Primark Trainer Print Key to Stopping £1m Burglary Wave A group of burglars responsible for 59 thefts in the Midlands and northern England were dismantled after a footprint from a Primark sneaker became central to linking the crimes. Four individuals received sentences totaling over 38 years in prison, while a fifth man, 29-year-old Endrit Nikoll of Crabtree Road, Walsall, faces sentencing on 29 April. The gang’s meticulous planning involved researching properties online, with Rightmove playing a role in identifying targets. One of the critical clues came from the unique tread pattern of a Primark trainer, which connected the stolen items to the suspects. Footwear Evidence Uncovered Aforementioned by a Cheshire Police forensic expert, every person’s shoe print is distinct, which made the Primark footprint particularly significant. “The rarity of the print at the crime scenes was key,” the officer explained. “It’s almost like a Scooby-Doo mystery, but the connections are clear once you follow the trail of footwear marks,” they added. The gang’s method included breaking in through upper floors, bypassing alarm systems that only covered ground-level areas. They ransacked homes, removing bedding as temporary containers for stolen goods and even extracting entire safes in one instance. “Finding your house in chaos after a thief takes items with sentimental value is deeply unsettling,” said Det Ch Insp Dave Worthington. He emphasized that the operation was not a random act but a calculated effort, with targets selected based on postcode data and property layouts from Rightmove. “They set weekly gold quotas and worked systematically to avoid detection,” he noted. The case gained momentum when Staffordshire Police retrieved DNA from a burglary, which matched 27-year-old gang member Nikoli. Though police had enough evidence to arrest him, they waited to apprehend the entire group. By analyzing Nikoli’s network and cross-referencing digital footprints, investigators built a strong case. All five men, originally from Albania, pleaded guilty to conspiracy and possession of stolen property. Sentences ranged from nine years to nearly 10 years and nine months, with Jade Tubb, Nikoli’s partner, receiving a 12-month suspended sentence and 200 hours of community service. Despite the arrests, nearly half of the £1m in stolen valuables remains missing. Many items found have yet to be returned to their rightful owners. The investigation highlights a blend of forensic analysis, technological tools, and traditional policing methods to unravel the gang’s activities. Additional reporting by Lauren Hirst. For more stories, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC North West on X. Send story ideas via WhatsApp to 0808 100 2230.

Oil Prices Drop Amid Hope for US-Iran Peace Talks Global oil prices saw a decline on Tuesday, driven by renewed optimism about potential US-Iran negotiations. The benchmark Brent crude fell 3.8% to $95.54 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate dropped 6.1% to $92.85. This shift followed a sharp rise above $100 a barrel on Monday, as tensions between the two nations fluctuated after a failed weekend discussion. President Donald Trump’s decision to block Iran’s ports initially triggered market anxiety, but his later remarks hinted at a willingness to engage. “We’ve been called by the other side. They’d like to make a deal very badly,” he told reporters outside the White House. Iran’s proposal to pause uranium enrichment for up to five years, however, was rejected by Washington, which demanded a 20-year suspension. Despite this, talks in Pakistan suggested a possible second round of direct dialogue. Market Reactions and Analyst Perspectives Lindsay James, a Quilter investment strategist, noted the price declines stemmed from “glimmers of hope” that both sides aim for a lasting agreement. “The potential for renewed talks has eased market nerves, especially if Iran refrains from challenging the blockade,” she added. Meanwhile, traders observed some sanctioned tankers navigating the Strait of Hormuz, though their return later raised questions about tracking accuracy or broader US military influence. “Trump’s comments may signal a possible de-escalation,” said Jiajia Yang, an associate professor at James Cook University. “Markets might also be adjusting after a sharp Monday surge, seeking balance.” Analysts remain cautious, emphasizing that Tehran’s decision to delay nuclear plans could significantly ease regional tensions. However, the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned that current prices understate the Middle East crisis. “April may well be even worse than March,” IEA chief Fatih Birol stated. “We’ve already received cargoes loaded before the crisis, but April will see nothing being loaded.” Supply Disruptions and IEA’s Response The IEA reported March marked the “largest disruption in history,” with global supplies falling 10.1 million barrels per day to 97 million barrels per day. In response, all 32 IEA members released 400 million barrels from their reserves. Birol noted that this amount represents just 20% of their total stockpile, leaving ample room for further action. “If needed, we are ready to act immediately,” he said. Energy expert Rahman Daiyan from the University of New South Wales highlighted that Iran contributes only a modest share to global oil supply. “Prices could rise if the blockade escalates and impacts Gulf shipments,” he explained. Some companies, like BP, are anticipating higher profits, with the oil giant forecasting “exceptional” results for the January-March period—a stark contrast to its “weak” performance in the final months of 2025.

