South Africa Apartment Block Collapse: Rescuers Race Against Time to Find Survivors
A devastating building collapse in George, Western Cape province, South Africa, has left at least five people dead and over 50 trapped under the rubble. Apexnewsgh reports The five-storey apartment block, which was under construction, came crashing down on Monday, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in its wake. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with 26 people pulled from the wreckage so far, but dozens more remain unaccounted for. The site has been cordoned off, and emergency workers are working tirelessly to remove concrete blocks and debris by hand, searching for any signs of life. The cause of the collapse is still under investigation, but officials say they have established contact with some of those trapped under the rubble. Heavy lifting equipment and sniffer dogs have been brought in to assist the rescue efforts, which have been slow and laborious due to the unstable nature of the site. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, calling for a thorough investigation to “bring closure to the community and prevent a repeat of this disaster.” The city’s mayor, Ald Van Wyk, has also offered his condolences to the families and all those affected by the tragedy. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062/0248250270.
Conservative MP “deported” from Djibouti over China criticism
A Conservative MP says he was deported during a trip to Djibouti due to the east African country’s close ties to China. Tim Loughton, the MP for East Worthing and Shoreham, said he was detained for more than seven hours before being “escorted” to a flight out of Djibouti earlier this month. Mr Loughton, who had sanctions imposed on him in 2021 by Beijing, said the experience was “very lonely and frightening”. China’s foreign office has said the accusations are baseless. Mr Loughton was in Djibouti for a 24-hour visit, which included a meeting with the British ambassador. He said when he arrived in his passport was scanned and he was asked what he did. He told the BBC: “I told them I was a member of parliament and then it went all very frosty. “Djibouti is effectively a vassel state of China – what China wants, Djibouti kowtows to and having a troublesome MP who has been sanctioned by China turning up on their doorstep was clearly something they didn’t want to entertain.” He said he was put on the next available flight out of the country. He said: “This was another example of how the tentacles of the Chinese Communist Government extend far and wide, and their malign influence in sensitive parts of Africa is particularly worrying. “Yet the intimidation of countless others who have dared to speak out against China’s industrial scale human rights abuses and who do not have the platform an MP raises serious concerns.” Human rights In 2021, China imposed sanctions on five MPs, including Mr Loughton, for spreading what it called “lies and disinformation” about the country. It came in retaliation for measures taken by the UK government over human rights abuses against the Uighur Muslim minority group. Mr Loughton is co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Tibet, which has highlighted China’s record on human rights abuses. In 2019 he introduced the Reciprocal Access Bill in the House of Commons which requires the UK government to take measures against Chinese officials denying access to Tibet. He is also a leading member of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, an international cross-party group working towards reform on how democratic countries approach China. The former minister and member of the home affairs select committee has said he will not stand at the next general election after more than 27 years in parliament. Source: BBC
Billionaire declared dead in 2021 found with mistress in Russia
In a shocking turn of events, German-American billionaire Karl-Erivan Haub, who was declared legally dead in 2021 after disappearing during a hike in the Alps in 2018, has been reportedly discovered living in Moscow with his Russian mistress, Veronika Ermilova. The revelation, following a major investigation by German broadcaster RTL, has sent shockwaves through the international community, raising questions about Haub’s disappearance and his ties to Russia. According to reports, Haub, now 64, is alive and well, residing in the Russian capital alongside his 44-year-old girlfriend. Investigations revealed that Haub had allegedly made multiple calls to Ermilova before his disappearance, leading to suspicions of foul play and speculation about a potential connection to Russia’s security service, the FSB. Haub’s mysterious vanishing in 2018, while preparing for a skiing competition in Switzerland, had puzzled authorities and triggered a massive search operation. Despite being declared dead by a German court in 2021, the recent revelation has reignited interest in the case, leaving many questioning the true circumstances surrounding Haub’s supposed demise and subsequent reappearance. As investigations continue and new details emerge, the story of Karl-Erivan Haub’s enigmatic disappearance and unexpected rediscovery continues to captivate audiences worldwide, shedding light on the complexities of wealth, power, and intrigue. Source: TimesCaribbeanOnline
Cybersecurity Expert Charles Awuzie Exposes Massive Fraud in Abia State Government-Says Bobrisky is a Saint
