Friday, 20 February 2026

Smileband News


Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Met Police Officer Mahad Abdalla Charged with Rape and Serious Sexual Offences

A serving officer with the Metropolitan Police Service has been charged with a series of serious sexual offences, including rape, related to incidents allegedly committed while he was off duty. 

PC Mahad Abdalla, a 28-year-old police constable from Chiswick in West London, is due to appear in Willesden Magistrates’ Court this Friday. Prosecutors allege that the offences — which include rape, assault by penetration, engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour, two counts of intentional strangulation and sexual assault — occurred during off-duty encounters with a woman known to him. 

Abdalla was first arrested by fellow officers on 14 May 2024 and was subsequently released on bail while investigations continued. Last month, police charged him with the full list of alleged offences. He has been suspended from duty with immediate effect since his arrest. 

Background and Career

Abdalla joined the Metropolitan Police as a full-time officer in 2017, having previously served as a Special Constable while working in retail. Early in his career he was featured in the BBC documentary The Met: Policing London, which followed officers on duty in west London. During filming he was shown responding to incidents including a drunk-driver call at 7 a.m. and reported assaults on fellow officers. 

He later transferred to the Territorial Support Group, a specialist unit in the Northwest Basic Command Unit, covering Brent and Harrow. 

Investigation and Support for the Victim

The investigation into the allegations is being led by the North West Public Protection Unit, a specialist team within the Met focused on serious sexual and violent offences. The victim in the case is being supported by specialist police officers. The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards has also been notified as part of routine oversight whenever a serving officer faces criminal charges. 

Legal Process Ahead

At this stage, the charges remain allegations and Abdalla is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. His forthcoming appearance at Willesden Magistrates’ Court is expected to address matters of bail and the initial procedural steps in the prosecution. Lawyers for both the Crown Prosecution Service and the defense will likely outline the early stages of evidence and case management in the coming hearings. 

Attached is a news article regarding met police officer mahad abdalla 

https://chiswickcalendar.co.uk/chiswick-based-police-officer-charged-with-rape-and-sexual-assault/

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36














Smileband News


Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Children Face Review of Right to Special Needs Support

Thousands of families across England are anxiously awaiting the outcome of a government review into children’s legal right to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support — a move that could reshape how help is delivered in schools.

Under the current system, children with additional needs can receive statutory protection through an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). These plans legally require local authorities to provide tailored support, ranging from specialist teaching assistance to therapy services and transport.

However, rising demand and spiralling costs have placed enormous strain on councils and schools. According to figures from the Department for Education, the number of children with EHCPs has more than doubled over the past decade. Local authority SEND budgets are now running into significant deficits, with many councils warning the system is financially unsustainable.

Why Is the Right Being Reviewed?

The government says the review is aimed at improving consistency and ensuring children receive support earlier — without families being forced into lengthy legal battles. Critics, however, fear changes could weaken the legal protections that currently guarantee support.

Campaigners argue that EHCPs are often the only way parents can secure vital provision for children with autism, ADHD, speech and language difficulties, and other complex needs. Without statutory backing, they say, support could become discretionary and vary widely between areas.

Education unions and disability charities have urged ministers to protect the legal rights framework while addressing inefficiencies. Some families report waiting more than a year for assessments, missing out on classroom help during crucial developmental stages.

Pressure on Schools and Councils

Headteachers say mainstream schools are increasingly stretched. Larger class sizes, limited specialist staff, and reduced funding have made inclusive education more challenging. Meanwhile, tribunals — where parents appeal against local authority decisions — have surged, with most rulings reportedly going in favour of families.

Local authorities argue that the system encourages costly independent school placements when mainstream settings lack resources. Reform proposals are expected to examine how funding is distributed and whether earlier intervention could reduce the need for formal plans.

What Happens Next

Any changes to the statutory right to SEND support would likely require consultation and legislative reform. Ministers insist no final decisions have been made, but advocacy groups are preparing for a fierce debate.

For families of children with additional needs, the stakes are high. The outcome of the review could determine whether future generations retain a clear legal entitlement to support — or move towards a more flexible, but potentially less secure, model.

