Wednesday, July 29, 2026

EFCC Files 12-Count Charge Against Bodejo Over Alleged $2.53m Terrorism Financing, Money Laundering Scheme

By
Justice Oladapo
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a 12-count charge against Bello Abdullahi Bodejo before a Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged terrorism financing and money laundering offences involving a total of $2.53 million.

According to court documents filed by the anti-graft agency on June 22, 2026, Bodejo is accused of receiving and possessing large sums of foreign currency suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities, in violation of Nigeria’s money laundering laws. The defendant is expected to be arraigned before the court in the coming days to take his plea as formal prosecution proceedings commence.

The EFCC alleged that several cash transactions involving hundreds of thousands of dollars were conducted outside the banking system and exceeded the statutory thresholds permitted under the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011, as amended, and the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

In one of the charges, prosecutors alleged that Bodejo knowingly accepted $100,000 in cash from a former Bauchi State Accountant-General, Sa’idu Abubakar, on January 11, 2022, without routing the funds through a financial institution as required by law. The EFCC stated in the charge that the transaction exceeded the legal cash transaction limit and constituted an offence under the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act.

A second count alleges that Bodejo received another $200,000 in cash from the same source on January 21, 2022, under similar circumstances. Prosecutors further accused him of accepting additional cash payments, including $500,000 on March 20, 2024, and $980,000 on February 7, 2024, allegedly outside the banking system and in breach of anti-money laundering regulations.

One of the most serious allegations is contained in count ten of the charge, where the EFCC claimed that Bodejo took possession of $980,000 in Abuja on or about February 7, 2024, despite allegedly knowing, or having reasonable grounds to suspect, that the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity linked to money laundering.

The anti-graft agency maintained that the alleged offences violate various provisions of both the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011, and the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The offences, if proven, carry significant penalties under Nigerian law.

The case is expected to draw national attention, particularly as Bodejo has been linked in public discourse to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, although the charge sheet released by the EFCC focuses solely on allegations against Bodejo.

With the filing of the charges, attention now shifts to the Federal High Court in Abuja, where the defendant is expected to enter his plea and the prosecution will begin presenting evidence in what could become one of the most closely watched financial crime cases of the year.

Trump Seeks $87.6 Billion Emergency Funding for Iran War, Pentagon Operations and Ebola Response

By
Agency Report
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US President Donald Trump

President Donald Trump’s administration has formally requested $87.6 billion in emergency supplemental funding from Congress, seeking billions of dollars for military operations linked to the conflict with Iran, assistance for American farmers, Ebola response efforts in Africa and key infrastructure projects across the United States.

The funding request, submitted by White House Budget Director Russell Vought in a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, arrives amid growing political debate over the administration’s military engagement with Iran and follows a symbolic congressional resolution urging President Trump to end hostilities unless lawmakers explicitly authorize further military action.

Vought urged lawmakers to swiftly approve what he described as “important and urgent requests,” with the bulk of the proposed package dedicated to defense-related expenditures stemming from the conflict that erupted after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February.

According to the proposal, approximately $67 billion would be allocated to the Pentagon. The request includes $21 billion for munitions and military capabilities, $17.3 billion for operational expenses and $12.1 billion earmarked for classified defense programs. The administration is also seeking nearly $768 million for the Department of Energy to support nuclear and energy security initiatives related to Iran, alongside $300 million for embassy security and construction projects in countries surrounding Iran.

The emergency funding package is significantly lower than the figure previously suggested by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who indicated in March that the Pentagon could require as much as $200 billion to sustain the war effort.

Despite the reduced request, the proposal is expected to face substantial resistance on Capitol Hill. Many Democrats remain opposed to the conflict and have questioned both its legality and strategic objectives, while some Republicans have expressed concerns about the mounting financial burden and the administration’s long-term plans.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer sharply criticized the request, accusing the president of seeking additional funds after leading the nation into what he described as a “reckless war.”

