NewzIntel.com

Category: Finance

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chester County Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Meth

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBIA, S.C. —Alexander Wright, 37, of Chester, has pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine.

    Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and the Chester County Sheriff’s Department began investigating Wright after complaints from his neighbors. The neighbors reported several cars coming to his home and staying for short periods of time and leaving. Law enforcement began watching the home and confirmed the reports from the neighbors.

    After confirming the information, the police used an informant to make several buys from Wright. On June 5, 2023, the informant contacted Wright to purchase methamphetamine. Under surveillance by the police, the informant went to Wright’s home and purchased 2 ounces of methamphetamine. The informant was instructed by Wright that the drugs were in the rear passenger door of a car parked in his yard and told the informant to leave the money in the car.   After the deal and still under surveillance, the informant returned to law enforcement. The drugs were recovered and were tested with a 96% purity rate for methamphetamine and weighed 56.42 grams.

    Wright faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison.  He also faces a fine of up to $10 million, and five years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Wright after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Chester County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Cleveland City Council Member Sentenced to Prison

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

    CLEVELAND – Basheer Jones, 40, of Cleveland, Ohio, has been sentenced to 28 months in prison by U.S. District Judge J. Philip Calabrese, after pleading guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud and honest services fraud by using his role as a public official for personal financial gain by seeking to defraud multiple community stakeholders out of more than $200,000. He was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment and pay $143,598.47 in restitution to local nonprofits.

    According to court documents, from about December 2018 to June 2021, the former Cleveland city councilman for Ward 7 persuaded several local nonprofits to enter into arrangements that benefitted Jones and his romantic partner and co-conspirator. Jones sought and obtained funds from the nonprofits under the guise of working on projects to redevelop Ward 7. Throughout the scheme, he took steps to ensure that his personal connection to his romantic partner, through whom he benefited from these arrangements, was not discovered.

    “Mr. Jones used his position to dishonestly line his pockets with tens of thousands of dollars,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Carol M. Skutnik for the Northern District of Ohio. “He betrayed the city of Cleveland and its citizens, who elected him to serve as a leader in our community. With his deceptive actions, he also violated federal laws. Anyone who thinks they can use a public office to defraud nonprofits and obtain bribes will face consequences and pay the price for those decisions, and my office will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”

    The defendant’s schemes worked by convincing nonprofits to make payments toward projects they believed were for Ward 7 revitalization projects, including to buy real estate from purported third parties. Instead, the money went into bank accounts that his romantic partner controlled. Jones then instructed her to divert those funds to herself, to himself, and to others he chose.

    Jones also convinced a nonprofit to make payments to an entity controlled by his co-conspiring partner, all while knowing that the funds would flow back to himself. Jones recommended that the nonprofit should hire a consultant for community outreach. Unbeknownst to the nonprofit, the consultant was actually Jones’s romantic partner. She submitted invoices to the unsuspecting nonprofit and was subsequently paid through her consulting business.

    Jones later defrauded the same nonprofit out of an additional $50,000, again through his partner’s consulting business. Jones claimed that he needed $50,000 to plan a community event, which included buying backpacks for schoolchildren, and falsely promised that the city would reimburse the organization. Instead, after the funds were paid, no event was held, and Jones again directed his romantic partner to divide the money amongst herself, Jones, and others Jones chose.

    “Public corruption at any level of government will not be tolerated. Jones abused his position of trust for personal gain while scheming against the people he was elected to serve, including non-profit entities and well-meaning leaders,” said FBI Cleveland Acting Special Agent in Charge Charles Johnston. “Elected officials who demonstrate a reckless disregard for violating the oath they swore to uphold is detestable. Today’s sentence underscores the FBIs commitment to ensuring that those who engage in fraud and corruption will be investigated and held accountable. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to root out corruption and ensure elected officials are serving with honesty, fairness, and integrity.”

    Some of the projects Jones pushed included seeking community funding to rehabilitate certain distressed properties while concealing his financial interest in them. In one instance, Jones devised a bribery scheme under which he arranged for co-conspirators, including his romantic partner, to acquire a dilapidated property on Superior Road, and used his position as councilperson to pass ordinances allocating city funds to buy that property from them. Jones arranged for a co-conspirator to buy the property a minimal cost. After asking a nonprofit to purchase and rehabilitate the property, and promising city funding, Jones sponsored an emergency ordinance to fund the nonprofit’s purchase and renovation of the property. When Jones was unable to convince the nonprofit to proceed, he arranged to transfer the property to his romantic partner’s consulting business, with the understanding that she would share the proceeds of the sale with him. After sponsoring another ordinance to reauthorize city funding for the same project, Jones sought to finalize the nonprofit’s purchase of the property from his partner’s entity for $80,000. Ultimately that scheme failed when the nonprofit decided not to proceed with the purchase.

    However, Jones and his romantic partner did succeed in obtaining funds for the sale of a different property to another nonprofit. He misled them to believe that he was assisting with the acquisition of the property from the original owner. Instead, he was simultaneously arranging for his partner to acquire the property from the original owner in the name of another business entity, and then immediately to resell it to the nonprofit. Jones and his romantic partner arranged to purchase the property for only $1, promising to pay a $40,500 city demolition bill. But without paying that bill or disclosing it, Jones’s romantic partner immediately re-sold the property to the nonprofit for $45,000.

    “Basheer Jones abused his position of trust by deliberately engaging in fraudulent schemes to divert HUD money – funds meant to improve the community— for his own personal gain,” said Special Agent in Charge Shawn Rice with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Inspector General (OIG). “HUD OIG will continue to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement to investigate and hold accountable bad actors who exploit HUD-funded programs for their own benefit.”

    This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of the Inspector General, and the IRS – Criminal Investigation.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erica Barnhill and Elliot Morrison for the Northern District of Ohio.

    To report fraud, visit justice.gov/action-center/report-crime-or-submit-complaint.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Cantwell & Grassley Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Reassert Congressional Trade Role

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    04.03.25

    Senators Cantwell & Grassley Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Reassert Congressional Trade Role

    Legislation requires president to explain reasoning & impacts of new tariffs to Congress within 48 hours; All new tariffs would expire after 60 days unless Congress explicitly approves them

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA), both senior members of the Senate Finance Committee, introduced bipartisan legislation to reaffirm Congress’ key role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy. The Trade Review Act of 2025, modeled after the War Powers Resolution of 1973, would reestablish limits on the president’s ability to impose unilateral tariffs without the approval of Congress.   

    “Trade wars can be as devastating, which is why the Founding Fathers gave Congress the clear Constitutional authority over war and trade. This bill reasserts Congress’s role over trade policy to ensure rules-based trade policies are transparent, consistent, and benefit the American public. Arbitrary tariffs, particularly on our allies, damage U.S. export opportunities and raise prices for American consumers and businesses,” Sen. Cantwell said. “As representatives of the American people, Congress has a duty to stop actions that will cause them harm.”

    “For too long, Congress has delegated its clear authority to regulate interstate and foreign commerce to the executive branch. Building on my previous efforts as Finance Committee Chairman, I’m joining Senator Cantwell to introduce the bipartisan Trade Review Act of 2025 to reassert Congress’ constitutional role and ensure Congress has a voice in trade policy,” Sen. Grassley said.

    The bill restores Congress’ authority and responsibility over tariffs as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution by placing the following limits on the president’s power to impose tariffs:

    • To enact a new tariff, the president must notify Congress of the imposition of (or increase in) the tariff within 48 hours.
      • The Congressional notification must include an explanation of the president’s reasoning for imposing or raising the tariff, and
      • Provide analysis of potential impact on American businesses and consumers.
    • Within 60 days, Congress must pass a joint resolution of approval on the new tariff, otherwise all new tariffs on imports expire after that deadline.
    • Under the bill, Congress has the ability to end tariffs at any time by passing a resolution of disapproval.
    • Anti-dumping and countervailing duties are excluded.

    The full bill text is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Human smuggling coordinator sentenced following ICE Arizona, law enforcement partner investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    PHOENIX — Greiby Melissa Barcelo-Velasquez was sentenced March 25 to 30 months in prison for her role in smuggling over 100 Colombians into the United States. The investigation, conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Border Patrol Sector Intelligence Unit, began in late 2023 after numerous Colombian nationals identified the 39-year-old as their smuggling coordinator.

    “The defendant and her associates blatantly disregarded the safety and well-being of others by prioritizing personal profit over human lives,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Arizona Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola. “We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to disrupt these dangerous transnational criminal networks and ensure that those who exploit victims for financial gain are brought to justice.”

    Barcelo-Velasquez owned and operated the Baul Travel SAS travel agency in her native country, Colombia. According to court documents, she allegedly charged the victims a fee to travel to Mexico under the guise of vacationing, with additional bribes required in U.S. currency at Mexican airports.

    Once in Mexico, the Colombian nationals were taken to stash houses near the border and then transported by armed gunmen to cross illegally into the United States.

