Category: Finance

MIL-OSI USA: Lexington County man arrested on Child Sexual Abuse Material* chargesRead More

Source: US State of South Carolina

(COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Shaquezius Leevontae Dennis, 19, of Batesburg-Leesville, S.C., on one charge connected to the sexual exploitation of minors. Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigators with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department made the arrest. Investigators with the Attorney General’s Office, also a member of the state’s ICAC Task Force, assisted with the investigation.

Investigators received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) which led them to Dennis. Investigators state Dennis distributed files of child sexual abuse material.

Dennis was arrested on January 31, 2025. He is charged with one count of sexual exploitation of a minor, second degree (§16-15-405), a felony offense punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment.

This case will be prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Office.

Attorney General Wilson stressed all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law.

* Child sexual abuse material, or CSAM, is a more accurate reflection of the material involved in these heinous and abusive crimes. “Pornography” can imply the child was a consenting participant. Globally, the term child pornography is being replaced by CSAM for this reason.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Hartford Substance Abuse Counselor Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison for Health Care Fraud Schemes

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that on January 31, 2025, THELMA “WENDY” EPPS, 60, of Hartford, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 27 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for health care fraud.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Epps was a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADC) with an office located at 330 Main Street in Hartford. In April 2013, she enrolled as a participating provider in the Connecticut Medicaid program along with an entity affiliated with Epps called Miracles to Destiny LLC. In July 2018, the Medicaid program suspended Epps from participating as a provider in the program based on a finding of a credible allegation of fraud. Medicaid told Epps that any attempt to circumvent her suspension by submitting claims for services performed by Epps or Miracles to Destiny LLC through other agencies or other billing numbers would result in termination of her provider agreement.

In 2019, Epps entered into an agreement with Dennis Tomczak, a Connecticut LADC who was a participating provider in Medicaid. Epps and Tomczak agreed that Tomczak would bill Medicaid using his Medicaid provider number for psychotherapy counseling services purportedly provided by Epps. These claims falsely represented that Tomczak had personally provided the services. In return for Tomczak billing the services, Epps agreed to pay Tomczak 25 percent of the amount Medicaid paid Tomczak. Between approximately April 2019 and November 2022, Medicaid paid Tomczak $330,547.71 for fraudulent claims for services purportedly provided by Epps that were billed under Tomczak’s provider number.

At some point during their scheme, Tomczak expressed concerns to Epps about the number and frequency of services that Epps told Tomczak she was providing. At about this time, Epps entered into a similar agreement with Shawn Tyson, a LADC in Connecticut, whereby Tyson would use his Medicaid provider number to submit claims to Medicaid for services Epps purportedly provided to Medicaid clients.

In November 2019, Epps assisted Tyson with the process of enrolling Tyson as a participating provider in Medicaid. Tyson’s provider application listed the location at which Tyson would provide services as 330 Main Street, Third Floor, in Hartford, the location of Epps’s and Miracles to Destiny LLC’s office. Once Tyson was enrolled as a Medicaid provider, Tyson provided Epps with his login information to the online portal for submitting claims to Medicaid, which Epps then used to submit claims. For a brief period before Tyson was enrolled as a Medicaid provider, unbeknownst to Tomczak, Epps submitted claims through Tomczak’s provider number for services purportedly provided by Tyson, by representing to Tomczak that she had performed these services. Medicaid paid Tomczak a total of $7,879.40 for these services.

During the scheme involving Epps and Tyson, Tyson would provide Epps the names of Medicaid patients and dates that Tyson purportedly provided psychotherapy counseling services to the patients, and Epps would then bill Medicaid for these services using Tyson’s provider number. Epps would also submit claims using Tyson’s provider number for services she purportedly provided to Medicaid patients. These claims falsely represented that Tyson had personally provided the services to the patients.

Epps and Tyson submitted and caused to be submitted claims for hundreds of thousands of dollars of psychotherapy services that neither Epps nor Tyson had actually provided to Medicaid clients. When Epps warned Tyson that he should not bill Medicaid for having provided psychotherapy to patients on holidays, such as July 4 and Thanksgiving, Tyson would typically change the dates of services and resubmit the list of services to Epps.

Medicaid paid Tyson $663,081.32 for claims that falsely represented that Tyson had personally provided services, or falsely represented that services had been provided when, in fact, they were not provided at all.

Judge Dooley ordered Epps to pay $1,001,058.43 in restitution to the Connecticut Medicaid program.

On November 8, 2024, Epps pleaded guilty to health care fraud. Epps, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is required to report to prion on March 3.

Tomczak and Tyson pleaded guilty to related charges and await sentencing.

This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Social Services. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Sheldon and Auditor Susan Spiegel.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Connecticut Chief State’s Attorney’s Office, and Connecticut Attorney General’s Office meet regularly as part of The Medicaid Fraud Working Group. The Working Group also includes representatives from the Connecticut Department of Social Services; the Connecticut Department of Public Health; the Drug Control Division of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection; the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the FBI. The Working Group reviews pending issues and cases, identifies trends that might indicate fraudulent activity, and coordinates efforts for maximum results.

People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Serial Fraudster Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal Prison for Stealing Nearly $3 Million and Five Indianapolis Homes

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

EVANSVILLE— James Henley, 35, of Greenwood, Indiana, has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to aggravated identity theft, conspiracy to commit access device fraud, two counts of money laundering, and eight counts of wire fraud. Henley has also been ordered to pay $1,887,426.63 in restitution.

According to court documents, over the course of three years, Henley orchestrated multiple large and complex fraud schemes, resulting in a total loss of $2,927,758.95 to individual homeowners, an Indiana attorney, a bank, and ten state governments. As part of his fraud schemes, Henley registered five fake businesses (OnTrack Real Estate Solutions, LDI Investments Corp, Lucario Investments, 317 Traffic, and Henley Real Estate Solutions) with the states of Indiana and Kentucky, claiming to serve as the Chief Executive Officer for most of them. None of the businesses were legitimate. Instead, Henley used the businesses to mask his identity, make his schemes appear more credible, and launder the stolen money.

Henley’s schemes are broken down as follows:

COVID-19 Fraud:

Between May 2020 and March 2021, James Henley, his wife Jameka Henley, and his associate Jimmie Bickers used the stolen personally identifiable information of 76 real individuals to submit 120 unemployment insurance applications to ten states during the COVID-19 pandemic. Once the applications were approved, the trio used 65 unemployment insurance debit cards to make purchases at retailers and withdraw cash at ATMs in the Evansville and Indianapolis areas. The states paid a total of $1,119,426.63 in unemployment benefits in connection with the group’s fraudulent applications. In July 2020, Henley used funds withdrawn from ATMs to buy a Chevrolet Camaro for $22,801.

Bickers and Jameka Henley have been formally charged for their roles in this scheme but have not pleaded guilty.

Home Title Fraud:

Between December 2021 and May 2023, Henley stole five homes in Indianapolis by filing fraudulent deeds with the Marion County Recorder’s Office. Through the filings, Henley claimed that the homeowners had sold their homes to his fake businesses, but, in reality, he had never even spoken with the homeowners. Unbeknownst to the victims, Henley filed these fraudulent deeds and then sold the homes for significantly less than their market value, pocketing more than $260,000 in profits.

Henley also attempted to steal and sell an additional 14 homes in Indianapolis and Evansville. With one exception, the individuals who bought the homes from Henley took possession and ultimately kept the homes.

For one homeowner, the property Henley stole was her childhood home. She purchased the home while her mother was in the hospital with the hope that, when her mother’s condition improved, her mother would be able to live out her remaining years in the house.

Mortgage Fraud:

In November 2021, an associate of Henley’s purchased a home in Indianapolis, using a mortgage loan from a bank. In April 2022, Henley filed a fraudulent document with the Marion County Recorder’s Office to make it seem as if the mortgage loan had been paid off, when it had not been paid. Henley then filed a deed naming himself a joint owner of the home. Henley and his associate subsequently sold the property for $255,000, pocketing all the proceeds, even though the bank should have received the majority of the funds.

Auto Loan Fraud:

In March 2023, Henley purchased a Dodge Durango in Indianapolis for $71,479, using an auto loan from Everwise Credit Union. A few months later, in June 2023, Henley purchased a Chevrolet Silverado in Plainfield for $54,270, using a second loan from Everwise Credit Union.

In October 2023, Henley connected a JPMorgan Chase bank account to his auto loans, via Everwise’s online payment portal. Henley falsely represented that the Chase account belonged to Jimmie Bickers, and that he had authority to make payments on his loans using funds from the Chase account.

The Chase account was actually an Indiana attorney’s Interest on Lawyers’ Trust Account (IOLTA), which is a highly regulated bank account used by lawyers to hold client funds. The interest earned on IOLTA accounts is used to fund grants for nonprofit groups that promote pro bono and access to justice programs. Henley did not have the attorney’s permission to access or withdraw funds from the IOLTA account.

Between October and November 2023, Henley used the IOLTA account to make two payments, totaling $98,000, toward his auto loans.

Henley has prior felony convictions for financial crimes, including theft, forgery, and fraud.

“James Henley went to great lengths to coordinate exceptionally greedy, complex schemes that exploited hard-working families and state government programs,” said John E. Childress, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Undeterred by prior felony convictions for the same conduct, this defendant stole over a million dollars, wreaking financial and logistical havoc on hundreds of victims. The Department of Justice will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of fraud and seek prosecution as appropriate.”

“James Henley filed fraudulent unemployment insurance (UI) claims in the names of identity theft victims in order to receive UI benefits to which he was not entitled. He enriched himself by defrauding a program that was intended to assist struggling American workers during an unprecedented global pandemic,” said Megan Howell, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. “We and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting the integrity of the UI system from those who seek to exploit this critical benefit program.”

“This lengthy prison sentence sends a clear message: individuals who attempt to exploit and commit financial crime and identity theft will be brought to justice,” said Ramsey E. Covington, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation and our fellow law enforcement partners are committed to protecting the integrity of our financial institutions and will continue to hold criminals like James Henley accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

“This case should serve as a powerful reminder that individuals with a history of financial crimes will face significant consequences when they demonstrate a blatant disregard for the law and continue to exploit and deceive others for personal gain,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI, working alongside our law enforcement partners, will continue to hold those who perpetuate such offenses accountable and protect the public from those who manipulate the system for their own benefit.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Department of Labor-Office of the Inspector General, and the Indiana Attorney General’s Office Homeowner Protection Unit investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew B. Brookman.

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Miller, who prosecuted this case.

On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID‑19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID‑19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form

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MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Lake County Man Indicted For Attempting To Entice A Minor To Engage In Sexual Activity

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Jared Menendez (25, Fruitland Park) with attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. If convicted of the attempted enticement offense, Menendez faces a minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. The attempted transfer of obscene material offense carries a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment. Menendez is currently detained pending the resolution of the case.

