NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Security: PANAMA CITY MEN PLEAD GUILTY TO POSSESSING FIGHTING DOGS AND FIREARMS CHARGE

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

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Fredricus White, 38, and Cornelious Johnson, 41, of Panama City, Florida, pleaded guilty to charges of possessing fighting dogs, while White also pleaded guilty to a charge of possessing firearms and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. The convictions were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    According to court records, White and Johnson entered into a conspiracy to violate the Animal Welfare Act from 2018 through February 2024, by participating in organized dog fighting, to include breeding fighting dogs, participating in gambling involving illegal dog fights, and training dogs to participate in dog fights. White and Johnson were previously arrested in Georgia on state charges of participating in a dog fight in 2022. Federal arrest warrants in February 2024 for the Georgia dog fight led to the discovery of two rural Panama City area properties where White and Johnson had continued to keep, breed, and train fighting dogs. White’s residence was also searched, and three firearms were found. White was prohibited from possessing firearms due to felony convictions in 2009 and 2012.   

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “These defendants engaged in cruel and continued mistreatment of animals, but now they will find themselves locked in a cell for their crimes. I deeply appreciate the dedicated work of our state and federal law enforcement partners to dismantle this heinous enterprise of animal cruelty, which unsurprisingly often increases violence in the community. My office is firmly committed to ensuring the safety of all individuals and ending the cruel infliction of pain on animals purely for sport and financial gain in the Northern District of Florida.”

    The convictions were the result of a joint investigation by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the United States Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General and assisted by the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by attorneys from the Criminal Division of the Tallahassee office with assistance from the Environmental and Natural Resources Division of the Department of Justice. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Equasens: Appointment at the head of the Pharmagest Division

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Villers-lès-Nancy (France), July 03, 2025 – 06 :00pm (CET)

    Press Release

    Equasens announces the departure of Damien VALICON, as Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division

    He will be replaced by François-Pierre MARQUIER as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    ***

    Equasens Group (Euronext Paris™ – Compartment B – FR 0012882389 –$EQS), announces the departure of Damien VALICON, who held the position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division for 18 months, and the appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, who is resuming his operational duties as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    The appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, proposed by Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of the Equasens Group, will be effective after a transition period. It was approved by the Board of Directors at its meeting on June 25, 2025, chaired by Thierry CHAPUSOT, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

    François-Pierre MARQUIER, who joined Pharmagest in May 2021 as Regional Director for the Ile-de-France region, has headed the Pharmacy France business since January 2023. He will now oversee all the Division’s activities, both in France and the rest of Europe.

    Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of Equasens Group, states: « François-Pierre has a deep understanding of our business sectors, a precise grasp of our challenges and the sectoral expertise we need to accelerate our European development. »

    Biography François-Pierre MARQUIER – LinkedIn – Graduate of IDRAC Business School and Emlyon Business School (DUA), he began his career in 1996 with DHL as Marketing Manager. In 2000, he joined Cegid Group where he evolved for over 20 years, holding management positions in marketing and sales.
    He joined Equasens Group in May 2021 as Regional Director, before being appointed Director of the Pharmacy France business in January 2023.
    He has represented Pharmagest within FEIMA for over 2 years.

    Upcoming financial communications

    • 31 July 2025:                 Q2 2025 revenue – After the close of trading
    • 26 September 2025:         H1 2025 results

    About Equasens Group – Follow us also on LinkedIn

    Founded over 35 years ago, Equasens Group, a leader in digital healthcare solutions, today employs over 1.400 people across Europe.
    Equasens Group’s specialized business applications facilitate the day-to-day work of healthcare professionals and their teams, working in private practice, collaborative medical structures or healthcare establishments. The Group also provides comprehensive support to healthcare professionals in the transformation of their profession by developing electronic equipment, digital solutions and healthcare robotics, as well as data hosting, financing and training adapted to their specific needs.
    And reflecting the spirit of its tagline “Technology for a More Human Experience”, the Group is a leading provider of interoperability solutions that improve coordination between healthcare professionals, their communications and data exchange resulting in better patient care and a more efficient and secure healthcare system.

    Listed on Euronext Paris™, Equasens Group (Compartment B – FR 0012882389 – $EQS) applies a two-pronged development strategy combining organic growth with targeted acquisitions at a European level.

    CONTACTS

    Analyst and Investor Relations:
    Chief Administrative and Financial Officer: Frédérique Schmidt
    Tel: +33 (0)3 83 15 90 67 – frederique.schmidt@equasens.com

    Financial communications agency:
    FIN’EXTENSO – Isabelle Aprile

    Tel.: +33 (0)6 17 38 61 78 – i.aprile@finextenso.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Equasens: Appointment at the head of the Pharmagest Division

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Villers-lès-Nancy (France), July 03, 2025 – 06 :00pm (CET)

    Press Release

    Equasens announces the departure of Damien VALICON, as Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division

    He will be replaced by François-Pierre MARQUIER as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    ***

    Equasens Group (Euronext Paris™ – Compartment B – FR 0012882389 –$EQS), announces the departure of Damien VALICON, who held the position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division for 18 months, and the appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, who is resuming his operational duties as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    The appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, proposed by Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of the Equasens Group, will be effective after a transition period. It was approved by the Board of Directors at its meeting on June 25, 2025, chaired by Thierry CHAPUSOT, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

    François-Pierre MARQUIER, who joined Pharmagest in May 2021 as Regional Director for the Ile-de-France region, has headed the Pharmacy France business since January 2023. He will now oversee all the Division’s activities, both in France and the rest of Europe.

    Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of Equasens Group, states: « François-Pierre has a deep understanding of our business sectors, a precise grasp of our challenges and the sectoral expertise we need to accelerate our European development. »

    Biography François-Pierre MARQUIER – LinkedIn – Graduate of IDRAC Business School and Emlyon Business School (DUA), he began his career in 1996 with DHL as Marketing Manager. In 2000, he joined Cegid Group where he evolved for over 20 years, holding management positions in marketing and sales.
    He joined Equasens Group in May 2021 as Regional Director, before being appointed Director of the Pharmacy France business in January 2023.
    He has represented Pharmagest within FEIMA for over 2 years.

    Upcoming financial communications

    • 31 July 2025:                 Q2 2025 revenue – After the close of trading
    • 26 September 2025:         H1 2025 results

    About Equasens Group – Follow us also on LinkedIn

    Founded over 35 years ago, Equasens Group, a leader in digital healthcare solutions, today employs over 1.400 people across Europe.
    Equasens Group’s specialized business applications facilitate the day-to-day work of healthcare professionals and their teams, working in private practice, collaborative medical structures or healthcare establishments. The Group also provides comprehensive support to healthcare professionals in the transformation of their profession by developing electronic equipment, digital solutions and healthcare robotics, as well as data hosting, financing and training adapted to their specific needs.
    And reflecting the spirit of its tagline “Technology for a More Human Experience”, the Group is a leading provider of interoperability solutions that improve coordination between healthcare professionals, their communications and data exchange resulting in better patient care and a more efficient and secure healthcare system.