As discussions continue, parents, educators and policymakers face a difficult question: how to balance financial sustainability with the fundamental right of every child to an education that meets their needs.

Attached is a news article regarding children facing review over the support for special needs 

https://www.theguardian.com/education/2026/feb/19/send-special-needs-support-eligibility-review-secondary-school-england

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36












Thursday, 19 February 2026

Smileband News


Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Savage Hospital Attack: The Case of Romon Haque and the Nurse Assault at Royal Oldham

In a shocking and widely reported incident that shook the healthcare community in Greater Manchester, a man named Romon Haque was convicted and sentenced for brutally attacking a nurse at the Royal Oldham Hospital in January 2025. The case has since drawn attention to the risks faced by frontline medical staff and raised concerns about hospital safety and patient violence.  

Harrowing Attack on Duty

On the night of 11 January 2025, an unprovoked assault occurred in a ward at the Royal Oldham Hospital in Greater Manchester. Haque, a patient being treated at the hospital, approached 57-year-old nurse Achamma Cherian while she was attending to another patient and asked for medication. When she was unable to give immediate attention to his request, Haque suddenly produced a pair of scissors and attacked her from behind.  

The nurse was stabbed multiple times — in her forehead, wrist and hands — resulting in serious injuries. The wounds were severe enough to require urgent treatment and overnight care in an intensive care unit. Staff intervened quickly, restraining Haque and preventing even more catastrophic harm.  

Legal Proceedings and Conviction

Following the attack, Haque was arrested by police and charged with possession of a bladed article and attempted murder. During court proceedings at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to carrying the scissors but denied that he intended to kill the nurse. However, a jury found him guilty of attempted murder in July 2025 after concluding that the force and nature of the stabbing could only be intended to be lethal.  

Then on 11 February 2026, he was sentenced to a total of 28 years in prison — consisting of 22 years in custody and an additional 6 years on licence after release. Authorities described the attack as “horrific” and emphasised that emergency workers should never be subjected to violence while carrying out their duties.  

Impact and Reactions

The aftermath of the attack highlighted both the physical and mental toll such violence can have on healthcare workers. Nurse Cherian endured significant trauma and required intensive care because of her injuries. Her bravery and resilience in the face of such an unprovoked assault have been acknowledged by colleagues and the wider community.  

Greater Manchester Police publicly commended the actions of hospital staff who intervened and prevented further harm, while also reiterating the need for better protection and respect for NHS and emergency workers.  

Wider Concerns Over Violence Against Health Workers

Although this case was extreme, it has contributed to a broader conversation across the UK about violence against healthcare professionals. Reports have shown that assaults on nurses and medical staff, while not always as severe, occur more often than many realise and can have lasting effects on the wellbeing of those targeted. Organisations and unions representing healthcare workers continue to call for robust measures to protect staff in hospitals and clinics nationwide. (Contextually informed by broader trends.)  

Attached is a news article regarding romon haque attacks a nurse at old hospital 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cn8zl9v5yw9o

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36






Smileband News


Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Man Convicted of Sexual Offences Against 13-Year-Old Girl

A man has been convicted of serious sexual offences against a 13-year-old girl following a criminal investigation and trial.

The court heard that the offences took place over a period of time and involved abuse of trust and manipulation. Prosecutors told jurors that the victim was targeted due to her vulnerability, with the defendant exploiting his position to gain access and silence her.

During proceedings, the teenager — who cannot be named for legal reasons — gave evidence describing the lasting trauma she experienced. The court was told the abuse had a profound impact on her mental health, education and family life.

Police launched an investigation after concerns were raised to safeguarding authorities. Officers gathered digital evidence, witness statements and forensic material which was presented during the trial.

Following deliberations, the jury returned guilty verdicts on charges including rape and sexual assault of a child. The judge described the crimes as “grave and predatory” when passing sentence, noting the long-term harm caused to the victim.

The defendant was sentenced to a lengthy custodial term and placed on the Sex Offenders Register. He will also be subject to strict licence conditions upon release.

