Sunday, May 31, 2020
Interviewing Nick Chao about his latest song "American Gothic"
Sorry that this episode is published late. We are going to have to figure out a new schedule, since I got a new job. This episode is the interview that I have been looking forward to since the beginning of the podcast. We talk about the following topics: Amazon in Advanced Talks to Buy Self-Driving-Car Tech Company Zoox, Apple acquires machine learning startup Inductiv Inc. to improve Siri data, and Scientists built a bionic eye that could give blind people sight; furthermore, Trevor peppers the podcast with the following more fun topics: Boys let black widow bite them in hopes of turning into Spider-Man, Pokemon Reveals Giant Lapras Pool Float, and Genius Bees Force Plants to Bloom by Biting Them.
Friday, May 22, 2020
Microsoft embraces open source
Nick joined us today for the Very Hicken Bros. podcast! We discuss the following topics: (Click this link to go to the podcast).
- Tokenized cassette tape by Grammy winner DJ RAC launches on new Ethereum-based marketplace Zora
- Sony’s first AI image sensor will make cameras everywhere smarter, Twitter is testing a way to let you limit replies to your tweets
- SnapChat
- Jon Prosser Reveals Exclusive Info About Apple’s Upcoming AR Glasses ‘Apple Glass’
- China’s beloved QR code may make a global comeback through Apple
- Google's 'smart braid' wire lets users control audio with a squeeze or twist
- Intel is acquiring the company behind Killer gaming networking cards, Apple bolsters virtual-reality capabilities with NextVR purchase
- Apple and Valve Reportedly Team Up on AR/VR Headset Project
- The New Windows Terminal Is Ready; Here's Why It's Amazing
- Microsoft is bringing Linux GUI apps to Windows 10
Nick gave us one of his songs that he composed, and we are going to interview him about it! I have been waiting for this basically since the beginning of the podcast. It is a song to put on repeat.
Wednesday, May 20, 2020
The Last Daily World News Report of the 5th of May 2020
Six Venezuelan people and two American Silvercorp security services members were captured in Venezuela over the weekend. President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela called it a coup attempt as, the Florida based company, Silvercorp called it "Operation Gideon", “an operation to infiltrate Venezuela.” President Maduro accused Colombia of the “mercenary operation” on Sunday, but President Ivan Duque of Colombia denied any involvement on Monday. U.S. “President Donald Trump on Tuesday denied US involvement in the incident;” furthermore, “Juan Guaido -- the opposition leader who is recognized by the US and more than 50 countries as Venezuela's interim president -- denied any connection to Silvercorp on Monday, and called for the human rights of those captured to be respected, Reuters reported.”
Silvercorp confirmed that “Airan Berry and Luke Denman, whose names match those on the Silvercorp IDs displayed by Maduro,” are their security servicemen, and CNN has contacted Luke Denman’s family, who revealed that no correspondence has been made with them from the government or Silvercorp.[1]
Israel engages Syria's civil war front
Israel has been targeting Iran sites in north Syria recently. The fifth in two weeks was an intercepted missile attack in Aleppo on a research center and military base on Monday. Syria also reported earlier in day that a barracks was hit in the east Aleppo town of Safira, targeting another research center. A third Israeli attack was reported late yesterday night by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which is Britain-based. Fourteen Iranian and Iraqi fighters were killed in Deir el-Zour, a large city in east Syria in that attack.[2]
[1] Dominguez, Claudia. “Venezuela claims to have captured two Americans involved in failed invasion.” CNN. 5 May 2020, https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/05/americas/venezuela-maduro-americans-failed-invasion-intl/.
[2] Khoury , Jack. “Syrian Army Says Israeli Jets Hit Research Center, Military Outposts in Aleppo Province.” Haaretz, Reuters, 5 May 2020, https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/syria/syrian-air-defenses-thwart-israeli-missile-attack-in-aleppo-state-media-reports-1.8820538.
Silvercorp confirmed that “Airan Berry and Luke Denman, whose names match those on the Silvercorp IDs displayed by Maduro,” are their security servicemen, and CNN has contacted Luke Denman’s family, who revealed that no correspondence has been made with them from the government or Silvercorp.[1]
Israel engages Syria's civil war front
Israel has been targeting Iran sites in north Syria recently. The fifth in two weeks was an intercepted missile attack in Aleppo on a research center and military base on Monday. Syria also reported earlier in day that a barracks was hit in the east Aleppo town of Safira, targeting another research center. A third Israeli attack was reported late yesterday night by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which is Britain-based. Fourteen Iranian and Iraqi fighters were killed in Deir el-Zour, a large city in east Syria in that attack.[2]
[2] Khoury , Jack. “Syrian Army Says Israeli Jets Hit Research Center, Military Outposts in Aleppo Province.” Haaretz, Reuters, 5 May 2020, https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/syria/syrian-air-defenses-thwart-israeli-missile-attack-in-aleppo-state-media-reports-1.8820538.
The Daily World News Report of the 4th of May 2020
Bangladesh constructed a refugee facility last year, and they delivered their first refugees there this weekend. The facility is designed to serve 100,000 people; although, it is located on an island that is regularly hit by cyclones. Twenty-eight Rohingya people were sent to this refugee camp on Saturday. Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen told AFP. "Most likely they will stay there until they return to Myanmar."[1]
Thailand eases Coronavirus quarantining
On April 10th 2020, Thailand’s government banned the sale of alcohol to reduce how often people go out. Thailand lifted the ban on Sunday, and “the consumption of alcoholic beverages will only be allowed at home.” This decision is a first to ease the lockdown measures to reduce the spread of COVID 19.[2]
IS terrorizes Samarra, Iraq
An Iraqi militia was targeted at villages near Samarra by an Islamic State group, killing at least ten. People fear IS's return since Iraq defeated them in 2017. The militia is called the Popular Mobilisation Forces, and they were attacked in the village of Mekeeshfa. Six were initially kill, and three more died when reinforcement arrived. The PMF did not neutralize them at Mekeeshfa as the tenth was killed at nearby village called Talk al-Dahab.[3]
South and North Korea exchange fire
North Korean troops shot a South Korean guard post several times on Sunday, a first since the rivals took steps to lower tensions in late 2018. South Korea did respond with two sets of twenty warning rounds "before issuing a warning broadcast." The event was not escalated, and no one was killed. Subsequent correspondence was conducted between the countries to maintain "lower front-line animosities."[4]
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[1] “Rohingya refugees relocated to controversial Bangladesh island after weeks at sea.” Yahoo!, AFP, 3 May 2020, https://news.yahoo.com/rohingya-refugees-relocated-controversial-bangladesh-island-weeks-sea-152116893.html.
[2] Tu, Soe Zeya. “Thailand lifts ban on alcohol sale.” ABS-CBN News, Reuters, 3 May 2020, https://news.abs-cbn.com/overseas/multimedia/photo/05/03/20/covid19-thailand-liquor-ban.
[3] ”Isis mounts deadly assault on Iraqi militia members near Samarra.” The Guardian, Associated Press, 2 May 2020, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/02/isis-mount-deadly-assault-on-iraqi-militia-members-near-samarra.
[4] Kim, Hyung-Jin. “North and South Korea exchange fire along border.” ABC News, Associated Press, 3 May 2020, https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/korea-troops-exchange-fire-korean-border- 70476201.
Chapter 11: April 25 - May 1, 2020
Censorship in China
Censorship enforcement by China has required their citizens to download a program to access broader perspectives on the COVID 19 virus. There are a few software options, but, the program accessible on GitHub, Terminus2049 was targeted recently. GitHub is a platform to discover software. This program required volunteers to manually archive articles about the Coronavirus. "Mr Chen Mei, Mr Cai Wei and his girlfriend surnamed Tang" were most active on the project, and Chinese law enforcement arrested them without informing anyone on April 19th; furthermore, the software GitHub download page is blocked in China.
"The administrators of 2019nCoVMemory - another GitHub coronavirus archive - made the "protective" move to restrict access to its site to members only, according to an e-mail sent to subscribers that was circulated on Weibo."[1]
Separatists in Yemen claim Aden
A separatist group, which is not the Houthi rebels, had negotiated “a peace deal with the country’s internationally recognized government” over the weekend, granting the group governance of a Yemeni regional capital called Aden. Although the separatists have fought along side with the Saudi-led coalition, their protests and claim of Aden is alarming, inciting fear of a greater conflict, as “the [Yemen] government dismissed the separatists’ move.”[2]
COVID 19 concerns prompt the release of twelve thousand prisoners in Afghanistan
President Ashraf Ghani announced the amnesty and release of 12,399 prisoners Monday on top of previous orders totaling about 16,000 people. The people are of “minimal threat to the public” were pardoned, including corruption criminals; furthermore, an additional five thousand Taliban prisoners are planned to be released.[3]
New Zealand resolved the COVID 19 situation in their country, reopening
As New Zealand reports one new case of COVID 19 Sunday and single digits for several days, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared that “the virus was ‘currently’ eliminated.” “Schools, shops, restaurants could operate without social-distancing”[4]; however, government officials encourage their citizens to exercise vigilance.[5]
April 28 , 2020
Venezuela restructures leadership to re-establish oil industry
On March 26, 2020 I recorded that the United States charged and sanctioned “14 of the ruling elite of Venezuela” for sustaining the drug trade in Colombia and other local economies. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has ignored their sanctions and charges, shuffling his ruling elite to address the oil industry concerns in the country. Yesterday he appointed, one of his vice presidents, Tareck El Aissami, to be oil minister; Asdrubal Chavez, a cousin of “Hugo Chavez, as interim president of the state oil firm PDVSA”; and El Aissami, who “played ‘a significant role in international narcotics trafficking’”, as “the twin responsibilities of oil minister and PDVSA chief.” [6]
Jailed lawyer in China sees family after 4.5 years
I reported on April 7, 2020 that “Wang Quanzhang …was arrested among many activists and human rights lawyers in 2015 during a nationwide China crackdown”, and he “was ’freed’ on Sunday, the 5th of April 2020.” Wang was unable to see his family despite his release from jail until yesterday, saying in an interview that “he felt like he was in a ‘trance.’ ‘Finally being able to hug my wife and kid—this once was a common routine, but it took five years for me to do so.’”[7]
Two million in Syria left without medical supplies and personnel
After authorities reported the first death of COVID 19 in northeast Syria on April 17, 2020, the Human Rights Watch group is advocating for the region because “Damascus and Iraq are preventing medical supplies and personnel needed to prevent, contain, and treat” the coronavirus; furthermore, the UN Security Council ended the authorization of their aid delivery to that region in January.[8]
Fuel tanker explosion in Syria kills forty
A town in northern Syria endured a fuel tanker bombing, killing 40 civilians. 11 of which are children. The town is held by the Turkey-backed opposition group. Turkey believes that it was “carried out by Syrian Kurdish fighters linked to Kurdish militants fighting Turkey” according to state news. The Kurdish militant violence in Syria is greater than one may realize.[9]
April 29, 2020
Peruvian prisoners demand better conditions
After “more than 600 prisoners have been infected by Covid-19 in Peru” and at least 13 prisoners dead, inmates at the Miguel Castro Castro prison in Lima “protest[ed]…, manag[ing] to ”climb to the roofs with the aim of preventing access by (security forces) by throwing stones and other blunt objects at them.” Nine prisoners were killed, and some were shot. They were demanding COVID-19 testing, more sanitary measures, medical care, and amnesty.[10]
Man in Florida arrested for illegal drug possession
Hernando County in Florida arrested a man was “carrying enough narcotic fentanyl to kill half a million people.” The man’s name is David Gayle. “They found more than two pounds of the synthetic drug fentanyl and methamphetamine” as well as “small amounts of cocaine, oxycodone and marijuana.” Sheriff Al Nienhuis said the following: “We can never measure what we prevent, but it is a very good bet that this quantity of fentanyl would have resulted in a number of overdose deaths right here in Hernando County.”[11]
Construction fire in South Korea kills 38
