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Category: Legal Issues

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms, Including Sawed-Off Shotgun, Lands Mustang Felon in Federal Prison for More Than Seven Years

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

    OKLAHOMA CITY – MICHAEL LOWELL BONJOUR, 39, of Mustang, has been sentenced to serve 87 months in federal prison for illegal possession of firearms after previous felony conviction, possession of stolen firearms, and possession of an unregistered firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    According to public record, Bonjour was arrested on state charges by officers with the El Reno Police Department in March 2024 when he was discovered to be in possession of a stolen firearm. Six months later, in September 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department arrested him after he was stopped driving a stolen vehicle and found to be in possession of three stolen firearms – including a sawed-off shotgun. 

    Prior to these arrests, Bonjour had been convicted of multiple felonies, including convictions in Canadian County District Court for bringing contraband into a jail/penal institution in case number CF-2023-232; possession of a stolen vehicle in case number CF-2023-298; and stalking in case number CF-2023-325, as well as a total of four misdemeanor convictions for violations of a protective order.

    On November 6, 2024, a federal grand jury charged Bonjour with being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of stolen firearms, and possession of an unregistered firearm.  On February 28, 2025, Bonjour pleaded guilty and admitted he knowingly possessed stolen firearms despite his previous felony convictions, and further admitted that one of the firearms was not properly registered to him despite its modified barrel.

    At a sentencing hearing on July 18, 2025, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Bonjour to serve 87 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the need to deter additional criminal conduct and to protect the public.

    This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Edmond Police Department, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the El Reno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Connolly prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. This case is also part of “Operation 922,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of PSN, which prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Bend Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Prison

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

    SOUTH BEND – Terrence Dockery, 33 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.

    Dockery was sentenced to 100 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, police conducted a traffic stop as Dockery was riding his moped on a late summer night in South Bend. Police found Dockery in possession of two guns and about 30 grams of methamphetamine. Dockery has multiple prior felony convictions, including convictions for dealing methamphetamine and arson, and as such, he is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Deportation tactics from 4 US presidents have done little to reduce the undocumented immigrant population

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Kevin Johnson, Dean and Professor of Public Interest Law and Chicana/o Studies, University of California, Davis

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents escort a detained immigrant into an elevator on June 17, 2025, in New York. AP Photo/Olga Fedorova

    All modern U.S. presidents, both Republican and Democratic, have attempted to reduce the population of millions of undocumented immigrants. But their various strategies have not had significant results, with the population hovering around 11 million from 2005 to 2022.

    President Donald Trump seeks to change that.

    With harsh rhetoric that has sowed fear in immigrant communities, and policies that ignore immigrants’ due process rights, Trump has pursued deportation tactics that differ dramatically from those of any other modern U.S. president.

    As a scholar who examines the history of U.S. immigration law and enforcement, I believe that it remains far from clear whether the Trump White House will significantly reduce the undocumented population. But even if the administration’s efforts fail, the fear and damage to the U.S. immigrant community will remain.

    Presidents Bush and Obama

    To increase deportations, in 2006 President George W. Bush began using workplace raids. Among these sweeps was the then-largest immigration workplace operation in U.S. history at a meat processing plant in Postville, Iowa in 2008.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement deployed 900 agents in Postville and arrested 398 employees, 98% of whom were Latino. They were chained together and arraigned in groups of 10 for felony criminal charges of aggravated identity theft, document fraud and use of stolen Social Security numbers. Some 300 were convicted, and 297 of them served jail sentences before being deported.

    Men wait in a holding cell on June 21, 2006, in Nogales, Arizona.
    Spencer Platt/Getty Images

    In 2008, Bush also initiated Secure Communities, a policy that sought to deport noncitizens – both lawful permanent residents as well as undocumented immigrants – who had been arrested for crimes. Some 2 million immigrants were deported during Bush’s two terms in office.

    The Obama administration limited Secure Communities to focus on the removal of noncitizens convicted of felonies. It deported a record 400,000 noncitizens in fiscal year 2013, which led detractors to refer to President Barack Obama as the “Deporter in Chief.”

    Obama also targeted recent entrants and national security threats and pursued criminal prosecutions for illegal reentry to the U.S. Almost all of these policies built on Bush’s, although Obama virtually abandoned workplace raids.

    Despite these enforcement measures, Obama also initiated Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, in 2012. The policy provided relief from deportation and gave work authorization to more than 500,000 undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as children.

    Obama deported about 3 million noncitizens, but the size of the undocumented population did not decrease dramatically.

    The first Trump administration and Biden

    Trump’s first administration broke new immigration enforcement ground in several ways.

    He began his presidency by issuing what was called a “Muslim ban” to restrict the entry into the U.S. of noncitizens from predominantly Muslim nations.

    Early in Trump’s first administration, federal agents expanded immigration operations to include raids at courthouses, which previously had been off-limits.

    In 2017, Trump tried to rescind DACA, but the Supreme Court rejected Trump’s effort in 2020.

    In 2019, Trump implemented the Remain in Mexico policy that for the first time forced noncitizens who came to the U.S. border seeking asylum to wait in Mexico while their claims were being decided. He also invoked Title 42 in 2020 to close U.S. borders during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Trump succeeded in reducing legal immigration numbers during his first term. However, there is no evidence that his enforcement policies reduced the size of the overall undocumented population.

    President Joe Biden sought to relax – although not abandon – some immigration enforcement measures implemented during Trump’s first term.

    His administration slowed construction of the border wall championed by Trump. Biden also stopped workplace raids in 2021, and in 2023, he ended Title 42.

    In 2023, Biden sought to respond to migration surges in a measured fashion, by temporarily closing ports of entry and increasing arrests.

    In attempting to enforce the borders, his administration at times pursued tough measures. Biden continued deportation efforts directed at criminal noncitizens. Immigrant rights groups criticized his administration when armed Border Patrol officers on horseback were videotaped chasing Haitian migrants on the U.S.-Mexico border.

    As of 2022, the middle of the Biden’s term, an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants lived in the U.S.

    Immigration-rights activists stage a rally outside President Barack Obama’s Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee fundraiser in Los Angeles, after the president signed a bill that tightened security at the Mexico border in August 2010.
    Mark Ralston/AFP via Getty Images

    A second chance

    Since his second inauguration, Trump has pursued a mass deportation campaign through executive orders that are unprecedented in their scope.

    In January 2025, he announced an expanded, expedited removal process for any noncitizen apprehended anywhere in the country – not just the border region, as had been U.S. practice since 1996.

    In March, Trump issued a presidential proclamation to deport Venezuelan nationals who were members of the Tren de Aragua gang, designated a foreign terrorist organization by the State Department. In doing so, he invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 – an act used three times in U.S. history during declared wars that empowers presidents to remove foreign nationals from countries at war with the U.S.

    Declaring an “invasion” of migrants into the U.S. in June, Trump deployed the military to assist in immigration enforcement in Los Angeles.

    Trump also sought to dramatically upend birthright citizenship, the Constitutional provision that guarantees citizenship to any person born in the U.S. He issued an executive order in January that would bar citizenship to people born in the U.S. to undocumented parents.

    California National Guard members stand in formation during a protest in Los Angeles on June 14, 2025.
    David Pashaee/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

    The birthright executive order has been challenged in federal court and is mostly likely working its way up to the Supreme Court.

    Under the second Trump administration, immigration arrests are up, but actual deportation numbers are in flux.

    ICE in June arrested the most people in a month in at least five years, roughly 30,000 immigrants. But deportations of noncitizens – roughly 18,000 – lagged behind those during the Obama administration’s record-setting year of 2013 in which more than 400,000 noncitizens were deported.

    The gap between arrests and deportations shows the challenges the Trump administration faces in making good on his promised mass deportation campaign.

    Undocumented immigrants often come to the U.S. to work or seek safety from natural disasters and mass violence.

    These issues have not been seriously addressed by any modern U.S. president. Until it is, we can expect the undocumented population to remain in the millions.

    Kevin Johnson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Deportation tactics from 4 US presidents have done little to reduce the undocumented immigrant population – https://theconversation.com/deportation-tactics-from-4-us-presidents-have-done-little-to-reduce-the-undocumented-immigrant-population-261640

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Sahel Region: African Union Appoints Special Envoy

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    The African Union’s (AU) appointment of Burundi’s president as its special envoy for the Sahel region strengthens the AU’s capacity to address the most pressing human rights challenges facing Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, Human Rights Watch said today in a letter to President Evariste Ndayishimiye. 

    The appointment of Ndayishimiye on July 17, 2025, comes at a critical juncture in the Sahel, marked by increased threats to civilians caught in armed conflict, emboldened authoritarianism of the military juntas, and growing marginalization of independent institutions, including the AU and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). These dynamics have eroded the rule of law, widened impunity for serious human rights abuses, and left civilians increasingly vulnerable.

    “Despite Burundi’s very troubling human rights record, President Ndayishimiye has an opportunity to promote human rights and rights-based governance in the Sahel,” said Allan Ngari, Africa advocacy director at Human Rights Watch. “A failure to do so would signal a dangerous tolerance for authoritarianism under the guise of diplomacy.” 

    Ndayishimiye should make respect for human rights and the rule of law prominent in the AU’s approach to the Sahel and address the following major concerns:

    Islamist armed groups and government security forces continue to commit serious violations of international humanitarian law, including war crimes and possible crimes against humanity. As of mid-2025, the armed conflicts in the Sahel had killed at least tens of thousands of civilians, resulting in one of the world’s most acute humanitarian crises, forcing over three million people from their homes. 

    Since 2020, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have experienced military coups. The ruling military juntas have shown intolerance for political opposition and dissent. Civic and political space has shrunk as a crackdown on journalists, civil society activists, and opposition party members has increased, through arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and unlawful conscription. The military leaders of the three countries have solidified their power without elections, delaying the return to democratic civilian rule. 

    The authorities in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have ignored calls for accountability and failed to uphold their international legal obligations to investigate serious rights violations by their security forces, and hold those responsible accountable, allowing impunity to fester and emboldening the abusers. In 2025, the three countries officially left ECOWAS, depriving their citizens of the opportunity to seek justice for human rights violations through the ECOWAS Court of Justice.

