I-T raids on close aides of two more Congress MLA candidates

Al Jubail: Fighters Jubail emerged champions of the B-Human Cup 2026 (Season 3) after a thrilling high-voltage final against Ascent at the Al Falah Floodlight Cricket Stadium on Friday, January 2, 2026. The packed venue witnessed a top-class six-over contest, marking a memorable conclusion to the two-day cricket mega event.

After winning the toss, Ascent opted to field, sending Fighters Jubail in to bat. Fighters posted a competitive 85 runs in the allotted six overs. Chasing a target of 86, Ascent fell short, handing Fighters Jubail a well-deserved victory. Anwar of Fighters Jubail was adjudged Man of the Match as well as Man of the Series for his outstanding performance throughout the tournament.

Semi-Final Results

Earlier, two exciting semi-final matches set the stage for the grand finale.
•    First semi-final: Ascent defeated Clusters
•    Second semi-final: Fighters Jubail outplayed Amplitude Avengers

Tournament Highlights

The two-day knockout tournament featured 10 teams and was organized by Team B-Human, Jubail Unit, with Al Muzain and Raqwani Group as the main sponsors.

Closing Ceremony

The post-match closing ceremony began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran by Fawaz Ullal. Mr. Basheer, President of the B-Human Jubail Unit, welcomed the gathering.

The event was moderated by Salim Udupi, who invited the dignitaries to the dais, including:

•    Mr. Asif Deal, Founder of B-Human (Chief Guest)
•    Mr. Sharif Bolar, Chairman of B-Human
•    Mr. Deepak, GM, Al Muzain
•    Dr. Arun Rai, CEO, Yenepoya School, Al Khobar

They were joined by co-sponsors and guests:

Mr. Shakeel (CEO, Makhavi), Mr. Farooq Ahmed (CEO, Arab Energy), CR Aboobakker, Mr. Hitesh (E-Manager, Al Muzain), Mr. Mohammed Farooq (CEO, Portway Travels), Mr. Muqthar Noor (MD, Shield Sensor), Mr. Shahul Hameed (Trustee, B-Human), Mr. Yunus (Trustee, B-Human), and Mr. Ansaf (CEO, Unified Inspection Company).

All were honoured with mementos by the organizing committee.

A short documentary showcasing the activities of Team B-Human was presented by Founder Asif Deal. Appreciation mementos were also presented to sponsors in recognition of their support for the dialysis care initiative.

Guest Speeches

Dr. Arun Rai praised the tournament and remarked that the day’s success belonged not just to the two finalist teams, but also to B-Human, which won the hearts of the people through its service.

Mr. Deepak and Mr. Shakeel commended the organizers for conducting a wonderful event and urged continued support for B-Human’s charitable initiatives.

In his address, Mr. Asif Deal spoke about the founding of Team B-Human in 2016 and highlighted its mission of providing free dialysis support. He thanked all members, donors, and volunteers for their tireless dedication.

Felicitation & Special Attractions

Three individuals were felicitated for their exceptional service during emergencies:

1.    Mohammed Malebettu
2.    Dilawar Hussain
3.    Heena Firoz Khan

Family games for children and women, along with free lucky draw coupons, added to the festive atmosphere.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Br. Younus, Trustee of B-Human, who expressed gratitude to all participating teams, sponsors, spectators, and organizers for making the annual B-Human Cup a grand success.

Following a record-breaking response to experimental joyrides during the Karavali Utsava, the Dakshina Kannada district administration has signaled a major shift toward high-end travel. Officials are now laying the groundwork to transform Mangaluru into a permanent heli-tourism hub, connecting the state’s most sacred pilgrim centers and untouched coastal gems via the skies.

The move comes as the Karnataka government readies a specialized tourism policy for the coast, aimed at drawing global investors. With Mangaluru already serving as a critical nexus for education, healthcare, and maritime trade, the introduction of a scheduled helicopter service is seen as the "missing link" in the region’s economic evolution.

By the Numbers: A Flying Success

The data from the recent 10-day trial (beginning December 26) paints a clear picture of high demand:

•    Total Passengers: 1,032
•    Ride Duration: 7 minutes
•    Ticket Price: ₹3,500 per person
•    Origin of Tourists: Significant turnout from Kerala, Udupi, and Karwar.

Bridging the Gap for Global Travelers

Deputy Commissioner Darshan HV emphasized that the vision extends far beyond festival joyrides. Currently, international tourists arriving via luxury cruises at the New Mangalore Port (peak season December–April) often find themselves "landlocked" by time.

"Foreign visitors staying for just 24 to 48 hours currently struggle to visit inland attractions like Chikkamagaluru or Kodagu due to road travel times," a senior official noted. "A permanent heli-link would make these Western Ghats destinations accessible in under 30 minutes."

Beyond Tourism: Medical and Logistics

The administration is also looking at the humanitarian and logistical benefits. As a medical powerhouse, Mangaluru’s private hospitals could utilize the proposed permanent helipads for:

1.    Cardiac Emergencies: Rapid transfer of critical patients.
2.    Organ Transplants: Vital "green corridors" through the air to save lives.
3.    Regional Connectivity: Linking remote areas like Puttur, Sullia, and Beltangady to the main city.

While the Karavali Utsava has traditionally focused on beach-side festivities, the DC confirmed that the district is now evaluating formal proposals from private operators. The goal is to establish a network of permanent helipads that will eventually offer regular sorties to Kudremukh National Park and the scenic heights of the Western Ghats.

Udupi: In a shocking case of digital deception, a 32-year-old resident of Nadpalu village lost Rs 2.19 lakh after falling victim to an online loan scam while desperately seeking funds for his sister’s wedding.

According to the complaint filed with Hebri Police, Ramesh (32) received a call around 10 am on January 2 from an unknown number. The caller identified himself as Ravi Kumar S, claiming to represent a non-banking finance company offering quick online loans.

Needing urgent financial support for the marriage expenses, Ramesh enquired about the loan details. The caller allegedly promised a 3% interest rate with a monthly EMI of Rs 6,289 for five years, assuring a smooth approval process. Believing the offer to be genuine, Ramesh agreed to proceed.

Police said the fraudster then demanded multiple payments under different pretexts, claiming they were part of the loan processing formalities. Between January 2 and January 5, Ramesh transferred Rs 2,19,500 across 36 separate online transactions.

Realising he had been cheated, Ramesh approached Hebri Police, who registered a case under Sections 318(4) and 319(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act for online impersonation and fraud.

Police have initiated an investigation to trace the accused and have once again urged the public to verify the authenticity of financial service providers before making any payments.