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Russian Security Council Deputy Chair Dmitry Medvedev Accuses West of Creating Tensions Against Russia

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chair of the Russian Security Council, has accused the West of attempting to create new tensions along Russia’s borders that have lasted for centuries. In an interview with media outlets including Yuzhnaya Osetiya, he stated that the West’s strategy involves drawing historically respectful nations into conflict against Moscow and working through other means. Medvedev further commented, “The West has been trying for centuries to create new areas of tension along Russia’s borders. Their strategy is to involve nations with deep ties to Russia in conflict against Moscow and to operate through others.” September 25, Kathmandu.

Asif’s Century and Double Hundred Opening Stand with Arjun Propel Nepal to Victory

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Asif Sheikh scored a brilliant 161 runs and, along with Arjun Kumal, forged a 220-run opening partnership to guide Nepal to victory over Malaysia in a practice match ahead of the ACC Premier Cup. Malaysia posted 232 runs for all out in 48.2 overs, with Nepal captain Sandeep Lamichhane taking 4 wickets for 36 runs in 10 overs. Nepal was set a revised target of 228 runs in 48 overs due to rain and reached it in 28 overs, losing only one wicket.

Kathmandu, 9 Bhadra – Opener Asif Sheikh’s century-packed innings of 161 runs, supported by a double-century opening stand with Arjun Kumal, helped Nepal defeat Malaysia in a practice game ahead of the ACC Premier Cup. Malaysia’s initial target of 233 runs was adjusted to 228 runs in 48 overs after rain interrupted the game. Nepal achieved this target in just 28 overs, with only one wicket down.

Asif scored his 161 runs off 85 balls, including 12 boundaries and 12 sixes. He and Arjun Kumal put together a 220-run opening partnership. Arjun Kumal remained unbeaten, scoring 61 runs by the end of the innings. Batting first, Malaysia was all out for 232 runs in 48.2 overs. Muhammed Syahadat Ramli top-scored for Malaysia with 61 runs, followed by Saifullah Malik with 45, Syed Aziz with 40, and Virandeep Singh contributing 39 runs.

Nepal’s captain Sandeep Lamichhane bowled 10 overs, conceding 36 runs and picking up 4 wickets. Karan KC took 2 wickets, while Lalit Rajbanshi and Dipendra Singh Aire claimed one wicket each.

Prior to the Malaysia tour, Nepal secured wins in two practice matches against Karnataka in India.

UML in Gandaki Prepares to Withdraw Ministers; Chief Minister Pande Signals New Minister Selection Favoring Phanindra Devkota’s Faction

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

The Gandaki Province government is preparing to recall ministers from the CPN-UML, with Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pande having urged ministers to resign voluntarily before being removed. The UML parliamentary party’s board meeting is expected to decide on recalling ministers and continuing discussions with other parties to form a government. Currently, UML ministers Govinda Nepali, Bhim Karki, Yashoda Rimal, and Laxman Pande are serving in Gandaki, but the UML-Congress coalition government is once again facing potential reshuffle.

The CPN-UML has decided to withdraw its ministers from the Gandaki provincial government. Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pande suggested that the ministers should resign on ethical grounds before any removal. The UML parliamentary party board meeting in Gandaki has indicated that the preparations for recalling ministers are at an advanced stage.

Senior UML parliamentary party advisor Devka Pahari stated that a meeting was held to discuss the government’s situation and to make a decision accordingly. Other lawmakers have indicated that ministers are preparing to submit their resignations. Previously, Padma Gissi held the Agriculture Ministry, Krishna Pathak the Health Ministry, Prakash Bahadur KC the Physical Infrastructure Ministry, and Mitralal Basyal the Industry and Tourism Ministry on behalf of UML.

Although UML holds 22 seats and the ruling NCP has 6 in Gandaki, they do not have a majority to form a government. The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) plays a decisive role in Gandaki and has not withdrawn its support for Pande. Following the UML’s decision to recall ministers, Chief Minister Pande is consulting with leadership in Kathmandu to select new ministers. There is a strong possibility that Phanindra Devkota, a lawmaker from Baburam Bhattarai’s Nepal Socialist Party (Naya Shakti), which won under the Maoist election symbol, will be appointed as a minister in Pande’s government.

From Congress, the likely ministerial candidates include Ashok Shrestha from Tanahun, Dilliram Suvedi from Baglung, and Dron Kunwar, who had previously announced his resignation but returned under pressure. Signs also suggest that two ministers may be appointed from Congress. Chief Minister Pande has emphasized that all ministers should resign on ethical grounds.

Syria Removed from U.S. Terrorism List After 47 Years

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

September 25, Kathmandu – The United States has removed Syria from its list of countries that promote terrorism after 47 years. The U.S. administration has stated that the purpose of this decision is to facilitate foreign investment in Syria and reintegrate the country into the global economy. With Syria removed, only three countries remain on the U.S. list: Iran, North Korea, and Cuba.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that this decision will pave the way for Syria to move towards economic prosperity. The proposal to delist Syria was first introduced in July of last year. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Baesert also welcomed the decision, stating, “This step will help bring significant investment into Syria, which will strengthen both political and economic stability.”

Recently, the Trump administration has increased contact with Syria’s new president, Ahmad al-Shara. Al-Shara was formerly a leader of a militant organization and was once the target of a U.S. reward offer. He has led a group connected to al-Qaeda. Last year, the U.S. removed the Islamic organization Tahrir al-Sham, led by Ahmad al-Shara, from its list of terrorist organizations.

England’s Test Bowler Brydon Carse Dropped After Arrest

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

England fast bowler Brydon Carse has been removed from the squad for the second Test following charges of misconduct after consuming alcohol. Derbyshire police detained him outside a bar in Derby city and released him shortly afterward. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has stated that Carse will be unavailable for selection pending ongoing investigations, with Sonny Baker named as his replacement.

September 24, Kathmandu—Brydon Carse will miss England’s second Test against Pakistan after being removed from the squad due to disciplinary issues arising from his arrest on Saturday night in Derby. The 31-year-old was participating in celebrations following Durham’s victory over Derbyshire when the incident occurred.

Video footage has emerged showing police restraining Carse outside a bar in Derby. Derbyshire Police confirmed they detained a man in his 30s on suspicion of disorderly conduct under the influence of alcohol, releasing him after an agreement to leave the area. That individual was confirmed to be Brydon Carse. Following the ECB’s inquiry into the matter, independent cricket regulators are also set to launch their own investigation.

Sonny Baker of Hampshire has been called up to replace Carse in the England squad. England currently lead the ongoing two-Test series against Pakistan 1–0, having won the first Test by an innings and 103 runs. This incident adds to recent off-field controversies involving England players, including Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, and Gus Atkinson, all previously linked to alcohol-related issues at social events. Carse himself has faced disciplinary sanctions before; between 2017 and 2019, he was banned until 2024 for involvement in 303 match-fixing incidents, though he reportedly did not place any bets on the matches he participated in.

How Safe Are Room Fresheners? What You Should Know Before Using Them

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Business.

Summary

Prepared after review.

  • Room fresheners can introduce chemicals into indoor air, with potential risks depending on the product type, quantity, duration of exposure, ventilation, and individual sensitivity.
  • Scented chemicals may react with ozone to form formaldehyde, fine particles, and other secondary pollutants which can cause headaches, coughing, and breathing difficulties, particularly in asthma patients and sensitive individuals.

The use of room fresheners such as sprays, plug-ins, automatic sprays, reed diffusers, gels, and fragrance beads is increasing to create pleasant scents indoors. These products temporarily mask odors and are widely used daily at home. However, questions arise about what kinds of chemicals they add to indoor air and what the long-term health effects of prolonged use might be.

There is no conclusive evidence that room fresheners cause health problems for everyone. The risks depend on the chemicals used in the product, exposure amount, length of contact, room ventilation, and individual sensitivity. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, some fragrances may provoke asthma symptoms and other adverse reactions in sensitive people.

Therefore, room fresheners should neither be considered entirely harmful nor completely safe; using them in minimal amounts, as needed, and in well-ventilated spaces is advisable.

What Do Room Fresheners Contain?

The chemical composition varies by the type of room freshener. Generally, these products contain fragrance chemicals, essential oils, solvents, and other substances that help disperse scent. Aerosol sprays also include propellants, while reed diffusers, gels, and fragrance beads release scents gradually.

