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Family of Cheryl Grimmer urges accountability as an Australian inquiry examines police handling of long term missing person cases
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Family of British Toddler Missing in Australia Sparks Police Failure Debate at Cold Case Inquiry

A major inquiry in New South Wales has revisited the disappearance of three year old Cheryl Grimmer. She vanished from Fairy Meadow beach in Wollongong in January 1970, shortly after…

UK regulator investigates Ryanair over charges for parents to sit with children on flights, examining fairness, pricing transparency,
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UK watchdog investigates Ryanair over family seat charges for children

Ryanair is facing an investigation in the UK after concerns were raised about how it charges parents to sit with their young children on flights. The Competition and Markets Authority…

Several Pentagon floors were locked down after an air quality alert triggered a hazmat response and shelter in place order for staff inside the building.
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Pentagon Floors Locked Down After Hazardous Materials Alert

Pentagon lockdown Several floors of the Pentagon were placed under lockdown after sensors detected an air quality concern inside the building. Emergency hazmat teams quickly responded to assess the situation…

A Thai court has sentenced two men to death over the 2015 Bangkok shrine bombing that killed 20 people, while questions remain
NewsPolitics

Bangkok Shrine Bombing: Two Men Sentenced to Death as Questions Remain Over Investigation

Key Developments in Bangkok Shrine Bombing Case Bangkok witnessed one of its deadliest attacks in 2015 when a bomb exploded near the popular Erawan Shrine, killing 20 people and injuring…

A fresh look at Max Cady from Cape Fear, tracing how the character evolved from novel to film and now a TV series starring Javier Bardem
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Max Cady and the Fear That Never Fades

Origins of a disturbing character Max Cady first appeared in John D MacDonald’s 1957 novel The Executioners. He is written as a violent criminal who holds deep revenge against attorney…

Atacama Desert’s Hidden Residencia: A Secret Base for Astronomers A building hidden in plain sight Deep in Chile’s Atacama Desert, a strange structure hides in the rocky landscape. From outside, the Residencia is almost invisible. Its entrance sits behind a plain door at the bottom of a ramp, blending into the dry terrain so well that most people walk past without noticing it. The surrounding land feels harsh and empty, with only rocky plains, distant mountains, and the occasional bird cutting through the dry sky. A sudden green world inside Stepping inside changes everything. The dry desert disappears, replaced by a cool, humid environment filled with life. Plants and trees grow in a central indoor garden, creating a green oasis in the middle of one of the driest places on Earth. At the heart of the space sits a bright blue swimming pool under a large dome. The air feels moist on the skin, a sharp contrast to the desert outside. A place that looks like a movie set The design of the Residencia gives it a cinematic feel. Its hidden corridors, open terraces, and unusual layout once attracted filmmakers. It even served as a filming location for a major spy movie finale, where dramatic scenes and explosions were shot across the building. Despite that dramatic past, the structure was not built for films. It was designed for science. Home for scientists and engineers Today, the Residencia serves as a private residence for astronomers and engineers. It cannot be booked by the public. More than one hundred rooms are reserved for staff working at nearby observatories. Most residents are involved with facilities like the Very Large Telescope on Cerro Paranal, only a short distance away. They live here while conducting research in one of the most extreme environments on the planet. Built for extreme conditions The European Southern Observatory operates the Residencia. The goal is simple: support scientific work in a remote desert where conditions are tough but the skies are perfect for astronomy. The design allows scientists to rest, recover, and continue their work without leaving the harsh environment that makes their research possible. A desert base like no other The Residencia sits between two worlds. Outside, there is silence, heat, and dry land. Inside, there is water, greenery, and calm. It feels more like a luxury retreat than a scientific base, yet its purpose is deeply practical. For the people working there, it becomes a temporary home while they study the universe from one of the clearest skies on Earth.
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Atacama Desert’s Hidden Residencia: A Secret Base for Astronomers

A building hidden in plain sight Deep in Chile’s Atacama Desert, a strange structure hides in the rocky landscape. From outside, the Residencia is almost invisible. Its entrance sits behind…