    “The AU special envoy should open a meaningful dialogue with the authorities of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger on their governments’ obligations to protect human rights,” Ngari said. “He should ensure that the AU’s strategy on the Sahel prioritizes the protection of civilians at risk, the need to respect civil and political rights, and the promotion of justice and accountability.”

    – on behalf of Human Rights Watch (HRW).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Crime cutting courts to target prolific offending hotspots

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Crime cutting courts to target prolific offending hotspots

    Communities blighted by prolific offenders will be better protected as part of an expansion of revolutionary new courts aimed at cutting less serious crime.

    • Tough Texas-style courts to be rolled out across the country
    • Less serious offenders to be strictly monitored by judges or risk returning to prison
    • New sites to target communities tormented by prolific offending and make streets safer, as part of Plan for Change

    The expansion of the Intensive Supervision Courts – which are based on tough Texas-style punishment – builds on Plans for Change aims to tackle the root causes of criminal behaviour and slash reoffending.  

    This will see offenders found guilty of committing crimes such as theft while facing issues like addiction or trauma attend necessary treatments and regularly appear before the same judge who can track their behaviour. Those who fail to attend will face tough consequences including time in prison.

    This crime-cutting model, will target communities tormented by prolific offending and will combine strict judicial oversight with tailored support, led by the Probation Service.  

    These tough community sentences have seen positive results in reducing reoffending across the world, with countries using this model seeing further arrests cut by a third compared to people on a standard sentence. 

    The announcement follows the Lord Chancellor’s record £700m investment in the Probation Service and is the first measure to be rolled out by the Government in response to David Gauke’s Independent Sentencing Review, which recommended further use of the crime cutting courts.  

    The Lord Chancellor and former Justice Secretary David Gauke visited Texas in February to see first-hand how its expansion of problem-solving courts had helped drive a significant reduction in the prison estate and a 25% drop in drug charges over a 15-year period.

    Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending Minister, Lord Timpson said:  

    Drug and alcohol addiction fuels much of the crime we see, and we won’t cut crime until repeat offenders face up to their behaviour.   

    Intensive Supervision Courts demand more than a short prison stay; they demand real work. As part of our Plan for Change, we are increasing the number of these courts, which will see prolific offenders doing the hard work to turn their lives around under vigorous supervision and held accountable for their actions.

    The expansion builds on the success of four existing pilots, in Birmingham, Bristol, Liverpool and Teesside which have seen more than 200 offenders receive tough supervision in a bid to help them leave behind a life of crime.

    A recent evaluation of the pilot scheme showed offenders with significant addiction issues received a clean drug test two-thirds of the time and were only sanctioned for bad behaviour less than a quarter of the time, clear evidence that the model is working.  

    Additionally, probation staff, the judiciary and local services like drug treatment providers have reported that offenders’ drug and alcohol use has reduced and those requiring help with their mental health were now receiving the right support to help cut their offending.

    Commenting on the expansion, Pavan Dhaliwal, Chief Executive of Revolving Doors said:  

    Intensive Supervision Courts offer the opportunity to tackle the unmet health and social needs that trap people in the revolving door of reoffending and instead divert people into the support they need.  

    There is promising evidence of such success in the existing pilot areas, so a further expansion of ISCs is a welcome step towards the wraparound support which is key to tackling the root causes of offending and breaking the cycle of crisis and crime.

    Revolving Doors is a national charity dedicated to breaking the cycle of crime, they carried out an evaluation report on Intensive Supervision Courts. 

    The £700 million pledge for the Probation Service, an almost 45% increase in funding, will support the expansion of these courts and see tens of thousands more offenders can be tagged and monitored in the community.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Belt-Road forum held in Beijing

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, the National Development & Reform Commission (NDRC) and relevant central ministries held the eighth Joint Conference on Advancing Hong Kong’s Full Participation in & Contribution to the Belt & Road Initiative in Beijing today.

    NDRC Vice Chairman Zhou Haibing attended the conference, together with representatives from the commission, the Hong Kong & Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the State-owned Assets Supervision & Administration Commission of the State Council, and the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong SAR.

    Secretary for Justice Paul Lam, in his capacity as chairperson of the Working Group on Belt & Road Development under the Steering Group on Integration into National Development, led Hong Kong officials to attend the conference.

    He pointed out that the Hong Kong SAR Government has been taking forward Belt-Road collaboration to go deeper and deliver outcomes, fully participating in and contributing to the initiative under the guidance of the major steps the country has taken to support high-quality co-operation, so as to facilitate Hong Kong’s integration into overall national development.

    With the country’s support, Hong Kong will deepen international exchanges and actively utilise its advantages to exert a greater role in the nation’s high-level opening up to the world, Mr Lam added.

    The justice chief also said the Hong Kong SAR Government is exploring emerging markets such as the Middle East, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other Belt & Road countries, while making full use of the city’s professional services, thereby building it as a gateway between the country and the world.

    He expressed gratitude to the central government for the staunch support of hosting the International Organization for Mediation headquarters in Hong Kong, which will strengthen its roles as an international dispute resolution services centre and a hub for international mediation.

    Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau, who was also at the conference, noted that the Hong Kong SAR Government will fully capitalise on the 10th Belt & Road Summit to showcase the city’s roles as an active participant and the premier platform to the Mainland and overseas.

    At the meeting, Mr Yau reported on Hong Kong’s progress in carrying out Belt & Road work, including the ongoing pursuit of Hong Kong’s early accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, pursuit of early conclusion of ongoing negotiations for free trade and investment agreements, and more.

    Today’s session also covered the work proposals on further promoting the Belt & Road Initiative put forward for consideration by central ministries. Relevant Mainland ministries introduced their work in supporting Hong Kong’s participation in and contribution to the initiative and provided feedback on the work proposals. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: WATCH: Phone thieves arrested within minutes of targeting store in the West End

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met officers arrested three men within minutes of a burglary at a phone shop in the West End.

    We were called at 19:17hrs on Thursday, 24 July to reports of a burglary at the O2 store in Tottenham Court Road.

    Officers responded quickly and detained the suspects nearby in Cranleigh Street. They were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and taken into custody where they remain.

    The men, aged 25, 24 and 18, reportedly entered the store wearing balaclavas and were reported to have stolen around 100 iPhones and a number of Apple Watches with an estimated value of £100,000.

    These were recovered from a car stopped by officers. A large machete was also found.

    Chief Superintendent Jason Stewart, responsible for policing in Camden, said:

    “We know people are concerned about crime in the West End and these arrests are just one example of the hard work officers are doing every day to proactively target offenders and make the area safer.

    “We’re working closely with businesses to focus on tackling the crimes that cause a misery to the lives of their staff, as well as residents and visitors.

    “Across London we’re arresting 1,000s more criminals each month, neighbourhood crime is down 19 per cent and we’ve solved 163 per cent more shoplifting cases this year.

    “Through precise community crimefighting we will continue to focus our resources and bear down on prolific offenders and criminal gangs.”

    Last month the Met arrested 10 men as part of a separate investigation into robberies at phone shops in London and across the south of England.

    Flying Squad detectives worked to identify an organised crime group believed to be behind 13 robberies between February and early June.

    The Met’s relentless focus on driving down crimes that matter most to the public in first six weeks of this financial year has seen promising reductions in a number of crime types compared to the same period last year across London:

    • Knife crime – down by 18.1 per cent
    • Residential burglary – down by 17.7 per cent
    • Theft from the person – down by 15.6 per cent
    • Personal robbery – down by 12.8 per cent
    • Shoplifting – solved 163 per cent more cases this year than in the same period as last year

    Get the latest updates from Met neighbourhood officers straight to your inbox.

    Met Engage is a free messaging service that keeps you connected to what’s happening in your area. Whether its crime updates, safety advice, or news from your local policing team, you’ll get the information that matters to you — when it matters most.

    By signing up here, you’ll join thousands of others who are already receiving trusted updates from their local police.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Musicians and elite athletes to unite on stage to present imaginative performance “Sounds of Sports” (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The International Arts Carnival (IAC), organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, will present an innovative performance, “Sounds of Sports”, in early August. Led by acclaimed pianist Phoebus Chan, this unique production lines up a stellar cast of Hong Kong musicians and elite athletes to deliver a highly creative and playful show that will transform the concert hall into a dynamic sports arena and blend music and sports in an exciting fusion.
     
         In this specially arranged music production, audiences will have an exciting face-to-face encounter with a Hong Kong table tennis star and experience the lightning-fast pace of rugby passes, feeling as if they are right on the field. Meanwhile, with the guidance of musicians, the audience will learn how to officiate fencing matches and gain insights into the techniques of Hong Kong’s fencing heroes. Chan will take on a high-level challenge by running at high speed while performing the theme song of “Mission: Impossible” on the piano. Together they will conjure a delightful show filled with laughter and excitement, which should not be missed.
     
         The production features an exceptional lineup of musicians, including pianist Chan, erhu musician Chan Pik-sum, jazz drummer Lawrence Tsui, cellist Pun Chak-yin and shakuhachi player Sunny Yeung. They will collaborate with elite athletes, namely karate experts Lee Chun-ho and Hinx Tang, rugby player Salom Yiu, fencer Lawrence Ng, table tennis player Venus Ng, and wushu athletes Kwan Ning-wai and Lau Po-yan. Together they will interpret the unique charm of various sports through vivid music.
     
         “Sounds of Sports” will be staged at 3pm on August 2 and 3 at the Tsuen Wan Town Hall Auditorium. Tickets priced at $160, $240 and $300 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288, or use the mobile ticketing app “URBTIX”.
     
         For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2370 1044 or visit the IAC website (www.hkiac.gov.hk).
     
         This year’s IAC will run from July 11 to August 17, featuring a wide array of fun-filled educational programmes by overseas, Mainland and local art groups and artists. In addition to martial arts, acrobatics, dance, music, theatre and multimedia, the IAC will also offer film screenings, parent-child workshops, an online programme, an outreach performance and an exhibition.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Home and Youth Affairs Bureau announces second-term service arrangements for District Services and Community Care Teams

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    As the first-term service agreements for the District Services and Community Care Teams are coming to an end between late September and mid-October 2025, after reviewing the Care Teams’ service outcomes and resource utilisation, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) today (July 25) announced the arrangements for the services in the second term of the Care Teams.

