DHAKA: Police yesterday freed Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting secretary general Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and two other officials, a day after he and more than 100 officials were arrested in a crackdown following clashes between supporters and police. A former mayor of Dhaka city was also freed. Police had arrested them on suspicion of “creating anarchy and social disorder”, after storming the BNP headquarters in Dhaka.
Myanmar police used ‘phosphorus’
YANGON: Myanmar police used phosphorus against a rally at a copper mine last year, a parliamentary report led by Aung San Suu Kyi said yesterday. However the probe into the November clampdown, which left dozens wounded recommended the mine at the heart of the dispute continue to operate, despite conceding it only brought “slight” benefits to the nation. Residents rejected the findings and insisted the mine, a joint venture between Chinese firm Wanbao and military-owned Myanmar Economic Holding, be shut down over environmental concerns and charges of land-grabbing.
Taiwan may build submarine fleet
TAIPEI: Taiwan yesterday confirmed it plans to study the feasibility of building a submarine fleet on its own in a move which suggests it is running out of patience over a long-stalled US offer to supply eight of the warships. The navy hopes to come up with an in-depth report in four years on items ranging from design and acquisition of equipment, to construction capabilities and product tests and evaluation, according to a defence ministry statement.
Beijing ready for cyber security talks
BEIJING: China yesterday offered talks with the US on cyber security amid an escalating war of words on computer hacking, but suspicion is as deep in Beijing as in Washington about accusations and counter-accusations. Both have been squaring off for months over cyber attacks, each accusing the other of hacking into sensitive government and corporate websites.
Rodman planning ‘vacation’ with Kim
WASHINGTON: The odd couple is getting odder: First, Dennis Rodman and North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un take in a hoops game side by side. Now, they’re reportedly planning a holiday together. The retired 51-year-old, who announced the vacation plan on Monday, became the most high-profile American to meet Kim during a recent trip to Pyongyang. While officials have played down the trip, stating that the former Chicago Bulls star does not represent US views, Rodman said he plans to return to Pyongyang. In comments to the KXJB local television station in Fargo, North Dakota, he described Kim as a friend.
Chinese ships enter Japan waters
Tokyo: Three Chinese maritime surveillance ships entered Japan’s territorial waters near the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea yesterday. According to Japanese news agency (Kyodo), it was the first time Chinese ships entered Japan’s territorial waters since March 6 and the 33rd time since Tokyo purchased part of disputed islands from a private owner last September. Tension prevailed between Beijing and Tokyo over the islands believed to have large amounts of gas.
Agencies
