January 9, 2026

El Salvador’s Prison Labour Programme Produces Uniforms, Offers Sentence Reductions

El Salvador’s prisons run sewing workshops where inmates make uniforms for public workers. The state-backed programme helps cut costs and offers inmates sentence cuts, though exact rules remain unclear.

January 9, 2026

Two US-Sanctioned Oil Tankers Head to Russia After Marinera Seizure in Atlantic

Two Russian-linked oil tankers under US sanctions are sailing east through the Channel towards Russia. This follows the US and UK’s capture of the Marinera tanker. UK Defence Secretary called targeting Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ a top priority.

January 9, 2026

Victoria’s Hume Highway Closed, Regional Trains Cancelled Amid Fierce Bushfires and Heatwave

Victoria's Hume Highway shut and regional trains cancelled as fierce bushfires spread. Firefighters battle flames amid the worst heatwave since 2020. Authorities warn of fire and heat risks across the state.

January 9, 2026

Two Army Porters Fall Into Stream Near Baramulla; Rescue Underway

Two Army porters skidded off a road and fell into a stream near Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir. A rescue operation is in progress to save them.

January 9, 2026

Three Indians Among Crew on Russian Tanker Seized by US, Russia Demands Maritime Law Respect

Three Indians are part of the crew on the Russian oil tanker Marinera seized by the US near the North Atlantic. Russia condemned the seizure, rejected US sanctions claims, and urged compliance with international maritime laws.