Man sentenced to death after driving car into crowd over investment loss

A man who drove a car into a crowd in Changde City, central China’s Hunan Province, was sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve on Monday for endangering public safety by dangerous means.

On November 19, Huang Wen crashed a car into a crowd in Dingcheng District of Changde after the vehicle stopped, he exited the car and continued attacking people, leaving 30 injured, including 18 students.

Changde Intermediate People’s Court found that Mr Huang committed the crime due to investment losses and family conflicts, acting out to vent his frustration.

Plane Crash: Ten people killed, 17 wounded in Brazil

Ten passengers have died, while 17 others on the ground sustained serious injuries in Brazil after a small private plane fell from the sky and crashed into a building in Gramado, Rio Grande do Sul, on Sunday.

According to authorities, the plane which crashed in Gramado at 9:15 a.m., minutes after take off from a nearby airport, was said to be owned and piloted by businessman Luiz Claudio Salgueiro Galeazzi, with those on board believed to be his relatives.

Civil defence officials, in a statement, said the plane conveying the passengers hit the building’s chimney and its second floor before it crashed into a furniture store.

Confirming the casualty figures in a news conference, Governor Eduardo Leite said flight conditions on the day were poor, with the area experiencing rain and fog.

It has not been ascertained if the bad weather was the cause of the crash.

Noting that most of those injured are suffering from smoke inhalation, with two women undergoing treatment for burns, Mr Leite also expressed his condolences.

“We wish to express our solidarity with the families of the passengers on this plane, who unfortunately did not survive a serious accident,” he stated.

Also expressing his condolences, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, on X, said, “I hope that the injured have speedy recovery.

“The air force is investigating the causes of the accident, and the federal government is at the disposal of the state government and local authorities to provide clarification as soon as possible.”

Deranged man burns homeless woman alive on New York subway

A mentally deranged man has been arrested by the New York Police Department (NYPD) for setting ablaze a homeless woman.

The incident occurred on Sunday when the suspect approached the victim on a train car and set her on fire before fleeing the scene.

According to the NYPD, the suspect and victim were riding on a train to the end of the line at Stillwell Avenue in Brooklyn.

Confirming the incident, Jessica Tisch, the NYPD commissioner, explained that the suspect used a lighter to ignite the victim’s clothing, “which became fully engulfed in a matter of seconds.”

Ms Tisch revealed that the police were conducting a routine patrol at the station when they encountered the victim on fire inside a subway car.

“The officers smelled and saw smoke” that prompted them to investigate, leading them to the subway car where they discovered the victim was on fire.

“Unbeknownst to the officers who responded, the suspect had stayed on the scene and was seated on a bench on the platform just outside the train car, and the body-worn cameras on the responding officers produced a very clear detailed look at the killer,” she said.

Ms Tisch added that the suspect appeared calm when initially approached the victim.

She further noted that there was no interaction between the victim and the suspect during the attack, stressing that the police did not believe that the suspect and the victim knew one another.

The person who set the victim on fire appeared to retreat from the train car, sit on a bench at the station, and watch as the victim stood and burned, according to the police.

The police, however, added that body cameras and surveillance images were key to apprehending the suspect

U.S. court sentences Tunde Ayeni to 10 years for internet fraud with $20 million restitution to victims

The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Alabama has sentenced Babatunde Ayeni to 10 years’ imprisonment and ordered him to pay approximately $20 million to victims of his scam, court filings obtained by Peoples Gazette showed.

Mr Ayeni, an internet fraudster, pleaded guilty to the fraud charge, leading the judge to hand him a 120-month sentence.

Although Mr Ayeni had stopped scamming people since April 2019, U.S. judge Terry Moorer on October 31 ordered him to pay $19,599,969 million as restitution to all the individuals and entities he defrauded.

The court waived the interest required on the restitution for Mr Ayeni, having determined that he “lacked the ability to pay.”

Mr Ayeni was asked to pay the restitution alongside co-conspirators Feyisayo Oyindola Oginsanwo and Yusuf Olasunkanmi Lasisi.

The U.S. immigration authority will determine whether Mr Ayeni will be deported immediately after serving his sentence or if he will be allowed to stay in America under three years of supervised release with stringent rules.