According to the indictment, between November 14 and December 20, 2024, Menendez attempted to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an individual whom he believed had not yet attained 18 years of age to engage in sexual activity.

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

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.

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

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Federal Inmate Pleads Guilty To Possession Of Methamphetamine With The Intent To Distribute

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jessie Wooden (36, Miami) has pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Wooden faces a minimum of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to court records, on March 10, 2024, Wooden was an inmate at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Coleman) in Sumter County. During a visitation session, surveillance footage captured Wooden being thrown a bag containing contraband that had been smuggled into the prison. Correctional officers confiscated the bag, which contained 78 grams of methamphetamine. When interviewed by law enforcement, Wooden admitted to having visitors bring contraband into the prison for him. He also confirmed that he was going to distribute the methamphetamine inside FCC Coleman.

This case is being prosecuted as part of a United States Department of Justice task force aimed at rooting out contraband and misconduct in the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The task force was led by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General, with support from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Shakopee Woman Pleads Guilty in $250 Million Feeding Our Future Fraud Scheme

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

MINNEAPOLIS – A Shakopee woman pleaded guilty for her role in the $250 million fraud scheme that exploited a federally funded child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

According to court documents, at times between October 2020 and January 2022, Mekfira Hussein knowingly and willfully conspired with others to participate in a fraudulent scheme to obtain and misappropriate millions in federal child nutrition funds. Specifically, Hussein and her husband, Abduljabar Hussein, fraudulently obtained millions of dollars in federal child nutrition program funds by falsely claiming to have served meals to thousands of children per day.

According to court documents, in October 2020, the defendant enrolled her non-profit, Shamsia Hopes, in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future, at the direction of one of its employees, Abdikerm Eidleh. The defendant submitted her application to Aimee Bock, Feeding Our Future’s executive director. In December 2020, and also at the direction of Abdikerm Eidleh, the defendant’s husband registered his company, Oromia Feeds LLC, with the State of Minnesota as a food vendor. Abduljabar Hussein’s company, Oromia Feeds, had a contract to prepare meals to be served by Shamsia Hopes sites run by Mekfira Hussein.

According to the plea agreement entered today, Hussein submitted fraudulently inflated invoices for reimbursement—including inflated meal counts and false attendance rosters. As part of their scheme, the defendant and her husband paid at least $140,000 in kickbacks to Eidleh and least $12,000 in kickbacks to Aimee Bock. In some instances, these kickback payments were disguised as “consulting fees,” when, in fact, neither Eidleh nor Aimee Bock provided any service to justify these payments. In other instances, Feeding Our Future billed hundreds of thousands of dollars in Federal Child Nutrition Program claims under the name of the defendant’s organization, Shamsia Hopes, without the defendant’s knowledge or authorization, and Feeding Our Future siphoned those funds to others involved in the conspiracy.

Throughout the fraudulent conspiracy, the Husseins obtained up to $8.8 million in federal child nutrition program funds some of which they used to pay for personal expenditures unrelated to feeing children. For instance, the defendant and her husband used $173,438 of their proceeds to pay off the mortgage on their home in Shakopee, Minnesota, and also purchased a 2021 Porsche for $93,250, a 2022 GMC truck for $61,722.

Hussein pleaded guilty last Friday in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Her sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.

The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew S. Ebert, Joseph H. Thompson, and Harry M. Jacobs are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Lackawanna County Woman Sentenced To 27 Years’ Imprisonment For Production Of Child Pornography

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that United States District Court Judge Julia K. Munley, sentenced Mykayliah Hevener, age 26, of Carbondale, Pennsylvania, on January 30, 2025, to 27 years in prison for her production of child pornography.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, for an approximate nine-month period in 2023, Hevener engaged in sexual contact with a toddler and used the toddler to create images and videos of child pornography which were either viewed live or sent over the internet to a co-conspirator, Benjamin Egli, of Iowa. Mr. Egli is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa. He has entered a guilty plea and awaits sentencing in that matter.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (F.B.I.) and the Tipton, Iowa Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luisa Honora Berti prosecuted the case.

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

# # #

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced To 7 Years For Possession Of Firearm

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Sherron Gary (41, Tampa) to seven years in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Gary pleaded guilty in October 2024.

According to court documents, on April 9, 2023, officers with the Tampa Police Department (TPD) attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Gary after observing the vehicle had a broken taillight. Gary failed to pull over and instead fled from the officers at a high rate of speed. A police helicopter followed Gary. After Gary’s vehicle was boxed in by law enforcement, Gary fled from the officers on foot, which the helicopter was also able to capture.

As Gary fled, the helicopter crew observed Gary discard an item as he was running that resembled a firearm. TPD officers apprehended Gary. After the arrest, the helicopter crew directed officers back to the location where they had observed Gary discard the firearm. Officers located a 9mm Walther Creed semiautomatic pistol at the location.

At the time, Gary had four prior felony convictions, including aggravated battery and armed burglary of a dwelling, trafficking of cocaine, delivery of cocaine, and delivery of cocaine within 1,000 feet of church. As a convicted felon, Gary is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tampa Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.

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

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Lakeland Man Sentenced To 12 Years In Prison For Trafficking Fentanyl And Methamphetamine

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington has sentenced Jermaine Jerome Campbell (35, Lakeland) to 12 years in federal prison for possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. Campbell pleaded guilty on June 25, 2024.

According to court documents, on September 15, 2023, Campbell distributed fentanyl pills to another individual from his mother’s residence. Upon searching Campbell’s home on September 21, 2023, law enforcement recovered bulk quantities of methamphetamine hidden inside of a tool bag.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lakeland Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Pardo.

This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. 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 www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025

MIL-OSI: RUBIS: Transactions carried out within the framework of the share buyback programme (excluding transactions within the liquidity agreement) – 27 to 31 January 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Paris, 3 February 2025, 06:00pm

Issuer Name: Rubis (LEI: 969500MGFIKUGLTC9742)
Category of securities: Ordinary shares (ISIN: FR0013269123)
Period: From 27 to 31 January 2025

Upon the authorisation granted by the Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on 11 June 2024 to implement a share buyback program, the Company carried out, between 27 to 31 January 2025, the repurchases of its own shares in order to transfer them to employees and/or corporate officers of the Company and/or companies related to it in the context of a shareholding plan.

Aggregate presentation per day and per market:

Name of issuer	Identification code of issuer (Legal Entity Identifier)	Day of transaction	Identification code of financial instrument	Aggregated daily volume (in number of shares)	Daily weighted average price of the purchased shares *	Market (MIC Code)
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	27/01/2025	FR0013269123	2,668	24.7824	AQEU
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	27/01/2025	FR0013269123	12,385	24.7926	CEUX
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	27/01/2025	FR0013269123	3,311	24.7927	TQEX
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	27/01/2025	FR0013269123	24,115	24.7972	XPAR
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	28/01/2025	FR0013269123	2,533	24.9753	AQEU
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	28/01/2025	FR0013269123	12,207	24.9777	CEUX
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	28/01/2025	FR0013269123	3,402	24.9745	TQEX
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	28/01/2025	FR0013269123	24,017	24.9735	XPAR
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	29/01/2025	FR0013269123	2,516	24.8467	AQEU
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	29/01/2025	FR0013269123	11,979	24.8569	CEUX
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	29/01/2025	FR0013269123	3,440	24.8613	TQEX
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	29/01/2025	FR0013269123	23,712	24.8586	XPAR
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	30/01/2025	FR0013269123	2,691	25.1200	AQEU
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	30/01/2025	FR0013269123	12,580	25.1201	CEUX
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	30/01/2025	FR0013269123	3,629	25.1160	TQEX
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	30/01/2025	FR0013269123	24,419	25.1217	XPAR
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	31/01/2025	FR0013269123	2,000	25.2381	AQEU
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	31/01/2025	FR0013269123	10,000	25.2418	CEUX
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	31/01/2025	FR0013269123	3,000	25.2404	TQEX
RUBIS	969500MGFIKUGLTC9742	31/01/2025	FR0013269123	20,800	25.2464	XPAR
* Four-digit rounding after the decimal			TOTAL	205,404	24.9915

Detailed presentation per transaction:

Detailed information on the transactions carried out from 27 to 31 January 2025 is available on the Company’s website (www.rubis.fr) in the section “Investors – Regulated information – Share buyback programme”.

	Contact
	RUBIS – Legal Department
	Tel. : + 33 (0)1 44 17 95 95

Attachment

RUBIS: Transactions carried out within the framework of the share buyback programme (excluding transactions within the liquidity agreement) – 27 to 31 January 2025

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025

MIL-OSI: Skyward Specialty to Host Fourth Quarter 2024 Earnings Call Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HOUSTON, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.™ (NASDAQ: SKWD) (“Skyward Specialty” or “the Company”) expects to issue its fourth quarter 2024 earnings results after the market closes on Tuesday, February 25th which will be available on the Company website at investors.skywardinsurance.com/ under Quarterly Results.

Skyward Specialty will host its earnings call to review the fourth quarter 2024 financial results on Wednesday, February 26 at 9:30 a.m. EDT.

Investors may access the live audio webcast via the link on the Company’s investor site at investors.skywardinsurance.com/ under Events & Presentations. Additionally, investors can access the earnings call via conference call by registering via the conference link. Users will receive dial-in information and a unique PIN to join the call upon registering.

A webcast replay will be available two hours following the call in the same location on the Company’s investor website.

About Skyward Specialty

Skyward Specialty (NASDAQ: SKWD) is a rapidly growing and innovative specialty insurance company, delivering commercial property and casualty products and solutions on a non-admitted and admitted basis. The Company operates through eight underwriting divisions — Accident & Health, Captives, Global Property & Agriculture, Industry Solutions, Professional Lines, Programs, Surety and Transactional E&S.

Skyward Specialty’s subsidiary insurance companies consist of Houston Specialty Insurance Company, Imperium Insurance Company, Great Midwest Insurance Company, and Oklahoma Specialty Insurance Company. These insurance companies are rated A (Excellent) with a stable outlook by A.M. Best Company. For more information about Skyward Specialty, its people, and its products, please visit skywardinsurance.com.

For investor relations information contact:

Natalie Schoolcraft
nschoolcraft@skywardinsurance.com
614-494-4988

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Reducing Gun Violence in New York Communities
Source: US State of New York

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $20.7 million to support SNUG Street Outreach programs that work to reduce gun violence and save lives in 14 communities across New York State. These grants to community-based organizations and hospitals fund outreach workers, hospital responders, social workers and case managers who are credible messengers and work with individuals at risk of gun violence, connecting them with support and services to change behavior and increase opportunities. Last week, Governor Hochul announced that shooting incidents with injury reported in communities participating in the State’s Gun Involved Violence initiative reached record lows in 2024 with 588 incidents reported compared to 817 in 2023, a 28 percent reduction. The Governor’s FY26 Executive Budget continues unprecedented support for SNUG, Gun Involved Violence and other initiatives in communities that report 90 percent of violent crimes with firearms and 85 percent of violent crimes outside of New York City.

