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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHP conducts comprehensive investigation into suspected Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infection cluster at PMH

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CHP conducts comprehensive investigation into suspected Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infection cluster at PMH
    CHP conducts comprehensive investigation into suspected Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infection cluster at PMH
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         The Head of the Communicable Disease Branch of the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health, Dr Albert Au, said today (February 11) that the CHP is conducting a comprehensive investigation into a suspected Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infection cluster, involving three doctors in the Oncology Department of Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH), with one of them passed away on February 7.     After receiving notification from PMH yesterday (February 10), the CHP representatives, together with representatives from PMH and the Chair of Infectious Diseases of the Department of Microbiology of the University of Hong Kong (HKU), Professor Yuen Kwok-yung, conducted an inspection of the workplace of the Oncology Department and other facilities of the hospital this morning.     “The case involves three oncologists at the hospital. Initial investigation revealed that they developed symptoms on February 4, 6 and 10 respectively. Symptoms included fever, abdominal pain and diarrhea. One of them, who had onset of symptoms on February 4, was admitted to PMH for treatment on February 6 and passed away the following day. The other two affected persons had mild symptoms,” Dr Au said.     “Preliminary test results showed that the stool specimen from one of the three affected persons tested positive for STEC, while that of the other two affected persons (including the deceased patient) tested negative. Taking into account the clinical and epidemiological information, the CHP tentatively believed that the cluster may be associated with STEC infection,” he said.      The CHP’s epidemiological and environmental investigations are ongoing. The CHP will continue to collaborate with the Hospital Authority and the Department of Microbiology of the HKU to investigate the incident and trace the potential source of infection.     PMH has strengthened the monitoring of the gastrointestinal symptoms among its staff and has requested any staff members with relevant symptoms to report immediately for laboratory tests. The PMH has also arranged comprehensive disinfection of the oncology office area.     In general, STEC infections are usually associated with the consumption of contaminated food or water, such as raw or undercooked meat products, contaminated fruits and vegetables, and unpasteurised dairy products. Direct person-to-person transmission through the faecal-oral route can also occur.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, February 11, 2025Issued at HKT 20:05

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: TRANSPARENCY IN WORKING OF NMDC

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 12:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances has informed that the Government of India has implemented various measures through technological intervention to ensure transparency in the day to day administration such as Aadhar Enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS), Pension Sanction and Payment Tracking System (Bhavishya), Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), Public Financial Management System (PFMS), Government e- Market (GeM), Foreign Visit Management System (FVMS), Smart Performance Appraisal Report Recording Online Window (SPARROW), e- Leave Management System, Employee Human Resource Management System (e-HRMS), e-Office, etc.

    Ministry of Steel has informed that NMDC publishes the contact details of key officials, including official landline numbers and email IDs, on the official website of company to facilitate communication with stakeholders.  Mobile numbers of officials are not uploaded on company’s website to maintain data security, prevent misuse and comply with privacy regulations.

    Ministry of Steel has informed that NMDC has implemented several measures to ensure transparency, including:

    • Corporate Governance: NMDC adheres to the guidelines of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 and the Companies Act, 2013, ensuring disclosures related to financial performance, board decisions, and risk management.
    • Public Disclosures: Financial results, project updates, and key policy decisions are regularly published on NMDC’s website and are in public domain.
    • CSR Initiatives: NMDC’s CSR activities are implemented in line with the Companies Act, 2013, with details of expenditures, projects, and impact assessments made available through annual reports and public disclosures.
    • Regular Public Consultations & Stakeholder Meetings at project locations.
    • Social Media & Digital Outreach for enhanced communication with the public.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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    TPJ/NJ

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s remarks at India Energy Week 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 12:00PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi delivered his remarks at the India Energy Week 2025 via video message today. Addressing the gathering at Yashobhoomi, he emphasized that the attendees are not just part of the Energy Week, but are also integral to India’s energy ambitions. He extended a warm welcome to all participants, including distinguished guests from abroad, highlighting their crucial role in this event.

    Highlighting that experts worldwide are asserting that the 21st century belongs to India, Shri Modi remarked, “India is driving not only its growth but also the growth of the world, with the energy sector playing a significant role”. He emphasized that India’s energy ambitions are built on five pillars: harnessing resources, encouraging innovation among brilliant minds, economic strength and political stability, strategic geography making energy trade attractive and easier, and commitment to global sustainability. The Prime Minister noted that these factors are creating new opportunities in India’s energy sector.

    Underlining that the next two decades are crucial for a Viksit Bharat, the Prime Minister highlighted that several significant milestones will be achieved in the next five years. He noted that many of India’s energy goals are aligned with the 2030 deadline, including the addition of 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity, achieving net zero carbon emissions for Indian Railways, and producing five million metric tons of green hydrogen annually. He acknowledged that these targets may seem ambitious, but the achievements of the past decade have instilled confidence that these goals will be attained.

    “India has grown from the tenth largest to the fifth largest economy in the past decade”, remarked Shri Modi. He highlighted that India’s solar energy generation capacity has increased thirty-two times in the last ten years, making it the third-largest solar power generating nation in the world. He noted that India’s non-fossil fuel energy capacity has tripled and that India is the first G20 country to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. The Prime Minister emphasized India’s achievements in ethanol blending, with a current rate of nineteen percent, leading to foreign exchange savings, substantial farmer revenue, and significant reductions in CO2 emissions. He highlighted India’s goal of achieving a twenty percent ethanol mandate by October 2025. He remarked that India’s biofuels industry is ready for rapid growth, with 500 million metric tonnes of sustainable feedstock. He further noted that during India’s G20 presidency, the Global Biofuels Alliance was established and is continuously expanding, now involving 28 nations and 12 international organizations. He highlighted that this alliance is transforming waste into wealth and setting up Centers of Excellence.

    Highlighting that India is continuously reforming to fully explore the potential of its hydrocarbon resources, Shri Modi highlighted that major discoveries and extensive expansion of gas infrastructure are contributing to the growth of the gas sector, increasing the share of natural gas in India’s energy mix. He noted that India is currently the fourth largest refining hub and is working to increase its capacity by 20 percent.

    Pointing out that India’s sedimentary basins hold numerous hydrocarbon resources, some of which have already been identified, while others await exploration, the Prime Minister highlighted that to make India’s upstream sector more attractive, the Government introduced the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP). He emphasized that the Government has provided comprehensive support to the sector, including opening the Exclusive Economic Zone and establishing a single-window clearance system. Shri Modi noted that changes to the Oilfields Regulation & Development Act now offer stakeholders policy stability, extended leases, and improved financial terms. He emphasized that these reforms will facilitate the exploration of oil and gas resources in the maritime sector, increase production, and maintain strategic petroleum reserves.

    Prime Minister underlined that due to several discoveries and the expanding pipeline infrastructure in India, the supply of natural gas is increasing. He emphasized that this will lead to a rise in the utilization of natural gas in the near future. He also highlighted that there are numerous investment opportunities in these sectors.

    “India’s major focus is on Make in India and local supply chains”, exclaimed Shri Modi. He highlighted the significant potential for manufacturing various types of hardware, including PV modules, in India. The Prime Minister noted that India is supporting local manufacturing, with the solar PV module manufacturing capacity expanding from 2 gigawatts to approximately 70 gigawatts in the past ten years. He emphasized that the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has made the sector more attractive, promoting the manufacturing of high-efficiency solar PV modules.

    Highlighting the significant opportunities for innovation and manufacturing in the battery and storage capacity sector, the Prime Minister remarked that India is rapidly advancing towards electric mobility and emphasized the need for swift action to meet the demands of such a large country in this sector. Shri Modi noted that the current year’s budget includes numerous announcements supporting green energy. He highlighted that the Government has exempted several items related to the manufacturing of EV and mobile phone batteries from basic customs duty. This includes cobalt powder, lithium-ion battery waste, lead, zinc, and other critical minerals. He remarked that the National Critical Minerals Mission will play a crucial role in building a robust supply chain in India. He also highlighted the promotion of the non-lithium battery ecosystem. The Prime Minister emphasized that the current year’s budget has opened the nuclear energy sector, and every investment in energy is creating new jobs for the youth and generating opportunities for green jobs.

    “To strengthen India’s energy sector, the Government is empowering the public”, emphasised the Prime Minister. He highlighted that ordinary families and farmers have been made energy providers. He remarked that the PM Suryagarh Free Electricity Scheme was launched last year, and its scope is not limited to energy production. He noted that this scheme is creating new skills in the solar sector, developing a new service ecosystem, and increasing investment opportunities.

    Concluding his address, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to providing energy solutions that energize growth and enrich nature. He expressed confidence that this Energy Week would yield concrete outcomes in this direction. He encouraged everyone to explore every possibility emerging in India and extended his best wishes to all participants. 

     

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2101619) Visitor Counter : 52

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: COMPLETION OF MEHAR BABA COMPETITION-II

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 11:52AM by PIB Delhi

     IAF has been steering the second version of MBC-II. The competition was launched on 06 Apr 22 by honourable Raksha Mantri with theme as “Swarm Drone Based System to Detect Foreign Objects on Aircraft Operating Surfaces”. It got concluded on 29 Jul 24.

    Four out of initial 129 applicants, were shortlisted as finalists after rigorous assessments by a nominated Committee of Experts (CoE). It comprised of domain experts from IAF as well as civil institutes. The competition was held in four phases of which last phase was conducted in Jul 24. Based on the assessment, Ayaan Autonomous Systems Pvt Ltd, Pune and Fleet RF Pvt Ltd, Greater Noida, have been declared as winner and first runner up respectively.