38 people is the current count of deaths for a construction fire in Icheon, South Korea, which is south of Seoul. The large fire required four hundred of firefighters, working several hours to contain it. Most of the 38 deceased died of toxic gases as eight other construction works are being treated for injuries.[12]
2020 Chernobyl fire, taking at least a month to fully extinguish
Ukraine has been fighting a fire in an exclusion zone due to the Chernobyl incident since the beginning of the month. "More than one thousand firefighters were still working to fully extinguish the fires in the zone," covering thousands of acres. The blaze came less than a mile to the Chernobyl nuclear power plant site.[13]
April 30, 2020
Nigeria continue operations against Boko Haram
Nigeria’s military reported several successful operations within the past week or so on Wednesday. They reported on offensives, ambushes, counterattacks, and clearance operations. Only one military casualty was reported of at least seven operations as many Boko Haram Terrorists were neutralized.[14]
India and Pakistan violate ceasefire agreements at Kashmir
In recent days I have seen both Pakistan and India accuse each other of violating ceasefire agreements at Kashmir. A result of this long lived land dispute is that civilians are killed. Two more civilian deaths were reported yesterday. Kashmir is occupied by India, but the land is not officially given to either country. “The overall civilian casualties since the start of the year are six deaths and injuries to 61 others.”[15]
Europe’s GDP shrinks
The coronavirus and quarantining has caused a decline in the Gross Domestic Product by more than 3 percent for most prosperous countries. Although France’s economy already contracted 0.1% during the fourth quarter of 2019, France’s GDP shrank 5.8% for the first quarter of 2020 as the average economists’ expectations were 3.5% with the worst at 7%.[16] Spain’s GDP contracted 5.2%, and the United States’ shrank 4.8% as “the European Union lost 3.5% of gross domestic product”, which is the total of products and services’ accumulated of a country over a quarter of the year.[17]
Libyan’s government rejects Khalifa Haftar’s ceasefire
Khalifa Haftar leads Libyan National Army, the rival faction against the Government of National Accord, which isrecognized by the United Nations as the government of Libya. After proclaiming himself the ruler of Libyan by “popular mandate”, Khalifa “had said on Wednesday it would cease hostilities for the duration of Ramadan in response to international calls for a truce.” The GNA rejected Khalifa’s lead into a ceasefire due to his trustworthiness.[18]
May 1, 2020
Sudan bans Female Genital Mutilation
Female genital mutilation is a custom that has been documented in thirty countries.[19] “Girls get cut because of a widespread cultural belief that it is essential for girls' reputations and future marriage prospects.” The majority of the countries that practice this custom are in Africa. “According to a Unicef report carried out in 29 countries in Africa and the Middle East, the practice is still being widely carried out, despite the fact that at least 24 of these countries have legislation or some form of decrees against FGM.”
Sudan has joined the countries, criminalizing female genital mutilation. “Some 87% of Sudanese women aged between 14 and 49 have undergone some form of FGM, according to the UN.” Although most states in Sudan made FGM illegal prior to the amendment, the ban is largely ignored as the punishment of a fine and a three year prison sentence has been established for anyone that is found guilty of performing female genital mutilation.[20]
Daesh claims Thursday’s explosion, targeting a military vehicle of Egypt
Amaq News Agency was informed by Daesh, an Islamic State militant group in Egypt, that they claim Thursday’s bombing “without giving any evidence or details on how many were involved.” “10 military personnel were killed or wounded in a blast targeting an armoured vehicle” near Bir al-Abd of the North Sinai province.[21]
Denmark foils Islamic militancy operation
Danish secret services and police in Copenhagen acted on a terrorist threat, arresting the suspect. A police official said that they “carried out a coordinated police action”, and “the suspect had attempted to acquire a weapon and ammunition.” No further information was given other than the suspect is “charged with intent to commit terror”, and the individual was “inspired by Islamic militancy.”[22]
Many United States implement plans to reopen next week
Approximately twenty four of the United States implement plans to reopen. Most plans include “easing restrictions on restaurants, retail and other businesses shuttered by the coronavirus crisis.” “About two dozen states, mostly in the South, the Midwest and mountain West, have moved to relax restrictions since Georgia led the way late last week. Texas and Florida, among others this week, outlined plans for doing so in the days ahead” as most of the other states are facing daily record counts of new cases and deaths. The United States also faces a “lack of wide-scale virus testing and other safeguards urged by health experts.”[23]
I have seen articles headlines saying that other countries are reopening carefully as well.
[2] Al-Haj, Ahmed. “Yemen’s southern separatists claim sole control of Aden.” AP, 25 Apr. 2020, https://apnews.com/82b8fff1a5f03154ec19ddb2e2380718.
[3] Mukhtar, Ahmad. “Afghan leader orders release of more than 12,000 prisoners to help curb spread of COVID-19.” CBS News, 27 Apr. 2020, https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/coronavirus-update-lockdowns-million-cases-2020-04-27/.
[4] “Schools, shops, restaurants could operate without social-distancing”—New Zealand’s virus-free goal.” The Economist, 27 Apr. 2020, https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2020/04/27/schools-shops-restaurants-could-operate-without-social-distancing-new-zealands-virus-free-goal.
[5] “Coronavirus: New Zealand claims no community cases as lockdown eases.” BBC News, 27 Apr. 2020, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-52436658.
[6] “Venezuela Names Official Indicted by US as Oil Minister.” Yahoo!, AFP, 27 Apr. 2020, news.yahoo.com/venezuela-names-official-indicted-us-oil-minister-213311763.html.
