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Mexico Kills ‘El Mencho’ After Tracking His Girlfriend to Hideout

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

The recent dramatic downfall of one of the world’s most notorious drug lords has captured global attention: Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho”, the longtime leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed in a high-stakes Mexican military operation over the weekend.

For over a decade, El Mencho had evaded capture despite massive bounties, including a $15 million reward from the United States, and being one of the most wanted men on both sides of the border. His cartel had grown into a ruthless powerhouse, rivaling the Sinaloa Cartel in violence, drug trafficking, and territorial control.

But in a twist straight out of a thriller, it was a romantic rendezvous that finally sealed his fate.

According to Mexican Defence Secretary General Ricardo Trevilla, who briefed reporters on Monday, military intelligence, bolstered by critical support from U.S. intelligence via the Northern Command, had been monitoring a trusted associate linked to one of El Mencho’s romantic partners.

On February 20, agents tracked this associate as he escorted the woman to a secluded property in Tapalpa, a scenic, vacation-home village about 130 km from Guadalajara in Jalisco state.

The woman spent the night with the 59-year-old cartel boss. After she departed the next day, authorities confirmed El Mencho remained on-site with his security detail. This intelligence allowed special forces to move in swiftly.

On Sunday, February 22, the raid unfolded. El Mencho was wounded during the intense clash and died while being airlifted for medical treatment. Officials emphasized that the operation aimed to capture him alive, but events escalated.

The killing has sent shockwaves through Mexico. In retaliation, CJNG gunmen unleashed chaos in several states, blocking roads, torching vehicles, attacking security forces, and clashing with authorities. The government has deployed thousands of troops (reports mention up to 10,000 in some areas) to restore order and prevent further escalation.

This marks a major blow to one of Mexico’s most violent criminal organizations, though experts warn that power vacuums in the cartel world often lead to bloody infighting or new leaders rising quickly.

The role of the unnamed girlfriend highlights a recurring pattern in high-profile narco takedowns: personal relationships can become the weakest link in even the most fortified criminal empires.

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Two Ugandan Women Arrested for Alleged Public Kissing Under Anti-Homosexuality Law

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Police in Arua City, West Nile region, have detained two young women on charges related to homosexuality after neighbours reported them for allegedly kissing in public.

The suspects, identified as Wendy Faith, 22, a dancer, and Alesi Diana Denise, 21, unemployed, were arrested on February 18, 2026, at Alengo Cell, Pokea Ward, Ayivu West Division. According to police, the women had been sharing a single room since February 12, 2026, and were seen engaging in an open display of affection described as “kissing openly in public.”

Local police spokesperson Josephine Angucia confirmed the arrest, stating that community members lodged a complaint, alleging the pair were involved in “queer and unusual acts” and “practising homosexuality.” Neighbours reportedly provided photographic evidence to support their claims. Officers inspected the scene but recovered no additional items.

The arrests fall under Section 2(1)(2) of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, a controversial law enacted in May 2023 that criminalizes same-sex relations and related activities. The legislation imposes severe penalties, including up to life imprisonment for consensual same-sex acts, and has been widely criticized internationally as one of the world’s harshest anti-LGBTQ+ measures.

The two women, both in their 20s, have been held in detention without legal representation since their arrest. Police described the incident as a violation stemming from public same-sex affection reported by the community.

This case highlights ongoing enforcement of the 2023 law amid broader reports of arrests, harassment, and human rights concerns for LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda. Rights groups have documented numerous similar incidents since the Act’s passage, though convictions remain relatively uncommon compared to arrests.

Authorities have not yet indicated when the suspects may appear in court or what specific charges they will face beyond the homosexuality-related allegations.

 

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‎ ‎𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗮 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗺𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸, 𝘀𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗲𝘅-𝗰𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵 ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Serena Williams, the 23-time Grand Slam champion, is reportedly training intensely for a potential comeback to professional tennis, according to her former childhood coach Rick Macci.

Macci, who coached Serena and her sister Venus in the early 1990s and is credited with helping shape their early careers, expressed strong confidence in her return. Speaking to French publication L’Équipe, the 71-year-old coach stated that Serena is “going all out” in her preparations.

“She’s training with lots of sparring partners – guys,” Macci said. “She’s also played with Alycia Parks, a good friend of hers in South Florida. So I have no doubt about it .”

He emphasized that this goes beyond casual or exhibition play, dismissing the idea of limited appearances in doubles with Venus. “We’re not just talking about doubles here… she’s going all out,” he added. “If she didn’t think she could compete with the best and win matches, she wouldn’t do it. It’s 100% certain she’ll dive back into competition.”

The news comes as Serena, now 44, became eligible to compete on the WTA Tour again as of February 22, 2026, after re-entering the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s anti-doping testing pool last year, a requirement for retired players seeking reinstatement. She last competed at the 2022 US Open, where she bid an emotional farewell to the sport, describing her shift away from tennis as “evolving” rather than fully retiring.