    Listed on Euronext Paris™, Equasens Group (Compartment B – FR 0012882389 – $EQS) applies a two-pronged development strategy combining organic growth with targeted acquisitions at a European level.

    CONTACTS

    Analyst and Investor Relations:
    Chief Administrative and Financial Officer: Frédérique Schmidt
    Tel: +33 (0)3 83 15 90 67 – frederique.schmidt@equasens.com

    Financial communications agency:
    FIN’EXTENSO – Isabelle Aprile

    Tel.: +33 (0)6 17 38 61 78 – i.aprile@finextenso.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Equasens: Appointment at the head of the Pharmagest Division

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Villers-lès-Nancy (France), July 03, 2025 – 06 :00pm (CET)

    Press Release

    Equasens announces the departure of Damien VALICON, as Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division

    He will be replaced by François-Pierre MARQUIER as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    ***

    Equasens Group (Euronext Paris™ – Compartment B – FR 0012882389 –$EQS), announces the departure of Damien VALICON, who held the position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division for 18 months, and the appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, who is resuming his operational duties as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    The appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, proposed by Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of the Equasens Group, will be effective after a transition period. It was approved by the Board of Directors at its meeting on June 25, 2025, chaired by Thierry CHAPUSOT, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

    François-Pierre MARQUIER, who joined Pharmagest in May 2021 as Regional Director for the Ile-de-France region, has headed the Pharmacy France business since January 2023. He will now oversee all the Division’s activities, both in France and the rest of Europe.

    Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of Equasens Group, states: « François-Pierre has a deep understanding of our business sectors, a precise grasp of our challenges and the sectoral expertise we need to accelerate our European development. »

    Biography François-Pierre MARQUIER – LinkedIn – Graduate of IDRAC Business School and Emlyon Business School (DUA), he began his career in 1996 with DHL as Marketing Manager. In 2000, he joined Cegid Group where he evolved for over 20 years, holding management positions in marketing and sales.
    He joined Equasens Group in May 2021 as Regional Director, before being appointed Director of the Pharmacy France business in January 2023.
    He has represented Pharmagest within FEIMA for over 2 years.

    Upcoming financial communications

    • 31 July 2025:                 Q2 2025 revenue – After the close of trading
    • 26 September 2025:         H1 2025 results

    About Equasens Group – Follow us also on LinkedIn

    Founded over 35 years ago, Equasens Group, a leader in digital healthcare solutions, today employs over 1.400 people across Europe.
    Equasens Group’s specialized business applications facilitate the day-to-day work of healthcare professionals and their teams, working in private practice, collaborative medical structures or healthcare establishments. The Group also provides comprehensive support to healthcare professionals in the transformation of their profession by developing electronic equipment, digital solutions and healthcare robotics, as well as data hosting, financing and training adapted to their specific needs.
    And reflecting the spirit of its tagline “Technology for a More Human Experience”, the Group is a leading provider of interoperability solutions that improve coordination between healthcare professionals, their communications and data exchange resulting in better patient care and a more efficient and secure healthcare system.

    Listed on Euronext Paris™, Equasens Group (Compartment B – FR 0012882389 – $EQS) applies a two-pronged development strategy combining organic growth with targeted acquisitions at a European level.

    CONTACTS

    Analyst and Investor Relations:
    Chief Administrative and Financial Officer: Frédérique Schmidt
    Tel: +33 (0)3 83 15 90 67 – frederique.schmidt@equasens.com

    Financial communications agency:
    FIN’EXTENSO – Isabelle Aprile

    Tel.: +33 (0)6 17 38 61 78 – i.aprile@finextenso.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Oxford Leisure Centres refurbish cafés and offer sustainable choices

    Source: City of Oxford

    Thursday, 3 July 2025

    Five Oxford leisure centres have received significant upgrades to their catering facilities and menus.

    Barton Leisure Centre, Leys Pools and Leisure Centre, Ferry Leisure Centre, Hinksey Outdoor Pool, and Oxford Ice Rink have all undergone improvements designed to modernise the spaces and offer a wider range of food and drink choices.

    A key highlight of the upgrades is the introduction of Fairtrade coffee and tea that are not only organic, but also Rainforest Alliance-certified and Soil Association-accredited. All hot drinks are now served in eco cups, with 30p discount offered to customers who bring their own reusable cup.

    “These enhancements reflect our commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable options for our visitors. We’re proud to offer a catering experience that’s better for both people and the planet, while making every visit more enjoyable.”

    Rob Jennings, Contract Manager for More Leisure Community Trust (MLCT), which operates the centres

    “Looking after our health isn’t just about exercise – it’s about connection too. Grabbing a (Fairtrade) coffee with a friend after a swim or catching up over tea with a friend while the kids are in the pool, can give our mental wellbeing a real boost. These new cafes make our leisure centres more social and welcoming, as well as great places to get active.”

    Councillor Chewe Munkonge, Cabinet Member for a Healthy, Fairer Oxford and Small Business Champion at Oxford City Council

    Oxford Ice Rink now boasts an updated menu of convenient grab-and-go options, including hot dogs and doughnuts. Leys Pools and Leisure Centre has opened a new kiosk café in its recently launched Active Zone, serving a variety of hot and cold snacks and drinks.

    As a special welcome, customers using the free 7-day trial at Barton Leisure Centre, Leys Pools and Leisure Centre, and Ferry Leisure Centre will receive one complimentary hot drink.

    MLCT in partnership with Serco Leisure operates five leisure centres across Oxford on behalf of Oxford City Council. For more information, visit oxfordcityleisure.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council steps in to buy land to transfer to Gables

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Tails will be wagging with joy at Gables – a patch of land near the cats and dog home is to be transferred to the charity after the Council stepped in to buy the land.

    Late last year National Highways put up for sale a section of grass verge outside the charity’s premises in Merafield Road, sparking concern from the charity and its many supporters.

    National Highways had intended to put the site up for auction, but the Council can today confirm it has agreed terms to buy the land off market on behalf of Gables. The land was independently valued on behalf of the council and National Highways and both have now agreed to the transaction.

    The Council has secured the land for Gables who have agreed to underwrite the costs and will acquire the site for the price paid by the Council together with professional fees. The price is currently confidential but will be made public on completion at the Land Registry.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, cabinet member responsible for assets said: “This is unusual but as a public organisation we were able to step in and help.

    “We were able to buy the land before it went on the market, which meant the cost to the charity was very low. The charity does an incredible job and we wanted to remove this unnecessary worry. It was a transaction that will cost the taxpayer nothing, but will make a lot of supporters very happy.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New project to protect Cambridge’s chalk streams

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    The Granta, a tributary of the river Cam

    A new project dedicated to studying and preserving Cambridge’s chalk streams is being launched at Anglia Ruskin University’s East Road campus on Wednesday, 16 July.

    It is estimated that 85% of the world’s chalk streams are found in the UK, with the majority located in the south of England and East Anglia. These streams, fed by springs in chalk bedrock, provide clean and clear water that supports a huge variety of wildlife.

    However, once pristine, many local chalk streams are being degraded by a range of factors including water extraction, pollution, the erosion of riverbanks, and invasive species.

