KM Special Reports Investigations
(click Arrows)
Archives March 2004 August 2003 K M Meena Religion/Church
Two More Keralite Girls Rescued from Sex Racket Trap
by KM Bureau
DUBAI - Following the dramatic rescue mission from brothels operating from various villas and flats in different parts of the city, two more Keralite girls have managed to escape from the iron fish of the sex mafia who lure young girls from different districts in Kerala and trap them into the multimillion sex racket. Full Report
Hooligans Attack Women Charities in Gods Own Country
By R.S.Priya
Olavana near Calicut witnessed a brutal attack on several members of the Missionaries of Charity. Sisters M.C. Cerlina and Rose Merlin were attacked when they were visiting a Harijan colony at Olavana in Mambuzhakkadu, Kozhikkode to give tokens for rice to the poor people there. They were attacked and wounded with metal bars by a group of around 5 people. They also attacked driver Saji who tried to protect the nuns More (Left Ooman Chandy Inaugurates Dance Festival)
Media Monitor
Week
Email: lfmonitor@dubaimediacity.net
Dubai Executives Online
Last Media Monitor - Interview with Editor Arabia Newspaper, Dubai
Insurance industry at risk from information theft- Fraud Accounts for US$12b Annual Losses Worldwide
DUBAI -Insurance fraud, caused by criminal access to personal and confidential files and policies, is on the increase. According to the Communications Fraud Control Association, USA, annual fraud losses are in excess of $12 billion worldwide. It is estimated that identity fraud affects more than 2000 people worldwide each day but according to Shred-it Dubai, the UAE's leading secure document destruction solution provider, the threat of fraud can be effectively prevented by secure document shredding. Full report and More News
US $2.5 billion Pearl-Qatar island to have its international exhibition debut in Russia.
The Pearl-Qatar will be showcased at the DOMEXPO international real estate exhibition being held in Moscow from October 21-24, 2004.“This is the start of what will be a hectic schedule of international promotions aimed at attracting global investment into this world-class, Riviera-style project,” said Nick Bashkiroff, Development Director, The Pearl-Qatar. More
Cheating, Misleading Agents Rampant in the Gulf Insurance Sector
MUSCAT -- A semi literate expatriate worker buys a life insurance policy from a foreign insurance company operating in the Sultanate through a local agent who assured him that if he regularly pays the premium of around RO 400 for seven consecutive years, the policy holder would get $50000 at the end! The premium amount was less and by making simple arithmetic the agent made him believe through sweet talks that the insurance policy is the most lucrative investment option. The policyholder was given the idea that he would get back $50000 after seven years. However, the poor policyholder realised only after seven long years that the policy he bought would mature only after 13 years and that he would not be eligible to get back the full amount of money promised by the agent. He or his nominee would have got $50000 only if he met with an accident or death during the policy coverage period. On maturity he would be eligible to get only a small amount! Full Report
Thalikkulam-Bombay-Dubai Visa Racket Traps Many Keralites
Dubai - Khaleej Times recently investigated a fraudulent gang of visa agents and reverse hawala operators that have duped many Indian job seekers by luring them with lucrative job offers through a wide network of agents operating from Kerala, Mumbai, and Dubai.As soon as one batch of job seekers leave the country, the gang brings in another set of aspirants. The recruitment agent charges Rs100,000-150,000 from each job seeker. These unsuspecting victims are accommodated in bed space rooms near Naif Road, Sharjah, Deira and some other parts of the city. It is learned that hundreds more are lined up in Mumbai, India. Pictured here is the visiting card of R.K.Abdulkader who has taken Rs.1 lakh to Rs.1.5 lakhs from many Keralites Read the full report by V.M.Sathish
Illegal Exchange Racket Busted Near Delhi
The Department of Telecom (DOT) was again successful in its series of combing operation against the illegal exchanges operating from in and around Delhi. This time the raid was made at Noida, near Delhi by the team comprising of officials from the DOT, VSNL and the Special Delhi Police. The clandestinely operated telephone exchange was used for routing incoming international calls through internet and further distributing these calls on to the local telephone network in and around Delhi. The prepaid cards available abroad, meant for making calls to India, were the source of incoming international calls.Full Report
DNRD calls on the public to be vigilant against visa confidence tricksters Earlier Story
One more American beheaded in Iraq
A second U.S. hostage has been beheaded in Iraq , according to a statement posted on an internet website.It is thought that the beheaded man is Jack Hensley, who was abducted in Baghdad with two other Westerners last week, reported Al Jazeera More
U.S. President wants to create an Israel stretching through the Middle East: Iraq militants
As UN Assembly opens annual high-level debate, Bush proposes democracy fund
21 September 2004 – As 95 Heads of State and Government began arriving at United Nations Headquarters in New York today for the start of the General Assembly's annual high-level debate, United States President George W. Bush called on the world body to support democracy in Afghanistan and Iraq as part of the global war on terrorism. Mr. Bush proposed establishing a Democracy Fund within the UN. "This is a great calling for this great organization," he said, pledging an initial US contribution and urging other nations to donate to the fund, which would help countries lay the foundations of democracy by instituting the rule of law and independent courts, a free press, political parties and trade unions. (Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh meeting with the President of USA Mr. George W. Bush in New York on September 21, 2004.) Full Report
Iraq in Pictures - Shots missed by International read American Media
Click image to see 100s of photographs showing American and Iraqi casualties in the bloody neo-colonial war
Eyeing Iran Reactors, Israel Seeks U.S. Bunker Bombs
Addressing UN Assembly, Annan urges nations to restore respect for rule of law
21 September 2004 – Decrying what he described as “shameless” disregard for the rule of law around the globe, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today urged world leaders gathered at the General Assembly to do everything within their power to restore respect for the fundamental principles of law – in domestic affairs, as well as on the international arena. “Full Report
Islamic Development Bank Alert about Fraudster Impersonating Staff
Jeddah - The Islamic Development Bank Group would like to bring to your kind attention that an unscrupulous person using a number of names and speaking several languages, is trying to defraud people and organizations dealing withFull Report
US to Test Microwave gun to control Iraq rioters
Microwave weapons that cause pain without lasting injury are to be issued to American troops in Iraq for the first time as concern mounts over the growing number of civilians killed in fighting. Using technology similar to that found in a conventional microwave oven, the beam rapidly heats water molecules in the skin to cause intolerable pain and a burning sensation. The invisible beam penetrates the skin Full Report from the Telegraph Defense Correspondent
Bombay Police Arrest Two Omanis for Cheating Sixteen year old Hyderabadi Girl
BOMBAY - A Mumbai Special Police Squad have arrested two old Omanis who were trying to traffic a minor Hydrabadi girl to Oman. Seventy five year old Al Ahmed Anwar Said and seventy years old Nasir Hameed Hamd Al Maswati were arrested from the Bombay Airport just one hour before their flight departure with the sixteen years old Azeema Begum to Muscat. More
KM Marches Ahead with 25 lakh Hits in 5 Months!!!
