Pramod Thomas is a senior correspondent with Asian Media Group since 2020, bringing 19 years of journalism experience across business, politics, sports, communities, and international relations. His career spans both traditional and digital media platforms, with eight years specifically focused on digital journalism. This blend of experience positions him well to navigate the evolving media landscape and deliver content across various formats. He has worked with national and international media organisations, giving him a broad perspective on global news trends and reporting standards.
TWELVE members of an organised crime group from Birmingham, Walsall, and Yorkshire have been found guilty of defrauding over £2.5 million in Covid support grants through fraudulent claims.
The crime group exploited non-trading businesses and stolen identities to submit multiple Covid support claims, including Bounce Back Loans, HMRC payments, and various grants set up to assist struggling businesses and individuals during the pandemic.
The convicted were, Qirat Deeas, 50, of The Hurst, Moseley, Birmingham; Ummer Yousaf, 40, of Bent Avenue, Quinton; Usaamah Bin Taariq, 25, of The Hurst, Moseley; Zishan Ahmed, 30, of Higgins Lane, Quinton; Noah Deen, 31 of Wood End Road; Sajid Hussain, 36, of Flackwell Road; Naqeeb Shakurt, 26, of Springcroft Road; Harun Shehzad, 29, of City Road; Sameer Ali Mohammed, 34, of Waterfront Way, Walsall; Tasaddaq Hussain, 54, of Northfield Crescent, Bingley; Imaan Hussain, 24, of Northfield Crescent and Al-Harris Hussain, 29, of Thornbury Grove, Bingley.
All twelve were convicted, with ten sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court on Friday (6) at Birmingham Crown Court. Judge Roderick Henderson said, "This was a continuous and sophisticated fraud, exploiting the community during a national emergency. The haste in distributing funds meant that checks were minimal. These defendants took advantage of the situation and profited from it."
Their fraudulent activities spanned several support schemes such as Small Business Grants and the Eat Out to Help Out initiative.
The convictions followed two separate trials at Birmingham Crown Court, necessitated by the large number of defendants involved. Each of the 12 members either entered guilty pleas or were convicted after trial on charges including conspiracy to defraud and money laundering.
The group’s operations were described as a "well-planned, sophisticated, and sustained attack" on the financial support measures put in place by the UK government during the pandemic.
Mark Jackson and Lucinda Wilmott-Lascelles, prosecuting for Birmingham City Council, detailed how the group took advantage of the pandemic relief schemes by becoming directors of inactive companies or using stolen identities to submit fraudulent applications for funds.
They established numerous bank accounts and recruited others to use their accounts in exchange for payments, which were subsequently laundered through a complex network, including accounts in the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates.
The crime group was responsible for submitting fraudulent applications for at least 53 Small Business Grant Funds valued at over £530,000 across five local authorities. They also accessed public funds via HMRC Self-Assessment and Eat Out To Help Out payments totalling more than £530,000, and obtained at least 26 Bounce Back Loans totalling over £1.3m from seven banks.
The court heard that the group used more than 50 companies and over 100 different bank accounts as part of their fraud and money laundering operation.
The investigation into the group’s activities began in 2020 when Birmingham City Council’s Trading Standards service started looking into large-scale misuse of the Small Business Grant Funds. As the investigation progressed, evidence emerged indicating the defendants were working as part of an organised crime group. The investigation was supported by West Midlands Police.
Cllr Sam Forsyth, chair of Birmingham City Council’s licensing and public protection committee, condemned the crime as “wicked during a national emergency.”
Forsyth stressed that while many were struggling during the pandemic, these individuals saw an opportunity to exploit the system for personal gain. “These convictions should serve as a strong warning that if you engage in such behaviour, you will be caught and held accountable,” Forsyth said. “The investigation was complex and lengthy, and I extend my thanks to everyone who played a role in bringing these criminals to justice.”
Cllr John Cotton, leader of the city council, described the attempt to defraud taxpayers as “abhorrent.” He praised the efforts of council officers and partners who worked tirelessly to bring the criminals to justice.
“Attempting to deprive others of vital funds during a global pandemic is unforgivable,” Cotton said. “These convictions make it clear that such behaviour will not go unpunished.”