Products labeled ‘natural’, ‘green’, or ‘essential oil’ are not entirely chemical-free. Essential oils contain volatile and reactive compounds that can alter indoor air chemistry.

Hence, labels like ‘natural’ or ‘low-VOC’ (Volatile Organic Compounds) should not be assumed fully safe for everyone. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, ‘low-VOC’ or ‘no-VOC’ labels do not guarantee complete disclosure of all potentially health-impacting volatile chemicals.

Secondary Pollutants Can Form Alongside Scents

Some scented chemicals from room fresheners can react with ozone already present indoors. This reaction can produce formaldehyde, fine particles, and other secondary pollutants, as noted by the Environmental Protection Agency. Products with citrus or pine fragrances are particularly prone to such reactions.

A 2021 study testing 15 air fresheners found that in some high-use scenarios, fine particle concentrations could increase significantly within an hour. While the study indicated a low long-term risk under normal use, it recommended reducing excessive exposure.

This demonstrates that the risk depends not just on the chemicals in the product but also on usage quantity and room conditions.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Individuals sensitive to fragrances may experience headaches, irritation in the nose and throat, coughing, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions should take special precautions. The EPA also highlights these potential effects in sensitive populations.

If someone in the home frequently experiences headaches, coughing, or breathing difficulty after room freshener use, it should not be dismissed as simply disliking the scent.

Special Care Around Children

Liquids, refills, reed diffusers, gels, and fragrance beads must be kept out of reach of children. Accidental ingestion or contact with eyes or skin can cause health issues.

Liquids should never be stored in containers resembling water or beverage bottles. After use, bottles should be properly sealed and stored safely. In case a child swallows room freshener liquid, rather than inducing vomiting at home, it is best to take the product packaging or label and immediately contact a doctor or poison control center.

Using Plug-In Fresheners

Since plug-in fresheners run continuously, they may release fragrance chemicals over prolonged periods. It is important to select the right product based on the room size and environment and follow manufacturer instructions.

Plug-ins should not be placed near curtains, bedding, or flammable materials. If plugs, cords, or devices become unusually hot, damaged, or malfunctioning, usage should be discontinued immediately.

Extra Caution with Automatic Sprays and Aerosols

Aerosol sprays may contain flammable substances, so avoid use near candles or open flames. It is preferable to spray when no one is present in the room and ventilate well afterward.

Ensure adequate fresh air and ventilation when using these products.

Difference Between Odor Removal and Odor Masking

Room fresheners generally mask odors with other fragrances rather than removing the real source. If a room continually has unpleasant smells, repeatedly spraying fresheners is less effective than identifying and eliminating the odor source.

Dirt, damp clothes, garbage, sewage, moisture, or poor ventilation are common causes of odors. Cleaning the source, opening windows, and improving airflow are more effective than excessive room freshener use.

What to Do If Room Freshener Contacts Skin or Eyes

If room freshener comes into contact with skin, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. If it gets into the eyes, rinse continuously with clean water.

If irritation, redness, or other symptoms persist, seek medical advice.

If excessive inhalation causes persistent cough, breathing difficulty, or chest tightness, move to fresh air immediately and seek urgent medical help if necessary.

Seven Tips for Safe Room Freshener Use

1. Use sparingly: There is no need to spray excessively to freshen a room.

2. Ensure good ventilation: Open windows or provide airflow.

3. Read labels: Follow usage directions, warnings, and storage guidelines.

4. Keep out of reach of children and pets: Especially liquids, gels, and fragrance beads.

5. Keep away from fire: Do not place aerosols or flammable materials near open flames.

6. Stop use if problems arise: Discontinue if headaches, coughing, throat irritation, or breathing difficulties occur.

7. Remove the odor source: Instead of just masking odors, clean dirt, moisture, pests, or other causes.

Foreign Ministers of Russia and the Vatican to Hold Talks in Moscow

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

September 24, Kathmandu – Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Vatican Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher are scheduled to hold talks in Moscow on Tuesday. This marks the first official visit to Russia by a senior Vatican official since the commencement of the special military operation. The Russian Foreign Ministry has stated that the two sides will discuss international issues and prospects for bilateral cooperation. The Ukraine situation is expected to be given special priority during the talks. Additionally, there is a possibility of a separate consultation in the Vatican concerning Ukraine. Ivan Soltanovsky, Russia’s ambassador to the Vatican, told the news agency TASS that Russia is willing to participate in such a consultation process.

