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The Israeli military has shown a cluster of weapons factories and tunnels used by Hamas in the Gaza Strip to manufacture rockets. During a media tour on Monday (Jan 8), in Gaza's Bureij, Israeli soldiers said that what looked like cement factories and other industrial facilities were being used to make weapons.

Two airlines in the United States - United Airlines and Alaska Airlines - found loose bolts while carrying out inspections of the Boeing 737 Max 9 fleet. The inspections came after a door plug of a Boeing 737 Max 9 blew out from an Alaska Airlines aircraft this past weekend.

In other news from around the world, Ecuador declared a state of emergency for 60 days after the country's most-wanted criminal disappeared from the jail where he was being held.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-military-shows-cluster-of-weapons-factories-of-hamas-in-gaza-678060">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military shows cluster of weapons factories of Hamas in Gaza</a>

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The Israeli military on Monday (Jan 8) showed journalists a cluster of weapons factories and tunnels used by Hamas in the Gaza Strip to manufacture rockets, the news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-airlines-and-alaska-airlines-find-loose-bolts-in-boeing-jets-during-inspections-678065">United Airlines and Alaska Airlines find loose bolts in Boeing jets during inspections</a>

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United Airlines on Monday (Jan 8) said that they found loose bolts while carrying out inspections of the Boeing 737 Max 9 fleet after a door plug blew out from an Alaska Airlines plane over the weekend. The airlines said that they found the bolts required "additional tightening" during inspections of Boeing 737 Max 9s. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-declares-state-of-emergency-after-its-most-wanted-criminal-disappears-from-jail-678015">Ecuador declares state of emergency after its most-wanted criminal disappears from jail</a>

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Ecuador on Monday (Jan 8) declared a state of emergency for 60 days after the country's most-wanted criminal disappeared from the jail where he was being held.&nbsp;Adolfo Macias, leader of the Los Choneros criminal gang, disappeared from the Guayaquil prison on Sunday&nbsp;where he was serving a 34-year sentence.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-naval-officer-sentenced-to-over-two-years-in-prison-for-selling-military-secrets-to-china-678052">US naval officer sentenced to over two years in prison for selling military secrets to China</a>

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A United States Navy serviceman, who pleaded guilty to accepting bribes from a Chinese intelligence officer in exchange for sensitive US military information, was sentenced to more than two years in prison&nbsp;on Monday (Jan 8), said the Department of Justice (DOJ).&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Taiwan election poses test for Island's ties with China | Will China succeed in 'reunifying' Taiwan?

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The Israeli military has shown a cluster of weapons factories and tunnels used by Hamas in the Gaza Strip to manufacture rockets. During a media tour on Monday (Jan 8), in Gaza's Bureij, Israeli soldiers said that what looked like cement factories and other industrial facilities were being used to make weapons.

The Israeli military has shown a cluster of weapons factories and tunnels used by Hamas in the Gaza Strip to manufacture rockets. During a media tour on Monday (Jan 8), in Gaza's Bureij, Israeli soldiers said that what looked like cement factories and other industrial facilities were being used to make weapons. Two airlines in the United States - United Airlines and Alaska Airlines - found loose bolts while carrying out inspections of the Boeing 737 Max 9 fleet. The inspections came after a door plug of a Boeing 737 Max 9 blew out from an Alaska Airlines aircraft this past weekend. In other news from around the world, Ecuador declared a state of emergency for 60 days after the country's most-wanted criminal disappeared from the jail where he was being held. Click on the headlines to read more: Israel-Hamas war: Israeli military shows cluster of weapons factories of Hamas in Gaza The Israeli military on Monday (Jan 8) showed journalists a cluster of weapons factories and tunnels used by Hamas in the Gaza Strip to manufacture rockets, the news agency AFP reported. United Airlines and Alaska Airlines find loose bolts in Boeing jets during inspections United Airlines on Monday (Jan 8) said that they found loose bolts while carrying out inspections of the Boeing 737 Max 9 fleet after a door plug blew out from an Alaska Airlines plane over the weekend. The airlines said that they found the bolts required "additional tightening" during inspections of Boeing 737 Max 9s. Ecuador declares state of emergency after its most-wanted criminal disappears from jail Ecuador on Monday (Jan 8) declared a state of emergency for 60 days after the country's most-wanted criminal disappeared from the jail where he was being held. Adolfo Macias, leader of the Los Choneros criminal gang, disappeared from the Guayaquil prison on Sunday where he was serving a 34-year sentence. US naval officer sentenced to over two years in prison for selling military secrets to China A United States Navy serviceman, who pleaded guilty to accepting bribes from a Chinese intelligence officer in exchange for sensitive US military information, was sentenced to more than two years in prison on Monday (Jan 8), said the Department of Justice (DOJ). Watch: Taiwan election poses test for Island's ties with China | Will China succeed in 'reunifying' Taiwan? ×

Morning brief: Israel-Hamas war updates, 2 US airlines find loose bolts in Boeing jets, and more

United Airlines on Monday (Jan 8) said that they found loose bolts while carrying out inspections of the Boeing 737 Max 9 fleet after a door plug had blown out from an Alaska Airlines plane over the weekend. The airlines said that they found that the bolts required "additional tightening" during inspections of Boeing 737 Max 9s. &nbsp;

The airlines started the inspections after a section of the fuselage fell from an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 on Friday (Jan 9).

United Airlines said that "installation issues" related to door plugs would be "remedied" before the particular aircraft is brought back into service. Around 171 planes of a similar type will remain grounded by the US regulator.

United Airlines, in a statement, said, "Since we began preliminary inspections on Saturday, we have found instances that appear to relate to installation issues in the door plug - for example, bolts that needed additional tightening."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alaska-airlines-mid-air-blowout-planes-door-lost-in-dramatic-accident-found-677705">Schoolteacher finds door plug that blew off Alaska Airlines plane in mid-air drama in his backyard</a>

Alaska Airlines also said on Monday (Jan 8) that some loose hardware was found by its technicians in the door plug area on some of its Boeing 737 MAX 9 fleet. "As our maintenance technicians began preparing our 737-9 MAX fleet for inspections, they accessed the area in question," said Alaska Airlines.&nbsp;

"Initial reports from our technicians indicate some loose hardware was visible on some aircraft," it added.&nbsp;

The door plug is part of the fuselage and has a window which can be used as an emergency exit in some specific configurations. In a rare incident, the door plug of an Alaska Airlines plane had fallen off mid-air from Alaska Airlines' Boeing 737 Max 9 when it was flying over the US state of Oregon and landed in the backyard of a teacher's home. An emergency landing was made by the plane and none of the passengers or crew faced serious injuries.

