UK Releases Thousands Of Prisoners To Relieve Congestion.

Published

6 months ago

September 10, 2024

Thousands of prisoners in British jails were set to be released early on Tuesday as part of a government effort to alleviate overcrowding.

According to recently disclosed numbers, England and Wales’ prison population has reached its all-time high.

However, due to concerns about recidivism, the government stipulated that no violent felons or domestic abusers be eligible for early release.

Report says, it was “a difficult decision” to release the 1,700 detainees.

Downing Street stated that the approach was necessary to prevent “unchecked criminality,” in which newly convicted offenders were spared jail sentences because there were no spots available.

Reynolds blamed the previous Conservative government, which was defeated in July, saying the decision “should have been made prior to the election” but that it “had given up on governing”.

“Of all the scandals we inherited, I think the prison system, the justice system, is probably the worst of all,” he told reporters.

Martin Jones, Chief Inspector of Probation, told BBC Radio that jails were under “extreme” pressure.

“It’s the highest population we’ve ever seen in this country. Prisons are absolutely close to 100 percent capacity.

“My understanding, as of yesterday there is a couple of 100 spaces remaining.”

Jones warned that it was a “certainty that some will reoffend”, highlighting that around a third of people released from prison each year go on to commit further offences within a year.

Reynolds insisted that “no violent offenders, no domestic abusers will be eligible” for early release, adding that “we’ve put those greater protections in place”.

The prison population has swollen in recent months by those convicted of taking part in anti-immigration riots across England.

The government has said those involved in the unrest would not be excluded from the early release plans.

Pontiff Hospitalized for Bronchitis Treatment

Published

4 weeks ago

February 14, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Adenike Lawal

Pope Francis has been hospitalized in Rome for treatment and tests related to bronchitis, the Vatican confirmed on Friday.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who has faced recurring health challenges, was admitted to Gemelli Hospital after experiencing breathlessness in recent days.

The Vatican stated that his hospitalization allows for necessary tests and continued treatment.

This marks the second time in two years that Pope Francis has been hospitalized for bronchitis.

Despite ongoing health concerns, he remains committed to his duties, though he has increasingly relied on aides to read his speeches.

Trump Imposes Tariffs to Combat Fentanyl Crisis

Published

1 month ago

February 2, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Abaire Bisola

Former President Donald Trump has announced new tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China as part of efforts to curb the fentanyl crisis, the leading cause of death among Americans aged 18 to 45.

The tariffs include a 25% levy on Mexican goods, a 10% tariff on Canadian energy resources, and a 10% duty on Chinese imports, aimed at pressuring these nations to intensify their fight against drug trafficking.

The move targets Mexican cartels, the primary traffickers of fentanyl into the U.S., while also addressing concerns over fentanyl production in Canada.

The Trump administration insists that international cooperation is essential to stemming the flow of dangerous substances into the country.

While the tariffs are framed as a national security measure, they have sparked concerns over potential economic repercussions and increased consumer costs.

The administration has warned that non-compliance by these countries could result in escalating tariffs, raising fears of global trade tensions.

Supporters argue that Trump’s tariff policies have historically bolstered the U.S. economy, citing a 2024 study linking them to increased domestic manufacturing.

However, the economic impact remains debated, with experts divided on whether tariffs ultimately benefit or burden American consumers.

World News

Fear Grips US-Based Nigerians as Trump’s Deportation Crackdown Intensifies

Published

1 month ago

February 1, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Our Correspondent

Amid a sweeping deportation crackdown ordered by former U.S. President Donald Trump, many Nigerians residing in the United States have reportedly gone into hiding, fearing arrest and forced removal.

The crackdown, which targets undocumented immigrants and those with expired visas, has triggered panic among Nigerian communities, especially those without proper documentation.

Reports indicate that immigration raids have increased in several states, leading to heightened anxiety and reduced public movement among affected individuals.

Many Nigerians have turned to legal experts and community organizations for advice on their immigration status, while others have reportedly stopped going to work or public gatherings to avoid detection.

Trump, who has maintained a tough stance on immigration, has emphasized that his administration is focused on removing illegal immigrants as part of a broader effort to enforce U.S. immigration laws.

As deportations escalate, Nigerian authorities have yet to release an official statement addressing the impact on their citizens.

Meanwhile, human rights activists have called for a fair and humane approach to the enforcement process, urging the U.S. government to consider pathways for legal residency instead of mass deportations.