While Serena has previously denied immediate comeback plans, famously posting “I’m NOT coming back” on social media amid earlier speculation, she has more recently left the door open, telling NBC’s Today show in January that she would “see what happens” without ruling it out.

Macci suggested possible starting points for any return could include upcoming WTA 1000 events like Indian Wells (starting March 4) or the Miami Open, noting the convenience for the Florida-based star.

The tennis world now awaits official word from Serena herself, but Macci’s comments have reignited excitement about a potential chapter in one of the sport’s most legendary caree

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𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗶 𝗮𝗱𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗲 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗰𝘆

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian singer and songwriter Simi (Simisola Kosoko) has broken her silence amid intense online backlash following the resurfacing of several old tweets from her early social media days, particularly around 2012 when she was 23 years old.

The controversy erupted after Simi publicly advocated against rape and sexual assault in recent posts on X (formerly Twitter). She emphasized the prevalence of sexual violence, stating that “almost every woman I know personally has been sexually assaulted at some point,” urged men to hold peers accountable, and called for harsh punishments for rapists, including demands that they be “castrated and burnt alive.” Her comments gained traction amid broader discussions on rape culture in Nigeria, partly linked to a now-discredited rape allegation by TikToker Mirabel, which Simi had initially amplified before the story was exposed as fabricated.

Critics quickly dug up and shared years-old tweets, accusing her of hypocrisy or inappropriate content. Some resurfaced posts reportedly included lighthearted or casual remarks about children from her time assisting at her mother’s daycare, describing kids as “cute,” “adorable,” or “mischievous,” and mentioning wanting to hug, kiss, or cuddle them, which some netizens reinterpreted as concerning in today’s context. Other tweets allegedly involved flirtatious or edgy humor common in early Twitter eras, including references to celebrities.

In response, Simi addressed the issue directly on her social media on Sunday, clarifying that she had been made aware of the old posts and felt compelled to speak out. She stated:

“I haven’t been on twitter today – but someone brought a few of my old tweets to my attention and I can’t not address it.  Nothing I tweeted was from perversion. I’ve always spoken against rape and sexual assault even before you knew I existed. It’s not a costume I’m wearing, it’s who I am.  What I can’t let anyone do is twist my story to fit false narratives.”

She described the tweets as immature jokes or observations from her younger years, unrelated to any depraved intent, and noted that some posts had been deleted due to their sensitivity, particularly for her family. Simi reiterated her unwavering stance against sexual violence, insisting that her advocacy is genuine and longstanding, while acknowledging growth over time.

The situation has divided opinions online, with supporters arguing the tweets are being taken out of context and weaponized to undermine her anti-rape message, while detractors question her past comments and handling of false accusation discussions. The controversy has also reportedly impacted related figures, including her husband Adekunle Gold, with mentions of drops in streaming numbers amid the backlash.

Simi maintains that the core issue, ending sexual violence remains unchanged, concluding variations of her message with a firm call: “Stop raping women.” The episode highlights the challenges public figures face when past online activity collides with current advocacy in the fast-moving world of social media scrutiny.

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𝗔𝗨 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗻𝘀 𝗭𝗮𝗺𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗮 𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀, 𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗯𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻, 𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗻

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

The African Union (AU) has strongly condemned a series of deadly terrorist attacks in Nigeria’s northwestern Zamfara State that left more than 50 civilians dead and saw numerous women and children abducted.

In a statement issued on February 22, 2026, and published on the AU’s official website, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, described the assaults carried out on February 21, 2026 as “heinous and coordinated terrorist attacks.” The violence targeted civilian populations in the region, resulting in widespread loss of life and the forced abduction of vulnerable groups, including women and children.

The AU unequivocally rejected such acts of terrorism and violent extremism, labeling them as grave violations of human rights and significant threats to peace, security, and stability across the continent.

 

H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed deep concern over the killings of more than 50 civilians and the abduction of women and children.

The Chairperson called for the immediate, safe, and unconditional release of all abducted individuals.

He urged strengthened, coordinated, and collective action among African nations and stakeholders to protect civilian populations and prevent future atrocities, aligning with the AU’s broader commitment to continental peace and security.

The attacks occurred in areas plagued by ongoing banditry and insecurity in Nigeria’s North West zone. Reports from local sources and international media, including Reuters, indicate that armed men on motorcycles raided villages such as Tungan Dutse in Bukkuyum local government area, setting buildings ablaze, shooting fleeing residents, and carrying out abductions over several hours from late February 20 into early February 21, 2026.

This incident highlights the persistent security challenges in northwestern Nigeria, where armed groups frequently carry out raids for ransom, resources, or territorial control.

