The victim worked regular 12-hour shifts and earned more than £12,000, but he was only given £90 by the couple

Two people ran a modern slavery operation that stole thousands of pounds from a man working at a McDonald’s restaurant in Cambridgeshire. Jan Drevenak, 39, and Monika Olahova, 41, exploited a man who worked at a McDonald’s in Caxton Gibbet, taking nearly all of his wages.

The victim, a man in his 40s from the Czech Republic, was befriended by Drevenak in 2017 after being made redundant. Drevenak told the man that he had family living in the UK and could easily arrange regular work and accommodation.

Detective Sergeant Nick Webber said: “This case once again emphasises that sadly modern slavery can happen anywhere. Drevenak befriended a man who had fallen on hard times and despicably decided to exploit him.

“The victim was sold a dream of a fresh start in the UK, but it turned into a nightmare as he was forced to work long shifts for virtually no pay.”

He organised transport for the victim, on agreement he would pay him back out of his wages once he arrived in the UK. Drevenak initially took the man to Derby early in 2018, before they moved to a property in Bedford where they lived together.

This meant they were closer to the Cambourne area where Drevenak’s brother and partner lived. The pair used their family connections to gain employment for the victim at McDonald’s in Caxton Gibbet, with online applications and tests completed for the victim to enable the exploitation.

From March until October 2018, the victim worked regular 12-hour shifts and earned more than £12,000, but he was only given £90 by the couple. The man’s wages were paid into a bank account controlled by Drevenak’s partner, Olahova, 41. When he asked for more money, he was told his salary was paying off transport costs and debts for food and accommodation.

Drevenak controlled the man’s passport and ID card, with the victim also reporting being assaulted by him on multiple occasions. In October 2018, the victim decided to leave the property and moved in with Drevenak’s brother who lived closer to the restaurant.

The court heard how Drevenak received £1,000 from his brother due to the change in circumstances and the victim’s wages stopped going into Olahova’s account. Police received information that workers at the restaurant were being exploited in October 2019 and specialist officers spoke to the victim.

Drevenak, of Crown Gardens, Alconbury, near Huntingdon, and Olahova, of Stone Hill, St Neots, both denied holding a person in slavery and arranging or facilitating travel of another person with a view to exploitation.

They were both found guilty on both counts following a trial at Luton Crown Court. On Thursday, June 4, at the same court, Drevenak was jailed for eight years and Olahova for six years and six months. Both also face deportation – Drevenak after two thirds of his sentence and Olahova after half.

Drevenak’s brother and partner were found guilty of modern slavery offences in 2023 and were jailed for more than 10 years.

On sentencing, His Honour Judge Geoffrey Payne said: “Slavery is a modern-day evil. All humans have the right to dignity and worth. The victim in this case was robbed of those. He was kept in disdainful conditions and treated as property.”

A long-serving BBC presenter has lost his unfair dismissal claim after being sacked for branding a fellow host “sociopathic” in a dispute over comments on Hamas.

Sean McGinty, who worked for BBC Radio Lancashire for over two decades, was dismissed following posts on X in which he criticised the BBC’s coverage of the conflict in the Middle East on social media.

In an email to BBC 5Live host Nihal Arthanayake, Mr McGinty called him “sociopathic” and made references to convicted murderers Harold Shipman and Lucy Letby.

Mr McGinty, who suffers from ADHD and severe anxiety, argued his actions were a result of his conditions and brought a discrimination case against the broadcaster.

However, the tribunal found his claims were “not well-founded”.

The presenter, who was 63 at the time of his dismissal, had been a broadcast journalist, presenter, and producer at BBC Radio Lancashire since September 2006, with a total of 22 years as a reporter.

It was noted that he had not informed one of his managers about his ADHD diagnosis.

Following the October 2023 Hamas attacks in Israel, Mr McGinty was critical of the BBC and the way it reported on the attack.

The BBC Policy for personal social media use at the time read that staff were not “prohibited from using social media platforms in a personal capacity”.

“The BBC’s reputation for impartiality and objectivity is however crucial,” it said.

“Staff should take reasonable steps to ensure their activity on social media does not undermine the BBC’s nor their own, professional impartiality or reputation and/or bring the organisation into disrepute.”

Mr McGinty posted numerous times on X regarding subjects including Hamas and expressing anti-trans views.

Mr McGinty later emailed Mr Arthanavake – who recently quit 5Live – and his production team under the subject heading ‘Nihal’s contextualising Murders Book Club’.

The email read: “I felt I ought to step offline and take some time (a week is just enough) to consider how to express my thoughts on your tweet below…”

“It is remarkable that you have the hubris to instruct me to read a book so I can find out why these animals are such murderous bastards…these are actions of evil monsters…It’s sociopathic of you to suggest anyone should read a book to seek context…I don’t look for context for disgusting excuses for human beings.

