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  • Delhi scorched, but not for long: IMD predicts dip in temperature after thunderstorm

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Residents of the national capital may finally get some relief from the relentless heat, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorms and rainfall later on Friday, which are expected to ease the sweltering conditions that have gripped Delhi and surrounding regions for the past several days.

    Speaking to IANS, IMD scientist Akhil Srivastava said: “The maximum temperature in Delhi-NCR remains high, and the night temperature is also above normal. Due to these conditions, we had issued a red alert on Thursday. For June 13, we are expecting hot and humid conditions during the day, with a possibility of a heatwave in some parts of the region. Accordingly, we have issued an orange to red alert for today.”

    Srivastava added that thunderstorm activity is anticipated by Friday night, with wind speeds ranging from 40 to 60 km/h.

    “This weather pattern may persist for the next two to three days, which is likely to bring down the maximum temperature,” he said.

    “Currently, Delhi is recording temperatures around 44 degrees Celsius. We expect this to fall to around 40 degrees Celsius by June 15 or 16.”

    Srivastava also said that northwestern India is also expected to remain hot, with no significant change in maximum temperatures over the next 48–72 hours.

    “We estimate a potential drop of 2 to 4 degrees Celsius in the coming days. However, western Rajasthan will continue to face severe heat conditions, for which a red alert has been issued. Warm night conditions are being observed across the region, with night temperatures also staying above average, increasing the overall impact.”

    The IMD has issued red alerts for Punjab and Haryana for the next two days due to expected extreme conditions. Rajasthan is also under a red alert for Friday, which will be followed by an orange alert for the next two days. In Uttar Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, orange alerts have been issued as cooler weather is expected over the weekend.

    Srivastava also noted a likelihood of light to very light rainfall in parts of Delhi, associated with the thunderstorm activity.

    “While the intensity of the rainfall may be low, it will contribute to a temporary cooling effect and offer some respite from the oppressive heat.”

    Responding to whether this summer has been hotter than usual, Srivastava said: “Heatwaves are not new to Delhi or North India. We witnessed similar extreme temperatures last year as well. It would not be accurate to say this year is significantly worse; rather, such patterns are becoming increasingly frequent.”

    (IANS)

  • Ahmedabad plane crash: Black box recovered from Air India AI-171 wreckage

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The black box of the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which crashed minutes after takeoff from Gujarat’s Ahmedabad, has been recovered from the wreckage of the aircraft.

    The black box, technically known as the flight data recorder, is expected to play a vital role in uncovering the cause of the disaster. It contains crucial information such as flight speed, altitude, engine performance, and cockpit audio, including communications between the pilots and air traffic control.

    These specialised devices are built to withstand extreme temperatures, water, and severe impact, ensuring the survival of key data even under catastrophic conditions.

    Contrary to its name, the black box is typically painted bright orange to make it easier to locate amid the wreckage.

    Constructed from highly durable materials like steel and titanium, the device houses two main components: the Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR) and the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). The DFDR logs technical flight parameters, while the CVR captures audio from the cockpit, including pilot discussions and radio exchanges with air traffic control.

    In a parallel development, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has also recovered a digital video recorder (DVR) from the wreckage.

    Investigators believe this could serve as additional evidence, offering visual insights into the final moments of the crash.

    Authorities are now preparing to analyse both the flight recorders and the DVR to piece together a comprehensive timeline of events leading up to the crash.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: China-Central Asia Mechanism Promotes Sustainable Development of Region – Kazakh Political Scientist

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    ALMATY, June 13 (Xinhua) — Modern geopolitical challenges require enhanced and coordinated interaction between countries seeking stability and development. Central Asia and China have a unique potential to become a fulcrum of stability in the world. This opinion was expressed by Aidar Amrebayev, Director of the Center for Political Research at the Institute of Philosophy, Political Science and Religious Studies of the Science Committee of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in an exclusive interview with Xinhua.

    Speaking about the growing importance of cooperation between China and the Central Asian states, the expert noted that digitalization of infrastructure, joint development, and coordination of foreign policy positions are especially important today.

    “I think that it is in the interests of China and Central Asia to have a joint, coordinated positioning in the current geopolitical situation, which today is quite confrontational,” noted A. Amrebaev.

    The political scientist emphasized that the approaches of Kazakhstan and China largely coincide: both countries advocate strict adherence to international law, non-interference in the internal affairs of states, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially in times of acute confrontation in the international arena.

    “We are moving in the same direction. And I am convinced that the Central Asian countries are also interested in maintaining such positions. This is a signal to the world community that our region is striving for sustainable development and constructive interaction,” he added.

    In this context, the expert noted the importance of creating the UN Sustainable Development Centre in Almaty, as well as the active role of Kazakhstan and China in promoting multilateralism and strengthening international institutions, primarily the UN.

    Commenting on the 80th anniversary of the Victory in World War II and the establishment of the UN, A. Amrebaev emphasized the importance of historical memory and the role of China and Central Asia in supporting justice and honest dialogue in international relations.

    “Today, there are many inter-civilizational fault lines, economic and political confrontations. The modern world order is changing, and we need support points of stability and sustainability. In my opinion, Central Asia and China have the potential to become such a point of growth and sustainability in international relations,” the expert believes.

    The political scientist noted that despite the statements of some Western analysts about the possibility of the region turning into a “geopolitical chessboard,” the position of the Central Asian countries and China remains balanced, peaceful and pragmatic. He recalled the global initiatives of the Chairman of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping – in the areas of security, development, and civilizational dialogue, which give the world hope for overcoming conflicts.

    “At the Astana Forum, our president spoke about the need to look for reference points and countries capable of supporting joint and coordinated development. In the Chinese concept, this is a “community with a common destiny for humanity.” This is a wonderful philosophical concept, and Kazakhstan confirms its practical value with its actions,” said A. Amrebayev.

    The political scientist also commented on cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road initiative, in which all five Central Asian countries participate. In his opinion, new formats of interaction between China and the regions provide a sustainable basis for economic and technological growth.

    “Today, the focus has shifted from a bilateral to a multilateral format. Let’s take water or transport issues, for example — they cannot be resolved in isolation. Broad regional coordination is needed. Therefore, participation in integration initiatives is becoming increasingly justified,” the expert noted. He emphasized that the region’s economy cannot be closed: it is necessary to go beyond bilateral corridors, taking into account global markets. In this context, Chinese initiatives create favorable conditions for the inclusion of Central Asia in the global trade and investment architecture.

    “It is important to listen to the interlocutor – this corresponds to both Chinese and Kazakh philosophy. Everyone wants to live peacefully, in harmony, raise children, interact. And it is on these values, and not on force, that the new world order should be built. I think such a philosophy is embedded in China’s initiatives and is shared by reasonable humanity,” A. Amrebaev summed up. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man arrested following fatal shooting in Hammersmith

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 30-year-old man was fatally shot in Hammersmith.

    Police were called to Claxton Grove, W6 at 23:19hrs on Wednesday, 11 June.

    Upon arrival, the London Ambulance Service were treating two men for gunshot wounds. Both were taken to hospital where, despite the best efforts of emergency workers and medical professionals, the 30-year-old man sadly died on Thursday, 12 June.

    His next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers. A post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

    The second man, also in his 30s, was treated for minor injuries and has since been discharged from hospital.

    A 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. He has since been re-arrested on suspicion of murder, and remains in police custody.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah, from the Central West Command Unit, said: “Our deepest sympathy is with the victim’s family who are being supported by specialist officers at this time.

    “This is a shocking crime to occur in any community, and we thank locals for their patience. They will see an increased police presence in the area as we conduct our enquires.”

    If anyone witnessed the incident, or has any information that can help the investigation, please contact the police as a matter of urgency on 101 quoting 8916/11JUN.

    To remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org

    Claxton Grove will remain closed while a crime scene is in place.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Advanced Flower Capital Announces Dividend for the Second Quarter 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Advanced Flower Capital Inc. (Nasdaq: AFCG) (“AFC” or the “Company”) today announced its dividend for the quarter ending June 30, 2025.

    The Board of Directors of AFC declared a quarterly dividend of $0.15 per outstanding share of common stock for the quarter ending June 30, 2025. The dividend is payable on July 15, 2025 to the common stockholders of record on June 30, 2025.

    The Board of Directors evaluates the Company’s Distributable Earnings (as defined below) each quarter to determine the dividend level. The second quarter dividend was impacted due to a realized loss during the quarter related to the loan to Public Company A.

    About Advanced Flower Capital Inc.

    Advanced Flower Capital Inc. (Nasdaq: AFCG) is a leading commercial mortgage real estate investment trust (“REIT”) that provides institutional loans to state law compliant cannabis operators in the U.S. Through the management team’s deep network and significant credit and cannabis expertise, AFC originates, structures, underwrites and manages loans ranging from $10 million to over $100 million, typically secured by quality real estate assets, license value and cash flows. It is based in West Palm Beach, Florida.

    Non-GAAP Metrics

    In addition to using certain financial metrics prepared in accordance with GAAP to evaluate our performance, we also use “Distributable Earnings” to evaluate our performance excluding the effects of certain transactions and GAAP adjustments we believe are not necessarily indicative of our current loan activity and operations. Distributable Earnings is a measure that is not prepared in accordance with GAAP. Distributable Earnings and the other capitalized terms not defined in this section have the meanings ascribed to such terms in our most-recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. We use this non-GAAP financial measure both to explain our results to shareholders and the investment community and in the internal evaluation and management of our businesses. Our management believes that this non-GAAP financial measure and the information it provides is useful to investors since this measure permits investors and shareholders to assess the overall performance of our business using the same tools that our management uses to evaluate our past performance and prospects for future performance.

    The determination of Distributable Earnings is substantially similar to the determination of Core Earnings under our Management Agreement, provided that Core Earnings is a component of the calculation of any Incentive Compensation earned under the Management Agreement for the applicable time period, and thus Core Earnings is calculated without giving effect to Incentive Compensation expense, while the calculation of Distributable Earnings accounts for any Incentive Compensation earned for such time period.

    We define Distributable Earnings as, for a specified period, the net income (loss) computed in accordance with GAAP, excluding (i) stock-based compensation expense, (ii) depreciation and amortization, (iii) any unrealized gains, losses or other non-cash items recorded in net income (loss) for the period, regardless of whether such items are included in other comprehensive income or loss, or in net income (loss); provided that Distributable Earnings does not exclude, in the case of investments with a deferred interest feature (such as original issue discount, debt instruments with PIK interest and zero coupon securities), accrued income that we have not yet received in cash, (iv) provision for (reversal of) current expected credit losses, (v) taxable REIT (as defined below) subsidiary (“TRS”) (income) loss, net of any dividends received from TRS and (vi) one-time events pursuant to changes in GAAP and certain non-cash charges, in each case after discussions between our Manager and our independent directors and after approval by a majority of such independent directors.

    We believe providing Distributable Earnings on a supplemental basis to our net income as determined in accordance with GAAP is helpful to shareholders in assessing the overall performance of our business. As a REIT, we are required to distribute at least 90% of our annual REIT taxable income, subject to certain adjustments, and to pay tax at regular corporate rates to the extent that we annually distribute less than 100% of such taxable income. Given these requirements and our belief that dividends are generally one of the principal reasons that shareholders invest in our common stock, we generally intend to attempt to pay dividends to our shareholders in an amount at least equal to such REIT taxable income, if and to the extent authorized by our Board of Directors. Distributable Earnings is one of many factors considered by our Board of Directors in authorizing dividends and, while not a direct measure of net taxable income, over time, the measure can be considered a useful indicator of our dividends.

