Colombian President Gustavo Petro is investigating reports of Colombian mercenaries training child soldiers in Sudan's Darfur region, with allegations of UAE funding and involvement in the conflict. The Sudanese army claims to have killed several Colombian mercenaries fighting with the RSF, a militia accused of atrocities.
The Trump administration has located 13,000 unaccompanied children who crossed the border during the Biden administration, while also highlighting concerns about the vetting of sponsors and potential human trafficking under the previous administration's policies.
Jonathan Barnett, a prominent British sports agent, is facing allegations of human trafficking, rape, and torture in a lawsuit filed by an unnamed woman, known as "Jane Doe." The suit claims that Barnett coerced her into servitude in the UK and around the world, with accusations directed towards his former employer, Creative Artists Agency, for its alleged complicity.
East and Southeast Asian organized crime groups are expanding their scam operations globally, moving into new regions like Africa and Latin America to evade crackdowns and generate billions in profits. This expansion is fueled by technological advancements and the involvement of criminal groups from other parts of the world, creating a more intense and geographically diverse criminal landscape.
A sweeping operation, dubbed Operation Machinize, has resulted in police actions against 265 businesses, including barbershops, across England and Wales as part of a crackdown on money laundering and modern slavery. The operation led to 35 arrests and the protection of 97 individuals believed to be victims, alongside significant seizures of cash and illegal goods.
Hundreds gathered at the Manila American Cemetery to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Manila, paying respects to veterans and remembering the sacrifices made during the war. The ceremony served as a reminder of the importance of standing firm in the face of modern challenges, inspired by the sacrifices of those who came before.
Hiroshi Hikawa, known as "Father" to over 3,000 Vietnamese students, has dedicated his life to providing educational opportunities for underprivileged youth through the Asahi Scholarship Program.
The new Yin Ruins Museum in Anyang, China, showcases the ancient Shang civilization through a vast collection of artifacts, including bronzes, pottery, jade ware, and oracle bones, offering visitors a glimpse into the political, economic, and cultural achievements of this remarkable period.
Lydia Mugambe, a United Nations judge and Ugandan High Court judge, has been convicted in the UK for exploiting a young woman by forcing her into unpaid labor and child care. Mugambe collaborated with Ugandan diplomat John Mugerwa in deceptive arrangements and unlawful actions to bring the victim into the country under exploitative conditions.
Nearly 300 Indians were flown home through Thailand after being released from scam centers in Myanmar, as part of a crackdown on illegal online fraud operations in the region. The repatriation effort followed pressure from China on Myanmar to target scam compounds that have flourished in the country's lawless borderlands.
Republicans are proposing legislation to honor former President Donald Trump, including making his birthday a national holiday, carving his face on Mount Rushmore, and renaming a Washington, D.C. airport after him. Democrats have criticized these bills as desperate attempts to curry favor with Trump.
Doug Wilson, pastor of an evangelical church with ties to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, sparked controversy with his writings claiming slavery fostered "affection between the races" and benefited both blacks and whites. Hegseth's association with Wilson and his own "Deus Vult" tattoo, linked to white supremacist groups, raise concerns about their views and suitability for their respective roles.
Daniel Penny, acquitted in a high-profile subway case, received the Semper Fidelis award for his bravery, while his attorneys were also recognized for their successful defense. The ceremony, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, honored veterans and highlighted acts of heroism.
Prince Andrew School on St. Helena is undergoing a rebranding effort due to recent controversies surrounding the Duke of York, with students invited to propose new, more neutral names for the institution. The school aims to sever ties with the past and create a positive learning environment for its students.
Scott Turner, a former NFL player, Texas state representative, and White House aide, was confirmed as the housing secretary in a 55-44 vote, receiving support from two Democrats. His appointment comes at a critical time as the Department of Housing and Urban Development faces challenges like rising housing costs, developing struggling cities, and homelessness among vulnerable populations.
Six Japanese individuals are reportedly being held captive in a crime hub associated with special fraud in eastern Myanmar, as stated by a Thai NGO. The region is believed to contain over 6,000 victims from multiple countries, with many being trafficked into dangerous conditions by criminal organizations.
Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was identified as a victim of human trafficking, has been successfully rescued thanks to the collaborative efforts of Thai and Chinese authorities. The case highlights the importance of vigilance regarding job offers in neighboring countries and the ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking.
Hong Kong has deployed a task force to Thailand to address the issue of residents being lured to Southeast Asian countries and forced into illegal work, following a surge in reports since the second quarter of 2024. The task force will meet with officials to exchange intelligence and request assistance in rescuing victims.
Sylvia Yu Friedman recalls a terrifying experience in 2012 when her pursuit of documenting underage girls in the sex trade led her into a dangerous red-light district in southern China. After a tense encounter with thugs while attempting to film, she faced severe emotional repercussions that lasted for months, including post-traumatic stress disorder.
Thai police are investigating the disappearances of two Chinese nationals, male model Yang Zeqi and young woman Wu Jiaqi, amid concerns of human trafficking. The cases bear similarities to the recent disappearance and rescue of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was found near the Myanmar border after being lured to Thailand for a film production.
