Rorisang Modiba brings you daily global updates.
US – Madonna’s brother, Christopher Ciccone, has passed away at 63 after a battle with cancer. Ciccone, an artist, dancer, and designer, contributed to Madonna’s career by appearing in her music videos and working on her tours. In an emotional Instagram post, Madonna, 66, reflected on their bond, which grew from their shared experiences as outsiders and their love for dance which helped them survive their difficult upbringing. Despite ups and downs in their relationship, they always reunited, finding strength in their connection.
Burkina Faso – A new French government assessment indicates that an attack in August in Burkina Faso by al Qaeda-linked militants, specifically Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), resulted in up to 600 civilians being killed. This estimate significantly surpasses initial reports, which suggested about 200 deaths. The attack occurred in the town of Barsalogho, where civilians were shot as they dug trenches to defend themselves. Many victims were women and children. JNIM claimed responsibility, stating they were targeting militia members rather than civilians. The attack highlights the worsening security situation in the Sahel region, as military efforts to counter jihadist groups have faltered due to the withdrawal of French and American forces and the involvement of Russian mercenaries.
Thailand – Flash floods at the Elephant Nature Park in northern Thailand killed two elephants and forced the evacuation of about 100 others. Dozens of tourists were also evacuated. The sanctuary, near Chiang Mai, experienced its most severe flooding ever, with rapidly rising water levels. Park staff, known as mahouts, led the elephants to higher ground. However, 13 adult elephants remain trapped, and two others are missing. One of the deceased elephants, Ploy Thong, was blind. The flooding was caused by torrential rains from Typhoon Yagi, which has caused widespread devastation in the area, including landslides and dangerously high water levels in Chiang Mai’s Ping River.
Switzerland – The advocacy group behind the “Sarco” suicide capsule has suspended new applications as Swiss authorities investigate the first use of the device. On 23 September, a 64-year-old American woman became the first person to use the Sarco in Switzerland, prompting the arrest of Florian Willet, the president of the Last Resort initiative. Willet is still in pretrial detention. The Sarco device, developed by Exit International, allows users to end their lives by suffocation in a nitrogen-filled chamber. Switzerland permits assisted suicide under strict conditions, but the Sarco’s use has sparked debate, with the Swiss health minister stating it would not be legal. Applications to use the Sarco were halted after 371 people had begun the process.
Lebanon – Israel’s military operations in Lebanon continue following an Iranian missile attack, which Iran claims was in retaliation for recent Israeli assassinations of Hezbollah figures, including leader Hassan Nasrallah. Hundreds of missiles were fired at Israel, with most intercepted, though some caused damage. Israel responded with airstrikes in Gaza and Beirut, targeting Hamas and Hezbollah sites, including a hospital allegedly used by Hamas fighters and weapons storage facilities in Beirut. The conflict follows the 7 October 2023 Hamas attacks, which killed 1,200 Israelis and led to the kidnapping of 251 citizens. The attack has led to a prolonged military campaign in Gaza, where nearly 42,000 people have died according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
Pictured above: Madonna and Christopher Ciccone.
Source: Instagram
