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Seventeen killed as gunmen attack bar in Ecuador

Seventeen killed as gunmen attack bar in Ecuador

Summary

Gunmen attacked a bar in El Empalme, Ecuador, killing 17 people, including a 12-year-old boy, and injuring 14 others. The attackers used pickup vehicles to fire weapons on the crowd and then targeted another group as they left. This incident is part of ongoing drug-related violence in the region.

Key Facts

  • 17 people were killed, and 14 were injured in the shooting at La Clínica bar in El Empalme, Ecuador.
  • Among those killed was a 12-year-old boy, who ran over a kilometer before dying from gunshot wounds.
  • Police reported that the gunmen used pistols and rifles, in two pickup vehicles, to carry out the attack.
  • At least 40 pieces of ballistic, or bullet-related, evidence were found at the crime scene.
  • Witnesses heard the attackers mention "active wolves," possibly referring to a local gang involved in drug trafficking.
  • The shooting took place in the Guayas region, known for violence between drug gangs.
  • A similar incident occurred a week prior, with nine people killed in a bar in the same region.
  • Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa has declared a fight against organized crime, with the nation's homicide rate rising to 38 per 100,000 people in 2024.
  • In the first five months of 2025, there were 4,051 homicides in Ecuador.
  • Nearly 75% of the world's cocaine passes through Ecuador, according to official statistics.
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Tropical Storm Keli forms and is second cyclone now in central Pacific Ocean

Tropical Storm Keli forms and is second cyclone now in central Pacific Ocean

Summary

Two tropical storms, Hurricane Iona and Tropical Storm Keli, are moving southeast of Hawaii but are not expected to directly impact the islands. While the storms may cause some dry and windy conditions, they are likely to weaken and not pose a significant threat.

Key Facts

  • Hurricane Iona and Tropical Storm Keli are located southeast of Hawaii.
  • Hurricane Iona became a Category 1 hurricane quickly, with sustained winds of about 75 mph (120 kph).
  • Iona is moving west but is not expected to impact Hawaii directly.
  • Tropical Storm Keli has winds of 40 mph (65 kph) and is also moving west.
  • Both storms may strengthen slightly before weakening midweek.
  • No coastal watches or warnings are in effect for Hawaii.
  • The storms may cause dry and breezy conditions in Hawaii, but nothing severe is expected.
  • A separate large wave swell, coming from east of New Zealand, is expected to reach Hawaii soon.
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It's a gig economy for CEOs these days, too

It's a gig economy for CEOs these days, too

Summary

A recent survey shows that more new CEOs are being hired on a short-term basis. In the first half of 2025, 33% of new CEOs were interim, a big jump from previous years.

Key Facts

  • 33% of new CEOs in early 2025 were hired as interim, meaning temporary.
  • This is a significant increase from the 5% to 9% in past years.
  • The data comes from Challenger, Gray & Christmas, a firm tracking CEO changes for over 20 years.
  • This trend is part of a broader move toward short-term executive roles in various company departments.
  • Many executives are opting for these temporary CEO positions after initially leaving jobs post-pandemic.
  • The concept of a 'CEO gig economy' suggests executives are choosing flexible, short-term roles.
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‘Alligator Alcatraz’ detainees held without charges, barred from legal access, attorneys say

‘Alligator Alcatraz’ detainees held without charges, barred from legal access, attorneys say

Summary

Lawyers say that people held at an immigration detention center in Florida cannot meet with their lawyers and are being held without charges. They also say that some people have already been deported without hearings.

Key Facts

  • Lawyers are asking for a temporary order to stop certain actions at the detention center.
  • The center is in the Florida Everglades and is nicknamed “Alligator Alcatraz.”
  • Detainees have reportedly been stopped from meeting their lawyers.
  • Some people are being held without any charges.
  • A federal court has canceled some bond hearings, which typically help decide if a detainee can be released while waiting for their case to be resolved.
  • Lawyers argue that these actions violate the constitutional rights of the detainees.
  • Around 100 detainees have already been deported from this center.
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Suspect faces terrorism charges in stabbing of 11 at Walmart in Michigan

Suspect faces terrorism charges in stabbing of 11 at Walmart in Michigan

Summary

A 42-year-old man, Bradford James Gille, is facing terrorism and assault charges for allegedly stabbing 11 people at a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan. The victims, whose ages range from 21 to 84, are all expected to survive, and the suspect was stopped by civilians and police at the scene.

