Iraq issues arrest warrants in 'heist of the century'

13 Sept 12:09 Key points summarised by AI

Iraq's judiciary issued arrest warrants for four former government officials accused of facilitating the theft of $2.5 billion in public funds, dubbed 'the heist of the century'.
The accused, including former finance minister Ali Allawi and staff from ex-PM Mustafa al-Kadhemi's office, are reportedly living outside Iraq.
The massive embezzlement occurred between September 2021 and August 2022, involving 247 cheques cashed by five companies whose owners are now on the run.
The warrants accuse the officials of 'facilitating the embezzlement' and mandate an asset freeze.
Current Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has vowed to vigorously crack down on corruption since taking office.

Fresh clashes rock France as protesters march on

Today 15:08 Key points summarised by AI

Widespread clashes erupted across France as protesters marched against the cost of living, prompting a firm security backlash from President Macron's government.
Authorities deployed 70,000 security personnel, leading to nearly 1,000 arrests and two serious injuries amid an "extremely elevated level of violence" from "ultra-left" extremists.
Despite government claims of a more "positive" outcome than the previous week, riot police fired tear gas in multiple cities, sparking widespread anger over perceived assaults on the right to protest.
The unrest, which included clashes between far-right and "ultra-left" militants, highlights a febrile political atmosphere six months before presidential elections.