Similarly, Senator Patty Murray, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, argued that the administration initiated the conflict without congressional approval or broad public backing and is now asking taxpayers “to pick up the tab.”

Beyond defense spending, the supplemental package includes more than $11 billion in aid for American farmers impacted by trade disruptions and broader economic fallout, some of which has been linked to the administration’s tariff policies.

The proposal also earmarks $1.4 billion for efforts to combat Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and other affected regions. Health officials have warned that the spread of the disease remains a significant global concern requiring continued international support and intervention.

Infrastructure projects also feature prominently in the request. The administration is seeking $1 billion for the renovation of New York City’s Penn Station and an additional $500 million for restoration and construction initiatives in Washington, D.C.

The latest request comes despite Republicans having already approved $150 billion in additional Pentagon funding through President Trump’s tax and spending legislation passed last year without Democratic support.

The political battle over the supplemental funding package is expected to intensify in the coming weeks. In the Senate, major spending legislation typically requires 60 votes to advance, meaning the administration may need support from Democrats unless Republicans pursue an alternative legislative pathway.

The debate also carries significant political implications ahead of the November midterm elections, with some vulnerable Republican lawmakers facing pressure over potential votes to finance a conflict that has become increasingly controversial among sections of the American public.

As negotiations continue between Washington and Tehran over a potential long-term settlement, the administration maintains that the requested funds are necessary to support national security objectives, stabilize affected sectors of the economy and address pressing domestic and international challenges.

Bosnia Keep World Cup Dream Alive with 3-1 Victory Over Qatar as Teen Star Alajbegovic Shines

By
Agency Report
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Bosnia and Herzegovina boosted their hopes of reaching the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after securing a convincing 3-1 victory over Qatar in their final Group B match, moving onto four points and strengthening their position among the tournament’s best third-placed teams.

The European side delivered a composed performance to end Qatar’s campaign, condemning the Gulf nation to another group-stage exit after also failing to progress at the 2022 World Cup on home soil.

Bosnia started brightly and immediately put Qatar under pressure at BC Place. Goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada was called into action twice within the opening four minutes, first denying Ermedin Demirovic’s powerful effort before producing another save to keep out Ivan Sunjic.

The breakthrough eventually arrived through Bosnia’s teenage sensation Kerim Alajbegovic. The 18-year-old, already the youngest Bosnian player to feature at a World Cup, produced a moment of brilliance midway through the first half, beating two defenders before unleashing a stunning long-range strike that left Abunada with no chance.

The wonder goal sparked jubilant celebrations among Bosnia’s players as Alajbegovic soaked in the moment after opening the scoring on one of the biggest stages in world football.

Bosnia doubled their advantage just five minutes later, with veteran captain Edin Dzeko playing a key role. The 40-year-old forward, making his 150th international appearance, saw his effort take a significant deflection off a defender and then goalkeeper Abunada before crossing the line for an own goal.

Dzeko nearly added his name to the scoresheet moments later when he raced clear of the Qatari defence, but his effort struck the post after beating the goalkeeper.

Despite Bosnia’s dominance, Qatar responded before halftime through their most experienced player. Hassan Al-Haydos, the 35-year-old captain and the nation’s most-capped footballer, reduced the deficit in the 42nd minute after Bosnia failed to clear their lines effectively.

Qatar nearly drew level in first-half stoppage time when Pedro Miguel’s effort struck the far post, allowing Bosnia to preserve their narrow lead heading into the break.

The second half saw fewer clear-cut opportunities, but the contest took an emotional turn when Al-Haydos was forced off injured in the 55th minute. The veteran midfielder left the field visibly distressed, potentially bringing an end to both his World Cup campaign and his distinguished international career.

Bosnia eventually secured the victory in the 80th minute through Ermin Mahmic. The forward continued his fine scoring form by finding the net for the second consecutive match, prodding home from close range to restore his side’s two-goal cushion and effectively end Qatar’s resistance.

