International

Shore Town to Welcome Canadians with Open Arms This Summer Despite International Tensions

WILDWOOD, N.J. — Watch the tramcar, eh? For generations, Canadian visitors have flocked to the Wildwoods for a classic Jersey Shore vacation, and tourism officials are eager to welcome them back in 2025. That could be in jeopardy as some Canadians are taking the advice of their leader, Justin Trudeau. Trudeau recommended Canadians skip their vacations to America this year as he and President Donald J. Trump continue sparring over trade relations. Trump has called Canada the 51st state, but Canadians aren’t laughing. Located within driving distance of Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City, the Wildwoods offer a family-friendly atmosphere, free

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International Fugitive Alien Wanted for Raping Child Captured by ICE in New Jersey Sanctuary State

NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Newark arrested a Peruvian national wanted overseas for the rape of a minor. The fugitive, who was illegally present in the United States, was taken into custody in Guttenberg, New Jersey, on Feb. 11. Due to privacy concerns, authorities have withheld the individual’s name. ICE ERO Newark acting Field Office Director Ruben Perez emphasized the agency’s commitment to removing dangerous criminals. “Our arrest of a Peruvian fugitive, who is wanted for prosecution in the heinous crime of child rape overseas, is further evidence dangerous criminals will

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Illegal aliens charged with execution style murder, linked to international crime syndicate, to remain jailed in New Jersey

TOMS RIVER, N.J. – Four Indiana men charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the October 2024 killing of an Indian national in Manchester Township will remain detained in Ocean County Jail pending trial, a New Jersey judge ruled Thursday. Judge Wendel E. Daniels ordered Nirmal Singh, 30; Gaurav Singh, 27; Gurdeep Singh, 22; and Sourav Kumar, 23—all of Greenwood, Indiana—to remain in custody on charges related to the death of Kuldeep Kumar, 35, whose body was discovered in a New Jersey wildlife area in December. The men were extradited from Johnson County Jail in Indiana

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Two illegal Aliens Who Dumped Body of Murdered Man in Ocean County in October Linked to International Crime Syndicate

TOMS RIVER, N.J. —  Gaurav Singh, 27; Nirmal Singh, 30; and Gurdeep Singh, 22, three men living in Greenwood, Indiana were arrested in Indiana on a warrant for murder in New Jersey, have now been extradited to New Jersey and are now sitting in the Ocean County jail awaiting trial. The trio was arrested in Indiana on warrants out of Ocean County. Gurdeep Singh and Nirmal Singh both have ICE detainers and are in the country illegally. Earlier this month, a man from New York was charged in connection with the killing of a 35-year-old Indian national in Manchester Township and

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Queens Couple Charged in International Retail Theft Case

Queens Couple Charged in International Retail Theft Case

**Queens, NY** – Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and Governor Kathy Hochul reported a major retail theft operation involving Christopher Guzman and Yvelisse Guzman Batista. The couple, alongside three co-defendants, is accused of selling stolen high-end makeup, perfume, and designer clothing under Yvelisse Fashion, LLC. They allegedly directed theft crews to acquire specific items and sold these in Queens and the Dominican Republic. Charges include fostering the sale of stolen goods, a new crime in New York.

DA Katz emphasized the importance of consumer caution when purchasing from unfamiliar sources as the holidays approach. The defendants reportedly sold over $2 million in stolen goods over two years through various locations. This case is noted as the first time New York’s new law against selling stolen goods has been enforced. Katz thanked Governor Hochul, New York State Police, and Homeland Security Investigations for their work on the case.

