Ali Hassan Bangwar is a freelance columnist based in Pakistan's Southeastern province of Sindh. He has contributed to The Express Tribune, Daily Times, Pakistan Today and South Asia Magazine. He has over 7 years of journalistic content writing experience including articles, columns and Op-ed for ...

At the mercy of criminals

12 Jan 2025  |  The Express Tribune  |  English  |  Socio-political issues

Kashmore district in Pakistan is plagued by lawlessness, with criminal gangs operating with impunity, leading to widespread extortion and violence against citizens, particularly targeting the Hindu business community. The socio-political environment, influenced by feudal, tribal, and despotic elements, has fostered a thriving crime economy. Despite the presence of civil society and law enforcement, collusion with local influentials and a lack of unified leadership have hindered efforts to restore order. The recent change in police command offers a glimmer of hope, but the situation remains dire, with the district on the brink of becoming uninhabitable for peaceful citizens.

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Police State Government

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Twenty years ago, I published my first story for a Jerusalem weekly newspaper. Since then, I
gained knowledge, connections and a deep understanding of covering the news in Israel,
Palestine, U.S. and parts of the world. With my ability to navigate Israel & Palestine, I conducted hard­ hitting ...

Israeli groups that block aid entering Gaza receive tax-deductible donations from US

16 Jul 2024  |  www.timesofisrael.com  |  English  |  US-Israel Relations

Israeli far-right groups, including Mother’s March, Torat Lechima, and Tzav 9, have been blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza while receiving tax-deductible donations from the US and Israel. Despite US and Israeli commitments to aid delivery, these groups have raised significant funds, with some activities sanctioned by the US and EU. The Israeli government has shown inconsistency in its aid policy, with limited enforcement against these groups. The US State Department has urged Israel to ensure aid delivery, while Israeli officials have largely remained silent on the issue.

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Israel Police US State Department Mother’s March Torat Lechima Tzav 9 European Union White House Justice Ministry

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Paul Ejime is a Global Affairs Analyst. A widely traveled journalist, former War Correspondent and author, he is an independent Consultant on Communications and Media development and Governance Issues, such as peace and security and elections.

Otti presents 5 refurbished Armoured Personnel Carriers to police

30 Jan 2025  |  National Accord Newspaper  |  English  |  Governance

Abia State Governor Alex Otti presented five refurbished Armoured Personnel Carriers to the Nigeria Police Force, emphasizing the state's commitment to security and maintenance culture. The vehicles, initially in disrepair, were repaired to enhance peace and security. Otti urged proper maintenance to avoid future dilapidation. Abia's Police Commissioner Danladi Isa expressed gratitude and assured the vehicles' effective use for security operations.

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Abia State Government Nigeria Police Force

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Matthew Green is a journalist based in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Toll evaders could be banned from the New York State Thruway

03 Jan 2025  |  13wham.com  |  English  |  Law Enforcement

The New York State Thruway Authority is implementing stricter measures against unpaid tolls, potentially banning drivers with significant unpaid bills from using the Thruway. This enforcement is supported by a state registrar adopted in October and involves cooperation with the New York State Police. The initiative follows a report indicating a substantial financial loss due to unpaid tolls.

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New York State Police New York State Thruway Authority

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Daniel Harper is a journalist based in Vienna, Austria. Covers stories from migration to politics, focusing mainly on central and eastern Europe, including Greece and the Balkans.

Three missing after heavy storms cause landslide in Switzerland

22 Jun 2024  |  malaysia.news.yahoo.com  |  English  |  Severe Weather

Heavy thunderstorms and rainfall in southeastern Switzerland have caused a landslide in the Alpine valley of Misox, leaving three people missing. Rescue operations are underway, with one woman already rescued. The landslide affected the municipality of Lostallo, prompting a search with excavators and search dogs. Swiss President Viola Amherd expressed shock at the damage and praised emergency personnel. In Zermatt, heavy rains and melting snow have caused the Mattervispa River to overflow, cutting off the village and halting railway operations. In Poland, severe weather alerts have been issued due to thunderstorms and hailstorms, with authorities advising residents to stay indoors for safety.

