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Anis Amri: Berlin Attack Suspect Shot Dead in Milan

Roy Siemens
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Anis Amri: Berlin Attack Suspect Shot Dead in Milan

Anis Amri, the main suspect in Berlin Christmas market attack, has been shot dead by police in Milan, Italy’s interior minister says.

The Tunisian opened fire on police who asked him for ID during a routine patrol in the Sesto San Giovanni area on December 23.

According to German authorities, fingerprints they provided have confirmed the dead man is Anis Amri. They are trying to find out if he had accomplices.

The December 19 attack at Berlin’s Breoscheidplatz Christmas market left 12 dead and 49 injured.

When Italian police stopped the suspect, who was on foot, at 03:00AM local time, he “immediately drew out a gun” and shot at the two policemen, Italian Interior Minister Marco Minniti said.

Officer Cristian Movio was injured in the shoulder but his injuries are not life-threatening.

His junior colleague, Luca Scata, who had been in the police for just nine months, was the one who fired the shot which killed Anis Amri.

German officials found Anis Amri’s fingerprints inside the truck that was used in December 19 attack.

Federal prosecutor Peter Frank said the focus of the criminal investigation into the killings now was to establish whether Anis Amri had had a network of supporters who helped him to plan and carry out the attack or to flee.

Investigators are also trying to establish whether the gun used in the shooting in Milan is the same weapon used to kill the Polish driver of the truck, who was found dead with stab and gun wounds in the cab.

The attack took place at the Breitscheidplatz Christmas market near the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in the west of the German capital, Berlin.

According to the Italian news agency Ansa, Anis Amri had traveled by train from France to Turin, and then taken another train to Milan.

From the central station Anis Amri traveled on to Sesto San Giovanni, a working-class area.

Anis Amri, 24, had served a prison sentence in Italy after being convicted of vandalism, threats and theft in 2011.

The Tunisian was known to Italian authorities for his violent behavior while imprisoned.

After his release Anis Amri was asked to leave the country. He later arrived in Germany where he applied for asylum in April 2016.

His application was rejected by the German authorities but they were unable to deport him to Tunisia because he had no valid identification papers.

Anis Amri was named as a suspect in the Berlin attack by German federal prosecutors, and a reward of up to €100,000 ($104,000) was offered for information leading to his arrest.

The German authorities issued an alert for Anis Amri on December 21 after immigration documents identifying him were found in the cab of the lorry used in the deadly attack.

Anis Amri’s family had urged him to give himself up, and on December 23 his mother criticized Italian and German security officials for not sending him back to Tunisia, where the rest of the family still live, in an interview with German broadcaster Deutsche Welle.

A spokesman for Germany’s interior ministry would not comment on reports in the German media that Anis Amri had been filmed at a mosque in Berlin in the hours after the attack.

Separately, police arrested two people in the German city of Oberhausen on suspicion of planning an attack on a shopping centre.

Italian Interior Minsiter Marco Minitti praised the two police officers who had apprehended Anis Amri, and said the operation showed how Italy’s security system was working well.

Donald Trump Calls for US to Strengthen and Expand Nuclear Capabilities

Diane A. Wade
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Donald Trump Calls for US to Strengthen and Expand Nuclear Capabilities

President-elect Donald Trump said the US must “greatly strengthen and expand” its nuclear capabilities “until such time as the world comes to its senses regarding nukes”.

His spokesman later said that the presidentelect was referring to the need to prevent nuclear proliferation.

Donald Trump spoke hours after President Vladimir Putin said Russia needs to bolster its military nuclear potential.

According to Arms Control Association, the US has 7,100 nuclear weapons and Russia has 7,300.

Donald Trump’s comments came in the form of a tweet, giving no other details.

Hours later, Jason Miller, the communications manager for the Trump transition team, explained the president-elect “was referring to the threat of nuclear proliferation and the critical need to prevent it – particularly to and among terrorist organizations and unstable and rogue regimes”.

Jason Miller also added that Donald Trump “emphasized the need to improve and modernize our deterrent capability as a vital way to pursue peace through strength”.

Image source Flickr

Donald Trump’s tweet came after Vladimir Putin met with his military advisers to review Russian military activities in 2016.

The Russian president said: “We need to strengthen the military potential of strategic nuclear forces, especially with missile complexes that can reliably penetrate any existing and prospective missile defense systems.”

During Donald Trump’s campaign he referred to nuclear proliferation as the “single biggest problem” facing the world, but also said he could not rule out using nuclear weapons against Europe.

Donald Trump’s defeated Democratic rival Hillary Clinton repeatedly cast her opponent during the campaign as too erratic and lacking in the diplomatic skills required to avoid a nuclear war.

Hillary Clinton mocked Donald Trump by saying: “A man who can be provoked by a tweet should not have his fingers anywhere near the nuclear codes.”

In interviews before his surprise victory Donald Trump said that other countries should spend more on their own defense budgets, and forgo US protection, because “we can’t afford to do it anymore”.

He has said he is in favor of countries such as Japan and South Korea developing nuclear weapons “because it’s going to happen anyway”.

Donald Trump is spending the festive season at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, where he has been meeting with campaign advisers.

IKEA Agrees to Pay $50 Million to Settle Child Deaths Case

Clyde K. Valle
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0
IKEA Agrees to Pay $50 Million to Settle Child Deaths Case

IKEA has agreed to pay $50 million to the families of three toddlers killed in by falling dressers, the families’ lawyers have said.

According to the lawyers, the payout, one of the biggest of its kind, reflected the seriousness of the case.

Curren Collas, 2, Camden Ellis, 2, and 23-month-old Ted McGee were crushed after Malm dressers from IKEA toppled onto them.

The Swedish furniture giant confirmed a “tentative settlement” had been reached.

Photo IKEA

It said in a statement: “The settlement is not yet approved by the court and it would be inappropriate for us to comment on it at this time.”

Six months ago, IKEA issued a recall for millions of Malm dressers in North America.

Initially, IKEA had warned customers to use wall mounts with them, but the third death in February prompted the recall.

Lawyers at Feldman Shepherd said the $50 million would be split evenly between the families.

They added that, as part of the settlement, IKEA had also agreed to make three separate $50,000 donations to hospitals in memories of the children and a $100,000 contribution to a charity focused on child safety.

According to the law firm, Camden Ellis, from Washington State, was found trapped under a three-drawer Malm in June 2014.

Curren Collas, from Pennsylvania, was crushed by a six-drawer Malm in February 2015, and Theodore McGee was killed by the same sized chest a year later.

