THREAD: nicola bulley

BBC ART Scandal Shocks: Expert Sold to Hezbollah Financier

09 May 2025 — A former BBC “Bargain Hunt” art expert has pleaded guilty to selling artwork to a man accused of funding Hezbollah. Oghenochuko Ojiri admitted in a London court that he sold about $185,000 worth of art to Nazem Ahmad between 2020 and 2021.

Nazem Ahmad is banned from doing business in both the U.K. and U.S. because of his alleged ties to terrorism and money laundering for Hezbollah. Prosecutors said Ojiri knew about Ahmad’s background, even talking about his terror links with others before making the sales.

The U.S. Treasury sanctioned Ahmad back in 2019, saying he smuggled blood diamonds and helped finance violence through shady business deals. Even with these warnings, Ojiri still went through with the sales, breaking anti-terrorism laws meant to block money from reaching groups like Hezbollah.

PARENTS’ ARREST Over School Comments Ignites Fury

30 March 2025 — In January, Hertfordshire Police arrested Maxie Allen and Rosalind Levin in front of their daughter after a five-week investigation. They faced accusations of malicious communications, harassment, and causing a nuisance on school property due to online comments about Cowley Hill Primary School. The Times of London reported the incident on Saturday.

The conflict began in May 2024 when Allen questioned the process for replacing the retiring head teacher. By June, school governors warned the couple against causing “disharmony” and banned them from school grounds, allowing only email communication. Despite attempts to lift this ban due to their daughter’s epilepsy, tensions escalated with allegations of disparaging remarks made by the parents in a WhatsApp group.

In December, local police advised removing their child from the school, which they did in January before being arrested shortly after. The couple spent 11 hours at the station before release around midnight. Mr. Allen criticized both the school’s tactics as silencing dissenting parents and police actions as overreach without clear evidence of criminal communications.

Levin expressed shock at their arrest’s dramatic nature, fearing for her daughter’s safety when six officers appeared at her door unexpectedly. The case highlights concerns over free speech and parental rights within educational settings amid growing tensions between schools and parents nationwide.

MARTYN’S LAW: A Bold Step to Protect Public Spaces

13 March 2025 — The proposed MARTYN’S LAW has cleared its third reading in Parliament, marking a major step forward. This legislation aims to boost security at public venues. Lord Hanson described the law as a tribute to terror attack victims.

Named after Martyn Hett, who died in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, the law seeks to prevent similar tragedies. It requires stricter security protocols for large gatherings and public spaces.

Supporters say these measures are vital for protecting citizens from future attacks. Critics worry about potential costs and logistical challenges for venue operators.

As the bill moves forward, it continues to spark debate on balancing safety with individual freedoms and economic impacts on businesses. The outcome will shape how public events are managed across the nation.

UK DEFENSE SPENDING Hike: Resignation Shocks Politics

01 March 2025 — Anneliese Dodds resigned from her roles as international development minister and minister for women. She disagreed with the cuts to overseas aid. Dodds shared her resignation letter online, voicing concerns over reducing the aid budget. While she understood the need for more defense spending, she criticized how much aid was being cut.

Keir Starmer plans to raise U.K. defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, up from 2.3%. This boost will come by cutting the aid budget from 0.5% of GDP to 0.3%. Starmer called this decision “very difficult and painful,” signaling a new era of insecurity in Europe that needs a strong response.

Dodds argued that these deep cuts would hurt vulnerable populations and harm the U.K.'s global reputation. She pointed out that supporting Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, vaccinations, climate projects, and rules-based systems would be impossible with less funding. Aid agencies agreed, warning about negative effects on global poverty efforts and Britain’s influence abroad.

Despite initial doubts due to Starmer’s meeting with President Trump in Washington, Dodds decided to resign after his return from the trip. Her exit highlights tensions within Starmer’s Cabinet over balancing defense priorities with humanitarian commitments.

ANGLO AMERICAN’S Bold $500M Nickel Sale: A Strategic Shift

19 February 2025 — Anglo American has sold its nickel business for $500 million. This move lets the mining giant focus on copper and iron operations. The decision follows a rejected takeover attempt by BHP, signaling a strategic shift in focus.

Insolvencies are rising in England and Wales due to economic pressures. Fladgate LLP reports more administration cases, showing a tough business climate in early 2025. Economic turbulence may lead to more insolvencies as businesses struggle to adapt.