The AU’s condemnation shows growing continental alarm over recurring violence against civilians in the region and calls for urgent collaborative efforts to address root causes and support Nigeria’s security responses.

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FCT Area Council Elections: Senator Ireti Kingibe Condemns Minister Wike’s Imposed Curfew as ‘Authoritarian’

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By Prosper Mene

Senator Ireti Kingibe, the representative of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the National Assembly, has sharply criticized FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over the imposition of a curfew and movement restrictions ahead of Saturday’s area council elections.

In a special broadcast on national television and radio stations on Thursday, Minister Wike declared Friday a work-free day across the FCT to facilitate preparations for the polls. He further announced severe restrictions on human and vehicular movement from 8 p.m. on Friday until 6 p.m. on Saturday, effectively creating a roughly 22-hour lockdown in the nation’s capital.

Reacting swiftly, Senator Kingibe, in a statement released on Friday through her Special Assistant on Media, Matilda Duncan, described the measure as “authoritarian, ill-considered, and unacceptable in a democratic society.” She argued that the unilateral decision, made without broad consultation with key stakeholders represents “a direct affront to democratic governance and the constitutional rights of residents.”

The senator emphasized that while maintaining law and order is important, security concerns cannot justify such “executive overreach.” She noted that the FCT has no apparent serious security threats warranting the restriction, pointing out that this is the first time in the capital’s history that such a sweeping curfew has been imposed for a local election.

“People do not understand the reason for this restriction. Many residents have various activities and responsibilities in the evening, and such a curfew unnecessarily limits their freedom in a democratic society,” Kingibe stated. She highlighted the negative impact on small businesses and the broader economy, warning that residents’ rights, freedoms, and economic well-being should not be compromised by arbitrary actions.

Kingibe has called on Minister Wike to immediately review and suspend the curfew, stressing that FCT residents are citizens of a democratic republic, not subjects under authoritarian rule.

The development comes amid preparations for the area council polls, which are seen as a test of electoral readiness ahead of future national exercises. Critics have raised concerns about the measure’s proportionality, while supporters of the minister’s directive argue it aims to ensure peaceful voting.

As the elections approach on Saturday, February 21, 2026, all eyes remain on whether the restrictions will proceed as announced or face further pushback from stakeholders.

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‎ ‎𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗰𝗵𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 – 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

recent study provides new insights into why chronic pain often lasts longer in women than in men, pointing to biological differences in the immune system rather than psychological factors.

The research which was published on February 20, 2026, in the journal Science Immunology, the research, titled “Monocyte-derived IL-10 drives sex differences in pain duration” was led by Geoffroy Laumet, an associate professor of physiology at Michigan State University, along with first author Jaewon Sim and colleagues.

The study reveals that a specific subset of immune cells called monocytes plays a key role in resolving pain by releasing an anti-inflammatory molecule known as IL-10 (interleukin-10). These IL-10-producing monocytes help “switch off” pain signals by communicating with sensory neurons. In males, these cells are more active, leading to faster pain resolution. This heightened activity is driven by higher levels of male sex hormones, particularly testosterone.

In contrast, females have less active IL-10-producing monocytes, resulting in delayed recovery and more persistent pain. The researchers observed this pattern consistently in mouse models of inflammatory pain  and in human data from patients recovering from traumatic injuries, where men resolved pain more quickly and showed higher circulating levels of these monocytes and IL-10.

Experiments further confirmed the hormonal link: Blocking male sex hormones in mice reduced the activity of these pain-resolving monocytes, while treatments that boosted them (such as the lipid mediator resolvin D1) accelerated pain relief in both sexes.

For years, women have reported more frequent, severe, and prolonged chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, migraines, and musculoskeletal issues, yet their experiences were sometimes dismissed. This study validates those reports with evidence of a clear biological mechanism, shifting focus from pain initiation to why it persists.

The findings could pave the way for targeted, non-opioid therapies that enhance pain resolution, especially for women. As Laumet noted in related coverage, the difference lies in the immune system’s ability to shut down pain signals, not in perception alone.

This research bares the importance of considering sex differences in pain management and medical research to develop more equitable treatments.

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𝗜𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱-𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗷𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗲𝘅-𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

28-year-old Nigeria-born man, Adeleke Adelani, has been sentenced to nine years in prison in the Republic of Ireland for forcing his ex-girlfriend to take abortion pills, resulting in the unlawful termination of her pregnancy.

The incident occurred on Valentine’s Day 2020 (February 14) in Letterkenny, County Donegal. Adelani, who had researched home abortion methods online beforehand, invited his former partner to his home under the pretense of discussing their situation. The woman was approximately nine weeks pregnant and reportedly wanted to keep the baby.