    This case was coordinated under Joint Task Force Alpha. JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Justice, has been elevated and expanded by the attorney general with a mandate to target cartels and transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 355 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 320 U.S. convictions; more than 265 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stuart Zander and Adriana Genco from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona in Phoenix handled the prosecution.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harbour Grace — Harbour Grace RCMP executes search warrant at home in Carbonear, firearms seized; two individuals charged

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    As part of an ongoing investigation into a recent assault, Harbour Grace RCMP executed a search warrant at home in Carbonear yesterday. A number of firearms were seized. Two individuals, 42-year-old Curtis Power and 36-year-old Chad Butt, were arrested and charged.

    On April 2, 2025, Harbour Grace RCMP, along with RCMP NL’s East District General Investigation Section and Emergency Response Team, executed a warrant, authorized under the Criminal Code, to search a home on Lower Southside Road. Five individuals were arrested.

    Inside the home, police located and seized a number of firearms and various weapons.

    Chad Butt was wanted on a warrant of committal; he was arrested without incident. The co-accused in the assault investigation, Curtis Power, was also arrested without incident. Both are charged with assault and assault with a weapon. Butt remains in custody, remanded until his next court appearance, which will take place in June, 2025. Power was released from custody and is set to appear in court at a later date. Three other individuals were released without charges.

    The investigation is continuing with additional charges anticipated.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Virtu Financial to Host Conference Call Announcing First Quarter 2025 Results on Wednesday, April 23, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Virtu Financial, Inc. (Nasdaq:VIRT), a leading provider of global, multi-asset financial services that delivers liquidity and innovative, transparent products across the complete investment cycle to the global markets, will announce its results for the first quarter 2025 on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, before the US market open.

    Virtu will host a conference call to discuss the company’s financial results at 8:00 AM (EDT). A live webcast of the event will be available and archived on the Investor Relations section of the company’s website at https://ir.virtu.com/events-presentations. The call will be open to the public.

    About Virtu Financial, Inc.
    Virtu is a leading provider of financial services and products that leverages cutting-edge technology to deliver liquidity to the global markets and innovative, transparent trading solutions to its clients. Leveraging its global market making expertise and infrastructure, Virtu provides a robust product suite including offerings in execution, liquidity sourcing, analytics and broker-neutral, multi-dealer platforms in workflow technology. Virtu’s product offerings allow clients to trade on hundreds of venues across 50+ countries and in multiple asset classes, including global equities, ETFs, foreign exchange, futures, fixed income, cryptocurrency and myriad other commodities. In addition, Virtu’s integrated, multi-asset analytics platform provides a range of pre-, intra-, and post-trade services, data products and compliance tools that clients rely upon to invest, trade and manage risk across global markets.

    Contact:

    Investor Relations and Media Relations
    Andrew Smith
    investor_relations@virtu.com
    media@virtu.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: National Sales Director for New York-Based Mobile Diagnostic Company Pleads Guilty to Kickback Scheme

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

    BOSTON – A New York-based national sales director pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to conspiring to offer and pay kickbacks to doctors in exchange for ordering medically unnecessary brain scans.

    David Fuhrmann, 60, of Port Jefferson, N.Y. pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for July 10, 2025.

    From at least June 2013 through at least September 2020, Fuhrmann conspired with others, including two managers for a mobile medical diagnostics company that performed transcranial doppler (TCD) scans, to enter into kickback agreements with various doctors. Fuhrmann and his co-conspirators agreed to offer and pay doctors kickbacks based on the number of TCD ultrasounds the doctors ordered. Some doctors were paid in cash and others by check. Fuhrmann and his co-conspirators created rental and administrative service agreements. On paper, these agreements made it appear as if doctors were compensated for the TCD company’s use of space and administrative resources based on fair market value and not based on the volume or value of referrals. These agreements were shams that hid the true nature of the arrangement of paying per test.  

    According to the charging documents, the scheme resulted in fraudulent bills of approximately $70.6 million to Medicare.  

    The charge of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation Division, Boston Field Office; Kelly M.  Lawson, Acting Regional Director, U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Boston Regional Office; Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; and Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Howard Locker and Mackenzie Queenin of the Health Care Fraud Unit are prosecuting the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Taunton Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution, Access Device Fraud, and Aggravated Identity Theft Charges

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

    Defendant used another person’s identity to rent apartments for drug trafficking

    BOSTON – A Taunton has pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to participating in drug distribution and a drug conspiracy involving wholesale quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, fentanyl analogue and methamphetamine. He also pleaded guilty to using an unknowing individual’s identity and an unauthorized access device to fraudulently rent locations he used for the purposes of drug trafficking.  

    Terrence Pyrtle, a/k/a “Big T,” a/k/a “T,” a/k/a “big_t558,” 42, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine, 400 grams and more of fentanyl, 100 grams and more of fentanyl analogue and methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine, 400 grams and more of fentanyl, 100 grams and more of fentanyl analogue and methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams and more of fentanyl and 100 grams and more of fentanyl analogue; one count of conspiracy to commit access device fraud and aggravated identity theft; one count of access device fraud; and one count of aggravated identity theft. U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris scheduled sentencing for July 17, 2025. Pyrtle was charged in April 2023, along with co-conspirator Ashley Roostaie.

    Pyrtle and Roostaie utilized the personal identification information (including name, date of birth and Social Security number) of an unknowing individual to fraudulently enter into lease agreements for two apartments in Braintree and Somerville, which Pyrtle then used to participate in a drug conspiracy involving distribution quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, fentanyl analogue and methamphetamine. The drug conspiracy in which Pyrtle participated also extended to other locations across the state.

    Pyrtle and Roostaie also created an email account and obtained a counterfeit driver’s license using the individual’s identification information. Pyrtle and Roostaie also used the individual’s identification information to obtain a Green Dot debit card account, which they used to make payments associated with the apartments. By placing the apartment leases under another individual’s personal identification information, Roostaie and Pyrtle were able to conceal their connection to and use of the apartments which were used by Pyrtle in furtherance of his drug distribution and drug conspiracy.

    In February 2025, Roostaie pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced in May 2025.

    The charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine, 400 grams and more of fentanyl, 100 grams and more of fentanyl analogue, and methamphetamine provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charges of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine, 400 grams and more of fentanyl, 100 grams and more of fentanyl analogue, and methamphetamine each provide for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of conspiracy to commit access device fraud and aggravated identity theft provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of access device fraud provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory two-year prison term consecutive to any term of imprisonment received on a predicate, substantive count, up to a one-year term of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston, Brockton, East Bridgewater and Bridgewater Police Departments and Plymouth County, Suffolk County and Bristol County Sheriff’s Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kaitlin R. O’Donnell David and Cutshall of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.  

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Trio appear in court for Fort Hare fraud case 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Thursday, April 3, 2025

    Three suspects linked to a a multi-million-rand fraud and money laundering scheme at the University of Fort Hare have been granted bail, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) said.

    The three were arrested in a  breakthrough against corruption in the education sector by the East London based Serious Corruption Investigation team.

    Former Acting Chief Financial Officer Simbongile Geqeza (41), former Head of Investigation and Vetting Isaac Plaartjies (57) and family friend Claudine Davids (44) appeared before the Alice Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday where they faced charges of fraud, money laundering and corruption.

    “The arrests follow a detailed investigation by the Serious Corruption Investigation of the Hawks, which uncovered two fraudulent schemes that drained university funds amounting to more than R2 million,” the Hawks said in a statement on Wednesday.

    The first case dates back to 2 September 2021, when Geqeza allegedly issued a fraudulent instruction to a bank, authorising an illegal payment of R1.4 million to a company with no legitimate ties to the university. 

    The scheme was exposed when university management noticed financial discrepancies and reported the matter to the Hawks.

    “During the meticulous investigation conducted by the Hawks, a second fraudulent transaction was uncovered, involving a payment of R985,000 to a service provider for investigative services that were never rendered. 

    Furthermore, the service provider allegedly claimed to have assisted the Hawks during the university investigation, even though no services [were] being provided. This payment was allegedly facilitated by Plaartjies in collaboration with the claimant and the funds were allegedly funnelled to Davids.”

    The suspects were arrested in different parts of the country during a coordinated Hawks operation on 1 April 2025. 
    The court granted each accused bail of R10,000.

    “The case has been postponed to 4 April 2025 for further investigation.” – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government to launch R500m spaza shop support fund

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau and the Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Tembisa Ndabeni, will next Tuesday officially launch the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund, an initiative which was first announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in November 2024.

    The fund, which will be jointly administered by the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) and the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEFDA), provides critical financial and non-financial support to township businesses, including community convenience stores and spaza shops.

    The aim of the fund is to support South African owned township community convenience shops, including spaza shops, in order to increase their participation in the townships and rural areas’ retail trade sector.

    “The opening of the applications for the fund marks another milestones in government’s efforts to stimulate the growth of the rural and township economy in the country, particularly by providing the necessary support to the convenience stores and spaza shops that are based in the townships and rural areas. 