“Public safety is my number one priority — that’s why my Budget invests in proven initiatives like the SNUG program to drive down gun violence, save lives and keep New Yorkers safe,” Governor Hochul said. “Outreach teams across the State are working alongside law enforcement and local partners to target gun violence anywhere it occurs, and to engage stakeholders in a comprehensive approach that makes our communities safer for all.”

New York State’s SNUG program uses a public health approach to address gun violence by identifying the source, interrupting transmission and treating individuals, families and communities affected by the violence. Administered by the state Division of Criminal Justice Services, SNUG, Gun Involved Violence (GIVE) initiative, the State’s nationally recognized Crime Analysis Centers Network and Project RISE (Respond, Invest, Sustain, Empower) are key components of Governor Hochul’s comprehensive plan to address the causes and consequences of gun violence and other crimes.

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, “Our SNUG Street Outreach teams are a critical component of Governor Hochul’s comprehensive crime reduction and public safety plan. These dedicated individuals work in communities disproportionately affected by gun violence. They mediate and defuse conflicts and provide access to programs and support, including counseling and case management, so youth and families can thrive, and communities can heal. We thank Governor Hochul for her continued support of this work and for her leadership on public safety.”

The $20.7 million will fund staff, programs, services, equipment and technology for the SNUG locations during the 2025 calendar year. Community-based organizations and hospitals receive the funding, which supports 181 full-time and 39 part-time employees who work in specific neighborhoods in Albany, the Bronx, Buffalo, Hempstead, Mt. Vernon, Newburgh, Niagara Falls, Poughkeepsie, Syracuse, Rochester, Troy, Utica, Wyandanch and Yonkers. DCJS tracks shooting data in these “SNUG zones” and last year, those zones collectively reported significant, double-digit decreases in shooting victims, individuals killed by gun violence and shooting incidents with injury when compared to 2023.

SNUG outreach workers, social workers, case managers and hospital responders work in neighborhoods disproportionately affected by gun violence, and the program also embeds social workers and hospital responders at Level One trauma centers in Albany, Buffalo, the Bronx, Rochester and Syracuse. These professionals work with individuals and families in the aftermath of a violent incident to offer support, services and connect them to the SNUG program in their communities for additional assistance.

SNUG staff are credible messengers who live in the communities in which they work, and some have been involved with the criminal justice system or lost loved ones to violence. They work with teens and young adults to detect and defuse disputes before they escalate; respond to shootings to prevent retaliation through mediation and assist family members of those who have been injured or killed; and mentor youth involved with the program to set goals and connect them with educational and job opportunities as well as other services. The programs also engage the community, religious organizations and clergy, and local businesses by sponsoring anti-violence marches, job fairs, block parties, sporting events and other community gatherings.

The following organizations and hospitals will receive funding and support from DCJS to administer SNUG:

New York City and Long Island
- Bronx – Jacobi Medical Center: $2,702,617
- Hempstead – Family and Children’s Association: $1,164,397
- Wyandanch – Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk: $746,522
Hudson Valley
- Mt. Vernon – Family Services of Westchester: $1,088,391
- Newburgh – Regional Economic Community Action Plan: $896,799
- Poughkeepsie – Family Services Inc.: $1,076,245
- Yonkers – Yonkers YMCA: $1,010,259
Capital Region
- Albany – Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region: $1,820,329 and Albany Medical Center: $262,310
- Troy – Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region: $860,134
Central New York
- Syracuse – Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility: $1,820,189 and SUNY Upstate Medical Center: $464,374
Mohawk Valley
- Utica – Integrated Community Alternatives Network: $792,673
Finger Lakes
- Rochester – PathStone Corp.: $1,949,426 and Rochester General Hospital: $571,002
Western New York
- Buffalo – Erie County Medical Center: $2,800,915
- Niagara Falls – Community Missions of Niagara Frontier: $ 677,170
Comprehensive training, site visits and support from DCJS set SNUG apart from other community-based violence interruption programs across the state and country. New staff must complete 40 hours of training and new supervisors complete 32 hours of management training. All staff must also complete 40 hours of professional development training annually. This ongoing training and support help ensure that the program operates consistently across all SNUG sites despite being operated by different community-based organizations and hospitals.

State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “As a State Senator, I was proud to advocate for the first SNUG investments in Yonkers and New York State because I knew that real community-driven solutions were key to reducing gun violence and keeping our neighborhoods safe. We’ve seen firsthand how SNUG has changed lives—interrupting cycles of violence, providing critical support, and helping young people find a better path. I’m so proud that Yonkers is receiving more than $1 million in new funding to support this lifesaving program. As Majority Leader, I remain committed to continuing smart, effective investments like SNUG across Westchester and New York. I thank Governor Hochul, my Westchester Delegation and Majority Senators, as well as our partners in the Assembly for their continued leadership and partnership in the fight against gun violence. I look forward to building on this progress together to keep our communities safe.”

State Senator Jamaal Bailey said, “Investing $20.7 million in SNUG to enhance efforts such as preventing gun violence, supporting at-risk individuals, and strengthening communities across New York State is essential. SNUG has been a pivotal partner in preventing gun violence and an organization that has significantly impacted my district, and will continue to do so as Mt. Vernon – Family Services of Westchester is receiving $1,088,391. By funding outreach workers, social workers, and hospital responders, future conflicts can de-escalate and create safer neighborhoods and brighter futures for all of us. Thank you to Governor Hochul for your leadership and prioritizing the safety of our community.”

State Senator Nathalia Fernandez said, “This funding for SNUG, is about more than just intervention—it’s about changing the conditions that lead to violence in the first place. Jacobi Hospital’s Standing Up to Violence program has done just that in its years in service. By supporting credible messengers, outreach workers, and trauma responders, we’re making sure the right people are in place to mediate conflicts, connect at-risk individuals with opportunities, and prevent the next tragedy before it happens. I commend Governor Hochul for investing in real solutions, because every neighborhood, every family, every child in the Bronx deserves to grow up safe from gun violence.”

State Senator Samra G. Brouk said, “Every member of our community deserves to feel safe, wherever they may be. Over $20 million dollars in funding to reduce gun violence across New York State will build upon the tremendous impact that programs such as GIVE have already had on communities like Rochester. I applaud Governor Hochul for addressing the root causes of violence and supporting working solutions to protect our fellow New Yorkers.”

State Senator Sean Ryan said, “Promoting public safety in Buffalo and across our state is a top priority. It’s why we have passed the toughest gun safety laws in the nation and continue to fund initiatives that reduce crime and strengthen communities. I am thankful for Governor Hochul’s support for these outreach programs, which have a proven track record of reducing gun violence.”

State Senator Monica Martinez said, “Gun violence is taking the lives of New Yorkers and instilling fear within our communities. The SNUG Street Outreach program is a proven tool that preempts these devastating tragedies by engaging at-risk individuals and providing them with the support needed to choose a different path. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for enshrining our shared commitment to ending gun violence in New York State in this year’s executive budget.”

State Senator Patricia Fahy said, “Investing in evidence-based programming and on-the-ground resources is exactly how we combat the scourge of gun violence. Partnering with law enforcement, community-based interrupters in cycles of violence like the Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region and increasing the state’s commitment to funding these initiatives is why we’re seeing gun violence rates drop in communities across the state. Thank you to Governor Hochul and my legislative colleagues for continuing to work to ensure that New Yorkers everywhere feel safe on our streets, and to ending the epidemic of gun violence here in New York State.”

State Senator Siela Bynoe said, “The epidemic of gun violence that has taken the lives of too many people across Long Island, and the nation, must end. Addressing the root causes of gun violence through programs that offer outreach where it’s most needed, is both necessary and impactful. I am grateful for Governor Hochul’s support of community-based solutions in the district.”

State Senator Joseph Griffo said, “It is imperative that we continue to look for ways to address and reduce gun violence in the state. This funding will strengthen the SNUG program in Utica by supporting a variety of important services and resources that will enhance public safety in the city and region.”

State Senator Rachel May said, “The state has demonstrated real progress in reducing gun violence rates, and this is our opportunity to continue that success. By increasing funding for the Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility and SUNY Upstate Medical Center, we can make a meaningful impact on our communities where the scourge of gun violence is widespread. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her leadership, as well as to my colleagues in the legislature for their commitment to curb gun violence in New York State.”

Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “We know that outreach works. When people in the community are supporting efforts to combat gun violence, lives get saved. I support the GIVE Initiative and other anti-violence initiatives as well as the work SNUG continues to do in our communities. The Response Teams at Erie County Medical Center continue to be top of the line.”

Assemblymember J. Gary Pretlow said, “As we continue to combat gun violence in our communities, investing in programs like SNUG is not just necessary—it’s life-saving. This funding from Governor Hochul ensures that we can provide resources, mentorship, and intervention to those most at risk, creating safer neighborhoods for everyone. I am proud to support SNUG and the dedicated individuals working tirelessly to break the cycle of violence in Mount Vernon and beyond.”

Assemblymember William B. Magnarelli said, “Reducing gun violence is a priority in protecting our communities. By working with organizations in the community, together we can reinforce safety measures and prevention methods to decrease gun violence.”

Assemblymember John T. McDonald III said, “As one of the original supporters of SNUG which started here in the Capital Region, I have worked closely with Trinity Alliance and those who are part of SNUG and have seen the positive impact of the program. That is why I am appreciative of the Governor’s support to continue to grow the program, including in the City of Troy where the program has taken roots and is welcomed by the public safety team. The data validates the critical need and impact of the program which is making our communities safer.”

Assemblymember Pamela J. Hunter said, “I am grateful for Governor Hochul’s leadership and commitment to reducing gun violence in our communities. The $20.7 million investment in SNUG Street Outreach programs, including critical funding for Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility and SUNY Upstate Medical Center, will have a direct and positive impact on the lives of people in the 128th Assembly District. By supporting outreach workers, hospital responders, and case managers, this initiative provides life-changing resources to those most at risk, helping to break cycles of violence and create safer neighborhoods. I look forward to seeing the continued progress of these evidence-based efforts to protect and uplift our communities.”

Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson said, “Unfortunately, gun violence plagues the cities of Newburgh and Poughkeepsie as it does too many areas of the State and the Nation. Gun violence must be addressed in three ways: ending gun trafficking from outside of New York State; enforcing our gun laws including full application of our red flags laws; and engaging the community through community-based organizations to discourage and stop gun violence before it starts. I wish to applaud Governor Hochul for her commitment to stopping gun violence using all three avenues and for the investment in this year’s budget in anti-gun violence initiatives with community-based organizations.”

Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon said, “We unfortunately continue to see our youth negatively impacted by gun violence and this program works to reduce the violence. I appreciate the Governor providing additional funding to SNUG Programs.”

Assemblymember Demond Meeks said, “Community-based programs like SNUG and GIVE are making a real difference in the fight against gun violence. By focusing on mediation, mentorship, and support, they’re helping to change behaviors and address the root causes of this complex issue. The data is clear: these programs are strengthening our neighborhoods and saving lives. I commend Governor Hochul for her ongoing commitment to investing in these vital resources that directly support communities disproportionately impacted by crime.”

Assemblymember Jen Lunsford said, “Tangible investments in grassroots organizations working to stop gun violence in our community have paid dividends over the past year. We can see crime trending down in nearly every gun-related category thanks to this kind of targeted delivery of resources. This announcement from the Governor of large scale funding for gun violence prevention will help us continue to reduce violence and bring peace and stability to our neighborhoods.”

Assemblymember John Zaccaro, Jr. said, “Far too many families in the Bronx and across our communities in New York have felt the devastating effects of gun violence. The SNUG program will strengthen intervention efforts and connect at-risk individuals with critical resources. By addressing the root causes of violence and providing meaningful intervention, we are not only preventing tragedies but also creating pathways to brighter futures for individuals and families. I thank Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to investing in proven violence prevention programs that make a tangible difference in the lives of New Yorkers.”

Assemblymember Kwani B. O’Pharrow said, “Investing in community outreach and support programs like SNUG is crucial for reducing gun violence and fostering safer environments. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for your commitment to transforming lives and creating lasting change in our communities.”

Assemblymember Gabriella Romero said, “With a partner like Governor Kathy Hochul investing in our communities that need it most, we are making real strides in reducing gun violence and saving lives. I want to thank the Governor for her continued commitment to evidence-based, community-driven solutions like SNUG. This $20.7 million investment—including over $2 million for Albany’s Trinity Alliance and Albany Medical Center—will ensure that outreach workers, hospital responders, and social service professionals can continue their critical work to proactively reduce gun violence. These initiatives are making a difference, and I remain committed to securing the resources Albany needs to keep our neighborhoods safe.”

Assemblymember Noah Burroughs said, “SNUG has been doing excellent work in the community within my district. Gun-related crimes are down and we would like to see those numbers decrease more. This is a great opportunity for the 14 communities in New York State that Snug services to continue doing good work throughout all of its communities. Thank you Governor Hochul for this investment in Hempstead.”

Assemblymember Harry Bronson said, “SNUG Street Outreach is impactful because it empowers community-based organizations to leverage their existing relationships and partnerships to reduce gun violence in the areas where they serve. Since implementing SNUG, Rochester has seen a significant and marked decrease in violence, at all levels. But we still have work to do. The funding the Governor is providing to Rochester General Hospital and Pathstone will enable them to bring on the staff, programming and services they need to expand this successful public safety initiative.”

Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz said, “Investing in SNUG programs helps to build safer communities and reduce gun violence. This grant award will help provide the ongoing training and support that is critical to SNUG and I thank Governor Hochul for her partnership in helping to keep our citizens safe.”

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, “I want to thank and applaud Governor Kathy Hochul and DCJS for their continued investments for SNUG & GIVE initiatives. I have said it many times before, that this Governor isn’t just talk, but action. The investments in these programs allow cities like Albany to wisely make strategic choices to get resources on the ground, establish connections with our neighbors and allow alternative approaches to focusing on public safety. Just this week at my State of the City we highlighted a reduction of crime of 3% compared to the 5-year average & a reduction of 21% since I assumed office. Today’s announcement of an additional $2 million dollars to keep these programs going is something celebrated by every resident in the City of Albany. Thank you Governor!”

Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon said, “I want to thank Governor Hochul for her continued investment in violence prevention efforts here in Buffalo. The $2.8 million awarded to Erie County Medical Center for the SNUG Street Outreach program will provide critical resources to community organizations and trauma responders who work tirelessly to prevent gun violence and save lives. In recent years, we’ve seen firsthand how these initiatives make a real difference in our neighborhoods and this funding will allow us to continue that progress—connecting at-risk individuals with the support they need and ensuring a safer, healthier, stronger Buffalo for all.”

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, “With New York State’s strong support, teamwork with community partners and effective intervention by Syracuse Police, gun violence is down significantly in the City of Syracuse. In 2024, gun violence dropped more than 26% across all of the major categories and the most serious violence – shooting victims injured or deceased dropped 39%. This funding for outreach programs shows Governor Hochul knows reducing gun violence requires the full community working together which is the focus of our Mayor’s Office to Reduce Gun Violence. I’m deeply grateful for the Governor’s help and for the caring and effective work the SNUG Street Outreach team does every day in Syracuse.”

Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans said, “Governor Hochul’s leadership and continued investments in programs like GIVE and Project RISE have played a major role in helping us reduce gun violence in Rochester by more than 50 percent from the peak years of the pandemic. This investment in SNUG outreach workers is yet another example of her commitment and resolve on this critical issue and the city of Rochester is fortunate for the governor’s partnership.”

Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino said, “We appreciate the continued investment by Governor Hochul in programs that help keep our communities safe. We know that our community benefits from the various initiatives advanced by the Governor. These additional resources will help continue our efforts to keep our City safe.”

Poughkeepsie Mayor Yvonne D. Flowers said, “Governor Hochul continues to deliver for the City of Poughkeepsie, and we are grateful for her commitment to our community. Investing in vital outreach programs like SNUG strengthens our city by expanding our ability to engage and support our youth, guiding them toward positive opportunities. With the TRAC Program no longer in operation, I encourage Family Services Inc. and SNUG to use this funding to develop additional gun violence prevention initiatives and create safe spaces for our children after school. Congratulations to SNUG and I look forward to collaborating with them as we work together to unite our community in the fight against gun violence.”

Utica Mayor Michael Galime said, “To truly be proactive with the issues of Gun Violence we must make sure to approach it from every angle. Good policing will always be at the forefront but additional resources like SNUG are essential to providing additional boots on the ground to raise awareness and prevention. In Utica we are grateful for this funding and will continue to support SNUG however possible.”

Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey said, “A huge thank you goes out to Governor Hochul for allocating more funds for anti-violence initiatives in the city of Newburgh! This funding is a significant step toward fostering safer communities and reducing violence. Thank you again, Governor Hochul, for your commitment to making Newburgh a safer place!”

Hempstead Mayor Waylyn Hobbs, Jr. said, “Thank you Governor Hochul for supporting our village through programs such as SNUG that have successful results in our community.”

Troy Mayor Carmella Mantello said, “I commend Governor Hochul for her continued investment in SNUG and the critical work of violence prevention programs across New York State. In Troy, we have seen firsthand the positive impact of SNUG in engaging our communities, de-escalating conflicts, and providing essential support to those at risk. This funding will help strengthen these efforts and help make our neighborhoods safer.”

The Division of Criminal Justice Services provides critical support to all facets of the state’s criminal justice system, including, but not limited to: training law enforcement and other criminal justice professionals; overseeing a law enforcement accreditation program; ensuring Breathalyzer and speed enforcement equipment used by local law enforcement operate correctly; managing criminal justice grant funding; analyzing statewide crime and program data; providing research support; overseeing county probation departments and alternatives to incarceration programs; and coordinating youth justice policy. Follow DCJS on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).

MIL OSI USA News –
February 4, 2025

MIL-OSI: Coface : agreement to acquire Cedar Rose Group, strengthening its information services in the Middle East and Africa

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Coface: agreement to acquire Cedar Rose Group, strengthening its information services in the Middle East and Africa

Paris, 3 February 2025 – 17.35

Coface announces that it has signed an agreement with Mr. Antoun Massaad and Mrs. Christina Massaad, co-founders of the company, to acquire the Cedar Rose Group.

With over 25 years’ experience, Cedar Rose is one of the leading providers of business information solutions in the Middle East and Africa region. In a region where information is difficult to access and with positive economic growth outlook, Cedar Rose has built up a vast business network enabling it to produce data whose quality is recognized by its customers, including a number of multinationals.

Following the acquisition, Cedar Rose will become Coface’s information provider in the region, for both credit insurance and information services sales. All Coface’s customers will benefit from enhanced Coface data.

This external growth operation will enable Coface to further strengthen its information production capabilities in areas where information is not readily available. This acquisition aligns perfectly with the objectives of Power the Core ‘s strategic plan, which notably focuses on data excellence.

The closing of the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions.

Ernesto de Martinis, CEO for Mediterranean and Africa region said:

“This acquisition enables Coface to strengthen its position in a zone that promises strong growth, where information remains difficult to obtain, and in which Coface has now been operating for many years. We look forward to welcoming Cedar Rose’s teams to Coface and to working with their partners in the region.”

Antoun Massaad, Cedar Rose Group’s CEO and co-founder said:

“We are delighted to join the Coface team in the Mediterranean & Africa region (MAR). This acquisition is a major milestone in the Cedar Rose story, and I believe it will supercharge Coface’s business information strategy. We are confident that our company, our employees and our international partners will all benefit from this smart strategic alliance.”

CONTACTS

ANALYSTS / INVESTORS
Thomas JACQUET: +33 1 49 02 12 58 – thomas.jacquet@coface.com
Rina ANDRIAMIADANTSOA: +33 1 49 02 15 85 – rina.andriamiadantsoa@coface.com

MEDIA RELATIONS
Saphia GAOUAOUI: +33 1 49 02 14 91 – saphia.gaouaoui@coface.com
Adrien BILLET: +33 1 49 02 23 63 – adrien.billet@coface.com

FINANCIAL CALENDAR 2025
(subject to change)

FY-2024 results: 20 February 2025 (after market close)
Q1-2025 results: 5 May 2025 (after market close)
Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting: 14 May 2025
H1-2025 results: 31 July 2025 (after market close)
9M-2025 results: 3 November 2025 (after market close)

FINANCIAL INFORMATION
This press release, as well as COFACE SA’s integral regulatory information, can be found on the Group’s website: http://www.coface.com/Investors

For regulated information on Alternative Performance Measures (APM), please refer to our Interim Financial Report for H1-2024 and our 2023 Universal Registration Document (see part 3.7 “Key financial performance indicators”).

Les documents distribués par COFACE SA sont sécurisés et authentifiés avec Wiztrust.
Vous pouvez vérifier l’authentification sur le site www.wiztrust.com.

