Latest news with #666
The Star
06-08-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
‘Jay Chou' hawker's business flames out
Compiled by C. ARUNO, SHYAFIQ DZULKIFLI and R. ARAVINTHAN A HAWKER in China who looks like the 'King of Mandopop' Jay Chou had to shut down his two shops due to poor business, reported Sin Chew Daily . 'I could not make enough to even pay the rent,' he said online. Dubbed the 'porridge-biscuit Jay', the man (whose real name is Bai Xianying), first went viral in 2020 after a passerby noticed his resemblance to the superstar. A video of him selling egg-filled pancakes at his cart blew up on social media, amassing him more than three million fans. With his fame, Bai opened two shops in Tianjin and Shijiazhuang since October last year. While business was good initially, fans were surprised to find both shops closed when they visited the outlets in July. Bai confirmed on social media that he made the painful decision to close both shops as there was not enough business to cover rent and other costs. 'It was just not meant to be. There is nothing to be ashamed about,' he said. Bai is now back at his humble roadside cart selling egg-filled pancakes. When interviewed, Bai said he just wants to make enough money so that his children do not have to go through the same hardships he has experienced. > Despite making up to 30,000 yuan (RM17,666) a month playing video games, a man in Shanghai is still often berated by his mother to 'go find a proper job', the daily also reported. He spends his entire day at home as a professional gamer who helps clients level up their in-game characters, making 10,000 to 30,000 yuan a month. 'I am making money using my own skills. Why is that not considered an actual job?' he said. In an anonymous post on Weibo, the man explained that with his education, he could earn a take-home pay of around 6,000 yuan (RM3,533) per month in the corporate world. However, he said that after paying rent and other living expenses, there was not much left for leisure. Most netizens supported him, saying that any job is a good job as long as it pays the bills. 'It's much better than leeching off your parents. What's more, you are earning double the money a normal corporate worker makes,' one netizen wrote. Some, however, pointed out that gaming is not a career and that he may not be able to compete against younger players when he is in his 40s. Instead, they urged him to use the money he saved to start a business and gradually pivot away from gaming. The above articles are compiled from the vernacular newspapers (Bahasa Malaysia, Chinese and Tamil dailies). As such, stories are grouped according to the respective language/medium. Where a paragraph begins with a >, it denotes a separate news item.
Daily Maverick
20-07-2025
- Daily Maverick
Devil worship, muti and murder — the growth of occult gangs in South Africa
Occult elements like 666 symbols, inverted crosses and traditional witchcraft now infest the crime underworld. Gang-related crime in South Africa is widespread, but it is under-reported outside hotspots such as the Cape Flats in Cape Town or Westbury in Johannesburg. In these areas, gangs are deeply rooted and contribute to continuous violence, drug trafficking and territorial conflict. But gangs have continued to evolve and gang violence has consistently increased throughout South Africa, particularly in Gauteng and the Free State. In the Free State devil worship and witchcraft-related gang practices have been reported. Gang-related violence is fuelled by poverty, social exclusion, unemployment and the need for protection from rival gangs. In my doctoral study in criminology, I explored the phenomenon of occult-inspired gangs in the Free State. I interviewed 23 active gang members, 16 offenders who were not affiliated to gangs, and 18 service providers like social workers and correctional officials working with these groups. In a more recent study I developed a typology of occult gangs: a framework that captures their structure, symbolism, hierarchy and spiritual practices. This matters because in order to prevent gang-related crime, it is essential to understand how they operate. The rise of Free State occult gangs In 1997, a South African Police Service investigation uncovered a so-called devil-worshipping group or 'evil church' that had migrated from parts of northern Africa and established itself in Maseru, Lesotho (South Africa's neighbour). This group reportedly blended occult practices with traditional African witchcraft, which led to local communities labelling it as a devil-worshipping gang. Since 2011, groups like these have expanded throughout the Free State. There are now about 40 such gangs active in the province, as reported by the police and confirmed in my research. Some of the better-known gangs are the Triple 6 (666), Born-To-Kill (BTK), Natural Born Killers (NBK), International Junior Portuguese (IJP) and Maroma (Romans or Romas). More typical street gangs are mostly known for expanding their territory through profit from the drug trade and extortion. But these Free State gangs incorporate spirituality and esoterism (special hidden knowledge) to assert dominance, foster cohesion and generate fear in communities. They engage in serious crimes including