News of the weird
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Felonious monk: A Buddhist monk in court in Hong Kong said he had not violated his peace-loving religion when he kicked a crippled beggar in the eye at a temple. The incident occurred when the two men became involved in a dispute over a begging spot. Ng Wing-fai said: "I intended to kick his hand but accidentally injured him. The assault was unintentional." he was released on a bond of HK$1,000 (about pounds 75) and ordered to keep the peace for a year.
Defrocked monk: Khem Pheng, a 29-year-old former Cambodian monk, was arrested on suspicion of heroin trafficking when 5kg of brown and white powder was found in his alms pouch. Police then had to hold him down as they replaced his saffron robes with second-hand shorts and underwear bought at a local market. In Cambodia, Buddhist monks are not allowed to wear underpants.
Blood lust: A South Korean dating agency is promoting a "Blind Date Blood Drive", open to all young, unmarried Koreans. Entrants must first donate blood for a chance to win a ticket to a blind date party. If the party leads to any marriages, the company will pay for the honeymoon.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments