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Sunday, October 5, 2025
Home Blog Page 1187

New Year’s Miracle: Woman Gives Birth to Twins by the Roadside

In a heartwarming start to 2025, a woman unexpectedly became a mother of twins after giving birth by the roadside on New Year’s Eve.

The incident unfolded just moments before she could reach Mother Teresa’s Hospital, located between Anam Pur Boldit and the Turalei roundabout.

The expectant mother went into labor suddenly, prompting her to pull over for assistance. With help from passersby and local residents, she successfully delivered the healthy babies—two daughters—at the unconventional location.

“I am thankful they were born healthy, and I wish them a happy and prosperous New Year,” the new mother expressed, her joy evident in her voice.

The community has come together to celebrate the twins’ arrival as a symbol of hope and renewal, marking a bright beginning to the new year. Local health officials at Mother Teresa’s Hospital praised the mother’s resilience and called for increased awareness about providing timely medical care to pregnant women.

Beatrice Chebet Smashes 5km World Record

Two-time Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet was “super happy” to smash the women’s 5km world record with a time of 13min 54sec at the Cursa dels Nassos road race in Barcelona on Dec 31, as she finished a blockbuster year on a high.

The Kenyan beat her previous record – set a year ago to the day at the Barcelona race – by 19 seconds, becoming the first woman to break the 14-minute barrier in the event.

Chebet was all on her own as she sprinted through the race and embraced friends at the finish line after adding another accolade to her name, having won the 5,000 and 10,000 metres at the Paris Games in 2024.

“I’m super happy as everything went according to plan,” Chebet said in remarks provided by World Athletics.

“I felt capable of running under 14 and I managed to do so. Two races in Barcelona and two world records, can I ask for more?”

The 24-year-old enjoyed a nearly flawless year, breaking the 10,000m world record in Eugene in May before claiming her second Diamond League title in the 5,000m in September.

Chebet said she will turn her attention to the World Championships in Tokyo in 2025, where she hopes to compete in both the 5,000 and 10,000, after picking up silver in 2022 and bronze in 2023 in the shorter distance.

“My focus for next year is to win gold medals over 5000m and 10,000m at the World Championships in Tokyo,” she added.

The men’s 5km race in Barcelona was won by Chebet’s fellow Kenyan and world Under-20 cross-country bronze medallist Matthew Kipkoech Kipruto.

Pre-race favourite Thierry Ndikumwenayo withdrew through injury, giving Kipruot the opportunity to win.

The 19-year-old took control from the start, covering the first 1km in 2:36 to take an early lead. He slowed down slightly afterwards while Spain’s Abdessadam Oukhelfen and France’s Pierrik Jocteur Monrozier began to approach him.

The Kenyan was timed at 8:02 for 3km, putting him two seconds ahead of his rivals.

He then maintained his pace in the closing stages and just about managed to hold off a late charge from Monrozier, both finished at 13:28 with Oukhelfen in third in 13:30. REUTERS

Tragedy in New Orleans: Multiple Fatalities After SUV Drives Into Pedestrians on New Year’s Day

A horrific incident in the French Quarter of New Orleans has left multiple people dead and several injured after an SUV plowed into a crowd celebrating New Year’s Day.

The chilling event unfolded around 3:15 a.m. at the bustling intersection of Bourbon Street and Iberville, a renowned hotspot for New Year’s festivities.

According to local reports, emergency services quickly arrived at the scene as chaos erupted in what was expected to be a night of celebration. Bourbon Street, packed with revelers welcoming the new year, has been closed to allow for ongoing investigations and to provide medical assistance to those affected.

Authorities initially reported that a car might have driven into a group of pedestrians at high speed, leading to an unspecified number of injuries and confirmed fatalities. A police spokesperson stated, “Initial reports show a car may have plowed into a group of people. Injuries are unknown, but there are reported fatalities.”

Eyewitness accounts provided to CBS News by journalist Kati Weis paint a harrowing picture of the scene. One witness recounted how a truck sped into the crowd before the driver exited the vehicle and began firing a weapon. In response, police officers on-site reportedly returned fire, further escalating the situation. Newsweek is working to independently verify these claims.

The incident has sent shockwaves through a city that just hours earlier was celebrating the arrival of 2024 with fireworks, music, and festivities. Bourbon Street, a highlight of New Orleans’ vibrant nightlife, was filled with thousands of locals and tourists alike, the joyous atmosphere now marred by tragedy.

It remains unclear whether the vehicle was used intentionally to harm the crowd or if the incident was accidental. The New Orleans Police Department is conducting a thorough investigation, and officials have urged any witnesses to come forward with information that could assist in their inquiries.

The mayor’s office and local leaders have expressed their condolences to the victims’ families while reaffirming their commitment to ensuring safety in New Orleans, particularly during large gatherings.