    IAF is undertaking niche technology development in the turf of Unmanned and autonomous aerial vehicles through its innovative initiative Mehar Baba Competition (MBC). The MBC is forerunner in bridging the gap between Indian industry, academia, and users by providing them common platforms.

    The competition has successfully forged a robust ecosystem, resulting in the capture of orders amounting more than thousand cores over the past three years from various industries including armed forces. This economic success is not just a testament to the MBC-II competitiveness but also underscores the potential for significant growth in the drone sector. An equally commendable achievement is the employment generation of thousands of individuals, predominantly fresh graduates from colleges and academia. The competition serves as a beacon, guiding the way for future advancements in UAV technology and reinforcing India’s position on the global stage and Honourable PM’s vision of Indian being a Global drone hub by 2030.

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    VK/JS/IK

    (Release ID: 2101617) Visitor Counter : 68

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks this Saturday

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks this Saturday
    Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks this Saturday
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         The Transport Department (TD) today (February 11) reminded the public that an auction of personalised vehicle registration marks (PVRMs) will be held this Saturday (February 15) in Meeting Room S421, L4, Old Wing, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai.      A total of 240 approved PVRMs will be put up for public auction. A list of the marks has been uploaded to the department’s website, www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/index.html.　　The reserve price of each of these marks is $5,000. Applicants who have paid a deposit of $5,000 should also participate in the bidding (including the first bid at the reserve price). Otherwise, the PVRM concerned may be sold to another bidder at the reserve price.      People who wish to participate in the bidding at the auction are reminded to take note of the following points: (1) Bidders are required to produce the following documents for completion of registration and payment procedures immediately after successful bidding: (i) the identity document of the successful bidder;(ii) the identity document of the purchaser (if the purchaser and the successful bidder are different persons);(iii) a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation (if the purchaser is a body corporate); and(iv) a crossed cheque made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region” or “The Government of the HKSAR”. For an auctioned mark paid for by cheque, the first three working days after the date of auction will be required for cheque clearance confirmation before processing of the application for mark assignment can be completed. Successful bidders may also pay through the Easy Pay System (EPS), but are reminded to note the maximum transfer amount in the same day of the payment card. Payment by post-dated cheque, cash, credit card or other methods will not be accepted. (2) Purchasers must make payment of the purchase price through EPS or by crossed cheque and complete the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM immediately after the bidding. Subsequent alteration of the particulars in the Memorandum will not be permitted. (3) A PVRM can only be assigned to a motor vehicle which is registered in the name of the purchaser. The Certificate of Incorporation must be produced immediately by the purchaser if a vehicle registration mark purchased is to be registered under the name of a body corporate. (4) The display of a PVRM on a motor vehicle should be in compliance with the requirements stipulated in Schedule 4 of the Road Traffic (Registration and Licensing of Vehicles) Regulations. (5) Any change to the arrangement of letters, numerals and blank spaces of a PVRM, i.e. single and two rows as auctioned, will not be allowed. (6) The purchaser shall, within 12 months after the date of auction, apply to the Commissioner for Transport for the PVRM to be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser. If the purchaser fails to assign the PVRM within 12 months, allocation of the PVRM will be cancelled and arranged for re-allocation in accordance with the statutory provision without prior notice to the purchaser.      “Upon completion of the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM, the purchaser will be issued a receipt and a Certificate of Allocation of Personalised Registration Mark. The Certificate of Allocation will serve to prove the holdership of the PVRM. Potential buyers of vehicles bearing a PVRM should check the Certificate of Allocation with the sellers and pay attention to the details therein. For transfer of vehicle ownership, this certificate together with other required documents should be sent to the TD for processing,” the spokesman said.      For other auction details, please refer to the Guidance Notes – Auction of PVRM, which is available at the department’s licensing offices or can be downloaded from its website, www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/pvrm_auction/index.html.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, February 11, 2025Issued at HKT 14:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Defence Secretary holds bilateral meetings on the sidelines of Aero India 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 11:51AM by PIB Delhi

    Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh held a bilateral meeting with Minister for the House of Lords, UK Lord Vernon Coaker on the sidelines of 15th Aero India in Bengaluru on February 11, 2025. They briefly reviewed the ongoing defence cooperation, particularly industrial collaboration, and the ongoing engagements in the maritime domain. They expressed satisfaction over the beginnings being made in key cooperation areas such as Electric Propulsion and aero engines. 

    Earlier, the Defence Secretary co-chaired a UK-India Business Council roundtable meeting with Lord Coaker and British High Commissioner to India Ms Lindy Cameron. This roundtable discussed the opportunities for Indian & UK defence companies to work together on ongoing and future joint projects. A large number of UK defence industries attended the roundtable while Indian industry was represented by the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers leadership. 

    The Defence Secretary also held a bilateral meeting with Under Secretary of State for Defence, Italy Mr Matteo Perego Di Cremnago. They discussed ways & means to enhance the defence cooperation activities, including increased maritime and air exchanges, and joint project opportunities for Indian & Italian companies.

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    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2101615) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESS RELEASE – Signing Ceremony of The Project for Construction of Training Centre of Samoa Umbrella for Non-Governmental Organizations under JAPAN’S GRANT ASSISTANCE FOR GRASS-ROOTS HUMAN SECURITY PROJECTS (GGP)

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    The Government of Japan in partnership with the Samoa Umbrella for Non-Governmental Organizations (SUNGO) has marked a significant milestone with the formal signing ceremony to approve funding under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP). H.E. Mr. SUZUKI Ryotaro, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Samoa signed over the grant of up to USD 137,222 (approximately SAT 367,755) to the CEO of SUNGO, Fuimaono Vaitolo Ofoia.

    The grant will facilitate the construction of a new single-story concrete training center (232.8㎡) in Vaitele-tai village, Upolu Island. This facility will include a large conference room, a small meeting room, an office with amenities, a storage room, a kitchen, and restrooms designed for accessibility. Serving as a vital hub, it will empower approximately 230 NGOs and community stakeholders, accommodating an estimated 50 training sessions throughout the year, with each session expecting between 30 to 60 participants.

    Additionally, the center will have a significant impact on village communities by enhancing their knowledge and skills to address key human security challenges. These training sessions will provide education on governance, civil society development, and climate change mitigation, equipping participants with the necessary skills to respond effectively.

    The Signing Ceremony not only formalizes the approved grant but also symbolises Japan’s enduring partnership with Samoa in promoting grass-roots development initiatives.

    The Government of Japan remains committed to supporting small-scale projects that directly benefit communities at the grass-roots level while contributing to the socio-economic development of the Independent State of Samoa through its GGP.

    Ends.

    SOURCE – Embassy of Japan in Samoa

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chairs Parliamentary Consultative Committee for Ministry of Home Affairs on ‘Cyber Security and Cyber Crime’ in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chairs Parliamentary Consultative Committee for Ministry of Home Affairs on ‘Cyber Security and Cyber Crime’ in New Delhi

    Under the leadership of Modi Ji, the country is witnessing a ‘digital revolution’, to face the challenges of cyber security one needs to understand its size and scale

    AI will be used to identify and close the mule accounts before they are made operational

    To prevent cybercrime, Home Minister stresses on raising awareness on Modi Ji’s mantra of ‘Stop-Think-Taje Action’

    Modi government is moving forward with a four-pronged strategy to tackle cybercrimes: Convergence, Coordination, Communication, and Capacity

    Union Home Minister says that to prevent cybercrimes, there should be a greater focus on increasing awareness among the public and promoting the Cyber Helpline ‘1930’

    The three basic elements of cyberspace – software, services, and users are important in tackling cyber frauds

    The members gave suggestions on issues related to ‘Cyber Security and Cyber Crime’ and appreciated the steps taken by the Govt.

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 11:41AM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah  chaired a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Home Affairs on the topic of ‘Cyber Security and Cyber Crime’ in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Nityanand Rai, Shri Bandi Sanjay Kumar, members of the Committee, the Union Home Secretary, and senior officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The committee discussed various issues related to ‘Cyber Security and Cyber Crime’ during the meeting.

    Addressing the meeting, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that in recent years, there has been an expansion of digital infrastructure in India, which has naturally led to an increase in the number of cyber attacks. He said that when we look at cyberspace from a different perspective, it forms a complex network of ‘software,’ ‘services,’ and ‘users.’ He emphasized that until we consider controlling cyber fraud through ‘software,’ ‘services,’ and ‘users,’ it will be impossible to resolve the issues of cyberspace. Shri Shah further mentioned that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Home Affairs has taken several significant steps towards making India a cyber-safe nation.

    Shri Amit Shah said that cybercrime has erased all geographical boundaries. He stated that it is a ‘borderless’ and ‘formless’ crime, as it has no limits or fixed form. He mentioned that India has witnessed a ‘digital revolution’ in the last decade. Without understanding the size and scale of the ‘digital revolution,’ we cannot face the challenges in the cyber domain.

    Union Home Minister said that today, 95 per cent villages in the country are digitally connected, and one lakh gram panchayats are equipped with Wi-Fi hotspots. In the past ten years, the number of internet users has increased by 4.5 times. He mentioned that in 2024, a total of 246 trillion transactions worth ₹17.221 lakh crore were made through UPI. In 2024, 48 per cent of the global digital transactions took place in India. He also said that in terms of the startup ecosystem, India has become the third-largest country in the world. In 2023, the contribution of the digital economy to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was around ₹32 lakh crore, which is 12 per cent, and nearly 15 million jobs were created.

    Shri Amit Shah said that today India has become the third-largest country in terms of digital landscape in the world. The digital economy contributes 20 per cent to the total economy of India. He also mentioned that the Ministry of Home Affairs’ goal is to ensure zero cybercrime cases and their FIRs.

    Union Home Minister said that to tackle cybercrime, we have adopted four types of strategies, which include Convergence, Coordination, Communication, and Capacity. All of these are being implemented with clear objectives and a strategic approach. He mentioned that inter-ministerial and inter-departmental coordination within the Ministry of Home Affairs has been strengthened, ensuring seamless communication and smooth flow of information.

    Shri Amit Shah said that a healthy tradition of exchange of information between the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Electronics and IT, CERT-IN, I4C, and departments like Telecom and Banking has led to successfully tackling many cybercrime cases.

    Union Home Minister emphasized the importance of raising awareness among the public to prevent cybercrime and requested all the members of the committee to promote the I4C helpline number 1930. He stated that in light of cyber financial fraud, the ‘1930’ helpline provides a one-point solution offering various services, such as blocking cards.

    Shri Amit Shah said that efforts are underway to use Artificial Intelligence for identifying mule accounts, in coordination with the Reserve Bank and all banks, to establish a system for their detection. He mentioned that we will ensure the closure of mule accounts before they are even operational. Union Home Minister stated that the government has also ensured that people are made aware of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s mantra ‘STOP-THINK-TAKE ACTION’ in order to make them more vigilant against cybercrimes.

    Union Home Minister stated that a total of 1 lakh 43 thousands FIRs have been registered on the I4C portal, and over 19 crore people have used this portal. He mentioned that, for national security reasons, 805 apps and 3,266 website links have been blocked based on I4C’s recommendations. Additionally, 399 banks and financial intermediaries have come on board. Over 6 lakh suspicious data points have been shared, more than 19 lakh mule accounts have been caught, and suspicious transactions worth ₹2,038 crore have been prevented.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Cyber Crime Forensic Training Labs have been established in 33 states and union territories. On the ‘CyTrain’ platform, a “Massive Open Online Course (MOOC)” platform, 101,561 police officers have registered, and over 78,000 certificates have been issued.

    The committee members gave their suggestions on issues related to ‘Cyber Security and Cyber Crime’ and appreciated the important steps taken by the government for enhancing cyber security.

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    Read this release in: Hindi

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DRDO showcases indigenously developed state-of-the-art technologies and systems, working models and innovations at Aero India 2025

    Source: Government of India

    DRDO showcases indigenously developed state-of-the-art technologies and systems, working models and innovations at Aero India 2025

    Full-scale model of India’s first 5.5 Gen stealth aircraft Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is on display

    Seminar on ‘DRDO Industry Synergy towards Viksit Bharat: Make in India – Make for World’ to foster industry engagement, promote self-reliance in defence and provide boost to defence exports

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 10:47AM by PIB Delhi

                Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) with an endeavour to integrate various stakeholders of defence R&D ecosystem in the country, is participating in the 15thedition of Aero India during February 10-14, 2025 at the Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru. It will feature indigenously developed state-of-the-art technologies and systems, working models and innovations in all formats, i.e., Indoor Pavilion, Outdoor Displays, India Pavilion and Flying display.

    DRDO for the first time is showcasing a full-scale model of India’s first 5.5 Gen stealth aircraft Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) equipped with cutting-edge features at the India Pavilion. This Pavilion at Aero India 2025 will showcase India’s commitment to its Make-in-India initiative by displaying indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities and cutting-edge technologies ready for the global stage. The pavilion exemplifies the combined strength of India’s private industries, Defence PSUs, start-ups, and DRDO.

    Apart from this, visitors to this Pavilion will gain insight from 16 other DRDO developed products and technologies being displayed such as Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF); LCA Mk-2 Model; Air Droppable Container (ADC) -150; Advanced Light Weight Torpedo; Kaveri Derivate Aero Engine without afterburner , Naval Anti-ship missile – Medium Range and various other missiles.

                DRDO indoor pavilion at Hall-D at Aero India is meticulously divided into 9 themes, encompassing core areas of defence innovation. The themes are: ‘Airborne Surveillance Solutions’, ‘Naval Warfare’, ‘Next-Generation Missile Systems’, ‘Supremacy in the Skies – ADA’s 5th Gen Leap’, ‘Unmanned Aerial Systems’, ‘RadarScape: Mapping the Invisible’, ‘Maritime Sentinel: A New Era of Surveillance & Safety’, ‘Sensors Suite for Fighter Aircraft’ and ‘Rakshak’. The Pavilion is displaying over 330 products which are categorised into 14 technology zones. It will provide an in-depth exploration of key defence areas, namely Advanced Materials & Composites; Surveillance & Reconnaissance Technology; Antenna & Microwave Technology; Soldier Support Systems; Combat Aircraft Technology; Corporate Directorates; Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems and Cyber Security; Land Systems & Munitions; Missile Technology; Next-Gen Combat Vehicles & Tactical Mobility; Photonics, Laser and Quantum Technology; Electronic Warfare & Communication; Simulation & Training Technology; and Aero Propulsion Technology. The indoor pavilion is also displaying the products developed under Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme being executed by DRDO.

    The outdoor segment of DRDO pavilion is designed to demonstrate the real-world application of cutting-edge defence technologies featuring full-scale model of QRSAM Mobile Launcher Vehicle, Akash NG Launcher; Archer UAV 1:1 (Rustom-1); Air Droppable Survival and Rescue Kit (SARK); Emergency Escape Parachute System for Air Crew (EEPSA); Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS); Vehicle Mounted Jammer; Anti UAV (JAU) Entity of Project DHARASHAKTI, and VHF Radar. The demonstration of Dornier aircraft’s midlife upgrade is one of the main highlights of DRDO’s participation at the Aero Show. The upgraded Dornier is showcasing enhanced avionics, better fuel efficiency, advanced radar systems, enhanced manoeuvrability, integrated surveillance systems, and improved electronic warfare capabilities, reinforcing its role as a dependable asset of the Indian Air Force.

    DRDO will conduct a seminar with the theme ‘DRDO Industry Synergy towards Viksit Bharat: Make in India – Make for World’ at Hall No. 2 on February 11, 2025. The seminar will foster industry engagement, promote self-reliance in defence and provide a boost to defence exports. Members of Academia, Indian Private Industry, StartUps, PSUs, and DRDO will participate in this seminar. Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the event and will release the Revised Policy for ToT, DRDO Policy for Harnessing Innovative Startups in Defence R&D and Compendium of DRDO Products for Export. During the seminar, Handing Over of Licensing Agreement for Transfer of Technology (LATOT) to Industries will also take place. At the event, Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO Dr. Samir V Kamat will chair a panel discussion on Opportunities for Industries in Defence Export to foster a collaborative environment for enhancing defence exports.

    Under the banner of Aero India 2025, an Indigenisation & Valedictory event themed as ‘SAMARTHYA’ will be organised on February 12 by Department of Defence Production (DDP), to recognise and felicitate the contributors of Indigenously developed cutting edge technologies. Five DRDO developed products have been recognised to be showcased and Team leader of these products will be felicitated by the Raksha Mantri.   The details are:

    1. Shri Y Dilip, Director ADE Bengaluru for Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS)
    2. Dr MSY Siva Prasad, PD RudraM II, RCI Hyderabad
    3. Ms M Backialakshmi, CABS Bengaluru for Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Receiver
    4. Smt T Sirisha, RCI, for Naval Anti-Ship Missile–Short Range
    5. Shri Vishal Dwivedi, CFEES Delhi for Fire Wire for Integrated Fire Detection and Suppression System for BMP, T-72 and T-90.

    As a prelude to Aero India, DRDO also organised the 15th edition of the Biennial Aero India International Seminar in association with the Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI) during February 8-9, 2025 in Bengaluru. The theme of the seminar was ‘Futuristic Aerospace Technologies: Challenges in Design Validation’, covering emerging trends in futuristic aerospace technologies and military airworthiness & certification: challenges in design and testing. This seminar provided valuable insights about cutting-edge technologies, a platform to explore collaborative research opportunities and forge strategic partnerships, while advancing the future of aerospace and defence technologies.

    DRDO’s exhibition at Aero India 2025 is an excellent opportunity for the Indian aerospace community to foster the cause of indigenous development of military systems and technologies with the spirit of self-reliance & national pride. Working towards the vision of Samarth and Shashakt Bharat, DRDO is developing the indigenous capabilities of the country by equipping the Armed Forces with state-of-the-art technologies/equipment, and bolstering the defence sector through collaboration with the private sector.

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    VK/SR/KB

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Remarks by Acting CE at media session before ExCo (with video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following are the remarks by the Acting Chief Executive, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at a media session before the Executive Council meeting today (February 11):

    Reporter: Good morning, Mr Chan. Some English questions. First about HKMAO Director Xia Baolong’s meeting with Hong Kong officials. How did the Government address Mr Xia on matters such as a budget deficit that Hong Kong is facing, and secondly, has the SAR Government formally filed a complaint to the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding US tariffs on imports, and what further actions will the Government consider to take in response to the Trump administration’s move? Thank you.

