-
As the holiday shopping season progresses, scams are surging globally, with authorities warning consumers to remain vigilant. Reports indicate that scammers are employing sophisticated tactics, including fake websites and phishing messages, to exploit shoppers eager for deals. Major tech companies and cybersecurity firms are ramping up efforts to combat these threats.
-
An explosion at a music festival in Umphang, Thailand, resulted in three fatalities and at least 48 injuries. The incident occurred just before midnight on December 13, 2024, when a homemade bomb was thrown into the crowd. Two suspects are in custody as investigations continue.
-
A recent Gallup poll reveals that confidence in the U.S. judicial system has dropped to 35%, a 24-point decline over four years. This decline sets the U.S. apart from other wealthy nations, where judicial trust remains relatively stable. Factors include political turmoil and high-profile legal cases involving Donald Trump.
-
In a tragic incident in West Valley City, Utah, a mother and three children were found dead in an apparent murder-suicide. The father, believed to be the shooter, also died, while a teenage son survived with severe injuries. This marks the 38th mass killing in the U.S. in 2024.
-
On January 4, 2025, Myanmar's military junta announced the release of 5,864 prisoners, including 180 foreigners, as part of an annual amnesty for Independence Day. However, the release included only a small number of political detainees, with notable absences like Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains imprisoned under controversial charges.
-
The Arakan Army has captured a key military headquarters in Myanmar's Rakhine state, marking a significant setback for the military junta amid ongoing civil conflict. This victory follows a series of territorial gains by the rebel group, which seeks autonomy from the central government. The situation raises concerns about regional stability and humanitarian crises.
-
On December 19, 2024, Sri Lankan authorities rescued a boat carrying Rohingya refugees, including 25 children and 30 women, off the northern coast. The group, believed to be fleeing Myanmar, received medical care and food after being escorted to a naval base. Communication difficulties hindered the identification of the refugees.
-
Over 300 Rohingya refugees have arrived in East Aceh, Indonesia, prompting local authorities to coordinate with the U.N. refugee agency for their safety. This influx follows a significant rise in Rohingya attempting to leave overcrowded camps in Bangladesh, where many have lived since fleeing Myanmar's violence in 2017.
-
Lim Kimya, a former Cambodian opposition MP and dual French citizen, was shot dead in Bangkok on January 7, 2025. The incident occurred as he arrived from Siem Reap, prompting a manhunt for the assailant. The French government has called for a thorough investigation into the assassination.