NewzIntel.com

Category: Crime

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Nato is struggling to rebuild itself in an increasingly threatening world

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Amelia Hadfield, Head of Department of Politics, University of Surrey

    In the years after Nato was formed in 1949, its US and European members had a collective approach to defence with clear goals in common, largely built around the protection of western Europe against the Soviet Union. Throughout this era, the US and Europe both relied on the stability of the international system by creating international cooperation on shared dilemmas.

    Fast forward more than 70 years, and there is now a ticking clock on reinventing the transatlantic alliance.

    European security and US-led Nato security are no longer one and the same. Certainly, recent statements from US leaders that the US will prioritise empowering Europe to own responsibility for its own security has made for tough listening in Europe.

    For some, this may be an overdue opportunity to fundamentally rework the transatlantic security relationship. For others, such statements are worryingly set against the backdrop of Trump’s pro-Russia stance, with Trump’s demands sounding sinister at best.

    Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte recently outlined a need to “build a stronger, a fairer and more lethal NATO”. Global threats were creating a more dangerous world, he argued.

    Mark Rutte, Nato’s secretary-general, speaks at a 2025 meeting in Brussels,

    From its establishment by 12 states on April 4, 1949, until the end of the cold war era, Nato was focused on one big thing: deterring Soviet aggression. Ultimately, Nato had one job, one enemy, one threat, one theatre and one instrument of power.

    It was a partnership that enabled the US to build and maintain a more permanent role in European security. This collective security plan prevented the US from falling back into isolationist foreign policies that it had held before the second world war

    Arguably, US attitudes fluctuated throughout this era. Initially the country sought a temporary role in Nato, with limited military commitment. It also encouraged western European Nato members to take early and primary responsibility for defence.

    However, the huge Soviet nuclear threat hardened US attitudes. And Nato came to be seen as key to the US’s overall ability to prevent a Soviet invasion of western Europe. Equally important was the role of the Marshall Plan, a massive post-war reconstruction plan for Europe, which (in conjunction with Nato) represented the US’s desire to work with European partners to both stabilise the region, and ensure democracy.

    Through the decades that followed, the US saw Nato as a cornerstone of its foreign policy. It is important to remember that transactionality has always been an integral part of the transatlantic relationship, but it was never at the expense of the values that underpinned it, and indeed reinforced both US national and European regional interests in doing so.

    Throughout the 1990s, and well into the 2000s, Nato clearly represented the US’s preferred method of maintaining its military presence in Europe (including US bases, weapons and troops stationed in member countries). The US drove the redefinition of post-cold war Nato, to include former Warsaw Pact countries including Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic.



    Read more:
    US and Russia squabble over Arctic security as melting ice opens up shipping routes

    The question now is whether US leadership in Nato was focused so extensively on security of Europe and pushing back against the Soviets that for a long time the dilemma of who paid for what was essentially set aside.

    Long overdue problems?

    But two wake-up calls were to come. The first was the increasingly clear indications from US administrations from Barack Obama’s presidency onwards that the US was ill at ease with Nato as a whole, and it was unhappy with the lower financial commitment, than the US, coming from European members.

    The second was in 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea. Unfortunately, the first warning sign by Obama was largely ignored; and when Russia invaded Crimea, Nato did not step up to push back against Putin’s expansionism.

    Now, Nato finds itself once again in the crosshairs of US anger about funding, and with Trump furious at European defence spending levels, and determined to massively revise the transatlantic bargain.

    Trump’s first administration put spending from European Nato members firmly on the table. His recent position is merely a continuation of that theme.

    From the European perspective, the US was, and is, a key part of the collective security structure that has empowered European defence and deterrence, but possibly with an out-of-date funding model.

    Trump, meanwhile, appears to see the US’s involvement as politically naïve. He seems to view Nato as strategically futile and defence spending imbalances as an indication that Nato is nothing more than a giant security racket.

    What is stark is the reversal between the US having helped found Nato and as the leading nation backing of a rule-bound global system under international law and Trump’s preference to reject any responsibilities for global leadership and stability.

    What has come as a shock to European members is not perhaps the demands regarding improving defence funding, but the abdication of US leadership and the threat to leave Nato completely, with no ongoing US responsibility to defend the world order.

    The onus is now on European Nato members to make both serious and swift changes. Indications of far more serious financial commitments, including from Germany, are emerging. European defence spending overall increased by 11.7% over the last year to roughly €423.3 billion (£371 billion), representing ten years of consecutive regional growth.

    Next steps include focusing on AI-led technologies, cheap drones, digital tech and improved commitments to joint projects.

    But the hardest task is also the most urgent. Namely, to avoid the chaos of a unilateral US withdrawal from Nato.

    There’s a need to move the financial and military burden to Europe in a way agreeable to the US before the Nato summit in June. Discussions on how to achieve this need to cover everything from nuclear deterrence to challenges arising from the conflict in Ukraine.

    Whether Rutte and European states can indeed preserve and maintain the collective security foundations on which Nato was first built remains to be seen. But, certainly, the current world situation is no less dangerous that the world in which Nato itself was first built.

    Amelia Hadfield 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. Why Nato is struggling to rebuild itself in an increasingly threatening world – https://theconversation.com/why-nato-is-struggling-to-rebuild-itself-in-an-increasingly-threatening-world-253494

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Columbia Citizens Academy Application Period Extended

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    LEXINGTON, SC—The FBI Columbia field office announced today the FBI Citizens Academy nomination period has been extended. As the spring session has been postponed, nominations are now due June 1. The class begins Thursday, August 7 and meets every Thursday from 4—6 p.m., culminating with a graduation on Sept. 18.

    The mission of the FBI Citizens Academy is to foster a greater understanding of the role of federal law enforcement in the community through frank discussion and education.

    More information about Citizens Academy can be found on the Community Outreach section of our website at: fbi.gov/columbia. The nomination form can be accessed directly by clicking on the following hyperlink: https://forms.fbi.gov/fbi-citizens-academy-nomination-form-columbia/view.

    Candidates must meet the following criteria:

    • Be a recognized business, religious, or community leader
    • Live and/or work within the division’s jurisdiction
    • Be at least 21 years old
    • Consent to a limited background investigation, to include fingerprint checks
    • Agree to attend all sessions, with no more than two excused absences

    Individuals chosen through the selection process will be notified by email. There is no cost to attend the academy.

    Questions can be emailed to the Community Outreach team at Columbia_Outreach@fbi.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Boone Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Attempting to Transfer Obscene Material to a Minor

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    DES MOINES, Iowa – A Boone man was sentenced on March 28, 2025, to five years in federal prison for attempted transfer of obscene material to a person he believed to be a minor.

    According to public court documents, Travis Lee Morgan, 40, used a Facebook account to communicate with a person he believed to be a 13-year-old female, but was instead a law enforcement officer. Between June and August 2023, Morgan sent numerous videos and images to the female, including images of his genitals and himself engaged in a sex act, and discussed in-person sex acts Morgan desired to occur with the minor female.

    After completing his term of imprisonment, Morgan will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

    United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the FBI Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force, the Altoona Police Department, and the Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Criminal Investigation-Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with assistance from the Boone Police Department and the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the resources tab.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Charles County Man Pleads Guilty to Four Armed Commercial Robberies

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Greenbelt, Maryland – Today, Daniel Michael Harris, Sr., 43, of Waldorf, Maryland, pleaded guilty to committing an armed robbery while using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

    Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the plea with Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office; Chief Malik Aziz, Prince George’s County Police Department; Sheriff Troy D. Berry, Charles County Sheriff’s Office; and Chief Marc Yamada, Montgomery County Police Department. 

    According to his guilty plea, Harris and his co-conspirators planned and committed armed robberies of two businesses in Prince George’s County, one business in Charles County, and one business in Montgomery County.  On March 23, and March 28, 2023, Harris and his co-conspirators robbed two convenience stores in Prince George’s County and stole cash from the registers and several packs of cigarettes.  Harris brandished a pistol-grip shotgun during both robberies.

    Then on April 5, 2023, Harris and his co-conspirators robbed a convenience store in Charles County and stole cash from the registers and the wallet and phone of a store employee.  Harris also brandished a pistol-grip shotgun and held the store employee at gunpoint while pinning a customer into a wall corner with his forearm.

    On April 6, 2023, Harris and his co-conspirators robbed a convenience store in Montgomery County, stealing cash from the register and a store employee’s purse and phone.  Harris also brandished the same pistol-grip shotgun used in the earlier robberies.

    Then on April 12, 2023, a Prince George’s County Police Department officer observed the getaway vehicle used by Harris and his co-conspirators in two of the robberies, resulting in a traffic stop.  The occupants of the vehicle fled and escaped.  Law enforcement recovered several items from the vehicle and submitted the items for Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) testing.  A subsequent DNA report revealed a high stringency match between Harris and a DNA sample from a bottle recovered from the vehicle.

    On November 9, 2023, Charles County Sherriff’s Office detectives obtained and executed a search warrant for Harris’s storage unit.  Detectives accessed the storage unit and identified the clothing items Harris wore and the same pistol-grip shotgun he used during the robberies.

    Harris and the government have agreed that, if the Court accepts the plea agreement, he faces 13 to 17 years in federal prison.  U.S. District Judge Deborah K. Chasanow scheduled the sentencing for Friday, July 18, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    U.S. Attorney Hayes praised the FBI, Prince George’s County Police Department, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, and Montgomery County Police Department for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan S. McKoy who is prosecuting the case.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Dallas Conducts Federal Civil Rights Training with San Angelo-Area Law Enforcement

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    SAN ANGELO, TX—The FBI Dallas Field Office and FBI San Angelo Resident Agency partnered with the Angelo State University Police Department (ASUPD) to serve as the host for federal civil rights training for regional law enforcement this week.

    The interactive training explains how federal criminal statues related to law enforcement misconduct applies to local and state agencies, and outlines the roles of the FBI and Department of Justice. Presentation materials included body camera footage, scenario-based discussions and case study review.

