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Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Buildings Department refuses application for registration renewal for contractor

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said today (May 22) that the Buildings Department (BD) has refused the application for registration renewal of Aggressive Construction Company Limited (ACCL).

         As a registered general building contractor (RGBC), the registration of ACCL expired in April 2023. It was involved in three serious incidents, including a fatal incident in 2022 involving the collapse of a tower crane at a construction site at Anderson Road, a fatal incident in July 2020 involving the electrocution of a worker at a construction site at Wang Chin Street, and a fatal incident in October 2023 involving a worker falling from height at a construction site at To Wah Road. These incidents resulted in a total of five deaths. The BD referred the renewal application to the Contractors Registration Committee (CRC) for interview and assessment in accordance with the Buildings Ordinance (BO). The CRC is established under the BO and its key members are nominated by the relevant building professional registration boards and the industry. After several rounds of interviews, the CRC was not satisfied that the authorised signatories of ACCL were competent and capable in site supervision and safety management to act on behalf of ACCL for the purpose of the BO, and was not satisfied that the contractor had proper site safety management. After careful consideration of CRC’s recommendation, the BD has decided to refuse ACCL’s application for registration renewal. The BD issued today a letter to ACCL, notifying that it will be removed from the register of general building contractors on June 20, and that it will not be allowed to carry out any building works under the BO from that date onwards.

         The BD has also requested ACCL to inform the authorised persons (APs) of the building sites of the relevant private development projects under its charge in accordance with the law, including submitting to the APs a notice of cessation of appointment, certifying that the building works carried out are in accordance with the provisions of the BO and its regulations, and giving a clear account of the scope of the completed building works. At the same time, the BD also issued a letter to inform the APs responsible for the relevant building sites that the application for renewal of registration of ACCL has been refused, reminding the APs that they should make arrangements for the remaining works as soon as possible, including proposing to the owner of the project the appointment of another registered contractor to follow up the outstanding building works and ensuring that the building works of the project have been carried out in compliance with the provisions of the BO and its regulations. A copy of the letter has been copied to the relevant project owners. It is believed that the relevant owners will expeditiously and properly handle and hand over the outstanding works with the original contractor and appoint another suitable registered contractor to continue with the relevant works as soon as possible.

         ACCL is currently the main contractor for six development projects, three of which are public housing projects (including the public housing development at Tuen Mun Area 29 West, the public housing development at Tung Chung Area 100, and the underground link of Pak Tin Estate redevelopment Phase 10), one is a public works project for the construction of a new Chai Wan Government Complex, one is a subsidised sale housing project on Anderson Road by the Hong Kong Housing Society, and the remaining one is a student and staff dormitory project of the University of Hong Kong on Pok Fu Lam Road. With ACCL being removed from the register of general building contractors, it will no longer be allowed to carry out five of the residential and hostel projects mentioned above according to the law or contract terms. As for the public works project of Chai Wan Government Complex, although it is neither bound by the BO or relevant contract terms to employ a contractor from the register of general building contractors for this project, in view of the slow progress over the past months and the fact that the performance of the contractor is far below contract requirements, the relevant works department will terminate the contract as soon as possible in accordance with the contractual mechanism. The Housing Authority and the relevant works department will follow up with ACCL as soon as possible to arrange for a new contractor to take over the project sites within two months of ACCL leaving the site, so as to complete the remaining works and to minimise the impact on the projects.

         In order to minimise the impact to current workers and subcontractors, the Government encourages new contractors for the projects concerned to take priority in engaging current workers and subcontractors. In addition, special consultation counters have been set up at ten Regional Offices of the Labour Relations Division of the Labour Department (LD) to provide appropriate assistance to affected workers. If affected workers need assistance or have enquiries in respect of matters of employment or employees’ rights, they may call the Construction Industry Recruitment Centre (Tel: 3428 3303) or the Labour Relations Division (Tel: 2927 6080) of the LD during office hours. 

         During the processing of the registration renewal application, relevant departments and parties have strengthened efforts to ensure site safety at ACCL’s construction sites. Apart from proactively doubling surprise inspections to private construction sites, the BD has also required project owners and ACCL to implement additional measures to enhance site supervision. As for public construction sites, the responsible parties have also strengthened site supervision. From now until ACCL’s removal from the register, these enhanced measures will continue to be in place if construction activities are still taking place at the construction sites.

         Ms Linn emphasised, “We understand that the decision to refuse the registration renewal may have an impact on the works in progress, but the BD, as the regulatory authority, is required to process registration renewal applications rigorously and professionally in accordance with the BO, which clearly stipulates the factors to be taken into account by the BD. These factors are mainly for assessing whether the registered contractor continues to have the competence, experience, qualifications and suitable appointed persons to act on its behalf in discharging statutory obligations in respect of building works under construction, including building safety. We need to ensure that the system for renewing the registration of registered contractors can play an effective gatekeeping role in maintaining the professional standard of the industry, separating the wheat from the chaff and sending a clear message to the industry and the community, so that the construction industry can continue to develop healthily.”

         She supplemented, “Refusing the application for renewal of registration of ACCL is only one of the series of follow-up actions taken by the Government following construction site fatal incidents. In 2023, the BD and the LD instigated prosecutions against ACCL and related individuals under their respective ordinances regarding the collapse of a tower crane on Anderson Road. The case will be heard in January 2026. The involved authorised signatory of ACCL was also charged with manslaughter in 2024, which will be heard in July 2025. As for the other two serious incidents, ACCL and related individuals were convicted and fined under labour ordinances for the 2020 incident, while the 2023 incident will be heard in July 2025.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government deeply concerned about Tseung Kwan O Line train incident

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

      The Government is deeply concerned about the train incident on the MTR Tseung Kwan O Line yesterday evening (May 22). At around 5.15pm, the Government received notification from the MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) that, due to failure of the traction power supply system, Tseung Kwan O Line services was disrupted and then fully suspended.