    “Government recognises the important role that small businesses, including those operating in the rural areas and townships, can play in creating jobs, growing our economy and alleviating poverty,” Ndabeni said.

    The fund provides various types of support including the initial purchase of stock via delivery channel partners, upgrading of building infrastructure, systems, refrigeration, shelving and security, as well as training programmes which includes Point of Sale devices, business skills, digital literacy, credit health, food safety and business compliance.

    Tau pointed out that the fund does not only support economic inclusion but also aligns with national priorities to formalise informal sectors, safeguard consumers and promote local production and said it is a holistic approach to revitalising township economies.

    “Beyond individual support, the fund seeks to bolster the broader supply chain by fostering partnerships with local manufacturers, black industrialists and wholesalers. 

    “Through bulk purchasing arrangements and the promotion of locally produced goods, spaza shops will benefit from reduced costs and increased access to quality products,” Tau said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government departments commended for timeous payment of supplier invoice

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner, Anele Gxoyiya, has commended government departments that are complying with the legislation of paying suppliers timeously.

    “Departments that consistently comply with this legislation are commended and encouraged to continue and maintain this performance and pay all legitimate invoices from suppliers timeously or within 30 days as required by the Public Finance Management Act and its related prescripts,” Gxoyiya said.

    Addressing the media in Pretoria earlier today, Gxoyiya highlighted that as of the end of the third quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, 38 153 invoices, amounting to approximately R1 billion, were paid by the national departments after 30 days.

    However, 4 993 invoices valued at about R442 million, remained unpaid by the departments, beyond the 30-day period.

    Gxoyiya said the Department of Defence reported the highest number of invoices paid after 30 days during the third quarter with 30 355 invoices amounting to over R456 million.

    “This department was also the highest during the first and second quarters with an average of 61% and 80% respectively of the total number of invoices paid after 30 days by national departments,” Gxoyiya said.

    “The most common reasons provided by departments for the late and/or non-payment of invoices vary from misfiled, misplaced or unrecorded invoices to internal control deficiencies,” he said.

    Gxoyiya said a total of 76 154 invoices amounting to over R8 billion were paid after 30 days and a total of 94 914 invoices older than 30 days not paid with the rand value of over R12 billion.

    “The non-payment of invoices within 30 days remains a concern to the PSC as it is a contravention of the Public Finance Management Act. 

    “The PSC will further engage the Office of the Auditor-General on mechanisms to ensure consequence management against Accounting Officers who fail to pay service providers within 30 days upon receipt of an invoice particularly where queries are concerned,” he said.

    The National Treasury is continuously assisting suppliers with queries on non-payment of invoices through a dedicated central email address (30daysqueries@treasury.gov.za) by following up with transgressing institutions and providing feedback to suppliers with reasons for the late or non-payment of invoices, and possible date for the payment or any other resolution.

    The National Treasury is encouraged to engage with service providers on various platforms to raise awareness of the dedicated queries communication platform so that more queries can come to the fore and receive attention. – SAnews.gov.za  

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Davis, Bonamici, Moore, Plaskett, Horsford Champion Bill to Increase Guaranteed Child Care Funding while GOP Plans to Cut Federal Child Care Dollars

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    Building Child Care for a Better Future Act expands guaranteed child care funding and creates grants to improve child care workforce, supply, quality, and access.  

     

    In contrast, Republican-proposed funding cuts to pay for tax giveaways to the wealthiest individuals and corporations would eliminate child care for 40,000 children. 

     

    Washington, D.C.- Representative Danny K. Davis (D-IL), Representative Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Representative Gwen Moore (D-WI), Representative Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI), and Representative Steven Horsford (D-NV) announced the introduction of the Building Child Care for a Better Future Act (H.R. 2595) to dramatically increase guaranteed child care funding to address child care needs and create grants to enhance child care workforce, supply, quality, and access.  Senators Ron Wyden and Elizabeth Warren will introduce companion legislation in the Senate. 

    The need to rebuild a stronger, more robust and more equitable child care system is more important than ever as working families across America struggle to access affordable, quality child care. Alarmingly, Republicans are threatening to eliminate child care for 40,000 children to pay for their massive tax giveaways for the wealthiest individuals and corporations. Additionally, the mass layoffs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, including the offices at the Administration for Children and Families that administer child care and Head Start programs, will make child care even less accessible and affordable, as well as less safe. The long-term solutions in this bill complement the other Democratic bills that address the immediate child care cliff created by Republican inaction.

    High-quality, affordable child care is essential to the economic well-being of families, businesses, and our country. Yet, child care places a major financial burden on American families. The price of child care can range from $5,357 to $17,171 per year depending on location and type of care. Astoundingly, the cost of center-based care for two children is more than the average mortgage in 45 states and more than the average annual rent in all 50 states plus DC.  Households under the poverty line spend nearly one third of their income on child care, and increases in median childcare prices are connected to lower maternal employment rates.  Further, the child care crisis hits families of color disproportionately hard.  For a single parent who has never been married who is Black, Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, or American Indian/Alaska Native, child care can cost 36%, 41%, or 49% of the median income, respectively, compared to only 31% for single White parents.  Further, Latino and American Indian and Alaska Native parents disproportionately live in child care deserts. 

    The Building Child Care for a Better Future Act addresses the child care needs of families and long-term stability of the child care system. Specifically, the bill:

    • Helps working families with their child care needs by expanding guaranteed child care funding by increasing the Child Care Entitlement to States to $20 billion per year, over a five-fold increase in funding from the current $3.55 billion per year. Further, the bill increases funding for tribes, tribal organizations, and territories. The bill builds on the Democrats’ permanent increase in guaranteed child care funding to states in 2021, which also provided the first-ever guaranteed funding allotments for the U.S. territories in the Child Care Entitlement to States. 

    • Creates new grants to improve child care workforce, supply, quality, and access in communities experiencing child care shortages. Funds could be used for any purpose under the Child Care Development Block Grant to address local needs, including:  increasing child care slots; supporting workforce training and expansion; expanding operations of community or neighborhood-based family child care networks; and recruiting providers and staff.

    “High-quality, affordable child care is essential to the economic well-being of families, businesses, and our country,” said Rep. Davis.  “The Building Child Care for a Better Future Act would provide $20 billion in guaranteed grants to states, tribes, and territories to make child care affordable.  Further, the bill would create $5 billion in new grants to improve child care workforce, supply, quality, and access in communities experiencing child care shortages. It is critical that Congress acts now to help working families by stabilizing our nation’s child care system and to reject the dangerous Republican cuts to child care.” 

    “Too many families in Oregon and across the country struggle to find affordable child care, and child care providers often do not make a living wage,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “The Building Child Care for a Better Future Act will strengthen our child care system by investing in families, child care providers, and early childhood educators. The investments in this bill will open up opportunities for children, families, childcare providers, and the economy.”

    “The cost of childcare continues to squeeze families and is even more burdensome for low-income families.  At the same time, too many childcare workers don’t earn a living wage and are struggling to get by. Our legislation would help make high-quality childcare more accessible and affordable and invest in its workforce,” said Rep. Moore.

    “As part of the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021, Congress expanded the Child Care Entitlement to States program to include U.S. territories like my district for the first time,” said Rep. Plaskett.  “The Building Child Care for a Better Future Act significantly increases investments in childcare for American families living in U.S. territories and enhances our commitment to equity. The annual average cost of childcare ranges from $4,000 to as high as $25,000, depending on location. I am proud to partner with my colleagues and respond to the critical need nationwide for available, accessible, and affordable childcare.”

    “Across Nevada and the nation, working families are caught in a tough balancing act – juggling skyrocketing costs of child care while trying to earn a living,” said Rep. Horsford. “For the poorest households, child care isn’t just expensive: it’s a crushing burden, often costing more than rent or a mortgage. If we truly believe in the American dream, we must eliminate the barriers holding families back from opportunities of economic mobility and progress. This bill strengthens our child care infrastructure by providing grants to lower costs for working families, enhance the child care workforce, and improve the quality of care in our communities.”

    “At a time when families are struggling to find affordable child care so they can work and pay their bills, Republicans in Congress are making their priorities clear with 40,000 kids about to lose their child care to pay for another handout to billionaires. Taken together with the absolute gutting of HHS and the offices responsible for Head Start and child care, America’s child care crisis is on track to only grow worse,” Wyden said. “It doesn’t have to be this way, our bill invests in working families by making sure more families can get child care, and that new child care centers can be built to increase slots while also guaranteeing a living wage for the essential workers who staff them. That is where priorities should lie.”

    “Parents shouldn’t have to choose between breaking the budget, cutting back their work hours, or settling for lower-quality care to make sure their kids have child care,” Warren said. “I am grateful for Senator Wyden’s and Representative Davis’ partnership and commitment to investing in child care so working parents have a fighting chance in our economy.”