Mr Ayeni’s prosecution for fraud on foreign soil adds to a long list of Nigerians who have been jailed by various U.S. courts including Bola Bobo Chicago, Ray Hushpuppi, Mr Woodberry and so on.

Among the list of Nigerian fraudsters convicted in the U.S. was also Abidemi Rufai, an ally of Ogun governor Dapo Abiodun but was released last month.

Peter Obi condemns police’s demand for permits before philanthropists share food to crowd

Former Governor Peter Obi has faulted some of the restrictions placed on palliative distribution by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, following recent tragic stampedes in some parts of the country.

Mr Egbetokun warned against unorganised palliatives distribution and funfair after the stampedes resulted in the deaths of over 70 Nigerians, including children.

The IGP called on government officials, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations to work collaboratively towards establishing a comprehensive and organized framework for distributing palliatives.

Reacting in a post on X on Monday, Mr Obi described some of the restrictions by the IGP as troubling, saying “they would stifle spirit of compassion and generosity among Nigerians.”

“Even though the directive is a timely response to the series of tragedies recorded across the country recently, and the IG’s honest reaction to the challenges of the prevailing economic hardship, it’s open to abuse,” Mr Obi explained. “It is capable of discouraging citizens from helping the hungry and distressed among us.”

He added, “While I understand the need for better organisation and more attention to public safety, it is important to clarify that acts of goodwill should not be hindered by excessive bureaucracy.”

The former governor, however, lauded the prompt reaction of the police on the development, stressing the need for proper coordination in distribution of palliatives.

“Rather than requiring people to seek permission to assist those in need, we should encourage them to find better, more organised ways to offer such help,” Mr Obi stressed. “The focus should be on promoting coordination, not imposing barriers that could deter much-needed acts of kindness in a time of widespread hunger, pain, and anger.”

Mr Obi further tasked the Tinubu-led administration to address endemic poverty and starvation in the land, urging the IGP Egbetokun to review the restrictions.

“The government must also do more to address the root causes of this hardship, providing lasting solutions rather than creating obstacles for those stepping in to fill the gaps created by government’s insensitive policies,” Mr Obi suggested. “I urge the IGP to immediately review this directive and ensure that the police fosters collaboration and support, not division and discouragement, in our shared quest to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.”

New York police chief, Maddrey resigns amid s*x harassment allegations

The New York Police Department, NYPD’s, highest-ranking uniformed police officer, Jeffrey Maddrey, has resigned.

Maddrey, who is the Chief of Department, resigned abruptly on Friday amid bombshell allegations he demanded s*xual favours from his subordinates on the force.

Fox News reports that the sudden resignation of Maddrey came just hours before Lt. Quathisha Epps filed a s*xual harassment complaint against him with the state Division of Human Rights.

Epps holds an administrative post in Maddrey’s office.

Epps claims Maddrey “engaged in a quid pro quo s*xual harassment” by coercing her into performing unwanted sexual favors in exchange for overtime opportunities in the workplace.

According to the complaint, Maddrey forced Epps to “take care” of another female officer, “to subject that officer to unwanted sxual advances and conduct, including sxual intercourse, within the workplace.”

In addition, Epps also accuses Maddrey of maintaining an inappropriate s*xual relationship with another female detective.

The NYPD said in a press release on Saturday that the NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell had taken the position of interim chief of department.

“Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch accepted the resignation of Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey Friday night, effective immediately,” an NYPD spokesperson said via email. “The NYPD takes all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously and will thoroughly investigate this matter.”

Earlier this week, Epps made headlines, when the New York Post, citing payroll records, disclosed that she earned a whopping $400,000, including roughly $204,000 in overtime alone last year, for her administrative job in Maddrey’s office.

She claimed in the filing that Maddrey cooked her overtime figures in October after she started rejecting his advances.

She said that led to a criminal and internal investigation against her in retaliation.

Jimoh Abdulquadri: IGP visits family of deceased detainee

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday visited the family of the late Jimoh Abdulquadri, who died in police custody in Kwara State on Friday, December 20, 2024.

In response to the incident, the IGP directed the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) to immediately take over the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Abdulquadri’s death.

Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated, “In a show of commitment to justice and accountability, the IGP visited Kwara State today, Sunday, December 22, 2024, where he met with the bereaved family of the deceased.”

The IGP was received by the Balogun Fulani of Ilorin, Alhaji Sadiq Atiku Fulani, who spoke on behalf of the family during the visit.

The visit underscores the police leadership’s resolve to ensure transparency and accountability in the matter.

“During the meeting, the IGP expressed his profound condolences and assured the family that no stone would be left unturned in uncovering the circumstances that led to the tragic incident.

“The IGP has ordered the FCID to handle the case with utmost diligence and ensure a conclusive and impartial investigation. He further reassured the family and the general public that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding the highest standards of accountability, professionalism, and respect for human rights.

“While reiterating the Force’s zero-tolerance stance on unprofessional conduct among its personnel, the IGP called on all stakeholders to remain calm and allow the due process of law to prevail.”

FG declares December 25, 26, and January 1 public holidays

The Federal Government has declared Wednesday 25th, Thursday 26th December 2024, and Wednesday 1st January, 2025 as Public Holidays to celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year respectively.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government.

The Minister in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Magdalene Ajani extended warm greetings to all Nigerians.

He called on Nigerians to use the festive period to reflect on the values of love, peace, and unity that the season signifies.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasised the importance of the season as a time to foster harmony and strengthen bonds across families and communities.

The Minister also called on Nigerians to remain committed to the peace, unity and progress of the nation for national development.

“The Christmas season is a good moment for both spiritual reflection and national renewal. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, let us demonstrate kindness and extend goodwill to one another, irrespective of our differences,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo said.

He assured citizens of the government continued commitment to ensuring peace, security, and prosperity across the nation.

While wishing Nigerians a merry Christmas and a prosperous 2025, the Minister expressed his confidence in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration ushering in the new year, a better and prosperous economy that will be the envy of the world.

Trump promises to end ‘transgender lunacy’

President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday pledged to “stop the transgender lunacy” on day one of his presidency, as Republicans — set to control both chambers of Congress and the White House — continue their push against LGBTQ rights.

“I will sign executive orders to end child sexual mutilation, get transgender out of the military and out of our elementary schools and middle schools and high schools,” the president-elect said at an event for young conservatives in Phoenix, Arizona.

He also vowed to “keep men out of women’s sports,” adding that “it will be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders, male and female.”

Speaking to the AmericaFest conference in one of the battleground states he carried in the November election, Trump further promised tough measures against “migrant crime” and doubled down on his vows to restore US control of the Panama Canal.

Transgender issues have roiled US politics in recent years, as Democratic- and Republican-controlled states have moved in opposite directions on policies such as medical treatment and what books on the topic are allowed in public or school libraries.

Last week, when the US Congress approved its annual defense budget, it included a provision to block funding of some gender-affirming care for the transgender children of service members.

In his speech Sunday, which amounted to something of a victory lap, Trump made expansive promises for his second term — and drew a dark picture of the four years preceding it, under President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, the latter of whom he defeated in the 2024 election.

“On January 20, the United States will turn the page forever on four long, horrible years of failure, incompetence, national decline, and we will inaugurate a new era of peace, prosperity and national greatness,” Trump said, referring to his swearing-in.

Katsina government opens school for orphans, others

Katsina State Governor, Mallam Dikko Radda, has inaugurated the Magnet Academy Al-Huda, a specialised educational institution designed for orphans and vulnerable children.

The academy was established by the Islamic Ummah Relief organisation in Katsina.

Speaking at the inauguration on Saturday, Governor Radda highlighted the spiritual and social significance of supporting orphans, stating, “Such acts of compassion attract divine mercy and blessings.”

The governor, in a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary , Ibrahim Mohammed, urged the Muslim Ummah to embrace a spirit of sacrifice aimed at bringing joy to the lives of orphans.

“The governor expressed particular satisfaction with the school’s infrastructure and facilities, noting that they meet high standards comparable to leading private institutions across Nigeria,” the statement read.

Radda also thanked the Chairman of Islamic Ummah Relief USA, Zaharaddeen Ibrahim, for selecting Katsina State for this impactful educational initiative.