“That being said, I am looking forward to your recommending books that give some context and understanding of Lucy Letby, Harold Shipman and the Yorkshire ripper. I hear Stalin had a terrible childhood. You should do your own book club.”

He was later moved to a BBC sounds role but was not happy and believed the “reorganisation was destroying the BBC”.

Mr McGinty continued to post on X about the conflict in the Middle East and transgender issues, saying that Jewish people were being “forced to leave Israel”.

An investigation began and he took the posts down, saying that he was “under a great deal of stress and anxiety because again BBC bosses are having a pop at me when it is the talent that is the problem”.

He went on long-term sick leave in November 2023.

He was due to return to work in January 2024 but did not turn up, despite being called by colleagues.

In February 2024 he put up more posts criticising the BBC, saying it should “hang your head in shame”.

In April 2024 he contacted his boss and told him about his ADHD diagnosis, which led to an occupational health report which found him unfit for work.

He was later taken to a disciplinary hearing for his social media posts and was sacked for gross misconduct in July 2024.

During the proceedings he posted on X saying: “I am about to get sacked by the BBC for gross misconduct for stating biological and journalistic truths.”

He later appealed the decision, saying that his behaviour changed because of his mental health condition, but it was unsuccessful.

It was found that his actions constituted a “failure to adhere to the expected standards regarding impartiality and respect in your public discourse, and your failure to seek the necessary approval before writing publicly about the BBC in your blogs”.

Mr McGinty brought claims of disability discrimination, failure to make reasonable adjustments and unfair dismissal to the employment tribunal in Liverpool.

His claims were all unsuccessful and dismissed.

Employment Judge Dawn Shottey said: “The Tribunal found there was no causal connection between his disability and the gross misconduct Mr McGinty was accused of.

“[Mr McGinty] says he has a right to hold his views and there is no disputing that he indeed had this right.

“The problem for [Mr McGinty] was communicating his views to the wider public in breach of fundamental constraints imposed on him given the fact he was employed as a journalist and subjected to policies, which if breached, could result in disciplinary proceedings and dismissal.

“The Tribunal found on the balance of probabilities [the BBC] otherwise acted in a procedurally fair manner and the dismissal fell well within the range of reasonable responses.

“The Tribunal found that contemporaneous documents support this analysis, including [Mr McGinty’s] deliberate attempt to circumvent managerial control by failing to inform higher management and the press office of his proposed communications before they were made public because he knew that “they would say no”.

“Objectively assessed, such behaviour cannot fall under the definition of impulsivity, and for [Mr McGinty] to limit his posts so that they can be read by his followers alone (and not viewed by [the BBC]) suggested calculated conduct and not impulsive behaviour.”

Officers are in attendance on the Manchester Royal Infirmary campus this morning.

Roads have been blocked off by police vans as officers respond to the incident.

Greater Manchester Police says it was called out to concerns for a person’s welfare at 9.20am.

The incident remains ongoing at this time.

The Boulevard is closed off near to the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.

A GMP van has also been seen blocking traffic on Oxford Road, near to the hospital.

Further updates will be posted in this blog.

Emergency services have descended on a busy south Manchester road following a crash. Part of Southmoor Road, in Wythenshawe, is closed off between Royal Oak Road and Floatshall Road, either side of Baguley tram stop, this morning (June 5).

The Manchester Evening News understands officers and paramedics are responding to a crash. An air ambulance was seen landing near to the crash scene this morning.

A section of the road has been taped off. Multiple North West Ambulance Service vehicles have been seen in attendance. Transport for Greater Manchester says buses are being diverted in the area.

A post on the Bee Network website said: “Due to a road traffic collision on Southmoor Road, bus services are on diversion. Services will omit stops on part of Southmoor Road, Ledson Road and Floats Road and Wythenshawe Hospital.”

This is a live event. Follow the latest updates below.

There’s a simple way to get your bedding clean and dry

Duvets and pillows are arguably the most challenging laundry items to wash, frequently deterring people from trying to squeeze them into the washing machine. Nevertheless, with spring cleaning season in full swing, now is the perfect moment to address the job – and there’s an alternative method for reviving your bedding.

Steven Szary, from My Luxury Sleep Shop, recommends that instead of wrestling with waterlogged duvets and pillows, you simply allow the sun to do the heavy lifting.

Steven advised: “Leave your duvet out for several hours (four to five is about right) and it’s best to do it in the late afternoon or early evening when the sun isn’t too harsh. A little bit of sun is good, though, as it helps to kill unwanted bacteria and germs.” Using sunlight’s natural disinfecting properties is a straightforward yet effective means of eliminating bacteria and dust mites from your quilt and pillows.

An accumulation of perspiration, body oils and dust can all become trapped in your bedding, making it crucial to air it out frequently to avoid potential mould development.

