NewzIntel.com

Category: Crime

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHILADELPHIA – Governor Shapiro to Highlight Impact of His Administration’s Violence Intervention and Prevention Program, Work to Make Pennsylvania Communities Safer

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    August 01, 2025 – Philadelphia, PA

    ADVISORY – PHILADELPHIA – Governor Shapiro to Highlight Impact of His Administration’s Violence Intervention and Prevention Program, Work to Make Pennsylvania Communities Safer

    Governor Josh Shapiro will join Representative Amen Brown and local community leaders to visit Philadelphia’s Community Education Center where he will meet with young people and teachers participating in Beyond the Bars, a student-driven and community-based initiative that uses music education to interrupt cycles of violence. Thanks to the Governor’s work to increase funding for the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD)’s Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) program, Beyond the Bars has been able to expand its reach and positively impact more young Pennsylvanians.

    Grants through the VIP program contributed to Philadelphia’s significant reductions in gun violence last year, among the largest decreases https://www.americanprogress.org/article/early-2024-data-show-promising-signs-of-another-historic-decline-in-gun-violence/in major U.S. cities in 2024.

    WHO:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Representative Amen Brown, 10th Legislative District
    Matt Kerr, Executive Director, Beyond the Bars
    Isaiah Robinson, Student Teacher Lead & Lead Facilitator, Beyond the Bars

    WHEN:
    Friday, August 1, 2025 at 11:00 AM

    WHERE:
    Community Education Center
    3500 Lancaster Ave,
    Philadelphia, PA 19104

    LIVE STREAM:
    pacast.com/live/gov
    governor.pa.gov/live/

    RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending must RSVP with the names and phone numbers for each member of their team to ra-gvgovpress@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Legislation to Protect Communities From Street Weapons and Dangerous Drugs Comes Into Force

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 31, 2025

    On August 1, 2025, The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act comes into force. 

    This new legislation promotes safety in public urban spaces by regulating the possession, transportation and storage of items that may be used as street weapons, such as knives, hypodermic needles, machetes and bear spray, as well as dangerous drugs such as methamphetamine and fentanyl. These rules will apply in municipalities and First Nations that choose to opt in to the new Act.

    “The government is committed to increased public safety measures to ensure all Saskatchewan citizens feel safe and protected in their communities,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C. said. “The coming-into-force of this Act will empower law enforcement and give them an important tool to appropriately address individuals that use street weapons to intimidate or harm people in public spaces.”

    The Act prohibits persons from possessing items that could be used as street weapons in public spaces, defacing or altering those items, or possessing such an item that has been defaced or altered. Persons in breach of these rules can be charged with a provincial offence and subject to a fine of not more than $5,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both a fine and imprisonment. The Act further provides police enhanced powers to seize these items from people in public spaces where there is a threat to public safety, regardless of whether a charge is laid. 

    The province is committed to protecting communities against fentanyl and methamphetamine. This Act provides additional tools to remove fentanyl and methamphetamine from our communities and protect the health and safety of all citizens.

    Public spaces may include public buildings, parks, playgrounds, any land or building entered without consent of the owner, common areas of condominiums or apartments, unoccupied land or buildings, or vehicles travelling through public spaces. 

    The government recognizes that many items used as street weapons have legitimate, legal purposes. The legislation contains appropriate exemptions to ensure these items can continue to be used for their lawful purposes, such as food preparation and protection from wildlife threats, or using hypodermic needles for medical use. 

    Individual municipalities and First Nations can choose whether they want to opt into the Act. By opting into the Act, municipalities and First Nations give police officers the ability to address street weapons through uniform provincial rules and offences.

    If a municipality or First Nation does not opt into the Act, the rules do not apply to that municipality or First Nation. 

    More information about the opt-in process can be found in the attached background document. 

    In 2024-25 and 2025-26, the Government of Saskatchewan invested $2 billion in public safety. This includes an increase of $28.4 million, totaling $699.4 million over two years, to support policing and community safety in the province and over $518 million over two years to enhance access to justice services.

    For more information on Saskatchewan’s ongoing work to create safe communities and neighborhoods, please visit:

    Government Expands Legislation to Target Street Weapons and Illicit Drugs | News and Media | Government of Saskatchewan

    Saskatchewan Announces Measures to Protect Communities Against Fentanyl and Methamphetamine | News and Media | Government of Saskatchewan

    Government Introduces New Public Spaces Act to Target Street Weapons | News and Media | Government of Saskatchewan

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The royal commission recommended abolishing time limits on abuse cases – a year on, nothing has changed

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Zoë Prebble, Lecturer in Criminal Law, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington

    Getty Images

    Among the 138 recommendations of the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry’s final report to parliament was a clear call: remove the legal time limits that prevent survivors of historic abuse from seeking justice in civil court.

    That report – Whanaketia – Through pain and trauma, from darkness to light – was published on July 24 last year. One year on, the government has yet to act.

    Without that reform, survivors of historic abuse remain vulnerable to being turned away by the legal system – not because their experiences aren’t credible, but because the law still treats them as being out of time.

    The royal commission heard from thousands of survivors of childhood abuse in the care of state and faith-based institutions between 1950 and 1999. What stood out was how often that harm was made worse by silence, disbelief and legal systems that failed to respond.

    Limitation periods in abuse cases

    Under New Zealand law, people generally have six years from the time a harm occurs to bring a civil claim. That limit is set out in the Limitation Act 2010 for events after 2011, and in the Limitation Act 1950 for events before that.

    For survivors of historic abuse, particularly childhood abuse, that six-year window rarely reflects how trauma actually works. Survivors often take decades to feel sufficiently safe and supported to come forward and name what happened to them.

    The 1950 law allowed limitation periods to be paused if a claimant was under a “disability” – a legal term meaning they were either a child or, in the language of the time, of “unsound mind”. In practice, this meant the six-year clock usually didn’t start for children until they reached adulthood.

    The 2010 law clarified this by explicitly saying the limitation period for children begins at 18. It also introduced a new “incapacitated” exception, allowing the clock to pause for adults who are unable to make decisions or take legal action because of trauma or other conditions.

    But in practice it’s a narrow doorway. Courts require survivors to prove not just trauma, but a high legal incapacity threshold.

    This means that even when the abuse is acknowledged, and even when survivors have strong evidence, civil cases are often barred. The bar is not that the harm didn’t happen, but that it happened “too long ago”.

    How civil time limits deny justice

    In 2019, former Air Force servicewoman Mariya Taylor brought a civil claim against the sergeant who had sexually abused her in the 1980s while both were stationed at the Whenuapai base.

    The court accepted the abuse had occurred. But because Taylor was not legally considered “disabled” by trauma, and the six-year window had closed, her case was struck out under the Limitation Act 1950. Adding insult to injury, she was ordered to pay costs to her abuser.

    At 18, Taylor had entered a rigid military hierarchy where power and discipline made reporting abuse nearly impossible.

    Her case shows how limitation periods can block even well-evidenced claims, and how institutional dynamics such as silence, shame and obedience often delay disclosure.

    These same patterns were pivotal to the royal commission’s findings.

    Australia is ahead of NZ

    Australia has taken a markedly different approach. In line with the final report of its own Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in 2017, every state and territory removed civil limitation periods for survivors of childhood abuse.

    Survivors can now bring civil claims regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred. In landmark case in 2023, GLJ v. The Trustees of the Roman Catholic Church for the Diocese of Lismore, the High Court of Australia rejected a request to shut down proceedings even though the alleged abuser and other witnesses had died. The court said the case could still go ahead using available evidence.

    The GLJ decision is important for New Zealand courts. It shows that while removing time bars doesn’t guarantee victory for survivors, it does give them the chance to be heard.

    Delayed but not denied

    Removing time limits for civil claims involving historic abuse, as the royal commission recommended, is now overdue.

    A first step would be for the government to clearly commit to amending the Limitation Act 2010 to exclude claims of historic abuse – especially child sexual abuse – from the six-year deadline.

    This would bring New Zealand into line with Australia and recognise what we now know about the delayed nature of disclosure, trauma and institutional silence. It would also honour the spirit of the royal commission’s work.

    As courts and commissions have recognised, removing limitation periods doesn’t guarantee a win for survivors. But it does mean they’re at least allowed to try.

    For years, survivors have been told they’ve spoken too late. Reforming limitation laws won’t undo the harm they suffered. But it will show their testimony matters, and that justice delayed does not have to mean justice denied.

    Zoë Prebble does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The royal commission recommended abolishing time limits on abuse cases – a year on, nothing has changed – https://theconversation.com/the-royal-commission-recommended-abolishing-time-limits-on-abuse-cases-a-year-on-nothing-has-changed-261831

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 07/31/2025, 18-13 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for security RU000A109916 (RostelP10R) were changed.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    07/31/2025 18:13

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC) on July 31, 2025, 18-13 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 109.83) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1177.42 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 8.75%) of the security RU000A109916 (Rostel P10R) were changed

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Indecent assault – Durack

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The NT Police Force has arrested a 32-year-old male in relation to an indecent assault that occurred in Durack this morning.

    Around 7:10am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a female had allegedly been indecently assaulted by a male unknown to her while walking through the golf course grounds in Palmerston.

    It is alleged that a male approached the victim and indecently assaulted her before she screamed, and he fled the scene on foot.

    A short time later, Strike Force Trident members located the alleged offender nearby. During the attempted arrest, he allegedly threw a bottle at officers before being taken into custody.

    He remains in police custody with charges expected to follow.

    Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444, quoting reference number P25204673. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is Australia becoming a more violent country?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samara McPhedran, Principal Research Fellow, Violence Research and Prevention Program, Griffith University

    Almost every day, it seems we read or hear reports another family is grieving the murder of a loved one in a street brawl, another business owner is hospitalised after trying to fend off armed robbers, or shoppers simply going about their business are confronted by knife-wielding thugs.

    The way media and politicians talk, it seems as if we are in the middle of an unprecedented violent crime crisis.

    But are we?

    The short answer is: no.

    Comparing today with the past

    Although the numbers fluctuate from year to year, Australia is less violent today than in previous years.

    It is difficult to make direct comparisons over decades, because the way crimes are defined and recorded changes (especially for assault).

    Weapons and violence are rarely out of the media cycle in Australia, leading many to fear this country is becoming less safe for everyday people. Is that really the case, though? This is the first story in a four-part series.

    For crimes like domestic violence, the statistics are extremely hard to compare over time but even so, prevalence appears to have declined (although only about half of all women who experience physical and/or sexual violence from their partners seek advice or support).

    However, if we consider homicide and robbery (which have been categorised much the same way over time), the numbers have been falling for decades.

    Yes, knives and bladed weapons have been in the news recently, but this does not mean they are being used more often.

    Reliable, long-term statistics are not always available but the ones we have show the use of weapons has declined over time.

    Interestingly, this seems to have nothing to do with the weapons themselves. For instance, armed robbery and unarmed robbery both rise and fall in about the same way, at about the same time. Homicide follows a similar pattern.

    Not all crimes are reported to police but self-reported statistics show the same trends.

    Relative to ten years ago, Australians now are less likely to say they have experienced physical or threatened face-to-face assault in the previous 12 months.

    Places with greater socioeconomic disadvantage typically experience more violence. In Queensland, for instance, Mt Isa has higher violent crime rates than affluent areas of Brisbane.

    Despite differences between places, there is generally less violence than there used to be.

    Why is violence declining?

    Nobody knows quite why violence is decreasing. This is not just happening in Australia but across many developed nations.

    Suggestions include better social welfare, strong economies, improved education, low unemployment, women’s rights and stable governance. Also, new avenues have opened up that carry less risk than violent crime – such as cyberfraud instead of robbing a bank.

    There is no clear, compelling explanation.

    Yet when we consider Australia’s responses when violence does occur, measures such as bans (for example, on machetes), more police powers and more (or longer) prison sentences have become the fallback.

    Evidence shows these types of reactions achieve little, but in an environment of endless “crisis” it is almost impossible to make good decisions. This is made even harder in circumstances where victims and activists push politicians to implement “feel-good” policies, regardless of how ultimately fruitless those will be.

    Who are the people being violent?

    One thing remains the same: violent crime is primarily committed by younger men (who are also likely to be victims).

    Ethnicity and migration are also recurrent themes. Just as young Italians with switchblades were the focus of moral panic in the 1950s and 60s, migrants from places such as Africa and the Middle East are now held up as a danger.

    Ethnicity/migration history data is not always recorded in crime statistics, but the information we do have suggests a more complex picture.

    Factors such as exposure to warfare and civil strife can certainly play a role in people’s use of violence.

    However, unemployment, poverty, poor education and involvement with drugs and/or gangs tend to play a much larger part.

    Reactions versus reality

    If society is less violent, why are public reactions to violence seemingly becoming more intense?

    Incidents that would have received little attention a decade ago now dominate public debate and single incidents – no matter how rare or isolated – are enough to provoke sweeping legislative and policy changes.

    Violence is political currency. The more the spectre of violence is emphasised and exaggerated, the more power people are willing to give to authorities to do something to fix it.

    This is also about psychology: the better things get, the more sensitive people tend to be to whatever ills remain and resilience can crumble when something bad does happen.

    Pandering to this by rushing to make people feel safer – while politically irresistible – has unintended consequences. When another incident occurs, as it always does, people feel even more vulnerable because they were led to believe the problem had been “fixed”.

    This creates a never-ending cycle of superficial responses while underlying issues are ignored.

    We cannot legislate or politicise our way out of violence. The best responses are ones that identify and address actual root causes and look at the circumstances that surround violence – rather than fixating on the violence itself.

    This means moving away from emotional reactions and taking a clear look at why violence occurs in the first place.

    Until this happens, any further reductions in violence are more likely to be good luck than good management.

    Samara McPhedran has received funding from various Australian and international government grant programs, including the Australian Research Council and Criminology Research Council, for a number of projects relating to violence. She has been appointed to various advisory panels and committees, including as a member of the Queensland Ministerial Advisory Panel on Weapons. She does not receive any financial remuneration or other reward for these activities. She is the Executive Director (Analysis, Policy and Strategy) of the Violence Prevention Institute Australia. She is not, and has never been, a member of any political party. The views expressed are those of the author alone.

    – ref. Is Australia becoming a more violent country? – https://theconversation.com/is-australia-becoming-a-more-violent-country-260102

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: “America’s Most Wanted” Fugitive Arrested: ICE Nabs Egyptian Criminal Convicted of Aggravated Assault, Robbery, and More

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    Other worst of the worst criminals arrested yesterday include child pedophiles, rapists, and drug traffickers 

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Yehia Elham Badawi, a 48-year-old criminal illegal alien from Egypt with an extensive rap sheet including robbery, aggravated assault, and multiple violent felonies stemming from a 1994 shootout that left a Philadelphia police officer seriously wounded. This criminal illegal alien was featured on America’s Most Wanted in 1996.  

    According to reports, Badawi was wanted in connection with a violent armed robbery at a Philadelphia supermarket where he and an accomplice, both armed with rifles and wearing masks, fled the scene on bicycles, triggering a chase. During the pursuit, a police officer was shot and seriously injured. One assailant was shot and captured at the scene. Badawi fled the state and was later arrested in Salt Lake City, Utah.  

    On July 30, 2025, Badawi was taken into custody by ICE Philadelphia. Badawi’s extensive list of convictions includes: 

    • Criminal attempt
    • Criminal conspiracy 
    • Possession of an instrument with criminal intent
    • Simple assault
    • Aggravated assault 
    • Recklessly endangering another person 
    • Robbery 
    • Theft by unlawful taking
    • Receiving stolen property

    “Thanks to the brave men and women of ICE, under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, one of America’s Most Wanted is finally off American streets,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “DHS is unapologetically cracking down on criminal illegal aliens who think they can hide. They can’t. We WILL find them. America is no longer a safe haven for the world’s criminals.”  

    Other Notable Arrests:

    • Juan Ocana-Sanchez, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of lewd acts with a child under 14 in Vista, CA.
    • Ivan Perez-Puac, a criminal illegal alien from Guatemala, convicted of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in Austin, TX.
    • Tamio Domnick, a criminal illegal alien from the Marshall Islands, convicted of sexual assault in Washington County, AR.
    • Fernando Aranda-Esparza, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted of sale of cocaine in Greenville County, SC.

    Join ICE law enforcement today to help DHS remove murderers, pedophiles, gang members, and other violent criminal illegal aliens. For more information or to apply, visit: www.ice.gov/careers

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for August 1, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on August 1, 2025.

    Why UK recognition of a Palestinian state should not be conditional on Israel’s actions
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Karen Scott, Professor in Law, University of Canterbury Getty Images The announcement this week by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the recognition of a Palestininian state has been welcomed by many who want to see a ceasefire in Gaza and lasting peace in the region. In

    Governments are becoming increasingly secretive. Here’s how they can be made to be more transparent
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gabrielle Appleby, Professor of Law, UNSW Law School, UNSW Sydney Transparency is vital to our democratic system of government. It promotes good government, spurring those in power into better practice. Even when what is revealed is pretty revolting, transparency means those transgressions are known, and accountability for

    Wood fires, warm drinks, hot water bottles: 5 expert tips on how to avoid burns this winter
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa Martin, Adjunct Senior Research Fellow, School of Biomedical Sciences, Pathology and Laboratory Science, The University of Western Australia Alex P/Pexels It’s a cold, crisp evening and the air carries a chill that bites. As temperatures drop and houses get colder, we turn to trusted sources of

    Is Australia becoming a more violent country?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samara McPhedran, Principal Research Fellow, Violence Research and Prevention Program, Griffith University Almost every day, it seems we read or hear reports another family is grieving the murder of a loved one in a street brawl, another business owner is hospitalised after trying to fend off armed

    The royal commission recommended abolishing time limits on abuse cases – a year on, nothing has changed
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Zoë Prebble, Lecturer in Criminal Law, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Getty Images Among the 138 recommendations of the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry’s final report to parliament was a clear call: remove the legal time limits that prevent survivors of historic

    Industrial-scale deepfake abuse caused a crisis in South Korean schools. Here’s how Australia can avoid the same fate
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joel Scanlan, Senior Lecturer in Health Information Management, University of Tasmania South Korea’s deepfake crisis triggered a wave of protests in 2024. Anthony WALLACE / AFP Australian schools are seeing a growing number of incidents in which students have created deepfake sexualised imagery of their classmates. The

    Colombia is producing more cocaine than ever – and more is reaching Australian shores
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cesar Alvarez, Lecturer in Terrorism and Security Studies, Charles Sturt University Members of the Colombian anti-narcotics police test cocaine after a drug bust. RAUL ARBOLEDA/AFP via Getty Images Imagine an area larger than the Australian Capital Territory, nearly twice the size of London and four times that

    How can I tell if I am lonely? What are some of the signs?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marlee Bower, Senior Research Fellow, Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney gremlin/Getty Images Without even realising it, your world sometimes gradually gets smaller: less walking, fewer days in the office, cancelling on friends. Watching plans disintegrate on the chat as