    Upon receiving notification of the incident from the MTRCL, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) immediately deployed professional railways and electrical engineers to the site to assess the situation and conduct investigation of the incident. Preliminary findings indicated that a section of the overhead cable was found faulted in the tunnel of the Tseung Kwan O Line (Tseung Kwan O Station to Yau Tong Station direction) near Quarry Bay Station. The traction power supply system was tripped when the train passed through the section. The EMSD also found signs of damage to the overhead cable at the scene of the incident. It is initially suspected that the cause of incident was related to the damage of cable components. Detailed investigation is ongoing.

    The EMSD will continue with its overnight investigation at the scene on the traction power supply system, and inspect incident train at the depot. The investigation encompasses the consideration of power distribution system, train components, environmental conditions and human factors, etc. The EMSD has requested the MTRCL to conduct a comprehensive review on the incident and submit an investigation report as soon as possible to explain the cause of the incident and propose improvement measures to prevent recurrence of similar incidents.

    Ends/Friday, May 23, 2025
    Issued at HKT 1:12

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Over 7 000 celebrate culture and sport at 11th Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in Antwerp (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Over 7 000 celebrate culture and sport at 11th Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in Antwerp Issued at HKT 22:05

    A vibrant crowd of over 7 000 paddling enthusiasts and spectators gathered on May 10 in the port city of Antwerp, Belgium (Antwerp time), for the 11th edition of the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, one of the city’s most anticipated annual events. The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) proudly sponsored the festival.

    Organised by Rotary Antwerp International and Rotary Antwerp West, the festival brought together some 30 dragon boat teams for a full day of spirited racing, cultural exchanges, and community celebrations. HKETO, Brussels was the main sponsor.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels Miss Grace Li shared her enthusiasm for the event. “HKETO Brussels is proud to continue supporting the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival. The dragon boat race symbolises the strong, enduring ties between Hong Kong and Belgium,” she said. “We are proud to once again support this vibrant celebration of sport, culture, and community.”

    Encouraging the audience to explore more, she added, “Come visit Hong Kong – a city brimming with life, colour, and culture.  As Asia’s world city and a hub for global events, Hong Kong is ready to welcome you with open arms.” She ended her speech by also promoting Hong Kong as a talent hub where ambition meets opportunity to advance studies or build a career.

    Beyond the festivities, the event also supported meaningful causes. Proceeds benefited Thomas Houses, a local charity dedicated to helping individuals with intellectual disabilities integrate into society and the well-known medical organisation Mercy Ships, as well as other charitable organisations.

    Ends/Thursday, May 22, 2025
    Issued at HKT 22:05

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Secures Preliminary Injunction to Block Mass Firings, Transfer of Core Functions from Department of Education

    Source: US State of California

    Thursday, May 22, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued the following statement in response to a decision by the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts granting a preliminary injunction in a multistate lawsuit challenging the Trump Administration’s unlawful mass firing of U.S. Department of Education employees and the transfer of core statutory functions to other departments. These actions have devastated the Department of Education’s ability to meet its statutory obligations across numerous programs — direct funding for K-12 education, student aid, services for students with disabilities, civil rights enforcement, vocational training, and more.      

    “As long as the Trump Administration persists in violating the law, we will continue to hold him accountable,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The firing of Department of Education employees and outsourcing of core statutory functions, like the administration of federal student loans, violate the Administrative Procedure Act and are unconstitutional. I am encouraged by the court’s ruling today restoring fired Education Department employees to their positions while our case progresses. We will continue to fight to ensure the unlawful and absurd dismantling of the Department of Education is reversed — permanently. Our students deserve better.”     

    On March 11, the Department of Education initiated a mass termination impacting nearly 50% of the Department’s employees, as part of the Trump Administration’s “final mission” to dismantle the Department. The mass firings were not accompanied by any reasoning to explain why these employees — and indeed, some whole teams — were targeted. The rationale is nevertheless clear — the Trump Administration believes the Department should not exist and is using these firings as a tool in furtherance of that goal. President Trump’s directive for Education Secretary Linda McMahon to take all necessary steps to dismantle the Department is further evidence that the firings are part of a broader effort to undermine the Department’s ability to carry out its most vital, congressionally-mandated functions. These steps include transferring the administration of federal student loans to the Small Business Administration, which recently fired 40% of its workers, and of special needs and nutritional programs to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.    

    A copy of the decision is available here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 16 Defendants Federally Charged in Connection with DanaBot Malware Scheme That Infected Computers Worldwide

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A federal grand jury indictment and criminal complaint unsealed today charge 16 defendants who allegedly developed and deployed the DanaBot malware which a Russia-based cybercrime organization controlled and deployed, infecting more than 300,000 victim computers around the world, facilitated fraud and ransomware, and caused at least $50 million in damage.

    The defendants include Aleksandr Stepanov, 39, a.k.a. “JimmBee,” and Artem Aleksandrovich Kalinkin, 34, a.k.a. “Onix”, both of Novosibirsk, Russia. Stepanov was charged with conspiracy, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, unauthorized access to a protected computer to obtain information, unauthorized impairment of a protected computer, wiretapping, and use of an intercepted communication.

    Kalinkin was charged with conspiracy to gain unauthorized access to a computer to obtain information, to gain unauthorized access to a computer to defraud, and to commit unauthorized impairment of a protected computer. Both defendants are believed to be in Russia and are not in custody.

    According to the indictment and complaint, DanaBot malware used a variety of methods to infect victim computers, including spam email messages containing malicious attachments or hyperlinks. Victim computers infected with DanaBot malware became part of a botnet (a network of compromised computers), enabling the operators and users of the botnet to remotely control the infected computers in a coordinated manner. The owners and operators of the victim computers are typically unaware of the infection.

