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US Names Nigerian, Three Local Firms In New ISIS Terror Financing Sanctions List

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US Names Nigerian, Three Local Firms In New ISIS Terror Financing Sanctions List

The United States government has identified a Nigerian citizen and three Nigeria-based companies among individuals and organisations sanctioned for allegedly facilitating financial transactions linked to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

The latest sanctions target a broader international network involving three individuals and six entities accused of helping ISIS move funds across multiple countries to support its operations.

In a statement issued on Monday and seen on Tuesday, U.S. Department of State spokesperson Thomas Pigott said the designations cover individuals and organisations operating in France, Syria, Türkiye, and Nigeria.

According to Pigott, the sanctioned network played a role in enabling ISIS to transfer funds across international borders.

“Today’s designations target three individuals and six entities operating across Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa who have enabled ISIS to move money across borders — exposing a network that spans from France and Syria to Türkiye and Nigeria.

“Among those designated is a France-based facilitator who provided information concerning the use of explosives to ISIS supporters, a Syria-based operator who used cryptocurrency to transfer funds on behalf of ISIS associates in multiple countries, including the United States, and a Nigeria-based facilitator whose money exchange businesses served as conduits for ISIS financing,” the statement added.

The U.S. government later released the identities of the individuals and companies included in the sanctions list.

The Nigerian named in the designation is Mukhtar Adamu Muhammad, while three Nigerian companies allegedly linked to the network are based in Lagos and Kano states.

Individuals Added to the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List

ABDELHAKIM, Boukich (a.k.a. “ALHOLANDI, Abu Sulayman”; “BABILI, Muhammad”); Syria; DOB 15 Dec 1993 (alt. 01 Jan 1991); POB The Hague, Netherlands (alt. Aleppo, Syria); nationality Netherlands; male; National ID No. 02040063438 (Syria) [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS).

ABDERRAHMANE, Miloud (a.k.a. “GHAZI, Ibrahim”); France; DOB Aug 1992; nationality/citizenship France; male; Digital Currency Addresses: TRX TBXMiRqUp1XH1zLazWu8cWitMAScv4HsYq; TRX TDFj8tYzfLDkwEMo4MJ2DfrbpMztuCCnan [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS).

MUHAMMAD, Mukhtar Adamu (a.k.a. ADAMU, Mukhtar; MUKHTAR, Muhammad); No. 45 Abimbola Street, off Capital Road, Morcas Agege, Lagos State, Nigeria; DOB 02 Aug 1990 (alt. 03 Aug 1990); nationality Nigeria; male; Passport Nos. A11904741; A07422697 [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS-WEST AFRICA).

Companies Added to the SDN List

ALKARAM DANISMANLIK GAYRIMENKUL IC VE DIS GENEL TICARET LIMITED SIRKETI (a.k.a. AL-KARAM COMPANY; AL-KARAM MONEY TRANSFER COMPANY; SPIDER COMPANY ISTANBUL EXCHANGE RATES); Fatih, Istanbul, Türkiye; [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS).

BITCOIN EXCHANGE AGENT IDLIB’S NO.1 COIN EXCHANGE (a.k.a. IDLIB NO 1 BTC; NO.1 BITCOIN EXCHANGE AGENT; BITCOIN XCHANGE); Idlib, Salqin, Darkush, Sarmada, Syria; [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS).

GENERATION CURRENCY BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED; Lagos, Nigeria; RC 1555604; [SDGT] (Linked To: Mukhtar Adamu / ISIS network).

MANHATTAN BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED; No. 59 Murtala Mohammed Way, Wapa, Kano, Nigeria; RC 1763824; [SDGT] (Linked To: Mukhtar Adamu / ISIS network).

NINE TO NINE EXCHANGE BUREAU DE CHANGE LIMITED; Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria; RC 1462752; [SDGT] (Linked To: Mukhtar Adamu / ISIS network).

SPIDER GAYRIMENKUL VE GENEL TICARET LIMITED SIRKETI (a.k.a. SPIDER MONEY TRANSFER COMPANY; SPIDER TICARET); Istanbul, Türkiye; [SDGT] (Linked To: ISIS).

The U.S. government also reiterated its commitment to working closely with Nigeria on counterterrorism efforts.

According to Pigott, Nigeria partnered with the United States during the May 16, 2026 operation that led to the death of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified by U.S. authorities as the second-highest-ranking official within ISIS.