<h2>United Airlines cancels 200 flights&nbsp;</h2>

The majority of Boeing 737 Max 9s, which fly in the United States, are operated by Alaska and United Airlines, while jets of the same model for inspections have been grounded by Turkish Airlines, Panama's Copa Airlines and Aeromexico.&nbsp;

United Airlines said that 200 flights have been cancelled by them on Monday and significant cancellations are expected on Tuesday. "We have been able to operate some planned flights by switching to other aircraft types, avoiding about 30 cancellations each on Monday and Tuesday," United Airlines said.

Watch:&nbsp;Alaska Airlines flight makes emergency landing after window blowout mid-flight

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Meanwhile, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Monday (Jan 8), said that it provided a checklist which should be adhered to by the operators during inspections. The FAA, in a statement, said that all 737 Max 9 aircraft will remain grounded till operators "complete enhanced inspections which include both left and right cabin door exit plugs, door components, and fasteners".

"Operators must also complete corrective action requirements based on findings from the inspections prior to bringing any aircraft back into service," the statement added.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Airlines on Monday (Jan 8) said that they found loose bolts while carrying out inspections of the Boeing 737 Max 9 fleet after a door plug had blown out from an Alaska Airlines plane over the weekend.

United Airlines on Monday (Jan 8) said that they found loose bolts while carrying out inspections of the Boeing 737 Max 9 fleet after a door plug had blown out from an Alaska Airlines plane over the weekend. The airlines said that they found that the bolts required "additional tightening" during inspections of Boeing 737 Max 9s. The airlines started the inspections after a section of the fuselage fell from an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 on Friday (Jan 9). United Airlines said that "installation issues" related to door plugs would be "remedied" before the particular aircraft is brought back into service. Around 171 planes of a similar type will remain grounded by the US regulator. United Airlines, in a statement, said, "Since we began preliminary inspections on Saturday, we have found instances that appear to relate to installation issues in the door plug - for example, bolts that needed additional tightening." Also read: Schoolteacher finds door plug that blew off Alaska Airlines plane in mid-air drama in his backyard Alaska Airlines also said on Monday (Jan 8) that some loose hardware was found by its technicians in the door plug area on some of its Boeing 737 MAX 9 fleet. "As our maintenance technicians began preparing our 737-9 MAX fleet for inspections, they accessed the area in question," said Alaska Airlines. "Initial reports from our technicians indicate some loose hardware was visible on some aircraft," it added. The door plug is part of the fuselage and has a window which can be used as an emergency exit in some specific configurations. In a rare incident, the door plug of an Alaska Airlines plane had fallen off mid-air from Alaska Airlines' Boeing 737 Max 9 when it was flying over the US state of Oregon and landed in the backyard of a teacher's home. An emergency landing was made by the plane and none of the passengers or crew faced serious injuries. United Airlines cancels 200 flights The majority of Boeing 737 Max 9s, which fly in the United States, are operated by Alaska and United Airlines, while jets of the same model for inspections have been grounded by Turkish Airlines, Panama's Copa Airlines and Aeromexico. United Airlines said that 200 flights have been cancelled by them on Monday and significant cancellations are expected on Tuesday. "We have been able to operate some planned flights by switching to other aircraft types, avoiding about 30 cancellations each on Monday and Tuesday," United Airlines said. Watch: Alaska Airlines flight makes emergency landing after window blowout mid-flight Meanwhile, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Monday (Jan 8), said that it provided a checklist which should be adhered to by the operators during inspections. The FAA, in a statement, said that all 737 Max 9 aircraft will remain grounded till operators "complete enhanced inspections which include both left and right cabin door exit plugs, door components, and fasteners". "Operators must also complete corrective action requirements based on findings from the inspections prior to bringing any aircraft back into service," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

United Airlines and Alaska Airlines find loose bolts in Boeing jets during inspections

Amid the ongoing diplomatic row between India and Maldives, China has jumped in, with its state media seeking to play down Beijing's role in contributing to the worsening of ties between New Delhi and Male.

Amid the ongoing diplomatic row between India and Maldives, China has jumped in, with its state media seeking to play down Beijing's role in contributing to the worsening of ties between New Delhi and Male. A self-aggrandising state media article said China's relations with the island nation remain on the rise, and even cheekily advised New Delhi to keep an open mind when it comes to operating in the region with other South Asian countries. The feature-length article in Chinese tabloid Global Times claimed Beijing had no part in pressuring the Maldives to pick up a fight with India. The partisan publication even claimed that New Delhi was responsible for the straining of ties between the two nations. "India's strained relations with certain countries in South Asia can be attributed to its perception of being the regional boss. Instead of shifting blame to China, India should take a moment to reflect on its policies toward its neighbours and abandon the zero-sum mentality," read the article, titled "China-Maldives relations expected to reach new heights". "The bilateral relations between China and the Maldives are expected to reach new heights as Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu began his first state visit to China on Monday since taking office," it added. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu was on a visit to China this week. The tabloid article said the visit had raised concerns among Indian media outlets that the Maldivian leader was pursuing a pro-China policy. Notably, on the second day of his China trip, Muizzu praised Beijing as a valued ally and integral collaborator of the Indian Ocean island nation. Muizzu, who is regarded as “pro-China,” preferred China as among the first foreign nations to visit since coming to power in November last year. Usually, the tradition is that newly-elected Maldivian presidents visit India before embarking upon an official trip to any other nation. However, Beijing neatly sidestepped the change in precedence, adding that it was open to a trilateral cooperation. "It (China) is also willing to carry out trilateral cooperation between China, India and the Maldives. New Delhi should stay more open-minded, as China's cooperation with South Asian countries is not a zero-sum game," it said. While China plays the good samaritan act, it is not the first time that relations between Maldives and India have turned frosty, primarily due to Beijing's interference. When former president Abdullah Yameen was in power, his pro-China credentials created plenty of troubles in the India-Maldives ties. Yameen had even signed the highly controversial Free Trade Agreement with China which practically submerged the country in China’s debt. Watch | Maldives sacks 3 ministers for insulting comments on PM Modi | India-Maldives derogatory comment row × What is the India-Maldives controversy? After Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Lakshadweep - an archipelago consisting of 36 islands located in the Arabian Sea, an online discourse started about whether the picturesque Indian region could be the next Maldives. The idea, however, did not go down well with certain Maldivian government officials who started foul-mouthing PM Modi as well as India on social media. Also read | India-Maldives diplomatic row LIVE: Maldivian president may visit India next month A day later, India officially raised the matter with Male and even summoned the Maldivian high commissioner to the Ministry of External Affairs office. Since then, Maldives has been attempting to mitigate the situation. It has suspended three junior ministers who made the remarks. (With inputs from agencies)

China seeks to play down its role amid India-Maldives diplomatic row

According to two defence officials, the deputy secretary of defence did not even realize that Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin had been hospitalized when she started taking on some of his duties on January 2. Until Thursday, three days after the secretary checked into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center due to complications from an elective surgery, senior leaders, including Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks, the Pentagon's second-in-command, were kept in the dark about Austin's actual location. As previously reported in news, Austin was hospitalized for three days before even the president learned of it.

