Ukraine admits faking death of anti-Kremlin journalist

Ukraine admits faking death of anti-Kremlin journalist
source: AFP

AFP / Sergei SUPINSKY Anti-Kremlin Russian journalist Arkady Babchenko apologised to his wife

Ukraine admitted Wednesday it had staged the murder of anti-Kremlin journalist Arkady Babchenko in order to foil an attempt on his life by Russia, a stunning development in a case that had already provoked an outpouring of grief and a diplomatic spat.

Reporters gasped and applauded as Babchenko appeared alive and well at a press conference in Kiev, less than 24 hours after authorities said he had died from three gunshots to the back in the stairwell of his apartment building in a contract-style killing.

The head of Ukraine's security service Vasyl Grytsak said at the press conference that the assassination was faked as part of a "special operation" to pre-empt a real plot to kill him.

"Thanks to this operation we were able to foil a cynical plot and document how the Russian security service was planning for this crime," Grytsak said.

He announced that the authorities had arrested the alleged mastermind of the plot, saying a Ukrainian citizen named only by the initial G. had offered to pay a hitman $30,0000 to carry out the killing after being recruited by Russian special forces.

- Put wife through 'hell' -

Grytsak also thanked Babchenko and his family, who he said were in the loop about the secret operation.



AFP / Sergei SUPINSKY Flowers and pictures of anti-Kremlin journalist Arkadi Babchenko were left at the Russian embassy in Kiev after his reported death -- which Ukraine has since admitted was faked

The reporter, however, apologised to his wife for putting her through "this hell she had to live through for three days...but there was no other option".

News of the "death" of the prominent Russian war correspondent and former soldier set off a series of recriminations between Kiev and Moscow, and pictures and flowers were laid by mourners at the Russian embassy in Kiev.

Ukrainian officials led by Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman accused Russia of being behind the killing of the Kremlin critic, a charge that Moscow batted back.

- 'Pathetic stunt' -

After the truth of the reported assassination came to light, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said it was "great news" that Babchenko was alive.

But on Twitter she slammed the "propagandistic effect" of the set-up.

Reporters Without Borders condemned the faked death as a "pathetic stunt".

And Russian investigative journalist Andrei Soldatov, a former colleague of Babchenko, also questioned the value of the operation.

"To me, it's crossing a line big time. Babchenko is a journalist not a policeman, for Christ sake, and part of our job is trust, whatever Trump & Putin say about fake news," he wrote on Twitter.

"I'm glad he is alive, but he undermined even further the credibility of journalists and the media," he added.

- 'Repeated death threats' -

A number of Kremlin critics have been killed in Ukraine in recent years, with one gunned down on a Kiev street in broad daylight and another whose car exploded.

Babchenko fought in Russia's two Chechen campaigns in the 1990s and early 2000s before becoming a war correspondent and author. He repeatedly said he faced death threats.

He has contributed to a number of media outlets including top opposition newspaper Novaya Gazeta and is an avid blogger, accusing Russian authorities of killing Kremlin critics and unleashing wars in Ukraine, Syria and elsewhere.

He wrote about his experience as a young soldier in the Chechen campaigns in a book published in English under the title "One Soldier's War".

Babchenko left Russia in February 2017 after receiving threats, living first in the Czech Republic, then in Israel, before moving to Kiev.

He has hosted a programme on the Crimean Tatar TV station ATR for the past year.

Babchenko made a name for himself with his poignant reportages from the frontlines, including the conflict in eastern Ukraine that has killed more than 10,000 people.

In recent years his increasingly bombastic posts pushed the boundaries of good taste and some of his colleagues and followers stopped reading him on Facebook.

Calm returns after most severe Israel-Gaza flare-up in years

Calm returns after most severe Israel-Gaza flare-up in years
source: AFP

AFP / THOMAS COEX There were no immediate reports of injuries in Tuesday's strikes on Gaza

Calm returned to the Gaza Strip and nearby Israeli communities on Wednesday after the worst military flare-up since a 2014 war raised fears of yet another full-blown conflict in the beleaguered Palestinian enclave.

The exchange of fire on Tuesday and into the early hours of Wednesday began with a barrage of rocket and mortars into Israel from Gaza.

Israel said it targeted some 65 militant sites in the Gaza Strip. It also said around 100 rockets and mortars fired from Gaza either exploded in Israel or were intercepted by air defences.

Three Israeli soldiers were wounded, one moderately and two lightly, the military said. There were no reports of casualties in Gaza.

Late Tuesday, an Islamic Jihad spokesman said a ceasefire had been reached, and on Wednesday senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya also spoke of an accord.

Though Israeli officials denied being part of a ceasefire, calm was maintained on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel's military had delivered the "harshest blow" in years to Gaza militants.

"Since yesterday, the army has responded forcefully to fire from the Gaza Strip with attacks against dozens of targets of terrorist organisations in the harshest blow that we have dealt them in years," Netanyahu said at an event in Tel Aviv, according to his office.

- 'Should be outraged' -


AFP / THOMAS COEX A picture taken from Gaza City on May 29, 2018, shows the aftermath of an Israeli air strike on the Palestinian enclave


Tuesday's violence followed weeks of deadly unrest along the border between Israel and the blockaded Palestinian enclave.

In a rare joint statement, Hamas and Islamic Jihad declared shared responsibility for the rocket and mortar fire, saying it was in retaliation for Israeli attacks targeting their positions.

Three Islamic Jihad members were killed in an Israeli strike Sunday, and the group vowed revenge. Islamic Jihad is the second-largest armed group in Gaza after Hamas.

The United Nations Security Council is expected to meet later on Wednesday to discuss the violence, following a US request for an urgent meeting.

"The Security Council should be outraged and respond to this latest bout of violence directed at innocent Israeli civilians," US ambassador Nikki Haley said.

Kuwait, a non-permanent council member representing Arab countries, circulated a draft resolution calling "for the consideration of measures to guarantee the safety and protection of the Palestinian civilian population".

Early Tuesday, some 28 mortar shells were fired toward Israel from the Gaza Strip.

Israel said most were intercepted by its air defence systems but put residents in the area on high alert, ordering them to stay within 15 seconds of shelters.

One mortar shell exploded near a kindergarten building, a military spokesman said, damaging the structure. No children were present at the time.

Israel's military began air strikes soon after.

Later in the day, further rockets and mortar rounds from Gaza were intercepted or exploded in Israel, the army said.

It said some of the mortars fired were supplied by Iran.

On Tuesday night, a rocket hit an Israeli home near the Gaza border, but no one was hurt, the military said.

- 'Any upcoming escalation' -


AFP / Jack GUEZ An Israeli army tank patrols along the border between Israel and the Gaza Strip on May 29, 2018

Israel's military said it hit "military targets" including a tunnel stretching into its territory, weapons stores and militant bases.

Hamas said in a statement Tuesday that "what the resistance carried out this morning comes within the framework of the natural right to defend our people".

The military flare-up followed weeks of deadly demonstrations and clashes along the Gaza-Israel border, beginning on March 30.

The protests demanded that Palestinians who fled or were expelled in the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation be allowed to return to their former homes, now inside Israel.

They peaked on May 14, when at least 61 Palestinians were killed in clashes as tens of thousands of Gazans protested the US transfer of its embassy in Israel to the disputed city of Jerusalem the same day.

Low-level demonstrations and clashes have continued since.

At least 122 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in the unrest. No Israelis have been killed.

Israel says its actions are necessary to defend its borders, accusing Hamas of encouraging thousands of Palestinians to break through the border and attack Israelis.

But Israel has faced international criticism and calls for an independent investigation over its use of live fire during the protests and border clashes.

Bayer, Monsanto on cusp of marriage after US green light

Bayer, Monsanto on cusp of marriage after US green light
source: AFP

AFP/File / Patrik STOLLARZ, John THYS US authorities said German pharmaceutical giant Bayer and US conglomerate Monsanto can proceed with their merger afer executing $9 billion in divestitures

Nearly two years after unveiling their proposed merger, German chemicals firm Bayer and US agricultural giant Monsanto are on the cusp of finalizing the deal following conditional US government approval.

The Justice Department's antitrust division Tuesday announced it was ready to approve the massive transaction once the two companies break off key units where they overlap. The government said the $9 billion in divestitures was necessary to address competition concerns.

"This comprehensive structural solution to significant horizontal and vertical competition concerns -- the largest merger divestiture ever required by the United States -- preserves competition in the sale of these critical agricultural products and protects American farmers and consumers," assistant attorney general Makan Delrahim said.