    The Building Child Care for a Better Future Act is supported by 50 organizations, including:  American Academy of Pediatrics; American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO); American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME); American Federation of Teachers (AFT); Campaign for a Family Friendly Economy; Caring Across Generations; Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP); Child Care Aware of America; Child Care for Every Family Network; Communications Workers of America (CWA); Community Change Action; Early Care & Education Consortium (ECEC); Family Forward Oregon; Family Values at Work; First Children’s Finance; First Five Years Fund; First Focus Campaign for Children; Iowa Association for the Education of Young Children; KinderCare; Little Miracles Early Development Center; Maine Association for the Education of Young Children; Maine People’s Alliance; Maryland Association for the Education of Young Children (MDAEYC); Massachusetts Association for the Education of Young Children (MAAEYC); MomsRising; Montana Family Childcare Network; National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC); National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC); National Education Association (NEA); National Indian Child Care Association (NICCA); National Women’s Law Center; New Jersey Association for the Education of Young Children; NJ Communities United; OAEYC, Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children; ORAEYC Oregon Association for the Education of Young Children; Our Children Oregon; Pennsylvania Association for the Education of Young Children; Pennsylvania Child Care Association; Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children; Prevent Child Abuse America; Rhode Island Association for the Education of Young Children; Save the Children; SEIU; South Carolina Association for the Education of Young Children (SCAEYC); Southwest Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children; Small Business Majority; Trying Together; Virginia Association for the Education of Young Children; Virginia Organizing; Wisconsin Early Childhood Association; and ZERO TO THREE.

    A copy of the legislation is available HERE. 

    A summary of the bill is available HERE.

    Organizational Quotations: 

    Center for Law and Social Policy

    “The Building Child Care for a Better Future Act will make child care more affordable for families and invest in the workforce that makes it all possible. By ensuring sustainable and reliable funding and bolstering the supply of child care, we can build a stronger, more equitable child care sector. This legislation is an essential step toward a much-needed child care system that meets the diverse needs of all children and families.”  Stephanie Schmit, Director of Child Care and Early Education, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP)

    Child Care for Every Family Network

    “Right now, this country is facing a serious child care crisis–parents are struggling to find or afford child care, child care workers are making poverty wages, and child care providers are struggling to keep their doors open and make ends meet. Republicans’ only proposal is to make this crisis even worse by cutting child care funding and putting more wealth in the hands of billionaires over supporting our families,” said Andrea Paluso and Erica Gallegos, Executive Directors of the Child Care for Every Family Network. “But there is another way. Senator Wyden and Warren’s Building Child Care for a Better Future Act will boost child care funding, instead of taking a hatchet to it. We are proud to endorse this critical bill that will invest in our child care supply, support the child care workforce, and help make child care easier to find and afford. The contrast couldn’t be clearer: support for care or support for cuts. Instead of non-stop Republican threats to cut child care, Congress must pass the Building Child Care for a Better Future Act.”

    Early Care & Education Consortium

    “As a national coalition of child care providers, education service providers, and state child care associations, ECEC is pleased to endorse the Building Child Care for a Better Future Act. This legislation recognizes that the child care workforce is the workforce behind the workforce—without well-qualified and compensated child care educators and staff, many parents cannot go to work with the comfort that their children are being educated and cared for in safe and healthy environments. Furthermore, the legislation takes needed steps to help provide support to providers that serve communities that are most in need of high-quality early education. The long-term investments proposed in the Building Child Care for a Better Future Act will better equip our nation’s child care system to serve all who rely on it every day, and support the continued growth of the American economy.” – Radha Mohan, Executive Director, Early Care & Education Consortium (ECEC)

    Family Forward Oregon

    “Child care is the workforce behind our workforce. It is essential infrastructure in our communities, and is an essential industry. We must fund child care just like libraries, schools, and other public services. When we invest in child care through the Building Child Care for a Better Future Act, we invest in our families, our economy and our future.” – Candice Vickers, Executive Director, Family Forward Oregon 

    National Women’s Law Center

    “At a time when President Trump and congressional Republicans are proposing dramatic cuts to child care, the Building Child Care for A Better Future Act provides meaningful investments that would make a real dent in addressing the child care crisis,” said Fatima Goss Graves, president and CEO of the National Women’s Law Center. “With families at a breaking point with the soaring costs of child care, we need real, sustained investment to make care more affordable and to invest in the early learning workforce. If Congress is serious about lowering child care costs, they’ll pass this bill instead of pretending that small tax credits—which provide only a fraction of relief that families need—are a real solution.”   

    Prevent Child Abuse America

    “Access to quality childcare alleviates parental stress, enabling parents to create positive home environments for their children,” saidMelissa Merrick, President and CEO of Chicago-based Prevent Child Abuse America. “This legislation, Building Child Care for a Better Future Act, addresses both the immediate needs of families, supporting working parents while strengthening the childcare workforce, and the broader goal of improving childcare access. When parents have the resources and supports they need to care for their children, we help parents foster positive home environments where their young children can thrive.”

    ZERO TO THREE

    “Child care is essential for parents who are continuing to struggle with long waitlists and skyrocketing costs. Providers are barely scraping by due to the ever-rising costs of providing safe and quality care,” said Samantha Cadet, Legislative Director for ZERO TO THREE. “ZERO TO THREE is proud to support the Building Child Care for a Better Future Act, which addresses the root issue of chronic underinvestment by increasing mandatory funding for child care so that states, tribes, and territories have the resources they need to build a child care infrastructure that works for everyone.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investor Alert: RCF Investments Is Not Registered

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 3, 2025

    The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan (FCAA) warns investors of the online entity known as RCF Investments.

    “Checking the registration status of any investment entity at aretheyregistered.ca before investing is something we encourage Saskatchewan residents to do,” FCAA Securities Division Executive Director Dean Murrison said. “Searching the registration status will tell you quickly if the entity you intend to invest with is reputable.”

    RCF Investments claims to offer Saskatchewan residents trading opportunities, including cryptocurrencies, indices, forex, shares, commodities including agri-commodities and exchange traded funds (ETFs).

    This alert applies to the online entity using the website “rcfinvestments net” (this URL has been manually altered so as not to be interactive).

    RCF Investments is not registered with the FCAA to trade or sell securities or derivatives in Saskatchewan. The FCAA cautions investors and consumers not to send money to companies that are not registered in Saskatchewan, as they may not be legitimate businesses.

    If you have invested with RCF Investments or anyone claiming to be acting on their behalf, contact the FCAA’s Securities Division at 306-787-5936.

    In Saskatchewan, individuals or companies need to be registered with the FCAA to trade or sell securities or derivatives. The registration provisions of The Securities Act, 1988, and accompanying regulations are intended to ensure that only honest and knowledgeable people are registered to sell securities and derivatives and that their businesses are financially stable.

    Tips to protect yourself:

    • Always verify that the person or company is registered in Saskatchewan to sell or advise about securities or derivatives. To check registration, visit The Canadian Securities Administrators’ National Registration Search at aretheyregistered.ca.
    • Know exactly what you are investing in. Make sure you understand how the investment, product, or service works.
    • Get a second opinion and seek professional advice about the investment.
    • Do not allow unknown or unverified individuals to remotely access your computer.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Estes, Thompson Reintroduce Bipartisan Energy Tax Legislation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    This week, Reps. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) and Mike Thompson (D-California) reintroduced the Financing Our Energy Future Act. This bipartisan bill gives renewable energy projects access to master limited partnerships (MLP), a tax structure currently only available to oil, gas and coal projects.
     
    “Americans benefit from a variety of energy options, and our country is stronger when we have an all-of-the-above energy strategy that provides reliability and consumer choice,” said Rep. Estes. “The Financing Our Energy Future Act will provide consistency among energy sectors by opening up the existing tax structure of master limited partnerships (MLP) to renewable energy projects, encouraging growth, creating jobs, and strengthening American energy dominance. Our tax code shouldn’t be picking winners and losers – especially in American energy production – and this bill provides parity for all U.S. energy projects that will bolster production and encourage market-based competitiveness.”
     
    “The Financing Our Energy Future Act gives renewable energy projects access to tax incentives currently only available to oil, gas, and coal projects,” said Rep. Thompson. “This legislation is a critical step in increasing renewable energy production and delivering investments in American energy. I’m pleased to work with Rep. Estes on this bill.”
     
    A master limited partnership is a business structure taxed as a partnership but whose ownership interests are traded like corporate stock on a market. By statute, MLPs have only been available to investors in energy portfolios for oil, natural gas, coal extraction and pipeline projects. This bill levels the playing field to make renewable energy sources more competitive for private capital investments.
     
    Newly eligible energy resources under this legislation would include solar, wind, marine and hydrokinetic energy, fuel cells, energy storage, combined heat and power, biomass, waste heat to power, renewable fuels, biorefineries, energy-efficient buildings and carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS). Sens. Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) and Chris Coons (D-Delaware) introduced companion legislation in the Senate earlier this year.
     