US' Lloyd Austin in hospital: Biden backs US Defence Secretary after secretive hospital stay

Reports have surfaced of a secret meeting last month between Ukraine and its groups of seven allies as well as a small group of global South countries to try to drum up support for Kyiv's conditions for holding peace talks with Russia. Our sources tell us that the previously undisclosed December 16th meeting of National Security advisers was held in Saudi Arabia. Watch to know more.

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The shake-up comes after a year marred by political crisis. French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne resigned on Monday, as President Emmanuel Macron seeks to give a new impetus to his second mandate ahead of European parliament elections and the Paris Olympics this summer.

France: President Macron aims to relaunch his government

At least 21 people suffered injuries in a gas explosion which rocked the Fort Worth hotel in Texas, United States on Monday (Jan 9), as per the fire department.&nbsp;

According to the Fort Worth Fire Department, they received the first call at 3:32 pm (local time), which was followed by multiple calls reporting a "type of explosion" at the Sandman Hotel, which is on 810 Houston Street.&nbsp;

Because of the explosion, 21 people suffered injuries, said J Pollozani, the Public Information Officer for the Fort Worth Police Department, on Monday night (Jan 8).&nbsp;

One patient was said to be critically injured and four others were reported to have suffered serious injuries. Minor injuries were reported by all other patients.

As per FWFD, 19 patients were provided medical aid at the scene of the blast.&nbsp;

Three&nbsp;of those who suffered injuries were employees of Musume, a restaurant inside Sandman Hotel.&nbsp;

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"All of us at Musume are devastated by the tragic explosion that took place this afternoon at the Sandman Signature Hotel, which is the home of our restaurant," said Josh Babb, co-founder of Musume, CBS News reported.&nbsp;

"Luckily, Musume was closed during the time of the explosion, so we had no customers dining and limited employees working. Three Musume employees were injured, but are being treated in the hospital and in stable condition,” he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-imposes-sanctions-on-us-defence-giants-amid-growing-taiwan-tensions-677647">China vs US intensifies: Dragon nation imposes sanctions on US defence giants amid growing Taiwan tensions</a>

Public information officer for the FWFD Craig Trojacek said that even though the area smelled like gas, the area is still under investigation.&nbsp;

"There is a smell of gas here in downtown. We're not sure if the smell of gas was caused from the explosion or the fire itself, or if that's what caused the explosion," said Trojacek.

<h2>Emergency responders onsite: Trojacek&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier, Trojacek said that reports of an explosion were reported from a restaurant where some construction was underway, however, they “we’re not 100% sure that that’s where it actually started."

He added that a secondary search of the hotel was underway as of 6 pm&nbsp;(local time). There were 26 rooms with guests inside them in the hotel.

In a statement, the hotel said that it was working with first responders and hoping to help those who have suffered injuries.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;China sanctions five US defence manufacturers, imposed over US arms sales to Taiwan&nbsp;

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“Emergency responders are onsite and we are working closely with the authorities to understand the origin of the event and the extent of the harm caused. The safety and well-being of our team members and guests is our priority. We are working with those who have been injured to fully support them at this time," read the statement.&nbsp;

A woman, who was staying in The Ashton Hotel, which is near the blast site, said that it sounded like a huge firework went off.

“We heard the noise. It moved the hotel. I was like, ‘Whoa, what happened?’ Just heard this loud ‘boom!’ I didn’t know exactly what happened," said Cheila Sanchez&nbsp;while speaking to CNN. “It sounded like a firework, but it was louder. There was only one boom," she added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 21 people suffered injuries in a gas explosion which rocked the Fort Worth hotel in Texas, United States on Monday (Jan 9), as per the fire department. According to the Fort Worth Fire Department, they received the first call at 3:32 pm (local time), which was followed by multiple calls reporting a "type of explosion" at the Sandman Hotel, which is on 810 Houston Street.

At least 21 people suffered injuries in a gas explosion which rocked the Fort Worth hotel in Texas, United States on Monday (Jan 9), as per the fire department. According to the Fort Worth Fire Department, they received the first call at 3:32 pm (local time), which was followed by multiple calls reporting a "type of explosion" at the Sandman Hotel, which is on 810 Houston Street. Because of the explosion, 21 people suffered injuries, said J Pollozani, the Public Information Officer for the Fort Worth Police Department, on Monday night (Jan 8). One patient was said to be critically injured and four others were reported to have suffered serious injuries. Minor injuries were reported by all other patients. As per FWFD, 19 patients were provided medical aid at the scene of the blast. Three of those who suffered injuries were employees of Musume, a restaurant inside Sandman Hotel. Explosion at Fort Worth, Texas hotel with mass casualty incident declared And so it begins pic.twitter.com/OFIc3saVdh — TaraBull𝕏 (@TaraBull808) January 8, 2024 × "All of us at Musume are devastated by the tragic explosion that took place this afternoon at the Sandman Signature Hotel, which is the home of our restaurant," said Josh Babb, co-founder of Musume, CBS News reported. "Luckily, Musume was closed during the time of the explosion, so we had no customers dining and limited employees working. Three Musume employees were injured, but are being treated in the hospital and in stable condition,” he added. Also read: China vs US intensifies: Dragon nation imposes sanctions on US defence giants amid growing Taiwan tensions Public information officer for the FWFD Craig Trojacek said that even though the area smelled like gas, the area is still under investigation. "There is a smell of gas here in downtown. We're not sure if the smell of gas was caused from the explosion or the fire itself, or if that's what caused the explosion," said Trojacek. Emergency responders onsite: Trojacek Earlier, Trojacek said that reports of an explosion were reported from a restaurant where some construction was underway, however, they “we’re not 100% sure that that’s where it actually started." He added that a secondary search of the hotel was underway as of 6 pm (local time). There were 26 rooms with guests inside them in the hotel. In a statement, the hotel said that it was working with first responders and hoping to help those who have suffered injuries. Watch: China sanctions five US defence manufacturers, imposed over US arms sales to Taiwan “Emergency responders are onsite and we are working closely with the authorities to understand the origin of the event and the extent of the harm caused. The safety and well-being of our team members and guests is our priority. We are working with those who have been injured to fully support them at this time," read the statement. A woman, who was staying in The Ashton Hotel, which is near the blast site, said that it sounded like a huge firework went off. “We heard the noise. It moved the hotel. I was like, ‘Whoa, what happened?’ Just heard this loud ‘boom!’ I didn’t know exactly what happened," said Cheila Sanchez while speaking to CNN. “It sounded like a firework, but it was louder. There was only one boom," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Explosion at Texas hotel injures 21 people, police investigate cause

A United States Navy serviceman, who pleaded guilty to accepting bribes from a Chinese intelligence officer in exchange for sensitive US military information, was sentenced to more than two years in prison&nbsp;on Monday (Jan 8), said the Department of Justice (DOJ).&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in the court?</h2>

The 26-year-old US Navy Petty Officer, Wenheng Zhao, who hails from the state of California, was sentenced to 27 months in prison by a district judge. Zhao and another US sailor identified as Jinchao Wei, were arrested in August on suspicion of spying for China.