    Distributable Earnings is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered as a substitute for GAAP net income. We caution readers that our methodology for calculating Distributable Earnings may differ from the methodologies employed by other REITs to calculate the same or similar supplemental performance measures, and as a result, our reported Distributable Earnings may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other REITs.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that reflect the company’s current views and projections with respect to, among other things, operating results and borrower activity. All statements other than historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Words such as “believes,” “expects,” “will,” “intends,” “plans,” “guidance,” “estimates,” “projects,” “anticipates,” and “future” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions and are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results. Certain factors, risks and uncertainties discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in AFC’s most recently filed periodic reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q and subsequent filings, could cause actual results and performance to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements.

    Investor Relations Contact

    Robyn Tannenbaum
    561-510-2293
    ir@advancedflowercapital.com

    Media Contact

    Collected Strategies
    Jim Golden / Jack Kelleher
    AFCG-CS@collectedstrategies.com  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: reAlpha Expands Homebuying Platform into Texas, Marking First Step in National Realty Rollout

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBLIN, Ohio, June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — reAlpha Tech Corp. (Nasdaq: AIRE) (“reAlpha” or the “Company”), an AI-powered real estate technology company, today announced the expansion of its platform into Texas1 with the launch of real estate brokerage services through its REALTOR® affiliate. This milestone marks the first step in bringing reAlpha’s end-to-end homebuying experience to states outside of Florida, starting with one of the most active real estate markets in the country.

    Texas is the second‑most populous state2 in the U.S. and recorded over 323,000 home sales in 2024, with a median sale price of $347,000, representing more than $112 billion in residential transaction value3. This expansion into Texas positions reAlpha to reach millions of prospective homebuyers through a tech-enabled, streamlined platform that delivers real savings at closing, including in high-volume markets such as Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, Houston, and Austin.

    “This is an exciting next step in reAlpha’s national expansion,” said Mike Logozzo, Chief Executive Officer of reAlpha. “Texas is a high-volume, high-potential market that aligns perfectly with our integrated business model. We aim to bring real value to homebuyers by combining technology-driven convenience with cost savings, and Texas is just the beginning.”

    reAlpha already has an established presence in Texas through its strategic acquisition of their licensed mortgage subsidiary, Be My Neighbor, which has been serving customers there since 2018 and currently operates across 30 states. With the addition of real estate brokerage capabilities in Texas, reAlpha is now delivering a more integrated experience on its end to end platform from search to preapproval to close.

    The Company plans to launch in additional states in the coming months as it scales its platform and continues executing its mission to modernize real estate through AI, data, and integrated experiences.

    About reAlpha Tech Corp.
    reAlpha Tech Corp. (Nasdaq: AIRE) is an AI-powered real estate technology company transforming the multi-trillion-dollar U.S. real estate services market. reAlpha is developing an end-to-end platform that streamlines real estate transactions through integrated brokerage, mortgage, and title services. With a strategic, acquisition-driven growth model and proprietary AI infrastructure, reAlpha is building a vertically integrated ecosystem designed to deliver a simpler, smarter, and more affordable path to homeownership. For more information, visit www.realpha.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    The information in this press release includes “forward-looking statements.” Any statements other than statements of historical fact contained herein, including statements by our Chief Executive Officer, Mike Logozzo, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may”, “should”, “could”, “might”, “plan”, “possible”, “project”, “strive”, “budget”, “forecast”, “expect”, “intend”, “will”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “predict”, “potential” or “continue”, or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: reAlpha’s ability to pay contractual obligations; reAlpha’s liquidity, operating performance, cash flow and ability to secure adequate financing; reAlpha’s limited operating history and that reAlpha has not yet fully developed its AI-based technologies; whether reAlpha’s technology and products will be accepted and adopted by its customers and intended users; reAlpha’s ability to commercialize its developing AI-based technologies; reAlpha’s ability to successfully enter new geographic markets; reAlpha’s ability to integrate the business of its acquired companies into its existing business and the anticipated demand for such acquired companies’ services; reAlpha’s ability to scale its operational capabilities to expand into additional geographic markets and nationally; the potential loss of key employees of reAlpha and of its subsidiaries; the outcome of certain outstanding legal proceedings against reAlpha; reAlpha’s ability to obtain, and maintain, the required licenses to operate in the U.S. states in which it, or its subsidiaries, operate in, or intend to operate in; reAlpha’s ability to successfully identify and acquire companies that are complementary to its business model; the inability to maintain and strengthen reAlpha’s brand and reputation; any accidents or incidents involving cybersecurity breaches and incidents; the inability to accurately forecast demand for AI-based real estate-focused products; the inability to execute business objectives and growth strategies successfully or sustain reAlpha’s growth; the inability of reAlpha’s customers to pay for reAlpha’s services; the inability of reAlpha to obtain additional financing or access the capital markets to fund its ongoing operations on acceptable terms and conditions; the outcome of any legal proceedings that might be instituted against reAlpha; changes in applicable laws or regulations, and the impact of the regulatory environment and complexities with compliance related to such environment; and other risks and uncertainties indicated in reAlpha’s SEC filings. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Although reAlpha believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. reAlpha’s future results, level of activity, performance or achievements may differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, and there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking statements. For more information about the factors that could cause such differences, please refer to reAlpha’s filings with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and reAlpha does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Media Contact:
    Cristol Rippe, Chief Marketing Officer
    media@realpha.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Adele Carey, VP of Investor Relations
    investorrelations@realpha.com

    1 The reAlpha platform is currently available in 212 out of 254 counties in Texas
    2 https://www.britannica.com/topic/largest-U-S-state-by-population
    3https://www.redfin.com/news/data-center/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Peyto Exploration & Development Corp. Announces Retirement of a Director and Confirms Monthly Dividend for July 15, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Peyto Exploration & Development Corp. (TSX: PEY) (“Peyto”) announces the retirement of Michael (Mick) MacBean as a director and confirms the monthly dividend with respect to June 2025 of $0.11 per common share is to be paid on July 15, 2025, for shareholders of record on June 30, 2025. Dividends paid by Peyto to Canadian residents are eligible dividends for Canadian income tax purposes.

    Mr. MacBean is retiring from the Peyto board, effective June 13, 2025.  On behalf of the board, management and shareholders, we would like to thank Mick for his 20+ years of service, including his previous roles as lead independent director, Chair of the audit committee and most recently as Chair of the compensation committee.  Mick was instrumental in the design and implementation of the new Total Shareholder Return Rights Plan.  Mick’s contributions to Peyto will be greatly missed and we wish him the best in his future endeavors.  

    Shareholders and interested investors are encouraged to visit the Peyto website at www.peyto.com to learn more about what makes Peyto one of North America’s most exciting energy companies. The website also includes a monthly report, which discusses various topics chosen by the President and CEO and includes estimates of monthly capital expenditures and production. For further information please contact:

    Jean-Paul Lachance
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: (403) 261-6081
    Fax: (403) 451-4100
    info@peyto.com

    Certain information set forth in this document, including management’s assessment of Peyto’s future plans and operations, contains forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond these parties’ control, including the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, volatility of commodity prices, currency fluctuations, imprecision of reserve estimates, environmental risks, competition from other industry participants, the lack of availability of qualified personnel or management, stock market volatility and ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. Peyto’s actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements and, accordingly, no assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits that Peyto will derive therefrom. The Toronto Stock Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the information contained herein.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Do what you know and leave the rest to the experts: Quantifying the gains from efficient trade | Discussion paper 15/2025: Mario Larch, Philipp Meinen, Arne J. Nagengast, Yoto V. Yotov

    Source: Bundesbank

    Non-technical summary

    Research Question

    What are the potential welfare gains from efficient international trade? The question of economic efficiency is probably one of the most important and long-standing questions in economics. We complement existing work and contribute to the broader literature on economic efficiency by focusing on ‘trade specialists’, defined here as firms specializing in international trading, and by quantifying the gains from their ability to conduct efficient international trade.

    Contribution

    We make four contributions to the existing literature. First, we develop a theoretical model, which distinguishes between the trading abilities of ‘trade specialists’ vs. ‘common traders’. Second, we are the first to employ a unique firm-level dataset on the universe of German merchanting transactions, which enables us to identify the trade transactions that are conducted by ‘trade specialists’. Third, based on our theory, we specify an econometric model that decomposes the efficiency gains for trade specialists across three types of trade costs, including transportation costs, non-tariff trade barriers, and tariffs. Finally, we rely on the theoretical, general equilibrium model to translate our partial equilibrium estimates into welfare effects.

    Results

    We find strong evidence for lower trade costs, and hence, efficiency gains from trading, for trade specialists. Specifically, we find that trade specialists are less sensitive to transportation costs, especially so for long-distance trade. Utilizing the theoretical general equilibrium model, we translate our trade cost estimates of the gains for trade specialists into welfare effects. Lowering trade costs in all countries to the level of trade costs for trade specialists, we find that all countries gain in terms of welfare with an average increase in real GDP per capita of 80 %. Hence, the potential welfare gains from efficient international trade are large.
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Aviation sector sees 600% year-on-year increase in cyberattacks

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Aviation sector sees 600% year-on-year increase in cyberattacks

    • 600% increase in ransomware attacks in the aviation sector in one year.
    • 27 major attacks by 22 ransomware groups between January 2024 and April 2025.
    • 71% of incidents involve credential theft or unauthorised access to critical systems.
    • In 2025, the size of the global aviation cybersecurity market is estimated at $5.32 billion.

    Behind any physical turbulence in the skies, a silent cyber war is being waged on the aviation sector. Ahead of the Paris Air Show (16 to 22 June 2025), Thales’s latest report on cyberthreats in the aviation sector warns of a spectacular rise in cyberattacks, which have increased by 600% in the space of a year. From airlines and airports to navigation systems and suppliers, every link in the chain is vulnerable to attack. The report also includes an analysis of the growing convergence between geopolitical confrontations and cyberthreats in a sector that has become strategically important for state sovereignty, global economic stability and the safe movement of people and goods.

    Based on market intelligence data and incident analysis, the Thales report reveals how the stakeholders in the aerospace sector have become prime targets for cyberattacks, which are motivated by a range of factors including financial gain, ideological agendas and state-sponsored influence operations. Between January 2024 and April 2025, 27 attacks were recorded, involving 22 different ransomware groups.

    Strategic, interconnected and exposed

    While the number of attacks is rising, the report also highlights a qualitative shift in the types of threats the aviation sector faces. As well as compromising flight operations, cyberattacks now also have strategic objectives such as industrial cyberespionage, access to sensitive technologies such as avionics and communication systems, disruption of supply chains and capture of high-value data such as diplomatic travel itineraries and confidential freight shipments.

    These increasingly sophisticated attacks are targeting airlines as well as aircraft manufacturers and their suppliers. Notable examples include the denial-of-service attack by a pro-Russian hacktivist group on an airline and the ransomware that paralysed maintenance and supply systems at several strategic air transport hubs. These incidents reveal structural vulnerabilities in a highly interconnected sector, where a single flaw can trigger cascading effects across the entire chain of critical operations.