COFACE: FOR TRADE
With over 75 years of experience and the most extensive international network, Coface is a leader in trade credit insurance & risk management, and a recognised provider of Factoring, Debt Collection, Single Risk insurance, Bonding, and Information Services. Coface’s experts work to the beat of the global economy, helping around 100,000 clients in 100 countries build successful, growing, and dynamic businesses. With Coface’s insight and advice, these companies can make informed decisions. The Group’ solutions strengthen their ability to sell by providing them with reliable information on their commercial partners and protecting them against non-payment risks, both domestically and for export. In 2023, Coface employed ~4,970 people and registered a turnover of €1.87 billion.

www.coface.com

COFACE SA est cotée sur le Compartiment A d’Euronext Paris
Code ISIN : FR0010667147 / Mnémonique : COFA

DISCLAIMER – Certain declarations featured in this press release may contain forecasts that notably relate to future events, trends, projects or targets. By nature, these forecasts include identified or unidentified risks and uncertainties, and may be affected by many factors likely to give rise to a significant discrepancy between the real results and those stated in these declarations. Please refer to chapter 5 “Main risk factors and their management within the Group” of the Coface Group’s 2023 Universal Registration Document filed with AMF on 5 April 2024 under the number D.24-0242 in order to obtain a description of certain major factors, risks and uncertainties likely to influence the Coface Group’s businesses. The Coface Group disclaims any intention or obligation to publish an update of these forecasts, or provide new information on future events or any other circumstance.

Attachment

2025 02 03 PR Cedar Rose acquisition agreement

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Three Mexican Nationals Sentenced for $4.7 Million Methamphetamine, Heroin Conspiracy

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

Mexican Drug-Trafficking Organization Distributed Over 335 Kilos of Meth, 22 Kilos of Heroin

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three Mexican nationals were sentenced in federal court this week for their roles in a $4.7 million conspiracy to distribute more than 335 kilograms of methamphetamine and 22 kilograms of heroin.

Jesus Morales-Garcia, also known as “Don Jesus,” 46, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips on Wednesday, Jan. 29, to 18 years in federal prison without parole. Co-defendant Santiago Raul Mendieta-Sanchez, 43, also was sentenced to seven years in federal prison without parole.

On Tuesday, Jan. 28, co-defendant Baltazar Flores-Norzagaray, 53, was sentenced to 16 years and three months in federal prison without parole.

On Aug. 28, 2024, Morales-Garcia pleaded guilty to one count of participating in a continuing criminal enterprise, one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, and one count of illegally reentering the United States after having been deported. Mendieta-Sanchez and Flores-Norzagaray also have pleaded guilty to their roles in the drug-trafficking conspiracy that continued from Feb. 28, 2020, to Sept. 20, 2022. Flores-Norzagaray also pleaded guilty to possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.

Morales-Garcia admitted that he was a chief local operative of a drug-trafficking organization that distributed hundreds of kilograms of illegal drugs sourced from Mexico into the Kansas City region.

Morales-Garcia also admitted that he was found in the United States after having been deported twice in 2016.

Flores-Norzagaray also admitted that he was in possession of a Hammerli .22-LRcaliber rifle, a Taurus 9mm handgun, and a Taurus .38-caliber revolver when he was arrested on Oct. 7, 2021. Flores-Norzagaray sold hundreds of grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant on at least four separate occasions.

The conspiracy involved the distribution of more than 335.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, with an average street price of $300 per ounce, and more than 22.1 kilograms of heroin, with an average street price of $1,500 per ounce.

On June 8, 2022, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led an operation that involved 140 officers and agents from 14 state, local and federal law enforcement agencies. On the day of the takedown, officers executed 16 search warrants and seized 84.4 kilograms of methamphetamine, 4.5 kilograms of heroin, 10.4 kilograms of fentanyl, 7.6 kilograms of cocaine, 10.5 kilograms of marijuana, 687 Xanax pills, 3.1 kilograms of unknown pills, a quantity of bulk cash, five firearms, a 3D printer with manufactured ghost gun parts, and a liquid methamphetamine conversion lab.

With these sentencings, 24 defendants have now been sentenced in this case in which 44 defendants were indicted.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan A. Baker. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Jackson County Drug Task Force, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the Kansas City, Kan., Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Independence, Mo., Police Department, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Minnesota State Patrol, the Olmsted County, Minn., Sheriff’s Office, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the FBI, the Clay County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Marshals Service.

Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force

This case 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.

KC Metro Strike Force

This prosecution was brought as a part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Co-located Strike Forces Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations against a continuum of priority targets and their affiliate illicit financial networks. These prosecutor-led co-located Strike Forces capitalize on the synergy created through the long-term relationships that can be forged by agents, analysts, and prosecutors who remain together over time, and they epitomize the model that has proven most effective in combating organized crime. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Depot Adds Additional $5 Million in Bitcoin to its Treasury Holdings

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ATLANTA, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Depot (NASDAQ: BTM) (“Bitcoin Depot” or the “Company”), a U.S.-based Bitcoin ATM operator and leading fintech company, today announced it has purchased an additional $5 million in Bitcoin as part of its treasury strategy, first announced in June of last year.

With yesterday’s purchase of 51 BTC, the Company now holds 71.5 Bitcoin in its treasury, substantially increasing its position in the leading cryptocurrency.

“Adopting Bitcoin as part of our treasury strategy underscores our long-standing belief in Bitcoin as a significant financial asset and a store of value,” said Brandon Mintz, CEO of Bitcoin Depot. “We have always believed in providing easy access to Bitcoin for everyone, and this move reaffirms our confidence in Bitcoin’s potential for growth. Given the recent accounting standards update, it also allows our shareholders to benefit from future BTC appreciation.”

About Bitcoin Depot
Bitcoin Depot Inc. (Nasdaq: BTM) was founded in 2016 with the mission to connect those who prefer to use cash to the broader, digital financial system. Bitcoin Depot provides its users with simple, efficient and intuitive means of converting cash into Bitcoin, which users can deploy in the payments, spending and investing space. Users can convert cash to bitcoin at Bitcoin Depot kiosks in 48 states and at thousands of name-brand retail locations in 29 states through its BDCheckout product. The Company has the largest market share in North America with approximately 8,400 kiosk locations as of December 31, 2024. Learn more at www.bitcoindepot.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release and any oral statements made in connection herewith include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are any statements other than statements of historical fact, and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expectations of plans, business strategies, objectives and growth and anticipated financial and operational performance, including our growth strategy and ability to increase deployment of our products and services, our ability to strengthen our financial profile, and worldwide growth in the adoption and use of cryptocurrencies. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs, based on currently available information, as to the outcome and timing of future events. Forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as “anticipate,” “appears,” “approximately,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “designed,” “effect,” “estimate,” “evaluate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “goal,” “initiative,” “intend,” “may,” “objective,” “outlook,“ ”plan,“ ”potential,“ ”priorities,“ ”project,“ ”pursue,“ ”seek,“ ”should,“ ”target,“ ”when,“ ”will,“ ”would,” or the negative of any of those words or similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. In making these statements, we rely upon assumptions and analysis based on our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, and expected future developments, as well as other factors we consider appropriate under the circumstances. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but these statements are not guarantees of any future events or financial results. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond our control.

These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the business combination; risks relating to the uncertainty of our projected financial information; future global, regional or local economic and market conditions; the development, effects and enforcement of laws and regulations; our ability to manage future growth; our ability to develop new products and services, bring them to market in a timely manner and make enhancements to our platform; the effects of competition on our future business; our ability to issue equity or equity-linked securities; the outcome of any potential litigation, government and regulatory proceedings, investigations and inquiries; and those factors described or referenced in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. If any of these risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that we do not presently know or that we currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect our expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause our assessments to change.

We caution readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or other factors that affect the subject of these statements, except where we are expressly required to do so by law. All written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contacts:

Investors 
Cody Slach
Gateway Group, Inc. 
949-574-3860 
BTM@gateway-grp.com

Media 
Brenlyn Motlagh, Ryan Deloney 
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860 
BTM@gateway-grp.com

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Gardner business owner sentenced to prison for failing to pay taxes

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas business owner was sentenced to 17 months in prison for failing to forward more than one million dollars in employment tax collections to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

According to court documents, Marvin Vail, 53, of Gardner pleaded guilty to one count of failure to account for and pay over employment taxes.

As the owner and operator of Marvin’s Tow Service, Inc. in Gardner, Kansas, Vail failed to pay employment taxes for at least 23 calendar quarters between 2012-2017. Employers are required to withhold Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) taxes and income taxes from the wages paid to their employees then forward the withheld amounts to the IRS. IRS-Criminal Investigation agents interviewed the office administrator for Marvin’s Tow Service and were told Vail wouldn’t allow the office administrator to pay the owed federal taxes.

As part of his sentence, a federal judge ordered Vail to pay the IRS $1,512,283 in restitution.

The IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Rask prosecuted the case.

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MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Scranton Man Sentenced To 252 Months in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl Resulting in Death

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher Richard Potter, age 29, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 30, 2025, by United States District Judge Robert D. Mariani to 252 months’ imprisonment to be followed by five years of supervised release for conspiring to distribute fentanyl resulting in death.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Potter was involved in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and other controlled substances throughout Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties beginning in January 2022 until the time of his arrest on February 28, 2023. The investigation revealed that the conspiracy’s source of supply for fentanyl was located in Hazleton, Pennsylvania. Potter and at least one other co-conspirator would travel from Scranton to Hazleton multiple times each week during the conspiracy to reup with the Hazleton source and return to Scranton with upwards of 60 to 80 bricks (3,000 to 4,000 bags) of fentanyl for further distribution. On December 19, 2022, a 26-year-old Dunmore male purchased a quantity of fentanyl from a member of the conspiracy, ingested the fentanyl, overdosed, and died. Subsequent autopsy and toxicology confirmed a fentanyl overdose death. The male’s cell phone located next to his body led investigators to Potter, and two others involved in the distribution that resulted in death.

Potter was indicted by a grand jury in Scranton on April 4, 2023, along with Santino Bellucci, age 29, and Kaylee Ann Widmer, age 25. Potter appeared in federal court in Scranton on September 23, 2024, and plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl resulting in death.

Bellucci and Widmer have both entered guilty pleas for conspiring to distribute fentanyl resulting in death. Their sentences are scheduled for March 2025.

The charges stem from a joint investigation involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Scranton – Safe Streets Task Force, and the Dunmore Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin and fentanyl. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.

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

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MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Search warrant yields unexpected arrests

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

LAREDO, Texas – A 31-year-old Laredo resident and two Mexican nationals illegally present in the United States have been charged with various federal firearm offenses, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Jose Hernandez-Garza, 25, an illegal alien residing in Laredo, has made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christopher dos Santos who ordered him detained pending further criminal proceedings. Fernando Patino Jr., Laredo, and Alberto Garcia-Guajardo, 31, also an illegal alien residing in Laredo are set to appear Feb. 4.