Kerala Monitor Gets 25 lakh Hits in Five Months 406954 Page views and 123138 visits. We feel proud that the site which was started with a few pages and handful of visitors is reaching such a wide spectrum of readership. Search engines like google, yahoo and msn messengers direct net browsers from different parts of the world to Keralamonitor.com. More than 40 per cent of the viewers have used Windows XP operating system, which indicates the high profile nature of KM readership. Windows XP users accounted for 1017690 hits. view Statistics
Saudi Retail Sales top US$43.5 Billion
September 21, 2004 Saudi retail sales are estimated to have topped US$ 43.5 billion in 2002 growing by 15% from 1998 according to industry sources.The increase in retail spending until 2008 is forecast to be 15%, with growth expected to accelerate as more young Saudi nationals gain buying power by entering the workforce and more shopping malls are developed. According to the latest Retail International ® report, Jeddah is poised to offer over 750,000 sq. mts. and Riyadh over 600,000 sq. mts of shopping space by 2009. There are projects under development in other cities including Dahran and Al Khobar More
Malayali Doctor of Sharjah spend more time for Paintings
Dr.Sreekumar from Sharjah is more a painter than a doctor..His experiments with the paint brush started when he was just 3 years old.He was awarded te Kalaprathibha title for the kerala university youth festival of 1989 and 1990 Full Report
Media Monitor - Interview with Editor Arabia Newspaper, Dubai
SHARJAH - Sharly Benchamin, editor in charge of Arabyayile Sultan (The Sultan of Arabia), a Malayalam Weekly Newspaper from the UAE, is just back from Kerala after interviewing Omman Chandy, the new state chief minister who is also handling the NRK department. Sharly speaks to KM about the magical formulae that attracted UAE Malayalis to spend their precious time and money for a Friday Newspapaper. At a time prominent Kerala newspapers like Deepika and Malayala Manorama are planning to launch Dubai editions, Arabia magazine is well positioned in the market to lure readers and advertisers. ""Currently we are running a campaign to introduce people's representative for overseas Indians in their parliaments on the basis of proportional representation. Urdu Express, another newspaper published from the same group is campaign for similar representation to Pakistani expatriates in the UAE. Now the campaign has the blessing of Pakistan ambassador in the UAE - Urdu Express readership includes North Indians and Pakistanis. Full Repor
26 UAE government departments to participate in GITEX under Dubai eGovernment
Drug Testing to Prevent Disasters
DUBAI 20th September 2004 Disasters at sea caused by drug or drink abuse by sailors can be avoided using two new tests to be launched in Dubai later this year. An in-port drink and drug testing call sample service, plus an on-board sample collection kit, will be unveiled by Medscreen, Europe’s largest substance abuse testing laboratory, at Seatrade Middle East Maritime, the region’s premier exhibition and conference for the maritime industry.More
EDUSAT Launched Successfully
India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle, GSLV successfully launched EDUSAT, the country’s first thematic satellite dedicated exclusively for educational services, into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR (SDSC SHAR), Sriharikota, today.MFull Story and More News
US dollar may devalue further
The UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) published a report on Thursday indicating the dollar's 20%devaluation against major currencies had so far failed to provide "much of a stimulus" to the US economy.Full Report
Kovalam Hotel Take Over Progressing
The state Government has started administrative measures to take over the controversial Kovalam Palace Hotel. An official delegation comprising Chief Secretary Babu Jacob, Principal Revenue Secretary N.Sundareshan and Thiruvananthapuram district collector Tinku Paswal visited the palace on Sunday. The entire property owned by ITDC is being measured and demarcated under the supervision of deputy collector Vijayakumar.
Government Takes Back Kovalam Palace Illegally Occupied by Galfar
Congress takes back what BJP Donated?
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ending one phase of a political drama created by the ulterior move to hand over the Kovalam Palace Hotel to an unholy nexus of NRI businessmen and politicians, the state government today decided to take over the Halcyon Castle and 4.21 hectares of surrounding land in Kovalam, near here. The historically important palace and the adjoining area have been illegally possessed by the Muscat based Galfar group, whose Managing Direct Dr.P.Mohammed li has been closely linked to prominent state politicians. It may be recalled that Kerala Monitor has a special reason to feel elated as the issue was first highlighted through this small portal (We proudly reproduce this story which appeared on February 21 2004). More
To Hell With War : Retired US Major Reveals the Economic Rationale for War
Halliburton's Iraq Bidding Process a Sham, says Expert
The normal profits of a business concern in the United States are six, eight, ten, and sometimes twelve percent. But war-time profits – ah! that is another matter – twenty, sixty, one hundred, three hundred, and even eighteen hundred per cent – the sky is the limit. ...Take our friends the du Ponts, the powder people – didn't one of them testify before a Senate committee recently that their powder won the war? Or saved the world for democracy? Like Dick Cheny's Halliburton, they were a patriotic corporation. Well, the average earnings of the du Ponts for the period 1910 to 1914 were $6,000,000 a year. It wasn't much, but the du Ponts managed to get along on it. Now let's look at their average yearly profit during the war years, 1914 to 1918. Fifty-eight million dollars a year profit we find! Nearly ten times that of normal times, and the profits of normal times were pretty good. An increase in profits of more than 950 per cent...Who pays the bill, the soldiers and citizens...Read this interesting report by an experienced military man who urges every one to say To Hell With War More
Citibank fined for aiding money laundering, violating banking norms.