Everest Guide’s Miraculous Survival Raises Questions Over High Altitude Tourism Safety Introduction A climbing guide on Mount Everest has been found alive after being presumed dead for nearly a week, sparking global attention and serious concerns about safety standards in the high altitude tourism industry. Discovery at the Khumbu Icefall A cleanup team working near the upper slopes of Everest spotted a man in a blue summit suit struggling at the base of the Khumbu Icefall, one of the most dangerous sections of the mountain. The man was identified as Hillary Dawa Sherpa, a 57 year old guide who had gone missing during his descent six days earlier. Condition After Survival Hillary Dawa was severely frostbitten and exhausted, but still conscious and able to communicate when rescuers reached him. He was later airlifted to Kathmandu for urgent medical treatment after surviving extreme cold and isolation at high altitude. How He Became Separated The guide was originally employed as a cook at Camp 2 but was later reassigned to guide clients after another staff member became ill at Base Camp. He joined a descent with two climbers and another Sherpa guide after the team reached Camp 4 at 7,920 meters. During the descent, he paused briefly near Camp 3 at around 7,500 meters, a point where he reportedly became separated from the group. Concerns Over Safety and Responsibility The company responsible for the expedition, Himalayan Traverse Adventure, stated that weather conditions made rescue efforts difficult and that procedures were followed correctly. However, questions have emerged about why a cook was used as a guide and whether safety protocols were strong enough. Family members have accused the company of negligence and have filed a police report. Nepal’s tourism authorities have also launched an investigation into the incident. Wider Industry Concerns The case has sparked debate about the growing Everest tourism industry, especially the use of low cost expedition packages and the working conditions of Sherpas. Many are now questioning whether guides and support staff are given enough protection in such extreme environments.
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Everest Guide’s Miraculous Survival Raises Questions Over High Altitude Tourism Safety

A climbing guide on Mount Everest has been found alive after being presumed dead for nearly a week, sparking global attention and serious concerns about safety standards in the high…

Police Launch Manhunt After Deadly Johannesburg Shooting Police in South Africa are searching for suspects after a violent attack in Johannesburg left 12 people dead and nine others injured. The incident took place in an informal settlement in the Cleveland area late Tuesday night. Authorities say a group of armed men arrived in the area and opened fire on residents before escaping in a vehicle. How the Attack Happened Police report that more than 10 armed suspects entered the Jumpers Informal Settlement. They moved through different parts of the community and fired on people at several locations. Officials say the attackers fled the scene in a white Toyota Quantum after carrying out the assault. Emergency services arrived after receiving reports of ongoing gunfire at around 23:10 local time. Police and medical teams found multiple victims at the scene. Casualties and Injuries Eight men and three women died at the location. One more victim died later in hospital due to severe injuries. Nine additional people were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Their condition has not been fully updated by authorities. Possible Motive Under Investigation Investigators have not confirmed a clear motive yet. However, police and local residents suspect the attack may be linked to disputes involving illegal mining groups operating in the area. Illegal mining has grown in parts of South Africa and is often connected to criminal networks and territorial conflicts. Police have described the attack as violent and deeply disturbing while continuing efforts to identify those responsible. Community and Police Response Residents of the informal settlement believe the violence may be connected to ongoing turf tensions. Police have not ruled out organized criminal activity. Law enforcement teams are reviewing evidence and following multiple leads to track down the suspects. A senior police official said the area remains under close investigation due to its proximity to illegal mining zones. Illegal Mining and Rising Violence Illegal mining continues to be a major concern in South Africa. It often takes place in abandoned mine areas where groups compete for control of resources. Authorities say such conflicts can escalate into violent confrontations that put local communities at risk.
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Manhunt launched after deadly Johannesburg informal settlement shooting leaves 12 dead

Police in South Africa are searching for suspects after a violent attack in Johannesburg left 12 people dead and nine others injured. The incident took place in an informal settlement…

CI Co-op has launched its Community Impact Fund using dormant member account money, awarding £69,000 to projects across Jersey
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CI Co-op Launches Community Fund Supporting Island Projects

