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      Europe on alert over ISIS threat to Champions League including Arsenal match as Madrid & Paris stadiums under guard

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      EUROPE is on guard following ISIS’s threat towards the four stadiums hosting Champions League quarter-final matches this week – including the Emirates Stadium in London.The Islamic State revealed a sinister poster on Monday night that included the names of the four high-capacity venues and a message that read: “Kill them all”.ISIS launched a threat against the four stadiums that will host the first leg of the quarter-finals of the Champions LeagueCredit: TwitterSpanish authorities have already taken drastic measures in the event of a fresh attack by doubling down on their security presenceCredit: GettyMore than 2,000 agents from the National Police and the Civil Guard will be present at the Santiago Bernabeu for Real Madrid vs Man City tonightCredit: GettyArsenal host Bayern Munich tonight as Manchester City travel to face Real Madrid, while Wednesday sees Atletico Madrid play Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain welcome Barcelona.Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, Real’s Santiago Bernabeu, Atletico’s Metropolitano Stadium and PSG’s Parc de Princes are all on high alert.The Met Police said today they have a “robust policing plan” for Arsenal’s match against Bayern Munich. They said the UK terrorism threat level remains at ‘substantial’ meaning an attack is likely. Read more on ISISArsenal have also released a statement, saying tonight’s fixture will be “no different” from normal.The club said: “We work closely with the Metropolitan Police regarding the safety and security of all supporters and staff at Emirates Stadium for all our matches.”It comes amid fears of a resurgent ISIS after the group killed more than 140 people in a terrorist attack in Moscow last month.The death cult appears to be rising again as chaos spills out from the Middle East.Most read in Champions LeagueBut despite the threats, UEFA have confirmed that this week’s Champions League matches will take place as planned.A statement issued on Tuesday read: “Uefa is aware of alleged terrorist threats made towards this week’s Uefa Champions League matches and is closely liaising with the authorities at the respective venues.“All matches are planned to go ahead as scheduled with appropriate security arrangements in place.”Spain has already activated “all alert systems” ahead of Real Madrid vs Manchester City and Atletico Madrid vs Borussia Dortmund in the capital on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively.The Santiago Bernabeu holds more than 80,000 spectators, while Atletico’s Metropolitano has a capacity of 70,460.More than 1,270 security guards are set to be deployed in Madrid as part of heightened security responses to the ISIS threat, La Vanguardia report.Spanish police will stretch their operation into Wednesday’s game between Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in the capitalCredit: GettySpanish police outside the Santiago BernabeuCredit: AFPThere are fears of another terrorist attack after gunmen killed more than 140 people in Moscow last monthHead of The Ministry of the Interior, Fernando Grand-Marlaska, said: “In terms of preventing the terrorist threat, the State Security Forces and Bodies have activated all their early warning and protection systems, as well as all their response mechanisms ready and willing.” He added that all pertinent initiatives have been adopted to guarantee the safety of both the participants and attendees of the sporting event and the Spanish citizenry as a whole, local media report.That includes more than 2,000 agents from the National Police and the Civil Guard, who will be joined by members of the Municipal Police.The response from Spanish authorities has been conducted in line with the Anti-Terrorism Prevention, Protection and Response Plan for the current level 4 out of 5 anti-terrorist alert.Also taking place tonight is Arsenal’s highly-anticipated clash with Bayern Munich in the capital.The Met Police said it has a ‘robust policing plan’ in place for the game at the 60,704-capacity Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, overseeing the policing of London today, said: “The UK terrorism threat level remains at ‘substantial’ meaning an attack is likely. Manchester City fans have already arrived in Plaza Mayor in MadridCredit: PAPolice are on alert in the Spanish capital following the threatsCredit: PACity take on Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday nightCredit: GettyThe match is one of four quarter-final first legs taking place this weekCredit: GettyCity fans snapped up over 3,800 tickets for their trip to face Real MadridCredit: PASupporters are hoping to see their side continue their Champions League defenceCredit: PA”We work closely with colleagues from across Counter Terrorism Policing in planning for events here in London, to take into account any relevant information that could help us to keep those attending safe.”We’re aware of online and media reports in relation to calls to target matches across Europe and here in London. “However, I want to reassure the public that we have a robust policing plan in place for tonight’s match and we continue to work closely alongside the club’s security team to ensure that the match passes peacefully.“As ever, we ask the public to remain vigilant, and if they see any that doesn’t look or feel right, then report it to police or security staff.”Security will also be stepped up for PSG’s clash with Barcelona in Paris on Wednesday.A French Interior Ministry source told The Sun: “Security will be enforced to counter any threats.”Specialist anti-terrorist teams will be in place, along with soldiers outside the ground.”The Return of ISISISIS’s infamous black flag is feared to be rising once again – with the attack on the Moscow hall being one of their bloodiest since they were defeated in the Middle East.
      The terrorist groups attacks sparked horror around the world for years – and their violent videos showing beheadings, burnings and other executions shocked society to its core.
      But it is feared that following on from the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan and the crisis in the Middle East following the October 7 massacre, the group is gathering strength.
      US General Joel Vowell – who leads America’s efforts abroad to squash ISIS – warned that the threat of a suspected attack has risen 200 per cent in the last three months.
      He has headed the ten year US-led coalition Operation Inherent Resolve against ISIS, which saw Western troops stationed in Iraq and Syria – two hotbeds of the terror group’s activity.
      In January he met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to talk about removing US troops from Iraq – but instead issued a disturbing message.
      The Middle East expert explained that ISIS cells have been rallying their forces in the background, “in Syria and Iraq in the last 60 days in particular”.
      Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist extremist movement, launched a brutal attack on Israel’s border in the early hours of October 7 2023 dubbed Israel’s “9/11” – killing over 1200 people.
      Extremist Islamist groups including the Houthis and Hezbollah have aimed attacks at the US and the UK, citing support of Israel – because of their war against Hamas.
      Professor Anthony Glees told The Sun that the Western world now faces threats “from all sides”, and that the fight against Hamas, the Houthis and Hezbollah shouldn’t detract from efforts to protect ourselves from older terrorist threats like ISIS.
      “I absolutely think we are being assailed from all sides. That makes us vulnerable. And when you’re vulnerable, you get bullied and attacked.”
      The security expert also told The Sun that he “absolutely” thinks it’s possible that we could be looking at a new wave of a terrorist threat like those seen over the last 20 years.
      The raging threat of terror groups like Hamas, the Houthis and Hezbollah could be combined with attacks by organisations like ISIS on UK soil.
      Ex-US General Ben Hodges said: “The UK is in a pre war environment. That means war is coming.”
      Met Police commissioner Mark Rowley warned this time last year that Britain that the UK has tens of thousands of potential terrorists hiding in plain sight.
      Sir Rowley warned that they were on the security services radar, and would need just a “spark” to act on their extremist beliefs.
      Glees told The Sun that the events of October 7 and the ensuing war has “provided that spark”.
      He said: “I think what has happened since the seventh of October, has, in a sense, provided a spark.”
      Glees “absolutely” thinks the threat of a terror attack on British soil has been increased.
      He warned that while we have a nuclear deterrent, which could be used to ward off certain enemies, it won’t prevent more conventional attacks like those that might come from a terrorist organisation like ISIS.