Mahmic celebrated passionately by removing his shirt, earning a booking but caring little as Bosnia moved closer to a place in the last 32.

The result leaves Bosnia on four points and in a strong position to qualify as one of the eight best third-placed teams when the group stage concludes. Their fate will now depend on results elsewhere across the tournament.

 

Switzerland Edge Canada 2-1 to Seal Group B Top Spot as Both Reach World Cup Knockout Stage

By
Agency Report
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Switzerland secured top spot in Group B of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over co-hosts Canada in Vancouver on Tuesday, booking a potentially more favorable route into the knockout rounds.

With both teams already in contention for a place in the last 32, the encounter at BC Place carried added significance as the winner would finish first in the group. Second-half goals from Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi proved decisive as the Swiss claimed all three points and ended the group stage on seven points.

Canada, meanwhile, finished second with four points and advanced to the knockout stage for the first time in the country’s history, marking a significant milestone for the co-host nation.

The emotional occasion began before kickoff when injured Canadian midfielder Ismaël Koné, who suffered a broken leg during Canada’s emphatic 6-0 victory over Qatar, was wheeled onto the pitch and received a standing ovation from supporters.

Switzerland created the better opportunities in the opening stages, with Breel Embolo wasting a golden chance after 10 minutes when he fired directly at the goalkeeper. Canada responded with moments of attacking promise, but Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel produced key saves to keep the scores level heading into halftime.

The deadlock was finally broken moments after the restart. A swift move down the right flank saw Johan Manzambi deliver a dangerous cross that evaded defenders before reaching Vargas at the back post. The Swiss midfielder controlled expertly and rifled home to put his side ahead.

Switzerland doubled their advantage in the 57th minute through the impressive Manzambi. The 20-year-old forward, who has emerged as one of the tournament’s breakout stars, capitalized on poor goalkeeping after strong hold-up play by Embolo to squeeze home his third goal of the competition.

Canada refused to surrender and continued pressing for a way back into the contest. Jonathan David, fresh from scoring a hat-trick in Canada’s previous outing, came close to reducing the deficit, but Swiss defender Nico Elvedi produced a crucial block.

The breakthrough eventually arrived when substitute Promise David stretched to convert a superb delivery from Nathan Saliba shortly after a hydration break, setting up a tense finish and raising hopes of a Canadian comeback.

The equalizer never came, however, as Switzerland defended resolutely to preserve their lead and confirm first place in the group. The result means the Swiss will remain in Vancouver for a last-32 clash against one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, while Canada will travel to Los Angeles to face the runner-up from Group A.

Despite the defeat, Canada head coach Jesse Marsch praised his players’ determination and celebrated their historic qualification for the knockout phase.

“I know our team has heart. We have a group that will give everything at every moment,” Marsch said after the match.

Reflecting on Canada’s World Cup journey so far, the American coach added: “We just wanted to continue the energy that’s taken place here in Canada. That’s the disappointment – building on one big win is so important.”

Marsch, however, remained optimistic about his side’s prospects in the knockout rounds.

“I’m so thankful for the energy and the country. But we’re going to go to LA and we still want to electrify our country. We’re exactly where we wanted to be – in the knockout phase,” he said.

 

 

France Confirms First Ebola Case Linked to DR Congo Outbreak as WHO Warns of Accelerating Spread

By
Agency Report
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France has confirmed its first Ebola case linked to the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking the first known infection detected outside Africa since the emergence of the current epidemic involving the rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus.

French health authorities said the patient, a humanitarian doctor who recently returned from the DRC, has been isolated and is in stable condition. The case represents a significant development in the outbreak, which has spread across parts of the DRC and Uganda and has raised international concerns due to the absence of an approved vaccine or specific treatment for the Bundibugyo strain.

In a statement, the French Ministry of Health sought to reassure the public, saying, “All precautionary measures, including the patient’s isolation, were taken upon his arrival in France, with transfer to the hospital under secure conditions to avoid any risk of contamination.”