[7] Fu, Eva. “‘Feels Like a Dream’: Teary Reunion for Freed Chinese Human Rights Lawyer and Family.” The Epoch Times, 27 Apr. 2020, www.theepochtimes.com/feels-like-a-dream-an-teary-reunion-for-freed-chinese-human-rights-lawyer-and-family_3329402.html.
[8] “Syria: Aid Restrictions Hinder Covid-19 Response.” Human Rights Watch, 28 Apr. 2020, www.hrw.org/news/2020/04/28/syria-aid-restrictions-hinder-covid-19-response.
[9] Fraser, Suzan. “Attack in Syria Town Run by Turkish-Backed Fighters Kills 40.” ABC News, Associated Press, 28 Apr. 2020, abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/bombing-north-syrian-town-afrin-kills-20-civilians-70383888.
[10] Osborne, Samuel. “Peru Prison Riot over Coronavirus Fears Leaves Nine Dead.” Independent, 29 Apr. 2020, www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/peru-prison-riot-coronavirus-miguel-castro-castro-lima-a9490351.html.
[11] Zoellner, Danelle. “Florida Man Is Arrested with Enough Fentanyl to Kill 500,000 People, Police Say.” Independent, 29 Apr. 2020, www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/florida-drugs-bust-arrest-fentanyl-david-gayle-cocaine-marijuana-a9490461.html.
[12] “South Korea Construction Fire Kills at Least 38.” CBC News, Associated Press, 29 Apr. 2020, www.cbc.ca/news/world/south-korea-construction-fire-1.5548893.
[13] Reevell, Patrick. “Drone Video Shows Devastation Caused by Wildfires around Chernobyl.” ABC News, 29 Apr. 2020, abcnews.go.com/International/drone-video-shows-devastation-caused-wildfires-chernobyl/story?id=70363555 .
[14] Dapam, Tobias Lengnan. “Troops Kill Several Boko Haram Terrorists, Recover Weapons.” Peoples Daily, 30 Apr. 2020, peoplesdailyng.com/troops-kill-several-boko-haram-terrorists-recover-weapons/.
[15] Naqash, Tariq. “Indian Ceasefire Violations Will Always Be Met with a Befitting Response: COAS.” Dawn, 29 Apr. 2020, www.dawn.com/news/1553236.
[16] “France Enters Recession as GDP Falls by Record 5.8 Percent in First Quarter.” France 24, News Wires, 30 Apr. 2020, www.france24.com/en/20200430-france-enters-recession-as-gdp-falls-by-record-5-8-percent-in-first-quarter.
[17] Nagarajan, Shalini. “The Coronavirus' Horrendous Impact on Europe's Economy Is Growing Clearer as GDP Shrinks 3.8%, and Germany, France, and Spain Report Catastrophic Data.” Business Insider, 30 Apr. 2020, www.msn.com/en-au/news/world/the-horrendous-impact-of-coronavirus-on-europes-economy-is-growing-clearer-as-gdp-shrinks-38-and-germany-france-and-spain-report-catastrophic-data/ar-BB13pCeL.
[18] “Libya's Unity Government Says Rejects Haftar's Truce Offer.” Yahoo!, AFP, 30 Apr. 2020, news.yahoo.com/libyas-unity-government-says-rejects-haftars-truce-offer-174255811.html.
[19] “Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).” WHO, www.who.int/reproductivehealth/topics/fgm/prevalence/en/.
[20] “Sudan criminalises female genital mutilation (FGM).” BBC News, 1 May 2020, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-52502489.
[21] “Daesh claims responsibility for Egypt's Sinai attack.” The Daily Star, Reuters, 1 May 2020, https://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2020/May-01/505238-daesh-claims-responsibility-for-egypts-sinai-attack.ashx.
[22] Buttler, Morten. “Danish Police Arrest Terror Suspect in Copenhagen.” Bloomberg, 1 May 2020, https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-04-30/denmark-police-say-they-have-acted-on-islamic-terrorist-threat.
[23] Caspani, Maria. “Half of U.S. states easing coronavirus restrictions as jobless numbers grow.” The Globe and Mail, Reuters, 1 May 2020, https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-half-of-us-states-easing-coronavirus-restrictions-as-jobless-numbers/.
Chapter 10: April 18 - 24, 2020
Detained Boko Haram militants were poisoned in Chad
The country of Chad captured 58 Boko Haram militants in “a recent major army operation against the Islamist group around Lake Chad.” 44 of them were found dead of poison last Thursday morning. Djimet Arabi, the justice minister of Chad, said. "Was it collective suicide or something else? We're still looking for answers."[1]
Taliban kill 39 Afghan soldiers and 7 policemen in separate attacked on Sunday and Monday
A Taliban attack on Kunduz province killed 23 soldiers today; a second attack on Afghan soldiers in two days. 16 soldiers were killed at the Afghan army base in Takhar province last night. A police checkpoint was also attacked yesterday near Tarin Kot, the capital of Uruzgan province, killing 5 policemen.