      There will be some 500 ordinary police alone securing the game, and these will be swelled by an unspecified number of specialist units, including military ones. PSG has also reported cyber attacks on its ticketing system over the past two days. This raises the fear that terrorist are attempting to gain access to the stadium, said the Interior Ministry source. France has already increased its security alert rating to the highest level after ISIS claimed responsibility for the deadly attack on Crocus City Hall in Moscow last month.It resembled the November 2015 attacks on Paris, when ISIS operatives struck across the city, killing 130 people, and wounding hundreds of others.The night of violence started with an attack on the Stade de France, when suicide bombers hit an international match between France and Germany.England fans have already been warned over new terrorism threats ahead of this summer’s Euro 2024 in Germany.READ MORE SUN STORIESGerman Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said the Islamist attack in Moscow has raised “dangers to a new level”, with drastic steps being taken already.That includes a plan to temporarily close borders and ramp up frontier checks, while British police will also make the journey to help bolster ranks in the host country.Arsenal are in action on Tuesday when they take on Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium in North LondonCredit: PA:Press AssociationAtletico Madrid’s welcome Borussia Dortmund to the 70,000-seater Metropolitano Stadium on WednesdayCredit: GettyFrench police are also stepping up their proceedings when PSG face Barcelona at the Parc de Princes in ParisCredit: Rex More

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      England fans at Euros told by Uefa to book hotels on street with zombie drug addicts in ‘Germany’s biggest slum’

