Digital Phablet

Tag: incident

  • Woman’s bomb injures 21, kills 3 outside Moscow restaurant

    Woman’s bomb injures 21, kills 3 outside Moscow restaurant

    A homemade bomb carried by a woman resulted in three deaths and injured at least 21 others in an explosion near a high-end restaurant in downtown Moscow on Saturday evening, authorities reported.

    The blast happened shortly before 8 p.m. local time near an Italian eatery situated in one of Moscow’s seven Stalin-era skyscrapers at Kudrinkskaya Square.

    Russia’s Anti-Terrorism Committee stated that an unidentified woman attempted to enter the restaurant but was stopped by a security guard, according to the state news agency RIA.

    They reported that the woman, the security guard, and a customer at the Balzi Rossi Italian restaurant were killed in the explosion that ensued.

    Victims sustained wounds of various severities, authorities said.

    The scene, which was cordoned off to the public, showed heavily armed law enforcement personnel according to footage released by Russia’s state news agency, RIA.

    Officials have not disclosed the identities of those killed or injured, nor have they identified suspects or motives.

    Four years into a full-scale conflict with Ukraine, Russia’s FSB security agency announced earlier this year that security measures for senior military officials would be heightened following a series of assassinations and attempted killings attributed to Kyiv.

    The daily newspaper Kommersant cited its sources suggesting that the bomb was intended to target and harm patrons enjoying the restaurant’s outdoor summer terrace.

    It was also suggested that the device was triggered remotely by someone else, and that the woman believed to have been carrying it may not have known it was explosive.

    The restaurant’s website indicated it was closed Saturday for a private event.

  • Toronto Shooting: 2 Dead, Several Hurt, Attacker Still At Large

    Toronto Shooting: 2 Dead, Several Hurt, Attacker Still At Large

    Two individuals lost their lives Saturday, and at least six others were injured during a shooting at a salsa festival in Toronto, according to local authorities. A suspect remains at large.
    Recent police reports indicated multiple victims with gunshot wounds on the scene, with two confirmed dead. Details about the injuries’ severity have not been released.
    Authorities reported a significant police presence still ongoing as they continue their investigation.
    An AFP reporter at the scene described the incident as taking place during a salsa event on St. Clair Avenue.
    Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed his devastation over the violence, stating on social media, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic violence at the Salsa on St. Clair Festival that has claimed two lives and left others wounded.”
    This incident follows a shooting in Montreal late last month, where two people, including a police officer, were killed by an attacker who was subsequently shot and killed by law enforcement.
    In February, Tumbler Ridge, a small western mining town, experienced a school shooting that resulted in eight deaths, including the shooter’s mother and half-brother, along with 27 injuries before the shooter took her own life.

  • Man almost pulled out of ‘detached’ window on Ryanair flight

    Man almost pulled out of ‘detached’ window on Ryanair flight

    A Ryanair airplane flying over northern France on September 27, 2018. — Reuters

    A man was nearly ejected from a Ryanair flight when it suddenly detached mid-air en route to Germany, according to witnesses and officials on Friday. Other passengers managed to pull him back inside.

    The individual, identified as a tourist from Serbia traveling from Thessaloniki, Greece, to Memmingen, Germany, was hospitalized with friction burns but remains in stable condition, authorities reported.

    “Most of us had fallen asleep, eyes closed. Then came a loud bang, like a tire blowing out,” one passenger told Radio Thessaloniki.

    “Right after, we realized there was a decompression. There were screams… For a moment, I thought someone had accidentally opened the emergency door,” she added.

    “The oxygen masks dropped, and there was a strong smell. One passenger’s head and shoulders were outside the window. Luckily, he hadn’t unbuckled his seatbelt,” she explained.

    Other travelers nearby helped pull him back into the cabin. Greek media reports indicated the incident occurred over North Macedonia and that the window was broken by a piece of debris that separated from one of the plane’s engines.

    Ryanair issued a statement saying the flight returned to Thessaloniki shortly after takeoff after a passenger window detached. The plane landed normally, and passengers disembarked at the terminal.

    A replacement aircraft was provided to carry the remaining passengers to Memmingen, the airline confirmed.


