devastating day for Nova Scotia, and it will remain etched in the minds for many years to come," said Lee Bergerman, commanding officer of the RCMP in Nova Scotia. The massacre was the worst of its kind in Canada since a gunman killed 15 women in Montreal in December 1989. Mass shootings are relatively rare in Canada, which has tighter gun control laws than the United States. Nova Scotia, like the rest of Canada, is under a stay-at-home order because of the coronavirus pandemic. Police discovered the killings late on Saturday after reports of shots at a house in the small coastal town of Portapique, about 130 km (80 miles) north of the provincial capital, Halifax. "When police arrived on the scene, members located several casualties inside and outside of the home," said Chris Leather, the Nova Scotia RCMP`s criminal operations officer. Several buildings in the town were ablaze and police exchanged gunfire at one point with Wortman. Probes subsequently disclosed he had also killed people in several other locations. "We`re not fully aware of what (the) total might be," said Leather. At one juncture on Saturday evening, Wortman "appears to have been wearing - if not all - then a portion of a police uniform," Leather said. But he did not specify whether the suspect had been disguised as an officer when the killings occurred. "The fact that this individual had a uniform and a police car at his disposal certainly speaks to it not being a random act," Leather said. "WE HEARD GUNSHOTS" According to the websites of the Denturist Society of Nova Scotia and the province`s Better Business Bureau, Wortman operated a denture clinic in Dartmouth, close to Halifax. In response to a question, Leather said police would look at a possible link to the coronavirus outbreak, which has forced the closure of non-essential businesses. Portapique residents said the first sign of trouble occurred on Saturday night when police urged everyone to stay indoors. One man said he saw at least three separate fires. A resident said she had come across two burning police vehicles while out driving on Sunday. "There was one officer we could see on the scene and then all of a sudden, he went running toward one of the burning vehicles," Darcy Sack told the CBC. "We heard gunshots," she added. Television footage from Portapique showed two burned-out vehicles on a road. Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil decried "one of the most senseless acts of violence in our province`s history." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his government would help Nova Scotians "as they heal from this tragedy."

Gunman kills at least 16 in Nova Scotia in Canada's worst mass murder since 1989

A Japanese court on Monday sentenced a man to death for the 2016 murder of 19 disabled people at a care home, one of the country's worst mass killings.

Satoshi Uematsu, a former employee of the facility, never disputed his involvement in the grisly stabbing rampage, but his lawyers entered a plea of not guilty, arguing the 30-year-old was suffering a "mental disorder" linked to his use of marijuana.

Chief judge Kiyoshi Aonuma dismissed that argument and ruled Uematsu deserved no leniency over the horrifying attack, which shocked the country.

"The lives of 19 people were taken away. This is profoundly grave," he told the court.&nbsp;

Uematsu planned the murders and had "an extreme intention to kill", the judge said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/19-dead-25-wounded-in-knife-attack-on-disabled-care-centre-in-tokyo-3240">19 dead, 25 wounded in knife attack on disabled care centre in Tokyo</a>

Prosecutors sought the death penalty, which in Japan is implemented by hanging, arguing Uematsu was capable of taking responsibility for what they said was an "inhumane" attack at the Tsukui Yamayuri-en centre in Sagamihara town, just outside Tokyo.

Uematsu's behaviour in court, including apparently trying to put something in his mouth, disrupted proceedings at the first hearing in January, with the judge calling a recess and then resuming without him.

But he was impassive on Monday as the verdict was announced, looking straight ahead at the judge during the sentencing.

He wore a black suit with his hair in a long ponytail down to his waist, and was flanked by six uniformed court officers wearing surgical masks.

'I hate you so much'

Uematsu, who faced six charges including murder, reportedly said before the trial that he would not appeal any verdict, though he argued he did not deserve the death penalty.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/knife-attackers-house-raided-day-after-japans-worst-mass-killing-in-decades-3346">Knife attacker?s house raided day after Japan's worst mass killing in decades?</a>

He has reportedly said he wanted to eradicate all disabled people in the horrifying attack that also left 26 people wounded.