    This high level of risk is a result of the specific characteristics of the aerospace sector: significant operational complexity with a reliance on critical software and interdependent stakeholders, the intrinsic value of the personal, biometric or strategic data involved, and the immediate consequences of any disruption, such as massive delays, airspace closures and logistical failures.

    “The aviation industry has become a digital battlefield with significant economic and geopolitical interests at stake. The sharp increase in the number of attacks calls for a holistic approach to aviation cybersecurity, further moves to incorporate AI as an ally and closer collaboration between industry and the public sector.” Ivan Fontarensky, CTO, Cyber Detection and Response, Thales.

    The global aviation cybersecurity market is expected to reach $5.32 billion in 2025, with average annual growth estimated at 8.7% by 2029, driven in particular by the increasing digitalisation of the sector and the intensified threat landscape.

    The full report is available here.

     

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies. Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Adult Social Care a ‘clear priority’ in city as service rated GOOD

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Adult social care services in Stoke-on-Trent have been rated GOOD by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

    It follows a CQC Assurance assessment carried out earlier this year of how well the city council, working with partners, has ensured people have access to adult social care and support under the Care Act (2014).

    In their report published today (Friday, 13 June), CQC inspectors said: “Provision of adult social care was a clear priority within Stoke-on-Trent, and there was a positive energy among staff and members to do the best for people and make Stoke-on-Trent a great place to live and work.

    It added: “There was an open culture that embraced challenges and supported people to take risks and try new things. There were clear and accountable leadership and governance arrangements, and everyone knew what was happening across adult social care and were pulling in the same direction to support people in the community.”

    It also found that there was trusted leadership and that staff were motivated to deliver.

    The assessment focussed on nine areas across four key themes – “Working With People”, “Providing Support”, “How the Local Authority Ensures Safety Within the System” and “Leadership”.

    These were assessed against quality statements, with each being scored from 1 (inadequate) to 4 (outstanding). Across the scoring, no service area in Stoke-on-Trent received a 1, with the majority scoring 3 (good).

    However, the council has said it will not stand still and will continue to add to the improvements that have already been put into place to help enhance the service for residents – particularly in areas such as assessing needs and helping people lead healthier lives.

    Councillor Duncan Walker, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and All Age Commissioning, said: “This is tremendous news for the city and shows a real drive and commitment to deliver safe, effective, caring and responsive services for the people of Stoke-on-Trent.

    “Whilst I am so proud of what we have achieved together, we will not rest on our laurels. Our aim is to always strive for continual improvement. So, we will continue to listen and work with the public, staff and partners so that we can continue to develop and improve.”

    Around 100 frontline staff from across Adult Social Care and All Age Commissioning were involved in the Assurance process – meeting with inspectors and sharing their experiences of working in Stoke-on-Trent.

    The CQC has a new duty under the Care Act to assess how local authorities work with communities and partners to meet their responsibilities. As a result, it was part of the first round of Assurance assessments carried out with local authorities, nationally, in more than a decade.

    In their report, CQC inspectors highlighted several key factors. They said that people’s feedback to the Care Act assessment was positive, and carers said they received good early intervention and support.

    People had access to information and advice in their communities through the council’s Community Lounges service, which were valued, inspectors said.

    Meanwhile, people had a good experience of discharge from hospital and felt supported – and people who used services said they felt safe and felt that the safeguarding process had met their preferred outcomes.

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “The whole Adult Social Care workforce did a fantastic job in demonstrating the pride we have in the city and the services we deliver which make a huge difference to so many members of the community.

    “Adult Social Care is, and always will be, a key priority of this authority and we are continuing to strive to deliver the best services we can – listening to residents and shaping services accordingly.”

    The CQC report can be read here – www.cqc.org.uk/care-services/local-authority-assessment-reports/stokeontrent-0625

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: How breast tissue density affects your risk of cancer

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Justin Stebbing, Anglia Ruskin University

    Breast density is a significant yet often overlooked factor in breast cancer awareness, risk assessment and screening practices. Understanding what breast density is, how it affects breast cancer risk and what it means for screening can help women make informed decisions about their health.

    Breast density refers to the proportions of glandular and connective tissue compared to fatty tissue in the breast, as seen on a mammogram. Simply put, dense breasts have more glandular and fibrous tissue and less fat.

    On a mammogram, both dense tissue and tumours appear white, making it harder to detect abnormalities in women with dense breasts. This masking effect can lead to cancers being missed during routine screening, which is why breast density is not just a risk factor for developing breast cancer, but also for having it go undetected until it is more advanced.

    Recent large-scale studies have confirmed that women with dense breasts face a higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to women with less dense, fattier breasts. For example, a major study involving more than 33,000 women found that those with dense breasts were nearly twice as likely to develop breast cancer than those with low breast density.

    This increased risk is seen across both pre-menopausal younger women and post-menopausal older women, although the proportion of women with high breast density tends to decrease with age.

    In practical terms, women with the lowest breast density have about a 6% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer after age 50, while those with the highest density face a risk closer to 15%.

    The impact of breast density on cancer detection is also significant. Mammography, the standard screening tool, is less sensitive in women with dense breasts. While mammograms can detect about at least nine out of 10 cancers in women with mostly fatty breasts, the sensitivity drops to about seven out of 10 in women with extremely dense breasts.

    This means that tumours can be missed, leading to what are known as “interval cancers”, cancers that are diagnosed between regular screenings, often at a more advanced stage.

    Supplemental screening methods, such as MRI scanning, can help detect cancers that mammography might miss in women with dense breasts, and some pilot studies have shown that additional cancers are found this way.

    Breast density is now recognised as one of the most important risk factors for breast cancer, even as much as family history or other commonly discussed risk factors.

    About 40% of women fall into the higher density categories, and dense breasts are common in younger women, those taking hormone replacement therapy, and those with certain genetic backgrounds and ethnicities. However, breast density can also be influenced by lifestyle and hormonal factors, and it tends to decrease with age and higher body mass index and obesity.

    Given the importance of breast density, there has been a growing movement to ensure women are informed about their own breast density after mammograms, and to address this appropriately. A recent UK survey showed that most women aren’t aware of their breast density.

    In the US, new regulations require that all women undergoing mammography be notified if they have dense breasts and be advised about the associated risks. This aims to empower women to have more informed discussions with their healthcare providers about their personal risk and the potential need for additional screening.

    Despite the increased risk, it is important to remember that the majority of women with dense breasts will not develop breast cancer. Breast density is just one factor among many, and decisions about screening and risk reduction should be made on an individual basis.

    For women with dense breasts, discussing options for supplemental screening with their doctor is recommended. While there is currently no widely accepted intervention to reduce breast density, in my own research, I’m exploring new ways to address this risk factor.

    In summary, breast density is both a common and significant risk factor for breast cancer, and it can complicate the detection of cancer through standard mammography.

    Women should be aware of their breast density status, understand its implications for both risk and screening, and work with their doctors to determine the best approach for their individual situation. As awareness grows and screening practices evolve, the hope is that more cancers will be detected earlier, improving outcomes for all women.

    Justin Stebbing, Professor of Biomedical Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

    If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Advice issued ahead of City Cemetery Blessing of the Graves

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Advice issued ahead of City Cemetery Blessing of the Graves

    13 June 2025

    Preparations are underway for the annual Blessing of the Graves service at the City Cemetery and with thousands of people expected to attend, Council is advising that visitors familiarise themselves with the arrangements for the day.

    The event will take place at 3pm on Sunday June 22nd, and a number of measures are being introduced to ensure the event runs smoothly.

    A limited number of parking spaces are still available on site for blue badge holders who must register their details in advance via www.derrystrabane.com/cemeterysunday Please note that anyone booking will need to provide a Name, Mobile number, Vehicle Registration Number, Blue Badge Number and email address – any submissions without this information will be considered invalid.

    Those who have booked can access their parking via the Lone Moor Road entrance – gates will open at 1pm until 2pm to allow time for cars to park.

    Anyone planning to prepare graves for the service in the coming days are advised that the cemetery will be busy, particularly on Saturday June 21st.   It’s recommended that preparations are made earlier in the week if possible if visitors wish to avoid busier times and any congestion. Please follow the traffic directions and be mindful of other pedestrians and visitors accessing the site. With later opening visits can be spread throughout the day.

    The City Cemetery will be closed to the general public on the day itself, except for burials. Those with a pre-booked parking space must be in place by 2pm, as there will be no access for vehicles after this time. Parking spaces will be allocated on a first come first served basis and it will not be possible to reserve a space in a particular area. Please keep in mind that you may still have to walk some distance to reach family graves and make provision for this.

    Once on site, vehicles will remain there until the crowds have dispersed which, it’s estimated, will be approximately 30 minutes after the service finishes. 

    Other car parking is being made available for blue badge holders at St Mary’s Church, Creggan, St Cecilia’s College and Celtic Park. There is no prior booking for these sites, access will only be given to vehicles that display a current Disability Blue Badge Permit on arrival and these too will be filled on a first come basis first served basis. 

    For those who cannot attend the service, a livestream of the Blessing of the Graves can be viewed online at the following link: https://youtube.com/live/9ZS-utqxlfQ?feature=share

    You will find information on the Blessing of the Graves service and blue badge parking here – https://tinyurl.com/mr4ytacu

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Conservation project on part of York’s medieval walls

    Source: City of York

    Conservation works on part of York’s medieval walls are due to start next week.

    City of York Council is one of only a handful of local authorities which has an in-house stonemason’s team, who will be carrying out the works from Monday 16 June, for up to 6 months.

    This includes preserving the lead and timber covering of Bootham Bar’s roof, which has been leaking intermittently.

    Bootham Bar sits on the site of the Porta Principalis Dextra, a gateway to the legionary fortress dating back to 72AD.

    The team will be conserving the principal timber structures by stripping out more modern elements to preserve the more historical parts of the timbers.

    Cllr Pete Kilbane, Executive Member at City of York Council, said:

    “We’re one of only few of local authorities with an in-house stonemason’s team. They will be applying their craft and skills to Bootham Bar over the next few months, maintaining the ancient gateway and preserving our mediaeval walls for the generations to come.

    “We’re working closely with businesses in the area to ensure that any disruption to kept a minimum and to support them where possible. This project is exactly the type of thing that would financially benefit from our upcoming Tap and Donate scheme.”

    Bootham Bar will be wrapped in scaffolding which will require a road closure, just at the section of the walls on High Petergate.

    This section of road which runs through Bootham Bar, will be closed to all users. A diversion for vehicles and cyclists will be in place via Duncombe Place. To support local businesses during this period, access will be provided at all times for vehicles and cyclists to facilitate deliveries

    Pedestrians will be able to continue to use the pedestrian arch under Bootham Bar and this will remain open throughout the duration of the works. A temporary ramp will be but in place for those using wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

    For cyclists who are able, they can choose to dismount and push cycles through the pedestrian access point.

    The works are all part of ongoing efforts to preserve York’s historic monuments.

    It’s hoped that with the upcoming launch of Tap and Donate later this year, that projects like this could be partly funded through public donations going forward. This project will cost circa £300,000, funded from the council’s capital programme.

    The council has spoken to businesses directly affected in the area and will continue to work with them to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.

    Watch the video.