The charges allege Patino and Garcia-Guarjardo had sold several machine guns over the course of a month-long investigation to undercover authorities as well as other controlled substances, such as cocaine.

On Jan. 31, authorities executed a search warrant on the 3000 block of Monterrey Street in Laredo, according to the charges. At the location were Garcia-Guajardo and Jose Hernandez-Garza. Law enforcement allegedly discovered several firearms, narcotics and a scale and immediately took the two men into custody.

Garcia-Guajardo and Patino face up to 10 years imprisonment for possession of a machine gun, while Hernandez-Garza faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. Both could also could be ordered to pay up to a $250,000 fine.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration and Laredo Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations, Border Patrol, Border Patrol Tactical Unit, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tory R. Sailer is prosecuting the case.

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

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Cassville Man Sentenced To More Than 8 Years In Prison For Attempted Enticement Of A Minor To Engage In Prostitution And Sexual Activity

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Robert Mansberger, age 59, of Cassville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 14, 2025, by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Matthew W. Brann to 102 months of imprisonment and 10 years of supervised release on the charge of attempted enticement of a minor.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, on November 10, 2023, law enforcement conducted an undercover operation during which they advertised an online ad

on a known website that publicized sexual services of minors. Mansberger responded to the ad through multiple messages indicating he wanted to engage in sexual activity with a 13-year-old minor.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, Patton Township Police Department, the Centre County District Attorney’s Office, Williamsport Police, and the Lycoming County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alisan V. Martin prosecuted the case.

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

# # #

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Reading Man Sentenced To 10 Years In Prison For Trafficking Methamphetamine

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Carlos Rodriguez, age 31, of Reading, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 14, 2025, to 120 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Matthew W. Brann for trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, on August 16, 2022, law enforcement utilized a confidential informant to arrange for Rodriguez to bring a re-supply of methamphetamine to him. Rodriguez was stopped in Northumberland by law enforcement and approximately 480 grams of methamphetamine was recovered from his vehicle.

This case was investigated by the Clinton County Drug Task Force, Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General, the Pine Creek Township Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alisan V. Martin prosecuted the case.

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

This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged by indictment are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

# # #

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests suspected Tren de Aragua member with history of sexual harassment

Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

PHILADELPHIA – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Luis Gualdron-Gualdron, a citizen and national of Venezuela who previously entered the United States without inspection, Jan. 31 without incident near the Northampton County Prison shortly after an immigration detainer was not honored. Gualdron is a suspected Tren de Aragua gang member and has a criminal record in Pennsylvania, including arrests for indecent assault of a person less than 16 years of age and harassment. He will be detained in ERO custody without bond.

“The arrest of Luis Gualdron-Gualdron, a suspected Tren de Aragua gang member with a serious criminal record, exemplifies our commitment to public safety and immigration law enforcement,” said Enforcement and Removal Operations Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Brian McShane. “Working closely with our partners in Homeland Security Investigations, we will continue to ensure that those who pose a threat to our communities are apprehended and removed.”

The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Gualdron near Brownsville, Texas on Dec. 13, 2023, for entering the U.S. without inspection or parole by an immigration official. He was served the next day with a notice to appear before an immigration judge charging inadmissibility and, since he was traveling with his spouse and children, released on an order of recognizance.

The Bethlehem Police Department in Pennsylvania arrested Gualdron May 27, 2024, for indecent assault without consent, indecent assault on a person less than 16 years of age, and harassment.

ICE encountered Gualdron at the Northampton County Prison in Easton, Pennsylvania, and lodged an immigration detainer with the facility on May 28, 2024.

The Court of Common Pleas of Northampton County, Pennsylvania convicted Gualdron of harassment and sentenced him to incarceration for three to six months with credit for time served.

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

Learn more about ICE Philadelphia’s mission to increase public safety in our Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia communities on X: @EROPhiladelphia.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bio-Convert Develops QR-02, a Potential Breakthrough in the Treatment of Oral Leukoplakia

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BEVERLY HILLS, California, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bio-Convert ApS (“Bio-Convert”), a subsidiary of Nordicus Partners Corporation (OTCQB: NORD) (“Nordicus” or the “Company”), a financial consulting company specializing in supporting Nordic and U.S. life sciences companies in establishing themselves in the U.S. market, announces the groundbreaking development of QR-02, a unique and proprietary oral topical treatment designed to address oral leukoplakia with moderate to severe dysplasia, a potentially precancerous condition affecting millions worldwide.

Addressing a Critical Unmet Medical Need

Oral leukoplakia is characterized by white patches or plaques in the mouth, and when accompanied by dysplasia (abnormal cell growth), it becomes a marker of disease progression. Alarmingly, 10-30% of these patients may develop oral cancer, which has a five-year mortality rate exceeding 50%.

With 15.5 million oral leukoplakia patients in the U.S. and EU alone, there is an urgent need for an effective treatment to prevent disease progression. Given that 80% of leukoplakia lesions occur in the oral cavity, a therapy that remains in place for an extended period is critical for success.

QR-02: A Game-Changing Approach

Bio-Convert’s QR-02 introduces a novel mucoadhesive oral formulation designed to adhere to the oral cavity for an extended period of 12-24 hours—a major advancement over traditional treatments, which last only 15-20 minutes due to the washout effect of saliva. This extended retention period significantly enhances drug efficacy and improves patient outcomes.

QR-02’s active ingredient, imiquimod, is already FDA-approved for treating Actinic Keratosis, External Genital Warts, and Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (sBCC)—all superficial skin conditions. However, QR-02 is uniquely formulated for oral application, providing new hope for patients with oral leukoplakia and may also be beneficial in treating conditions that subsequently could occur in such patients.

Potential for a Transformative Impact

The goal of QR-02 is to treat and reduce dysplasia levels, potentially offering a curative solution for oral leukoplakia, an outcome that would mark a significant breakthrough in oral medicine. By treating oral leukoplakia at an early stage, QR-02 may potentially have a positive health impact in patients with collateral symptoms.

Advancing Toward Clinical Validation

Bio-Convert is actively progressing QR-02 through its development pipeline, with plans to validate its efficacy through pilot clinical trials and bring this life-changing treatment to market. As Bio-Convert continues to push the boundaries of oral medicine innovation, QR-02 is a major step forward in preventing oral leukoplakia from developing into more severe conditions.

“We are incredibly proud of this invention and the impact it will have on patients,” said Allan Wehnert, CEO & Founder of Bio-Convert. “Our hope is that patients may return to a normal life and, potentially, be cured of their illness.”

For further information, contact:

Mr. Henrik Rouf
Chief Executive Officer
Phone +1 310 666 0750
Email hr@nordicuspartners.com

Investor Relations
Jonathan Paterson
Harbor Access Investor Relations
Jonathan.Paterson@Harbor-Access.com
Tel +1 475 477 9401

About Nordicus Partners Corporation

Nordicus Partners Corporation is the only U.S. publicly traded business accelerator and holding company for Nordic life sciences companies. Leveraging decades of combined management experience in domestic and global corporate sectors, Nordicus excels in corporate finance activities including business and market development, growth strategies, talent acquisition, partnership building, capital raising, and facilitating company acquisitions and sales. In 2024, Nordicus acquired 100% of Orocidin A/S, a Danish preclinical-stage biotech company developing next-generation therapies for periodontitis and 100% of Bio-Convert ApS, a Danish preclinical-stage biotech company dedicated to revolutionizing the treatment of oral leukoplakia. For more information about Nordicus, please visit: www.nordicuspartners.com, and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Threads and BlueSky.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. You can identify these statements by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate,” “intend,” “continue” or “believe” or the negatives thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. You should read statements that contain these words carefully because they discuss our plans, strategies, prospects and expectations concerning our business, operating results, financial condition and other similar matters. We believe that it is important to communicate our future expectations to our investors. There may be events in the future, however, that we are not able to predict accurately or control. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release speaks only as of the date on which we make it. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

The MIL Network –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Luján: Trump Tariffs Will Hit New Mexico Families, Increase Everyday Prices

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

Reporting Shows Tariffs Could Lead to Cost Increase for Gas, Groceries

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, issued the following statement on President Trump’s announcement to impose 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada and 10% tariffs on China:

“From the price at the pump to the cost of groceries, President Trump’s tariffs will leave New Mexico families footing the bill. The Trump Tariffs will drive up costs for groceries, gas, cars, and electronics that Americans depend on. At the same time President Trump is pushing a tax scam that benefits the wealthiest Americans, working families will be forced to pay the price.

“The Trump Tariffs will result in tariffs against American products, putting American jobs, businesses, and industries at risk. These tariffs will weaken the economy, raise prices for everyday families, and hurt the American people. Republicans and Democrats, and all Americans, should be concerned that the Trump administration is needlessly threatening the economy that we worked hard to rebuild and grow.

“My colleagues and I remain committed to combating the fentanyl crisis, and I have long called for increased resources to stop the flow of fentanyl and save lives, but these tariffs will not accomplish that.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Five Arrested in Second Federal Sweep Targeting Asian Boyz Gang for Alleged Drug Trafficking in Lowell
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

BOSTON – Four indictments were unsealed today if federal court in Boston charging a second wave of alleged members and associated of the Asian Boyz gang for their roles in a distribution network of homemade methamphetamine pills, branded as “Adderall.”

The following five men were arrested this morning and will appear in federal court in Boston later today:
- Sovath Yern, a/k/a “Stryke,” 35, of Billerica, charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine;
- Owen Landry, a/k/a “Oski,” 22, of Lowell, charged with one count was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine, aiding and abetting; and one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine;
- Zachary Hansen, 29, of Lowell, charged with one count was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine and one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine;
- Scott Fournier, a/k/a “S.G.,” 33, of Lowell, charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; two counts of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; two counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine; and three counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; and
- Richard Nguyen, a/k/a “Cheese,” a/k/a “Cheeseburger,” 29, of Lowell, charged with two counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine and one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine.
An indictment has also been unsealed against a sixth man currently serving a state prison sentence who will make an initial appearance in federal court in Boston at a later date:
- Isiah Lyons, a/k/a “Tank,” a/k/a “Rozay,” 29, of Lowell, was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine.
According to court records, today’s charges are a continuation of an investigation into the Asian Boyz gang that began in 2021 to disrupt the manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine pills impacting Lowell. It is alleged that a total of over 57,000 counterfeit Adderall pills, consisting of over 18 kilograms of a mixture or substance of methamphetamine, were seized from or purchased from the defendants named in the indictments unsealed today.

Previously, in July 2023, nine members and associates of the Asian Boyz were arrested and charged with conspiracies for drug trafficking and transferring illegal firearms, include machinegun conversion devices. Of the nine defendants, five have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.