Detectives praised the victim’s bravery in coming forward and urged other victims of abuse to report offences, stressing that support services are available.

Support Available

Anyone affected by sexual abuse can contact:

NSPCC

Childline

Rape Crisis England & Wales

All offer confidential advice and support.

Attached is a news article regarding Riyasth Hussain who raped a 13 year old girl 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx24rg3kmkno

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36









Smileband News


Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Former Royal Arrested in Norfolk on Suspicion of Misconduct in Public Office

Date: Friday, 19 February 2026

Location: Sandringham Estate, Norfolk, England

In a momentous and unprecedented event in modern British history, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor — formerly known as Prince Andrew and the younger brother of King Charles III — was arrested on Thursday morning, 19 February 2026, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest took place at his residence on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk as he marked his 66th birthday.  

Police Action and Custody

Thames Valley Police confirmed that officers arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, as part of an ongoing investigation. Searches were also conducted at properties in both Berkshire and Norfolk. Due to standard police practice, the force did not immediately name the individual, but multiple media outlets reported that the arrested man is Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.  

Unmarked police vehicles were seen early on Thursday morning at Wood Farm, Mountbatten-Windsor’s residence on the Sandringham estate, where plain-clothes officers gathered outside the property. Officers also reportedly conducted searches at his former home on the Windsor estate.  

The Allegations

The arrest emerges from allegations tied to Mountbatten-Windsor’s past role as a UK trade envoy. Police investigations have focused on claims that he may have shared confidential government information with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during official visits to several countries while he was serving in that diplomatic capacity. These claims were highlighted following the release of government documents, including emails, that have drawn renewed scrutiny.  

Police have stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity and objectivity of the investigation, acknowledging “significant public interest” and indicating that further updates will be provided as appropriate.  

National Reaction and Royal Response

The arrest drew immediate attention from national leaders. King Charles III released a statement saying he had “learned with the deepest concern” about the news and emphasised that “the law must take its course.” The monarch said he and the wider royal family would offer full cooperation to the authorities but would not comment further due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.  

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed that sentiment in public remarks, underscoring that “nobody is above the law,” and that law enforcement must be free to pursue its work independently.  

Historical Significance

If the allegations lead to formal charges and prosecution, this would mark a watershed moment involving a member of the British royal family. According to commentary from media and legal experts, misconduct in public office is a potentially serious offence under UK law, with a maximum possible sentence that can extend to life imprisonment — although any sentencing would depend on the outcome of a formal criminal process.  

Some reports note that this may be the first arrest of a senior royal figure in modern British history, reflecting extraordinary attention on the case and its broader implications for accountability at the highest levels of public life.  

Attached is a News article regarding Andre Mountbatten Windsor arrest in Norfolk 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cn9e1q4797wo

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36












Smileband News



Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Black History Month: Trump Pays Tribute to Black Americans’ Legacy

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has paid tribute to the achievements and enduring legacy of Black Americans in recognition of Black History Month, describing it as a time to “honor the strength, faith, and contributions of a community that has shaped the United States.”

In a statement marking the annual observance, Trump highlighted the role Black Americans have played in building the nation’s economic, cultural, and political foundations. He referenced influential figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, and Frederick Douglass, praising their courage in confronting injustice and advancing civil rights.

Recognising Historical Impact

Black History Month, observed every February in the United States, commemorates the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout history. Trump noted that the month serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the civil rights movement and the ongoing importance of equality under the law.

During his presidency, Trump previously signed criminal justice reform legislation known as the First Step Act, which aimed to reduce recidivism and reform federal sentencing laws. In his remarks, he reiterated support for economic opportunity initiatives and said that empowering communities through employment and entrepreneurship remains key to strengthening the nation as a whole.

A Broader National Reflection

The observance of Black History Month has traditionally drawn statements from leaders across the political spectrum. It is often marked by community events, educational programmes, and tributes to cultural achievements in music, literature, science, and public service.

Trump concluded his message by encouraging Americans to reflect on the country’s history “with honesty and unity,” stating that the nation grows stronger when it recognises both past injustices and the progress made through resilience and determination.

As the United States continues to navigate conversations around race, equality, and opportunity, Black History Month remains a significant moment for national reflection — and for leaders to acknowledge the contributions of Black Americans in shaping the country’s future.

Attached is a news article regarding trump showing his respect for black history month 

https://www.facebook.com/TheIndependentOnline/posts/president-donald-trump-on-wednesday-used-a-white-house-black-history-month-recep/1437393121750010/

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36













Wednesday, 18 February 2026

Smileband News


Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Police Officer Brogan Canning Banned From UK Policing for Life After Misconduct Hearing

A former UK police officer, Brogan Canning, has been barred from serving in any police force in the United Kingdom for life following the conclusion of a formal misconduct hearing earlier this year.  

The disciplinary panel found that Canning’s conduct while off duty breached standards expected of police officers and was sufficiently serious to justify permanent exclusion from the profession. Although details published in some social media posts are sensationalised, the key finding remains that the officer’s behaviour undermined public trust and professional standards, leading to her placement on the UK Police Barred List.  

Findings of the Misconduct Hearing

According to reports, the misconduct hearing concluded that:

Canning engaged in inappropriate conduct with a colleague, including unwelcome physical contact, during a night out. Reports state she touched a fellow officer’s leg, attempted to kiss him, and at one point grabbed his neck.  

The panel found her actions violated the Police Code of Ethics, a set of core standards that officers must uphold both on and off duty to maintain public confidence in policing.  

Although some social media posts about the case have circulated widely, the key point confirmed in reporting is that Canning’s name was added to the College of Policing’s barred list — meaning she cannot serve as a police officer in the UK again.  

🔑 Key Points Behind the Lifetime Ban

1. Unwanted Sexual Conduct with a Colleague

Canning made an unwanted sexual approach toward a senior police officer while socialising off duty. This included touching his leg and attempting to kiss him despite clear rebuffs. Her actions were judged to exceed acceptable professional behaviour.  

2. Physical Contact That Was Deemed Inappropriate

The hearing was told she not only touched the officer’s leg but also pulled him by the neck in an attempt to get closer. These physical actions were considered inappropriate and unprofessional conduct.  

3. Violation of Police Professional Standards

A misconduct panel ruled that her behaviour amounted to gross misconduct—a serious breach of the standards expected of police officers both on and off duty.  

4. Impact on Public Confidence in Policing

The panel specifically stated that her conduct could damage the public’s confidence in policing and tarnish the reputation of the police service, making dismissal and lifetime prohibition appropriate.  

5. Evidence Deemed Credible Despite Her Personal Account

Although Canning described her behaviour as “out of character” and said she had been drinking heavily, the panel found the witness accounts credible and concluded they demonstrated clear misconduct.  

📌 What the Ban Means

Being placed on the Police Barred List means Canning cannot be employed or serve as a police officer in the UK again unless she successfully applies for review after a set period, which is rarely granted for gross misconduct cases.  

What Being Barred Means

In the UK, officers found guilty of gross misconduct at an official hearing can be placed on the Police Barred List, which formally prohibits them from holding a police warrant or being employed in police duties again. Such decisions are taken seriously and reflect a determination that the conduct in question is wholly incompatible with the responsibilities of a police officer.  

Despite the significant online commentary surrounding the case, there is no evidence that Canning was criminally convicted; the sanction arises from internal disciplinary proceedings rather than a court judgment. The police barred list is maintained to protect public trust and ensure that individuals unsuitable for policing are prevented from returning to such roles.  

A Broader Context

The UK’s police barred list has grown in recent years as forces across the country take misconduct seriously, adding scores of former officers unable to continue in the profession because of serious breaches of conduct standards.  

Attached is a news article regarding brogan canning banned from being a police officer for life 

https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/policewoman-banned-uk-police-forces-32974703.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36













Smileband News



Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

UK Police Face Over 2,000 Reports of Child Exploitation Crimes Every Year — And the Scale Is Growing

Police forces across England and Wales are dealing with an enormous and complex problem: the vast number of reports of child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA) coming through every year. Official analysis of police-recorded crime data shows that tens of thousands of child sexual abuse and exploitation offences are now being reported — far more than two thousand — highlighting both the scale of harm affecting children and the enormous pressure on law enforcement and support services.  