    Dallas FBI Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock explained, “Training is critical to the continued education of our law enforcement population to recognize and prevent potential civil rights violations. We are grateful for Angelo State University Police Department’s commitment to host this session for regional law enforcement, and thank them for their continued partnership.”

    The FBI is the primary federal agency responsible for investigating allegations regarding possible violations of federal civil rights statutes and works closely with its partners to prevent and address hate crimes and color of law violations.

    More than 25 law enforcement officers from 10 departments participated.

    For additional information on the FBI’s Civil Rights program please visit https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/civil-rights.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bank Contractor Admits to Conspiracy to Load Debit Cards with Fraudulent Funds

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    HOUSTON – A 23-year-old Houston woman has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Jaysha Victorian worked for a bank contractor from late 2020 to early 2021. She used her access to the systems of a national banking institution to load prepaid debit cards with fraudulent funds. These included prepaid cards that were used to provide unemployment benefits, including for the state of California. 

    The cards were distributed to other recipients, who withdrew the funds at ATMs and other locations. In total, Victorian credited at least 187 cards with nearly $8.6 million in fraudulent funds. Over $7.6 million of that amount had been withdrawn or spent before the bank could freeze the cards.

    Victorian admitted she used some of the funds to conduct ATM transactions on her own, including a $1,000 withdrawal at a branch in Houston.

    She also received approximately $300,000 in cash proceeds from her role in the scheme.  

    U.S. District Judge Andrew S. Hanen will impose sentencing July 7. At that time, Victorian faces up to five years in prison and a possible $250,000 fine.

    She was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing. 

    The FBI, Houston Police Department, Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General’s Covid Fraud Unit and Department of Labor conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brad Gray and Karen Lansden are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sixteen Charged in Sweeping Houston-Based Multimillion-Dollar Illegal Gambling and Money Laundering Conspiracy

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    “Operation Double Down” leads to seizure of over $16 million in currency, accounts, and assets, as well as arrest of illegal aliens

    HOUSTON – Several Houston-area residents are now in custody on various charges including conspiracy, operating illegal game rooms, bribery and money laundering in one of the largest ever law enforcement operations in the Southern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    They are expected to make their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina Bryan at 2 p.m.

    In addition to those indicted in the scheme, authorities also arrested 31 illegal aliens on various immigration and firearms charges during the operation April 2. One of those included an illegal alien who allegedly assaulted a law enforcement officer.

    The indictment, returned March 26 and unsealed upon the arrests, alleges Nizar Ali, 61, Richmond, and others allegedly conspired to own, operate or assist in the operation of illegal game rooms. All also conspired to conduct financial transactions to conceal and disguise the nature and source of the proceeds of the illegal gambling business, which totaled more than $22 million, according to the charges.

    More than 700 law enforcement officers from 18 agencies served a total of 45 search and 40 seizure warrants at locations throughout Houston and the surrounding area. The locations included 30 illegal game rooms with names such as El Portal and Yellow Building.

    During the operation, authorities recovered more than $4.5 million in cash as well as $5 million in property and vehicles, 2000 slot machines, 100 Rolex watches and eight firearms. Law enforcement also seized approximately $6.5 million from bank accounts and other financial institutions pursuant to the court-issued warrants.

    In addition to Ali, others taken into custody include Naeem Ali, 33, and Amer Khan, 68, both of Richmond; Ishan Dhuka, 33, and Sahil Karovalia, 32, both of Rosenberg; Sarfarez Maredia, 38, and Shoaib Maredia, 40, both of Sugar Land; Yolanda Figueroa, 40, Pasadena; Viviana Alvarado, 45, LaPorte; and Anabel Eloisa Guevarra, 46, Precela Solis, 27, Maria Delarosa, 53, Claudia Calderon, 37, and Lucia Hernandez, 34, all of Houston.

    Two others – Sayed Ali, 59, Richmond, and Stephanie Huerta, 35, Houston – are considered fugitives and warrants remain outstanding for their arrests.

    All are charged with conspiracy, operating an illegal gambling business and interstate travel in aid of racketeering which each carry possible prison terms of five years as well as conspiracy to commit money laundering which has a maximum 20-year possible prison term.

    Ali is also charged with 32 counts of federal program bribery for allegedly paying more than $500,000 to an undercover officer in an attempt to protect the illicit game rooms from law enforcement intervention. If convicted, he faces up to 10 more years in prison on each count.

    With the exception of the money laundering charge which has the possibility of a $500,000 maximum fine or twice the value of the property involved, the remaining counts carry a maximum $250,000 potential fine.

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) led the investigation along with IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) and the assistance of Houston Police Department (HPD); FBI; High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program; Harris County Constable’s Office – Precinct One; Harris County District Attorney’s Office; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Drug Enforcement Administration. Other agencies providing support include ICE – Enforcement and Removal Operations, Customs and Border Protection, sheriff’s offices in Harris and Montgomery Counties, Houston Fire Department, Texas Attorney General’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety and police departments in Baytown and Pasadena.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. Mark McIntyre, John Marck and Carolyn Ferko are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon Fyffe and Tyler Foster are handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Washington Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Prison for Murder on the Colville Reservation

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced Steven Joseph Zacherle, age 38, to 204 months in prison for Second Degree Murder in Indian Country and Threats in Interstate Commerce. Judge Rice also imposed 5 years of supervised release and restitution payable to the Colville Confederated Tribes for the murder victim’s funeral expenses.

    According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing, on the evening of October 18, 2022, Zacherle was in a domestic dispute with his intimate partner (Victim 1) near a gas station on the Colville Indian Reservation. During the dispute, Victim 1 drove away from the area without Zacherle, who had gone inside a nearby store.

    When Zacherle realized Victim 1 had left him, he began calling and texting her, demanding she return, or he was going to “kill” and “hurt people.” About the same time as Zacherle was making these threats to Victim 1, Dion Boyd, an elder within the Colville Tribe, exited the nearby gas station. Zacherle and Mr. Boyd walked the same direction for a short distance. Zacherle then attacked Mr. Boyd, striking him in the head.

    Within minutes of that attack, Zacherle called Victim 1 and referenced the assault, bragging that he had knocked someone out.  He then asked Victim 1 whether she wanted to see what Zacherle had done.  Victim 1 reported that she could hear garbled breathing and snorting on the phone line.

    Shortly after the assault, Omak Police and first responders located Mr. Boyd, who was unresponsive and face down, bleeding from his head. Medical providers later determined Mr. Boyd was braindead and that Mr. Boyd would never recover from the injuries Zacherle inflicted. Mr. Boyd’s family spent the next twenty days at Mr. Boyd’s bedside in the hospital hoping for a miracle, but Mr. Boyd ultimately died as a result of the injuries sustained in the assault.  The Medical Examiner determined Mr. Boyd suffered a severe brain hematoma and cracked skull because of the unprovoked attack.

    “My heart goes out to the Boyd family, who have suffered so much pain as a result of Mr. Zacherle’s unprovoked attack,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Barker. “My office is fully committed to working federal, state, local, and Tribal leaders to fully prosecuting violent crimes on Tribal land. The victims and survivors of these terrible crimes deserve nothing less.”

    At sentencing, MMIP AUSA Bree Black Horse explained “Mr. Boyd’s family and friends have uniformly described Mr. Boyd as a kind, generous person who helped raise his younger siblings and later his own children. Mr. Boyd also served his Tribe as an IT technician, ensuring Colville Tribal members living in rural areas could have cell service.”

    In recommending the Court impose a 17-year sentence, MMIP AUSA Black Horse explained “Mr. Boyd’s violent and senseless death at the hands of Zacherle has severely impacted the large family Mr. Boyd has left behind. And, Mr. Boyd is now among the disproportionate number of murdered Indigenous people and Mr. Boyd’s family has joined the ranks of too many other MMIP families throughout Eastern Washington and elsewhere.”

    “This appalling attack was truly senseless.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Mr. Zacherle displayed a shocking disregard for the value of human life when he took his frustrations out on an innocent bystander, recklessly costing that person his life.  The Colville Indian Reservation is a safer place with him off the streets.”

    This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners.  The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components.  Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and the Colville Tribal Police Department. It was prosecuted by Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker and Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Assistant United States Attorney Bree R. Black Horse.

    2:23-cr-00007-TOR

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: ESO Releases Fire Service Index: Reports 28% Increase in Wildland Fire Incidents, Calls for Improvements in Decontamination Efforts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ESO, a leading data services and software provider for EMS, fire departments, hospitals, and state and federal agencies, released its 2025 Fire Service Index, which illustrates the staggering impact of nationwide wildland fires as well as the demand for broader decontamination efforts. Now in its sixth year, the index analyzed 7,919,600 incidents from calendar year 2024 from 2,739 participating agencies nationwide that use ESO services.

    “The Fire Service Index represents our commitment to protecting those who protect us,” said Antonio Fernandez, PhD, NRP, principal research scientist for ESO. “The insights we uncover can guide agencies to direct prevention resources where they’re needed most. By making these data freely accessible, we’re empowering fire departments nationwide to benchmark performance, identify critical trends and take proactive measures in their communities.”

    Notable findings from the analysis include:

    • 54,489 wildland fire incidents were reported in 2024 (up 28% year over year), totaling 1.78 million total acres burned—a 650% increase in acreage from 2023.
    • Wildland fire incidents were frequent throughout most of the year—not just in warmer months.
    • Fire departments continue to respond to more EMS calls than fire incidents. EMS incidents accounted for the majority of all incidents (63%), while fire responses accounted for just 3% of all calls.
    • 19% of firefighters did not document a decontamination procedure (e.g. cleaning exposed areas, dry-brushing gear, using wet wipes, etc.) after fire exposure, which can drastically increase long-term health risks such as cancer.

    “The intensifying frequency of wildland fires across the country is yet another reason why proper decontamination has become critical to safeguarding the health and lives of our nation’s firefighters,” said Bill Gardner, executive director of fire and EMS for ESO. “We’re encouraged that 80% of departments are documenting one decontamination method after exposure, but we cannot stress enough the importance of increasing that number to 100% and establishing multiple decontamination procedures as the gold standard.”