    Since the full launch in the third quarter of 2023, Care Teams have been providing caring services to residents in various sub-districts in accordance with their service agreements. As a key component of the Government’s efforts to enhance district governance, Care Teams, together with the District Councils and the “three district committees”, form a well-defined and synergistic “troika” governance structure. By consolidating community resources, Care Teams deliver diversified caring and support services to enhance people’s sense of well-being and fulfilment, while continuously strengthening the collaboration mechanism with the District Councils and the “three district committees” to comprehensively enhance service effectiveness through co-ordinated efforts.

    The Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs (SHYA), Miss Alice Mak, said, “Care Teams in all sub-districts have nearly completed their services in accordance with the key performance indicators (KPIs). Some teams have even exceeded the requirements. In terms of resource utilisation, Care Teams adhere to the principle of making optimal use of community and government resources, consolidating community efforts to promote diverse caring services and activities. We are confident that all 452 Care Teams will meet or even surpass the KPIs by the end of the first-term service period.”

    Miss Mak added, “Care Teams have established a solid service foundation in the community. The second-term services will be optimised in three key directions: seamless continuity, tailored to district needs, and deeper and broader services. To ensure uninterrupted services and leverage the established service networks from the first term, the Government will invite the current operating organisations to consider continuing their services in the sub-districts.”

    Miss Mak continued, “The HYAB has assessed the service coverage and demographic changes in each sub-district and will make appropriate refinements to the service boundaries. Sha Ta (North District), due to its extensive coverage, will be split into two sub-districts to enhance service efficiency. Meanwhile, Sheung Shui Rural (North District) and Hang Hau West (Sai Kung District) will each add a new team in response to continued population growth. In addition, the boundaries of six sub-district clusters will be fine-tuned to better align services with local needs. With these adjustments, the total number of Care Teams will increase from 452 to 455.”

    Miss Mak noted, “The Government expects Care Teams to fully utilise the additional resources to deepen and broaden their services. The Home Affairs Department will work closely with relevant government departments to provide training for Care Team members and volunteers, covering practical skills such as emergency response, communication skills and health support, enabling them to better equip themselves to serve and care for the community.”

    District Offices will first invite existing operating organisations to submit proposed project plans for the second term. For the three new sub-districts and any individual teams unable to continue their services for various reasons, District Offices will invite the previously shortlisted organisations to submit proposals. All proposed project plans and related forms must reach the respective District Offices by August 15, 2025 (Friday).

    The proposed project plans will be reviewed by the District Assessment and Coordinating Panels on Care Teams led by the District Officers. The results will then be submitted to the Territory-wide Assessment and Steering Group on Care Teams chaired by the SHYA for final approval.
    ​
    As announced by the Chief Executive in the 2024 Policy Address, the Government will regularise Care Teams and increase funding by 50 per cent in the next term of service in support of their work. By the end of the second quarter of 2025, Care Teams have visited about 530 000 elderly households and other households in need, provided about 76 000 times of basic home or other support services, and organised about 38 000 district-level activities. The performance of Care Teams has been witnessed by the community. During emergencies and incidents (including the fire at New Lucky House in Jordan, the massive power cut in Wong Tai Sin, and the emergency water outage in Tung Chung), Care Teams have swiftly mobilised members and volunteers to attend to the needs of affected individuals and provide them with appropriate assistance. Care Teams have also achieved remarkable results in assisting in policy promotion, including collaboration with the Police to promote anti-fraud messages and supporting the Department of Health in disseminating messages about disease prevention.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Eighth Joint Conference on Advancing Hong Kong’s Full Participation in and Contribution to Belt and Road Initiative held in Beijing (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and relevant central ministries held the eighth Joint Conference on Advancing Hong Kong’s Full Participation in and Contribution to the Belt and Road Initiative (B&RI) in Beijing today (July 25).
     
         Vice Chairman of the NDRC Mr Zhou Haibing attended the conference with Mainland officials led by him, including representatives from the NDRC, the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, the Supreme People’s Court, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Transport, the People’s Bank of China, the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, the National Financial Regulatory Administration, and the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR.
     
         The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, in his capacity as chairperson of the Working Group on Belt and Road (B&R) Development under the Steering Group on Integration into National Development, led HKSAR Government officials to attend the conference. They included the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, who was also the Hong Kong-side Convenor of the Joint Conference, and representatives from the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB), the Department of Justice, the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, the Development Bureau, the Environment and Ecology Bureau, the Belt and Road Office of the CEDB, and the Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing. The Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Professor Frederick Ma, and a representative from the Airport Authority Hong Kong also attended the meeting.
     
         Mr Lam said that the HKSAR Government has been taking forward B&R co-operation to go deeper and deliver outcomes, thereby fully participating in and contributing to the B&RI under the continued guidance of the eight major steps the country has been taking to support high-quality B&R co-operation, with a view to facilitating Hong Kong’s active integration into overall national development. With the country’s support, Hong Kong will continue to deepen international exchanges and co-operation and will actively utilise its own advantages to exert a greater role in the country’s high-level opening up to the world.
     
         He pointed out that over the past year, the HKSAR Government has actively served as a proponent for institutional openness through Hong Kong’s strengths as a platform for two-way opening up; a pioneer for co-operation in new fields through strengths in education, science and technology and talent; and a facilitator for people-to-people bonds through strengths as a melting pot of diversified cultures. The HKSAR Government has been exploring emerging markets such as the Middle East, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other B&R countries, while making full use of Hong Kong’s professional services aligned with international standards, thereby building Hong Kong as the gateway between the country and the world and highlighting Hong Kong’s role as the premier B&R functional platform. He expressed gratitude to the Central Government for the staunch support of hosting the International Organization for Mediation headquarters in Hong Kong, which will help strengthen Hong Kong’s roles as an international dispute resolution services centre and a capital for international mediation.
     
         Mr Yau stated in the meeting that the HKSAR Government will fully capitalise on the 10th Belt and Road Summit to showcase Hong Kong’s important roles as an active participant and the premier B&R functional platform to the Mainland and overseas. He reported on Hong Kong’s progress in carrying out B&R work, including the CEDB’s ongoing pursuit of the early accession of Hong Kong to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the pursuit of early conclusion of ongoing negotiations for free trade and investment agreements, and actively following up on the plan to establish Economic and Trade Offices in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to fully take forward the economic and trade relations between Hong Kong and B&R countries.
     
         The meeting also focused its discussion on the seven work proposals on further promoting the B&RI that the HKSAR Government put forward for consideration by central ministries, covering capacity building, deepening exchanges and co-operations with B&R countries, legal and dispute resolution services, cross-boundary financing, and the expansion of international co-operation and ties in innovation and technology. Representatives of relevant Joint Conference Mainland ministries introduced their respective work in supporting Hong Kong’s participation in and contribution to the B&RI and provided feedback on the HKSAR Government’s work proposals. The HKSAR Government is grateful for the support expressed by relevant central ministries at the meeting on various work proposals and will actively follow up with them.
     
         In addition, the meeting noted the HKSAR Government’s key areas and major work in its future participation and contribution to the B&RI, including leveraging Hong Kong’s role as a B&R functional platform to explore business opportunities and facilitating business matching and participation in B&R projects. The HKSAR Government will continue to consolidate Hong Kong’s unique advantage of connecting with the Mainland and the rest of the world under “one country, two systems”, seize the enormous opportunities brought about by national development, strengthen and deepen exchanges and co-operations with B&R countries, and give full play to its role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”.
     
         The Arrangement between the NDRC and the HKSAR Government for Advancing Hong Kong’s Full Participation in and Contribution to the B&RI, signed between the HKSAR Government and the NDRC in 2017, provides the direction and a blueprint for Hong Kong’s full participation in and contribution to the B&RI, as well as sets up the Joint Conference mechanism to discuss relevant matters, with meetings convened at least once a year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ambow Launches HybriU Global Learning Network, Connecting U.S. Universities with Students Worldwide

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New Phygital Infrastructure Empowers U.S. Universities to Expand Globally Through AI-powered Hybrid Classrooms     

    CUPERTINO, Calif., July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ambow Education Holding Ltd. (NYSE American: AMBO), a U.S.-based innovator of AI-powered phygital (physical + digital) solutions for education, corporate collaboration and live events, today announced the launch of its HybriU Global Learning Network (HGLN), a two-pronged initiative designed to help U.S. universities scale international enrollment and deliver immersive, borderless education.

    Ambow’s HGLN initiative integrates two core components: the HybriU University Alliance and a network of HybriU Global Learning Centers. Together, these form a comprehensive system that allows U.S. institutions to extend in-person classroom experiences to international students while providing localized academic and enrollment support to preserve the quality and rigor of individual institutions’ on-campus instruction.

    Through the HybriU University Alliance, U.S. universities can enroll international students who can begin earning credit immediately, without requiring travel or visas, by using Ambow’s HybriU phygital (physical + digital) learning platform. This next-generation system delivers an immersive remote classroom experience that bridges the gap between in-person and online instruction. Students engage in real-time with U.S. faculty through AI-powered digital classrooms featuring live instruction, adaptive learning tools, immersive 3D environments, and automatic real-time translation.     

    HybriU Global Learning Centers support the University Alliance with tech-enabled international hubs. On-site teams staff each center, providing hybrid learning support, academic services, and regional enrollment infrastructure. These centers help universities maintain visibility and continuity across borders while extending their global reach.

    “The future of education is one without boundaries—no boundaries between online and on-site, no boundaries between languages and regions, no boundaries between academia and industry,” said Dr. Jin Huang, CEO of Ambow Education. “Why should students keep chasing campuses when campuses can reach students anywhere? Why let visas, geography or cost block access to world-class education? HybriU and our HGLN initiative are changing the face of global education. We’re redefining what international learning looks like––it’s flexible, inclusive and built to scale. We envision a world where every university has a teaching presence wherever its students are. HGLN offers a future-ready model for global enrollment that institutions need to lead in the next era of education.”

    As part of Ambow’s long-term vision, HGLN aims to create a truly global learning ecosystem—seamlessly linking students, universities and regional hubs through the HybriU platform to unlock worldwide access to higher education. By removing physical and bureaucratic barriers to international learning, HGLN enables universities to preserve growth momentum, deepen global collaboration and reach students in new and accessible ways.

