South Africa's hunt for 'Tiger' - alleged illegal mining kingpin

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

South African police are searching for James Neo Tshoaeli, also known as "Tiger," who is accused of running illegal mining operations at an abandoned gold mine where 78 bodies were found. Tiger escaped police custody four months ago, and his whereabouts remain unknown. His family in Lesotho has not seen him in eight years and is concerned about his safety.

Key Facts:

• James Neo Tshoaeli, known as "Tiger," is wanted by South African police for leading illegal mining activities.
• Police found 78 bodies in an abandoned gold mine in Stilfontein, South Africa.
• Tiger escaped police custody four months ago, and efforts to find him have not been successful.
• Four policemen, accused of helping Tiger escape, are currently out on bail.
• Tiger's family, including his mother and younger brother in Lesotho, has not seen him in eight years.
• His family recalls him as a peaceful person from his youth who supported them financially.
• A friend from Stilfontein suggests Tiger was not the top leader but had a supervisory role in the mines.

Source Information

BBC World

US steel and aluminium tariffs doubled to 50%

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

US President Donald Trump announced that tariffs on steel and aluminum imports will double from 25% to 50%. The increase aims to support the American steel industry but exempts the UK, keeping its tariffs at 25% due to ongoing trade discussions.

Key Facts:

• The tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to the US are increasing from 25% to 50%.
• The change applies from Wednesday and focuses on protecting the US steel industry.
• The UK is exempt from the new tariffs, maintaining a 25% rate.
• US is one of the largest importers of steel, mainly from countries like Canada, Brazil, Mexico, and South Korea.
• In March, carve-outs from tariffs were ended, leading to this increase.
• Trump stated the higher tariffs would push businesses to buy American-made products.
• Steel imports to the US fell 17% in April following earlier tariff increases.
• The European Union is in talks with the US to address these trade issues.

Source Information

BBC World

Oreo maker sues Aldi in US over 'copycat' packaging

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

Oreo's parent company, Mondelēz International, has sued Aldi in the US, alleging that Aldi used packaging similar to Oreo to confuse shoppers and benefit from the brand's reputation. Mondelēz accuses Aldi of copying the packaging of several of its popular snacks, aiming to protect its brand image.

Key Facts:

• Mondelēz International filed a lawsuit against Aldi in the US.
• The lawsuit claims Aldi's packaging for its products is similar to that of Mondelēz, causing confusion for consumers.
• Mondelēz also alleges unfair competition and unjust enrichment from Aldi.
• The lawsuit includes side-by-side photos comparing Mondelēz and Aldi products.
• Mondelēz is seeking damages and wants Aldi to stop selling these products.
• Aldi's UK branch is not involved in the lawsuit, and they operate separately from the US branch.
• Aldi, known for discount products, previously faced a similar lawsuit over a cider product.

Source Information

BBC World

The Today Debate: Israel-Gaza - are we witnessing war crimes?

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

The BBC hosted a special debate discussing whether war crimes are being committed in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. The debate included experts in international relations and human rights. It examined the situation amidst ongoing violence and military actions in the region.

Key Facts:

• The BBC's Anna Foster hosted a debate on possible war crimes in the Israel-Gaza conflict.
• Experts on the panel included Lyse Doucet, Michael Kleiner, and Baroness Helena Kennedy.
• Daniel Levy, involved in past Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, also participated in the debate.
• Recent military action by Israel includes airstrikes on Gaza, targeting what they call "terror targets."
• Videos show the aftermath of Israeli strikes on civilian locations in Gaza.
• The ongoing violence has resulted in hundreds of deaths, according to local health authorities.
• Human rights issues were central to the debate, discussing the impact on civilians.
• Diplomatic efforts in the region continue amidst the conflict, including recent visits by international leaders.

Source Information

BBC World

Euthanasia activist arrested over 'suicide pod' dies

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

A euthanasia activist, Dr. Florian Willet, who was arrested after a woman used a "suicide pod" in Switzerland, has died by assisted suicide in Germany. He faced psychological issues after his arrest related to the death investigation and was not charged with any crime.

Key Facts:

• Dr. Florian Willet was a pro-euthanasia activist involved with the "suicide pod."
• He was present when a 64-year-old woman used the pod in a Swiss forest.
• The pod's inventor, Philip Nitschke, said Willet died through assisted suicide in Germany.
• Dr. Willet was arrested and detained for 70 days but not charged in the woman's death.
• The arrest reportedly caused him significant psychological distress.
• He fell from a third-floor window before his death, requiring medical and psychiatric care.
• Assisted dying is legal but strictly regulated in Switzerland.
• The "suicide pod" is controversial, with supporters and critics voicing strong opinions.