State Government in Secret Pact with Galfar on Kovalam Palace
Thiruvananthapuram - After making a dramatic announcement that the state government will take over the controversial Kovalam Palace from the Galfar group, the state government is engaged in a secret deal with the hotel promoter to dupe public opinion in the state, alleged Kovalam Protection Council members. Even though the entire deal looks like a big fraud, the state government has not revealed the findings of a so called high level inquiry conducted by the corrupt officials themselves. It may be recalled that these corrupt officials have been deeply involved in the corruption filled deal. Congress party which was highly critical of the Centaur Hotel deal by the former BJP Government and made it an election issue should conduct an impartial inquiry into the entire deal. More
Indian Airlines Does it Again: Flight delayed by Six Hours.
One more Indian Airlines flight from Sharjah to Calicut was delayed by about 11 hours yesterday. The flight which was to take off at 11 pm did not leave. Passengers had to wait till early morning in the airport itself as the airline did not give them accommodation. They could not contact the media or complain to the concerned authorities. They all left the airport. M.P.Abdul Samd Samadani was also one of the passengers.
Qtel highlights plans for expansion and improvement of Wireless networks
Media Monitor - Journalism Under Fire, writes Journalist Full Report
Take back the Pravasi Bharathi Awards
Meanwhile the third Pravasi Bharatha day is being celebrated in Mumbai. Will the Indian government takes back the awards granted to two Indians from Muscat who never deserved it!!! Both are engaged in serious controversies now.. Even though former ambassador K.M.Meena strongly opposed the name of Kanaksi Khimji for the award, the BJP Government gave him an award. What happened afterwards is well known. The latest controversy surrounding the Khimjis is a $20 million case in the Dubai courts. Another winner of Pravasi Bharathi Award, Dr.P.Mohammed Ali is now deeply involved in the scandalous Kovaam Palace issue. Thanks to BJP's election fund raising campaign, these awards no longer bear any importance to the public. These tycoons role in the Indian school controversy is equally well known. Recent Special Reports to learn more
Israel to US: Now let us Invade Iran
Having succeeded in getting the United States to invade and occupy Iraq, Israel is now making efforts to instigate the Bush administration to deal with the "Iranian threat". Full Report
Readers Feedback..Vandana Paranjpe touched by Sapna's report on Anil Kumar
hi, i read anil kumar's write up of being airborne to chairborne. it made such a touching reading that i could help but go to the net and find out if this brave guy did finally get the keyboard that he needed. beating all disabilities and giving life your best is the best way to live life to its fullest.-- Vandana Paranjpe.
41 Journalists Killed in Iraq mainly by the US British Occupation Forces
Reporters Without Borders today wrote to the EU's high representative for common foreign and security policy, Javier Solana, about the recent problems for press freedom in Iraq and asked him to raise them during his meeting tomorrow in Brussels with Iraq's interim president, Ghazi al-Yawar. More
DestinationOman 2004 Print Edition Launched
MUSCAT Sept 15, 2004. His Excellency Mohsin bin Khamis al Balushi, the Undersecretary of Tourism, Sultanate of Oman, launched the 2004 maiden annual print edition of DestinationOman at function held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on14th September 2004.The 136 page beautifully illustrated book is a visual treat, that has foreword written by the Minister of Tourism Her Excellency Rajiha bint Abdul Amir bin Ali and boasts of principal photography by one of Oman's most celebrated photographers His Excellency Mohammed al Zubair. Full Report
Chandy takes new lead role in covering up Kovalam Palace Theft
Umman Chandy the state chief minister is playing very safely to serve the private businessmen who has been illegally occupying the Kovalam Palace. While making a cleverly worded statement about the state government acquring Kovalam palace, he remained silent to questions like who owns the property now and will the government give compensation to the Galfar group. This is a continuation of the corruption story started by the Muslim League/Congress ministers who are also part of the syndicate which will own this multicrore hotel deal. While all the records showed that the Kovalam Palace is a state government property, where is the question of taking over from the Galfar group. It is an issue of illegal occupation facilitated through corruption and nepotism. The state government continues to dilly dally on the issue by keeping many details about the deal secret..Watch this space.
Annan declares Iraq war illegal and warns of election credibility -- Israel's pipe dream: getting oil from Iraq
The Fake bin Laden Video Tape Lokk at a US Government Lie?
There are very good reasons to suspect that the video tape (of Osama Bin Laden's confession of September 11 Attacks) is not what the US Government claims it to be. In the tape, Osama supposedly states that he knew of the attack on the WTC 5 days in advance, yet we know from the preparations inside the United States that the plan had been in existence for much longer than that. The records of those flight schools where the hijackers supposedly trained have been confiscated under the watchful eye of Jeb Bush, Governor of Florida and brother to the President. Will the Bush administration now claim that the hijackers learned to fly a passenger jet in just 5 days? Full Report
WTC 7, Larry Silverstein, and the WTC Demolition
Achuthananthan Strikes Again: Umman Chandy is deeply involved in Lottery Scandal
The fireband opposition leader V.S.Achuthananthan has fired another shot against the corrupt UDF government by coming out with new facts about the nexus between the state government and the illegal lottery busuiness in the state. According to Achuthananthan, the sudden removal of K.Sureshkumar, Lottery Director from the post is a desperate move to stall all the ongoing raids and investigations against the multicrore lottery scandal that cause many problems for the state economy. Read Full report
Chalabi falls from Grace when he opposed Israel's Iraqi Gas Pipeline Dream
Why is Israel so interested in building an oil pipeline from Kirkuk to Haifa? The whole idea sounds preposterous, given the likely reaction from the whole Arab world. The not unreasonable perception would be that the attack on Iraq was just to let Israelis steal Iraqi oil. But the idea just won't go away . It appears likely that Chalabi's fall from grace is because he reneged on his agreement with the neocons to give favorable treatment to Israel in its raping of the resources of Iraq.Full report
Milosevic, to Saddam Hussein himself
American Media Cover Up Massacre in Iraq, US Targets Independent Journalists
Every day, US military forces in Iraq are attacking civilian populations in a calculated effort to drown a growing popular insurgency in blood. But one would hardly know the dimensions or brutality of the atrocities being carried out in the name of the American people from the sparse and sanitized coverage provided by the major press and broadcast outlets that purport to disseminate “the news.” More
George Family Leaves Muscat Airport as Sex Trafficking Continues to Threaten Innocent Kerala Girls
