LATUR: A 25-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly impersonating a police officer to cheat people under the pretext of helping recover stolen property in Maharashtra’s Latur district, officials said. The accused, identified as Vijay Aniruddha Kadam (25), a resident of Parbhani, was apprehended on Monday by the Local Crime Branch following a probe into multiple complaints of cheating in the district, a police release said Tuesday. Police said Kadam tracked theft cases reported in newspapers, obtained victims’ contact details and approached them posing as a police officer. To gain their trust, he showed a video of himself purportedly attending a UPSC interview and used fake documents, including a forged panchnama with a false identity. The Crime Branch team received a tip-off about a man near New Renapur Naka who was impersonating a police officer and duping people. Acting on the input, police laid a trap and apprehended him. A search led to the seizure of Rs 4.3 lakh in cash from his possession. During interrogation, Kadam told police that he promised victims recovery of their stolen valuables and extracted large sums of money from them. In one such case, a complainant from Ahmedpur was duped of Rs 5 lakh on March 19 after being assured recovery of stolen gold, police said. Of the amount, the accused had spent Rs 70,000, while the remaining Rs 4.3 lakh was recovered. He also admitted to committing similar frauds over the past two years in Nanded and Parbhani districts, police said, adding that teams from these districts are coordinating to probe his involvement in other cases. A case has been registered against him at Ahmedpur police station in Latur under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Police have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a police officer before engaging with them.

B2 Spirit bomber (Image/X)

As the war in the Middle East intensifies, the B-2 Spirit, one of the United States’ premier stealth bombers has emerged as a critical asset in the campaign against Iran. Known for its unique ability to penetrate the most sophisticated air defenses, the B-2 has carried out missions that few other aircraft could attempt.While bombers such as the B-1B and B-52H have been forward deployed to the United Kingdom to support operations near Iran, the B-2 continues to fly long-range missions directly from its home at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri.According to War Zone, there is currently no evidence that B-2s are operating from Diego Garcia or any other overseas location, yet they remain a central component of the US air campaign.Images released by US Central Command (CENTCOM) on March 17 show a pair of B-2 Spirit bombers preparing to launch for another long-range mission over Iran.

Operational record of B-2

The B-2’s operational record is marked by precision and versatility. Each aircraft carries visible mission markings on its nose gear doors, with one bomber displaying 15 bombs.While the exact significance is unclear, it likely denotes the number of combat missions rather than individual weapons dropped.

.

Analysts have speculated that the markings could indicate the delivery of Massive Ordnance Penetrators (MOPs).

Capabilities and key specifications

The B-2 Spirit’s capabilities are central to its effectiveness in modern conflict. With a crew of two pilots, the aircraft is capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions anywhere on the globe. Its flying-wing design, composite materials and advanced coatings contribute to its low observability, reducing radar, infrared, acoustic, visual and electromagnetic signatures.Click here or live war updates These features allow the B-2 to operate in highly contested airspace, providing the United States with a unique strategic advantage. The aircraft’s unrefueled range of approximately 6,000 nautical miles (9600 kms) allows it to strike distant targets without reliance on forward bases, while its ability to carry up to 40,000 pounds of ordnance ensures a high level of firepower, according to US Air Force website. The bomber’s operational history is extensive and notable. From its first combat deployment in Operation Allied Force, where it destroyed a third of Serbian targets in the opening weeks, to long-range missions supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, the B-2 has repeatedly demonstrated its global strike capability. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, the B-2 flew dozens of sorties from both Whiteman Air Force Base and forward operating locations, releasing more than 1.5 million pounds of munitions. Its effectiveness in these missions cemented its reputation as a critical asset for precision strikes in heavily defended environments.

.

As the B-2 enters the later stages of its operational career, upgrades derived from the B-21 Raider program are being applied to maintain its relevance. These enhancements may include improvements to coatings and materials, new sensors, electronic warfare capabilities and advanced communications systems, ensuring that the aircraft can operate effectively in increasingly complex battlespaces. Despite the passage of decades, the B-2 remains one of the most sophisticated and valuable components of American airpower, a symbol of technological foresight and enduring capability.The B-2 Spirit continues to represent a combination of innovation, precision and strategic reach. Its ability to deliver punishing blows while remaining nearly invisible to advanced defense systems underscores its importance in the current Middle East conflict.