  • Montreal Shooting Leaves 3 Dead, Including Officer and Suspect

    Montreal Shooting Leaves 3 Dead, Including Officer and Suspect

    A midday shooting in Montreal resulted in three fatalities, including a police officer, a civilian, and the suspect, causing widespread shock in the Canadian city. The incident took place in a predominantly Jewish neighborhood home to kosher markets and eateries, but authorities have not provided details on the motive or whether it was a hate crime or terrorist attack. Reports suggest the shooter was linked to “incel” ideology—an extremist misogynistic belief system focused on involuntary celibacy—which previously played a role in Canada’s deadliest mass killing in 2018 in Toronto, where ten people died after being rammed by a vehicle.

    Montreal’s police chief, Fady Dagher, described the event as “a tragedy, a nightmare.” While Canada rarely sees daylight gunfights like this compared to neighboring U.S., such incidents do happen infrequently. Authorities responded swiftly after receiving a call about an active gunfire situation around 11:30 am in the Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood.

    Officers engaged in a shootout with the suspect, who was armed with a rifle and barricaded inside a building. Witness Frank Vogas, a 71-year-old buying paint nearby, recounted the chaos: “I saw police rushing in from all directions, guns drawn. They told everyone in the shop to stay down.” Another local, Danny Wilk, described witnessing the violence firsthand: “I was on the street near my home when I heard one shot, then several more. I ducked into a pizzeria and saw the shooter dressed in military-style clothing, seemingly ready to fire.” He also saw the police standing over the fallen officer, who was identified as a male, while a female officer was critically wounded but stable.

    Details about the civilian victim remain undisclosed. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed horror over the events, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

    Speculation immediately arose online that the attack might have been antisemitic, given the neighborhood’s Jewish institutions and the rising number of crimes targeting Jewish communities since Israel’s Gaza campaign commenced post-October 7, 2023. The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) said it was closely monitoring the situation, but police emphasized there was no confirmed motive at this time.

    Local rabbi Gezy Markowitz, noting the area’s numerous Jewish centers, urged caution: “It’s too early to determine if this was an attack on the Jewish community. Right now, it’s a police matter.” Quebec Premier Christine Frechette expressed deep shock and called for restraint to avoid unfounded rumors. Authorities initially locked down the area, but by Monday afternoon, they had begun clearing the scene and restoring traffic flow.

  • Plane strikes pedestrian during takeoff at Denver Airport

    A flight at Denver International Airport was forced to cancel its takeoff late on Friday after hitting a person on the runway, with at least one passenger sustaining injuries, according to the airport and U.S. media reports.

    Denver International Airport issued a statement confirming that “Frontier Flight 4345 reported hitting a pedestrian during takeoff” around 11:19 p.m. local time.

    An unidentified official told ABC News that the individual struck “was at least partially consumed by one of the engines.” The person’s current condition remains unknown.

    The airport reported that “a brief engine fire occurred, which was quickly put out by the Denver Fire Department.”

    A pilot communicated to air traffic control via audio from ATC.com, saying, “We’re stopped on the runway, we just hit somebody, we have an engine fire… A person was walking across the runway.”

    Emergency responders arrived at the scene and transported the passengers to the terminal. The airport also stated on X that at least one passenger had minor injuries.

    Frontier Airlines explained that the Airbus A321 was preparing for a flight to Los Angeles International Airport when the incident happened. They added, “Smoke was observed inside the cabin, leading pilots to abort the takeoff. Passengers were then safely evacuated using slides as a precaution.”

    The aircraft was carrying 224 passengers and seven crew members. The airline said they are investigating the event and collaborating with airport officials and safety authorities to gather more details. They expressed their regret over the incident.

    The National Transportation Safety Board has been notified, and runway 17L at Denver International remains closed during the investigation.

  • Fireworks Factory Explosion in Hunan Kills 21; Xi Calls for Investigation

    A fireworks factory in Hunan Province, China, experienced a blast on Monday afternoon, resulting in 21 fatalities and 61 injuries. China’s President Xi Jinping has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The explosion occurred in Changsha, a city known for fireworks manufacturing, around 4:40 p.m. local time (8:40 a.m. GMT). Reports from CCTV and Xinhua indicate the scene was filled with thick smoke, collapsed structures, and scattered debris, with footage circulating online, though its authenticity has not been independently verified.