A Northampton business owner is under investigation for allegedly issuing fake fire safety certificates for high-rise flats. The accusations include stealing credentials and signatures from another engineer, raising serious safety concerns.

Elliott Management has taken a short position against Nvidia, betting on at least $600 million in downside exposure. The firm labeled Nvidia as a “bubble,” reflecting skepticism over its market valuation amid AI sector growth concerns.

BOLD Heist ROCKS London: Community Demands Action

12 February 2025 — A jewelry store in London faced a shocking heist on February 11, 2025. Masked thieves broke in during the early morning, stealing high-value items. Witnesses reported loud noises and saw the suspects fleeing in a vehicle later found abandoned nearby.

Police have sealed off the area and are collecting evidence, including CCTV footage from local businesses. Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Thompson assured, “We are doing everything possible to capture those responsible for this brazen act.” Officers are also conducting house-to-house inquiries for more information.

Residents expressed shock and worry over safety after the incident. One local mentioned how frightening it is when such crimes happen close to home. Police urge anyone with information to come forward and remind people to report suspicious activity quickly.

As investigations continue, there is growing demand for better security measures in the area to prevent future incidents. The community remains shaken by this daring crime, highlighting concerns about local safety needs.

‘COLD-BLOODED’ Nurse Lucy Letby Convicted: The Dark Truth Behind Baby Murders

09 February 2025 — Lucy Letby, a neonatal nurse in England, was convicted of murdering seven babies and trying to kill seven more. Her crimes happened at the Countess of Chester Hospital from June 2015 to June 2016. Prosecutors called her a “constant malevolent presence” who enjoyed "playing God.

A handwritten confession found by police showed Letby admitting she killed babies “on purpose.” She described herself as a “horrible evil person” and wrote, “I AM EVIL I DID THIS.” These admissions were key in securing her conviction.

Letby is now known as the United Kingdom’s worst serial child killer. She received 15 life sentences for her actions and has tried unsuccessfully to appeal twice. Despite some claims of miscarriage of justice, the evidence against her stays overwhelming.

Wimbledon TRAGEDY: Woman REARRESTED in Heartbreaking School Incident

28 January 2025 — A woman has been rearrested following the heartbreaking deaths of two young girls at The Study Preparatory School in Wimbledon. The tragedy occurred on July 6, 2023, claiming the lives of Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau. This case has drawn significant public and media attention.

Authorities initially detained the woman shortly after the incident but have not revealed her identity or specific charges. As this is a developing story, more updates are expected as investigations continue.

Law enforcement officials promise that more information will be released soon regarding this ongoing investigation. Families and community members affected by this tragedy await details from authorities with anticipation and concern.

UK in TURMOIL: SHOCKING Events Test Nation’s Resilience

22 January 2025 — Authorities found the bodies of a man and a six-year-old girl in a home, launching an investigation. Police are asking the public for help. This tragic event raises concerns about community safety and crime.

Storm Éowyn is set to hit the UK with winds up to 90 mph, leading to severe weather warnings. Meteorologists warn of possible damage and disruption nationwide. Citizens should prepare for emergencies as the storm nears.

A teenager admitted guilt in a murder at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class, raising alarms about youth violence. This incident has sparked talks on improving safety at schools and community events, stressing preventive measures against youth violence.

The UK government removed its competition watchdog chair amid questions over its effectiveness in fair market practices enforcement. This action highlights challenges in maintaining accountability within regulatory bodies as MPs call for urgent attention to eating disorders, underscoring healthcare needs across the nation.

SHOCKING Police ACTIONS: From Embezzlement to Squirrel Poisoning

19 January 2025 — Peter Murrell, former SNP chief executive, is facing a property sale restriction due to embezzlement allegations. The Court of Session issued an “inhibition” order last June after he was charged. This legal move is standard and initiated by the Lord Advocate.

In Birmingham, police have ramped up patrols near the city’s football ground to tackle rising vehicle crime. These efforts focus on hotspots for car cannibalism, addressing fans’ worries about their cars’ safety during matches.

Reports of squirrel poisoning in Burton Leonard have alarmed both North Yorkshire Police and residents. Authorities urge vigilance and prompt reporting of any suspicious activities or further wildlife deaths in the area.