MUSCAT - Ending a period of harassment lasting one and half years, the three member George family - George, wife and the young daughter - is leaving Muscat by Oman Air Cochin flight to night. The family has been escorted by leading social workers of Muscat. However, established and recognised institutions like the Christian Church, the Indian Social Club Linguistic Wings (Malayalam Wing) and even the local media like the Times of Oman have been keeping a safe distance from the issue. As earlier reported by KM on various occasions, the house arrest and attempts to sexually exploit an young Malayali girl is part of a major international racket which operates from Kerala and the Gulf region. While one more case is exposed due to the vigilence of some people, several other cases go unnoticed. More
ChicagoWoman kills cousine for French Fry Worlds Largest Valcano may erupt
UTI MF ties up with Postal Department for Fun Distribution
The Department of Posts (DOP) joined hands with the Unit Trust of India (UTI) in distributing various Mutual Fund Schemes of UTI through its 50 post offices located across the country. To begin with, the DOP has launched five schemes of UTI namely UTI Mastershare Unit Scheme, UTI Unit Linked Insurance Plan, UIT Children’s career Plan, UTI Mahila Unit Scheme and UTI Variable Investment Scheme. More News
New Job Rackets through Internet and Virtual Offices Loots Overseas Job Seekers
by V M Sathish K M Special
DUBAI – THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – A new recruitment syndicate has apparently duped many unemployed youth from Kerala and other parts of the country and the Middle East in a smart way using a virtual office on the Internet and a temporary office in the prestigious Emirates Towers building, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. It is learned that a company called Saturnjobs registered an office in the Emirates Towers two months back and hosted a website (http://www.saturnjobs.com) offering lucrative jobs in various categories to qualified and not so qualified candidates. Unlike the normal visa racket, which cheats people by charging one lakh and above for visas, this “virtual” recruiting agent has been taking only 75 pounds equivalent to Indian Rupees Six thousand, 6300 per candidate as recruitment fees. More
by Ramdev Kunnappally (New KM writer from London)
London - From what I have seen and experienced unless or otherwise we students from India or any other country are not rich, have to work hard for a living here in the second or maybe the third most expensive city in the world. Especially for students like me who have a big bank loan hanging over my head like a Damocles sword ready to pounce at any second. The bankers (SBI, Kottayam) take a small amount of life out of me every month (Rs. 4000) as interest for the overseas education loan. What I am going to write doesn't really mean it is just full of hardships here..Full Report
Bush to divert Iraq rebuilding cash
The Bush administration plans to shift $3.46 billion from Iraqi reconstruction projects to the areas of security, oil output and the January elections. Administration and congressional officials briefed on the plan said on Tuesday that it cleared the way for President George Bush, who was campaigning in Michigan, to write off 95% of Iraq's prewar debts to the US totalling about $4 billion. Al Jazeera Report
eSys Technologies announces plans for establishing reseller network in Iraq
September 14, 2004 eSys Technologies FZE, the wholly owned Middle East subsidiary of the Singapore based eSys Technologies, has announced plans to establish a reseller partner network in Iraq. . More
Omani dies --Nizwa Indian School Students Severely Injured in Road Mishap
At B'mouz near Nizwaa, fourteen Indian school students who were travelling in a private bus sustained severe injury when their bus collided with another vehicle. The injured students of Indian School Nizwa are admitted to the Nizwa Government Hospital. The accident occurred at 2.25 PM today as the bus collided with a car. Keralites, Bengalis and Omanis are injured in the accident. Many of the injured students are Keralites
Dubai's Multi-million dirham projects set to make the emirate more appealing to international visitors More
Earlier Report - Indian School Student Dies due to Reckless Driving by School Bus Driver
In a tragic school bus accident at the International Indian School, Jeddah (IISJ) last week’s, a 15-year-old Maiyada Naushad Khatib was killed. This is the third time a child has died as a result of alleged carelessness on the part of bus drivers working for IISJ. More
Gulf Air Expands International Route Networks to include Frankfurt
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Sultanate of Oman and United Arab Emirates is pleased to announce that effective 15 December the airline will increase the frequency of its operations to Frankfurt Am Mein by the addition of four services from Abu Dhabi International Airport to the German city Full Report and more News
Passengers Complain about Theft of Airlines Luggage in India-Gulf sector- Watch this space.
New Rules Introduced to Deglamourise Indian Air Travel Sector
The entire aviation industry is being made to adapt new rules because the driving paradigm of the aviation market has shifted from status to price. Ten years ago, it mattered less on account of providing quality services by the only existing airlines such as food, delayed flights or conduct of airhostesses. .More News
Microsoft Launches Computer Fingerprint Scanner More
Microsoft Reveals Nine New Ways to Get in Touch With the PC
REDMOND, Wash. -- Sept. 8, 2004 -- Microsoft Corp. today unveiled nine mice and keyboards tailored to today's consumer-computing activities with innovations that set new standards for convenience, comfort, mobility and wireless connectivity. Debuting intuitive and intelligent features -- including the company's first hardware products with fingerprint recognition technology -- these new devices deliver easier and more enjoyable ways to access and share information, whether at home or on the go, revolutionizing how people get in touch with their PC every day. More
Sheikh Ahmed calls for fairer funds allocation at Sportex
Dubai - Sheikh Ahmed Mohammed Hasher Al Maktoum, winner of the UAE’s first Olympic gold medal, said today he would like to defend his men’s double trap shooting title in Beijing, China in 2008 but added his decision depends on the level of official support he receives.Speaking at Sportex Middle East and Gulf Stadia 2004 – the region’s premier sports and leisure show underway at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre - said the UAE’s governing sports bodies could do more to boost individual sports. ‘Now that I have won, I am in a position to talk about the problem with sports leadership. Our governing bodies complain about lack of money but I have seen more funds being allocated to football,” Sheikh Ahmed said.“I have nothing against football but there should be fair allocation to all sports, especially individual sports.” More (Click photo for detailed view)
Illiteracy Alarmingly High in Los Angeles
Emirates to fly 600 flights to India at cheap rate
Emirates Airline will operate about 600 flights to India from November 1 onwards taking advantage of the temporary open sky policy of the Indian Government. The Airline's very cheap rate to India will pose a major challenge to the national carriers which are accused ocharging very high airfare.
Benazir Bhutto lives in Jumeirah Dubai?
