UK law enforcement arrested six Afghan nationals wanted in Belgium for their alleged role in a people-smuggling network. The group, active since 2022, reportedly trafficked migrants from Afghanistan to western Europe and facilitated illegal crossings to the UK. Extradition proceedings have begun, with authorities emphasizing the persistent threat of organized immigration crime. The operation follows previous arrests and convictions of traffickers in Belgium.
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South Sudan has closed all schools for two weeks due to an extreme heatwave, with temperatures reaching 42 degrees Celsius. The heat has caused students to collapse, prompting calls to amend the school calendar. Most schools lack cooling systems, worsening the crisis. The fragile health system and economic struggles, including disrupted oil exports, add to the challenges. Civil groups criticize the government for poor planning.
A fire broke out backstage at the France Pavilion in EPCOT at Walt Disney World, causing no injuries. The blaze began in a walk-in cooler and was quickly extinguished. Videos on social media showed smoke rising as authorities continued their investigation during the busy Spring Break season.
Former US vice president Kamala Harris visited wildfire-stricken California, describing the devastation vividly and emphasizing the need for climate resilience and preparation. Harris met with displaced residents and faced questions about a potential run for governor. She highlighted the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and stressed the importance of adaptation.
Following Barbara Lee's victory in Oakland's mayoral race using ranked-choice voting, Donald Trump has strongly criticised the system, labeling it a "fraudulent joke" and a threat to democracy. Ranked-choice voting allows voters to rank candidates by preference, potentially leading to broader appeal and reduced polarisation, though critics argue it can confuse voters and delay results.
Meghan Markle and Harry wore hats apparently to keep a low profile -- with their face not fully revealing as they met the Eaton Fire victims. Meghan wore baseball hats and Harry chose a black Cali hat. They were seen speaking to the mayor in one video; and to a woman in another video. Meghan was seen teary-eyed hugging a woman in a viral photo.
Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore returned to Earth after a nine-month space mission, originally planned for a week but extended due to technical issues. President Donald Trump confirmed they would visit the White House after recovering, celebrating their return while applauding their safe homecoming on social media.
A Royal Thai Police aircraft crashed into the sea near Hua Hin, Thailand, during a test flight for parachute training preparations. Five police officers on board perished in the accident. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash and are currently collecting evidence, including the plane's black box data, to determine what led to the fatal incident.
Trump declare in a social media post that Hunter Biden would lose his protection “effective immediately,†he also mentioned the latter's whereabouts: “He is currently vacationing in, of all places, South Africa, where the Human Rights of people has been strenuously questioned.â€
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accuses US President Donald Trump of imposing tariffs to weaken Canada's economy and facilitate annexation. This comes after the US enforced a 25% tariff on all Canadian goods, prompting Canada to retaliate, escalating a trade war.
As the world welcomed 2025, major global events marked 2024. Record heat tied to climate disasters, political upheavals, a Trump re-election, and Middle East turmoil were notable. Celebrations spanned cities from Paris to Sydney despite challenges. Looking ahead, major events like BTS's return and a revamped Club World Cup await amid rising global temperatures.