UK police seized a Tesla Cybertruck deemed illegal for road use because it didn’t meet safety standards. This action underscores the need for new vehicle models to comply with regulations before they can be registered and approved for road use in the UK.

UK’S BOLD MOVE: Grooming Gangs Under the Spotlight

19 January 2025 — Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has launched a “rapid national audit” to investigate grooming gangs across the UK. This action addresses growing concerns over how these cases are managed and reported. Cooper stressed working with local police to spot system weaknesses.

New inquiries will start in areas hit hardest by grooming incidents, with advocacy groups supporting this detailed review. They urge a thorough look into gang operations and better protection for vulnerable people. Critics demand accountability for past failures to prevent future tragedies.

A newly appointed task force will deliver findings quickly, aiming to create a clear strategy against these criminal networks. Cooper’s announcement is seen as crucial for restoring public trust in the government’s handling of such serious issues.

POP-TARTS ART Showcase: A Delicious Tribute to POP Culture

24 October 2024 — A pop-up art gallery in London is celebrating 60 years of Pop-Tarts with unique artwork made from the breakfast pastries. Nathan Wyburn, a food artist from Wales, was commissioned by Kellanova to create three pieces for the Pop (T)Art Gallery Experience. The gallery will be open for two days and features various Pop-Tarts-inspired artworks.

Wyburn spent over 10 hours crafting portraits of Marilyn Monroe and the Mona Lisa using more than 120 Pop-Tarts. He described using Pop-Tarts as a “unique and intriguing experience” that embodies pop art’s essence. Creating an homage to Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroe piece was particularly challenging due to Monroe’s distinct look, he noted.

The event highlights how ordinary items like breakfast pastries can be transformed into extraordinary art pieces, capturing the spirit of pop culture. Wyburn expressed respect for the original artworks that inspired his creations but believes they look “pretty epic” when recreated with Pop-Tarts.

The gallery is open on October 25 and 26 in London, offering a brief but memorable artistic experience for visitors who want to see something truly different and fun!

FARAGE’S Bold Invitation: Conservative Councillors Offered a NEW Political Home

24 October 2024 — Nigel Farage has invited 1,352 Conservative councillors in England to join Reform UK. The party is gearing up for its first national election campaign. Currently, Reform UK has 28 local councillors and aims to grow significantly.

In a video message, Farage said many local Conservatives align more with his party than with Westminster’s Conservatives. Unlike the 2019 election deal with Boris Johnson’s Conservatives, Reform UK plans to run candidates in every local council contest this May. Farage warned that most Conservative councillors risk losing their seats and offered them a “lifeline” by joining Reform UK.

Farage stressed that only those who truly want to change the country should apply, setting a deadline for decisions before next month’s candidate selection. He made it clear not everyone would be accepted, especially those prone to internal conflicts typical of Tory politics.

The invitation comes just before the announcement of the new Conservative Party leader — either Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick replacing Rishi Sunak. Farage dismissed the leadership contest as irrelevant, claiming the Conservative brand is irreparably damaged due to repeated betrayals of voters’ trust over successive elections and manifestos.

LABOUR Councillor’s SHOCKING Speech Lands Him in Court

06 September 2024 — Ricky Jones, 57, appeared in court facing charges of encouraging violent disorder over an August speech at a ‘peace rally.’ The event was held in response to days of unrest across England and Wales.

A recording showed Jones calling opponents “Nazi fascists” and urging violence. His defense admitted he made the statements but claimed he didn’t know it was illegal.

Jones, a former Labour councillor and trade unionist, appeared via video link from prison. He confirmed his identity and pleaded not guilty. The trial is set for January 20th, 2025.

MYSTERIOUS DEATH of British Tech Entrepreneur’s Co-Defendant Before Yacht Sinks

21 August 2024 — Stephen Chamberlain, a former Autonomy Corp. executive, was fatally struck by a car in Cambridgeshire on Saturday. His death happened just days before his co-defendant Mike Lynch and five others went missing after their yacht sank off the coast of Italy.

Authorities confirmed that divers recovered a body from the sunken yacht near Palermo, Italy. The identity of the body has not been announced yet. NBC and Reuters reported another body was found inside the vessel.

Chamberlain had recently been acquitted alongside Lynch in a multibillion-dollar fraud case involving Hewlett Packard’s $11 billion takeover of Autonomy Corp. His lawyer praised him as "a courageous man with unparalleled integrity.

