Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) seized around 2.5 kg of cocaine from the Khulna-bound Kapotaksha Express at Mirpur Railway Station in Kushtia yesterday. Acting on a tip-off, a BGB team searched the train and found the abandoned cocaine worth crores of taka. However, no one was arrested in this connection. The BGB has filed a general diary with the local police station regarding the seizure of the contraband drugs. Photo: BGB
According to the Directorate of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Patuakhali, Cyclone Remal has caused extensive damage to crops worth over Tk 26 crore, affecting nearly 60,000 farmers in the district. Crops on 7,540 hectares of land have been badly damaged, including varieties like boro paddy, aush, groundnut, chilli, and mung daal. The DAE plans to provide free fertilizer and seed incentives to 18,200 affected farmers during the upcoming Aman season, with other farmers also receiving aid on a priority basis to help them recover from the losses. Photo: Sohrab Hossain
The acclaimed Bangladeshi film “Kajol Rekha,” directed by Gias Uddin Selim of “Monpura” fame, is set to release in the USA and Canada tomorrow. The movie has been garnering positive reviews and praise from audiences since its release six weeks ago in Bangladesh. Selim expressed confidence that the film, starring Mondera Chakroborty in the lead role, will resonate with audiences abroad as well. The trailer for “Kajol Rekha” was even featured on billboards in New York’s Times Square. Photo: Collected
The Supreme Court has extended its earlier order maintaining the status quo on the transfer of Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited’s shares of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway project to China’s Sinohydro Corporation Limited. The Appellate Division bench, headed by the Chief Justice, ruled that the status quo will remain in effect until the first arbitration meeting on this issue, pending in Singapore. This order comes after Italian-Thai challenged a High Court verdict that had lifted the stay on the share transfer.
In a car-ramming attack near the city of Nablus in the occupied West Bank, two Israeli soldiers, Eliya Hilel and Diego Shvisha Harsaj, were killed, the Israeli army said on Thursday. The incident occurred amidst escalating violence in the West Bank against the backdrop of Israel’s ongoing war against Hamas militants in Gaza. The Israeli army has launched a manhunt for the perpetrator of the attack, which Hamas has termed a “natural response” to Israeli actions. Photo: AFP
BRAC and BRAC Bank have contributed Tk 100 million as relief assistance for the victims of Cyclone Remal. BRAC has allocated Tk 70 million (Tk 30 million from its own funds and Tk 40 million from staff salaries), while BRAC Bank has contributed Tk 30 million. The funds will be used to provide emergency cash support for essential food packages, rebuilding homes, water sources, latrines, and restoring livelihoods in the cyclone-affected areas. BRAC estimates that over 35,000 houses were fully destroyed, and 115,000 were partially damaged by Remal. AFP
The Biden administration stated that the recent deadly Israeli airstrikes in Rafah, which killed dozens of Palestinians, would not prompt a withdrawal of U.S. military aid to Israel. Officials said the incidents did not constitute a major ground operation that could cause extensive damage, despite calling them tragic. The U.S. reiterated its stance of not wanting a large-scale Israeli invasion of Rafah that could endanger displaced people, but maintained that the current operations did not cross that red line. AFP
In a startling revelation, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has found that Suraiya Parvin, wife of National Security Intelligence (NSI) official Akram Hossain, had over Tk 1.26 billion deposited in her bank accounts over the past 15 years. The couple owns numerous properties, including flats, shops, and lands across Bangladesh, despite Akram’s modest government salary. The ACC has filed a case against them for acquiring assets from unknown sources and concealing information about their wealth. The six-storey building in Savar’s Birulia owned by NSI official Akram Hossain
Olympiakos became the first Greek club to win a European title, defeating Fiorentina 1-0 in the Europa Conference League final after extra time. Moroccan striker Ayoub El Kaabi scored the winning goal in the 116th minute to make history for the Greek side. Despite Fiorentina’s chances, Olympiakos held on to clinch the victory in the final played at the home of their rivals AEK Athens. PHOTO: AFP
A man was killed and another injured in an explosion at a house in Dhaka’s Badda area early morning today. The blast occurred around 6:45 am on the ground floor of a three-storey building. Fire service officials suspect the explosion was caused by accumulated gas leaking from a cooking cylinder. However, further investigation will be conducted to determine the actual cause of the fatal blast. Photo: Collected
New York will boost security for the upcoming T20 Cricket World Cup in June, particularly for the highly-anticipated India-Pakistan match, after reports of potential threats from extremist groups. Governor Kathy Hochul said there’s no credible threat currently, but additional law enforcement presence, surveillance, and screening processes will be implemented to ensure the safety of attendees. PHOTO: ICCl
The government of Oman has announced granting visas to Bangladeshi nationals in 12 categories, including family, visit, doctors, engineers, nurses, teachers, accountants, investors, and official visas. This comes after Oman banned the issuance of visas for Bangladeshis across all categories on October 31, 2023, leading to a over 50% drop in their arrivals. The Bangladesh embassy had earlier stated that the visa ban would be temporary. Photo: Collected
The implementation of Bangladesh’s new school curriculum is facing significant challenges one and a half years after its launch. Teachers lack proper training, and the method of evaluating students remains undecided. Two textbooks were recalled due to pressure from Islamists, and a third book faces similar demands over a story deemed controversial. Experts criticize the haphazard rollout, citing inadequate preparation, large classroom sizes, and teachers’ resistance to the curriculum’s activity-based learning approach that could undermine private tutoring opportunities. Photo: Hasibur Rahman Bilu
An earthquake measuring 5.4 on the Richter scale was felt in Bangladesh at 7:13 pm on Wednesday.