Zhao had pleaded guilty in a federal court in California last year in October to charges of one count of conspiring with a foreign intelligence officer and one count of accepting a bribe. The 26-year-old has also been ordered to pay a $5,500 fine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-it-detained-foreign-consultant-spying-for-britains-mi6-677834">China claims to have detained foreign consultant spying for Britain’s MI6</a>

The DOJ had sought a sentence of 37 months, arguing that the petty officer had obstructed the government’s investigation.&nbsp;

According to US officials, Zhao, who was stationed at the Naval Base Ventura County in Port Hueneme, north of Los Angeles, California received nearly $15,000 from the Chinese intelligence officer between August 2021 and May 2023.

In exchange for the bribe, the 26-year-old who had security clearance, handed over sensitive information regarding US Navy operational security, exercises and critical infrastructure.&nbsp;

According to the DOJ, Zhao specifically provided information about a large-scale maritime training exercise in the Pacific theatre, operational orders, electrical diagrams and blueprints for a Japanese radar system located in Okinawa, Japan.&nbsp;

Zhao, a naturalised US citizen born in China, has been held in custody without bail.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-deploys-artificial-intelligence-to-outfox-washington-in-spying-game-674418">China adopts Artificial Intelligence to outfox Washington in 'spying game'</a>

“Mr Zhao betrayed his solemn oath to defend his country and endangered those who serve in the US military,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen in a statement.&nbsp;

He added, “The justice department is committed to combating the Chinese government’s efforts to undermine our nation’s security and holding accountable those who violate our laws as part of those efforts.”

“He’s ready to take responsibility for what he has done,” Tarek Shawky, the US Navy officer’s attorney, said at the sentencing hearing in Los Angeles, as quoted by the New York Post.&nbsp;

<h2>About Wei’s case</h2>

Wei, 22, whose arrest was announced at the same time as Zhao’s was taken into custody for a separate alleged plot to hand over to China dozens of documents, photos and videos detailing the operation of ships and their systems.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-chinese-satellites-keep-watch-over-us-australia-military-exercises-626928">Hundreds of Chinese satellites spying on US-Australia military exercises</a>

The 22-year-old served on the amphibious assault ship, the USS Essex, based in San Diego and has been in custody on espionage charges.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A United States Navy serviceman, who pleaded guilty to accepting bribes from a Chinese intelligence officer in exchange for sensitive US military information, was sentenced to more than two years in prison on Monday (Jan 8), said the Department of Justice (DOJ).

A United States Navy serviceman, who pleaded guilty to accepting bribes from a Chinese intelligence officer in exchange for sensitive US military information, was sentenced to more than two years in prison on Monday (Jan 8), said the Department of Justice (DOJ). What happened in the court? The 26-year-old US Navy Petty Officer, Wenheng Zhao, who hails from the state of California, was sentenced to 27 months in prison by a district judge. Zhao and another US sailor identified as Jinchao Wei, were arrested in August on suspicion of spying for China. Zhao had pleaded guilty in a federal court in California last year in October to charges of one count of conspiring with a foreign intelligence officer and one count of accepting a bribe. The 26-year-old has also been ordered to pay a $5,500 fine. ALSO READ | China claims to have detained foreign consultant spying for Britain’s MI6 The DOJ had sought a sentence of 37 months, arguing that the petty officer had obstructed the government’s investigation. According to US officials, Zhao, who was stationed at the Naval Base Ventura County in Port Hueneme, north of Los Angeles, California received nearly $15,000 from the Chinese intelligence officer between August 2021 and May 2023. In exchange for the bribe, the 26-year-old who had security clearance, handed over sensitive information regarding US Navy operational security, exercises and critical infrastructure. According to the DOJ, Zhao specifically provided information about a large-scale maritime training exercise in the Pacific theatre, operational orders, electrical diagrams and blueprints for a Japanese radar system located in Okinawa, Japan. Zhao, a naturalised US citizen born in China, has been held in custody without bail. ALSO READ | China adopts Artificial Intelligence to outfox Washington in 'spying game' “Mr Zhao betrayed his solemn oath to defend his country and endangered those who serve in the US military,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen in a statement. He added, “The justice department is committed to combating the Chinese government’s efforts to undermine our nation’s security and holding accountable those who violate our laws as part of those efforts.” “He’s ready to take responsibility for what he has done,” Tarek Shawky, the US Navy officer’s attorney, said at the sentencing hearing in Los Angeles, as quoted by the New York Post. About Wei’s case Wei, 22, whose arrest was announced at the same time as Zhao’s was taken into custody for a separate alleged plot to hand over to China dozens of documents, photos and videos detailing the operation of ships and their systems. ALSO READ | Hundreds of Chinese satellites spying on US-Australia military exercises The 22-year-old served on the amphibious assault ship, the USS Essex, based in San Diego and has been in custody on espionage charges. (With inputs from agencies)

US naval officer sentenced to over two years in prison for selling military secrets to China

India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Tuesday (Jan 9) said that one of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft was found with a loose bolt during inspection.&nbsp;

The aviation watchdog said that the authorities have inspected 40 Boeing 737 MAX planes of domestic carriers. It said that the problem was solved immediately when they found a washer missing in one aircraft.&nbsp;

Notably in India, Boeing 737 MAX planes are used by Akasa Air (22), SpiceJet (9) and Air India Express (9).&nbsp;

The aircraft manufacturer, Boeing, recommended aviation authorities worldwide to carry out a one-time inspection as a precautionary measure of all Boeing 737 MAX airplanes which are present in the fleet before January 10.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-united-airlines-probe-find-loose-bolts-on-boeing-737-max-9-jets-alaska-airline-flight-incident-678121">Here's how the newly-found door 'plug' may help understand Alaska Airlines' mid-air blowout</a>&nbsp;

The recommendation came after reports of a missing nut and washer in the Aft Rudder Quadrant on the Boeing 737 MAX plane.&nbsp;