“This is an unspeakable tragedy that should never happen, especially during a time meant for celebration,” said a city official. “We will do everything in our power to get to the bottom of this. Our thoughts are with those affected.”

The scene remains under investigation, with police providing updates to the public as further information becomes available.

Kenya Space Agency To Investigate Owner Of Rocket After Metallic Ring Lands in Makueni County

Residents of Mukuku Village in Mbooni East, Makueni County, were left in shock on Monday, December 30, 2024, when a metallic object fell from the sky and landed in the area.

The object, a massive metallic ring measuring approximately 2.5 meters in diameter and weighing about 500 kilograms, is believed to be a fragment of a space object.

According to the Kenya Space Agency (KSA), preliminary investigations indicate that the object is a separation ring from a rocket launch vehicle.

Such components are typically designed to burn up upon re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere or to fall harmlessly over uninhabited areas, such as oceans. However, in this isolated incident, the object landed in a populated area, prompting immediate action from local and national authorities.

KSA officials, in collaboration with a multi-agency team and local leaders, swiftly secured the site after receiving reports on the morning of Tuesday, December 31. The debris was retrieved and is now under the custody of the KSA for detailed analysis.

The Agency assured the public that the object poses no immediate safety threat and thanked the residents of Mukuku for their prompt reporting of the incident.

“We commend the community for their cooperation in ensuring public safety and their swift communication with authorities,” a statement from the KSA read.

KSA further noted that the incident would be investigated under the framework of international space law to determine the origin of the object and to address any accountability measures. Updates on the investigation’s findings will be shared with the public in due course.

This unusual event has sparked conversations about space debris and its potential risks. KSA emphasized its commitment to promoting safe and responsible space activities for Kenyan entities and international operators working within Kenyan airspace.

The Agency has urged the public to report any suspicious objects or unusual occurrences to authorities immediately to ensure public safety and proper management of such incidents.

Family Nurses Panga Wounds As Robbers Target Lone Southern Bypass Motorists

A family traveling from Bomet to Nairobi became the victims of a vicious attack along the Southern Bypass late Thursday, when they were ambushed by a gang of armed robbers after their vehicle was forced off the road.

The alarming incident occurred when the family encountered illegal roadblocks created by the gang, which strategically placed stones on the roadway.

As the family’s vehicle hit the obstruction, it suffered two punctured tires, forcing them to pull over to address the situation. Unbeknownst to them, a group of panga-wielding assailants lay in wait, ready to strike.

Prudence Chepng’eno, the 22-year-old sister who was driving the vehicle, suffered a serious cut on her forehead and sustained a fracture during the chaos.

Her two brothers, ages 20 and 22, were also seriously injured; one sustained deep cuts to his neck, while the other suffered injuries to his forehead, neck, and left ear. A third sibling endured multiple injuries, including a severe cut to the left cheek and a fractured leg.

Witnesses report that Prudence lost control of the vehicle after the car in front swerved to avoid the stones, inadvertently leading to the family striking the obstruction. In the confusion, the robbers seized the opportunity to launch their attack.

“While the family was attending to their car, the gang approached them aggressively,” said a local witness who wished to remain anonymous. “It was terrifying to see such a violent act unfold in broad daylight. There was chaos everywhere.”

Emergency services arrived promptly on the scene, transporting the victims to a nearby hospital where they received urgent medical care. Authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.

“This is a disturbing trend that we cannot allow to continue,” stated a police spokesperson. “We are doubling our efforts to ensure the safety of motorists along major highways and to clamp down on these gangs engaging in such criminal activities.”

This incident underscores the growing concerns about safety in and around Nairobi, particularly on busy routes often targeted by criminals. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant, especially in less populated areas, as they travel along highways.

The family is currently recovering from their injuries, but the emotional and psychological toll of the attack will undoubtedly linger. The community continues to rally, offering support and solidarity in the wake of this traumatic event.

Warrant of Arrest Issued Against South Korea’s Impeached President

South Korea’s suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol has been issued with an arrest warrant over his attempt to impose martial law, sparking a major constitutional crisis in the country.

The warrant, issued by a court in the capital Seoul, comes after Yoon ignored three summonses to appear for questioning over the past two weeks. His lawyers have dismissed the warrant as “illegal and invalid” and vowed to challenge it in court.

Yoon’s decision to declare martial law on December 3 was met with widespread outrage and opposition from the government and the public. The move was seen as a desperate attempt by Yoon to cling to power after he was impeached by the opposition-dominated parliament.

Yoon is South Korea’s first sitting president to face arrest, and his whereabouts are currently unknown. He has been banned from leaving the country and is under investigation for abusing his power and inciting an insurrection.

The presidential security service has blocked investigators from entering the presidential office grounds and Yoon’s private residence to conduct court-approved searches. This has raised concerns that Yoon may be able to avoid arrest.