    The HGLN’s partner-driven model enables universities to scale globally without building new infrastructure. Institutions can license the HybriU platform or enter revenue-sharing partnerships, while Ambow’s regional operators handle implementation and on-ground support. Initial HybriU Global Learning Centers are being established in Singapore and China, key strategic regions for U.S. higher education growth.

    Ambow invites accredited U.S. universities to join its HybriU University Alliance and establish a presence through its Global Learning Center network. HGLN is built to scale, with local support teams, shared infrastructure and a growing footprint across Asia and beyond.

    If your institution is interested in joining the HybriU University Alliance to expand international enrollment and global reach, we invite you to contact us at UPartner@HybriU.com .

    For global organizations exploring partnership opportunities to establish a HybriU Global Learning Center, we welcome your inquiries at GLC@HybriU.com.

    To learn more about HybriU, please visit www.HybriU.com.

    About Ambow

    Ambow Education Holding Ltd. is a U.S.-based, AI-driven technology company offering phygital (physical + digital) solutions for education, corporate conferencing and live events. Through its flagship platform, HybriU, Ambow is shaping the future of learning, collaboration and communication—delivering immersive, intelligent, real-time experiences across industries. For more information, visit Ambow’s corporate website at https://www.ambow.com/.

    Follow us on X: @Ambow_Education
    Follow us on LinkedIn: Ambow-education-group

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements of a forward-looking nature. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these forward-looking statements by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “estimates” and similar statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about Ambow and the industry. All information provided in this press release is as of the date hereof, and Ambow undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although Ambow believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that its expectations will turn out to be correct, and investors are cautioned that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results.

    For more information, please contact:

    Ambow Education Holding Ltd.
    E-mail: ir@ambow.com
    or
    Piacente Financial Communications
    Tel: +1 212 481 2050
    E-mail: ambow@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ambow Launches HybriU Global Learning Network, Connecting U.S. Universities with Students Worldwide

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New Phygital Infrastructure Empowers U.S. Universities to Expand Globally Through AI-powered Hybrid Classrooms     

    CUPERTINO, Calif., July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ambow Education Holding Ltd. (NYSE American: AMBO), a U.S.-based innovator of AI-powered phygital (physical + digital) solutions for education, corporate collaboration and live events, today announced the launch of its HybriU Global Learning Network (HGLN), a two-pronged initiative designed to help U.S. universities scale international enrollment and deliver immersive, borderless education.

    Ambow’s HGLN initiative integrates two core components: the HybriU University Alliance and a network of HybriU Global Learning Centers. Together, these form a comprehensive system that allows U.S. institutions to extend in-person classroom experiences to international students while providing localized academic and enrollment support to preserve the quality and rigor of individual institutions’ on-campus instruction.

    Through the HybriU University Alliance, U.S. universities can enroll international students who can begin earning credit immediately, without requiring travel or visas, by using Ambow’s HybriU phygital (physical + digital) learning platform. This next-generation system delivers an immersive remote classroom experience that bridges the gap between in-person and online instruction. Students engage in real-time with U.S. faculty through AI-powered digital classrooms featuring live instruction, adaptive learning tools, immersive 3D environments, and automatic real-time translation.     

    HybriU Global Learning Centers support the University Alliance with tech-enabled international hubs. On-site teams staff each center, providing hybrid learning support, academic services, and regional enrollment infrastructure. These centers help universities maintain visibility and continuity across borders while extending their global reach.

    “The future of education is one without boundaries—no boundaries between online and on-site, no boundaries between languages and regions, no boundaries between academia and industry,” said Dr. Jin Huang, CEO of Ambow Education. “Why should students keep chasing campuses when campuses can reach students anywhere? Why let visas, geography or cost block access to world-class education? HybriU and our HGLN initiative are changing the face of global education. We’re redefining what international learning looks like––it’s flexible, inclusive and built to scale. We envision a world where every university has a teaching presence wherever its students are. HGLN offers a future-ready model for global enrollment that institutions need to lead in the next era of education.”

    As part of Ambow’s long-term vision, HGLN aims to create a truly global learning ecosystem—seamlessly linking students, universities and regional hubs through the HybriU platform to unlock worldwide access to higher education. By removing physical and bureaucratic barriers to international learning, HGLN enables universities to preserve growth momentum, deepen global collaboration and reach students in new and accessible ways.

    The HGLN’s partner-driven model enables universities to scale globally without building new infrastructure. Institutions can license the HybriU platform or enter revenue-sharing partnerships, while Ambow’s regional operators handle implementation and on-ground support. Initial HybriU Global Learning Centers are being established in Singapore and China, key strategic regions for U.S. higher education growth.

    Ambow invites accredited U.S. universities to join its HybriU University Alliance and establish a presence through its Global Learning Center network. HGLN is built to scale, with local support teams, shared infrastructure and a growing footprint across Asia and beyond.

    If your institution is interested in joining the HybriU University Alliance to expand international enrollment and global reach, we invite you to contact us at UPartner@HybriU.com .

    For global organizations exploring partnership opportunities to establish a HybriU Global Learning Center, we welcome your inquiries at GLC@HybriU.com.

    To learn more about HybriU, please visit www.HybriU.com.

    About Ambow

    Ambow Education Holding Ltd. is a U.S.-based, AI-driven technology company offering phygital (physical + digital) solutions for education, corporate conferencing and live events. Through its flagship platform, HybriU, Ambow is shaping the future of learning, collaboration and communication—delivering immersive, intelligent, real-time experiences across industries. For more information, visit Ambow’s corporate website at https://www.ambow.com/.

    Follow us on X: @Ambow_Education
    Follow us on LinkedIn: Ambow-education-group

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements of a forward-looking nature. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these forward-looking statements by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “estimates” and similar statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about Ambow and the industry. All information provided in this press release is as of the date hereof, and Ambow undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although Ambow believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that its expectations will turn out to be correct, and investors are cautioned that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results.

    For more information, please contact:

    Ambow Education Holding Ltd.
    E-mail: ir@ambow.com
    or
    Piacente Financial Communications
    Tel: +1 212 481 2050
    E-mail: ambow@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: In June, about 3 million children vacationed in Russian health camps

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The summer health campaign continues in the regions of Russia. In the Year of Children’s Leisure, the education system has prepared various leisure formats for schoolchildren: sports and creative events, environmental campaigns, hiking trips, as well as scientific, educational and patriotic projects.

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov summed up the results of the work of children’s health camps in June.

    “President Vladimir Putin instructed to pay special attention to the quality and safety of children’s recreation. It is important to provide comfortable and educational recreation to everyone, and, of course, to the children of our heroes – participants of the special military operation. In June 2025, about 40 thousand children’s recreation and health organizations have already accepted about 3 million children, including almost 126 thousand children of SVO participants. In the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland and the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, children’s camps hold patriotic shifts, where children learn about the history of the country and participate in thematic events. The key task is to continue the modernization of the recreation and health infrastructure, including the International Children’s Center “Artek”, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    In June, more than 800 thousand children who found themselves in difficult life situations and about 28 thousand schoolchildren from the reunited regions rested in children’s camps. At the same time, about 73 thousand students from different regions of Russia rested on the coast of the Black and Azov Seas alone.

    “In the Year of Children’s Recreation in the Education System, dedicated to the anniversaries of the federal children’s centers “Artek”, “Orlyonok” and “Smena”, the summer health campaign will cover about 6 million schoolchildren across the country. To ensure a high level of quality in organizing recreation and health improvement for children, a unified system for training camp counselors has been introduced and a federal program of educational work for all children’s camps has been approved. This allows us to build a holistic approach to raising children in camps, which complements the educational work carried out with children in schools,” said Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov.

    Summer shifts are also actively held in other children’s health camps. In Crimea, for example, there are 370 children’s camps. Particular attention is paid to organizing recreation for children from the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, Zaporizhia, Kherson, Kursk and Belgorod regions. It is planned to accept 1.8 thousand children from these regions at the expense of the reserve fund of the Republic of Crimea.

    In addition, in July, shifts with the participation of children from different countries were held in children’s centers subordinate to the Ministry of Education. Thus, the eighth international shift “Artek Gathers Friends” is taking place in the International Children’s Center “Artek”, which united more than 3 thousand children from all regions of Russia and from 66 foreign countries. The shift program includes key topics: the 80th anniversary of Victory, the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland and the 100th anniversary of “Artek”.

    For the first time in 30 years, the All-Russian Children’s Center “Orlyonok” is hosting a group of 25 Cuban schoolchildren and their mentors. The opening ceremony of the international program “Children of the World” was held at the All-Russian Children’s Center “Ocean”. It is attended by children from Russia and 5 friendly countries: the People’s Republic of China, Tajikistan, Mongolia, Laos and Belarus. As part of this program, participants will study the culture of different peoples, the basics of public diplomacy, exchange experiences and work on joint creative projects.

    Let us recall that earlier the Ministry of Education approved plan of events for the Year of Children’s Leisure 

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexander Novak held a meeting on the construction of generation in the south of Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak held a meeting on issues of generating construction in the south of Russia in the context of growing economic needs.

    The event was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Federal Antimonopoly Service, the authorities of the Republic of Crimea and Krasnodar Krai, PJSC Gazprom, energy companies, and industry associations.

    Representatives of the Ministry of Energy, Gazprom, generating companies, authorities of the Krasnodar Territory and the Republic of Crimea reported to the Deputy Prime Minister on the current status of providing territory and gas infrastructure for the construction of new generating facilities in the south of Russia.

    We are talking about the construction of thermal power plants in the Krasnodar Territory and the Republic of Crimea with a total capacity of 2.25 GW.

    According to the Ministry of Energy, the demand for new generation gas in the south of Russia will be around 4 billion cubic meters per year.

    At the same time, according to the Ministry of Energy and the authorities of the Krasnodar Territory and the Republic of Crimea, six out of seven generating facilities have currently been provided with land plots for the construction of generating facilities.

    A representative of PAO Gazprom reported that in order to ensure the declared volume of gas, it will be necessary to expand the capacity of two gas pipelines.