Charles Awuzie, a cybersecurity expert and founder of Big Brain Naija, has made shocking revelations about the corruption and fraud perpetrated by former Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu. Apexnewsgh reports In a recent post on Meta, Dr. Awuzie compared the crimes committed by Bobrisky to the massive fraud carried out by Ikpeazu during his tenure as governor. According to Dr. Awuzie, Governor Alex Otti has set up a forensic audit team led by one of the Big Four accounting firms to uncover the extent of the corruption that took place under Ikpeazu’s administration. The audit has revealed staggering amounts of fraud, with billions of Naira being paid to contractors for non-existent projects. Dr. Awuzie emphasized the need for justice for the people of Abia State, many of whom suffered under the oppressive government of Ikpeazu. He recounted how his own parents, who served the state as teachers, were mistreated by the corrupt regime. Governor Alex Otti has expressed his commitment to working with the EFCC to bring to light more fraudulent transactions that occurred during the previous government. He has vowed to hold accountable those responsible for the mismanagement of funds and called for transparency and accountability in government. The revelations made by Dr. Awuzie have sparked outrage among Abians, who demand to see evidence of the projects that were supposedly funded by the billions of Naira that went missing. The airport construction scam, in particular, has been a point of contention, with no physical evidence of the project to show for the massive sums of money that were allocated for it. In light of these revelations, Dr. Awuzie has called on the EFCC to take action and ensure that those who have looted public funds are held accountable for their actions. He stressed that the people of Abia State deserve better governance and a government that works for their interests, not for the selfish gains of corrupt officials. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062
UN Special Representative Abdoulaye Bathily Resigns Amidst Challenges in Libya
Abdoulaye Bathily, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), has announced his resignation, citing significant challenges in the country. Apexnewsgh reports In a statement on Tuesday (April 16), Bathily expressed frustration with the lack of progress in fostering dialogue and addressing the concerns of Libyan politicians. He noted that their “stubborn resistance, unreasonable expectations and indifference” have hindered efforts to move forward in the national interest. Bathily confirmed that he has officially submitted his resignation to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during a press briefing. He emphasized the worsening economic situation in Libya, including warnings from the country’s central bank of an impending liquidity crisis, which has sparked public anger. Calling on the authorities to swiftly agree on a national budget and improve the management of state resources, Bathily also highlighted the tense security situation in various parts of Libya, particularly in major cities like Tripoli and Misrata. He cautioned against any escalation of tensions, warning that it could further destabilize not only Libya but also the wider Sahel region. As Bathily steps down from his position, the future of UNSMIL’s efforts in Libya remains uncertain amid ongoing challenges and growing instability in the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062
Legislator Calls for Probe into Leaked Assets of Former President of Liberia
Frank Saah Foko, a local legislator, has called on the House to launch an investigation into the leaked asset declaration documents of former Liberian President George Weah. Apexnewsgh reports Mr Foko emphasized that publishing Weah’s asset details without his consent is a violation of privacy and illegal. The source of the leak remains unknown, raising concerns among lawmakers who have summoned key officials from the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) to provide insights during a scheduled appearance on Tuesday. During his tenure, Weah faced numerous allegations of corruption, tarnishing his reputation as the country’s leader. Following Weah’s exit from office, President Joseph Boakai, who emerged victorious in the November elections, publicly disclosed his assets in February. Boakai has pledged to combat corruption and restore transparency in governance, signaling a shift towards accountability in the administration. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062
Russian military instructors arrive in Niger to train army
Russian military instructors have arrived in Niger to train the national army, as Moscow continues to bolster its influence in the troubled Sahel region of West Africa. The military specialists, who arrived in Niger’s capital, Niamey on Wednesday, were seen unloading gear from a cargo plane. “We are here to train the Nigerien army …[and] to develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger,” one of the instructors told Niger state TV RTN. The military instructors are also bringing an air defence system, according to the broadcaster. Their arrival followed a recent agreement between Niger’s junta and Russia to boost security cooperation. The West African country has pivoted towards Moscow since the junta seized power in a coup last year. It has broken off long-standing military and diplomatic ties with France and, like neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, is turning to Russia for support in beating back a jihadist insurgency. Source: BBC