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      CLUELESS football bosses are advising England fans at the Euros in Germany to stay in an area plagued by violent drug addicts dubbed “zombies”.Uefa have earmarked hotels in Frankfurt’s railway station area, or Bahnhofsviertel, as the base for tens of thousands of Three Lions supporters.England fans have been urged to stay in areas of Frankfurt plagued by ‘zombie’ addictsCredit: Dan CharityAddicts make no attempt to disguise their drug use on the streetCredit: Dan CharityThe area has been branded ‘the most dangerous slum in Germany’Credit: Dan CharityThe area is so bad that road sweepers are given police protectionCredit: Dan CharityBut it has been branded “the most dangerous slum in Germany” — with its streets packed with 5,000 shuffling junkies and 300 dealers.Heroin and cocaine had been the traditional drugs of choice, but crystal meth and a new crack cocaine mixture has hit the streets.A drug aid worker said: “It’s mixed together differently. It makes them angrier.”Günter Tauber, former head of the command and situation service of the city police, said: “Aggression is increasing sharply. This new mixture causes users to lose control and they become more aggressive than ever.”READ MORE ON EUROSThe area is so bad that road sweepers are given police protection, two schools have begged for a dedicated security force and US firms have told employees to take taxis even for short trips.Peter Postleb, adviser to the mayor when Frankfurt was a World Cup city in 2006, said pimps and dealers were indiscriminate and would attack even in broad daylight next to packed cafes.The security consultant told The Sun: “I don’t think it’s OK of Uefa to make a recommendation for fans to stay in this area.“Passers-by walking through the Bahnhofsviertel have been robbed and threatened.Most read in Euro 2024“Crack users who take it for a long time, they all have some kind of damage in their psyche and are very aggressive.He added: “Situations can quickly escalate. As a passer-by, you ­unfortunately quickly come into conflict with the scene, which has become very aggressive. You are harassed and pushed.”UEFA Euro 2024: The glamorous life of WAGsMr Postleb said the area went downhill during the pandemic when businesses and bars closed, allowing more space for junkies and dealers to move in.He added: “Police are very aware of the problem. They have been carrying out raids recently, big raids, and the whole of Bahnhofsviertel has been cordoned off.“I have no doubt they will step it up before the tournament.”But they face a race against time — with Harry Kane and his teammates facing Denmark in a crucial group tie on June 20.Uefa advice tells fans: “You’ll discover a variety of accommodation in close proximity to the Central Station or throughout the entire Bahnhofsviertel area.The streets are packed with 5,000 shuffling junkies and 300 dealersCredit: Dan CharityThe area went downhill during the pandemic when businesses and bars closedCredit: Dan Charity“From here, you can easily and conveniently access other key transportation hubs within the city.“This makes Bahnhofsviertel an especially appealing choice if you’re considering trips to explore the city or its surroundings.”DAYTIME GUN FIGHTYet half of all the crimes in Frankfurt are committed on just three streets in the area, with four violent attacks every day.One video shows a man being shot during a daytime gun fight. In another, a pedestrian is knocked out with a single punch, then robbed of his wallet and possessions while he is sprawled on the ground.James Monks, organiser of the England Supporters Club’s West Midlands branch, has followed the official advice and booked a room in the area.The Wolves fan, 31, fumed: “It seems an odd decision from Uefa to recommend fans stay in such a dangerous area. I do wonder if Uefa executives will base themselves in Bahnhofsviertel!“Hopefully the authorities will clean up the area in time but it doesn’t sound good.“I just hope the thousands of England fans travelling to Germany remain safe.”It seems an odd decision from Uefa to recommend fans stay in such a dangerous area.Newcastle United fan David Airey, 39, a member of the England Supporters Travel Club, said: “Uefa must rectify their guidance immediately. As someone travelling to the Euros with my young son, it is worrying that Uefa are offering guidance without fully doing their research first.“Their naivety in this situation could put unsuspecting fans and families in danger. The first they realise there may be problems could be when they arrive.“By this time, it will almost certainly be too late to book somewhere else that is either available or not extortionately priced.”Politicians have described the area as “the open wound of Frankfurt”.Half of all the crimes in Frankfurt are committed on just three streets in the areaCredit: Dan CharityHeroin and cocaine had been the traditional drugs of choiceCredit: Dan CharityCornelia Bensinger, from the Pro Altstadt association, said: “The gateway to the city looks like ­Harlem in the 1970s.”A spokesman for the city said they would need until the end of the week to respond.But Frankfurt Chief Supt Björn Thies insisted: “The Frankfurt police are on duty around the clock in the Frankfurt railway station area with numerous police officers from various departments, both in uniform and in civilian clothes.“In addition to the daily presence, large-scale checks are carried out at regular intervals.”READ MORE SUN STORIESUefa said: “Accommodation options indicated on the event guide are aligned with the host ­cities and reflect the offers provided on all major accommodation booking platforms.“For any updates and further information, we also refer fans who plan to travel to Germany to the respective tourism pages of the respective cities or regions.”Uefa earmarked hotels in Frankfurt’s railway station area as the base for tens of thousands of Three Lions supportersCredit: GettyHarry Kane and his teammates face Denmark in a crucial group tie on June 20Credit: Getty More

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      Rapist Dani Alves ‘hoping for shock return to football’ after boasting about ‘surviving’ and tucking into steak on bail