The gang were convicted and sentenced as follows:
Qirat Deeas admitted two counts of conspiracy to defraud and two counts of money laundering. He was sentenced to seven years and seven months.
Ummer Yousaf was found guilty of two counts of conspiracy to defraud, two counts of money laundering, and failing to comply with a RIPA notice. He received an eight-year sentence.
Sajid Hussain admitted two counts of conspiracy to defraud and one count of money laundering. He was sentenced to five years.
Sameer Mohammed admitted two counts of conspiracy to defraud and one count of money laundering. His sentence was four years and nine months.
Noah Deen pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy to defraud and one count of money laundering. He was sentenced to five years and three months.
Usaamah Bin Taariq admitted two counts of conspiracy to defraud and one count of money laundering. He was sentenced to four years.
Tassadaq Hussain admitted one count each of conspiracy to defraud and money laundering. He was sentenced to four years and nine months.
Imaan Hussain admitted two counts of conspiracy to defraud and one count of money laundering. He received a four-year and nine-month sentence.
Naqeeb Shakurt admitted two counts of conspiracy to defraud and one count of money laundering. His sentence was four years and nine months.
Al-Harris Hussain was found guilty of one count of money laundering and sentenced to two years suspended for two years.
Zishan Ahmed and Harun Shehzad both admitted two counts of conspiracy to defraud and one count of money laundering. Their sentencing will take place at a later date.
Netflix announces Cyberpunk: Edgerunners season 2 at Anime Expo 2025
New standalone story with fresh characters and darker themes
Directed by Kai Ikarashi, known for episode six of season one
Showrunner promises more violence, emotional depth, and realism
Trailer expected to be released during Studio Trigger panel
New season revealed at Anime Expo 2025
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners season 2 has officially been announced by Netflix and CD Projekt Red during the Anime Expo 2025 event. The follow-up to the hit anime spinoff of Cyberpunk 2077 will feature a completely new storyline and characters, while retaining the series’ distinctive raw and emotional tone.
The new 10-episode season will not continue the story of David from season one but will instead present a fresh narrative within the violent and chaotic world of Night City.
Creative team returns with new direction
The new season will be directed by Kai Ikarashi, who previously directed the popular episode six, titled “Girl on Fire”, in the first season. A trailer is expected to debut during animation studio Trigger’s panel at Anime Expo, scheduled for 8:30pm PT.
Showrunner and writer Bartosz Sztybor, who returns for season two, told attendees that the next season will be “sadder, darker, more bloody, and more raw.” Reflecting on season one, he remarked: “I just wanted to make the whole world sad… when people are sad, I’m a bit happy.”
The official description for Cyberpunk: Edgerunners season 2 promises a standalone tale of “redemption and revenge.” Set in the brutal and spectacle-driven Night City, the story will explore what it takes to be noticed in a world overwhelmed by violence and chaos.
The series remains a collaboration between CD Projekt Red and Studio Trigger, and continues to expand the Cyberpunk 2077 universe across different media. No release date has been confirmed for the second season.
The first season of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners was praised for its animation style, emotional storytelling, and faithful representation of the game’s dystopian setting. Expectations for season two are high as fans await further updates.
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Abhishek Bachchan says Aishwarya Rai is fully responsible for Aaradhya’s upbringing
Abhishek Bachchan credits Aishwarya Rai for taking the lead in daughter Aaradhya’s upbringing.
Says Aaradhya, now 13, has no phone and stays away from social media.
Calls Aishwarya “selfless” for prioritising parenting over everything else.
Slams online gossip surrounding their marriage as baseless and insensitive.
Actor Abhishek Bachchan has dismissed recent speculation around his marriage with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, instead shining a light on her unwavering dedication as a mother. In a recent chat, he spoke warmly about their 13-year-old daughter Aaradhya, revealing that she neither owns a mobile phone nor uses social media, something he attributes to Aishwarya’s hands-on parenting.
Aaradhya Bachchan has no access to social media or a personal phoneGetty Images
Aishwarya Rai's parenting praised as ‘selfless and devoted’
Speaking in an interview, Abhishek was full of admiration for how Aishwarya has raised their daughter. "I have to give credit entirely to Aishwarya. I go out and work, but she does all the heavy lifting when it comes to Aaradhya. She’s incredibly selfless,” he said. According to him, Aishwarya’s decision to put her daughter's well-being above everything else has shaped Aaradhya into a grounded young person.