Key Facts

  • The suspect's name is Bradford James Gille, and he is 42 years old.
  • He is charged with terrorism and assault with intent to murder.
  • The attack happened at a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan.
  • 11 people, including a Walmart employee, were stabbed.
  • The victims are between 21 and 84 years old and are expected to survive.
  • Civilians, including one armed person, helped stop the suspect in the parking lot.
  • Police arrested the suspect without any further issues.
  • The motive for the attack is still unclear, and the investigation is ongoing with the FBI's assistance.
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Cost of living and cold weather payments open

Cost of living and cold weather payments open

Summary

The Jersey government has introduced two grants to assist residents facing financial difficulties. The Community Costs Bonus is designed for general cost-of-living expenses, and the Cold Weather Bonus is aimed at helping pensioners with heating costs. Eligibility depends on meeting certain residency and financial criteria.

Key Facts

  • Jersey's government has launched two grants for financial help: the Community Costs Bonus and the Cold Weather Bonus.
  • Eligible individuals can receive £516.50 from the Community Costs Bonus.
  • The Cold Weather Bonus amount varies based on how cold the temperatures are.
  • To apply for these bonuses, residents must wait to receive their 2024 tax liability.
  • The Community Costs Bonus is available to households with a 2024 tax liability of less than £2,735.
  • Applicants for the Community Costs Bonus must not have had an Income Support Claim open in the last week.
  • The Cold Weather Bonus requires the household to have someone aged 65 or older who gets an old age pension or has lived in Jersey continuously for 10 years.
  • Applicants or their spouse/partner must own or be responsible for a home lease to qualify for the Cold Weather Bonus.
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US begins preparing Qatari jet to be used as Air Force One

US begins preparing Qatari jet to be used as Air Force One

Summary

The US is preparing a Qatari jumbo jet to be used as Air Force One for President Donald Trump. Qatar is donating the Boeing aircraft, which is worth $400 million, and the US will cover the costs to modify it. The donation has sparked criticism due to legal and ethical concerns regarding gifts from foreign governments.

Key Facts

  • The jet, a Boeing 747-8, is being donated by Qatar as a gift for use as Air Force One.
  • The aircraft is valued at $400 million, and the US government will pay for necessary modifications.
  • Critics from both political parties worry it could be seen as a "bribe" from a foreign country.
  • The White House states that accepting the plane complies with legal rules.
  • US law typically only allows officials to accept gifts valued under $480.
  • Security checks will be done to ensure the plane is free from surveillance devices.
  • The plan is to donate the plane to Trump's presidential library after he leaves office.
  • The cost to retrofit the plane is not yet known but expected to be high.
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Kenya’s protests are not a symptom of failed democracy. They are democracy

Kenya’s protests are not a symptom of failed democracy. They are democracy

Summary

In Kenya, street protests led by the youth are happening as people question the government's actions and leadership. While protests are seen by some in the government as dangerous, they are a form of democratic expression where people come together to show their concerns.

Key Facts

  • Street protests in Kenya are partly due to dissatisfaction with government actions.
  • The Kenyan government views these protests as a threat to public order.
  • Youth, especially Generation Z, have been leading these peaceful protests for the past 16 months.
  • President William Ruto has expressed concerns about the impact of ongoing protests on the nation.
  • Some protestors have faced severe consequences, such as being charged with serious crimes.
  • The protests seek to challenge and change government policies and leadership.
  • Protestors have organized independently, offering support like legal aid and civic education.
  • The protests echo past movements from the 1990s that sought political reform in Kenya.
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Trying to keep your brain young? A big new study finds these lifestyle changes help

Trying to keep your brain young? A big new study finds these lifestyle changes help

Summary

A large study found that making lifestyle changes like improving diet, exercising regularly, and engaging in brain training can boost mental abilities and slow down the aging process in the brain for older adults. The study involved over 2,100 people aged 60 to 79, showing significant improvement in thinking and memory for those who followed an intensive program.

Key Facts

  • The study included more than 2,100 people in their 60s and 70s.
  • Participants followed a two-year intensive program focused on diet, exercise, and brain training.
  • The study showed improved cognitive functions, similar to people 1-2 years younger.
  • It was conducted by the Alzheimer's Association and reported at an international conference.
  • A similar smaller study from Finland previously had consistent findings.
  • The POINTER study focused on people with a higher risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's.
  • The intensive program included aerobic exercise, a Mediterranean diet, and social activities.
  • Future plans include applying these lifestyle methods in the community, supported by further investment.
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Pro-Ukraine hacker group claims Aeroflot cyber-attack

