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Colombia experienced two violent attacks on August 21, 2025 attributed to dissident factions of the former FARC guerrilla group, resulting in at least 18 deaths and over 40 injuries, BBC reported.

In Cali, a cargo vehicle loaded with explosives detonated near a Colombian Aerospace Force base, killing six people and injuring 71. Hours earlier, a National Police UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter involved in a coca leaf eradication mission was shot down in Amalfi, Antioquia, resulting in 12 officers’ deaths.

President Gustavo Petro condemned the attacks, attributing them to dissident factions of the former FARC guerrilla group that rejected the 2016 peace agreement. The government has pledged to pursue the perpetrators with full force.

These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges Colombia faces in addressing violence from groups opposed to the peace accord, according to BBC.

Nigeria has deported 102 foreign nationals, including 60 Chinese and 39 Filipinos, for involvement in internet fraud and cybercrime, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said. The crackdown targets scams that trick victims into fake cryptocurrency investments and online romances, according to Al Jazeera.

EFCC noted additional deportations since August 15, with more planned. The operation follows a December Lagos raid that arrested 792 suspected cybercriminals, including 192 foreigners. Experts warn these gangs exploit weak cybersecurity systems, targeting mostly Americans, Canadians, Mexicans, and Europeans, causing major financial losses.

The US State Department is reviewing over 55m visas for potential violations that could lead to revocation or deportation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also announced an immediate pause on worker visas for commercial truck drivers, citing risks to public safety and American livelihoods, according to Al Jazeera.

All visa holders face continuous vetting for overstays, criminal activity, or support for terrorism. Since taking office, President Donald Trump has intensified immigration enforcement, including workplace raids, restrictions on humanitarian programs, and revocation of student visas—some linked to protests or protected speech.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered fresh negotiations for the release of all hostages while approving plans for a major assault on Gaza City, BBC reported.

He rejected a Hamas-backed ceasefire proposal that offered only a partial hostage release, insisting Israel will accept a deal only if all captives are freed and Hamas is disarmed.

The Israeli military has begun preparations for a ground offensive, warning Gaza City’s one million residents to evacuate south. Heavy bombardment continued on Thursday as aid groups vowed to stay and support those unable to flee.

The war, sparked by Hamas’s 7 October 2023 attack, has killed about 1,200 people in Israel and over 62,000 in Gaza, according to BBC.