Lifestyle
American Citizen Sentenced To 13 Years In Russian Prison For Drug Smuggling
In a tense diplomatic climate, US citizen Michael Travis Leake has been sentenced to 13 years in a Russian prison for attempted drug smuggling. The 50-year-old former paratrooper and musician was accused of packaging and selling drugs obtained from an accomplice between January and June 2023.
Leake was charged with attempting to sell over 40g of mephedrone and storing additional drugs in his apartment. Russian state television broadcast footage of his trial, showing him locked in a metal cage. In a separate video, Leake appeared confused and claimed he didn’t know why he was detained.
Leake’s sentencing comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Russia. Washington has urged its citizens to leave Russia immediately, citing the threat of arrest. Leake is one of approximately a dozen Americans currently held in Russian detention.
US officials have accused Russia of targeting American citizens for arrest. Recent cases include US journalist Evan Gershkovich, arrested on espionage charges, and American basketball player Brittney Griner, jailed on drugs charges before being released in a prisoner swap. US marine Paul Whelan is serving a 16-year sentence on spying charges.
In Russia, only 0.25% of cases referred to court in 2018 ended with not-guilty verdicts, compared to 15% in UK magistrates’ courts and 20% at Crown Court level. This raises concerns about the fairness of Leake’s trial and the Russian justice system.
A musician and music producer, Leake was a member of the rock band Lovi Noch and had lived in Russia for many years. He appeared on Anthony Bourdain’s travel show Parts Unknown in 2014, showcasing his love for Russia and its culture.
The US government has not commented on Leake’s specific case, but has warned its citizens of the risks of traveling to Russia. As diplomatic relations continue to deteriorate, concerns grow for the safety and well-being of Americans detained in Russia
On behalf of Diaspora Watch and Excel Magazine International, we proudly celebrate Lady Gladys Afam, a distinguished executive of Excel DMV and Excel Global Media Group USA, on her special day!
May this birthday mark the beginning of an extraordinary year filled with unbridled joy, untamed adventures, and unforgettable memories. May your life be a testament to the power of laughter, love, and wonder.
As a remarkable teacher, master of ceremony, and inspiration to many, we salute your tireless dedication, passion, and impact. Your selflessness and commitment to empowering others have made a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.
The marraige ceremony between Olanrewaju and Mary happened between February 7 and 8, 2025 at Kwankwashe in Suleja axis of Niger State. The event which witnessed the presence of many dignitaries also saw in presence different cultural groups that came to join in the celebrations of love.
The traditional wedding event kicked off the celebrations on February 7th, with both families present. The event had songs, dancing and showcase of love. The couples dorned their Edo and Yoruba at-tires. While the bride Mary Omonokhua is from Edo State, Olanrewaju Oyedeji hails from Osun state. There were sharing of tradtional food, drinks and merriment across quarters.
The reception on February 8, had present former Minister of Communications, Barrister Ade-bayo Shittu, Africa Editor at the Centre for Collaborative Investigative Journalism, Ajibola Aamzat, Abuja Bureau Chief of The Cable Newspaper, Yekeen Akinwale, representative of the Voice of Nigeria Chief Executive Officer, Gidado Shuaib among other personalities .
There were personalities from the SCC Construction company, multimedia organizations among others. The wedding ceremony also saw presence of journalists from British Broadcasting Corporation, AFP, Premium Times, Dataphyte, Code for Africa, Punch Newspaper, Intercontinental News247 among other notable media platforms.
The Northern Operations Bureau Chief of the Excel Magazine International, Alabidun Abdul-Rahman, was also on ground at the occasion. Other personalities included the head of corporate Affairs at the Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Kwara State, Bolaji Aladie .The program also had presence of religious leaders, women groups, socio-cultural associations among others.
Speaking at the occasion, the groom, Olanrewaju Oyedeji, noted that his wife is a special gift from God. “She is my dream come true, love of my youth and my everyday crush. She gives me peace of mind and I am very happy today”.
Speaking also, the bride Mary Omonokhua eulogized her husband. “He is a caring man, hardworking and my heart desire, today is a special day for me”, she noted. At the event, the both families who were well represented expressed gladness at the success of the wedding event.
Different groups offered prayers for the couples, while gifts were also offered. Olanrewaju Oyedeji is an accountant while Mary Omonokhua is also an accountant. “This is a true celebration of love, you can feel it all round, the joy is in the atmosphere and everywhere is electric” an attendee at the wedding noted.
#MaryOla2025 showed that love can be from across tribes and still be beautiful to behold.
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Lady Gladys Afam:A Shining Star in the Diaspora Community
#MaryOla: A Unique Celebration of Love Beyond Borders
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 36
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
Revolutionary mRNA Lung Cancer Vaccine Trial Offers New Hope To Thousands