The epicenter of the earthquake was at 31 km East-southeast (ESE) of Mawlaik, Myanmar, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage from the earthquake
Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te told visiting US lawmakers that Taiwan will work with the United States to counter “authoritarian expansionism,” referring to China’s recent military drills around the island. US Senator Tammy Duckworth announced support for legislation sanctioning China if it invades Taiwan. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s defense ministry detected 28 Chinese aircraft near the island within three hours, a week after Beijing’s drills simulating a blockade. Lai has vowed to defend Taiwan’s sovereignty, prompting Beijing’s harsh rhetoric and military pressure. Photo: AFP
Uganda’s national men’s cricket team, the Cricket Cranes, is making final preparations for their historic first appearance at the T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies. With a new Indian head coach and a strong captain in Brian Masaba, the team hopes to make an impact despite being considered underdogs. Players like Juma Miyagi and veteran Frank Nsubuga see this as a dream opportunity to promote cricket in Uganda and advance their own careers. The Cranes remain realistic about their prospects but are determined to represent their nation well on the global stage. PHOTO: AFP
The Bangladesh government has cancelled the contractual appointments of Hasan Jahid Tusher as deputy press secretary and Gazi Hafizur Rahman Liku as assistant personal secretary (APS-2) to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The public administration ministry issued separate notifications today, citing clause-8 of their contracts for the cancellations effective from June 1, 2024. No specific reasons were provided for terminating their appointments attached to the Prime Minister’s office.
The Bangladesh Railways has cancelled the special train service between Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar due to engine and crew shortage, effective from May 30. The decision has drawn criticism from commuters, who allege a vehicle-owner syndicate’s influence behind the move. The service, launched on April 8 to handle Eid rush, was later extended till June 10 but has now been suspended, despite its popularity among passengers. Representational Image
India’s capital Delhi experienced a record-high temperature of 49.9 degrees Celsius (121.8 Fahrenheit) on Tuesday, with the India Meteorological Department reporting severe heatwave conditions. Authorities have warned of potential water shortages and have reduced supply in some areas to ration water to deficient areas. Climate change is causing longer, more frequent, and intense heatwaves, while simultaneously parts of India like West Bengal and Mizoram are battling cyclone Remal, which has claimed over 38 lives and is attributed to climate change effects. (Photo by Arun SANKAR / AFP)
The American e-commerce giant Amazon is seeking to establish a central bonded warehouse facility in Bangladesh to enjoy tax benefits and use the country as a transshipment hub for its global supply chain. State Minister for Commerce Ahasanul Islam Titu revealed this, stating that Amazon wants to bring in goods through Bangladesh before sending them to destination countries to reduce tax burdens. The government plans to amend the e-commerce policy to allow local companies to engage in international transactions and facilitate the formation of an Amazon-like company for global distribution.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised its 2023 growth forecast for China to 5%, in line with Beijing’s target, citing recent policy measures and better-than-expected first quarter performance. However, the IMF warned that China’s industrial policy risks misallocation of resources and could harm trade. It urged scaling back such policies, removing trade restrictions, and implementing structural reforms to rebalance the economy towards consumption and address imbalances for sustainable long-term growth. Photo: AFP
The UN independent experts have raised concerns over the recruitment process of Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia, alleging that it begins with bribery within Malaysian ministries and the Bangladesh High Commission. Workers are reportedly charged exorbitant fees of $4,500 to $6,000, violating the agreed cap of $720 under a bilateral agreement. The experts urged both governments to investigate the exploitation, ensure ethical recruitment, and prevent retaliation against workers for claiming their rights, citing potential debt bondage and humanitarian crisis. Representational photo: Star/File
Japanese researchers have developed the world’s first wooden satellite, a tiny 10cm cuboid craft made from magnolia wood called LignoSat. The wooden satellite, created by Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry, is expected to burn up completely upon re-entry, avoiding metal debris. It will be launched on a SpaceX rocket to the International Space Station in September to test its durability in space conditions. The researchers aim to promote wooden satellites as an environmentally-friendly alternative to metal ones. Photo: AFP
The arrival of Western volunteer fighters in Myanmar to join the conflict against the Tatmadaw (Myanmar military) has raised concerns about potential foreign intervention and escalation of the crisis. Regional countries like Bangladesh, China, and India are unlikely to allow such foreign fighters access through their territories, as they wish for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. However, some international actors, particularly the U.S., which has expressed support for the opposition NUG/PDF groups, may have different motivations regarding the presence of these volunteers. PHOTO: REUTERS
Sabina Khatun of Nasrin Sports Academy etched her name in history by becoming the top-scorer in the UCB Women’s Football League for the third time, while also crossing the 150-goal landmark. The national team captain scored five goals against Dhaka Rangers FC, taking her tally to 15 and surpassing Mosammat Sagorika’s previous record. Sabina called for more competitions and financial benefits to improve the standard of women’s football in Bangladesh. Photo: Firoz Ahmed
Businesses have expressed grievances over alleged harassment by customs officials and unwarranted delays in export-import trade clearance, leading to financial penalties, additional costs, and disruptions in production and shipments. During a meeting with the Prime Minister, business leaders urged for measures to address corruption and harassment by customs officials, and sought cooperation from the National Board of Revenue to facilitate smooth trade operations.