Under the settlement, IKEA has agreed to only sell dressers in the US that meet or exceed the national voluntary safety standard for clothing storage units, Feldman Shepherd said.

The law firm added that IKEA would also spend more to raise awareness of the problem, including TV ads, internet and digital communications and in-store warnings.

The deaths prompted the US Consumer Product Safety Commission to launch an education campaign about the risk of falling dressers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60yvrKEcxgs

JetBlue Passenger Kicked Off Plane After Harrasing Ivanka Trump

Nancy Clayson
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JetBlue Passenger Kicked Off Plane After Harrasing Ivanka Trump

A JetBlue passenger has been kicked off a plane after he accosted Ivanka Trump, the eldest daughter of President-elect Donald Trump.

“Your father is ruining the country,” the man shouted as the aircraft prepared for departure from JFK airport in New York, a passenger told TMZ.

Witnesses said Ivanka Trump ignored the man and distracted her children with toys.

JetBlue airlines said in a statement that “the decision to remove a customer from a flight is not taken lightly”.

Image source Flickr

The statement continued: “If the crew determines that a customer is causing conflict on the aircraft, the customer will be asked to deplane, especially if the crew feels the situation runs the risk of escalation during flight.”

Shortly before the Palm Beach, Florida-bound flight’s departure, a New York university professor tweeted that Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner were aboard the plane “flying commercial”.

“My husband chasing them down to harass them,” Matthew Lasner tweeted.

According to TMZ, Matthew Lasner’s partner, Dan Goldstein, shouted: “Why is she on our flight? She should be flying private.”

However, Matthew Lasner tweeted: “My husband expressed displeasure in a calm tone, JetBlue staff overheard, and they kicked us off the plane.”

JetBlue’s statement added that its “team worked to re-accommodate the party on the next available flight”.

Palm Beach is home to Ivanka Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, where he plans to spend the coming holiday season with his family.

Berlin Breitscheidplatz Christmas Market Reopens After Truck Attack

Roy Siemens
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Berlin Breitscheidplatz Christmas Market Reopens After Truck Attack

Berlin’s Breitscheidplatz Christmas market has reopened following the truck attack that killed 12 people and injured 49 more on December 19.

The attacker is a suspected Islamist extremist who drove the truck into a crowd.

German police have installed concrete barriers to prevent a repeat attack.

Meanwhile police have raided homes in Dortmund, but prosecutors denied reports that arrests linked to Tunisian suspect Anis Amri were made.

Anis Amri’s ID was left in the truck and now his fingerprints have been found on the door, reports say.

The truck attack victims included at least six Germans and an Israeli tourist.

Image source Twitter

German newspaper Bild quoted the federal prosecutor’s office as saying four people who were in contact with Anis Amri had been arrested.

However, a spokesman for the prosecutor’s office denied the report, saying he was not aware of any arrests.

There were also raids at a migrant centre in Emmerich in western Germany, where Anis Amri stayed briefly last year, and at addresses in Berlin.

Anis Amri’s name came to the attention of German counter-terror services last month and he reportedly moved in the circle of extremist preacher Ahmad Abdelazziz A, known as Abu Walaa, who was arrested last month and charged with supporting ISIS.

The Ruhrnachrichten news website said Anis Amri had lived in Dortmund from time to time and residents at one block of flats said he had spent time with a German of Serbian origin, Boban S., who was arrested last month along with Abu Walaa.

Anis Amri was on a US no-fly list, had researched explosives online and had communicated with ISIS at least once via the Telegram Messenger service, the New York Times reported.

ISIS has said one of its militants carried out the attack but has offered no evidence.

Anis Amri had also offered himself for a suicide attack, Spiegel magazine reported, quoting communications intercepted for the prosecution of hate preachers in Germany.

However, what he said was not believed to be explicit enough for him to be arrested, the magazine said.

Anis Amri had also been put under surveillance in Germany earlier in the year on suspicion of planning a robbery to pay for automatic weapons for use in an attack.

However, the surveillance was reportedly called off after it turned up nothing more than drug-dealing in a Berlin park and a bar brawl.

Anis Amri, 24, is said to have entered Germany in 2015 and was due to be deported in June but stayed because there was a delay in receiving paperwork from Tunisia.

He had a history of crime, serving 4 years in an Italian prison for arson and convicted in absentia in Tunisia for a violent robbery.

A police notice lists six different aliases used by Amri, born on 22 December 1992, who at times tried to pass himself off as an Egyptian or Lebanese.

The German authorities warn the suspect could be armed and dangerous and are offering a reward of up to €100,000 ($104,000) for information leading to his arrest.

It is thought Anis Amri may have been injured in a struggle with the Polish driver of the truck, found murdered in the cab.

Investigators believe the truck was hijacked on December 19 when it was parked in an industrial zone in north-western Berlin pending delivery of its cargo.

Anis Amri: Berlin Attacker Had Been Under Surveillance

Roy Siemens
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Anis Amri: Berlin Attacker Had Been Under Surveillance

Tunisian fugitive Anis Amri, who is wanted for the truck attack on a Christmas market in Berlin in which 12 people were killed, had been monitored earlier this year on suspicion of planning a robbery in order to pay for guns but surveillance was lifted for lack of evidence.

A Europe-wide manhunt is under way for the 24-year-old.

Before entering Germany, Anis Amri, 24, had served four years for arson in Italy.

A European arrest warrant was issued after Anis Amri’s residence permit was found in the cab of the truck that left a trail of carnage at the market near west Berlin’s most famous shopping street, the Kurfuerstendamm.

German authorities warn Anis Amri could be armed and dangerous and are offering a reward of up to €100,000 ($104,000) for information leading to his arrest.

It is thought he may have been injured in a struggle with the Polish driver of the truck, found murdered in the cab.

On December 22 there were reports of police raids in Dortmund. Two apartments were searched and four people arrested, local media reported.

Anis Amri was reported by the Ruhrnachrihten news website to have lived in Dortmund from time to time. Residents at one block of flats recognized him from photos and said he had spent time with a German of Serbian origin who was detained last month on suspicion of supporting ISIS, Ruhrnachrichten said.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has met her security cabinet to discuss the investigation into the attack.

A police notice lists six different aliases used by Anis Amri, born on 22 December 1992, who at times tried to pass himself off as an Egyptian or Lebanese.

The suspect was facing deportation as of June but there was a delay in receiving paperwork from Tunisia.