“We will continue to use every diplomatic and legal tool available to hold ISIS and its supporters accountable — wherever they operate and however they move money. We remain fully committed to protecting American lives, defending religious minorities, and working with international partners to eliminate the threat that ISIS poses to global peace and security,” he said.

The sanctions were imposed under Executive Order 13224, as amended, which targets individuals and organisations linked to terrorism and terrorist financing.

The U.S. State Department also noted that ISIS, formerly known as al-Qa’ida in Iraq, was designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) organisation in 2004.

El-Rufai Moves For No-Case Submission As DSS Concludes Wiretapping Case

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El-Rufai Moves For No-Case Submission As DSS Concludes Wiretapping Case

The Department of State Services (DSS) has formally closed its case against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in the ongoing alleged wiretapping trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

At Tuesday’s proceedings, prosecuting counsel Oluwole Aladedoye informed the court that the DSS would not be presenting any additional witnesses, effectively bringing the prosecution’s case to a close.

Following the announcement, El-Rufai’s lawyer, Paul Erokoro, disclosed that the defence intends to file a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution has not provided enough evidence to warrant the former governor being called upon to enter a defence.

The defence requested two weeks to prepare and file the application.

In response, the prosecution sought two weeks to file its reply and also asked the court to review some of the bail conditions previously granted to El-Rufai, describing them as difficult to satisfy.

The defence maintained that the bail requirements were overly stringent, particularly the conditions requiring sureties who are level 17 civil servants with property ownership in Abuja’s Maitama or Asokoro districts, as well as verification and attestation letters from the Kaduna State Traditional Council.

However, the prosecution opposed the application, insisting that eligible public servants capable of meeting the conditions exist and urging the court to retain the existing terms.

In her ruling, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik rejected the request to vary the bail conditions, holding that there are civil servants who own properties in the specified locations and can serve as sureties.

The judge subsequently adjourned the matter until September 22 for the filing of the no-case submission and further proceedings in the trial.

El-Rufai served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023 and is currently facing charges linked to allegations of unlawful interception of communications, an accusation he has denied.

Tinubu Sends State Police Constitutional Amendment Bill To Senate

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Tinubu Sends State Police Constitutional Amendment Bill To Senate

President Bola Tinubu has transmitted a constitutional amendment bill to the Senate seeking the establishment of state police, a move aimed at restructuring Nigeria’s security framework and improving policing across the country.

The proposed legislation, conveyed in a letter dated June 15, 2026, was read during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

According to the president, the bill seeks to create a legal basis for a dual policing system that would allow states to establish and operate their own police services alongside the Nigeria Police Force.

Tinubu explained that the proposed amendment forms part of broader efforts to reform the nation’s security architecture and strengthen the protection of lives and property. He noted that communities, municipalities, and local government councils would play more active roles in maintaining security under the proposed arrangement.

Following its presentation, the Senate President referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review and directed the committee to report back on Wednesday.

Akpabio stressed the importance of community-driven security measures, arguing that local authorities are often better positioned to identify threats and suspicious activities within their jurisdictions.

“You will know when foreigners infiltrate Nigeria and alert security agencies so they can react proactively rather than reactively,” the lawmaker said, expressing confidence that collaboration between the executive and legislative arms would ensure the success of the initiative.

Speaking further, Akpabio explained that the proposed state police structure would be implemented through a phased process involving constitutional amendments and additional legislation by the National Assembly.

“We will do it in two phases through alteration and an Act of Parliament. There will be a lot of safeguards; let us come and do this important task. It is extremely important that we come tomorrow,” Akpabio said.

The Senate President also informed lawmakers that plenary would not entertain extensive debates on other major issues due to the death of House of Representatives member Yahaya Tongo.

Meanwhile, the Senate Leader urged members to attend the next sitting, emphasizing the significance of the state police proposal.

“We need a minimum of two-thirds of members to vote on constitutional alterations. The issue of state police is non-partisan and cuts across geopolitical zones and interests,” he said.

The latest development comes just weeks after the Senate passed an executive bill on state police for second reading. Akpabio noted that the newly transmitted Constitution Alteration Bill builds on the earlier proposal and seeks to provide the constitutional backing necessary for the establishment and operation of state police services across Nigeria.