The mandated asset sales cover areas of overlap between the two companies including Bayer's cotton, canola, soybean and vegetable seed business and a Bayer herbicide that competes with Monsanto's Roundup product.

The companies also must sell key intellectual property and research programs to address competitiveness worries.

"Without the agreed-to divestitures, the proposed merger would likely result in higher prices, lower quality, and fewer choices across a wide array of seed and crop protection product," the US agency said.

"Under the terms of the proposed settlement, Bayer must divest those Bayer businesses that compete with Monsanto today."

The German company, which has been chasing approval from antitrust regulators on both sides of the Atlantic ever since it launched the bid in September 2016, cheered the announcement.

"Receipt of the DOJ's approval brings us close to our goal of creating a leading company in agriculture," Bayer CEO Werner Baumann said in a statement.

Monsanto, contacted by AFP, sent Bayer's statement.

The settlement still must win approval from a US court. The agreement also is subject to public comment under US government administrative procedures.

- BASF deal approved -

The EU approved the buyout, which is to create the world's biggest integrated pesticide and seeds company, in March.

Bayer was previously told by competition authorities, including the European Commission, to sacrifice existing activities in seeds and pesticides worth 7.6 billion euros ($8.8 billion) to homegrown rival BASF in exchange for approval of the Monsanto deal.

That means there will be less overlap and fewer savings when Bayer assumes the US firm's product range of genetically-modified seeds and compatible pesticides.

The EU Commission said separately on Tuesday that it approved BASF as a suitable buyer for the assets.

Environmentalists are unhappy with the deal, fearing it will give too much power to the world's leading manufacturers of GMOs and the controversial weedkiller glyphosate.

When launching the bid, Bayer said it would not introduce genetically modified crops in Europe. The deal was part of a wave of consolidation in agriculture that included combinations between Dow Chemical and DuPont and ChemChina and Syngenta.

Prior to the US announcement, Bayer had received approval from numerous other regulators, including in China and Brazil.

Shares of Monsanto rose 0.7 percent to $127.38, a rare gainer in a down day for global stocks.

Saudi Arabia seeks to criminalise sexual harassment

Saudi Arabia seeks to criminalise sexual harassment
source: AFP


AFP/File / FAYEZ NURELDINE Saudi Arabia's Shura Council, which advises the cabinet, approved a draft law which would introduce a prison term of up to five years and a penalty of 300,000 riyals for sexual harassment, weeks before the decades-long ban on women driving is lifted

Saudi Arabia is preparing to outlaw sexual harassment, officials said Tuesday, less than a month before the conservative kingdom lifts its decades-long ban on women driving.

The kingdom's Shura Council, which advises the cabinet, approved a draft law on Monday which would introduce a prison term of up to five years and a penalty of 300,000 riyals ($80,000).

The draft bill "is a very important addition to the history of regulations in the kingdom", Shura Council member Latifa al-Shaalan was quoted as saying in an information ministry statement.

"It fills a large legislative vacuum, and it is a deterrent," she added.

The kingdom's driving ban on women is slated to end June 24, as part of a highly publicised liberalisation drive launched by powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who styles himself as a progressive reformer.

The prince has also lifted a decades-long ban on cinemas, allowed mixed-gender concerts and clipped the powers of the long-feared religious police.

But the social reforms appear overshadowed by the recent arrests of at least 11 activists, mostly identified by rights groups as veteran women campaigners for the right to drive and to end the conservative country's male guardianship system.

Authorities have accused the activists of "suspicious contact with foreign parties", providing financial support to "enemies" and attempting to undermine the kingdom's "security and stability".

Reports in state-backed media branded some of the detainees traitors and "agents of embassies".

At least four detained activists were released last week, campaigners including Amnesty International said, but the fate of the others remains unclear.

"Given the significant loosening of certain restrictions on women's activities in Saudi Arabia... it is perplexing why both women and men engaged in campaigning for such positive developments are now being targeted by the authorities," the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said in a statement.

"If, as it appears, their detention is related solely to their work as human rights defenders and activists on women's issues, they should be released immediately."

Saudi authorities have so far not commented publicly on the detentions.

Kim Yong Chol: N. Korean leader's hawkish right-hand man

Kim Yong Chol: N. Korean leader's hawkish right-hand man
source: AFP

 POOL/AFP/File / Patrick Semansky Kim Yong Chol has successfully navigated three generations of the ruling Kim dynasty, and now finds himself at the forefront of North Korea's re-engagement with the outside world

The hawkish North Korean general on his way to New York for pre-summit talks is a skillful politician who has thrived through three generations of the ruling Kim family.

Kim Yong Chol, described as Kim Jong Un's right-hand man, left Beijing on Wednesday bound for the North's "imperialist enemy" where he will meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and possibly Donald Trump.

The man blamed by South Korea for the 2010 sinking of a warship that killed 46 sailors will become the most senior North Korean to step on US soil in nearly two decades.

The meeting is the latest in a flurry of diplomacy as the two sides lay the groundwork for a historic first summit, planned for June 12.

The four-star general, who is believed to be in his 70s, has been at the forefront of Pyongyang's emergence from global isolation this year.

He attended the closing ceremony of the South's Winter Olympics in February, sitting just feet (centimetres) from Ivanka Trump.

He was by Kim's side when the young North Korean leader met South Korean President Moon Jae-in in April, and again for the leaders' surprise second summit on May 26.

But the march to become Kim Jong Un's most trusted general has been a long one requiring intellectual heft, nimble footwork and a willingness to take extreme measures.

- Purge -

Kim Yong Chol first donned the uniform of the Korean People's Army in the 1960s, when he was assigned to guard the heavily-fortified border that bisects the peninsula.

A graduate of Pyongyang's elite Kim Il Sung Military University, he went on to make a name for himself as an expert on the hated South Korean regime.

Kim often "explained everything about the South's political and military situation for more than an hour without looking at a script", defector and former army colonel Choi Joo Hwal told the Seoul-based Daily NK news website in 2016.

He won a series of promotions under the country's founding leader Kim Il Sung and even led the North's military delegation for talks with the South in 1989.

Kim "came to the attention of top leadership figures by hard work and accomplishment and not through patronage connections", the respected 38 North website reported.

Kim's role as a military interlocutor in dealings with the South continued under Kim Jong Il, but it was his rise to the top job at the Reconnaissance General Bureau, overseeing foreign spying operations in 2009, that made him notorious.

It was at Kim that South Korean intelligence pointed the finger of blame when the Cheonan corvette was torpedoed in 2010, and when artillery units shelled a border island, killing four people.

Seoul said the military man was manoeuvring to show loyalty to the regime as the power transfer from Kim Jong Il to his son was getting under way.

That shift was completed in 2011, when the untested Kim Jong Un ascended, carrying out a purge that saw many senior figures removed or even executed.

It was a purge Kim Yong Chol would survive, cementing his reputation as a hawk in 2013 when he threatened to break the ceasefire that ended the Korean War and to turn the US into a "sea of fire" with a nuclear strike.

But in the recent reconciliatory push he has also made efforts to paint himself as a more approachable figure.

Reportedly a gifted linguist, Kim has appeared at ease in international settings, and even attempted a joke with Seoul reporters who visited Pyongyang in April for a pop concert.

But it was a joke with a edge of steel, and a reminder of where his loyalties lie."I am Kim Yong Chol, the guy blamed by the South for the Cheonan ship sinking"

Gunman with Islamist links kills three in Belgian city

Gunman with Islamist links kills three in Belgian city
source: AFP

Belga/AFP / ERIC LALMAND Forensic police worked at the scene of the in shooting in Liege, Belgium, where a gunman shot dead two policewomen with their own weapons before killing a bystander

Belgian police were Wednesday investigating how a gunman on their own watchlist for contacts with Islamist extremists came to launch a brazen suspected terror attack, shooting dead two female officers with their own weapons before killing a bystander.

The bloodshed in the eastern industrial city of Liege began around 10:30 am (0830 GMT) Tuesday when the attacker armed with a knife repeatedly stabbed the two policewomen before using their own firearms to kill them.

Federal prosecutors said they had launched a terror investigation into the incident and would hold a press conference later Wednesday.

"The signs are pointing towards a terrorist act," prosecutor spokesman Eric Van Der Sypt told AFP.

Amateur footage picked up by AFP showed the gunman shouting "Allahu Akbar" ("God is greatest") as he walked through the streets during the rampage.

In another video, a short and intense burst of gunfire is audible, after which the man lies on the ground.