Taliban has not reduced violence as they seek the release of their prisoners, which is part of the peace deal. The government and the Taliban struggle to negotiate. “The violence has mostly been limited to rural areas and small towns. Under the framework of the US-Taliban deal, the insurgents have agreed not to attack cities.”[2]
Fire at Refugee Camp in Athens
“A group of camp residents ‘attacked the food warehouses, set fire to the info point, took the food refrigerators into the camp and set them on fire.’” A violent attack that burned down two large tents left as many as forty families homeless. The report said that the attack was provoked by the death of an ill Afghani woman.[3]
Canada’s Deadliest Mass Shooting happened yesterday
A neighborhood in the small town of Portapique was targeted by a man dressed as a policeman. The suspect is a 51 year old man named Gabriel Wortman. He shot and killed 16 people on Sunday, and he died of an unknown cause as well after he was arrested by the police.[4]
April 21, 2020
World Health Organization targeted in Myanmar
A United Nations vehicle, “carrying Covid-19 test samples in conflict-ridden Rakhine state,” was ambushed by the Arakan Army, killing the driver. A health worker of Myanmar’s government was also injured in the attack today. The targeting was a result of a hostile civil war condition of the northwestern state.[5]
Raid in Spain arrests a Britain’s most wanted
Abdel-Majed Abdel Bary was a rapper in United Kingdom; then, he was radicalized by Muslim group that is inspired by an extremist preacher named Anjem Choudary. Abdel-Majed even posted on social media images of himself, holding a decapitated head from jihadist violence in 2014 at Raqqa, Syria. He has mostly been on the run ever-since, residing mainly in Spain. Two other suspected militants were arrested with him Tuesday morning in the Almeria, Spain.[6]
US Navy report “bullying behavior” by China in Indo-Pacific waters against Malaysia
After Vietnam objected China’s establishment of administrative districts on Parcel and Spratly islands on Sunday, the US Navy reported a standoff today between a Chinese research boat and a Malaysian ship deployed to drill for oil in the Indo-Pacific waters. China denies the aggression, stating their research activity was normal as Malaysia did not respond to inquires.[7]
Nigeria addresses bandit issue
Operation Gama Aiki’s Air Component targeted bandits in Maguga, Rafi of the state of Niger in Nigeria. Several were killed as “some armed bandits, clad in black attire, had been sighted along with a large herd of rustled cattle in the area.” This description indicates to me that they may be herdsman, who refuse to respect property rights, taking their entitlement of resources to strife.[8]
April 22, 2020
Nigerian military responds to terrorist attack
The government area of Geidam in Yobe state was attacked by Boko Haram and a terrorist group called ISWAP. The Nigeria’s military responded, killing 13 of the terrorists and forcing them to retreat. There were no casualties militarily and the government area is normalized.[9]
Iran successfully launches their first military satellite
Iran launched their first military satellite today. They have named it Nour. “Iran maintains it has no intention of acquiring nuclear weapons, and says its aerospace activities are peaceful and comply with a UN Security Council resolution.” A previous military satellite launch failed on February 9th.[10]
Fragile Yemen is hit with a flood in the northern regions
Flash floods in northern Yemen kill 21 people according to reports as more than 100 homes’ damage range from severe to irreparable. “At least 35 families were stuck in their homes Wednesday, their houses submerged in water and mud, residents in Aden told AFP.” Deputy Prime Minister Salem al-Khanbashi said “that sanitation infrastructure had been severely damaged and called for urgent aid to combat the spread of diseases, ‘especially cholera and other deadly viral infections’.”[11]
International COVID 19 mortality rate of countries comparison is tricky
France’s COVID 19 death count includes care home deaths as England only reports deaths from hospitals; however, the population of the United States is about 330 million people, which is ten million more than the combined population of “the UK, Germany, France, Italy and Spain.” The total deaths of these Western Europe nations as of April 20 is more than double the United States with 85,000 as the United States death count surpassed 40,000 on Monday.[12]
Tornadoes destroy lives in the southern United States
Many homes in Onalaska, a town in east Texas, could not endure a tornado, resulting in the death of at least three people. 30 others injured. Two other people died in Madill of Marshall County in Oklahoma as one more person remains in critical condition in a hospital due to another tornado.[13]
Guatemalan wrongly deported in the United States
Guatemalan consulates were notified by Noticias Telemundo that a Guatemalan was mistakenly deported from the United States to Tijuana, Mexico. The man’s name is Gilmer Barrios. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection arrested him, deporting him, on March 23rd without a immigration judicial ruling and deportation order. He was reunited with his family in Chula Vista, California this week.[14]
US Union reports COVID 19 woes
The largest meat packing union in United States reported that more than five thousand of their members have been infected by COVID 19, and 13 died. “As far as social distancing, it’s almost impossible,” said Margarita Heredia, who works in a JBS pork plant in Marshalltown, Iowa. “There’s no room.” The Union’s agents are working hard to protect their member as they fulfill an essential role to provide food for the nations.[15]
A most important trial international human rights law begins Thursday
Germany is conducting the trial of a “former intelligence directorate” of Syria, starting today. Anwar Raslan fulfilled the role “between 29 April 2011 and 7 September 2012”. “At least 58 prisoners died under his watch“, where more than four thousand human rights activists and protesters were tortured, raped, and killed.[16]
April 24, 2020
Saudi-led coalition extends it's participation in the global ceasefire unilaterally in Yemen
The Saudi-led coalition includes the following countries: The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Sudan, Morocco, United States, and Turkey. Although United States has not committed any ground troops or fighter jets, the country is supporting with logistics and intelligence as the remainder of the countries are committed to participate with the ground troops and fighter jets. Egypt is also providing support from the sea with their Navy.[17] Houthi rebels in Yemen has not joined in the bilateral ceasefire; therefore, it remains unilateral. The initial ceasefire ended Thursday, and the Saudi-led extended it for one month.[18]
Taliban rejects ceasefire too during Ramadan
The Taliban's aggression continues to increase against Afghanistan's military forces as the government invites them to join in a ceasefire for the month of Ramadan, starting shortly. The Taliban rejected their offer, and they have for years. Their perspective always astounds me, for they said that the ceasefire is irrational on Thursday.[19]
World Famous National Park attacked by Rebels in DR Congo
The Virunga National Park, which is world renowned for their mountain gorillas, was targeted at Rumangabo village. No one claimed the attack yet; however, the rangers believe that "Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) ambushed a convoy of civilians that was being protected by the rangers." The attack may have had as many as sixty fighters. Sixteen civilians were killed with twelve rangers numbered among them.
Phil Clark, a professor of School of Oriental and African Studies in London, said the following concerning the rebel group:
"FDLR is a Hutu-dominated rebel group. The reason it is fighting the Congolese army at the moment is because the Congolese government is in the process of renewing relations with the Rwandan government…a Tutsi-dominated government…Rwanda wants Congo to deal with the FDLR, which they see as a Hutu threat across the border - killing Tutsi civilians inside Congo.[20]US sanctions in Venezuela cause a US oil company to shut down operations in the country.