Malaysia Sets Nepal a Target of 233 Runs in Practice Match

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

As part of preparations for the ACC Premier Cup, Malaysia has set Nepal a target of 233 runs in a practice match. Winning the toss, Malaysia elected to bat first and were all out for 232 runs in 48.2 overs. Muhammad Syahadat Ramli contributed a solid 61 runs for Malaysia. Saifullah Malik scored 45, Syed Aziz made 40, and Virandeep Singh added 39 runs.

Nepal’s captain Sandeep Lamichhane took 4 wickets for 36 runs in 10 overs. Karan KC claimed 2 wickets, while Lalit Rajbanshi and Dipendra Singh Aire each took 1 wicket. Prior to arriving in Malaysia, Nepal had won two practice matches against Karnataka in India.

UK Pledges Continued Support to Kyiv Despite Strong Threats from Russia in Ukraine War

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Andy Burnham and Volodymyr Zelensky

Image source, AFP via Getty Images

Image caption, Andy Burnham, representing the British people, received an award from Volodymyr Zelensky in recognition of the UK’s ongoing support to Ukraine

On his first official visit to Ukraine since being appointed British Prime Minister, leader Andy Burnham reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to maintain pressure on Russia despite Moscow’s strong threats.

Burnham met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and chaired the inaugural meeting of the Ukraine Support Coalition, established by the UK and France under the leadership of Burnham’s predecessor Sir Keir Starmer.

Praising the coalition’s efforts, he also called on the US Congress to intensify economic pressure on Russia.

The British government has agreed to transfer the blueprints of UK components used in the ‘SCALP’ missile. The ‘SCALP’ missile, manufactured in France, is comparable to Ukraine’s own ‘Storm Shadow’ missile. Once it receives the blueprint, Ukraine will be capable of producing long-range weapons domestically.

Burnham said that partners are doing “everything they can” to help Ukraine explore its own reserves for air defense and assist others in doing the same.

Netanyahu Claims Iran Attempted to Assassinate His Son; Family Granted Lifetime Security Despite Electoral Defeat

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu alleged on Monday that Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons. He emphasized that the security provided to his family is not for political gain but is absolutely necessary. The Israeli domestic security agency, Shin Bet, has approved long-term protection for Netanyahu’s wife Sara and their two sons. Kathmandu, September 25.

In a phone interview with Israel’s Channel 14, Netanyahu disclosed that Iran targeted his family. He stated, “An unbelievable incident occurred. Iran targeted one of my sons and attempted to assassinate him.” However, he did not reveal which of his two sons, Yair or Avner, was targeted.

Following Netanyahu’s statement, senior Israeli journalist Amit Segal claimed that although information about this alleged assassination attempt had been known for months, publication was previously restricted. There has been ongoing controversy in Israel concerning the security expenses for Netanyahu’s family and other political leaders. In this context, Shin Bet decided to enhance security provisions for Netanyahu’s wife Sara and both sons.

In July, the Shin Bet ministerial committee decided to grant Netanyahu and his wife lifetime high-level security protection. Both sons will receive protection for at least five years, through 2031. This means that even if Netanyahu loses upcoming elections, his family will continue to benefit from this security coverage. Netanyahu’s claim surfaced amid reports that Shin Bet refused to provide security for opposition candidate Gadi Eizenkot.

Sri Lanka’s Waqil and Britain’s Sharp Clash for PSA Satellite Tour Title

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Following editorial review, the PSA Satellite Tour 2026 has reached its final stage with Sri Lanka’s Waqil M. Shamil and Britain’s Aion Sharp securing spots in the championship match. In the semifinals, Waqil defeated Malaysia’s Nitish Manimaran 3–1, while Sharp overcame Sri Lanka’s Navindu Lakman with the same scoreline. Nepal’s Pasang Blon and Naina Bahadur Magar also secured victories over Bangladesh’s Abdul Sikdar Sayem and Rakesh Pariyar, respectively, both with 3–1 results. Kathmandu, 9 Bhadra.