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Hanging the duvet permits better airflow and warmth to pass through the fabric, removing stale smells and rejuvenating its filling, ultimately enhancing your sleeping comfort.

When it comes to airing your duvet properly, timing and conditions are crucial. Before giving your duvet a solar cleanse, select a sunny, breezy day following a dry spell, Steven urged. He noted: “If it’s cloudy or has rained recently, the air will be more humid and will not be as effective for airing out your bedding.”

Once you’ve identified the perfect conditions, take your duvet outside during the late afternoon. The milder sunshine at this time of day will help protect the fabric and prevent your duvet and pillows from becoming rigid, reports the Express.

Before hanging everything up, give your duvet and pillows a gentle shake. Once your duvet is securely in place, lightly beat the fabric. This will help loosen the duvet fibres and prevent the inner filling from clumping together.

Ideally, your duvet should be hung on a washing line. However, if one isn’t available, you can also drape it over a drying rack, fence or any clean surface, as long as it can be adequately secured.

As for your pillows, these can be positioned on an airer outside or on a clean, flat surface.

Simply leave both items out in the sunshine for four to five hours. After this period, your bedding will be thoroughly refreshed and sanitised, leaving you ready to enjoy a far more comfortable night’s sleep.

A ceremonial plaque is also being proposed

A Northern Ireland council is to consider conferring the Freedom of the Borough Kilrea-born football manager, Martin O’Neill.

During June’s Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council meeting members were presented with a motion by Sinn Féin Councillor Sean Bateson. It seeks to award the Freedom of the Borough to Mr O’Neill, who recently led Celtic FC to victory in the Scottish Premiership.

A ceremonial plaque in Kilrea is also being proposed.

The notice of motion was seconded by fellow Sinn Féin Councillor Leanne Peacock, and reads: “That this council recognises and celebrates the outstanding sporting achievements of Martin O’Neill, a native of Kilrea, whose distinguished career has brought immense pride and recognition to Kilrea and the wider Causeway Coast and Glens Borough.

“Council notes his exceptional contribution to football both as a player and manager, including winning two European Cups with Nottingham Forest, captaining at the 1982 FIFA World Cup, and enjoying major managerial success with clubs including Leicester City, Celtic and Aston Villa.

“Council further notes his recent return to management with Celtic, culminating in the remarkable achievement of winning the league title at the age of 74, demonstrating his enduring leadership and contribution to the game.

“Accordingly, this council calls on officers to explore appropriate ways to formally recognise Martin O’Neill’s contribution and legacy within the borough, including the installation of a commemorative plaque or civic recognition in Kilrea and/or the awarding of the Freedom of the Borough.

“Council further agrees to engage with local stakeholders, sporting organisations and the O’Neill family as part of this process.”

Members agreed to consider the motion at a future meeting of council’s Corporate Policy and Resources Committee, while a separate proposal to award the Freedom of the Borough to Coleraine FC, following their Irish Cup win, will be debated at a future Special Council Meeting.

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.

BUNIA, Congo (AP) — The rare Bundibugyo type of Ebola that Congo is battling took locals by surprise after weeks of spreading unnoticed. Hundreds of cases were suspected when the outbreak was declared in May, but many dismissed the news as a “Western conspiracy.”

Congolese authorities announced the new Ebola outbreak on May 15. As of Wednesday, at least 62 people had died from 363 confirmed cases. Yet the outbreak has been challenged by skepticism, attacks on health workers and misinformation.

Vérité Johnson, a journalist and editorial secretary at the Radio Télévision Mont Bleu station in Bunia, the eastern Ituri province capital where the outbreak is concentrated, decided to produce a new program to combat rumors.

The radio show has emerged as a vital tool to win over some residents who have been unaware or skeptical about the facts of Bundibugyo.

The 45-minute program runs daily at 10 a.m., reminding people of the dangers and regularly featuring health specialists providing updates and answering questions. The show’s jingles about the virus also play intermittently throughout the day and residents are able to call in with questions.

“So far, there’s still a layer of resistance within the population, and that’s where the media plays an important role,” Johnson said.

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Analysts say some people in Congo have been receptive to disinformation due to mistrust of the healthcare system and because some local officials have not become actively involved in containing the disease.

“What is key is to involve the local actors at all levels. If we try to impose what we think is right to the community, we are running towards failure,” said Basile Rambaud, emergency programs director for Mercy Corps in Congo. “If people do not trust the response, they end up delaying to seek care, rejecting protective measures, or avoiding working with health teams, giving the virus more time to spread.”

Ituri province residents have launched at least three attacks against health centers, demanding the bodies of deceased patients. Some people who are believed to have Ebola left the centers during the attacks and health workers could not account for their whereabouts.

