Former CIA official arrested over $40m gold theft

Haj pilgrims have been advised to reduce activities outside tents in Arafah. A former CIA official has been arrested over allegations of stealing over 300 gold bars worth $40 million. David Rush, a Virginia resident and former senior executive with top-secret clearance, is suspected of stealing the gold, along with $2 million in cash and 35 luxury watches, including Rolex. The FBI discovered the gold hidden at Rush’s residence during a search on 18 May. internal CIA audits found the gold was not in official storage. Rush allegedly falsified his educational and military background, claiming degrees from Clemson University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and falsely stating he was a Navy pilot. He also allegedly defrauded the US of $77,000 in military leave benefits. The CIA and FBI confirmed his arrest on 19 May following a referral from CIA Director John Ratcliffe. Media Gaza reported that Israeli forces looted $25 million in assets and gold artefacts from Gaza. Indonesian police are pursuing a theft ring in Ciputat Timur housing estate, where suspects posed as PLN workers.