West Indies are pinning their hopes on young fast bowler Shamar Joseph as they aim to become the first team to win the T20 World Cup three times when they host the tournament. Despite recent struggles, the presence of match-winners like Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, and the pace duo of Shamar and Alzarri Joseph has the team optimistic about knocking the home World Cup “out of this world.”. IANS file photo
Prime Minister and Awami League (AL) president Sheikh Hasina will visit areas hit by cyclonic storm Remal in Patuakhali on Thursday.
AL general secretary and road transport and bridges minister Obaidul Quader disclosed the information in a press conference at AL president Sheikh Hasina’s Dhanmondi political office in Dhaka today.
Menstrual Hygiene Day was celebrated on Tuesday to raise awareness and break the stigma around menstruation, ensuring women and girls can manage their periods safely and with dignity. The theme was “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld.” Menstrual Health and Hygiene Platform hosted an event showcasing transformative stories, government commitments, and innovative solutions. Speakers highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to improve menstrual health management in Bangladesh. A youth assembly provided a platform for younger participants to share their experiences and perspectives on menstrual health challenges.
The police recovered a huge cache of imported goods worth around Tk 50 lakh from a warehouse in Lalmonirhat’s Hatibandha upazila. The haul included 18,000kg of China clay, Indian clothes, medical accessories, and gold ornaments that went missing 20 days ago after being imported from India. Two C&F traders involved in the crime were arrested, while the warehouse owner is absconding. The operation was conducted by Gazipur DB Police with assistance from Hatibandha police based on information from the truck driver who transported the goods. Photo: Collected
In a major breakthrough in the MP Anwarul Azim Anar murder case, the Detective Branch of police arrested Saiful Alam alias Saiful Member, a close associate of prime suspect Shimul Bhuiyan, from Jashore last night. Saiful, a former leader of the Purba Bangla Communist Party, was the prime accused in the murder of Prof Uday Sangkar and wanted in two other murder cases. He was arrested with 960 grams of explosives and is believed to have links to MP Azim’s murder as he was in India during that time, along with Shimul Bhuiyan.
Veteran stars Rohit Sharma (37) and Virat Kohli (35) may be playing their final World Cup as India aims to end its decade-long global title drought at the upcoming T20 World Cup. The duo, considered the torchbearers of Indian cricket, last tasted success in the 2013 Champions Trophy. While Kohli shone in the IPL, Rohit’s form dipped. With the T20 World Cup potentially their last shot at glory, expectations are high for the greats to deliver and guide India to the coveted trophy. PHOTO: AFP
In a heartwarming gesture, actor-director Ziaul Hoque Polash gifted veteran actor Tariq Anam Khan a book on poet Jibanananda Das during the filming of their drama “Ebhabeo Phire Asha Jaay.” Polash’s thoughtful gift, a book titled “Ek Jon Kamalalebu” by Shahaduzzaman, was inspired by their discussions about Jibanananda’s poetry during the night shoots. Tariq Anam Khan expressed his gratitude for Polash’s kind gesture, highlighting the respect and admiration they share. Photos: Collected
Cyclone Remal battered Pirojpur district, leaving a trail of destruction. It inundated villages, uprooted trees, and damaged houses, stranding thousands. The storm washed away croplands, fish farms, and disrupted utilities. Locals described unprecedented high water levels, with most houses flooded. At least 13 people died, over 35,000 homes were destroyed, and 37 lakh people were severely affected across 19 districts. Photo: Habibur Rahman
A 21-year-old firefighter, Rasel Hossain, lost his life after being electrocuted while clearing uprooted trees caused by Cyclone Remal in Khagrachhari’s Matiranga upazila. The tragic incident occurred when electricity supply resumed suddenly, and Rasel came in contact with a torn wire. He joined the Fire Service and Civil Defence in 2023 and hailed from Dhaka’s Dhamrai upazila. Photo: Collected
In a significant move, Elon Musk’s AI startup, xAI, has raised a staggering $6 billion in Series B funding, valuing the company at $24 billion post-money. Backed by prominent investors like Andreessen Horowitz and Sequoia Capital, the funds will be utilized for launching initial products, developing infrastructure, and accelerating research and development. xAI has already released Grok, a conversational AI chatbot, and PromptIDE, an IDE for prompt engineering. Illustration: Tech & Startup Desk