Record Levels of Reported Child Exploitation

Recent government and policing data reveal that police record well over 100,000 crimes involving child sexual abuse and exploitation every year in England and Wales alone. In the latest analysed period, there were approximately 122,768 such offences recorded in 2024, a year-on-year increase of about 6%, with online offences now accounting for around 42% of cases.  

This number includes a wide range of crimes — from possession and distribution of indecent images to contact sexual abuse, grooming and online coercion. Of these, around a substantial proportion are flagged by police as involving some form of child sexual exploitation — where the victim is manipulated or abused for sexual purposes.  

Why the Numbers Matter

That more than 100,000 offences are reported annually doesn’t just represent figures on a page — they reflect thousands of children harmed, frightened and traumatised each year. Police and charities agree that recorded crimes represent just the “tip of the iceberg,” because many victims never come forward or are not identified. Estimates suggest up to 500,000 children a year could experience some form of sexual abuse, of which only a fraction is ever reported to police.  

The number of reports has grown significantly over the past decade — partly due to improved awareness and data recording, but also because of real increases in online abuse and exploitation facilitated by technology. Victims are increasingly being targeted through social media, messaging apps and gaming platforms, where offenders can operate anonymously and at scale.  

Policing Challenges and Responses

For police forces, these volumes present huge challenges. Specialist teams are under pressure to prioritise investigations, provide victim support and pursue offenders who may be operating in hidden or encrypted online spaces. In some parts of the country, investigators are coping with monthly arrest figures in the thousands, and child safeguarding agencies are urging tech companies to do more to prevent abuse at source.  

At the same time, campaigners and policymakers are pushing for better training, more resources and clearer data on the nature and scale of exploitation — so that police, social services and schools can identify harm earlier and intervene more effectively. Many argue that official statistics still understate the true scale of the problem because of inconsistent recording practices and under-reporting by victims.  

The Human Cost

Behind every report is a child whose safety, wellbeing and future have been jeopardised. Beyond legal proceedings and police investigations, long-term support is crucial — including counselling, safe housing and educational support — to help victims recover from trauma that can last well into adulthood. Charities emphasise that tackling this issue requires coordinated effort across government, technology firms, educators and families.  

Looking Forward

The fact that police handle well over two thousand reports of child exploitation crimes annually underscores the urgent need for continued action — not just from law enforcement, but from society as a whole. Improved prevention, better detection and more effective support for victims remain essential as this deeply troubling issue evolves in an increasingly digital age.  

Attached is a news article regarding child exploitation in the uk 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjd9xnjyy8po

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36











Smileband News


Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Taliban Law Sparks Outrage Over Women’s Rights in Afghanistan

The Taliban authorities in Afghanistan are facing renewed international condemnation following reports that newly enforced interpretations of Islamic law effectively permit husbands to physically discipline their wives under certain circumstances.

Since returning to power in August 2021 after the withdrawal of Western forces, the Taliban have steadily imposed stricter rules governing daily life, particularly for women and girls. These measures have included barring girls from secondary schools and universities, restricting women’s employment in many sectors, and enforcing strict dress codes.

Human rights groups argue that recent guidance issued by religious authorities linked to the Taliban codifies male authority within marriage in ways that leave women vulnerable to abuse. While Taliban officials maintain that their laws are rooted in their interpretation of Sharia, critics say the framework lacks clear protections against domestic violence and fails to provide women with meaningful legal recourse.

International organisations, including the United Nations, have repeatedly expressed alarm over the erosion of women’s rights in Afghanistan. The UN has described the situation as a “systematic removal” of women from public life and warned that normalising domestic violence would further isolate the country diplomatically and economically.

Women’s rights advocates inside and outside Afghanistan say the impact is already being felt. With limited access to education, employment, and independent legal systems, many Afghan women are increasingly dependent on male relatives for survival. In rural areas especially, traditional power structures, now reinforced by state authority, are said to be emboldening abusive behaviour.

