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Nigeria Faces 'Cryptic Pregnancy' Scam: Your Questions Answered

A disturbing fertility scam has emerged in Anambra State, Nigeria, where desperate women are deceived into believing they are experiencing "cryptic pregnancies." Investigated by BBC Africa Eye, these women are lured into clinics with promises of treatments that result in false pregnancies, and are warned against seeking medical help, as the scammers claim the "baby" grows outside the womb. They receive dubious injections, crushed pills, and bizarre instructions, including how to time intercourse. As the supposed delivery approaches, women are coerced into paying for a "rare drug" to induce labor, only to awaken with fake Caesarean scars or under the influence of hallucinogenic injections. Initial treatments cost around 350,000 naira ($205), while the labor-inducing drug can reach up to two million naira ($1,180). Authorities report that scammers exploit vulnerable women, sometimes even leading them to sell their newborns for money. sources

Published:
Nov 28 2024, 9 pm

Queensland's "Adult Crime, Adult Time" Bill Targets Children

Queensland's Liberal National Party government has unveiled a controversial youth crime bill, which Premier David Crisafulli admits will "directly discriminate" against children. The "Queensland Safer" legislation, introduced on Thursday, aims to increase maximum sentences for youth crimes, fulfilling the party's "adult crime, adult time" pledge. Critics, including human rights organizations and legal experts, argue the bill undermines children's rights, disproportionately affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth already overrepresented in the justice system. Attorney General Deb Frecklington acknowledged the potential for more children to end up in state watch houses, raising concerns about humane treatment. The legislation permits life sentences for children as young as 10, prompting condemnation from Queensland's human rights commissioner, Scott McDougall, who described it as indicative of a society that "has lost its way." The bill will undergo an eight-day review by a parliamentary committee before returning for a final vote in December. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 12 am

Berlin Doctor Accused of Murdering Eight Elderly Patients

German authorities are investigating a 40-year-old Berlin doctor, suspected of murdering eight elderly patients under his care and attempting to conceal his crimes by setting fire to their homes. Initially arrested in August for the manslaughter of four women aged 72 to 94, prosecutors have since linked him to four additional deaths involving men and women aged between 61 and 83. The suspect, who worked in palliative care, is now facing murder charges, with investigators alleging he had no motive beyond a "lust for murder." Notably, in one incident, an 87-year-old patient was resuscitated but later died in hospital, while in another case, the suspect reportedly initiated a fire that was extinguished before causing significant damage. The alleged killings occurred between June 2022 and April 2024, with the suspect accused of administering lethal medications to his victims before igniting blazes to mask his actions. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 12 am

Iran May Lift Nuclear Arms Ban If Sanctions Return

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has indicated that the country may reconsider its nuclear policy if Western sanctions are reimposed, as tensions rise ahead of talks with Britain, France, and Germany regarding its nuclear programme. Following a recent censure by the UN atomic watchdog, Iran expressed frustration over unmet commitments, particularly concerning sanctions relief. While Tehran maintains its right to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, it has enriched uranium to 60%, close to weapons-grade levels, raising concerns among Western nations. The 2015 nuclear deal, which limited Iran's enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief, is under strain, especially with the anticipated return of US President-elect Donald Trump, who previously withdrew from the agreement. Amidst accusations of military support for Russia in Ukraine and a politically motivated IAEA resolution, Iran aims to avoid intensified pressures from both the US and Europe during the upcoming negotiations. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 12 am

Netanyahu Promises "Intensive War" if Lebanon Ceasefire Broken

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stark warning to Hezbollah, stating that he has instructed the Israeli army to prepare for an "intensive war" if the newly established ceasefire with Lebanon is breached. In an interview with Israeli broadcaster Channel 14, Netanyahu emphasized the seriousness of the situation, asserting that he would take decisive action if necessary. This statement comes just a day after the ceasefire was implemented, highlighting the fragile nature of the current peace. The warning underscores ongoing tensions in the region, as Netanyahu seeks to deter any potential violations by the militant group. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complexities of the ceasefire agreement. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 1 am

Indian Diplomats in Canada Monitored, Centre Informs Parliament

Indian consulate officials in Vancouver have been informed by Canadian authorities that they are under "audio and video surveillance" and that their private communications have been intercepted, prompting a strong protest from the Indian government. Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh confirmed this in Parliament, emphasizing the need for respect regarding territorial integrity and sovereignty to maintain stable bilateral relations. He stated that while Canada has provided some security for Indian diplomats, it has expressed an inability to protect consular camps from violent acts by secessionist elements. The strained relationship between India and Canada intensified following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of a Khalistani extremist. India has dismissed these claims as baseless while urging Canada to take action against anti-India elements operating within its borders. The welfare and safety of the Indian diaspora in Canada remain a priority for New Delhi. sources