He pledged both personal and governmental support to ensure the school’s success and continued development.

The state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Zainab Musawa, lauded the project, calling it “a source of pride for the Muslim community” and encouraging others to emulate such charitable efforts for the less privileged.

The guest speaker, Alhaji Kabiru Kadiri English, the Sarkin Hausawa of Ghana, revealed that the project was funded through international donations from countries including the USA, UK, Australia, Uganda, Nigeria, and Niger Republic.

In his address, the Chairman of Islamic Ummah Relief USA, Zaharaddeen Ibrahim, outlined plans for the academy’s growth, stating, “We are starting with nursery and primary sections, but secondary education facilities are already under construction.”

He further announced that high-performing students would be sponsored for international studies.

Lagos 72-hour shopping festival begins today

The Lagos State Government’s 72-hour non-stop shopping extravaganza will begin today (Monday).

The event, known as Lagos State Shopping Festival, will take place at the iconic Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

The Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Idris Aregbe, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.

The shopping festival is being organised by Lagos Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in partnership with Chain Reaction Ltd.

“The Lagos Shopping Festival will feature over 500 vendors, representing a vibrant mix of local artisans and internationally-renowned brands.

“It will offer a wide array of products, including fashion, electronics, beauty items, home decor, gourmet food, and more.

“Whether you are looking for perfect holiday gifts, latest gadgets or unique fashion, you will discover something special at every turn,” he said.

The government official said the festival would play a pivotal role in promoting the fashion and retail sectors, showcasing not only the latest trends in apparel and accessories but also celebrating the artistry and craftsmanship of local artisans.

“We also aim to elevate this initiative by connecting small businesses and established brands to global markets and, at the same time, use entertainment and music to drive trade,” Aregbe said.

Aregbe added that the festival would offer an unmatched shopping experience for locals and tourists.

“Beyond shopping, the festival will also provide a dynamic and exciting atmosphere with live performances, entertainment, food stalls, and much more.

“The Lagos Shopping Festival is more than just a shopping event; it is a celebration of Lagos State’s vibrant culture, creativity and commerce,” he said.

Suspected Ogun ritualist arrested with fresh human head

The Ogun State Police Command on Sunday said that its operatives had arrested one Taiwo Yemitan, a suspected ritualist, found with a fresh human head and dismembered body parts of a female victim in the Lafenwa area of Abeokuta.

The command’s spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Omolola Odutola, disclosed this in a statement in Abeokuta.

Odutola explained that the 45-year-old suspect was arrested at 1:40 am on Sunday in his home behind the Atinsola petrol station, Sanni, in Abeokuta.

She disclosed that the police acted on a tip-off from the state local security outfits, the Agbekoya and the vigilante operatives, before the suspect was arrested.

Odutola said, “The suspect admitted to knowing the deceased identified as Darasimi, who he lured to his residence with the intent to kill her.

“He confessed to the murder, naming two other individuals, Kehinde Yemitan and one Kazeem, the second name unknown as an accomplice in the criminal act.

“They intended to sell the victim’s head and other body parts”.

The police spokesperson explained that the dismembered body had been taken to the General Hospital, Ijaye, Abeokuta morgue for a post-mortem examination.

She noted that efforts were underway to arrest the accomplice and to locate the victim’s relatives.

Odutola added that the suspect would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Eleweran, Abeokuta for a thorough investigation.

She said a similar incident occurred early in the year where a suspect, Azeez Adebayo, confessed to killing three ladies that he and his accomplice lured through hook-up arrangements.

According to the police spokesperson, Adebayo and his syndicate confessed that they lured young beautiful ladies from a hook-up site called “MY CHAT”, by enticing them with juicy amounts of money.

After bargaining and negotiating on a price, the ladies would follow up by visiting the indicated address given to them, and the journey eventually led to their untimely death.

Odutola warned young ladies to stop “hookup” and be contended, saying that a high number of girls on “hook-up” are slaughtered for rituals.

Suspected Ogun ritualist arrested with fresh human head

The Ogun State Police Command on Sunday said that its operatives had arrested one Taiwo Yemitan, a suspected ritualist, found with a fresh human head and dismembered body parts of a female victim in the Lafenwa area of Abeokuta.