DUBAI - Former Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Benazir Bhutto is living in Jumeirah Dubai at a posh palace. KM Learns that Mrs.Bhuto who has been facing threat to her live and other harassment including some investigations into her financial affairs, has found a peaceful home in Dubai. Being haunted by the military ruler of Pakistan, she has apparently found a safe home in Dubai. She lives with her mother and children in Jumeirah, very close to the VIP palaces. Recently two people who were taking pictures of the seaside Pakistan residence (Bilawal House) of the Bhuttos"in a suspicious manner" were apprehended and handed over to police, but they were allegedly allowed to go free...Watch this space.
Jordan Queen with IBM officials to promote computer education
Chicken Pox infected Security Guards Asked to work
At a labour camp of a leading security firm in Al Qouz the situation is awful, as infected workers have not been granted their much-needed medical leave. "We have about 12 employees suffering from chicken pox. However, they still come in to work," confirmed an employee. This is not an isolated case and in some companies there is a lacuna to help such patients. There are many companies which provide treatment and leave, but there are exceptions as well," said a source at the camp.Full Report
Jeevan TV Muscat Franchisee illtreat workers?
eSys Technologies sets up Middle East's first repair facility for faulty memory modules
Express Highway Project - join Discussion Forum
Development in any segment is a welcome theme but we need to set priorities for the betterment of the society as a whole. In a state like Kerala, there are more demanding issues such as providing clean drinking water, relief to poor desparate farmers, improvement in the healthcare conditions, educational assistance to the poorest but deserving and needy, etc. It is an endless list.Nobody in the modern world is against a highway project but we need to ralize that a project of this magnitude needs substantial amount of money. Private parties may invest but will collect it back with a profit. Ultimately, the common man will have to bear the burden. Initially, let us make him capable of surviving so that he can travel on the fast track. Full Message Join
Tanmia launches "Certified Professional Human Resource " program
September 03, 2004 DUBAI - The National Human Resources Development and Employment Authority (Tanmia)
has launched the region's first "Certified Professional Human Resource and Compensation (CPHRC)" program that aims to provide world-class training to UAE National job seekers to take up employment in the field of Human
Resource Management and Development. Full Report
Gulf based Malayali Goldsmiths being recruited to handle Truck loads of Saddam Gold looted by the US occupation forces. They have reportedly detected huge quantity of gold owned by the former Iraqi President - watch this space
Gulf Air's all economy Subsidiary Expands Network
Gulf Traveller to Commence Daily Direct Flights From Abu Dhabi to Birmingham in 2005
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Kingdom of Bahrain and Sultanate of Oman today announced the expansion of its international network with the introduction of non-stop flights from Abu Dhabi International Airport to Birmingham International Airport, commencing early next year. Full Report and more News
Israeli spy Ring Controls America? Jewish Telecom firm Recorded Clinton-Monica Sex Chat?
The Ken Starr report on Whitewater describes how Bill Clinton informed Monica Lewinsky that their phone sex conversations had been recorded. At the same time, Clinton ordered the FBI to cease the hunt for an Israeli mole known to be operating inside the White House itself! So here we have a foreign nation able to listen in on most phones at will, using taps that cannot be found because they are built into the phone system itself, and willing to use the information gleaned from those calls to blackmail Americans into any desired course of action. This may well be what Ariel Sharon meant when he stated that the Jewish people control America. Full Report
"Investigate the "Killing" of our Son, Urges Gulf Malayali Couple who say it was not at all a "suicide"
Dr. Aliyamma Fen who was responsible for the mysterious death of Anik Arackal, Alappuzha Medical College MBBS student is now in deadbody smuggling scandal.
by V.M.Sathish
Anik Arakkal with his parents!
DUBAI - For the last one year, Arackal Poulose Kochappan and Annie K.Arackal, an unfortunate Gulf Malayali couple living here have been seeking a thorough investigation into the mysterious death of their second son, Anik Arakkal, a first year Medical Student of Alappuzha TD Medical College on September 1, 2003. According to the parents, the main culprit who was allegedly responsible for the mysterious death of Anik, Dr. Aliyamma Fen, who headed the Anatomy Department of Alappuzha Medical College is now at the center of another controversy in the Calicut Medical College dead body smuggling scandal. Anikh was a brilliant student of Varkey International School Dubai who passed out from 12th standard here in the year 2001. His ranking for the Medical Engineering Entrance was 336 and was made the class representative in the Alappuzha Medical College. Under mysterious circumstances his dead body was found near the railway track at Valanjavazhi.
While many Kerala newspapers reported about a "madam" of Alappuzha Medical College who had a personal tiff with Anikh, not many people knew that it is the same lady who now faces new corruption charges. The Alappuzha Medical college witnessed five student "suicides" and the last victim was the 20 years old Anikh who was born and brought up in the UAE. It was in September 2003 that Dr.Aliyamma, who had allegedly harassed the medical student by deliberately giving less mark to 26 students of the same class for internal assessment, was transferred from the Alappuzha Medical College to Calicut Medical College. Despite the mystery surrounding the death of Anikh and four other MBBS students of Alappuzha Medical College within six years, the government action ended with a mere transfer order to Dr.Aliyamma. It is learned that the health minister was too keen to protect this lady, who was found guilty of harassing Anikh and other students. While Anikh was found dead in a railway track near Valanja Vazhi three days after his disappearance from the college hostel, another student, the son of an MLA, was found dead in a Coimbatore lodge. Since the lady is now involved in another racket involving trafficking of human organs and body, is it not prudent to conduct a thorough inquiry into these deaths, as demanded by the Arackal couple? .According to once source, it was a common practice in Alappuzha Medical College to deliberately fail students in internal assessments and students would get pass mark, if they pay a certain amount of money. .Watch this space.
Thousands of school students face identity theft IBM Recalls 553,000 Laptop Power Units Worldwide
World Oil Prices and the Indian economy
Paranjoy Guha Thakurta*
When international prices of crude oil touched a record high of US $ 49 a barrel on August 20 as violence in Iraq flared up, it sent shock waves through the world. Oil-importing countries like India received the news with considerable trepidation as soaring energy costs were bound to fuel inflationary pressures. So long as the country imports close to three-fourth of its requirements of crude oil, the Indian economy is bound to be vulnerable to oil price shocks.Ful Report
Girl of three left in filth for two years despite her father's pleas
A girl aged three was left for two years to live in "unspeakable filth" and sexually abused when social workers failed to act on repeated calls from her father, school and health workers, a watchdog said yesterday. Full Report
KM Exclusive Photo:
Oomman Chandy is the New Kerala Chief Minister
Thiruvananthapuram - Senior Congress leader Oommen Chandy was tonight elected leader of the Congress Legislature Party, leading his way to become the next state Chief Minister following the unexpected resignation of A K Antony. Chandy, 61, who rose from the ranks to become the third most important Congress leader in the state, will be sworn in tomorrow as the Chief Minister. The dramatic change of guard marked the first break from nearly three decades of Congress leadership alternating between K Karunakaran and Antony. Eight-time MLA from Puthuppally in Kottayam District, Chandy, Convener of Congress-led UDF, emerged as the unanimous choice at the CLP meeting held here in the presence of AICC observers led by Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee who later announced his election. Congress High Command representatives Pranabh Mukherjee and AICC General Secretary Margaret Alva held one-to-one meetings with Congress MLAs, senior leaders, KPCC functionaries and leaders of UDF constituents eliciting their views on the new Chief Ministerial candidate. (KM)
5,000 Residents of Marina Bandar Colony face Uncertain Future
DUBAI -25 year old Marina Bandar Colony Near National Park will be demolished as nearly 5,000 residents -Indians, Pakistanis and Arabs --face an uncertain future. The rapid development of the city is unsettling life for many ordinary residents. Dubai Municipality will demolish old buildings and there are many old buildings in the city that have reached the maximum maturity. -Watch this space.
Malayali Lady Rescued from Dubai Prostitution Racket
Dubai Construction Company Provides accommodation to four Indian Workers after Khaleej Times and Gulf Madhyamam Reported their Plight. Read the special report by V.M.Sathish (KT) and Jaleel Pattampi (Gulf Madhymamthat) that prompted the company to take immediate action.More click photo for detailed view.
For over one month they have been living here without any basic facilities like toilets, electricity, or drinking water.The workers who came to Dubai recently in search of their livelihood after paying huge amounts of money to an Indian visa agent have ended up working for the company during the day and sleeping in an open space adjacent to the site, which is located in Deira, the heart of the city. The effect of severe summer heat and humidity is clearly evident on their faces. It is learned that three workers, Jagadish Lal, Madan Lal and Mahendra from Jaipur in Rajasthan state of India have paid Indian Rs80, 000 each to get an employment visa. These mason workers were promised Dh850 as salary and company accommodation. The fourth worker is one Jawahar Ali from Pakistan who came to work for the company, after paying Pakistani Rs1.5 lakh to the visa agent. Since their arrival they have been living in the open space. The company gave them just a bed and asked the workers to live there.More
Going back to September 11 History
September 11th. This day has changed the history of the world .People have seen cruelty in the original form and some have not even recovered from the great mental depression. Let us express our feelings towards the sufferers of the tragedy on September 11, 2001, at New York and share with all some of the feelings of millions of educated on "Terrorism" and about the
difference it has made in our lives, individual and collective. More“South Asia bound by a shared destiny: PM
The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, said that the people of South Asia are bound together by a shared destiny. He said the future belongs to the “shared management of our inevitable interdependence”. The Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to multi-sectoral and multi-faceted regional cooperation. “South Asia needs a new vision for the future backed by credible strategies that have the backing of the common people and can reverse the adverse tide of strife and suspicion”, said Dr. Singh, while speaking to a delegation of senior South Asian policy analysts from seven institutions in the region here today. More NewsAbu Dhabi's west coast set for tourism development New five-star resort to spearhead region's promotion
(Abu Dhabi, August 2004): With extensive beach and desert sands that have remained undiscovered by overseas visitors, the region around Jebel Dhanna in the Abu Dhabi emirate is set to become the latest Gulf hotspot for tourism, according to industry figures. The opening this autumn of the deluxe 109-room Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna is expected to fuel interest in the undiscovered attractions of the west coast of Abu Dhabi, offering a comfortable and appealing base from where both leisure and incentive travellers can explore farther afield than the traditional UAE tours.Fish, dive and drive safaris are available as well as exclusive tours of the Sir Bani Yas wildlife reserve island, located just 9km off the coast. More
Antony Follows Mahabalis Route by Quitting Chief Ministership Full Report
Salalah Port in US$ 249M Expansion to Meet Demand
30th August 2004 Management at Oman’s Port of Salalah is predicting a boom in the region’s shipping industry over the next decade. Both port management and authority have invested US$ 249 million in two new berths and a 2.5 km breakwater that will be completed early in 2006. In June, the port also won a two year management contract for Jordan’s Red Sea Aqaba Container Terminal.
Agni Test Fired More
Nair, Ezhava and Muslim Onam Celebrations - celebrities demand Rs.1 lakh for participating in NRK Onam Feast
Price Tag of celebrities to take part in Onam feast - Suresh Gopi - Rs.50,000 Ganesh: Rs.1 lakh, Janardhanan Rs.1 lakh
MUSCAT -August 29 2004 "Kanam Vittum Onam Unnanam" is a Malayalam proverb which advises Keralites to sell even their property to celebrate Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala, which recalls an ideal society which is believed to have existed in the past without any discrimination. Even before Karl Marx wrote Das Capital Keralites visualised a classless society and no wonder the state has the reputation of electing the first communist government in the world through ballot (not bullets). However, Onam celebrations in the Gulf where large number of Keralties are working, is proving to be a costly affair as many VIPs from political and entertainment field are becoming too demanding. While Mahabali visualised a society free of caste and creed, our Gulf Malayali associations which are divided on caste and religious grounds are vying with each other to show maximum pomp and vanity by indulging in extravagance and bringing celebrities. In Muscat there are special Onam for Nairs and Ezhavas seperately. Even though the NSS and SNDP are coming together , the Nair and Ezhava friends of Muscat have seperate Onam feasts. While the Indian Social Club Kerala Wing which claims to work according to the principles of Karl Marx is bringing the popular left leaning academician and scholar Dr.K.N.Panicker, its class enemy the NRI Federation representing the SNDP is brining a leading politician as chief guest. It is doubtful how many of the Kerala Wing "comrades" will be free from alchohol. Despite its secular pretentions, the club leaders are very particular about providing special prayer rooms at the Onam feast venue in the star hotel. A few years back when the famous poet Kadambanitta was the chief guest for Onam, the main organisers were fully or partially drunk. Let us see whether Kerala Wing comrades will embarass our historian guest!!! More
KM Editor feels honoured by a special invitation given by Gulf Madhyamam, a leading Malayali Newspaper published from Dubai to contribute an Onam Memory column in Malayalam for its special Onam supplement. We proudly reproduce this Gulf Madhyamam report here. More
Halliburton official from Baghdad Exclusive report by V.M.Sathish
Halliburton, an American oil and construction giant formerly headed by Dick Cheny, US Vice President, has been in the news for getting multibillion defence and oil-related contracts associated with the British American coalition forces in Iraq. .Full Report
SSLC Examiners to Gulf Countries Get Wine, Woman Money?
I would like to draw your attention to S.S.L.C examinations conducted in the UAE by Kerala State Government. It is an open secret that teachers who are associated with the Education Ministers party (whether it is LDF or UDF) will be deputed to supervise examinations in Gulf countries. In return, these teachers bring valuable gift items from Gulf for the minister and personnel staff. These teachers in turn adopt a 'make hay while the sun shines' policy and try to derive maximum benefit from their visit. School authorities in the Gulf offer 'whatever' these visiting invigilators ask for. Some people are contend with a few electronic items like DVD, VCR, Handycam etc., while some others are offered wine & women also. This is the secret why the schools in UAE score 100% pass in SSLC examinations. I have noticed that some students (whom I know personally), who are below well average level, has scored more than 60% in their SSLC exams. More
Dubai eGovernment announces IT competitions' winners as DSS draws to a close and More Reports
US intelligence tortures and abuses Iraqi children
An Army investigation into the Abu Ghraib prison scandal has found that military police dogs were used to frighten detained Iraqi teenagers as part of a sadistic game, one of many details in the forthcoming report that were provoking expressions of concern and disgust among Army officers briefed on the findings.Earlier reports and photographs from the prison have indicated that unmuzzled military police dogs were used to intimidate detainees at Abu Ghraib, something the dog handlers have told investigators was sanctioned by top military intelligence officers there. But the new report, according to Pentagon sources, will show that MPs were using their animals to make juveniles -- as young as 15 years old -- urinate on themselves as part of a competition. Full Report
Dubai Men's College Drives New Concept of 'On-Demand' Learning
India and Kuwait Agrees to Extradite Criminals
The following is the text of the joint press statement issued on the conclusion of the two day Visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs, State of Kuwait H.E. Sheikh (Dr.) Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah here last evening More
N computer worm can wriggle into you bedrooms and secretly hijack webcams to spy on people.
A warning was issued yesterday about a new "peeping Tom" computer virus that can take over computers and invade homes and businesses.The Rbot-GR worm installs itself in users' machines like a normal virus, but then secretly takes control of the webcam and microphone, sending images and sound back to the hacker who dispatched it. The virus enables hackers to see everything another user does in front of their computer and hear everything they say without their knowledge if their webcam is switched on, according to Sophos, an Oxford-based anti-virus firm, the Guardian reported. Full Report
e-TQM College continues accepting registration for 4th term of its Masters programme
DUBAI - August 21, 2004 eTQM College, the Dubai-based electronic college specialising in conducting online programs in Total Quality Management (TQM), has announced that it is continuing to accept registration for the 4th term of its Masters programme in Total Quality and Performance Management.The two-year postgraduate course is the first of its kind in the Middle East, launched in collaboration with the University of Bradford in the UK, ranked the 16th top university in the world. It is the only programme at such an advanced level to offer learners in the region the flexibility of distance learning and e-learning. More
Malayali worker pledges wife to get Visa to Gulf - Watch this space.
Babulal Gaur was today sworn in as Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. Gaur was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor Balram Jakhar at a function at the Raj Bhawan More News
Kuwait Foreign Minister in India to discuss Refugee Issue
Kuwait Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohd Sabah Salam al-Sabah will arrive here tomorrow for a three-day visit. The ongoing hostage crisis besides bilateral ties is likely to figure in talks Al-Sabah will have with External Affairs Minister Natwar Singh More
DNRD calls on the public to be vigilant against visa confidence tricksters
August 21, 2004
The Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD) has appealed to the general public to be increasingly vigilant against groups involved in the production and sale of counterfeit visas for entry into the UAE. Recent investigations conducted by Investigation and Control section at Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department, lifted the lid on groups engaged in the production and sale of fake employment and visit visas. The members of these groups befriend individuals and offer them a chance to buy an employment or a visit visa. They then print the details of the person seeking entry into the UAE on a fake blank pink colour visa sheet and sell the fake document at rates between Dhs 3500 to Dhs 5000. Authorities had recently apprehended individuals involved in the racket and recovered 58 fake visas and Dhs 39,900 in cash from them. The counterfeits are easily recognisable because of the inferior quality of the paper and the absence of many embedded security features that form an important part of an authentic visa. More
Air India Does It Again!!! Special Onam Gift to Gulf Malayalis Assiciations silent!
DUBAI - Remembers, quite some time back all these keralite communal organisations in Muscat and other Gulf countries were threatening to boycot our national airlines due to exorbitant fares charged by them to various destinations in Kerala. Their actions were supposed to be for a common good cause and requested every Keralite's help for the success of this boycot drama. Of course, as usual simultaneously there were difference of opinion on this issue, as some of the senior members were stating that these airlines are actually helping the Keralites by extending complimentary tickets to invitees for various programmes being conducted here (actually GSA's) as well for emergency purposes. Then the whole propaganda went off as the supposed to be god fathers thought that such a mass protection will dampen the image of these leaders as they are behind this movement and if anything like this takes place, these so called leaders will loose their image and support from the businessmen, who actually oppose such movements as they are the ultimate beneficiaries of any fare hike. so everything went standstill and nothing is heard about this. It is a shame that for a few complimentary tickets, we called of this boycot plan, which in fact should have been a benefit for the poor people and thereby these airlines should have learnt a lesson. But now what happened, for the Onam they again hiked up the fares knowing well that this is another opportunity they can make money. More and Join Discussion
Talmiz Ahmed: Failure of Diplomacy in Baghdhad?