    Close to 500 emergency personnel, including firefighters, rescue workers, and medical teams, responded to the scene. The explosion took place at Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company, although attempts to reach the business for comment were unsuccessful as no phone listing was available.

    President Xi Jinping called for a swift inquiry to determine the cause of the blast, emphasizing the need for accountability. The incident prompts concerns given China’s significant role in the global fireworks market; last year, the country exported over $1.14 billion worth of fireworks—more than two-thirds of worldwide sales, according to the Observatory of Economic Complexity.

    Xi has also directed officials to enhance safety measures in critical industries, strengthen risk assessments, and ensure the security of public safety and property. This call for improved disaster response capacity follows last week’s directives for nationwide upgrades in emergency preparedness.

  • White House Lockdown Briefly Imposed After Secret Service Shooting

    The Secret Service confirmed on Monday that they responded to an officer-involved shooting in Washington, D.C., where one person was shot by law enforcement officers.

    “Personnel from the U.S. Secret Service are on the scene at 15th Street and Independence Avenue in Washington, D.C., following an officer-involved shooting. One individual has been shot; their current condition is unknown,” the agency stated on X. The White House was briefly put under lockdown Monday afternoon.

    The Metropolitan Police Department also responded to the scene, assuring the public that the area is now secure. They advised people to avoid the area since roads will remain closed for several hours.

    This incident comes amid heightened alertness in the nation’s capital following a shooting at the recent White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, which resulted in an arrest of the suspect involved.

    This story is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

  • Trump labels press dinner attacker a ‘sick guy,’ alarming relatives

    U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the individual accused of attempting to attack officials at a black-tie event Saturday night was a “quite unwell person” who had been reported to authorities by family members.

    During Sunday TV interviews, Trump called the suspect, identified by authorities as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California, and mentioned that he had posted an “anti-Christian” manifesto.

    “Initially, he claimed to be a Christian believer, but then transitioned to anti-Christian sentiments, and he underwent significant changes,” Trump said on CBS’s “60 Minutes.” “He was likely a very troubled individual.”

    In the manifesto, Allen refers to himself as the “Friendly Federal Assassin” and outlines plans to target officials in the Trump administration, prioritizing them from top to bottom, with the exception of FBI Director Kash Patel, according to a law enforcement source. Allen invoked Christian theology, claiming he aimed to defend those harmed by the policies of the current administration.

    “Turning the other cheek when someone is oppressed isn’t Christian; it’s being complicit in the oppressor’s crimes,” the manifesto reportedly states, sent to Allen’s family shortly before the attack. The document also ridicules the lack of security at the Washington Hilton, where the White House Correspondents’ Dinner was held. Allen was captured and arrested at the scene.

    He also reportedly remarked that upon walking into the hotel, he immediately noticed the arrogance and was surprised that multiple weapons didn’t seem to be considered a threat by security.

    The incident prompted fresh concerns over the security of high-ranking U.S. officials, many of whom were present in the hotel’s large ballroom. Trump utilized the event’s chaos to promote a planned new White House ballroom, emphasizing it would enhance security.

    “This wouldn’t have happened if the Top Secret Ballroom at the White House, currently under development, was completed — it can’t be built quickly enough,” Trump posted on Truth Social.

    The suspect traveled via Amtrak from Los Angeles to Chicago, then to Washington, checking into the Hilton last Friday, according to acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche. Many believe Trump and his administration officials were targeted. Notably, Amtrak trains do not require metal detectors like airports.

    Law enforcement is actively cooperating with the investigation.

    Authorities reported that the suspect opened fire with a shotgun at a Secret Service agent at a security checkpoint in the Washington Hilton, before being subdued and taken into custody.

    Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and cabinet members were evacuated during the chaos. The Secret Service agent was protected by a vest and avoided serious injury.

    Trump expressed the intention to reschedule the White House Correspondents’ Dinner within a month. The group’s president, Weijia Jiang of CBS, said they would determine future plans.