Abhishek Bachchan calls Aishwarya a devoted mother and partnerGetty Images
Aaradhya has no phone, no social media — by choice and design
In an era when most teenagers are glued to their screens, Aaradhya stands out. “She doesn’t have a phone. She’s not on any social media. She’s being raised to be thoughtful and aware,” Abhishek said. He also acknowledged that while Aishwarya plays the larger parenting role, Aaradhya herself deserves credit for the person she’s becoming, calling her a “wonderful little lady” who brings joy and pride to the family.
Aaradhya is now taller than Aishwarya says Abhishek in candid interviewGetty Images
Responds to rumours, says online chatter can be hurtful
For months, the internet has been buzzing with speculation about a rift between Abhishek and Aishwarya. Without naming any specific rumours, Abhishek expressed frustration with how quickly false stories gain traction. “People sit behind their screens and type things without realising they’re talking about real lives. It’s very easy to be nasty online,” he shared during a media interaction.
Aishwarya Rai often seen with daughter Aaradhya at public eventsGetty Images
‘She’s taller than Aishwarya now’: a proud dad reflects
Recalling the night Aaradhya was born, Abhishek fondly mentioned how she once fit in the crook of his arm. “She’s taller than Aishwarya now,” he said with a smile, adding that the happiness of coming home to a healthy family is what matters most to him today.
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To address the ongoing demand, Nintendo is working to increase production
Nintendo Switch 2 demand outstripping supply in several countries
Over 2.2 million applications submitted in Japan’s lottery sales
Nintendo held four purchase draws, with a fifth scheduled for early July
Company aims to strengthen production and supply to meet demand
Switch 2 had the biggest launch in Nintendo history
Strong demand leads to shortages
Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa has confirmed that demand for the Nintendo Switch 2 has surpassed available supply in many regions. Speaking during the Q&A session of the company’s 85th annual general meeting of shareholders, Furukawa addressed concerns about ongoing stock shortages.
“Currently, for Nintendo Switch 2, demand is exceeding supply in many countries, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may be causing our consumers,” he said.
Furukawa acknowledged that even shareholders and their families may be struggling to secure a unit, particularly in Japan, where Nintendo implemented a lottery system through its official My Nintendo Store.
2.2 million applications in Japan alone
The company began accepting applications for the Switch 2 via random draw in early April. Applicants had to meet specific criteria to qualify. The number of entries far exceeded Nintendo’s expectations, with over 2.2 million applications submitted.
Furukawa noted that, as of April 23, he had posted a public message on X acknowledging the high demand and apologising to those not selected. Four lottery rounds have since taken place, but many hopeful customers remain without a console. A fifth draw is scheduled for early July.
While many Japanese retailers also used lottery systems for launch sales, Furukawa stated that more stores are now offering the device for direct purchase.
Nintendo to boost supply
To address the ongoing demand, Nintendo is working to increase production and distribution efforts. “We will continue to strengthen our production and supply systems to deliver as many Nintendo Switch 2 systems as possible to our consumers,” Furukawa said.
The Nintendo Switch 2 launched on 5 June and sold over 3.5 million units worldwide within its first four days, according to VGChartz estimates. This marks the most successful hardware launch in Nintendo history, surpassing the original Switch’s launch week total of 1.4 million units.
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Ranveer Singh in a still from Lootera that captured his most restrained performance
Ranveer’s subtle performance in Lootera marked a major shift from his usual high-energy roles.
The 1950s-set romantic drama became a career milestone for the actor.
His restrained, emotionally complex portrayal earned long-term critical acclaim.
The film showcased a successful collaboration with director Vikramaditya Motwane.
As Dhurandhar builds buzz, Lootera reminds us of Ranveer’s range.
Twelve years ago, Ranveer Singh surprised audiences with Lootera, a period romance that asked him to do something unfamiliar: stay still. Set in 1950s Bengal and directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, the film gave Ranveer the space to deliver one of his most subdued and mature performances. No outbursts. No spectacle. Just quiet heartbreak.