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      DISGRACED footballer Dani Alves is hoping for a shocking football comeback after boasting about “surviving” his jail stint, it has been claimed.The former Barcelona star spent just four weeks of his sentence behind bars after a rape conviction – stumping up £850k to be released on bail.Dani Alves leaving jail in March after serving just four weeks of his sentenceAlves has to appear in court weekly as part of his bail conditions, pictured here last Friday with his lawyerAlves playing for Barcelona two years ago in SpainCredit: GettyDani Alves and his on-off wife Joana Sanz pictured in 2021Credit: GettyConvicted rapist Alves hopes to be acquitted and restore his public image, eventually making a shocking comeback to the sport, El Pais reports.Spanish journalist Jesus Garcia Bueno, who has covered the case extensively, claims that he doesn’t expect to return as a player on the field itself.He was freed from prison near Barcelona in March on bail after serving a few weeks of his four-and-a-half year sentence.Alves is reportedly spending most of his time hunkering down in his £4m Spanish home with estranged wife Joana Sanz.READ MORE ON ALVESBut the former footballer did recently visit a high-end Barcelona hotel, enjoying wagyu beef steak with a friend, El Periodico reports.The pair reportedly dined on a variety of expensive dishes from the steakhouse restaurant as Alves spoke to press about his parole terms.Alves told a reporter he has to “play a game” in court during weekly appearances while on bail.He said: “It’s what I have to do. Every Friday I go to court and that’s it. I don’t have much else to do either.Most read in Football”The game I have to play is in the courts.”The 40-year-old also boasted about his experience in prison, saying “Wherever I go I survive”.”I adapt to everything because for me it is not the place that makes the person, but the person that makes the place,” he went on.Struggling financially since losing his income and hefty sponsorship, the shamed footballer does not expect football clubs or companies to return even if he is acquitted, El Pais reports.It is not clear exactly in what role he plans to return to the world of professional football.The Brazilian had made several attempts before his conviction to get bail, but they were turned down in part because he was deemed a flight risk.Days of speculation preceded his release from jail over where the money was going to come from.Despite earning over £45million across his successful career, Alves had his bank accounts frozen when he was sat in his jail cell meaning he couldn’t fund his own release.Just hours after the disgraced star was released he hosted an all-night party at his £4.5m mansion in Esplugues de LLobregat – a 25-minute drive west of Barcelona.Days later, Spanish media reported that supermodel Sanz had already paid Alves a visit.Following reports that their marriage was over, Sanz shared a picture of the pair holding hands with matching tattoos to her Instagram last week.Alves, once a serial winner on the football pitch with 44 medals to his name, was arrested by Catalan police in January 2023 and spent over a year behind bars afterwards.He was this year convicted of raping a 23-year-old woman at a Barcelona nightclub in December 2022.The victim accused Alves of forcing her to have sex in a private bathroom of the club despite begging him to let her go.He has constantly denied the allegations and insisted the sexual encounter was consensual.The bail conditions set out by court say Alves must stay at least 1,000m away from the home of the victim or any other place she frequently goes.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe is also banned from ever contacting her and must handover his Brazilian and Spanish passports.Dani Alves rape case: What happened?BRAZILIAN international footballer Dani Alves was accused of raping a woman in a nightclub in Barcelona on December 30, 2022.
      In a trial held in Barcelona in February 2024, the footballer denied the allegations and said the encounter had been consensual. 
      Held at Barcelona’s Audiencia Provincial Court, the trial lasted three days and saw the victim, witnesses, and experts testify.
      His accuser told the prosecution that she had willingly entered the bathroom with him, but that he forced her to stay after she wanted to leave.
      In court she claimed that he was aggressive with her, slapping her and insulting her, and then forced her to have sex with him.
      Following the trial, Alves was found guilty of raping the woman.
      He was convicted on February 22 and sentenced to four and a half years in prison.
      The court also ordered Alves to pay £130K (150,000 euros) in compensation to the victim.
      The court said in a statement: “The sentence considers that it has been proven that the victim did not consent and that there is evidence, in addition to the testimony of the plaintiff, to consider the rape proven.”
      He had previously been held in pre-trial detention since his arrest on January 20, 2023.
      Alves’ lawyers immediately appealed his sentence.
      On March 20, 2024 – a Barcelona court released Alves on a bail of €1million (£850k) pending an appeal on his conviction.
      His defense is seeking his acquittal while the prosecutor wants his prison sentence increased to nine years.
      There is no date yet for the new trial at a higher court in Barcelona. It can then go to the Supreme Court in Madrid.

      The luxurious mansion in Esplugues where Alves is living with wife Joana SanzCredit: Instagram/danialvesAlves is keeping a low profile in his £4m Spanish boltholeCredit: InstagramJoanna Sanz shared this picture of her and estranged husband Dani Alves – with matching tattoos More

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      Panic over Alexander Isak mansion raid as Newcastle star’s neighbours turn to security firms for protection