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State Fire Services Swiss police Matterhorn-Gotthard Railway Institute of Meteorology and Water Management

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Mike Ives is a journalist based in Hanoi, Vietnam, and a regular contributor to The Economist and The New York Times.

Northeast and Midwest Brace for More Snow From Great Lakes Storm

30 Nov 2024  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Great Lakes

A severe lake-effect snowstorm has hit parts of the upper Midwest and Northeast, particularly affecting western New York and Pennsylvania. Erie, Pennsylvania, experienced significant snowfall, with residents trapped in their homes and travel severely disrupted. The storm has led to the declaration of a state of emergency in New York, with more snow expected in the coming days. The National Weather Service has issued warnings across multiple states, and emergency services have been active in rescuing stranded individuals. Despite the challenges, some local businesses and residents are adapting to the conditions.

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New York State Police National Weather Service Cleveland Clinic

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Andre Jones is a journalist based in Silver Spring, United States of America.
Accomplished, multi-platform content producer with nearly 30 years of network and cable television experience. Efficient and detail-oriented team leader, with persuasive communication skills who consistently delivers ...

Portsmouth man facing up to four years in prison for possessing drugs, firearm illegally in New Kent

11 Feb 2025  |  New Kent - Charles City Chronicle  |  English  |  Legal Proceedings

Cornelius Woodley, a Portsmouth resident, faces up to four years in prison after pleading guilty to possessing heroin and a firearm in New Kent County. The plea deal includes a dropped charge of firearm possession by a violent felon. The incident occurred when a state trooper stopped Woodley's vehicle for a counterfeit inspection sticker and discovered cocaine and a gun. The plea agreement suggests a sentence of two years, four months to four years, with the Commonwealth's Attorney not seeking more than three years of incarceration. Other court cases in New Kent involved charges of driving with a revoked license, felony eluding, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and bad check larceny.

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Virginia State Police New Kent Circuit Court New Kent Commonwealth’s Attorney

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Klaudjo Jonuzaj is a journalist based in Tirana, Albania. I have a important experience working with international media in English. I follow current affairs in Albania and Kosovo.

Violations in Procurement, Special Prosecution SPAK Sends 16 Former Officials of the Ministry of Interior for Trial

27 Nov 2024  |  Telegrafi  |  Albanian  |  Public Procurement

The Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) has initiated legal proceedings against 16 former officials of the Ministry of Interior and other institutions for severe violations in public procurement procedures in 2019. Investigations revealed that these officials collaborated to favor a consortium of economic operators, breaching public procurement laws. The procurement contract, initially valued at 54,234,000 lekë, was reduced to 34,248,000 lekë due to incomplete funding, yet the contract was awarded to the favored bidder. The actions led to a financial loss for the state, with the General Directorate of State Police auditing the process for illegalities. Key individuals involved include Plarent Ndreca, Gjon Radovani, and several procurement unit members.

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General Directorate of State Police Ministry of Interior Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK)

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Lucy Kafanov is an Emmy-nominated foreign correspondent who has reported from many of the world's conflict-ridden regions and political hotspots. Based in Istanbul, Lucy covers the Middle East, Afghanistan, Turkey and Russia for clients including Newsweek, VICE News, the Christian Science Monitor, ...

American woman missing in Bahamas after traveling to yoga retreat, family says

25 Jun 2024  |  abc7.com  |  English  |  Travel Advisory

Taylor Casey, a Chicago woman, is missing in the Bahamas after attending a yoga retreat on Paradise Island. Last seen on June 19, her disappearance has prompted an investigation by the Royal Bahamas Police Force. The Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat, where she was staying, reported her absence when she missed a class. Her family, deeply concerned for her safety, is appealing for public assistance. The US State Department had previously issued a travel advisory for the Bahamas due to crime concerns. Casey's mother, Colette Seymore, is traveling to the Bahamas to aid in the search.

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US State Department Royal Bahamas Police Force Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat US Embassy

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Vincent Kasozi is a journalist based in Kampala, Uganda. Vincent has over a decade of experience in Broadcast and digital journalism.