Haaland Double Fires Norway Into World Cup Knockout Stage

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Haaland Double Fires Norway Into World Cup Knockout Stage

Erling Haaland scored twice as Norway booked their place in the World Cup knockout stage with a 3-2 victory over Senegal in New Jersey.

The Manchester City striker continued his remarkable form, taking his tournament tally to four goals in just two matches — the most by any Norwegian player in World Cup history.

Norway broke the deadlock late in the first half when substitute Marcus Pedersen capitalised on a poor clearance from Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly and found the net.

Haaland doubled the lead shortly after the restart, racing onto a precise through ball from Martin Odegaard before finishing clinically. The goal also saw him become Norway’s all-time leading scorer at the World Cup.

Senegal fought back through Ismaila Sarr, who reduced the deficit and gave his side hope. However, Haaland quickly restored Norway’s two-goal cushion with a composed volley that bounced in off the crossbar.

The Norwegian striker has now scored in 12 consecutive competitive matches for his country and has registered at least two goals in each of his last six appearances.

Sarr struck again in stoppage time to make for a tense ending, but Senegal could not find an equaliser as Norway held firm to secure a second straight win.

The result confirms Norway’s progression from Group I alongside France, while Senegal must defeat Iraq in their final group game to keep their qualification hopes alive.

With four goals already in his first World Cup campaign, Haaland has emerged as one of the leading contenders in the race for the Golden Boot.

Inquiry Launched After Deadly Building Fire Kills 15 In India’s Lucknow

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Inquiry Launched After Deadly Building Fire Kills 15 In India’s Lucknow

Indian authorities have launched an investigation after a devastating fire tore through a commercial building in the northern city of Lucknow, killing at least 15 people and injuring several others.

The blaze broke out on Monday afternoon in the densely populated Aliganj area, trapping dozens of people inside a three-storey building that housed a pet shop on the ground floor and an animation and 3D gaming centre on the upper floors.

Officials said the building lacked adequate emergency exits, and the only staircase was quickly engulfed by flames and thick smoke, cutting off escape routes for those inside.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes as people desperately tried to save themselves. Some climbed down power cables, while others jumped from windows as smoke filled the building. Residents nearby attempted to help by breaking windows to create escape routes for those trapped inside.

Firefighters reached the rooftop through a neighbouring building and broke through a side wall to rescue victims. However, many people, including trainees and employees working in the animation centre, were unable to escape.

Families of the victims recounted heartbreaking final conversations with loved ones trapped in the fire. Several victims reportedly called relatives pleading for help as the smoke spread through the building.

Authorities are also investigating claims that a biometric access system inside the premises may have complicated evacuation efforts during the emergency.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak confirmed that an official inquiry had been ordered and pledged measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Police have filed charges related to acts endangering life and have arrested four people in connection with the incident. Four public officials have also been suspended as investigations continue.

The disaster has once again raised serious concerns about fire safety standards in India, where a series of deadly fires in commercial and residential buildings in recent months have exposed widespread violations of safety regulations.

The Lucknow tragedy comes less than a month after another fatal fire at a guesthouse in New Delhi claimed several lives, renewing calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety laws across the country.

UK Defence Deputy Chief Visits Maiduguri To Deepen Security Cooperation With Nigeria

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UK Defence Deputy Chief Visits Maiduguri To Deepen Security Cooperation With Nigeria

The United Kingdom’s Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Sir Charlie Collins, has visited Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, as part of efforts to strengthen defence collaboration between the UK and Nigeria.

The visit, confirmed by the British Defence Staff West Africa through its official X account on Tuesday, focused on assessing ongoing military cooperation and exploring ways to enhance joint security initiatives aimed at promoting stability across Nigeria and the wider West African region.

According to the statement, the visit reflects the UK’s continued commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to tackle terrorism, insurgency, and other security threats.

“Welcome to Nigeria, Lt Gen Sir Charlie Collins KBE DSO, UK Deputy CDS (MSO). In Maiduguri with @HQNigerianArmy colleagues, seeing UK-Nigeria defence cooperation first-hand and supporting Nigeria-led efforts to strengthen security and regional stability,” the post stated.

During his visit, Collins was accorded full military honours, including a ceremonial guard mounted by personnel of the Nigerian Army in Maiduguri.

Images released from the event showed senior British and Nigerian military officials exchanging handshakes, participating in security briefings, and presenting commemorative plaques to one another as a symbol of the growing defence partnership between both countries.