    Alexander Novak instructed the Ministry of Energy, together with generating companies, Gazprom and regional authorities, to promptly develop a comprehensive plan and schedule for the construction of new generating facilities in the south of Russia, providing for the gasification of these facilities and the provision of land plots for them, with the establishment of deadlines and responsible contractors.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal crash at Roger River Road, Roger River

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Fatal crash at Roger River Road, Roger River

    Friday, 25 July 2025 – 7:54 pm.

    Sadly, a 17-year-old man has died following a crash at Roger River Road, Roger River today.
    Police and emergency services were called to the scene about 12.15 pm.
    Initial inquiries indicate the man was travelling north on Roger River Road in a Ford Ranger Flattray Utility, as part of his employment, when he has veered to the incorrect side of the road, entered the verge and travelled a short distance before colliding with a tree.
    Anyone with information or relevant dash cam footage, is asked to contact police on 131 444 and quote ESCAD 144-25072025.
    Our thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones. A report will be prepared for the coroner.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Final Preparatory Meeting of the Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l’Océan Indien (CJSOI) 2025 Organising Committee Chaired by President Ramkalawan

    Source: APO


    .

    The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan, today chaired a high-level preparatory meeting of the Organising Committee for the 13th edition of the Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l’Océan Indien (CJSOI) Games, which Seychelles is proud to host from 1st to 11th August 2025.

    Held at State House, the meeting brought together all key stakeholders, including senior government officials, representatives of the Local Organising Committee, law enforcement and emergency services, youth and sports authorities, volunteers’ coordinators, and partners from both the public and private sectors.

    The meeting served as a comprehensive final review of operational readiness across key sectors, including logistics, infrastructure, security, medical services, and transportation. It also assessed the overall experience being curated for athletes and delegations from the Indian Ocean region. The President was briefed on progress and final preparations in each area, aimed at ensuring a successful and memorable edition of the Games.

    President Ramkalawan expressed his satisfaction with the level of commitment demonstrated by all teams involved and reiterated the importance of national unity, hospitality, and professionalism in showcasing Seychelles to the region. He commended the efforts of all those who have contributed to the months of planning and coordination leading up to the event.

    “The CJSOI Games is not just a sporting event—it is a celebration of youth, culture, and regional solidarity. As hosts, we have the opportunity to make this edition a legacy moment for our young people and the entire nation. Let us work together to deliver an exceptional event that reflects the warmth and spirit of Seychelles,” said President Ramkalawan.

    The 2025 CJSOI Games will see participation from seven member countries, with hundreds of young athletes competing across various disciplines, alongside cultural exchanges that promote friendship, understanding, and youth empowerment. Seychelles stands ready to welcome the Indian Ocean youth with open arms.

    Also present for the meeting were the Minister of Youth, Sport and Family, Mrs. Marie Celine Zialor, Minister for Lands and Housing, Mr. Billy Rangasamy, Principal Secretary for Youth and Sport, Mr. Ralph Jean Louis, Principal Secretary for the President’s Office, Ms. Theresa Dogley, CEO of Seychelles Infrastructure Agency (SIA), Mr. Gitesh Shah, CEO of the National Sport Council (NSC), Mr. Mark Arrisol, Commissioner of the CJSOI Games, Mr. Lucas George, Dr. Julie Shamlaye, and additional key representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Seychelles Police, National Sport Council, and the Seychelles National Youth Council.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Persons wanted for suspected contravention of Hong Kong National Security Law

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The National Security Department of the Hong Kong Police Force today (July 25) announced that 19 persons suspected of committing offences under the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (Hong Kong National Security Law) by organising, establishing, or participating in, outside Hong Kong, a subversive organisation named the “Hong Kong Parliament” have been put on wanted list, with reward in respect of each wanted person being offered.  The court has, upon application by Police, issued arrest warrants against the following persons at large:

    (1) Nine persons including male Yuan Gong-yi, male Ho Leung-mau Victor, male Fok Ka-chi, male Choi Ming-da, female Chan Lai-chun, male Feng Chongyi, female Gong Sasha, male Ng Man-yan and male Tsang Wai-fan, who organised, outside the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), election for the “Hong Kong Parliament” to establish the so-called “Hong Kong Parliament”; and

    (2) Ten persons including female Chin Po-fun, male Ha Hoi-chun Paul, male Hau Chung-yu, male Ho Wing-yau, male Keung Ka-wai, male Lam Tony, female Ng Agnes, male Wong Chun-wah, male Wong Sau-wo and female Zhang Xinyan, who participated as candidates in the “Hong Kong Parliament” election and, upon being elected, took an oath to serve as so-called “members of the Hong Kong Parliament”.

    The “Hong Kong Parliament” aims to subvert state power; its objectives include promoting “self-determination”, promulgating the so-called “Hong Kong Constitution”, and overthrowing or undermining the basic system of the People’s Republic of China established by the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China or overthrowing the body of the central power of People’s Republic of China or the body of power of the HKSAR with unlawful means, thereby suspected of committing the offence of “Subversion” contrary to Article 22 of the Hong Kong National Security Law.  Thus, Police applied to the court for arrest warrants in accordance with the law and put the persons on wanted list. The legal basis and basic facts for putting the persons on the wanted list are in the Annex.

    Amongst the aforementioned fugitives, Yuan Gong-yi, Ho Leung-mau Victor, Fok Ka-chi and Choi Ming-da have been put on wanted list with a reward of HK$1 million each for suspected of committing offences endangering national security.  The Secretary for Security has also exercised powers conferred by section 89 of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, in June and December 2024, to specify Yuan Gong-yi, Fok Ka-chi and Choi Ming-da as absconders and to specify the measures to be applied against them by notices published in Gazette.  Police will continue to make every effort to bring all the wanted persons to justice.

    For the remaining 15 wanted persons, a reward of HK$200,000 in respect of each of them is being offered by Police to any member of the public, who can provide information on the wanted persons or related cases. The investigation is ongoing, and further persons will be put on wanted list with rewards offered if necessary.

    Police reiterated that “endangering national security is a very serious offence, and such acts or activities may lead to extremely serious consequences.  According to Article 37 of the Hong Kong National Security Law, this Law shall apply to a person who is a permanent resident of the HKSAR or an incorporated or unincorporated body such as a company or an organisation which is set up in the HKSAR if the person or the body commits an offence under the Hong Kong National Security Law outside the HKSAR.  Additionally, Article 38 of the Hong Kong National Security Law stipulates that this Law shall apply to offences under this Law committed against the HSKAR from outside the HKSAR by a person who is not a permanent resident of the HKSAR. Therefore, the Hong Kong Police Force has the responsibility to pursue, in accordance with the law, persons suspected of committing offences under the Hong Kong National Security Law outside Hong Kong.”

    “According to Article 33 of the Hong Kong National Security Law, if an offender voluntarily discontinues the commission of the offence; voluntarily surrenders himself or herself and gives a truthful account of the offence; or reports on the offence committed by other person or provides material information which assists in solving other criminal case, a lighter penalty may be imposed, or the penalty may be reduced.  The above wanted persons are urged to surrender to Hong Kong Police over their roles in engaging in endangering national security activities, so as to rectify their mistakes.”

    Police also pointed out that no matter in what ways, including through the internet, it is illegal for any person to aid, abet or provide pecuniary or other financial assistance or property to other persons for participating in any illegal activities related to the “Hong Kong Parliament” or to commit other offences endangering national security. Police urge members of the public to abide by the law and Police will strictly enforce the law.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Woman jailed for manslaughter after death of landlord

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A woman has been sentenced after pleading guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility and animal cruelty, following the death of her friend and landlord, as well as their pet cat.

    Habiba Naveed, 34 (16.10.1989) appeared at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 24 July where she was given a hospital order under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act and a restriction order under Section 41. This means she can be detained indefinitely.

    Naveed previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

    Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn of Specialist Crime, who led the investigation, said:

    “Today’s sentencing concludes our investigation into the death of a man killed in his own home by a woman he lived with, trusted and considered his friend.

    “Habiba Naveed has an established history of paranoid schizophrenia. The circumstances of this case highlight the dangers of the illicit use of cannabis and non-compliance with medication prescribed to manage serious mental health conditions.

    “Christopher, who was Naveed’s landlord, still worked as a solicitor. He was an incredibly private and well-respected man within the community who is sorely missed by his family and loved ones. Our thoughts are with them today.”

    An investigation was launched on Thursday, 15 August 2024 after the body of a man was found at a residential address on Polsted Road, SE6.

    The victim, who was later identified as 72-year-old Christopher Brown, had sustained a serious head injury. A post-mortem examination found the cause of Christopher’s death to be blunt force trauma to the head, neck and chest.

    Inside the address, officers also found Christopher and Habiba’s pet cat, named Snow, which had been stabbed in the neck and killed. When searching the address, officers located multiple blood stains along with a kitchen knife covered in blood.

    Habiba Naveed, a woman who rented a room inside Christopher’s property, was quickly identified as a suspect and arrested later that day. Neighbours reported to police that they heard a female voice shouting from inside the property.

    Naveed was charged with murder on Friday, 16 August.

    The only account as to why she killed Christopher was given by her to a psychiatrist while on remand. She described believing Christopher was evil and hearing a voice telling her to kill him three times. She recounted hitting him with a pan she was holding which caused him to fall, before strangling him until she thought he was unconscious.

    Christopher then asked her to stop and she describes realising her actions were wrong, but hitting him again. She believed the evil spirit had jumped out of Christopher and into Snow the cat. She got a knife and cut the cat’s neck.

    On Monday, 27 January Naveed pleaded guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility and causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Woman jailed for manslaughter after death of landlord

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A woman has been sentenced after pleading guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility and animal cruelty, following the death of her friend and landlord, as well as their pet cat.

    Habiba Naveed, 34 (16.10.1989) appeared at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 24 July where she was given a hospital order under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act and a restriction order under Section 41. This means she can be detained indefinitely.

    Naveed previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

    Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn of Specialist Crime, who led the investigation, said:

    “Today’s sentencing concludes our investigation into the death of a man killed in his own home by a woman he lived with, trusted and considered his friend.

    “Habiba Naveed has an established history of paranoid schizophrenia. The circumstances of this case highlight the dangers of the illicit use of cannabis and non-compliance with medication prescribed to manage serious mental health conditions.