    The DanaBot malware allegedly operated on a malware-as-a-service model, with the administrators leasing access to the botnet and support tools to client coconspirators for a fee that was typically several thousand dollars a month. The DanaBot malware was multi-featured and had extensive capabilities to exploit victim computers. It could be used to steal data from victim computers, and to hijack banking sessions, steal device information, user browsing histories, stored account credentials, and virtual currency wallet information.

    DanaBot also had the capability to provide full remote access to victim computers, to record keystrokes, and record videos showing the activity of users on victim computers. DanaBot has further been used as an initial means of infection for other forms of malware, including ransomware. The DanaBot malware has infected over 300,000 computers around the world, and caused damage estimated to exceed $50 million.

    DanaBot administrators operated a second version of the botnet that was used to target victim computers in military, diplomatic, government, and related entities. This version of the botnet recorded all interactions with the computer and sent stolen data to a different server than the fraud-oriented version of DanaBot. This variant was allegedly used to target diplomats, law enforcement personnel, and members of the military in North America, and Europe.

    “Pervasive malware like DanaBot harms hundreds of thousands of victims around the world, including sensitive military, diplomatic, and government entities, and causes many millions of dollars in losses,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “The charges and actions announced today demonstrate our commitment to eradicating the largest threats to global cybersecurity and pursuing the most malicious cyber actors, wherever they are located.”   

    “The enforcement actions announced today, made possible by enduring law enforcement and industry partnerships across the globe, disrupted a significant cyber threat group, who were profiting from the theft of victim data and the targeting of sensitive networks,” said Special Agent in Charge Kenneth DeChellis of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Cyber Field Office. “The DanaBot malware was a clear threat to the Department of Defense and our partners. DCIS will vigorously defend our infrastructure, personnel, and intellectual property.”

    “Today’s announcement represents a significant step forward in the FBI’s ongoing efforts to disrupt and dismantle the cyber-criminal ecosystem that wreaks havoc on global digital security,” said Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “We are grateful for the coordinated efforts of our domestic and international law enforcement partners in holding cyber criminals accountable, no matter where they operate.”

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    If convicted, Kalinkin would face a statutory maximum sentence of 72 years in federal prison, and Stepanov would face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.

    As part of today’s operation, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) agents effected seizures and takedowns of DanaBot command and control servers, including dozens of virtual servers hosted in the United States. The U.S. government is now working with partners including the Shadowserver Foundation to notify DanaBot victims and help remediate infections.

    These law enforcement actions were taken in conjunction with Operation Endgame, an ongoing, coordinated effort among international law enforcement agencies aimed at dismantling and prosecuting cybercriminal organizations around the world.

    Amazon, Crowdstrike, ESET, Flashpoint, Google, Intel 471, Lumen, PayPal, Proofpoint, Team CYMRU, and ZScaler provided valuable assistance.

    The investigation into DanaBot was led by the FBI’s Anchorage Field Office and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, working closely with Germany’s Bundeskriminalamt (BKA), the Netherlands National Police, and the Australian Federal Police. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance.

    Assistant United States Attorney Aaron Frumkin of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section is prosecuting these cases. Assistant United States Attorney James E. Dochterman of the Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section is handling the forfeiture case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Wayne Woman Ordered to Repay Funds From PPP Loan Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FORT WAYNE – Dashanae Hamlet-Davis, 26 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to a federal felony for wire fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Hamlet-Davis was sentenced to 18 months of probation and ordered to pay $23,431.53 in restitution to the Small Business Administration.

    According to documents in the case, Hamlet-Davis falsely claimed gross income for a business that did not exist when she applied for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan. The PPP program provided loans to small businesses for job retention and other expenses as part the CARES Act and for emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Hamlet-Davis falsely claimed that she was the sole proprietor of a retail business when in reality, no such business existed. As a result of her fraudulent representations, Hamlet-Davis received PPP funds which she used for her own benefit on personal items such as clothing, jewelry, electronics, and a vacation.

    “This sentencing demonstrates the commitment of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) to investigate and bring to justice those who victimize the American taxpayer,” said Kelly Moening, TIGTA Special Agent-in-Charge. “Fraudulently applying for loans through a federal program meant to assist Americans in need will be met with aggressive investigation and prosecution. I want to thank our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their commitment to this goal.”  

    This case was investigated by the United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration with assistance from IRS Criminal Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin C. Sheridan.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: California Man Sentenced to 108 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SOUTH BEND – Antonio Curiel, 44 years old, of San Ysedro, California, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute over 500 grams of cocaine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Curiel was sentenced to 108 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, in March 2024, Curiel was transporting more than 18 kilograms of cocaine from California to the East Coast in a vehicle when he was stopped by law enforcement in Northern Indiana. Curiel admitted he was being paid for his transportation services, and this was not the first time making such a trip. 

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Individuals Sentenced in Conspiracy Involving Bribery of Government Contracting Officer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Three men have been sentenced for their respective roles in a conspiracy to bribe a public official, announced United States Attorney Prim F. Escalona.

    U.S. District Court Judge Liles C. Burke sentenced Coogan Preston, 56, of Columbia, South Carolina, to 64 months in prison, Francisco Guerra, 56, of Lexington, Alabama, to 60 months in prison, and Jason Ingram, 48, of Rogersville, Alabama, to 24 months in prison. In December 2024, Guerra, Preston, and Ingram pleaded guilty to conspiracy to bribe a public official. 

    According to the plea agreements, the scheme began in 2016 and continued until 2021. As part of the scheme, Guerra agreed to provide money and other items of value to Preston, a government contracting official working at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. In exchange for these bribes, Preston identified subcontracting opportunities for companies owned and operated by Guerra and convinced the prime contractor to use one of Guerra’s companies as a subcontractor.