    The Greater Cambridge Chalk Stream Project is a collaboration between Cambridge City Council and Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), and is bringing together experts to study the threats faced by local chalk streams, such as Hobson’s Brook and Cherry Hinton Brook in Cambridge, and highlight practical ways to protect them.

    The project kicks off with a free conference at ARU, running from 10am-4pm on 16 July, featuring presentations by leading environmental scientists. Topics will range from groundwater depletion and sediment loading to aquatic biodiversity and emerging contaminants.

    Geologist and ecologist Dr Steve Boreham will focus on the pressure chalk aquifers are facing from water extraction, while Dr Mike Foley of Cam Valley Forum will share insights from his citizen science water quality monitoring work.

    Dr Tory Milner of Keele University will examine the impact of sediment and gravel accumulation on chalk streams, while Professor Angela Gurnell will cover the important role of submerged aquatic plants.

    From ARU, Dr Toby Carter will discuss the connection between brown trout populations and the health of chalk streams, Dr Alvin Helden will demonstrate how monitoring aquatic macroinvertebrates, such as mayflies and caddisflies, can indicate water quality and habitat condition, and Dr Bas Boots will address the risks posed by new pollutants, including PFAS “forever chemicals” and microplastics.

    The conference will also introduce the Greater Cambridge Chalk Stream Project’s citizen science programme, offering opportunities to participate in water quality testing, photography, sediment trapping and the monitoring of riverbank erosion. Taking place weekly over two years, the citizen science monitoring will be co-ordinated by ARU.

    “Chalk streams are globally rare freshwater habitats and we’re fortunate to have them in and around the city. However, many of these precious ecosystems are now significantly degraded and at risk.

    “The Greater Cambridge Chalk Stream Project will investigate local sites to understand habitat loss, biodiversity reduction, and water quality issues. By bringing everyone together, including involving local community volunteers, we hope to obtain detailed information about each stream to help inform Cambridge City Council’s restoration strategies and safeguard our chalk streams for future generations.”

    Emma Dominic, research assistant at ARU for the Greater Cambridge Chalk Stream Project

    To register for the free event at ARU’s East Road campus on Wednesday, 16 July, please visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/greater-cambridge-chalk-stream-project-gccsp-launch-conference-tickets-1407358650609

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government sets out progress of financial services competitiveness programme03 July 2025 A major Government-led programme to strengthen and grow Jersey’s financial services industry is to be showcased at a public event later this month. The conference – at the Radisson Blu Hotel on 23 July… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    03 July 2025

    A major Government-led programme to strengthen and grow Jersey’s financial services industry is to be showcased at a public event later this month. 

    The conference – at the Radisson Blu Hotel on 23 July – will provide the first significant update on the project, launched earlier this year in collaboration with Jersey Finance Ltd, the Jersey Financial Servies Commission (JFSC) and industry partners. 

    The Competitiveness Programme aims to support and find new areas of growth for Jersey’s financial and related professional services (FRPS) sector – the Island’s largest employer and the most significant contributor to tax revenues that fund public services. 

    In a keynote speech, Deputy Ian Gorst, Minister for External Relations with responsibility for Financial Services, will outline the need for action amid an ever-changing and increasingly uncertain global landscape, and set out the work undertaken in the programme so far. 

    The Minister will also discuss the future plans for the programme, which will culminate in a report setting a clear strategy to safeguard and grow the industry over the next ten years and beyond. 

    Further presentations and panel discussions will focus on: 

    • Updates on the programme’s workstreams on tax, ‘quick win’ changes, and longer-term improvements to Jersey’s business and regulatory environment
    • Global trends affecting international finance centres 
    • Insights from the JFSC strategy and registry review 
    • Opportunities to collaborate on upcoming work. 

    Deputy Gorst said: “The importance of our financial-services industry cannot be underestimated – it is by far our largest employer and the tax revenues it generates play a fundamental part in supporting Island life as we know it. It is essential we do all we can to safeguard this industry and find new areas to grow the sector in an increasingly competitive global market. I look forward to welcoming stakeholders and updating them on the good work undertaken so far – and setting out what we aim to achieve over the coming year.” 

    The event takes place on Wednesday 23 July 2025, 9am-11am and can be watched live online. Register online via Eventbrite.

    More information about the Competitiveness Programme can be found at: Financial Services Competitiveness Programme​.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thousands of items collected in 24-hour litter pick of Aberdeen

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Hundreds of volunteers collected thousands of items in a 24-hour litter pick across dozens of areas in Aberdeen.

    The annual event – with the aim of making the city more sparklingly clean in the summer months – had 37 separate clean-ups from organisations including primary and secondary schools, community groups, and individuals.

    It involves litter picks starting every hour over 24 hours from midnight to midnight and included Tall Ship volunteers doing a session to ensure the city is ship shape in time for next month’s event.

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “It’s good that so many groups came out to help keep our city looking sparkling clean. 

    “Council staff work hard to keep our city clean and tidy. Unfortunately they cannot be everywhere at the same time so the action taken by these communities, groups, workplaces, and individuals makes a big difference.”

    Aberdeen City Council Net Zero, Environment and Transport Committee convener Councillor Miranda Radley said: “We’d prefer if people didn’t litter in the first place as it is bad for the environment and makes our city look unattractive. We are all responsible for keeping our city beautiful. This effort can be as simple as picking up litter outside our front gates every day, or a bigger effort such as litter picks carried out by dozens of groups throughout the year.

    “These organised litter-pick events really do make a huge difference to local communities and help foster pride in our beautiful city.”

    The 393 participants in the Aberdeen City Council-organised event managed to fill 197 black bin bags across the 37 clean-ups.

    This year’s event was started by ACC’s library services team at midnight on Wednesday followed by ACC’s environmental services staff, countryside rangers, and tree squads doing the early hours and then by the other groups every hour.

    Areas which benefitted included Morningside, Garthdee, Mastrick, Hazlehead, Summerhill, Tillydrone, Kincorth, Bucksburn, West End, Airyhall, city centre, Heathryfold, Garthdee, Cove, Powis, Torry, Seaton, Rosemount, Stockethill, Donmouth, Northfield, Fittie, and the beachfront.

    Other groups taking part this year included Riverbank School, Kirkhill School, Bucksburn Academy, Bright Horizons, Airyhall School, Phoenix Futures, Hazlehead Primary, Keep Middlefield Clean, Tall Ships volunteers, Charleston School, St Machar Academy, Loirston School, Boat Club, Fresh Community Wellness, Friends of Victoria and Westburn Parks, Ashgrove and Stockethill
    Community Council, ACC Green Champions, Northfield Community Centre, Kincorth and Leggart Community Council, Friends of St Fittick’s Park. Members of the public took part in litter picks at Torry Battery, Fittie, and the beachfront.

    The places the groups picked litter up from included school grounds, pitches, car parks, golf course woods, streets, green spaces, parks, along the River Dee, community centre grounds, and near the Tall Ships site.