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“We don’t even know what the body of a person who died of Ebola looks like, but we just see images and montages on our phone,” said Bunia resident Chantal Francine, who expressed doubts over the reported deaths.

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Full scale of the outbreak is unknown

The virus has rapidly spread from an initial three health zones to 24, according to World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who said Wednesday that the virus “had a big start.”

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Experts and WHO officials have warned the numbers might not reflect the true scale of the epidemic as weeks of testing for the wrong type caused a delay in containing the virus.

The outbreak has been worsened by an ongoing armed conflict between Congo’s government and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, as well as attacks by the Islamic State-affiliated group the Allied Democratic Force, which killed 16 people in Beni territory in North Kivu on Tuesday.

The attacks by both groups have caused massive displacement of people living in the conflict areas, officials said.

Despite the growing Bundibugyo outbreak and the conditions that are enabling the disease to spread, Johnson said Radio Télévision Mont Bleu continues providing residents with vital facts.

“Everyone is free to think what they want, but the information remains the same. The epidemic is here,” Johnson said.

___

Adetayo reported from Lagos, Nigeria.

Tickets for the star’s only UK show are out in the next few days.

Christina Aguilera has confirmed she will be playing one major show in the UK this year. The gig is due to take place on Friday, August 2026.

The iconic American star has not played a headline show in the UK since her 2022 show at London’s O2 Arena. Now, she’s set her sights on a royal location.

The 45-year-old will be performing at the incredible Sandringham Estate. This is best known as one of King Charles ‘ residences.

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And Christina Aguilera will not be performing at this location alone. She has a massive line-up of guests joining her throughout the day of the one-off concert.

On the docket are some legendary British names from throughout the pop industry. This includes Craig David, Blue and Ruby Roberts.

Buy Christina Aguilera tickets from AXS

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Buy tickets here.

Christina Aguilera tickets can be purchased from AXS here.

Tickets for this historic show will be released in a matter of days. But fans who are excited to get involved are encouraged to prepare ahead of time.

We’ve detailed everything fans need to know about how to buy tickets this month, and where to look. Here are the details.

How to buy Christina Aguilera tickets now

Christina Aguilera tickets will be released on general onsale from Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 9am. These will be available from a couple of different online retailers.

First up is Ticketmaster, one of the world’s biggest ticket-sellers. They’re followed by AXS, another of the show’s official ticket sellers.

Here are the ticket links:

AXS – Buy Christina Aguilera tickets here.

TICKETMASTER – Buy Christina Aguilera tickets here.

At the time of writing, this is Christina Aguilera’s only confirmed UK show of 2026. She is not expected to announce any other shows.

Her show at Sandringham Estate is part of the HeritageLive Festival series of concerts. Included in the line-up at the moment are such incredible names as Janet Jackson, Lionel Richie and Eric Clapton.

Giles Cooper of HeritageLive Festival said: “We’re delighted to have Christina Aguilera completing our 2026 line-up. There aren’t many artists who have had the kind of career Christina has. For more than 25 years she’s continued to reinvent herself while remaining one of the most recognisable and respected voices in music.

“Her catalogue speaks for itself, and her live performances continue to showcase the extraordinary talent and stage presence that have defined her career. To welcome an artist of her stature to Sandringham is a real moment for us, and we can’t wait to see her take to the stage this summer alongside some incredible special guests in Craig David, Blue, and Ruby Roberts.”

He added: “With five incredible nights of live music ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be our biggest year yet!”

Elliott (UK) Limited, based in Trimdon Colliery, is seeking to amend its current licence to include an additional site for storing its goods vehicles.

The new operating centre would be located at Blue Cube Storage Ltd on Blackhills Road, Horden, Peterlee.

The company is looking to park three goods vehicles at the site, with no trailers.

People who own or occupy land near the proposed new operating centre, and who believe their use or enjoyment of their land would be affected by the change, have the right to make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner.

For more notices affecting YOUR area, visit our Public Notice Portal – Public Notices from The Northern Echo ( publicnoticeportal.uk). 

These should be addressed to Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, and must be made within 21 days of the notice being published.

Representations must clearly state the reasons for the objection.

At the same time, a copy of the representations should be sent to the applicant at their registered address on North Moor Avenue.

A guide on how to make these representations is available on the government’s website.

Japanese authorities have been trying to catch a bear in north-east Japan after it injured four people and evaded capture seemingly by opening a window by itself.

Footage released previously shows the bear chasing and attacking a man outside a building in Fukushima.

The bear was then holed up inside an electronics factory but escaped in the night, authorities said.

The bear’s trail suggests it released the window latch and pushed it open, according to city officials.

Before Wednesday’s escape, the bear was reportedly seen turning on a water tap with its paws.

“We believe it to be extremely intelligent,” Fukushima Mayor Yuki Baba said, according to Kyodo news agency.

More on this story here.