The visit comes as Nigeria continues to strengthen cooperation with international and regional partners in response to ongoing security challenges, particularly the activities of insurgent groups and armed bandits operating in parts of the North-East and other regions of the country.

Military observers say engagements such as Collins’ visit provide opportunities for both nations to review existing defence programmes, improve operational collaboration, and reinforce efforts aimed at enhancing regional peace and security.

Iran Rejects US Claim On Nuclear Inspections After First Round Of Talks

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Iran Rejects US Claim On Nuclear Inspections After First Round Of Talks

Iran has denied claims by US Vice-President JD Vance that it has agreed to allow international nuclear inspectors back into the country following the first round of negotiations aimed at securing a final agreement to end tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Speaking after talks in the Swiss resort of Bürgenstock, Vance said discussions involving the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) could begin within days and suggested inspectors could be invited back as early as Monday.

However, Iran’s foreign ministry swiftly rejected the claim. Spokesman Esmail Baqai told state media that Tehran had made “no new commitments” regarding nuclear inspections and insisted any future cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog would follow existing procedures approved by Iran’s parliament and national security authorities.

The disagreement emerged as the United States announced a major easing of sanctions on Iran. A 60-day waiver issued by the US Treasury allows Iran to sell oil in US dollars and conduct related banking, insurance and transportation transactions, marking a significant shift in decades of US restrictions.

The waiver, which runs until 21 August, permits the production, sale and delivery of Iranian crude and petrochemical products, including direct exports to the United States.

According to mediators Qatar and Pakistan, both sides agreed during the talks to a roadmap aimed at reaching a final deal within 60 days. The discussions also focused on maintaining stability in the Strait of Hormuz and preventing misunderstandings that could threaten regional security.

US officials said Iran had committed to keeping the vital shipping route open and allowing the return of nuclear inspectors. President Donald Trump also stated that Iran would agree to major weapons inspections as part of the process.

Tehran, however, has not publicly endorsed those claims. Iran suspended IAEA access to sites targeted during last year’s conflict with Israel and the United States, and the agency later withdrew its remaining inspectors from the country.

Vance revealed that negotiations had nearly collapsed after Trump warned Iran on social media that the US could respond forcefully if tensions escalated again. According to the vice-president, Iranian negotiators considered leaving the talks before discussions eventually continued.

Trump reiterated his warning on Monday, saying the United States would act if Iran failed to honour any future agreement.

The talks also produced agreements aimed at reducing regional tensions. Mediators announced the creation of a direct communication channel to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, as well as a de-confliction mechanism involving the US, Iran and Lebanon.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi described developments in Lebanon as the first major test of the new diplomatic efforts, as a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah continues to hold.

Negotiating teams are expected to begin detailed discussions on nuclear issues, sanctions relief and regional security in the coming days as efforts to secure a broader agreement move forward.

Algeria Come From Behind To Defeat Jordan And Keep World Cup Hopes Alive

Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Algeria Come From Behind To Defeat Jordan And Keep World Cup Hopes Alive

Algeria produced a second-half comeback to beat World Cup debutants Jordan 2-1 in San Francisco, keeping their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive while ending Jordan’s campaign.

Despite dominating possession for much of the contest, Algeria found themselves behind in the 36th minute after Nizar Al Rashdan capitalised on a costly mistake and curled a superb effort into the net to give Jordan a surprise lead.

Algeria had created several chances before the breakthrough, with Amine Gouiri firing wide, Fares Chaibi seeing an effort blocked, and veteran winger Riyad Mahrez denied by goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila after being played through on goal.

Jordan continued to defend resolutely after the break, but Algeria increased the pressure in search of an equaliser. Ibrahim Maza tested Abulaila from distance, while Nadhir Benbouali was also denied by the Jordanian goalkeeper.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 69th minute when Benbouali rose highest to meet a Riyad Mahrez corner, directing a header into the corner to level the score.

With momentum firmly on their side, Algeria completed the turnaround eight minutes from time. Another dangerous corner caused problems in the Jordan box, and Gouiri reacted quickest to hook the loose ball home and secure a crucial victory.

Jordan pushed for a response but could not find a way back, leaving them without a point from the tournament and officially eliminated from the competition.

The result leaves Algeria’s qualification hopes intact ahead of a decisive final group match against Austria, while Jordan will conclude their World Cup campaign against group winners Argentina.