    Decontamination metrics are now available in ESO’s static benchmarking dashboards. This enhancement allows fire departments nationwide to compare themselves with peers and enables ESO to better monitor prevention effectiveness.

    The release of the 2025 Fire Service Index follows ESO’s receipt of the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) V1 Compatible Badge, which ensures Fire Incident customers remain compliant with the new standard. To access the 2025 ESO Fire Service Index, click here. To learn more about ESO, visit www.eso.com.

    Methodology and Limitations
    The dataset for the 2025 ESO Fire Service Index report is real-world data, compiled and aggregated from 7,919,600 incidents that occurred in calendar year 2024 across the United States. There are no universal rules designed around these trends. The purpose of the Index is to be informative and directional, but it is not intended to be a scientific study—nor is it intended to be comprehensive in nature. ESO hopes this Index serves as a body of literature that adds to the discussion and conversation around best practices for each of the selected metrics to help improve community health and safety.

    About ESO
    ESO (ESO Solutions, Inc.) is dedicated to improving community health and safety through the power of data. Since its founding in 2004, the company continues to pioneer innovative, user-friendly software to meet the changing needs of today’s EMS agencies, fire departments, hospitals, and state and federal offices. ESO currently serves thousands of customers across the globe with a broad software portfolio, including the state-of-the-art Logis IDS CAD solution, industry-leading ESO Electronic Health Record (EHR), the next-generation ePCR; ESO Health Data Exchange (HDE), the first-of-its-kind health care interoperability platform; ESO Fire RMS, the modern fire Record Management System; ESO Patient Registry (trauma, burn and stroke registry software); and ESO State Repository. ESO is headquartered in Austin, Texas. For more information, visit www.eso.com.

    Media Contact:
    For ESO,
    Hope Sander
    Red Fan Communications
    eso@redfancommunications.com
    737-280-8783

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Steil Introduces Bill to Maintain Sanctions on Terrorists in Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bryan Steil (Wisconsin-1)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Contact: Michael Donatello

    Steil Introduces Bill to Maintain Sanctions on Terrorists in Iran

    Washington, DC – This week, Congressman Bryan Steil (WI-01) introduced the No Sanctions Relief for Terrorists Act, part of the Republican Study Committee’s Enforcing Maximum Pressure Initiative. Steil’s bill ensures that sanctions on Iran cannot be lifted unless the country stops funding terrorist activity.

     

    “The Iranian regime is the largest State Sponsor of Terrorism in the world and has continued to finance terrorist proxies for more than four decades. Iran’s actions have endangered U.S. citizens, companies, and allies around the world,” said Steil. “No administration should repeat the errors of the Biden Administration.  We must ban sanctions waivers that can enable the Iranian regime to finance attacks on America and our allies.”

    Background:

    • In 2023, the Biden Administration allowed the Islamic Republic of Iran to access up to $10 billion in previously restricted funds using a sanctions waiver.
    • This action occurred despite increasing terrorist activities and Iran’s role in funding and arming Hamas, including providing weapons used in the October 7th terrorist attack against Israel.
    • Congressman Steil previously called on the Biden Administration to cease the use of this workaround and address why the administration saw fit to provide relief to the world’s largest State Sponsor of Terrorism.
    • Congressman Steil joined his colleagues with the Republican Study Committee at a press conference Wednesday to introduce a package of bills that would restore maximum pressure on the Iranian Regime and protect the American people from terrorism.
    • The No Sanctions Relief for Terrorists Act prevents any presidential administration from providing sanctions relief to individuals and entities in Iran sanctioned for terrorism unless the President could certify to Congress that Iran was no longer sponsoring terrorism.
    • Specifically, the legislation would prevent the abuse of humanitarian waivers and licenses, as used under the Biden Administration, which allowed the administration to circumvent terrorism-related sanctions.
    • This bill follows the restoration of significant sanctions on Iran by the Trump Administration.
    • Video of the press conference can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PHILIPPINES – Election campaign between dynasties and polarizations: Bishops’ appeal to consider “the well-being of others”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    PPCRV

    Manila (Agenzia Fides) – In an election campaign marked by events and statements that polarize voters, the Philippines is heading toward the mid-term elections scheduled for May 12, 2025, in which citizens will elect 12 senators, the entire lower house of parliament, and thousands of regional and local representatives.The election campaign, which began on February 11, is dominated by the scandal surrounding Rodrigo Duterte, the former president arrested for crimes against humanity at the instigation of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Duterte continues to run for mayor of Davao City despite his detention at the ICC. This was confirmed by the Philippine Commission on Elections (Comelec), which clarified that Duterte has not withdrawn his candidacy for mayor of the city where he began his political career and served for 22 years before becoming president of the Philippines in 2016, nor has he been barred from running. During the 2022 elections, which were later won by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., organizations and observers such as the Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL) pointed to widespread problems such as vote buying, disinformation campaigns, and even the misuse of state resources by government officials seeking public office.The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) – a church body called upon by civil society to oversee the elections to ensure transparency – also highlighted several factors of serious concern: sexist statements by some candidates expressing violence and contempt for others; the presence of political dynasties in the Philippine landscape; and the significant influence of social media on actors involved in Philippine elections, especially in the local context. “The course of the election campaign,” said Evelyn Singson, president of the PPCRV, “reminds us that the election is sacred and that we should decide and vote based on important values,” citing “fear of God, honesty, education, diligence, helpfulness, caring, and love for the common good.” The fight against “political dynasties,” which are among the factors that lead to corruption, is the specific subject of a petition submitted to the Supreme Court by a group of citizens, including lawyers, former judges, members of social bodies, some Catholic bishops, and representatives of church organizations. Dynasties are prohibited in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, but Congress has never addressed the issue. The signatories of the petition therefore call – as they did in 2012 – for the passage of a special law defining and prohibiting political dynasties. According to non-governmental organizations, clans still dominate politics today: Currently, a quarter of the Senate is made up of just three families, while in the House of Representatives, eight out of ten district seats are held by family dynasties. In light of the upcoming elections, the Catholic bishops of the Philippines have issued a pastoral letter entitled “Be Concerned for the well-being of others,” urging voters to use their voices to protect freedom and ensure the common good. “We must improve the lives of our people, especially the poor and the vulnerable. This is the primary responsibility of a public servant,” reads the letter from the Philippine Bishops’ Conference, which was read during Sunday Masses across the country. “We need competent leaders and legislators with sincere intentions who serve the good of our parishes, cities, provinces, and the entire country,” the letter reads. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 8/4/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Kaseya Joins Forces with Overwatch to Deliver on Brand Promise of Creating an Unfair Advantage for Partners Through Hyperautomation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BATAVIA, Ill., April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — High Wire Networks, Inc. (OTCQB: HWNI), Overwatch division announces a strategic partnership with Kaseya, the leading global provider of AI-powered cybersecurity and IT management software. Kaseya is aligned with the vision and leadership of Overwatch’s new executive team and fully supports the company’s bold commitment to its brand promise—creating an unfair advantage for partners and their customers.

    Rather than a standard vendor relationship, Kaseya is leaning in—investing directly in Overwatch’s ability to scale with speed and purpose. Their support strengthens Overwatch’s hyperautomation efforts, helping drive operational velocity and efficiency not only internally but across the partner ecosystem. These efforts simplify go-to-market activities, accelerate onboarding, and deliver faster value to partners, enabling them to serve their customers better.

    “Kaseya has agreed to strategically support our mission of creating an unfair advantage for our channel, partner ecosystem, and their customers by investing in this relationship,” said Ed Vasko, CEO of High Wire-Overwatch.

    “This strategic support empowers High Wire Overwatch to continue innovating our services and solutions while driving greater efficiencies and hyperautomation across our operating structure. By reducing costs and enabling faster, more agile responses to the needs of our partners and their customers, this partnership creates a powerful platform for ongoing innovation. It’s more than an endorsement—it’s a shared commitment to helping our partners win,” Vasko continued.

    Through this collaboration, Overwatch is expanding its cybersecurity capabilities in ways that deliver real, measurable value to its partners. The investment from Kaseya enables Overwatch to enhance its back-office operations with intelligent automation across CRM, ticketing, quoting, and payment systems, streamlining partner onboarding and enabling faster speed to market. This tight integration improves the overall partner experience while reducing the time from quote to cash, ultimately driving increased partner profitability.

    New service enhancements include augmented monitoring and management tools that support scalable vulnerability management, enabling partners to identify and mitigate risks within their own environments and their customers’ infrastructures.

    Overwatch has also launched extended threat monitoring intelligence services that include adversarial dark web monitoring by identifying compromised credentials, domains, and accounts across partner ecosystems.

    Additionally, Kaseya’s support has helped Overwatch design a cyber hygiene starter tier that focuses on the most exploited attack vectors—users, email, endpoints, and cloud productivity platforms—providing partners with a simple and effective foundation for protecting their customers.

    “At Kaseya, we’re dedicated to helping companies like High Wire Overwatch gain a competitive edge in the market,” said Joe Smolarski, President & Chief Customer Officer of Kaseya. “A complete integrated platform from Kaseya will provide unmatched operational efficiency. In addition, the cybersecurity offerings Overwatch can now offer to its customers will be integral in protecting their end-customers against the evolving threats facing small businesses today.”

    This strategic partnership and the investment behind it positions Overwatch to deliver exceptional cybersecurity solutions while creating lasting and scalable advantages for its growing network of partners and their customers.

    About Kaseya   
    Kaseya is the leading global provider of AI-powered cybersecurity and IT management software. Through its customer-centric approach and renowned support, Kaseya delivers best-in-breed technologies that empower organizations to seamlessly manage IT infrastructure, secure networks, backup critical data, manage service operations, and grow their businesses. Kaseya offers a broad array of IT management solutions from industry-leading providers: audIT, ConnectBooster, Datto, Graphus, ID Agent, IT Glue, Kaseya, RapidFire Tools, RocketCyber, SaaS Alerts, Secure Payments, Spanning Cloud Apps, TruMethods, Unitrends and Vonahi. These innovative solutions fuel Kaseya’s IT Complete platform, which addresses the challenges of multifunctional IT professionals. IT Complete empowers them to centrally command hardware, software, security, data, compliance, operations and more from within a comprehensive, integrated, intelligent (AI utilization-optimized), and affordable platform. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, Kaseya is privately held with a global presence in more than a dozen countries. To learn more, visit https://www.kaseya.com/. 