    Click here to download the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Fiji Nationals Sentenced to Prison for Carrying Out Multimillion-Dollar Real Estate Short Sale Fraud

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

    FRESNO, Calif. — Jyoteshna Karan, 52, and Praveen Singh, 45, both of Modesto, were sentenced for leading a multi-million dollar mortgage fraud scheme, Acting United States Attorney Michele Beckwith announced today.  Karan received three years and four months in prison, and Singh received two years.

    According to court records, from 2006 through 2015, Karan and Singh conspired to make straw purchases and short sales of approximately 15 homes from Modesto to Sacramento.  A straw purchase is where one person buys a home on behalf of another person to get around certain restrictions.  Straw purchases are generally illegal in the real estate industry because they compromise lenders’ risk management practices.  A short sale is where a homeowner sells their home for less than the amount they owe on their mortgage, with lender approval, to avoid foreclosure.  Short sales must generally be arm’s length transactions in the real estate industry because that helps protect buyers and sellers from undervaluation, overpayment, and bias.

    After Karan and Singh acquired the homes, they allowed them to go into foreclosure and arranged for short sales with the lenders.  They then quickly resold, or flipped, the homes to other people at market rates and therefore reaped significant profits.  In doing so, they caused the lenders to suffer over $3,000,000 in losses.

    Karan and Singh were experienced real estate professionals who used unwitting participants, fabricated documents, and shell companies to carry out their fraud.  For example, they used Singh’s mother as one of the straw purchasers, fabricated documents to make it appear as though the straw purchasers worked for their shell companies making six figure salaries, and fabricated documents to make it appear as though the transactions were arm’s length.  This was all done to convince the lenders to go through with the deals.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the FBI, FDIC OIG, and the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Barton prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Man Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Prison for Oxycodone Conspiracy and Structuring Cash Transactions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Texas man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for a drug conspiracy involving the distribution of oxycodone pills across Southeastern Massachusetts and beyond.

    Christan Russell, 33, of Tomball, Texas was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to 70 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Russell has also been ordered to pay a fine of $30,000. In October 2024, Russell pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone pills and structuring cash transactions. Russell was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2023 along with five co-conspirators.

    Between approximately February 2023 and July 2023, Russell supplied oxycodone pills to co-conspirator Kenneth Veiga, who then redistributed those oxycodone pills to Austin Gonsalves and John Campbell. Russell obtained these pills from a variety of sources in the Houston, Texas area. On March 13, 2023 Russell traveled from Houston to Boston to meet with Veiga where they met in a hotel room in Rhode Island that Russell rented. During that meeting, Russell supplied oxycodone pills to Veiga and Veiga provided cash in exchange. On March 14, 2023, Russell engaged in four structured cash deposits at ATMs in the Boston area. For each of these deposits, Russell orchestrated the deposit to be less than $10,000 in an attempt to evade the bank from reporting the deposit to the Internal Revenue Service.

    Veiga pleaded guilty and in July 2024, was sentenced to 60 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. Gonsalves pleaded guilty and in May 2024 was sentenced to 41 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In January 2025, Campbell was sentenced to four years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division made the announcement today. Special assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service; Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office; and the Barnstable, Dennis, Bourne, Mashpee, Yarmouth, Sandwich and Falmouth Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Mulcahy and Samuel R. Feldman of the Criminal Division and Alexandra Amrhein of the Asset Forfeiture Unit are prosecuting the case.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national sentenced for illegal reentry in Eastern District of Texas

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BEAUMONT, Texas –A Mexican national has been sentenced for illegally reentering the United States, announced Eastern District of Texas Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

    Valentin Hernandez-Yanez, 38, pleaded guilty to unlawful reentry by a deported alien and was sentenced to time served by U.S. District Judge Michael Truncale on April 2, 2025.  Hernandez-Yanez has been imprisoned since July of 2024.  He is currently being held on an immigration detainer and will be processed by Homeland Security before being deported to Mexico.

    According to information presented in court, on April 30, 2024, Hernandez-Yanez was observed by federal immigration agents in Vidor, Texas. Agents were familiar with Hernandez-Yanez from past dealings.  An immigration database check revealed Hernandez-Yanez to be a national of Mexico having been previously deported to Mexico in June of 2011.  Hernandez-Yanez has not since applied for permission to reenter the United States since he was last removed.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, 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).

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Quinn.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: San Francisco Resident Who Shot and Killed Victim in the Presidio Found Guilty of Voluntary Manslaughter

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

    SAN FRANCISCO – A federal jury today found Leion Butler, aka Leniyah Butler, 21, of San Francisco, guilty of voluntary manslaughter.  The verdict followed a two-week jury trial before U.S. District Judge Susan Illston.

    The jury found that Butler, a sex worker, killed a man in the Crissy Field East Beach area of the Presidio of San Francisco on Nov. 12, 2023, after performing a sex act on the victim.  According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Butler shot the victim once in the eye after he asked for a refund and asked Butler to get out of the car.  After killing him, Butler stole the victim’s vehicle, drove it to Hunters Point, and tried to wipe away the fingerprints and DNA.  Butler spent the rest of that morning scattering the physical evidence, including the murder weapon.  

    “We extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s family, whose son and brother was taken from them prematurely, and hope today’s verdict brings some measure of justice,” said Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins.  “We commend the swift actions of the FBI agents, who promptly and thoroughly investigated this case from the moment the victim’s body was found in the Presidio.”

    “This conviction demonstrates the FBI’s unwavering commitment to seeking justice for victims of violent crime,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani. “Through tireless investigative work and collaboration with our law enforcement partners, we ensured that the defendant was held accountable for this senseless act. The FBI will continue to pursue those who commit violent offenses and threaten the safety of our communities.”

    The jury acquitted Butler of murder in the second degree.

    Butler, who is currently being held in custody, is scheduled to be sentenced on June 27, 2025.  The maximum statutory penalty for a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1112 is 15 years and a fine of $250,000, plus restitution if appropriate.  Any sentence will be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelsey Davidson and George Hageman are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Helen Yee, Jessie Chelsea, Marina Ponomarchuk, and Janice Pagsanjan.  The prosecution is the result of a monthslong investigation by the FBI.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Professionals’ Financial – Mutual Funds Inc. announces changes to the sub-management of FDP Global Fixed Income Portfolio

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONTREAL, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Professionals’ Financial – Mutual Funds Inc. (“FDP”), the investment fund manager and portfolio adviser of FDP Global Fixed Income Portfolio (the “Fund”), announces that Amundi Canada Inc. (“Amundi Canada”), one of the portfolio sub-advisers of the Fund, which delegated the entirety of its management to Amundi Asset Management U.S., Inc. (“Amundi US”), from now on delegates its management of part of the assets of the Fund to Victory Capital Management Inc. (“Victory”). Mr. Kenneth J. Monaghan, which was individual principally responsible for the investment advisory services provided by Amundi US to the Fund, is the individual principally responsible for the investment advisory services provided by Victory to the Fund.

    The Fund’s assets are managed in part by portfolio sub-advisers Manulife Asset Management (US) LLC, Manulife Asset Management (Hong Kong) Limited, Manulife Asset Management (Europe) Limited and Amundi Canada, which delegates the entirety of its management of the assets of the Fund to Victory, whereas FDP continues to ensure internally the management of the remainder of the Fund’s assets, as portfolio adviser of the Fund.

    About Professionals’ Financial
    Professionals’ Financial offers private management products and services, financial planning solutions, as well as a complete range of mutual funds. Established in 1978 by and for professionals, Professionals’ Financial is committed to keeping its management fees among the lowest in the Canadian market. It is affiliated with the Fédération des médecins spécialistes du Québec, the Association des chirurgiens-dentistes du Québec, the Corporation de service de la Chambre des notaires, the Association des architectes en pratique privée du Québec and the Association québécoise des pharmaciens propriétaires. Thanks to this affiliation, Professionals’ Financial is uniquely positioned in terms of impartiality, representation of its clients’ interests and market performance.

    Visit the Professionals’ Financial website at: www.fprofessionnels.com/en.

    Source: Professionals’ Financial – Mutual Funds Inc.

    Information:       Mr. François Leblanc, CFA
    Director, Manager of Managers and Portfolio Optimization, Investments
    Professionals’ Financial
    2 Complexe Desjardins
    East Tower – 31st Floor, P. O. Box 1116
    Montréal, Québec H5B 1C2
    Telephone: 514-229-4142
    Fax: 514-350-5155
    fleblanc@fdpgp.ca
    For further information: www.fprofessionnels.com/en
         

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Alaris Equity Partners Announces Timing of 2025 Q1 Financial Results, Conference Call and Webcast

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES.
    FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES SECURITIES LAW.

    CALGARY, Alberta, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust (“Alaris” or the “Trust“) (TSX: AD.UN) is pleased to announce that it will release its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025 following the closing of regular trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange Thursday, May 8, 2025. Alaris management will host a conference call at 9 am MT (11 am ET) the following day, Friday, May 9, 2025 to discuss the financial results and outlook for the Trust.

    Participants must register for the call using this link: Pre-registration to Q1 to receive the dial-in numbers and unique PIN to access the call seamlessly. It is recommended that you join 10 minutes prior to the event start (although you may register and dial in at any time during the call). Participants can access the webcast here: Q1 webcast. A replay of the webcast will be available two hours after the call and archived on the same web page for six months. Participants can also find the link on our website, stored under the “Investors” section – “Presentations and Events”, at www.alarisequitypartners.com.

    About Alaris

    The Trust, through its subsidiaries, invests in a diversified group of private businesses (“Private Company Partners“) primarily through structured equity. The primary goal of our structured equity investments is to deliver stable and predictable returns to our unitholders through both cash distributions and capital appreciation. This strategy is enhanced by common equity positions, which allow us to generate returns in alignment with the founders of our Private Company Partners.

    For further information please contact:

    Investor Relations
    P: (403) 260-1457
    ir@alarisequity.com

    Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust
    Suite 250, 333 24th Avenue S.W.
    Calgary, Alberta T2S 3E6
    www.alarisequitypartners.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lectra: Special Meeting of Shareholders owning shares with double voting rights and Combined Shareholders’ Meeting of April 25, 2025 – Conditions of availability of the preparatory documents

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                                                     Press Release        

            Contact e-mail: investor.relations@lectra.com

    Special Meeting of Shareholders owning shares with double voting rights
    and Combined Shareholders’ Meeting of April 25, 2025 –
    Conditions of availability of the preparatory documents

    Paris, April 3, 2025 – Shareholders of Lectra are invited to participate in:

    • the Special Meeting of Shareholders owning shares with double voting rights which will be held on Friday April 25, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. (CET) (only registered shareholders owning shares with double voting rights are called to participate);
    • the Combined Shareholders’ Meeting which will be held on Friday April 25, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. (CET) (all the shareholders are called to participate).

    Both Meetings will take place at the Company’s head office situated at 16-18 rue Chalgrin, 75016 Paris.

    The Special Meeting and the Combined Shareholders’ Meeting will be broadcasted live in full, and a webcast replay will be available afterwards, via the following links (also available on the Lectra website, on the webpage dedicated to each Meeting):

    The notice of meeting (avis de reunion valant avis de convocation), which was published for each Meeting in the French Bulletin des Annonces Légales Obligatoires (BALO) dated March 19, 2025, bulletin n°34, includes the agenda, the draft resolutions submitted to the Meeting and the conditions for participation and exercise of voting rights.

    All the documents relating to the Meetings, as referred to in Article R.22-10-23 of the French Commercial Code, are available online and can be downloaded directly on the Lectra website:

    The documents and information relating to both Meetings are also available to shareholders at Lectra’s head office or may be received by letter post through a simple and free request addressed to Lectra, Investor Relations, 16-18 rue Chalgrin, 75016 Paris or at ag2025@lectra.com, under the conditions provided by current legal and regulatory provisions.

    About Lectra

    As a major player in the fashion, automotive and furniture markets, Lectra contributes to the Industry 4.0 revolution with boldness and passion by providing best-in-class technologies.

    The Group offers industrial intelligence solutions – software, equipment, data and services – that facilitate the digital transformation of the companies it serves. In doing so, Lectra helps its customers push boundaries and unlock their potential. The Group is proud to state that its 3,000 employees are driven by three core values: being open-minded thinkers, trusted partners and passionate innovators.

    Founded in 1973, Lectra reported revenues of 527 million euros in 2024. The company is listed on Euronext, where it is included in the following indices: CAC All Shares, CAC Technology, EN Tech Leaders and ENT PEA-PME 150.

    For more information, visit lectra.com.

    Lectra – World Headquarters: 16–18, rue Chalgrin • 75016 Paris • France
    Tel. +33 (0)1 53 64 42 00 – www.lectra.com
    A French Société Anonyme with capital of €37,966,274 • RCS Paris B 300 702 305

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: WithSecure Corporation: SHARE REPURCHASE 3.4.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WithSecure Corporation, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE, 3 April 2025 at 6.30 PM (EET)
         
         
    WithSecure Corporation: SHARE REPURCHASE 3.4.2025
         
    In the Helsinki Stock Exchange    
         
    Trade date           3.4.2025  
    Bourse trade         Buy  
    Share                  WITH  
    Amount             10 000 Shares
    Average price/ share    0,9163 EUR
    Total cost            9 163,00 EUR
         
         
    WithSecure Corporation now holds a total of 330 709 shares
    including the shares repurchased on 3.4.2025  
         
    The share buybacks are executed in compliance with Regulation 
    No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council (MAR) Article 5
    and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052.
         
         
    On behalf of Withsecure Corporation  
         
    Nordea Bank Oyj    
         
    Janne Sarvikivi           Sami Huttunen  
         
         
    Contact information:    
    Laura Viita    
    Vice President Controlling, Investor relations and Sustainability
    WithSecure Corporation    
    Tel. +358 50 4871044    
    Investor-relations@withsecure.com    
         
         
         
         

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Matthew Carpen appointed Chief Executive of Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation

    Source: Mayor of London

    Matthew Carpen, a highly experienced development leader, has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive of the Mayor of London’s Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC), which is delivering London’s largest brownfield development opportunity around the new High Speed 2 station at Old Oak Common.

    Matthew has a long background in strategic planning and infrastructure delivery having spent 22 years working in London on major projects. He is currently Managing Director of Barking Riverside Limited (BRL), a joint venture between the Mayor of London and L&Q. In post at Barking Riverside, Matthew has overseen a new masterplan set to deliver up to 20,000 homes and has secured over £300m in public and private investment for this key part of East London, alongside delivering a new transport interchange used by thousands of people each day from a growing community of 3,500 new homes.

    Matthew has been a Board Member of OPDC since 2022 and is a member of the organisation’s Development, Investment and Sustainability Committee. His appointment follows an open and competitive procurement process that was launched following the announcement that current CEO, David Lunts, will step down after six years in the role.

    OPDC is the Mayor of London’s statutory regeneration and planning authority, taking forward development opportunities on 650 hectares of land in Old Oak and Park Royal in West London. Over the next 25 years, it will create a whole new district for London with a mix of homes, employment space, high streets, community facilities and high-quality public realm, built around the new HS2 station at Old Oak Common. Old Oak Common Station will be the only interchange between HS2, the Elizabeth line and the Great Western mainline, and will connect to Heathrow and Bond Street in ten minutes.

    The first stage of the project will deliver around 9,000 homes and 11,000 jobs across approximately 70 acres of publicly owned land. With an estimated gross development value (GDV) of £10bn, the project has secured over £300m of public funding to date. Later this year, OPDC will commence procurement for a long-term development and investment partnership to support the regeneration of Old Oak.

    Matthew joins OPDC’s established leadership team under the newly appointed Chair of the OPDC Board, Dame Karen Buck.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Dakota and Colorado Men Convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine Across the State of South Dakota Including the Crow Creek Reservation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SIOUX FALLS – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a jury has convicted Christopher Spider, a/k/a “House”, age 45 of South Dakota and Lance Brunsting, age 56, of Colorado, of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance following a four-day jury trial in federal district court in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on March 27, 2025.

    The charges carry a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in custody and/or a $10,000,000 fine, mandatory minimum of five years and up to life of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Christopher Spider was also convicted of Tampering with a Witness. That charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, a possibility of up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Spider and Brunsting were indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2023.

    Brunsting and Spider, along with numerous other individuals, conspired to distribute hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine throughout the state of South Dakota.

    Spider, a resident of Crow Creek, was responsible for distributing approximately 30 pounds of methamphetamine throughout the Crow Creek Indian Reservation during his involvement in the conspiracy. While under Indictment for the offense, Spider sent a letter to another witness attempting to intimidate the witness into changing her testimony at trial. The letter was reported to law enforcement and Spider was subsequently indicted for Witness Tampering.

    Brunsting, a resident of Denver, Colorado, was responsible for assisting in the weighing, packaging, and ultimate distribution of approximately 100 pounds of methamphetamine. Brunsting made a trip to South Dakota alongside another co-conspirator where he assisted in selling approximately 41 pounds of methamphetamine throughout the state of South Dakota and into Minnesota.

    “Christopher Spider and Lance Brunsting were involved in one of the largest methamphetamine conspiracies in South Dakota history,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “Our office was able to successfully prosecute the large-scale drug conspiracy thanks to the exceptional collaborative and investigative efforts of our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners. Last week’s convictions represent a crucial step toward bringing these individuals to justice for the roles they played in bringing hundreds of pounds of illegal narcotics into our South Dakota communities.”

    The Drug Enforcement Administration provided the following statement: “The two individuals convicted last week are responsible for inflicting immeasurable harm on members of our South Dakota communities,” Drug Enforcement Administration Omaha Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafael Mattei said. “Their arrest and conviction should serve as a warning to drug traffickers that the combined efforts of state, local and federal law enforcement will bring those pushing these dangerous substances to justice.”

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (including the Rocky Mountain Field Division, Omaha Field Division, Mexico City Country Office, Los Angeles Field Division, Special Operations Division), as well as South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, FBI, South Dakota Highway Patrol, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, IRS Criminal Investigation team, El Paso Intelligence Center, and collaboration received from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Marshals Service, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, Sioux Falls Police Department, Mitchell Police Department, Denver Police Department, Las Vegas Metro Police Department, Worthington Police Department, Brookings Police Department, Brookings Sherriff’s Department, Rock County Sheriff’s Office, Lake Superior Violent Offender Task Force, Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force,  Minnesota River Valley Drug Task Force, and the Colorado Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.

    A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date has been set for June 16, 2025. The defendants were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

     

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sentences Imposed in Northeast Kingdom Drug Distribution Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on March 31, 2025, Nathaniel “JJ” Jones, 39, of Springfield, Massachusetts, was sentenced by United States District Judge William K. Sessions III to a term of 135 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Jones previously pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl and cocaine.

    Three codefendants had previously been sentenced in the case. Jermaine “Bear” Douchette, 44, of Springfield, Massachusetts also received a sentence of 135 months’ imprisonment on December 16, 2024. Michelle Provencher, 26, of Irasburg, Vermont received a sentence of 37 months’ imprisonment on February 10, 2025. Daniel Peters, 29, of Newport, Vermont received a sentence of 45 months’ imprisonment on February 24, 2025. Three additional codefendants—Tyler Norris, Erica Desormeaux, and Jeremy Young—are awaiting sentencing.

    According to court records, “JJ” Jones and co-defendant “Bear” Douchette stayed at multiple short-term rental units and residences in Orleans County in 2022 while distributing fentanyl and cocaine they periodically acquired in Massachusetts. Between August and October 2022, they used the residence of Desormeaux and Young in Barton, Vermont, to prepare, store, and distribute the drugs to customers in the Northeast Kingdom. Provencher assisted Jones and Douchette in finding customers and willing hosts. Many of the conspirators carried firearms as part of their activities, and the group took firearms from some customers in exchange for drugs. Some of the group, including Jones and Douchette, made threats and engaged in acts of violence in furtherance of the conspiracy.

    Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Northern Vermont Drug Task Force (NVDTF) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) in this case. He also noted the assistance NVDTF and ATF received from the Vermont State Police, the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department, the Newport Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations, and Homeland Security Investigations throughout the investigation and prosecution.

    “This case underscores the relentless commitment of ATF and our law enforcement partners to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations that threaten the safety of our communities through the distribution of deadly narcotics and illegal firearms,” said James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Boston Field Division. “The sentences handed down as a result of this investigation send a clear message:  we will not tolerate violent criminal activity in the Northeast Kingdom or anywhere else in Vermont.”

    “Our commitment to community safety remains unwavering”, said Sheriff Jennifer L. Harlow of the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department. “We will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to dismantle drug trafficking organizations that distribute deadly narcotics and illegal firearms. We thank our federal partners for their dedication to ensuring these individuals are held responsible.”

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher. Jones was represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq.; Douchette was represented by Gregory Mertz, Esq; Provencher was represented by Robert Sussman, Esq.; and Peters was represented by Heather Ross, Esq. Tyler Norris is represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.; Erica Desormeaux is represented by Natasha Sen, Esq.; and Jeremy Young is represented by Allan Sullivan, Esq. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: The Last Dwarfs Announces Play-to-Invest Web3 Game Merging Strategy, Action, and Crypto Utility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Last Dwarfs, an innovative Web3 gaming project, is reshaping how users interact with blockchain ecosystems by introducing a fully live Play-to-Invest platform. Positioned at the intersection of strategy gaming and decentralized finance, The Last Dwarfs offers a new kind of crypto experience—one where users play, earn, and grow inside an evolving token-based economy.

    As blockchain gaming gains traction across global markets, The Last Dwarfs is emerging as one of the most operationally advanced projects in the space, with over 300,000 users already onboarded and integrated directly into Telegram and the TON blockchain.

    The Last Dwarfs – A Kingdom in Ruins, A Heroic Mission

    Set in a once-prosperous dwarven kingdom devastated by a Mole invasion, players take on the role of the last surviving dwarves, tasked with rebuilding their homeland through combat, mining, and resource management.

    The game combines interactive action mechanics, like the fast-paced whack-the-mole minigame, with deeper strategy elements. Players collect and refine materials such as Stone, Bronze, Gold, Moonstone, and Sunstone, and use them to craft tools, open Mystery Boxes, upgrade pickaxes, and enhance their mining power.

    Every in-game action generates xTLD, a point-based system that reflects a player’s overall performance, efficiency, and commitment. These points unlock exclusive in-game benefits and offer users an engaging way to build their influence in the ecosystem.

    From Telegram to Treasure: How the Game Works

    Unlike most Web3 games that require complex onboarding, The Last Dwarfs is designed for frictionless access. The game runs natively as a Telegram mini-app, allowing users to jump in with just one tap—no extensions, wallets, or downloads required.

    Once inside, players can mine resources, craft items, and level up their dwarves to unlock new gameplay features and increase their strategic potential. As players progress, they gain access to exclusive systems like the Gamified Launchpad, which connects users with real blockchain opportunities through interactive challenges and future integrations.

    Crafting and Strategy – Not Just Clicks, But Choices

    Progressing in The Last Dwarfs isn’t about grinding mindlessly. It’s about smart resource management and making meaningful decisions.

    Players can:

    • Craft Mystery Boxes containing gems, extra pickaxe durability, or bonus diamonds.
    • Upgrade pickaxes to mine more efficiently and access rarer materials.
    • Balance combat, mining, and crafting to optimize their growth and unlock new tools.

    This creates a dynamic loop where strategic choices amplify progress, making the game both satisfying for casual players and deeply engaging for those who enjoy optimization and planning.

    Final Thoughts – Why The Last Dwarfs Is More Than Just Play-to-Earn

    By blending gameplay, token mechanics, and investment strategy, The Last Dwarfs is building an entirely new genre in the blockchain space: Play-to-Invest. This model transforms traditional gaming incentives into strategic, crypto-powered progress, empowering users not just to play, but to build real value.

    With ongoing updates, new features in development, and a growing user base already in place, The Last Dwarfs is poised to become one of the most disruptive and accessible projects in Web3 gaming.

    For More Information:

    Website: https://thelastdwarfs.com

    Whitepaper: https://whitepaper.thelastdwarfs.com

    Telegram: https://t.me/TheLastDwarfsCommunity

    Twitter: https://x.com/TheLastDwarfs

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Decarbonising homes and buildings

    Source: Scottish Government

    Revised Heat in Buildings Bill to be brought forward

    A revised Heat in Buildings Bill will set a new target for decarbonising heating systems by 2045 alongside continuing work to reduce fuel poverty.

    Acting Minister for Climate Action Alasdair Allan today confirmed the Scottish Government’s intention to bring forward a revised Bill for consideration by the Scottish Parliament later in 2025, to include:

    • A target for decarbonising heating systems by 2045, sending a strong signal to homeowners, landlords and other building owners on the need to prepare for change while outlining collective actions to help do this.
    • Provisions to boost heat network development by developing requirements for large, non-domestic premises, including powers to require public sector buildings to connect to district heating when available.
    • Powers to set minimum energy efficiency standards for owner/occupier and non-domestic properties, subject to further consideration. Regulations will be progressed under existing powers to introduce a minimum energy efficiency standard in the private rented sector.

    Dr Allan said:

    “It is vital that we find the right balance both to reach net zero by 2045, and reduce fuel poverty.

    “Many households, families and businesses are facing difficult circumstances right now and it is simply unaffordable for many building owners to make great changes in the near future – particularly for those in rural and island locations, whose needs and circumstances we must continue to consider carefully. 

    “Our plan to deliver a revised Bill responds to the legitimate reservations and concerns raised since our consultation completed, including the risk of exacerbating fuel poverty and burdening every individual householder with an overly onerous responsibility as we decarbonise.

    “Instead of placing prohibitions on every homeowner, we will establish targets for Government to reach. Rather than looking at action through the lens of decarbonising alone, we will also commit to doing everything within our power to reduce costs for people.”

    The proposed Bill will remain technology-neutral, reflecting that different properties and people will require different solutions – for example, clean heating solutions in some remote and rural areas may vary from urban areas.

    The Bill would accompany related work on a Social Housing Net Zero Standard and reform of Energy Performance Certificates under existing powers.

    Dr Allan also welcomed the second report by the independent Green Heat Finance taskforce, published today. This also takes a collective approach, focusing on options for financing place-based solutions, heat networks and social housing retrofit.

    He added:

    “This report makes a very important contribution to our understanding of the work we need to do to boost clean heat demand amongst consumers and instil market confidence to develop new products, including financing solutions.

    “It also identifies key steps the UK Government needs to take to stimulate the clean heat market and reduce fuel poverty, in particular emphasising the importance of rebalancing relative gas and electricity prices, which we continue to push for.”

    Background

    Responses to consultation on proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill undertaken in 2023-24 

    Green Heat Finance Taskforce Report: part 2

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Investico.com Implements Advanced Encryption Protocols to Secure Data

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Investico.com, a name in the financial industry, operated by Faraz Financial Services (PTY) Limited, offers CFD trading. As a company focused on financial solutions, it offers a range of tools designed to simplify financial-related activities and enhance efficiency, security, and accessibility for users. In its commitment to security, the Company implements advanced encryption protocols to protect sensitive user data. This is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance its security measures, ensuring a safer environment for all involved in CFD operations. By prioritizing data protection, it continues to build trust with its users and demonstrates its dedication to maintaining a high level of security.

    As concerns regarding data security have become more prevalent, Investico.com recognizes the importance of safeguarding the information entrusted to it by its users. The company has chosen to implement a series of robust encryption techniques that are designed to provide users with an additional layer of protection against potential threats. These encryption protocols are intended to prevent unauthorized access and to ensure that financial information is safely transmitted over the internet.

    As a third party, it is acknowledged that security has always been a priority for the company. This proactive move aims to address growing concerns around online privacy, ensuring that user data remains protected at all times.

    The company’s efforts reflect a clear understanding of the challenges and risks associated with handling sensitive financial information. By incorporating these encryption protocols, it aims to minimize the likelihood of data breaches and other vulnerabilities. This move highlights the company’s dedication to staying ahead of emerging cyber threats and ensuring that users can have confidence in the protection of their data.

    As part of the broader digital finance landscape, the company is aware of the need to maintain trust and reliability. This is a step forward in safeguarding the interests of its users and ensuring that their personal and financial data is protected from potential cyber threats. With these encryption measures in place, the company offers a secure environment and continues to build trust within the digital finance community.

    The integration of these advanced encryption protocols will help the company address concerns about data protection and build even more trust with its growing user base. As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the user experience, the company is committed to continuously improving its protective measures to stay ahead of the latest threats and to maintain a secure platform for all.

    In conclusion, the company’s implementation of advanced encryption protocols marks a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to improve safety and protect user data. With a focus on delivering a secure financial environment, it remains dedicated to the needs of its users, striving to offer peace of mind when it comes to data protection.

    This content is based on observations and serves as an independent perspective on the company’s support structure and user engagement.

    About Investico.com

    Investico.com provides a CFD trading platform under Faraz Financial Services (PTY) Limited, a company regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority in South Africa with license number 45518. It focused on ensuring secure financial transactions and safeguarding sensitive data. Known for its commitment to implementing the best practices, it provides users with a secure environment for their financial activities. With a strong emphasis on protecting personal and financial data, the company continually enhances its security infrastructure to ensure users’ peace of mind.

    From a third-party perspective, it is observed that the company has been recognized for its efforts to integrate advanced technology into its services, making sure that security is never compromised. The company’s approach includes adopting encryption protocols and other measures designed to keep data safe from unauthorized access. This shows its dedication to meeting the highest standards of privacy, which are essential for users in the digital financial landscape.

    Company Details

    Company Name: Faraz Financial Services (PTY) Limited
    Email Address: info@investico.com
    Company Address: Unit 9, 31 First Avenue East, Parktown North, Johannesburg, Gauteng 2193, South Africa.
    Company Website: https://www.investico.com/international/

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Investico.com. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Standard Premium Finance Holdings, Inc. Announces Execution of Employment Agreements with CEO and CFO

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, FL, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Standard Premium Finance Holdings, Inc. (OTCQX: SPFX) (the “Company” or “Standard”) today announced that on March 31, 2025, it entered into employment agreements with William Koppelmann, its President and Chief Executive Officer, and Brian Krogol, its Chief Financial Officer. The agreements, approved by the Compensation Committee and the Board of Directors, provide for a five-year term, securing the brain trust and proprietary trade secrets of the Company, and establish the compensation framework for the Company’s top executives.

    The agreements follow a Management by Objectives (MBO) approach, tying executive compensation directly to key performance indicators that drive shareholder value, including growth targets, profitability metrics and the uplisting of the Company’s common stock to the NASDAQ Stock Market. Mr. Koppelmann and Mr. Krogol will receive competitive compensation packages, including a base salary, performance-based incentives, and equity grants.

    “The execution of these agreements reflects our confidence in the leadership team of Bill Koppelmann and Brian Krogol,” said Carl C. Hoechner, Chairman of the Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors. “Their expertise and commitment have been instrumental in the Company’s continued success, and we look forward to their leadership in the years ahead.”

    About Standard Premium Finance Holdings, Inc.

    Standard Premium Finance Holdings, Inc. (OTCQX: SPFX) is an industry-specific holding company pursuing merger and acquisition opportunities of synergistic businesses to take advantage of the economies of scale within the specialty finance industry. SPFX companies have provided financing solutions in excess of $2 Billion to businesses and individuals securing coverage for their property and casualty insurance policies. SPFX companies currently operate in more than thirty-five states throughout the U.S. With a market exceeding $80 Billion in total premiums financed annually, SPFX continuously seeks advantages of roll-up opportunities in a historically consolidating industry while providing maximum value for its shareholders.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, statements regarding our outlook on the future performance of Standard. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as “anticipate”, “expect”, “will”, “opportunity” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations and projections relating to our financial condition; macroeconomic factors; plans; objectives; growth opportunities; assumptions; risks; future performance; business; and results of operations, including revenue, and net income. Neither we nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any of these forward-looking statements. Standard undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.

    All forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those that we expected. More information about factors that could affect our results of operations and risks and uncertainties are provided in our public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, copies of which may be obtained by visiting our investor relations website at www.standardpremium.com/investors or the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    For more information, contact Media Relations at info@standardpremium.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Mining Week Unveils 2025 Program, Connecting Investors to African Projects

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, April 3, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The African Mining Week (AMW) conference and exhibition has officially launched its 2025 program, unveiling key topics and lucrative opportunities across Africa’s mining value chain. The three-day program will foster collaboration on investment, value addition, local content development and industrialization. Bringing together African regulators, key mining stakeholders and global partners, AMW serves as a critical platform for shaping the future of African mining.

    Download the program here: https://apo-opa.co/42kb940

    Scheduled for October 1–3 in Cape Town, AMW takes place under the theme, From Extraction to Beneficiation: Unlocking Africa’s Mineral Wealth. The event is co-located with the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies conference, providing attendees a strategic opportunity to gain insight into opportunities across both the energy and mining sectors in Africa.

    The AMW program features the Ministerial Forum, where African and global mining ministers will connect to showcase investment opportunities, discuss regulatory frameworks and highlight efforts to drive local beneficiation and value addition. Through policy revitalization and strategic partnerships, African markets are increasingly positioning themselves as attractive destinations for global investors.

    A series of Country Spotlights will offer a deep dive into Africa’s diverse mineral wealth, featuring insights into Botswana and Angola’s diamond resources, Zambia’s copper reserves and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s cobalt market. Spotlights will also examine the latest developments within South Africa’s platinum group metals, Zimbabwe’s lithium, Mali’s uranium and Malawi and Tanzania’s rare earths industries.

    AMW’s Critical Minerals Track will explore emerging trends and opportunities within a sector that is crucial to the global energy transition. With Africa holding 30% of the world’s critical minerals, the continent is attracting substantial interest from international players eager to unlock its vast potential. AMW will spotlight Africa’s growing role in mineral diplomacy, as countries strengthen investment ties and infrastructure collaboration with global partners, including China, the U.S., Canada, the UAE, Australia and the European Union. Meanwhile, AMW Roundtables will facilitate deal signings and enhanced cooperation among African stakeholders and international investors.

    Innovation will take center stage at the Technology Forum, set to explore the transformative role of digital technologies, AI and machine learning in modernizing mineral exploration and production. African markets are increasingly leveraging advanced tools to accelerate exploration, with companies such as Botswana Diamonds utilizing AI-driven solutions to diversify beyond traditional diamond mining. Meanwhile, KoBold Metals is using AI to unlock new copper discoveries in Zambia, supporting the country’s ambition to ramp up production to 3.1 million tons annually by 2031.

    The Investment Track will bring together global investors, including public financiers and international development finance institutions to explore funding opportunities across the mining value chain. Discussions will focus on optimizing financial mechanisms, such as loans, private placements and equity funding, to maximize capital flows to Africa’s mining sector. Additionally, the Junior Miners Forum will provide a platform for small-scale mining firms to pitch their projects to investors, potential partners and industry experts, enhancing their contributions to the sector’s growth. Join AMW 2025 today and be part of the discussion on Africa’s mining future.

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com. To download the working program, please visit www.African-MiningWeek.com

    MIL OSI Africa –