Published:
Nov 28 2024, 10 pm

Erosion of Women's Rights and Freedoms Worldwide

Across the globe, women's rights are facing significant setbacks, with alarming developments reported in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the United States. In Afghanistan, the Taliban has imposed severe restrictions on women's freedoms, including bans on public speaking, education, and employment, effectively reducing women to a state of oppression described as “gender apartheid.” In Iraq, a proposed amendment could lower the age of consent for marriage to just nine years, further entrenching child marriage and eroding women's rights. Meanwhile, in the United States, the overturning of Roe v. Wade has led to widespread abortion bans, reflecting a broader trend of diminishing reproductive rights. These events highlight a troubling global pattern where women's rights are increasingly fragile, prompting calls for urgent action to address these violations and ensure gender equality, which, according to UN Women, could take another 286 years to achieve. sources

Published:
Nov 28 2024, 11 pm

Putin Denies Trying to Intimidate Merkel with Dog

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued an apology to former German Chancellor Angela Merkel for a 2007 incident in which he brought his pet Labrador, Konni, to a meeting, an act Merkel later described in her memoir as a "demonstration of power." Merkel, who has a well-documented fear of dogs, recalled feeling uncomfortable during the encounter, suggesting Putin relished her distress. Speaking at a press conference in Astana, Putin claimed he was unaware of her fear and expressed regret, stating, "Angela, please forgive me, I did not want to cause you any heartache." He assured that should they meet again, he would not repeat the gesture. The meeting, held in Sochi, was captured in images showing the dog sniffing around while Merkel appeared visibly anxious. Putin, who has a fondness for dogs, received Konni as a gift from his former defence minister, Sergei Shoigu. sources

Published:
Nov 28 2024, 11 pm

Kimmel Calls Tariffs Trump's "Dumbest Idea" Since Don Jr

On his show last night, Jimmy Kimmel criticized President-elect Donald Trump's economic understanding, mocking his history as a "mail-order steak salesman" who has declared bankruptcy six times. Kimmel specifically targeted Trump's plan to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, suggesting it could lead to soaring consumer prices, including "$40 avocados." He highlighted the absurdity of U.S. companies bearing the costs of these tariffs, which would ultimately be passed on to consumers. Kimmel also pointed out the irony of Trump's merchandise being produced in China, despite his claims of unfair trade practices, quipping that buyers should act quickly to avoid price hikes on his ties. Meanwhile, Mexico has warned of retaliatory tariffs, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has engaged in discussions with Trump regarding the potential economic fallout. sources

Published:
Nov 28 2024, 11 pm

Putin Threatens Ukraine with New Hypersonic Missiles

President Vladimir Putin has escalated threats against Ukraine, warning of potential strikes on "decision-making centres" in Kyiv using Russia's new hypersonic missile, the Oreshnik, following a massive attack that left over a million Ukrainians without power. This assault saw more than 90 missiles and around 100 drones launched at Ukraine's energy infrastructure, described by Kyiv as a "despicable escalation" of Russian tactics. Putin claimed the barrage was a response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory and boasted that the Oreshnik could deliver a force comparable to a nuclear strike. Amidst rising tensions ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration, Putin expressed hopes for a resolution under Trump's leadership. As winter approaches, Ukraine faces severe energy challenges, with officials warning this winter could be the harshest since the war began. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely. sources

Published:
Nov 28 2024, 11 pm

NewJeans Leaves ADOR, Contract Remains Valid, Agency Confirms

South Korean pop group NewJeans announced their departure from label ADOR on Thursday, citing "mistreatment" and a lack of support from the agency. At an emergency press conference in Seoul, member Hanni stated, "ADOR has neither the ability nor the will to protect NewJeans," adding that remaining with the agency would only prolong their "psychological pain." The announcement quickly gained traction on social media, making NewJeans a trending topic. ADOR responded by asserting that they had not violated any contracts and expressed a desire for open dialogue, claiming they complied with a list of demands submitted by the group on November 14. The agency emphasized that the exclusive contracts remain valid, despite the artists' claims of a broken trust. ADOR reiterated its commitment to support NewJeans in their pursuit of global success, urging them to continue their activities under the label. sources

Published:
Nov 28 2024, 9 pm

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