He turned himself in to police after the assault, carrying bloodied knives, and it later emerged he had left his job at the home just months earlier and been forcibly hospitalised after telling colleagues he intended to kill disabled people at the centre.

But he was discharged after just 12 days when a doctor decided he was not a threat. He had also written a letter outlining plans to attack the home, claiming "disabled people only create unhappiness".

Among the few victims to be identified publicly was a 19-year-old woman, Miho, whose mother had said at the court that Uematsu "didn't need a future".

"I hate you so much. I want to rip you apart. Even the most extreme penalty is light for you. I will never forgive you," her mother said before the verdict, according to public broadcaster NHK.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-killing-spree-lasted-2-months-23282">Japan killing spree 'lasted 2 months'</a>

"Please bring back my most precious daughter... You're still alive. It's not fair. It's wrong."

"I demand capital punishment," she added.

No remorse

The trial has been closely watched, and a court spokesman said 1,603 people lined up for 10 seats available for the verdict.

The number of spots was reduced because of rules requiring spectators sit apart to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Uematsu has shown no remorse for the attack, telling Japan's Mainichi Shimbun daily that people with mental disabilities "have no heart", and for them "there's no point in living".

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-death-penalty-demanded-for-man-accused-of-killing-19-disabled-people-281233">Japan: Death penalty demanded for man accused of killing 19 disabled people</a>

"I had to do it for the sake of society," he said.

Uematsu's beliefs shocked Japan, with experts and activists raising questions about whether others might hold similar views.

Japan has been making efforts to increase accessibility particularly in Tokyo ahead of this year's Paralympic Games and activists hailed last year's election of two disabled lawmakers.

But some critics feel the country still falls short of fully integrating people with disabilities.

A Japanese court on Monday sentenced a man to death for the 2016 murder of 19 disabled people at a care home, one of the country's worst mass killings. Satoshi Uematsu, a former employee of the facility, never disputed his involvement in the grisly stabbing rampage, but his lawyers entered a plea of not guilty, arguing the 30-year-old was suffering a "mental disorder" linked to his use of marijuana.

A Japanese court on Monday sentenced a man to death for the 2016 murder of 19 disabled people at a care home, one of the country's worst mass killings. Satoshi Uematsu, a former employee of the facility, never disputed his involvement in the grisly stabbing rampage, but his lawyers entered a plea of not guilty, arguing the 30-year-old was suffering a "mental disorder" linked to his use of marijuana. Chief judge Kiyoshi Aonuma dismissed that argument and ruled Uematsu deserved no leniency over the horrifying attack, which shocked the country. "The lives of 19 people were taken away. This is profoundly grave," he told the court. Uematsu planned the murders and had "an extreme intention to kill", the judge said. Also read: 19 dead, 25 wounded in knife attack on disabled care centre in Tokyo Prosecutors sought the death penalty, which in Japan is implemented by hanging, arguing Uematsu was capable of taking responsibility for what they said was an "inhumane" attack at the Tsukui Yamayuri-en centre in Sagamihara town, just outside Tokyo. Uematsu's behaviour in court, including apparently trying to put something in his mouth, disrupted proceedings at the first hearing in January, with the judge calling a recess and then resuming without him. But he was impassive on Monday as the verdict was announced, looking straight ahead at the judge during the sentencing. He wore a black suit with his hair in a long ponytail down to his waist, and was flanked by six uniformed court officers wearing surgical masks. 'I hate you so much' Uematsu, who faced six charges including murder, reportedly said before the trial that he would not appeal any verdict, though he argued he did not deserve the death penalty. Also see: Knife attacker?s house raided day after Japan's worst mass killing in decades? He has reportedly said he wanted to eradicate all disabled people in the horrifying attack that also left 26 people wounded. He turned himself in to police after the assault, carrying bloodied knives, and it later emerged he had left his job at the home just months earlier and been forcibly hospitalised after telling colleagues he intended to kill disabled people at the centre. But he was discharged after just 12 days when a doctor decided he was not a threat. He had also written a letter outlining plans to attack the home, claiming "disabled people only create unhappiness". Among the few victims to be identified publicly was a 19-year-old woman, Miho, whose mother had said at the court that Uematsu "didn't need a future". "I hate you so much. I want to rip you apart. Even the most extreme penalty is light for you. I will never forgive you," her mother said before the verdict, according to public broadcaster NHK. Also read: Japan killing spree 'lasted 2 months' "Please bring back my most precious daughter... You're still alive. It's not fair. It's wrong." "I demand capital punishment," she added. No remorse The trial has been closely watched, and a court spokesman said 1,603 people lined up for 10 seats available for the verdict. The number of spots was reduced because of rules requiring spectators sit apart to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Uematsu has shown no remorse for the attack, telling Japan's Mainichi Shimbun daily that people with mental disabilities "have no heart", and for them "there's no point in living". Also see: Japan: Death penalty demanded for man accused of killing 19 disabled people "I had to do it for the sake of society," he said. Uematsu's beliefs shocked Japan, with experts and activists raising questions about whether others might hold similar views. Japan has been making efforts to increase accessibility particularly in Tokyo ahead of this year's Paralympic Games and activists hailed last year's election of two disabled lawmakers. But some critics feel the country still falls short of fully integrating people with disabilities.

