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Monday, February 23, 2026

500-Year-Old Treasure Ship Found Under Namib Sands, Loaded With Gold, Ivory, and Hidden Empire Secrets

A geologist checking drainage pumps at a Namibian diamond mine bent down in April 2008 to examine a curious metal disc poking through the sand. It turned out to be a 500-year-old copper ingot stamped with the logo of a German banking empire. What happened next shut down one of the world’s richest diamond digs and kicked off an archaeological mystery that still isn’t fully solved.

The Bom Jesus, a Portuguese cargo ship that vanished in 1533 while trying to round the Cape of Good Hope, didn’t sink at sea. It ended up buried under desert sand a football field’s length from the Atlantic Ocean, loaded with 22 tons of copper, 2,000 gold coins, and enough ivory to make every wildlife conservationist cringe. The ship’s crew of 300 basically disappeared, leaving behind exactly one toe bone inside a shoe.

The Forbidden Zone Delivered a 500-Year-Old Time Capsule

The wreck sat in the Sperrgebiet, which is German for “forbidden zone.” That name dates to 1908 when German colonial authorities sealed off the coastline to protect diamond deposits. The restriction kept treasure hunters away for a century. Excavating the site required building a giant earthen wall to hold back the Atlantic Ocean while pumps kept the dig site dry. Security cameras watched everything because diamonds litter the surrounding ground. Dr. Dieter Noli, the chief archaeologist running the dig, told Namibiana that working inside an active diamond mine made this tougher than any normal excavation.

Climate scientists used sediment samples to confirm that winter storms off Namibia can wreck ships attempting the Cape crossing. That matches contemporary accounts saying the 1533 fleet got scattered by severe weather about four months after leaving Lisbon.

Dr. Bruno Werz, director of the African Institute for Marine and Underwater Research, Exploration and Education, stated in an official research summary, “This is not just an archaeological site; it’s a sealed economic time capsule from the Age of Discovery. We’re dealing with a ship that tells the story of early globalization through physical evidence, not fragments, but full systems.”

The copper ingots each carry the trident mark of Anton Fugger, head of the German Fugger banking dynasty. That’s physical proof German money financed Portuguese exploration earlier than written records suggested. The copper was headed to West Africa to trade for ivory and slaves before ships pushed on to India for spices.

Francisco Alves, who ran nautical archaeology for Portugal’s Ministry of Culture, told the same publication, “This is an exceptional opportunity. We know so little about these great old ships. This is only the second intact ship ever excavated by archaeologists. All the others were looted by treasure hunters.”

Spanish Cash Financed a Portuguese Disaster

The gold coins found at the site raised eyebrows immediately. About 70 percent were Spanish excelentes featuring Ferdinand and Isabella. Portuguese ships normally carried Portuguese money, not Spanish currency.

Alexandre Monteiro, a maritime historian who helped identify the wreck, dug through Lisbon’s royal archives and found a letter dated February 13, 1533. It shows King John III sent someone to Seville to collect 20,000 gold crusadoes from Spanish investors for the fleet that included the Bom Jesus. Monteiro told National Geographic in 2022, “This letter would contribute greatly to explaining that. The Spanish investors, it seems, had an unusually large stake in the 1533 fleet.”

Identifying a 500-year-old wreck found by accident isn’t easy, especially since the 1755 Lisbon earthquake and tsunami destroyed most of Portugal’s maritime records. The Casa da India, which held all the navigation charts and ship registries, collapsed into the Tagus River. Monteiro explained to National Geographic, “This left a huge hole in our history. Since there are no longer any Indian archives to consult, one has to fall back on other means, which sometimes border on the imaginative, to find information.”

Researchers pored over surviving fragments called the Relações das Armadas, which are accounts of the fleets. Those records show 21 vessels vanished en route to India between 1525 and 1600. Only one went down near Namibia: the Bom Jesus, which sailed in 1533 and got listed as “lost rounding the Cape of Good Hope.” A 16th century book called Memória das Armadas contains paintings of every fleet that sailed for India starting with Vasco da Gama’s 1497 voyage. The 1533 section shows a ship disappearing into waves with the words Bom Jesus and one word: perdido. Lost.