Lands Minister Reinstates Evicted Kira, Nakawa Residents

16 Nov 2024  |  sanyufm.com  |  English  |  Eviction

State Minister for Lands, Sam Mayanja, has reinstated 4,000 residents to their land in Nakawa and Kira Municipality after an investigation revealed that the evictions carried out by the Uganda Police Force were unlawful. The land, owned by the National Housing and Construction Company Limited, was contested, leading to violent evictions last year. Mayanja emphasized that residents, some of whom have lived there for over 12 years, are protected by law from eviction without proper compensation and agreement with the National Housing. The State House Anti-Corruption Unit played a key role in investigating the rightful ownership of the land.

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State House Anti-Corruption Unit Uganda Police Force

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Lisa Louis is a freelance journalist based in Paris, France.  She is a native German speaker, but also fluent in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese.  She works for TV, radio and online. 

You can find more info and examples of her work on her website: ****

France: Trial for Complicity in Teacher's Murder

05 Nov 2024  |  www.dw.com  |  Croatian  |  Murder

In France, a trial is underway for eight adults accused of complicity in the 2020 murder of history teacher Samuel Paty, who was killed by an 18-year-old Chechen after showing caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad in class. The trial highlights the ongoing tension between secularism and religious extremism in France. Two men face life sentences for allegedly aiding the attacker, while others are accused of being part of a terrorist group. The case underscores France's strict anti-terrorism laws and the symbolic nature of the attack on Paty, representing an assault on French values and secularism. The trial is seen as a necessary reminder of the threat of religious terrorism, with implications for future legal precedents and societal attitudes.

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Islamic State French Police French Court AFVT

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Chris Morris is an acclaimed writer and editor whose work has appeared in some of the nation’s most respected outlets. A veteran financial journalist with more than 30 years of experience, he is an expert in the fields of consumer electronics and the video game industry, having covered both fields ...

How Facial Recognition Changes Dynamics of Campus Protests

02 May 2024  |  www.govtech.com  |  English  |  Surveillance Technology

The article explores the impact of facial recognition technology on campus protests, highlighting concerns about privacy and the potential for misidentification. It discusses recent protests at universities like Columbia and Emory, where law enforcement used facial recognition, prompting protestors to conceal their identities. The piece references past decisions by institutions like Carnegie Mellon and UCLA to avoid using such technology. It also touches on the broader implications of surveillance on civil liberties, with insights from the Electronic Frontier Foundation. The article underscores the tension between security measures and the right to protest, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of surveillance practices on campuses.

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Georgia State Patrol Atlanta Police Department Columbia Emory University Carnegie Mellon University UCLA NYPD University of North Carolina University of Texas at Austin Electronic Frontier Foundation

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IFEANYI NDUKWE is a journalist based in Awka, Nigeria.

Disregard ugly report to elicit fear and cause tension in community -- SP, IKENGA assures

23 Aug 2024  |  www.thenigerianvoice.com  |  English  |  Public Safety

The Anambra State Police Command, through SP Tochukwu Ikenga, refuted a misleading report about chaos at a traditional ceremony, clarifying that the suspects were arrested for a petition and later released. The police urged the public to dismiss the report as false and emphasized the state's relative peace under CP Itam's leadership.

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Anambra State Police Command

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Samson Omale is a Multimedia Broadcast journalist based in Jos and Abuja, Nigeria.

Watch: Plateau Police Command Arrest Suspect Planning Violent Attacks Ahead of August Protest

28 Jul 2024  |  Samson Omale  |  English  |  Law Enforcement

The Plateau State Police Command arrested Suleiman Yakubu, a resident of Jos North, for releasing a TikTok video inciting violence ahead of a planned protest in August. The video called for attacks on security operatives and the destruction of infrastructure in Plateau State. Yakubu, linked to the TikTok account 'Dam-Mallam68', confessed to his actions while in police custody. DSP Alfred Alabo confirmed the arrest and emphasized the police's commitment to maintaining peace in the state.

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Plateau State Police Command

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Matthew Omonigho is a journalist based in Warri, Nigeria.

Gunmen storm Delta church, shoot General Overseer, abduct members

23 Feb 2025  |  Daily Post Nigeria  |  English  |  Kidnapping

Gunmen attacked the Elyon Paradise Ministry in Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, shooting the General Overseer, Pastor Divine Omodia, and abducting six church members during a night vigil. Several church members, including women and children, were injured. Pastor Omodia is in critical condition at an undisclosed hospital. The Delta State Police confirmed the incident, but the whereabouts of the abducted members remain unknown.