    Acting Chief Executive: Thank you. Director Xia visited Hong Kong last Sunday, and he visited Hetao. I, together with other Principal Officials, reported to him the present situation of Hetao and also the future development of the Hetao area. Later on, in the afternoon, the Financial Secretary, together with some Principal Officials, attended a discussion session in Guangdong to report to Director Xia about the economic situation of Hong Kong. Director Xia is very concerned about Hong Kong. He highly recognised the work of the Hong Kong SAR Government under the leadership of the Chief Executive, and he also directed that we should try our very best to integrate into the Mainland’s national policies, especially the Greater Bay Area initiative. I think this is very important to Hong Kong. Of course, I think this is a very good occasion for us to communicate with Director Xia, so that we have a clear understanding of how the Central Government is thinking, especially how we should make good co-operation with our Guangdong counterparts.

         Regarding the US tariffs on Hong Kong, I think this is absolutely inconsistent with the WTO rules, of course, and also they have totally disregarded that Hong Kong is a separate customs territory. We will file a complaint with the WTO regarding this unreasonable arrangement.

    (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks.)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing woman in Tin Sum (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appeal for information on missing woman in Tin Sum (with photo)
    Appeal for information on missing woman in Tin Sum (with photo)
    ***************************************************************

         Police today (February 11) appealed to the public for information on a woman who went missing in Tin Sum.     Lau Suet-ying, aged 31, went missing after she got on a train towards Wu Kai Sha at MTR Hin Keng Station yesterday (February 10) morning. Her family then made a report to Police.          She is about 1.65 metres tall, around 70 kilograms in weight and of fat build. She has a round face with yellow complexion and short black hair. She was last seen wearing a dark grey jacket, a grey shirt, blue trousers, dark blue shoes and carrying a beige backpack.     Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing woman or may have seen her is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of New Territories South on 3661 1173 or 5217 5562 or email to rmpu-nts-2@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, February 11, 2025Issued at HKT 11:38

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: City University of Hong Kong (Amendment) Bill 2025 to be introduced into LegCo for First Reading and Second Reading

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    City University of Hong Kong (Amendment) Bill 2025 to be introduced into LegCo for First Reading and Second Reading
    City University of Hong Kong (Amendment) Bill 2025 to be introduced into LegCo for First Reading and Second Reading
    ******************************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:      The Legislative Council (LegCo) will hold a meeting tomorrow (February 12) at 11am in the Chamber of the LegCo Complex. During the meeting, City University of Hong Kong (Amendment) Bill 2025 will be introduced into the Council for the First Reading and the Second Reading. The Second Reading debate on the Bill will be adjourned.      On Members’ motions, Mr Edmund Wong will move a motion on comprehensively reviewing the SAR Government’s use of resources to optimise its fiscal structure. The motion is set out in Appendix 1. Mr Tang Ka-piu will move an amendment to Mr Wong’s motion.      Dr Junius Ho will also move a motion on upholding the monogamous and heterosexual marriage system in Hong Kong. The motion is set out in Appendix 2.      Meanwhile, Dr Starry Lee will move a motion under Rule 49E(2) of the Rules of Procedure to take note of a report of the House Committee on consideration of subsidiary legislation and other instruments. The motion is set out in Appendix 3.      Members will also ask the Government 22 questions on various policy areas, six of which require oral replies.      The agenda of the above meeting can be obtained via the LegCo Website (www.legco.gov.hk). Members of the public can watch or listen to the meeting via the “Webcast” system on the LegCo Website. To observe the proceedings of the meeting at the LegCo Complex, members of the public may call 3919 3399 during office hours to reserve seats.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, February 11, 2025Issued at HKT 11:32

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESS RELEASE – Vodafone Samoa: Samoa’s Trusted Business Partner shares its Business Solutions with the Business Community

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    (6th February 2025)

    Apia, Samoa – The Samoa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI) held its first monthly Members Meeting for the 2025 calendar year on Monday 3rd February 2025. This meeting, hosted by Vodafone Samoa at the Tanoa Tusitala Hotel, shared Vodafone Samoa’s significant journey during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2024 and shared business products and solutions.

    The evening began with an opening prayer from SCCI Finance Manager Faraimo Leaia, followed by a policy presentation from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour consultant Leilani Vaa-Tamati on the Foreign Investment Amendment Bill 2025. This opportunity for dialogue strengthens

    SCCI’s Public-Private Partnership with the Government of Samoa and ensures future inclusion to provide feedback on relevant legislation.

    The meeting’s main event was a special presentation from Vodafone Samoa’s Chief Commercial Officer Mr. Tangavel Lutchmoodoo on Vodafone’s Business Solutions and new ICT services. As the Telecom and Digital Partner for CHOGM, Mr. Lutchmoodoo shared their CHOGM story where they played an important role in designing and developing the official website and registration portal as well as officially launching 5G during this period. Mr. Lutchmoodoo then presented Vodafone’s communications and enterprise solutions which included Vodafone as an authorized reseller for Starlink as well as its Cloud Hosting services. “The benefits of moving to Cloud are cost efficiency, innovation, transformation and performance. It will help minimize costs and maximize the return on your spending”, said Mr. Lutchmoodoo as he spoke on Vodafone’s Cloud Solutions.

    The SCCI Members Meetings serve as a forum for its members and the business community, to be given an update on the work conducted by the SCCI Executive Council and Secretariat. The meeting was chaired by Chamber Vice President Tagaloa Nadia Meredith-Hunt and was followed by a networking session.

    ENDS

    SOURCE – Samoa Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESS RELEASE – PRESENTATION OF CREDENTIALS OF THE AMBASSADOR OF FRANCE TO THE INDEPENDENT STATE OF SAMOA

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    (TUESDAY 4 FEBRUARY 2025)

    His Excellency Mr Guillaume Lemoine presented his Letter of Credence to the Head of State of Samoa, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II at a presentation of credential ceremony held this morning at the Head of State’s official residence in Vailele accrediting His Excellency as the first resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of France to Samoa.

    Samoa and France have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations on 1 March 1974. The Ambassador expressed that with over 50 years of diplomatic relations, the establishment of a permanent French Embassy in Apia is a historical step forward, which will contribute to strengthening the ties with Samoa and the French territories of French Polynesia, New Caledonia and Wallis & Futuna. The Head of State echoed the Ambassador’s sentiments and stated that the decision to set up an Embassy in Samoa “…places prominence on the recognition of our growing relations and the mutual respect we have for each other.”

    Both the Head of State and the Ambassador acknowledged the contributions of Ms Zita Martel as the French Honorary Consul in Samoa for the last 25 years in strengthening bilateral relations through the promotion of culture and friendship. Afioga Tuimalealiifano expressed that he is confident that the appointment of H.E Guillaume Lemoine as the first Ambassador of France to Samoa with residence in Apia, will further strengthen the existing relations between our two countries.

    His Excellency Mr Guillaume Lemoine holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science Management, a Post-graduate degree in Computerization of Organizations and is a former student of the Paris Institute of Political Studies. Mr Lemoine is a career diplomat who served in various diplomatic missions of France in Athens, Beirut, Kuwait and Lomé. Mr Lemoine was the Ambassador of France to Papua New Guinea prior to his appointment as the first resident Ambassador of France to Samoa. He was awarded distinctions in Medal of Honour of Foreign Affairs and as Knight of the National Order of Merit. Mr Guillaume Lemoine is married to Ms Olivia de Saint-Luc and they have three daughters.

    END.

    SOURCE – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

    Photos by the Government of Samoa (Leaosa Faaifo Faaifo)

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LD to hold exhibition on Employment Ordinance and Minimum Wage Ordinance

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LD to hold exhibition on Employment Ordinance and Minimum Wage Ordinance
    LD to hold exhibition on Employment Ordinance and Minimum Wage Ordinance
    ************************************************************************

         Members of the public are invited to visit an exhibition on the Employment Ordinance and the Minimum Wage Ordinance organised by the Labour Department in Southern District on February 13 and 14 (Thursday and Friday).     The exhibition will feature the main provisions of the Employment Ordinance and the Minimum Wage Ordinance, good human resource management measures, as well as employment rights and benefits for foreign domestic helpers. Related publications and souvenirs will be distributed and promotional videos will be shown.     The exhibition will be held at the Atrium, 1/F, West Commercial Block, Marina Square, 12A South Horizon Drive, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong, from 11am to 6pm. Admission is free.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, February 11, 2025Issued at HKT 11:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Rajya Mantri holds a series of bilateral meetings on the sidelines of Aero India 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 FEB 2025 7:45AM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth held a series of bilateral meetings on the sidelines of 15thAero India in Bengaluru on February 10, 2025. In his meeting with Under Secretary of State for Defence, Italy Mr Matteo Perego Di Cremnago, both Ministers reviewed the various facets of bilateral defence cooperation including discussion about India’s growing capabilities in manufacturing equipment and development of indigenous systems. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the ties in all spheres.

    During the meeting with Minister for the House of Lords, UK Lord Vernon Coaker, both Ministers reviewed the bilateral defence cooperation and pledged to strengthen the relations. They also reiterated their commitment to work bilaterally and with other partners for peace, prosperity and rules-based world order, specifically in the Indo-Pacific & Indian Ocean Region wherein cooperation would ensure freedom of navigation and rule of law in the maritime & other domains.

    In his meeting with the Minister in Prime Minister’s Office (Defence and Security), Lesotho Mr Limpho Tau, both Ministers discussed the immense potential available in the field of defence exports and ways to expand the cooperation.