Nigeria Customs Service To Lose 1,516 Officers To Retirement

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Nigeria Customs Service To Lose 1,516 Officers To Retirement

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is set to witness a significant wave of retirements over the next two years, with a total of 1,516 officers scheduled to exit the service between 2026 and 2027.

The planned retirements were revealed in two separate circulars containing statutory retirement lists for affected personnel. According to the documents, 825 officers are due to retire in 2026, while another 691 officers will leave the service in 2027.

The circulars were issued by the Service’s Human Resource and Development Department and signed by the Comptroller, Establishment, A.A. Bazuaye, on behalf of the Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Human Resources and Development.

The retirement exercise will affect officers across various ranks within the Customs Service, ranging from deputy comptroller-generals to customs assistant II officers.

The circular stated:

“I am directed to forward the attached list on the above subject matter as a retirement notice to all affected personnel. In accordance with the Public Service Rule (PSR) No. 100238 and Federal Government circular No. 63216/S.I/X/T; CR 1,/2001/5 of 20/03/2001, all affected officers due for retirement are to disengage from the active service and proceed on pre-retirement leave three months prior to their effective date of retirement.”

The mass retirement comes just days after President Bola Tinubu approved a fresh six-month tenure extension for the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

With the extension expected to expire in six months, attention is already turning to the question of succession at the top of the Customs Service.

Meanwhile, allegations have emerged suggesting that the Chairman of the House Committee on Customs, Leke Abejide, is allegedly making moves to influence future appointments within the agency. However, no official response has been issued regarding the claims.

The upcoming retirement exercise is expected to create vacancies across multiple departments and ranks within the Customs Service, potentially paving the way for a new round of promotions and appointments in the agency.

South Africa Tightens Security Ahead Of Anti-Migrant Group’s June 30 Deadline

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South Africa Tightens Security Ahead Of Anti-Migrant Group’s June 30 Deadline

South African authorities have announced heightened security measures across the country ahead of a June 30 deadline issued by anti-illegal immigration groups demanding that undocumented migrants leave the country.

The move comes amid growing tensions and recent outbreaks of xenophobic violence that have left at least two people dead, raising concerns about public safety in one of Africa’s largest economies.

According to law enforcement officials, police deployments will be reinforced nationwide to maintain order and protect communities, critical infrastructure, and public spaces.

South Africa has witnessed weeks of unrest linked to anti-migrant sentiment, with several small but organised groups calling on undocumented foreigners to leave the country or face consequences. Authorities have emphasised that such demands have no legal standing.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said security agencies have stepped up preparations across all provinces.

“The South African Police Service has elevated its operational readiness across all provinces, with comprehensive deployment plans in place to protect communities, critical infrastructure and key public spaces,” he said.

While reaffirming citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, Cachalia warned against any acts of violence or intimidation.

“Criminality, intimidation, violence, the destruction of property and any attempt to undermine public safety will not be tolerated”.

Defence Minister Angie Motshekga also confirmed that the military has been placed on standby to support police operations if necessary.

She explained that soldiers would be deployed to secure strategic facilities, including airports and other key national assets.

“Indeed, if, and I hope it is not going to reach that point, called upon by the police to support, we will, but basically ours is around the key points,” she said.

South Africa has long attracted migrant workers from across the continent due to its relatively developed economy. However, high unemployment, which remains above 30 per cent, has contributed to recurring anti-foreigner sentiment, with some citizens blaming migrants for crime and job shortages.

The country has experienced several deadly episodes of xenophobic violence over the years. In 2008, riots claimed 62 lives, while further outbreaks occurred in 2015 and 2016.

Another wave of violence in 2019 saw mobs attack foreign-owned businesses around Johannesburg, resulting in at least 12 deaths, including 10 South African citizens.

The latest tensions are unfolding ahead of South Africa’s local government elections scheduled for November 4.

Political violence has also heightened concerns in recent days. During voter registration activities over the weekend, four individuals linked to political parties were killed in separate incidents.

Two of the victims were associated with the Umkhonto we Sizwe Party, which is headed by former South African president Jacob Zuma.

Another victim was a ward candidate of the Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape, while the fourth was a ward councillor from the African National Congress in the Eastern Cape.

Authorities say security agencies will remain on high alert as the June 30 deadline approaches, with efforts focused on preventing violence and ensuring public order across the country.

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