GHAZIABAD: A 38-year-old man shot dead his wife and a close friend at his home in Tronica City’s Rampark Colony after he came to know that the two were having an affair for the past two years and his wife was planning to leave him.The accused had allegedly invited the friend over for dinner on Monday evening. The three ate together and smoked before a heated argument broke out, ending in the fatal shooting.According to police, the couple’s seven-year-old son was an eyewitness to the double murder. While police are yet to record his statement, the minor is said to have told police that his father, Rashid (38), took out a gun from an almirah in their bedroom around midnightand first shot his friend, also a colleague of several years at his furniture shop, Faheem (32), before turning the gun towards his wife, Shabnam (36).After the murders, Rashid apparently turned towards his son and said, ‘ab sab thik ho jayega’ (now everything will be fine) and left the house.An FIR has been registered against Rashid under Section 103 (murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, based on a complaint filed by Faheem’s father. Police teams are conducting raids to trace the accused. They are also trying to locate the weapon used in the murder and ascertain how and when Rashid got his hands on it, which could reveal if the murder was premeditated.Police have also found that both Rashid and Faheem had prior criminal records. Multiple cases, including attempt to murder, theft and violations of the Arms Act, were registered against Faheem at local police stations. Rashid had previously been arrested in a theft case in 2023.DCP (rural) Surendra Nath Tiwari said the two were shot in the head, possibly from close range, and were declared dead on being taken to a hospital by neighbours. The bodies were sent for autopsy, but the reports are awaited, police said.The couple, police said, were married for several years and had seven children, aged 1.5 to 20. During the initial rounds of inquiry, family members and neighbours told cops that Shabnam and Faheem had been in a relationship for more than two years. Tensions in the household had escalated in recent months, particularly after Rashid learned of the alleged affair around the time of their eldest son’s wedding six months ago. Officers said Rashid had objected to the relationship and asked his wife to end it, but the dispute persisted.

About a week before the killings, Rashid and Faheem were involved in a confrontation over the issue, police said. On Monday evening, Rashid allegedly called Faheem to the house for dinner and confronted him and Shabnam after he thought all his children had retired to bed.Loni ACP Siddharth Gautam said Rashid had already concealed a pistol inside the home. After the meal, an argument broke out between the three. The seven-year-old, who had been watching television, entered the room on hearing raised voices and witnessed the shooting.A senior police officer added that Shabnam had wanted a divorce and intended to sell the house, which she owned. It may have also led to the murders, police said.

In a clinical display of modern T20 cricket, the New Zealand Women’s team (White Ferns) delivered a masterclass at home, securing a massive 92-run victory over South Africa Women in the 5th T20I on March 25, 2026. While the series has been a hard-fought contest, this encounter belonged entirely to the hosts, who utilized the familiar conditions of Christchurch to overwhelm the visiting Proteas. The win was anchored by a historic batting performance that left the South African bowlers with few answers and the spectators in awe of the sheer talent on display.

Amelia Kerr stars with a blazing hundred against South Africa

The headline of the day was undoubtedly the captain’s knock from Amelia Kerr. After the early loss of Isabella Gaze for just 1, Kerr walked to the crease with intent, transforming the momentum of the innings instantly. She played a sensational innings of 105 runs off just 55 deliveries, striking at a phenomenal rate of 190.90. Her knock was a textbook example of gap-finding and power-hitting, featuring 19 fours and a towering six.

Kerr found a steady partner in Georgia Plimmer (27), and later Brooke Halliday (26), building the platform for a daunting total. Despite a mid-innings wobble where Tumi Sekhukhune (3/32) and Ayabonga Khaka (3/32) managed to pick up key wickets, including the dangerous Sophie Devine for a golden duck, Kerr remained immovable. She reached her century in just 52 balls, guiding New Zealand to a formidable 194/6 in their allotted 20 overs. The South African death bowling struggled to contain the late-innings surge, as Jess Kerr and Izzy Sharp added quick runs to put the target well beyond the psychological reach of the visitors.

Also READ: Jess Kerr, Sophie Devine power New Zealand to series-clinching win over South Africa in 4th T20I

New Zealand’s disciplined bowling falter South African chase

Facing a target of 195, South Africa needed a flying start, but the New Zealand bowling attack, led by the veteran Lea Tahuhu, had other plans. Tahuhu struck in the very second over, removing Chloe Tryon for 1, and the Proteas’ chase never recovered from the early shock. The New Zealand bowlers remained incredibly disciplined, stifling the scoring rate and forcing errors from the South African top order.

Skipper Laura Wolvaardt (9) and Anneke Bosch (9) both fell cheaply within the Powerplay as the score slumped to 40/4. Tahuhu finished with impressive figures of 3/15, while the spin duo of Nensi Patel and Amelia Kerr kept the pressure high. Kerr proved her all-round worth by bagging 2/6 in a suffocating three-over spell.