    About High Wire Networks
    High Wire Networks, Inc. (OTCQB: HWNI) is a fast-growing, award-winning global provider of managed cybersecurity. Through over 200 channel partners, it delivers trusted managed services for more than 1,100 managed security customers worldwide. End-customers include Fortune 500 companies and many of the nation’s largest government agencies. Its U.S. based 24/7 Network Operations Center and Security Operations Center is located in Chicago, Illinois.

    High Wire was ranked by Frost & Sullivan as a Top 15 Managed Security Service Provider in the Americas for 2024. It was also named to CRN’s MSP 500 and Elite 150 lists of the nation’s top IT managed service providers for 2023 and 2024.

    Learn more at HighWireNetworks.com. Follow the company on X, view its extensive video series on YouTube or connect on LinkedIn.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    The above news release contains forward-looking statements. The statements contained in this document that are not statements of historical fact, including but not limited to, statements identified by the use of terms such as “anticipate,” “appear,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “hope,” “indicate,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “will,” “would,” and other variations or negative expressions of these terms, including statements related to expected market trends and the Company’s performance, are all “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. These statements are based on assumptions that management believes are reasonable based on currently available information, and include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company and its management. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performances and are subject to a wide range of external factors, uncertainties, business risks, and other risks identified in filings made by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in the company’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances upon which any statement is based except as required by applicable law and regulations.

    High Wire Networks Contact
    Mark Porter
    Chief Executive Officer
    High Wire Networks
    Tel +1 (952) 974-4000

    Media Contact
    Lori Aleman
    Director of Marketing
    High Wire Networks
    Tel 1+ (630) 635-8477

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LightSolver Appoints Former HSBC CEO Colin Bell to Advisory Board

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LightSolver, inventor of a new laser-based computing paradigm, today announced the appointment of financial and banking expert Colin Bell to its Advisory Board. Bell will assist LightSolver with its go-to-market strategy for the financial industry and global enterprise market.

    Colin Bell is a Non-Executive Director of Serendipity Capital. He previously served as Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Bank plc and HSBC Europe and as Executive Director of HSBC Bank plc. Bell has deep experience in the banking and financial industry, having also served as the Group Chief Compliance Officer and Group Head of Financial Crime Risk at HSBC Group and Head of Compliance and Operational Risk Control at UBS. Additionally, Bell has held appointments with the UK Ministry of Defence and NATO.

    LightSolver has developed an all-optical Laser Processing Unit™ (LPU) that leverages laser interactions to compute large and complex problems faster and more efficiently than the most advanced classical HPC systems. The LPU processes at the speed of light and is ideally suited for computations that require massive numbers of iterations, such as combinatorial optimization problems encountered in transport scheduling, production and supply chain optimization, or trading and portfolio optimization, as well as physical simulations for computer-aided engineering (CAE) and scientific computations.

    “The potential of LightSolver’s all-optical technology to solve complex, compute-intensive challenges is remarkable and can open up new opportunities in the financial sector,” said Bell. “The outcomes of many challenges across risk management, investment and trading could be enhanced by this advanced computing method. I look forward to working with LightSolver to shape its offering and provide impactful solutions for financial institutes and beyond.”

    LightSolver recently announced a partnership with engineering software simulation provider Ansys focused on accelerating simulations for automotive, aerospace, and other industries. It also received a €12.5M grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC) to advance its all-optical supercomputer.

    “Colin Bell brings invaluable business insight and a deep network across the financial and enterprise sectors,” said LightSolver CEO and co-founder Ruti Ben-Shlomi, Ph.D. “His experience leading major institutions will be a key asset as we scale LightSolver’s commercial efforts and position our laser-based computing platform for real-world adoption. We’re excited to work with him to accelerate our growth and bring transformative computing power to the industries that need it most.”

    About LightSolver
    LightSolver is developing an all-optical supercomputer capable of solving complex and large computational problems at the speed of light. Utilizing the interference patterns of lasers, the Laser Processing Unit™ (LPU) can tackle challenges that were previously constrained by the limits of electronics, while fitting into a rack unit and operating at room temperature. Dr. Ruti Ben-Shlomi and Dr. Chene Tradonsky, physicists from the world-renowned Weizmann Institute, founded the company in 2020. More than 2/3 of the team are physics, math and computer science PhDs. LightSolver has secured investment from TAL Ventures, Entree Capital, IBI Tech Fund, Angular Ventures, Maverick, and Artofin. The company has also received a €12.5M grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC) to advance its all-optical supercomputer. Connect with LightSolver @LightSolverCo on X and on LinkedIn. For more information, visit lightsolver.com or email info@lightsolver.com.

    Media Contact:
    Seth Menacker
    Fusion PR
    lightsolver@fusionpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Abaxx Provides Q1 2025 Corporate Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abaxx Technologies Inc. (CBOE:ABXX)(OTCQX:ABXXF) (“Abaxx” or the “Company”), a financial software and market infrastructure company, majority shareholder of Abaxx Singapore Pte Ltd., the owner of Abaxx Commodity Exchange and Clearinghouse (individually, “Abaxx Exchange” and “Abaxx Clearing”), and producer of the SmarterMarkets™ Podcast, provides an update on operational milestones and the continued execution of the Company’s business strategy in the first quarter of 2025.

    The Company also announces that it plans to host an investor call and presentation on Thursday, April 10th. For more information, see “Q1 2025 Business Update Investor Call” below.

    Abaxx Corporate Milestone Highlights

    Commercial Development

    • Executed the Company’s first trades in Nickel Sulphate and Lithium Carbonate Futures, including the world’s first trade of a non-Chinese, USD-denominated and physically-deliverable Lithium Carbonate Futures contract.
    • The Company saw the first OTC LNG cargo trade indexed to Abaxx LNG Futures (see the Company’s press release from March 24, 2025).
    • Established active market makers in all three LNG contracts and both carbon contracts across our trading hours.
    • A total of six clearing firms, 29 trading firms, and 14 interdealer brokers (IDBs) are now connected to Abaxx Exchange and Clearing, with an additional four clearing firms, 12 trading firms, and 12 IDBs currently in progress.
    • Completed the first brand listing under the Lithium Carbonate Futures contract.
    • Finalized onboarding with a major global data distribution network expected to expand visibility of Abaxx markets to over 100 million viewers. Added six new market data partners in Q1 2025, bringing the total to six.
    • Engaged in exploratory discussions with an external exchange group seeking to use Abaxx Clearing for third-party clearing services, and also engaged in exploratory discussions with external exchange groups based in China to collaborate on cross-jurisdictional (i.e. onshore/offshore) product listing opportunities with Abaxx Exchange and Clearing.

    Exchange Product Development

    • Launched four new battery metals contracts in Q1 2025, including Nickel Sulphate Futures and three regional physically-deliverable Lithium Carbonate Futures contracts.
    • Submitted a 1-kilobar Singapore Gold Futures contract for regulatory review.
    • Currently in the final development stage of: (i) a financially-settled copper spread contract to support price transparency in global base metals markets, and (ii) the first contracts in a suite of weather futures.

    Risk and Regulatory Development

    • Applied to the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) for recognition as a Foreign Board of Trade (FBOT).
    • Completed public consultation on rule amendments to introduce additional currencies as acceptable margin collateral.
    • Convened the inaugural meeting of its Risk Advisory Panel and successfully executed a default management fire drill.

    Systems and Operations Development

    • Expanded system capabilities to support multi-currency settlement and collateralization, with projected completion by May 2025.
    • Completed the upgrade of Verifier+ (a digital credentials storage provider) into the Abaxx Trade Registration Platform.
    • Continued progress on ISO/IEC 27001 audit for Abaxx Exchange infrastructure, with certification targeted for June 2025.
    • Enhanced client onboarding workflows and expanded market data access to support growing participant demand.

    Abaxx Console Suite Development

    • Rolled out Verifier+ v2.0 with expanded capabilities and integrated the app with Abaxx Exchange to enable passwordless login for the Abaxx Trade Registration Platform (ATRP).
    • Advanced Abaxx Messenger into pre-release testing as a member support tool for Abaxx Exchange.
    • Reached the initial development milestone for Abaxx Sign, currently progressing through testing and feedback with design partners.
    • Initiated development of AbaxxOne, a middleware solution connecting enterprise identity systems (e.g., Auth0, Okta) to ID++ and the Abaxx Console Suite.

    Financing Development

    • On March 27, 2025, the Company announced it had closed the first tranche of a non-brokered private placement, securing C$22.85 million through the issuance of secured convertible debentures bearing 7.0% annual interest, convertible at C$13.00 per share and maturing in 2028. The Company is currently in discussions for a potential second tranche (see the Company’s press release dated March 27, 2025).

    Following the successful launch of Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing in mid-2024, the first quarter of 2025 marked a period of accelerated growth across product development, commercial engagement, and systems expansion. First trades were executed in the Nickel Sulphate and Lithium Carbonate markets, alongside the first OTC LNG cargo trade indexed to Abaxx LNG Futures, reflecting early adoption of our benchmark contracts.

    We launched four new contracts across our battery metals product suite and submitted a 1-kilobar Singapore Gold Futures contract to support Asia’s kilobar market, an offering not currently matched in London or New York. In parallel, we incorporated Abaxx Spot, a separate entity designed to support convergence between futures and physical gold markets. While the gold futures contract will be listed by Abaxx Exchange, Abaxx Spot enables electronic settlement and physical delivery of 99.99% purity kilobars in Singapore through a secure, transparent gold pool. Together, these initiatives advance our vision of building smarter markets for physical gold trading. Onboarding momentum continued through targeted, on-the-ground engagement at commercial events globally.