    Find out more about York’s City Walls.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pumping station ready to pump out pints for beer lovers

    Source: City of Leicester

    REAL ale, vegan beers and a range of ciders will all be flowing at the Leicester CAMRA Beer Festival this month.

    Taking place in a marquee in the grounds of the Abbey Pumping Station, the three-day festival will be serving up more than 50 beers from independent brewers from Thursday 26 June.

    Some indoor seating will be provided, with additional picnic tables and gazebos outside, but festival goers can make sure they sit with their friends by bringing their own picnic blankets and camping chairs.

    Tickets – which must be booked online – are available for afternoon sessions or evening sessions each day.

    Prices start at £7 for the Thursday afternoon session and the Saturday evening session, rising to £9.50 on Friday night and Saturday afternoon. Generous discounts are available for CAMRA members and all tickets include a commemorative glass.

    Doors open for the afternoon sessions at 12 noon on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 June, and at 11am on Saturday 28 June, with the evening sessions starting at 5.30pm on 26-27 June and at 6pm on 28 June.

    Festival goers are advised that the Leicester CAMRA Beer Festival is a cashless event and all payments on site must be made by card.

    To book tickets, please visit leicestermuseums.org and follow the link to the CAMRA booking site.

    The Abbey Pumping Station is on Corporation Road, Leicester, LE4 5PX and shares a car park with the neighbouring National Space Centre. Parking is free after 6pm. The pumping station is also served by good walking, cycling and bus routes. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lifesaving partnership wins national award

    Source: City of Leicester

    A LIFESAVING initiative that enables front-line police officers in Leicestershire to carry and administer an antidote to opiate drugs has won a national award.

    The city council’s public health team worked in partnership with the police and local drug and alcohol treatment service Turning Point to develop the initiative, which has potentially already saved 14 lives in its first 12 months of operation.

    Last night they were named as winners of the Public/Public Partnerships category at the 2025 Local Government Chronicle’s Awards, which recognise excellence in local government across the whole of the UK.

    Feedback from the LGC said: “Judges were wowed by a partnership solution which is both innovative and pragmatic. The clarity on the role of each partner and the way they overcame challenges was truly impressive. We could see how all places could apply this model to save lives and strengthen services – amazing outcomes.”

    The partnership was developed in response to a national rising trend in drug deaths. Many of these could have been avoided with the use of the antidote Naloxone, which reverses the effects of an opiate overdose – if given quickly enough.

    Leicester’s Director of Public Health Rob Howard said: “It’s great to see our partnership recognised in this way as it will help to raise awareness of what can be achieved by public bodies working together with the same aim.”

    The scheme saves lives through Naloxone being administered immediately in the event of an opiate overdose. It’s given in the form of a nasal spray which reverses respiratory arrest and allows time for emergency medical services to be called.

    Rob Howard said: “Police officers are most likely to be the first on scene at such incidents, and thanks to years of hard work by all involved, we believe that the Leicestershire police service is now the first in England and Wales to commit to enabling all front-line officers to carry Naloxone.

    “This incredible partnership work has not only saved lives, and will save lives in the future, but is also supporting a broader understanding of the challenges faced by people who use drugs.”

    Grace Strong, Head of Prevention at Leicestershire Police said; “Partnership working is at the heart of prevention and the Naloxone project is an exemplary example of the police joining forces with partners to ensure we prevent harm. We are proud of this ground-breaking  project and to this receive a national award is a very welcome external recognition.”

    Approval for a pilot scheme was given by Leicestershire Police in 2023, after Turning Point and the city council’s public health team had found funding and established pilot sites.

    Initially small groups of police officers were trained in overdose awareness and administering Naloxone, after which almost 200 officers voluntarily agreed to carry it.

    Julie Bass, Turning Point’s Chief Executive said: “Winning this prestigious award is testament to the power of partnership. We have been delighted to work with Leicestershire Police and Leicester City Council on this initiative, which genuinely has saved lives and also strengthened joint working across our organisations.”

    In the first 12 months of the scheme, police officers administered Naloxone on 14 separate occasions, in situations where people were likely to have otherwise died, before calling for ambulance back-up.

    New recruits to Leicestershire Police are now trained in administering Naloxone as part of their core training, and offered the chance to carry at that time.  Since this was introduced, every new recruit has volunteered to carry it.

    Around 1000 entries were submitted to the 2025 LGC Awards, with winners announced at a ceremony on 11 June 2025 in London.

    Picture caption: Leicestershire police officers are trained in the use of Naloxene by Turning Point Leicester.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Successful trial paves the way for improved reconnaissance on Army operations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    Successful trial paves the way for improved reconnaissance on Army operations

    Recent trial saw a single operator controlling three uncrewed vehicles, which detected and classified threats.

    Uncrewed air vehicle in successful trial

    • UK first comes as government doubles investment in autonomous defence technology committing an extra £2bn this parliament
    • Next stage of trial will see drone swarms tested for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, delivering on recommendations set out in the Strategic Defence Review, and the Government Plan for Change.

    Soldiers are set to be better protected, and Army surveillance operations enhanced, following a successful trial in which a single operator controlled three uncrewed air and land vehicles.  

    The trials, conducted by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), proved that robotic and autonomous systems (RAS) can be integrated into and controlled from crewed command vehicles, in a UK first.

    Drawing on lessons from Ukraine’s battlefields, this innovative use of RAS will play a vital role in strengthening the Army’s reconnaissance capabilities while reducing risk to personnel, allowing them to operate further from the frontline.

    The live trial took place on Salisbury Plain with a drone operated in tandem with two uncrewed ground vehicles, commanded by a single operator in a crewed vehicle. The autonomous systems were equipped with cameras and automatic target recognition software to detect and classify threats, which were relayed to the mission operator.

    Following recommendations set out in the Strategic Defence Review, this government is doubling investment in autonomous technology – investing an extra £2 billion this Parliament, following the Prime Minister’s historic uplift in defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from 2027. This will see autonomous systems, including drones, improve accuracy and lethality for our Armed Forces, boost UK export potential and drive jobs and growth across the country. 

    Thales designed and developed the trial for Dstl, supported by a number of specialist technology suppliers. Dstl’s work supports thousands of highly skilled jobs across the UK supply chain, including 7,000 staff employed by Thales directly, supporting the government’s Plan for Change.

    Following the success of the trial, Dstl will apply the concept to further missions, including deploying swarming drones in an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance role. 

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP said: 

    As set out in the Strategic Defence Review, we plan to use drones, data and digital warfare to ensure our Armed Forces stronger and safer, whilst boosting jobs and innovation across the UK. 

    This trial is an example of our Government’s new partnership with industry; delivering the cutting-edge technology to our front line troops and making defence an engine for growth, as part of our Plan for Change.

    The trial demonstrated the extension of the UK’s Generic Vehicle Architecture standard – which has also been adopted by NATO – to autonomous systems. Through integration into an internationally recognised system, the trial could lead to enhanced interoperability between allies, with the ability to deploy autonomous systems, sensors or software between vehicles at reduced risk and cost. 

    Dr Paul Hollinshead, Dstl’s Chief Executive, said:   

    Dstl identifies and harnesses the emerging technologies that will deliver mission success through science and technology advantage for UK forces.  

    These technologies support highly skilled jobs and create opportunities for growth throughout our specialist industry suppliers.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HYAB Scheme on Corporate Summer Internship on the Mainland and Overseas 2025 officially kicks off (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak; the Permanent Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Ms Shirley Lam, and representatives of participating corporates today (June 13) officiated at the kick-off ceremony of the HYAB Scheme on Corporate Summer Internship on the Mainland and Overseas 2025.
     
         Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Chan said that the Scheme has been well received by the youth and highly recognised by the participating corporates since its launch in 2018, and has benefited over 1 000 Hong Kong youth so far. The Scheme is dedicated to bringing Hong Kong youth to “go global”. Through participating in summer internships, young people can accumulate work experience, broaden their horizons, gain a better understanding of the country and explore the world, and expand their interpersonal networks, which will help them in planning their future development.
     
         Mr Chan expressed his sincere gratitude to the participating corporates for providing quality internship placements as well as comprehensive training and support to enable the smooth implementation of the Scheme. He highlighted that the Government will continue to rally the efforts of all sectors in society to nurture young people, supporting them to thrive and contribute to the development of the country and Hong Kong in future.
     
         A total of 28 corporates are participating in the Scheme this year (refer to the Annex for the list of participating corporates). They provide internship placements covering multiple industries, including financial services, innovation and technology, logistics, property development, construction, retail, hospitality, entertainment and public utilities, spanning different Mainland provinces and cities and overseas countries, including Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Mongolia and Australia. The recruited interns will depart from June onwards to undertake internship placements of no less than four weeks.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Rowena Fire in Oregon

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Rowena Fire in Oregon

    FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Rowena Fire in Oregon

    BOTHELL, Wash

     –  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Rowena Fire burning in Wasco County, Oregon

     The state of Oregon’s request for a declaration under FEMA’s Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) program was approved by FEMA Region 10 Acting Administrator Vincent J

    Maykovich on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 8:06 p

    m

    PT

    He determined that the Rowena Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster

     This is the first FMAG declaration in 2025 to help fight Oregon wildfires

     At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the community of Rowena

     The fire was also threatening I-84, the Port of The Dalles, Union Pacific Railroad, Mayer State Park, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, private utilities and commercial sites

    FMAGs make funding available to pay up to 75 percent of a state’s eligible firefighting costs for fires that threaten to become major disasters

    Eligible items can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire

    These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire

      ###Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA

    gov for more information

    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters

    mary

    j

    edmon
    Thu, 06/12/2025 – 23:26

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Turkana Food Inc. Recall Flora Dried Apricots with Undeclared Sulfites on Product Labeling Because of Possible Health Risk

    Source: US Food and Drug Administration

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    June 12, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    June 12, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesAllergens
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Potential or Undeclared Allergen – Sulfites

    Company Name:
    Turkana Food Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Floria

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Dried Apricots

    Company Announcement
    Turkana Food Inc. Kenilworth, NJ is recalling 352 cases of Floria Dried Apricots because the product contains UNDECLARED SULFITES on the package label.
    The recalled Floria Dried Apricots was distributed in the states of FL, KY, VA, NY, NJ, TN, MA, TX, Il, IN, MI, RI, PA, NC, MD, VA, OH, AL, MO, CA.
    The recalled 200 Gram paper packaging Labeled Floria Dried Apricots.
    The product packaging LOT# 440090478-15-333 can be found on the bottom portion of the package. UPC Label 2539560010 marked by a sticker on the top side of package. Expiration Date 11/2026, which can be found on the bottom portion of the package.
    No reported illnesses have been confirmed as of 06/12/2025.
    The recall was the result of a routine sampling performed by the New York State Department of Agriculture and markets which revealed that the finished products contained Sulfites that were not listed on the product labelling. The company has ceased production and distribution of the products as FDA and the company continue their investigation to correct the issue with the manufacturer.
    Consumers who purchased Floria Dries Apricots with the lot code 440090478-15-333 should not consume the product and they are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
    Consumers with questions may contact Turkana Foods Inc. 908-810-8800 Monday – Friday 8am – 6pm EST.