At the Squash Cover Hall in Satdobato, the Professional Squash Association (PSA) Satellite Tour 2026 is underway, organized by the Nepal Squash Rackets Association. In today’s semifinals, Sri Lanka’s Waqil M. Shamil secured his place in the final by defeating Malaysia’s Nitish Manimaran 3–1 in sets. Waqil won the first two sets comfortably, 11–5 and 11–3. Although Nitish fought back by taking the third set 11–7, Waqil sealed the match with an 11–9 win in the fourth set.

In the other semifinal, Britain’s Aion Sharp defeated Sri Lanka’s Navindu Lakman 3–1. Sharp claimed the first set 11–5 and edged out a competitive 14–12 victory in the second set. Navindu responded by winning the third set 11–7, but Sharp regained control with an 11–9 win in the fourth to advance to the final. The upcoming final match will feature Waqil versus Sharp competing for the title, while the third-place contest will be between Nitish and Navindu. Tournament director Rupakdas Tamrakar announced that matches for ranks 5 to 14 will take place tomorrow morning, followed by the third-place playoff and final at 4 PM.

In today’s matches for ranks 9 through 12, Nepal’s Pasang Blon defeated Bangladesh’s Abdul Sikdar Sayem 3–1. After losing the first set 8–11, Pasang mounted a strong comeback to claim the next three sets by scores of 11–6, 11–7, and 11–5. Likewise, in the match for 15th and 16th place, Nepali player Naina Bahadur Magar triumphed over Rakesh Pariyar 3–1. Naina lost the first set 7–11 but bounced back to win the following sets 11–6, 11–2, and 11–8. Earlier, in the 9th to 12th place matches, Italy’s Renzo Endorno defeated India’s Anamay Rungta 3–0 with straightforward scores of 11–6, 11–7, and 11–6.

The PSA Satellite Tour is a significant event that offers emerging squash players the opportunity to gain international experience and valuable ranking points. The ongoing tournament in Nepal attracts players from South Asia, Europe, and other regions. Not only does it provide Nepalese athletes with the chance to compete against world-class opponents, but it also helps establish Nepal’s position on the global squash map. The Nepal Squash Rackets Association has recently initiated various programs aimed at developing and promoting squash throughout the country. The Satellite Tour is providing international-level competition on Nepalese soil and valuable exposure for young local talents like Pasang Blon and Naina Bahadur Magar.

Housing Crisis in Australia: More than Half of Average Income Spent on Rent

Written by space4knews on . Posted in International.

Data reveals that in all Australian capital cities, renting a unit now consumes more than 50% of an average person’s income. According to a report by EveryBediz Home, individuals earning an annual income of AUD 70,000 spend 56%, those earning AUD 40,000 allocate 89%, and those earning AUD 100,000 set aside 41% of their income on average rent.

The report highlights that across all eight Australian capital cities, an average-income earner must devote at least 51% of their income to cover typical unit rental costs. Sydney faces the highest ratio, where someone earning AUD 70,000 annually spends 69% of their income weekly on housing rent.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the average annual salary for employees in Australia was AUD 74,100 as of August 2025. Mai Aziz, a representative of a housing advocacy group, stated that the government’s withdrawal from public and community housing construction has led to a severe housing crisis. She warned that approximately one million such homes will be required over the next 15 years.

Nepali Footballer Sima Rani Ghale Joins Croatia’s Top Division Club ŽNK Split

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

Nepali female footballer Sima Rani Ghale has joined Croatia’s premier women’s league club ŽNK Split. Sima will now compete in Croatia’s A Division, the Majenta League. With this contract, she becomes the first Nepali footballer to play in Croatia’s top women’s league. (September 25, Kathmandu)

Beginning her domestic career with Sankata Club, Sima’s signing was announced by Sankata Club via their social media channels. Starting her football journey at FC Buddha, she has also delivered outstanding performances for Sankata FC in Nepal. Her progression from domestic football to a top division club in Europe marks a significant achievement for Nepali women’s football. Through this contract, Sima has become the first Nepali female footballer to compete in Croatia’s premier women’s league.