    *****

    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2101574) Visitor Counter : 26

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LD to hold Youth Employment Expo

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Labour Department (LD) will hold the Youth Employment Expo at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai on February 15 (Saturday). The Expo is an event jointly organised by the Greater Bay Area (GBA) Youth Employment Scheme, the Youth Employment and Training Programme (YETP) and the Youth Employment Start (Y.E.S.) of the LD, providing abundant opportunities to work locally and in GBA Mainland cities for young people aged 29 or below, as well as introducing the diverse youth employment services of the LD.
          
         The Chief Executive in the 2024 Policy Address announced measures to strengthen employment services and support for young people, including, starting from 2025, relaxing the eligibility requirements for the GBA Youth Employment Scheme to allow young people aged 29 or below with sub-degree or higher qualifications to join the Scheme and increasing the allowance granted to enterprises. Moreover, the upper age limit for YETP participants has been raised to provide employment support services to young people aged 15 to 29 with sub-degree or below qualifications.
          
         A total of 47 organisations from various industries, including airline services, hotels, banking, public services, retail, transport, construction, catering, tourism, security and technology, will join the Expo, providing over 1 200 on-the-job training vacancies for young people to work locally and in GBA Mainland cities. Eligible young job seekers are welcome to submit applications on the spot and may be invited for on-site interviews.
          
         The Expo also features career talks, sharing sessions, course introduction and demonstration of the programmes, employment consultation, interview preparation consultation, resume photo shooting, etc. Singers Ms Gin Lee and Mr Andy Lai will join the Expo and share their stories of pursuing their own career developments. The talk and sharing sessions will be conducted in Cantonese. Limited seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. In addition, the Youth Entrepreneurship Bazaar will also be run by business members of Y.E.S. at the Expo, selling a diverse range of handcrafted and innovative products. Members of the public are welcome to visit.
          
         The Expo will be held from 11am to 6pm at 3G Exhibition Hall of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai. Admission is free. Last admission time is 5.30pm. For details of the Expo, please visit the LD’s website www.labour.gov.hk.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Commissioner – law ruling leaves policing in a “hopeless position”

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Commissioner has responded to a High Court judgment published today on a judicial review that sought to challenge Operation Assure.

    Operation Assure is the Met’s process, based on national guidance, to consider dismissing officers who can no longer pass vetting. The Met lost the judicial review.

    Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said:

    “For more than two decades police leaders have been asking Government for greater powers to sack officers who are not fit to wear the uniform. For two-and-a half-years I have repeated that call and successive Governments have promised change.

    “Tens of thousands of good officers joined the police because we care deeply about public safety. The majority of the Met is committed to this drive to clear out those who threaten our collective integrity. This makes us better placed to protect communities.

    “Being able to sack officers who fail vetting is critical. Under Op Assure, in the last 18 months

    • 96 officers have been sacked or resigned due to vetting removal
    • 29 more are on special vetting leave, having lost vetting
    • Over 100 more are in the early stages of vetting reviews

    “Those we have removed vetting from, had a pattern of behaviour that meant if they applied to work in policing today, we’d never let them in.

    “But today’s ruling on the law has left policing in a hopeless position.

    “We now have no mechanism to rid the Met of officers who are not fit to hold vetting – those who cannot be trusted to work with women, or enter the homes of vulnerable people.

    “It is absurd that we cannot lawfully sack them – this would not be the case in other sectors where staff have nothing comparable to the powers a police officer holds.

    “This judgement is focussed on the human rights of Sgt Di Maria. But there are wider human rights at play here, those of the public, and those of colleagues who have to work alongside officers like this.

    “We are seeking leave to appeal the judgment, not just for the Met but for law enforcement nationally due to these profoundly damaging implications.

    “The judge identified a clear gap in the law, one we have done our best to bridge. But as the judge said, the answer lies in strengthened Police Vetting Regulations.

    “So in repeating the same request for two-and-a half-years, echoed by the Casey and Angiolini reports, I am once again calling on the Government today, to introduce new regulations as a matter of extreme urgency.

    “It is crucial they are practical, nimble and empowering. They must allow police forces to deal with those who pose risks to colleagues and of course to the public, and must apply to those we have already removed.

    “Finally, regardless of the current legal framework, the public of London have my assurance and that of my colleagues that Di Maria and those like him will not be policing the streets or working alongside other officers. They will remain on ‘vetting special leave’, a ridiculous waste of public money but the least bad option until regulations are fixed. “

    +++

    A judgment has been published in relation to a judicial review heard at the High Court between 15 and 16 January 2025.

    Sgt Lino Di Maria is a Met officer who during his police service has received allegations of rape, and other allegations about his conduct towards women.

    Under the Met’s ‘Operation Assure’ – a key part of our drive to raise standards and root out corruption – Di Maria’s vetting clearance was reviewed and, in light of the significant pattern of adverse information against him, his vetting was removed.

    Sgt Di Maria applied to the court for judicial review, challenging the lawfulness of the Met’s decision to remove his vetting and refer him to gross incompetence proceedings.

    He challenged the wider Operation Assure process which is the Met’s process, based on national guidance, to consider dismissing officers who can no longer pass vetting.

    The officer would have been dismissed many months ago but for this legal action, which is funded in support of him by the Police Federation.

    The College of Policing and Home Secretary were interested parties to the proceedings.

    The judgment has found in favour of Sgt Di Maria. It is published here: Di Maria -v- Met Police and others – Courts and Tribunals Judiciary

    Background

    Operation Assure

    In March 2023 the Met became the first police service in the UK to adopt a new process, based on College of Policing guidance and called Operation Assure, to consider dismissing officers and staff who can no longer pass vetting.

    It is unacceptable there has never been an explicit legal provision to enable sacking of officers who fail vetting reviews. Policing has asked for this loophole to be closed for more than 20 years. We have been promised for two-and-a-half years that changes will happen but little progress has been made.

    The regulations make it too hard to remove those few who undermine the majority. Our own analysis and that of Casey and Angiolini pointed to the need to ‘join the dots’ – using intelligence to spot patterns of behaviour to remove those who should not be in the job. This followed in the wake of significant cases such as Wayne Couzens and David Carrick.

    Operation Assure is a programme of prioritised vetting reviews for serving officers and staff where we hold significant adverse information that means we need to review their vetting clearance. In most cases this information has not previously led to a criminal conviction, and, in all cases, not dismissal from the Met.    

    Operation Assure provides a pathway for the Met to follow if an officer’s basic vetting clearance cannot be maintained. It can lead to that person being dismissed from the Met at a gross incompetence hearing – as their inability to hold vetting clearance makes them ‘incompetent’ to hold a role.

    There are hundreds of pages of guidance, law and regulations telling us at length how important vetting is and how it should be done. But these are far less clear on what to do if things change and an officer can no longer can be trusted to hold that vetting, nor how such an officer should be dismissed.

    We carefully interpreted the existing guidance and laws as best we could and we filled that gap in the public interest. Operation Assure was the right thing to do in circumstances when the law did not provide a clear way of doing this, and it was supported by the College of Policing. It was a risk, but the issue was too important to ignore and too urgent to wait – the public deserve better.

    Police officers are vetted when they join the Met, with vetting renewal every seven-10 years. The framework exists in the Vetting Approved Professional Practice – as set by the College of Policing.  The framework also says that vetting clearance should be reviewed upon ‘adverse information’.

    The majority of those subject to Assure have worrying patterns of behaviour, mainly allegations of sexual offending. They would not pass vetting if joining the police for the first time today.

    The primary pipeline for Operation Assure is Operation Onyx. The Operation Onyx team have reviewed completed domestic or sexual abuse cases against officers and staff for offences from the last 10 years (until April 2022) to ensure those cases were dealt with properly, and revisit them if not via Operation Assure.

    Operation Assure to date

    • More 300 officers and staff referred into the Assure process overall so far.
    • 107 officers/staff have had vetting withdrawn. 
    • 96 officers/staff have exited the Met (dismissals, retirements and resignations) while in the Op Assure process (including 19 who resigned before their gross incompetence hearing). 
    • This includes 24 officers/staff dismissed at gross incompetence hearing (or staff equivalent) for failure to maintain vetting.
    • Today, 29 officers and staff are in the Met having had their vetting removed and are on vetting special leave. Until the judgment today, 12 of those were due to attend a hearing soon where they may have been dismissed – others had appeals ongoing.
    • Approximately 100 officers and staff are at an earlier stage of the Assure process – perhaps at an early review stage, or awaiting their vetting interview or vetting decision.

    And:

    • 82 have had their vetting retained – which is important to note as it shows the process is fair and proportionate.
    • 7 successful appeals. 

    Examples

    • Officer received multiple rape and sexual assault allegations from a number of separate female complainants in 2011-2023. Under Op Assure, officer had vetting reviewed, removed and he was dismissed at a gross incompetence hearing. Criminal charges followed a year later, as further information came to light following his dismissal. This was the first officer we dismissed under Assure, in October 2023.
    • Officer had numerous domestic abuse allegations, including rape of ex-partner, and also had received two reports of sexual assault/harassment of colleagues. He had been reduced in rank to a PC in 2022 for a separate matter for misuse of his warrant card while off-duty. Under Op Assure, officer had vetting reviewed, removed and he was dismissed at a gross incompetence hearing.     
    • Officer committed indecent act on a train and pleaded guilty to outraging public decency – later received a final written warning. Under Op Assure, officer had vetting reviewed, removed and he was dismissed at a gross incompetence hearing. 
    • Following intelligence checks it was identified that a serving officer was arrested in the USA on charge of endangering welfare of child, having travelled there to meet a 13-year-old girl he had met online.  No criminal charges were brought but the intelligence was reconsidered as part of Assure. Officer resigned in May 2023 when he was told he was to have a vetting review.

