Thailand faced a national tragedy after a soldier carried out a shooting rampage that killed 29 people and injured dozens more in the northeastern city of Nakhon Ratchasima. The violence began on February 8, 2020, when Sergeant Major Jakrapanth Thomma opened fire following a reported dispute connected to a property deal. The attacker subsequently took military weapons and moved through several locations, leaving victims in his wake before reaching the Terminal 21 shopping mall. The incident quickly developed into a prolonged security emergency. Shoppers, employees and visitors desperately searched for safe places to hide as gunfire echoed through parts of the complex. Some people managed to escape, while others remained trapped until security personnel could reach them. Police and military units launched an extensive operation to contain the attacker and evacuate civilians. The confrontation continued through the night, creating hours of uncertainty for families waiting for information about missing relatives. Security forces eventually located and killed the gunman inside the shopping complex on February 9, ending the siege. The death toll made the incident one of the deadliest mass shootings in Thailand's history. The tragedy prompted widespread mourning and raised questions about military weapon security, firearm access and the country's preparedness for mass-casualty attacks. Survivors and relatives of those killed were left to cope with the physical and emotional consequences of the violence. The Korat shooting remains a painful chapter in Thailand's recent history, remembered for the lives lost, the fear experienced by ordinary civilians and the emergency responders who worked to bring the crisis to an end.
Mexico faced renewed security challenges following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). He was killed during a military operation in Jalisco state on February 22, 2026, marking a significant development in the country’s long-running campaign against organized crime. El Mencho had become one of Mexico’s most prominent criminal figures through his leadership of the CJNG, an organization associated with international drug trafficking and violent clashes with security forces and rival groups. Authorities had pursued him for years as the cartel expanded its influence across Mexico and into international markets. His death was followed by reports of burning vehicles, blocked roads and suspected cartel attacks in several areas. Security forces increased their presence as officials worked to contain the unrest and protect local communities. The operation also raised questions about who would control the cartel following the loss of its leader. Experts have long warned that the removal of a major criminal figure can create competition within an organization without automatically ending its operations. For Mexico, the challenge now extends beyond eliminating individual leaders. Authorities must also confront criminal networks, illegal weapons, drug trafficking and the violence affecting communities. The longer-term impact of El Mencho’s death will depend on whether security operations can weaken the cartel’s structure and prevent further retaliation.
Police in Cumilla have arrested a CNG-run auto-rickshaw driver accused of raping and killing a 15-year-old schoolgirl. Authorities said the suspect confessed to the crime during questioning. The accused, Sumon Mia, was detained at his brother’s residence in Chattogram on Friday. Additional Superintendent of Police Pankaj Barua disclosed details at a press conference following the arrest. According to police, the victim, Tazmin, hired the auto-rickshaw from Paduar Bazar to Racecourse for Tk 300 at around 12:30am on Thursday. The driver allegedly diverted from the intended route and took her to a different location. Police said the girl was later found dead in a paddy field beside the Cumilla–Noakhali regional highway in the Jagatpur area under Lalmai Police Station. Officers recovered her body after receiving information through the national emergency service 999. Investigators allege that the suspect stole the victim’s iPhone before leaving the scene and later concealed it near a mosque in Chapapur. The victim’s father, Abdul Alim, identified her body. He said she had left home several days earlier to visit a female friend and had subsequently travelled to Cox’s Bazar before heading to Cumilla. Police are continuing their investigation into the case
Shahriar Mahmud, the principal accused in the case over the alleged attack and vandalism at content creator Salman Muqtadir’s Brownfish Studio in Dhaka’s ECB Chattar area, has been granted bail by a Dhaka court. Metropolitan Magistrate Md Hasib Ullah Pias granted Shahriar bail on a bond of Tk 10,000 until the next scheduled court date following a hearing on Monday, according to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) prosecution branch. The case was filed after an alleged attack on the New Gini Properties project in the capital’s Cantonment area on the night of September 26. Project director Saiful Islam Bhuiyan lodged the complaint with Cantonment Police Station on September 27, alleging vandalism, assault and looting. According to the case statement, the attackers allegedly damaged office equipment, furniture, gates and other property. Salman Muqtadir’s Brownfish Studio was also reportedly vandalised, with two televisions, air-conditioning units, furniture and filming equipment damaged. The complainant estimated the studio’s losses at approximately Tk 95 lakh. The complaint also alleges that cash, construction materials, electrical cables and other items were taken from the premises, resulting in substantial financial losses. These figures represent the complainant’s estimates and have not been established as final losses in court. Earlier reports said four people had been arrested in connection with the incident. Authorities have also linked the violence to a broader land dispute involving approximately 35 kathas of land associated with New Gini Properties Ltd and opposing landowners. Shahriar’s bail does not amount to an acquittal. The allegations against him and the other accused remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings.