    We also scaled platform infrastructure, enhancing client onboarding workflows, expanding market data access, and progressing toward ISO 27001 certification. Core protocol development advanced with upgrades to the ID++ protocol and Verifier+, the initiation of AbaxxOne middleware, and continued development of Abaxx Messenger.

    The following sections provide further information related to these developments across business units and platform initiatives.

    Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing Developments

    Risk and Regulatory: Abaxx Exchange submitted its application to the U.S. CFTC for recognition as a Foreign Board of Trade (FBOT). Once granted, this recognition would enable U.S. trading participants to directly access products listed on Abaxx Exchange. In February, the Company completed a public consultation on rule amendments to support the introduction of additional currencies as acceptable margin collateral. These amendments are now under regulatory review, with the final list of approved currencies to be announced in due course.

    The Company also convened the inaugural meeting of its Risk Advisory Panel on March 17, 2025 with participation from all three direct clearing members. The Risk Advisory Panel serves as a forum for ongoing collaboration between the clearinghouse and its members to strengthen risk management, transparency, and operational resilience. In late March, Abaxx Clearing conducted its first default management firedrill with member participation, a process which validated its preparedness to manage member defaults and execute crisis response procedures effectively.

    Commercial: The Abaxx Commercial team secured market participation leading to the first trades in Nickel Sulphate and Lithium Carbonate Futures during the first quarter of 2025, including the world’s first trade of a non-Chinese, USD-denominated and physically-deliverable Lithium Carbonate Futures contract. The quarter also saw the first OTC LNG cargo trade indexed to Abaxx LNG Futures, reflecting growing confidence in Abaxx’s benchmark contracts. Active market makers were established across all three LNG contracts and both carbon contracts during core trading hours.

    Onboarding efforts continued across firm types. Abaxx maintained six active clearing members and non-direct clearing firm connections, with four additional clearers, that include global bank clearers, currently in progress to establish new clearing connectivity. Twenty-nine trading firms comprised of merchant traders and financial trading firms are now fully onboarded to execute Block Trades with twelve additional firms currently in the onboarding process; clients connected to Abaxx continue to be able to access Abaxx markets through the central limit order book. Fourteen interdealer brokers (IDBs) are onboarded with twelve more in progress. The quarter also included the first brand listing under the Lithium Carbonate Futures contract.

    Abaxx representatives participated in over 300 high-level meetings across 10 global industry events in Q1 2025. Executives were featured on panels at both E-World and the FT Commodities Global Summit, supporting commercial visibility and momentum. Abaxx was also shortlisted for the World LNG Award for Outstanding Contribution 2024.

    To support commercial growth in Asia in Q1, Abaxx expanded marketing efforts in China, including the launch of a dedicated Chinese-language website (https://cn.abaxx.exchange/) and the announcement of a co-hosted Mandarin-language battery metals seminar with Shanghai Metals Market, taking place April 8, 2025. The team also engaged in exploratory discussions with an external exchange group seeking to use Abaxx Clearing for third-party clearing services, and also engaged in exploratory discussions with external exchange groups based in China to collaborate on cross-jurisdictional (i.e. onshore/offshore) product listing opportunities with Abaxx Exchange and Clearing.

    To support broader market visibility, Abaxx Exchange launched abaxx.exchange/marketdata to provide access to market data publicly. Abaxx also formally launched its market data program in Q1, with six partners onboarded to date: five subscribers and one redistributor. Progress is underway to onboard multiple data distributors, including the leading global financial data provider currently in technical integration, another with a distribution network expected to extend Abaxx market visibility to over 100 million viewers, as well as additional partners supporting our broader data distribution strategy.

    Systems and Operations: Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing continued to operate reliably with no downtime since launch, supporting stable onboarding and trading. Systems testing is underway to support multi-currency settlement and collateralization, with rollout on track for completion by May 2025. The ISO/IEC 27001 audit for Abaxx Exchange infrastructure is in progress, with certification targeted for June 2025.

    The Company continues to enhance client onboarding workflows to ensure a seamless experience for market participants. In parallel, integration work is advancing across major market data vendors to expand access to Abaxx Exchange market data and meet growing participant demand.

    Exchange Product Development: Development of the Gold Singapore Futures contract progressed through Stage 3 (Industry Review/Risk/Regulatory), with launch planning underway. Abaxx also advanced a regional copper spread futures contract, a suite of weather derivatives, and carbon market contracts aligned with regional compliance programs, each currently in Stage 3. Certain weather and compliance carbon futures are expected to become the first Abaxx contracts priced in currencies other than U.S. dollars.

    Enhancements to the LNG contract suite included updates to the LNG Northwest Europe contract to incorporate Phase 2 compliance requirements under the EU Methane Regulation. Additional research is underway to update the list of eligible ports, including newly commissioned infrastructure. As of April 4, 2025, Calcasieu Pass LNG was added as an Eligible Loading Port under the Abaxx LNG Gulf of Mexico Futures Contract.

    Phase 2 work also continued on contract extensions designed to complement Abaxx benchmark products, as well as on meeting regulatory requirements for a suite of physically and financially-settled options.

    Additional Corporate Updates

    Abaxx Console Apps:   The Company released upgrades to the ID++ protocol and Verifier+ in Q1 2025, including integrations with Abaxx Exchange and SmarterMarkets Coffeehouse™. Verifier+ improvements followed its public release on the Apple App Store and Google Play, with enhanced app speed, simplified account recovery, broader device compatibility, and expanded user controls for account editing and deletion. Device-native features such as PIN entry and camera functionality were also upgraded.

    Messenger is in its final stages of pre-release testing ahead of deployment as a user support tool for Abaxx Exchange. Feature development for initial release is complete, with improvements to maintaining performance at scale now in testing. These include faster load times for messages, improved performance under load, and interface tools that help support teams manage multiple, ongoing conversations.

    Development of AbaxxOne was initiated as a middleware solution connecting enterprise identity systems (e.g., Auth0, Okta) to the Abaxx ecosystem.

    Abaxx Sign reached its initial functional milestone and is now progressing through internal testing and design partner feedback cycles.

    Integration of PrivacyCode progressed in Q1, with Verifier+ now available as a login option. This marks continued growth in the number of applications and platforms offering Verifier+ as a privacy-enabled authentication method across the Abaxx ecosystem.

    SmarterMarkets™: SmarterMarkets™ conducted on-site interviews at key industry events hosted by the Futures Industry Association and Financial Times in Q1 2025, capturing real-time insights from global market participants for upcoming compilation episodes. These conversations contribute to the ongoing dialogue around the future of energy, climate, technology, and finance — conversations that the SmarterMarkets Coffeehouse platform is designed to elevate.

    Development also began on the mobile application for SmarterMarkets Coffeehouse™, and contributor onboarding was completed for the first cohort of over 50 thought leaders across energy, AI, digital identity, carbon, and market infrastructure. Early contributors have begun publishing content on the platform. By combining verifiable credentials with tiered levels of access, Coffeehouse is designed to facilitate more open and trusted dialogue than traditional social media environments currently support.

    Those interested in joining as commenters or members can join the waitlist at https://smartermarkets.media/waitlist/.

    Q1 2025 Business Update Investor Call

    The Company plans to host a quarterly business update investor presentation, to provide a business update and respond to investor questions.

    The Company will hold the investor presentation via Zoom Meetings on Thursday, April 10th, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST). The Company invites current and prospective shareholders to attend this quarterly business update and Q&A session with the Abaxx executive team. Attendees may email their questions in advance to ir@abaxx.tech.

    Registration will be required to access the meeting. Following the presentation, a recording of the session will be made available on the Abaxx Investor Relations website at investors.abaxx.tech.

    PRESENTATION DETAILS
    DATE: Thursday, April 10, 2025
    TIME: 10:00 a.m. EST
    LOCATION: Zoom Meeting
    To receive the meeting link and passcode, please register here.
    QUESTIONS: Please submit questions ahead of the presentation to: ir@abaxx.tech

    About Abaxx Technologies

    Abaxx is building Smarter Markets — markets empowered by better financial technology and market infrastructure to address our biggest challenges, including the energy transition. In addition to developing and deploying financial technologies that make communication, trade, and transactions easier and more secure, Abaxx is a majority-owner of Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing, subsidiaries recognized by MAS as an RMO and ACH, respectively.

    Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing are a Singapore-based commodity futures exchange and clearinghouse, introducing centrally cleared, physically deliverable commodities futures and derivatives to provide better price discovery and risk management tools for the commodities critical to our transition to a lower-carbon economy.

    For more information please visit abaxx.tech, abaxx.exchange and smartermarkets.media.

    For more information about this press release, please contact:
    Steve Fray, CFO
    Tel: +1 647 490 1590

    Media and investor inquiries:
    Abaxx Technologies Inc.
    Investor Relations Team
    Tel: +1 647 490 1590
    E-mail: ir@abaxx.tech

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes certain “forward-looking statements” which do not consist of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe Abaxx’s future plans, objectives, or goals, including words to the effect that Abaxx expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as “seeking”, “should”, “intend”, “predict”, “potential”, “believes”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “estimates”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “will”, “continue”, “plan” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Since forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to Abaxx, Abaxx does not provide any assurance that actual results will meet respective management expectations. Risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors involved with forward- looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

    Forward-looking information related to Abaxx in this press release includes, but is not limited to: the business plans and objectives of Abaxx; the development of new products, futures contracts, markets and technologies and associated benefits; anticipated receipt of regulatory approvals; closing of a second tranche offering of secured convertible debentures; and onboarding of clearing members and firms. Such factors impacting forward-looking information include, among others: the inability to receive regulatory approvals in connection with financings or inability to finalize transaction documentation; risks relating to the global economic climate; dilution; Abaxx’s limited operating history; future capital needs and uncertainty of additional financing; the competitive nature of the industry; currency exchange risks; the need for Abaxx to manage its planned growth and expansion; the effects of product development and need for continued technology change; protection of proprietary rights; the effect of government regulation and compliance on Abaxx and the industry; acquiring and maintaining regulatory approvals for Abaxx’s products and operations; the ability to list Abaxx’s securities on stock exchanges in a timely fashion or at all; network security risks; the ability of Abaxx to maintain properly working systems; reliance on key personnel; global economic and financial market deterioration impeding access to capital or increasing the cost of capital; and volatile securities markets impacting security pricing unrelated to operating performance. In addition, particular factors which could impact future results of the business of Abaxx include but are not limited to: operations in foreign jurisdictions, protection of intellectual property rights, contractual risk, third-party risk; clearinghouse risk, malicious actor risks, third-party software license risk, system failure risk, risk of technological change; dependence of technical infrastructure; and changes in the price of commodities, capital market conditions, restriction on labor and international travel and supply chains, and the risk factors identified in the Company’s most recent management discussion & analysis filed on SEDAR+. Abaxx has also assumed that no significant events occur outside of Abaxx’s normal course of business.