murder, organ trafficking and rape. They are particularly known for acts such as ritual stabbings, cannibalism and alleged communication with demonic forces. The communities in which these groups operate, and gang members themselves, refer to them as 'devil-worshipping gangs'. This is because of the explicit link between certain gang-related practices and Satanism, or the worship of the devil as depicted in the Christian Bible. Some groups merge beliefs and rituals related to Satan and anti-Christianity with witchcraft. Or they use symbols commonly associated with Satanism such as '666' and inverted crosses. But labelling all such groups as 'devil-worshipping gangs' is misleading. The term 'occult gangs' better captures the range of practices involved. Although both devil worship and witchcraft-related practices can play a role in criminal gang activity, they differ in origin and form. Devil worship draws from Western occult traditions, using symbols and rituals to strengthen gang identity. Witchcraft-based practices typically involve the malicious use of muti (traditional African medicine) and muti murders (murders for body parts to use in muti). As one participant told me: 'Yes, there are gangs that believe in muti. There are also gangs that believe in the devil. The IJP and Roma believe in muti, while BTK and Triple 6 believe in getting power from the devil. They say they speak to Lucifer to give them powers.' So, infamous gangs in the Free State are dreaded not only for their brutality, but also for their reported links to ritual murder, blood oaths, the use of muti and the consumption of human organs and blood. According to my research, these activities have progressed from being viewed as urban legends and community myths to becoming lived realities. Inside the gangs My gang typology study sample consisted of 39 male offenders aged 14 to 38. Participants were either serving sentences or awaiting trial for serious offences such as murder, rape and armed robbery. The gang members spoke openly about seeking power through supernatural means. Some believed that consuming blood and participating in occult rituals could make them invisible to police and invincible against their enemies. As one told me: 'The minute you drink blood you are invoking spirits to become part of you, demons to become part of you, and give you the powers that you need to do what you have to do…' Ritual stabbings, inverted crosses and the 'mark of the beast' (666) were part of their gang symbolism – seen in gang graffiti and tattoos and furthered by involvement in spiritual gatherings and the use of muti. These elements form part of a shared gang ideology that offers meaning, identity and purpose to marginalised young people. I found that the gang members in my studies often lacked family support, social support or significant formal education. To prevent young people from joining gangs, it is crucial to understand what pulls them in. Several participants described joining gangs not only for wealth, protection or status, but for a sense of spiritual power. Especially in communities where traditional religion, ancestral beliefs and Christian teachings coexist and sometimes collide. My typology of occult gangs has the potential to inform targeted prevention programmes, rehabilitation efforts and policing strategies that take the spiritual realities of gang members seriously. New approach to fighting crime is needed The rise of occult gangs has now progressed beyond the Free State. Similar trends are observed in the Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Gauteng and the Western Cape. The intersection of faith, fear and violence in these gangs challenges mainstream approaches to crime prevention. Traditional anti-gang strategies assume that gangs are driven mainly by socioeconomic factors or rational incentives. They fail to account for spiritual motivations and metaphysical beliefs. The presence of ritual elements in gangs also complicates investigations and amplifies fear. It makes them seem more powerful than they are. At the same time, public institutions such as the police and social workers often lack the frameworks and cultural sensitivity to address the spiritual dimensions of the offences perpetrated by these groups. The struggle with the occult gangs in South Africa mirrors similar challenges in other countries like Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Haiti, where spiritual symbolism and ritualised violence are central to gang identity. Effective interventions must include culturally grounded strategies to help members disengage from gangs, involving traditional leaders, healers, faith-based actors and mental health professionals. By addressing the spiritual, social and psychological dimensions of gang involvement, more sustainable pathways out of these groups can be created. Gang violence in South Africa is evolving, and so must the response. It shouldn't just punish young offenders, but must offer them a genuine alternative. DM First published by The Conversation. Dr Ashwill Ramon Phillips is a lecturer and postgraduate supervisor in the Department of Criminology at the University of the Free State. This story first appeared in our weekly Daily Maverick 168 newspaper, which is available countrywide for R35.