Driver Jailed for 13 Months Following Crane Incident A 71-year-old lorry driver received a 13-month sentence after a crane’s unsecured equipment struck a woman while she was pushing a pram through a village. The accident occurred on 22 September 2022 near the B1050 in Willingham, Cambridgeshire, when NHS healthcare assistant Rebecca Ableman, 30, was hit on the head by a loose crane part while walking with her two-year-old daughter, Autumn. Miller, from King’s Lynn, Norfolk, admitted to causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving. At the Peterborough Crown Court sentencing, Judge Matthew Lowe emphasized that “securing the crane unit would have been the work of moments.” The woman had exited a farm shop on Station Road and was on the pavement when the incident happened around 11:15 BST. Ableman sustained severe brain injuries and passed away three weeks later. Miller’s trial, initially set for April 2025, was paused as his legal team requested more time. He later admitted guilt in February 2025, just before the second trial jury was to begin. “Rebecca’s final act was to push Autumn away,” said her father, Russell, in a statement during the hearing. “I will always be grateful that Autumn was unharmed,” added her mother, Susann. “Becky died because basic safety measures were not taken,” noted her partner and Autumn’s father, Chris Tuczemskyi. Prosecutors argued that Miller had been transporting scrap metal from King’s Lynn to Essex and Cambridgeshire. As he passed through Willingham, the crane’s boom, which was not properly secured, moved and extended over the trailer. He became aware of the issue after leaving the village and repositioned it hydraulically. William Carter, the prosecuting barrister, stated that the crane’s boom “slewed” onto the side of the road due to Miller’s failure to secure it. “He neglected an elementary precaution of strapping the boom down,” Carter explained. The lorry was also described as “poorly” maintained. John Dye, Miller’s defense barrister, called the incident an “unfathomable” tragedy. He portrayed Miller as a “hard-working, decent man” who had operated cranes without straps for 40 years. “He was devastated by the damage to the Ableman family,” Dye said, adding that Miller had no prior driving convictions. The judge concluded that Miller’s negligence in securing the crane equipment directly caused Ableman’s death. “He assumed hydraulics would prevent movement of the grabber assembly,” the judge remarked. “This reflects a generally slipshod approach to maintenance,” he added, noting that industry guidelines had been reinforced. Miller will also be banned from driving for two years following his release from prison.