Instead, Adelani threatened her, stating he would “beat that kid out of you” if she refused. He forced her to swallow five misoprostol 200mg tablets (abortion medication typically used under medical supervision), instructed her on how to take them, and then locked her in a bedroom. He had obtained the pills from Dublin. Parts of the ordeal were recorded on his phone, including audio where he said, “Take this, I’m dead serious, I’m forcing you. I don’t care, take it.”

The court described the act as extremely premeditated, involving serious physical and emotional violence. Adelani pleaded guilty to unlawfully ending the life of a foetus (under Irish law) and to assault causing harm.

In sentencing at Letterkenny Circuit Court on February 19, 2026, Judge John Aylmer handed down 11 years imprisonment (with the final two years suspended) for the unlawful termination charge, resulting in an effective nine-year term. He also imposed a concurrent sentence for the assault. Adelani is already serving a separate seven-year sentence (with 18 months suspended) for another offence, and the new term runs consecutively in parts.

The judge noted the premeditated nature and that Adelani knew the victim wished to continue the pregnancy. In mitigation, Adelani submitted a letter of apology and mentioned participating in prison rehabilitation programs.

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Nollywood Actress Rosy Meurer Fires Back at Critics Over Husband’s Reconciliation with Ex-Wife Tonto Dikeh

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By Prosper Mene

Gambia-born Nollywood actress Rosy Meurer has strongly defended her marriage to businessman Olakunle Churchill amid intense online trolling sparked by his recent public reconciliation with ex-wife, actress Tonto Dikeh.

In a series of candid posts on her Instagram story, Meurer addressed the barrage of criticism and direct messages she has received, asserting her right to speak up about her personal life. The drama intensified following Churchill’s reunion with Dikeh and their son, King Andre, which included shared photos and public interactions that reignited speculation and backlash toward Meurer.

Meurer dismissed claims that she was ever friends with Dikeh or served as Churchill’s personal assistant before their marriage. She emphasized that her relationship with Churchill is built on genuine love, not interference.

“You think I will live in bondage and be quiet and die inside? Na love I love, I no kill person,” she wrote in Pidgin English. “And if (God forbid) circumstances happen that I am no longer comfortable in marriage, I will leave without you fools being the reason behind it.”

The actress further stated that she refuses to remain silent while others control the narrative about her life and marriage. “If I don’t speak up for myself no one will,” she added, urging critics to mind their own business.

The ongoing saga has drawn widespread attention in Nigeria’s entertainment circles, highlighting the challenges celebrities face from social media scrutiny in matters of personal relationships. Meurer’s bold response underscores her determination to prioritize her well-being over public opinion.

Churchill and Meurer, who have children together, have previously faced rumors and controversies linked to his past with Dikeh. This latest development appears to have prompted Meurer to set the record straight and reclaim her voice in the conversation.

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‎𝗞𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗿𝗲-𝗘𝗸𝘂𝗻 𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗷𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗿𝘆, 𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗿𝘂𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗮𝗰𝗸𝘀

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has voiced strong concern over the rising trend of indiscriminate and unsubstantiated accusations of corruption leveled against the entire judiciary, describing them as a “troubling pattern” that threatens public confidence and the rule of law.

In her address during the swearing-in of 14 new Federal High Court judges in Abuja on Wednesday, the CJN emphasized that while the judiciary welcomes responsible critique and remains committed to addressing proven misconduct through the National Judicial Council (NJC), broad-brush attacks without specific evidence unfairly tarnish the reputations of honorable judicial officers and weaken the institution as a whole.

“In recent times, there has been a troubling pattern of broad, sweeping attacks against the Judiciary,” Justice Kekere-Ekun stated. “It has become fashionable in some quarters to deploy blanket allegations of corruption against the institution as a whole. Such sweeping generalizations wound deeply.”

She reiterated that judges are human and not immune to error, but stressed the importance of specificity: allegations must be backed by proof, channeled through proper mechanisms, and not used recklessly to delegitimize the courts. The CJN warned that when public trust in the judiciary erodes due to unfounded claims, the foundation of the rule of law itself is put at risk.

The Chief Justice reaffirmed her administration’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and swift disciplinary action against any verified wrongdoing, while calling on critics to adopt a more measured, evidence-driven approach to discussions on judicial integrity.

The ceremony also served as an opportunity to charge the newly appointed judges, Suleiman Amida Hassan, Muhammad Barau Saidu, Igboko Chinelo Conchita, Onuegbu Chioma Angela, Galumje Edingah Ibrahim, Vera Eneabo, Abubakar Musa, Usman Salihu, Aisha Yunusa, and others, to uphold the Constitution faithfully, exercise impartiality, and recognize the profound societal and economic impact of their rulings.

Justice Kekere-Ekun’s statements reflect ongoing tensions in Nigeria’s public discourse around the judiciary, where concerns over delays, perceived inefficiencies, and isolated corruption cases persist, even as reforms continue under her leadership.

 

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