The charges of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine and conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of 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 charges of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine each provide for a sentence of at least five year and up to life in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. 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 Greg C. Hudon, Superintendent of the Lowell Police Department made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Billerica, Haverhill, Methuen, North Andover and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred M. Wyshak, III of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Pharmaceutical Executive Sentenced for Insider Trading

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

BOSTON – A former executive of a global pharmaceutical company was sentenced today in federal in Boston for earning more than $250,000 by trading on material non-public information.

Dishant Gupta, 41, of Hillsborough, N.J., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Julia E. Kobick to two months in prison to be followed by one year of supervised release. Gupta was also ordered to pay a fine of $20,000 and forfeiture of $260,078. In October 2024, Gupta pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud.

Gupta worked as the Director of Strategy and Operations in the Boston office of a global pharmaceutical company (Company A). In the spring of 2022, during the course of his employment at Company A, Gupta learned that Company A was negotiating to acquire certain assets of a smaller pharmaceutical company based in Boston (Company B), including its leading cancer drug, and that Company A later agreed to acquire Company B outright.

While in possession of this material non-public information, and in violation of his fiduciary duties to Company A, Gupta acquired shares of Company B in his own and his wife’s brokerage accounts – in an effort to profit from the eventual public announcement of the transaction. Gupta purchased more than 300,000 shares of Company B over approximately two and a half months. Gupta then sold all the shares he had acquired after Company A announced the acquisition of Company B, earning more than $250,000.

The Securities and Exchange Commission filed a civil complaint against Gupta alleging violations of the securities laws.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Boston Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin A. Saltzman of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI: Demand for Skills & Competency Solutions Propel Kahuna’s Growth
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HOUSTON, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kahuna Workforce Solutions, a leading skills and competency management SaaS platform, continues to gain momentum as more organizations embrace skills-based workforce strategies. With remarkable company growth across its customer base, product offerings and partnerships, Kahuna is well-positioned to build on this success and drive greater impact in 2025.

“Kahuna’s growth this past year is a testament to the trust our customers place in us to solve mission-critical workforce challenges,” said Jai Shah, chief executive officer of Kahuna. “We’ve strengthened our team, expanded our technology, and deepened our industry partnerships—all with a relentless focus on delivering real value. As we move forward in 2025, I’m excited about what’s ahead: a growing community of customer advocates, a strong go-to-market strategy and evolving technology solutions to meet our customers’ needs.”

Key Milestones from 2024:
- Customer Growth: Kahuna saw a 31% increase in new customers, welcoming enterprise organizations across healthcare, manufacturing, energy and field service.
- Customer Satisfaction: Kahuna’s commitment to long-term success for customers is reflected in a 98% Gross Dollar Retention Rate and a 116% Net Dollar Retention Rate. The company also earned top recognition from G2, including badges for Best Support, Users Most Likely to Recommend, Easiest to Do Business With and Highest User Adoption.
- Strategic Industry Collaboration: New partnerships with PXO and Amplifire and collaboration with one of the top-rated hospital networks in the world, expanded market reach and delivered greater value to customers. The Kahuna Advisory Board (KAB) also grew by 221%, strengthening knowledge sharing among Kahuna customers.
- Product Innovation: Kahuna continued to enhance its product offerings, with new solutions launching in 2025 that will help organizations leverage skills data for career development, operational efficiency and workforce planning.
- Investments: Memorial Hermann Health System deepened its partnership with Kahuna by becoming an investor, reinforcing a shared commitment to developing innovative solutions that help build more resilient, future-ready workforces.
- Team Growth: Kahuna expanded its team significantly, with key leadership additions including Vijay Kalvakuntla as chief financial officer, Diane Mitchell as chief marketing officer and Jeff Durand as vice president of channels and business development.
With a strong foundation in place, Kahuna is set to continue helping customers use validated skills data to build more agile workforces and operate more effectively in 2025, and beyond.

About Kahuna Workforce Solutions
Kahuna Workforce Solutions is a leading skills and competency management SaaS platform designed for operations, learning and human resources. The platform provides enterprises with validated skills data, offering valuable insights into workforce capabilities, aligning talent supply and demand and maximizing training investments. Kahuna helps organizations build a more skilled, adaptable, and competitive workforce. Learn more: kahunaworkforce.com

The MIL Network –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Former Bureau of Prisons Correctional Officer in Bribery, Drug Scheme

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

FLORENCE, S.C. — Angela Crosland, 51, of Elgin, has been convicted of bribery, money laundering, distribution of methamphetamine and suboxone, and filing false income tax returns. A federal jury returned the guilty verdict following two days of trial.

Evidence presented to the jury showed that Crosland worked as a correctional officer at Federal Correctional Institution Williamsburg in Salters. While employed as a correctional officer, Crosland smuggled contraband into FCI Williamsburg in exchange for money. The contraband included suboxone, methamphetamine, K-2-soaked paper, marijuana, tobacco, food, and other items. Evidence presented to the jury included Crosland’s Cash App accounts records which reflected payments to her account totaling $56,791 from family and associates of inmates housed at FCI Williamsburg. These payments occurred over approximately a nine-month time period. In addition, Crosland failed to report this substantial income on her federal tax returns.

“Those who work in public service, especially in law enforcement and corrections, must be held to a higher standard,” said U.S. Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs for the District of South Carolina. “Crosland’s actions damage trust in our prison systems while compromising the safety of Williamsburg FCI’s staff and inmates.”

“Crosland smuggled drugs and other contraband into the federal prison in exchange for tens of thousands of dollars in bribes,” said Eric Fehlman, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Southeast Region. “Her corrupt actions jeopardized the safety and security of the entire facility.”

“The IRS is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to provide financial expertise while investigating individuals who engage in corruption, money laundering, and tax fraud,” said Special Agent in Charge Donald “Trey” Eakins, Charlotte Field Office, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.

United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III, presided over the trial and will sentence Crosland after receiving and reviewing a pre-sentence report from the U.S. Probation office.

This case was investigated by the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Justice and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bill Watkins and Winston Marosek are prosecuting the case.

###

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Two Chinese Chemical Company Executives Convicted And Multiple Websites And Cryptocurrency Accounts Seized In Connection With Fentanyl Precursor Importation And Money Laundering Schemes

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Qingzhou Wang, the Company’s Principal Executive, and Yiyi Chen, the Company’s Marketing Manager, Conspired to Import Ton Quantities of Fentanyl Precursors from China to the United States in Exchange for Payment in Cryptocurrency

Danielle R. Sassoon, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Derek S. Maltz, the Acting Administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), announced that a jury returned a guilty verdict against QINGZHOU WANG, a/k/a “Bruce” (“WANG”), and YIYI CHEN, a/k/a “Chiron” (“CHEN”), on fentanyl precursor importation and money laundering charges. WANG was also convicted of importing a methamphetamine precursor. WANG and CHEN, both nationals of China, were found guilty following a two-week trial before U.S. District Judge Paul G. Gardephe.

U.S. Attorney Danielle R. Sassoon and Acting Administrator Derek S. Maltz also announced today the seizure of domain names for seven websites and four cryptocurrency accounts, totaling approximately $900,000 worth of digital funds, tied to the illicit precursor chemical business of WANG and CHEN’s company, HUBEI AMARVEL BIOTECH CO., LTD., a/k/a “AmarvelBio,” (“AMARVEL BIOTECH”), its related entities, and its executives and employees. Five additional websites tied to AMARVEL BIOTECH, including its principal website, were previously seized in June 2023.

U.S. Attorney Danielle R. Sassoon said: “Qingzhou Wang and Yiyi Chen conspired to import massive amounts of fentanyl precursors from China into the United States. They did so with callous disregard for the effect that such deadly chemicals would ultimately have here in the United States. Now, they stand convicted in an American courtroom and face a substantial term of imprisonment for their crimes. And we are not done. The seizures announced today continue the ongoing fight against the fentanyl supply chain. The message should be clear: we are watching, and we will continue to dismantle these fentanyl precursor operations, and bring the individuals responsible to justice.”

Acting Administrator Derek S. Maltz said: “I have personally seen the devastation that illicit fentanyl has had on American families. I have looked into the eyes of hundreds of mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers, who would give anything to have one more moment with their loved one. The DEA’s top priority is protecting the safety of the American people. These convictions, and the seizures of these websites and accounts, show that no matter where you live in the world or where you operate in the fentanyl supply chain, the DEA will utilize all of our resources to bring you to justice. I’m incredibly proud of the men and women of DEA, alongside our law enforcement partners, who worked tirelessly on this investigation and the unrelenting fight against illicit fentanyl.”

As reflected in the Indictment, public filings, and the evidence presented at trial:

AMARVEL BIOTECH was a chemical manufacturer based in the city of Wuhan, in Hubei province, China, that exported vast quantities of the precursor chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl and its analogues. A synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin, fentanyl is now the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 49. Fentanyl analogues, similar in chemical makeup and effect to fentanyl, can be even more potent and lethal than fentanyl. Fentanyl and its analogues have devastated communities across the U.S. and are fueling the ongoing opioid epidemic, which killed at least 105,263 Americans between February 2022 and January 2023 alone.

During the course of an undercover investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), AMARVEL BIOTECH and its principal executive, WANG, its marketing manager, CHEN, and a sales representative, FNU LNU, a/k/a “Er Yang,” a/k/a “Anita” (“YANG”), shipped more than 200 kilograms from China to the United States of precursor chemicals used to make fentanyl and its analogues. AMARVEL BIOTECH, WANG, CHEN, and YANG shipped the precursors to the U.S. after being told that the chemicals would be used to produce fentanyl in New York, and they agreed to supply multi-ton shipments of fentanyl precursors despite being told that Americans had died after consuming fentanyl made from the chemicals that the defendants had sold.

For example, on or about November 17, 2022, a DEA confidential source (“CS-1”) wrote to YANG using an encrypted messaging application, “You know I making fentanyl,” and “Is not safe.” YANG replied, “i know.” On or about December 1, 2022, YANG wrote to CS-1, promising that CS-1 would be “happy with our product” and noting that CS-1 would “be able to synthesize fentanyl.” In exchange for payment in cryptocurrency, AMARVEL BIOTECH thereafter shipped from China to New York approximately 999.7 grams of the fentanyl precursor 1-boc-4-AP, approximately 1,002.6 grams of the fentanyl precursor 1-boc-4-piperidone, and approximately 893.6 grams of the methamphetamine precursor methylamine.