BELGA/AFP / ERIC LALMAND Hearses came to the scene of the shooting in Liege, where the attacker shot dead three people


"Armed with a knife, the suspect followed and attacked two police officers, and used their own firearms to kill them," prosecutor Philippe Dulieu told a news conference.

"He continued on foot, attacking a parked vehicle where he opened fire on a 22-year-old man in the passenger seat. The young man died.

"He then continued and entered the Leonie de Waha school. He took a woman working there as hostage. Police intervened, he came out firing on the police officers, wounding several before he was killed."

Belgium remains on high alert after a string of attacks including twin suicide bombings in Brussels in 2016 claimed by the Islamic State group.

A source close to the investigation told AFP that the gunman was on a special police watchlist because of his contacts with radical Islamists.

The source named the attacker as Benjamin Herman, born in 1982, saying he had past convictions for robbery, violence and drug dealing.

Herman was "already on the run" after committing another murder on Monday night in the town of On, in southern Belgium, the source said, though local prosecutors said they have not yet established a link with the Liege incident.


AFP / JOHN THYS Police said the Liege attacker deliberately targeted police

Belgian broadcaster RTBF reported he had been released from prison on Monday.

"He is suspected of having been radicalised (in prison)... He has been reported or presumed to be belonging to the entourage of an Islamist recruiter," the source said on condition of anonymity.

Liege police chief Christian Beaupere said it was "clear that the assassin's objective was to attack the police". One of the four officers wounded had suffered a serious leg injury, he added.

Liege, a major city in Western Europe's former industrial heartland, was the scene of another bloody shootout in 2011 when a former convict killed six people and wounded more than 120.

- 'Cowardly violence' -

Prime Minister Charles Michel denounced what he called the "cowardly and blind violence" of Tuesday's attack.

"All our support for the victims and their loved ones. We are following the situation with the security services and the crisis centre," Michel tweeted.

There was support from other European countries, with French President Emmanuel Macron condemning the "terrible attack" and expressing the "solidarity of the French people".

British Prime Minister Theresa May said the UK "stands resolute with our Belgian allies against terror".


AFP / JOHN THYS Panicked parents came to collect their children from the school where the attacker took a hostage


A major security cordon was set up around the area, while panicked parents came to collect their children from the school complex.

The governor of Liege province said all the children and staff were safe and unhurt.

"All the children are fine, those of the primary and kindergarten saw nothing, they were evacuated through the back of the school," Julie Fernandez, mother of a seven-year-old at the school, told AFP.

"They were cared for by staff and psychologists and high school students were cared for in a nearby park," added Fernandez, who is also an MP.

- Terror alert -

Belgium has been on high alert since authorities in January 2015 smashed a terror cell in the town of Verviers that was planning an attack on police.

The cell also had links to Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the mastermind of the November 2015 Islamic State attacks on Paris that killed 130 people.

Belgium further raised its terror alert level after the Paris attack and placed the capital Brussels on lockdown for a week.

IS suicide attacks then targeted Brussels airport and a metro station, which killed 32 people in March 2016.

In August that same year, a machete-wielding man shouting "Allahu Akbar" attacked two policewomen in the industrial town of Charleroi before being shot dead.

The country's law enforcement agencies and intelligence services came under intense scrutiny for apparently missing a series of leads after the Paris attacks that could have led to the Brussels bombers.

Top North Korean heads to US, Russian FM to visit Pyongyang

Top North Korean heads to US, Russian FM to visit Pyongyang
source: AFP

Korea Summit Press Pool/AFP / Korea Summit Press Pool North Korean general Kim Yong Chol (left) also attended an inter-Korean summit at the truce village of Panmunjom last month

A senior figure in the North Korean regime was en route to the US on Wednesday, and Russia's top diplomat was preparing to visit Pyongyang as diplomatic preparations for a historic nuclear summit between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un gathered pace.

General Kim Yong Chol, right-hand man to the North Korean leader, will meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in New York, officials said.

Trump confirmed the general was on his way in a tweet and boasted that Washington would have a "great team" for the talks aimed at resolving the nuclear standoff.

The US president still hopes the summit will take place on June 12 in Singapore.

"Meetings are currently taking place concerning Summit, and more. Kim Young (sic) Chol, the Vice Chairman of North Korea, heading now to New York. Solid response to my letter, thank you!" Trump wrote.

Moscow said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would travel to North Korea on Thursday to discuss Pyongyang's nuclear programme.

Last month the North's foreign minister Ri Yong Ho held rare talks with Lavrov in Moscow, part of a quickening effort to improve strained ties with global powers.

Russia was a member of six-nation talks held between 2003-8 aimed at persuading the North to scrap its nuclear programme.

Japan is also keenly watching summit preparations. Trump will meet its Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Washington on June 7, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said.

"Since the president's May 24 letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, the North Koreans have been engaging," she said.

"The United States continues to actively prepare for President Trump's expected summit with leader Kim in Singapore."


 AFP / AFP


Kim Yong Chol was at Beijing airport Wednesday for his flight to New York. He used the restricted VIP entrance, according to AFP journalists.

Pompeo's spokeswoman said it would be the third meeting between Pompeo -- who opened contacts with the isolated Pyongyang regime when he was still CIA director -- and Kim.

"We're still finalising exactly what these meetings will look like," she said.

The trip is part of a flurry of diplomacy before the on-again, off-again summit.

- Truce village -

Trump briefly scrapped the talks last week, citing "open hostility" from the North, but since then both sides have dialled down the rhetoric and the process appears to be back on track.


AFP / Since the US cancelled the planned summit last week, both sides have dialled down the rhetoric

On Sunday US negotiators, headed by Washington's ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim, began meeting North Korean counterparts in the truce village of Panmunjom that divides the two Koreas.

"They plan to have additional meetings this week," Sanders said.

Kim Yong Chol will be the most senior North Korean on US soil since Vice Marshal Jo Myong Rok met then-president Bill Clinton in 2000.


AFP / GREG BAKER General Kim Yong Chol (L) be the most senior North Korean on US soil since Vice Marshal Jo Myong Rok met then president Bill Clinton in 2000


The general has played a front-seat role during recent rounds of diplomacy aimed at ending the nuclear stalemate on the Korean peninsula.

He sat next to Trump's daughter Ivanka, who is also a White House aide, during February's closing ceremony for the Winter Olympics in South Korea, an event that was seen as a turning point in the nuclear crisis.

He also accompanied Kim Jong Un on both of his recent trips to China to meet President Xi Jinping, and held talks with Pompeo when he travelled to Pyongyang.

- Yawning gap -

The general is a notorious figure in South Korea, where he is accused of masterminding the 2010 sinking of the Cheonan navy corvette, which killed 46 sailors, an attack for which North Korea denies responsibility.

From 2009 to 2016, he also headed North Korea's General Reconnaissance Bureau, the unit tasked with cyber warfare and intelligence gathering.


AFP / Roslan RAHMAN Kim Chang Son (L) gets into a car as he leaves a hotel in Singapore

General Kim is one of several North Korean officials under US sanctions, but State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said she was sure the US had taken appropriate steps to allow him to visit New York unmolested.

His journey to the US caps a frenetic few days of meetings between North Korean and American officials.

An AFP photographer saw Kim Chang Son, Kim Jong Un's de facto chief of staff, in Singapore Tuesday for preparatory discussions there.

The key task is to settle the agenda. The main stumbling block is likely to be the concept of "denuclearization" -- both sides say they want it, but there is a yawning gap between their definitions.

Washington wants North Korea to quickly give up all its nuclear weapons in a verifiable way in return for sanctions and economic relief.

But analysts say North Korea will be unwilling to cede its nuclear deterrent unless it is given security guarantees that the US will not try to topple the regime.

bur-jta-dc-lth/sm/hg

Yemen forces plan siege of key rebel-held port

Yemen forces plan siege of key rebel-held port
source: AFP


AFP / ABDO HYDER Yemenis check the wreckage of an armoured vehicle after clashes near the coastal town of Hodeida, on May 29, 2018

Pro-government forces in Yemen are preparing to surround a key Red Sea port in a bid to force Huthi rebels to surrender it without a fight, military sources said Wednesday.

At least 60 fighters were killed in the latest clashes and air strikes, according to medical sources.

Loyalist fighters backed by Saudi and Emirati forces are sending reinforcements ahead of a "new operation" to enter Hodeida city and seize its port, a commander from one of the forces said.

Hodeida port is the main conduit for humanitarian aid into Yemen, where years of war have left some 22 million people in need of food aid.

Colonel Sadiq Duwaid, spokesman for the "National Resistance", one of three main forces taking part in the operation, said it was "being bolstered by new forces... that will take part in retaking Hodeida".