Time of India
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘666 Operation Dream Theatre': Shiva Rajkumar & Daali Dhananjaya reunites; Hemanth Rao's next
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) Director Hemanth M Rao, best known for 'Sapta Sagaradaache Ello', has announced his next big project—'666 Operation Dream Theatre', an action-packed thriller featuring Shiva Rajkumar and Daali Dhananjaya in lead roles. Impressive teaser, netizens say, "Guarantees a cinematic masterclass" 666 Operation Dream Theatre | | Daali Dhananjaya | Hemanth M Rao | Charan Raj The animated title teaser, released on June 19, has already caught the attention of fans and film buffs. The announcement is timed with the celebration of Shiva Rajkumar's 40th year in cinema. Netizens have shared their views for the teaser. One comment read, "With Hemanth Rao crafting the story, Charan Raj setting the mood, and Advaitha Gurumurthy behind the lens - this combo guarantees a cinematic masterclass." Another comment read, "I think main lead daali, cameo alli shivanna kaanskobohdu but anyways I'm excited because it's Hemanths direction and charans music... Good luck team :)" A third comment read, "Waaah! Star Combo Daali+Shivanna ondh kade nan Fav Hemanth rao +Charan raj innod kade." Another comment read, 'Interesting combo - watched it again and again becoz of Hemanth & Charan. I think director Hemanth cleverly opted 666.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Switch to UnionBank Rewards Card UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Set against a 70s backdrop, the movie promises to be a stylish spy-action thriller. Background & other projects Initially, Rao and Shiva Rajkumar were to collaborate on 'Bhairavana Kone Pata', but that project has been postponed due to the actor's recent health concerns. Fans, however, are thrilled to see the Shiva Rajkumar bounce back with another major film. As the director builds his reputation for uniquely titled and thoughtfully executed stories—from 'Godhi Banna Sadharana Mykattu' to 'Sapta Sagaradaache Ello'—expectations are sky-high for 666 Operation Dream Theatre. Meanwhile, Shiva Rajkumar will next be seen in Arjun Janya's upcoming action drama '45', sharing screen space with Upendra and Raj B Shetty, while Daali Dhananjaya is currently juggling multiple projects including Uttarakaanda, Jingo, and Anna from Mexico.
Scoop
05-06-2025
- Automotive
- Scoop
May New Vehicle Registrations Holds Ground In May
New vehicle registrations in May 2025 totalled 10,251, a modest 65 units higher than May 2024 (10,186), signaling stabilisation in monthly demand. However, year-to-date figures continue to reflect a softer market, with 51,621 new vehicles registered to the end of May - a 3 percent decline compared with 53,352 over the same period in 2024. Registration numbers for new vehicles are compiled each month by the Motor Industry Association representing the country's new vehicle manufacturers and suppliers. Association chief executive Aimee Wiley says while the year-on-year result for May shows encouraging signs, the overall market is yet to regain momentum. 'We probably still have a period of subdued activity to come, but these May numbers do offer some cause for optimism and hopes for better times ahead.' For cars and SUVs, new registrations at 6,817 showed a small improvement on the 6,369 registered in May 2024; while light commercial (3,016 units) and heavy commercial (418 units) represented a decrease on May 2024 figures of 3,154 units and 663 units respectively. Toyota's RAV4 was the top passenger model for the month with 666 sales, followed by the Mitsubishi ASX with 457 units sold and the Ford Everest in third place with 277 sales. The RAV4 is also the leading model on a year-to-date basis with 3,806 registrations for a 10.5 percent share of the market. The Ford Ranger held onto top spot in the light commercial category with 1,051 sales and a 34.8 percent market share, followed by the Toyota Hilux with 910 sales and a 30.2 percent share of the market. Year-to-date registrations show a much closer contest with the Ford Ranger on 3,510 registrations and the Toyota Hilux right behind with 3,438 registrations. Registrations of battery electric light passenger vehicles (BEV) remained relatively steady over the month, with 447 registrations slightly higher than the 442 such vehicles registered in April. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) with 2,883 registrations and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) at 351 sales were slightly ahead of those registered in April; (2598 and 177 respectively). Industry Registrations In May 2025 10,251 new vehicles were registered, representing a 0.6% increase (65 units) over May 2024 and a 23.2% decrease (3,103 units) compared to May 2023.