Jimmy Neesham Returns to Janakpur Bolts for Nepal Premier League Season Three

Written by space4knews on . Posted in Sports.

New Zealand’s versatile cricketer Jimmy Neesham has rejoined Janakpur Bolts for the third edition of the Nepal Premier League. Janakpur announced on Tuesday via social media the signing of the 35-year-old Neesham. In the inaugural 2024 season, Neesham played nine matches, scoring 247 runs and taking seven wickets, playing a crucial role in leading Janakpur to the championship.

On Tuesday, Janakpur confirmed through social media that they have contracted the 35-year-old Neesham, who was instrumental in their 2024 title-winning campaign. He amassed 247 runs across nine games at a strike rate exceeding 196 and an average above 35. His outstanding strike rate earned him the Best Strike Rate Award of the first NPL season.

During his debut season with Janakpur, Neesham also took seven wickets, providing significant support to the team while winning the hearts of fans. Janakpur CEO Niroj Khatiwada remarked, “Jimmy has earned a special place not only on the field but also in the hearts of our supporters. His dedication and association with Janakpur Bolts tell a beautiful story. The hero of our first championship season has now returned home.”

However, due to the absence of a ‘capped’ player quota for Janakpur in the second season, Neesham represented Pokhara Avengers, where he played four matches, scoring 99 runs—including a half-century—and took five wickets. This time, Neesham will play as a capped player for Janakpur.

Neesham has extensive international experience, representing New Zealand in 12 Test matches, 76 One Day Internationals, and 105 T20 Internationals. In February, he featured for New Zealand in the T20 World Cup final against India. He is also an active participant in global franchise leagues, having played in the Indian Premier League for Delhi Daredevils, Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Rajasthan Royals. Additionally, he has appeared in the Lanka Premier League, Vitality Blast, Bangladesh Premier League, UAE IL T20, Pakistan Super League, South Africa T20 leagues, The Hundred, Big Bash League, and Caribbean Premier League. Winning the title with Janakpur two years ago marked his first franchise cricket championship.

Hong Kong’s Independent Bookstores That Offered Chinese Readers a Space to Question Are Now Closing

Written by space4knews on . Posted in News.

Chen Zhu, who travels from mainland China to Hong Kong every month, always visits the “Hunter Bookstore.” Founded four years ago by a former councilor, this independent bookstore is known for carrying books deemed sensitive by authorities—from detailed accounts of Hong Kong’s pro-democracy activists to George Orwell’s “Animal Farm” and Hajime Isayama’s popular dystopian series “Attack on Titan.” From Zhu’s home in Guangzhou on China’s southern coast to the bustling streets of Sham Shui Po district in Hong Kong, Hunter Bookstore serves as a gateway to a different kind of independent world, where she can find answers to forbidden questions. She wept upon hearing that police had raided the bookstore at the end of June. “I was completely stunned.”

After the 2019 pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, independent bookstores proliferated rapidly. However, as Beijing tightened its control over the city, the survival of these stores has become increasingly precarious. Beijing imposed its national security law, justifying it as necessary for stability, while many Hong Kong residents and human rights groups argue it suppresses freedom of expression. The new security law has resulted in the arrest and conviction of numerous activists and former lawmakers, prompting thousands of locals to leave the city in recent years.

During a raid on June 24, police arrested 33-year-old bookstore owner Lotisha Wong and a 32-year-old man on charges of violating the law. They were accused of sedition and money laundering, charges both denied by the accused. They were subsequently released on bail. In March, authorities arrested the owner and three staff members of “Book Punch” on similar charges and confiscated copies of the biography of imprisoned pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai. On July 15, during Hong Kong’s annual book fair, national security police raided independent bookstores “Greenfield Bookstore” and “Have a Nice Stay,” arresting five individuals on sedition charges; all have since been released on bail.

At the end of the month, Greenfield announced on social media, “Our store is closing after the lease term ends. Thank you for supporting us through more than 50 years of ups and downs.” This marks the third independent bookstore to close within a month. These bookstores cater not only to Hong Kong residents but also loyal customers from mainland China who travel to the city to purchase books, like Zhu does.