In or about March 2023, WANG and CHEN traveled from China to Bangkok, Thailand, to meet with an individual whom CS-1 represented was CS-1’s boss, but was in fact another DEA confidential source (“CS-2”). During the meeting, WANG and CHEN discussed AMARVEL BIOTECH’s ability to supply ton-quantities of fentanyl precursors to New York for CS-1 and CS-2’s fentanyl manufacturing operation. After CS-2 stated that CS-2 wanted a different formula for manufacturing fentanyl and that several of CS-2’s American customers had purportedly died, WANG and CHEN advised they had “a lot of customers in America and Mexico” who could provide technical assistance with fentanyl production.

After the March 2023 meeting in Bangkok, AMARVEL BIOTECH, WANG, CHEN, and YANG agreed to sell CS-1 and CS-2 approximately 210 kilograms of fentanyl precursors in exchange for payment in cryptocurrency. During an April 10, 2023 video call with WANG and CHEN, CS-2 stated that the approximately 210 kilograms of fentanyl precursors would be used to manufacture approximately 50 to 55 kilograms of fentanyl—an amount that could contain approximately 25 million deadly doses.

In or about May 2023, AMARVEL BIOTECH, WANG, CHEN, and YANG sent to the U.S. the shipment ordered by CS-1 and CS-2. On or about May 5, 2023, the DEA retrieved the precursor shipment from a warehouse near Los Angeles, California. Lab testing confirmed the presence of a precursor chemical for a fentanyl analogue. In an encrypted messaging group chat with CS-1, CS-2, WANG, and CHEN, YANG explained that “New York, the United States, has been strict in checking the precursors of the ‘final product’ some time ago, so for the sake of safety, this time it is sent to California.”

In or about June 2023, WANG and CHEN traveled from China to meet again with CS-2. During the meeting, WANG and CHEN discussed with CS-2 a multi-ton order of fentanyl precursor chemicals. WANG and CHEN also discussed the need to take additional measures to protect themselves from detection and interdiction of their shipments “because recently American government . . . seized some Mexican group and they followed the routes to China,” where the U.S. Government found “our competitor in China”—an apparent reference to fentanyl-related charges filed in the Southern District of New York and announced in April 2023 against, among others, leadership of the Sinaloa Cartel and certain China-based precursor chemical company executives.

AMARVEL BIOTECH openly advertised online its sale of precursor chemicals for use in manufacturing fentanyl. Through its website and a host of other storefront sites, AMARVEL BIOTECH targeted precursor chemical customers in Mexico, where drug cartels operate clandestine laboratories and distribute finished fentanyl into and throughout the United States, including by advertising fentanyl precursors as a “Mexico hot sale,” guaranteeing “100% stealth shipping” abroad, and posting to its websites documentation of AMARVEL BIOTECH shipping chemicals to Culiacan, the home city of the Sinaloa Cartel, one of the dominant drug trafficking organizations in the Western Hemisphere and which is largely responsible for the massive influx of fentanyl into the U.S. in recent years. Below is a screenshot of one of AMARVEL BIOTECH’s store pages for a fentanyl precursor:

AMARVEL BIOTECH also endeavored to thwart law enforcement interdiction of its precursor chemical shipments. AMARVEL BIOTECH advertised online the business’s ability to use deceptive packaging—such as packaging indicating the contents are dog food, nuts, or motor oil—to ensure “safe” delivery of the illicit contents such shipments. An example of one of AMARVEL BIOTECH’s online advertisements are shown below:

* * *

WANG, 36, of China, and CHEN, 32, of China, were each convicted of: one count of conspiracy to import the fentanyl precursor chemical 1-boc-4-AP, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe it will be used to manufacture fentanyl, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. WANG was also convicted of: one count of importation of the fentanyl precursor chemical 1-boc-4-AP, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe it will be used to manufacture fentanyl, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of importation of the methamphetamine precursor chemical methylamine, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. WANG and CHEN were each acquitted of one count of conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and a fentanyl-related substance.

The maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge.

A table listing the websites for which the domain names have been seized pursuant Title 21, U.S. Code, Sections 853 and 970 is set forth below:

Internet users attempting to access the seized domains now see the following:

Ms. Sassoon praised the outstanding efforts of the DEA’s Special Operations Division Bilateral Investigations Unit. Ms. Sassoon also thanked the DEA Bangkok Country Office, DEA Wellington Country Office, DEA Beijing Country Office, DEA Honolulu District Office, DEA New York Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) Strike Force, DEA Riverside District Office, DEA Special Testing Laboratory, the DEA Southwest Laboratory, the Office of International Affairs of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division, the Royal Thai Police Narcotics Suppression Bureau, the Fiji Police Force Narcotic Bureau, the Fiji Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Hawaii for their assistance.

This case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander Li and Kevin Sullivan are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Sabrina Jim Munoz.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over £69 billion confirmed for council budgets
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Final Settlement confirms over £69 billion government funding for councils, a 6.8% cash-terms increase in Core Spending Power
More than £69 billion in funding for England’s councils has been confirmed today as the government delivers on its commitment to restore trust and stability in public services.  

Following the provisional Settlement in December, today’s final Settlement provides a 6.8% in cash terms increase in councils’ Core Spending Power compared to 2024-25. With increased demand and running costs rising, this money is a lifeline and will guarantee no council sees a decrease in their Core Spending Power.  

Families across the country rely on crucial council services such as social care, which is why the government is providing up to £3.7 billion additional funding to social care authorities to deliver this. This includes an £880 million uplift to the Social Care Grant, compared to 2024-25. 

A new £270 million Children’s Social Care Prevention Grant will support the national roll out of vital family help, keeping children safe and ensuring they get the best start in life as set out in the Plan for Change. 

While fundamental change cannot happen overnight, the government is working at pace with the sector to deliver the ambitious reform needed to spread power, money and resources more fairly across the country.  

Today, £60 million has also been confirmed to fund long-term improvements to the local government sector over the next year, including empowering mayoral areas leading the devolution revolution in delivering local priorities and supporting councils’ financial reporting with a fit and legal audit system to ensure transparency.

Rebuilding the sector from the ground up is a crucial step towards the national Plan for Change to bring better value for money, sustained economic growth and fix our country’s public services. 

The government has maintained the 5% referendum principles on council tax increases – the same level set by the previous administration- to protect taxpayers from excessive increases.

Unlike previous years, this government has introduced a stricter approach to the inherited arrangements that allowed councils to request higher council tax increases if they need Exceptional Financial Support and see increases as critical to maintaining their financial sustainability.

This approach puts taxpayers at the forefront, for example by only agreeing increases where councils are amongst the lowest existing levels for tax. In fact, taxpayers in these areas are still expected to be paying less than the average council tax compared to similar councils. This approach has limited the number and scale of additional increases, with the government not agreeing where councils have asked to increase council tax by a very high amount or by high amounts in successive years.

Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner said:  

Councils deliver vital services across the country – driving growth and local economies and providing a lifeline for those that need it most.

Through our Plan for Change we are determined to fix the foundations of local government; investing where it is needed, trusting local leaders and working together to deliver growth, better health and social care services and the affordable homes people need.

Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon OBE said:  

We have been clear we will fix the foundations of local government. That means an end to short-term solutions and instead rebuilding the sector to put councils on a more stable and secure footing.   

>Local leaders play a crucial role in delivering the day-to-day services communities across the country rely on, which is why we want to work with them towards a fairer funding model that tackles regional inequality and prioritises outcomes for local people.

This final Settlement marks an important step towards a government focused on efficiency, value-for-money and a community first approach. For the first time, a new £600 million Recovery Grant will help support places most in need, which maximises public spending to ensure it delivers more meaningful outcomes.  

The sector is already having its say via an open consultation on how to best streamline the outdated funding model and distribute taxpayer’s money more fairly, based on an updated assessment of need, enabling every council to deliver high quality services to their communities.  

As part of handing local leaders more power and control of their funding, the government will end outdated processes and bureaucracy of bidding for different funding pots and bring forward the first multi-year settlement in a decade in 2026-27 to provide certainty and economic security to councils setting budgets.   

The provisional settlement consultation was open for 4 weeks and closed on 15 January 2024. 

Notes to Editors  

Further details on all of the above, including allocations for individual councils can be found on the Final Local Government Finance Settlement page 2025-26 here.  

See the Deputy Prime Minister’s full Written Ministerial Statement here: Written statements – Written questions, answers and statements – UK Parliament  

The Final Settlement will be debated in the House of Commons on Wednesday 5th February. 

The government’s consultation on funding reform from 2026-27 can be found here, and remains open until 12 February.    

Two statutory reports have also been published:  

A Local Government Finance Report which outlines how core settlement funding will be distributed;

a Council Tax Referendum Principles Report, which sets out council tax excessiveness principles – if a local authority wishes to set council tax higher than these it will need to hold a local referendum.

A record number of councils asked the government for support this year to help them set their budgets, and a record number of these councils have asked for additional council tax increases to aid their financial recovery.

For councils that require Exceptional Financial Support, the government has considered requests from councils for bespoke council tax referendum principles on a case-by-case basis and has agreed bespoke referendum principles for six local authorities. All six of the councils have been clear they will not be able to set a balanced budget without government support. The government has not agreed to all requests and has not agreed to any request in its entirety, to reduce the impact on taxpayers. In the areas where we have made the difficult decision to allow limited council tax rises,  we expect that no taxpayer will see their bills reach higher than the average compared to similar authorities.

Core Spending Power is a measure of the resources available to local authorities to fund service delivery. It sets out the money that has been made available to councils through the local government finance settlement.  

The government confirmed unringfenced allocations of the £515m of funding announced at the provisional local government finance settlement to support to local government meet the increased costs of directly employed staff arising from changes to employer National Insurance Contribution (NICs).  

The previous government’s referendum threshold for council tax will be maintained at 3% with 2% for the adult social care precept to protect local taxpayers.   

Several grants including the Rural Services Delivery Grant and the Services Grant will be repurposed. The government will ensure the impact of rurality on the cost of service delivery and demand is reflected in the public consultation next year. Places with a significant rural population will on average receive almost a 6% increase in their Core Spending Power. No council will see a reduction. 

Councils will also receive over £1 billion in total through the Extended Producer Responsibility for Packing scheme (pEPR) which will cover the existing costs they incur for managing household packaging waste, provide additional funding for new legal duties, and support much needed investment in the waste and recycling industry.

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Published 3 February 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Loss Reports Tabled

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on February 3, 2025

The most recent quarterly reports on losses of public money within government ministries and Crown corporations, for the period from October 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, have been tabled with their respective legislative committees.

The Provincial Comptroller has tabled a nil report with the Public Accounts Committee for Executive Government’s third quarter of 2024-25.

The Crown Investments Corporation tabled a nil report with the Crown and Central Agencies Committee for the Crown sector’s third quarter of 2024-25.

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MIL OSI Canada News –

February 4, 2025

Category: Finance

Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner said:

Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon OBE said:

Notes to Editors

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Updates to this page

Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner said:  

Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon OBE said:  

Notes to Editors  