Joint Nigeria-U.S. Counterterrorism Operation Kills 175 Islamic State Fighters in North-east
A major joint operation between Nigerian military forces and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has resulted in the deaths of 175 Islamic State terrorists in Nigeria’s North-east region, according to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ). The operation targeted key infrastructure used by the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), destroying checkpoints, weapons stockpiles, logistics hubs, and financial networks. The militants have been waging a prolonged insurgency in the area, destabilizing communities and challenging Nigeria’s security forces.
Among those killed was Abubakar Mainok, a high-ranking Islamic State commander known as Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki. He was reportedly eliminated alongside his fighters on an island in Lake Chad, a stronghold for the group. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu confirmed the operation’s success, praising the military’s efforts in combating terrorism.
The DHQ emphasized that the mission underscores Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to eradicating terrorist threats nationwide. This operation marks a significant blow to ISWAP, which has been responsible for numerous attacks on civilians and security personnel in recent years.
Somaliland to Open Embassy in Jerusalem Amid Growing Ties with Israel
Somaliland has announced plans to open an embassy in Jerusalem, strengthening its diplomatic ties with Israel. The move follows Israel’s historic recognition of Somaliland’s independence earlier this year, ending decades of diplomatic isolation for the self-declared state. Somaliland Ambassador to Israel, Mohamed Hagi, described the decision as a reflection of “growing friendship, mutual respect, and strategic cooperation” between the two nations.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar welcomed the announcement, calling it a “significant step” in deepening bilateral relations. Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has maintained its own government, security forces, and democratic institutions despite lacking widespread international recognition. The embassy in Jerusalem is seen as a milestone in Somaliland’s efforts to gain global legitimacy.
Kenya Suspends Nationwide Transport Strike After Fuel Price Negotiations
Kenya’s transport sector has called off a nationwide strike after reaching an agreement with the government over escalating fuel costs. The strike, which paralyzed transport networks in Nairobi and other cities, was triggered by record-high diesel prices, sparking widespread protests. At least four people were killed, over 30 injured, and more than 700 arrested during the unrest, according to authorities.
Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen announced that the strike was suspended following consultations with transport representatives. While the government agreed to reduce diesel prices by 10 shillings, the move fell short of protesters’ demands. Transport operators had called for a more substantial reduction, disputing the government’s decision to maintain petrol prices at 214 shillings per liter. The suspension of the strike, however, provides temporary relief as further negotiations are expected.
AFCON 2027 Qualifiers Kick Off with High-Stakes Group Stage Draw
The race to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is officially underway following the group stage draw at the headquarters of the Egyptian Football Association in Cairo. A total of 48 teams have been divided into 12 groups of four, setting the stage for intense competition. The tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, will take place from June 19 to July 17, 2027.
Defending champions Morocco headline Group A, alongside Gabon, Niger, and Lesotho. Other notable groups include Group C, featuring Ivory Coast, Ghana, Gambia, and Somalia, and Group J, comprising Senegal, Mozambique, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Nigeria, a football powerhouse, will face Madagascar, Tanzania, and Guinea-Bissau in Group L. Despite already qualifying as hosts, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda will participate in the qualifiers, which begin in September 2024 and conclude in March 2025.
Ex-Mother-in-Law of Zimbabwean Businessman Wicknell Chivayo Arrested in $1.4 Million Fraud Case
Tabitha Madzikanda, the former mother-in-law of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, has been arrested on allegations of fraud involving $1.4 million. Authorities accuse Madzikanda, an employee of FBC Bank, of attempting to siphon funds from a trust account belonging to her grandchildren. She allegedly sought to remove Chivayo as a signatory on a $5 million account and redirect the money to finance a property development project.
Madzikanda’s arrest follows that of her daughter, Sonja, who is also in police custody on unrelated charges. The legal troubles stem from a broader family dispute, including claims that Sonja circulated manipulated images of Chivayo with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in violation of cybercrime laws. The case has drawn significant attention in Zimbabwe, highlighting tensions within Chivayo’s estranged family.
— Reported by Nexio News