    The suspect faces federal charges early Monday, including assaulting a federal officer, discharging a firearm, and attempted murder of a federal officer. Blanche indicated there might be no connection to Iran and mentioned additional indictments are forthcoming.

    This event adds to the growing pattern of political violence in the U.S., which includes the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a rally last September, the June 2025 murder of Minnesota State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, and the shooting of a Minnesota state senator.

    A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll reveals that Americans increasingly believe inflammatory political rhetoric is fueling violence.

    A White House source said others who spoke with Allen’s sister described him as prone to radical statements, having attended an anti-Trump protest called “No Kings,” and having referenced plans to “do something” about current global issues. Trump commented that such protests may have influenced the suspect’s actions, suggesting that the protest atmosphere might have played a role.

    Global leaders condemned the attack and expressed relief that everyone involved, including Trump, was unharmed. The upcoming visit of King Charles III to the U.S. scheduled for Monday will proceed as planned.

    Little detail is available about Allen’s background, though some social media posts suggest he worked at C2 Education, a tutoring service. The company stated it is assisting law enforcement.

    Washington’s interim police chief, Jeffery Carroll, said Allen was armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and multiple knives. He had purchased the firearms legally and stored them at his parents’ home in Torrance, a suburban district in Los Angeles.

    Neighbors, mostly casual acquaintances, described Allen and his family as residents of a typical middle-class neighborhood with historic homes and picket fences. Most said they only exchanged brief greetings and did not know him well.

  • US Official Suggests Trump Was Likely Targeted at White House Dinner

    President Donald Trump and members of his administration were the primary targets of an armed suspect who opened fire on a security officer guarding the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington, according to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche on Sunday.

    The shooter fired a shotgun at a Secret Service agent at a security checkpoint inside the Washington Hilton hotel. The attacker was quickly subdued and taken into custody. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were hurriedly evacuated from the event.

    “It appears that his intention was to target individuals associated with the administration, potentially including the president,” Blanche stated on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” mentioning the suspect’s likely train travels from Los Angeles to Chicago and then to Washington.

    The individual faces federal charges on Monday—assault of a federal officer, firearm discharge, and attempted murder of a federal officer. Blanche noted that there is no confirmed link to Iran at this time.

    Trump told late-night reporters at the White House that he believed he was the intended target. He added that the Secret Service officer was protected by his bulletproof vest and is reportedly in good condition. Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi confirmed the officer has been discharged from the hospital.

    Leaders worldwide condemned the attack and expressed relief that Trump and those present were unharmed, with many emphasizing that violence has no place in a democracy. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte called the incident “an attack on our free and open societies,” reinforcing the global stance against political violence.

    The British embassy, which is preparing for King Charles’ visit to Washington scheduled for Monday, stated that discussions are underway regarding the potential impact of the incident on the visit.

    The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, approximately 31 years old from California, is believed to have been a guest at the hotel. Social media posts suggest he may have been a teacher in Torrance, near Los Angeles. Washington’s interim Police Chief Jeffery Carroll reported that Allen was armed with a shotgun, a handgun, and several knives. He was taken to a local hospital for evaluation, though his motives remain unclear.

    Preliminary investigations indicate Allen may have acted independently, with many questioning how he managed to bring a shotgun into a venue hosting the annual dinner—a significant event attended by Trump’s cabinet and top officials amid tight security. The dinner itself is historically significant as the site of an assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan in 1981.

    Footage from security cameras, shared by Trump on Truth Social, shows the suspect rushing through a security checkpoint, momentarily catching guards off-guard before being neutralized. No shots were exchanged with the gunman who crossed two checkpoints before being stopped.

    Trump commented afterward that the attacker came from about 50 yards away and was moving quickly. He reiterated that authorities view the individual as a “lone wolf.”

    The incident unfolded quickly, with video capturing Trump and his wife seated at a banquet table when hearing gunfire, prompting panic and chaos. Many attendees, dressed formally, dove under tables as security agents drew their weapons, some shielding cabinet members. Trump and Vice President JD Vance were evacuated from the stage, while others were led out individually by security detail.