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Delta State Police Elyon Paradise Ministry

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Francis Ontomwa is a journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya. Francis is an experienced bilingual investigative journalist and senior broadcast journalist with over a decade of leadership in international broadcasting. As a launch producer for BBC's current affairs show Kenya Connects, I successfully ...

Activists, protest victims condemn Ruto's speech

01 Nov 2024  |  www.standardmedia.co.ke  |  English  |  State Security

President William Ruto's State of the Nation address faced criticism from activists and victims' families for failing to address human rights violations and state-sanctioned abductions in Kenya. The speech acknowledged issues like disappearances during protests and femicide but was seen as lacking concrete solutions. Human rights advocate Hussein Khalid and others criticized the government's response as inadequate, while families of victims expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises. The Independent Police Oversight Authority and Directorate of Criminal Investigations were mentioned as bodies to report incidents, but critics argue that these measures are insufficient.

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Independent Police Oversight Authority Kenya's state security apparatus Directorate of Criminal Investigations

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Martha Pskowski is a journalist based in Mexico City, Mexico.
She reports for U.S., Mexican and U.K. news outlets on environmental justice, immigration, urbanism and gender. Her work reporting in Mexico and Central America has appeared in Al Jazeera English, The Guardian, and CityLab, among other ...

Chronic health problems amplify heat risk in the Rio Grande Valley

27 Oct 2024  |  grist.org  |  English  |  Health Risks

The article highlights the tragic deaths of three family members in Brownsville, Texas, due to extreme heat and chronic health conditions, emphasizing the vulnerability of the elderly and socially isolated in the Rio Grande Valley. It underscores the exacerbating factors of poverty, lack of health insurance, and inadequate government response to climate change and heat risks. The piece calls for better planning and resources to protect vulnerable populations, drawing attention to the need for cooling centers and community support systems.

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Texas Department of State Health Services Brownsville Police Department National Academy of Sciences South Texas Health System Area Agency on Aging Rotary Clubs Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program South Texas Environmental Justice Network Community Lighthouses

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Aaron Ross is the Reuters correspondent based in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Shortages and delays hit morale of Kenyan officers in Haiti

03 Sept 2024  |  Classic Rock 103.5 WIMZ | Knoxville, TN  |  English  |  International Aid

Kenyan police officers deployed to Haiti face morale challenges due to pay issues and equipment shortages, impacting their ability to combat armed gangs in Port-au-Prince. The Multinational Security Support mission, led by Kenya and authorized by the U.N. Security Council, aims to restore security for elections by 2026 but is hindered by financial and logistical delays. Despite U.S. support with equipment, the mission struggles with inadequate resources and slow progress. Officers express frustration over deployment without necessary equipment and uncertainty around promised bonuses, affecting their morale and operational effectiveness.

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U.S. State Department Kenyan Police U.N. Security Council International Crisis Group

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Abby Seiff is an award-winning freelance journalist with a decade of experience reporting and editing in Asia. Her writing and photography have appeared in Newsweek, Time, The AP, Foreign Policy, The Guardian, and more. She also regularly edits and writes reports for think-tanks, security firms, ...

Nyah Mway: The boy who will forever be 13

17 Oct 2024  |  radiofreeasia-radio-free-asia-prod.web.arc-cdn.net  |  English  |  Discrimination

The article discusses the tragic shooting of 13-year-old Nyah Mway, a Karen refugee, by Utica police, which has deeply affected the local refugee community. It highlights the family's journey from Myanmar to the U.S., the circumstances of the shooting, and the subsequent community response. The incident has sparked calls for police reform and brought attention to the discrimination faced by refugees in Utica. The article also explores the broader context of refugee resettlement in Utica and the challenges of integration, emphasizing the disconnect between the city's self-image and the experiences of its refugee residents.

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U.S. State Department Utica Police Department Justice for Nyah Mway

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Ajay Kumar Shukla is a journalist.