Halliburton Co. is complying to sanctions of the United States, limiting them to "perform certain transactions and activities necessary for safety or the preservation of assets in Venezuela, along with other federal filing." They have to conclude this work before the end of November. The sanctions seek to force reforms by the Venezuelan government. The US Treasury Department gave notices to Chevron Corp., Schlumberger Ltd., Baker Hughes Co., and Weatherford International Plc. to cease all operations in the oil industry in Venezuela earlier this week. [21]
[2] “Dozens dead in fresh wave of Taliban violence in Afghanistan.” Times of India, AFP, 20 Apr. 2020, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/dozens-dead-in-fresh-wave-of-taliban-violence-in-afghanistan/articleshow/75249247.cms.
[3] "Death sparks unrest at major migrant camp in Greece." Dawn, AFP, 20 April 2020, https://www.dawn.com/news/1550641/
[4] "16 killed in shooting rampage, deadliest in Canadian history." Khaleej Times, AP, 20 April 2020, https://www.khaleejtimes.com/world/americas/16-killed-in-shooting-rampage-deadliest-in-canadian-history
[5] "Driver killed in attack on WHO vehicle in Myanmar’s Rakhine state: UN." The Straits Times, AFP, 21 Apr. 2020, http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/driver-killed-in-attack-on-who-vehicle-in-myanmars-rakhine-state-un.
[6] Badcock, James, et al. "One of Britain's most wanted jihadists is arrested in Spanish police raid." The Telegraph, 21 April 2020, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/04/21/one-britains-wanted-jihadists-arrested-spanish-police-raid/.
[7] Ananthalakshmi, A., and Rozanna Latiff. "Two U.S. warships in South China Sea amid China-Malaysia standoff." msn news, Reuters, 20 Apr. 2020, https://www.msn.com/en-ca/news/world/two-us-warships-in-south-china-sea-amid-china-malaysia-standoff/ar-BB12XlWy.
[8] Dapam, Tobias. "Troops kill several bandits in Niger state" Peoples Daily, 21 Apr. 2020, https://peoplesdailyng.com/troops-kill-several-bandits-in-niger-state/.
[9] Dapam, Tobias. "Troops kill 13 Boko Haram/ ISWAP terrorists in Yobe." Peoples Daily, 22 Apr. 2020, https://peoplesdailyng.com/troops-kill-13-boko-haram-iswap-terrorists-in-yobe-2/.
[10] "Iran's Guards launch its first military satellite." The Straits Times, AFP, 22 Apr. 2020, https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/irans-guards-launch-its-first-military-satellite.
[11] "'Fourteen dead' in Yemen's flood-hit Aden." Khaleej Times, AFP, 22 April 2020, https://www.khaleejtimes.com/region/mena/fourteen-dead-in-yemens-flood-hit-aden.
[12] Morris, Chris, and Anthony Reuben. "Coronavirus: Why are international comparisons difficult?." BBC News, 21 Apr. 2020, https://www.bbc.com/news/52311014.
[13] "Tornadoes in Texas, Oklahoma kill at least five." NBC News, 23 Apr. 2020, https://www.nbcnews.com/news/weather/least-one-dead-severe-weather-rages-across-oklahoma-texas-n1190126.
[14] BonmatÃ, Damià . "Guatemalan wrongly deported amid coronavirus crisis is reunited with family in U.S." NBC News, Noticias Telemundo, 23 Apr.2020, https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/guatemalan-wrongly-deported-amid-coronavirus-crisis-reunited-family-u-s-n1190696.
[15] Polansek, Tom. "More than 5,000 U.S. meat, food-processing workers infected with or exposed to coronavirus: union" The Globe and Mail, Reuters, 23 Apr. 2020, https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-more-than-5000-us-meat-food-processing-workers-infected-with-or/.
[16] Daragahi, Borzou. "Syrian regime torturer put on trial for war crimes in world first." Independent, 23 Apr. 2020, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/syria-regime-war-crime-germany-koblenz-trial-a9479716.html.
[17] "Which Countries Are Part Of Saudi Arabia’s Coalition Against Yemen’s Houthis?" Huffington Post, Reuters, 26 May 2015, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/saudi-coalition-yemen_n_6946092.
[18] "Saudi-led coalition announces one-month extension of Yemen ceasefire." Times of India, Reuters, 24 Apr. 2020, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/saudi-led-coalition-announces-one-month-extension-of-yemen-ceasefire/articleshow/75351144.cms.
[19] "Taliban rejects call for Ramadan ceasefire in Afghanistan." Al Arabiya, AFP, 24 Apr. 2020, https://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/world/2020/04/24/Taliban-rejects-call-for-Ramadan-ceasefire-in-Afghanistan-.html.
[20] "DRC: Rangers, civilians killed in attack in Virunga National Park." Al Jazeera, 24 Apr. 2020, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/04/drc-rangers-civilians-killed-attack-virunga-national-park-200424161459752.html.