No Fight Over the Loot and a Museum in the Works

Under the 2001 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage, the wreck legally belongs to Namibia. Portugal, the ship’s country of origin and a convention signatory, decided not to fight for it. Monteiro told National Geographic, “This is how international cooperation should function. There’s no question the wreck is Namibian. And the country has acted with professionalism and vision in managing it.”

Namdeb, the joint operation between the Namibian government and De Beers, halted mining around the site and funded the archaeology work. The company’s sustainability mission now lists heritage protection alongside diamond production. Namibia plans to open a maritime museum in Oranjemund to display the artifacts by late 2027. Until then, the 40,000 items sit in controlled storage while researchers study them.

The ship carried roughly 300 people including crew, soldiers, merchants, clergy, nobles, and enslaved individuals. Excavators found exactly one human bone. A toe. Inside a shoe. That suggests most of them made it to shore about 500 feet away and possibly survived. The Orange River mouth sits 25 miles south.

Noli, whose professional profile is documented by Namibiana, speculated that survivors in 1533 could have found water and encountered local San communities who might have helped them. No evidence of survivor camps has turned up yet, though the same desert conditions that preserved the ship for five centuries could preserve temporary settlements too.

The Bom Jesus artifacts remain in controlled storage at Namdeb’s facilities, accessible only to researchers until the Oranjemund maritime museum opens its doors to the public in late 2027.

80% of Kerala’s population to be urban by 2050; Commission proposes 6 MPCs

Thiruvananthapuram: Nearly 80 per cent of the state's population will be urban by 2050, according to the Kerala Urban Policy prepared by the Local Self Government Department.

The report notes that unlike other states that grow around large, dense cities, Kerala's urban growth is spread out in a linear pattern, with towns and semi-urban areas stretching between the coast and the hills. At the same time, the state is highly vulnerable to climate-related disasters such as floods, landslides and coastal erosion. This makes planning for infrastructure, land use and public services more challenging.

In view of this, the Kerala Urban Policy Commission has recommended setting up six directly elected Metropolitan Planning Committees (MPCs) around the municipal corporations of Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Kollam, Thrissur and Kannur to steer urban development in and around these areas. The planning areas of the MPCs should be delineated based on population size and density, connectivity, land use and other relevant criteria, the Commission said.

The Commission also recommended preparing risk-informed master plans at the local level to integrate climate resilience into urban planning. All spatial plans, including Disaster Management Plans, Master Plans, Development Plans and Local Area Plans, should be aligned to ensure cohesive and risk-sensitive development, particularly in ecologically fragile and hazard-prone areas.

"The vision for 2050 is a network of well-planned, well-governed and climate-resilient cities and towns, rooted in the state's strong tradition of decentralised governance and participatory planning," the report said. It added that these urban centres should be inclusive, technologically enabled, safe and resilient, offering efficient mobility, reliable infrastructure, quality public spaces and diverse livelihood opportunities.

Kerala, on February 13, became the first state in the country to adopt a comprehensive Urban Policy, outlining a long-term vision for development as the state steadily moves towards greater urbanisation. The draft Urban Policy, prepared by the Local Self Government Department, was approved by the state cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, according to a statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office. The approval marks the completion of nearly two years of sustained efforts.

Gold, Silver Prices On February 23: Silver Rises By Rs 23,820, Gold Crosses Rs 1,59,000 On MCX

Gold and silver prices witnessed a notable uptick on Monday on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX). Gold futures for April were trading at Rs 1,59,886 per 10 grams, a rise of Rs 3,010, or 1.92 per cent, as of 09:10 am. Silver futures for March experienced an even sharper jump, climbing to Rs 2,68,120 per kg, a surge of Rs 15,176, or 6 per cent.

Gold and silver prices rose due to global uncertainties and market events. Gold was trading 2 per cent higher at $5,182 per ounce on Comex, while silver gained 5.65 per cent to $86.90 per ounce. Rising geopolitical tensions and changes in US trade policies have encouraged investors to buy safe-haven assets like gold and silver.

Spot silver rose to $87.10 per ounce, its highest in more than two weeks, and spot gold reached $5,163.60 per ounce, marking a three-week high. US gold futures for April delivery also advanced by 2 per cent to $5,184.90 per ounce.

