Latest World News: 2 Indian men plead guilty to drug smuggling in US
Two men of Indian origin have pleaded guilty to drug and firearms trafficking charges stemming from a drug trafficking business run by a motel in the United States.
Kamal Bhula, 44, of Albuquerque, and Pragneshkumar Pete Patel, 36, of Montgomery, Alabama, are among three charged with maintaining drug-related premises at a motel in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Bhula and Patel both pleaded guilty to one count each to maintaining a premise involving drugs, the New Mexico district attorney’s office said in a statement Monday.
The third defendant, Jonathan Craft, 36, of Albuquerque, pleaded guilty to conspiracy and being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
The July 17 statement said Bhula and Craft will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
A federal grand jury indicted Bhula and Craft on June 20, 2019. Patel was indicted on November 5, 2019.
According to court records, Patel owned the Best Choice Inn at 7640 Central Avenue SE and was the on-site manager from September 2017 until March 2018, when Bhula leased the property from Patel and took over as on-site manager.
Craft lived and worked at the Best Choice Inn, claiming to be in charge when Bhula was away.
Craft sold drugs in his room, allowed others to do the same, and allowed individuals to use drugs on the premises. Craft also illegally possessed a firearm.
Bhula and Patel allowed drug dealing at the motel and personally observed and took advantage of those using controlled substances on the premises.
Upon sentencing, Bhula, Craft and Patel each face up to 20 years in prison, the statement added.
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An Overview of Global Events in 2023
In 2023, the world witnessed a myriad of events that left a lasting impact on global affairs. From political developments and economic shifts to environmental challenges and breakthroughs in science and technology, the year was marked by significant changes and a sense of urgency for collective action. Here’s an overview of some of the latest world news in 2023.
Political Unrest and Diplomatic Strides:
In the political arena, several regions experienced unrest and geopolitical tensions. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continued to dominate headlines, with efforts towards peace and stability remaining elusive. However, there were also moments of diplomatic breakthroughs as nations engaged in dialogues to ease tensions and work towards lasting solutions.
Economic Transformations:
The global economy faced both challenges and opportunities. Trade disputes between major powers affected markets, while some countries grappled with debt crises. On the other hand, emerging economies showed resilience and promising growth, fueling optimism for a more balanced global economic landscape.
Technological Advancements:
Innovation surged forward in the tech industry, with breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration. Quantum computing achieved milestones, promising radical transformations across industries. Renewable energy sources gained traction, with many countries setting ambitious goals to combat climate change.
Climate Crisis and Environmental Resilience:
As the climate crisis intensified, extreme weather events wreaked havoc in various parts of the world. Wildfires, hurricanes, and floods reminded humanity of the urgent need for climate action. In response, governments and communities across the globe doubled down on efforts to reduce carbon emissions, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and protect biodiversity.
Health and Pandemic Management:
Health remained a global priority as countries continued to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. With the emergence of new variants, vaccination efforts and public health measures remained crucial to curbing the spread of the virus. There were also significant advancements in medical research and technology, offering hope for better preparedness in handling future health crises.
Sports and Cultural Milestones:
Amidst the challenges, the world found moments of joy and unity through sports and culture. International sporting events brought together athletes from diverse backgrounds, promoting solidarity and camaraderie. Cultural exchanges and celebrations showcased the richness of human diversity and fostered mutual understanding.
In conclusion, the year 2023 was a dynamic period filled with significant events that shaped the course of history. From political unrest to technological advancements and environmental challenges, the world witnessed the complexities of the global landscape. While obstacles remained, there were also encouraging developments and collaborative efforts towards a more sustainable, peaceful, and prosperous future for all nations. As we move forward, the lessons learned from these events serve as a reminder of the importance of collective action and cooperation to address shared global challenges.