The command’s spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Omolola Odutola, disclosed this in a statement in Abeokuta.

Odutola explained that the 45-year-old suspect was arrested at 1:40 am on Sunday in his home behind the Atinsola petrol station, Sanni, in Abeokuta.

She disclosed that the police acted on a tip-off from the state local security outfits, the Agbekoya and the vigilante operatives, before the suspect was arrested.

Odutola said, “The suspect admitted to knowing the deceased identified as Darasimi, who he lured to his residence with the intent to kill her.

“He confessed to the murder, naming two other individuals, Kehinde Yemitan and one Kazeem, the second name unknown as an accomplice in the criminal act.

“They intended to sell the victim’s head and other body parts”.

The police spokesperson explained that the dismembered body had been taken to the General Hospital, Ijaye, Abeokuta morgue for a post-mortem examination.

She noted that efforts were underway to arrest the accomplice and to locate the victim’s relatives.

Odutola added that the suspect would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Eleweran, Abeokuta for a thorough investigation.

She said a similar incident occurred early in the year where a suspect, Azeez Adebayo, confessed to killing three ladies that he and his accomplice lured through hook-up arrangements.

According to the police spokesperson, Adebayo and his syndicate confessed that they lured young beautiful ladies from a hook-up site called “MY CHAT”, by enticing them with juicy amounts of money.

After bargaining and negotiating on a price, the ladies would follow up by visiting the indicated address given to them, and the journey eventually led to their untimely death.

Odutola warned young ladies to stop “hookup” and be contended, saying that a high number of girls on “hook-up” are slaughtered for rituals.

Tinubu mourns the passing of retired Justice Argungu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Supreme Court Justice Uthman Muhammad Argungu, describing his passing as a significant loss to both the nation and himself personally.

Justice Argungu passed away at the age of 90 and was laid to rest on Sunday in Argungu, Kebbi State, in accordance with Islamic rites.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised the late jurist as a paragon of integrity and dedication who devoted his life to the service of humanity and Nigeria.

“Justice Uthman Argungu was not just a towering figure in Nigeria’s judiciary but also a cherished associate and mentor. His legacy of unwavering commitment to justice and public service will forever remain a source of inspiration,” the statement said.

Justice Argungu’s distinguished career spanned decades, beginning as a teacher in the old Sokoto Province before he was called to the bar in 1965.

He rose to prominence in the judiciary, eventually being appointed to the Supreme Court in 1993.

His expertise and influence transcended national borders, as he also served as a visiting justice on the Supreme Court of the Gambia.

President Tinubu recalled Justice Argungu’s selfless contributions to national development, noting his role in shaping the legal landscape of Nigeria.

“His immense contributions to the judiciary have left an indelible mark on the nation. We have lost a statesman of rare caliber,” the statement said.

In addition to offering prayers for the repose of Justice Argungu’s soul, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the late jurist’s family, the government, and the people of Kebbi State.

He assured them of the nation’s solidarity during this period of mourning.

Stampede: Ondo government warns event organisers, issues crowd control directives

Ondo state government has issued series of directives aimed at regulating public gatherings and ensuring the protection of lives and property during events.

The directives was in response to tragedies that occurred in various parts of the country when almost 100 persons have been killed during stampede.

Ondo Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, issued the directives based on powers vested in the Attorney General under Section 195 of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), Sections 62 and 95 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Ondo State 2015, and Sections 2 and 4 of the Nigeria Police Act 2020.

Ajulo said the series of directives outlined improved crowd control measures and documented in Directive No. 01-1224.

He said the guidelines prioritized public safety even as it respected citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly.

The Attorney-General warned that any violations of the directives might result to legal action against the organizers or participants.

Dr. Ajulo explained that the directives also called for enhanced collaboration between event organizers, law enforcement agencies, and local government authorities.

He said the measures were designed to protect lives and property and urged ull compliance from all parties involved.

“These crowd control measures are a testament to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to fostering a secure environment for public gatherings in Ondo State. Stakeholders are advised to familiarize themselves with the directives to avoid legal repercussions and contribute to a safer society,” Ajulo concluded.