    Judicial Review

    A Judicial Review took place at the High Court on 15/16 January between Met officer Sgt Lino Di Maria, supported by the Met Police Federation, and the Met Police supported by the College of Policing and the Home Office as interested parties.

    The Judicial Review challenged the legality of Operation Assure, and how it applied to Sgt Di Maria’s case.

    The multiple historic and serious allegations against Sgt Lina Di Maria, attached to forensics at Kentish Town, were outlined in the hearing.

    His vetting clearance was removed in Sept 2023 and his appeal against this dismissed. In March 2024 he was referred to a gross incompetence hearing due to having no vetting clearance. His particular case was paused pending the outcome of the JR.   

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Cloud emerged as a key driving force for TMT deal activity in 2024, finds GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Cloud emerged as a key driving force for TMT deal activity in 2024, finds GlobalData

    Posted in Strategic Intelligence

    Amidst the rising mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deal activity in the tech, media, and telecom (TMT) sector, the cloud has emerged as one of the dominant themes. However, persistent inflation, relatively high interest rates, regulatory scrutiny and geopolitical tensions have created a challenging backdrop for the M&A market in 2024. At the same time, the demand for cloud computing continues to surge as businesses seek greater scalability, agility, and operational efficiency, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “Global TMT M&A Deals 2024 – Top Themes and Predictions – Strategic Intelligence,” highlights that cloud-related deals totaled $61 billion in 2024, making it the second-largest theme among the top 100 deals and reflecting a 221% growth from the previous year. The total global TMT M&A deal value grew 27% in 2024 to $514 billion, compared to $403 billion in the previous year. Similar trends were seen in deal volume, which totaled 512 deals in 2024, and grew 14% from 2023.

    Priya Toppo, Analyst, Strategic Intelligence at GlobalData, comments: “In today’s fast-paced market, adopting cloud-based solutions is essential for maintaining a competitive edge, while those slow to adapt risk falling behind. To enhance cloud performance, companies have invested in AI-driven IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS solutions, alongside expanding hyperscale cloud infrastructure and edge AI capabilities.”

    The biggest cloud deal was Blackstone’s acquisition of AirTrunk for $16 billion. This deal was also the biggest in APAC (excluding China) region in 2024. It was followed by IBM’s acquisition of HashiCorp for $6.4 billion and Clearlake Capital Group and Insight Partners’s acquisition of Alteryx for $4.4 billion.

    Toppo continues: “A significant amount of M&A deal activity was driven by the application software sector in TMT, accounting for $253 billion across 230 deals. This was followed by the telecom services, IT services, music, film & TV, and gaming sectors.”

    By studying the themes that are currently driving the M&A market, the report also identifies potential future acquisition targets along with their thematic rationale.

    Toppo concludes: “Although the TMT sector saw growth in M&A activity in 2024, cloud deals played a crucial role, with major companies like Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and Oracle acquiring AI-native cloud firms, cybersecurity providers, and data analytics companies to strengthen their cloud ecosystems. marked by a substantial decline in both deal value and volume. The outlook for M&A activity in 2025 remains subdued; however, easing inflation and lower interest rates may lead to a gradual recovery.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Qatar Airways YouTube ads showcase innovation, strategic partnerships, and enhanced passenger experiences, reveals GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Qatar Airways YouTube ads showcase innovation, strategic partnerships, and enhanced passenger experiences, reveals GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    Qatar Airways’ YouTube advertising campaigns for the last six months (August 2024 to January 2025) focus on strategic collaborations, technological advancements, and enhancing passenger experiences. The airline leverages major global events, sports sponsorships and cutting-edge inflight technology to engage diverse audiences. By emphasizing seamless connectivity, luxury offerings, and exclusive partnerships, the campaigns appeal to sports enthusiasts, high-end travelers, and those seeking convenience. This approach reflects Qatar Airways’ commitment to elevating the travel experience and expanding its global presence, according to the Global Ads Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Sagar Kishor, Ads Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Qatar Airways’ advertising campaign highlights its strategy of leveraging partnerships with prominent events like Formula 1 and the UEFA Champions League, while also showcasing innovations such as Starlink Wi-Fi and ORYX ONE. The ads emphasized the airline’s focus on enhancing both in-flight and on-ground experiences, aiming to enhance global connectivity and cultural engagement. By showcasing diverse destinations and highlighting the potential for unique travel experiences, the campaign aims to inspire and appeal to those seeking meaningful adventures and a comprehensive journey.”

    Below are the key focus areas of Qatar Airways’ advertisements, revealed by GlobalData’s Global Ads Platform:

    Technological innovation: Qatar Airways consistently showcases its adoption of new technologies, including Starlink-powered Wi-Fi, which is described as offering “the fastest Wi-Fi in the sky.” The airline also highlights advancements in aircraft design and passenger comfort, such as the Qsuite 2.0, aiming to provide a seamless and connected travel experience.

    Strategic partnerships: The airline’s collaborations with prominent sporting events and organizations, such as Formula 1, the UEFA Champions League, and FIFA, are prominently featured. These partnerships are used to associate Qatar Airways with excitement, global reach, and high performance, increasing overall brand visibility.

    In-flight entertainment: The airline emphasizes its exclusive entertainment offerings, such as the “Pit Stop” series on ORYX ONE, showcasing high-quality in-flight content that enhances the overall passenger experience. This approach highlights Qatar Airways’ commitment to providing a comprehensive and enjoyable travel journey.

    Human connection and personalization: The “Cabin Crew Essentials” and “Star in Your Own Adventure” advertisements focus on relatable stories and individual experiences. This approach fosters a sense of connection with the audience, positioning Qatar Airways as an enabler of personal journeys and meaningful moments.

    Destination promotion and global reach: Qatar Airways’ ads highlight its global reach with seamless connections to over 170 destinations, showcasing cultural landmarks from Texas, Italy, and Qatar. This positions the airline as a gateway to enriching travel experiences, promoting tourism, cultural exploration, and major events.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: African telcos pivot to underserved regions amid Starlink competition, observes GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    African telcos pivot to underserved regions amid Starlink competition, observes GlobalData

    Posted in Technology

    As Starlink intensifies competitive pressures and African governments remain uncertain about intervening to protect telco incumbents, African telecom companies are increasingly focusing on underserved regions. In response, they are launching strategic initiatives to tackle the rising challenge of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity to maintain their market position and tap into new growth opportunities, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Recent tie-ups – including the Orange–Vodacom deal in Uganda for network deployment in rural areas; Safaricom partnering with local satellite operator ESD Kenya; ZainTech partnership with Arabsat covering North Africa; and Vodacom and MTN’s own desire to boost connectivity across their footprint via LEOs – point to this trend.

    Ismail Patel, Senior Analyst, Enterprise Technology and Services at GlobalData, says: “The rapid shift in focus by Africa’s telcos can largely be attributed to a confluence of factors, with Starlink being a key driver. These telcos are increasingly seeing unserved and underserved regions of the continent as opportunities rather than investment dead ends.”

    GlobalData analysis uncovered the existence of not only regulatory divergence in how to deal with Starlink, but also variation in Starlink’s attitudes to compliance with licensing or lack thereof in the wider MEA region. In Africa, some governments require it to be licensed, thus adopting a protectionist approach. Some are more hesitant to do so, ostensibly due to the potential of Starlink connectivity stimulating the economy in rural and underserved regions.

    Although its subscriber market share is small, Starlink is eating into the untapped revenue opportunities, with the potential of building up a loyal customer base. This represents a concern for the incumbents as Starlink builds up a base of higher-than-average revenue generating customers such as small office/home office (SOHOs) and small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), on top of connecting underserved populations that include thousands of micro-businesses.

    With Starlink promising to launch in 14 new markets across Africa in 2025, pressures on the traditional telco incumbents will only become starker and sharper, leading to more collaboration among themselves as well as with alternative LEOs.

    Patel concludes: “Starlink has undeniably changed the competitive field for connectivity, resulting in telcos scrambling for a piece of the rural greenfield opportunity that was neglected for a considerable time. The global LEO is competitive on pricing and offer a quality connection that has not been the norm for many in Africa. But not all is lost for the continent’s telco groups, as they can typically offer the type of tech-based services to SMBs that a global LEO cannot, such as – inter alia – improved supply chain management, e-health, adverse weather mitigation, mobile payments, and natural resource management.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Obesity market to reach $173.5 billion sales in 7MM by 2031, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Obesity market to reach $173.5 billion sales in 7MM by 2031, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Pharma

    The number of patients living with obesity keeps growing, and following the recent advances in the therapeutic space, more patients are being prescribed pharmacotherapy on top of the usual diet and exercise lifestyle changes, which by themselves are often unsuccessful. With physicians and patients awareness expected to increase, sales of obesity medications are forecast to reach $173.5 billion in the seven major markets (7MM*) by 2031, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report “Obesity: Seven-Market Drug Forecast and Market Analysis- Update” reveals that the revolution in obesity treatment is not over yet, and many changes are still needed to fulfill the unmet needs in the obesity space.