Pro-Ukraine hacker group claims Aeroflot cyber-attack

Summary

Pro-Ukrainian hacker group Silent Crow claims it attacked Aeroflot's IT systems, leading to the cancellation of dozens of flights. The Russian prosecutor's office confirmed a hacker attack caused issues with Aeroflot's information system and started a criminal investigation. Silent Crow worked with Belarusian hackers called Cyber Partisans, and both groups aim to support Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • Aeroflot, Russia's national airline, canceled more than 40 flights due to a hacker attack on its IT systems.
  • The hacker group Silent Crow claimed responsibility for the attack and said it worked with another group called Cyber Partisans from Belarus.
  • Silent Crow claimed the attack caused severe damage to Aeroflot's systems and threatened to release personal data of Russian travelers.
  • The Russian prosecutor's office confirmed that a hacker attack occurred and began a criminal investigation.
  • Due to the attack, some passengers will be moved to other airlines' flights, according to the transport ministry.
  • Pro-Russian and pro-Ukrainian hacker groups have been actively targeting each other since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
  • Cyber Partisans describe themselves as a "hacktivist collective" supporting Belarus's freedom.
  • Attacks like these have been impacting Russian flights since the full-scale invasion started in February 2022.
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EU says Temu is failing to prevent sale of illegal and counterfeit products

EU says Temu is failing to prevent sale of illegal and counterfeit products

Summary

European Union investigators have found that the online shopping platform Temu may be selling illegal products within its marketplace. Temu is accused of not following the Digital Services Act guidelines, which aim to make online platforms safer for consumers. The company can review the investigation findings and respond to these claims.

Key Facts

  • EU watchdogs accused Temu of selling illegal products.
  • The investigation is based on the Digital Services Act, which requires online platforms to protect users.
  • Investigators found non-compliant products like baby toys and electronics on Temu.
  • Temu has 92 million users in the European Union.
  • EU officials say Temu’s risk assessment methods are not adequate.
  • Temu is owned by Pinduoduo Inc., a major Chinese e-commerce company.
  • Potential penalties for Temu include fines up to 6% of its global revenue.
  • Temu will have a chance to respond to the accusations before a final decision is made.
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Thailand and Cambodia agree to ceasefire: Will it stop the deadly fighting?

Thailand and Cambodia agree to ceasefire: Will it stop the deadly fighting?

Summary

Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to start a ceasefire to end their recent border conflict. This comes after several days of intense fighting, which resulted in at least 36 deaths and many people being forced to leave their homes.

Key Facts

  • The ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand will start at midnight, as Monday becomes Tuesday.
  • The conflict lasted five days and resulted in the deaths of at least 36 people.
  • Over 270,000 people from both countries have had to leave their homes due to the fighting.
  • The ceasefire agreement was reached during talks hosted by Malaysia's Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim.
  • The dispute started on July 24 and is connected to disagreements over old colonial maps.
  • Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai agreed to the ceasefire.
  • Military leaders from both countries will meet on Tuesday to discuss the next steps.
  • A meeting of the General Border Committee is planned for August 4 in Cambodia to further address the situation.
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VPNs top download charts as age verification law kicks in

VPNs top download charts as age verification law kicks in

Summary

People in the UK are downloading VPN apps in high numbers to bypass new age verification rules on certain websites. The VPNs help users avoid sharing personal information like their age to access content. However, experts warn that free VPNs may not be safe and could expose users to risks.

Key Facts

  • VPN apps are the most downloaded apps in the UK App Store after new age checks on sites like PornHub and Reddit began.
  • A VPN (Virtual Private Network) lets users hide their true location online by connecting through a remote server.
  • The Online Safety Act requires websites with adult content to verify users' ages.
  • VPN downloads in the UK increased by 1,800% following the implementation of age checks.
  • Free VPNs may have security and privacy issues, and can sometimes be used by companies to collect data.
  • The new rules require platforms to ensure they do not encourage VPN use to sidestep age checks.
  • Proton VPN, a popular VPN service, reported a huge rise in new UK users after the age check rules started.
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Nigeria kidnappers kill 35 hostages even after ransom paid

Nigeria kidnappers kill 35 hostages even after ransom paid

Summary

Kidnappers in Nigeria killed at least 35 of the 56 people they took from a village in Zamfara state, even after ransom was paid for some of them. These kidnappings are carried out by groups known as bandits who use this method to get money.

Key Facts

  • Kidnappers in Nigeria killed 35 hostages from a village in northern Zamfara state.
  • The abductions happened in March in Banga village within the Kauran Namoda area.
  • The gunmen initially took 56 people and demanded a ransom of one million naira per person.
  • After the ransom was paid, 18 people, mostly women and a young boy, were released.
  • Local officials confirmed that the deceased were mostly young people.
  • In 2022, a law was passed in Nigeria to make paying ransom illegal and abduction punishable by death if victims die, but no arrests have been made under this law.
  • Families still often pay ransoms due to a lack of security protection from the government.
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Gunman opens fire outside Reno casino, wounding several people

Gunman opens fire outside Reno casino, wounding several people

Summary

A gunman opened fire outside a casino in Reno, Nevada on Monday morning, injuring multiple people before being caught by police. The incident took place at the Grand Sierra Resort around 7:30 a.m. and emergency services responded quickly.