As quoted by PTI, a senior DGCA official on Tuesday said out of the 40 Boeing 737 MAX planes of the three Indian carriers, inspections on 39 aircraft have been completed with nil findings. The official added that a missing washer was found in one aircraft.&nbsp;

"Rectification action as per recommendations of Boeing has been taken prior to the release of this aircraft. Inspection on the remaining one aircraft will be completed prior to release for service," the official said.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;United Airlines probe find loose bolts on Boeing 737 max 9 jets&nbsp;

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flight-attendant-collapses-to-death-in-front-of-passengers-moments-before-take-off-677276">Flight attendant collapses to death in front of passengers moments before takeoff</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Alaska Airlines incident</h2>

As per a report by the news agency PTI, this inspection was recommended before the Alaska Airlines incident and is not related to it.&nbsp;

Last week, a cabin panel of a Boeing 737 MAX 9 of Alaska Airlines blew off mid-air. All the passengers were landed safely.&nbsp;

The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said late on Monday that it could not yet tell whether the recovered cabin panel had been properly attached.&nbsp;

The comments came after Alaska Airlines and the other US 737 MAX 9 operator, United Airlines, said on Monday they had found loose parts on multiple grounded aircraft.

The announcement raises new concerns among industry experts about how Boeing's best-selling jet family is manufactured.&nbsp;

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded 171 MAX 9 planes on Saturday (Jan 6) after a panel called a door plug blew off the Alaska Airlines flight not long after taking off from a Portland, Oregon, airport on Friday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Tuesday (Jan 9) said that one of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft was found with a loose bolt during inspection.

India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Tuesday (Jan 9) said that one of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft was found with a loose bolt during inspection. The aviation watchdog said that the authorities have inspected 40 Boeing 737 MAX planes of domestic carriers. It said that the problem was solved immediately when they found a washer missing in one aircraft. Notably in India, Boeing 737 MAX planes are used by Akasa Air (22), SpiceJet (9) and Air India Express (9). The aircraft manufacturer, Boeing, recommended aviation authorities worldwide to carry out a one-time inspection as a precautionary measure of all Boeing 737 MAX airplanes which are present in the fleet before January 10. Also read: Here's how the newly-found door 'plug' may help understand Alaska Airlines' mid-air blowout The recommendation came after reports of a missing nut and washer in the Aft Rudder Quadrant on the Boeing 737 MAX plane. As quoted by PTI, a senior DGCA official on Tuesday said out of the 40 Boeing 737 MAX planes of the three Indian carriers, inspections on 39 aircraft have been completed with nil findings. The official added that a missing washer was found in one aircraft. "Rectification action as per recommendations of Boeing has been taken prior to the release of this aircraft. Inspection on the remaining one aircraft will be completed prior to release for service," the official said. Watch: United Airlines probe find loose bolts on Boeing 737 max 9 jets × Also read: Flight attendant collapses to death in front of passengers moments before takeoff Alaska Airlines incident As per a report by the news agency PTI, this inspection was recommended before the Alaska Airlines incident and is not related to it. Last week, a cabin panel of a Boeing 737 MAX 9 of Alaska Airlines blew off mid-air. All the passengers were landed safely. The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said late on Monday that it could not yet tell whether the recovered cabin panel had been properly attached. The comments came after Alaska Airlines and the other US 737 MAX 9 operator, United Airlines, said on Monday they had found loose parts on multiple grounded aircraft. The announcement raises new concerns among industry experts about how Boeing's best-selling jet family is manufactured. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded 171 MAX 9 planes on Saturday (Jan 6) after a panel called a door plug blew off the Alaska Airlines flight not long after taking off from a Portland, Oregon, airport on Friday. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian aviation watchdog says one Boeing 737 Max aircraft found with loose bolt

When Hamas carried out a deadly assault on Israeli territory on October 7th United States was the first country to rush to Israel's rescue ensuring unconditional military and diplomatic support. But 3 months on Washington's tone has changed towards its ally. To know more watch this interview with Senior Advisor at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, Dov Zakheim.

Israel-Hamas war | A wedge in US-Israel alliance?

While citing the voters of South Carolina the president of the United States had the nail on its head when he declared that white supremacy is America's poison and that has divided the nation down the ages. Joe Biden's message was a direct appeal to African American voters in a constituency where his support has waned.

US Prez Joe Biden takes to pulpit of Church, slams white supremacists

3 years ago, a set of devastating events unfolded at the Umhlanga rocks, South Africa. Their effects are being felt today at the popular destination known for its picturesque coastline and thriving marine life. Local residents and conservationists report unusual incidents along the coast, indicating a persistent contamination in the waters that could damage both the ocean's ecosystem and public health.

Popular destination battles chemical leak, environmental crisis unfolds in uMhlan

A talented musical sibling trio from Johannesburg is grabbing global attention with a number of viral videos across their social media pages. They hope 2024 will be the best year yet for them as they hope to audition for America’s got talent. Our correspondent Kalden Ongmu has filed this report.

Meet South Africa’s musical sibling trio from Johannesburg

The social media is filled with 'Boycott Maldives' hashtag. Following derogatory comments by Maldivian officials about Indian PM Narendra Modi. It is now time for Maldives parliament to intervene, says Maldives MP Mickail Naseem in a conversation with WION . The 3 ministers were soon suspended after their remarks drew criticism from India and abroad.

India-Maldives comment row: Maldives faces heat over anti-India comments | World News | WION

Human activity and climate change have heavily deforested the lands surrounding Nakivale, one of the oldest refugee settlements in Africa… but a group of refugees is taking environmental matters into its own hands. Thanks to their initiative, the once-bare land and hillsides are again turning green.

Deforested lands of Nakivale, Uganda, refugee group restores barren lands

An American citizen on Tuesday (Jan 9) was arrested on drug charges in Russia, the press service of the Moscow courts reported.&nbsp;The mentioned charges can carry up to 20 years in prison.&nbsp;

So far, details related to the case have not been revealed by Mosocw court, but as per the Russian media, the name of the accused matches that of a US citizen interviewed by the popular daily Komsomolskaya Pravda in 2020 - who was Robert Woodland Romanov.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that the Ostankino District Court ruled on Saturday to hold him in detention for two months on charges of preparing to engage in illegal drug trafficking pending an official investigation.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-journalist-in-canada-arrested-after-he-questions-deputy-pm-elon-musk-reacts-678307">Journalist in Canada arrested after he questions deputy PM, Elon Musk reacts</a>&nbsp;

The 2020 interview contained details about his personal life. He said in the interview that he was born in the Perm region in the Ural Mountains in 1991, and was adopted by an American couple when he was two.&nbsp;

He said that he travelled to Russia to find his Russian mother and eventually met her in a TV show in Moscow.&nbsp;