    Costanza Alciati, Pharma Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The therapies available for obesity treatment are still limited, and many patients cannot access them due to their high cost. The most effective weight loss drugs on the market are currently Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro/Zepbound (tirzepatide) and Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy (semaglutide), which are expected to continue generating high sales for their respective manufacturers.”

    According to GlobalData, more than 200 million people currently live with obesity in 7MM, and the numbers will be growing at an annual growth rate (AGR) of 0.7% until 2031.

    Alciati continues: “Although Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk are expected to maintain their role in the space, there is a big opportunity for new entrants. Pipeline therapies in development include drugs with new mechanisms of action, longer action resulting in a reduced number of treatment days, and oral candidates as potent as currently available injectables.”

    Alciati concludes: “Many promising new drugs are expected to reach the market in the next few years. This will not only continue revolutionizing the obesity space, but also the whole cardiometabolic diseases sector.”

    *7MM- US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, and Japan

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump’s ‘Riviera’ plan for Gaza heralds an age of naked fascism

    COMMENTARY: By Sawsan Madina

    I watched US President Donald Trump’s joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week in utter disbelief. Not that the idea, or indeed the practice, of ethnic cleansing of Palestine is new.

    But at that press conference the mask has fallen. Recently, fascism has been on the march everywhere, but that press conference seemed to herald an age of naked fascism.

    So the Palestinians have just been “unlucky” for decades.

    “Their lives have been made hell.” Thank God for grammar’s indirect speech. Their lives have been made hell. We do not know who made their lives hell. Nothing to see here.

    Trump says of Gaza: “We’ll own it and be responsible for dismantling all of the dangerous unexploded bombs and other weapons on the site, level the site, and get rid of the destroyed buildings — level it out and create an economic development that will supply unlimited numbers of jobs and housing for the people of the area . . . ”

    I wonder who are those lucky “people of the area” he has in mind, once those “unlucky” Palestinians have been “transferred” out of their homeland.

    Trump speaks of transforming Gaza into a magnificent “Riviera of the Middle East”. Obviously, the starved amputees of Gaza do not fit his image of the classy people he wants to see in the Riviera he wants to build, on stolen Palestinian land.

    No ethnic cleansing questions
    After the press conference, I did not hear a single question about ethnic cleansing, genocide, occupation or international law.

    Under the new fascist leaders, just like under the old ones, those words have become old-fashioned and are to be expunged from the lexicon.

    The difference has never been more striking between the meek who officially hold the title “journalist” and the brave who actually work to hold the powerful to account.

    Now, more than ever, independent journalists are a threatened species. We should treasure them, support them and protest every attempt to silence them.

    Gaza is now the prototype. We can forget international laws and international organisations. We have the bombs. You do as we wish or you will be obliterated.

    Who now dares say that the forced transfer of a population by an occupying power is a war crime under the Geneva Convention? But then again, Trump and Netanyahu are not really talking about “forced transfer”. They are talking about “voluntary transfer”.

    Once the remaining Israeli hostages have been freed, and water and food have been cut off again, those unlucky Palestinians will climb voluntarily onto the buses waiting to transport them to happiness and prosperity in Egypt and Jordan.

    Or to whatever other client state Trump manages to threaten or bribe.

    Can the International Criminal Court (ICC) command a shred of respect when Netanyahu is sharing the podium with Trump? Or indeed when Trump is at the podium?

    Dismantling the international order
    Recently, fascist leaders have been dismantling the international order by accusing its organisations and officials of being “antisemitic” or “working with terrorists”. Tomorrow they will defund and delegitimise these organisations without the need for an excuse.

    I listen to Trump speak of combatting antisemitism and deporting Hamas sympathisers and I hear, “We will combat anti-Israel views and we will deport those who protest Israel’s crimes.

    “And we will continue to conflate antisemitism and anti-Israel’s views in order to silence pro-Palestinian voices.”

    I watch Trump and Netanyahu, the former reading the thoughts of a real estate developer turned into a president’s speech and the latter grinning like a Cheshire cat — and I am gripped by fear. Not just for the Palestinians, but for all humanity.

    If we think fascism is only coming for people on a distant shore, we ought to think again.

    I watch Netanyahu repeating lies that investigative journalists have spent months debunking. Why would he care? The truth about his lies will not make it to mainstream media and the consciousness of the majority of people.

    Lies taking hold, enduring
    And the more he repeats those lies, the more they take hold and endure.

    I wonder how our political leaders will spin our allies’ new, illegal and immoral plans. For years, they have clung to the mantra of the two-state solution while Israel continued to make every effort to render this solution unfeasible.

    What will they say now? With what weasel words will they stay on the same page as our friends in the US and Israel?

    Netanyhu praises Trump for thinking outside the box. Here is an idea that Israel has spent billions on arms and propaganda to persuade people that it is dangerously outside the box.

    Instead of asking Egypt and Jordan to take the Palestinians, why not make Israel end the occupation and give Palestinians equal rights in their own homeland?

    Sawsan Madina is former head of Australia’s SBS Television. This article was first published by John Menadue’s public policy journal Pearls and Irritations and is republished with permission.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leased car park’s upper storey closed for safety reasons

    Source: St Albans City and District

    Publication date:

    The upper tier of a Harpenden car park – leased by St Albans City and District  Council – has been shut for safety reasons until further notice. 

    Around 100 spaces have been put out of action at Bowers Way West with some 60 spaces on the ground floor still available.

    The Council has been informed that a structural weakness had been identified during an inspection of the building which is owned by Edenrise Properties.

    Council officers are now waiting for an update from Edenrise about their future plans.

    Councillor Helen Campbell, Lead for Car Parking, said:

    This issue came as a bolt out of the blue and was completely unexpected.

    Sainsbury’s, who also lease some of the site, advised us about the issue and we had no option but to order the car park’s upper storey to be closed to ensure the safety of the public.

    It is most unfortunate news for Harpenden where demand for parking spaces is high.

    However, I am sure residents will understand that this issue is completely out of our control as we do not own the building or have responsibility for maintaining its structure, and safety needs to be the primary concern.

    Our car parking team has been at the scene and started discussions with Edenrise about the next steps. We will keep residents informed about any updates we receive.

    Bowers Way West season ticket holders will be allowed to use Bowers Way East, which has 148 spaces and three disabled bays, at no extra charge.

    The Council operates two other car parks in Harpenden with a further 532 spaces: Lydekker, which is owned by Harpenden Town Council, and Amenbury Lane.

    You can find out more about our car parks here: https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/car-parks-and-street-pay-and-display

    Media contact:  John McJannet, Principal Communications Officer: 01727- 819533; john.mcjannet@stalbans.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NW Mutual chooses Preston for retail and business customer banking

    Source: City of Preston

    Preston has been chosen as one of the locations for NW Mutual branches, offering a mutual bank service for retail and business customers in the North West.

    NW Mutual Ltd, the co-operative society behind pioneering plans for a mutual bank serving retail and business customers in the North West of England has revealed Preston as one of its locations for approximately 60 proposed branches spanning the region.

    Dave Burke, a highly experienced financial services executive with an extensive background in launching, building and managing regulated businesses, has been appointed as the chief executive of NW Mutual Ltd. Dave Burke said:

    “Our market research, supported by a large body of public research and information, shows a proven need and demand for a bank that’s trustworthy, democratic, ethical, deeply rooted in the North West and that enough people and businesses in the region would use to make it a great success.

    “The North West is more than capable and large enough to create and sustain a prosperous bank. When we achieve our goals, our mutual bank will recycle more than £900m of money from the North West back into the region.

    “This is serious money and it’s already here but it’s not. We want to stop it leaking out and heading south, north or east.”

    Having already registered NW Mutual Ltd with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), regulator of financial services firms and markets in the UK, David is preparing a banking licence application to submit to the Bank of England in late 2025.

    If the licence is granted by the Bank of England, the first bricks and mortar branch is planned to open in the third quarter of 2026, with a full roll-out proposed for the first quarter of 2027. So far, about £1m has been invested to build the systems and financial model of NW Mutual, prepare the banking license application and analyse its market.

    Following a decision by Preston City Council Members at full council in January, Preston City Council has committed £250,000 to NW Mutual Ltd becoming the first North West authority to pledge money to supporting the bank’s plans to date.

    Councillor Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council said:

    “For too long much of our mainstream banking system has failed to serve our communities and local businesses. Across the North West region more than half of our branches have disappeared in the last 10 years and small businesses especially struggle to secure the finance needed to expand.

    At Preston City Council we want to do something about that by directly investing in the NW Mutual as a viable cooperative and ethical alternative. We are delighted to hear plans for the first branch to open in Preston and market research shows the public would welcome this new model of banking owned by and run in the interest of local people.”

    The proposed ‘bricks, clicks and flicks’ business model of NW Mutual will deliver hi-tech and staffed branches, complemented by mobile and online banking, providing retail and small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) customers with a full range of financial products and services.

    Visit NW Mutual to learn more.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rouge Bouillon closure update06 February 2025 ​Timeline update: 28 Clarendon Road The owner of 28 Clarendon Road has been working with an engineering team and a Geotechnical Engineer, to take action to ensure the building is made safe and restored… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    06 February 2025

    ​

    Timeline update: 28 Clarendon Road 

    The owner of 28 Clarendon Road has been working with an engineering team and a Geotechnical Engineer, to take action to ensure the building is made safe and restored efficiently. 

