Views
Real-Life FBI Sting Operation Inspires New M. Night Shyamalan Film
A new film by director M. Night Shyamalan, “Trap”, is inspired by a real-life FBI sting operation from the 1980s. Operation Flagship, which took place on December 15, 1985, involved offering complimentary tickets to a Washington Redskins game to around 3,000 fugitives, with the promise of a chance to win a trip to the Super Bowl. However, when nearly 120 of them arrived at the venue, they were arrested by police and special agents.
The operation was a clever ruse, with agents posing as event staff, including cheerleaders and mascots, who mingled with the fugitives before arresting them. “They were literally partying with them,” Shyamalan told BBC News. “They were like ‘come on in the room!’ and then checked their names and made sure it was the right people, and got around them and said ‘you’re all under arrest’.”
The fugitives had been targeted by the US Marshals service and were told they had been randomly selected from a list of Washington DC residents to receive two free tickets. They were invited to show up in the morning to receive their tickets and would be transported by bus to and from the game that afternoon. Or so they were told.
Toby Roche, the chief deputy of the US Marshals at the time, recalled the operation in a 2016 documentary. “We sent out invitations to a little under 3,000 fugitives, to a brunch at the Washington Convention Centre,” he said. “My role was to make sure that the fugitives who turned up were in fact fugitives.” Agents had code words for the level of criminals, with “confirmed winner” indicating someone who was wanted and “double winner” indicating a dangerous person with a history of aggravated assault, murder, or robbery. Shyamalan was fascinated by the story and used it as the basis for his new film. “I heard about it when I was a kid and I thought it was totally absurdist, that this actually happened,” he told BBC News. “It was something that was in my head a lot when it happened… This was real-life criminals, FBI and police.”
The success of Operation Flagship caught many dangerous criminals off guard, and it remains an extraordinary example of creative law enforcement. Shyamalan’s film, “Trap”, brings this incredible true story to the big screen.
We are excited to announce the release of the 21st edition of Diaspora Watch, your go-to platform for insightful analysis and captivating stories from around the globe, dedicated to uniting African diaspora communities.
FREE Digital View: https://www.flipsnack.com/excelglobalmedia/diaspora-watch-oct-21-27-2024-vol-21/full-view.html
Print on Demand: https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/2926055?__r=1069759
SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch-newspaper/
This issue dives into the heated U.S. presidential race, where Former President Donald Trump and Democratic contender Kamala Harris are making their final appeals to voters ahead of the November 5th election. With reports of vote-buying and significant campaign donations surfacing, we explore the potential implications for American democracy.
On the international front, tensions rise as the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalates, and North Korea aligns itself with Russian interests. In the Middle East, unrest persists following the assassination of a Hezbollah leader, with urgent calls for restraint as fears grow over a possible Israeli invasion of Iran.
In a thought-provoking piece, writer Tony Okoroji examines the possible global repercussions of another Trump presidency. Human rights advocates are also sounding alarms over the UK’s recent deportation of 44 Nigerians and Ghanaians, stressing the urgent need for more humane immigration policies.
The Mpox pandemic remains a serious threat in Africa, with over a thousand fatalities reported in recent weeks. We also delve into a unique Nigerian tradition, revealing how grooms may be compelled to fulfill marital rites under tragic circumstances.
On a lighter note, Washington D.C. recently celebrated creative excellence at the Annual Mayor’s Arts Award, while the Confederation of African Football has penalized Libya for its unacceptable treatment of Nigeria’s Super Eagles during a recent match.
Don’t miss our new Diaspora Connect page, designed to inform young Africans about international opportunities. Plus, be sure to check out the dazzling Didi Nkanta on our Diva Page, adding a touch of glamour to this packed edition.
Grab your copy today for a comprehensive view of our world, and join us as we strengthen the bonds within the African diaspora!
The Ovia-Osese Festival of Ogori, a rich cultural celebration held annually in Kogi State, Nigeria, is a tribute to the values of purity, sanctity, and tradition. This vibrant festival marks the rite of passage for young women, symbolizing their transition into womanhood, while upholding the cherished customs of the Ogori people. The girls, known as “Irehnes”, undergo a series of rituals that emphasize moral purity, respect for community values, and the preservation of cultural identity.
Central to the festival is the blessing of the young women by elders, who impart wisdom about womanhood, family values, and the importance of maintaining the community’s cultural heritage. This public recognition of their maturity is accompanied by traditional dances, colorful attire, and ceremonial displays that showcase the rich history of the Ogori people.
The Ovia-Osese Festival fosters community unity, serves as a platform for cultural preservation, and highlights the significance of purity and moral integrity. The celebration also attracts visitors from far and wide, eager to witness this unique rite of passage and to participate in the rich cultural display.
Dive into the world of Diaspora Watch and stay informed, engaged, and inspired.
FREE Digital View:
https://diasporawatch.com/diaspora-watch-20th-edition…/
Print on Demand: https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/2918067?__r=1069759
SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch…/
In the heart of Imo State, Nigeria, lies the ancient town of Arondizuogu, home to the revered Ikeji cultural festival. This spectacular event, which dates back over five centuries, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people. Every year, thousands of people from around the world gather to witness the vibrant displays of masquerades, music, and dance that make Ikeji one of the most significant cultural festivals in Igboland.
The essence of Ikeji is to celebrate the harvest of the first yams, a staple crop in Igbo culture. The festival serves as a unifying force, bringing together Aro people from across the Igbo-speaking states and beyond. It is a time for feasting, thanksgiving, and propitiation, marked by four days of festivities that correspond to the Igbo calendar’s four market days.
The festival features a colorful array of masquerades, including Ogionu, Mgbadike, Nwaaburuja, and Ozoebune, which parade across the market square to the admiration of the public. Traditional musical instruments, such as the ekwe, ogene, bells, maracas, and oja, accompany the masquerades, creating an intoxicating rhythm that sets the tone for the festivities. The flutist plays a vital role in communicating with the masquerades, weaving soulful melodies and esoteric messages into the music.
Another fascinating aspect of Ikeji is the raconteur, known as ima mbem, who delivers imaginative tales with a musical cadence that only the initiated can understand. The flutist is equally important, communicating hidden messages to the masquerades through his melodies, steps, and gestures.
Read also : London Meets Port Harcourt: Ikwerre Festival Brings Nigerian Culture To The UK
On the final day of the festival, a ram is tied to a pole in the market square, and brave individuals are challenged to approach and untie it. This test of bravery is a highlight of the festival, with contenders facing forces beyond human comprehension. The bravest among them will eventually succeed in untying the ram, earning thunderous applause and recognition for their village.
Ikeji is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of Igbo tradition and heritage. It is a testament to the rich cultural diversity of Nigeria and a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural roots. As the world becomes increasingly globalized, festivals like Ikeji serve as a vital link to our past, present, and future
Hurray! It’s the 25th Edition of Diaspora Watch!
Cybersecurity and Data Protection in Africa
Diaspora Watch Vol. 24: A New Era, A Historic Victory, and the Pulse of the Global African Experience
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