"First, we will cut off supply lines, especially between (rebel-held capital) Sanaa and Hodeida, then we will place the Huthis under siege and bring them down, perhaps without a fight," he said.

Clashes broke out east of the port city on Wednesday while the Saudi-led coalition carried out numerous air strikes on rebel positions, Yemeni military sources said.

Seven pro-government fighters were killed and 14 wounded, according to medical sources in Hodeida province, while at least 53 rebels also died.

The deadly clashes come a day after an AFP reporter saw a large military convoy heading towards Hodeida from Mokha, 180 kilometres (112 miles) to the south.

- UN 'extremely concerned' -

Hodeida lies 230 kilometres from Sanaa, which the Huthis seized in 2014.

This prompted a Saudi-led military intervention in Yemen the following year, aimed at propping up the internationally-recognised government of exiled President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi.

The coalition accuses the rebels of using Hodeida as a launchpad for attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and for smuggling in rockets.


AFP / AFP Map of Yemen locating the rebel-held port of Hodeida, now the target of Yemeni government forces


The Iran-backed insurgents have in recent months ramped up missile attacks against neighbouring Saudi Arabia.

Nearly 10,000 people have been killed since the Saudi-led alliance launched its intervention in Yemen in March 2015.

More than 2,200 others have died from cholera and millions are on the verge of famine in what the United Nations says is the world's gravest humanitarian crisis.

The UN warned Tuesday that any operation aimed at seizing Hodeida would disrupt the entry of aid shipments to Yemen, 70 percent of which flow through the rebel-held port.

"We are extremely concerned about the situation around Hodeida," said spokesman Stephane Dujarric, adding that the UN had taken precautions in case of "further escalation".

- 'Mass mobilisation' -

The UAE, Saudi Arabia's main coalition ally, set up a force in early 2018 to ramp up the coastal offensive, leading a disparate collective of groups with the stated goal of taking Hodeida.

The forces include the "Giant Brigades" -- a former elite unit of the Yemeni army rebuilt by the UAE -- which has been at the vanguard of the offensive, reinforced by thousands of fighters from southern Yemen.

The "National Resistance" is made up of loyalists of Yemen's ex-president Ali Abdullah Saleh, who was assassinated by his former Huthi allies in December. It is commanded by his nephew Tarek Saleh.

The third force, the "Tihama Resistance", is named for a Red Sea coastal region from which it draws most of its fighters, who are loyal to Hadi.

The fighting in western Yemen has been fierce, slowed by landmines that Yemeni military sources say have been laid by the insurgents.


AFP / ABDO HYDER Workers inspect damages at the site of an air strike on the maintenance hub at the Hodeidah port, on May 27, 2018

The Huthis have said they are ready to thwart any coalition operation and have urged Hodeida residents to join their ranks to prevent the city's capture.

Hamoud Abbad, the Huthi-appointed governor of Sanaa, has called for "mass mobilisation" to defend the front and appealed to tribesmen in the area.

Rebel-run media outlets on Wednesday claimed a drone attack on "the enemy's air defences on the west coast" and said an overland counter-attack south of Hodeida had "inflicted heavy losses on the enemy".

But in a phone call to Hodeida's governor, Prime Minister Ahmed bin Dagher called on the city's residents to "close ranks... against the Huthi militia which is losing strength every day".

Taekwondo for peace: Korean youths perform for pope

Taekwondo for peace: Korean youths perform for pope
source: AFP

 AFP / TIZIANA FABI "To see the two Koreas together is a message of peace for all humanity," the pope said

Youths from North and South Korea treated Pope Francis on Wednesday to a display of their taekwondo prowess in a demonstration for peace on their divided peninsula.

The 10 martial arts athletes, half in white and half in black uniforms, staged a dramatic high kick in which one of them shattered a wood panel.


 AFP / TIZIANA FABI The martial arts athletes, half in white and half in black uniforms, performed for the pope in Saint Peter's Square


They then unfurled a banner reading "Peace is more precious than victory".

A little Korean girl released a dove of peace to cap the performance during the pope's weekly general audience in Saint Peter's Square.


 AFP / TIZIANA FABI A Korean girl released a dove as a sign of peace

"To see the two Koreas together is a message of peace for all humanity," the pope said.

Pope Francis late last month praised North and South Korean leaders Kim Jong Un and Moon Jae-in for their "brave commitment" to peace.

Italy in limbo as caretaker PM stalls on cabinet nominees

Italy in limbo as caretaker PM stalls on cabinet nominees
source: AFP

AFP / Andreas SOLARO Carlo Cottarelli is charged with forming a caretaker government but populists have vowed to block it

Italy was stuck in political limbo Wednesday, awaiting a decision on a caretaker government amid talk of snap elections and the rumoured return of a far-right coalition that collapsed at the weekend.

Talks between President Sergio Mattarella and Carlo Cottarelli, his technocrat pick for prime minister, have dragged on, and the political turmoil has raised concerns about the stability of the eurozone.

And even if the former IMF economist known as "Mr Scissors" does manage to piece together a government, it will struggle to win approval in parliament.

Cottarelli on Sunday pledged to deliver a list of ministers "as soon as possible" but by Wednesday, had still not unveiled his team, prompting speculation Mattarella was mulling fresh talks with the anti-establishment Five Star Movement and nationalist League.

Their coalition government fell apart at the weekend after Mattarella rejected their proposed eurosceptic economy minister, Paolo Savona.

Fuelling the rumours was a report by news agency AGI which quoted Cottarelli as saying he was "awaiting further developments" due to the new possibility of a "political government" being formed.

Five Star leader Luigi Di Maio said the only solution was to approve the original lineup put together by the two parties and headed by their little-known PM pick Giuseppe Conte who renounced his mandate at the weekend.

But the League has so far refused to countenance a cabinet without Savona managing the eurozone's third-largest economy.

Other than that, the only option was "immediate elections", he said.

- Parliamentary anger -


AFP / Frédéric BOURGEAIS, Jules BONNARD Italy: 61 governments in 70 years


Mattarella's veto of Savona and subsequent nomination of Cottarelli as caretaker prime minister angered lawmakers, most of whom had been ready to back the eurosceptic as economy minister.

If Cottarelli does manage to pull together a caretaker government, most are preparing to abstain -- which would hand him just a few dozen "yes" votes.

Italian media reports said the parliamentary factions were trying to reach agreement over how long Cottarelli's mandate should last before new elections are held, with officials from the centre-left Democratic Party calling for the country to the polls as early as July.

That could only happen if the parliament was dissolved before Friday.

A more likely scenario is Cottarelli holding on until autumn, with new elections likely in early October.

- 'Second-rate governments' -


AFP/File / Alberto PIZZOLI The ongoing political crisis has angered Italy's parliament, where most lawmakers had been ready to back eurosceptic Paolo Savona as economy minister

At a Naples rally on Tuesday evening, Di Maio appeared to revive the idea of a coalition government with the League.

"There is a majority in parliament. Let this government begin. We are fed up with second-rate governments," he said.

But League leader Matteo Salvini didn't seem to be interested. "I spent weeks in Rome trying to form a government. It was a futile effort," he retorted while campaigning in Pisa.

Instead, he said he would be ready for new elections "as soon as possible," while rejecting the idea of holding them in July.

Salvini's anti-euro, anti-immigrant party has risen in opinion polls in recent days.

Central to the party's agenda is reform of the EU, spooking markets worldwide and caused a flurry of reaction in Brussels.

- Anti-EU uproar -

On Tuesday, European Budget Commissioner Gunther Oettinger said he hoped Italy's poor economic situation would keep populist parties out of government.

"I can only hope that this will play a role in the election campaign.. sending a signal to voters not to hand power to populists on the right and left," he told German broadcaster Deutsche Welle.

His comments caused uproar in Italy, prompting European officials to scramble to calm anger at the perceived meddling by Brussels.

Financial markets have been on a rollercoaster ride over the past few days, but Milan stocks were up on Wednesday, and the bond market strengthened slightly.

But investor doubts over Italy's financial stability were far from eased, with the country strugging under a debt mountain of 2.3 trillion euros.

Central bank chief Ignazio Visco had on Tuesday warned about the impact of the turmoil.

"We are only ever a few steps away from the very serious risk of losing the irreplaceable asset of trust."

Belgium mourns victims of Liege attack

Belgium mourns victims of Liege attack
source: AFP

AFP / Emmanuel DUNAND Flowers were piling up outside Liege police headquarters in tribute to the two policewomen killed in the latest attack

Belgium on Wednesday paid emotional tribute to two policewomen and a student shot dead in the eastern city of Liege as investigators probed the gunman's transition from years of petty criminality to "terrorist murder".