Source Information

BBC World

Musk calls Trump's tax bill a ‘disgusting abomination'

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

Elon Musk criticized President Trump's tax and spending bill, describing it as a "disgusting abomination" and expressing concern about its impact on the national debt. The bill seeks to increase military spending, extend tax cuts, and raise the debt ceiling, leading to disagreements within the Republican Party.

Key Facts:

• Elon Musk described Trump's tax and spending bill as a "disgusting abomination."
• The bill includes tax breaks, more military spending, and raises the borrowing limit for the government.
• The bill was passed by the House of Representatives in May.
• Elon Musk openly criticized the bill in a series of posts on social media.
• The current version of the bill could increase the budget deficit by about $600 billion in the next year.
• Some Republican lawmakers, like Senator Rand Paul, oppose parts of the bill, particularly the debt ceiling increase.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson defended the bill, mentioning he discussed it with Musk in a phone call.

Source Information

BBC World

Family of Boulder suspect arrested by immigration officers

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

U.S. immigration authorities arrested the family of Mohamed Sabry Soliman, who is charged with attempted murder and other crimes following an attack in Boulder, Colorado. Soliman allegedly used petrol bombs at a march, injuring twelve people, and is also facing a hate crime charge. Homeland Security officials are investigating whether his family knew about or supported the attack.

Key Facts:

• Mohamed Sabry Soliman is charged with attempted murder, assault, and possession of an incendiary device.
• Soliman allegedly threw petrol bombs at a crowd during a march in Boulder, Colorado.
• The attack injured twelve people, including individuals aged 52 to 88.
• Soliman also faces a federal hate crime charge.
• The U.S. Homeland Security Secretary announced the arrest of his wife and children.
• Authorities are investigating if his family was aware of or supported his actions.
• Soliman reportedly planned the attack for a year and waited for his daughter's graduation to carry it out.
• Soliman is in custody and will appear in court for formal charges and a bail hearing.

Source Information

BBC World

South Korean opposition wins presidency after months of political chaos

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

South Korea's opposition candidate Lee Jae-myung won the presidency after political turmoil in the country. The previous president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was impeached, adding to the challenges Lee now faces, including uniting a divided nation and dealing with international trade issues.

Key Facts:

• Lee Jae-myung is South Korea's new president, representing the opposition party.
• Former President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached after a failed attempt to impose martial law.
• Lee's election win follows significant political unrest and public protests.
• Lee must negotiate a trade deal with the United States to address tariff issues.
• The ruling party's candidate, Kim Moon-soo, conceded defeat after trailing in polls.
• Lee previously lost a close presidential election three years ago.
• Lee faces a Supreme Court trial for alleged election law violations.
• As president, Lee plans to focus on strengthening South Korea's democracy.

Source Information

BBC World

Watch: BBC on the ground in Seoul as new president is announced

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

Millions of people voted in a sudden election in South Korea after the former president was impeached. Lee Jae-myung won the election and promised to prevent any future attempts at martial law.

Key Facts:

• The snap election in South Korea was held due to the impeachment of former president Yoon Suk Yeol.
• Lee Jae-myung from the Democratic Party won the election.
• Kim Moon-soo from the People Power Party conceded defeat.
• The election was partly focused on martial law issues.
• The BBC reported live from a victory rally in central Seoul.

Source Information

BBC World

Five killed in attack on UN aid convoy in Sudan

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

Five people were killed in an attack on a United Nations aid convoy aiming to deliver food and supplies to the city of el-Fasher in Sudan. The convoy was part of the UN's effort to help those affected by the ongoing civil war in the region, and the UN has called for an investigation into the attack.

Key Facts:

• A UN aid convoy headed to el-Fasher in Sudan was attacked, leading to five deaths.
• The attack also injured several people and burned multiple trucks.
• The UN convoy aimed to provide essential food and nutrition supplies to families in need.
• The attack is part of an ongoing civil war between Sudan's regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
• Both sides in the conflict blame each other for the attack on the convoy.
• El-Fasher is an important location still under the army's control and has faced attacks from the RSF.
• The ongoing conflict, which started in 2023, has caused a major humanitarian crisis with millions fleeing the country.