Daily Record
03-06-2025
- Daily Record
Jailed thug with Satanic 666 tattoo used razor to slice fellow inmate's neck
John Lizanec escaped with a superficial cut to his cheek and neck and was treated with a number of paper stitches after Alan Brown created the improvised weapon. An inmate who carried out a razor attack on a notorious wife killer has been locked up for 40 months. Alan Brown - who sports a Satanic 666 tattoo on his neck - was also found to have been drinking all night after brewing up home made hooch behind bars. The serial thief - dubbed Scotland's 'lowest of the low' after robbing priests, children and war veterans - sneaked up behind John Lizanec and sliced his neck. He was also handed an additional 12-month supervised release period after the court was told that Brown would continue to pose a risk to the public at large. Perth Sheriff Court was told that Brown targeted Lizanec and used the improvised weapon to cut him before kicking him in the back as he tried to flee. Lizanec was on remand awaiting trial for the brutal murder of his estranged wife Michelle. He was subsequently jailed for life and ordered to spend a minimum of 24 years behind bars. Brown, 43, also pled guilty to further offences, including a raid on a Perth charity hub and a one-man siege in which he claimed to have electrified his cell. Fiscal depute Emma Farmer told the court Lizanec walked out of his cell in Perth Prison's B-Hall at around 9.30am on 17 September 2021. He made his way up a stairwell and saw Brown - who was also a remand prisoner at the time - standing at the top. "They had no cause to speak to each other," she said. "As the complainer went to go back down, he felt a sharp pain to the right side of his head followed by a thud to his back. "He turned around and observed Mr Brown in possession of a razor. This caused him to run downstairs. Whilst running away, he was kicked in the back by Mr Brown." Lizanec raised the alarm by shouting"knife" at nearby prison staff. "Mr Brown was challenged by officers and he provided them with an item which contained a scissors handle with two pieces of metal sticking out." Lizanec escaped with a superficial cut to his cheek and neck and was treated with a number of paper stitches. The court also heard of a disturbance at Brown's cell on the morning of January 7, 2024. Brown - who shared his cell with inmate John Ramsay - had made his own hooch and had been up all night drinking. At about 8.30am, guards were carrying out a routine check when they noticed a strong smell of alcohol from Brown's cell. When an officer entered to break up the party, Brown ran at him with an improvised weapon - a screw mounted to a handle - and shouted: "Get the f*** out of this cell." Staff retreated but noticed wires coming from underneath the door. Brown told them he had wired the door and said: "I'd move away if I were you." After confirming it was not electrified, seven officers in full protective gear got ready to enter. Brown threw green liquid, believed to be cleaning fluid, at the door to make it slippery. He was seen holding a blade and heard to say: "If you guys come in here, it's game over." Brown continued: "You're getting done. In fact, he's getting done." He moved towards Mr Ramsay and placed the blade at his throat. The seven officers burst through the door and disarmed Brown and took him to the ground. Mr Ramsay, who was described as "too scared to move from his bed" avoided injury. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Brown, who has a long record for crimes of dishonesty, was released from prison in March 2024. On the evening of May 27 that year, he raided two neighbouring properties in Perth's St Leonard's Bank. He first went to a building used by charity Subud Britain, and a woman staying in an upstairs room heard doors opening and closing downstairs. When she went to investigate, she found Brown on the stairwell. "He appeared to be under the influence of something," said Ms Farmer. He mumbled about attending a meeting but left when the woman pointed out broken glass from a smashed window in the hallway. Brown also went next door to an office used for NHS child and adolescent mental health services. A senior nurse noticed the break-in when she arrived for work the next day. Windows were smashed on the ground floor and a cash box containing £50 was missing, along with £23 in an envelope and a wrapped gift. In both incidents, Brown was identified by blood spatter he left at the crime scenes. The same evening, he snatched a handbag from a house in Glengarry Road and a picture snapped by a witness was posted on Facebook. Sheriff William Wood asked Brown: "Maybe you like being in prison?" Brown replied: "Not really, no."
