Uganda Police rescue Egyptian diplomat from kidnappers
A routine investigation turned chaotic as police rescued Mohamed Ali Abdel Hamid, a 40-year-old Egyptian diplomat abducted in Kampala. Hamid disappeared on November 8, 2024, near Garden City Mall, prompting alarm when he failed to return home. His captors demanded a $40,000 ransom, leading police to track them to their hideout at Peal Hotel.
A dramatic exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting in one suspect being fatally shot and a female accomplice captured. The suspect was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, while Hamid was rescued unharmed.
Authorities are now focused on uncovering any additional individuals or motives behind the abduction. Police vow to trace every lead to ensure justice is served.
Kim Jong Un orders mass production of suicide drones
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has directed the mass production of "suicide drones," emphasizing their strategic importance amid global advancements in unmanned aerial warfare, according to state media.
Kim supervised successful tests of drones capable of striking land and sea targets, developed by the Unmanned Aerial Technology Complex (UATC).
These explosive-laden drones, designed to crash into enemy targets, were first unveiled in August and have proven precise in recent tests. Citing their low production costs and versatile applications, Kim called for a swift transition to serial production.
The move aligns with North Korea's growing focus on unmanned military systems and its collaboration with Russia, as drones play a significant role in conflicts like the Ukraine war. This development follows North Korea's history of defying UN sanctions through frequent ballistic missile tests.
15 countries qualify for AFCON 2025
Nigeria's Super Eagles were among four teams that booked their places at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a one group stage game to go.
The likes of Gabon, South Africa and Uganda also sealed their places in Morocco. Libya's 1-0 win in Rwanda guaranteed Nigeria a top-two finish in Group D.
The Super Eagles however, played 1-1 with Benin Republic to confirm their place as Group D winners.
Meanwhile, Cote d'Ivoire, Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, Angola, Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Morocco, and Senegal have all booked their places. More countries are expected to book their tickets in the coming days.
Kenyan gang member jailed for 28 years, to testify against co-defendants
Evance Michori, a member of the Confirm Gang in Nakuru, has been sentenced to 28 years in prison after confessing to his role in the murders of four women in the Mawanga area of Bahati Sub-County.
Michori admitted to being an accessory after the fact of murder and agreed to testify against five co-defendants in exchange for a plea bargain.
The murders, which occurred on June 21, 2022, involved the gang robbing the victims before leaving them to perish in burning homes.
A detailed investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) uncovered forensic evidence corroborating Michori's confession.
Following his agreement with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Michori's plea deal was accepted on November 14, 2024. He will now serve as a key prosecution witness in the upcoming trial, aiming to bring justice to the victims and their families.
Escalating Atrocities in Sudan Demand Global Action- Envoy
H.E. Adama Dieng, the African Union Special Envoy on the Prevention of Genocide, has expressed grave concern over the worsening violence in Sudan, particularly in Al-Jazirah and Al Damazein.
Reports of heinous crimes including mass killings, sexual assault, abduction, and looting persist despite a telecommunication blackout. Hate speech and ethnically motivated violence have intensified dangerously.
The defection of RSF commander Abu Aqla Keikil to the Sudanese Armed Forces on October 20, 2024, has sparked retaliatory attacks by the RSF, targeting villages and displacing thousands.
Civilians face unimaginable suffering, including days-long treks without food and forced separations from loved ones. The crisis has escalated further with mass arming of civilians.
Dieng calls on Sudanese leaders to de-escalate, respect humanitarian law, and protect civilians. He urges the international community to provide aid, intensify diplomacy, and ensure accountability for atrocities. The African Union remains steadfast in its commitment to peace and human rights in Sudan.
Kwibuka flame of hope monument set up at Sacramento State
California State University, Sacramento has taken a significant step in its commitment to genocide awareness and the preservation of historical memory by unveiling a mock-up of the "Kwibuka Flame of Hope" monument.
This powerful symbol will stand as a testament to the university's dedication to promoting peace, unity, and resilience in the face of atrocities. The monument, set to be officially inaugurated in April next year, will serve as a lasting reminder of the horrors of the Genocide against the Tutsi while honoring the resilience of survivors and victims' memories.
It will also act as an educational tool, encouraging students, faculty, and the broader community to engage in critical conversations about preventing mass atrocities and fostering global human rights.
By establishing this monument, Sacramento State reinforces its role in advocating for justice, remembrance, and the ongoing fight against hatred and intolerance.
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