QUICKREADS

Who is Michael Vanlentino Teofrasto Carturan? Victim in brutal SoHo torture case is a trader from Turin worth $30m

Wealthy Italian trader Michael Carturan was allegedly tortured and held captive in a SoHo apartment by crypto investor John Woeltz, seeking his Bitcoin password. Carturan escaped, leading to Woeltz's arrest and revealing a shocking cryptocurrency-related kidnapping incident.

How New York turns millions of pounds of food waste into 'black gold'

New York City transforms organic waste like watermelon rinds and pizza boxes into nutrient-rich compost at the Staten Island Compost Facility. This initiative, which processes up to 250 tons of organic material daily, helps improve soil health and reduce landfill methane emissions. The city distributes compost free to residents, schools, and gardens, promoting sustainability and environmental health.

Google, Meta, OpenAI face FTC inquiry on chatbot impact on kids

The FTC has ordered major AI companies, including Google and OpenAI, to provide information on how their chatbots affect children and teens. This inquiry aims to assess safety measures and compliance with regulations against collecting data from minors. The scrutiny follows a lawsuit alleging harm caused by ChatGPT, highlighting growing concerns over AI's impact on youth.

Who is Matthew Dowd? MSNBC analyst fired over 'insensitive' Charlie Kirk remark

MSNBC fired political analyst Matthew Dowd after he suggested Charlie Kirk's "hateful speech" might have contributed to Kirk's assassination, drawing criticism for implying a connection between divisive rhetoric and violent actions.

Who shot Charlie Kirk? Probe reveals key details on attacker, how he fled

A sniper shot and killed right-wing activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Authorities recovered a rifle and are investigating, with over 130 tips received. The suspect, described as college-aged, remains at large. President Trump ordered flags at half-mast and plans to award Kirk a Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Has Charlie Kirk shooter been caught? FBI shares new details on 'college-age' suspect

FBI manhunt continues for college-age suspect who fatally shot conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Authorities recovered the rifle, have over 130 tips, and believe it was a targeted political assassination.

'Assassin jumped off building and...': What FBI said on Charlie Kirk's absconding shooter

FBI investigating targeted shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Shooter, described as college-aged, fled after using a high-powered rifle. Authorities have suspect's images and are confident in tracking them down, with evidence including video footage and footprints.

Netherlands plans to ban imports from Israel's Jewish settlements

The Dutch government plans to ban imports from Jewish settlements in Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories due to Israel's actions in the West Bank and Gaza. This follows previous travel bans on Israeli ministers. Foreign Minister David van Weel announced the decree is being drafted, emphasizing the Netherlands' stance against the legality of these settlements under international law.

What gun was used to shoot Charlie Kirk? FBI says weapon found near UVU amid manhunt for suspect

FBI found a high-powered rifle in woods near Utah Valley University during manhunt for Charlie Kirk's shooter. Authorities discovered shoe impressions and a palm print, suggesting potential evidence in the ongoing investigation of the conservative activist's shooting.

Israel Is Straining Its Hard-Won Ties in the Gulf

Israel's airstrike on Hamas leaders in Qatar has strained its relations with Gulf states, which condemned the attack as a violation of international law. The incident has raised concerns about Israel's military assertiveness and the reliability of U.S. support in the region. Gulf nations are now reevaluating their ties with Israel amid fears of destabilization and domestic pressures regarding Palestinian sympathies.

Nepal's Gen Z takes up brooms, cleaning streets after violent protests

After violent protests in Nepal, Gen Z volunteers mobilized to clean up Parliament and city streets, clearing debris and restoring order. Hundreds of young people used brooms and shovels to sweep away damage, demonstrating civic responsibility and peaceful resolution amid ongoing political tensions.

Nepal unrest: Observers dig into conspiracy theories behind violence and protracted power transfer

As Nepal grapples with political turmoil and the potential formation of a caretaker government, observers note striking parallels with recent upheavals in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Amidst widespread protests against corruption, concerns arise over external influences exacerbating violence, prompting calls for investigations. Analysts emphasize the need for clarity on these dynamics, given Nepal's strategic geopolitical position.

UK fires ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson over his links to Jeffrey Epstein

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has dismissed Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the US due to his past connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This decision follows the release of emails revealing Mandelson's support for Epstein during legal troubles. The controversy raises questions about Starmer's judgment, especially ahead of President Trump's upcoming state visit.

Thaw in India-Canada ties renews interest for more cinematic collaboration

India and Canada are renewing cinematic ties, with Canada set to have a significant presence at the International Film Festival of India in Goa. TIFF's CEO will attend, and 17 Indian films are selected, signaling strengthening cultural and diplomatic relations.

Indian-origin Singapore immigration officer jailed for granting visit passes in exchange for sexual favours

Singapore immigration officer Kannan Jayaram jailed 22 months for corruptly obtaining sexual favours from young foreign applicants in exchange for visit passes, exploiting his position to manipulate visa extensions for sexual gratification.

Kathmandu mayor Balen to Gen Z protesters as Nepal heads for interim govt: ‘Don’t panic, remain patient’

Kathmandu mayor Balen calls for calm as Nepal prepares for interim government, urging Gen Z protesters to remain patient. He supports former chief justice Sushila Karki as potential interim leader, emphasizing peaceful transition amid protests that have left 30 dead.