    The event is part of the year-round Clean Up Aberdeen campaign which encourages people not to litter in the first place, and also provides equipment for groups wanting to organise a litter pick. For more details, or to get help organising an event, go to Clean Up Aberdeen | Aberdeen City Council.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth businesses welcome top Ambassador to Japan

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    The UK’s Ambassador to Japan, Julia Longbottom, visited a selection of Portsmouth  businesses today to boost economic ties as part of a new roadshow launched by the Foreign Secretary David Lammy to drive growth in every part of the UK.

    Ambassador Longbottom met with the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth City Cllr. Gerald Vernon-Jackson and Natalie Brahma-Pearl, Chief Executive of Portsmouth City Council and visited locally based businesses including Griffon Marine, Airbus Portsmouth, BAE Systems and the Mary Rose.

    Portsmouth is a key centre of Japanese trade and investment within the Hampshire region, in part due to the strength of its maritime, defence and advanced manufacturing sectors.

    Ambassador Longbottom said:

    “It’s exciting to be in Portsmouth as part of this first-of-its-kind roadshow – going the extra mile to develop relationships that will help us supercharge growth to every corner of the UK.

    “The UK Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy and Trade Strategy are making Britain the best country to do business with – and that is the message I’m giving, loud and clear, to businesses in Japan.

    “Japanese companies are choosing to invest and create jobs in the UK because of our skilled workforce, our world-class innovation, and our deep, trusted partnership with Japan. Portsmouth has all of these, and it’s my job to put Portsmouth on the map in Japan.

    “That’s why I’m in Portsmouth today – exploring new opportunities both for local companies seeking to export to Japan, and to understand how Japanese companies can invest and create more jobs and growth here.

    “I am particularly excited by Portsmouth’s strong defence industrial base, cutting-edge technology, and advanced manufacturing sector. These are all fantastic opportunities for partnership with Japan.

    “I look forward to building on these opportunities further, including when the Royal Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales visits Japan later this year as part of her deployment to the Indo-Pacific. Having set sail from Portsmouth in April, this is just another example of the strong links between Portsmouth and Japan.”

    Japan is now the UK’s 15th largest trading partner. Ambassador Longbottom will use today’s roadshow visit to build on figures which show total trade between UK and Japan was £27.1 billion in 2024 – with many companies across Hampshire benefiting.

    Exports from the Hampshire & Isle of Wight region to Japan in 2022 totalled £1billion, while total imports were £206million. Most of the exports from Hampshire & Isle of Wight are in goods – £833 million exported in goods versus £170 million in services, owing to the presence of major goods ports at Southampton and Portsmouth.

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council said:

    “We are delighted to welcome Ambassador Longbottom to Portsmouth as part of this important national initiative. Her visit is a valuable opportunity to showcase the world-class innovation and expertise that defines our city’s defence, maritime and advanced manufacturing sectors.

    Working closely with Portsmouth’s global business partners like Griffon Marine, Airbus, BAE and the Mary Rose, we are building a resilient, forward-looking economy that benefits everyone in our city. This visit is a clear signal that Portsmouth is open for business and ready to play a leading role in the UK’s global trade ambitions.”

    Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson added:

    “Portsmouth is proud of its strong international connections, particularly with Japan, and we are committed to strengthening these ties to create new jobs, attract investment, and open up global opportunities for our residents.”

    Mark Downer, CEO of Griffon Marine, said:

    “Ambassador Longbottom’s visit highlights the importance of UK-Japan collaboration in shaping the future of maritime defence. At Griffon Marine, we are proud to lead the Wyvern-J programme, a platform that reflects the best of British innovation, engineering, and global support. Wyvern-J has the power to bring meaningful regeneration to Portchester by creating high-value jobs, apprenticeships, and a skilled workforce rooted in the community.”

    Dominic Jones, CEO of the Mary Rose Trust, said:

     “It was an honour to welcome Ambassador Longbottom to the Mary Rose Museum—home to the world’s largest collection of everyday Tudor artefacts. We were delighted to share the story of the Mary Rose, history’s greatest maritime archaeological salvage project, and its ongoing significance to Portsmouth’s heritage. We hope Her Excellency enjoyed her visit.”

    Main image: L to R: David Ryan (Department of Business & Trade, Mark Downer (Griffon Marine) , Natalie Brahma-Pearl (Portsmouth City Council) Ambassador to Japan Julia Longbottom, Lord Mayor Portsmouth Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Lady Mayoress Leila Ferguson and Jeremy Greaves (Airbus Portsmouth)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Riverfest returns to celebrate all things Great Stour

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   Riverfest returns to celebrate all things Great Stour

    Canterbury’s annual celebration of the River Stour returns for a third time this September, promising a fun-packed week of free activities and events.

    The Great Stour Riverfest 2025 gets underway on Sunday 21 September with the fantastic spectacle that is the Rotary Club of Canterbury’s Annual Duck Race in the Westgate Gardens.

    It is followed through the week by a range of free events including walks, talks, river cleans, yoga sessions and plenty more, before the festival wraps up with a Riverfest fair at the Riverside development at Kingsmead on Sunday 28 September.

    This special family event features stalls from local organisations and community groups and is suitable for all ages.

    The focus for Riverfest this year is on wellness, nature and the rights of rivers, with the schedule of activities organised by the local community in partnership with the city council and Canterbury BID.

    Some events that have limited spaces will be ticketed and these will be available to book online in due course.

    Cabinet member for biodiversity and open spaces, Cllr Mel Dawkins, said: “Riverfest has now become an established fixture in the city’s events calendar as we celebrate our greatest ecological, historical and cultural asset.

    “Once again there is a great variety of activities to get involved in across the week and I would like to thank everyone who is playing a part in making this happen. It truly is a festival put on by the community, for the community.

    “We are very much looking forward to another brilliant Riverfest and encourage people to keep an eye on the website for all the latest news and event booking.”

    All the Great Stour Riverfest 2025 information is on the Visit Canterbury website.

    Published: 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Circular 009/2022: Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Correspondence

    Circular 009/2022: Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022

    This circular sets out the pre-charge bail provisions in England and Wales, and police driver standards in England, Wales and Scotland.

    Applies to England and Wales

    Documents

    Circular 009/2022: Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022

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    Details

    In May 2018, the Home Office conducted a public consultation to review the law, guidance, procedures and processes surrounding police pursuits. The government announced a new test to assess the driving standards of police officers as a response to the consultation.

    In November 2019, the government also announced a review of pre-charge bail legislation before conducting a public consultation in 2020. The purpose of this was to make sure the pre-charge bail process is efficient, victim focused and used in all cases where necessary.

    This circular informs the police and other relevant public authorities about reforms within the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 and the commencement of the pre-charge bail and police driver standards measure.

    The pre-charge bail provisions commenced on 26 and 28 October 2022. The Road Traffic Act 1988 (Police Driving: Prescribed Training) Regulations 2022 commenced on 30 November 2022.

    The text was further amended in July 2025 to reflect a new statutory instrument, the Road Traffic Act 1988 (Police Driving: Prescribed Training) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, which amends the standards for police driver training in the 2023 Regulations. The statutory instrument was laid on 3 July 2025 and commences on 24 July 2025.

