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Lagos State is stepping up its fight against fake traffic officers who have been targeting drivers for extortion. With recent arrests in Mushin, Itire, and Ikeja, officials are cracking down and urging residents to be alert and report suspicious activity to the authorities.

Manchester City returned to training on July 28, bringing the full squad back after a rare month-long break. Focus is on regaining fitness following last season's injury woes, with Rodri joining in despite recent setbacks. Fans can look forward to open training, new signings, and a friendly against Palermo before the Premier League restart.

Panama goes head-to-head with Guadeloupe in the opening match of the 2025 Gold Cup, entering as heavy favorites but facing an opponent with a reputation for stubborn defense and recent form. The match-up features strong stats on both sides and plenty of uncertainty despite the odds.

Lebanon stunned defending champions Tajikistan 1-0, reaching their first-ever Merdeka Tournament final. Jihad Ayoub scored early, while Lebanon's defense held off Tajikistan's attacks. The win puts Lebanon on the brink of a major football milestone as they prepare to face either Malaysia or the Philippines.

Bafana Bafana's COSAFA Cup squad for 2025 features a heavy Kaizer Chiefs presence, with five players making the list under coach Vela Khumalo. South Africa contests Group A in Bloemfontein, facing Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Mauritius. The selection focuses on CHAN preparations and includes notable names from other top clubs.

French President Macron landed in Hanoi and clinched over $10 billion in trade deals with Vietnam, led by a landmark Airbus A330neo order. These agreements deepen cooperation in defense, energy, and technology—right as global trade pressures mount and France seeks fresh influence in Asia.

The Knicks are on the verge of reaching their first conference finals since 2000, leading the series 2-0 against the Celtics. Jalen Brunson shines as New York shows grit, while Boston faces elimination and must tighten up defensively. Predictions tip toward New York, but the Celtics' home floor remains a possible turning point.

Skechers, the world’s third-largest footwear company, is set to go private after agreeing to a $9.4 billion acquisition by 3G Capital. The deal offers a substantial premium to shareholders and keeps CEO Robert Greenberg in charge as the company contends with global supply and trade pressures.

Najmul Hossain Shanto kept Bangladesh steady with a gritty unbeaten 60 in their first Test against Zimbabwe, swinging momentum their way despite a first-innings collapse and persistent rain delays. With support from Jaker Ali, Bangladesh reversed an early deficit and now lead by 112 runs, setting up a tense finish.

Pope Francis has died at 88 in Vatican City after suffering a stroke and cardiovascular collapse, following various health complications. His passing marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church. With a nine-day mourning period underway, cardinals will soon gather for a conclave to choose his successor.

The Beijing Stock Exchange has introduced securities lending and margin trading services, aiming to boost market liquidity and enhance price discovery. Targeted at stocks meeting specific criteria, this move supports small and mid-sized enterprises under CSRC guidance. The initiative complements CBEX's focus on commodities and state-owned enterprises.

Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary halt on visas for 14 countries to regulate Hajj pilgrimage attendance, impacting nations like India and Pakistan. This measure follows the 2024 tragedy where over 1,200 unregistered pilgrims died due to severe overcrowding and heat. The ban covers Umrah, business, and family visit visas but does not affect diplomatic and official Hajj visas.