News in English

8. April 2017, 21:58

Top prosecutor shot dead in Pakistan

Gunmen in Pakistan have shot dead the prosecutor investigating the murder of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Chaudhry Zulfiqar Ali was shot as he drove to a court hearing in the case. He'd been the chief prosecutor in a number of high profile cases including the attacks in Mumbai in 2008. The assassination comes a week before general elections. Journalist and author Ahmed Rashid: "he was not involved in any form of electioneering or anything like that. He was a government lawyer - this is clearly related to one of the cases that he was handling."

Syrian troops accused of massacre

Syrian opposition groups have accused President Bashar Assad's regime of carrying out a massacre. They say troops backed by pro-government militias killed at least 50 people in the mountainous village of Bayda. In another development, the US has given its strongest indication yet that it’s considering arming opposition fighters in Syria. Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel says the move is only one option under discussion: "we're constantly evaluating. It doesn't mean the President has decided on anything. I'm in favour of exploring options to see what is the best option in coordination with our international partners."

Bangladesh death toll over 500

Police in Bangladesh says the death toll from last week's factory collapse in Dhaka has now gone over 500. The building contained five clothing factories and many workers remain unaccounted for. Nine people - including the building's owner - have been arrested.

Slow recovery forecast for EU economy

Top EU officials are predicting that the Eurozone's economy will take its time to come out of recession. In its spring forecast, it says gross domestic product will shrink by 0.4% this year and that unemployment is expected to remain at record levels. Economic and Monetary Affairs Commissioner Olli Rehn says reducing the jobless rate is a top priority. In the longer term, growth is forecast for the EU economy as a whole in the second half of next year.

900 arrested in meat scandal in China

Over 900 people have been arrested in China in connection with a meat scandal. Officials say they've uncovered around 400 cases of fake or tainted meat in the last three months. In one case, meat sold as mutton turned out to be fox, mink or rat with added chemicals. The state news agency says the arrests are part of a nationwide crackdown which will now focus on dairy products.

Gains for UKIP in England elections

Early results from local elections in England show a surge in support for the UK Independence Party which is campaigning for British withdrawal from the EU. The party has taken away support from Prime Minister David Cameron's Conservatives. Observers say the party could split the centre-right vote at the next general election.

The weather

There is the possibility of more showers and thunderstorms with some sunny periods. Highs will be ranging between 16 and 24 degrees.

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