King Will Not Meet Epstein Survivors On US Visit Buckingham Palace has confirmed that King Charles III and Queen Camilla will not convene with survivors of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during the state visit to the United States in late April. However, Queen Camilla is anticipated to engage with advocates for domestic abuse prevention and initiatives targeting violence against women at certain events during the trip, which spans 27 to 30 April. The King’s attendance at the visit may stir diplomatic challenges, particularly amid the UK and US’s ongoing disagreements regarding Iran-related conflicts. Palace officials maintain that the monarch can still contribute to fostering a UK-US alliance, which has endured numerous presidencies and monarchies over time. A spokesperson for the Foreign Office noted that the visit aims to reinforce the enduring partnership between the two nations, emphasizing shared prosperity, security, and historical ties. “We are close allies, and while we have differences, those do not diminish the value both sides derive from this relationship, which has persisted for many decades,” the Foreign Office representative stated. Following the Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor controversy, there has been increasing pressure on royal representatives to meet with Epstein’s victims. Prominent figures such as US Congressman Ro Khanna, survivor Lisa Phillips, and the family of Virginia Giuffre have urged such a meeting. Buckingham Palace, however, insists this would risk hindering current police investigations and legal actions, potentially undermining the survivors’ quest for justice. “We fully recognize the survivors’ perspective, but our stance remains clear: any interference with ongoing inquiries or legal processes would ultimately harm their cause,” a Palace source explained. Queen Camilla, known for her advocacy against domestic abuse, delivered a speech at St James’s Palace that subtly referenced Epstein’s victims. She remarked, “To every survivor of every form of violence, many of whom have not had their stories heard or believed, please know you are not alone.” State visits are conducted by the monarch as a representative of the UK government. This particular trip will commemorate the 250th anniversary of US independence, highlighting the nations’ long-standing collaboration. Despite recent strains, including Trump’s critical remarks about Sir Keir Starmer, the visit is seen as a chance to reaffirm mutual interests. “I greatly respect the King and look forward to spending time with him. It will be TERRIFIC!” Trump previously expressed on social media. While the itinerary offers limited opportunities for unscripted dialogue between the King and the US President, differences in their personalities and approaches may need to be navigated. Sir Keir Starmer, who has acknowledged the current tensions between Downing Street and the White House, emphasized that mature alliances require addressing disputes with respect and focus on outcomes. Additional details from the state visit include the King’s planned stop in Bermuda after departing the US, followed by his return to the United Kingdom. Those outside the UK can access the Royal Watch newsletter for updates on royal developments and analyses.

US-Kuwaiti Journalist Detained in Kuwait After Social Media Posts, Watchdog Says Detention Amid Conflict Coverage Authorities in Kuwait have detained Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, an American-Kuwaiti journalist, following his comments on videos and images linked to the US-Israeli war with Iran, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). The journalist, who has contributed to outlets like the BBC, New York Times, and Al Jazeera, has not been seen since 2 March. CPJ reported that he faces charges including disseminating false information. Context of Other Detentions Kuwait and other Gulf Arab nations have detained individuals for sharing footage of Iranian missile and drone strikes on their territory during the conflict. Kuwait’s military and health ministry stated that these attacks resulted in three civilian deaths, two soldiers, and two border guards. Additionally, six US service members were killed, and three F-15 fighter jets were mistakenly downed by Kuwaiti air defenses. CPJ’s Concerns Over Charges Shihab-Eldin was last seen in Kuwait while visiting family on 2 March. That day, he posted on Substack a verified video of a US F-15 crashing near Kuwait City, along with photos he claimed showed an American pilot ejected in the al-Jahra area. CPJ noted the charges against him—false information, national security threats, and mobile phone misuse—as “vague and overly broad accusations” often used to silence independent media. “We urge Kuwait to release Ahmed Shihab-Eldin and dismiss all charges against him,” said Sara Qudah, CPJ’s regional director. “Journalism is not a crime, and this case exemplifies the trend of using national security laws to suppress critical reporting and shape public perception.” Government’s Response and New Legislation The Kuwaiti interior ministry recently warned citizens to avoid spreading unverified content, emphasizing that such actions are “closely monitored and dealt with firmly.” Meanwhile, the information ministry announced that individuals accused of breaching media rules and misleading the public have been forwarded to prosecutors. Last month, Kuwait’s emir issued a decree to “secure and protect military entities,” allowing up to 10 years in prison for those spreading false rumors or news that undermines confidence in them. The BBC has reached out to the Kuwaiti government for further comment. As of now, no official statement has been issued from Kuwaiti authorities regarding Shihab-Eldin’s detention.