Funding From Dormant Member Accounts The Channel Islands Co-operative Society has started a new Community Impact Fund using money left in dormant member accounts. The fund supports local initiatives across…

Alleged Hitman Teen Mocked Police During Huddersfield Arrest Arrest at Briar Court Hotel A 19 year old Norwegian man named Johannes Natland has been accused of travelling to the United Kingdom for a planned killing linked to organised crime. Police arrested him at the Briar Court Hotel in Huddersfield. Officers found two firearms and 12 live rounds of ammunition. Body worn camera footage shown at the Old Bailey captured the moment he opened his hotel room door. A laser sight was pointed at his chest. He then allegedly mimed holding a gun and acted out shooting toward officers. Charges and Court Plea He has admitted possession of two working firearms and ammunition. He denies conspiracy to murder. Prosecutors claim he was sent to the UK to carry out a targeted killing for a criminal group known as Foxtrot Network. They say the group has links to Iran. The case is being heard at the Old Bailey. Messages and Travel Into the UK Court evidence says he joined a Signal group chat shortly after turning 18. He reportedly asked who the target was soon after joining. He later travelled from Stavanger in Norway to Manchester using an emergency passport. At the airport, Border Force officers questioned him. He had only a small amount of cash, no return ticket, and no accommodation booked. He was refused entry but allowed a temporary stay before a planned return flight. Cash Drops and Firearms Instructions After arriving in the UK, he took a taxi to Huddersfield. He was allegedly guided by messages to hidden cash near a walkway underpass. He collected the money and checked into a hotel, paying in cash. Further instructions reportedly led him to woodland outside the town, where he collected two handguns. He was also directed to a stolen car with a hidden key placed under a wheel. Online Sharing and Behaviour Later that day, he bought alcohol and sent videos of the weapons to a friend. He also sent images showing cash spread across a hotel bed. In another image shared earlier, he posed with money laid out in front of him inside the hotel room.
News

Alleged Hitman Teen Mocked Police During Huddersfield Arrest

Arrest at Briar Court Hotel A 19 year old Norwegian man named Johannes Natland has been accused of travelling to the United Kingdom for a planned killing linked to organised…

