Rorisang Modiba delivers daily updates from around the world.
India – A crowd crush at a religious event in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, led to 121 deaths. The event was meant for 250,000 people, but it saw triple the allowed number of guests. The incident was made worse by heavy rain and high humidity. Many women and children were among the victims. Authorities are investigating and have filed cases against the organisers, with the guru, Bhole Baba, expected to be arrested.
US – A Google study shows that Gen Z prefers getting news from social media influencers and comment sections rather than traditional news sources. As reported by Business Insider, the study found that while Gen Z can spot fake news, they often rely on internet investigators to verify it. They avoid news sites with ads or paywalls, usually just reading headlines and checking comments for reactions.
Sierra Leone – Sierra Leone has passed a law banning marriages involving girls under 18. President Julius Maada Bio signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act in Freetown, with dignitaries, including first ladies from Cape Verde and Namibia, in attendance. Violators face at least 15 years in prison or fines of around $4,000 (about R74,000). The law targets grooms, parents, guardians, and wedding attendees.
US – American musician Justin Timberlake’s recent mugshot has been turned into art by Godfrey Lohman and displayed at Romany Kramoris Gallery in Sag Harbor. The piece has drawn large crowds, with many wanting to view and photograph it. The gallery owner and Leslie Raff call it their most popular contemporary piece. Priced at $520 (about R9,600), several prints have already sold, and interest is expected to continue through the summer. Despite some local disapproval, younger visitors are particularly excited. Timberlake was arrested in Sag Harbor on June 18 after having only one martini. The arresting officer reportedly didn’t recognise him.
Pictured above: The event in Hathras.
Source: X