Lootera released in 2013 and marked a stylistic shift for Ranveer Singh Prime Video
Here’s why his role as Varun still holds up more than a decade later:
1. A rare lesson in stillness
Known for loud roles and louder screen presence, Ranveer turned things down, way down in Lootera. His portrayal of a soft-spoken, guilt-ridden thief proved that less can sometimes be more. His silences did the heavy lifting, letting emotion simmer just beneath the surface.
Ranveer Singh’s role as Varun showed he could command the screen without saying much
2. He took a risk and it worked
At a time when most rising stars would double down on mass-appealing hits, Ranveer picked a slower, more poetic film. It was a gamble, especially for someone fresh off commercial successes. But Lootera earned him serious critical respect and broadened perceptions of what he could do as an actor.
The period romance Lootera became a turning point in Ranveer Singh’s career
3. An emotionally layered performance
Varun isn’t a typical romantic lead. He’s torn, flawed, and emotionally guarded. Ranveer managed to convey all that complexity with minimal dialogue, relying instead on body language and micro-expressions that hinted at heartbreak and inner conflict.
Ranveer Singh’s performance in Lootera was praised for its emotional restraint
4. A director who brought out his quieter side
Vikramaditya Motwane’s direction played a big role in shaping the performance. There’s a quiet rhythm to the film, and Ranveer adapted beautifully to it. The collaboration allowed him to step into a world that demanded introspection over intensity, and he delivered.
Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha starred in the romantic drama set in 1950s BengalYoutube/Altt Balaji Motion Pictures
5. A role that aged well
Not all performances hold up years later, but Lootera does. While it wasn’t a box office juggernaut, the film has since found cult love. Ranveer’s turn as Varun remains one of his most respected, proof that charisma doesn’t always need volume.
Lootera’s legacy has grown over the years despite its modest box office runYoutube/Altt Balaji Motion Pictures
What’s next?
Twelve years on, Lootera continues to be a defining moment in Ranveer Singh’s career. And with his next film, Dhurandhar, already drawing attention for a darker transformation, it’s clear the actor is still full of surprises.
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The chain had also gained a following for its themed brunches
Chinese dim sum restaurant Ping Pong has closed all its UK locations
The chain made the announcement via social media
Founded in 2005, the brand thanked customers and staff for their support
Loyal diners shared memories and disappointment in the comments
All branches are permanently closed
Chinese restaurant chain Ping Pong has permanently closed all its branches in the UK, the company confirmed in a social media announcement.
Founded in 2005 by restaurateur Kurt Zdesar, the dim sum chain had become popular for its stylish interiors, creative menus, and Asian-inspired cocktails. The company did not provide prior notice of the closure but said the decision marked the end of an “unforgettable” 20-year journey.
Social media announcement thanks customers and staff
In a post shared on Instagram, the company wrote: “It’s a wrap. After 20 unforgettable years, all Ping Pong locations are now permanently closed.
“We’re incredibly proud of what we built, an independent hospitality brand full of creativity, flavour and soul.
“To everyone who joined us over the years, for dim sum dates, happy hours, bottomless brunches, and just-because catch-ups – thank you.
“You shared your moments with us, passed around little parcels of deliciousness, and helped make Ping Pong what it was.
“To our collaborators, suppliers, and the incredible team who kept the steam going, thank you. It’s been sum-thing truly special.”
Customers express sadness over sudden closure
Regular customers responded to the announcement with disappointment and nostalgia. Many expressed shock over the sudden news and the lack of notice.
One Instagram user commented: “Noooo, we’ve made some amazing memories there, birthdays, anniversaries, you name it. The food was always so amazing.”
Another said: “WHAT?? WE HAD NO CHANCE TO SAY GOODBYE! NO WARNING.”
Others fondly recalled the restaurant’s atmosphere and signature dishes, with one writing: “The food and the lychee cocktails will be sorely missed.”
Ping Pong had multiple locations across London and was known for its contemporary take on traditional Chinese dim sum. The chain had also gained a following for its themed brunches, casual dining experience, and cocktail offerings.
No further information has been shared regarding the reason behind the closure or whether the brand will return in a new format.