[21] Wethe, David. "Halliburton Shuts Venezuela Work as Trump Steps Up Pressure." Bloomberg, 24 Apr. 2020, https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-04-24/halliburton-will-shut-down-its-primary-operations-in-venezuela
Chapter 9: April 11 - 17, 2020
Terrorists ambush military in Burkina Faso
The African country of Burkina Faso’s military had their reconnaissance team on a mission Sunday, and they were ambushed by jihadist insurgents in the northern city of Djibo, killing one of the soldiers. “The two units managed ‘to neutralise six terrorists,’… Army chief Moise Miningou …in the same statement, said five other troops were killed on Thursday also in the north.”[1]
Pakistani and Indian artilleries trade fire over de facto line
Three civilians were reported killed from military artillery attacks at the de facto line between Pakistan and India, “when shells fired by the Pakistani army hit homes at two locations along the Line of Control in the Kupwara area of Indian-controlled Kashmir on Sunday evening.” “Since Friday, Pakistan’s military has charged India with repeated violations of the [2003] ceasefire along the frontier.”[2]
The Locust Plague in East Africa is the worst in 70 years
Locusts have been plaguing East Africa nearly since the beginning of the year. The second two months of the plague has become twenty times worse than the first two. About 6 million people are affected in Ethiopia as several of other countries endure the plague. “The locust swarms also have been sighted in Djibouti, Eritrea, Tanzania and Congo.” “The current situation in East Africa remains extremely alarming as ... an increasing number of new swarms are forming in Kenya, southern Ethiopia and Somalia,” a new FAO assessment said.[3]
Houthi rebels of Yemen convict 10 journalists of coverage for Saudi coalition
A court in Sanaa, the capital for the Yemeni rebels, convicted four journalists for "treason" and espionage, and the other six were convicted similarly, “including ‘spreading false news and rumours’ to aid the coalition.” The four are sentenced to death as the others will be released after a prison sentence. A “rights group said the detained reporters were beaten, deprived of water and forced to hold cinder blocks for several hours.”[4]
April 14, 2020
Tornadoes destroy, leaving more than a million without power on Monday
Southern states reported 41 tornadoes on Easter day in Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina. The following states reported deaths: Mississippi (11 deaths), Georgia (7 deaths), Tennessee (3 deaths), and South Carolina (9 deaths). About a million people were out of power, feeling the destruction of the tornadoes. The intense winds were not the only destructive attribute of the tornadoes. Its hail grew up to the size of a tennis ball.[5]
Egypt acts on terrorism lead
Gunfire broke out during a raid performed by Egyptian Special Forces to seize bombs and people involved in a terrorist operation. Extremist jihadists were planning a bombing on security forces in al-Amireya, Egypt. “The ‘terrorist cell [was] neutralized’ several hours after the raid began.” One police officer “was killed, and another wounded during the shootout.”[6]
UK gangs force youth to maintain drug trade
A task force was commissioned in the United Kingdom to resolve an observation of gangs, manipulating youth to maintain the drug trade, at the end of 2019. During the first four months of the operation, “the taskforce has been involved in 272 arrests, 145 seizures of drugs, including class A substances, and the confiscation of £108,000.” The age range of the youth that they have found range from 11 to 20. “Among the arrests made since lockdown conditions were imposed on 23 March was that of a 16-year-old girl in Preston who was found to have a sizeable quantity of cash.”[7]
An incident caused Uganda to have a nationwide blackout
A huge mass of vegetation known as a floating island in Lake Victoria drifted into a hydro power plant, causing it to go down. The entire nation was in a blackout. “Heavy rain, clogging of the lake's tributaries, and pollution could also explain the island's movement” as the lake’s water level is the highest in fifty years.[8]
April 15, 2020
Germany arrests ISIS terrorists
Five Tajik nationals were arrested on Wednesday in the North Rhine-Westphalia state of Germany. They were planning attacks on US troops in the country. Four of the five were arrested in the evening during raids of several apartments. The fifth was arrested earlier in the day.[9]
Insurgents attack in two location in DR Congo
CODECO, which stands for the Cooperative for the Development of the Congo,“ is an armed political-religious sect drawn from the Lendu ethnic group.”[10] This militant group attacked the village of Koli in the Ituri province and Beni of the North Kivu province. The Koli village attack targeted the Hema ethnic community "in their sleep and killed 22 civilians over the weekend”, and the Beni attack took place on Tuesday, resulting in the death of a variety of people from “two soldiers, one civilian, [and] five militants.”[11]
Brazilian drug lord arrested in Mozambique
Gilberto Aparecido dos Santos is known as a drug lord of São Paulo-based First Capital Command (PCC), one of the most powerful gangs in Brazil. Interpol, US drug officials and Brazilian federal police implemented the sting operation in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, arresting him with two other people in a luxury hotel.[12]
Inspector found no evidence of executive powers interference in JEDI bid process
JEDI, the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure, is the largest-ever cloud computing contract. The ten billion dollar contract was awarded to Microsoft. In chapter 1 of ‘Read the Story of the World’, I noted on February 14, 2020 that Jeff Bezos of Amazon convinced the courts to suspend the contract for an investigation of interference by Donald Trump, who has publicly revealed his disliking of the company. The investigation found no evidence of “influence or pressure on Defense Department personnel who handled …[the] cloud computing contract”[13]
April 16, 2020
South Korea fills a parliament seat with a North Korean defector for the first time
Thae Yong Ho’s most prominent government role was an embassy minister of North Korea in London, and he moved his family to South Korea in 2016, settling in the district of Gangnam. He campaigned, aligning his agenda with the United Future Party, “a harder line on North Korea’s nuclear ambition and its record of widespread human rights abuses.” The position that he won represents the district of Gangnam.[14]
The management of the COVID 19 has killed more than the virus in Kenya
“Police have killed at least 12 people while enforcing a dusk-to-dawn curfew that began more than two weeks ago”. The count is not accurately accounted for as the country only has 10 deaths due to the virus. The enforcement is currently “recorded 35 ‘watertight’ cases of police brutality related to curfew enforcement” according to The Kenyan government’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority.[15]
Concerning the brutality of the police, “Wilfred Olal, who coordinates a network of social justice centres in slums across Kenya that is trying to keep track of curfew-related deaths since the measure was put into place 19 days ago.” “To be honest, we’ve lost count. It’s dozens. There are many more… At least one a night since curfew began”.
