News In Brief
Obama to unveil NSA reforms on Jan 17
Afp, Washington
US President Barack Obama will unveil reforms to the country's spying activities on January 17, his spokesman said Friday, following a review of the National Security Agency (NSA).
The White House said on Thursday that the president was nearing the end of his soul searching about US spying reforms as he met lawmakers who oversee the intelligence community.
Violence erupts in CAR capital
Afp, Bangui
At least three people were killed overnight in Bangui following the resignation of the Central African Republic's rebel leader-turned-president -- a move aimed at easing tension -- and ahead of the evacuation of stranded foreigners set to begin today.
There has also been widespread looting in the city with crowds breaking down the doors of shops, many of them belonging to Muslims, reflecting the sectarian strife that has wracked the country, AFP correspondents reported.
Historic US gold coin fetches $4.6m
Afp, Washington
Two antique American gold coins sold for more than $7.8 million when they went under the hammer in Florida, auction organizers confirmed Friday.
The first gold coin ever made for the United States -- a "Brasher Doubloon" struck in 1787 by a neighbor of George Washington -- fetched $4,582,500, Heritage Auctions said. A nickel made at the Philadelphia Mint in 1913 that was once featured in an episode of the 1970s television show "Hawaii Five-O" raised $3.3 million.
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