In a statement, Yoon’s lawyer said that investigators had no authority to arrest him, as declaring martial law was within the president’s constitutional authority. However, the opposition has vowed to continue pushing for Yoon’s impeachment and removal from office.

The current turmoil in South Korea has left the country in a state of flux, with two acting presidents and prime ministers vying for power. The opposition has threatened to impeach the current acting president and prime minister, finance minister Choi Sang-mok, if he does not step down.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Yoon will respond to the arrest warrant and whether he will be able to avoid being removed from office.

Tragic Wedding Journey: 71 Dead As Lorry Plunges Into A River in Southern Ethiopia

At least 71 people lost their lives in a devastating road accident in Ethiopia’s Sidama state after a lorry plunged into a river on Sunday.

Local officials confirmed that the vehicle, carrying passengers to a wedding, missed a bridge and fell into the water below.

The tragedy claimed the lives of 68 men and 3 women, many of whom were wedding guests. Initial reports from traffic police indicate that the lorry was overloaded, which likely contributed to the driver’s loss of control.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and grief as emergency responders worked tirelessly to retrieve bodies and survivors from the wreckage. “It was meant to be a joyous day, but it turned into a heartbreaking tragedy,” one local resident said.

Authorities have expressed condolences to the affected families and pledged a thorough investigation into the incident. Traffic accidents remain a significant concern in Ethiopia, often caused by overloading, poor road conditions, and lack of safety measures.

Kisii Senator Declines Ruto’s New Year’s Eve Dinner Invitation

Written By Lisa Murimi

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has publicly declined an invitation to President William Ruto’s New Year’s Eve state dinner at the Kisii State Lodge, citing the government’s failure to address pressing national issues.

In a statement on Tuesday, December 31, Onyonka condemned ongoing abductions, corruption, and violations of citizens’ rights, labeling 2024 as a painful year for Kenyans.

“The ongoing abductions, corruption, and violation of people’s rights, especially the youth, are deeply sad and painful to many,” Onyonka said. 

“It’s disheartening to see Kenya reverting to its troubled past.”

Onyonka criticized President Ruto’s silence on public pleas to resolve these crises, accusing him of failing to uphold the rule of law and his constitutional obligations.

“I believe the president has fallen short of his oath of office to protect the sovereignty, integrity, and dignity of Kenyans,” Onyonka added, emphasizing the unaddressed abductions of young citizens.

The senator expressed his discomfort with celebrating while many families suffer.

“I’m uncomfortable with the idea that some of us will celebrate with pomp while other Kenyan families are in agony,” he said.

Onyonka’s decision to decline the dinner reflects growing discontent with the government’s handling of national challenges.

High Court Summons Interior CS Murkomen in Missing Persons Case

Written By Lisa Murimi

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja have been summoned by the High Court over the mysterious disappearance of six Kenyans. 

Justice Alexander Muteti issued the directive on Tuesday, December 31, at Milimani Law Courts, setting a hearing for January 8 to address the abductions.

The six missing individuals—Peter Muteti, Bernard Kavuli, Gideon Kibet, Billy Mwangi, Ronny Kiplangat, and Steve Kivango—were allegedly taken under unclear circumstances, sparking public outcry.

Despite a prior order from Justice Bahati Mwamuye, IG Kanja and other state officials, including representatives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and Attorney General’s office, failed to appear in court.

The court also directed NTSA Director-General George Njao to appear on January 3 to provide vehicle registration records linked to the case.

Parents of the abductees, alongside lawyers led by Felix Keiton, testified in court, accusing state officers of blatant human rights violations. 

Billy Mwangi’s father emotionally recounted his family’s anguish since his son’s disappearance.

Political leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and Eugene Wamalwa, criticized IG Kanja for contempt of court.

CS Murkomen has previously denied state involvement, asserting police independence. 

The case has intensified scrutiny over government accountability in human rights matters.

DCI Seeks Permission to Access Senator Omtatah’s Phone Data Amid Protest Investigations

Written By Lisa Murimi

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has petitioned the Milimani Law Courts for access to mobile phones belonging to Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah and 22 others arrested during demonstrations on December 30. 

Prosecutors from the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) stated that data from WhatsApp, Facebook, and X messages, as well as photos shared on social media, could assist in the investigation.

The DCI accuses Omtatah and his co-accused of inciting violence and disobedience to the law during the protests, sparked by public outrage over a series of mysterious abductions. 

At least seven individuals, including Steve Mbisi and Billy Mwangi, were reportedly abducted in December, prompting widespread demonstrations.

The DCI also requested a 14-day remand for the suspects, citing the need to gather evidence, including CCTV footage from Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), and record witness statements. 

Prosecutors argued that releasing the suspects on bail could lead to further unrest.

Omtatah’s arrest has drawn criticism from prominent leaders such as Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa, who accused the government of suppressing Kenyans’ rights. 

The case has ignited national debate on freedom of expression and the handling of protests.

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