Prosecutors confirmed they were treating Tuesday's bloodshed as an act of terrorism, saying the shooter Benjamin Herman was also suspected of another murder the night before.

Across Belgium, flags were flying at half-mast as Prime Minister Charles Michel led a minute's silence in Liege where around 1,000 people had gathered to pay their respects, among them many police officers.

Belgium's national football squad also halted a training session ahead of next month's World Cup to observe a minute's silence for the victims.

As police scrambled to unpick the gunman's motive for the attack, a dramatic account emerged of Tuesday's bloodshed, which began when the 31-year-old attacked two policewomen with a knife.

After repeatedly stabbing the policewomen, he grabbed their weapons and killed them in a modus operandi which has been encouraged online by extremists from the Islamic State group.

The two victims were identified as Lucile Garcia, 53, who had recently become a grandmother, and Soraya Belkacemi, 45, a mother to 13-year-old twins.

He then shot dead a 22-year-old student sitting in a parked car in the city centre before entering a nearby school where he briefly took a female cleaner hostage.

Speaking to the Derniere Heure newspaper, the cleaner, who gave her name only as Darifa, said he had asked her whether she was Muslim and if she was fasting for Ramadan.

When she answered "yes" to both questions, Herman said he would not harm her.

She then urged him to give himself up, telling him: "You shouldn't be here, this is a school, there are children!" after which he burst out for his final confrontation with police.

- 'Terrorist murder' -


AFP / Paul DEFOSSEUX Shooting in Liege


Investigators are trying to understand how Herman, a drifter who spent a decade in and out of prison for violence and drug offences, came to carry out such a bloody attack.

"The facts are qualified as terrorist murder and attempted terrorist murder," prosecutors' spokesman Eric Van Der Sypt told a news briefing in Brussels.

He pointed to the fact that "the perpetrator shouted several times 'Allahu akbar'... and information from state security according to which the perpetrator was in touch with radicalised persons."

But he said information about Herman's contacts with extremists dated "from late 2016, early 2017" and had not been confirmed since.

Amateur footage obtained by AFP showed the gunman shouting "Allahu akbar" -- "God is greatest" -- as he walked through the streets.

In another video, Herman darts out of the school before a short and intense burst of police gunfire, after which he collapses on the ground.

Interior Minister Jan Jambon urged caution over the extremist angle.

"There are signals that there was radicalisation in the prison but did this radicalisation lead to these actions? There, too, we can ask ourselves a lot of questions," he told RTL radio.

- Gruesome hammer murder -

Investigators are paying special attention to the gruesome killing of an alleged heroin dealer linked to Herman who was battered to death with a hammer late Monday in a village near the Luxembourg border.

They found the hammer in Herman's car on Tuesday.

Jambon said police believed he had carried out the killing just hours after getting temporary release from prison on Monday morning.

Liege, a major city in Belgium's blighted industrial rustbelt, was the scene of another bloody shootout in 2011 when another former convict killed six people and wounded more than 120 before turning the gun on himself.

Belgium has been on alert since January 2015 when authorities smashed a terror cell near Liege that was planning an attack on police. That cells had links to Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the mastermind of the November 2015 attacks on Paris that killed 130 people and was claimed by IS.

Operator of world's top internet hub sues German spy agency

Operator of world's top internet hub sues German spy agency
source: AFP

 POOL/AFP / FABRIZIO BENSCH Germany's BND spy agency has long tapped international data flows through the De-Cix exchange, based in the city of Frankfurt

The operator of the world's largest internet hub challenged the legality of sweeping telecoms surveillance by Germany's spy agency, a German court heard Wednesday.

The BND foreign intelligence service has long tapped international data flows through the De-Cix exchange based in the German city of Frankfurt.

But the operator argues the agency is breaking the law by also capturing German domestic communications.

"We have grave doubts about the legality of the current practice," said a statement Wednesday on the website of De-Cix Management GmbH, which is owned by European internet industry body the eco association.

"We consider ourselves under obligation to our customers to work towards a situation in which strategic surveillance of their telecommunications only takes place in a legal manner."

Its lawyer Sven-Erik Heun told German news agency DPA that "the BND has chosen the biggest pond to go fishing in".

De-Cix Management launched its suit against the German interior ministry, which oversees the BND and its strategic signals intelligence.

"With the lawsuit, we seek judicial clarification and, in particular, legal certainty for our customers and our company," the company said.

The federal administrative court in the eastern city of Leipzig was not certain to make a ruling on Wednesday.

Given the mass of daily phone calls, emails, chats, internet searches, streamed videos and other online communications, an effective fire-walling of purely German communications is unrealistic, activists argue.

The De-Cix operator says its Frankfurt hub is the world's biggest Internet Exchange, bundling data flows from as far as China, Russia, the Middle East and Africa, and handles more than 6 terabits per second at peak traffic.

The De-Cix, with 20 data centres, uses more electricity than Frankfurt international airport, the Sueddeutsche Zeitung daily reported this week.

It said the BND, a partner of the US National Security Agency (NSA), has placed so-called Y-piece prisms into its data-carrying fibre optic cables that give it an unfiltered and complete copy of the data flow.

China slams US for 'sudden flip-flops' in trade policy

China slams US for 'sudden flip-flops' in trade policy
source: AFP

AFP/File / - Containers are transferred at the port in Qingdao: China is hitting out at US flip-flops over trade

China on Wednesday lambasted "sudden flip-flops" in US policy after President Donald Trump said he was moving to finalise trade sanctions against it -- even as a US delegation arrived in Beijing for talks.

Ten days ago the White House announced a truce in trade hostilities with China, with US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin saying that threatened tariffs on Chinese goods were "on hold".

But on Tuesday evening it said that sanctions announced in March -- largely focused on China's theft of US intellectual property -- were still in the works and details would be announced in the coming month.

The announcement is another apparent change of course for Trump, who veers from harsh threats to promises of compromise and back again on trade and other sensitive issues.

It comes as Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross prepares to travel to Beijing this week for another round of talks aimed at resolving the conflict.

Six members of his delegation had already arrived in Beijing as of Wednesday evening, the US embassy confirmed to AFP.

Speaking at a regular press briefing on Wednesday, foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying slammed the latest development.

"In international relations, every sudden flip-flop and contradiction of one's word depletes and squanders a country's credibility," she said.

She urged the US to "follow the spirit" of the recent consensus reached between Washington and Beijing, to abandon trade wars and back off imposing tariffs on each other.

"We on the Chinese side do not want to fight but are not afraid to fight a trade war," she said.

"We will counteract whatever comes our way, and if the US insists on acting recklessly, China will inevitably adopt firm and forceful measures."

The commerce ministry said earlier Wednesday that Beijing "has the confidence, capability and experience to defend the interests of Chinese people and the core interests of the country" -- no matter what measures the US plans to take.

The US trade sanctions proposed in March include restrictions on Chinese investment, export controls and 25 percent tariffs on as much as $50 billion in Chinese tech goods.

The final list of Chinese imports covered by the tariffs list will be announced June 15 and imposed shortly thereafter, while the proposed investment restrictions and enhanced export controls will be announced by June 30, according to the White House.

Trump has also threatened to impose tariffs on an additional $100 billion in Chinese goods if Beijing retaliates.

Trade tensions between Washington and Beijing are likely to generate uncertainty with potentially serious consequences for the Chinese economy, Alfred Schipke, senior resident representative in China of the International Monetary Fund, told a press briefing.

While US tariffs would have a direct impact on China's economy, such uncertainty would likely have an even greater indirect impact as it came to affect consumption, investment confidence and financial markets, he explained.

"It is important that both sides try to collaborate," he said. "These trade tensions are not beneficial for anybody."

HOW TO TACKLE THE OBSTACLE OF AGE LIMIT DURING JOB APPLICATION

HOW TO TACKLE THE OBSTACLE OF AGE LIMIT DURING JOB APPLICATION

Age discrimination is now something so serious while searching for job. HRs will say 24 to 26 years or maximum of 28 years when most Nigerian youths are still seeking for admission at the age of 25 or even those 28years. Before he/ she will complete higher education, there will be problem to get a desired or required job.

Even if the employer states the age range don’t worry, just go ahead to apply. BUT DON’T PUT YOUR AGE IN YOUR CV. Most of them are likely to call you when they see your experience and academic qualifications.

When you get to the interview venue and you are asked why you omitted your date of birth, politely tell them that you think age doesn’t really matter when looking for competent, experienced and someone who will add value to the organization and that’s why you have omitted your date of birth.