Charges against Christopher Guzman, 35, Yvelisse Guzman Batista, 29, and their associates include criminal possession of stolen property and conspiracy. They are due in court on January 15, 2025, with potential penalties of up to 25 years in prison. Tiffany Leon

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Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada Garcia, co-founder of Sinaloa Cartel, arraigned in New York on international drug charges

MIAMI — Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada Garcia, 76, a notorious leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, was arraigned today in federal court in Brooklyn, New York, on multiple charges related to international drug trafficking, firearms offenses, and money laundering. Zambada Garcia, a long-time leader of the cartel, is accused of overseeing a vast drug empire that has funneled billions of dollars in illegal narcotics, including fentanyl, into the United States. The charges, which span decades of criminal activity, allege that Zambada Garcia conspired to manufacture and distribute fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, while leading one of the most violent and powerful

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Columbian Arrested for 2023 Murder in Jersey City at Newark International Airport

JERSEY CITY, NJ – A fugitive wanted in connection with the 2023 death of Luz Hernandez has been arrested and extradited to the United States. Leiner Miranda Lopez, 28, was taken into custody at Newark Liberty International Airport on September 11, 2024, following his extradition from Bogota, Colombia, where Colombian authorities had arrested him in June 2023. Miranda Lopez faces multiple charges, including murder and tampering with evidence, in connection with the death of Hernandez, whose body was discovered in a shallow grave in Kearny on February 7. The cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma and

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Former Vitol Trader Pleads Guilty in International Bribery Scheme

HOUSTON — Javier Aguilar, a 50-year-old former energy trader from Houston, pled guilty on Wednesday to charges related to a scheme involving the bribery of Mexican government officials to secure contracts for Vitol Inc., his former employer and the U.S. affiliate of the world’s largest independent energy trading firm. The guilty plea was announced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX). According to court documents, Aguilar and his co-conspirators paid approximately $600,000 in bribes to two senior officials at PEMEX Procurement International Inc. (PPI), a subsidiary of Mexico’s state-owned oil company Petróleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), to

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Rhode Island Man Pleads Guilty in International Money Laundering and Drug Trafficking Case

BOSTON — A Rhode Island man admitted his role in a complex international money laundering and drug trafficking ring in federal court on Wednesday. Agustin Villa, 61, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering, a charge that could result in a sentence of up to 20 years in prison. U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley has scheduled Villa’s sentencing for November 25, 2024. The case is part of a broader investigation into a sophisticated criminal organization, led by Jin Hua Zhang of Staten Island, New York, that was first detected in the greater Boston area in 2021. In May

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International Food & Craft Beer Festival at Red Bank Battlefield Park

NATIONAL PARK, NJ—The International Food & Craft Beer Festival is set to delight attendees with a diverse culinary and beverage experience on Saturday, August 3, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Red Bank Battlefield Park. A rain date is scheduled for the following day, August 4. Festival-goers can look forward to an array of international foods paired with an extensive selection of craft beers. Live music and games will provide entertainment throughout the day, while kids’ activities ensure fun for all ages. The festival, located in the scenic grounds of Red Bank Battlefield Park promises a vibrant atmosphere where

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International Wine Summit Celebrates New Jersey and Italian Wines in Atlantic City

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ – The Garden State Wine Growers Association (GSWGA) successfully hosted its second annual International Wine Summit on Monday at Stockton University’s Atlantic City campus. The event showcased the quality of New Jersey wines and introduced American audiences to select Italian varieties, reinforcing the state’s emerging status in the wine industry. The summit featured a mix of educational and tasting sessions, with prominent figures from both New Jersey and Italy. Panel discussions were led by local and international wine experts, including Hank Zona and Italian Sommelier Luca Radicchi, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the event. Devon Perry, Executive

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West Virginia Man Charged After Loaded Handgun Found at Pittsburgh International Airport

PITTSBURGH, PA — Allegheny County Police have charged 58-year-old Franklin Barker of West Virginia after a loaded handgun was discovered in his backpack at the alternate security checkpoint at Pittsburgh International Airport. The incident occurred at approximately 6:50 a.m. on June 11, 2024, when Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers detected the firearm during a routine screening and promptly alerted the Allegheny County Police. Upon investigation, authorities determined that Barker did not have a valid concealed carry permit. Barker is now facing a misdemeanor charge of carrying a firearm without a license. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has also been

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Newark Police Highlight Online Safety for International Missing Children’s Day

NEWARK, NJ — In a collaborative effort on International Missing Children’s Day, Newark Police Detective B. Lewis from the Community Affairs/Clergy Unit joined forces with The Shani Baraka Women’s Resource Center and Homeland Security Investigations at Oliver Street School. The event focused on educating students about Internet safety. Special Agents from Homeland Security Investigations took the lead, sharing vital information and critical tips to help students navigate online environments safely. This initiative underscores the importance of community involvement. The partnership aims to enhance the safety of children by equipping them with the knowledge needed to protect themselves on the internet.

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Wildwoods International Kite Festival Set to Color the Skies

WILDWOOD, NJ – The skies above Wildwood will be vibrant with color as the Wildwoods International Kite Festival returns from May 24 to May 27. This annual event, the largest of its kind on the East Coast, will take place on the beach at Rio Grande Avenue and inside the Wildwoods Convention Center. The festival kicks off on Friday at noon with the traditional Unlocking of the Ocean media event outside the Wildwoods Convention Center. Following this ceremonial start, attendees can explore the Kite Sales Tent, join the Friday Night Social hosted by the local kite club, and enjoy the

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CBP at Kansas City International Airport now offers Global Entry Mobile App for arriving passengers

KANSAS CITY, Mo— U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Port of Kansas City introduced Global Entry’s (GE) Mobile App at the Kansas City International Airport yesterday, May 15.  Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. The GE Mobile Application is a member-facing arrival resource that allows GE members to submit their information to CBP at arrival. Upon submission, travelers’ membership and admission status are verified and they receive a secure approval code that they share with a CBP Officer. The program greatly

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CBP officers seize over $240K in unreported currency at Pharr International Bridge

“CBP officers conduct outbound enforcement operations to protect against unreported exportations of bulk U.S. currency, which often can be proceeds from alleged illicit activity, or currency that funds transnational criminal organizations,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. Stacks containing $247,500 in unreported currency seized by CBP officers during an outbound examination at Pharr International Bridge. On Saturday, May 11, CBP officers conducting outbound enforcement operations at the Pharr International Bridge encountered a white Nissan sedan driving southbound to Mexico. A CBP officer referred the vehicle for further inspection. After physically inspecting the vehicle, officers discovered 14 bundles

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US Says Israel May Have Violated International Law – But Stops Short Of Full Conclusion

The U.S. said on Friday that Israel may have violated international law in its war against Hamas in Gaza, but stopped short of issuing a full conclusion on the matter. Israel has been conducting military operations against Hamas in Gaza since Oct. 7, in part with the help of American military aid. The State Department issued a report to Congress on Friday that it is “reasonable to assess” that Israel may have used U.S. weapons in a matter “inconsistent” with international law, but has not seen enough evidence to come to that determination fully, according to a copy obtained by

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UK Nationals Plead Guilty in International Ponzi Scheme in NYC

NEW YORK, NY – James Robinson and David Kennedy, principals of the Spain-based United Property Group, have pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy in connection with a scheme that defrauded hundreds of investors worldwide through the company Bar Works Inc. and related entities. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams announced the guilty pleas, underscoring the determination of the Southern District of New York to pursue fraudsters globally. Robinson, 47, entered his plea today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara Moses and is set for sentencing on September 25, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan. Kennedy, 48, pleaded guilty on October 13,

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New Jersey Man Threatened Mass Shooting At JFK International Airport

Queens, NY – Darnell King, 39, is facing criminal charges, including possession of a weapon and making terroristic threats, after allegedly threatening a mass shooting at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Charges were filed after a video was sent to his estranged wife showing a gun and implying an attack. District Attorney Melinda Katz praised the work of the Port Authority Police Department and the NYPD for swiftly detaining King, who had arrived at the airport armed and expressing intent to cause harm. Port Authority Chief Security Officer Greg Ehrie commended the collaboration and vigilance among law enforcement that prevented