TRIPLE MURDER Shocks Hertfordshire: Manhunt for Armed Suspect

10 July 2024 — Hertfordshire Police are searching for Kyle Clifford, 26, in connection with a suspected triple murder. Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson stated that Clifford is believed to have targeted three women who were related.

The incident involved a crossbow and possibly other weapons. The victims, aged 25, 28, and 61, were found seriously injured in a house in Bushey on Tuesday evening and were pronounced dead at the scene despite rescue efforts.

Clifford may still be armed and dangerous. The public is advised not to approach him but to contact authorities immediately if seen.

Chief Superintendent Simpson urged Clifford to make contact with the police as the manhunt continues with armed officers and specialist search teams actively involved.

BRITISH TRADER’S Appeal Crushed: Libor Conviction Stands Strong

28 March 2024 — Tom Hayes, a former financial trader for Citigroup and UBS, has been unsuccessful in his attempt to overturn his conviction. This 44-year-old Brit was convicted in 2015 for manipulating the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (LIBOR) from 2006 to 2010. His case marked the first-ever conviction of this kind.

Hayes served half of an 11-year sentence and was released in 2021. Despite asserting his innocence throughout, he faced another conviction by a U.S court in 2016.

Carlo Palombo, another trader implicated in similar manipulations with Euribor, also sought appeal through the U.K.'s Court of Appeal via the Criminal Cases Review Commission. However, after a three-day hearing earlier this month, both appeals were dismissed without success.

The Serious Fraud Office remained resolute against these appeals stating: “No one is above the law and the court has recognized that these convictions stand firm.” This decision comes on the heels of a contrasting verdict from a U.S court last year which reversed similar convictions of two former Deutsche Bank traders.

SENIOR CITIZEN Soars Skyward: Security Shutter in Wales Store Lifts Woman Off Ground

06 March 2024 — In an unusual turn of events, Anne Hughes, a 71-year-old woman, found herself lifted off the ground when her coat became entangled with a security shutter outside a store in Wales.

Hughes, who works as a cleaner at the Best One shop near Cardiff, was caught off guard when her coat snagged and she was hoisted into the air. “I thought “flipping heck!”” said Hughes. A quick-thinking colleague came to her aid and helped her down after she spent 12 seconds suspended mid-air.

Despite the odd incident, Hughes managed to retain her sense of humor about it all. She expressed relief that she hadn’t landed face-first and even joked that such an event could only happen to her.

The store seized this unexpected opportunity by using the footage for online promotion with a humorous caption about their deals and staff members’ antics. The video clip was shared on social media platform X with this playful tagline: "Don’t hang about like Ann, come down to Best One for unbeatable deals! The only thing going up in our shop is our staff — not our prices!

FORMER Minister Glenys Kinnock’s LEGACY: A Life of Service and Scandal at 79

04 December 2023 — Glenys Kinnock, a former British cabinet minister and European Parliament member, has died at age 79. She passed away in her London residence on Sunday after a six-year struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Kinnock’s journey from schoolteacher to influential politician was marked by her service as a cabinet minister under ex-Prime Minister Gordon Brown. She gained recognition for her relentless fight against poverty and hunger in Africa and beyond.

Despite her achievements, Kinnock’s political career was not devoid of scandal. During her time in Brussels, she found herself entangled in an allowance controversy involving several European Parliament members.

These members were accused of signing in daily to collect a hefty £175 allowance before swiftly exiting the premises. The scandal cast a shadow over Kinnock’s otherwise commendable political career.

NATWEST CEO Falls: ICO Rules Against Dame Alison Rose, NO More Actions Planned

28 October 2023 — The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) has ruled against former NatWest CEO, Dame Alison Rose. She was found to have breached data laws in her dealings with Brexit leader Nigel Farage. However, since Rose has already stepped down from her role, the ICO plans no further action.

Rose twice broke data laws by sharing the bank’s decision to debank Farage with a reporter. She revealed sensitive personal financial details about Farage and gave misleading information about why his account was closed.

According to the ICO report, these actions violated Farage’s rights. But as Rose has resigned and NatWest is conducting its own investigation, the ICO doesn’t plan any additional regulatory action at this time.

Despite potential hefty payouts from NatWest in coming years, critics believe it would be inappropriate to reward Rose with a large sum due to her violations of Financial Conduct Authority code and data laws.