The man informed Komsomolskaya Pravda that he enjoyed living in Russia and planned to relocate there.&nbsp;

He also said in the interview that he moved to the town of Dolgoprudny, just outside of Moscow, and worked as an English teacher at a local school.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secret-tunnel-found-under-brooklyn-synagogue-wild-riot-breaks-out-as-police-make-arrests-video-678322">Secret tunnel found under Brooklyn synagogue, wild riot breaks out as police make arrests. Video</a>&nbsp;

The incident can further escalate tensions between the United States and Russia, as&nbsp; Washington has already been pressing Moscow&nbsp;to release jailed Americans Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich.&nbsp;

Gershkovich was detained in March while reporting in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, which is about 2,000 kilometres east of Moscow and has remained behind bars ever since. He is a Wall Street Journal reporter, and the media house has denied all the accusations.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Whelan has been jailed in Russia since his December 2018 arrest on espionage-related charges. He is a corporate security executive from Michigan.&nbsp;

The US has said that both have been wrongfully detained.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An American citizen on Tuesday (Jan 9) was arrested on drug charges in Russia, the press service of the Moscow courts reported. The mentioned charges can carry up to 20 years in prison.

An American citizen on Tuesday (Jan 9) was arrested on drug charges in Russia, the press service of the Moscow courts reported. The mentioned charges can carry up to 20 years in prison. So far, details related to the case have not been revealed by Mosocw court, but as per the Russian media, the name of the accused matches that of a US citizen interviewed by the popular daily Komsomolskaya Pravda in 2020 - who was Robert Woodland Romanov. The report mentioned that the Ostankino District Court ruled on Saturday to hold him in detention for two months on charges of preparing to engage in illegal drug trafficking pending an official investigation. Also read: Journalist in Canada arrested after he questions deputy PM, Elon Musk reacts The 2020 interview contained details about his personal life. He said in the interview that he was born in the Perm region in the Ural Mountains in 1991, and was adopted by an American couple when he was two. He said that he travelled to Russia to find his Russian mother and eventually met her in a TV show in Moscow. The man informed Komsomolskaya Pravda that he enjoyed living in Russia and planned to relocate there. He also said in the interview that he moved to the town of Dolgoprudny, just outside of Moscow, and worked as an English teacher at a local school. Also read: Secret tunnel found under Brooklyn synagogue, wild riot breaks out as police make arrests. Video The incident can further escalate tensions between the United States and Russia, as Washington has already been pressing Moscow to release jailed Americans Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich. Gershkovich was detained in March while reporting in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, which is about 2,000 kilometres east of Moscow and has remained behind bars ever since. He is a Wall Street Journal reporter, and the media house has denied all the accusations. Meanwhile, Whelan has been jailed in Russia since his December 2018 arrest on espionage-related charges. He is a corporate security executive from Michigan. The US has said that both have been wrongfully detained. (With inputs from agencies)

US citizen detained in Russia on drug charges which carry up to 20 years in prison

In Kenya, malaria claims an estimated 10,700 lives every year, according to the US-based centre for disease control....and climate change is only aggravating this situation. According to the world health organisation, extreme weather events like heat waves and flooding are influencing the survival of the malaria-carrying anopheles mosquito, now hope is at hand in the form of a rollout of two new vaccines in Africa in 2024 that could curb the transmission.

Climate change effects on spread of malaria

A drug epidemic is sweeping Africa. Illicit drug consumption and smuggling is a global menace, but it is affecting some regions more than others. This menace is spreading faster with the advent of social media. WION correspondent Louisa Olaniyi has this report from Lagos, Nigeria.

Unconventional drug use on the rise

An earthquake of magnitude 6.7 struck the Talaud Islands, Indonesia, on Tuesday (Jan 9), the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported.

The tremors were felt in the early hours of Tuesday, around&nbsp;02:18:47 IST at a depth of 80 km.

According to the NCS, the epicentre of the quake was found to be at Latitude: 4.75 and Longitude: 126.38, respectively.

"Earthquake of Magnitude:6.7, Occurred on 09-01-2024, 02:18:47 IST, Lat: 4.75 &amp; Long: 126.38, Depth: 80 km, Location: Talaud Islands, Indonesia," the NCS posted on X (formerly known as Twitter).

Last week, on January 4, an earthquake of magnitude struck 98 km WSW of Balai Pungut, Indonesia, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2024-indian-ocean-earthquake-and-tsunami-19-years-since-devastating-boxing-day-tsunami-673655">Also read |&nbsp;2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami: 19 years since devastating Boxing Day tsunami</a>

The depth of the earthquake, which occurred at 00:41:18 (UTC 05:30), was registered at 221.7 km.

According to the USGS, the epicentre of the quake was noted at 0.709°N and 100.476°E, respectively. 
No reports of material damage have surfaced yet.

An earthquake of magnitude 6.7 struck the Talaud Islands, Indonesia, on Tuesday (Jan 9), the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported. The tremors were felt in the early hours of Tuesday, around 02:18:47 IST at a depth of 80 km.

An earthquake of magnitude 6.7 struck the Talaud Islands, Indonesia, on Tuesday (Jan 9), the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported. The tremors were felt in the early hours of Tuesday, around 02:18:47 IST at a depth of 80 km. According to the NCS, the epicentre of the quake was found to be at Latitude: 4.75 and Longitude: 126.38, respectively. "Earthquake of Magnitude:6.7, Occurred on 09-01-2024, 02:18:47 IST, Lat: 4.75 & Long: 126.38, Depth: 80 km, Location: Talaud Islands, Indonesia," the NCS posted on X (formerly known as Twitter). Last week, on January 4, an earthquake of magnitude struck 98 km WSW of Balai Pungut, Indonesia, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported. Also read | 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami: 19 years since devastating Boxing Day tsunami The depth of the earthquake, which occurred at 00:41:18 (UTC 05:30), was registered at 221.7 km. According to the USGS, the epicentre of the quake was noted at 0.709°N and 100.476°E, respectively. No reports of material damage have surfaced yet.

Powerful 6.7 magnitude earthquake jolts Indonesia's Talaud Islands

'Boycott Maldives' is gaining momentum in India. From businessmen to Bollywood celebs, all are taking part in 'Boycott Maldives' calls. While urging people to choose Indian destinations over foreign ones for vacations. Keep watching for more updates.

India-Maldives row: Amid row with India, Maldives urges China to send tourists

A driver was taken into custody after he crashed his vehicle into an exterior gate of the White House complex on Monday (Jan 8). The incident, confirmed by the Secret Service, transpired around 6 pm local time.&nbsp;

US&nbsp;Secret Service Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi in a statement said, that although the driver was under custody, the cause and manner of the incident were still being investigated.&nbsp;

"Shortly before 6 pm, a vehicle collided with an exterior gate on the White House complex.&nbsp;We are investigating the cause &amp; manner of the collision,"&nbsp;said&nbsp;Guglielmi.