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Turkana Foods Inc.
    908-810-8800

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    06/12/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Winter Arrives Early in Lesotho and South Africa

    Source: NASA

    A powerful storm system brought wintry conditions to Lesotho and South Africa in early June 2025. Snow blanketed higher elevations, while strong winds, cold temperatures, and heavy rains affected lower-elevation and coastal areas.
    The severe weather was fueled by a cut-off low, which occurs when an area of low pressure becomes cut off from the jet stream. The weather system parked over central and eastern South Africa and Lesotho on June 9 and 10. The storm had subsided by June 11, when the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Terra satellite acquired these images.
    The left image shows the area in natural color, while the right image is false-color to help distinguish the snow (light blue) from clouds (white). (Note that small ice crystals in high-level clouds can also display a bluish tinge.) Fresh snow covers much of Lesotho, as well as portions of South Africa’s Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. The snow created treacherous driving conditions and prompted closures of several sections of highway, according to news reports.
    Snow is typically sparse during the area’s short winter, although heavy snowfall occasionally occurs. In northern Lesotho, at an elevation of 3,050 meters (10,000 feet), the country’s sole ski resort maintains artificial snow on slopes that might otherwise be bare. But a different look ushered in the 2025 season. On June 9, the resort shared a video of whiteout conditions and a simple message: “We are snowed in.” They later reported accumulations of about 30 centimeters (12 inches).
    To the south and east of snow-affected regions, heavy rain triggered deadly flooding that submerged homes and damaged dozens of schools and hospitals, officials told news outlets. In addition, winds gusting up to 100 kilometers (60 miles) per hour toppled trees and knocked out power to hundreds of thousands of homes.
    NASA Earth Observatory images by Lauren Dauphin, using MODIS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview. Story by Lindsey Doermann.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s SLS Rocket: Booster Separation Motors

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s SLS (Space Launch System) solid rocket boosters are the largest, most powerful solid propellant boosters to ever fly. Standing 17 stories tall and burning approximately six tons of propellant every second, each booster generates 3.6 million pounds of a thrust for a total of 7.2 million pounds: more thrust than 14 four-engine jumbo commercial airliners. Together, the SLS twin boosters provide more than 75 percent of the total thrust at launch. Each booster houses eight booster separation motors which are responsible for separating the boosters from the core stage during flight.
    At the top of each booster is the frustum—a truncated cone-shaped structure that, along with the nose cone, forms the aerodynamic fairing. This frustum houses four of the separation motors, while the remaining four are located at the bottom within the aft skirt.
    Image Credit: NASA/Kevin O’Brien
    For more information on the Artemis Campaign, visit:

    Artemis

    Jonathan DealMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala. 256-544-0034 jonathan.e.deal@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom prevails in blocking Trump’s militarization of Los Angeles

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jun 12, 2025

    “A win for all Americans”

    What you need to know: Standing up for American citizens and the nation’s foundational ban on martial law in peacetime, Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta today secured an emergency restraining order blocking President Trump’s takeover of the state guard and militarization of Los Angeles.

    SAN FRANCISCO – Following President Trump’s doubling down on the militarization of the Los Angeles area through the takeover of 4,000 California National Guard soldiers and the unlawful deployment of the U.S. Marines, Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta today succeeded in securing a court order blocking President Trump’s illegal takeover of the California National Guard (CalGuard) and militarization of Los Angeles.

    “Our success today in court is a win for all Americans. The President’s action to turn the military against its own citizens threatened our democracy and moved us dangerously close to authoritarianism. We will continue to stand up for our democracy and the rights of all Americans. The country is watching.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Today’s decision granted Governor Newsom’s emergency request to revert control of Cal Guard personnel back to the governor after being unlawfully and unconstitutionally seized by President Trump and the Department of Defense.

    The request was filed as part of the Governor’s lawsuit against President Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and the Department of Defense (DOD), charging violations of the U.S. Constitution and the President’s Title 10 authority, not only because the takeover occurred without the consent or input of the Governor, as federal law requires, but also because it was unwarranted. 

    The lawsuit was filed as President Trump declared the federalization of 2,000 Cal Guard servicemembers after community members began protesting violent and widespread Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in the Los Angeles region, which began on June 6. 

    Illegal militarization 

    On June 7, one day after the protests began, President Trump issued a memorandum purporting to authorize the DOD to call up 2,000 National Guard personnel into federal service for a period of 60 days, and declaring a “form of rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States” and directing the Secretary of Defense to coordinate with state governors and the National Guard to commandeer state militias. 

    The action puts the sovereignty of every state in the country in danger, as his order was not specific to California and suggests that the President believes he can assume control of any state militia. 

    The U.S. Constitution and the Title 10 authority the President invoked in the memo require that the Governor consent to federalization of the National Guard, which Governor Newsom was not given the opportunity to do prior to their deployment and which he confirmed he had not given shortly after thereafter. The President’s unlawful order infringes on Governor Newsom’s role as Commander-in-Chief of the California National Guard and violates the state’s sovereign right to control and have available its National Guard in the absence of a lawful invocation of federal power.

    Additionally, DOD has expanded Cal Guard’s duties, ordering them to assist ICE agents in civilian law enforcement activities — including arresting and detaining immigrants and others who may be suspected or accused of interfering with ICE — a direct violation of the U.S. Constitution and the rights of American citizens. 

    Cleaning up Trump’s mess

    On Saturday, there were 250+ protesters in the area pre-National Guard deployment. On Sunday, the number of protesters grew to 3,000+ post-deployment by the federal government. Their federalization is inviting and incentivizing demonstrations.

    After President Trump’s impulsive memo and actions to send the military to the Los Angeles region, the state continued to work with local partners to surge 800+ additional state and local law enforcement officers into Los Angeles to clean up President Trump’s mess.  Local and state law enforcement has had to intervene to protect public safety. The National Guard is currently standing sentry outside federal buildings, with local and state law enforcement doing all of the work.

    The President’s actions have not only caused widespread panic and chaos, but have unnecessarily created an additional diversion of resources as the state tries to calm a community terrorized by this reckless federal action. 

    The hypocrisy is on full display

    In 2020, Trump said he wouldn’t federalize National Guard members without the approval of the state’s Governor first. His own Department of Homeland Security leader said just last year that federalizing the National Guard would be a direct attack on state rights. The federal administration is adding more National Guard soldiers and Marines to an already charged situation when they are unneeded. There are 1,600 soldiers waiting for commands at armories in the area. 

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jun 12, 2025

    News What you need to know: Former secretaries of the Army and Navy and retired four-star admirals and generals filed an amicus brief in support of the Governor’s motion to block the Trump administration’s illegal militarization of downtown Los Angeles. SACRAMENTO –…

    Jun 12, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed an executive order further advancing California’s clean vehicle transition by kickstarting development of next-generation policy to spur innovation, updating state vehicle purchasing requirements, and directing the…

    Jun 12, 2025

    News LOS ANGELES –  President Trump continues efforts to turn the military into his own personal police force against American citizens in Los Angeles.  Prior to this week, President Trump and members of his administration have repeatedly and publicly declared that a…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Baker Hughes Announces Dates for Second-quarter Earnings Release and Webcast

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON and LONDON, June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR) will announce the results of the second quarter ending June 30, 2025, via press release at 5 p.m. Eastern Time (4 p.m. Central Time) on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. A webcast to discuss the results will be held Wednesday, July 23, at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time (8:30 a.m. Central Time).

    To access the webcast, listeners should visit the Baker Hughes website at: investors.bakerhughes.com. An archived version will be available on the website following the webcast.

    About Baker Hughes
    Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR) is an energy technology company that provides solutions to energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and conducting business in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward – making it safer, cleaner and more efficient for people and the planet. Visit us at bakerhughes.com.

    For more information, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Chase Mulvehill
    +1 346-297-2561
    investor.relations@bakerhughes.com

    Media Relations
    Adrienne M. Lynch
    +1 713-906-8407
    media.relations@bakerhughes.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MoneyHero Group Reports First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Adjusted EBITDA loss improved by 49% YoY to US$(3.3) million
    • Improving revenue mix with high-margin insurance and wealth revenue accounting for 25% of revenue, up 11 pp YoY
    • Cost of revenue fell by 55% YoY and accounted for 44% of revenue, down 20 pp

    SINGAPORE , June 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MoneyHero Limited (Nasdaq: MNY) (“MoneyHero” or the “Company”), a leading personal finance aggregation and comparison platform, as well as a digital insurance brokerage provider in Greater Southeast Asia, today announced its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    Management Commentary:

    Rohith Murthy, Chief Executive Officer, stated:

    “We began 2025 with strong momentum, building on the strategic pivot we initiated last year. In Q1, we made significant financial progress — reducing net loss to US$(2.4) million from US$(13.1) million during the same period last year, improving our Adjusted EBITDA loss to US$(3.3) million, and lowering our cost of revenue by 20-points to 44% of total revenue. These improvements reflect our disciplined focus on enhancing revenue quality, operating leverage, and margin expansion.

    “Our strategy is delivering. By reallocating resources toward higher-margin verticals such as insurance and wealth, we are steering the business toward sustainable, profitable growth. These verticals now account for 25% of total revenue, an increase of 11-points year-over-year. Notably, our car insurance platform, launched in partnership with bolttech, is outperforming our expectations by driving higher conversion rates and recurring revenue with seamless end-to-end journeys and real-time pricing.

    “We have also made substantial operational efficiency gains. Following last year’s restructuring to reset our cost base, we are leveraging AI across the organization to maintain a lean cost structure as we scale. From content creation and service automation to engineering workflows, AI is enhancing workforce productivity, reducing inquiry volumes, and improving user experience — all while keeping expenses flat. Consequently, our unit economics continue to improve quarter after quarter.

    “Our member base is rapidly expanding, with registered MoneyHero Group Members increasing by 38% year-over-year to over 8 million. Leveraging these insights, we have refined our strategy and optimized our marketing spend to deliver highly personalized offers that boost user engagement – achieving stronger results with marketing costs falling 25% year-over-year.

    “We are encouraged to see growing signs of recovery in the Philippines, a key market for us. After a major banking partner exited last year, we recently secured new partnerships with BPI and RCBC, restoring product supply across key verticals. These partnerships significantly strengthen our market position and offerings, and we anticipate a meaningful rebound in our performance during the second half of 2025 as these partnerships scale.

    “Looking ahead, our priority throughout the remainder of the first half of 2025 will be to consolidate our recent operational gains. In the second half, we expect to accelerate topline growth by activating our robust pipeline of banking partnerships, strategically scaling our higher-margin insurance business, and launching Credit Hero Club in collaboration with TransUnion. Credit Hero Club will provide consumers with free credit scores, credit monitoring, and personalized financial product recommendations, thereby driving higher user engagement and conversion rates. This strengthens our confidence in accelerating our revenue growth and reaching positive Adjusted EBITDA in the later part of the year.

    “With no debt and US$36.6 million in cash, we are well-positioned to invest in high-return growth initiatives and capitalize on opportunities as the regional personal finance comparison sector evolves. Our focus on disciplined execution, quality growth, and prudent capital deployment uniquely position us to lead market consolidation, deliver long-term shareholder value, and scale efficiently in a dynamic environment.”

    Danny Leung, interim Chief Financial Officer, added:

    “Our financial performance during the quarter clearly reflects the progress we are making following our strategic pivot in the second half of 2024, with a strong focus on revenue quality and disciplined operational management.