Source Information

BBC World

Ukraine says it hit Crimea bridge with underwater explosives

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) claimed responsibility for attacking the Crimea Bridge using underwater explosives, saying the operation took several months to plan. The bridge suffered damage, but no civilian injuries were reported. The bridge, built by Russia after it annexed Crimea in 2014, was briefly closed but reopened later.

Key Facts:

• Ukraine targeted the Crimea Bridge with underwater explosives, according to its Security Service.
• The explosives used were equivalent to 1,100 kg of TNT and damaged the bridge's supports.
• No civilian injuries occurred during the detonation.
• The bridge was temporarily closed to traffic but later reopened, according to Russian media.
• Unconfirmed reports indicated additional explosions around the bridge.
• The SBU director, Lieutenant General Vasyl Malyuk, led the operation.
• The bridge, built by Russia after it took over Crimea in 2014, is seen as a symbol of Russian occupation.
• The attack occurred shortly after Ukraine targeted other locations in Russia with drones.

Source Information

BBC World

'Struggling to be alive': Kenyan activist speaks of 'sexual torture' in Tanzania

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

A Kenyan activist, Boniface Mwangi, claims he was sexually tortured while detained in Tanzania. He and Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire were arrested while in Tanzania to support opposition politician Tundu Lissu, who faces treason charges. Tanzanian authorities deny these allegations, calling them hearsay.

Key Facts:

• Boniface Mwangi claims he was sexually tortured while held in Tanzania.
• Mwangi and Agather Atuhaire went to Tanzania to show support for Tundu Lissu, an opposition leader facing legal charges.
• Mwangi described being stripped, beaten, and sexually assaulted during his detention.
• The police chief in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, disputed Mwangi's claims, suggesting they are not verified.
• Tanzanian authorities have been accused of increasing repression ahead of October elections.
• Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, are calling for an investigation into the allegations.
• Mwangi wants his medical records made public to prevent such treatment from happening to others.
• Tundu Lissu was arrested earlier in April after calling for voting reforms in Tanzania.

Source Information

BBC World

Japanese baseball legend Shigeo Nagashima dies aged 89

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

Shigeo Nagashima, a well-known Japanese baseball player, passed away at the age of 89 due to pneumonia. He was a celebrated figure in Japanese sports and played a key role in the success of the Yomiuri Giants during the 1960s and 70s.

Key Facts:

• Shigeo Nagashima died at 89 from pneumonia in a Tokyo hospital.
• He was a famous baseball player in Japan, nicknamed "Mr. Giants."
• Nagashima won nine consecutive titles with the Yomiuri Giants in the 1960s and 70s.
• He played in 2,186 games and hit 444 home runs during his career.
• Nagashima retired in 1974 after 17 years of playing, winning the Central League batting title six times.
• He also managed the Giants, winning two Japan Series titles during his 15 seasons as manager.
• He hit a notable home run in 1959 at a game attended by the Japanese emperor.
• Shohei Ohtani, a current baseball star, shared a tribute to Nagashima on social media.

Source Information

BBC World

More than 200 inmates escape Pakistan jail after earthquake

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

More than 200 prisoners escaped from a jail in Karachi, Pakistan, after an earthquake caused panic. Police have recaptured 80 inmates so far, but over 130 are still missing. An investigation is underway to understand what happened during the escape.

Key Facts:

• An earthquake hit Karachi, Pakistan, causing over 200 inmates to escape from Malir Jail.
• Prisoners broke cell doors, locks, and windows during the escape.
• Police have recaptured around 80 of the escaped inmates.
• There are still more than 130 inmates who have not been found.
• One inmate died and two prison officers were injured during the incident.
• The jail's capacity is 2,200 prisoners, but it currently holds about 5,000.
• The local prison minister has ordered an investigation and promised disciplinary actions if needed.
• Families of inmates are protesting outside the jail as visits have been postponed.

Source Information

BBC World

At least 27 Palestinians killed by Israeli fire near aid centre, Gaza authorities say

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

At least 27 Palestinians were reported killed by Israeli fire near an aid distribution site in Gaza, according to local officials. The Israeli military stated it fired warning shots after spotting suspects, but witnesses described intense gunfire from various directions as people tried to collect aid.

Key Facts:

• 27 Palestinians were reported killed near an aid site in Gaza.
• Israeli military said it fired after identifying potential threats, but eyewitnesses reported gunfire from helicopters, tanks, and snipers.
• The incident took place near the al-Alam roundabout, 1km from the aid center.
• The local hospital received 24 dead and 37 wounded people.
• Witnesses described trying to find cover as gunfire continued.
• Israel has restricted journalist access to Gaza, making verification difficult.
• A new aid distribution system requires people to travel to specific sites controlled by armed guards.