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Former Guatemalan congressman guilty of international drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas

Jose Armando Ubico Aguilar, 45, a former senior Republic of Guatemala official, pleaded guilty to ­­­­an international drug trafficking conspiracy violation before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kimberly Priest Johnson on May 1, 2024.  Ubico Aguilar arrived in the United States from Central America earlier this week and was arrested. PLANO, Texas – A former Guatemalan congressman has pleaded guilty to his role in an international drug trafficking conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs of the Eastern District of Texas.  “As a senior leader in the Republic of Guatemala, Ubico Aguilar was entrusted to further the fight against drug traffickers pushing

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Youngstown Man Charged for Suitcase Full of Guns at Pittsburgh International

PITTSBURGH, PA – The Allegheny County Police Department has filed charges against a man from Youngstown, Ohio, following the discovery of multiple firearms concealed in a briefcase at Pittsburgh International Airport. On Tuesday at 8:39 p.m., the Transportation Security Administration alerted the County Police that three handguns, three boxes of ammunition, and magazines were found wrapped in foil inside the briefcase, which was lined with roofing tape and sheet metal and concealed within another piece of checked luggage. The individual responsible for the luggage, 26-year-old Luis Rojas Cay, was located by officers. Through investigation, it was found that Rojas Cay,

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Florida Man Sentenced To Prison For International Fraud Conspiracy That Targeted Senior Citizens

          “Crimes that exploit seniors can be devastating, depriving victims of their savings, their independence, and their dignity,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “My office will vigorously pursue criminals who target the elderly and other vulnerable citizens in Michigan.”           GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Jorrel Tyler Jackson, 31, of Seffner, Florida, was sentenced to 6.5 years in federal prison for his role in an international fraud conspiracy that targeted senior citizens in several states, including Michigan. U.S. District Judge

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CBP officers seize $85K in unreported currency at Pharr International Bridge

“Or officer continue to maintain strict vigilance and that dedication to duty, inspection skill and experience contributed to this significant outbound currency seizure,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “These types of seizures, often involving proceeds from illicit activity, have significant impact and reflect CBP’s ongoing commitment to our priority border security mission.” Stacks containing $85,000 in unreported U.S. currency seized by CBP officers during an outbound examination at Pharr International Bridge. The seizure occurred on Sunday, April 14 at the Pharr International Bridge when a CBP officer referred a southbound vehicle driven by a 19-year-old male

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CBP officers seize $293K in methamphetamine at Camino Real International Bridge

EAGLE PASS, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers assigned to the Camino Real Internation Bridge seized more than $293,000 in methamphetamine hidden within a vehicle. “Frontline officers at the Camino Real International Bridge demonstrated exceptional effort in successfully disrupting this drug smuggling attempt,” said Port Director Pete Beattie, Eagle Pass Port of Entry. Packages containing nearly 32 pounds of methamphetamine seized by CBP officers at Eagle Pass Port of Entry. The seizure occurred on Sunday, April 14, at the Camino Real Internation Bridge, when a CBP officer referred a 2015 Toyota Corolla driven by

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Amnesty International urges Israel to return body of Palestinian who died of cancer in custody

JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Amnesty International said Israel must release the body of Palestinian Walid Daqqa, who died a day earlier after a long battle with cancer while serving a prison sentence for commanding a group that abducted and killed an Israeli soldier. “It is heart-wrenching that Walid Daqqah has died in Israeli custody despite the many calls for his urgent release on humanitarian grounds following his 2022 diagnosis with bone marrow cancer and the fact that he had already completed his original sentence,” Erika Guevara-Rosas, senior director at Amnesty International, said on Monday. “Israeli authorities must now return Walid Daqqah’s body

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