    Abaxx cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. In addition, although Abaxx has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. When relying on forward- looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Abaxx has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraphs will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Abaxx as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Abaxx undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and information. Cboe Canada does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Individual arrested for charges related to importing prohibited weapons

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Petrolia, Ontario
    OPP Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau | Canada Border Services Agency
    April 8, 2025

    An individual is facing 24 charges under the Criminal Code (CC) and the Customs Act (CA) after a package was intercepted containing seven prohibited weapons.

    On February 27, 2025, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) intercepted a package destined for a location in Petrolia. The package contained seven prohibited weapons. The CBSA’s Ontario Firearms Smuggling Enforcement Team (OFSET) engaged Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) members assigned to the Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST) for further investigation.

    On March 19, 2025, a warrant was executed by members from BEST, OPP-led Provincial Weapons Enforcement Unit, CBSA-OFSET and Lambton County OPP Community Street Crime Unit at a residence in Petrolia. As a result, investigators seized:

    • Brass knuckles
    • Two automatic opening knives
    • A brass knuckle knife
    • A centrifugal opening knife with a thumb stud
    • A conducted energy weapon
    • Three butterfly knives

    Phillip GRENDEL, age 32 of Petrolia, has been charged with the following offences contrary to the CC and CA:

    • Attempt to possess a prohibited weapon – seven counts
    • Possession of a prohibited weapon – two counts
    • Import a prohibited weapon knowing it’s unauthorized – seven counts
    • Unauthorized importation of a prohibited weapon – seven counts
    • Smuggling prohibited goods into Canada

    The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Sarnia on April 16, 2025.

    If you have any information about suspicious cross-border activity, please contact the CBSA Border Watch Line at 1-888-502-9060.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Questor Announces Award of $2.4MM Contract

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questor Technology Inc. (“Questor”, the “Company”), listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker QST, has secured a $2.4 million contract to supply clean combustion solutions in Iraq. This Middle East and North Africa (MENA) initiative aims to significantly reduce flaring and methane emissions. Notably, this is the second unit being supplied in the MENA region for the same client, a leading global exploration and production company renowned for its efforts in minimizing flaring and methane emissions associated with energy production.

    Iraq is the second-largest crude oil producer in OPEC and the sixth-largest total petroleum liquids producer globally, with production exceeding 4.4 million barrels per day. Questor’s clean combustion solution will be integrated into the Al Ratawi site to reduce emissions in line with Iraq’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) guidelines. Questor’s ISO 14034-certified clean combustion units are engineered to meet the highest global emissions standards, ensuring 99.99% combustion efficiency. These units are designed to handle complex pollutants, including sour gas, making them ideal for large-scale oil and gas processing facilities and refineries. Manufactured in Canada, Questor’s technology not only delivers significant cost savings in capital, fuel, and operations but also supports sustainable energy production. This latest contract underscores Questor’s expanding presence in the MENA region and its commitment to advancing environmental goals through innovative solutions.

    Questor is proud to partner with its clients to responsibly and sustainably produce energy globally. This purchase order highlights Questor’s reputation for delivering cost-effective, high-performance technology and highlights its expanding presence in global markets. As the company continues to grow, it remains dedicated to advancing sustainable energy infrastructure and supporting its clients in achieving their environmental goals.

    ABOUT QUESTOR TECHNOLOGY INC.

    Questor Technology Inc., incorporated in Canada under the Business Companies Act (Alberta) is an environmental emissions reduction technology company founded in 1994, with global operations. The Company is focused on clean air technologies that safely and cost effectively improve air quality, support energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emission reductions. The Company designs, manufactures and services high efficiency clean combustion systems that destroy harmful pollutants, including Methane, Hydrogen Sulfide gas, Volatile Organic Hydrocarbons, Hazardous Air Pollutants and BTEX (Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylene) gases within waste gas streams at 99.99 percent efficiency per its ISO 14034 Certification. This enables its clients to meet emission regulations, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, address community concerns and improve safety at industrial sites.

    The Company also has proprietary heat to power generation technology and is currently targeting new markets including landfill biogas, syngas, waste engine exhaust, geothermal and solar, cement plant waste heat in addition to a wide variety of oil and gas projects. The combination of Questor’s clean combustion and power generation technologies can help clients achieve net zero emission targets for minimal cost. The Company is also doing research and development on data solutions to deliver an integrated system that amalgamates all the emission detection data available to demonstrate a clear picture of the site’s emission profile.

    The Company’s common shares are traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol “QST”. The address of the Company’s corporate and registered office is #1920, 707 – 8th Avenue S.W. Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2P 1H5.

    QUESTOR TRADES ON THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE UNDER THE SYMBOL ‘QST’

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This document is not intended for dissemination or distribution in the United States.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for witnesses – Aggravated assault – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for witnesses in relation to a serious aggravated assault that occurred in Alice Springs in the early hours of this morning.

    Around 10:45am today, police received reports of blood being found on the pavement outside an office building on Bagot Street in The Gap.

    Upon review of CCTV, police observed at 4:45am this morning a male offender allegedly stabbed a female victim with an unknown object, before physically assaulting her multiple times. The victim was allegedly dragged from the area by the offender towards Tuncks Road.

    Investigations have commenced and police hold concerns for the welfare of the victim.

    The offender is described as being shirtless, wearing black shorts, black shoes and a light-coloured hat. The victim is described as wearing a light-coloured long-sleeved jumper, light-coloured pants, light-coloured shoes, with her hair tied up in a bun or ponytail.

    Police are particularly interested in speaking to the drivers of multiple vehicles that drove past on Bagot Street and South Terrace at the time of the alleged assault.

    Anyone with information is urged to call police on 131 444 and quote reference NTP2500036419. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114. In an emergency dial 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Companies House starts to verify identities

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Companies House starts to verify identities

    The voluntary period for identity verification is open for business. More than 6 million individuals will need to comply in the 12 months after identity verification becomes a legal requirement later this year. This phased approach reduces the burden on companies.

    Today (8 April 2025) sees the launch of a new service that allows individuals to verify their identity directly with Companies House through GOV.UK One Login. People can also verify their identity through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

    The introduction of identity verification is one of the key changes to UK company law under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. This landmark legislation gave Companies House new and enhanced powers to help disrupt economic crime and support economic growth. 

    Identity verification will provide more assurance about who is setting up, running, owning and controlling companies in the UK. There will be the same level of assurance whether individuals are verifying their identity directly with Companies House or through an ACSP.

    Companies House CEO Louise Smyth CBE said:

    Identity verification will play a key role in improving the quality and reliability of our data and tackling misuse of the companies register.

    To save time later, we encourage directors, people with significant control of companies (PSCs) and those filing information with Companies House to verify their identity during the voluntary window.

    We expect identity verification to become mandatory from autumn 2025.

    To reduce the burden on business, the identity verification requirement for existing directors will be integrated into the annual confirmation statement update process.

    Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets Justin Madders MP said:

    In a time where economic crime has become too common, it is imperative that we bring in measures to prevent identities being stolen online and today marks a significant milestone in our plans to require identity verification for those setting up and running companies on the Companies House register later this year.

    This is good for business, lenders and transparency and will give companies, consumers and lenders more certainty about who they are doing business with.

    AI and Digital Government Minister Feryal Clark MP said:

    Ensuring trust and transparency in the digital age is vital and today marks an important step forward. Identity verification at Companies House through our GOV.UK One Login service will make it easier to do business with confidence – protecting entrepreneurs, consumers, and the UK economy from fraud and financial crime.

    By embracing digital identity checks, we’re reducing red tape while strengthening our defences against abuse of the system. This is a win for businesses, a win for transparency, and a win for economic growth – a key driver for our Plan for Change.

    Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said:

    The introduction of these new security measures will be welcomed by the thousands of genuine businesses who want to know that fraudsters and criminals cannot masquerade as legitimate concerns.

    Protecting the names of good firms and making it harder for those with dishonest motives to set up a business can only be a good thing.

     Thom Townsend, Executive Director, Open Ownership said:

    Open Ownership welcomes the introduction of identity verification for individuals listed on Companies House. This will make the information on Companies House more accurate, reliable, and ultimately more useful, and ensures the UK meets international standards.

    Ben Cowdock, Senior Investigations Lead, Transparency International said:

    We welcome the introduction of ID checks at Companies House, which should make it harder for criminals to hide behind false identities. Having greater assurance over who owns and controls companies is a vital step towards defending the UK against money laundering and building confidence in the business environment.

    Glenn Collins, Head of Technical and Strategic Engagement at the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) said:

    At ACCA, we welcome the moves to improve and strengthen the integrity of the register, which includes the introduction of identity verification for anyone setting up, running, owning or controlling a company in the UK.

    We recognise that businesses, including agents will take some time to get used to the changes and extra requirement. We expect our members to be busy advising and helping companies of all sizes adapt to these new regulations and we look forward to continuing to work with Companies House to make sure of a good transition.

    Overall identify verification will help to reduce economic crime and improve corporate transparency. In doing so, it will contribute to the growth of the UK economy by helping businesses make better decisions.