US Treasury Secretary: Economic Sacrifice for Nuclear Deterrence Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, expressed to the BBC that a “limited economic cost” would be acceptable to counter the threat of Iranian nuclear attacks on Western cities. While the International Monetary Fund (IMF) raised alarms about the potential for a global recession due to the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran, Bessent argued that the long-term advantages of security would justify the short-term financial strain. “I wonder what the GDP effect would be if London were hit by a nuclear weapon… I’m more focused on ensuring long-term safety than on temporary economic indicators,” he remarked. Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions and Western Safeguards Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes. The UK government clarified that there was “no formal evaluation” confirming Iran’s intent to target European cities with missiles. Bessent highlighted that the recent strikes had mitigated the “unlikely risk” of Iranian nuclear strikes, stating, “We now know that the Iranians possess mid-range ballistic missiles capable of reaching London, and their pursuit of nuclear capability is clear.” IMF’s Economic Projections In its World Economic Outlook, the IMF warned that in a worst-case scenario—marked by sustained spikes in oil, gas, and food prices—the global economy could grow less than 2% in 2026. This would bring the world to the brink of a recession, a phenomenon that has occurred only four times since 1980, including during the pandemic. Energy costs have surged since the war began over six weeks ago, following the closure of the key Strait of Hormuz shipping route and stalled peace talks. The IMF noted that a prolonged conflict could escalate inflation, raise unemployment, and cause food shortages in certain regions. Even if the war ended immediately, the disruption to oil supplies would mirror the 1970s oil crisis, when Arab producers imposed embargoes on nations supporting Israel. However, the IMF pointed out that reduced reliance on oil and fossil fuels would lessen the impact on consumers. While oil prices climbed near $120 during the conflict, they have since dipped to $95 per barrel. The agency also stressed that a recession risk would grow if severe conditions persisted for two years, but a swift resolution of the conflict could ease 2026 growth to 3.1%, slightly below an earlier projection of 3.3%. Regional Economic Impacts According to IMF forecasts, the UK is expected to face the most significant economic fallout from the energy crisis. Its growth estimate for this year was revised down to 0.8% from 1.3%. The country, however, is anticipated to rebound with a 1.3% expansion in the following year. Meanwhile, Gulf oil-exporting nations may experience a sharp slowdown or contraction in growth this year, while Iran’s economy is projected to shrink by 6.1%—unless the war concludes within weeks, which would allow a 3.2% recovery in 2027.

Asylum Hotel Numbers Drop to 185 After 11 Closures The Home Office has closed eleven hotel facilities used for housing asylum seekers, reducing the total count to 185 from a previous high of approximately 400. This shift follows a strategy to accelerate the removal of individuals without legal residency and to relocate others to alternative accommodations such as military barracks. Home Office Minister Alex Norris attributed the decline to the government’s efforts to address the backlog in asylum processing and to decrease reliance on hotels. He highlighted that these facilities had become a source of tension for local communities and a lure for those attempting to enter the UK illegally. “We know the traffickers say ‘come to the UK, live in a hotel, work illegally’,” Norris stated. “We’re changing that reality, we’re trying to reduce that pull factor.” The Conservatives criticized the move, arguing it was an attempt to conceal the broader issue by shifting asylum seekers to residential apartments. “Shunting people from hotels into residential apartments to hide what is going on,” said Chris Philp, the Conservative shadow home secretary. Asylum seekers typically cannot work during their first year in the UK while their claims are being processed. When they lack private housing, the Home Office is obligated to provide temporary lodging. The surge in hotel use began in 2020, driven by delays in processing and a shortage of permanent housing options. Recent figures show that £2.1bn was spent on asylum hotel operations in the 2024-2025 financial year, compared to £3bn in the prior period. As of December, 103,426 individuals were in asylum accommodations, with 30,657 specifically housed in hotels. Two-thirds of all asylum seekers are now accommodated in dispersal sites, usually community-based housing. Norris anticipates the number of people in hotels will fall below 29,585, the level recorded when Labour took office. The peak usage of asylum hotels under the Conservatives was over 56,000 in 2023, though numbers have since dipped after Labour’s assumption of power. Labour has pledged to eliminate hotel use for asylum seekers by July 2029, estimating annual savings of nearly £65m. The minister claimed the closures would help curb illegal arrivals, though 100,625 individuals still reached the UK in 2025, surpassing the pre-election target. Political responses have varied. The Liberal Democrats emphasized that while closing hotels is beneficial, it merely relocates the issue. “Closing asylum hotels is right for both communities and asylum seekers themselves, but it doesn’t fix the problem; it just moves it elsewhere,” said Liberal Democrat Home Affairs Spokesperson Max Wilkinson. Reform UK criticized the government for moving illegal migrants between taxpayer-funded accommodations. “It is absolutely shocking that the government is boasting about moving illegal migrants from one form of taxpayer-funded accommodation to another,” said Zia Yusuf, Reform UK’s home affairs spokesman. Local protests have emerged, with some councillors opposing the plan. Rachel Millward, a local councillor, noted the Home Office had not adequately consulted communities or outlined the strategy. The Green Party has yet to respond to the developments.