    “Christopher, who was Naveed’s landlord, still worked as a solicitor. He was an incredibly private and well-respected man within the community who is sorely missed by his family and loved ones. Our thoughts are with them today.”

    An investigation was launched on Thursday, 15 August 2024 after the body of a man was found at a residential address on Polsted Road, SE6.

    The victim, who was later identified as 72-year-old Christopher Brown, had sustained a serious head injury. A post-mortem examination found the cause of Christopher’s death to be blunt force trauma to the head, neck and chest.

    Inside the address, officers also found Christopher and Habiba’s pet cat, named Snow, which had been stabbed in the neck and killed. When searching the address, officers located multiple blood stains along with a kitchen knife covered in blood.

    Habiba Naveed, a woman who rented a room inside Christopher’s property, was quickly identified as a suspect and arrested later that day. Neighbours reported to police that they heard a female voice shouting from inside the property.

    Naveed was charged with murder on Friday, 16 August.

    The only account as to why she killed Christopher was given by her to a psychiatrist while on remand. She described believing Christopher was evil and hearing a voice telling her to kill him three times. She recounted hitting him with a pan she was holding which caused him to fall, before strangling him until she thought he was unconscious.

    Christopher then asked her to stop and she describes realising her actions were wrong, but hitting him again. She believed the evil spirit had jumped out of Christopher and into Snow the cat. She got a knife and cut the cat’s neck.

    On Monday, 27 January Naveed pleaded guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility and causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • Why are Thailand and Cambodia fighting along their border?

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Thailand and Cambodia are engaged in their worst fighting in over a decade, exchanging heavy artillery fire across their disputed border, with at least 16 people killed and tens of thousands displaced.

    Tensions began rising between the Southeast Asian neighbours in May, following the killing of a Cambodian soldier during a brief exchange of gunfire, and have steadily escalated since, triggering diplomatic spats and now, armed clashes.

    WHAT IS THE CURRENT SITUATION?

    Clashes broke out between the two countries early on Thursday along a disputed area abutting an ancient temple, rapidly spilling over to other areas along the contested frontier and heavy artillery exchanges continuing for a second straight day.

    Thailand recalled its ambassador to Phnom Penh on Wednesday and expelled Cambodia’s envoy, in response to a second Thai soldier losing a limb to a landmine that Bangkok alleged had been laid recently by rival troops. Cambodia called that accusation baseless.

    Both sides accuse each other of firing the first shots that started the conflict on Thursday, which have so far claimed the lives of at least 15 civilians, most of them on the Thai side.

    Cambodia has deployed truck-mounted rocket launchers, which Thailand says have been used to target civilian areas, while the Thai armed forces despatched US-made F-16 fighter jets, using one to bomb military targets across the border.

    Some 130,000 people have been evacuated from border areas in Thailand to safer locations, while some 12,000 families on the Cambodian side have been shifted away from the frontlines, according to local authorities.

    WHERE DOES THE DISPUTE ORIGINATE?

    Thailand and Cambodia have for more than a century contested sovereignty at various undemarcated points along their 817 km (508 miles) land border, which was first mapped by France in 1907 when Cambodia was its colony.

    That map, which Thailand later contested, was based on an agreement that the border would be demarcated along the natural watershed line between the two countries.

    In 2000, the two countries agreed to establish a Joint Boundary Commission to peacefully address overlapping claims, but little progress has been made towards settling disputes.

    Claims over ownership of historical sites have raised nationalist tension between the two countries, notably in 2003 when rioters torched the Thai embassy and Thai businesses in Phnom Penh over an alleged remark by a Thai celebrity questioning jurisdiction over Cambodia’s World Heritage-listed Angkor Wat temple.

    WHAT WERE PREVIOUS FLASHPOINTS?

    An 11th century Hindu temple called Preah Vihear, or Khao Phra Viharn in Thailand, has been at the heart of the dispute for decades, with both Bangkok and Phnom Penh claiming historical ownership.

    The International Court of Justice awarded the temple to Cambodia in 1962, but Thailand has continued to lay claim to the surrounding land.

    Tension escalated in 2008 after Cambodia attempted to list the Preah Vihear temple as a UNESCO World Heritage site, leading to skirmishes over several years and at least a dozen deaths, including during a weeklong exchange of artillery in 2011.

    Two years later, Cambodia sought interpretation of the 1962 verdict and the ICJ again ruled in its favour, saying the land around the temple was also part of Cambodia and ordering Thai troops to withdraw.

    WHAT’S BEHIND RECENT TROUBLES?

    Despite the historic rivalry, the current governments of Thailand and Cambodia enjoy warm ties, partly due to the close relationship between their influential former leaders, Thailand’s Thaksin Shinawatra and Cambodia’s Hun Sen.

    But nationalist sentiment has risen in Thailand after conservatives last year questioned the government’s plan to negotiate with Cambodia to jointly explore energy resources in undemarcated maritime areas, warning such a move could risk Thailand losing the island of Koh Kood in the Gulf of Thailand.

    Tensions also rose in February when a group of Cambodians escorted by troops sang their national anthem at another ancient Hindu temple that both countries claim, Ta Moan Thom, before being stopped by Thai soldiers.

    An effort by then Thai premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter, to de-escalate the situation in a call last month with Hun Sen spectacularly backfired after a recording of the conversation was initially leaked and later released in full by the Cambodian leader.

    In the call, the 38-year-old prime minister appeared to criticize a Thai army commander and kowtow to Hun Sen, drawing public fury and a complaint from a group of senators, which led to her suspension by a court order on July 1.

    HAVE THERE BEEN ANY RESOLUTION EFFORTS?

    After the May 28 clash, both countries quickly promised to ease tension, prevent more conflict and seek dialogue via their joint border commission at a June 14 meeting.

    The neighbours have issued diplomatically worded statements committing to peace while vowing to protect sovereignty, but their militaries have been mobilising near the border.

    Cambodia, meanwhile, said existing mechanisms were not working and it planned to refer disputes in four border areas to the ICJ to settle “unresolved and sensitive” issues that it said could escalate tensions.

    Thailand has not recognised the ICJ’s rulings on the row and wants to settle it bilaterally.

    Since Thursday’s clashes, Cambodia has written to the United Nations Security Council, urging the body to convene a meeting to stop what it describes as “unprovoked and premeditated military aggression” by Thailand.

    Thailand, on the other hand, wants to resolve the conflict through bilateral negotiations but says talks can only take place after Cambodia ceases violence.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on Australia-UK Ministerial Consultations (AUKMIN) July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Statement on Australia-UK Ministerial Consultations (AUKMIN) July 2025

    Joint statement from UK and Australia on the Australia-UK Ministerial Consultations (AUKMIN) July 2025

    1 . On 25 July 2025, the Minister for Foreign Affairs Senator the Hon Penny Wong and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence the Hon Richard Marles MP hosted the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs the Rt Hon David Lammy MP and the Secretary of State for Defence the Rt Hon John Healey MP for the Australia-UK Ministerial Consultations (AUKMIN) in Sydney.

    2 . Ministers noted the global security environment had become more dangerous and unpredictable since they last met in December 2024. They recognised the elevated importance of the enduring Australia-UK relationship in responding together to address these challenges.

    3 . Ministers agreed to significantly increase their cooperation to bolster Australia and the UK’s defence and national security, enhance economic security and mitigate and address the impacts of climate change. Ministers agreed on the enduring importance of the UK-Australia relationship in delivering economic growth to our peoples and globally.

    4 . Ministers underscored the role Australia and the UK play in upholding the rules, norms and institutions, including respect for universal human rights, that underpin global prosperity and security, and noted their deep, clear and longstanding commitment to the multilateral system. They committed to consider joint initiatives and advocacy on multilateral reform, including on the UN Secretary-General’s UN80 Initiative, to ensure the multilateral system is able to continue to deliver on critical core functions and mandates.

    Closer cooperation in the Indo-Pacific

    5 . Ministers reaffirmed that the security, resilience and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions are interconnected. They committed to continue to expand efforts to safeguard internationally agreed rules and norms and respect for sovereignty. Ministers agreed on the need to shape a world characterised by adherence to rules and norms, rather than power or coercion.

    6 . Ministers committed to further strengthen cooperation, bilaterally and with regional partners, to ensure a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Ministers agreed the UK and Australia’s enduring engagement in the Indo-Pacific was important to shaping a favourable strategic balance in the region.

    7 . Recognising the deteriorating geostrategic environment, Ministers emphasised the need for all countries to manage strategic competition responsibly, and the importance of dialogue and practical measures to reduce the risks of miscalculation, escalation and conflict.

    8 . Ministers reiterated their strong opposition to coercive or destabilising activities by China’s Coast Guard, naval vessels and maritime militia in the South China Sea, including sideswiping, water cannoning and close manoeuvres that have resulted in injuries, endangered lives and created risks of miscalculation and escalation. Ministers agreed to continue cooperating to support freedom of navigation and overflight in the region, including through participation in joint activities. They also reiterated their concern about the situation in the East China Sea.

    9 . Ministers emphasised the obligation of all states to adhere to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which provides the comprehensive legal framework for all activities in the ocean and seas. They agreed that maritime disputes must be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law. Ministers reaffirmed that the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal decision is final and binding on the parties. They emphasised any South China Sea Code of Conduct must be consistent with UNCLOS and not undermine the rights of States under international law.

    10 . Ministers agreed on the critical importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. They called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues through dialogue and not through the threat or use of force or coercion, and reaffirmed their opposition to unilateral changes to the status quo. They expressed concern at China’s destabilising military exercises around Taiwan. Ministers recognised that the international community benefits from the expertise of the people of Taiwan and committed to support Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organisations where statehood is not a pre-requisite or as an observer or guest where it is. They reiterated their will to continue to deepen relations with Taiwan in the economic, trade, scientific, technological, and cultural fields.

    11 . Ministers strongly condemned the DPRK’s ongoing nuclear and ballistic missile programs and called for the complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation of the DPRK. Ministers also expressed grave concern over the DPRK’s malicious cyber activity, including cryptocurrency theft and use of workers abroad to fund the DPRK’s unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs.