Police in Satkhira have registered a case against a 60-year-old man accused of sexually assaulting a seven-year-old girl. Authorities said an investigation is underway and efforts are being made to arrest the suspect. According to the complaint, the alleged incident took place on October 10 on the rooftop of a house in Satkhira Sadar upazila. The property reportedly belongs to Rafiqul Islam, a former chairman of Jhaudanga Union Parishad. The child’s grandmother identified the accused as Mosharraf Hossain, whom she described as the former chairman’s brother-in-law. She alleged that he lured the child to the rooftop before committing the offence. She also claimed that she informed the former chairman about the incident but received no assistance. On October 13, police took the child to Satkhira Sadar Hospital, where she was admitted for treatment and a medical examination. Shafiqul Islam, officer-in-charge of Satkhira Sadar Police Station, said officers visited the reported location and conducted inquiries after learning about the incident. He confirmed that a case had been filed and that police were working to apprehend the accused. The child had been living with her grandmother in Oaria village. Her father lives abroad, while her mother lives separately. The allegations remain under investigation, and the accused’s guilt has not been established in court.
A 56-year-old woman was killed and her husband seriously wounded in a knife attack allegedly carried out by their son at their home in Kurigram Sadar upazila early Wednesday. The incident took place in Belgachha Union around dawn, according to Kamal Hossain, officer-in-charge of Kurigram Sadar Police Station. The victim was identified as Munira Begum, while her husband, Sardar Ali, 65, a retired textile engineer, was rushed to Rangpur Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment. Police and local sources said their son, Mostakin Alam Shovon, 35, allegedly attacked his parents before escaping. He was reportedly struggling with drug addiction, and his family had sent him to rehabilitation centres several times. However, he repeatedly left those facilities. The family was reportedly planning to send him to rehabilitation again. On Wednesday morning, staff from a rehabilitation centre in Sirajganj arrived at the house to take him there. According to the initial account, Shovon allegedly stabbed his mother in the chest after learning about the plan. When his father tried to intervene, he was repeatedly stabbed in the abdomen. Rehabilitation centre staff rushed the injured couple to Kurigram General Hospital, where doctors declared Munira dead. Her husband was later transferred to Rangpur for specialised medical care.
International gold prices recorded a moderate increase on October 19, 2026, reaching approximately $4,175.30 per troy ounce, based on the supplied market figures. The precious metal gained $11.20, or 0.27%, during the session, reflecting a positive movement in the global bullion market. The reported price placed 24-karat gold at around $134.24 per gram, while 22-karat gold was valued at approximately $123.06 per gram. Actual buying prices may vary depending on purity, dealer premiums and other charges. Gold prices are influenced by global economic conditions, US dollar movements, interest-rate expectations and geopolitical uncertainty. Investors often consider gold a store of value during uncertain periods, although market fluctuations can also lead to price declines. In Bangladesh, international gold prices remain an important reference for jewellery buyers. However, domestic rates depend on exchange rates, supply conditions and official announcements from the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS). Consumers should check the latest local rates and applicable making charges before purchasing gold. Market participants will continue to monitor economic developments and investor demand to determine the precious metal's next direction.
Cristiano Ronaldo found the net as Al-Nassr defeated Uzbekistan’s Neftchi Fergana 3-1 in an AFC Champions League fixture on Monday. The match in Riyadh began an hour later than scheduled following a security alert linked to the ongoing regional conflict. Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defence issued a warning around 15 minutes before the planned kick-off, prompting a delay while safety concerns were addressed. The incident came amid missile threats targeting the Saudi capital. Later that night, explosions were reported in Riyadh, and a Saudi-led military coalition announced that its forces had intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile. The escalating tensions have also raised questions about upcoming international sporting events, including Formula 1 races scheduled in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. After play eventually began, Al-Nassr took the lead through Angelo in the 33rd minute. Ronaldo then extended the advantage before the interval, putting the home side in a strong position. Neftchi Fergana managed to reduce the deficit after the break but suffered a major setback when one of their players was sent off in the 65th minute. An own goal 13 minutes later secured Al-Nassr’s 3-1 victory and their first win in Group B. Ronaldo had also scored on Friday during his return to club action after leaving Portugal’s national team camp midway through the international break. Reports linked his departure to frustration over limited playing opportunities.