Halliburton Subsidiary Recruiting Keralites to Work in Iraq
Dubai - Halliburton subsidiary, Kellogg Brown & Root (KBR) is one of the world's leading engineering, construction and services companies which has subcontracted work to the Dubai based Prime Projects International (PPI), which recruited many Keralites to work in risky Iraq Kuwait war zone.. A wholly-owned subsidiary of the Houston based Halliburton, KBR employs more than 60,000 people in the Americas, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Asia Pacific region. V.M.Sathish interviews Halliburton representative in Baghdhad about the death of an Indian engineer employed by PPI. Full Report by V.M.Sathish
Tanmia organises the 1st training in Call Centre operations for National job-seekers
Dubai - August 18, 2004 The National Human Resources Development and Employment Authority (Tanmia) has launched, for the first time, a training course in Call Center operations, to help UAE National job-seekers acquire essential skills needed to take up jobs as Call Center consultants. Full Report and more News
Manmohan Singh says Free Press Vital for Democracy
The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has said that free press is vital for improving the functioning of democracy. He was speaking after receiving the copy of the first Delhi edition of the Malayala Manorama, the largest circulated Malayalam newspaper. He quoted Amartya Sen, who often argued that a free press is the best guarantee against the famines which ravaged the country before Independence. Like all cliches, it is true that by voicing the voice of the voiceless, the media becomes a force for good. Full Report and more News
DUBAI’S HEALTH AND FITNESS INDUSTRY REGISTERING 15% GROWTH
Dubai’s health and fitness industry is registering 15% annual growth as mega leisure projects and rapidly growing in-bound tourism create demand, according to Signature, one of the Middle East’s leading fitness and well being equipment suppliers. more News
British Journalist tells of his Basra kidnap ordeal
Kovalam Palace Special - The Galfar group which could purchase the Ashoka Kovalam Hotel and other properties in a dubious manner by "influencing" BJP ministers wanted to convert this icon of Hindu Kingdom of Travancore into another name which will identify it with another religion. Even though there were plans to take over the Kalikkotta palace at Thrippunithura it did not succeed. It is ironical that the BJP Government, which claims to represent resurgent Hindu nationalism, handed over such an icon of nationalism and Hindu monarchy to a business group at throw away price.The saffron party staged a nationwide vendettaa against the minority community and tried to rectify what they claimed was a historic mistake by demolishing the Rama Janmabhoomi temple of Ayodhya. It is their claim that Babri Masjid was a temple converted into a Mosque by the Muslim invading Kings. What is surprising is that how can ministers of a government which upholds such an ideology hand over an icon of Hindu nationalism to a foreign business group? Now the state BJP and its youth wing are engaged in a campaign to "protect" Kovalam Palace. How was O Rajagopal, the state BJP leader and former minister involved in handing over the Hindu palace property to another group! Money is the greatest God and no other force could bridge the religious gap!!!
"I am a regular visitor of your site. Your bold courage in publishing the truth is something unique in this media world.Regarding the subject of Kovalam palace Transfer, I feel,after reading your news of today, Mr. P. Mohammed Ali has been cheated by the Seller whoever might be, by making him to beleive that, Palace is part of the deal."
Criticise, Advise KM like this Messenger from CNN.com?
I just came across this website, I have to say that I only have to laugh, because I was quite confused exploring the site. the information seems to be scattered in many places. also some of the links do not work. You have 1 link to "talents" and another to "dances". they bought have almost identical things. another thing is that the pictures that you have loaded up are of inferior quality. I know you can do a much better job than that, only if you research a little more. Apart from that , you have a km mate section ??. what the hell is that?.. I was shocked to see some dude kissing down a girls neck and ther other "covered" porn pic that you have in your news column about the internet fraud. those pictures are quite dimeaning and should be taken off this instant. I advice you add more pictures, learn php and make use other web building skills, add more ppl to your website crew and get a better page out these. I dont see why arent able to do that since there tons of ppl out there with great ideas, only if they are given a chance, can they prove themselves. I have to say that the website designer needs to go through a lot of learning, before he cam put up a professional page. please take this as an advice rather than an insult and you thank me when you see the number of hits on your website go up!. later brotherz!
16 school children killed, 40 injured in Assam I-Day blast
Gauhati -At least 16 school children, including nine girls, were today killed and 40 others injured when ULFA militants exploded a powerful bomb at the venue of the Independence Day celebration in Assam's Dhemaji district town, around 400 kms from here.The blast, triggered by a remote controlled device, took place around 9 A.M. at the entrance of the Dhemaji college ground where a number of school children had gathered to take part in the I-Day parade, official sources said.Sixteen school children were killed in the blast and 40 others, most of them children, injured. The condition of 15 injured was critical, the sources said The explosion triggered by ULFA, which had given a boycott call for I-day celebrations, set off unrest in the town with people pelting stones at police vehicle to protest the deaths of children.
KM Crime Monitor
Crime Monitor - A 20 year old Pakistani younth has been stabbed to death by his friend, another Pakistani who reside in Safa areaof Dubai. The young boy, Sabir from Peshawar was hit with a sharp knite early morning by his friend turned foe early morning (2 A M)
Malayali Trapped in Several Chque Bouncing, Liquor Trading and Traffic Cases
DUBAI - An young Malayali from Kannur who had handed over his passport to a friend now find himself as the "most wnated man" in many citiy police stations. Apparently his passport has been extensively used to open bank accounts and paying post dated cheques by a Pakistani, who gave him the visa. So be careful with your passport - Watch this space.
Muscat special - OHI Garment Workers in Dire State
Judicial Proble into Kovalam Deal Sought, Transfer all documents to Parliamentary Council
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM - August 15 2004 All the legal documents pertaining to the dubious Kovalam Hotel deal should be immediately handed over to a Parliamentary Council followed by a thorough judicial inquiry into all aspects of the deal, demanded the Kovalam Palace Protection Council. More
Terror alert for Pope's pilgrimage to Lourdes Security xperts on standby for symbolic visit
Paris -Unprecedented security measures were being finalised last night around the pilgrimage site of Lourdes as France prepared for the arrival of Pope John Paul II tomorrow amid official recognition the event was a potential terrorist target. Police units specialising in biological, chemical and nuclear attacks were on standby after local officials said they were taking seriously the possibility that Islamist extremists might strike the centre during the Pope's visit. Full Report