The ministry later confirmed that the infection was identified in mainland France and disclosed that a dedicated monitoring system had been established to track French humanitarian workers returning from affected regions.

Health authorities have launched contact-tracing efforts and are working to identify anyone who may have been exposed to the patient. Those considered at risk will be required to self-isolate for 21 days, the standard incubation monitoring period for Ebola.

French officials said the situation is being monitored “very closely” by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu and senior government officials as efforts continue to prevent any local transmission.

The latest case comes as the DRC battles its 17th Ebola outbreak, which was officially declared on May 15 following a series of unexplained deaths in the conflict-ridden eastern province of Ituri. According to the latest official figures, the outbreak has infected 1,048 people and claimed 267 lives.

The World Health Organization (WHO) warned in mid-June that transmission of the disease is accelerating despite intensified response measures by health authorities. Public health experts have attributed part of the challenge to widespread mistrust of medical institutions in affected communities, where many residents continue to seek treatment from traditional healers instead of healthcare facilities.

The situation has been further complicated by years of insecurity in eastern Congo, where armed groups operate and frequent attacks have disrupted public services and humanitarian interventions.

Ebola is a severe viral hemorrhagic fever with a high fatality rate. Symptoms can include fever, weakness, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea and, in severe cases, internal and external bleeding.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has assessed the risk of infection as low for European residents and travelers visiting affected areas, and very low for the general European population.

Scientists are meanwhile racing to develop a vaccine against the Bundibugyo strain. The WHO has identified a new vaccine candidate based on the rVSV platform used to create the only currently licensed Ebola vaccine. Unlike existing vaccines designed to target the more common Zaire strain, the experimental candidate has been modified specifically for Bundibugyo.

However, the global health agency estimates it could take between seven and nine months before the vaccine is ready for human trials, leaving health authorities reliant on surveillance, isolation and contact tracing to contain the outbreak.

France’s confirmation of the first international case linked to the epidemic underscores growing concerns among health officials as the outbreak continues to expand in Central Africa, despite intensified containment efforts.

Police Debunk Viral Katsina ‘Bandit’ Video, Say Armed Men Are Registered Vigilantes Supporting Security Operations

By
Laziz Olatunde
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The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed claims circulating on social media that a police officer was seen fraternising with armed bandits in Katsina State, describing the narrative attached to a viral video as false, misleading and deliberately designed to undermine public confidence in security agencies.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Force clarified that the armed individuals captured in the video are not bandits but recognized members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) and registered hunters working alongside security agencies in ongoing operations across Musawa and Matazu Local Government Areas of Katsina State.

According to the police, the footage showed a routine interaction between a police officer and the community security volunteers as they moved to a designated operational area to support efforts aimed at combating criminal activities and improving public safety in the affected communities.

“The individuals featured in the video are not bandits. They are duly recognized members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) and registered hunters who are actively supporting ongoing security operations in collaboration with security agencies in Musawa and Matazu Local Government Areas of Katsina State,” the Force stated.

The police stressed that allegations suggesting the officer was interacting with bandits were entirely unfounded. “Any claim suggesting otherwise is entirely false, malicious, and intended to mislead the public,” the statement added.

The clarification follows widespread circulation of the video on social media platforms, where some users alleged that security personnel were collaborating with armed criminal groups operating in the North-West. The police said such misinformation has the potential to create unnecessary public anxiety and damage ongoing efforts to restore security in troubled communities.

Condemning the spread of false information, the NPF warned against the deliberate distortion of facts capable of undermining trust in security institutions and disrupting ongoing operations against criminal elements.

“The Nigeria Police Force strongly condemns the deliberate distortion of facts and the circulation of misinformation capable of causing public anxiety, undermining confidence in security institutions, and frustrating ongoing security operations,” the statement said.

The Force urged Nigerians to disregard the claims attached to the viral video and rely solely on information released through official police channels and other authorized government sources.