The directives stressed the importance of proactive measures, such as communication protocols, venue accessibility, use of drones, CCTV, availability of security personnel amongst others.

Trump nominates Apprentice producer Mark Burnett as UK envoy

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated TV producer Mark Burnett as a special envoy to the United Kingdom.

Announcing the appointment on Truth Social, Mr Trump praised Mr Burnett’s career and potential to foster stronger ties between the UK and the U.S.

“With a distinguished career in television production and business, Mark brings a unique blend of diplomatic acumen and international recognition to this important role,” Mr Trump stated.

Mr Burnett, 64, is a household name in entertainment, credited with producing some of the most successful reality television shows, including ‘Survivor’, ‘Shark Tank’, ‘The Voice’, and ‘The Apprentice’.

His partnership with Mr Trump on the latter show, which aired from 2004 to 2017, propelled both men to global fame.

A former MGM Television and Digital Group chairman, Mr Burnett’s career spans over three decades and includes 13 Emmy Awards.

Beyond television, he has been recognised as an innovator blending entertainment with business strategy.

In his new role, Mr Burnett will focus on strengthening trade and investment relations between the two countries and promoting cultural exchanges.

Mr Trump emphasised that Mr Burnett’s international profile and understanding of global markets make him uniquely qualified for the position.

Abuja Deadly Stampede: FCT minister orders free treatment for victims

Federal Capital Territory minister Nyesom Wike has directed government hospitals to provide free treatment to the people who sustained injuries during a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja.

Mr Wike gave the directive in a statement on Saturday.

No fewer than 10 people, including children, lost their lives while 10 others sustained injuries in the stampede during the distribution of food items to less privileged and the elderly by the church.

The sad incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. on Saturday.

Mr Wike said the FCT Administration would ensure that the injured received adequate medical attention.

The minister, who commiserated with the victims, also directed that henceforth, police permission should be obtained by individuals or organisations planning public distribution of palliatives, either food items or cash.

Describing the incident as “painful,” Mr Wike prayed for the repose of the souls of the lives that were lost and fortitude for their families to bear the irreparable loss.

He commended the police and other security agencies for their prompt intervention.

Meanwhile, the police have ordered organisations, religious bodies, groups, or individuals to notify the police when planning public events, charitable activities, or large gatherings in the territory.

In a statement by FCT spokeswoman Josephine Adeh, the police said failure to comply with the directive will result in the organisers being held liable for any incident or loss of life resulting from negligence.

Fury fails in revenge mission against Usyk

Tyson Fury’s mission to avenge his only professional defeat ended in crushing disappointment Saturday evening as he lost on a unanimous points decision to unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.

Another classic encounter between the well-matched rivals ended in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with Usyk retaining his world championship belts by finishing 116-112 ahead on all three judges’ scorecards.

The Ukrainian thus continues to hold the titles of the World Boxing Council (WBC), World Boxing Association (WBA), and World Boxing Organisation (WBO).

The result was a fair reflection of the Ukrainian’s control of the rematch, given he set the pace for most of the 12 rounds. He was the harder worker, landing more frequently and with greater impact.

Fury described his grim-faced demeanour this week as “beast mode,” while his greater focus was evident on a night when there was no showboating.

Simply, he was unable to make a dent in the extraordinary Usyk.

Usyk’s performance confirmed his status as an all-time great, and the 37-year-old will now look to become undisputed champion for the second time.

This will be by toppling International Boxing Federation (IBF) champion Daniel Dubois.

Fury entered the fight at a fully-clothed 20stones 1lbs, almost four stones heavier than Usyk.

From the start, he took to the centre of the ring, showing more intent to carry the fight to his opponent. Towering over the champion, the Briton spat out his jab, but he also took shots at the body.

By the second round, he was stalked around the ring by Usyk, which was a theme of the first fight. Usyk was setting the pace, but both fighters landed at a lively start to the clash, with Fury’s jab causing problems.

Usyk connected with two big left hands in a fourth round that ebbed and flowed, and as the fight approached the halfway stage, it was desperately close.

Fury staggered the Ukrainian with a short left uppercut and, having taken a flurry of blows to his body, he hit back with intent. Unlike their first meeting, in which the Briton suffered the first loss of his career, there was no grandstanding from the challenger.