Man sentenced to death for murder of 19 people at a caring home for disabled

A couple kills 2 children along with a rabbit before jumping to death, man blamed his brother-in-law for not returning debts in the suicide note.

India: Ghaziabad mass murder-suicide

A US federal judge declared Dylann Roof, accused of killing nine African-Americans in a church shooting in South Carolina last year, mentally competent to stand trial on Friday

The jury selection in the death penalty trial of the 22-year-old is scheduled to begin on Monday. Roof allegedly used a .45 caliber Glock handgun to kill his victims in the June 2015 massacre during a Bible study group inside a traditionally black church in Charleston, news agency AFP reported.

The trial was supposed to begin two weeks ago but was delayed by Judge Richard Gergel. Gergel ordered a closed-door competency hearing citing &quot;the defendant&#39;s right to a fair and impartial jury and a fair trial&quot;.

Friday&#39;s three-page-ruling reveled no details about the accused&#39;s psychological condition.

No observers were allowed in the hearing. The judge rules that the hearing&#39;s transcript &quot;would prejudice the defendant&#39;s right to a fair trial and a fair and impartial jury&quot; despite objections from victims&#39; families and media.

In addition to his federal trial, Roof is facing South Carolina charges that could also result in capital punishment, AFP reported. A separate state trial is expected to begin in January.

(With inputs from AFP)

Jury selection is now set to begin Monday in the death penalty trial of Dylann Roof

A US federal judge declared Dylann Roof, accused of killing nine African-Americans in a church shooting in South Carolina last year, mentally competent to stand trial on Friday The jury selection in the death penalty trial of the 22-year-old is scheduled to begin on Monday. Roof allegedly used a .45 caliber Glock handgun to kill his victims in the June 2015 massacre during a Bible study group inside a traditionally black church in Charleston, news agency AFP reported. The trial was supposed to begin two weeks ago but was delayed by Judge Richard Gergel. Gergel ordered a closed-door competency hearing citing "the defendant's right to a fair and impartial jury and a fair trial". Friday's three-page-ruling reveled no details about the accused's psychological condition. No observers were allowed in the hearing. The judge rules that the hearing's transcript "would prejudice the defendant's right to a fair trial and a fair and impartial jury" despite objections from victims' families and media. In addition to his federal trial, Roof is facing South Carolina charges that could also result in capital punishment, AFP reported. A separate state trial is expected to begin in January. (With inputs from AFP)

US: Charleston shooter mentally fit to stand trial

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