Cultural capital of the UAE and a major Gulf port city
The UAE is containing an offshore oil spill from the GEM No. 2 tanker. Beaches across Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah have been closed as a precaution while teams monitor pollution, conduct environmental assessments and restore operations. Odors are not posing health risks, and drinking water supplies remain unaffected.
Satellite images show an oil spill from the Gem No.2 tanker widening along the northern UAE coast, prompting beach closures in Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah as authorities contain the slick and monitor environmental impact.
Kenyan and regional security services have disrupted a narcotics trafficking network along the coast. Three suspects have been arrested in Kwale and Msambweni, with more investigations under way. Authorities are pursuing financiers and organisers amid ongoing seizures that have connected coast operations to larger networks.
Bangladesh’s Hridoy has delivered a record 242 not out in the first innings, lifting his side to a 30-run lead over West Indies as rain and bad light interrupt play in Sylhet; Bangladesh’s chase is not yet confirmed as the second day ends.
Satellite monitoring shows 540 oil slicks across the Gulf region, contaminating about 20,000 sq km of sea. Attacks on vessels since February have caused a growing environmental disaster, with beaches reopening in Ras Al-Khaimah but ongoing pollution concerns in multiple emirates. Analysts warn impacts could persist for decades.