It also cautioned individuals and groups involved in creating or disseminating false information that threatens public peace and security, warning that legal action could be taken against offenders.

Reaffirming its commitment to tackling crime nationwide, the police emphasized the importance of collaboration with legitimate community-based security groups, noting that partnerships with vigilantes, hunters and other recognized local stakeholders remain a critical component of efforts to safeguard lives and property across the country.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to working with legitimate community-based security stakeholders and other relevant partners in the collective effort to protect lives, safeguard communities, and combat crime across the country,” the statement concluded.

Army Neutralises Three IPOB/ESN Operatives, Recovers IEDs, Machine Guns in Anambra Operation

By
Kazeem Busari
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Troops of Sector 5, Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA, working alongside other security agencies, have neutralised three suspected operatives of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, during a joint operation in Anambra State.

The Nigerian Army said the operation was carried out on June 23, 2026, following credible intelligence indicating that armed criminals disguised in military camouflage and Nigeria Police uniforms were planning attacks in parts of the state.

According to the Army, the joint security team swiftly mobilised and tracked the suspects along the Ogboji–Ajali axis in Orumba South Local Government Area. The suspects, who were reportedly travelling in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle, were intercepted, leading to a fierce gun battle.

In a statement, the Army disclosed that three suspected ESN operatives were neutralised during the exchange of fire, while other members of the group fled the scene.

Following the operation, troops conducted a comprehensive search of the area and recovered a significant cache of weapons and explosives. Items recovered included PKM machine guns with 53 rounds of ammunition, two AK-47 rifles, additional rounds of 7.62mm and 5.56mm ammunition, four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication gadgets, a laptop and the vehicle allegedly used by the suspects.

Security operatives also recovered identification and financial documents believed to belong to members of the group, a development that investigators say could provide valuable intelligence for ongoing operations.

The Army described the operation as another major success in ongoing intelligence-driven efforts aimed at dismantling criminal and terrorist networks threatening peace and stability across the South-East region.

“The operation highlights the effectiveness of ongoing intelligence-driven and joint security efforts aimed at dismantling criminal and terrorist networks threatening peace and stability in the South-East,” the statement said.

Military authorities added that troops are continuing exploitation operations in the area to track down and apprehend fleeing and wounded suspects linked to the group.

Reaffirming its commitment to regional security, the Nigerian Army said it would continue working with sister security agencies to deny criminal elements freedom of action and ensure a safe environment for law-abiding citizens.

“The Nigerian Army reassures citizens of its unwavering commitment, alongside other security agencies, to deny criminal elements freedom of action and ensure a secure environment for law-abiding residents,” the statement added.

NDLEA Busts Major Meth Lab in Oyo Forest, Arrests Mexican Drug Expert, Four Nigerians

By
Fortune Temitope
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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has uncovered and dismantled a sprawling industrial-scale methamphetamine laboratory hidden deep inside a forest in Oyo State, arresting a Mexican national and four Nigerians in what authorities described as a major breakthrough against transnational drug trafficking networks operating in the country.

The clandestine facility, located in Tapa Village, Ibarapa North Local Government Area of Oyo State, was raided by NDLEA operatives on June 17 following intelligence-led operations targeting synthetic drug production syndicates. The latest discovery comes barely a month after the agency dismantled another large-scale methamphetamine laboratory concealed in a forest in Ijebu East, Ogun State, raising fresh concerns about efforts by drug cartels to establish the South-West region as a hub for synthetic drug manufacturing.

Speaking at a press briefing at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, the agency’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), represented by the Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, said the operation exposed a highly sophisticated transnational drug network operating within Nigeria.

According to Marwa, the facility was far from a makeshift operation, describing it as a fully equipped industrial-scale laboratory designed for large-scale methamphetamine production.

“This was not a rudimentary setup; it was a sophisticated, highly organized transnational syndicate,” Marwa said.

