Extortion

Russia, China decry U.S. ‘cowboy’ tactics on Venezuela at UN Security Council; Washington defends moves UNITED NATIONS — Russia and China sharply criticized the United States for military and economic pressure on Venezuela during an emergency U.N. Security Council meeting requested by Caracas, denouncing what they called “cowboy” conduct and “intimidation” as Washington defended its actions as necessary to protect the hemisphere. Backed by Moscow and Beijing, Venezuela accused the United States of waging an unlawful campaign…

In a bustling week peppered with captivating headlines, a noteworthy claim has emerged regarding the Yemeni Houthis and their purported financial activities involving the Red Sea. Maritime lawyer Stephen Askins from Tatham & Co is casting a critical eye over these claims, raising a skeptical eyebrow at the notion that the Houthis are banking $180 million a month from maritime companies seeking safe passage through these waters.Mogadishu (AX) — The swirling rumors suggest that hefty payments are navigated through an…

ISIS Militants Rake in $6 Million Through Extortion in Somalia NAIROBI, Kenya - The relatively small yet menacing ISIS faction in Somalia has reportedly gathered nearly $6 million over the past couple of years, as highlighted in a recent report by the International Crisis Group (ICG). The report also points to the group’s ambitious endeavors to broaden its control. Currently active in Northeastern State’s Bari region, the ISIS-linked faction comprises around 500 combatants, including several foreigners. Their…