Gold Price On February 23 (per 10 grams)

Chennai: 24K – Rs 1,60,150 | 22K – Rs 1,46,800 | 18K – Rs 1,25,600
Mumbai: 24K – Rs 1,59,280 | 22K – Rs 1,46,000 | 18K – Rs 1,19,460
Delhi: 24K – Rs 1,59,430 | 22K – Rs 1,46,150 | 18K – Rs 1,19,610
Kolkata: 24K – Rs 1,59,280 | 22K – Rs 1,46,000 | 18K – Rs 1,19,460
Bengaluru: 24K – Rs 1,59,280 | 22K – Rs 1,46,000 | 18K – Rs 1,19,460
Hyderabad: 24K – Rs 1,59,280 | 22K – Rs 1,46,000 | 18K – Rs 1,19,460
Kerala: 24K – Rs 1,59,280 | 22K – Rs 1,46,000 | 18K – Rs 1,19,460
Pune: 24K – Rs 1,59,280 | 22K – Rs 1,46,000 | 18K – Rs 1,19,460
Vadodara: 24K – Rs 1,59,330 | 22K – Rs 1,46,050 | 18K – Rs 1,19,510
Ahmedabad: 24K – Rs 1,59,330 | 22K – Rs 1,46,050 | 18K – Rs 1,19,510

Silver Prices On February 23

Silver prices also moved higher today, both internationally and in India. On February 23, 1 kg silver was priced at Rs 2,74,900 in Delhi. These prices are almost the same in other major cities including Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kerala, Pune, Ahmedabad, and Chennai.

The increase in prices comes after international events such as changes in US trade tariffs and geopolitical tensions.

Sunday, February 22, 2026

Bhumana Karunakar Reddy Alleges Political Conspiracy in Tirumala Parakamani and Ghee Adulteration Cases

Former TTD Chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy has made sharp allegations over the Tirumala Parakamani theft case and the laddu ghee adulteration controversy. Addressing the media at the YSR Congress Party office in Tirupati, he accused Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu of attempting to reopen the Parakamani case with political motives.

Bhumana claimed that the government is preparing to register a fresh FIR and has reportedly assigned a DSP-level officer to handle the matter. He alleged that the move is aimed at implicating YSRCP leaders even though the case had already been investigated and a report was submitted to the court. According to him, reopening the matter after due legal process raises serious questions.

He also criticised the state government’s approach to the Tirumala laddu ghee adulteration issue. Bhumana stated that the Supreme Court had ordered an independent SIT probe and questioned the need for appointing a single-member commission. He argued that bypassing established investigative directions could invite judicial scrutiny.

Responding to criticism over YSRCP members carrying images of deities into the Legislative Council, Bhumana defended the act. He questioned why religious images should be objected to in a democratic institution when similar gestures had occurred in the past without controversy.

Bhumana further alleged that the roots of the ghee adulteration controversy lie with private dairy sources linked to prominent business groups. He said his party would take the issue to the people and present what he described as facts.

The political temperature around Tirumala-related issues continues to rise, with both sides exchanging serious charges. The coming days are likely to see further legal and political developments in these sensitive matters.

Despite US tariffs hike to 15%, most countries better off: Where India, others stand

Soon after the US Supreme Court struck down tariffs imposed by the Donald Trump administration, the US President said he would impose a 10% levy on all goods coming into America, using another legal provision. Hours later, he jacked this up to 15%.

ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW VIDEO

The 15% tariffs announced Saturday (February 21) are the maximum allowed under this never-used trade law (under Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act). Secondly, this is temporary, given that the provision only allows the new tariffs to stay in place for around five months. After that, the American government must seek US Congressional approval.

What this means for different countries

At least for now, with this flat rate of 15%, most major countries are in a better situation than before Friday’s court ruling. India, China, South Korea, Japan, almost all of ASEAN, Kazakhstan, Turkey, South Africa, Libya, Brazil, Mexico and Canada are now at a lower rate, to be implemented from February 24.