South Africa’s middle order offered little resistance; Annerie Dercksen (23) was the only batter to cross the 20-run mark. The New Zealand fielders were equally sharp, supporting their bowlers with clean catches and athletic ground fielding. As the required run rate climbed toward 15 per over, the Proteas opted for survival over aggression, eventually finishing their 20 overs at a dismal 102/9. The 92-run margin of victory underscores a dominant day for New Zealand, fuelled by a captain’s century and a collective bowling effort that left South Africa searching for answers ahead of the next ODI fixtures coming their way.

New Zealand finishes off the series in style 🔥#NZvsSA #AmeliaKerr pic.twitter.com/PCmTN0uANy

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) March 25, 2026

Also READ: Kashvee Gautam earns maiden call-up as India announce Women’s T20I squad for South Africa tour

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

Is there an end in sight to the chaos in the Middle East? Iran has set a high bar for a possible ceasefire with the United States, as tensions have been escalating since February 28. The ongoing military exchanges between the US-Israel coalition and Iran have created a constantly evolving situation. Meanwhile, apart from Tehran’s demands, the US has offered a 15-point proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.What began as a targeted mission against then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed on the first day of Donald Trump’s Operation Epic Fury, in coordination with Benjamin Netanyahu’s Operation Roaring Lion, has now escalated into daily, large-scale bombings across the region, including the cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Despite losing its longest-serving leader, the Tehran regime has consolidated power within the Iranian government and the IRGC, according to the Wall Street Journal. The report also detailed the demands of the regime now under Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.

What Iran is demanding

According to the report, Tehran has asked the Trump administration to close all American bases in the Gulf region and provide reparations for attacks on Iranian territory. Additionally, Iran seeks to collect fees for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, similar to how Egypt charges for passage through the Suez Canal.The demand included the lifting of all US-imposed sanctions.The regime also wants guarantees that the war will not resume and an end to Israeli strikes on Iran-aligned militias, including Hezbollah in Lebanon. Allowing Iran to maintain its missile program without any negotiations to limit it remains a major sticking point.However, the Trump administration appears unwilling to entertain Tehran’s demands. A US official described them as “ridiculous and unrealistic.” Arab and US officials warned that such posturing could make reaching a deal with Tehran even harder than before Trump launched the war.The officials added that the first signals of the new diplomatic round came through Middle Eastern intermediaries late last week, and that there has been no direct contact between the US and Iran.

US offers 15-point proposal to Iran

US President Donald Trump has shared a 15-point proposal with Iran aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. “All starts with, they cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, signalling a renewed diplomatic push even as military operations continue, according to a New York Times report citing officials familiar with the matter.

Watch

‘Come Closer’: Iran To Kick Off ‘CRUSH AMERICA’ Mission As Trump Plans US Boots On Ground

Pakistan initiated the conveyance of proposal that addressed the key issues including Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programmes, as Washington seeks an “offramp” from a war now in its fourth week, which has widened to involve multiple countries.Israel’s Channel 12 reported that Trump is proposing a one-month ceasefire, during which the sides would discuss a plan including the handover of Iran’s enriched uranium and a ban on further enrichment. The New York Times noted it had not reviewed the document directly but was told it also addresses maritime security concerns. Since the conflict began on February 28, Iran has effectively restricted Western shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global oil and gas supplies and driving up prices.Following compliance with the plan, Iran would see an end to all sanctions, which have been in place in various forms for years, the Israeli report said. Iran would also receive assistance in developing civil nuclear energy at Bushehr, a key site that predates the 1979 Islamic revolution.It remains unclear how widely the proposal has been circulated within Iran’s leadership or whether Tehran is willing to engage on its basis. There is also no clarity on whether Israel supports the initiative. Despite the diplomatic outreach, hostilities show no immediate signs of easing. Israeli officials have indicated that military operations could continue for weeks.Acknowledging parallel diplomatic efforts, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “As President Trump and his negotiators explore this newfound possibility of diplomacy, Operation Epic Fury continues unabated to achieve the military objectives laid out by the commander in chief and the Pentagon.”

Watch

‘Negotiations With Bombs’: Trump’s HUGE Iran Announcement Amid Strikes On US Bases | Watch

Pakistan’s de facto head and army chief Asim Munir, have positioned themselves as possible intermediaries, leveraging reported ties with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps to facilitate communication. Officials said Egypt and Turkey are also encouraging Tehran to engage constructively.Munir has reached out to Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, proposing that Pakistan host talks between the two sides, the report says. Supporting the initiative, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said his country “fully supports ongoing efforts to pursue dialogue to end” the conflict. “Subject to concurrence by the US and Iran, Pakistan stands ready and honoured to be the host to facilitate meaningful and conclusive talks for a comprehensive settlement of the ongoing conflict,” he added.