    Patrick Walsh, Chair of the Business Informational Providers Association (BIPA) said:

    BIPA welcomes Companies House’s launch of the new identity verification measures, as set out in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. These are crucial steps towards realising the enhanced security and transparency that the Act aims to achieve.

    The implementation of these robust checks will deter fraud and bolster confidence in Companies House as the custodian of reliable business data.

    We believe these measures will strengthen the UK’s economy by fostering transparency and accountability across business sectors.

    BIPA remains committed to engaging with Companies House to ensure successful adoption and implementation of these important changes.

    The Law Society of England and Wales Company Law Committee said:

    The Law Society of England and Wales has been working closely with Companies House on the development of the new procedures for identity verification. We are pleased that Companies House is introducing the procedures on a staggered basis, which will give companies and LLPs the option to ensure their directors (or, in the case of LLPs, members) and PSCs complete the necessary checks ahead of time if they wish.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NT Labs Methylene Blue – Product defect recall alert

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    NT Labs Methylene Blue – Product defect recall alert

    Product recall for two batches of NT Labs Methylene Blue.

    We wish to advise you that NT Labs are initiating a Class II recall for two batches of the product Methylene Blue at the wholesaler/distributor level, in line with their GMP responsibility.

    The composition stated on the bottle label & carton is incorrect.

    The product contains 2.5 g/100 ml of Methylene Blue, however its label states concentration 2.5 mg/100 ml.

    This recall affects the below mentioned batches only:

    Product Batch Number Size Date of Manufacture Expiry date
    Methylene Blue 21474 100ml 11/2024 11/2027
    Methylene Blue 22055 100ml 02/2025 01/2028

    NT Labs is contacting wholesale dealers to examine inventory immediately and quarantine products subject to this recall.

    For further information regarding the recall, please contact Theo Thunder, Quality Control Manager at theo@ntlabs.co.uk or +44(0)1622 817692.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 04/08/2025, 10:51 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A101L96 (EurChemB1P7) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    08.04.2025

    10:51

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC) on 08.04.2025, 10-51 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 175.06) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 2340.18 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 125.0%) of the security RU000A101L96 (EurHimB1R7) were changed.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four drug dealers convicted for importing nearly 500kg of cocaine

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A group of drug dealers involved in the supply of nearly half a ton of cocaine worth up to £17 million have been convicted, following a detailed investigation by specialist detectives.

    The trio, who brought in cocaine from the Netherlands to distribute throughout London, were caught in the act by officers who had launched a proactive operation.

    Bert De Jong, 59, (03.09.1965), of the Netherlands, Hussain Sakhi, 22, (13.03.2003), of Laughton Road, Northolt and Zaibaa Zahur, 21, (04.06.2003), of Harlington Road, Uxbridge were convicted on Monday, 7 April of conspiracy to evade the prohibition on the importation of cocaine and conspiracy to supply cocaine, following a four-week trial at Kingston Crown Court.

    Sakhi and Zahur were also found guilty of conspiracy to supply cocaine.

    A fourth drug dealer, Justyn Morris, 23, (21.07.2001), of Upper Lees Road, Slough, pleaded guilty on Tuesday, 11 March to conspiracy to evade the prohibition on the importation of cocaine and conspiracy to supply cocaine.

    The court heard that millions of pounds of cocaine were distributed by lorries across London.

    Lorries would stop outside the capital, and the drugs would be collected and then be sent to ‘retail suppliers’ on a weekly basis.

    On Tuesday, 16 July 2024, a holiday let was booked in Marsham, near Norwich. The following day a van was seen outside the address.

    The van, driven by Morris, then drove to an industrial estate in Norwich, where he met De Jong in a lorry. De Jong gave Morris, who then drove back to the holiday let, three cardboard boxes.

    Morris was then intercepted by officers who had seen a suspected handover.

    Met officers then searched the van and the three boxes were found hidden behind black cladding.

    A total of 70kg worth of cocaine was found – worth between £1.75million and £2.45million.

    Sakhi and Zahur went to the holiday let later that day, to ‘view’ it. Raising suspicion, officers arrived and searched the pair.

    A phone showed messages between Sakhi and an unidentified contact, who Morris had also been in contact with.

    All three were arrested by the Met that day.

    They were charged on Thursday, 18 July 2024.

    What followed was an extensive investigation, which proved the defendants had all been involved in the supply of millions of pounds worth of cocaine.

    Drug ledgers they kept as a record of the movement and distribution of the cocaine were examined during the trial and established the group had moved nearly 500kg.

    De Jong would bring the drugs into the country from the Netherlands and Morris would pick them up and pass them to Sakhi and Zahur, who would then distribute them.

    On Wednesday, 23 July 2024 De Jong, when entering the country again, was arrested. He claimed he had no knowledge of what he was bringing into the country, but evidence suggested on his phone that he would send ‘tokens’ to his counterparts, implying the drugs had been delivered.

    He was charged on the same day.

    Detective Constable Leon Ure, of the Met’s Specialist Crime South team who led the investigation, said:

    “This has been a complex and lengthy investigation to dismantle a group supplying drugs across London. It has been part of a wider, proactive drug operation led by the Specialist Crime South team.

    “This investigation shows the breadth of work the specialist crime unit deals with and I’d like to thank every officer who was involved in the case.

    “Drug dealing has a huge impact on Londoners. It fuels further crime and impacts the heart of our communities. This group is an example of how we will investigate and hold offenders to account.”

    They are due to be sentenced on Friday, 11 April at Kingston Crown Court.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Active Citizens” will choose the best type of seafood for barbecue

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In anticipation of the season of country trips and picnics, the Active Citizen project, together withDepartment of Trade and Services of the City of Moscow prepared special voteParticipants will choose which fish or seafood they think is best suited for outdoor cooking.

    Based on the results of the vote, the most popular skewered dish will become a signature dish at fish markets “Moscow is on the wave” and will be sold at a 10 percent discount from May 1 to May 11.

    There are six types of fish and seafood to choose from. Delicacies include Vannamei shrimp (royal shrimp), scallops, eel fillet in wine sauce and one of the most difficult shellfish to prepare – octopus. Those who prefer more familiar options may be attracted by squid, whose taste will be better revealed with a dressing of lemon juice and garlic, or trout fillet, which can be served with sour cream sauce and fresh herbs. Thanks to the voting, Muscovites will be able not only to buy their favorite product at an attractive price, but also to move away from traditional preferences, forming a new gastronomic trend for picnics.

    In addition, in the voting, participants will share what kind of shashlik they usually choose for cooking on the grill – chicken, meat, fish or vegetables.

    Registered users of the project with a standard or full account can join the voting.mos.ru portal. For participation, “active citizens” will receive points from the city’s loyalty program “Million Prizes”. In addition, theirwill be charged for purchases at fish markets “Moscow is on the wave”. To do this, when paying for goods, you need to show the cashier your personal QR code of the program participant. After that, 10 percent of the purchase price will be returned in city points. They can be used to receive goods and services from program partners or donated to charity.

    Fish markets “Moscow – on the wave” are full-fledged gastronomic spaces in the districts of Kosino-Ukhtomsky and Mitino. Their assortment includes more than 600 types of products from leading Russian manufacturers. Here you can try fresh seafood brought from the most fish-rich regions of the country, including Kamchatka and Primorsky Krai, Magadan, Murmansk and Leningrad regions, Crimea and Karelia. In addition, master classes and culinary shows are held at the markets.

    Project “Active Citizen” has been operating since 2014. During this time, more than seven million people have joined it, and more than seven thousand votes have been held. Every month, 30 to 40 decisions are implemented in the city. The project is being developed by the State Institution “New Management Technologies” and the capital Department of Information Technology.

    The creation, development and operation of the e-government infrastructure, including the provision of mass socially significant services, as well as other services in electronic form, corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/152301073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Recognizes National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MADISON, WIS. – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, Timothy M. O’Shea, is joining with the U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime, in recognizing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 6-12, 2025.

    This year’s theme, Kinship, recognizes that shared humanity drives vital connections to services, rights, and healing. Kinship is where victim advocacy begins.

    This annual observance challenges us to build a world where every connection built through kinship holds the potential to heal. It asks us to ensure that resources are available to all survivors and that we show up for one another with empathy and intention.

    National Crime Victims’ Rights week was established in 1981 to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and rights of victims of crime. The week is an opportunity “to reflect on the importance of making the justice system work for survivors of crime,” said U.S. Attorney O’Shea. “Many people think justice is only a conviction or an arrest, but for survivors, justice means being heard, treated with dignity and respect, and restored to the degree that goal can be achieved through restitution, treatment, and other remedies. My office will continue to strive to honor the voices of crime victims throughout all stages of federal criminal prosecutions.”

    U.S. Attorney O’Shea also praised the work of those in law enforcement and in the larger community who support crime victims, “being a crime victim can have lifelong impacts on an individual’s mental and physical health. Providing emotional support and other assistance to crime victims is an invaluable part of providing justice and I applaud those who do this important work.”

    More information about Crime Victims’ Rights Week can be found at: https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/national-crime-victims-rights-week/overview.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Review of the Charter of Rights for Victims of Crime commences

    Source: Australian National Party

    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 08/04/2025

    Today the ACT Government has launched the public consultation for the review of the ACT’s Charter of Rights for Victims of Crime.

    The Charter is a legislated set of rights for victims of crime in the ACT and commenced on 1 January 2021. The Charter expressly recognises that victims are central to the justice process, and it was introduced to ensure that, in the administration of justice, engagement with victims is governed by victims’ rights.

    The Charter is intended to set the foundation for how victims of crime should be treated by justice agencies and provide victims with a clear picture of their rights in the criminal justice system. The Charter also includes an accountability framework intended to ensure that justice agencies meet their obligations when engaging with victims, as well as providing a mechanism for making complaints where a victim’s rights have not been upheld.

    The legislation that established the Charter includes a requirement for its operation to be reviewed, recognising the importance of ensuring the Charter is effective in achieving its objectives and remains in step with community expectations, while also providing an opportunity to identify and address implementation issues.