April 17, 2020
Fishing boat stranded for more than two months in the Bay of Bengal
A fishing boat, carrying more than 500 people, was rejected by Thailand and Malaysia for two months and eighteen days in the Bay of Bengal until Bangladesh received them on Wednesday. The majority of the crew were Rohingya people, and sixty died, including the captain, who was killed, for attempting to rape a woman. 482 people survived the ordeal.[16]
Nigeria curfew enforcement abuses kill at least 18
I reported yesterday that Kenya’s law enforcement struggled with implementing the COVID 19 curfew, and Nigeria is struggling as well. As twelve Coronavirus deaths are recorded, eighteen people were “extrajudicially executed.” 105 human rights violations by security officers were reported in two-thirds of the country’s states.[17]
President of Myanmar releases nearly 25,000 prisoners
Myanmar has an annual tradition of granting unconditional amnesty to prisoners at the New Year. President Win Myint pardoned 24,896 people today, including 87 foreigners. The coronavirus did not seem to affect the number, since about 23,000 people were released last year. “Myanmar has reported 85 cases and four deaths from the coronavirus.”[18]
Saudi Arabia’s youngest princess has been in prison for about a year
Princess Basmah bint Saud bin Abdulaziz al-Saud is a rights advocate that have been known for calling “for Saudi Arabia to become a constitutional monarchy, a change that would have separated the position of monarch from the country’s executive branch – a fundamental change to its current status of an absolute monarchy.” She also criticized Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the Yemen war. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been silencing opposition under his absolute executive position. “In early March, Bin Nayef and the last remaining full brother of King Salman, Ahmad bin Abdul Aziz al-Saud were arrested in their homes and accused of plotting against the crown prince.” Princess Basmah plead for her freedom on Twitter today, marking a year in prison. She is detained with her daughter, and she, seeking medical attention for her critical condition, has been imprisoned without explanation.[19]
[2] “Civilians Killed as India and Pakistan Trade Heavy Artillery Fire in Kashmir.” The Globe and Mail, The Associated Press, 12 Apr. 2020, www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-india-pakistan-troops-trade-heavy-fire-in-kashmir-three-killed.
[3] Embury-Dennis, Tom. “Locust Plague up to 20 Times Larger than Last Wave Could Devastate Parts of East Africa.” Independent, 11 Apr. 2020, www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/locust-plague-africa-somalia-kenya-ethiopia-east-africa-a9460816.html.
[4] “Yemen's Houthi Rebels Sentence Four Journalists to Death.” Al Jazeera, 11 Apr. 2020, www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/04/yemen-houthi-rebels-sentence-journalists-death-200411175244133.html.
[5] Kesslen, Ben. “ Deadly Tornadoes Rip through the South.” NBC News, 13 Apr. 2020, www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/least-11-dead-tornadoes-rip-through-south-n1182446.
[6] Naar, Ismaeel. “Egyptian Forces Exchange Fire with ‘Terrorist’ Group near Al-Amireya.” Al Arabiya, 14 Apr. 2020, english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2020/04/14/Egypt-police-exchange-fire-with-terrorist-group-near-al-Amireya-Source.html.
[7] Grierson, Jamie, and Amy Walker. “Gangs Still Forcing Children into 'County Lines' Drug Trafficking.” The Guardian, 13 Apr. 2020, www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2020/apr/13/gangs-still-forcing-children-into-county-lines-drug-trafficking-police-covid-19-lockdown.
[8] “Ugandan Floating Island Causes National Power Cut.” BBC News, 14 Apr. 2020, www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-52286296.
[9] “Five Suspected ISIS Terror Cell Members Arrested in Germany: Prosecutor .” Al Arabiya, AFP, 15 Apr. 2020, english.alarabiya.net/en/News/world/2020/04/15/Five-suspected-ISIS-terror-cell-members-arrested-in-Germany-Prosecutor-.html.
[10] “DRC Says Army Killed 16 Codeco Militants in Eastern Part of Country.” BusinessDay, 6 Jan. 2020, www.businesslive.co.za/bd/world/africa/2020-01-06-drc-says-army-killed-16-codeco-militants-in-eastern-part-of-country/.
[11] Nigam, Aanchal. “DR Congo: 29 People Killed In Eastern Region In Two Attacks.” RepublicWorld.com, 15 Apr. 2020, www.republicworld.com/world-news/rest-of-the-world-news/dr-congo-29-people-killed-in-eastern-region-in-two-attacks-this-week.html.
[12] “Fuminho: One of Brazil's Most Wanted Criminals Arrested in Mozambique.” BBC News, 14 Apr. 2020, www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-52288303.
[13] Nakashima, Ellen, and Aaron Gregg. “Pentagon's Inspector General Finds No Evidence of Undue Influence in $10 Billion Cloud Computing Contract.” SFGate, The Washington Post, 15 Apr. 2020, www.sfgate.com/news/article/Pentagon-s-inspector-general-finds-no-evidence-of-15202939.php.
[14] Kim, Hyung-Jin. “North Korean Defector Wins South Korean Parliament Seat.” Times, AP, 16 Apr. 2020, time.com/5822422/north-south-korea-political-defector/.
[15] Ombuor, Rael, and Max Bearak. “Coronavirus: Kenya Police Kill at Least 12 People in Attempt to Enforce Curfew.” Independent, 16 Apr. 2020, www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/coronavirus-kenya-lockdown-curfew-police-brutality-deaths-a9468391.html.
[16] “60 Rohingya Died Abroad Vessel Drifting for Weeks, Say Survivors.” Dawn, AFP, 17 Apr. 2020, www.dawn.com/news/1549904/60.
[17] “Nigerian security forces kill 18 during curfew enforcement.” Al Jazeera, 16 Apr. 2020, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/04/nigerian-security-forces-kill-18-curfew-enforcement-200416142503603.html.
[18] “Myanmar to free almost 25,000 prisoners in largest amnesty in years.” Reuters, 17 Apr. 2020, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-myanmar-prisoners-idUSKBN21Z0FR.
[19] Chulov, Martin. “Outspoken Saudi princess reveals that she is in prison.” The Guardian, 17 Apr. 2020, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/17/outspoken-saudi-princess-reveals-that-she-is-in-prison.
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