    “While revenue declined 35% year-over-year as part of our strategic focus on improving quality, revenue mix substantially improved with high-margin verticals increasingly accounting for a larger proportion. Personal loans increased from 15% to 17% of total revenue, insurance grew from 8% to 13%, and wealth surged from 6% to 12%, further reducing our reliance on relatively lower-margin credit cards which decreased 13-points to 57%. Cost of revenue also fell by 55% year-over year and accounted for 44% of total revenue, a 20-point decrease. Combined, this significantly improved gross margins and underscores the effectiveness of our strategy to reposition toward higher-quality, sustainable revenue.

    “Our operational efficiency initiatives are already proving to be highly effective, with total operating expenses falling by 26% year-over-year across advertising and marketing, technology, employee benefits, and general administrative costs. We are carefully managing costs while strategically investing in growth areas such as customer acquisition, technology re-platforming, and advanced data infrastructure.

    “As a direct result of expanding gross margins and reduced operating expenses, net loss narrowed substantially to US$(2.4) million this quarter from US$(13.1) million during the same period last year—a significant improvement of over US$10 million. Adjusted EBITDA loss also improved markedly, narrowing from US$(6.4) million to US$(3.3) million year-over-year, underscoring our clear trajectory toward sustainable profitability.

    “Looking ahead, we expect Adjusted EBITDA to improve throughout 2025, supported by steadily expanding margins and sustained operational efficiency. We remain confident in our ability to achieve positive Adjusted EBITDA in the later part of the year. Our strong cash position and disciplined investment strategy will ensure we remain focused on profitable growth and delivering sustained value to our shareholders.”

    First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights

    • Revenue decreased by 35% year-over-year to US$14.3 million in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting a strategic shift toward diversifying revenue mix to enhance revenue quality and the high base effect set during the same period last year with significant marketing and customer acquisition spending in the credit card vertical to expand market share.
      • Revenue from insurance products increased by 4% year-over-year to US$1.9 million in the first quarter of 2025, accounting for 13% of total revenue, compared to 8% during the same period last year.
      • Revenue from wealth products increased by 20% year-over-year to US$1.7 million in the first quarter of 2025, accounting for 12% of total revenue, compared to 6% during the same period last year.
    • Cost of revenue decreased by 55% year-over-year to US$6.4 million and accounted for 44% of revenue, a decrease of 20 percentage points from 64% during the same period last year, reflecting improved gross margins through rewards costs optimization.
    • Total operating costs and expenses, excluding net foreign exchange differences, decreased to US$18.3 million in the first quarter of 2025 from US$30.4 million during the same period last year. This reduction was driven by more targeted and cost-efficient marketing campaigns, combined with strategic streamlining of technology costs to simplify workflows, and a comprehensive HR cost restructuring initiative.
    • Net loss for the period narrowed sharply to US$(2.4) million during the first quarter of 2025, compared to US$(13.1) million in the same period last year, supported by lower operating costs as well as lower non-operating expenses including foreign exchange differences and changes in fair value of financial instruments.
    • Adjusted EBITDA loss improved to US$(3.3) million in the first quarter of 2025 from US$(6.4) million in the prior year period.

    First Quarter 2025 Operational Highlights

    • Monthly Unique Users for the three months ended March 31, 2025, of 5.7 million
    • MoneyHero Group Members, to whom the Company provides more tailored product information and recommendations, grew by 38% year-over-year to 8.1 million as of March 31, 2025
    • MoneyHero sourced 399,000 applications and had 155,000 approved applications in the first quarter of 2025

    Capital Structure

    The table below summarizes the capital structure of the Company as of March 31, 2025:

    Share Class Issued and Outstanding
    Class A Ordinary 29,949,1931
    Class B Ordinary 13,254,838
    Preference Shares 2,407,575
    Total Issued Shares 45,611,606
    Employee Equity Options 618,7172
    Issued Class A Ordinary Shares Underlying Employee Equity Options (618,717)3
    Total Issued and Issuable Shares4 45,611,606

    _____________________________________
    1     Includes 618,717 shares issued to Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited (“Computershare”) which are held in trust pending exercise of share options and settlement by Computershare to the underlying exercising option holder.
    2 Includes granted but unexercised options as well as exercised options, pursuant to which the shares have not yet been issued as of March 31, 2025.
    3 Issued in advance to Computershare and held in trust pending exercise of share options and settlement by Computershare to the underlying exercising option holder.
    4 Public Warrants, Sponsor Warrants, Class A-1 Warrants, Class A-2 Warrants and Class A-3 Warrants are excluded since they are out of the money.

    Summary of financial / KPI performance

      For the Three Months Ended
    March 31,    		  
      2025   2024    
      (US$ in thousands, unless otherwise noted)  
    Revenue 14,314   22,175    
    Adjusted EBITDA (3,309 ) (6,440 )  
           
    Clicks (in thousands)5 2,081   N/A    
    Applications (in thousands)6 399   495    
    Approved Applications (in thousands)6 155   206    
           

    Revenue breakdown

      For the Three Months Ended
    March 31,    		  
      2025 2024  
      US$ % US$ %  
      (US$ in thousands, except for percentages)  
    By Geographical Market:          
    Singapore 5,084 35.5 8,944 40.3  
    Hong Kong 6,396 44.7 7,716 34.8  
    Taiwan 1,054 7.4 1,402 6.3  
    Philippines 1,779 12.4 3,979 17.9  
    Malaysia – – 133 0.6  
    Total Revenue 14,314 100.0 22,175 100.0  
               
    By Source:          
    Online financial comparison platforms 12,638 88.3 18,058 81.4  
    Creatory 1,676 11.7 4,117 18.6  
    Total Revenue 14,314 100.0 22,175 100.0  
               
    By Vertical:          
    Credit cards 8,173 57.1 15,426 69.6  
    Personal loans and mortgages 2,495 17.4 3,297 14.9  
    Wealth 1,663 11.6 1,387 6.3  
    Insurance 1,892 13.2 1,827 8.2  
    Other verticals 91 0.6 239 1.1  
    Total Revenue 14,314 100.0 22,175 100.0  
               

    _____________________________________
    5 As of July 1, 2024, we transitioned from Universal Analytics to Google Analytics 4. Consequently, we are unable to provide comparable click data for this period following the transition. Please refer to the section titled “Key Performance Metrics and Non-IFRS Financial Measures” for more information regarding the change in methodology.
    6 Due to the nature of our business, there is often a delay in receiving confirmation of the number of Applications and Approved Applications by our commercial partners. As a result, the disclosed figures may utilize estimations if data is unavailable.

    Key Metrics

      For the Three Months Ended
    March 31, 2025
      (in millions, except for percentages)
    Monthly Unique Users7  
    Singapore   1.3           22.6 %
    Hong Kong   1.0           17.3 %
    Taiwan   1.8           31.2 %
    Philippines   1.7           29.0 %
    Total   5.7
    		           100.0 %
         
    Total Traffic7    
    Singapore   3.1           17.6 %
    Hong Kong   3.3           18.7 %
    Taiwan   5.9           33.5 %
    Philippines   5.3           30.1 %
    Total   17.5           100.0 %
       
      As of March 31,
      2025
    		 2024
      (in millions, except for percentages)
    MoneyHero Group Members  
    Singapore 1.4 16.7 % 1.2   21.0 %
    Hong Kong 0.9 11.0 % 0.7   12.6 %
    Taiwan 0.4 4.6 % 0.3   4.5 %
    Philippines 5.5 67.7 % 3.4   57.2 %
    Malaysia 0.0 0.0 % 0.3   4.8 %
    Total 8.1 100.0 % 5.9
    		   100.0 %
                   

    Conference Call Details

    The Company will host a conference call and webcast on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time / 8:00 p.m. Singapore Standard Time to discuss the Company’s financial results. The MoneyHero Limited (NASDAQ: MNY) Q1 2025 Earnings call can be accessed by registering at:

    Webcast: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/q7ymzw9v
    Conference call: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI715b6ae9a0fa497a9a90877eaad916ac

    The webcast replay will be available on the Investor Relations website for 12 months following the event.

    _____________________________________
    7 As of July 1, 2024, we transitioned from Universal Analytics to Google Analytics 4. Consequently, we are unable to provide comparable monthly unique users and total traffic for this period following the transition. Please refer to the section titled “Key Performance Metrics and Non-IFRS Financial Measures” for more information regarding the change in methodology.

    About MoneyHero Group
    MoneyHero Limited (NASDAQ: MNY) is a leading personal finance aggregation and comparison platform, as well as a digital insurance brokerage provider in Greater Southeast Asia. The Company operates in Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and the Philippines. Its brand portfolio includes B2C platforms MoneyHero, SingSaver, Money101, Moneymax and Seedly, as well as the B2B platform Creatory. The Company also retains an equity stake in Malaysian fintech company, Jirnexu Pte. Ltd., parent company of Jirnexu Sdn. Bhd., the operator of RinggitPlus, Malaysia’s largest operating B2C platform. MoneyHero had over 260 commercial partner relationships as at March 31, 2025, and had approximately 5.7 million Monthly Unique Users across its platform for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The Company’s backers include Peter Thiel—co-founder of PayPal, Palantir Technologies, and the Founders Fund—and Hong Kong businessman, Richard Li, the founder and chairman of Pacific Century Group. To learn more about MoneyHero and how the innovative fintech company is driving APAC’s digital economy, please visit www.MoneyHeroGroup.com.

    Key Performance Metrics and Non-IFRS Financial Measures

    Historically, we utilized data from Universal Analytics (“UA”), Google’s analytics platform, to measure three key business metrics: monthly unique users, traffic, and clicks. Effective July 1, 2024, Google Analytics 4 (“GA4”) replaced UA. The methodologies used in GA4 are different and not comparable to the methodologies used in UA. While Google has provided some guidance on these differences, Google has not made available sufficient information for us to assess the impact (whether positive or negative) of this transition on our key business metrics, nor can we quantify the extent of such impact. Furthermore, due to the adoption of GA4, we have adjusted our definitions of these key business metrics to enhance accuracy and align them more closely with previous definitions under UA. Therefore, we are unable to provide comparable data for monthly unique user, traffic, and clicks for any periods prior to July 1, 2024.

    “Monthly Unique User” means as a unique user with at least one session in a given month as determined by a unique device identifier from GA4. A session begins when a user opens an app in the foreground or views a page or screen while no other session is currently active (e.g., the prior session has ended). A session concludes after 30 minutes of user inactivity. To measure Monthly Unique Users over a period longer than one month, we calculate the average of the Monthly Unique Users for each month within that period. If an individual accesses a website or app from different devices within a given month, each device is counted as a separate unique user. However, if an individual logs in and accesses a website or app using the same login across different devices, they will only be counted as one unique user.

    “Traffic” means the total number of unique sessions in GA4. A unique session is a group of user interactions recorded when a user accesses a website or app within a 30-minute window. The current session concludes when there is 30 minutes of inactivity or users have a change in traffic source.

    “MoneyHero Group Members” means (i) users who have login IDs with us in Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan, (ii) users who subscribe to our email distributions in Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the Philippines and Malaysia, and (iii) users who are registered in our rewards database in Singapore and Hong Kong. Any duplications across the three sources above are deduplicated.

    “Clicks” means the sum of unique clicks by product item on a tagged “Apply Now”, “Express Buy”, “Buy” or similar button on our website, including product result pages and blogs. We track Clicks to understand how our users engage with our platforms prior to application submission or purchase, which enables us to further optimize conversion rates.