A brother of the suspect in Tunisia, Abdelkader Amri, told AFP he could not believe his eyes when he saw his relative’s face in the media.

“I’m in shock and can’t believe it’s him who committed this crime,” he said, before adding: “If he’s guilty, he deserves every condemnation.”

An earlier suspect, a Pakistani asylum seeker, was freed from German custody on December 20, after officials admitted they had the wrong man.

Study: Spending Too Long on Facebook at Christmas Time Makes You Miserable

Kathryn R. Bown
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Study: Spending Too Long on Facebook at Christmas Time Makes You Miserable

According to a recent research, spending too long on Facebook at Christmas time – and seeing all those “perfect” families and holiday photos – is more likely to make you miserable than festive.

The University of Copenhagen study suggests excessive use of social media can create feelings of envy.

Researchers particularly warn about the negative impact of “lurking” on social media without connecting with anyone.

It suggests taking a break from using social media during Christmas time.

Image source Flickr

The study of more than 1,300 participants, mostly women, says that “regular use of social networking such as Facebook can negatively affect your emotional well-being and satisfaction with life”.

Researchers warn of envy and a “deterioration of mood” from spending too long looking at other people’s social media stories, induced by “unrealistic social comparisons”.

If this suggests a picture of long irritable hours over a screen, depressed by the boasts and posts of others, then the researchers say that it does not need to be this way.

The study, published in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behaviour and Social Networking suggests that actively engaging in conversation and connecting with people on social media seems to be a much more positive experience.

This seems to be much less gloomy than “passive” users who spend too long “lurking” on social networking websites without getting involved.

Researchers say another approach to improve well-being is to stop using social media altogether for a week.

Donald Trump Picks Peter Navarro to Head White House National Trade Council

Clyde K. Valle
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Donald Trump Picks Peter Navarro to Head White House National Trade Council

Donald Trump has appointed China critic Peter Navarro as the head of the new White House National Trade Council.

Peter Navarro will lead the White House National Trade Council and serve as director of trade and industrial policy.

The economist was an adviser to Donald Trump during the election campaign.

His books include The Coming China Wars and Death by China, in which he is deeply critical of Chinese policy.

Image source CNBC

During the election, Donald Trump made trade issues a core campaign issue, criticizing some deals made with countries like China and Mexico.

The president-elect has already angered China by speaking to the Taiwanese president by phone, in violation of the US’s decades-long “one China” policy.

Donald Trump has also openly criticized China in outbursts on Twitter, recently accusing it of devaluing its currency to impede US competition, among other claims.

The presidential transition team said Peter Navarro’s appointment “demonstrates the president-elect’s determination to make American manufacturing great again”.

In a recent article for the San Francisco Chronicle, Peter Navarro said he had encountered Donald Trump after the publication of his first book, and became a senior policy adviser to his campaign after lengthy correspondence.

One of Peter Navarro’s books, Death by China, was adapted into a documentary film narrated by Martin Sheen. Peter Navarro is credited as both writer and director.

In its preamble, Peter Navarro urges viewers “help defend America and protect your family – don’t buy <<Made in China>>.”

Death by China highlights the sustained loss of American manufacturing jobs at a time of Chinese economic growth, as well as the environmental impact of Chinese industry.

Lisa Marie Naegle: Former Bridalplasty Contestant Found Murdered in Shallow Grave

Lisa.Felice
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Lisa Marie Naegle: Former Bridalplasty Contestant Found Murdered in Shallow Grave

One person has been arrested after the discovery of former Bridalplasty reality show contestant Lisa Marie Naegle in a suburban LA backyard shallow grave.

The 36-year-old, who competed in 2010 for a dream wedding and plastic surgery on the show, last spoke to her husband on Sunday, December 18.

Police arrested a 34-year-old nursing student, Jackie Jerome Rogers, on December 20 after questioning him.

They said he told investigators Lisa Marie Naegle’s body was at his home.

Police spokesman Sal Ramirez said on Tuesday night of the discovery in Lennox, near Los Angeles International Airport: “We can confirm a body which we believe is Lisa Marie was discovered in a shallow grave at the suspect’s home.

“The detectives strongly believe it is her.”

Photo Facebook

Police did not give a motive for the killing.

Lisa Marie Naegle was hit on the head seven times with a hammer early on Sunday morning, TMZ reports, citing law enforcement sources.

Local newspaper The Daily Breeze reported that she taught nursing classes at West Los Angeles College and that Jackie Jerome Rogers was one of her students.

The former Bridalplasty contestant, who came fourth on the E! network’s reality show, had gone to a birthday party on Saturday night at Alpine Village, a beer hall and restaurant in another Los Angeles suburb, Torrance.

Her husband, Derek Harryman, said he had texted her at around 02:00 local time on Sunday to find out where she was.

“Within a minute or two, she called me,” he told the Daily Breeze.

“She sounded really, really drunk. She said, <<I’m going to get some food and then I’ll be home>>.”

But she never made it.

Lisa Marie Naegle’s family reported her missing on Sunday night and issued an appeal on social media for help in finding her.

They said they obtained photos showing her leaving the beer hall with Jackie Jerome Rogers.

Lisa Marie Naegle’s relatives contacted Jackie Jerome Rogers after they obtained CCTV footage which appeared to show her getting into the suspect’s vehicle.

Her sister, Danielle Naegle-Kaimona, told KABC-TV: “While he was talking to us and telling us his story, multiple different times he said he absolutely did not go home with her, or did not take her home.”

After being challenged that Lisa Marie Naegle had been filmed getting into his car, Jackie Jerome Rogers changed his story, the family said. He acknowledged that she did get into his car, but said she got out moments later. The family then contacted police.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvadFKs3dkU

Breitscheidplatz Truck Attack: Urgent Manhunt Under Way Across Europe for Suspect

Roy Siemens
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Breitscheidplatz Truck Attack: Urgent Manhunt Under Way Across Europe for Suspect

An urgent manhunt is under way across Europe’s Schengen states after prosecutors identified a suspect in the truck attack on Berlin’s Breitscheidplatz Christmas market.

A warrant was issued at midnight. Details were not given but media reports say the suspect is a Tunisian man named only as Anis A., born in 1992.

The Tunisian suspect’s residence permit was found in the truck’s cabin.

The man may have been injured in a struggle with the driver, found dead in the cab. The attack claimed 12 lives in all.

Some 150 police officers are said to be involved in searches in the Emmerich area of North Rhine-Westphalia, western Germany, where the suspect’s permit was issued.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has met her security cabinet to discuss the investigation into the attack.