    12 . Ministers emphasised their commitment to ASEAN centrality and recognised the critical role of ASEAN-led architecture in promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the region. They reaffirmed their ongoing commitment to support the practical implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.

    13 . Ministers underscored their commitment to deepen engagement on trade and investment diversification in Southeast Asia, including through Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, Australia’s AUD 2 billion Southeast Asian Investment Financing Facility and dedicated Southeast Asia Investment Deal Teams, and the UK’s enhanced economic engagement. Ministers agreed to continue to strengthen coordination on clean energy transition in Southeast Asia and cooperation to bolster the region’s economic resilience through the mobilisation of private finance for climate objectives and green infrastructure, exploring collaboration on financing of low-carbon energy projects, and coordination of support to the ASEAN Power Grid.

    14 . Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to combat people smuggling, human trafficking and modern slavery in South and Southeast Asia, recognising that women and girls were most impacted, with a focus on trafficking into scam centres.

    15 . Ministers reiterated their commitment to the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) as the premier ministerial-level forum in the Indian Ocean region. They agreed to continue collaboration on shared priorities in the Indian Ocean, including maritime security.

    16 . Ministers reiterated their serious concern at the deepening humanitarian crisis and escalating violence in Myanmar, compounded by the devastating earthquake in March. They strongly condemned the Myanmar regime’s violent oppression of its people, including the continued bombardment of civilian infrastructure. They called for all parties to prioritise the protection of civilians. They called on the regime to immediately cease violence, release those arbitrarily detained, allow safe and unimpeded humanitarian access, and return Myanmar to the path of inclusive democracy. Ministers reiterated their support for ASEAN’s efforts to resolve the crisis, including through the Five Point Consensus and the work of the ASEAN Special Envoy and UN Special Envoy. They welcomed ASEAN leaders’ recent call for an extended and expanded ceasefire, and inclusive national dialogue.

    17 . Ministers highlighted their commitment to continue to work with Pacific island countries through existing regional architecture, recognising the centrality of the Pacific Islands Forum. They agreed on the importance of pursuing Pacific priorities as set out in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. Ministers joined Pacific partner calls for increased access to climate finance, including further support to Pacific-owned and led mechanisms such as the Pacific Resilience Facility. Ministers welcomed ongoing reform of multilateral climate funds, including the Green Climate Fund (GCF), to provide better outcomes for Pacific island countries, noting encouraging progress made regarding the accreditation of Direct Access Entities and GCF regional presence. Ministers welcomed the UK’s continued contributions to Pacific security through their assistance in the removal of explosive remnants of war via their participation in the Australian-led Operation Render Safe. Ministers agreed to continue to work together to advance transparent and high-quality development in line with the Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles (PQIPs), including through the Pacific Business Club. Ministers committed to work collaboratively on respective approaches to the Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to encourage reform consistent with the PQIPs. Ministers underscored our shared commitment to cyber coordination and capacity-building in the Pacific including through support to the inaugural Pacific Cyber Week in August 2025, a concept endorsed by the Pacific Islands Forum. Ministers emphasised the importance of sharing expertise and strengthening people-to-people links for a more cyber-resilient Pacific.

    Ambitious partners, facing global challenges together

    18 . Ministers unequivocally condemned Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and called on Russia to immediately withdraw its troops from Ukraine’s internationally recognised territory, and adhere fully to its obligations under international law, including in relation to the protection of civilians and treatment of prisoners of war. They reiterated their commitment to making sure that Ukraine gets the military and financial support it needs to defend itself in the fight now and agreed to step up action against Russia’s war machine. They emphasised the importance of taking further action against Russia’s shadow fleet, acknowledging the sanctions both countries had imposed in this regard. They also called on Russia to immediately cease their illegal deportation of Ukrainian children and reunify those already displaced with their families and guardians in Ukraine.

    19 . Ministers reiterated their deep concerns about the role of third countries in supporting Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine and the associated impact for the security of the Indo-Pacific. They called on China to prevent its companies from supplying dual-use components to Russia’s war effort, and exercise its influence with Russia to stop Moscow’s military aggression and enter negotiations to end the war in good faith. Ministers strongly condemned the DPRK’s support for Russia through the supply of munitions and deployment of DPRK personnel to enable Russia’s war efforts. Ministers called on Iran to cease all support for Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine and halt the transfer of ballistic missiles, UAVs and related technology.

    20 . Ministers agreed deepening military cooperation between Russia and the DPRK was a dangerous expansion of Russia’s war that has significant implications for security in the Indo-Pacific region. They expressed deep concerns about any political, military or economic support Russia may be providing to the DPRK’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Ministers affirmed their commitment to cooperating with international partners to strengthen efforts to hold the DPRK to account for violations and evasions of UN Council Resolutions (UNSCRs) including as founding members of the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT). Ministers acknowledged the release of the MSMT’s first report, which shines a light on unlawful DPRK-Russia military cooperation including arms transfers and Russia’s training of DPRK troops. Ministers urged all UN Member States to abide by their international obligations under the UNSCRs to implement sanctions, including the prohibition on the transfer or procurement of arms and related material to or from the DPRK.

    21 . Ministers called on Iran and Israel to adhere to the ceasefire and urged Iran to resume negotiations with the US. Ministers stated their determination that Iran must never develop a nuclear weapon. It is essential that Iran act promptly to return to full compliance with its safeguards obligations, cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency, and refrain from actions that would compromise efforts to address the security situation in the Middle East. Ministers condemned Iran’s unjust detention of foreign nationals and raised ongoing concerns over the human rights situation in Iran, particularly the escalation of the use of the death penalty as a political tool during the 12-day conflict, and the ongoing repression of women, girls and human rights defenders.

    22 . Ministers reiterated their support for Israel’s security and condemnation of Hamas’ horrific attacks on 7 October 2023, and underlined that Israeli actions must abide by international law. They called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, an end to Israeli blocks on aid, and the urgent and unconditional release of all hostages.

    23 . Ministers reaffirmed their conviction that an immediate and sustained ceasefire, alongside urgent steps towards a credible and irreversible pathway to a two-state solution are the only ways to deliver lasting peace, security and stability for Israelis, Palestinians and the wider region.

    24 . Ministers expressed grave concerns at the horrific and intolerable situation in Gaza. They continue to be appalled by the immense suffering of civilians, including Israel’s blocking of essential aid. They reiterated their call for Israel to immediately enable full, safe and unhindered access for UN agencies and humanitarian organisations to work independently and impartially to save lives, end the suffering and deliver dignity. Ministers also condemned settler violence in the West Bank, which has led to deaths of Palestinian civilians and the displacement of whole communities, and expressed opposition to any attempt to expand Israel’s illegal settlements.

    25 . Ministers expressed their deep concern for the safety and security of humanitarian personnel working in conflict settings around the world. They reaffirmed their commitment to finalise a Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel and implement practical actions to ensure greater respect for and protection of humanitarian personnel. Ministers also called on all countries to endorse the Declaration once launched and to reaffirm their responsibility to uphold humanitarian principles and ensure respect for international humanitarian law. Ministers discussed the essential role of the humanitarian system which is critical to saving lives and livelihoods and avoiding mass displacement. Ministers noted that the core work of the UN, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and international, national and local humanitarian organisations, must be preserved. Ministers also reiterated support for the Emergency Relief Coordinator’s humanitarian reset.

    26 . Ministers committed to continue close collaboration on protecting and promoting gender equality internationally and countering rollback of rights, including through Australia-UK Strategic Dialogues on Gender Equality and progressing subsequent agreed commitments, such as the UK-Australia Gender Based Violence MoU.

    27 . Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the full implementation of the Women Peace and Security (WPS) agenda. They acknowledged the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and agreed to continue working together on implementing the WPS agenda, promoting the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation and leadership of women in conflict prevention, mediation and resolution, and working together on preventing conflict-related sexual violence and ending impunity.

    28 . Ministers reiterated their serious shared concerns about human rights violations in China, including the persecution and arbitrary detention of Uyghurs and Tibetans and the erosion of their religious, cultural, education and linguistic rights and freedoms. They expressed their deep concern with the transfer of a cohort of 40 Uyghurs to China against their will in February this year. Ministers shared grave concerns about the ongoing systemic erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy, freedom, rights and democratic processes, including through the imposition of national security legislation and the prosecution of individuals such as British national Jimmy Lai and Australian citizen Gordon Ng. They shared their deep concern over the actions of Hong Kong authorities in targeting pro-democracy activists both within Hong Kong and overseas, including in Australia and the UK.

    29 . Ministers expressed growing concern over foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) and attempts to undermine security and democratic institutions and processes. They committed to working closely to analyse and respond to FIMI in order to raise the costs for malign actors, and build collective responses to FIMI, including in multilateral fora, and to promote resilient, healthy, open and fact-based environments.

    30 . Ministers acknowledged the unprecedented opportunities presented by critical and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and the need to mitigate harms to build trust and confidence. They committed to collaborate on reciprocal information sharing on advanced AI capabilities and research, including between Australian agencies and the UK AI Security Institute, and working together to capture the opportunities of AI through the bilateral Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership.

    31 . Australia welcomed the UK’s new Laboratory for AI Security Research (LASR) and looked forward to exploring the opportunities for cooperation between our nations. The lab will pull together our world-class industry, academia and government agencies to ensure we reap the benefits of AI, while detecting, disrupting and deterring adversaries who would use it to undermine our national security and economic prosperity.

    32 . Ministers expressed shared concern over the persistent threat of malicious cyber activities impacting our societies and economies and agreed to continue to work closely on leveraging all tools of deterrence, including the use of attributions and sanctions to impose reputational, financial costs and travel bans on these actors. Our respective statements calling out the egregious activity of Russia’s GRU on Friday 18 July is a good example of such cooperation.

    33 . The UK is pleased to welcome Australia as a partner to the Common Good Cyber Fund, designed to strengthen cybersecurity for individuals most at risk from digital transnational repression. The Fund was first launched by the Prime Ministers of the UK and Canada under the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism. This participation underscores the growing commitment among G7 partners and like-minded nations to counter this threat and to deliver support to those who may be targeted.