    “The government officials and contractors working on Redstone Arsenal play a critical role in supporting the United States military,” U.S. Attorney Escalona said. “The individuals sentenced today chose personal gain over their professional duty. These sentences were the result of that choice and should serve as a warning to others.”

    “As a government contracting official, Preston traded the public’s trust given to him for greed,” said Demetrius Hardeman, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “Using their investigative and forensic accounting skills, IRS Criminal Investigation special agents were able to follow the money—bringing Preston and his conspirators to justice.”

    “In collaboration with its investigative partners, the Department of Defense (DoD) Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) vigorously pursues fraud and corruption that threaten the integrity of the DoD, particularly when such crimes impact the well-being of our Nation’s Warfighters,” said Jason Sargenski, Special Agent-in-Charge of DCIS’s Southeast Field Office. “DCIS remains steadfast in working with our law enforcement partners to ensure those who commit fraud against the U.S. Government are held accountable.”

    The Department of the Army’s Criminal Investigation Division investigated the case with assistance from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and the United States Department of Defense Office of Inspector General – Defense Criminal Investigative Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lloyd Peeples prosecuted the cases.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: One Hundred Eighty-Nine Arrested in Immigration Crackdown Under the ‘Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful’ Initiative

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

    Authorities Made Arrests as Part of Coordinated Effort to Restore Order and Uphold Immigration Laws.

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Attorney Ed Martin Jr. joined with other federal law enforcement leaders to announce today that as a result of a joint federal law enforcement initiative, authorities arrested 189 individuals following a joint federal immigration-related enforcement operation in the District of Columbia over the past week.

    As part of the operation, authorities apprehended 189 illegal aliens during an enhanced targeted immigration enforcement operation focusing on egregious criminal alien offenders operating in and around Washington, D.C., May 6–9.

    “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership and this administration’s focus on law and order, these arrests represent a major step forward in making Washington, D.C., safer for legal citizens and their families,” said U.S. Attorney Martin. “These arrests make clear that violating our nation’s immigration laws will not be ignored.”

    “The District of Columbia is exponentially safer today because of countless hours of investigative work and dedication to duty displayed by ICE Washington, D.C., and our law enforcement partners,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C., Field Office Director Russell Hott. “Working with our partner agencies, ICE officers and agents arrested 189 illegal aliens and removed them from the streets of our Nation’s Capital. Throughout this enhanced enforcement operation, we targeted the most dangerous alien offenders in some of the most crime-infested neighborhoods in the city of Washington, D.C. Evil is powerless if the good are unafraid. I commend the efforts of everyone involved, as all were truly committed to the success of this operation. ICE Washington, D.C., remains dedicated to our mission of prioritizing public safety by arresting and removing criminal offenders from our Nation’s Capital and surrounding communities.”

    Among those arrested during the enhanced targeted operation include the following:

    • A 47-year-old illegally present Guatemalan alien whose criminal history includes drug possession, illegal reentry, aggravated assault, trespassing, disorderly conduct, and sexual assault. His current criminal charges include unlawful reentry of a previously deported alien, disorderly conduct, lewd acts, possession of a controlled substance, sex abuse, assault with a dangerous weapon, and possessing an open container. Additionally, he has numerous gang-affiliated tattoos on his arms, legs, and chest.

    • A 25-year-old illegally present Guatemalan alien whose criminal history includes threat to kidnap, attempted possession of a prohibited weapon, threats to bodily harm, and simple assault. He is currently charged with alien present without admission or parole.

    • A 30-year-old illegally present Salvadoran alien whose criminal history includes simple assault, driving while intoxicated, brandishing a machete, and unauthorized use of a vehicle. He is currently charged with alien present without admission or parole.

    • A 36-year-old illegally present Mexican alien whose criminal history includes misdemeanor larceny, misdemeanor indecent exposure, possession of an open container, simple assault, theft, unlawful entry, and possession of a prohibited weapon (knife). He is currently charged with alien present without admission or parole.

    This law enforcement activity is part of President Donald Trump’s Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful Executive Order. The Executive Order directs a coordinated federal effort to reduce crime, enhance public safety, and restore pride in the nation’s capital through targeted enforcement, improved policing, and strategic partnerships. It also calls for the beautification of public spaces, stricter enforcement of quality-of-life laws, and the removal of graffiti and encampments on federal lands to ensure D.C. remains clean, secure, and reflective of America’s strength and heritage.

    Participating agencies include U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; Virginia Department of Corrections; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Washington Field Office; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; U.S. Marshals Service; and U.S. State Department Diplomatic Security Service.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    All charges are merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: ECN Capital Announces Annual Meeting Voting Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ECN Capital Corp. (TSX: ECN) (“ECN Capital” or the “Corporation”) confirmed today that the eight nominees listed in its management information circular (the “Circular”) dated April 22, 2025 were elected as directors at today’s annual meeting of the holders of common shares (“Common Shares”) and mandatory convertible preferred shares, Series E (“Series E Shares”) of ECN Capital (the “Meeting”). There were 210,980,127 Common Shares and 27,450,000 Series E Shares represented in person or by proxy at the Meeting (representing approximately 77.19% of the votes attached to the outstanding shares of ECN Capital). The holders of Common Shares and Series E Shares voted together as a single class on all matters submitted to a vote at the Meeting. The voting results for the Meeting held earlier today by virtual meeting are set out below.