    Rockabye baby: the ‘love songs’ of lonely leopard seals resemble human nursery rhymes
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lucinda Chambers, PhD Candidate in Marine Bioacoustics, UNSW Sydney CassandraSm/Shutterstock Late in the evening, the Antarctic sky flushes pink. The male leopard seal wakes and slips from the ice into the water. There, he’ll spend the night singing underwater amongst the floating ice floes. For the next

    Shark tales, a sinking city and a breathless cop thriller: what to watch in August
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexa Scarlata, Lecturer, Digital Communication, RMIT University As the cool nights continue, it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a new batch of captivating films and series. This month’s streaming highlights bring a little bit of everything, from gripping true crime, to thought-provoking political drama, and

    A Hawaiian epic made in NZ: why Jason Momoa’s Chief of War wasn’t filmed in its star’s homeland
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Duncan Caillard, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, School of Communication Studies, Auckland University of Technology Jason Momoa’s historical epic Chief of War, launching August 1 on Apple TV+, is a triumph of Hawaiians telling their own stories – despite the fact their film and TV production industry now struggles

    As protesters condemn Western media ‘complicity’, Gaza journalists struggle for survival
    Asia Pacific Report Protesters demonstrated outside several major US media outlets in Washington this week condemning their coverage of the genocide in Gaza, claiming they were to blame over misinformation and the worsening catastrophe. Banging pots and pans to spotlight the starvation crisis, they accused the media of “complicity in genocide”. Banners and placards proclaimed

    The company tax regime is a roadblock to business investment. Here’s what needs to change
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alex Robson, Deputy Chair, Productivity Commission, and Adjunct Professor, Queensland University of Technology Erman Gunes/Shutterstock Productivity growth is a key driver of improvements in living standards. But in Australia over the last decade, output per hour worked grew by less than a quarter of its 60-year average.

    Grattan on Friday: Aggrieved Liberals stamp their feet, testing Sussan Ley’s authority
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra As any leader of a political party knows, when you demote people they can become difficult, or worse. Among Opposition Leader Sussan Ley’s multiple problems are two very unhappy former frontbenchers. Sarah Henderson, who was opposition education spokeswoman last term,

    Espionage cost Australia $12.5 billion in 2023-24, ASIO boss Mike Burgess says
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Espionage cost Australia $12.5 billion in 2023-24, according to a study by ASIO and the Australian Institute of Criminology. The figure includes the direct costs of known espionage incidents, including state-sponsored theft of intellectual property, as well as the indirect

    Labor well-placed to win three Bass seats in Tasmanian election, giving left a total of 20 of 35 MPs
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne Labor is well-placed to win three seats in the electorate of Bass at the Tasmanian election, although its party totals imply it deserves only two. This would

    The Muslim world has been strong on rhetoric, short on action over Gaza and Afghanistan
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amin Saikal, Emeritus Professor of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies, Australian National University; and Vice Chancellor’s Strategic Fellow, Australian National University When it comes to dealing with two of the biggest current crises in the Muslim world – the devastation of Gaza and the Taliban’s draconian

    Kids need to floss too, even their baby teeth. But how do you actually get them to do it?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dileep Sharma, Professor and Head of Discipline – Oral Health, University of Newcastle Jonathan Borba/Pexels A survey from the Australian Dental Association out this week shows about three in four children never floss their teeth, or have adults do it for them. Many of the survey respondents

    Grief is the Thing with Feathers comes to the stage with a glorious intensity of purpose
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Huw Griffiths, Associate Professor of English Literature, University of Sydney Brett Boardman/Belvoir The idea of the titular Crow in Ted Hughes’ poems is wild, untameable and irreducible to words. In an early poem in the sequence, words come at Crow from all angles but he just ignores

    Politics with Michelle Grattan: independent MP Allegra Spender on making tax fairer for younger Australians
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra With parliament now finished its first fortnight’s session, attention will soon be on the government’s August 19-21 economic reform roundtable, bringing together business, unions, experts and community representatives to pursue consensus on ways to lift Australia’s flagging productivity. Independent member

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Offer Reward for Information in Quadruple Homicide

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Lake County, TN – In the search for fugitive Austin Drummond, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) is offering a reward of up to $7,500 for information that leads to Drummond’s arrest.

    Drummond is charged with First-Degree Murder of four people; ages 21, 20, 38, and 15, in Lake County on July 29, 2025. Additional charges include Aggravated Kidnapping, Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Dangerous Felony, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. He is considered armed and dangerous.

    The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is the lead agency, and the USMS Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force is assisting TBI and has adopted the case for a fugitive investigation.

    “Getting Austin Drummond in custody is a priority. Anyone with information about where we can find him should call us immediately. You will remain anonymous,” said U.S. Marshal Tyreece Miller.

    Tipsters can call the U.S. Deputy Marshals assigned to the case at (901) 406-2044, (901) 661-2955, or submit a USMS Web Tip.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Austin Drummond

    Source: US Marshals Service

    NOTICE TO LAW ENFORCEMENT: Before arrest, verify warrant through the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). If subject is arrested or whereabouts known, contact the nearest U.S. Marshals Service office, American Embassy/Consulate, call the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit a tip using U.S. Marshals Service Tips.

    For More Information Scan Code Above.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Child exploitation arrest

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A man has been arrested after child exploitation material was located at his home today.

    On Friday 1 August, investigators from the South Australian JACET, a joint taskforce between South Australia Police and Australian Federal Police, attended a northeast suburbs home as a result of an online conversation between the accused and a covert online police officer.

    The house was searched and a mobile phone, computer hard drives and a computer were seized.

    Child exploitation material was located on the devices by Digital Evidence Section specialists and further examinations will continue.

    Also during the search, investigators located three gel blasters.

    A 38-year-old man from the northeastern suburbs was arrested and charged with disseminating child exploitation material, possessing child exploitation material and three counts of possessing a firearm without a licence.

    He was refused police bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court later today.

    “This operation is a stark reminder of the realities of child sexual exploitation and the proliferation of child sexual abuse material on the internet, and the need for proactive measures to address these crimes against our children,” said Chief Inspector George Fenwick Manager, of the Special Crimes Investigation Section.

    “Without my officers being online and in these chat forums, we may never have identified this man or his offending.”

    Members of the public who have information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to contact Crime Stoppers at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.

    CO2500196535

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US sanctions Palestinian Authority officials, Palestine Liberation Organization members

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

    The U.S. Department of State on Thursday announced sanctions that deny visas to officials of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).

    “It is in our national security interests to impose consequences and hold the PLO and PA accountable for not complying with their commitments and undermining the prospects for peace,” the State Department said in a press release.

    The department noted it reported to the U.S. Congress that both organizations “are not in compliance with their commitments under the PLO Commitments Compliance Act of 1989 and the Middle East Peace Commitments Act of 2002.”

    It claimed that the PA and PLO took actions to “internationalize its conflict with Israel” at international organizations such as the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice.

    It also accused them of “continuing to support terrorism including incitement and glorification of violence,” and “providing payments and benefits in support of terrorism to Palestinian terrorists and their families.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Knife robberies fall under dedicated new taskforce

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Knife robberies fall under dedicated new taskforce

    Communities hit hardest by knife crime see a drop in offences and more weapons removed from the streets.

    The number of robberies involving a knife – or the threat of one – have dropped after months of targeted police action in seven highest risk areas, according to new data published by government today.  

    After seeing a stark rise in knife-enabled robbery in the year to June 2024, driven by a 14% increase across seven police forces, the Home Secretary set up a dedicated police taskforce last October and after just nine months of activity, there has been a 6% overall reduction compared with the previous year across those highest risk areas – with places like the West Midlands seeing a substantial annual drop of 25%.

    The reduction has been driven by intense police efforts and a range of tactics, including upping visible patrols, using drones, knife arches and detection dogs to support police on the ground, and deploying plain clothes officers.  

    Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper:

    Since day one we have acted with urgency to turn the tide on knife crime, which destroys lives and devastates communities.  

    When we came to office, knife-enabled robbery was increasing at a concerning rate, but we have now started to drive numbers of those offences down through the work of our dedicated taskforces, and as a result, we have also seen the first small reduction in overall knife crime for four years.

    The drop in knife enabled robbery in key problem areas shows the impact that our strong new action on knife crime is having, but we now need to supercharge these efforts through more smart and targeted interventions. Anyone can be a victim of knife crime, but new ‘hex mapping’ technology shows that the vast majority of knife crime is concentrated in a relatively small, hyper-concentrated number of areas. 

    As part of the Plan for Change, we will use that new technology to support our mission to halve knife crime over the next decade. In the 2020s, the way to be ‘tough on crime and tough on the causes of crime’ is also to be smart on crime, using the latest technology to target criminals and problem areas, and keep the country safe.

    The announcement comes as a ban on ninja swords come into force today – the first part of the government’s manifesto commitment to introduce Ronan’s Law, and latest step under the pledge to halve knife crime in the next decade.

    Ahead of the ban, at least a thousand deadly weapons have been handed in following the country’s largest weapons surrender scheme.

    Launched in June, the Home Office developed this scheme with members of the Coalition to Tackle Knife Crime to provide a broader range of ways the public could surrender weapons outside of police stations. This saw Faron Paul, CEO of FazAmnesty, driving a custom built and fully secure surrender van, across London, Greater Manchester and the West Midlands, and Words4Weapons supplying 37 new surrender bins, all funded by the Home Office. The surrender van will also be deployed at this year’s Notting Hill Carnival. 

    Pooja Kanda, knife crime campaigner and mother to Ronan said:  

    Ronan was just 16 years old when his life was stolen by a 22-inch ninja sword that should never have been so easy to buy. Ronan’s Law is not only a step towards justice for my son, but for every parent who wants to see their child come home safely.