Vietnamese businesswoman sentenced to death in bank fraud trial
In a stunning turn of events, a 67-year-old Vietnamese property developer was sentenced to death for a bank fraud that shook the nation. Apexnewsgh reports Truong My Lan was found guilty of looting Saigon Commercial Bank of $44 billion over 11 years, making up 93% of the bank’s lending. This rare verdict showcases a stern message against corruption in Vietnam. The communist authorities left no stone unturned, marshalling 2700 witnesses, 10 prosecutors, and 200 lawyers during the trial, which saw a total of 85 defendants, including Truong My Lan. This trial marks the pinnacle of the anti-corruption campaign led by Communist Party Secretary-General Nguyen Phu Trong. With two presidents and two deputy prime ministers already forced out due to the campaign, Truong My Lan’s case has raised eyebrows due to its sheer scale and audacity. Starting as a market stall vendor, Truong My Lan amassed a vast fortune by owning hotels and restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, positioning herself as a significant player in the city’s business scene. By manipulating Saigon Commercial Bank through proxy companies and bribes, she was able to exploit the system for over a decade. The case sheds light on the endemic corruption within Vietnam’s business and political landscape, revealing a nexus between powerful figures and business magnates who exploit state-owned resources for personal gain. While Truong My Lan’s fate has been sealed with the death penalty, the broader implications of her case on Vietnam’s economic and political future remain murky. As the authorities strive to stamp out corruption, there are fears that economic growth might suffer in the process, posing a dilemma for the country’s leadership. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo Calls for Restructuring of Nigeria
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed his support for the restructuring of Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of addressing the wrong systems of administration in the country. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at the public presentation of the book ‘In Brotherhood We Stand: A Roadmap for the Rebirth of a Fragmented Nation’ written by Engr. Chris Okoye in Enugu, Obasanjo highlighted the detrimental effects of bad governance on a nation. During the event held at Immanuel Gardens in Enugu, Obasanjo, who chaired the occasion, noted that Nigeria has struggled with various forms of bad governance over the years. He emphasized the need for a reassessment of the terms of the nation’s union and called for a focus on restructuring to address the structural defects that have hindered democratic values and practices in the country. Obasanjo emphasized the direct correlation between economic and political reforms, stating that a wrong system of administration can undermine the economic viability of a nation. He urged for a constitution-making process that includes grassroots participation to ensure inclusivity, popular participation, ownership, and legitimacy in governance. The former President also highlighted the challenges inherited from the colonial administration, which continue to impact the country’s development. He stressed the importance of addressing these historical contradictions through political reforms to pave the way for a more functional and democratic Nigeria. In conclusion, Obasanjo’s call for restructuring resonates with the growing sentiment among Nigerians for a more inclusive and transparent governance system that reflects the needs and aspirations of all citizens. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Massive shake up in Police Internal Affairs Unit
Boniface Maingi, the director of Kenya Police Reforms, has been named as the new director of the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) on Monday. Apexnewsgh reports Maingi takes over from Judy Jebet Ndeda, who has been recalled to police headquarters for redeployment after serving in the position since December 1, 2023. The Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome, announced the changes, including the transfer of several officers from Ndeda’s office. Maingi, a seasoned officer who previously served as the director of personnel at police headquarters, will now lead the IAU. In addition to these changes, Koome disbanded an anti-terror unit that was previously based in his office, sending officers to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations. The IAU is currently handling multiple cases involving police officers and working to ensure discipline and professionalism within the service. A recent report by the task force on police reforms recommended amendments to the National Police Service Act to clarify the mandate of the IAU Director, ensure competitive recruitment, and decentralize the unit’s functions. The report also called for a focus on disciplinary offenses rather than criminal matters that fall under the jurisdiction of the DCI and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority. The IAU is responsible for receiving and investigating complaints against police, promoting discipline and good order within the service, and recommending appropriate action for unlawful conduct. With dozens of complaints currently under investigation, including allegations of extra-judicial killings, Maingi’s leadership will be crucial in promoting accountability and professional standards within the Kenya Police Service. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com