Crime
Scores killed in Nepal protest over social media ban
At least 10 protesters died and 87 others were injured on Monday during violent clashes with police in Kathmandu, Nepal. Security forces used rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse demonstrators demanding the government lift its ban on social media platforms and address widespread corruption.
The government blocked access to 26 unregistered social media sites, including Facebook, YouTube, and X, starting Friday, sparking public outrage and confusion among millions of users who rely on these platforms for news, entertainment, and business.
Shekhar Khanal, spokesperson for Kathmandu Valley police, confirmed the casualties and said the protests continued despite police efforts to quell them. Many injured protesters were treated at Civil Hospital, where tear gas also affected medical staff.
The demonstrations began peacefully, with protesters waving national flags and singing the anthem before tensions escalated near the parliament area. Protesters breached barriers and even entered the parliament grounds, prompting police to respond with force. Authorities imposed curfews in key parts of the capital, including areas around the parliament and the prime minister’s office.
Similar protests took place in other parts of Nepal as citizens voiced frustrations not only over the social media restrictions but also against entrenched corruption and government authoritarianism.
“We are protesting against corruption that has been institutionalized in Nepal,” said 24-year-old student Yujan Rajbhandari. Another protester, Ikshama Tumrok, 20, called for change, saying the current generation must end the cycle of oppression.
Videos highlighting the stark contrast between ordinary Nepalis’ struggles and politicians’ luxurious lifestyles have gone viral on platforms like TikTok, which remains accessible.
The government had previously given banned companies seven days to register locally and comply with regulations following a Supreme Court order last year. Despite stating its commitment to freedom of expression, Nepal has a history of restricting digital platforms, including a recent ban on Telegram and a temporary ban on TikTok that was lifted after compliance agreements.
The situation remains tense as authorities work to restore order amid ongoing protests.
Crime
Ebonyi: Gunmen Assasinate Another Traditional Ruler
The latest incident brings to five the number of traditional rulers killed in Ebonyi in recent times, deepening concerns over rising insecurity and targeted attacks on community leaders.
• Ebonyi map
Gunmen have assassinated another traditional ruler in Ebonyi State, in what residents describe as a brazen and targeted attacks.
The victim, HRH Eze Jehoshaphat Ikegwu of Ishinkwor community in Onicha Local Government Area, was reportedly shot dead at his private residence after the assailants gained access under the cover of darkness.
Eyewitnesses said that the attackers fired through a window before forcing their way into the building, and killed the monarch in his bedroom in the presence of his wife.
The Chairman of Onicha LGA, Ikechukwu Ogbofia, has condemned the killing as barbaric, confirming that security agencies have launched an investigation.
Police spokesman, SP Joshua Ukandu, also said that the command has commenced a full probe.
The latest incident brings to five the number of traditional rulers killed in Ebonyi in recent times, deepening concerns over rising insecurity and targeted attacks on community leaders.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has received a detailed briefing on the recent deadly attack in Jos, Plateau State, and approved additional security measures to restore lasting peace in the affected areas.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State disclosed this after meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday.
The governor described the Palm Sunday attack in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North, which claimed over a dozen lives and left many injured, as “an act of terrorism.”
He said security forces have since restored calm following fresh disturbances involving looters on Wednesday morning.
“Additional security measures have been approved by the President in conjunction with state security architecture, while investigations continue to unravel the identities and motives of the attackers, who are yet to be fully apprehended,” Governor Mutfwang stated.
The governor also revealed that President Tinubu may visit Plateau State soon to commiserate with victims and affected families.
The meeting followed President Tinubu’s earlier high-level session with top security and intelligence chiefs to review the situation and chart a coordinated response to the violence.
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, on Wednesday arrived at the Federal High Court in Kaduna for the hearing of his bail application in an ongoing alleged corruption trial.
The court premises witnessed a heavy security presence, with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies deployed to maintain order and control access to the facility.
Movement around parts of the court complex is restricted, reflecting heightened public interest and sensitivity surrounding the case.
El-Rufai, who has been in custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), is facing multiple charges, including allegations bordering on money laundering, possession of public property, and related offences.
More details later…
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