They too understand! If you apply for 8 job vacancies, with date of birth specification, be sure that at least 3 or more will call you for interview. Please don’t be intimidated because of it.

Another secret of specifying date of birth is to reduce the number of candidates that apply for the position. So, many candidates will automatically be scared away while the brave ones will apply and get the best.

So, never relent in job search and don’t allow the age range or date of birth to scare you away.

I wish you success in your job search. 
Contact me for your free job review.

Job Vacancy For Business Development Manager- BAGCO at Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc

Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc has been a part of the lives of Nigerians at home and abroad. Our global vision is to be a leading foods company in Africa providing high quality and affordable products in the most convenient ways to consumers through world class brands like Golden Penny Flour, Golden Penny Semovita, Goldenvita, Golden Pasta and Golden Noodles. The Company's flagship brand, Golden Penny, remains one of the best known and the preferred brands amongst bakers, confectioneries and consumers in Nigeria.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Business Development Manager- BAGCO

Location: Nigeria

The Job

• Have a robust understanding of B2B businesses and able to use route to market knowledge to identify and develop businesses for the company by  promoting the company’s unique selling propositions
• Present to and consult with mid and senior level management on business trends with a view to developing new services, products and distribution channels, to achieve overall sales objectives.
• Will be responsible for Key Accounts Management
• Identify potential clients and the decision makers within the client organization to enhance Relationship Management.
• Prospect for new clients and turn this into increased business.

Requirements
The person must:  

• Experience in managing a small team and working with various business partners
• Experience in identifying potential clients and converting them to customers.
• Worked in manufacturing industry especially packaging sector.
• Advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills

Qualification:

• 5 ‘O’ level credits including Mathematics and English in not more than 2 sitting
• First degree from any recognized higher institution is required.
• MBA will be an added advantage
• Membership of National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria will be an added advantage

Experience:

• 7 to 12 years cognate experience in Sales and Marketing in a manufacturing environment

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Power Plant Technician/ Operator at Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc

Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc has been a part of the lives of Nigerians at home and abroad. Our global vision is to be a leading foods company in Africa providing high quality and affordable products in the most convenient ways to consumers through world class brands like Golden Penny Flour, Golden Penny Semovita, Goldenvita, Golden Pasta and Golden Noodles. The Company's flagship brand, Golden Penny, remains one of the best known and the preferred brands amongst bakers, confectioneries and consumers in Nigeria.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Power Plant Technician/ Operator - Nigerian Eagle Flour Mill

Location: Nigeria

The Job

• To monitor operations of the generating sets  to ensure optimum working conditions and avert undue breakdowns
• To implement maintenance procedures
• To operate power and utility equipment for reliable operation
• Ensure documentation of activities and equipment performance periodically
• Ensure compliance with safety, health and environment standards and adherence to SOPs

Qualification

• OND in Electrical/Electronics Engineering
• 5 O’ level credits including Mathematics & English Language.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years cognate experience.

The Person must have:

• Good technical background with basic Electrical/ Electronics Skills.
• Working knowledge in Power Plant environment, while competency in circuit diagram reading will be an added advantage.
• Computer skills
• Good communication skills.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Water Treatment Operator at Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc

Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc has been a part of the lives of Nigerians at home and abroad. Our global vision is to be a leading foods company in Africa providing high quality and affordable products in the most convenient ways to consumers through world class brands like Golden Penny Flour, Golden Penny Semovita, Goldenvita, Golden Pasta and Golden Noodles. The Company's flagship brand, Golden Penny, remains one of the best known and the preferred brands amongst bakers, confectioneries and consumers in Nigeria.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Water Treatment Operator - Nigerian Eagle Flour Mill

Location: Nigeria

The Job

• Ensure that plant operations are in compliance with operating guidelines.
• Maintenance of treatment records in accordance with instructions.
• Conduct simple water analysis tests on site, backwash filters and collecting representative water samples for Laboratory testing.
• Ensure compliance of operations with safety, health and environment standards and adherence to SOPs

Qualification

• 5 O’ level credits including Mathematics & English Language
• Any of City & Guilds, Technical School Certificate or Ordinary National Diploma in any Science and Technology discipline
• Certified Trade Test.

The Person must:

• Have working knowledge in water Treatment Plant.

Experience:

• 2 years cognate experience.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Procurement Supervisor at Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc

Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc has been a part of the lives of Nigerians at home and abroad. Our global vision is to be a leading foods company in Africa providing high quality and affordable products in the most convenient ways to consumers through world class brands like Golden Penny Flour, Golden Penny Semovita, Goldenvita, Golden Pasta and Golden Noodles. The Company's flagship brand, Golden Penny, remains one of the best known and the preferred brands amongst bakers, confectioneries and consumers in Nigeria.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Procurement Supervisor-Nigerian Eagle Flour Mill

Location: Nigeria

The Job

• To source for and evaluate vendors during vendor selection
• To forecast price and market trends in order to identify changes of balance in buyer-supplier
• To perform cost and scenario analysis
• To benchmark and ensure timely deliveries.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health and environment standards and adherence to SOPs

Requirements/Qualifications

• HND/B.Sc Purchasing & Supply or Accounting
• 5 O’ level credits including Mathematics & English Language
• Member of CIPSMN will be an added advantage.

Experience:

• 3 years cognate experience in manufacturing environment

The Person must have:

• The ability to develop, lead and execute procurement strategies
• Computer skills
• Negotiation skills
• Good communication skills.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Packaging Development Manager at Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc

Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc has been a part of the lives of Nigerians at home and abroad. Our global vision is to be a leading foods company in Africa providing high quality and affordable products in the most convenient ways to consumers through world class brands like Golden Penny Flour, Golden Penny Semovita, Goldenvita, Golden Pasta and Golden Noodles. The Company's flagship brand, Golden Penny, remains one of the best known and the preferred brands amongst bakers, confectioneries and consumers in Nigeria.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Packaging Development Manager

Location: Nigeria

The Job

• Manage major projects on all packaging requirements to meet agreed launch dates and packaging development budgets across all plants.
• Improving existing and developing new packaging to meet marketing requirements
• Identifying and advising on suitable substrates for food products packaging
• Developing packaging material specifications and appropriate QA/QC test methods
• Drive projects in both new product development as well as assessing margin improvements on current packaging
• Seek out innovative options for ongoing and new packaging projects
• Assess, audit and approve new and current packaging material
• Develop operational Bills of Materials (BOM) for all new packaging specifications and packaging material changes.

The person must

• Be result-oriented
• Be cost-efficient
• Work to strict timelines
• Have good negotiation skills

Qualification

• First Degree in Chemical/Polymer Engineering
• 5‘O’ level credits including Mathematics and English in not more than 2 sittings
• Member, Institute of Packaging, UK. Member, Nigerian Institute of Packaging
• M.Sc./MBA, ISO Training- QMS, Project Management an added advantage

Experience:

• 12 years cognate experience in FMCG/ commodities sector.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Massive Trainee Technicians Programme At Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc 2018

Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc has been a part of the lives of Nigerians at home and abroad. Our global vision is to be a leading foods company in Africa providing high quality and affordable products in the most convenient ways to consumers through world class brands like Golden Penny Flour, Golden Penny Semovita, Goldenvita, Golden Pasta and Golden Noodles. The Company's flagship brand, Golden Penny, remains one of the best known and the preferred brands amongst bakers, confectioneries and consumers in Nigeria.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Trainee Technician - Nigerian Eagle Flour Mill

Location: Nigeria

The Job

• Opportunities exist for OND holders in science or technology discipline to join our highly competitive Trainee Technicians Programme (TTP) as Trainee Technicians and start off a rewarding professional career with us.

The Person must have:

• Aptitude for self development
• Basic computer skills
• Good communication skills.