The Schengen area covers most EU states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

Image source Wikipedia

The suspect is also known to use false names, security sources told German media and Reuters.

His name was given using a German convention whereby suspects are identified by their first name and initial.

The Tunisian is reported to have traveled to Italy in 2012 and then on to Germany in 2015 where he applied for asylum and was granted temporary leave to stay in April 2016.

The suspect is said to be known to police and was briefly detained in August with fake Italian identity documents.

Sueddeutsche Zeitung reports that he moved within the circle of an Islamist preacher, Ahmad Abdelazziz A, known as Abu Walaa, who was arrested in November.

Broadcaster N-TV said measures were “now imminent” in North Rhine-Westphalia but there were no further details.

German Interior Minister Thomas De Maiziere refused to confirm or deny media reports about the man but said that officers were still investigating his residential status.

Some 49 people were also injured when the truck was driven into crowds at the Breitscheidplatz Christmas market.

ISIS said one of its militants carried out the attack but offered no evidence.

Polish citizen Lukasz Urban was found dead on the passenger seat with gunshot and stab wounds.

Investigators quoted by German media say there is evidence that, despite being stabbed, Lukasz Urban wrestled him for the steering wheel.

One official quoted by Bild said it appeared from the post-mortem examination that the driver had survived up to the attack and was shot dead when the truck came to a halt. No gun has been recovered.

Ariel Zurawski, the owner of the Polish transport company, said he had been asked to identify Lukasz Urban from photographs.

Police say they are acting on hundreds of tips from the public and are examining DNA traces from the cab of the truck.

German President Joachim Gauck visited some of the injured on December 21.

Officials released the only detained suspect on December 20, saying there was no evidence to link him to the attack.

ISIS claimed the attack through its self-styled news agency, saying it was “in response to calls to target nationals of the coalition countries”.

Prosecutor Peter Frank told reporters that the style of attack and the choice of target suggested Islamic extremism.

Don’t Let Your Business Fall Victim to These Crimes!

Dana R
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Don’t Let Your Business Fall Victim to These Crimes!
Crime Scene – Do Not Cross

Flickr

You should never underestimate the manifold ways in which crime can affect your business in a big way. It’s not just the immediate equipment losses and financial hits you have to concern yourself with. You also need to consider this from the point of view of your employees and your customers.

Falling victim to a crime can actually result in employees and customers losing faith in you. Employees will wonder if they’re actually safe at this job. Customers may wonder if their money and personal information are safe with you! The sort of crimes your business could be hit with could result in a lot of lost productivity and a mountain of legal issues, especially if there’s undetected fraud going on.

Here are the top three crime areas that every business should be concerning themselves with.

Trespassing

When people talk about the sort of crimes that can happen to your business, this is usually the first thing they’ll think of. This is fairly generic non-employee crime, as some people know it. It’s the primary crime concern of the vast majority of businesses, and rightly so: it’s still the most common crime committed against them.

Wikipedia

For businesses that have customers on-site, such as stores and restaurants, the threat is almost constant. It’s vital that you have a strong CCTV system set up. You should also ensure that people know that you have CCTV that is carefully monitored. On-site security guards must also be around to prevent this.

For other businesses that have offices locked from the public, it may seem that there’s not much reason to worry. And, sure, theft is certainly a lot less likely to occur to such a business. But breaking and entering is still very much possible if you don’t have a security system in place. But not all trespassing comes in this form. Many businesses fall victim to someone simply walking into the office, with no-one questioning their presence (assuming that they’re accounted for by another employee). This leaves the business vulnerable to many data risks that can lead to information leaks and even fraud. Again, a mountain of legal problems could affect you if this happens!

Cybercrime

Your business probably uses computers that are hooked up to the Internet. And guess what? That means you’re always a potential target for cybercriminals! This isn’t something you should just shrug off. You may not think a small business such as yours would fall victim to cybercrime. But the kind of records and customer data that even a small business keeps will mean that cybercriminals aren’t always looking to target bigger companies.

Flickr

A lot of cases of fraud occur due to cybercrime. When a cybercriminal hacks into a small business’s network, they may get access to the credit information of all your customers, as well as the personal information of you and your employees. If they so choose, they could also infect your network with viruses.

The possibility of fraud, particularly credit card fraud and identity theft, should worry you. Thankfully, there are plenty of things you can do to help prevent this. In the specific case of identity fraud, there are preventative services out there that can help you. If you don’t know which one to sign up with, take a look at these reviews. Of course, you’ll also have to look into the usual methods of online protection: strong WiFi passwords, anti-viruses software, firewalls, a protect backup copies of all your data.

Flickr

Employee crime

Leaves a pretty bad taste in the mouth, doesn’t it? Employee crime. Is it less desirable than any other crime? Perhaps. For one, it damages your sense of trust in a way that the other forms of crime don’t. It also means that, along with the immediate effect of the crime committed against you, you’ll also probably lose the employee! And employees, after all, are at once your most expensive and valuable asset.

Unfortunately, you do have to have measures in place to prevent employee crime from occurring. While we don’t want to make you paranoid, it’s simply a fact that employees are always in the best position to commit a crime against your business! Businesses have sometimes found themselves being embezzled by their employees for several years before they realize what’s going on.

Pixabay

The ways to prevent employee crime begin at the recruitment stage. You should ensure you’re doing your best to hire trustworthy people. You should consider running criminal background checks on employees. Making sure there’s CCTV in locations where only staff can go is a must. Many business owners make the mistake of only placing such security measures in areas where customers are allowed.

Barack Obama Permanently Bans Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling in Arctic and Atlantic

Diane A. Wade
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Barack Obama Permanently Bans Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling in Arctic and Atlantic

Barack Obama has permanently banned offshore oil and gas drilling in the “vast majority” of US-owned northern waters.

The outgoing president designated areas in the Arctic and Atlantic oceans as “indefinitely off limits” to future leasing.

The move is widely seen as an attempt to protect the region before Barack Obama leaves office in January.

Donald Trump’s supporters could find it difficult to reverse the decision.

In a joint announcement with Washington, Canada also committed to a similar measure in its own Arctic waters.

Photo Flickr

According to the White House, the decision was for “a strong, sustainable and viable Arctic economy and ecosystem”.

It cited native cultural needs, wildlife concerns, and the “vulnerability” of the region to oil spills as some of the reasons for the ban.

However, while Canada will review the move every five years, the White House insists President Obama’s declaration is permanent.