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      RESIDENTS on the estate where Premiership ace Alexander Isak’s home was raided are turning to private security firms for protection. The Newcastle United striker, 24, was targeted last week — three months after teammate Joelinton’s nearby home was also hit. Alexander Isak is the latest Prem ace to be targeted by ‘away day’ robbersCredit: GettyNon-footballer residents have also been burgled on Darras Hall, a few miles outside Newcastle. One said: “Some residents are looking into having private security.“There’s a meeting later this month on the issue.” Another added: “Thieves do these properties as they know there’s going to be watches or jewellery.” Retired hotel business manager Paul Hopper, 67, added: “If we had more of a police presence, it would help deter thieves.”A gang struck at the £100million striker’s luxury home just 48 hours before he played in the Toon’s 1-0 win at Fulham on Saturday.No-one has been arrested for that burglary and detectives will be investigating whether the same team is responsible.England stars Jack Grealish, Raheem Sterling and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have also been the victims of so-called “away day gangs” who strike when they think players will be at matches.Cops were told about the raid on Swede Isak’s home on the Darras Hall estate in Northumberland at 10pm on Thursday.Most read in FootballThe gang are thought to have gained entry to the four-bedroom property through rear patio doors earlier in the evening.It is not known whether Isak or any family were at home at the time or what, if anything, was taken. Cops confirmed a car was stolen and later found abandoned three miles away in Dissington.A neighbour told The Sun on Sunday: “Police are still piecing it together, but he was broken into.“There has been a security van at the house with dogs.”It’s not known which car was taken.The Newcastle United star’s neighbours are turning to security firms for protection More

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      Man stabbed to death outside Tottenham Hotspur stadium with killer ‘on the loose’ as club releases statement

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      A MAN has been stabbed to death outside Tottenham Hotspur’s stadium – with his killer reportedly on the loose.Cops scrambled to a road near the Spurs ground in north London at 5.51am this morning after a man was found unresponsive.The scene of the horror stabbing in HaringeyCredit: GoogleThe man had suffered a number of stab injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene despite the best efforts of emergency services.Scotland Yard said officers believe they know who the man is and are working to inform his next of kin.No arrests have been made yet.Tottenham Hotspur said: “Following an incident in which an individual has lost their life, we are doing everything to accommodate the ongoing Police investigation, which is of the utmost importance. Read More UK News”As things stand, this afternoon’s Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest will go-ahead as scheduled.”However the north end of Worcester Avenue and the whole of Northumberland Park Road will remain closed throughout. “We shall update supporters as and when we can, and ask for fans to be patient and allow extra travel time.”Chief Inspector Stephen Johnston-Keay said: “Our thoughts are with the man who has tragically lost his life.Most read in Football”I can assure local people that specialist detectives are investigating and will leave no stone unturned in working to establish what happened to him, and to identify and arrest those responsible.”I would like to thank local people for their patience and understanding while we go about this crucial work.””If you have information that could help us, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please tell us. “You will see officers on the cordons and on patrol and they will be ready to listen to you.”To share helpful information or material with police, please call 101 ref CAD 1387/7 Apr.To remain 100% anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. More

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      Newcastle’s £100m striker Alexander Isak’s mansion hit by gang of robbers in latest raid on Prem aces’ homes

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      NEWCASTLE United star Alexander Isak is the latest ace to be targeted by professional robbers.A gang struck at the £100million striker’s luxury home just 48 hours before he played in the Toon’s 1-0 win at Fulham yesterday.Alexander Isak is the latest ace to be targeted by professional robbersCredit: GettyThe Newcastle United star’s luxury home was hit by a gangA gang struck just 48 hours before he played in the Toon’s 1-0 win at Fulham yesterdayCredit: ReutersThree months ago his teammate Joelinton’s home a mile away was raided. No-one has been arrested for that burglary and detectives will be investigating whether the same team is responsible.England stars Jack Grealish, Raheem Sterling and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have also been the victims of so-called “away day gangs” who strike when they think players will be at matches.Cops were told about the raid on Swede Isak’s home on the Darras Hall estate in Northumberland at 10pm on Thursday.Read More on SportThe gang are thought to have gained entry to the four-bedroom property through rear patio doors earlier in the evening.It is not known whether Isak, 24, or any family were at home at the time or what, if anything, was taken. Cops confirmed a car was stolen and later found abandoned three miles away in Dissington.A neighbour told The Sun on Sunday: “Police are still piecing it together, but he was broken into.Most read in Football“There has been a security van at the house with dogs.”It’s not known which car was taken.Newcastle co-owner Amanda Staveley recorded making X-rated blast after Isak goal vs SunderlandIsak, who has scored 19 goals this season, arrived for training on Friday behind the wheel of a green Mercedes G-Class wagon.Newcastle United declined to comment. Northumbria Police said: “Enquiries remain ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact us.”In January Newcastle’s Brazilian player Joelinton, 27, suffered a raid while he was at a match.Three burglars squeezed through his front hedge before breaking in and rifling through his fiancée’s designer handbags.Thays Gondim and their three children were out at the time.The couple were alerted by security apps on their phones and horrified Thays is said to have watched as the crooks hunted for watches and jewellery.Armed cops raced to the scene but discovered they had fled.In December Man City star Jack Grealish’s £5.6million Cheshire pad was raided by thieves while he was playing. They made off with £1million in watches and gems.England and Chelsea midfielder Raheem Sterling raced back from the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 after raiders stole £300,000 worth of designer watches from his home in Surrey.READ MORE SUN STORIESManchester United ace Victor Lindelof’s wife and two kids had to lock themselves in a panic room when burglars ransacked their Manchester home in February 2022.And that year ex-Liverpool and Arsenal ace Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and his fiancee, singer Perrie Edwards, were robbed in Wilmslow, Cheshire.Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Perrie Edwards were robbed in Wilmslow, Cheshire in 2022Credit: GettyRaheem Sterling raced back from the World Cup in Qatar after raiders stole £300,000 worth of designer watches from his home in SurreyCredit: AlamyJack Grealish’s £5.6million Cheshire pad was raided by thieves while he was playing last DecemberCredit: Alamy More

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      Shamed rapist Dani Alves spotted trying to go incognito in shades & baseball cap as he signs in at court on £1m bail

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      DISGRACED rapist Dani Alves has been spotted arriving at the court in shades and baseball cap as he tries to go incognito.Alves returned to court for his agreed weekly meetings following his prison release on €1million bail.Dani Alves leaving the Barcelona Court after appearing for the second time to certify that he has not fled, on April 5Credit: GettyAlves seemed to be trying to go incognito in shades and a baseball capCredit: EPAThe former Barcelona star is ordered to appear in court every weekCredit: EPAThe footballer was convicted of raping a woman but has been released on bailCredit: GettyThe former Barcelona star was pictured in plain clothes outside the court as he came to certify he has not fled.The Brazilian appeared to be in disguise as he hid his face behind dark sunglasses and baseball cap.He was seen smiling as he walked alongside his lawyer Ines Guardiola.Alves has to appear in court every Friday as per conditions of his bail.read more on footballHe also had to hand in his Spanish and Brazilian passports so he could not flee Spain.Alves walked out of prison last week after serving just four weeks of his four-and-a-half-year sentence.He reportedly hosted an all-night party at his £4.5million mansion just hours after his release on €1million bail.Alves was convicted of raping a woman, 23, at a Barcelona nightclub in December 2022.Most read in FootballThe victim accused Alves of forcing her to have sex in a private bathroom of the nightclub despite begging him to let her go.He has constantly denied the allegations and insisted the sexual encounter was consensual.Moment rapist Dani Alves walks FREE from prison just weeks into his 4.5-year sentence after paying €1m bailHe received a sentence of four and a half years – far less than the nine years public prosecutors demanded and the 12 years Alves’ accuser wanted if he was convicted.But his lawyer won an appeal to get Alves out of jail if he met the bail conditions.The ex-Barcelona ace initially struggled to stump up enough cash despite earning over £45million across his successful career as his funds were frozen.But Spanish journalist Marisa Martín Blazquez has seemingly spilled the beans on Alves’ saviour – a Brazilian magazine.It’s claimed that the publication offered Alves the entire wad of money in exchange for an exclusive interview.One of the requirements Alves seemingly agreed to is to ensure his wife Joana Sanz will also speak to the magazine.The couple have been through a very turbulent past two years as Alves publicly admitted to cheating on Sanz with the woman who alleges she was raped.Sanz asked for a divorce as the star faced his rape trial but she did go on to back Alves in court claiming she was with him the night of the accusations.But it is currently uncertain what the pair’s status is after Joana posted a pic with the disgraced footballer.Spanish media also claims Sanz went to see her ex at his home just days after his release.ALVES’ BAIL CONTROVERSYThe Barcelona court allowed Alves to walk free from his Brians 2 jail despite his recent rape conviction.Alves spent just weeks behind bars but his lawyer Ines Guardiola managed to win a bid to appeal the four-and-a-half year jail sentence.He is now living in the comfort of his £4million home in Esplugues de LLobregat – a 25-minute drive west of Barcelona – as his lawyers go through the appeal process, reports say.The bail conditions set by the court say Alves must stay at least 1,000m away from the home of the victim or any other place she frequently goes.He is also banned from ever contacting her and must handover his Brazilian and Spanish passports.The court feared Alves could leave Spain and travel to his native Brazil to try and avoid serving anymore jail time.Ester Garcia, the lawyer of Alves’ rape victim, attacked the decision to grant him bail last Wednesday.She fumed on RAC1 radio: “I’m very surprised and totally outraged… because it’s like this is justice for the rich.”Garcia added: “It is scandalous that they can free a person who they know can get hold of a million euros in a heartbeat.”I am very dissatisfied with this court decision. We will lodge an appeal because we believe it is not in accordance with the law.”Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva also condemned Alves’ release.He said: “The money that Daniel Alves has, the money that someone can lend him, cannot buy the offence that a man does to a woman by committing rape.”It comes as residents of Barcelona – where Alves was once seen as an icon – blasted the court’s ruling to free him on bail.One woman said: “I think it’s shameful and they are showing once again that woman don’t matter, that our rights don’t matter.READ MORE SUN STORIES”If you have money and you are a man, you can do whatever you want and you won’t have to pay.”As a man also gave his view saying “evil” things can’t be forgotten about simply because of money.WHAT HAPPENED?BRAZILIAN international footballer Dani Alves was accused of raping a woman in a nightclub in Barcelona on December 30, 2022.
      In a trial held in Barcelona in February 2024, the footballer denied the allegations and said the encounter had been consensual. 
      Held at Barcelona’s Audiencia Provincial Court, the trial lasted three days and saw the victim, witnesses, and experts testify.
      His accuser told the prosecution that she had willingly entered the bathroom with him, but that he forced her to stay after she wanted to leave.
      In court she claimed that he was aggressive with her, slapping her and insulting her, and then forced her to have sex with him.
      Following the trial, Alves was found guilty of raping the woman.
      He was convicted on February 22 and sentenced to four and a half years in prison.
      The court also ordered Alves to pay £130K (150,000 euros) in compensation to the victim.
      The court said in a statement: “The sentence considers that it has been proven that the victim did not consent and that there is evidence, in addition to the testimony of the plaintiff, to consider the rape proven.”
      He had previously been held in pre-trial detention since his arrest on January 20, 2023.
      Alves’ lawyers immediately appealed his sentence.
      On March 20, 2024 – a Barcelona court released Alves on a bail of €1million (£850k) pending an appeal on his conviction.
      His defense is seeking his acquittal while the prosecutor wants his prison sentence increased to nine years.
      There is no date yet for the new trial at a higher court in Barcelona. It can then go to the Supreme Court in Madrid.

      The moment Alves walked out of jail on Monday 25, with his lawyerCredit: Credit: The Mega AgencyEx-wife Joana Sanz and disgraced Dani Alves, pictured years ago, appear to have reconnected More

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      Spurs’ ex chief Joe Lewis, 87, AVOIDS JAIL over insider trading after spilling company info to girlfriend & jet pilots

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      FORMER Tottenham Hotspur owner Joe Lewis has avoided jail after pleading guilty to insider trading and conspiracy charges.The Brit billionaire, 87, spilled secrets to his girlfriend, private pilots, family, and friends as part of a “brazen” multi-year scheme that was said to have earned his inner circle millions.British billionaire Joe Lewis arrives at a US federal courthouse to be sentenced on insider trading charges in New York on ThursdayCredit: EPAEx-Spurs ex chief Joe Lewis, pictured in the stands at a football matchCredit: GettyLewis shields his face with a scarf as he arrives at courtCredit: EPAThe billionaire is seen wearing an eyepatch on ThursdayCredit: ReutersLewis arrived at a New York court on Thursday night, wearing an eyepatch over his right eye and a pair of dark sunglasses, and was shielded from the media by security.He held a scarf over his face as an unknown woman covered him with her coat.It was later revealed that the billionaire would avoid being sent to prison for insider trading, after Judge Jessica Clarke sentenced him to a $5million (£4million) fine and three years’ probation.East London-bred Lewis, who now lives in the Bahamas, pleaded guilty in January to one count of conspiracy and two counts of securities fraud.read more on joe lewisFederal sentencing guidelines had called for a prison sentence of up to two years, but Judge Clarke was not bound by them.The judge told the court that Lewis’ crime was “without doubt a serious one”.Inside the courtroom, Lewis was helped by an aide to his seat – where he sat visibly shaking.When asked to confirm to the judge that he understood the proceedings, Lewis – who is worth £5 billion – had difficulty standing up.Most read in FootballHis son, his daughter, and one of his granddaughters sat in the public gallery.In a plea to the court, Lewis begged the judge to spare him jail time as he had made a “terrible mistake”.Inside Joe Lewis’ billionaire lifestyle with epic yacht and £1billion art collectionHe said: “I broke the law. I am ashamed, and I hold myself accountable.”Lewis also asked to be given “any time I have left to make amends and rebuild the trust I have squandered”.One of Lewis’ companies, which had already admitted one count of securities fraud, was ordered to pay £35million in fines and penalties.Judge Clarke praised Lewis for tackling the charges “head on” and not fighting extradition to the US.She said she was sparing him prison because his “life would be at serious risk”, due to his health issues, if he was jailed.Judge Clarke added that it was unlikely Lewis would reoffend because of the damage to his “reputation and embarrassment and shame”.Earlier, prosecutor Jason Richman told the court that Lewis’ behaviour was “calculated and offensive”, as Lewis’ lawyer David Zornow said the billionaire was “frail” and needed to return to the UK for an operation on his eye.Mr Zornow said Lewis had “deteriorated significantly” since last July when he was charged.I broke the law. I am ashamed, and I hold myself accountableJoe LewisFormerTottenham Hotspur ownerThe ex-Spurs chief gave up control of the club in October 2022, but his family trust still owns the majority of it.He was expected to serve 18 months to two years behind bars.But prosecutors argued his age, significant medical issues, willingness to stand trial in the US and otherwise law-abiding life had earned him leniency.As part of his plea deal, Lewis had the right to appeal if he were to be sentenced to prison time.At his January hearing, the businessman admitted that he agreed in 2019 to share secrets about publicly traded companies with several individuals.He told the court that he was “so embarrassed” as he apologised for his conduct.Prosecutors said that his company, Broad Bay Limited, and Lewis would pay $50million (£38million) in financial penalties – the largest financial penalty for insider trading in a decade.’BRAZEN’ SCHEMELewis counts himself within the 500 richest people in the world, with a mega property portfolio across the world, a $250million (£190million) yacht, private planes worth $90million (£70million) and an art collection valued $100million (£80m).In July of last year, Lewis was charged with passing inside information on his portfolio companies to his inner circle.The tips enabled them to reap millions of dollars of profit, according to prosecutors.He was charged with 16 counts of securities fraud and three counts of conspiracy for crimes spanning from 2013 to 2021.Prosecutors branded his actions as “classic corporate corruption” carried out by orchestrating a “brazen” insider trading scheme.In new court papers, prosecutors said Lewis learned secrets about public companies after making large investments.They said that on at least four occasions, he tipped off his girlfriend, personal pilots, employees and friends, enabling them to heavily profit from the secrets.Lewis pictured on his megayacht ‘Aviva’ in the Bahamas in 2010Credit: Tom StockillThe former footie chief stepped down as owner of Tottenham in October, 2022Credit: APHis £190m floating palace sailing through LondonCredit: Getty Images – GettyThis insider trading was “not the result of aberrant, one-time conduct, but rather, a troubling pattern of misconduct over the course of several years,” they wrote.Prosecutors said it was possible that the insider activity resulted from “hubris, ego, a desire to make a financial gift without parting with his own money, an irrational form of greed, or some other reason.”But, regardless, it is clear that Lewis believed he was above the law, that he had achieved a level of wealth and stature that relieved him from having to operate by the same rules that apply to everyday investors,” prosecutors said.APPEALS FOR LENIENCYFrom the start, Lewis was no ordinary defendant.After his arrest less than a year ago, he was freed on a $300million (£237million) bail after putting up a yacht and private plane as collateral.Lewis is limited to travelling between New York, Florida and Georgia, where he owns property.Lewis’ lawyers had appealed for leniency, based on arguments that he is nearing the end of life with declining health and the court’s probation office recommendation of no prison time, a fine and three years on probation.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis defence said that if he received no prison time, he will immediately leave the US.His conviction will mean he cannot return to see his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who live in the US.The glitzy rise of Joe LewisBRIT billionaire businessman Joe Lewis has been sentenced for insider training. Here is the rise and fall of the ex-Spurs chief:
      After quitting school at the age of 15, entrepreneurial Lewis went to work for his dad’s catering company.
      Lewis began managing a super-club called The Talk of the Town – where the likes of Frank Sinatra performed – in the 1960s, and granted girl group The Nolans their first live show.
      He then got a taste for business and took over the firm – turning it into a string of restaurants before flogging it in 1979 for a whopping £30million.
      Lewis used his cash influx to invest in currency trading and was subbed The Boxer in a nod to his wild success and power in the investment ring.
      Lewis forked out £22million in 2001 to buy a controlling stake in Tottenham Hotspur from Lord Sugar.
      One particular investment on Black Wednesday in September 1992 helped elevate him to uber-rich status, as he successfully bet on the Pound crashing out of the European Exchange Rate as Britain tried to align it with other Euro countries.
      He became a billionaire overnight – and the financial magic trick worked again years later with a big short against the Mexican peso.
      Along the way, Lewis founded Bahamas-based investment firm Tavistock Group – which he has propelled into one of the most dominant private equity firms in the world. 
      But it’s not been all work and no play for Lewis, who has spent eye-watering sums on luxury items – homes, art and a superyacht worth £190million, which can house up to 16 guests.
      In 2022, Lewis made history by selling David Hockney’s 1972 piece, ‘Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Tool Figures)’.
      Having owned the piece since 1995, Lewis auctioned it off for £70.3million – setting a new record for artwork by a living artist.
      However, his life of glamour, football and boats all came crashing down when US prosecutors charged him with insider trading and conspiracy in July, 2023.
      They accused him of tipping off his girlfriend, jet pilots and other members of his inner circle with insider secrets that helped them make millions over several years.
      On January 24, 2024, he pleaded guilty to security fraud.
      On April 4, 2024 – Lewis was sentenced by a New York court.

      The Brit businessman pictured in court in January when he pleaded guilty to charges of insider tradingCredit: ReutersHis lawyers had hoped for leniency owing to his age and medical issuesCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdLewis said he was ‘so embarrassed’ over his conduct at his January pleaCredit: EPA More