Qualifications

• 5 O’ level credits including Mathematics & English Language.
• Craft Training Certificate in Mechanical Engineering Craft Practice.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Process Engineer at Hobark International Limited (HIL)

Hobark International Limited (HIL) is the parent company of the Hobark group operating in the oil and gas industry. The company was incorporated in 1998, starting as a staffing agency based in Port Harcourt. Currently we have offices in 4 countries with our head office in Lagos.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Process Engineer

Req Id: Req-1346
Location: Nigeria

Description
Services Description:

• Carry out process engineering studies and provide assistance to any process activity needed to support operations at site
• Carry out process engineering studies within the context of site modifications (SMR) or field development / facilities upgrade projects
• Participate in the SMR Process by following up on implementation of SMRs from initiation to completion

Provide process engineering Services towards Supporting Operations through the following:

• Conduct process studies in order to optimize production for Onshore/Offshore sites.
• Review & Contribute to formulation of Operating Philosophy for new projects
• Review & Contribute to formulation of Operations Manual for new projects and review/update existing ones
• Provide process support for Onshore/Offshore commissioning, Start-up, Ramp-up & Shutdown
• Provide process assistance to Onshore/Offshore Operations for technical operating problems
• Provide assistance for any process activities across production sites

Provide process engineering Services towards SMRs, Facilities Upgrade through the following:

• Perform core process design activities as instructed by lead design engineer
• Undertake de-bottleneck studies and recommend solutions to optimize existing installations (Safety, Environment, Production, etc)
• Provide Process design and know-how within JV Operations and to other Departments and Divisions
• Ensure that Process Documentation & Design complies with Company Rules and Specifications and with International Standards and that it is kept updated
• Ensure that all updated documents are sent to EDMS team for processing
• Participate in and prepare technical audits - PTR / HAZOP / HAZID etc
• Ensure contact with process specialists in HQ and liaise with HQ for integration of new Projects with existing facilities
• Carry out effective process design studies for SMR
• Provide effective and timely response to technical queries / SMRs
• Support Contractors to prepare Scope of Work or review/validate process studies by Contractors

Participate in site visits, pre-studies, basic and detailed studies for process-related modifications to existing installations:

• Ensure that all SMRs are carried out according to Company procedure and within a defined timeline

Qualifications

• B.Sc in Chemical Engineering or related engineering discipline
• 5 years minimum experience in process engineering design in the oil/gas industry
• Should be proficient in the use of Process simulation software e.g. ProII, HYSYS
• Valid medical certificate acceptable to Company
• Valid BOSIET/HUET (including CA-EBS) certificate for offshore missions

Primary Skills:

• Process Engineer, BSc, Engineering, MS Office, Oil & Gas, Operations, QA/QC

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Employee Relations/Planning Manager at Hobark International Limited

Hobark International Limited (HIL) is the parent company of the Hobark group operating in the oil and gas industry. The company was incorporated in 1998, starting as a staffing agency based in Port Harcourt. Currently we have offices in 4 countries with our head office in Lagos.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Employee Relations/Planning Manager

Req Id: Req-1362
Location: Lagos

Description

• Manage employee relations specialists and assist the General Manager in developing and overseeing organisational employee relations strategies, processes, and practices
• Design, plan, and implement the organisation's employee relations programmes, policies, and procedures; ensuring policies are consistently applied as they relate to employee relations Implement key strategic initiatives and programmes to support culture change and efficiency
• Provide guidance to departmental managers, supervisors, and employees regarding laws, regulations, policies, procedures and practices related to ER matters
• Work with the Legal Department to identify and anticipate future legal changes and understand and plan for the impact on ER practice
• Manage relationships with staff council to ensure industrial harmony, liaising between department managers and staff council (JCC) representatives.
• Drive engagement surveys and implementation of survey data.
• Analyse business plans to determine likely future staffing needs
• Develop Planning models to enable future needs to be determined accurately
• Advise the Organization on the staffing implications of new policies, products and services
• Coordinate HR input into disciplinary & performance management process, and facilitate staff grievance handling
• Effective case management of people related issues such as: disciplinary, issues performance management, employment tribunals, grievance and absence management
• Develop and use existing networks so that  ER plans and practices are benchmarked against best practice and other organisations
• Represent Company  with external bodies such as NECA/OPTS, NAPIMS, Ministry of Labour & Productivity
• Analyse and interpret people related metrics to identify trends and inform the development and improvement of ER policies and processes, management activities and employee engagement

Qualifications

• A relevant Labour relation/ HR tertiary qualifications - minimum of 12 years industry experience.

Primary Skills:

• Administrator, Human Resource Manager, BSc, Business Management, MS Office, MS Power Point, Oil & Gas, Operations.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Well Services Manager at Hobark International Limited (HIL)

Hobark International Limited (HIL) is the parent company of the Hobark group operating in the oil and gas industry. The company was incorporated in 1998, starting as a staffing agency based in Port Harcourt. Currently we have offices in 4 countries with our head office in Lagos.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title:  Well Services Manager

Req ID: 1361
Location: Sapele, Delta State

Job Description

• Plan, monitor and optimise well testing operations for all exploratory and appraisal wells, well completion and well workover operations for all development wells and ensure they are carried out in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner and in compliance with HSE and operational commitments
• Provide support to the Drilling Manager for well completions/testing/workover operations and provide inputs during the planning of well designs to enhance and optimise production to meet business oil & gas targets.
• Maintain performance management initiatives for all well service activities ensuring that contractor KPI are gathered, evaluated and reported to guide senior Management to evaluate performance
• Lead and participate in the process of contractor performance review and periodic service company audits to ensure that business objectives are achieved.
• Act as an advisor and mentor for young staff. Provide appropriate resource and competence levels to deliver safe, efficient and effective well servicing activities by ensuring that Well Services staff receive appropriate training and development to enhance production efficiency
• Ensure all well service equipment is manned by properly trained equipment operators and provide assistance in any relevant training to enhance productivity and minimise accidents.
• Maintain close relationship with relevant regulatory and industry bodies, completion service companies and other operators to ensure remains involved where appropriate with industry initiatives and new
• Responsible for ensuring that well services related budgets and approved for execution jobs accurately reflect intended project scopes of work and enable asset teams to accurately forecast expenditure as part of business improvement plan
• Responsible for development, implementation and adherence to  Well Integrity Management programme to ensure quality of well delivery to meet production target
• Prepare the specifications for all the items present in the completion/test/workover design and prepare / assist in preparation of scope of work for all completion/well testing/ workover related equipment and services to deliver an efficient well to meet planned production
• Participate actively in the Well Delivery Process providing input to conceptual well design to ensure future well intervention objectives and integrity are achieved during the life cycle to support the business delivery.

Qualifications

• A university degree in Mechanical or Petroleum Engineering with a minimum of 15 years relevant experience working in similar capacities on swamp and land wells.
• Demonstrated record of success in fostering continuous improvement in well costs and productivity while driving a cost conscious approach across all levels of the company.
• Demonstrated record of success in a leadership role managing employees, contractors, vendors and managing service companies.

Primary Skills:

• Mechanical Engineer, Petroleum Engineer, Production Engineer, BSc, Oil & Gas, Operations, Production

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Maintenance Compliance/EAM Lead at Hobark International Limited (HIL)

Hobark International Limited (HIL) is the parent company of the Hobark group operating in the oil and gas industry. The company was incorporated in 1998, starting as a staffing agency based in Port Harcourt. Currently we have offices in 4 countries with our head office in Lagos.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Maintenance Compliance/EAM Lead

Req I D: Req-1348
Location: Lagos

Job Description

• Establish all relevant standards and procedures required to formalize the key processes to be used by the Asset Team management to manage asset integrity over the life cycle of the assets in compliance with Asset Integrity Policy and Procedures and sustain production
• Verify that the Asset integrity status of facilities is properly monitored and provide the assurance of integrity to the Asset Manager to ensure the facilities are available to meet Corporate objectives
• Communicate effectively to operational and development teams with all relevant asset integrity information they can anticipate on major repairs or replacement plans and warn /advise management when integrity is about to be breached to minimize loss of production
• Guide the establishment of an Asset Integrity Management System (EAM) tailored to meet the requirements of the stakeholders (Production, Asset Development, Drilling, HSE, etc.) and its operating context and keep custody of the system.
• Implement EAM to improve employee morale by imposing less stress on them due to drops in emergency and reactive maintenance, reducing the frequency and severity of asset failure to meet Corporate production goals.
• Provide a leading role in monitoring the measures of integrity and performance indicators and recommending remedial actions to sustain the integrity of the facilities over their life cycle.
• Plan and define a structured professional qualification programme for maintenance personnel and liaise with the relevant capability teams to develop training and certification programmes to improve staff competence and enhance productivity.
• Identify all Integrity Management responsibilities, ensure they are correctly allocated throughout the Asset Organization and properly documented as part of the Integrity Management System to maximize optimal facility uptime
• Attend the Asset Integrity Management Board chaired by the GM Corporate Production & Maintenance and present an executive review of the Teams performance on integrity, focusing on high level KPIs, major threats and critical action plans to sustain production.
• Develop and implement standard procedures for all maintenance systems and support equipment to provide organizational focus and systematic procedures to accomplish effective maintenance methods and improve availability.
• Drive, execute and use production assurance and reliability technology to achieve cost-effective solutions over the life cycle of an asset.

Qualifications

• B.Eng./Sc Degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Instrumentation Engineering with a minimum of 15 years of experience in oil and gas industry.
• Must have a minimum of 10 years hands on experience as a Maintenance Supervisor in an oil and gas operation.
• Knowledge in the following areas and proficient in at least 3 activities: maintenance, inspection, process, production, design engineering, risk assessment, quality and an awareness of in house tools: FASTMAINT, EAM, etc.

Primary Skills:

• Maintenance Supervisor, Mechanical Engineer, HSE, BSc, Engineering, Oil & Gas, Operations.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Operations Readiness, Standards & Procedure Lead at Hobark International Limited

Hobark International Limited (HIL) is the parent company of the Hobark group operating in the oil and gas industry. The company was incorporated in 1998, starting as a staffing agency based in Port Harcourt. Currently we have offices in 4 countries with our head office in Lagos.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Operations Readiness, Standards & Procedure Lead

Req Id: Req-1349
Location: Lagos

Description

• Develop Operations Philosophies & Standards and ensure the best industry standards and practices are systematically applied to all new projects to enhance production efficiency on handover to Production Operations.
• Continuously challenge and improve the operations strategy for future projects in line with Operational Excellence, by providing front end input into the tender preparation, contract strategies and conceptual design activities to ensure the interests of Operations are adequately covered throughout as part of business improvement process
• Identify and mobilise production Operations resources to participate in design reviews, yard fabrications, construction and commissioning activities to ensure operability and maintainability of the project to meet technical integrity of the project and sustain production through the life cycle of the project.
• Develop an Operations manning, recruitment and training strategy for all new projects through effective coordination with existing producing assets to optimise staff utilisation between existing and new assets as part of business improvement process.
• Provide, guide, advice and support the Asset teams to ensure that Internal Management Systems (Production Operations philosophy, Facility Operations manual, Emergency Procedures, etc.) are standardised and meet operational requirements to enhance production efficiency.
• Develop and implement suitable production standard assurance programme, identifying potential risks and recommend remedial action to ensure that all production operations comply with statutory, legislative and company requirements
• Develop and drive the programme for Production internal audits and inspections, investigating and setting standards for production standards to ensure compliance with standard requirements to enhance HSE compliance
• Responsible for Operations input and commissioning of several new projects up to project handover to the producing assets to enhance production efficiency
• Act as point of contact with Asset Facility Managers and other stake holders for all issues relating to Production standards and procedures to ensure compliance to operability and maintainability to improve asset integrity
• Establish standard management and performance indicators as well as processes to manage production business performance down to the field staff as part of performance management to optimise production.
• Work with the conceptual Engineering teams to optimise production facilities and strategies and to analyse various “what if” CAPEX and OPEX scenarios, with the end result being able to meet NPDC project screening criteria that would allow the project to progress.
• Manage change control process for the Asset teams to ensure operational requirements are considered to enhance safe operation of the asset / facility.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science with a minimum of 12 years of Production Operations experience in oil & gas industry covering a wide range of both project & operations roles in a variety of operating environments
• Good understanding & knowledge of Operations
• Readiness & Assurance, Commissioning and Start Up & delivery process in projects in a wide variety of project/operating environments and legal requirements.
• Possess excellent interpersonal skills in communication, relationship building & stakeholder management.

Primary Skills:

• Asset Integrity Engineer, Operation Readiness, BSc, Engineering, Oil & Gas, Operations

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Senior Production Technologist at Hobark International Limited (HIL)

Hobark International Limited (HIL) is the parent company of the Hobark group operating in the oil and gas industry. The company was incorporated in 1998, starting as a staffing agency based in Port Harcourt. Currently we have offices in 4 countries with our head office in Lagos.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Senior Production Technologist

Req ID:1352
Location: Lagos

Job Description

• Lead Well performance modelling, sand prediction, sand control selection and upper completion design, perforating and smart well design for land and swamp operations.
• Work in an integrated study team (as a member or a study team lead) to mature opportunities.
• Make PT input
• into field development plan.
• The goal is to optimally and profitably extract
• hydrocarbon from the Assets.
• Ensure compliance with well, reservoir and facility management, well integrity, control guidelines and taking appropriate actions in assigned field/s.
• This is to safeguard the assets and assure reputation of the company.
• Identification of short term oil opportunities for ranking in the business planning processes and the maturation of short term oil opportunities within the asset team.
• Ensure flow assurance for the life cycle of the completed wells. Incorporate mitigation strategies into production optimisation plans.
• Identify candidate wells, which have near‐wellbore or wellbore damage for stimulations (e.g. acid or hydraulic stimulations) and design suitable treatment.
• Monitor the stimulations operations and evaluate the results.
• Identify water or gas shut‐off candidates wells and design treatments (mechanical and chemical treatments). Monitor operations and evaluate results.
• Identify wells that require additional and/or re‐perforations, due to high mechanical skin and design operations (e.g. gun selection, drawdown). Monitor operations and evaluate results.
• Generate an activity proposal for any of the above operations, which contains the economic justification functional design and programme outline.
• Generate well/system model (incl. the artificial lift) to compare actual performance with predicted.
• Identify wells that are not optimized and initiate actions/well interventions to change the operating conditions.
• Identify wells that are not performing and review options to improve inflow performance.
• Generate a well/reservoir surveillance plan, in conjunction with other disciplines, obtain key data and incorporate it into asset surveillance plan.
• Identify candidates for BHPs, production logging & related cased hole logs and design theoperation. Monitor operations and evaluate results.

Qualifications

• As a Senior Production Technologist, incumbent should have a broad understanding of other E&P disciplines and skills in all key Production technologist specialties.
• A university degree in Engineering or equivalent with 9 ‐ 11 years relevant experience, including a minimum of 9 years PT work experience in an operating company.

Primary Skills:

• Accountant, Production Engineer, BSc, Engineering, Oil & Gas, Operations, Production.

Skills in the following:

• Well Modeling & Performance
• Production System Optimization
• Conformance Technology
• Well Integrity Management and Determining Well
• Operating Envelope
• Planning & Design of Well Intervention Activities
• HSE considerations in well management and completion operations
• Completion Design and supervision
• Oil well cementing and Drill‐in Fluids
• Knowledge in Production Operation
• Coaching/Mentoring.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Job Vacancy For Geophysics & QI Lead at Hobark International Limited (HIL)

Hobark International Limited (HIL) is the parent company of the Hobark group operating in the oil and gas industry. The company was incorporated in 1998, starting as a staffing agency based in Port Harcourt. Currently we have offices in 4 countries with our head office in Lagos.

We are recruiting to fill the vacant position below:

Job Title: Geophysics & QI Lead

Req Id: Req-1350
Location: Lagos

Description

• Review relevant geophysical data from successful acquisitions prior to transfer to data storage. Maintain an accurate inventory of all geophysical data across the various assets. Ensure availability of seismic data to support accurate development and exploration studies.
• Identify the need for new seismic data acquisition or reprocessing of existing data across the various Asset Teams. Design (in conjunction with potential vendors) appropriate acquisition/processing programs and supervise the timely execution to ensure value to operations.
• Generate appropriate seismic inversion volumes to aid accurate characterization of reservoir architecture in the subsurface to aid optimum well placement of planned development wells.
• Participate in Field Development (FDP) or Integrated Petroleum Engineering Studies (IPES). Provide seismic inversion and other QI deliverables as input to 3D reservoir static models to be used for accurate estimation of hydrocarbon reserves, subsequent reservoir development plans and optimum well placement.
• Identify by‐passed opportunities in mature fields using seismic attributes as pass on to Asset teams. Propose 4D seismic where necessary including technical justification and benefits to the business.
• Identify, mature and propose economically attractive exploration prospects/development opportunities for drilling under the assigned asset area using AVO data. Identify risks associated with planned exploration and development programs and provide advice on possible mitigation plans including studies such as pore‐pressure prediction, fault seal analysis or other studies that rely on the use of seismic data to reduce, potential drilling hazards.
• Provide appropriate and frequent technical guidance, leadership and mentoring to colleagues and peers to both, assist in workflows and to deliver results of a consistently high technical quality. Actively participate in Peer Assists and Peer Reviews as required across all of the company's subsurface activities.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance on subsurface requirements in support of development projects within the Asset Teams as required.

Qualifications

• Minimum qualification of BSc in Geophysics with at least 9 years work experience in an active operating E&P company. MSc & PhD will be added advantage.

Primary Skills:

• Geology, Geophysist, Oil & Gas, Operations

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online