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Kelp Farmer Suzie Flores Pushes Seaweed Farming in the US After Leaving Manhattan Career
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Candy Stores Are Growing in NYC Despite Economic Pressure Why small sweet shops are expanding during tough times New candy shops are appearing across New York City even though many retailers are struggling due to weak consumer confidence and ongoing inflation. While people are cutting back on larger purchases, demand for small treats like candy remains steady. Industry owners say sweets continue to sell because they are affordable and offer quick comfort. Even during financial stress, customers still want small indulgences they can easily justify. A business model that survived the Great Depression One of the strongest examples is Economy Candy on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. It first opened in 1937 during the tail end of the Great Depression and is now known as the city’s oldest candy store. The shop did not start as a candy store. It began as a hat and shoe repair business, with candy sold outside on a small cart to earn extra income. Over time, repairs became less affordable for customers, so the family shifted fully to sweets. That decision helped the business survive, and it is still running today under third generation ownership. Why candy still sells in uncertain times Owner Mitchell Cohen says people still buy candy even when money feels tight. He explains that inflation and uncertainty reduce spending power, but candy remains an easy and low cost purchase. Recent retail data shows overall US sales are still rising, yet consumer sentiment has dropped to record lows. This gap reflects a split between what people feel and what they still spend on. Experts say candy fits into a pattern often called the “lipstick effect.” When budgets shrink, people avoid expensive items but still buy small luxuries that give emotional comfort. New shops are betting on small treats This trend is also attracting new entrepreneurs. Kate Bolger, a former movie producer, is preparing to open The Village Confectionery in Sleepy Hollow, a town near New York City known for its literary history. Bolger believes customers may delay big purchases but will still spend on small treats like candy. She sees it as a simple way for people to enjoy something small without financial strain. A small luxury that stays resilient Even as the wider retail sector faces pressure, candy stores continue to grow in select areas. Their success is linked to low prices, emotional appeal, and steady demand during uncertain economic conditions.
Candy Stores Are Growing in NYC Despite Economic Pressure
Business News
Deputy Mayor Defends Blocking £25m Palantir Met Police Contract Amid Job Cut Fears Contract decision sparks debate over policing costs and reforms in London London’s deputy mayor for policing and crime, Kaya Comer Schwartz, has defended her decision to stop a £25.3 million contract between the Metropolitan Police and US tech company Palantir. The deal was planned for 2026 to 2027 and included an optional extra year. It was intended to improve criminal investigations and support internal reforms within the force. She told the London Assembly’s Police and Crime Committee that her priority was ensuring public money is spent properly. She said the decision was based on concerns about value for money and accountability. “I make no apologies for making sure we have the right oversight over significant spending,” she said. “We must ensure contracts deliver value for Londoners.” Concerns over procurement and supplier choice The Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime raised concerns about how the Met Police handled the procurement process. It said the force engaged seriously with only one supplier during the process. It also noted concerns about the company’s values and ethics, although those issues could not legally determine the final decision. Palantir rejected the criticism. The company said its proposal offered strong value for money and supported ongoing policing needs. It also confirmed it was considering legal action to challenge the decision. Impact on policing and possible job losses Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley warned that the blocked deal could affect staffing plans. He said the force must make budget savings this year and next year, which may lead to difficult decisions affecting public services. He said up to 750 job cuts could be required if funding pressures continue. Those decisions are expected to be finalised in the coming weeks. Conservative Assembly member Susan Hall criticised the decision. She warned it could lead to further cuts in frontline policing and questioned whether the deputy mayor would accept responsibility for the impact. Oversight and unanswered questions During the committee session, Liberal Democrat member Gareth Roberts asked how much detail the deputy mayor had seen about potential cutbacks. Comer Schwartz said she had not yet reviewed a full contingency plan. She added that discussions with the Met were still ongoing. Officials continue to assess how the funding gap will be managed while balancing technology investment, staffing levels, and service delivery across London policing.
Deputy Mayor Defends Blocking £25m Palantir Met Police Contract Amid Job Cut Fears
Business News
Inflation Holds at 2.8% as Food Price Rises Slow in UK Inflation stays unchanged despite earlier forecasts UK inflation stayed at 2.8% in May, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Analysts had expected a rise to around 3%, but prices remained steady instead. Food price growth slowed during the month, helping balance increases in other areas such as transport and fuel. Experts had warned that global tensions, especially the Middle East conflict, could push prices higher. However, the latest peace deal between the US and Iran may reduce some of that pressure in the coming months. Transport costs drive inflation higher Transport prices continued to rise and remained the strongest contributor to inflation. Motor fuel prices were 24.6% higher than a year earlier. Overall transport inflation reached 6.8%, the highest level seen since December 2022. ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner said higher costs came mainly from airfares, vehicle taxes, and fuel prices. Food inflation slows to a 17-month low Food prices rose at a slower pace compared to previous months. Food inflation dropped from 3% in April to 2.2% in May, its lowest level since December 2024. Prices for meat, dairy, and vegetables increased, but at a reduced rate. Beef and veal prices still rose by 9.4% over the year. However, this was lower than the 13.2% rise in April and 18.8% in March, showing a clear slowdown. Retailers and food industry outlook The British Retail Consortium said lower food inflation reflects strong competition among supermarkets. Still, it warned that prices could rise again later in the year. The Food and Drink Federation said retail prices often lag behind production costs. It added that recent global disruptions, including issues around the Strait of Hormuz, have not yet fully affected shop prices. Chief executive Karen Betts explained that farmers, processors, and manufacturers face higher costs first, and these usually reach consumers after several months. Long term contracts for energy and ingredients also delay price changes. Inflation trend context Inflation has moved sharply over recent years. It fell close to zero in late 2020, then surged to 11.1% in October 2022. It later dropped to 1.7% in September 2024 before rising again to 2.8% in May 2026.
Inflation Holds at 2.8% as Food Price Rises Slow in UK
Economics
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