Key Facts

  • A shooting occurred outside the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada.
  • The event happened around 7:30 a.m. in the valet area of the casino.
  • Several people were injured in the shooting.
  • The gunman was arrested and is receiving medical treatment.
  • An officer was involved in the shooting, according to the Washoe County Sheriff's Department.
  • Reno police advised people to avoid the area.
  • Many emergency vehicles, including ambulances, went to the scene.
  • The Grand Sierra Resort has the largest casino in northern Nevada and is near the Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
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‘Stock your cars full of food and drive through that border’

‘Stock your cars full of food and drive through that border’

Summary

In a televised interview, Bob Geldof, an Irish singer and activist, suggested that Israelis who wish to protest their country's actions in Gaza should personally visit Gaza and help feed those in need.

Key Facts

  • Bob Geldof is an Irish singer and activist.
  • He made comments in a televised interview.
  • Geldof addressed Israelis who want to protest against Israel's actions in Gaza.
  • He suggested these Israelis should go to Gaza themselves.
  • He mentioned the idea of personally feeding people in Gaza.
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VPNs top App Store charts as Online Safety Act age checks kick in

VPNs top App Store charts as Online Safety Act age checks kick in

Summary

Since the introduction of age verification rules under the UK's Online Safety Act, VPN apps have become very popular in the UK. People are likely using these apps to bypass age checks on websites that now require users to verify their age.

Key Facts

  • VPN apps are now among the most downloaded in the UK on Apple's App Store.
  • Sites like PornHub and Reddit have started requiring age verification as part of the Online Safety Act.
  • VPNs can hide a user's real location and let them access the internet as if they are in a different country.
  • There has been an 1,800% increase in downloads of one VPN app since the new rules started.
  • Experts warn that free VPNs might have security and privacy risks and could expose users to data harvesting.
  • Ofcom states that platforms should not allow content that promotes using VPNs to avoid age checks.
  • It's illegal for platforms to encourage bypassing age verification using VPNs.
  • Many VPN apps declare that they are not intended for children and claim to keep users' data private and secure.
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Five people killed in shooting at market in Thailand’s Bangkok

Five people killed in shooting at market in Thailand’s Bangkok

Summary

A shooting at a market in Bangkok, Thailand, left five people dead and one injured. The suspect, who shot himself, is being investigated by police for any connections to ongoing border tensions with Cambodia.

Key Facts

  • Five people died and one person was injured in a shooting in Bangkok.
  • The incident happened at the Or Tor Kor Market in the Bang Sue district.
  • All five victims were security guards.
  • The shooter killed himself after the attack.
  • Police are looking into the shooter's possible links to border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia.
  • Surveillance footage shows the shooter wearing a black T-shirt and camouflage shorts.
  • Gun violence occurs more often in Thailand compared to many other Southeast Asian countries.
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Brands are trying to get to your door in 15 minutes or less

Brands are trying to get to your door in 15 minutes or less

Summary

Disney has teamed up with delivery service Gopuff to offer quick delivery of select items. Using a QR code on the screen, viewers can buy items and have them delivered in as little as 15 minutes, depending on their location.

Key Facts

  • Disney partnered with Gopuff to create mini-stores for quick shopping.
  • Customers use a QR code to access these mini-stores and can get items delivered fast.
  • Gopuff has many small warehouses in major U.S. cities for quick delivery.
  • Top items for delivery include everyday things like eggs and paper towels.
  • Some companies, like Starbucks, use Gopuff for quick delivery by making products directly in Gopuff centers.
  • Other retailers are exploring delivery with drones and robots.
  • Walmart aims to offer 3-hour delivery to most U.S. homes by the end of 2025, using advanced technology.
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Five killed in Thailand market mass shooting

Five killed in Thailand market mass shooting

Summary

Five people died in a mass shooting at a food market in Bangkok, Thailand. The suspect is also dead, and local reports say some victims were security guards.

Key Facts

  • Five people were killed in a shooting at Or Tor Kor Market in Bangkok.
  • The shooter is confirmed dead by police.
  • Reports suggest some of the victims were security guards.
  • The Or Tor Kor Market is known for its high-quality fresh fruit and seafood.
  • Thailand has relatively high gun ownership, but mass shootings are not common.
  • Recent violent incidents in Thailand include a mall shooting in 2023 and attacks in 2022 and 2020.
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