Healthcare stares at transition as India’s Ayushman Bharat spending balloons to Rs 1 Lakh crore

13 Sept 2024  |  Tech Observer  |  English  |  Government Spending

India's Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) is set to expand significantly, with government spending reaching over Rs 1 lakh crore. The scheme will now include all senior citizens aged 70 and above, providing them with a Rs 5 lakh health insurance cover. This expansion aims to improve public healthcare infrastructure and attract foreign direct investment in the health insurance sector. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the initiative, emphasizing the government's commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare. The scheme is expected to benefit over 4.5 crore families and position India as a top destination for FDI in healthcare.

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Employees’ State Insurance Ayushman Central Armed Police Force Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana Union government Central Government Health Scheme Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme

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Benedict Smith is a journalist based in Palma, Spain. He writes for the online sports publication, 90min.com, and has also written in the culture and travel sections for Redbrick newspaper in Birmingham. In 2016, he was the chief content writer for a start-up company based in Santiago, Chile, where ...

Democrats targeted by Thanksgiving ‘swatting’

28 Nov 2024  |  The Telegraph  |  English  |  Swatting Incidents

Five Democratic members of Congress from Connecticut were targeted by 'swatting' incidents on Thanksgiving, receiving hoax bomb threats that prompted police responses. The incidents followed similar threats against several of Donald Trump's Cabinet nominees. All targeted individuals were found safe, and no bombs were discovered. The events are part of a coordinated effort, according to Senator Chris Murphy. The article highlights the swift response of law enforcement and the ongoing investigation into these politically motivated threats.

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East Hartford Police Department State Police Wolcott Police Department Democratic Party

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Yoe Suárez is a journalist based in Havana, Cuba.

Jorge Olivera and Nancy Alfaya: A Marriage against Cuba’s Dictatorship (Part 2)

02 Oct 2024  |  washingtonstand.com  |  English  |  Political Repression

Jorge Olivera and Nancy Alfaya, prominent Cuban dissidents, faced religious and political challenges due to their activism against the Cuban government. Jorge's conversion to Christianity led to tensions with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, while his political activities resulted in imprisonment during a crackdown on dissidents. Despite harsh prison conditions, Jorge's faith and support from his wife Nancy, who co-founded the Ladies in White, sustained him. The Ladies in White, recognized internationally for their peaceful protests, advocated for the release of political prisoners. The article highlights the couple's resilience and commitment to human rights and freedom in Cuba.

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National Revolutionary Police State Security Seventh-day Adventist Church United States Interests Section Ladies in White European Parliament

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Cody Weddle is a freelance journalist currently in Bogota, Colombia, but he has covered Venezuela for nearly five years.  He has covered Colombia and Venezuela from a variety of angles for print, radio, and TV outlets. He was worked with WPLG-TV, ABC Miami; the Miami Herald; NBC News, the BBC, Al ...

Wilton Manors Police Investigate Illegal Street Takeover Caught on Video

30 Nov 2024  |  www.local10.com  |  Spanish  |  Public Safety

An illegal street takeover in Wilton Manors was captured on video, showing drivers performing dangerous maneuvers at a busy intersection. The incident, which lasted about seven minutes, raised concerns about pedestrian safety. Witness Anthony Arias described the chaotic scene, likening it to a music video. Despite police intervention, the event continued briefly before dispersing. The Wilton Manors Police Department is investigating, noting a rise in such crimes. Florida has recently increased penalties for these incidents, with fines potentially reaching $2,000 for large, coordinated events.

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Florida State Wilton Manors Police

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Emma Woollacott is a journalist based in Oxford, United Kingdom, writing in fields from science and tech to business and politics, freelance since 1992. I've written for most British broadsheet national newspapers, including the Times, Daily Telegraph, Financial Times and Guardian, as well as many ...

New Conspiracy Theories Emerge As 'Drone Sightings' Continue

16 Dec 2024  |  Forbes  |  English  |  Drone Sightings

Conspiracy theories are proliferating in response to widespread drone sightings across the U.S., with claims ranging from government plots to alien invasions. Despite the FBI and Pentagon clarifying that most sightings are small aircraft and not military drones, the lack of definitive explanations has fueled further speculation. The Department of Homeland Security is assisting New Jersey State Police in investigating these sightings.

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New Jersey State Police Biden administration FBI Pentagon Department of Homeland Security

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