Source Information

BBC World

Growing risks for pregnancy and childbirth in Gaza under Israeli blockade and bombardment

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

The war in Gaza has created difficult conditions for pregnant women and newborns. There is a shortage of food and medical supplies, leading to complications like premature births and underweight babies. Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed, making it hard for women to get proper care during pregnancy and childbirth.

Key Facts:

• In Gaza, many pregnant women and newborns face stress and fear due to the war.
• The UN reports that 1 in 10 newborns in Gaza is underweight or born early.
• Poor nutrition has led to more miscarriages and birth defects.
• Gaza's hospitals have a severe shortage of medical supplies and basic products.
• Women often give birth in difficult conditions, like tents, with no medical help.
• Some mothers are sent home a few hours after birth due to overcrowded hospitals.
• The Nasser hospital's neo-natal intensive care unit is full, leaving little room for more babies.
• Most pregnant women in Gaza cannot access regular healthcare appointments.

Source Information

BBC World

Blake Lively drops two claims against Justin Baldoni

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni are involved in a legal dispute over events related to their collaboration on the film "It Ends With Us." Recently, Blake Lively decided to drop two claims against Baldoni involving emotional distress due to demands for her medical records. The court is yet to decide whether to dismiss these claims or require Lively to provide her mental health information.

Key Facts:

• Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni co-starred in the film "It Ends With Us."
• Lively initially accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and a smear campaign in December 2024.
• Lively is trying to withdraw her claims of emotional distress against Baldoni.
• Baldoni's legal team requested Lively’s medical and therapy records for defense.
• The court will decide whether to dismiss the claims or request Lively's mental health records.
• Baldoni counter-sued Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, for civil extortion, defamation, and invasion of privacy.
• Taylor Swift was briefly involved in the case over alleged encouragement of script rewrites, but her subpoena was later dropped.

Source Information

BBC World

Zebra crossing: Tennessee police search for animal on the loose

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

A zebra is loose in Christiana, Tennessee, causing a police search after being filmed on a road. The local sheriff's office and professional trackers are trying to find the animal.

Key Facts:

• A zebra, kept as a pet, escaped and is roaming in Christiana, Tennessee.
• The zebra was spotted on a road and captured by a home surveillance camera.
• The owner notified the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office about the missing zebra.
• The sheriff's office confirmed the zebra was still loose as of Monday afternoon.
• Several professional tracking groups have joined the search efforts.
• A planned search using dogs was set for Tuesday.

Source Information

BBC World

Mexican police arrest suspect in killing of five band members

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

Police in Mexico have arrested a man known as M-47, suspected of ordering the murder of five members of the band Grupo Fugitivo. The bodies of the band members and their manager were found in Tamaulipas state, days after they were reported missing. Police also detained two other suspects and seized drugs, weapons, and other items.

Key Facts:

• M-47 is suspected of ordering the murder of members of Grupo Fugitivo.
• Four band members and their manager were found dead in Tamaulipas, Mexico.
• The men were reported missing, and their families received ransom demands.
• M-47 is thought to be part of the "Metros" gang, linked to the Gulf Cartel.
• The Gulf Cartel is involved in smuggling and kidnappings in Tamaulipas.
• The band's SUV and equipment were found abandoned near different locations.
• Twelve suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings.

Source Information

BBC World

India anger over 10-year-old rape victim's death after alleged treatment delay

BBC World • June 03, 2025 • World

A 10-year-old girl in Bihar, India, died after reportedly waiting hours for medical treatment following a rape. The girl's family claims she was delayed in an ambulance before hospital admission, but the hospital denied this. Her death led to public outrage and demands for an investigation.

Key Facts:

• The 10-year-old girl died at Patna Medical College and Hospital after an alleged delay in receiving treatment.
• Her family claims she waited around four hours in an ambulance before being admitted.
• Hospital officials deny the delay in the girl's admission and state her transfer was according to medical needs.
• The girl belonged to the Dalit community, historically marginalized in India.
• The National Human Rights Commission and National Commission for Women have called for an investigation into the hospital's actions.
• The girl was initially attacked on 26 May and had multiple injuries from that incident.
• Police have arrested a man in connection with the rape, who is accused of assaulting her near her aunt’s house.
• The incident has led to protests and criticism of the Bihar government's handling of the situation.

Source Information

BBC World