JD Vance Backs Orbán Despite Overwhelming Opposition Victory JD Vance, the U.S. vice-president, has defended his recent decision to support Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s campaign efforts, which occurred just days before the opposition party Tisza secured a decisive electoral win. Vance expressed admiration for Orbán, calling him a “great guy” who had executed a “very good job,” emphasizing his belief in Orbán’s leadership as a rare European figure challenging Brussels bureaucracy. While acknowledging Orbán’s loss, Vance assured that the United States would “work very well” with the new government, highlighting shared goals despite political differences. Péter Magyar, Tisza’s leader, initially criticized Vance’s involvement, stressing that “no foreign country may interfere in Hungarian elections.” Yet, Magyar later admitted the U.S. remains a “strong and important” NATO ally, expressing openness to dialogue if Trump or others reached out. Tisza’s Triumph and the Road Ahead Magyar’s party now holds the majority, with preliminary results showing a “super majority” of 137 parliamentary seats. Though final figures are pending, he expects Tisza to solidify its lead. Orbán, meanwhile, will continue governing as a caretaker until Magyar assumes office, with the three parliamentary leaders set to meet President Tamás Sulyok on Wednesday. Sulyok, tasked with forming Hungary’s new parliament and recommending the next prime minister by May 12, has yet to resign despite Magyar’s call to do so, labeling him a “puppet” of Orbán’s regime. Magyar aims to convene the National Assembly promptly and proposed a new prime minister by May 5, though Sulyok’s office insists he will not step down. Magyar’s Vision for Reform Magyar outlined his priorities, including establishing an Anti-Corruption Office and a National Asset Recovery and Protection Agency. He also plans to initiate Hungary’s accession to the EU’s European Public Prosecutor’s Office, addressing systemic issues under Orbán’s rule. The new government seeks to unlock €17bn in suspended EU funds and secure additional €16bn in defense loans frozen due to concerns over rule of law and democratic progress. Magyar criticized Orbán’s tenure, describing Hungary as the EU’s “poorest and most corrupt” member. He pointed to billions lost in state contracts and widespread corruption, vowing to rectify these challenges. In a notable move, he pledged to ensure unbiased media coverage by suspending all news on public channels until state media independence is guaranteed, drawing parallels to the BBC model. EU Pressures and Tisza’s Next Steps European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Magyar’s commitment to restoring rule of law and aligning with European values, following a discussion on Tuesday. EU leaders are also urging Hungary to lift an Orbán-imposed veto on €90bn in Ukrainian aid, which was critical in the weeks prior to the election. Magyar dismissed the veto as irrelevant, noting Hungary was among three nations that opted out of the loan last December. Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the urgency of releasing Kyiv’s aid “very quickly” after the change in government. Merz, who met Magyar in Munich earlier this year, confirmed that the new leader will prioritize Berlin in his international engagements. The transition marks a pivotal moment in Hungary’s political landscape, with Magyar set to appear on public radio and TV on Wednesday as he prepares to take the helm. “No foreign country may interfere in Hungarian elections,” Magyar stated, before revising his stance to acknowledge the U.S. as a key NATO partner. “If Trump or anyone else calls, I’ll speak to them.” “There is swift work to be done to restore the rule of law and realign with our shared European values,” von der Leyen said, reflecting the Commission’s support for Magyar’s reform agenda.