    This highlights the complexity of the response needed to carry out the repairs, as investigations continue into the stability of the building, affected by a burst water main. 

    We want to thank the owner for working with all parties to come to the fastest possible resolution. 

    Next steps 

    • Step 1: Manufacture and install steel strapping system to stabilise the building. 
    • Step 2: Geotechnical Engineer to then assess soil conditions beneath the foundations. 
    • Step 3: The wider team can then proceed with necessary demolition of external structures, including boundary walls affecting neighbouring properties. 
    • Step 4: We continue to monitor progress and review timelines for the safe reopening of Rouge Bouillon, currently expected after the Easter holidays. 

    The project remains under constant review to ensure the best and safest outcome. 

    Rouge Bouillon continues to remain closed between Clarendon Road and Palmyra Road as investigations continue into the stability of an adjacent building wall, affected by a burst water main. 

    The Government of Jersey is monitoring and facilitating ongoing meetings held with all relevant stakeholders to ensure public safety. These include Highways, Network Management, Drainage, Building Control, Jersey Water, CYPES and other key parties, alongside property owners impacted by the issue. 

    Current status with investigatory and repair work 

    • private parties (residents and private owners) responsible for the affected buildings are undertaking detailed investigations and repair work, which are expected to take some time
    • the situation is highly complex with several adjacent walls and buildings that are unsafe and severely cracked 
    • multiple parties are involved, including Infrastructure and Environment, I&E, Jersey Water, structural engineers, building surveyors, loss adjustors, and insurance companies.

    Alternative routes and safety assurance 

    We have considered other options to manage the traffic around the closure however, the decision to retain the current traffic arrangement is based on the following factors: 

    • reversing Clarendon Road poses additional safety risks for residents and pedestrians 
    • allowing right-turn access onto Clarendon Road from Val Plaisant could cause severe traffic congestion, particularly near the Gyratory 
    • reversing Midvale Road, while potentially useful, would necessitate signal junction changes, creating confusion, complications, and further safety concerns. 

    We advise the traveling public to continue to avoid the area and use alternative routes to access town where possible. 

    Public impact 

    We understand that the closure has significant impacts on daily travel and local businesses. The road will only reopen once the buildings are stabilised and all risks of structural collapse have been mitigated. 

    Next steps 

    A further update on the situation will be provided in seven days. 

    Constable Simon Crowcroft of St Helier has previously said: “I fully understand the frustration and inconvenience that the ongoing closure of Rouge Bouillon is causing for residents, businesses, and commuters. This is a highly complex situation involving multiple parties, and ensuring the safety of everyone remains our priority. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the public as investigations and repair work continue. 

    “The Minister for Infrastructure and I wish to see the Ring Road re-opened as soon as possible. In the meantime, I urge Islanders to continue using alternative routes where possible, and I thank everyone for their understanding during this challenging period.”​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York celebrates National Apprenticeship Week

    Source: City of York

    National Apprenticeship Week

    Published Tuesday, 11 February 2025

    City of York Council is celebrating the value, benefits and opportunities apprenticeships bring to individuals and businesses during National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) this week [10-16 February].

    NAW will highlight how apprenticeships are an excellent option to consider for young people wishing to start a career, for employees looking to progress in their current role or retrain for a new career, or for employers needing to fill skills gaps to help grow their business.

    Numerous apprenticeship opportunities are available within York’s key and growth sectors including Hospitality, Engineering,  Health Care and Early Years.  

    Councillor Pete Kilbane, Deputy Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Economy and Culture, including Skills and Apprenticeships, said:

    Prioritising high quality skills and learning for all our residents is a key commitment of our Council Plan.

    “National Apprenticeship Week provides an opportunity for us all to celebrate our amazing apprentices in the city, as well as highlighting the fantastic advantages apprenticeships can bring for employees and employers.”

    City of York Council supports apprenticeships in York through its impartial Apprenticeship Hub, which offers information and advice to potential apprentices and local organisations, as well as through the Apprenticeship Levy Transfer scheme.

    The national scheme enables apprenticeship levy-paying employers to use a percentage of their levy to fully fund the apprenticeship training and assessment costs, from entry level to master’s degree level, for small to medium sized businesses in their area, helping connect them to their future workforce or boost productivity by upskilling existing teams.

    To date, the council has approved over £380,000 worth of apprenticeship levy transfer requests to support both new apprentice recruits and existing employees in York businesses to develop their skills.

    For free, impartial information emailyork.apprenticeships@york.gov.uk or visit www.york.gov.uk/yorkapprenticeships.

    For vacancies to go www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship and for information about T Levels got to tlevels.gov.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vegetable oil fuel rolls out to more bin lorries

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Following a successful trial of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) in several of its bin lorries, Perth and Kinross Council is now extending the use of the fuel to more of its large fleet vehicles.

    HVO is used, filtered vegetable oil and it provides an environmentally-friendly alternative to diesel that helps reduce carbon emissions from previously fossil-fuelled vehicles. As a result of the six-month trial in 2024, a significant reduction in carbon emissions from the six lorries has been achieved, namely a saving of` 87 tonnes of CO2. 

    Starting from 3 February 2025, the process of running down the diesel supply in a further 18 bin lorries based at Friarton in Perth and swapping to HVO is moving forward. It is estimated that a reduction of around 500 tonnes of CO2 a year could be achieved with the changeover. 

    Convener of Climate Change and Sustainability, Councillor Richard Watters said: “The trial introduction of HVO to our bin lorries has proved to be a real success by providing a simple, readily available and much greener fuel source. It reflects the commitment we have made to reducing our carbon footprint and I look forward to seeing more of our vehicles out on the road powered by HVO.” 

    Vice-Convener, Councillor Liz Barrett said: “I warmly welcome this very significant reduction in our CO2 emissions from refuse collection.  It shows great progress towards our targets to reduce emissions from Council vehicles.  I’d like to thank our Waste Management and Fleet teams for their commitment to making a difference.” 

    Last modified on 11 February 2025

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Help keep our city tidy

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    The Council is asking everyone to help keep our city tidy by using bins provided for litter and dog waste, or taking waste home with them, to avoid the risk of being issued with a fixed penalty notice (fine).

    City wardens are to be given support to help tackle dog fouling and littering following calls from citizens for increased action against offenders.
    Aberdeen City Council has entered into an agreement with National Enforcement Solutions (NES), which will be empowered to issue fixed penalty notices from Wednesday (12 February).

    “Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “We have heard the feedback from our residents and share the frustration about the problems caused by littering and dog fouling. Dog waste can be harmful, especially to young people. 

    Littering is unacceptable and unsightly. Litter pollutes the environment and is harmful to wildlife. We all share responsibility of looking after our city. It is important to dispose of refuse carefully to keep streets and open spaces clean and to avoid receiving a penalty notice.”  

    Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “The National Enforcement Solutions team will support our wardens – the message to the people of Aberdeen remains the same. Please look after our environment by picking up after your pets, and using the litter bins provided, or take your waste home.”

    The NES team, and City Wardens, will both use digital technology to issue on-the-spot fines for littering, and dog fouling. City Wardens can also issue on-the-stop fines for fly tipping offences. 

    Community Safety Officers will also be undertaking investigations where reports require more in-depth investigation.  

    Where notices are handed out, they will include information on the different methods of payment and dates by which they should be paid so these should be read carefully.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More Average Speed Enforcement cameras are on the way in Coventry

    Source: City of Coventry

    Coventry City Council is getting ready to extend the Average Speed Enforcement (ASE) network by introducing four more ASE camera locations.

    These measures come following evidence that ASE has been effective across the rest of the network in recent years in a bid to improve road safety and further crackdown on speeding. Data from Transport for West Midlands shows that ASE locations across Coventry have had a significant impact, contributing to more than a 40% reduction in personal injury collisions.

    Moseley Avenue and Four Pounds Avenue, Wheelwright Lane and Holbrook Lane, and Alderman’s Green Road, including Parrotts Grove are the four new ASE corridors approved as part of the Council’s transport capital programme in March 2024. It’s all part of making major routes safer for all road users.  

    We work closely with West Midlands Police, who operate and undertake the enforcement of speed limits and provide historical evidence of collisions resulting in casualties, as well as speed surveys, which indicate that speeding is an issue within the current speed limit area.

    The cameras are due to go live in March/ April time 2025. 

    Councillor Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services said: “These cameras are not being put in place to raise money, the purpose is to keep people safe and to reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads. We have shown with the other ASE schemes we have introduced across the city that these cameras work to reduce the severity and number of personal injuries.

    “Road safety is a priority for the council and drivers should be getting used to these schemes by now and realise how irresponsible speeding is unacceptable. Avoidable collisions caused by speed and driving dangerously affects many people, so anything done to reduce this is great news for all residents. Just by slowing down and being aware of all others around them will make the city safer for us all.”

    Signs will go up well ahead cameras being switched on to ensure drivers are aware of the go live date for each new zone. We will be installing the bright yellow ASE camera equipment on columns across the four new corridors over the coming weeks. The signs will state the message ‘Average speed enforcement starting soon’ on this road.

    Average Speed Cameras record the registration of a car and calculate its speed by measuring the time taken to travel between set points and are seen as an effective way of reducing speed, as they can cover a longer stretch of road compared to other cameras. Data will be collected over time to give accurate information around speed reduction, collisions and injuries and will show how increased speeds relate to increased serious collisions and injuries.  

    Tuesday, 11th February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –