News

Batches of infant and follow-on formula manufactured in Ireland and exported internationally have been recalled due to the potential presence of cereulide, a toxin produced by the bacterium Bacillus cereus. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) confirmed the recall, which affects products exported to numerous EU countries, the UK, and other international markets.

Contaminated Ingredient Identified

The recall stems from a contaminant found in ARA oil, a raw ingredient used in the formulas. This same oil was previously linked to a recall of Nestlé infant formula and follow-on formula initiated on January 6th in several European countries. The ARA oil was manufactured in China and subsequently contaminated with cereulide before being added to the formulas.

Cereulide can cause food poisoning, according to the FSAI. While no direct link has been established, French authorities are investigating the deaths of two infants who had consumed the implicated Nestlé formula.

Infant Deaths Under Investigation

A two-week-old baby died on January 8th in Bordeaux, France, after consuming milk from one of the recalled batches. A second infant, 27 days old, died on December 23rd in Angers, France. The mother of the second infant contacted authorities this week, reporting that the baby had consumed milk from a recalled lot.

Nestlé has stated it will cooperate with the investigations but maintains that, at this time, there is “no evidence” linking its products to the infant deaths. France’s health minister has assured the public that all potentially contaminated formula has been withdrawn from the market.

French group Lactalis has also initiated a recall of its own batches in France and other countries due to concerns about cereulide contamination. Lactalis has not yet identified the supplier of the tainted ingredient. The recall extends to countries including Australia, Chile, China, Colombia, the Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Spain, Madagascar, Mexico, Uzbekistan, Peru, Georgia, Greece, Kuwait, the Czech Republic, and Taiwan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cereulide?

Cereulide is a toxin produced by certain strains of the bacterium Bacillus cereus, and it can cause food poisoning, according to the FSAI.

Which companies are affected by this recall?

Danone, Nestlé, and Lactalis have all initiated recalls of infant formula and follow-on formula due to potential cereulide contamination.

Is infant formula sold in Ireland affected?

No, Danone confirmed to the FSAI that none of the implicated products have been distributed in Ireland.

As investigations continue, it is possible that the scope of the recall could expand, or that further details regarding the source of the contamination will emerge. It is also possible that authorities will determine there is no causal link between the formula and the reported infant deaths.

A series of attacks targeting two Pakistani dissidents in the United Kingdom has prompted an investigation by Scotland Yard’s counter-terrorism command. The attacks, described as “highly targeted,” began on Christmas Eve and have included vandalism, assault, and the use of a firearm.

Targeted Attacks and a Growing Concern

The victims are both supporters of Imran Khan, the jailed former Pakistani prime minister. The attacks took place in Cambridgeshire and Buckinghamshire. One victim, human rights lawyer Mirza Shahzad Akbar, a former member of Khan’s cabinet and a critic of the current Pakistani regime, detailed a brutal assault on Christmas Eve. He reported being punched 25-30 times by a masked assailant who inquired specifically about his identity.

Subsequent attacks on Akbar’s home included shots fired through a front window and an attempt to set the property ablaze, thwarted by quick-acting neighbours. A third incident on January 10th involved the spraying of chemicals and the breaking of windows with an iron bar, accompanied by racist graffiti. Akbar, who previously survived an unsolved acid attack in 2023, has gone into hiding with his family on police advice.

The attacks raise concerns about the potential for foreign states to use criminal proxies to silence critics living within the UK. Counter-terror officials have previously warned of such tactics employed by Russia, Iran, and China. Sources indicate that Pakistan has not previously been implicated in similar investigations, nor has a firearm been used in such cases.

A 34-Year-Old Arrested

A 34-year-old man was arrested on January 5th in connection with the December 31st attack, on suspicion of attempted arson and possession of a firearm. He has since been released on bail pending further inquiries. Despite the arrest, another attack occurred on January 10th, leading Akbar to believe those responsible are “mocking” UK authorities.

The human rights group Reprieve, supporting Akbar, has called for a public condemnation of the attacks and warned that continued silence could be seen as tolerance of such intimidation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What has been the response from the UK government?

The Foreign Office has declined to comment, citing the ongoing police investigation.

What is Mirza Shahzad Akbar’s assessment of the situation?

Akbar believes he was targeted due to his political views and criticism of the Pakistani regime, and suspects the attacks were carried out by individuals hired by someone. He fears for his life and the safety of his family.

Are the attacks believed to be connected?

Detectives are keeping an open mind as to whether the incidents are directly linked, and this remains an active line of inquiry.

Given the sensitive nature of the investigation and the potential for international repercussions, will UK authorities be able to identify those responsible and deter future attacks?

A 22-year-old man is in custody following the violent death of a woman in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, on Thursday night. The Mossos d’Esquadra, the Catalan police force, responded to reports of a disturbance around 19:00 hours and discovered the woman deceased with signs of violence.

Investigation Underway

The División de Investigación Criminal (DIC) is currently investigating the case, which is under court secrecy. As of now, the relationship between the victim and the detained man remains unknown, as are the specific circumstances leading to the woman’s death. Police have reported the woman was stabbed.

Neighborhood Concerns

Residents in the area, encompassing the streets Mayor, Santa Ana, Provenza, and Roselles, have reportedly experienced ongoing disturbances for approximately two years. These issues stem from individuals occupying former industrial buildings accessible through an old hardware store. More than 700 signatures had been collected by residents petitioning for the occupants to be evicted.

“¿Qué más tiene que pasar?” one resident told ACN, expressing frustration with the ongoing situation. Following the incident, the local Ayuntamiento began sealing off parts of the buildings and has offered temporary housing to those still residing in the space, with the stated goal of complete evacuation.

At this time, no hypotheses have been ruled out regarding the circumstances of the death or the identity of the perpetrator. The police are investigating whether the incident could be classified as a gender-based crime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of the investigation?

The División de Investigación Criminal (DIC) of the Mossos d’Esquadra is investigating the case, which is currently under court secrecy.

What prompted the police response?

The Mossos d’Esquadra received a report of a disturbance occurring inside a building in L’Hospitalet around 19:00 hours on Thursday.

What actions has the Ayuntamiento taken?

The Ayuntamiento has begun sealing off parts of the buildings and has offered temporary housing to individuals still living in the occupied space, aiming for a complete evacuation.

As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what further details will emerge regarding the events of Thursday night and the motivations behind this tragic incident.

Srinagar, Jan 23: A severe winter storm brought down power lines across the Kashmir Division, leaving the vast majority of the region without electricity. The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) reported widespread damage to its infrastructure following high-speed winds, heavy snowfall, and rainfall.

Power Grid Collapse

The power demand plummeted to 93 MW around 10:00 PM on January 22-23, 2026, a dramatic decrease from the typical average load of approximately 1650 MW. This decline occurred as faults and damage impacted 33kV and 11kV feeders. Damage was exacerbated by rooftops being blown off and falling onto power lines.

As of morning, 103 of 135 33 kV lines were down or experiencing faults, meaning roughly 24% of the sub-transmission network remained active. At the distribution level, 1275 of 1302 11 kV feeders were similarly affected.

Restoration Efforts Underway

Restoration efforts began immediately, overseen by the Managing Director and Chief Engineer, with support from Superintending and Executive Engineers. By 6:00 PM, approximately 80% of the network had been restored, with a load of 1050 MW recorded. Prioritization was given to essential and vital installations.

Areas Most Affected

The storm’s impact was particularly severe in the districts of Shopian, Kulgam, Baramulla, and Budgam. Restoration work is hampered by approximately 4.5 feet of snow in higher elevations, severely limiting vehicular access. Specific areas experiencing outages include DH pora, Kund, Malwan, and branel-Lammar in Kulgam; Sedow, Reshnagri, Herpora, Kaprain, and Kuch dora in Shopian; and Khanshab, Beerwa, Doodhpathri, and Yousmarg in Budgam.

Damage to a transmission tower at Sheeri in the Delina-LJHP 132 kV Transmission line is also hindering restoration. JKPTCL (Kashmir) is working to restore the network by erecting an Emergency Restoration System (ERS).

KPDCL has stated its commitment to restoring power to all areas by nightfall, with personnel and equipment mobilized to affected regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the power outages?

Severe gusty winds, incessant rainfall, and heavy snowfall caused faults and damage to 33kV and 11kV feeders, leading to a widespread collapse of the power grid.

How much of the power network was affected?

As of morning, 103 out of 135 33 kV lines and 1275 out of 1302 11 kV feeders were down or under fault.

What is being done to restore power?

Restoration efforts began immediately and are being monitored by the Managing Director, Chief Engineer, Superintending Engineers, and Executive Engineers. Approximately 80% of the network was restored by 6:00 PM.

As restoration efforts continue, will the remaining areas be able to regain power before nightfall?

In a game that appeared lost with just two minutes remaining, No. 15 Maryland women’s basketball mounted a furious comeback against No. 10 Iowa on Thursday, only to fall short in overtime, 85-78. The Terps, trailing by 11 late in the fourth quarter, rallied to force the extra period, but ultimately couldn’t sustain the momentum.

A Comeback Cut Short

The game nearly slipped away for Maryland as Iowa built a lead as large as 17 points in the fourth quarter. Contributing to the Terps’ struggles was foul trouble and the absence of offensive production from key players. Yarden Garzon fouled out, and Maryland’s leading scorer, Oluchi Okananwa, was limited to just one point through the first three quarters due to a focused defensive strategy by the Hawkeyes.

Okananwa found her rhythm in the fourth quarter, scoring 11 points after picking up her fourth foul, and ultimately tying the game with a dramatic shot to send it to overtime. However, she fouled out during the extra period, leaving the Terps without their primary offensive threat.

Foul Trouble and Emerging Players

Head coach Brenda Frese emphasized the impact of foul trouble, stating, “Players have to be on the floor. We can’t get in foul trouble.” The loss of Okananwa and Garzon proved critical, as the Terps struggled to maintain their offensive flow.

With key players sidelined, redshirt freshman Kyndal Walker stepped up, finishing with 15 points and becoming Maryland’s primary ball-handler. Walker’s confidence was evident, but the Terps couldn’t rely solely on her against a top-15 opponent. Saylor Poffenbarger and Addi Mack also contributed to the fourth-quarter surge, combining for 11 points.

Iowa controlled the pace for much of the game, shooting 50% from three-point range in the first half. Despite Maryland’s defensive efforts, the Hawkeyes capitalized on opportunities both inside and from beyond the arc.

Looking Ahead

Maryland has now lost three of its last four contests. The Terps will need to address their foul trouble and find more consistent offensive contributions from a wider range of players. If they can build on the fight they showed in the fourth quarter, they could potentially use this experience to prepare for a challenging conference schedule and a push towards March. It is possible that the team will focus on limiting fouls and developing more consistent scoring options in the coming games. A continued emphasis on team depth could also prove beneficial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score of the game?

The final score was Iowa 85, Maryland 78.

Who led Maryland in scoring?

Kyndal Walker led Maryland with 15 points.

What did Coach Frese say about the team’s performance?

Coach Frese said, “It was approaching a blowout when we were down 17…To be able to fight and claw. That’s the beauty of this locker room, just their mentality.” She also stated, “Iowa made more plays than us today. Every time we closed the door and got there, there was an impactful play that they were able to make.”

What will the Terps need to focus on as they move forward?

A major winter storm is currently sweeping across the United States, potentially impacting over half of the nation’s population with snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. The storm’s path currently indicates impacts beginning later Friday in Texas and Oklahoma.

Widespread Warnings and Potential Impacts

More than 200 million people are under cold weather advisories or warnings, while at least 177 million are under watches or warnings for ice and snow. Forecasters have cautioned that the potential damage from this storm, particularly in areas experiencing significant ice accumulation, could be comparable to that of a hurricane.

The National Weather Service predicts the storm will move into the South bringing freezing rain and sleet. Following this, substantial snowfall is expected in the Northeast, with approximately one foot (30 centimeters) of snow forecast from Washington, D.C., through New York and Boston.

Potential Next Steps

As the storm progresses, conditions could deteriorate rapidly. Travel disruptions are likely across a large portion of the country. Power outages are a possibility, particularly where significant ice accumulation occurs. Residents in affected areas may need to prepare for extended periods of cold and potential isolation.

The following map shows the forecasted cumulative snowfall amounts predicted over a 72-hour period. It updates automatically using the latest data from the National Weather Service. Click on a color-shaded region of the map to see the forecast for that area.

For more information, you can WATCH: What to expect from the potentially devastating winter storm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas are currently under a watch or warning?

At least 177 million people are under watches or warnings for ice and snow, and more than 200 million are under cold weather advisories or warnings.

Where is the storm expected to move next?

The storm is expected to slide into the South with freezing rain and sleet, then move into the Northeast, potentially dropping about a foot of snow from Washington, D.C., through New York and Boston.

How does the potential damage from this storm compare to other natural disasters?

Forecasters have warned that the damage, especially in areas pounded by ice, could rival a hurricane.

As this winter storm unfolds, what steps will communities take to ensure the safety and well-being of their residents?

Students at SDN 11 Bungo Tanjuang in Batipuah, Tanah Datar District, West Sumatra, are continuing their education in emergency tents after structural damage forced the closure of parts of their school. Classes have been held in the tents since early January 2026.

School Operations Disrupted by Structural Concerns

The need for emergency tents arose after sections of the school’s boundary wall were identified as being at risk of collapse. Police have responded by installing safety lines to restrict access to affected areas of the schoolyard. This is the second time safety lines have been installed following wall collapses, with the most recent incident causing cracks in several buildings.

Despite the challenging circumstances, students remain positive about their learning environment. Fourth-grade student Flodia stated, “Studying in an emergency tent is still fun and exciting.” However, the situation presents logistical difficulties. Teacher Herna Permata Sari explained that six classrooms are currently considered unsafe, leading to a rotating schedule where two classes alternate each day, with lessons running from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and continuing in available classrooms.

Concerns Over Conditions and Potential for Further Damage

Sari has urged swift action to address the deteriorating conditions, noting that the midday sun creates intense heat inside the tents. She warned that further delays could worsen the situation. Students share these concerns, with Flodia expressing hope for prompt repairs to the damaged walls and the reopening of classrooms.

Related news reports indicate Indonesia is preparing Rp18.3 trillion for disaster recovery in West Sumatra and prioritizing education recovery in disaster areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did students begin learning in tents?

Students began using the emergency tents in early January 2026, after parts of the school’s boundary wall were deemed at risk of collapse.

How many classrooms are currently affected?

Six classrooms are currently at risk of collapsing, forcing learning activities to be conducted in emergency tents.

What is the current class schedule?

Classes are held from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. for two classes at a time, with lessons continuing in vacant classrooms afterward.

What steps do you think are most crucial to ensuring continued access to education in communities facing infrastructure challenges?