The Taliban, however, deny that they endorse abuse. Officials have insisted that Islam prohibits cruelty and argue that Western critics misunderstand Afghan culture and religious principles. They maintain that family matters should be handled within Islamic courts and community frameworks.

Legal experts note that Afghanistan previously had legislation aimed at combating violence against women, though enforcement was uneven even before 2021. Since the Taliban takeover, many of those protections have been dismantled or left unenforced.

The developments have complicated the Taliban’s efforts to gain formal international recognition. Several governments have made clear that improvements in women’s rights are a key condition for broader diplomatic and economic engagement.

As Afghanistan faces ongoing economic hardship and humanitarian crisis, the debate over women’s rights remains central to the country’s future — both domestically and on the global stage.

Attached is a News article regarding Taliban new law that lets the husband beat the wife 

https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/taliban-legalises-domestic-violence-as-long-as-there-are-no-broken-bones-11055881/amp/1

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36













Smileband News


Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Charles Bronson Faces Fresh Parole Board Review

One of Britain’s most notorious inmates, Charles Bronson, is once again at the centre of public attention as the Parole Board prepares to review whether he should be released from prison after nearly five decades behind bars.

Bronson, born Michael Gordon Peterson, has spent much of his adult life in custody since first being jailed in 1974 for armed robbery. Over the years, he has become one of the UK’s most high-profile prisoners, known for repeated violent incidents inside jail, rooftop protests, and prolonged periods in segregation.

A Long and Controversial History

Bronson’s imprisonment has been marked by numerous assaults on prison staff and fellow inmates, hostage-taking incidents, and frequent transfers between high-security facilities. For years he was held at HM Prison Wakefield, one of the country’s most secure prisons.

Despite his record, Bronson has insisted in recent years that he has changed. During previous hearings, he claimed to have renounced violence and expressed a desire to reintegrate into society. He has also attempted to rebrand himself as an artist and poet, producing drawings and written work from behind bars.

The Role of the Parole Board

The Parole Board for England and Wales is responsible for assessing whether prisoners serving indeterminate or life sentences can be safely released into the community. The panel considers risk to the public as its primary concern, reviewing behaviour in custody, psychological reports, and evidence of rehabilitation.

In earlier reviews, the Board concluded that Bronson continued to pose a risk, particularly due to violent incidents committed even while imprisoned. However, supporters argue that decades in solitary conditions may have exacerbated behavioural issues rather than addressed them.

Public Debate

Bronson’s case continues to divide opinion. Critics argue that his repeated violent conduct demonstrates an ongoing danger to society, making release inappropriate. Others question whether keeping someone incarcerated for nearly 50 years — much of it in isolation — serves justice or rehabilitation.

Legal experts note that the key issue is not punishment for past crimes, but whether he currently poses a significant threat to public safety. If the Board determines that risk can be managed through strict licence conditions, supervised accommodation, and monitoring, release could be considered. If not, he will remain behind bars.

What Happens Next?

The review process may involve oral hearings where Bronson can give evidence and be questioned. Psychological assessments and prison behaviour reports will play a crucial role in the final decision.

Whatever the outcome, the case highlights broader questions about long-term imprisonment, rehabilitation, and the purpose of the justice system in England and Wales.

As the Parole Board deliberates, the country once again watches closely — weighing the balance between public protection and the possibility of change.

Attached is a News article regarding Charlie Bronson parole board review 

https://news.sky.com/story/is-charles-bronson-on-the-verge-of-freedom-why-britains-most-notorious-prisoner-faces-catch-22-13493324

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


Google tag (gtag.js) --> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-XDGJVZXVQ4"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-XDGJVZXVQ4'); </script>

<script src="https://cdn-eu.pagesense.io/js/smilebandltd/45e5a7e3cddc4e92ba91fba8dc

894500L65WEHZ4XKDX36














Smileband News

Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband,  Met Police Officer Mahad Abdalla Charged with Rape and Serious Sexual Offences A serving off...