He disclosed that five key suspects were arrested during the raid, including 56-year-old Mexican methamphetamine specialist Jose Villa Ochoa, who was allegedly recruited to provide technical expertise for the illicit operation. The other suspects arrested were identified as Maxwell Uche Nevoh, 30; Olatunji Yusuf, 37; Bankole Akeem Owolabi, 45; and Ganiu Monsiu, 43, all Nigerians believed to have handled logistics, local operations and cover for the cartel.

Marwa said the arrest of a foreign drug manufacturing expert highlights the growing international dimension of drug trafficking activities in Nigeria and demonstrates the agency’s intelligence-gathering capabilities.

“The arrest of a foreign cartel specialist on Nigerian soil underscores the transnational nature of this threat, but more importantly, it underscores our Agency’s world-class intelligence capability to track, intercept, and neutralize them,” he stated.

Following the raid, NDLEA forensic and chemical monitoring experts conducted a detailed examination of the facility on June 18, uncovering what officials described as a factory-level production line for synthetic narcotics. Investigators recovered large quantities of precursor chemicals used in methamphetamine production, including drums of Phenylacetic Acid and Phenyl-2-propanone (P2P), both key ingredients in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

The agency also seized hundreds of litres of chemical substances undergoing synthesis, industrial quantities of caustic soda, sulphuric acid, tartaric acid and other chemical compounds, alongside sophisticated processing equipment such as reactor pots, distillation units, mixers, condensers and drying machines.

Marwa revealed that immediate field tests conducted on substances recovered from the laboratory confirmed the presence of methamphetamine and precursor materials used in its production.

“What they uncovered is a massive, factory-level production line of poison,” he said.

He added that all exhibits recovered from the site had been secured and documented as evidence for prosecution, describing the haul as another multi-billion-naira drug operation prevented from flooding Nigerian communities and international markets with illicit substances.

The NDLEA boss expressed concern over the proximity of the Oyo laboratory to the recently dismantled Ogun facility, warning that drug syndicates appear to be intensifying efforts to establish a network of synthetic drug factories across the South-West.

“The proximity of this latest discovery to the Ogun State lab uncovered about four weeks ago reveals a desperate attempt by drug barons to establish a synthetic drug manufacturing hub in the Southwest axis,” he said.

Marwa also issued a stern warning to local and international drug traffickers, insisting that no location within Nigeria would remain beyond the reach of law enforcement agencies.

“Let the message go out clearly to all drug cartels, domestic and international that Nigeria is not, and will never be, a safe haven for your illicit trade. We will find you in the cities, we will track you into the forests, and we will dismantle your infrastructure of death. They thought hiding in dense forests would shield them from the long arm of the law. They were wrong,” he declared.

He commended the officers of the NDLEA Oyo State Command who participated in the operation, praising their professionalism and dedication. Marwa also thanked members of the public for providing credible intelligence that continues to support the agency’s anti-drug campaign.

The latest operation marks one of the most significant drug enforcement successes recorded by the NDLEA in recent months and underscores growing efforts by authorities to disrupt organised criminal networks involved in the manufacture and distribution of dangerous synthetic narcotics across Nigeria.

Tuchel Defends Bellingham After Explosive Half-Time Row With Ghana Boss

By
Agency Report
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Bellingham argues with Ghana manager during half time.

England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended Jude Bellingham following the midfielder’s heated confrontation with Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz during Tuesday’s goalless World Cup draw, insisting the Real Madrid star was merely standing up for himself and his teammates.

Tensions flared shortly before half-time at Boston Stadium after Bellingham committed a foul on Ghana defender Jerome Opoku. The incident quickly escalated as players and coaching staff from both sides became involved, with Bellingham seen exchanging words with Queiroz and members of Ghana’s technical crew. England forward Morgan Rogers had to intervene and pull his teammate away as tempers boiled over on the pitch.

The disagreement continued after the referee had blown for half-time, with players and officials still exchanging words while making their way to the tunnel. Despite the heated scenes, no cards were issued and the match resumed without further incidents after the break.

Speaking after the match, Tuchel played down the confrontation and backed his midfielder’s reaction.

“It was an exchange of emotions, and Jude stood up for himself and his team,” Tuchel said.

The England manager added: “Emotions are a part of the game but we don’t want to get distracted with stuff that could distract us.”

Queiroz also addressed the incident, claiming Bellingham’s reaction stemmed from comments made during the exchange.

“He had a bad reaction with some bad names and that’s why the story started,” the Ghana coach said.

Bellingham, who became the youngest England player to reach 50 international appearances during the match, sought to downplay the controversy. The 22-year-old admitted his challenge on Opoku was mistimed and suggested the confrontation stemmed from Ghana’s bench appealing for disciplinary action against him.

“It was just when I made a silly tackle, to be honest,” Bellingham said.

“I was trying to win the ball, and I followed through a little bit and caught the lad. I spoke to him after, and then their bench jumped up trying to get me a yellow card.”

The midfielder also expressed respect for Queiroz, who previously served as assistant manager at Manchester United.

“I think their manager [Queiroz] I just recognised him. He’s obviously the one who used to be at Manchester United, so great respect, and nothing but a competitive edge for both of us.”

The draw leaves England at the top of Group L and within touching distance of a place in the knockout stage. Tuchel’s side will secure qualification for the last 32 if they avoid defeat against Panama national football team in their final group game on Saturday.

Bellingham’s performance against Ghana came just days after he scored in England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia national football team in the opening group match. He was named Player of the Match against Ghana despite admitting he felt others were more deserving of the award.

“I didn’t deserve it, to be honest. It probably should’ve gone to one of their lads who defended so well,” Bellingham said.

“Had a couple of moments but couldn’t get in the game. I’m grateful to whoever voted.”

The latest episode adds another chapter to the closely watched relationship between Bellingham and Tuchel. Before the tournament, the England manager had suggested the midfielder needed to fight for his place in the starting line-up. Their dynamic has previously attracted attention, particularly after Tuchel described Bellingham’s behaviour during England’s defeat to Senegal national football team last year as “repulsive,” a remark for which he later apologised.

Lagos Police Intercept Truck Loaded With 47 Sacks of Military Camouflage, 80 Cartons of Suspected Illicit Drugs, Arrest Four

By
Kazeem Busari
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The Lagos State Police Command has intercepted an unregistered truck conveying dozens of sacks of military camouflage uniforms and cartons of suspected illicit drugs, arresting four suspects in what authorities described as a major security breakthrough.

According to the police, operatives acting on credible intelligence stopped the unregistered MAN diesel truck at an exit point in Lagos State during a targeted operation. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 47 sacks containing military camouflage uniforms and 80 cartons of drugs suspected to be illicit substances.

The four suspects arrested during the operation are currently in police custody as investigators work to unravel the circumstances surrounding the movement of the items and identify other individuals connected to the alleged crime.

Preliminary findings by investigators indicate that the military camouflage uniforms were allegedly being transported to Nigeria’s eastern region. The discovery has raised fresh concerns over the illegal circulation of military-grade apparel, which security experts have repeatedly linked to criminal activities, including impersonation of security personnel and other unlawful operations.

 

 

 

Police authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the recovered camouflage uniforms and suspected drugs, establish ownership of the items, and identify their intended recipients. Detectives are also examining the extent of the suspects’ involvement in the operation.

The Lagos State Police Command further disclosed that efforts are underway to track down and apprehend other individuals believed to be connected to the shipment.

The latest seizure comes amid intensified security operations across the country aimed at curbing the proliferation of military accoutrements in unauthorized hands and disrupting criminal networks involved in the trafficking of illicit substances.

Authorities have assured residents that the investigation will be pursued to its logical conclusion, with all those found culpable facing prosecution in accordance with the law.

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