    This law is about saving lives, closing dangerous loopholes, and holding those responsible to account.   

    The government’s knife surrender scheme has been a sign of commitment to tackling the scourge of knife crime. While there is still much more to do, these are significant steps in the right direction.

    Sandra Campbell, CEO of Word 4 Weapons said:   

    For over 16 years, Word 4 Weapons has played a leading role in the UK’s national weapon surrender schemes, enabling thousands of knives and dangerous items to be taken off the streets through our network of secure and accessible surrender bins. 

    These initiatives are designed to help save lives, raise awareness, and give communities a practical way to reduce harm.    

    We therefore welcome the government’s decision to ban dangerous weapons like ninja swords, a move that reinforces the importance of community-led approaches to tackling knife and weapon-related violence. We remain committed to supporting this work and expanding our efforts to build safer public spaces for all.

    Ronan’s Law will also see the government bring in the toughest measures to date to tackle the sale of weapons online – requiring retailers to report bulk or suspicious knife orders to the police; put in place more stringent age verification checks and impose significant fines on tech executives whose platforms fail to prevent illegal sales. 

    As part of the government’s mission to halve knife crime over the next decade the Home Office is also delivering a pilot using sophisticated new mapping technologies to target hyper-concentrated knife crime hotspots, backed by up to £5 million this year.

    This funding will be targeted towards 50 of the top 100 hyper-local knife crime hotspots to trial targeted intervention tactics and prevent further offending. This could include using more facial recognition and advanced knife detection technology, or the use of police drones to support the increased presence of police officers in our communities – part of the government’s Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee.

    These activities are taking place against the backdrop of the summer long Safer Streets Initiative launched by the Home Secretary to tackle town centre crime, which is delivering a smarter, more visible police and community operation across the country.

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 August 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Operation Cloud and Advance Unite to Tackle Illicit Trade and Anti-Social Behaviour

    Source: City of Birmingham

    A coordinated enforcement operation between Birmingham City Council’s Trading Standards team and West Midlands Police has led to the seizure of a significant quantity of illegal goods.

    The action forms part of the ongoing Operation Cloud and the force-wide Operation Advance, both aimed at tackling crime, anti-social behaviour, and the sale of illicit products across the city.

    The raid, which took place earlier this month at multiple commercial premises and associated vehicles in Birmingham, resulted in the seizure of:

    • 40 large nitrous oxide canisters and related paraphernalia
    • More than 780 illicit vapes
    • 1,980 illicit and counterfeit cigarettes
    • More than 115 packets of oral snuff/smokeless tobacco
    • Nearly 50 unsafe counterfeit inflatable toys
    • 125 sachets of unlicensed erectile dysfunction medicine

    A concealed compartment was also discovered at one of the premises which contained a large quantity of nitrous oxide cannisters and illicit tobacco. A male suspect was also arrested at the scene.

    This latest enforcement builds on the success of Operation Cloud, which has been active since September 2024 and has already removed nearly £7 million worth of illegal goods from circulation. The operation targets the sale of illicit vapes, nitrous oxide, counterfeit tobacco, and other harmful products that pose serious risks to public health and safety.

    Last week’s action also forms part of Operation Advance, West Midlands Police’s force-wide initiative delivering 24 hours of high-impact policing activity. Officers from across departments joined forces with the Council’s Trading Standards teams to disrupt criminal activity, enforce public space protection orders, and reassure communities through high-visibility patrols.

    Councillor Jamie Tennant, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, said: “This joint operation is a powerful demonstration of what we can achieve through partnership. Illegal goods like these are not only dangerous to health—especially for young people—but also fuel wider criminality and anti-social behaviour. We will continue to take robust action to protect our communities and uphold the law.

    “These products are often sold without any regard for safety standards, and in many cases, are deliberately marketed to appeal to children and teenagers. The presence of such goods in our neighbourhoods undermines community wellbeing and contributes to a cycle of harm that affects families, schools, and local businesses.

    “Through Operation Cloud and Operation Advance, we are sending a clear message: Birmingham will not tolerate the illegal trade of harmful products. We are committed to working with our partners to make our city safer, cleaner, and more resilient for everyone.”

    Ch Supt Tom Joyce, of Birmingham Police, said: “This was a fantastic day of really high-profile activity, using everyone from neighbourhood officers, to intelligence, traffic, firearms, gangs officers, investigators and more.

    “The activity is designed to be really visible and reassuring, while making a real impact in communities across the whole city.

    “This is all about making our town centres safe and welcoming for everyone, while making them hostile places for anyone wanting to commit crime.

    “Advance will be returning to Birmingham later in the year when we will be out in full force again to have that significant impact that using teams from across the West Midlands brings.

    “In the meantime, Birmingham officers will continue working 24/7 to make the city safer and help and support people when they need us most.”

    The Council is now pursuing a closure order for the premises under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. This follows the recent enforcement of the national ban on single-use vapes, which came into effect on 1 June 2025.

    Birmingham’s Trading Standards team has already seized over 14,000 illegal or non-compliant vapes since the launch of Operation Cloud.

    Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity or sales of illegal goods via by contacting the Council’s Trading Standards team on 0121 303 9360 or the West Midlands Police on 101.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Update: Serious crash at Hindmarsh Valley

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Please note, the South Australia Police media releases feature on this site for four weeks following publication. If you are searching for an older media release or news item please contact the SAPOL Media Section, telephone (08) 7322 3848 or email sapol.mediasection@police.sa.gov.au

    01 Aug 2025 4:37pm

    Police and emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Hindmarsh Valley.

    More

    01 Aug 2025 12:32pm

    A man has been arrested after child exploitation material was located at his home today.

    More

    31 Jul 2025 5:54pm

    A man has been arrested following a fatal crash last week.

    More

    31 Jul 2025 5:33pm

    A rider has been taken to hospital following a serious crash at Ethelton this evening.

    More

    31 Jul 2025 2:49pm

    Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke, the Officer in Charge of Major Crime provided an update to the media in relation to human remains being located in scrubland near Port Lincoln, believed to be that of Julian Storey.

    More

    31 Jul 2025 11:01am

    Three alleged Rebels members were arrested for criminal association on Wednesday 30 July.

    More

    30 Jul 2025 6:36am

    An intruder was arrested after breaking into a Tonsley business overnight.

    More

    30 Jul 2025 6:27am

    A man was arrested after being caught on a construction site at Ridgehaven overnight.

    More

    30 Jul 2025 11:01am

    South Australia Police (SAPOL) has partnered with Dementia Support Australia (DSA) to create a police-only 24-hour helpline to better support people living with dementia.

    More

    29 Jul 2025 12:15pm

    A man has died following a fatal crash at Angle Vale this morning.

    More

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police complete search of Parnkalla trail

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Branch and Port Lincoln Police, supported by SES personnel and a cadaver dog, have finished a detailed search of the Parnkalla Trail area in connection with the murder of Julian Story.

    A number of items were located during the search. All recovered evidence will be forwarded to Forensic Science SA for detailed scientific examination over the coming days.

    Police extend their gratitude to the many members of the Port Lincoln community who have come forward with information to aid this investigation.

    At this stage, there are no further searches planned, and investigators will now await the results of the forensic analysis.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The SPbPU PISh team received a patent for an igniter for reactors of oil and gas processing plants

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The team of the Scientific and Educational Center “Digital Engineering of the Main Equipment of Chemical-Engineering Systems” of the Advanced Engineering School of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University “Digital Engineering” successfully completed the development and received a patent for an ignition device for reactors of oil and gas processing plants.

    Patent for invention RU 2842893 C1 was registered by the Federal Service for Intellectual Property on July 3, 2025.

    Leading industry research centers and strategic industrial partners of SPbPU have shown significant interest in the development. The partners of the invention were JSC TsKBM (part of the State Corporation Rosatom), LLC NTC Gazconsulting, and the Federal Research Center of Chemical Physics named after N. N. Semenov of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    Among the ultimate stakeholders in the innovative device is JSC Research Institute of Scientific Production Association LUCH (part of the State Corporation Rosatom).

    Developers of ignition devices for reactors of oil and gas processing plants:

    Borovkov Aleksey Ivanovich, chief designer in the key scientific and technological direction of development of St. Petersburg SPBPU “System Digital Engineering”, director of the advanced engineering school of SPBPU “Digital Engineering”;
    Rozhdestvensky Oleg Igorevich, head of the Office of Technological Leadership of St. Petersburg State University;
    Aristovich Yuri Valerievich, expert NOC “Digital Engineering of the Basic Equipment of Chemical and Technological Systems” Pish SPBPU;
    Oganesyan Grach Varuzhanovich, chief specialist and researcher of Nutz “Digital Engineering of Basic Equipment of Chemical and Technological Systems” Pisch SPBPU;
    Mikheeva Valeria Yuryevna, engineer NOC “Digital Engineering of Basic Equipment of Chemical and Technological Systems” Pisch SPBPU;
    Nikolaeva Valery Andreevna, engineer NOC “Digital Engineering of the Basic Equipment of Chemical and Technological Systems” Pisch SPBPU;
    Ivanov Vladislav Sergeevich, Deputy Director of the Federal Research Center of Chemical Physics named after N. N. Semenova RAS for scientific work;
    Frolov Sergey Mikhailovich, head of the combustion department and explosion and head of the laboratory of the detonation of the Federal Research Center for Chemical Physics named after N. N. Semenova RAS;
    Vasiliev Nikolay Dmitrievich, chief designer for remotely controlled and transport and technological equipment of JSC “Central Design Bureau”;
    Marinchenko Nikita Aleksandrovich, head of the project office in shipbuilding and hydrogen energy of JSC “Central Design Bureau”;
    Bondarchuk Dmitry Vitalyevich, commercial director of NTC Gazksonsalting LLC.

    A critical production problem is to ensure reliable ignition of burner devices of complex process equipment, for example, an autothermal reforming reactor, during its start-up. Unsuccessful ignition can lead to the formation of explosive concentrations of a flammable mixture in subsequent elements of the process chain. This, in turn, can provoke uncontrolled exothermic reactions and, as a consequence, emergency situations with potential damage to equipment and personnel. The developed product provides a radical solution to the problem, guaranteeing stable and reliable ignition, – said the responsible executor of the development, an expert of the Scientific and Educational Center “Digital Engineering of the Main Equipment of Chemical-Engineering Systems” of the St. Petersburg Polytechnical School Yuri Aristovich.

    The ignition device is a structurally and functionally unified device – a complex technical system in which all components are interconnected and jointly implement the function of igniting the combustible mixture. The device contains a housing, an oxidizer supply pipe and a combustible gas supply pipe, a spark plug, valves of the oxidizer supply pipe and the combustible gas supply pipe, an outlet pipe. The housing contains a cylindrical mixing chamber, the inputs of the oxidizer supply pipe and the combustible gas supply pipe are located in the part of the mixing chamber that is most distant from the outlet pipe.

    The oxidizer feed pipe is connected to the housing so as to feed the oxidizer in the tangential direction, and the combustible gas feed pipe is connected so as to feed the combustible gas in the radial direction. The inlet openings of the pipes in the housing are made so as to ensure critical gas outflow. The dimensions of the inlet openings are reasonably selected so that when the back pressure changes, the flow rates of the combustible gas and oxidizer change proportionally, the diameter of the outlet pipe is from 10 to 50% of the diameter of the mixing chamber. The technical result is an increase in the reliability of the device.

    The ignition device is designed to operate in a short-pulse mode. This ensures reliable ignition at low thermal loads in a wide range of pressures (from 1 to several tens of atmospheres). The device forms and directs small volumes of flame – fire ellipses of a certain size and at a given speed. Ignition charges ensure reliable ignition of the main burner, minimizing the thermal load on the outflow zone and the ignition device body, which significantly simplifies the reactor design and its startup procedure.

    The task of developing an igniter within the established deadlines seemed extremely difficult. Initially, it was assumed that the system would be implemented with a developed cooling infrastructure and multi-component thermal protection, which is due to the extremely high operating temperatures that significantly exceed the parameters of standard devices. The specifics of the reactor excluded the possibility of using serial solutions. Alternative options were considered, including the use of pyrotechnic cartridges, but this approach was recognized as suboptimal in terms of manufacturability and operational safety. As a result, an original, reliable and safe igniter was created that meets all the requirements. The developed device demonstrates high potential for use not only within the framework of this project, but also in other industries that require reliable systems for initiating processes in high temperatures and aggressive environments, added Nikolay Vasiliev, Chief Designer for Remotely Controlled and Transport and Technological Equipment at JSC TsKBM.

    Chief designer for the key scientific and technological development area of SPbPU “Systemic Digital Engineering”, director of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” Alexey Borovkov spoke about the key success factor: “At the beginning of the work, none of the authors of the development could foresee the final result of creating a science-intensive and high-tech product. By combining the knowledge, experience and competencies of scientists, engineers and designers from various fields of knowledge and industries, we managed to form a unique multidisciplinary team and obtain impressive results. Of course, this is a logical result of the application of systemic digital engineering technologies, including the technology of developing digital twins, mathematical and computer modeling of non-stationary nonlinear physical-mechanical and physical-chemical processes of the behavior of a high-tech product.

    The development of a complex technical system is based on the effective application of the created multidisciplinary digital model [ 1, 2, 3 ], which is a system of interconnected mathematical and computer models describing combustion kinetics, chemical thermodynamics of free-radical reactions, dynamics of vortex flows at supercritical parameters of substances and non-stationary nonlinear thermomechanics. Numerous digital (virtual) tests and the necessary full-scale tests made it possible to carry out verification [ 1, 2 ] and validation [1, 2] developed models, to raise the level adequacy of models and descriptions of complex processes confirmed the efficiency and reliability of the developed high-tech product.

    With the help of approaches, technologies and methods of system digital engineering, the formed innovative scientific and technical groundwork and on the basis of the digital platform for the development and application of digital twins CML-Bench® [ 1, 2 ] our team implemented all stages of creating a finished industrial product in record time: development and design took only 2 months, manufacturing and testing – 3 months. It is fundamentally important to note that traditional approaches are not capable of ensuring such a high speed of implementation of science-intensive and high-tech projects for the development of complex technical systems.”

    In conclusion, we note that the results of the development of the ignition device have made a significant contribution to the formation of a scientific and technological reserve for the creation digital (virtual) testing ground for burner devices. The development of a digital test site is one of the most important final goals of a large-scale project to develop new generation burner devices for pyrolysis furnaces, implemented within the framework of the key scientific and technological direction (KNTD-1) of the development of SPbPU “Systemic Digital Engineering” within the framework of the “Priority-2030” program.

    The project within the framework of KNTN-1 provides for the definition of approaches to mathematical and computer modeling of new burner devices, development matrices requirements, target indicators and resource constraints, creation of a series of computer models of the prototype (primary, refined, detailed, optimized), conducting full-scale tests of a pilot industrial model of a burner device for validations computer model, development of design documentation and implementation into production.

    Let us recall that in June 2025, specialists from the Scientific and Educational Center “Digital Engineering of the Main Equipment of Chemical-Engineering Systems” of the SPbPU PISh presented This project and the Center’s expertise in developing burner devices at the Gazprom Neft site, one of the leaders in the oil and gas industry and petrochemical industry in Russia.

    Methodological support and the process of registering the right to the intellectual property object of the igniter were provided by Center for Transfer and Import Substitution of Advanced Digital and Manufacturing Technologies SPbPU.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Financial Action Task Force conducts on-site assessment in SA

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Africa Joint Group has concluded an on-site assessment visit to South Africa, which was aimed at verifying the implementation of reforms to address money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

    The on-site assessment took place on Tuesday and Wednesday in Pretoria, completing the last step before the October 2025 FATF Plenary can consider whether to remove South Africa from its greylist.

    The FATF Joint Group held meetings with South African government officials and representatives of financial institutions and Designated Non-Bank Financial Institutions. 

    “At the conclusion of the meetings, the FATF Africa Joint Group held a meeting with Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo and Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Andries Nel, who both assured the FATF of the South African government’s political commitment to continue to sustainably improve the country’s Anti-Money Laundering and the Combating of the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) system,” National Treasury said on Thursday.

    The on-site visit followed the announcement by the June 2025 FATF Plenary that South Africa had substantially completed all the 22 action items that were contained in the Action Plan that was adopted when South Africa was greylisted in February 2023.

    Following the completion of the 22 action items in the Action Plan, the June 2025 FATF Plenary noted that South Africa’s progress warranted an on-site assessment to verify that critical AML/CFT reforms have been implemented, and that the necessary political commitment remains in place to sustain progress.

    “After the conclusion of the onsite visit, the FATF Africa Joint Group will submit a report to the October 2025 FATF Plenary, which will consider any recommendations from the report on whether South Africa can be delisted from the FATF greylist.

    “Deputy Ministers Masondo and Nel thanked the FATF Africa Joint Group for its collegial working relationship with the South African government delegation since the country’s greylisting in February 2023, and further assured the FATF Africa Joint Group that the South African government will continue actively partnering with the FATF Global network in preserving and advancing the integrity of the South African and global financial systems,” National Treasury said.

    Treasury will not be issuing further media statements or conducting interviews until the FATF Plenary concludes its next Plenary Meeting on 24 October 2025 and issues its post-plenary outcomes media statement. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tender for re-opening of 10-year RMB HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds to be held on August 7

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
     
    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), as representative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSAR Government), announced today (August 1) that a tender of 10-year RMB institutional Government Bonds (Bonds) through the re-opening of existing 10-year Government Bond issue 10GB3505001 under the Infrastructure Bond Programme will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, for settlement on Monday, August 11, 2025.
     
    An additional amount of RMB1.5 billion of the outstanding 10-year Bonds (issue no. 10GB3505001) will be on offer. The Bonds will mature on May 15, 2035 and will carry interest at the rate of 2.29 per cent per annum payable semi-annually in arrear. The Indicative Pricings of the Bonds on August 1, 2025 are 104.23 with a semi-annualised yield of 1.816 per cent.
     
    Tender is open only to Primary Dealers appointed under the Infrastructure Bond Programme. Anyone wishing to apply for the Bonds on offer can do so through any of the Primary Dealers on the latest published list, which can be obtained from the Hong Kong Government Bonds website at www.hkgb.gov.hk. Each tender must be for an amount of RMB50,000 or integral multiples thereof.
     
    Tender results will be published on the HKMA’s website, the Hong Kong Government Bonds website, Bloomberg (GBHK ) and Refinitiv (IBPGSBPINDEX). The publication time is expected to be no later than 3pm on the tender day.

    HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds Tender Information

    Tender information of 10-year RMB HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds:
     

    Issue Number : 10GB3505001
    Stock Code : 85024 (HKGB2.29 3505-R)
    Tender Date and Time : Thursday, August 7, 2025
    9.30am to 10.30am
    Issue and Settlement Date : Monday, August 11, 2025
    Amount on Offer : RMB1.5 billion
    Maturity : 10 years
    Remaining maturity : Approximately 9.76 years
    Maturity Date : Tuesday, May 15, 2035
    Interest Rate : 2.29 per cent p.a. payable semi-annually in arrear
    Interest Payment Dates : May 15 and November 15 in each year, commencing on the Issue Date up to and including the Maturity Date, subject to adjustment in accordance with the terms of the Institutional Issuances Information Memorandum of the Infrastructure Bond Programme and Government Sustainable Bond Programme (Information Memorandum) published on the Hong Kong Government Bonds website.
    Method of Tender : Competitive tender
    Tender Amount : Each competitive tender must be for an amount of RMB50,000 or integral multiples thereof. Any tender applications for the Bonds must be submitted through a Primary Dealer on the latest published list.

    The accrued interest to be paid by successful bidders on the issue date (August 11, 2025) for the tender amount is RMB276.05 per minimum denomination of RMB50,000.

    (The accrued interest to be paid for tender amount exceeding RMB50,000 may not be exactly equal to the figures calculated from the accrued interest per minimum denomination of RMB50,000 due to rounding).
    Other Details : Please see the Information Memorandum available on the Hong Kong Government Bonds website or approach Primary Dealers.
    Expected commencement date of dealing on
    the Stock Exchange
    of Hong Kong Limited    		 : The tender amount is fully fungible with the existing 10GB3505001 (Stock code: 85024) listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong.
    Use of Proceeds : The Bonds will be issued under the institutional part of the Infrastructure Bond Programme. Proceeds will be invested in infrastructure projects in accordance with the Infrastructure Bond Framework published on the Hong Kong Government Bonds website.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Bloodshed at GHF-run Gaza aid sites ‘a great sin’, says former top UN official

    Asia Pacific Report

    A former senior UN aid official has condemned the bloodshed at the notorious US and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s aid food depots, describing the distribition system as having turned into a “catastrophe”.

    The number of aid seekers killed continues to climb daily beyond 1000.

    Martin Griffiths, director of Mediation Group International and the former Under Secretary General of the UN Humanitarian Affairs Office, said: “I think when many of us saw the first plans of the GHF to launch this operation in Gaza, we were immediately appalled by the way they were proposing to manage it.”

    “It was clearly militarised. They’d have their own security contractors,” he told Al Jazeera.

    “They’d have [Israeli military] camps placed right beside them. We know now that they are, in fact, under instructions by [the Israeli military].

    “All of this is a crime. All of this is a deep betrayal of humanitarian values.

    “But what I at least did not sufficiently anticipate was the killing and was the absolutely critical result of this operation, this sole humanitarian operation allowed by Israel in Gaza,” Griffiths added.

    “The 1000 killed are an incredible statistic. I had no idea it would go that high and it’s going on daily. It’s not stopping.

    “I think it’s a catastrophe more than a disappointment,” he said. “I think it’s a great sin. I think it’s a great crime.”

    Humanitarian aid advocate Martin Griffiths . . . We know now that [GHF] are, in fact, under instructions by [the Israeli military]. All of this is a crime.” Image: Wikipedia

    Commenting about US envoy Steve Witkoff and US ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee’s planned visit to GHF-run aid distribution sites in Gaza, he said this was “likely to be choreographed”.

    However, he acknowledged it was still an “important form of witness”.

    “I’m glad that they’re going,” Griffiths said.

    “Maybe they will see things that are unexpected. I can’t imagine because we’ve seen so much. But I don’t see it leading to a major change.

    “If I was one of the two million Gazans starving to death, this is a day I would like to go to an aid distribution point,” Griffiths added.

    “There’s slightly less risk probably than any other day.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 01.08.2025, 13-00 (Moscow time) the values of the lower limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A101LX1 security (FSK RS1R5) were changed.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    01/01/2025 13:00

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC) on 01.08.2025, 13-00 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 85.75) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 831.39 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 7.5%) of the security RU000A101LX1 (FSK RS1R5) were changed

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 01.08.2025, 10-21 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A10A9Z1 (Magnet4P05) were changed.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    01/01/2025 10:21

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC) on 01.08.2025, 10-21 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 116.53) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1218.05 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 8.75%) of the security RU000A10A9Z1 (Magnet4P05) were changed

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Five companies shut down for filing false and forged accounts

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Five companies shut down for filing false and forged accounts

    Companies falsely claimed to have hundreds of millions of pounds in turnover and profits

    • Automarket Europe Limited, Integra Group Limited, Maxell Limited, Montana & Montana Limited, and Supermarket Plus Ltd filed false accounts showing turnovers of up to £642 million despite having no genuine business activity 

    • All five companies shared office addresses in South London and Croydon. They also falsely named reputable accountants as auditors, and failed to co-operate with Insolvency Service investigations before being shut down 

    • The companies were investigated by the Insolvency Service as a result of referrals from Companies House following legislation to improve corporate standards 

    Five companies which submitted false accounts showing hundreds of millions of pounds of profits have been shut down following investigations by the Insolvency Service and Companies House. 

    Automarket Europe Limited, Integra Group Limited, Maxell Limited, Montana & Montana Limited, and Supermarket Plus Ltd claimed to trade as everything from supermarkets to car dealerships but no evidence was found of any true business activity. 

    The Insolvency Service investigations came following referrals from Companies House as part of the implementation of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, introduced to improve transparency over UK companies. 

    Companies House now has powers to remove false, misleading or incorrect information from company registers. The Act also strengthens collaboration between the Insolvency Service and Companies House to crack down on the misuse of UK corporate structures. 

    The five companies were all wound-up at the High Court in Manchester on Thursday 31 July. 

    Dave Magrath, Director of Investigation and Enforcement Services at the Insolvency Service, said: 

    Our investigators were concerned that there was a genuine risk that these wildly inaccurate accounts could have been used to mislead potential customers and suppliers into providing credit in the future based on completely fabricated financial information. 

    Protecting the integrity of the Companies House register is crucial because UK businesses rely on this information to make informed decisions about who they trade with, lend to, and invest in. When companies submit false information, it undermines confidence in our entire business environment. 

    By working together with Companies House, we can take decisive action to remove rogue companies from the system. This protects legitimate businesses and delivers the economic confidence that underpins growth and prosperity.

    Investigations found that the companies were connected through a shared director and/or shareholder and registered office addresses in South Croydon and South London. 

    All submitted accounts claiming hundreds of millions of pounds in profits but containing glaring inconsistencies. Each company also falsely named respected chartered accountants and solicitors in the accounts. 

    Automarket Europe Limited claimed a turnover of £327 million and net profit of £198 million for 2022. However, its declared assets jumped from £629,220 in 2021 to £84 million in the following year’s accounts – with no explanation for the increase. 

    Integra Group Limited reported similar figures, claiming £302 million turnover and £186 million profit for 2022. Again, net assets leapt from £602,374 in 2021 to £233 million in 2022. 

    Maxell Limited went even further, claiming a turnover of £440 million and £229 million in profits in 2022. According to its accounts, assets grew from £618,496 to £422 million in one year. 

    Montana & Montana Limited falsely named PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) as its auditors across multiple years. PWC confirmed they had never worked for the company and requested the accounts be removed. The company’s supposed assets ranged from minus £20 million to plus £194 million. 

    Supermarket Plus Ltd claimed the highest turnover of all – £642 million – with £330 million profit in 2022. Its assets supposedly increased from £402,431 to £410 million. 

    Despite the filed accounts claiming the companies ran substantial operations, they were written in poor English and provided no evidence of genuine trading activity.  

    All five companies failed to co-operate with Insolvency Service investigations or provide up-to-date accounting records. 

    Accounts filed by Automarket Europe Limited, Maxell Limited, and Supermarket Plus Ltd were also removed from Companies House after being found to be “factually inaccurate and forged”. 

    Adrian Landeg, Head of Integrity, Compliance & Enforcement at Companies House, said: 

    By working closely with our stakeholders we’re now able to utilise the powers in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act to take decisive action where false, misleading, or incorrect information is identified on the register. 

    These powers have also strengthened collaboration with our partners at the Insolvency Service which, as this case demonstrates, enables us to crack down on the misuse of UK corporate structures, improve the quality of information on the register and support economic growth.

    The Official Receiver has been appointed as liquidator of Automarket Europe Limited, Integra Group Limited, Maxell Limited, Montana & Montana Limited, and Supermarket Plus Ltd. 

    All enquiries concerning the affairs of the five companies should be made to the Official Receiver of the Public Interest Unit: 16th Floor, 1 Westfield Avenue, Stratford, London, E20 1HZ. Email piu.or@insolvency.gov.uk. 

    Further information  

    About us 

    The Insolvency Service is a government agency that helps to deliver economic confidence by supporting those in financial distress, tackling financial wrongdoing and maximising returns to creditors. 

    The Insolvency Service is an executive agency, sponsored by the Department for Business and Trade. 

    Read more about what we do 

    Press Office 

    Journalists with enquiries can call the Insolvency Service Press Office on 0303 003 1743 or email press.office@insolvency.gov.uk (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm). 

    Out of hours 

    For any out of hours media enquiries, please contact the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) newsdesk on 020 7215 2000.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Department of Justice Announces Compensation Process for Victims Trafficked Through Backpage.com

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Today, the Department of Justice announced the launch of the Backpage remission process to compensate victims whose trafficking was facilitated through the Backpage.com website. This marks the largest remission process to date to compensate victims of human trafficking.

    “Backpage.com facilitated the exploitation of women and children as one of the largest online advertisers for commercial sex and sex trafficking over its 14-year existence,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Backpage and its executives made millions off the trafficking of victims. Today’s announcement underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to use forfeiture to take the profit out of crime and to compensate victims.”