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King “Gravely Concerned” by Possible Weapons Pause in Delivering Military Aid to Ukraine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) released the following statement in response to reports that the White House may be pausing congressionally-directed weapons shipments to Ukraine:
    “I am gravely concerned by the potential “pause” in the supply of crucial weapons necessary for the defense of the Ukrainian people. To slow or stop the delivery of promised weaponry (which reportedly were already in Poland on their way to Kiev) is a serious policy and humanitarian mistake.
    “These systems are designed to intercept and destroy incoming aerial attacks of exactly the type that Russia has escalated recently against civilian targets in Ukraine. Cutting off the delivery of this desperately needed shield puts civilian lives at greater risk and sends a dangerous signal to Moscow.
    “The only thing that will bring Putin to the table, as the President desires, is a demonstration of U.S. resolve and a continuing show of force in the face of intensifying Russian aggression. This decision undermines both of these objectives, significantly weakening the President’s hand in brokering peace.
    “Stopping Putin in Ukraine is critical to the preservation of Ukraine as a sovereign nation and the protection of her brave people, but it is in our interest as well by deterring further Russian aggression elsewhere in Eastern Europe which would lead to a much wider conflict. After all, America is sending our superior and sophisticated arsenal; Ukraine is sending its fathers, sons and brothers to the front – in defense of democratic values.
    “This regrettable decision should be reversed and repudiated at once—for Ukraine, for the United States, and for the world.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General to attend change of command ceremony

    Source: NATO

    On Friday, 4 July 2025, the NATO Secretary General, Mr Mark Rutte, will attend the change of command ceremony for NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), in Mons, Belgium. U.S. Army General Christopher G. Cavoli will relinquish command of Allied Command Operations and Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe to General Alexus G. Grynkewich of the United States Air Force.

    The Secretary General will deliver a speech.

    Media advisory

    11:00 (CEST) Start of Change of Command Ceremony

    Media coverage

    The ceremony will be streamed live on the NATO website and will be made available to EBU News Exchange.

    Still images of the Secretary General’s participation will be available after the event on the NATO website. Video will also be available for free download from the NATO Multimedia Portal.

     

    For more information:

    For general queries: contact the NATO Press Office

    Follow us on X: @NATO, @SecGenNATO and @NATOPress

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oxfam reaction to Brazil, Mexico and Colombia’s launch of a care investment initiative

    Source: Oxfam –

    Oxfam has joined the new care initiative launched today by the governments of Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia and others, at the Fourth Financing for Development Conference in Seville. The coalition will push for increased investment in care, with the goal of reducing inequalities. Oxfam Mexico Executive Director Alexandra Haas said: 

    “This initiative seeks to close the gap that for centuries has been disadvantaging women around the world. Women take on 76% of unpaid care work globally and are the most affected by cuts to public services. This unequal distribution of care is rooted in the gendered division of labor and in the colonial power imbalances between Global North and South, and in an economic structure that puts the interests of the super-rich at the expense of everyone else.  

    “This agenda is not advancing at the speed we’d like, because it requires funding. But if governments don’t invest, care work will fall once more on the shoulders of women, particularly low-income and racialised women. It’s time for states to take on responsibility through the provision of high-quality, sufficient and well-funded public services.  

    “We’re concerned about the role of the private sector in the provision of universal public services. Let’s be cautious. Progress will come from collaboration between governments, institutions and civil society. Services like healthcare are a human right and a public good, not a commodity. We hope the role of the private sector is through their paying their fair share of taxes, that can be used to fund and sustain public services.  

    “Seville is just a starting point, not the destination. This initiative can pave a route for more global coalitions that put care and the fight against inequalities at the center, from the FFD to COP30 and G20.”  

    Oxfam’s media briefing note, “From Private Profit to Public Power: Financing Development, Not Oligarchy” can be downloaded here. 

    The CareSPA initiative is led by UN Women together with Brazil, Colombia and Mexico, with the support of the Global Care Alliance and the backing of Spain, Uruguay, Nepal, Canada, Norway and Germany. Institutional partners include the ILO (International Labour Organization), CAF (Development Bank of Latin America), ECLAC, UNDP, UNFPA and IDRC, together with civil society organisations such as GIESCR, Coordinadora de Organizaciones para el Desarrollo and Equimundo.  

    The Platform will discuss in the coming months the potential implementation of a set of specific actions to drive systemic change. Among them:  

     - Promoting gender-responsive budgeting and strengthening public financing capacity for care systems.  

    – Improving the generation and use of care-related data to inform evidence-based policy-making and investment planning.  

    – Scale up care services and systems through a sustainable and equity-driven approach, promoting shared gender and social responsibility.  

    – Foster international cooperation, capacity development and knowledge sharing to support the transformation of care systems.  

    The statistic on 76% of care work comes from a 2024 WHO report. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oxfam reaction: Financing for Development Conference in Seville

    Source: Oxfam –

    In response to the conclusion of the Fourth Financing for Development Conference in Seville, Spain, FFD Global Policy Lead Hernan Saenz said: 

    “Seville was a key moment in an ongoing journey to fight inequality, achieve gender justice and reform the international debt architecture under the UN. The conference showed that considerable challenges remain to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals. But it also paved the way for governments to build more coalitions to tax the super-rich and finance care, and put equality, democracy and sustainability at the core of their efforts. In a context of geopolitical uncertainty, multilateralism is the way ahead.” 

    “Despite the lacklustre ambition of the Compromiso de Sevilla where rich countries shirked their responsibility to act on the debt crisis and continued to embrace the private finance first approach to development, this conference also showed what international cooperation can achieve when there is political will for it. Our new research found that the new wealth of the top 1% surged by over 33.9$ trillion since 2015. This is enough to end annual poverty 22 times over, yet over three billion people still live in countries that spend more on debt repayments than on education or health. Therefore, we welcome the new alliance to tax the super-rich launched by Spain and Brazil, with the support of South Africa and Chile. 

    “We also welcome the new care financing initiative by Brazil, Mexico and Colombia. These coalitions provide much needed political ambition and have the potential to deliver vital funding towards the Sustainable Development Goals and fight extreme inequality, which disproportionately impacts women and girls.  

    “We are very concerned by the limitations placed on civil society over the course of the conference to do what we came here to do: tell truth to power. Civil society organizations are the backbone of democracy. The UN was built to defend human rights – if it cedes to the global trend of shrinking civic space, it will undermine its legitimacy.”  

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: A step forward on tax reform at UN Sevilla conference, but more action needed towards global economic justice 

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Sevilla, Spain – A growing coalition of countries have pledged to take action on taxing the super-rich and polluting companies at the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development conference.[1][2] But governments have failed to support bold measures to address the debt crisis that massively undermines Global South capacities to deal with social and environmental challenges and risks fuelling destructive extractive activities.

    Fred Njehu, Global Political Lead at Greenpeace Africa, said: “Sevilla was a crucial moment for multilateralism, yet rich and powerful governments failed to match the urgency of the debt crisis hitting Global South countries, undermining wellbeing and climate action. A glimmer of hope is the new coalitions of countries that have pledged bold action to tax the super-rich and polluting corporations. These alliances are important for building momentum to unlock vital public finance beyond debt repayments.

    “Now, world leaders must heed public anger over billionaire and fossil fuel greed. They must back transformative tax justice at the UN Tax Convention and COP30 to make super-rich individuals and powerful companies pay their fair share. They must listen to countries on the frontline, experts, and civil society activists throughout this conference calling for climate and tax justice.”

    ENDS

    Notes:

    [1] Greenpeace welcomes new global initiative to advance tax reform on the super-rich

    [2] New taxes on premium flyers and private jets: Greenpeace comment 

    Contacts:

    Tal Harris, Global Media Lead – Stop Drilling Start Paying campaign, Greenpeace International. +41-782530550, [email protected]  

    Lee Kuen, Global Comms Lead – Fair Share campaign, Greenpeace International. +601112527489, [email protected]

    Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 6 dead, 24 missing after passenger ship capsizes in Indonesia’s Bali Strait

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    JAKARTA, July 3 (Xinhua) — Six people were killed, 24 were missing and 35 survived after a passenger ship sank in Indonesia’s Bali Strait on Wednesday night, Bali Provincial Search and Rescue Agency spokeswoman Gusti Ayu Ketut Wijayanthi said.

    The search and rescue operation was suspended Thursday evening as darkness fell and will resume on July 4, she said.

    All the victims of the accident who were found were taken to a hospital in Jembrana district of Bali province. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 6 dead, 24 missing after passenger ship capsizes in Indonesia’s Bali Strait

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    JAKARTA, July 3 (Xinhua) — Six people were killed, 24 were missing and 35 survived after a passenger ship sank in Indonesia’s Bali Strait on Wednesday night, Bali Provincial Search and Rescue Agency spokeswoman Gusti Ayu Ketut Wijayanthi said.

    The search and rescue operation was suspended Thursday evening as darkness fell and will resume on July 4, she said.

    All the victims of the accident who were found were taken to a hospital in Jembrana district of Bali province. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: V. Putin plans to hold a telephone conversation with D. Trump on July 3

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, July 3 (Xinhua) — Russian President Vladimir Putin said he plans to hold a telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday.

    “Today I will talk with the President of the United States,” said V. Putin during his visit to the exhibition of the competition of growing Russian brands at the national center “Russia” as part of the forum “Strong ideas for a new time” taking place in Moscow.

    The 5th forum “Strong Ideas for a New Time”, organized by the Agency for Strategic Initiatives and the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the state corporation VEB.RF, is being held at the national center “Russia” on July 2 and 3. The goal of the forum is to find and support promising projects and proposals. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: V. Putin plans to hold a telephone conversation with D. Trump on July 3

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, July 3 (Xinhua) — Russian President Vladimir Putin said he plans to hold a telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday.

    “Today I will talk with the President of the United States,” said V. Putin during his visit to the exhibition of the competition of growing Russian brands at the national center “Russia” as part of the forum “Strong ideas for a new time” taking place in Moscow.

    The 5th forum “Strong Ideas for a New Time”, organized by the Agency for Strategic Initiatives and the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the state corporation VEB.RF, is being held at the national center “Russia” on July 2 and 3. The goal of the forum is to find and support promising projects and proposals. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The share of “friendly countries” in Russia’s foreign trade has grown to 82 percent — Russian Deputy Prime Minister A. Novak

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, July 3 /Xinhua/ — The share of “friendly countries” in Russia’s foreign trade has increased from 46 to 82 percent in three years, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexander Novak reported on Thursday.

    Speaking at a strategic session on personnel development for the foreign economic activity sphere, he noted that trade with “friendly countries” has reached about 550 billion US dollars. In Russia’s trade turnover, “friendly countries” currently account for more than 85 percent of exports and about 75 percent of imports.

    Russia is most actively developing trade with China, India, the countries of Central Asia, Africa and the Middle East, A. Novak specified. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The share of “friendly countries” in Russia’s foreign trade has grown to 82 percent — Russian Deputy Prime Minister A. Novak

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, July 3 /Xinhua/ — The share of “friendly countries” in Russia’s foreign trade has increased from 46 to 82 percent in three years, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexander Novak reported on Thursday.

    Speaking at a strategic session on personnel development for the foreign economic activity sphere, he noted that trade with “friendly countries” has reached about 550 billion US dollars. In Russia’s trade turnover, “friendly countries” currently account for more than 85 percent of exports and about 75 percent of imports.

    Russia is most actively developing trade with China, India, the countries of Central Asia, Africa and the Middle East, A. Novak specified. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN – The online missiology course in Spanish promoted by the Pontifical Mission Societies begins in October

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 3 July 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – In the context of the Jubilee Year and the Jubilee of the Missionary World, scheduled for October 4 and 5, 2025, the Pontifical Missionary Union, in collaboration with the National Directions of the Pontifical Mission Societies of Spain and Costa Rica, is promoting and organizing a 100% online missiological refresher course in Spanish.The course will run from October 2025 to June 2026, with a total of 25 sessions divided into three blocks. Each session will last approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and will be held on Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m. in Spain (1:00 p.m. in Costa Rica).The first block, scheduled from October 28 to December 16, 2025, will address the foundations of missiology, as well as the biblical and theological aspects of the Lord’s missionary mandate. The second block, from February 10 to April 14, 2026, will be dedicated to the study of the history of evangelization and current issues related to the Church’s missionary approach. Finally, the third block, which will take place from April 21 to June 30, 2026, will focus on missionary pastoral care and spirituality, structures and tools of an ecclesial nature used in mission territories, and Marian spirituality, with an emphasis on the Virgin Mary as Queen of the Missions.The subjects taught include: fundamental, biblical, historical, and exegetical missiology; mission on the different continents; contemporary missiology; emerging challenges in the field of missiology; missiological and ecumenical pastoral care; Missionary spirituality and contemporary missionary catechesis.At the end of the course, participants will receive a certificate of participation issued by the International Secretariat of the Pontifical Missionary Union.For more information and registration details, please visit the following link: https://omp.es/curso-de-actualizacion-en-misionologia/ (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 3/7/2025)

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Remarks by President António Costa at the joint press conference following the meeting with Prime Minister Frederiksen, President von der Leyen and President Zelenskyy in Aarhus (Denmark)

    Source: Council of the European Union

    President António Costa travelled to Aarhus (Denmark) to attend the opening ceremony of the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU. On the sides of this event he had a meeting with Prime Minister Frederiksen, President von der Leyen and President Zelenskyy followed by a joint press conference.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Conclusion of misconduct hearing for two PCs

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two serving Met police officers have been dismissed without notice for making homophobic, racist and sexualised comments to colleagues.

    PCs Ben Jeffries and Wayne Samson, attached to the North West Command, appeared before a nine-day hearing, which concluded on Thursday, 3 July. It found that both officers had breached the standards of professional behaviour in relation to discreditable conduct, authority, respect and courtesy, and equality and diversity.

    These breaches amounted to gross misconduct.

    It was heard that on multiple occasions, dating back to 2020, the officers made racist, misogynistic, sexual and homophobic remarks to several colleagues while on duty.

    PC Jeffries was also found to have sent a colleague an unsolicited picture of his genitals in August 2021.

    In November 2021, PC Sansom performed an offensive act towards a colleague.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing for the North West Command, said: “The actions and comments made by both PC Jeffries and PC Samson were disgusting, wholly inappropriate and fell far below the standards expected of Met police officers. It is right they have been dismissed.

    “I would encourage our staff to continue to report any wrongdoing so that we can take action.”

    The officers will now both be added to the Barred List held by the College of Policing. Those appearing on the list cannot be employed by police, local policing bodies, the Independent Office for Police Conduct or His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and Peru hold sixth iteration of bilateral Political Consultations Mechanism in London

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK and Peru hold sixth iteration of bilateral Political Consultations Mechanism in London

    The Minister for International Development, Latin America and Caribbean and Peruvian Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs co-chaired the 6th session of the Peru-UK Political Consultations in London on 3 July.

    The Rt. Hon Baroness Chapman of Darlington, Minister for International Development, Latin America and Caribbean welcomed Peruvian Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Felix Denegri to London on 3 July, where the two Ministers co-chaired the 6th session of the Peru-UK Political Consultations.

    A historic relationship rooted in shared values dating back over 200 years, the UK and Peru reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their modern partnership.

    Successes celebrated since the last meeting include the successful ratification of the UK’s CPTPP accession; the signing of a Double Taxation Agreement; and signing a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Climate Change. The two countries celebrated the  culmination of the 200-year anniversary of Peru-UK relations in 2023 and numerous high-level visits both ways.

    1. On security and defence, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based international order and willingness to jointly tackle global insecurity. The UK and Peru agreed to drive collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding on Security cooperation, addressing transnational drug trafficking, illicit financial flows, corruption and environmental crime.

    2. On growth, the parties celebrated the strengthening of bilateral trade and investment, supported by a growing framework of trade and government-to-government agreements (G2Gs). Peru acknowledged the UK’s valuable contribution to Peru’s infrastructure on health, education and flood defences. This includes the UK’s position as the largest foreign direct investor in mining in Peru. The UK also presented its recently launched Industrial Strategy and the two sides discussed collaboration on Peru’s clean energy transition, including unlocking green hydrogen potential.

    3. The parties highlighted their joint efforts to address climate change, protect the Amazon Rainforest, promote green investment and tackle environmental crime. They celebrated the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Climate and Biodiversity and discussed Peru’s leadership as a key partner in Latin America ahead of COP30. The UK offered to continue supporting Peru in developing a National Bioeconomy Strategy by 2026.

    4. Lastly, the UK and Peru stressed the value of shared cultural experiences as a foundation to the bilateral relationship. They celebrated the promotion of English Language learning through the British Council and academic excellence through the UK’s Chevening scholarships programme. The parties will soon drive this further through the signing of two Memorandum’s of Understanding to collaborate on quality higher education in Peru delivered by the British Council.

    Speaking after the Consultations, Baroness Chapman said:

    The UK and Peru share a warm and historic friendship – over 200 years strong,  grounded in our values, mutual respect and common ambitions.

    Today we are working closer than ever for shared growth and prosperity. The UK is already Peru’s largest foreign investor and I had a fantastic discussion with Ambassador Denegri today on how we can build on this, from trade, to climate and security.

    Vice minister of Foreign Affairs of Peru, Félix Denegri said:

    We had very fruitful discussions with Baroness Chapman, in which we ratified our commitment to continuously expand and strengthen our bilateral agenda, based on our shared principles, values and interests.

    I am greatly satisfied with the level of bilateral engagement between Peru and the UK, shown in reciprocal ministerial, vice-ministerial and high authorities visits in the last two years. We both highlighted the continuity of our Political Consultations Mechanism, being this the sixth since its establishment in 2018.

    We look forward to welcome Baroness Chapman for our next round of Consultations, in Peru.

    The UK and Peru will continue to strengthen bilateral ties across security, growth, climate and education, invigorated through their new agreements and MOUs. The parties agreed to reconvene in Peru in 2026.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU student to compete for victory at International Student Media Conference

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On July 2, 2025, the III International Student Media Conference, organized by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, started on the territory of the Ethnomir Russian Park-Museum.

    The National University of Management is represented at the event by a foreign student from China, first-year master’s student Zhou Jingfan, studying in the field of “International Business Management”.

    The opening ceremony of the gathering was attended by Deputy Director General of the World Youth Festival Directorate Vakhtang Khiklandze and Deputy Head of Rossotrudnichestvo Pavel Shevtsov. The goal of the event was to create a platform for the exchange of experience and knowledge between foreign student journalists and bloggers from 50 Russian universities, to improve the level of professional competencies and to develop international cooperation in the field of media and education.

    Over the course of five days, students will learn about new tools for working in the media space, take part in master classes from leading media industry experts, attend lectures from both Russian and foreign experts, and apply the knowledge they have gained in practice by creating their own media projects dedicated to the culture and values of Russia.

    Based on the results of the completed projects, the best team and winners in individual nominations will be determined, who will have the opportunity to go on a press tour to Teriberka, a village in the Murmansk region on the shore of the Barents Sea.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Five Individuals Charged as Part of Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown

    Source: US FBI

    Louisville, KY – Today, United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky announced criminal charges against five defendants in connection with alleged schemes to defraud Medicaid and divert controlled substances. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. The charges stem from conspiracy to illegally use a DEA registration number issued to another, conspiracy to obtain a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, or subterfuge, health care fraud, theft of medical products, tampering with consumer products, obtaining a controlled substance by fraud or deceit, and burglary involving controlled substances.

    “Health care providers must be trusted to appropriately prescribe highly-addictive medications only to those in need. Doing otherwise only exacerbates the opioid epidemic that has ravaged our Commonwealth and destroyed families,” said U.S. Attorney Bumgarner. “As alleged in each of the charging documents, these defendants breached that trust and illegally diverted controlled substances. While these defendants are professionally obligated to help communities, the charging documents allege that they have unfortunately done the opposite. They will be held to account.”

    “This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

    The charges announced today by U.S. Attorney Bumgarner are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in alleged false billings and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled to line their own pockets. The United States has seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and other assets in connection with the takedown. 

    The following individuals were charged in the Western District of Kentucky: 

    Ashley Barnett, 41, of Louisville, Kentucky, Laura Webb, 37, of Springfield, Kentucky, and Rachel Goldstein, 43, of Jeffersonville, Indiana, were charged by information. According to the information, Barnett and Webb, both doctors of veterinary medicine, were charged in a conspiracy to illegally use a DEA registration number issued to another. In addition, Barnett and Goldstein were charged with conspiracy to obtain a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, or subterfuge. As part of the conspiracy, Barnett, Goldstein, and others conspired to issue prescriptions for over 25,000 Schedule II controlled substances, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, in the names of various canines, including some deceased and fictitious canines, when in reality, Barnett and Goldstein were the recipients of the controlled substances. Barnett was also charged with theft of medical products for taking and concealing buprenorphine from her employer prior to the controlled substances being made available for retail purchase by a consumer. Finally, Barnett and Goldstein were charged with health care fraud in connection with a scheme whereby Barnett requested Goldstein fill Goldstein’s dextroamphetamine prescription, a Schedule II controlled substance, and provide it to Barnett. Goldstein caused the submission of the claim for the dextroamphetamine prescription to Medicaid. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Ansari of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.

    Kristina Coomer, 43, of Louisville, Kentucky, was charged by information with theft of medical products. According to the information, Coomer, an employee of a retail pharmacy in the supply chain for oxycodone, took, carried away, and concealed oxycodone from the pharmacy, prior to the controlled substances being made available for retail purchase by a consumer. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Ansari of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.       

    Matthew Ryan Elkins, 40, of Crestwood, Kentucky, was charged by indictment with tampering with consumer products, obtaining a controlled substance by fraud or deceit, and burglary involving controlled substances. According to the indictment, Elkins, an advanced practice registered nurse-certified registered nurse anesthetist, tampered with one pre-filled, capped syringe containing fentanyl citrate and bupivacaine, prescribed to a patient by removing a portion of the listed ingredients and replaced it with another liquid. Elkins was also charged with obtaining and attempting to obtain three injectable vials containing a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, by misrepresentation, deception, and subterfuge. Finally, Elkins was charged with burglary involving controlled substances when he entered a business registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration with the intent to steal any material and compound containing any quantity of a controlled substance. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin McKenzie of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.

    Nationwide, cases are being prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the Western and Eastern Districts of Kentucky, the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Western District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorneys General’s Offices for California, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team used cutting-edge data analytics to identify and support the investigations that led to these charges.

    The Western District of Kentucky, in particular, worked with the following law enforcement organizations to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the enforcement period: the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations, the Kentucky State Police, the Louisville Metro Police Department, and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services Office of Inspector General.

    Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available on the Department’s website: https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/2025-national-health-care-fraud-takedown. 

    A complaint, information, or indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.   

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  • MIL-OSI Security: National Health Care Fraud Takedown Results in 324 Defendants Charged in Fraud Scheme Totaling Over $14.6 Billion

    Source: US FBI

    As a part of the largest Health Care Fraud Enforcement Action in Department of Justice History, The Eastern District of Louisiana Strike Force Announces Charges Against Four Individuals.

    Today, Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced criminal charges against four defendants in connection with alleged schemes to defraud Medicare and other government programs. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.

    “The charges announced yesterday reinforce the combined missions of the Department of Justice, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and our law enforcement partners, to aggressively, and relentlessly, pursue those perpetrators who attempt to victimize our nation’s citizens,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. “Our office, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of fraud, and seek justice for those impacted by Health Care Fraud schemes.”

    “This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

    The charges announced today by Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in alleged false billings and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled, to line their own pockets. The  Government, in connection with the 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown,  seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and other assets.

    The following individuals were charged in the Eastern District of Louisiana:

    • Leland Roberts, 46, of Tifton, Georgia, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare for over $30 million for medically unnecessary genetic testing, and to pay and receive kickbacks. As alleged in the indictment, Roberts, co-owner, chief executive officer of, and (later) consultant to Luminus Diagnostics, a diagnostic laboratory located in Tifton, Georgia, conspired with others to procure orders for genetic testing in exchange for kickbacks, including orders acquired through purported telemedicine. To ensure the false and fraudulent claims would be paid, Roberts and his co-conspirators allegedly designed the genetic testing order forms to be “dummy proof”—with prepopulated diagnosis codes and check-the-box panels—and frequently billed the tests through another laboratory where co-conspirators thought the claims were more likely to be approved, which they concealed via a sham contract. Roberts and his co-conspirators caused the submission of over $30 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for genetic testing, and Medicare paid approximately $4.4 million based on those claims. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses of the Eastern District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Gulf Coast Strike Force.
    • Dr. Marion Lee, 61, of Cordelle, Georgia, was charged by information with conspiracy to defraud the United States in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare approximately $24 million for medically unnecessary genetic testing, and to pay and receive kickbacks. As alleged in the information, Dr. Lee, co-owner of and medical advisor to Luminus Diagnostics, a diagnostic laboratory located in Tifton, Georgia, conspired with others to procure orders for genetic testing in exchange for kickbacks, including orders acquired through purported telemedicine. To ensure the false and fraudulent claims would be paid, Lee and his co-conspirators allegedly designed the genetic testing order forms to be “dummy proof”—with prepopulated diagnosis codes and check-the-box panels—and frequently billed the tests through another laboratory where co-conspirators thought the claims were more likely to be approved, which they concealed via a sham contract, among other deceptive means. Dr. Lee and his co-conspirators caused the submission of over $24 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for genetic testing, and Medicare paid approximately $4 million based on those claims. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses of the Eastern District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Gulf Coast Strike Force.
    • Steven D. Peyroux, 56, of Canton, Georgia, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and two counts of health care fraud in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare approximately $12.1 million for over-the-counter (“OTC”) COVID-19 tests that were not requested and ineligible for reimbursement. As alleged in the indictment, Peyroux, a chiropractor and purported health care consultant, conspired with others to pay kickbacks in exchange for Medicare beneficiary information nationwide, including names, Medicare identification numbers, and clearly fabricated recordings of individuals posing as beneficiaries and requesting OTC COVID-19 tests, which they used to bill Medicare for OTC COVID-19 tests that were not requested. In an attempt to avoid Medicare scrutiny, the indictment alleged that Peyroux and co-conspirators solicited multiple providers to join the scheme, who they directed to enter into sham agreements and make false statements in response to Medicare audits, to conceal the misconduct. Peyroux and his co-conspirators caused the submission of approximately $12.1 million in false and fraudulent claims, of which Medicare paid approximately $11 million. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses of the Eastern District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Gulf Coast Strike Force.
    • Zoe Francis, 46, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged by information with theft concerning programs receiving federal funds in connection with her role in embezzling funds from the Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies (“IWES”), a non-profit organization based in New Orleans that received grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and other federal funds. As alleged in the information, Francis, as the chief operating officer of IWES, embezzled the funds for the benefit of herself and family members, including unauthorized expenditures for personal events and Amazon purchases. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses of the Eastern District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Gary A. Crosby II of the Gulf Coast Strike Force.

    “The scale of this Takedown is unprecedented, and so is the harm we’re confronting. Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable,” said HHS-OIG Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins. “Our agents at HHS-OIG work relentlessly to detect, investigate, and dismantle these fraud schemes. We are proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in protecting taxpayer dollars and safeguarding patient care.”

    “Stealing from the patients who rely on our government to provide healthcare is despicable,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “The FBI will continue working side by side with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana to bring these individuals to justice for their actions.”

    The Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle, District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle, District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Kentucky, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorney Generals’ Offices for Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are prosecuting the cases in the National Health Care Fraud Takedown, with assistance from the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team.

    Descriptions of each EDLA case and others involved in yesterday’s enforcement action are available at website.

    The Eastern District of Louisiana, in particular, worked with the Department’s Criminal Division and the following law enforcement organizations to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the enforcement period: the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the United States Secret Service; and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

    An information or indictment is merely an allegation.

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

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