The decision relies on a 1953 law which allows the president to ban leasing of offshore resources indefinitely.

During the election campaign, Donald Trump said he would take advantage of existing US oil reserves, prompting concern from environmental groups.

Supporters have already suggested that any attempt to reverse the “permanent” decision outlined by the law would be open to a legal challenge.

Reacting to the Arctic declaration, Friends of the Earth said: “No president has ever rescinded a previous president’s permanent withdrawal of offshore areas from oil and gas development.

“If Donald Trump tries to reverse President Obama’s withdrawals, he will find himself in court.”

However, the American Petroleum Institute said “there is no such thing as a permanent ban,” and that it hoped Donald Trump’s administration would simply reverse the decision.

The president-elct has also raised fears among some environmental campaigners through his choices for senior White House roles.

Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson has been named his secretary of state. His energy secretary, Rick Perry, has previously called for less regulation of the oil industry in his role as governor of Texas.

Environmental groups strongly criticized both appointments.

Very little oil drilling currently takes place in the Arctic region, as it is more expensive and difficult than other available options.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lCL1pfIJxk

Mexico Fireworks Explosion Kills at Least 31 at Tultepec’s San Pablito Market

Nancy Clayson
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Mexico Fireworks Explosion Kills at Least 31 at Tultepec’s San Pablito Market

At least 31 people have been killed in an explosion at a fireworks market outside Mexico City.

According to officials, more than 70 others were injured as the blast hit the San Pablito fireworks market in Tultepec, about 20 miles outside Mexico City.

Footage from the scene showed a large number of fireworks rocketing into the air as they caught fire.

Dozens of paramedics and police attended the scene. The cause of the explosions is not yet known.

Locals have been told to avoid the area and keep roads clear.

Eruviel Avila, governor of the State of Mexico, said some children had suffered burns to more than 90% of their bodies and they were being sent to Galveston, Texas, for specialized treatment.

Photo AP

Most of those killed are so badly burned their bodies will have to be identified using DNA testing, Eruviel Avila added.

According to Mexican media, fireworks continued to explode after the initial blast, as smoke billowed from the area in thick black clouds. The market had contained up to 300 tones of fireworks.

Photos from police and medical personnel at the scene showed several injured people among the destroyed market stalls, with brick buildings scorched by the heat.

President Enrique Pena Nieto tweeted condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

He also said members of the defense forces were assisting in the emergency.

In 2005, the San Pablito market was heavily damaged by similar fires, when a chain of explosions just before Mexico’s Independence Day celebrations injured dozens of people.

Berlin Christmas Attacker Possibly Still Free

Dana R
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Berlin Christmas Attacker Possibly Still Free

The recent Berlin attack had 12 people killed with dozens injured after a truck plowed through a city Christmas market. According to the German officials, after a report highlighted by EvoNews.com, it is possible that the suspect that is arrested is not responsible. The official report states that the police are uncertain about the real identity of the attacker.

Germany’s capital is in shock and in full high alert since authorities fear that at least one suspect is at large following the truck assault on the Christmas market. Angel Merkel declared that the incident was a presumed “terror attack” and ISIS already took responsibility by saying the attacker was a soldier of God.

Image result for Berlin attack
Photo source: VOA News

The Berlin police arrested a suspect. He is an asylum-seeker from Pakistan. Ever since being arrested he did deny the involvement in the attack that led to 52 people injured and 12 dead. The doubts about whether or not the correct person was arrested exist so forensic evidence is now studied as much as possible. This does include blood stain analysis for samples found in truck cabin. The truck was used as a weapon, a tactic similar to what happened in France 5 months ago.

In the country and all around the continent reactions appeared after the attack was seen as also being an attack against the traditions associated with Christmas. In Italy security was already enhanced before the appearance of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square for Christmas. Also, French officials declared that the markets were fast reinforced.

In Germany now the investigation teams are trying to analyze the obtained “circumstantial evidence”, including video footage and witness descriptions. However, there was no sketch that was released and this means there is much that is not yet known.

Although there is a suspect in custody, the Berlin police declared that citizens still need to be cautious. Police chief Klaus Kandt declared that it is possible that a “dangerous offender” is still present in the area. That is why he recommended that people remain vigilant.

What is known at the moment is that the attack was deliberate. The original driver of the truck was a Polish national. He was found dead in the cabin after being shot.

Suspicion started to appear because of the fact the gun used to kill the Polish driver was not found in the truck after it was investigated. The conclusion is that there is a possibility that the attacker is still free, armed and extremely dangerous.

While the Islamic State did declare that the traditional Christmas markets in the world are viable marks for attacks in Europe, there is no concrete proof that the attack was connected with them. Islamist extremists might have been involved due to target and modus operandi. Although ISIS did claim responsibility, it can still be the act of just one individual, not of the terrorist organization. Speaking about the Islamist responsibility claims, there is no credible mention that was found, according to German authorities. Even so, it is really important to remain open to all possible options.

VW Reaches Settlement with US and California to Recall 83,000 3-Liter Diesel Cars

Clyde K. Valle
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VW Reaches Settlement with US and California to Recall 83,000 3-Liter Diesel Cars

VW reached a settlement with US and California authorities to recall 83,000 diesel cars with 3-liter diesel engines, resolving the last major part of its emissions cheating scandal.

The agreement, involving VW, Audi and Porsche cars, is another step towards allowing Volkswagen to put the emissions cheating scandal behind it.

In June the German auto maker agreed to a $15 billion settlement for another 475,000 vehicles affected by the scandal.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the total cost of the 3-liter settlement, including buybacks, repairs, and environmental remediation, at about $1 billion.

VW reached a $14.7 billion settlement with 550,000 owners of smaller, 2-liter diesel cars in September.

About one-quarter of the affected owners will be able to sell their vehicles back to VW at a price yet to be determined. The other 60,000 vehicles will be repaired at no cost to their owners, becoming fully compliant with clean-air laws.

US District Judge Charles Breyer said owners of the 3-liter cars made between 2009 and 2016 would get “substantial compensation” for having them fixed or repaired.

However, there were some remaining issues to be resolved and another hearing will be held on December 22, he said.

VW spokeswoman Jeannine Ginivan said the deal was “another important step forward in our efforts to make things right for our customers”.

The company admitted in September 2015 to installing secret software in 475,000 US 2-liter diesel cars to cheat exhaust emissions tests and make them appear cleaner in testing than they really were. They emitted up to 40 times the legally allowable pollution levels.

The $15 billion settlement in June covered those vehicles, including an offer to buy them all back.