The fifth was the Gypsy King’s best round yet as he imposed his size and power, all while working behind his pinpoint jab.

But he was caught several times in the sixth.

Fury’s output began to drop, and he was being driven backwards with Usyk’s left hand, which gave him plenty of problems. It was relentless pressure from Usyk, who put together a lovely sequence of shots in the eighth and finished the three minutes by backing Fury up against the ropes.

The ninth round was the turning point in May when the bell saved 36-year-old Fury.

While those dramatics were missing this time, Usyk showed a similar purpose as he continued building momentum. He swarmed over the bigger man in the 10th and took shots himself.

As the last two rounds arrived, it was Fury who needed to do something special to catch the judges’ eyes.

A storming final round saw the rivals exchange blows, each having their moments in a high-quality finish full of courage and skill.
Once again the judges were called upon to separate the two and there could be no complaints.

Usyk emerged a conclusive winner on each card to continue his reign as the division’s dominant force.

Six men indicted in U.S. for stealing restaurant cooking oil

U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Guodeng Chen, Didi Huang, Fangfang Yan, all of Pittsford, NY, Ruimao Yang, Yan Han, and Wen Xiao Zhang, all of New York, NY, with conspiracy to transport and sell stolen goods in interstate commerce, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

Defendants Chen, Huang, and Yan are also charged with transportation and sale of stolen goods in interstate commerce, which carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, the defendants conspired to commit a series of thefts of used cooking oil, which can be refined into biodiesel fuel and re-sold for $4.00 to $5.00 per gallon, from numerous restaurants within and around Monroe County.

Defendants Yang, Han, and Zhang drove trucks to restaurants and Zhang stole used cooking oil from oil collection tanks located outside of those restaurants.

The defendants then delivered the stolen cooking oil to Chen, Huang, and Yan at a warehouse. Han worked in the warehouse and assisted in the collection and storage of the stolen cooking oil. Chen, Huang, and Yan subsequently sold the stolen cooking oil to a broker and caused the stolen cooking oil to be transported across state lines to a refinery located in Pennsylvania.

On April 8 2022, Chen, Huang, and Yan caused approximately 45,000 pounds of stolen, used cooking oil to be transported from the Western District of New York to Erie, Pennsylvania, receiving more than $5,000 for the shipment.

On April 28, 2022, Chen, Huang, and Yan caused another approximately 45,000 pounds of stolen, used cooking oil to be shipped from the Western District of New York to Erie, Pennsylvania, again receiving more than $5,000 for this shipment.

The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Harry Chavis, Acting Executive Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Office.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

U.S. lawmaker who went missing for six months found in dementia care facility

U.S. lawmaker Kay Granger, who went missing for over six months, has been found in the memory care facility, Dallas Express reported.

Ms Granger, 81, was set to end a nearly 30-year career in the House in January. She has not visited her office for the past six months nor been on record voting for or against any matters in the House since July.

“We then received a tip from a Granger constituent who shared that the Congresswoman has been residing at a local memory care and assisted living home for some time after having been found wandering lost and confused in her former Cultural District/West 7th neighbourhood,” the report said.

It added, “The Dallas Express team visited the facility to confirm whether Granger was residing there and to inquire about how she planned to vote on the spending bill. Upon arrival, two employees confirmed that Granger is indeed living at the facility.

“However, we were not permitted to conduct an interview regarding the current spending debate in the House of Representatives and how or if Ms Granger planned to vote.”

Local officials were furious to discover Ms Granger’s absence with a month remaining to complete her term and important votes still taking place in Washington on a daily basis.

The U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, on Saturday, passed a short-term government funding bill minutes after the deadline to avert a government shutdown following two previous failed attempts.

Tarrant County GOP chair Bo French described Ms Granger’s absence as troubling, citing implications for her district.

Another Republican Committeeman in her district, Rolando Garcia, expressed utter disappointment in Ms Granger, tagging her absence as a “sad and humiliating way to end her political career.”

Ms Granger has been serving as the U.S. representative for Texas’s 12th congressional district since 1997. She is a member of the Republican Party and was chair of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations until 2024.