The global luxury fashion industry is facing renewed pressure as weaker consumer demand in China affects the performance of leading fashion brands. LVMH, the parent company of Louis Vuitton and several other luxury labels, reported a 5% decline in organic sales in its fashion and leather goods division for the latest quarter. The results fell short of market expectations, raising further concerns about the industry's recovery. China has long been a major market for luxury goods. However, slower economic growth, weakness in the property sector and cautious consumer spending have affected demand for high-end clothing, handbags and accessories. The slowdown has also created uncertainty for other major luxury groups, including Hermès and Kering, as investors assess the outlook for the global market. Industry analysts believe a sustained recovery may take time, with brands likely to focus on long-term strategies rather than relying on immediate price reductions. The latest results highlight the challenges facing luxury fashion houses as they navigate changing consumer behaviour and an increasingly uncertain global economy
US President Donald Trump has expressed doubt that China and Russia are providing assistance to Iran, arguing that both countries would face significant risks if they became involved in supporting Tehran. Speaking through his Truth Social account on Monday, Trump suggested that any such support, if it existed, would be minimal. He also maintained that Washington would quickly detect any significant involvement by Moscow or Beijing. Saudi Arabia Faces Security Concerns After Missile Attacks Trump also criticised Houthi forces over a series of attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, including incidents involving major airports in Riyadh and Dammam, according to Al Jazeera. Saudi authorities have extended the suspension of operations at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh until October 17. Officials said the extended closure would allow aviation authorities to assess the safety of airport facilities following repeated security threats. Saudi forces reported intercepting a ballistic missile directed towards Riyadh on Monday night. The Saudi-led coalition said the missile had been destroyed, while Civil Defence later announced that the immediate threat to the capital had passed. Houthi representatives claimed responsibility for targeting the airport and described the operation as accurate. Flight Disruptions Continue Across Saudi Arabia Aviation restrictions have caused widespread disruption to air travel. A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) indicated that Riyadh airport would remain closed through October 17 while safety inspections continued. Data from aviation analytics company Cirium showed that 486 of the 1,048 flights scheduled to depart Saudi Arabia on Monday were cancelled. Another 271 cancellations had already been recorded for Tuesday. Gulf Air also suspended its Riyadh services through October 17. The attacks have also affected foreign nationals. India's embassy in Riyadh confirmed that Indian citizen Mohammed Yousuf Ali died following an airport attack on October 10. Indian Ambassador Vipul attended the funeral in Riyadh after the family decided to hold the ceremony there. The embassy further reported that three injured Indian nationals remained in intensive care, while two additional people had also been admitted to intensive care. Other Major Developments in the Middle East Trump's position on Iran: Trump said the US midterm elections would not alter his administration's approach to Iran. He also predicted that the conflict would end soon and that oil prices would fall sharply afterward. Oil market movements: Crude prices declined on Tuesday after rising by nearly $2 during the previous session. Traders continued to assess the risk of supply interruptions linked to regional attacks alongside the possibility of higher Russian diesel exports. Incident near the Strait of Hormuz: The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a tanker departing the Strait of Hormuz was struck by an unidentified projectile on Monday. Iranian military adviser Yahya Rahim Safavi said Tehran wanted to regulate and restrict maritime traffic through the strategic waterway rather than shut it completely. Iran considers Washington's proposal: Iran is examining the latest US proposal concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, according to a spokesperson for its foreign ministry. Messages are being exchanged through intermediaries, including Qatar and Pakistan. Warning over digital infrastructure: Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, warned that regional data cables, data centres and artificial intelligence facilities could face risks if hostilities resume, Iranian state media reported.
Bangladesh is exploring modern agricultural methods, scientific research and improved food distribution to strengthen food security and make nutritious food more accessible to its population. The issue gained attention during World Food Day 2026, observed on October 16 under the theme “Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow.” A national seminar in Dhaka brought together government officials, agricultural researchers, development partners and other stakeholders to discuss ways to improve the country's food system. One major challenge is ensuring that food reaches consumers efficiently after harvest. Although Bangladesh produces substantial quantities of rice, fish, vegetables and fruits, inadequate storage, transportation difficulties and food losses can reduce the benefits of agricultural production. Digital technology could also help improve agricultural market management. Better production data and supply monitoring may help farmers make informed decisions, reduce waste and respond more effectively to changing market demand. Climate change presents another challenge. Floods and other extreme weather events can damage crops, disrupt livelihoods and make food less affordable. Climate-resilient crop varieties, timely weather information and improved farming practices could help farmers prepare for these risks. However, innovation alone will not solve every problem. Small-scale farmers need access to financing, modern equipment, agricultural advice and reliable markets. Better food preservation, stronger safety standards and public awareness of nutrition are also important parts of the solution. Food affordability remains a serious concern for many households. High living costs and climate-related disruptions can limit access to nutritious meals, particularly for vulnerable communities. Agricultural experts and development partners have emphasized the importance of turning research into practical solutions that benefit farmers and consumers. Better coordination among government agencies, scientists, businesses and rural communities could help reduce food losses, improve productivity and strengthen access to nutritious diets. For Bangladesh, the long-term challenge is not simply producing more food. It is building a resilient and efficient food system that can withstand economic and climate-related pressures while keeping safe, nutritious food within reach of ordinary households.