The US Justice Department said VW had agreed to contribute another $225 million to a fund to offset excess diesel emissions.

In a separate filing, California’s government said VW would increase the number of electric vehicles it sells in the state.

Robert Bosch, the German engineering company that made the software for the VW diesels, has also agreed in principle to settle civil allegations at a cost of about $300 million.

The Most Amazing Natural Landmarks to Visit in Iceland

Kathryn R. Bown
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The Most Amazing Natural Landmarks to Visit in Iceland

In terms of natural beauty, countries do not come more astonishing or epic than Iceland. This very unique and beautiful country is perfect for adventure seekers and/or nature lovers, as it boasts some of the most amazing natural landmarks on the planet. Not just this, but Iceland is also home to charming cities, welcoming locals, a unique culture and it is one of the best places to see one of the world’s greatest sights – The Northern Lights. Here are a few natural landmarks to visit during your stay.

 

Blue Lagoon

This is Iceland’s top tourist attraction and this is for good reason. Although Blue Lagoon is a man-made geothermal spa, it is located with truly epic natural surroundings and you are able to bathe in 40-degree blue-green water whilst encircled by ice and snow.

 

Lake Myvatn

Be sure to pack your camera when you head to Lake Myvatn, as here you will find all kinds of astonishing natural beauty. This includes incredible lakes, volcanic craters and a host of amazing wildlife. The most impressive aspect is the waterfall of the Gods, which is a stunning sight and one of the most famous waterfalls in Europe.

 

Gullfoss

At Gullfoss, you will find the type of scenery that you only see in films or on postcards. The breathtaking waterfall crowns and climaxes the “Golden Circle” – this is the most popular day tour from the capital and an absolute must for any visitor. Expect a scenic gorge, a beautiful lake, water spraying against a clear blue sky and a constant rainbow.

Image Flickr

 

Glymur

Another astonishing waterfall, Glymur is Iceland’s highest and most graceful waterfall with small ribbons that flow into an epic canyon. The surrounding area is beautiful and extremely peaceful, making it a great place for a rewarding hike.

 

Raufarholshellir

Deep within this amazing lava-tube cavern you will find ice candles, lava formations and other great sights. Known as the “King of Caves”, Raufarholshellir is estimated to be 1360 metres long and it is a thrilling experience that is unlike most tourist attractions. You will need to be on a tour to get access to the cave, so you will want to book with an adventure holiday specials’ like Exodus.

 

There is no other country in the world quite like Iceland and it is a superb destination for nature lovers. These are a few of the highlights, but there are many more magical places to see and things to experience in this great country.

These Business Legal Issues Will Sting Like A Papercut And Hit You Like A Ton Of Bricks

Dana R
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These Business Legal Issues Will Sting Like A Papercut And Hit You Like A Ton Of Bricks

As a business owner, you probably don’t think too much about legal issues. After all, why do you need to? It’s not like you’re planning on breaking the law. But believe it or not, your aim to stay honest and above the board won’t stop your business from being hit by legal problems. They could come all the same. Rather than wishful thinking or hoping for the best, here are the actual ways you can avoid some of the most common business legal nightmares.

Excellent Standards Of Health And Safety

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Do you want to know the most common lawsuit that affects a business? It’s probably an accidental injury lawsuit or a PI claim. These claims hit hundreds of businesses each year and cost thousands in damages. Some company owners should be more worried about this than others. For instance, if you run a construction team you should certainly make sure you have full insurance for any type of accident. However, there are issues that can occur in your typical working office as well. An employee could trip up over loose wires, slip on a wet floor or fall down a block of stairs. To avoid issues like this, you need to keep an eye out for hazards in your business. Make sure they are taken care of as quickly as possible, and you won’t need to worry.

Protect What You Own

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There are two forms of protection here. The first is a legal document. If you are creating an original product or just designing a logo for your business, you need to get it trademarked. This will stop other people using it and selling under your name. You can use a trademark attorney to do this, and they are easy to find online. Experts in their field they can grant you all the protection you need. Don’t assume people will respect you had the idea first. If it’s not trademarked, it’s fair game.

Another completely different form of protection would be business security. If you have insurance, you will get any financial damages back from theft or robbery. But wouldn’t it be great if you could just stop the theft happening in the first place. Well, you can, just make sure you’re investing in the latest security tech and no one will be able to get in without your permission. ID scanners, alarms, motion sensors and lighting are all security features you want to invest in.

Hire Legal Assistance

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Last but not least as a business owner you will undoubtedly be creating different contracts and agreements with various other companies. You’ll need to arrange supplies for your business and ensure that people are willing to make purchases from your business. This is particularly true for a B2B model, but this need will exist within any company. When these deals are created, it is important that both parties understand the terms. Otherwise, businesses can be left out of pocket and out of stock when they need it the most. That’s why you should have a legal advisor on call. They will be able to make sure any agreement is in your favour before you agree to sign.

Rock Hall Class 2017: Tupac Shakur, ELO and Sly Stone Among Inductees

Sonia Pantiss
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Rock Hall Class 2017: Tupac Shakur, ELO and Sly Stone Among Inductees

Tupac Shakur, Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) and Sly Stone are among the artists who will receive lifetime honors from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.

Six artists have been selected to enter the Rock Hall, including Joan Baez and grunge act Pearl Jam.

Tupac Shakur will be only the fifth hip-hop artist recognized, after the likes of Run DMC and Public Enemy.

The Grammys will honor Velvet Underground and Sly Stone with their special merit awards.

In a statement, the Recording Academy said the Velvet Underground, whose career was masterminded by Andy Warhol, were “ahead of their time, both visually and sonically”.

“Despite a relatively brief lifespan and limited commercial success, the Velvet Underground are now recognized as one of the most influential rock bands of all time,” the statement added.

Image source Flickr

Sly Stone, who was the lead singer in Sly and the Family Stone, was praised by the Academy for playing “a critical role in the development of soul, funk, rock, and psychedelia”.

Other recipients include jazz legend Nina Simone, gospel singer Shirley Caesar, jazz pianist Ahmad Jamal, country star Jimmie Rodgers and guitarist Charley Pride.

Nina Simone, who died in 2003, became famous in the 1950s and is known for classic songs including Feeling Good and I Put a Spell on You.

The musicians will be celebrated in February as part of the festivities in the run up to the Grammy Awards.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which is arguably the more prestigious honor, is voted for by 900 historians, members of the music industry and artists, including every living Rock Hall inductee.