    Minister for Human Rights Tara Cheyne said, “At its introduction, the Charter was recognised as the most comprehensive set of legislated rights for victims of crime in Australia. It is timely to review its operation to ensure it is meeting community expectations, and to hear directly from those it is intended to support.”

    A discussion paper has been prepared to facilitate input about the effectiveness of the Charter’s current operation both for victims and the justice agencies that have obligations to uphold victims’ rights under the Charter.

    “Justice agencies, community organisations, and victim-survivors are all encouraged to provide feedback as part of the statutory review.

    “Hearing from justice agencies that regularly interact with and have obligations under the Charter will provide the Government with valuable operational insights and help identify where and how the Charter can be strengthened.

    “Community organisations that work directly with victim-survivors, or that act on their behalf as ‘victim representatives’, are invited to share insights into systemic trends and emerging issues.

    “Victim-survivors who have engaged with the Charter are encouraged to share their experiences and perspectives—either individually or as part of a submission from a justice agency or community organisation.

    “Victim-survivors who may not have engaged with justice agencies or support organisations are also encouraged to provide feedback and strengthen the victim-survivor voice in this review,” said Minister Cheyne.

    The ACT Government welcomes all feedback, which can be submitted through the YourSay Conversations website and will remain open until 20 June 2025.

    Feedback can also be provided via voice message on 02 6207 5044, or by email to justicereformbranch@act.gov.au. Email submissions will close on 20 June 2025.

    A report will be tabled by the ACT Government within 12 months of commencing the review.

    – Statement ends –

    Tara Cheyne, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sutter County Man Indicted for Receipt of Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — On March 13, 2025, a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment against Thomas Michael Davis, 39, of Yuba City, charging him with receipt of child sexual abuse material, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced. The indictment was unsealed following his arrest.

    According to court documents, between May 2023 and January 2024, Davis used the internet to download child pornography. Davis has previously been convicted of having sex with a minor.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, the Yuba City Police Department, and the Sacramento Valley Hi Tech Crimes Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Campbell is prosecuting the case.

    If convicted of receipt of child sexual abuse material, Davis faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to a lifetime term of supervised release. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigating firearms incident in Rocherlea

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Police investigating firearms incident in Rocherlea

    Tuesday, 8 April 2025 – 9:17 am.

    Police are calling for information in relation to an incident in Rocherlea on Sunday morning (6 April).
    About 6.30am on Sunday, police received a report that a firearm had been discharged into a residence on Russell Plains Road, Rocherlea.
    Several people were inside the property, thankfully, no one was injured.
    Witnesses observed a silver Peugeot 207 leaving the area.
    Police are investigating the matter, and initial information suggests that the incident is targeted.
    If you were in the area around the time and witnessed suspicious activity or have dash cam or CCTV footage of the silver Peugeot, please phone 131 444 or contact Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.
    Information can be provided anonymously. Please quote OR771480.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Deming, Washington man convicted at trial of receipt and possession of images of child sexual abuse

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant possessed some 90,000 files of child sexual abuse imagery on 21 different electronic devices

    Seattle – A 47-year-old resident of Deming, Whatcom County, Washington was convicted last week in U.S. District Court in Seattle of two federal felonies related to his receipt and possession of images of child sexual abuse, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Robert J. Howell Jr. came to the attention of law enforcement in late 2019 when a foreign country police organization alerted Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) that an Ip address associated with Howell Jr’s residence had accessed a website devoted to images of child sexual abuse. Following a two-day jury trial, jurors deliberated about an hour before finding Howell Jr. guilty on April 1, 2025.  U.S District Judge John C. Coughenour scheduled sentencing for July 15, 2025.

    According to records filed in the case and testimony at trial, after getting the tip from a foreign law enforcement organization, HSI agents sought information on the account associated with the IP address. The IP address was linked to Howell’s home in Deming. On September 15, 2020, federal agents executed a search warrant and seized several dozen electronic devices. A forensic review determined there were more than 90,000 files depicting child sexual abuse on some 21 electronic devices. Many of the images were of the sexual abuse of very young children and included depictions involving extreme violence.

    At trial prosecutors specifically proved that between 2016 and 2019, Howell Jr. received five specific files of child sexual abuse material and knowingly possessed many more.

    In all more than 75 electronic assets including computers, phones, tablets, hard drives, storage devices, gaming devices, and CDs were seized by law enforcement and have been forfeited to the government.

    Howell Jr. faces a mandatory 5 years in prison and up to twenty years in prison when sentenced by Judge Coughenour. The actual sentence will be determined by Judge Coughenour after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Hampton and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica M. Ly.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Haven Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in Catalytic Converter Theft Ring

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MERVIN FIGUEROA, 27, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 14 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for offenses related to his participation in a stolen catalytic converter trafficking ring.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement has been investigating the theft of catalytic converters from motor vehicles across Connecticut.  A catalytic converter contains precious metals, can easily be removed from its vehicle, and is difficult to trace, making it a desirable target for thieves.  The average scrap price for catalytic converters currently varies between $300 and $1,500, depending on the model and type of precious metal component.

    The investigation revealed that Alexander Kolitsas owned and operated Downpipe Depot & Recycling LLC (“Downpipe Depot”), which had a warehouse on Park Avenue in East Hartford.  Kolitsas and Downpipe Depot purchased stolen catalytic converters from a network of thieves, including Figueroa, and then transported and sold the catalytic converters to recycling businesses in New York and New Jersey.  Kolitsas instructed his suppliers on the types of converters that would obtain the most profit upon resale, and he would often meet with them and transact business at his home in Wolcott late at night or behind a family member’s restaurant in Middlebury after hours.

    Starting in January 2022, Kolitsas maintained electronic invoices reflecting the purchase of stolen catalytic converters from Figueroa and other suppliers.  In several of the invoices, Kolitsas permitted his suppliers to use fictitious names or business names in order to create the appearance of proper recordkeeping while obscuring from his records the true source of the stolen converters.  The invoices show that between approximately January 26 and May 31, 2022, Kolitsas and Downpipe Depot paid approximately $3,345,675 to purchase stolen converters from his co-conspirators.

    The invoices reflect that Downpipe Depot paid Figueroa $169,840 for catalytic converters, including converters that were stolen in two separate incidents from vehicles at U-Haul Moving and Storage in Naugatuck.  In messages between Kolitsas and Figueroa, Kolitsas told Figueroa that he needed to remove anti-theft tags that U-Haul had placed on the converters before Kolitsas would take them.  The investigation revealed that Figueroa also stole converters from school buses.

    Figueroa was arrested on November 15, 2023.  On October 29, 2024, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property and one count of interstate transportation of stolen property.

    Figueroa, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is required to report to prison on June 2.

    Kolitsas pleaded guilty to related charges and awaits sentencing.

    This investigation is being led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI), and the East Hartford Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren C. Clark and A. Reed Durham through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fox Island, Washington, man indicted for stealing more than $920,000 from an elderly financial advisory client

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    The former financial advisor took advantage of his client’s trust to steal her life savings and inheritance

    Seattle – A 56-year-old Fox Island, Washington man was indicted late last month by a federal grand jury for four counts of wire fraud, two counts of mail fraud, four counts of money laundering, and four counts of making and subscribing a false tax return, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. John S. Winslow, a former financial advisor at a national financial services firm, allegedly stole over $920,000 in life savings and inheritance from a former client, a widow in her 70’s. 

    “Mr. Winslow took advantage of the victim’s trust to steal from her bank and brokerage accounts,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Miller. “He used the victim’s funds to upgrade his lifestyle – buying an island home, installing a hot tub and new appliances, and purchasing a new car and a diamond necklace.”

    According to the indictment, Winslow moved funds out of the victim’s brokerage accounts with the financial services firm and into her outside bank account in multiple transactions. He did this to conceal his fraud by placing the victim’s funds outside of the firm’s surveillance system. From the victim’s outside bank account, the funds were transferred into Winslow’s bank accounts, again in multiple transactions. Winslow used his trusted status with the victim to further the fraud. He visited the victim at her home and instructed the victim to call the bank and put the call on speaker. He then told the victim what she should tell the bank. Winslow used the victim’s funds for his own benefit. He falsely claimed to the victim that if she transferred money to him, he would repay her at a higher interest rate than what she was getting from her banks.

    To hide the illicit nature of the funds, Winslow allegedly funneled the victim’s funds through extra layers of transactions. For example, Winslow purchased gold coins from an online gold retailer in multiple transactions. He then sold those gold coins to a local brick-and-mortal gold retailer before depositing the proceeds into his bank accounts.

    During the fraud-scheme period, Winslow allegedly failed to report the funds that he stole from the victim on his federal tax returns, resulting in a tax loss of approximately $254,000.

    Winslow was arraigned on the indictment and entered a ‘not guilty’ plea on March 31, 2025. Trial in front of U.S. District Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright is scheduled for June 2, 2025.

    The wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering counts are representative acts of the alleged scheme and are punishable by up to 20 years in prison. The false-tax-return counts are punishable by up to 3 years in prison.

    The charges in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yunah Chung.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Louisiana Woman Who Provided a Child for Pornographic Photoshoot Pleads Guilty

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A Louisiana woman pleaded guilty today to receiving child sexual abuse material produced by a photographer she arranged to take the images.

    According to court documents, Hannah Kinchen, 40, of Gonzales, coordinated with a photographer, who self-identified as a “pedophile,” to conduct photoshoots for the minor victim’s modeling career. During the photoshoots, Kinchen allowed and assisted the photographer in posing the minor victim wearing scanty attire, including thongs and G-strings. The photographer sent and Kinchen received most of the images through a file-sharing website on the internet. Some of the resulting images qualified as child pornography and some were later sold.

    Kinchen pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. She is scheduled to be sentenced on July 15 and faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Head of the Justic Department’s Criminal Division, Matthew R. Galeotti; Acting U.S. Attorney April M. Leon for the Middle District of Louisiana; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI New Orleans Division – Baton Rouge Resident Agency investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen L. Craig for the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case, with substantial assistance from CEOS Trial Attorney Charles Schmitz.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL OSI USA News –