    Most guests crouched for cover, and some chanted “USA! USA!” during the chaos. Trump remained behind the scenes for about an hour before leaving, expressing a desire to stay at the event despite the threat. This echoes his previous narrow escapes from violence, including an assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, in 2024, where he was wounded but survived.

    Two months after that incident, Secret Service agents thwarted another attempt when a man wielding a gun was spotted hiding in bushes at Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida. The suspect was sentenced to life in prison in February.

  • PM Shehbaz, World Leaders ‘Relieved’ as Trump Safely Escapes Washington Shooting

    President Asif Ali Zardari labeled the incident as a “heinous act of terrorism.” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed that he was “deeply shocked” by what happened. The Japanese Prime Minister emphasized that violence can never be tolerated anywhere in the world.

    Following the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., world leaders showed relief that President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and other high-ranking officials are safe. Gunfire erupted near the event at the Washington Hilton hotel, leading security personnel to evacuate Trump, his wife, Vice President JD Vance, and other top officials. The suspect was detained shortly afterward.

    The individual used a shotgun at a Secret Service checkpoint inside the Washington Hilton before being subdued and taken into custody. It remains unclear if Trump was targeted, though he was quoted as believing he was. He has previously survived two assassination attempts since 2024, a period marked by increasing political polarization in the United States.

    On X, President Zardari’s office condemned the attack, calling it a “heinous act of terrorism,” and expressed relief that Trump and the First Lady were unharmed.

    PM Shehbaz conveyed his shock and relief, stating, “I am deeply shocked by the violent shooting at the Washington, D.C., White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Thankfully, President Trump, the First Lady, and other attendees are safe. My thoughts and prayers remain with him, wishing him ongoing safety and health.”

    Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also voiced reassurance, stressing that violence has no place in democracy and must be unequivocally condemned.

    “Glad to hear President Trump, the First Lady, and Vice President are unharmed after the recent incident in Washington,” Modi posted on social media.

    Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called the event terrifying and affirmed that violence must never be accepted under any circumstances.

    “I’m relieved President Trump is safe following the shooting. Violence is never acceptable anywhere in the world,” she stated.

    Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum echoed similar sentiments, expressing hope for Trump’s continued safety and emphasizing that violence is never the answer.

    “It’s a relief that President Trump and his wife are doing well after the attack. We send our respect. Violence should never be the solution,” she said.

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also expressed relief knowing that all attendees are safe. “We commend the swift response of the Secret Service and law enforcement agencies,” he noted.

  • ‘White House Correspondents’ Dinner Shooting: Trump Declared Safe’

    President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were hurried out of the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner by Secret Service agents late Saturday night following a loud, unidentified sound. Other officials from the Trump administration who were attending the event were also evacuated after a commotion near the hotel ballroom where the dinner was taking place.

    Guests immediately fell silent, and screams of “Get down, get down!” erupted across the room. Hundreds of attendees quickly ducked under tables as security personnel in tactical gear rushed into the dining area. Trump and Melania had crouched behind the dais prior to being swiftly escorted out by Secret Service agents.

    Many of the 2,600 dinner guests sought shelter, while wait staff hurried to the front of the dining hall. Moments before leaving the stage under security escort, Melania appeared to react to something in the crowd, showing a worried expression during a live broadcast on CSPAN.

    Earlier, Russian media reported that a shooting incident at the dinner resulted in a suspect being shot and killed by security forces after opening fire, claiming multiple rounds had been discharged before the suspect was neutralized. Nonetheless, President Trump, through a post on Truth Social, commended the quick response of security agencies, confirmed that a suspect had been detained, and praised their bravery.

    “An evening to remember in D.C. — Secret Service and law enforcement responded brilliantly. They acted swiftly and courageously,” he wrote. He added that the shooter had been apprehended and that he had recommended continuing the event, although authorities would ultimately decide whether to proceed. He indicated the evening would be “significantly different than planned” and might require rescheduling.

    Eyewitnesses described law enforcement swarming the Washington Hilton Hotel where the dinner was held, with helicopters circling overhead. Major US news outlets confirmed that Trump was unharmed. A pool report echoed that a suspect was in custody, citing the Secret Service, though this has not been officially confirmed. Unverified reports mentioned that one person may have been injured, but specifics remain unclear.

    The incident occurred before Trump was scheduled to speak, during the dinner following the introductory speech. Officials from the Trump administration were reportedly evacuated first, with ongoing uncertainty about the details of what transpired. In one account, a cabinet member, Mehmet Oz, indicated “shots fired upstairs” as he was hurried out by security.

    Trump had previously faced an assassination attempt during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania in 2024, when a gunman shot and killed a rally attendee and grazed Trump’s ear. A few months later, another individual was detained after a Secret Service agent spotted a rifle barrel protruding from bushes near Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach.

    The Washington Hilton, site of Saturday’s event, is also infamous for the attempt on Ronald Reagan’s life in 1981. Despite the chaos, organizers announced that the White House Correspondents’ Dinner would go on. Trump attended this event for the first time in his presidency.

    The WHCA invited Trump despite his ongoing criticism of the media, sparking backlash from journalists who appealed for accountability regarding his restrictions on press freedoms. Unlike other presidents of the last century, Trump had never attended the dinner in office—until now. The event, popularly called “Nerd Prom,” gathers hundreds of journalists and media leaders to raise funds for scholarships and awards.

    In a separate incident in Butler, Pennsylvania, Trump was grazed on the right ear when a shooter opened fire from a rooftop during a campaign rally on July 13, killing a bystander and lightly wounding him. The shooter, Thomas Crooks, was shot dead by a Secret Service sniper.

  • Eightchildren killed in U.S. domestic violence shooting: police

    Eightchildren killed in U.S. domestic violence shooting: police

    Eight children lost their lives early Sunday morning in a shooting spree in Louisiana, which authorities believe was a domestic violence incident. The gunman, whose identity has not been disclosed, was shot and killed by police following a car chase. The incident occurred in Shreveport, located in the northwest part of the state.

    Police Corporal Chris Bordelon mentioned during a press conference that the investigation covers a large crime scene involving two residences, with a third residence also being searched. The victims ranged in age from just one year old to 14 years old, and some of the children were related to the suspect, Bordelon added.

    Two additional individuals were hit by gunfire, but their current health statuses are unknown. The suspect carjacked a vehicle and led police on a high-speed chase before officers engaged and fatally shot him.

    “We believe he was the only person firing shots at these locations,” Bordelon stated, describing the incident as a domestic disturbance.

    The United States experiences frequent gun violence, with firearms widely accessible and thousands of deaths reported annually.

    “Today is a tragic day for Shreveport, and we mourn alongside the victims’ loved ones,” Mayor Tom Arceneaux expressed during the press conference.

  • Russian military plane crashes in Crimea, 29 confirmed dead

    Russian military plane crashes in Crimea, 29 confirmed dead

    A Russian An-26 military transport aircraft crashed into a cliff in Crimea, resulting in the deaths of all 29 people on board. The incident was likely caused by a technical failure, according to Russia’s defense ministry. Early Wednesday, news agencies reported that communication with the aircraft was lost around 6 p.m. local time (3 p.m. GMT) during a scheduled flight over Crimea, a region annexed by Russia from Ukraine in 2014, characterized by rugged mountains descending to the Black Sea coast.

    A search operation uncovered the crash site, confirming the fatalities of six crew members and 23 passengers, though official details about the total number aboard remain unconfirmed. The aircraft, a light tactical military transport used for cargo and up to 40 passengers over short and medium routes, was reportedly unaffected by external impacts such as missiles, drones, or birds.

    Russia’s defense officials have indicated that the crash’s initial cause points to a technical malfunction, with a military commission investigating the site. No immediate comment was provided by the defense ministry outside of typical working hours.

    The An-26 has been operational since the late 1960s, serving both military and commercial purposes, though it has experienced several deadly accidents over the past decade. In 2022, a Ukrainian An-26 crashed during a technical flight in southeastern Zaporizhzhia, killing one person. Another accident in northeastern Ukraine in 2020 resulted in the deaths of 26 people. Similarly, in 2017, an An-26 crash in Ivory Coast claimed four lives, and in 2020, a crash in South Sudan killed eight people, including five Russians.

  • Starmer Alarmed as Man with Weapons Threatens Imam at Manchester Mosque

    Starmer Alarmed as Man with Weapons Threatens Imam at Manchester Mosque

    LONDON: Prime Minister Keir Starmer has voiced concerns following the arrest of a man who entered a mosque in Manchester during Ramadan prayers, armed with multiple weapons including an axe and threatening to kill the Imam.

    Starmer acknowledged that the incident would likely alarm Muslim communities. The suspect, a white male in his 40s, was accompanied by another man, a Black male, when they entered Manchester Central Mosque in the Victoria Park area around 8:40 p.m. on Tuesday.

    The first suspect was quickly detained by police on suspicions of carrying a harmful weapon and possessing Class B drugs. He remains in custody for further questioning. Greater Manchester Police stated they do not believe the incident was terrorism-related.

    Starmer said, “I’m concerned to hear about what happened at Manchester Central Mosque last night. I understand this causes worry for Muslim communities, especially during Ramadan, a time for peace and reflection.” He added, “Thanks to the quick action of volunteers and emergency responders, the situation was contained swiftly.” He also reaffirmed government support, noting that up to $40 million has been allocated to bolster security at mosques, Muslim schools, and community centers, with ongoing efforts to ensure communities can live free from fear.

    The mosque issued a statement describing the event as a “serious security incident” during prayer. They reported that a white male, wearing a high-visibility jacket and carrying a large bag, entered the mosque alongside a Black male. Mosque volunteers spotted the suspicious bag containing an axe, which was then placed in the main hall by the suspect. The White male was separated and found to be armed with multiple weapons, including a hammer and a knife, before being arrested. The Black male left shortly before police arrived, and as of now, has not been apprehended.

    The mosque emphasized that all relevant evidence, including CCTV footage, has been provided to authorities, who are continuing their investigation. They highlighted that anti-Muslim hostility and threats have increased in recent years, calling for greater resources to combat this growing risk. They urged vigilance among mosque attendees and advised traveling in groups and supervising children.

    Superintendent Simon Nasim of GMP stated, “Last night, officers responded after reports of two suspicious men carrying a weapon during Ramadan prayers. We rapidly detained one suspect and are seeking the second. Thankfully, no threats were issued nor injuries sustained. Residents will notice increased patrols while we investigate. We encourage people to speak with officers and share concerns.” He reaffirmed the police stance that no one should carry weapons in public and that all efforts will be made to ensure safety.

    Rusholme MP Afzal Khan expressed deep concern over the incident: “I’m troubled by the events at Manchester Central Mosque last night, where two individuals entered with weapons. Thankfully, everyone is safe, and one suspect has been arrested. I am in contact with mosque leaders, the mayor, and the Prime Minister.” He underscored that recent funding for mosque protection underscores how critical such support is, especially amid rising Islamophobic incidents, which he described as plainly rooted in Islamophobia and scapegoating by far-right politicians.

    Authorities continue to seek witnesses and encourage anyone with information to contact Greater Manchester Police via 101, through their website’s LiveChat, or CrimeStoppers at 0800 555 111.

  • Nearly 100 Injured by Lightning at Brazil Ex-President Rally

    Nearly 100 Injured by Lightning at Brazil Ex-President Rally

    Brazilian Federal Deputy Nikolas Ferreira gestures among supporters of former president Jair Bolsonaro during a march in Brasilia on January 25, 2026. — AFP

    A lightning strike hit near a rally of supporters of Brazil’s former far-right president Jair Bolsonaro in Brasilia on Sunday, injuring 89 people, according to the fire department.

    Thousands appeared in the rain in the Brazilian capital to support Bolsonaro, who was sentenced to 27 years in prison last year for leading a failed attempt at a coup following his narrow re-election defeat.

    Videos circulating online show crowds with colorful umbrellas and plastic ponchos caught off guard by a sudden flash of light and a thunderous sound.

    The fire department reported to AFP that 89 individuals were treated at the scene, with 47 transported to hospitals.

    Eleven of those injured “needed advanced medical attention,” added the fire department.

    The gathering was organized by Brazilian lawmaker Nikolas Ferreira to call for “amnesty” for Bolsonaro.

    Ex-president Bolsonaro is currently detained at the Papuda prison complex in Brasilia.

    He has serious health issues stemming from a stabbing incident during his 2018 campaign trail, and recently spent a week hospitalized after surgery for a groin hernia and treatment for ongoing hiccups.

    Earlier this month, he underwent tests following a fall in prison, but no serious injuries were identified.


  • Two Shot by US Federal Agents in Portland

    Two Shot by US Federal Agents in Portland

    Two individuals were hospitalized after being shot by U.S. federal agents in Portland, Oregon, according to police reports on Friday. The incident has heightened existing tensions in the region, with authorities urging residents to remain calm as investigators look into the circumstances. This comes just a day after a separate shooting in Minneapolis.

    “Two individuals are in the hospital following a shooting involving federal officers,” Portland police stated. Police chief Bob Day added, “We recognize the intense emotions and tensions many are experiencing after the Minneapolis shooting, but I ask our community to stay calm while we gather more information.” The police clarified that they were not involved in the shooting that occurred on Thursday.

    The FBI announced that it is investigating the incident involving agents from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. “Their current conditions are unknown. Officers confirmed that two people were injured during the federal agents’ operation,” Portland police said.

    Portland City Council President Elana Pirtle-Guiney was cited by an ABC affiliate as saying that, to her knowledge, the victims are still alive. The FBI Portland branch tweeted that they are investigating an agent-involved shooting that took place around 2:15 p.m. near Main Street in Portland. Details about the exact circumstances of this incident remain unclear.

    Earlier in the week, a fatal shooting involving a U.S. Immigration agent in Minneapolis drew widespread condemnation and sparked protests across Minnesota and beyond.

  • Protests Erupt After ICE Officer Fatally Shoots Woman in Minneapolis

    Protests Erupt After ICE Officer Fatally Shoots Woman in Minneapolis

    A woman was shot and killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer during an enforcement operation in Minneapolis, prompting widespread outrage. President Donald Trump claimed the officer acted in self-defense, asserting that the woman was resisting and obstructing law enforcement. Local officials and residents criticized the incident, demanding transparency and accountability amid escalating tensions in the city.

    The event unfolded as an unverified video showed a Honda SUV blocking unmarked law enforcement vehicles in a snow-covered street. The 37-year-old woman behind the wheel reportedly tried to flee when officers approached and attempted to open her car door. In response, an officer discharged his weapon three times as the vehicle moved away from the scene.

    President Trump, who has ordered nationwide raids targeting undocumented immigrants, accused the woman of intentionally running over an officer. He described her actions as disorderly and resisting arrest, suggesting that the shooting was justified for self-defense.

    The shooting occurred during protests against immigration enforcement in southern Minneapolis. The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, labeled the woman’s actions as domestic terrorism, claiming she attempted to run over officers to attack them. They stated an officer fired in self-defense, resulting in her death, and noted that other officers injured during the incident were expected to recover.

    Multiple agencies, including the FBI and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, launched investigations into the shooting. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz criticized the federal government’s response, calling it propaganda, and pledged that the state will ensure a thorough, fair investigation.

    Large crowds gathered near the scene, chanting slogans against ICE. Many protesters voiced their anger and called for an end to aggressive immigration enforcement tactics. Local footage showed ICE officers using pepper spray and force against protesters nearby.

    The incident has reignited debates about immigration policies, especially under the Trump administration, which has prioritized deporting millions of undocumented individuals. Critics argue that ICE has transformed into a paramilitary force under Trump’s leadership, with increased deportation efforts and harsh entry restrictions. Trump’s administration has also faced criticism for inflammatory rhetoric targeting migrants, including labeling them as “animals” and linking them falsely to criminal activity.

    In response to the shooting, the White House criticized Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, referring to him dismissively after Frey accused ICE of creating chaos and mistrust. The federal government deployed thousands of officers across Minneapolis and nearby areas to conduct immigration sweeps, partly driven by allegations involving local Somali residents. Cases such as a 2025 court ruling dismissing charges against individuals accused of armed attacks on immigration enforcement in Chicago highlight ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement tactics in the region.