Notably, President Joe Biden was not in the White House at the time of the accident but it did cause traffic delays at 15th Street &amp; Pennsylvania Avenue.&nbsp;

A little over an hour after the incident, the Washington DC Police Department cleared the suspect's vehicle while lifting the traffic closures, informed Guglielmi.&nbsp;

In recent years, the White House has been extensively fortified by making the fence taller. In 2021, the National Park Service constructed a 13-foot fence with wider, stronger posts to deter jumpers and other public members from climbing over it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-biden-and-first-lady-safe-after-car-collides-with-motorcade-claims-white-house-wion-670971">Watch |&nbsp;US: Biden and First Lady safe after car collides with motorcade, claims White House</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Previous incident</h2>

The incident comes a few weeks after a Delaware man was charged for accidentally crashing into US President Joe Biden's motorcade.&nbsp;

The suspect was identified as James Cooper, 46, who was arrested by&nbsp;Secret Service before being released from custody. Cooper, however, was issued a summons to appear in court later and charged with&nbsp;driving under the influence of alcohol.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-rejects-republican-calls-for-biden-to-sack-austin-678005">Also read |&nbsp;White House rejects Republican calls for Biden to sack Austin</a>

"Following our investigation, Wilmington Police have determined that this was an accidental collision, and have charged the driver of the striking vehicle, a 46-year-old Wilmington man – with Driving a Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol and Inattentive Driving,” said a Wilmington Police Department spokesperson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Notably, Biden was discussing his poll numbers with reporters when Cooper's silver sedan with Delaware license plates slammed into the president's convoy just after 8 pm.

(With inputs from agencies)

A driver was taken into custody after he crashed his vehicle into an exterior gate of the White House complex on Monday (Jan 8). The incident, confirmed by the Secret Service, transpired around 6 pm local time.

A driver was taken into custody after he crashed his vehicle into an exterior gate of the White House complex on Monday (Jan 8). The incident, confirmed by the Secret Service, transpired around 6 pm local time. US Secret Service Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi in a statement said, that although the driver was under custody, the cause and manner of the incident were still being investigated. "Shortly before 6 pm, a vehicle collided with an exterior gate on the White House complex. We are investigating the cause & manner of the collision," said Guglielmi. Notably, President Joe Biden was not in the White House at the time of the accident but it did cause traffic delays at 15th Street & Pennsylvania Avenue. A little over an hour after the incident, the Washington DC Police Department cleared the suspect's vehicle while lifting the traffic closures, informed Guglielmi. In recent years, the White House has been extensively fortified by making the fence taller. In 2021, the National Park Service constructed a 13-foot fence with wider, stronger posts to deter jumpers and other public members from climbing over it. Watch | US: Biden and First Lady safe after car collides with motorcade, claims White House × Previous incident The incident comes a few weeks after a Delaware man was charged for accidentally crashing into US President Joe Biden's motorcade. The suspect was identified as James Cooper, 46, who was arrested by Secret Service before being released from custody. Cooper, however, was issued a summons to appear in court later and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. Also read | White House rejects Republican calls for Biden to sack Austin "Following our investigation, Wilmington Police have determined that this was an accidental collision, and have charged the driver of the striking vehicle, a 46-year-old Wilmington man – with Driving a Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol and Inattentive Driving,” said a Wilmington Police Department spokesperson. Notably, Biden was discussing his poll numbers with reporters when Cooper's silver sedan with Delaware license plates slammed into the president's convoy just after 8 pm. (With inputs from agencies)

Driver crashes into White House gate, taken into custody by Secret Service

According to reports, a group of scientists from China's top military technology research institution are developing a new defensive technology similar to an energy shield in science fiction. In other words, they're developing what is commonly known as a force field.

Chinese scientists developing energy shield

Maldives MP Mickail Naseem has proposed Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer & suspended ministers Malsha, Maryam Shiuna, Mahzoom Masjid to be summoned by the Maldives Parliament. Speaking to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "So the foreign minister will be summoned to the Parliament floor, and the rest of them, the deputy ministers who have been involved in making these derogatory remarks, they'll be properly summoned to the parliamentary committee, which is a Committee on Foreign Relations." Watch to know more!

Maldives-India Row: Maldives MP urges parliament summoning for foreign & suspended ministers

Chaos unfolded at a synagogue in Brooklyn as Orthodox Jewish men clashed with construction workers attempting to fill an illegally dug tunnel beneath the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters. The New York Police Department (NYPD) intervened, leading to the arrest of at least 10 people, as reported by Reuters.

The tunnels, discovered beneath the well-known Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters in Brooklyn's Crown Heights, posed a threat to the landmark's foundation.

Construction workers arrived to address the situation, leading to a confrontation with members of the Chabad community who opposed the filling of the tunnels.

<h2>Protests escalate into clashes with NYPD</h2>

As a cement truck attempted to fill the tunnels, protests intensified, resulting in the tearing down of wooden panels from the main synagogue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-peregrine-lander-carrying-human-remains-to-moon-lost-in-space-due-to-fuel-leak-678165">Also read |&nbsp;US Peregrine mission with cremated human remains abandons Moon landing; first photo shows anomaly</a>

Clashes erupted between the protesters and the NYPD, with officers eventually removing the panels to make way for the cement truck. Multiple protesters, who refused to vacate the tunnel, were handcuffed and arrested.

The incident has ignited anger within the Chabad community, prompting calls for action. A legal dispute over the ownership of the complex is already underway, with the Chabad-Lubavitch movement at odds with the synagogue leadership.

What the video here:

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DEVELOPING STORY: 
Chaos At 770: A chaotic scene at the Chabad headquarters in Crown Heights, after Bochurim ripped wooden panels to prevent a cement truck from sealing off the recently discovered tunnels. 
 
The NYPD are on scene, and 770 will be closed shortly to regain control. <a href="https://t.co/ETvEYqtqNI">pic.twitter.com/ETvEYqtqNI</a>
— Frum TikTok (@FrumTikTok) <a href="https://twitter.com/FrumTikTok/status/1744495536462328078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The disagreement revolves&nbsp;around the hundred-year-old house's legal ownership, adding complexity to the situation.

While the motive behind the illegal tunnel remains unclear, reports from Forward.com suggest it may have been intended to reach an abandoned women's mikvah (ritual baths).&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: US President Joe Biden vows he's working to get Israel 'out of Gaza'

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According to an NYPD spokesperson, officers responded to 911 calls reporting a disorderly group outside 770 Eastern Parkway. The individuals had unlawfully entered the premises by damaging a wall, leading to several arrests. Charges are pending, and no injuries were reported during the incident.