    At the Meeting, the following eight individuals nominated to serve as directors of ECN Capital’s board of directors (the “Board”) were elected by ballot. Proxies and votes received at the Meeting were as follows:

        For Withheld  
      William Lovatt 99.97% 0.03%  
      Steven Hudson 99.97% 0.03%  
      Paul Stoyan 99.97% 0.03%  
      David Morris 99.97% 0.03%  
      Carol E. Goldman 99.98% 0.02%  
      Karen Martin 99.94% 0.06%  
      Tawn Kelley 98.02% 1.98%  
      Tarun Mehta 99.97% 0.03%  

    At the Meeting, the following resolutions as set out in the Circular were passed as ordinary resolutions of ECN Capital’s shareholders by ballot. Proxies and votes received at the Meeting were as follows:

      Resolutions For Withheld  
      Re-appointment of Auditors 99.87% 0.13%  
        For Against  
      Say-on-Pay Advisory Vote 99.31% 0.69%  
      Option Plan Resolution (as defined in the Circular) 86.58% 13.42%  
      DSU Plan Resolution (as defined in the Circular) 86.82% 13.18%  
      Unit Plan Resolution (as defined in the Circular) 86.82% 13.18%  

    The results of these matters considered at the Meeting are reported in the Report of Voting Results as filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.com) on May 22, 2025.

    Tarun Mehta Elected to ECN Capital’s Board

    ECN Capital is pleased to welcome Tarun Mehta to the Board following his election at the Meeting. Mr. Mehta is a former senior executive officer of Truist Financial Corporation (“Truist”) and worked closely with ECN Capital in connection with our ownership in and subsequent sale of Service Finance Company (“Service Finance”). ECN Capital sold Service Finance to Truist in December 2021 for approximately US$2 billion and distributed substantially all of the after-tax proceeds to shareholders of the Corporation in the form of a special distribution of C$7.50 per share.

    Mr. Mehta was most recently the Head of Strategy, Transformation & Corporate Development of Truist, one of the top 10 largest banks in the United States, with businesses in retail banking, corporate and investment banking, commercial banking and wealth management. Mr. Mehta has extensive experience in investment banking, assisting financial institutions with debt and equity capital raises, asset-backed security transactions and mergers & acquisitions. Mr. Mehta also has a strong background in corporate strategy and enterprise transformation, with experience developing and implementing the long-term enterprise strategic plan for Truist. He was a member of the Operating Council of Truist. Mr. Mehta will be appointed Chair of the Credit & Risk Committee, replacing David Morris.

    About ECN Capital Corp.

    With managed assets of US$6.9 billion, ECN Capital is a leading provider of business services to North American based banks, credit unions, life insurance companies, pension funds and institutional investors (collectively, our “Partners”). ECN Capital originates, manages and advises on credit assets on behalf of its Partners, specifically consumer (manufactured housing and recreational vehicle and marine) loans and commercial (inventory finance and rental) loans. Our Partners are seeking high quality assets to match with their deposits, term insurance or other liabilities. These services are offered through two operating segments: (i) Manufactured Housing Finance, and (ii) Recreational Vehicles and Marine Finance.

    Contact

    Katherine Moradiellos
    561-631-8739
    kmoradiellos@ecncapitalcorp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Keeping Americans Safe

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    “National security is at the core of our national interest. The most important thing the federal government does is keep America safe. Without safety you can’t have prosperity.” — Secretary of State Marco Rubio in testimony to the House Committee on Appropriations on May 21, 2025.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/StateDept
    Substack: https://statedept.substack.com

    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USSTATEBPA/signup/32562

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
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    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnAPISkyt7A

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Rubio meets with Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Secretary of State Marco A. Rubio meets with Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares at the Department of State, on May 22, 2025.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
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    Substack: https://statedept.substack.com

    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USSTATEBPA/signup/32562

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
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    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFm3ay0W-DA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘A speedy and satisfactory resolution must be found to ensure the stability of our GP services’ – McGuigan

    Source: Sinn Féin

    Sinn Féin MLA Philip McGuigan has expressed disappointment that an agreement on GP contracts has not been reached between the Minister for Health and GP representative bodies.
    The party’s spokesperson for Health and Chair of the Assembly Health Committee said:
    “It is crucial that a speedy and satisfactory resolution is found to ensure the stability of our GP services. 
    “GPs practices are facing significant pressure which is impacting people’s ability to access GP appointments when they need them.
    “The delivery of GP services in communities often prevent people’s health deteriorating and avoid additional pressure on hospital settings.
    “They also play a key part of the transformation of health services and the roll out of multidisciplinary teams is something which the Sinn Féin Finance Minister has allocated £61 million towards.
    “Sinn Féin will urge the Health Minister to re engage with GPs to find a resolution and to ensure people across the north continue to have access to good quality GP services in their communities now and into the future.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Council drives forward with fleet management action plan

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Highland Council has today updated members of the Communities and Place Committee on its Fleet Action Plan supplied to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner for Scotland.

    The action plan was developed following an independent audit of the Council’s fleet operations and addresses a number of improvements being made in relation to compliance and control processes and monitoring of heavy goods vehicles.

    Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, Councillor Graham MacKenzie, said: “Our large fleet plays a key role in service provision for our communities and maintaining a legally safe and compliant fleet of vehicles is essential. I welcome the opportunity to further enhance the fleet operation within Highland Council as we continue to review the way we manage the fleet and look to continuously improve as we move into a completely digital operation.”

    Priority items in the action plan included reviewing the structure and process for control and compliance of drivers and licences, increasing team resource and training, improvements in ongoing vehicle monitoring and maintenance check processes and introducing new process efficiencies.

    Vice-Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, Councillor Hugh Morrison, said: “Our improvement plans are significant and show our ambition to be a leading fleet service in Scotland. We aim to restructure the fleet service to enhance resources across the whole operation, invest via the Highland Delivery Plan into new and upgraded depots and workshops, and move to a completely digital operation from drivers checks through to digital inspection forms.”

    22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The real living wage must be the bare minimum for all workers – McGuigan

    Source: Sinn Féin

    Sinn Féin MLA, Philip McGuigan has said Health and Social Care workers’ ‘value and appreciation’ must be matched by pay and work conditions.
    The Health Committee Chair was speaking after attending a Living Wage NI event today which discussed how a living wage could be introduced in the north’s social care sector.
    “The real living wage must be the bare minimum for all workers and Sinn Féin is committed to seeing this delivered across the island,” the North Antrim MLA said.
    “This can be seen in Finance Minister John O’Dowd making the Civil Service a Living Wage employer as part of the latest pay deal, while former Finance Minister, Conor Murphy, ensured that the living wage was a requirement for firms attaining government contracts.
    “It was enlightening to attend the Living Wage NI event and discuss how a fair wage is not only crucial in recognizing the value of health and care workers but also to attracting more people to the sector.”
    Mr. McGuigan said he wanted to see the Health Minister’s commitment to end minimum wages for care workers and make the care sector a Living Wage Sector be progressed urgently.
    “A real living wage, and career progression opportunities can only help bring more people into the care profession and encourage those currently employed to stay – benefiting our care workers and improving our health service and importantly patient outcomes.
    “Paying the real Living Wage to our care workers is not just good for those workers, but for our economy, our health service and for society as a whole.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Funding for redevelopment of Borrodale School on Isle of Skye.

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    The Scottish Government have awarded The Highland Council £450k from the Vacant & Derelict Land Investment Programme for a project to renovate Borrodale School and School House.

    The project aims to develop an innovative solution to the renovation which will provide much needed affordable housing, but which also supports the local community, businesses and minimises the carbon footprint both during construction and in use.

    Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “This is exactly the type of project the Vacant & Derelict Land Investment Programme should be supporting. The renovation of this derelict school and school house will create 5 or 6 fuel efficient user-friendly housing unit, in an area where affordable housing is very limited.”

    The Council will the administer the funding and the project will be delivered by the Communities Housing Trust Communities Housing Scotland (CHT) working with The Glendale Trust.

    The project will be a case study to demonstrate how derelict buildings can be refurbished cost effectively, provide significant benefits to the community and much needed housing.

    While undertaking the renovation, under existing building regulations, each stage will be analysed to determine improvements that could make renovations a more attractive and cost-effective option.

    Councillor Gowans added: “Improvements identified could include changes to regulations and planning status, project efficiencies, energy management, waste management and reduction in environmental impact.

    “I wish everyone involved all the very best as they move forward with this exciting transformation project.”

    22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland Council agrees outcomes for mainstreaming equality

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Members of Highland Council’s Communities and Place Committee have today welcomed progress against the Council’s Equality Mainstreaming and Outcomes Report and agreed a revised set of equality outcomes for 2025- 2029.

    Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, Councillor Graham MacKenzie, said: “The Council’s Equality Mainstreaming and Equality Outcomes Progress Report outlines the steps taken to mainstream equality into the work of the Council and proposes key outcomes for the next four years. Our outcomes must ensure that people are supported to access Council services and that equality is embedded in all our activities and decision making.”

    Priorities have included tackling discrimination, reducing barriers to services, developing inclusive approaches, re-establishing Access Panels in all areas of Highland and delivering an engagement and involvement strategy.

    The report outlines a number of case studies which illustrate ways in which Highland Council has supported better outcomes for groups more likely to suffer inequality and ensured these groups can influence decisions directly affecting them.

    Examples include the formation of a new British Sign Language panel which has been established to give BSL users greater involvement and a Children and Young People’s Participation Strategy, which was agreed in 2024 and co-produced by young people. This strategy sets out a commitment to the meaningful participation of children and young people in decisions which affect them and a route map for achieving this.

    Vice-Chair of the Communities and Place Committee, Councillor Hugh Morrison, said: “We acknowledge that continuous improvement is needed in our equality outcomes to prevent disadvantage and promote equality. By welcoming diversity, promoting fairness and engaging with the most vulnerable in our communities, we will ensure that people can be involved in the decisions that affect them, making Highland a more inclusive, sustainable and successful region.”

    Ends

    22 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors conclude productive meeting in Banff

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    May 22, 2025 – Banff, Alberta – Department of Finance Canada

    Today, G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors concluded their meeting in Banff, Alberta, which is part of Canada’s 2025 G7 Presidency. The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue, and Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, co-chaired the meeting.

    Ministers and Governors reached agreement on a communiqué which emphasized, above all, the the importance of G7 unity in the face of complex global challenges. In advance of the Leaders’ Summit next month in Kananaskis, Alberta, the meeting included a productive and frank exchange on the global economy, unsustainable global imbalances, and ways to promote growth and productivity.

    Ministers and Governors agreed to:

    • a G7 Financial Crime Call to Action to spur further concrete progress in tackling financial crime, including money laundering and terrorist financing. Canada will contribute $4.8 million in new technical assistance to developing economies so they can contribute to this effort;
    • support the expansion of the World Bank-led Resilient and Inclusive Supply-Chain Enhancement (RISE) Partnership to strengthen the integration of developing countries into critical minerals supply chains. Canada will contribute $20 million to support the expansion of the RISE Partnership, including in Latin America and the Caribbean;
    • address risks stemming from the large increase in low-value shipments imported into G7 markets; and
    • continued unwavering support to Ukraine, an agreement to continue to explore all possible options to hold Russia to account, including further ramping up sanctions, as well as efforts to foster private sector participation in the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine.

    Canada is a stable, reliable, and innovative partner with a wealth of natural resources and expertise. Through our G7 Presidency, we will shape the global agenda – working with allies and partners to grow our economies, defend Canadians’ interests, and address the most pressing global challenges.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Africa Subcommittee Chairman Smith Delivers Opening Remarks at Hearing on the Crisis in Sudan

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee Chairman Chris Smith delivered opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing titled, “A Dire Crisis in Sudan: A Global Call to Action.” 

    Watch Here

    -Remarks-

    Over the decades, as especially our distinguished panel knows, the people of Sudan have been subjected to unbearable pain, suffering, loss of life, and even slavery. Since the 1990s, I have been a vocal advocate for human rights, democracy, and stability in Sudan. Soon after Republicans took control of the House, I chaired a hearing in 1996 on slavery in Sudan and Mauritania.

    Today, there is a dire crisis again in Sudan, necessitating a global call to action. I went to Khartoum in August of 2005 to meet with President Omar al-Bashir and other government officials, a number of people from the faith community, to press for an end to the genocide in Darfur. The meeting was necessarily contentious. Bashir denied any wrongdoing or complicity in the killings of the Darfur genocide.

    In 2009, however, Bashir was charged by the International Criminal Court with committing war crimes and crimes against humanity. In 2010, he became the first person ever charged with the crime of genocide by the ICC.

    After meetings with Bashir and other government officials, I visited two refugee camps – many of you have done that, many of my colleagues have done that. Those two camps I went to in Darfur were Kalma Camp and I stayed overnight at another called Mukjar in western Darfur. That experience profoundly motivated me to do more to end the mass violence. When our helicopter landed at the remote Mukjar camp, thousands, and I mean thousand, a line was formed of these wonderful people: women and children dancing, clapping, singing beautiful African traditional songs. The people of Darfur have a remarkable generosity and spirit, and it was awe-inspiring.

    Just about everyone I spoke with, especially the women, told me personal stories of rape, senseless beatings, and massacres by the Janjaweed and Sudanese militias. I was deeply impressed by the dedication of the African Union peacekeepers operating under extremely difficult circumstances and urged international partners, including the United States, to better equip them. I was shocked to learn they were receiving a little over $1 a day. It was absurd.

    I went to Secretary Condoleezza Rice upon my return and said, “Please, we’ve got to augment that. We’ve got to increase it. These soldiers are putting their lives on the line. They should not be so grossly underpaid an not getting the kind of things that they need in terms of munitions.”

    In November of 2005, I chaired another hearing on Sudan. It was absolutely clear that the situation in Darfur was a genocide. At that time, over 400,000 killed and over a million displaced. We did stress at that hearing, all of us, that the need for a comprehensive plan that could best contribute to peace and hold those who have murdered, raped, enslaved, and plagued the people of Sudan accountable.

    Meanwhile, Chairman Henry Hyde, Donald Payne, who was my ranking member from New Jersey, Frank Wolf, Tom Lantos, and a number of others pushed the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act that declared that the slaughter in Darfur was genocide, imposed sanctions on malign actors and talked about helping peacekeepers. It was signed into law in October 2006. That law built upon the Sudan Peace Act of 2001 and the Comprehensive Peace in Sudan Act of 2004.

    I also, and I wasn’t the only one, called on the Arab League to leverage its influence over the Sudanese government by encouraging the government to end its military offensive in Darfur and accept the United Nations peacekeeping which was there under the auspices of the AU. They didn’t do it. It was like crickets. We got almost no response at all other than “thank you for raising it.” So here we are again.

    In January 2017, again on this committee, I objected to the Obama administration’s decision to ease sanctions on Sudan. I know it had to have been a tough call. We’re always evaluating when sanctions become counterproductive, so there was an argument to be made. But I thought it was the wrong one because Khartoum’s government continued to commit pervasive human rights violations. At the time, we pointed out the violent government actions against Sudanese citizens in Darfur, Nubia the Nuba Mountains, and Blue Nile, alongside the nationwide persecution of Christians nationwide.

    I was also disappointed in 2024 by the decision to allow Sudanese warlord Abdel Fattah al-Burhan into the country for a meeting with the UN Secretary-General. Burhan, as we all know, has massive amounts of blood on his hands and should never have been allowed into the U.S.

    Yet the Biden administration delayed and denied robust sanctions against both Burhan and Hemedti, delaying until the administration’s final hours. While we were glad they finally did it, many of us believe it should have happened sooner. There will never be peace in Sudan until there is accountability for the atrocities committed by the twin butchers of Darfur.

    Over 18,000 civilian deaths have been committed since 2023, with estimates as high as 150,000, and more than 10 million people displaced. These are not just numerical estimates; it’s evidence of an appalling range of harrowing human rights violations and international crimes. Each murder or displaced civilian is a person with dreams, hopes, and family – a person whose life has been taken or irrevocably changed by these attrocities.

    Both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are guilty of arbitrary killings, detentions, abductions, rapes—including the rape of children—repression of fundamental human rights, illicit gold mining, and child soldier recruitment.

    Illicit Sudanese gold, which the RSF smuggles through the UAE, is crucial to prevending the continued funding Hemedti’s atrocities and perpetuating this bloody conflict. The RSF’s main international backer is widely reported to be the UAE, which has supplied both weapons and financial support. Other external actors, such as Chad, have been credibly accused of enabling arms transfers and have been implicated in supporting the RSF.

    Domestically, the RSF has allied with non-RSF Janjaweed militias. It is clear that the RSF is grappling with command and control, however, allowing its fighters to rape, pillage, target vulnerable women and children, and to attack civilian infrastructure. This is the opposite of capable government, and such behavior only confirms this to the Sudanese people.

    The SAF has received support from domestic groups including the Al-Bara Battalion—known as the Popular Resistance—which openly espouses a militant Islamist ideology, as well as former rebel groups such as the Sudan Liberation Movement under Minni Minawi and Mustafa Tambour. Externally, the SAF has received support from countries like Egypt, Iran, Qatar, and Turkey. Russia continues to pursue naval access to Port Sudan.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterbury Man Sentenced to Nearly 8 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Violent Carjacking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL McCANN-ORTIZ, also known as “Bando,” 24, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 95 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his participation in a violent carjacking.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning hours of June 18, 2023, two all-terrain vehicles (“ATVs”) were stolen from a Waterbury residence.  After the theft, McCann-Ortiz and others mistakenly identified an individual (“Victim 1”) who they incorrectly believed was involved in the theft.  Later that night, Victim 1’s friend, (“Victim 2”), picked up Victim 1 from work and drove him home.  As they arrived at Victim 1’s residence, three vehicles followed them and surrounded the victims.  McCann-Ortiz and his associates, one of whom carried an assault-style rifle, exited the vehicles and approached the victims.  McCann-Ortiz and his associates demanded the return of the stolen ATVs, threatened to harm both victims, and physically assaulted them.

    Specifically, McCann-Ortiz repeatedly threatened to kill the victims, and punched and kicked one victim, causing serious bodily injury.

    McCann-Ortiz and his associates then stole Victim 2’s vehicle, which was owned by Victim 2’s relative, and other items and cash belonging to the victims.  McCann-Ortiz and his associates continued to harass the victims in the following days.

    McCann-Ortiz has been detained since his arrest on unrelated state charges on July 10, 2023.  On February 27, 2025, he pleaded guilty in federal court to carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury.

    This investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan J. Guevremont and David T. Huang.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Largo Man Charged With Bomb Hoax At FBI Tampa Field Office

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces a criminal complaint charging Nicki Wayne Goodman (49, Largo) with conveying false information to perpetuate a hoax. If convicted on all counts, Goodman faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. Goodman made his initial appearance in federal court today, in Tampa, and was ordered detained.

    According to the criminal complaint, in the early morning of May 20, 2025, the FBI Tampa Field Office discovered a suspicious black backpack placed outside the main security gate, along with a cardboard sign that identified federal agents by name and a YouTube account belonging to Goodman. The sign also stated, among other things, “My name is Nicki Goodman” and “ABolish Government,” and displayed racial epithets. Agents also discovered several other cardboard signs with messages placed nearby the main entrance gate. Surveillance footage from the previous night revealed that Goodman had placed the bag and signs outside the security gate.

    Once the backpack was discovered, a large law enforcement response for public safety was initiated, including the deployment of the Tampa Police Department’s bomb squad and patrol units, and Tampa Fire Rescue engines and ambulances. The public safety response resulted in the closure of the public roadways near the incident, denied access to public businesses, and the shutdown of FBI’s Tampa Field Office for approximately five hours. No explosive materials were found in the backpack.

    While first responders were on scene, Goodman posted a short video from nearby, depicting multiple emergency vehicles and personnel in the background. In the video Goodman stated: “see all the way down that street right there? Guess that’s cause of me. (inaudible) I uh the FBI office right down the road there. Look at that shit. That’s crazy huh? Wrote a few notes. Found a bag..” and “they got the SWAT team. They got the look like they got a bomb squad or something going on there.”

    A criminal complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable assistance provided by the Tampa Police Department and Tampa Fire Rescue. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Risha Asokan.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Climate, Peace & Security on Protection of Civilians- Joint Security Council Media Stakeout

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Comments to the media by Georgios Gerapetritis, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic and President of the Security Council for the month of May, on behalf of the Security Council members signatories to the Joint Pledges related to Climate, Peace & Security on Protection of Civilians and Denmark, Guyana, Panama, Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and United Kingdom.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwDtN1P39_o

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: World Football Day 2025

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Sports have been instrumental in promoting peace globally and have played a pivotal role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Football, as a prominent global sport, holds a unique position.

    Beyond mere recreation, it is a universal language spoken by people of all ages, transcending national, cultural, and socio-economic boundaries. This shared passion fosters a sense of community and national pride.

    Football’s broad appeal and accessibility make it a potent tool for promoting health and well-being. It has also served as a vital platform for advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls, both on and off the field.

    Moreover, football serves as a catalyst for social inclusion, fostering unity and breaking down barriers between diverse communities. It provides a space where individuals from various backgrounds converge to promote mutual understanding, tolerance, respect, and solidarity.

    World Football Day website: https://www.un.org/en/observances/football-day

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHNkKslNgBs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Protection of civilians in armed conflict – Joint Security Council Media Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Comments to the media by Georgios Gerapetritis, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic and President of the Security Council for the month of May, on behalf of 80 member states, on safeguarding the basics on protection of civilians in armed conflict.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w23tSUwT5q8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Department of Education Announces Resumption of Involuntary Student Loan Collections

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    On May 5, 2025, ED resumed collections for student loans in default.

    We cannot and will not allow taxpayers to take on debts that are not their own.

    Please visit http://studentaid.gov to learn more about repayment options.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-sSfqeYLaA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary McMahon Announces Title IX Special Investigations Team with ED, Department of Justice

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    From day one, the Trump Administration has prioritized enforcing Title IX to protect female students and athletes.

    The U.S. Department of Education is partnering with the U.S. Department of Justice to form Title IX Special Investigations Team to ensure rapid and consistent investigations.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuqzv9Z0GeA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Linda McMahon’s First Day as U.S. Secretary of Education

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    On March 3, 2025, Linda E. McMahon was sworn in as the 13th Secretary of Education. The work to prioritize our nation’s students is just beginning.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JB0JCu8h8hM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: U.S. Department of Education’s First 100 Days in the Trump-Vance Administration

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    The American people gave the Trump-Vance Administration an historic mandate to restore our education system. We’re 100 days in, and we’re just getting started.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epeGJoeNfh4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: ED Visits the Arizona Autism Charter School

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Charter schools like the Arizona Autism Charter School create specialized educational programs for students with autism and neurodivergence, helping them thrive not just academically but also socially.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EaXD5Uer0FA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: ED Visits FuturEdge Charter Academy in Nevada

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    FuturEdge Charter Academy in Nevada builds 21st century skills with their students, encouraging collaborative learning and helping students develop goals for their educational & career future, as we saw when Secretary McMahon and staff from the U.S. Department of Education visited the school.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnQ_Hk95R8E

    MIL OSI Video –