IN BRIEF (Page 11)

Japan

Sailor probed for drug smuggling

A US sailor stationed in Japan is under investigation for allegedly smuggling narcotics, media reported. The US Navy and Naval Criminal Investigative Service is cooperating with Japanese authorities to investigate "a US service member's alleged involvement in drug distribution", media said. According to Japanese police papers, 18 grams of drugs were found in a letter addressed to the 24-year-old sailor's off-base apartment, and a later search found more drugs in his residence.

Saudi Arabia

'Thursday is start' for Ramadan

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan will begin on Thursday in Saudi Arabia, the land of the religion's two holiest sites, authorities said. "The first day of the holy fasting month of Ramadan falls on Thursday corresponding to May 17, 2018," the Royal Court said in a statement published by state news agency SPA. Traditionally, many Muslim-majority countries have followed the dates set by Saudi religious authorities, but in recent years many have used their own astronomical calculations.

Malaysia

Anwar walks free after royal pardon

Jailed former deputy prime minister Anwar Ibrahim was granted a full pardon on Wednesday and walked free from a hospital in Kuala Lumpur, capping dramatic changes in the country after the election last week. The question for Malaysia now is how Anwar will get along with Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad and what role he will play in government.

Russia

Putin opens Crimean Bridge

Russian President Vladimir Putin officially opened the Crimean Bridge that links southern Russia and Crimea on Tuesday. The construction of the bridge started in 2015 following the incorporation of the former Ukrainian republic in 2014 and consequent deterioration of relations between Moscow and Kiev. The 19-kilometer bridge is the largest in Russia built so far. It consists of two parallel routes for automobiles and trains.

Afp - Ap - Xinhua

(China Daily 05/17/2018 page11)