Yosef Braun, the synagogue's rabbi, expressed dismay over the actions of the individuals involved, deeming their behaviour "horrid." Braun, as reported by Daily Mail, called the act&nbsp;demolishing a sacred space "mind-boggling" and asserted&nbsp;the need to hold those responsible accountable.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Chaos unfolded at a synagogue in Brooklyn as Orthodox Jewish men clashed with construction workers attempting to fill an illegally dug tunnel beneath the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters.

Chaos unfolded at a synagogue in Brooklyn as Orthodox Jewish men clashed with construction workers attempting to fill an illegally dug tunnel beneath the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters. The New York Police Department (NYPD) intervened, leading to the arrest of at least 10 people, as reported by Reuters. The tunnels, discovered beneath the well-known Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters in Brooklyn's Crown Heights, posed a threat to the landmark's foundation. Construction workers arrived to address the situation, leading to a confrontation with members of the Chabad community who opposed the filling of the tunnels. Protests escalate into clashes with NYPD As a cement truck attempted to fill the tunnels, protests intensified, resulting in the tearing down of wooden panels from the main synagogue. Also read | US Peregrine mission with cremated human remains abandons Moon landing; first photo shows anomaly Clashes erupted between the protesters and the NYPD, with officers eventually removing the panels to make way for the cement truck. Multiple protesters, who refused to vacate the tunnel, were handcuffed and arrested. The incident has ignited anger within the Chabad community, prompting calls for action. A legal dispute over the ownership of the complex is already underway, with the Chabad-Lubavitch movement at odds with the synagogue leadership. What the video here: DEVELOPING STORY: Chaos At 770: A chaotic scene at the Chabad headquarters in Crown Heights, after Bochurim ripped wooden panels to prevent a cement truck from sealing off the recently discovered tunnels. The NYPD are on scene, and 770 will be closed shortly to regain control. pic.twitter.com/ETvEYqtqNI — Frum TikTok (@FrumTikTok) January 8, 2024 × The disagreement revolves around the hundred-year-old house's legal ownership, adding complexity to the situation. While the motive behind the illegal tunnel remains unclear, reports from Forward.com suggest it may have been intended to reach an abandoned women's mikvah (ritual baths). Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: US President Joe Biden vows he's working to get Israel 'out of Gaza' According to an NYPD spokesperson, officers responded to 911 calls reporting a disorderly group outside 770 Eastern Parkway. The individuals had unlawfully entered the premises by damaging a wall, leading to several arrests. Charges are pending, and no injuries were reported during the incident. Yosef Braun, the synagogue's rabbi, expressed dismay over the actions of the individuals involved, deeming their behaviour "horrid." Braun, as reported by Daily Mail, called the act demolishing a sacred space "mind-boggling" and asserted the need to hold those responsible accountable. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Secret tunnel found under Brooklyn synagogue, wild riot breaks out as police make arrests. Video

When Hamas carried out a deadly assault on Israeli territory on October 7th United States was the first country to rush to Israel's rescue ensuring unconditional military and diplomatic support. But 3 months on Washington's tone has changed towards its ally.

Israel-Hamas war | Three months on, U.S. shifts on Israel-Hamas war

In Canada, Toronto police on Monday (Jan 8) said that they have identified the killer&nbsp;who is allegedly responsible for a decades-old Toronto murder using investigative genetic genealogy.&nbsp;

This technology is an emerging practice that uses genetic information from direct-to-consumer companies to identify suspects or victims in criminal cases. This technology has been used to solve cold cases across the world.&nbsp;

Kevin McBride, who was 47 at the time, was the victim of a homicide in May 1982. He died from multiple stab wounds inside his apartment at 311-5600 Sheppard Ave East.&nbsp;

At that time, police said that McBride died from multiple stab wounds in his apartment. He lived alone and "was not associated with any criminality", the police had further added.&nbsp;

Police said that he was last seen on May 15, 1982, and two days after that his body was found. Police believed that he may have been killed the day he was last seen.&nbsp;

He had dinner plans with friends, but they said that they were unable to reach him and then they called the police, asking the authorities to check on McBride.&nbsp;

At the time of his death, the investigators said that his vehicle, a credit card, and other personal belongings had been stolen. They were used between May 15 and May 17 of that year.&nbsp;

The case remained closed. However, it was opened in 2016, when homicide case investigators tried to look for new evidence.&nbsp;

They again analysed seized items from the crime scene in the hope that "advancements in forensic testing and a DNA databank creation could determine any further leads".&nbsp;

They got a breakthrough in 2022 when police said that tests revealed a male profile belonging to a man named William Taylor, who died last year in May.&nbsp;

DNA testing confirmed Taylor, who was 34 years old at the time of the crime, was the source of the unknown DNA left at the scene.&nbsp;

Police said that "if William Taylor was alive today, he would be arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the death of Kevin McBride".&nbsp;

In Canada, Toronto police on Monday (Jan 8) said that they have identified the killer who is allegedly responsible for a decades-old Toronto murder using investigative genetic genealogy.

In Canada, Toronto police on Monday (Jan 8) said that they have identified the killer who is allegedly responsible for a decades-old Toronto murder using investigative genetic genealogy. This technology is an emerging practice that uses genetic information from direct-to-consumer companies to identify suspects or victims in criminal cases. This technology has been used to solve cold cases across the world. Kevin McBride, who was 47 at the time, was the victim of a homicide in May 1982. He died from multiple stab wounds inside his apartment at 311-5600 Sheppard Ave East. At that time, police said that McBride died from multiple stab wounds in his apartment. He lived alone and "was not associated with any criminality", the police had further added. Police said that he was last seen on May 15, 1982, and two days after that his body was found. Police believed that he may have been killed the day he was last seen. He had dinner plans with friends, but they said that they were unable to reach him and then they called the police, asking the authorities to check on McBride. At the time of his death, the investigators said that his vehicle, a credit card, and other personal belongings had been stolen. They were used between May 15 and May 17 of that year. The case remained closed. However, it was opened in 2016, when homicide case investigators tried to look for new evidence. They again analysed seized items from the crime scene in the hope that "advancements in forensic testing and a DNA databank creation could determine any further leads". They got a breakthrough in 2022 when police said that tests revealed a male profile belonging to a man named William Taylor, who died last year in May. DNA testing confirmed Taylor, who was 34 years old at the time of the crime, was the source of the unknown DNA left at the scene. Police said that "if William Taylor was alive today, he would be arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the death of Kevin McBride".

1982 Kevin McBride murder: Toronto police solve decades-old case using DNA testing

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