Artists become eligible 25 years after the release of their first album or single. 2017 is the first year Pearl Jam and Tupac Shakur were eligible. They are also the first artists to join the institution who started their careers in the 1990s.

The induction ceremony will take place on Friday, April 7, 2017, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. HBO will broadcast the highlights, which often include an all-star jam featuring past and present winners.

A limited number of pre-sale tickets will be available for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members in advance of the public sale date. To be eligible for the member pre-sale, you must be an active Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member by December 31, 2016. Additional public ticket details and presale offers will be announced in the future. The special exhibition on the 2017 Inductees will open at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland on March 30.

Petra Kvitova Injured in Knife Attack

Clyde K. Valle
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Petra Kvitova Injured in Knife Attack

Tennis player Petra Kvitova said she is “fortunate to be alive” after being injured in a knife attack at her home on December 20.

The 26-year-old Wimbledon champion has been treated for a left-hand injury – her playing hand – following the incident in the eastern Czech town of Prostejov.

Petra Kvitova said: “The injury is severe and I will need to see specialists.”

Her representative, Karel Tejkal, described the incident as a burglary.

Image source Wikimedia

“It was a random crime, nobody was going to attack or rob her as Petra Kvitova,” he said.

Petra Kvitova, who is ranked 11 in the world and has won a career total of 19 titles, including Grand Slam victories at Wimbledon in 2011 and 2014, said: “Thank you for all your heartwarming messages.

“As you may have already heard, today I was attacked in my apartment by an individual with a knife. In my attempt to defend myself, I was badly injured on my left hand.

“I am shaken, but fortunate to be alive. The injury is severe and I will need to see specialists, but if you know anything about me I am strong and I will fight this. Thank you all again for your love and support and now I would appreciate some privacy while I focus on my recovery.”

Petra Kvitova had announced earlier in the day that a foot injury forced her to withdraw from January’s Hopman Cup in Perth, Australia.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJ8WL2Ftp5Q

Breitscheidplatz Truck Incident: Berlin Police Investigate Probably Terrorist Attack

Roy Siemens
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Breitscheidplatz Truck Incident: Berlin Police Investigate Probably Terrorist Attack

A “probable terrorist attack” is being investigated in Germany after a man ploughed a truck into a Christmas market in the heart of Berlin, killing 12 people and injuring 48.

German police have detained the driver, who security sources reportedly say is an Afghan or Pakistani asylum seeker.

The man arrived in Germany in February as a refugee, the DPA news agency said.

According to the Tagesspiegel, he was known to the police for minor crimes, but not terror links.

Berlin police tweeted: “All police measures related to the suspected terrorist attack at Breitscheidplatz are progressing at full steam and with the necessary diligence.”

German politicians had avoided branding the bloodshed a terror attack in the hours immediately following, but Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere told ARD television, “there are many things pointing to one”.

The Christmas market is at Breitscheidplatz, close to the Kurfuerstendamm, the main shopping street in Berlin’s west.

The crash happened in the shadow of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, which was damaged in a World War Two bombing raid and preserved as a symbol of peace.

The truck, which was loaded with steel beams, veered into the market at 20:14 local time,one of its busiest times. It crashed through wooden huts and stands packed with tourists and locals.

The truck driver was reportedly seized after leaving his truck and fleeing on foot.

Image source Twitter

Berlin police spokesman Winfried Wenzel told die Welt that the man ran down the street towards the Tiergarten, a large public park.

A witness followed him at a distance for more than a mile, and called the police, who quickly detained him near the Victory Column monument.

The police spokesman speculated that the driver may have wanted to “find shelter in the darkness of the park”.

According to German media, the suspect was from Afghanistan or Pakistan and had entered the country as a refugee in the past year.

Police confirmed that a passenger was found dead in the truck, and said he was a Polish national. There are fears he may have been the original driver of the vehicle, and that he was subject to a hijacking.

Ariel Zurawski, the Polish owner of the truck, confirmed that his driver was missing and had been unreachable since 16:00 on December 19.

“We don’t know what happened to him,” he told the AFP.

“He’s my cousin, I’ve known him since I was a kid. I can vouch for him.”

The truck was registered in Poland and police said it was believed to have been stolen from a building site there, the AP reports.

Both ISIS and al-Qaeda have urged their followers to use trucks as a means to attack crowds.

The US labeled the tragedy an apparent “terrorist attack” and pledged its support.

President-elect Donald Trump blamed “Islamist terrorists” for a “slaughter” of Christians in Berlin.

Donald Trump tweeted: “Today there were terror attacks in Turkey, Switzerland and Germany – and it is only getting worse. The civilized world must change thinking!”

Italy Banking Crisis: Government Seeks 20 Billion Euro Bailout

Clyde K. Valle
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Italy Banking Crisis: Government Seeks 20 Billion Euro Bailout

Italy wants to borrow up to €20 billion to support its fragile banking sector and potentially rescue Monte dei Paschi di Siena.

Monte dei Paschi di Siena, Italy’s third-largest bank, needs to raise €5 billion in fresh capital by the end of the month.

If the bank cannot arrange a private sector bailout, a state rescue may come as early as this week.

Monte dei Paschi di Siena is saddled with bad loans and is deemed to be the weakest major EU bank.

Image source Wikipedia

The government will seek parliamentary approval to help to borrow the money.

PM Paolo Gentiloni, whose government has only been in office for a week, is under pressure because private investors would suffer any losses under EU bailout rules.

He described the move as a “precautionary measure”, adding: “We believe it is our duty to take this measure to protect savings. I hope all the political movements in parliament share this responsibility.”

However, Economy Minister Pier Carlo Padoan stressed the funds would be used to ensure adequate liquidity in the banking system and support other struggling banks.

Officials have also said they were examining a scheme to compensate retail investors for any losses incurred.

Paolo Gentiloni’s predecessor, Matteo Renzi, resigned after losing a referendum on constitutional reform and was regularly accused of being too close to the banks.

Electoral College Certifies Donald Trump as President

Diane A. Wade
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Electoral College Certifies Donald Trump as President

Donald Trump has won the Electoral College vote being certified as president, despite a last-ditch effort to deny him the White House.

Six weeks after winning the polls, Donald Trump has secured the 270 votes needed to formalize his victory.

Electors had been flooded with emails, letters and phone calls urging them not to support Donald Trump.

The process is usually a formality, but was beset this year by claims Russian hackers tried to sway the public vote.

Texas ultimately put Donald Trump over the 270 threshold, despite two of its electors voting against him.