    “Backpage used its position as the leading commercial sex advertisement website to make millions of dollars through their corrupt and heinous peddling of people,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine for the District of Arizona. “The District of Arizona was proud to hold its executives accountable though criminal convictions and is proud to continue our efforts by forfeiting those ill-gotten gains to compensate real victims.”

    “Today’s announcement shows the FBI’s commitment to ensuring that those who profit from human trafficking face the consequences of their actions,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “We will continue to work alongside partners to thwart this industry by decimating its capacity for monetary gain while seeking safeguards for its victims.”

    “Sex trafficking is one of the most horrific crimes we confront as a society,” said Chief Guy Ficco of IRS Criminal Investigation. “While traffickers try to operate in the shadows, the money always leaves a trail—and that’s where we come in. IRS-CI is committed to following that financial trail to expose criminal networks and help bring justice to survivors. We’re proud to work with our federal partners to dismantle those who profit from exploitation. Victims in this case should file their petitions by Feb. 2, 2026, to access the compensation they rightfully deserve.”

    From 2004 to April 2018, criminals used Backpage.com as an online platform to facilitate commercial sex and sex trafficking, including trafficking of minors. In April 2018, the government seized Backpage.com. To date, Backpage.com, its owners, and key executives and businesses related to the platform have been found guilty of criminal offenses, including conspiring to facilitate unlawful commercial sex using a facility in interstate or foreign commerce and money laundering, and have been sentenced to federal terms of imprisonment.

    In December 2024, the Department of Justice forfeited over $200 million in assets traceable to Backpage’s profits. These funds are now available to compensate victims for eligible losses. The Department of Justice has retained Epiq Global Inc. (Epiq) to serve as the Remission Administrator for this matter.

    Victims whose sex trafficking was facilitated through advertisements posted on Backpage.com between Jan. 1, 2004, and April 6, 2018, and who incurred financial losses related to their trafficking may be eligible for remission. Individuals, their representatives, or estates of deceased victims may file a petition online or may obtain a Petition Form online at https://www.backpageremission.com/. Victims may also call, email, or write to the Remission Administrator to request that a Petition Form be sent to them.

    The deadline to file a petition for remission is Feb, 2, 2026. For more information about the remission process – including eligibility requirements, updates, and frequently asked questions – please visit the official website at https://www.backpageremission.com/ or contact Epiq at 1-888-859-9206 toll-free, or 1-971-316-5053 for international calls, charges may apply. The Remission Administrator and the Justice Department will not ask for any payment to participate in this remission process.

    The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the FBI, and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated this matter. 

    Senior Trial Attorney Austin Berry of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Rapp with assistance on forfeiture from Joseph Bozdech of the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Galatzan, Chief of the Central District of California’s Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section, handled the asset forfeiture aspects of the related civil cases. Special Agent Richard Robinson of IRS-CI, Special Agent Desirae Tolhurst of the FBI, USPIS Inspectors Lyndon Versoza and Quoc Thai, and Analyst Jane Chung with the Joint Regional Intelligence Center, spearheaded the investigation.

    The Department of Justice, through the Asset Forfeiture Program, works diligently to compensate victims of crime. Since 2000, the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), which oversees the Asset Forfeiture Program’s victim compensation program, has successfully used its specialized expertise to return more than $12 billion in forfeited assets to victims of crime. MLARS Senior Attorney Advisor Jane K. Lee and Attorney Advisor Brittany R. Van Camp with the section’s Program Management and Training Unit are leading the remission process.   

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: There must be no caveats for Palestinian state recognition

    Source: Scottish Greens

    29 Jul 2025 External Affairs

    Starmer must act without delay and end this shameful abandonment of a nation at risk of being extinguished by genocide

    More in External Affairs

    The UK Government’s promise to recognise Palestine as a state should not be conditional, say the Scottish Greens. 

    Today’s announcement by the Prime Minister saw Keir Starmer offer an opportunity for Palestine to be recognised as a state at the UN General Assembly in September, unless Israel enacts an immediate ceasefire, and commits to working towards a lasting two-state solution. He also said there must be no annexing of the West Bank.

    The Scottish Greens have always recognised the state of Palestine, separately from the state of Israel, and believe in the Palestinian people’s right to freedom, sovereignty and life without harm. We have continually called for an end to the occupation, and lasting peace for people in Gaza to rebuild their lives, and we will continue to do so. 

    Under the conditions set by Starmer, the state of Israel can decide to ignore his calls and continue carrying out horrific acts including displacement, murder and mass starvation of innocent civilians: children, adults and the elderly alike. 

    Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie MSP said:

    “Recognition of Palestine is decades overdue, and should not be conditional. It implies that if Israel agrees to pause the atrocities it’s committing, then the UK will in fact not join the majority of the world in recognising Palestine. This is an insult to the Palestinians’ right to self determination.

    “What we are witnessing are some of the worst war crimes recorded in recent history, often live streamed by the perpetrators, and they are happening almost completely unchecked. 

    “Gaza has been decimated, entire generations of families have been wiped out, and the most basic universal human rights have been stripped away from people. Keir Starmer’s words would carry some meaning if he immediately recognised the state of Palestine, called out the ongoing genocide, and stopped aiding and abetting the Israeli military by helping train their personnel or allowing UK-based arms dealers to sell them weapons for profit. 

    “There have been countless opportunities for this Labour government to give Palestinians state recognition, as well as the promise of lasting ceasefires that have not been upheld by the state of Israel. Starmer must act now, without delay, and end this shameful abandonment of a nation at risk of being extinguished by genocide.

    “Even if recognition for Palestine does come, it must be only the beginning – a moment when the international community steps in to stop the slaughter, end the occupation, and hold Israel’s leaders to account for their crimes in front of the International Criminal Court.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Department of Justice Announces Compensation Process for Victims Trafficked Through Backpage.com

    Source: US State of California

    Today, the Department of Justice announced the launch of the Backpage remission process to compensate victims whose trafficking was facilitated through the Backpage.com website. This marks the largest remission process to date to compensate victims of human trafficking.

    “Backpage.com facilitated the exploitation of women and children as one of the largest online advertisers for commercial sex and sex trafficking over its 14-year existence,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Backpage and its executives made millions off the trafficking of victims. Today’s announcement underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to use forfeiture to take the profit out of crime and to compensate victims.”

    “Backpage used its position as the leading commercial sex advertisement website to make millions of dollars through their corrupt and heinous peddling of people,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine for the District of Arizona. “The District of Arizona was proud to hold its executives accountable though criminal convictions and is proud to continue our efforts by forfeiting those ill-gotten gains to compensate real victims.”

    “Today’s announcement shows the FBI’s commitment to ensuring that those who profit from human trafficking face the consequences of their actions,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “We will continue to work alongside partners to thwart this industry by decimating its capacity for monetary gain while seeking safeguards for its victims.”

    “Sex trafficking is one of the most horrific crimes we confront as a society,” said Chief Guy Ficco of IRS Criminal Investigation. “While traffickers try to operate in the shadows, the money always leaves a trail—and that’s where we come in. IRS-CI is committed to following that financial trail to expose criminal networks and help bring justice to survivors. We’re proud to work with our federal partners to dismantle those who profit from exploitation. Victims in this case should file their petitions by Feb. 2, 2026, to access the compensation they rightfully deserve.”

    From 2004 to April 2018, criminals used Backpage.com as an online platform to facilitate commercial sex and sex trafficking, including trafficking of minors. In April 2018, the government seized Backpage.com. To date, Backpage.com, its owners, and key executives and businesses related to the platform have been found guilty of criminal offenses, including conspiring to facilitate unlawful commercial sex using a facility in interstate or foreign commerce and money laundering, and have been sentenced to federal terms of imprisonment.

    In December 2024, the Department of Justice forfeited over $200 million in assets traceable to Backpage’s profits. These funds are now available to compensate victims for eligible losses. The Department of Justice has retained Epiq Global Inc. (Epiq) to serve as the Remission Administrator for this matter.

    Victims whose sex trafficking was facilitated through advertisements posted on Backpage.com between Jan. 1, 2004, and April 6, 2018, and who incurred financial losses related to their trafficking may be eligible for remission. Individuals, their representatives, or estates of deceased victims may file a petition online or may obtain a Petition Form online at https://www.backpageremission.com/. Victims may also call, email, or write to the Remission Administrator to request that a Petition Form be sent to them.

    The deadline to file a petition for remission is Feb, 2, 2026. For more information about the remission process – including eligibility requirements, updates, and frequently asked questions – please visit the official website at https://www.backpageremission.com/ or contact Epiq at 1-888-859-9206 toll-free, or 1-971-316-5053 for international calls, charges may apply. The Remission Administrator and the Justice Department will not ask for any payment to participate in this remission process.

    The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the FBI, and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated this matter. 

    Senior Trial Attorney Austin Berry of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Rapp with assistance on forfeiture from Joseph Bozdech of the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Galatzan, Chief of the Central District of California’s Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section, handled the asset forfeiture aspects of the related civil cases. Special Agent Richard Robinson of IRS-CI, Special Agent Desirae Tolhurst of the FBI, USPIS Inspectors Lyndon Versoza and Quoc Thai, and Analyst Jane Chung with the Joint Regional Intelligence Center, spearheaded the investigation.

    The Department of Justice, through the Asset Forfeiture Program, works diligently to compensate victims of crime. Since 2000, the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), which oversees the Asset Forfeiture Program’s victim compensation program, has successfully used its specialized expertise to return more than $12 billion in forfeited assets to victims of crime. MLARS Senior Attorney Advisor Jane K. Lee and Attorney Advisor Brittany R. Van Camp with the section’s Program Management and Training Unit are leading the remission process.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Illumina Inc. to Pay $9.8M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Arising from Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Genomic Sequencing Systems

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Illumina Inc. has agreed to pay $9.8 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act when it sold to federal agencies certain genomic sequencing systems with cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Illumina is a Delaware corporation, headquartered in California, that manufactured and sold genomic sequencing systems throughout the United States.