Anil Sasi is the National Business Editor at The Indian Express, where he steers the newspaper’s coverage of the Indian economy, corporate affairs, and financial policy. As a senior editor, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the narrative around India's business landscape. Professional Experience Sasi brings extensive experience from some of India’s most respected financial dailies. Prior to his leadership role at The Indian Express, he worked with: The Hindu Business Line Business Standard His career trajectory across these premier publications demonstrates a consistent track record of rigorous financial reporting and editorial oversight. Expertise & Focus With a deep understanding of market dynamics and policy interventions, Sasi writes authoritatively on: Macroeconomics: Analysis of fiscal policy, budgets, and economic trends. Corporate Affairs: In-depth coverage of India's major industries and corporate governance. Business Policy: The intersection of government regulation and private enterprise. Education Anil Sasi is an alumnus of the prestigious Delhi University, providing a strong academic foundation to his journalistic work.

From Karnataka post CM tussle to Bhupen Borahs resignation: Where is Congress going wrong? Explained

The grand old party of India, Congress, is facing several challenges in more than one state. On one hand, the party high command has to deal with the tussle over the Karnataka chief minister’s post between CM Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar. On the other hand, the exit of former Assam Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah over alleged “humiliation” has added to its troubles.

Borah’s surprising exit from the party and his formal joining of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) not only marks a major political shift ahead of the crucial elections in Assam, but has also set political circles abuzz, raising questions over Congress’s failure to take effective action to pacify its veteran leaders.

According to an IANS report, amid the above-mentioned issues, the party high command has failed to rise to the occasion and retain the trust of senior leaders, apparently because of its “inertia and latency” in decision-making, leading to its persistent decline.

Past five years of Congress

Over the past five years, several instances point to Congress’s setbacks under the party high command, including the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. The party has not only delivered poor performances in state elections, but has also witnessed disagreements and spats within its state units.

The issues appear to stem from a failure to address internal differences and to prevent disgruntled leaders from jumping ship.

Karnataka CM tussle

The Siddaramaiah–Shivakumar power tussle in Karnataka is one of the most visible episodes of internal discord, yet the Congress high command has failed to broker peace between the two factions.

Rahul Gandhi’s meeting with Shivakumar also did not yield anything substantial. According to IANS, reports suggest the “rebellion” is far from over.

Other issues within the party

Here are a few instances in which the Congress top brass failed to steer the ship, instead leaving state units to deal with the situations on their own:

In Himachal Pradesh, two factions led by Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Pratibha Singh engaged in an organisational battle over the state party president’s post in 2025, even holding several meetings in Delhi to reach a deal. The party dissolved its state unit, triggering a scramble for the top post, with the leadership even considering a formula of one state president and four working presidents to balance factions.

In Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), the party’s clout remains in shambles and appears beyond repair:
a) Despite being out of power in the national capital for 15 years, after ruling for more than a decade, a united face continues to elude the party.
b) In Haryana, Congress had a golden opportunity in 2024 to overthrow the BJP government, but internal rivalry doomed its chances of revival.

Uttar Pradesh also reflects the party’s weak state-level condition. Congress reportedly dissolved its state unit in 2024 and largely remains non-existent.

The latest example is Assam, where Borah resigned just ahead of the crucial elections, citing “insult and ignorance” by the top leadership before switching to the BJP.

In poll-bound West Bengal, the party has been relegated to the margins by its own regional ally, the Trinamool Congress.

In the 2025 Jharkhand Assembly elections, the party fought alongside Hemant Soren-led Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), but the alliance soured, with the regional partner accusing Congress of betrayal, as per IANS.

The most recent example of poor electoral performance came in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) mounted a visibly strong campaign, but as results favoured the incumbent government, the grand old party was seen as a liability rather than an asset.

In Odisha, the PCC remains affected by the exit of key leaders.

In Gujarat, the party has failed to challenge the BJP’s more than two-decade-long dominance.

In Maharashtra, the party’s strength and presence have withered over time due to the exit of veterans and high-profile leaders.

Tamil Nadu, another state headed for elections this year, is preparing for a fierce contest involving the BJP.

Congress’ continued electoral setbacks and internal discord across multiple states show a widening gap within the party, which could be fuelling concerns and doubts among allies ahead of key state elections.