Photo AP

According to the New York Times, four Democratic electors also cast their votes for someone other than Hillary Clinton.

The result will be officially announced on January 6 in a special joint session of Congress.

Vice President-elect Mike Pence hailed Donald Trump on Twitter as the results came in: “Congratulations to @realDonaldTrump; officially elected President of the United States today by the Electoral College!”

The movement to block Donald Trump had fought hard to convince Republican electors to abandon their party’s candidate.

Thousands of anti-Trump protesters had gathered at state capitols across the country.

In Pennsylvania, over 200 demonstrators braved sub-zero temperatures, chanting, “No Trump, no KKK, no fascist USA!” and “No treason, no Trump!'”

In Maine, protesters beat drums and waved signs saying, “Don’t let Putin Pick Our President,” – a reference to allegations that Kremlin-backed hackers tried to sway the election in Donald Trump’s favor.

Breitscheidplatz: Truck Kills Nine at Berlin Christmas Market

Roy Siemens
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Breitscheidplatz: Truck Kills Nine at Berlin Christmas Market

At least nine people have been killed and many more injured after a truck ploughed into a busy Christmas market in the heart of Berlin, police say.

German police say they suspect it was deliberate. Video shows stalls knocked over and people lying injured.

A suspicious person has been arrested nearby, while what police describe as a passenger was found dead, police say.

The Christmas market is at Breitscheidplatz, close to the Kurfuerstendamm, the main shopping street in Berlin’s west.

Chancellor Angela Merkel has been in contact with the interior minister and the mayor of Berlin, her spokesman, Steffen Seibert, tweeted.

“We are in mourning for the dead and hope that the many injured can get help,” he added.

Image source Twitter

As emergency vehicles filled the area, Berlin police said they had “no indications of further dangerous situations in the city near #Breitscheidplatz”.

They also appealed to the public to avoid the area and stay at home.

Facebook has set up a Safety Check page for people affected to let their loved ones know they are safe.

According to the DPA news agency, p

Police believe the truck drove 250ft through the market area during the incident, which occurred at 20:14 local time.

Images of the truck show it was registered in neighboring Poland and Polish media are suggesting it may have been stolen earlier.

The Polish haulage company which uses the vehicle has reportedly been unable to get in touch with the original driver, a Polish national, since 16:00.

The Berliner Zeitung reports that police have set up a meeting point for relatives at the scene.

A photographer for the DPA news agency said that armed police were at an entrance to the nearby zoo.

The market is situated at the foot of the Kaiser Wilhelm memorial church, which was kept as a bombed-out ruin after World War Two.

The Breitscheidplatz incident evoked memories of the truck attack on Bastille Day crowds in Nice,, France on July 14, when 86 people were killed. That attack was claimed by ISIS.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAfy_BViURU

Andrei Karlov Dead: Russian Ambassador to Turkey Killed in Gun Attack

Roy Siemens
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0
Andrei Karlov Dead: Russian Ambassador to Turkey Killed in Gun Attack

Russian ambassador to Turkey, Andrei Karlov, has died after a Turkish police officer shot him in an apparent protest at Russia’s involvement in Aleppo.

Several other people were reportedly also injured in the gun attack in Ankara, a day after protests in Turkey over Russian support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

The gunman, who was in civilian clothes, opened fire at point blank range as Andrei Karlov made a speech.

He is said to have died in a shootout with police soon afterwards.

According to local reports, Andrei Karlov was rushed to hospital, but his death was later confirmed by the Russian foreign ministry.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin by phone about the attack, the Turkish president’s office said.

Speaking outside the hospital where Andrei Karlov was taken, Ankara Mayor Melih Gokcek said the killing was intended to ruin Turkey’s relations with Russia.

The attack was swiftly condemned by other countries.

US state department spokesman John Kirby: “We condemn this act of violence, whatever its source. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.”

Image source AP

UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson: “Shocked to hear of despicable murder of Russia’s Ambassador to Turkey. My thoughts are with his family. I condemn this cowardly attack.”

German Interior minister Thomas de Maiziere said his country stood with Turkey in a common fight against terrorism.

France’s President Francois Hollande “strongly” condemned the killing.

Before the attack happened, a meeting of the Russian, Turkish and Iranian foreign ministers had been planned in Moscow for December 20.

According to Russian TV, Ambassador Andrei Karlov had been attending a photo exhibition called “Russia as seen by Turks”.

Video of the event shows him making a speech when gunshots ring out. Eight bullets are said to have been fired.

The camera pulls back to show a smartly dressed gunman, wearing a suit and tie, waving a pistol and shouting in Arabic and Turkish.

The gunman can be heard yelling “Don’t forget about Aleppo, don’t forget about Syria” and uses the Arabic phrase “Allahu Akbar” (God is great).

Turkish officials later identified him as a member of the Ankara riot police, aged 22.

Andrei Karlov, 62, was a veteran diplomat who had served as Soviet ambassador to North Korea for much of the 1980s.

After the fall of the USSR in 1991, Andrei Karlov had a posting as Russian ambassador to South Korea before returning to North Korea for five years in 2001.

Taking up the Ankara posting in July 2013, Andrei Karlov had to grapple with a major diplomatic crisis last year when a Turkish plane shot down a Russian jet close to the Syrian border.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mujTdkw7LeQ

Andrei Karlov: Russian Ambassador to Turkey Shot While Visiting Ankara Exhibition

Roy Siemens
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Andrei Karlov: Russian Ambassador to Turkey Shot While Visiting Ankara Exhibition

Russian ambassador to Turkey Andrei Karlov has been shot and seriously wounded while visiting a photo gallery in Ankara.

Several other people were reportedly also injured in the attack, a day after protests in Turkey over Russia’s military intervention in Syria.

Andrei Karlov was taken to hospital to be treated for his injuries.

Image source Getty Images
Image source Getty Images

According to Russian TV, Ambassador Andrei Karlov had been attending an exhibition called “Russia as seen by Turks”.

According to Turkish media, Andrei Karlov was making a speech when he was shot in the back by a gunman.

A video from the event shows the ambassador speaking when gunshots ring out.

The camera pulls back to show a smartly dressed gunman, wearing a suit and tie, waving a pistol and shouting.

The gunman repeats the Islamic phrase “Allahu Akbar” (God is great) and also shouts “Don’t forget about Aleppo”.

It is too early to know the motives of the attacker, who has not yet been named.

Some reports say the gunman entered the art gallery using a police ID card.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ki8j_VSZGzw

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