    The settlement resolves allegations that, between February 2016 and September 2023, Illumina sold government agencies genomic sequencing systems with software that had cybersecurity vulnerabilities, without having an adequate security program and sufficient quality systems to identify and address those vulnerabilities. Specifically, the United States contended that Illumina knowingly failed to incorporate product cybersecurity in its software design, development, installation, and on-market monitoring; failed to properly support and resource personnel, systems, and processes tasked with product security; failed to adequately correct design features that introduced cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the genomic sequencing systems; and  falsely represented that the software on the genomic sequencing systems adhered to cybersecurity standards, including standards of the International Organization for Standardization and National Institute of Standards and Technology.

    “Companies that sell products to the federal government will be held accountable for failing to adhere to cybersecurity standards and protecting against cybersecurity risks,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement underscores the importance of cybersecurity in handling genetic information and the Department’s commitment to ensuring that federal contractors adhere to requirements to protect sensitive information from cyber threats.”

    “This settlement demonstrates our continuing commitment to combat cybersecurity risks by ensuring that federal contractors protect private and sensitive government information.” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Bloom for the District of Rhode Island.

    “This settlement demonstrates our continued commitment to work with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to ensure companies fulfill their contractual obligations,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher M. Silvestro of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Northeast Field Office, the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense’s Office of Inspector General. “Safeguarding the validity of Department of Defense research and data is vital to supporting the warfighter.” 

    “Significant damage can result from a failure to adhere to required cybersecurity standards, especially when the systems involved include sensitive genomic data,” said Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG and our law enforcement partners remain dedicated to ensuring that entities who do business with the government uphold their cybersecurity obligations.”

    The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and receive a share of any recovery. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblower, Erica Lenore, a former Director for Platform Management, On-Market Portfolio at Illumina, to receive $1,900,000 as her share of the settlement. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex. rel. Lenore v. Illumina Inc., No. 1:23-cv-00372 (D.R.I.).

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island, with assistance from DCIS, the Army Criminal Investigation Division, the HHS Office of the Inspector General, and the Department of Commerce Office of the Inspector General.

    The matter was investigated by Trial Attorney Erin Colleran of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Bloom of the District of Rhode Island.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illumina Inc. to Pay $9.8M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Arising from Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Genomic Sequencing Systems

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Illumina Inc. has agreed to pay $9.8 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act when it sold to federal agencies certain genomic sequencing systems with cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Illumina is a Delaware corporation, headquartered in California, that manufactured and sold genomic sequencing systems throughout the United States.

    The settlement resolves allegations that, between February 2016 and September 2023, Illumina sold government agencies genomic sequencing systems with software that had cybersecurity vulnerabilities, without having an adequate security program and sufficient quality systems to identify and address those vulnerabilities. Specifically, the United States contended that Illumina knowingly failed to incorporate product cybersecurity in its software design, development, installation, and on-market monitoring; failed to properly support and resource personnel, systems, and processes tasked with product security; failed to adequately correct design features that introduced cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the genomic sequencing systems; and  falsely represented that the software on the genomic sequencing systems adhered to cybersecurity standards, including standards of the International Organization for Standardization and National Institute of Standards and Technology.

    “Companies that sell products to the federal government will be held accountable for failing to adhere to cybersecurity standards and protecting against cybersecurity risks,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement underscores the importance of cybersecurity in handling genetic information and the Department’s commitment to ensuring that federal contractors adhere to requirements to protect sensitive information from cyber threats.”

    “This settlement demonstrates our continuing commitment to combat cybersecurity risks by ensuring that federal contractors protect private and sensitive government information.” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Bloom for the District of Rhode Island.

    “This settlement demonstrates our continued commitment to work with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to ensure companies fulfill their contractual obligations,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher M. Silvestro of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Northeast Field Office, the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense’s Office of Inspector General. “Safeguarding the validity of Department of Defense research and data is vital to supporting the warfighter.” 

    “Significant damage can result from a failure to adhere to required cybersecurity standards, especially when the systems involved include sensitive genomic data,” said Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG and our law enforcement partners remain dedicated to ensuring that entities who do business with the government uphold their cybersecurity obligations.”

    The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and receive a share of any recovery. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblower, Erica Lenore, a former Director for Platform Management, On-Market Portfolio at Illumina, to receive $1,900,000 as her share of the settlement. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex. rel. Lenore v. Illumina Inc., No. 1:23-cv-00372 (D.R.I.).

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island, with assistance from DCIS, the Army Criminal Investigation Division, the HHS Office of the Inspector General, and the Department of Commerce Office of the Inspector General.

    The matter was investigated by Trial Attorney Erin Colleran of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Bloom of the District of Rhode Island.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government confirms Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson as the next EHRC chair

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government confirms Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson as the next EHRC chair

    Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson has confirmed that Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson will be appointed as the new Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).

    • Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson confirmed as new Chair for Equality and Human Right Commission
    • Dr Stephenson will begin on 1 December 2025, after current chair Baroness Falkner’s term ends on 30 November
    • Dr Stephenson brings over 30 years of experience to the role

    Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson has today confirmed that Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson will be appointed as the new Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).

    This follows a full and open competition to recruit a new chair, in line with the Governance Code for Public Appointments.

    Dr Stephenson appeared in front of the Women and Equalities Committee and the Joint Committee on Human Rights on 1 July as part of a pre-appointment hearing where she was scrutinised by the committees.

    Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson has over 30 years of experience working on equality and human rights issues within the UK and internationally, over 20 of these at board and CEO level. She also holds a PhD in equality law.

    Positions she has held include:

    • Director of the Women’s Budget Group
    • Director of the Fawcett Society
    • tutor and visiting lecturer at University of Warwick Law School, including international human rights, UK employment law, UK equality law
    • visiting lecturer at University of Nottingham School of Law, London School of Economics and University of Wolverhampton
    • consultant to equalities and human rights projects including British Council, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Trade Union Congress, and Foreign and Commonwealth Office
    • Chair of Early Education and Childcare Coalition
    • board member of Coventry Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (CRASAC), Coventry Police and Crime Board, Just Fair, and Article 19
    • Campaigns Officer at Liberty

    Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson said:

    Equality and opportunity are absolutely vital in improving people’s life chances and the EHRC plays an essential role in upholding and protecting our rights.

    I have the utmost confidence that the depth and breadth of Dr Stephenson’s experience will allow her to run the EHRC with integrity and professionalism. I am particularly encouraged by the balance of her experience across equalities and human rights.

    I look forward to working with her on our shared mission to ensure that background is no barrier to success across the  country.

    Dr Stephenson said:

    It is a great honour to be appointed as the new Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission at such a critical time.

    I have spent over 30 years building my career across the equality and human rights sector and I am delighted to have the opportunity  to bring my  insight and experience to lead the EHRC with compassion, honesty and dedication.

    I look forward to working with the Government and all stakeholders alongside my new colleagues at the EHRC to uphold equality and human rights and ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

    Dr Zubaida Haque, former Deputy Director and Interim Director of Runnymede Trust said: 

    As the former Deputy Director and Interim Director of the Runnymede Trust during pivotal moments like the Windrush Scandal and the global Black Lives Matter protests, I know how important it is to centre the voices and experiences of Black and minority ethnic communities in public policymaking. 

    Having worked closely with Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson for nearly a decade, I can say without hesitation that Dr Stephenson has a very strong understanding of race, intersectionality, and the importance of including marginalised voices in all aspects of policy and decision-making. 

    We are living in uncertain political and economic times. Dr Stephenson’s extensive experience and leadership in equality and human rights is exactly what the EHRC needs right now.

    Ali Harris, Chief Executive Officer of Equally Ours said:

    Equally Ours has worked closely with Dr Stephenson for many years as director of the Women’s Budget Group. 

    At this critical time for people’s equality and human rights, Dr Stephenson will bring to this important role the ability to address complex issues, and the commitment to seeking to find solutions that work for everyone, through integrity and constructive dialogue.

    The current chair Baroness Falkner’s term is due to end on 30 November 2025. Dr Stephenson will therefore begin her position on 1 December 2025.

    The government is committed to ensuring that people of all backgrounds can thrive. The EHRC plays a vital role in upholding and promoting equality and human rights across England and Wales.

    The EHRC is independent of the government and makes its own enforcement decisions, including about any inquiries and investigations it decides to conduct.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: WEWAHITCHKA MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF FIREARM AND AMMUNITION

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Matthew Pellerito, 49, of Wewahitchka, Florida, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon and the carrying of a firearm without written notice. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said, “I applaud the excellent coordination of our state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies in their detection and investigation of these crimes.  My office is committed to aggressively investigating and prosecuting those who unlawfully possess weapons or ammunition.”

    Court documents reflect that on September 5, 2024, Pellerito prepared to board a commercial flight in Panama City, Florida. Pellerito’s checked luggage was flagged by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Inside of Pellerito’s luggage, TSA found an undeclared firearm and a 50-round box of ammunition. Pellerito stated that he was traveling to Oregon for a camping trip and had forgotten to declare the firearm with the airline. Further investigation confirmed that Pellerito is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition by law.

    Pellerito is scheduled for sentencing before United States District Judge Mark Walker on September 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in Tallahassee, Florida.  Pellerito faces up to fifteen years’ imprisonment on the firearm and ammunition charge, and up to five years’ imprisonment on the carrying of firearm without written notice charge.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Transportation Security Administration, the Panama City Airport Police Department, and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –