ED Raids in Kerala Uncover ₹61 Crore Loan Fraud Linked to Doha Businessman

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids in Kerala, uncovering evidence of a massive financial fraud involving a Kannur-based businessman, Ismail Chakkarath. Chakkarath allegedly defrauded United Bank Limited in Doha, Qatar, of over ₹61 crore by securing a loan for his Doha-based firm, Grant Mart Trading, but failing to repay it or use it for its intended purpose. The ED seized cash and documents during the raids, and froze 10 bank accounts linked to Chakkarath and his associates. The investigation highlights the increasing challenges of cross-border financial fraud.

Gaza Ceasefire Talks Resume in Doha Amidst Tensions and Disputes

Ceasefire talks in Doha resumed on Thursday, but Hamas stayed away, accusing Israel of adding new demands and expressing concerns about a potential advantage for its rival. The US, Egypt, and Qatar are working on a ceasefire plan, hoping to avert a broader regional conflict. The talks focus on narrowing differences between Israel and Hamas, but Israel’s insistence on dismantling Hamas raises doubts about the talks’ success. Meanwhile, the conflict’s death toll surpasses 40,000, and tensions remain high after assassinations of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders.

India Participates in UN-Led Afghanistan Conference Amidst Taliban’s International Debut

India participated in the third UN-led conference on Afghanistan in Doha, marking the Taliban’s first appearance at an international event. While India is cautiously engaging with the Taliban for humanitarian and security purposes, the conference drew criticism over the regime’s treatment of women. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar also visited Doha, strengthening India-Qatar ties across various sectors.

Qatar Airways Extends Reach to Africa, Connects Kinshasa to the World

Qatar Airways has expanded its African network with the launch of a new route connecting Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), to the airline’s award-winning hub in Doha, Hamad International Airport. The inaugural flight from Doha to Kinshasa arrived at N’djili International Airport on June 1, 2024, marking the airline’s 29th destination in Africa.

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