News in brief
28 Afghans killed in Iran truck crash
AFP, Tehran
At least 28 Afghan nationals were killed in a truck crash in southeastern Iran on Thursday, semi-official news agency ISNA reported. Two trucks collided in Khash county in Sistan-Baluchistan province, said Mojtaba Khaledi, spokesman for Irans emergency services, adding that another 21 passengers were injured. One of the drivers lost control after a tyre blowout and crashed into the other vehicle, according to state TV. Iran is one of the deadliest countries in the world for road accidents, according to the World Health Organization.
Strong 7.1 earthquake off Indonesia
AFP, Jakarta
A strong 7.1-magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of North Maluku province in eastern Indonesia early Friday, seismologists said, with the US tsunami warning centre saying a tsunami was not expected.The quake hit 140 kilometres (87 miles) northwest of the coastal town of Ternate at a depth of 45 km, according to the US Geological Survey.The US tsunami warning centre said a destructive Pacific-wide tsunami is not expected. The Indonesian meterological and climatology agency, however, warned people to stay clear of beaches as a precaution.
SA post office rapist, murderer given life
BBC, London
South African post office worker Luyanda Botha has been handed three life sentences after admitting to the rape and murder of 19-year-old student Uyinene Mrwetyana. Her killing in August sparked large protests over the high levels of violence against women in the country. The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, tied a ribbon at a memorial on her visit to Cape Town in September.