    “Applications” means the total number of product applications submitted by users and confirmed by our commercial partners.

    “Approved Applications” means the number of applications that have been approved and confirmed by our commercial partners.

    In addition to MoneyHero Group’s results determined in accordance with IFRS, MoneyHero Group believes that the key performance metrics above and the non-IFRS measures below are useful in evaluating its operating performance. MoneyHero Group uses these measures, collectively, to evaluate ongoing operations and for internal planning and forecasting purposes. MoneyHero Group believes that non-IFRS information, when taken collectively, may be helpful to investors because it provides consistency and comparability with past financial performance and may assist in comparisons with other companies to the extent that such other companies use similar non-IFRS measures to supplement their IFRS results. These non-IFRS measures are presented for supplemental informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for financial information presented in accordance with IFRS and may be different from similarly titled non-IFRS measures used by other companies. Accordingly, non-IFRS measures have limitations as analytical tools, and should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for analysis of other IFRS financial measures, such as profit/(loss) for the year/period and profit/(loss) before income tax.

    Adjusted EBITDA is a non-IFRS financial measure defined as loss for the year/period plus depreciation and amortization, interest income, finance costs, income tax expenses/(credit), equity-settled share-based payment expenses, transaction expenses, changes in the fair value of financial instruments, non-recurring legal fees, and unrealized foreign exchange differences. Adjusted EBITDA Margin is defined as Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenue.

    A reconciliation is provided for each non-IFRS measure to the most directly comparable financial measure stated in accordance with IFRS. Investors are encouraged to review the related IFRS financial measures and the reconciliations of these non-IFRS measures to their most directly comparable IFRS financial measures. IFRS differs from U.S. GAAP in certain material respects and thus may not be comparable to financial information presented by U.S. companies. We currently, and will continue to, report financial results under IFRS, which differs in certain significant respects from U.S. GAAP.

      For the Three Months Ended
    March 31,
      2025   2024  
      (US$ in thousands)
    Loss for the period (2,449 ) (13,100 )
    Tax expenses –   52  
    Depreciation and amortization 302   981  
    Interest income (131 ) (595 )
    Finance costs 14   8  
         
    EBITDA (2,265 ) (12,654 )
         
    Non-cash items:    
    Changes in fair value of financial instruments (473 ) 1,346  
    Equity settled share-based payment arising from employee share incentive scheme 441   623  
    Unrealized foreign exchange (gain)/loss, net (1,012 ) 4,036  
         
    Listing and other non-recurring strategic exercises related items:    
    Transaction expenses –   35  
         
    Other non-recurring items:    
    Non-recurring legal fees –   174  
         
    Adjusted EBITDA (3,309 ) (6,440 )
         
    Revenue 14,314   22,175  
    Adjusted EBITDA (3,309 ) (6,440 )
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin (23.1 )% (29.0 )%
             

    Forward Looking Statements

    This document includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States federal securities laws and also contains certain financial forecasts and projections. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this communication, including, but not limited to, statements as to the Group’s growth strategies, future results of operations and financial position, market size, industry trends and growth opportunities, are forward-looking statements. Some of these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words, including “outlook,” “believes,” “expects,” “potential,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “seeks,” “predicts,” “intends,” “trends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “anticipates” or the negative version of these words or other comparable words. All forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and forecasts and reflect the views, assumptions, expectations, and opinions of the Company, which are all subject to change due to various factors including, without limitation, changes in general economic conditions. Any such estimates, assumptions, expectations, forecasts, views or opinions, whether or not identified in this communication, should be regarded as indicative, preliminary and for illustrative purposes only and should not be relied upon as being necessarily indicative of future results. The forward-looking statements and financial forecasts and projections contained in this communication are subject to a number of factors, risks and uncertainties. Potential risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, changes in business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; the Company’s ability to attract new and retain existing customers in a cost effective manner; competitive pressures in and any disruption to the industries in which the Company and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) operates; the Group’s ability to achieve profitability despite a history of losses; and the Group’s ability to implement its growth strategies and manage its growth; the Group’s ability to meet consumer expectations; the success of the Group’s new product or service offerings; the Group’s ability to attract traffic to its websites; the Group’s internal controls; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; the Group’s ability to raise capital; media coverage of the Group; the Group’s ability to obtain adequate insurance coverage; changes in the regulatory environments (such as anti-trust laws, foreign ownership restrictions and tax regimes) and general economic conditions in the countries in which the Group operates; the Group’s ability to attract and retain management and skilled employees; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic or any other pandemic on the business of the Group; the success of the Group’s strategic investments and acquisitions, changes in the Group’s relationship with its current customers, suppliers and service providers; disruptions to the Group’s information technology systems and networks; the Group’s ability to grow and protect its brand and the Group’s reputation; the Group’s ability to protect its intellectual property; changes in regulation and other contingencies; the Group’s ability to achieve tax efficiencies of its corporate structure and intercompany arrangements; potential and future litigation that the Group may be involved in; and unanticipated losses, write-downs or write-offs, restructuring and impairment or other charges, taxes or other liabilities that may be incurred or required and technological advancements in the Group’s industry. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s annual report for the year ended December 31, 2024 on Form 20-F (File No.: 001-41838), registration statement on Form F-1 (File No.: 333-275205), and other documents to be filed by the Company from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, there may be additional risks that the Company currently does not know, or that the Company currently believes are immaterial, that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s expectations, plans, projections or forecasts of future events and view. If any of the risks materialize or the Company’s assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. The Company anticipates that subsequent events and developments may cause their assessments to change. However, while the Company may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so, except as required by law. The inclusion of any statement in this document does not constitute an admission by the Company or any other person that the events or circumstances described in such statement are material. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this document. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements. In addition, the analyses of the Company contained herein are not, and do not purport to be, appraisals of the securities, assets, or business of the Company.

    For inquiries, please contact:

    Investor Relations:
    MoneyHero IR Team
    IR@MoneyHeroGroup.com

    Media Relations:
    MoneyHero PR Team
    Press@MoneyHeroGroup.com

    Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Loss and Other Comprehensive (Loss)/Income

      For the Three Months Ended
    March 31,
    (US$ in thousands, except for loss per share) 2025   2024  
       
    Revenue 14,314   22,175  
         
    Cost and expenses:    
    Cost of revenue (6,363 ) (14,106 )
    Advertising and marketing expenses (4,584 ) (6,132 )
    Technology costs (816 ) (1,851 )
    Employee benefit expenses (4,354 ) (5,878 )
    General, administrative and other operating expenses (2,190 ) (2,387 )
    Foreign exchange differences, net 954   (4,112 )
         
    Operating loss (3,040 ) (12,291 )
         
    Other income/(expenses):    
    Other income 131   597  
    Finance costs (14 ) (8 )
    Changes in fair value of financial instruments 473   (1,346 )
         
    Loss before tax (2,449 ) (13,048 )
    Income tax expense –   (52 )
    Loss for the period (2,449 ) (13,100 )
         
    Other comprehensive (loss)/income    
    Other comprehensive (loss)/income that may be classified to profit or loss in subsequent periods (net of tax):    
    Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations (1,378 ) 3,713  
         
    Other comprehensive (loss)/income that will not be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods (net of tax):    
    Remeasurement gains on defined benefit plan –   1  
    Other comprehensive (loss)/income for the period, net of tax (1,378 ) 3,714  
         
    Total comprehensive loss for the period, net of tax (3,827 ) (9,386 )
         
    Loss per share attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent    
    Basic and diluted (0.1 ) (0.3 )
             

    Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

      As of March 31, As of December 31,
    (US$ in thousands) 2025 2024
         
    NON-CURRENT ASSETS    
    Non-current financial asset 600 600
    Intangible assets 1,215 1,018
    Property and equipment 174 215
    Right-of-use assets 1,034 744
    Deposits 36 25
    Total non-current assets 3,059 2,601
         
    CURRENT ASSETS    
    Accounts receivable 14,559 13,538
    Contract assets 12,571 11,825
    Prepayments and other assets 9,413 10,149
    Tax recoverable 108 63
    Pledged bank deposits 188 185
    Cash and cash equivalents 36,634 42,522
    Total current assets 73,472 78,282
         
    CURRENT LIABILITIES    
    Accounts and other payable 29,400 30,209
    Warrant liabilities 920 1,393
    Lease liabilities 625 442
    Tax payable 33 32
    Provisions 30 71
    Total current liabilities 31,007 32,147
         
    NET CURRENT ASSETS 42,465 46,135
         
    TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES 45,524 48,736
         
    NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES    
    Lease liabilities 424 294
    Provisions 42 –
    Deferred tax liabilities 30 30
    Defined benefit liabilities 187 185
    Total non-current liabilities 683 509
         
    Net assets 44,841 48,227
         
    EQUITY    
    Issued capital 4 4
    Reserves 44,837 48,223
    Total equity 44,841 48,227
         

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [ALPHA GROUP INTERNATIONAL PLC – 12 06 2025] – (CGAML)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 ALPHA GROUP INTERNATIONAL PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 12 JUNE 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 0.2p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 1,411,400 3.3363    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 1,411,400 3.3363    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    0.2p ORDINARY SALE 25,100 3068.2789p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 13 JUNE 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oceans British actors, authors, musicians and environmentalists urge UK government to ‘stop failing the ocean’ Photos of some of the signatories available here Some of the UK’s best-loved stars have joined a call on the UK government to stop failing the ocean and sign the… by Alexandra Sedgwick June 11, 2025

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    • Photos of some of the signatories available here

    Some of the UK’s best-loved stars have joined a call on the UK government to stop failing the ocean and sign the Global Ocean Treaty into law, as the pivotal UN Ocean Conference is taking place in Nice this week. 18 more states ratified the Treaty yesterday, bringing the total so far to 49, but embarrassingly there is no sign of action from the UK government. 

    Household names and longtime ocean, climate and nature ambassadors Stephen Fry, Emma Thompson, Bonnie Wright (who was in Nice for the summit), Dan Smith, Cel Spellman, Meera Sodha and Mya-Rose Craig are together appealing to the Foreign Secretary David Lammy to urgently sign the Global Ocean Treaty (also known as the High Seas Treaty) into UK law. Prime Minister Keir Starmer must support the legislation being brought to parliament before the summit ends on Friday.

    Their joint statement said: 

    “All life on earth depends on healthy oceans, yet they are under threat like never before. I urge the Foreign Secretary David Lammy to protect the oceans by rapidly passing the Global Ocean Treaty into UK law. It’s high time the UK got onboard. The Treaty is our best chance to achieve protection of 30% of the ocean by 2030, which scientists agree is essential for marine life to survive and thrive. The UK has turned up empty handed to a pivotal UN Ocean Conference where countries are committing to ocean protection right now. The UK must stop failing the ocean and swiftly join the 49 states that have already ratified. David Lammy has to ensure the Treaty legislation is tabled by the end of this vital conference.”

    After a flurry of ratifications on day one of the UN Global Ocean Conference, 49 states (plus the European Union) have now signed the Treaty into law, including 14 EU countries, but the UK is notably absent from this list[1][2]. A total of at least 60 states is required to bring the Treaty into force, and this threshold could be reached as soon as this week, but so far there’s no sign the UK will be included in the leading pack of countries. 

    The UN Ocean Conference (9-13 June) is the most significant political moment about the ocean since the agreement of the Global Ocean Treaty by the UN in 2023. Dozens of Heads of State are attending, according to the organisers. This level of attendance, and the diplomatic efforts of the organisers, provide an opportunity to set a high level of ambition for global ocean protection for the coming years. Ahead of the conference the UK government announced a package of domestic ocean protection measures but international action is also urgently needed to deliver on the commitment to protect at least 30% of the global ocean by 2030.

    Chris Thorne, Greenpeace UK senior oceans campaigner, said:

    “The UK government wants to be a leader on climate and nature, but 49 countries have beaten them to it on ocean protection. This vital international agreement could soon enter into force and begin delivering protection at sea on a scale we’ve never seen before. We’re tantalisingly close to a huge moment for the planet and the UK government could have pushed us closer. Embarrassingly, despite having had 20 months to do it, it hasn’t even begun the parliamentary process to sign the Treaty into UK law. 

    “All life on Earth depends on the ocean. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy must stop failing it, and bring legislation to parliament before the summit concludes on Friday. The government must also loudly support calls for a global moratorium on deep sea mining. Global ocean protection cannot wait, and Starmer’s government shouldn’t either. This historic Treaty can help to protect a third of our blue planet from threats like industrial fishing, which devastates marine life. The UK needs to get onboard.”

    Actress Emma Thompson in Svalbard, Norway as part of a Greenpeace campaign. © Nick Cobbing / Greenpeace

    Mya-Rose Craig, ornithologist, writer, environmentalist and activist, said: 

    “We stand at a crossroads. In my lifetime, I’ll either witness the devastation of marine life and the decimation of coastal communities – or I’ll see a world where the oceans are properly protected, with thriving ecosystems, wildlife and people. Healthy oceans are also fundamental to tackling the climate crisis. I sailed to the Arctic with Greenpeace a few years ago, where I saw the Arctic sea ice shrinking. Each year, the sea ice retreats even further. But this is just one threat – destructive fishing, shipping, oil drilling and deep sea mining all pose a risk. Time is fast running out for governments to protect the oceans and the UK needs to deliver on its promises right now. Foreign Secretary David Lammy must ratify the Global Ocean Treaty immediately. It is the only tool that can help protect 30% of the oceans by 2030.”

    Cel Spellman, actor, writer and presenter, said: 

    “The health and balance of our bountiful oceans are at a critical tipping point. What happens at the UN Ocean Conference will define the future of our oceans; for the plant & wildlife species that call them home, for the communities that rely on them, and for the future of our precious planet. There is no other option than ensuring 30% of our oceans are protected, it’s as simple as that. Nothing less will suffice. The warning signs are there, the science is clear. If you want to understand why this is the case and how we’ve got in this mess, I implore you to watch or read Ocean with David Attenborough.”

    Dan Smith, Bastille playing guitar on board the Arctic Sunrise. © Tavish Campbell / Greenpeace

    Greenpeace UK is calling on the UK government to:

    • Prioritise ratifying the Global Ocean Treaty 
    • Speak out in favour of a global moratorium on deep sea mining and use diplomatic influence to build support for this and the multilateral system
    • Implement a full ban on all forms of destructive fishing, including bottom trawling, in all UK marine protected areas
    • Work with the UK Overseas Territory of Bermuda and other nations to champion one of the world’s first high seas sanctuaries in the Sargasso Sea. This stunning ecosystem supports a plethora of iconic wildlife including humpback whales, sharks, dolphins and sea turtles

    ENDS

    Photos of some of the signatories are available in the Greenpeace Media Library here

    Contact: Alex Sedgwick, Greenpeace UK press officer, alexandra.sedgwick@greenpeace.org, 07739 963301. 

    Notes for editors: 

    1. Palau, Chile, Belize, Seychelles, Monaco, Mauritius, Federated States of Micronesia, Cuba, Maldives, Singapore, Bangladesh, Barbados, Timor Leste, Panama, St. Lucia, Spain, France, Malawi, Antigua and Barbuda, Marshall Islands, Republic of Korea, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Finland, Hungary, Latvia, Portugal, Slovenia, Dominica, Norway, Romania, Albania, Bahamas, Belgium, Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Denmark, Fiji, Greece, Guinea-Bissau, Jamaica, Jordan, Liberia, Malta, Mauritania, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Viet Nam.
    2. The European Union has also ratified the Treaty, in its capacity as an ‘enhanced observer’ at the UN.However, EU ratification does not count towards the total of 60 ratifications by UN member states required for the Treaty to enter into force.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Nigeria: Pardon for executed Ogoni Nine activists ‘falls far short’ of real justice

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the announcement on Wednesday that the Nigerian government has pardoned the Ogoni Nine, Isa Sanusi, Amnesty International Nigeria’s Director, said:

    “This is welcome news but it falls far short of the justice the Ogoni Nine need and deserve – the Nigerian government must recognise formally that they are innocent of any crime and fully exonerate them.

    “The Ogoni Nine, led by Ken Saro-Wiwa, Nigeria’s leading author and campaigner, were brutally executed by a regime that wanted to hide the crimes of Shell and other oil companies that were destroying – and continue to destroy – the lives and livelihoods of tens of thousands of people across the Niger Delta as a result of their devastating oil spills and leaks. 

    “The execution of these activists nearly 30 years ago has given the Nigerian government and oil companies, including Shell, licence to crackdown on protests and intimidate people in the Niger Delta who have been demanding justice and an end to their toxic pollution.

    “Full justice for the Ogoni Nine is only a first step – much more needs to be done to get justice for communities in the Niger Delta, including holding Shell and other oil companies to account for the damage they have done and continue to do. They must pay the Niger Delta’s communities full compensation for the devastation their oil spills and leaks have caused and clean up their toxic mess before they leave the region.”

    The Ogoni Nine

    Ken Saro-Wiwa, environmental activist and writer, Barinem Kiobel, John Kpuinen, Baribor Bera, Felix Nuate, Paul Levula, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo and Daniel Gbokoo, were executed after a blatantly unfair trial on 10 November 1995. Officially accused of involvement in murder, the men had in fact been put on trial because they had challenged the devastating impact of oil production by Shell, in the Ogoniland region of the Niger Delta. Shell has been accused of complicity in the unlawful arrest, detention and execution of the nine men.

    Niger Delta devastation

    For 60 years Shell and other oil companies have been responsible for oil spills and leaks due to poorly maintained pipelines, wells and inadequate clean-up attempts that have ravaged the health and livelihoods of many of the 30 million people living in the Niger Delta – most of whom live in poverty. People can’t fish anymore because their water sources, including their wells for drinking water, are poisoned and the land is contaminated which has killed plant life, meaning communities can no longer farm. 

    The Ogale and Bille communities as well as the Bodo community are taking Shell to the UK’s Royal Courts of Justice demanding the oil giant cleans up the oil spills that have wrecked their livelihoods, health and caused widespread devastation to the local environment.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Nigeria: Ogoni Nine pardon ‘falls far short’ of real justice  

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the announcement on Wednesday that the Nigerian government has pardoned the Ogoni Nine, Isa Sanusi, Amnesty International Nigeria’s Director, said: 

    “This is welcome news but it falls far short of the justice the Ogoni Nine need and deserve – the Nigerian government must recognise formally that they are innocent of any crime and fully exonerate them. 

    “The Ogoni Nine, led by Ken Saro-Wiwa Nigeria’s leading author and campaigner, were brutally executed by a regime that wanted to hide the crimes of Shell and other oil companies that were destroying – and continue to destroy – the lives and livelihoods of tens of thousands of people across the Niger Delta as a result of their devastating oil spills and leaks.  

    “The execution of these activists nearly 30 years ago has given the Nigerian government and oil companies, including Shell, licence to crackdown on protests and intimidate people in the Niger Delta who have been demanding justice and an end to their toxic pollution. 

    “Full justice for the Ogoni Nine is only a first step – much more needs to be done to get justice for communities in the Niger Delta, including holding Shell and other oil companies to account for the damage they have done and continue to do. They must pay the Niger Delta’s communities full compensation for the devastation their oil spills and leaks have caused and clean up their toxic mess before they leave the region.” 

    Background 

    The Ogoni Nine 

    Ken Saro-Wiwa, environmental activist and writer, Barinem Kiobel, John Kpuinen, Baribor Bera, Felix Nuate, Paul Levula, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo and Daniel Gbokoo, were executed after a blatantly unfair trial on 10 November 1995. Officially accused of involvement in murder, the men had in fact been put on trial because they had challenged the devastating impact of oil production by Shell, in the Ogoniland region of the Niger Delta. 

    Shell have been accused of complicity in the unlawful arrest, detention and execution of nine men. 

    Niger Delta devastation 

    For 60 years Shell and other oil companies have been responsible for oil spills and leaks due to poorly maintained pipelines, wells and inadequate clean-up attempts that have ravaged the health and livelihoods of many of the 30 million people living in the Niger Delta – most of whom live in poverty. People can’t fish anymore because their water sources, including their wells for drinking water, are poisoned and the land is contaminated which has killed plant life, meaning communities can no longer farm. 

    The Ogale and Bille communities as well as the Bodo community are taking Shell to the UK’s Royal Courts of Justice demanding the oil giant cleans up the oil spills that have wrecked their livelihoods, health and caused widespread devastation to the local environment. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Italy: New case of journalist targeted with Graphite spyware confirms widespread use of unlawful surveillance   

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the publication of a Citizen Lab report identifying Italian journalist Ciro Pellegrino and another who has chosen to remain anonymous, as the latest targets of Paragon’s spyware in Europe, Elina Castillo Jiménez, Advocacy and Policy Advisor on targeted surveillance at Amnesty International, said: 

    “The discovery that Paragon’s highly invasive Graphite spyware has been unlawfully used against yet another journalist in Italy, Ciro Pellegrino – adding to a list of other targets – confirms the rampant widening and systemic pattern of spyware abuse  in Italy, and elsewhere in Europe.   

    “While the recent Parliamentary Committee for the Security of the Republic (COPASIR) report confirms that Italy’s intelligence services used highly-invasive Graphite spyware to target activists, it sought to justify the use on national security grounds. It also denied the targeting of journalist Francesco Cancellato. This new finding that another Italian journalist has been targeted with Graphite spyware, raises more questions. 

    “The use of spyware against activists and journalists by Italian authorities and the lack of transparency and cooperation undermine international norms that Italy is bound by and raises serious concerns about its commitment to the Pall Mall Process and its Code of Practice for States, which seeks to stop the abuse of commercial spyware which undermine freedom of expression. 

     “We urge Italian authorities to fully disclose the details of these targeting operations and to facilitate pathways for reparation to the victims. When governments fail to respond adequately to credible allegations of surveillance abuse, they send a dangerous message that impunity is the norm” 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Opera, ice cream, activism – daughter of jailed Uyghur scholar shares Father’s Day memories

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Jewher Ilham will not see her father, the Uyghur scholar Ilham Tohti, this Father’s Day. In fact, she has not seen him since 2013, when he was detained by the Chinese authorities and later sentenced to life in prison on baseless charges of “separatism”. Here Jewher, who has campaigned tirelessly for her father’s release and against repression of Uyghurs in their homeland in western China, recalls some of her fondest memories of him.

    MIL OSI NGO –