    34 . Ministers reiterated their commitment to the Commonwealth as a unique platform for cross-regional dialogue and cooperation. They noted the importance of the Commonwealth in elevating the voices of small developing states on issues of global importance. Ministers took note of the important role of the Commonwealth Small States Offices in New York and Geneva, and committed to looking into options for expansion of this offer.

    Building shared defence capability

    35 . Ministers welcomed the continued growth in the bilateral defence relationship including the deployment of a British Carrier Strike Group to Australia for Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 as part of an Indo-Pacific deployment. HMS Prince of Wales is the first UK aircraft carrier to visit Australia since 1997 and the deployment demonstrates the UK’s ongoing commitment to increase interoperability with Australia in the Indo-Pacific following significant contributions to Exercises Pitch Black and Predator’s Run in 2024. Ministers look forward to future opportunities in Australia and the wider region, including leveraging the Royal Navy’s (RN) offshore patrol vessels persistently deployed in the Indo-Pacific.

    36 . Ministers also welcomed the success of the inaugural Australia-UK Staff Level Meeting, with the second meeting set to take place in Australia later this year. This forum will continue to progress joint strategic and operational objectives, supporting the evolution of the bilateral relationship.

    37 . Ministers reaffirmed their enduring commitment to the generational AUKUS partnership, which is supporting security and stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond, enhancing our collective deterrence against shared threats. This capability and technology sharing partnership will deliver military advantage to deter adversaries and promote regional security. The partnership also provides new pathways for innovation, boosting interoperability between partners and strengthening our combined defence industrial base.

    38 . Ministers announced their intent to sign a bilateral AUKUS treaty between the UK and Australia on Saturday, 26 July. The Treaty is a landmark agreement, which will underpin the next 50 years of UK-Australian bilateral cooperation under AUKUS Pillar I.

    39 . The Treaty will enable comprehensive cooperation on the design, build, operation, sustainment, and disposal of our SSN-AUKUS submarines; support the development of the personnel, workforce, infrastructure and regulatory systems required for Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine program; and realise increased port visits and the rotational presence of a UK Astute Class submarine at HMAS Stirling under Submarine Rotational Force – West.

    40 . The Treaty will enable our two countries to deliver a cutting-edge undersea capability through the SSN-AUKUS, in conjunction with our partner the US. Through working together we are supporting stability and security in the Indo-Pacific and beyond for decades to come, creating thousands of jobs, strengthening our economies and supply chains, building our respective submarine industrial bases and providing new opportunities for industry partners.

    41 . Ministers welcomed the significant progress made towards delivering Pillar I, including the entry into force of the AUKUS Naval Nuclear Propulsion Agreement between Australia, the UK and US on 17 January 2025 and the progress in design of the SSN-AUKUS submarines that will be operated by the RN and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).

    42 . Ministers welcomed the UK’s June commitment, in its Strategic Defence Review, to build up to 12 SSN-A submarines, and continuous submarine production through investments in Barrow and Raynesway that will allow the UK to produce a submarine every 18 months, and recognised the UK’s additional investment to transform the UK’s submarine industrial base.

    43 . Ministers reaffirmed Australia and the UK’s strong and ongoing commitment to the delivery of the AUKUS Optimal Pathway. Reflecting the UK’s enduring dedication to this partnership, and long-standing engagement in the Indo-Pacific, Ministers welcomed the planned deployment of a RN submarine to undertake a port visit to Australia in 2026, delivering a varied programme of operational and engagement activities. The visit will support preparations for the establishment of the Submarine Rotational Force – West from as early as 2027, and represents another step forward on the shared path towards the delivery of SSN-AUKUS – ensuring our navies are ready, integrated, and capable of operating together to promote security and stability in the region.

    44 . Ministers underscored the importance of ensuring Australia’s acquisition of a conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarine capability sets the highest non-proliferation standard, and endorsed continued close engagement with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

    45 . Ministers affirmed their commitment under AUKUS Pillar II to continue to deliver tangible advanced capabilities to our defence forces and welcomed progress to date. By leveraging advanced technologies, our forces become more than the sum of their parts. They underlined the importance of Pillar II in streamlining capability acquisition and strengthening our defence innovation and industry sectors.

    46 . As part of Talisman Sabre 25, AUKUS partners participated in Maritime Big Play activities as well as groundbreaking AI and undersea warfare trials. The partners tested the remote operation of the UK’s Extra Large Unmanned Underwater Vehicle, Excalibur, controlled from Australia while operating in UK waters. The exercise once again accelerated interoperability between our forces and the accelerated integration of remote and autonomous systems.

    47 . Ministers noted the successful UK E-7A Seedcorn training program in Australia. The program, which is set to conclude in December 2025, was established to preserve a core of Airborne Early Warning and Control expertise within the Royal Air Force (RAF) and to lay a strong foundation for the introduction of the UK’s own Wedgetail aircraft. Thanks to the exceptional support of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), since its inception in 2018, 30 RAF personnel – including pilots, mission crew, engineer officers, aircraft technicians, and operations specialists – have benefited from world-class training and exposure to the Wedgetail capability.

    48 . Ministers welcomed the upcoming deployment of a RAAF E-7A Wedgetail to Europe in August under Operation Kudu to help protect vital supply lines for humanitarian aid and military assistance into Ukraine. Delivering upon the vision for true interchangeability detailed in the Wedgetail Trilateral Joint Vision Statement in 2023, this deployment will see the Wedgetail jointly crewed by Australian and British service members in a live operational setting.  Ministers also welcomed Australia’s decision to extend support for training Ukrainian personnel under Operation Interflex, through Operation Kudu, to the end of 2026. Australia and the UK will also continue to work closely together to share insights and observations from the conflict.

    49 . Ministers reiterated their nations’ continued investment in the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) as a unique multilateral arrangement that plays a constructive role in building habits of cooperation and enhancing the warfighting capabilities of its members. They look forward to Exercise Bersama Lima 2025 which will feature high-end warfighting serials and next-generation assets such as Australia’s F-35s and the UK’s Carrier Strike Group.

    50 . Ministers affirmed their shared ambition to conduct a bilateral defence industry dialogue at both the Senior Official and Ministerial levels, providing a forum to deepen defence industry collaboration, enhance joint capability development, and cooperate on procurement reform to ensure improved efficiency in capability acquisition and sustainment.

    51 . Ministers agreed to deepen cooperation on using Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar technology in both nations. This includes exploring the potential of using Australian AESA radar technologies for UK integrated air and missile defence applications. They agreed to undertake a series of targeted risk reduction activities in the near future to inform future decisions.”

    52 . Ministers agreed to progress personnel exchanges that support the future combat effectiveness of the Australian Hunter Class and British Type 26 Frigates. To support the introduction of these platforms into service, the RAN and RN will undertake a series of maritime platform familiarisation activities that enable our people to gain experience in critical capabilities, including underwater and above water weapon systems, primary acoustical intelligence analysis, and overall signature management.

    53 . Ministers agreed to strengthen their sovereign defence industries through closer collaboration between the UK’s Complex Weapons Pipeline and Australia’s Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise. As a first step the Ministers announced a collaborative effort to develop modular, low cost components for next-generation weapon systems.

    54 . Ministers acknowledged the shared legacy and the contribution of veterans to the bilateral relationship. They reaffirmed their commitment to identify avenues for closer collaboration on improving veterans’ health and transition services.

    Partnering on trade, climate and energy

    55 . Ministers agreed to work closely to safeguard and strengthen the role that free and fair trade and the rules-based multilateral trading system plays in economic prosperity and building resilience against economic shocks.

    56 . Ministers reaffirmed the importance of the rules-based multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, to economic security and prosperity. Ministers agreed to deepen cooperation to reform and reposition the Organization, and the broader global trading system, to meet the trade challenges of the new economic and geopolitical environment. Ministers agreed to continue working together to overcome blockages in multilateral rulemaking, including by working in smaller and more agile plurilateral groupings to address contemporary challenges, such as non-market policies and practices, which could complement ongoing multilateral efforts. They welcomed cooperation on plurilateral rulemaking, including efforts to have the E-Commerce Agreement incorporated into WTO architecture and brought into force as soon as possible. They reaffirmed the importance of restoring a fully-functioning dispute settlement system as soon as possible, welcoming the UK’s decision to join the Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA) while our countries work to fix the system.

    57 . Ministers welcomed the entry into force of the UK’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in December 2024 and welcomed Australia as 2025 Chair. Ministers affirmed the need to work cooperatively together to ensure the CPTPP remains high standard and fit-for-purpose in addressing evolving challenges through continued progress on the CPTPP General Review and expansion of the membership. They looked forward to planned CPTPP trade and investment dialogues with the EU and with ASEAN.

    58 . Ministers welcomed the second meeting of the Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A-UKFTA) Joint Committee on 3 June which celebrated the strong and growing trade and investment relationship between the UK and Australia and the strong uptake of the agreement’s benefits.

    59 . Ministers welcomed close engagement on economic security under the annual United Kingdom-Australia Economic Security Dialogue, noting that its establishment by AUKMIN in 2023 was timely in preparing for future needs. They reflected on the closer integration of our analysis capabilities and committed to a joint-funded track 1.5 to generate practical insights and informal policy dialogue that will inform our joint economic security efforts.

    60 . As both countries continue to develop their bilateral partnership through the UK-Australia FTA, the Economic Security Dialogue, and other fora, Ministers committed to deepening cooperation in key sectors of mutual interest. Ministers view this as an opportunity to explore new areas of collaboration and share best practices in the interests of boosting bilateral trade and investment, facilitating innovation and research, and supporting our mutual economic security and resilience. This year, officials in relevant departments will compare approaches with the aim to identify areas of common interest or complementary strength and discuss further opportunities for related cooperation. This may include initiatives to advance supply chain resilience, frontier research, investment promotion, public finance cooperation, and effective regulation.

    61 . Ministers affirmed the calls in the Global Stocktake under the Paris Agreement for countries to come forward in their next NDCs with ambitious emissions reduction targets aligned with keeping 1.5 degrees within reach. In that context, Ministers recognised the immense economic opportunities in ambitious climate action and a rapid transition to renewable energy. Ministers welcomed the UK’s ambitious NDC and looked forward to Australia’s NDC and Net-Zero Plan. Ministers further welcomed the report released by the UN Secretary General titled ‘Seizing the Moment of Opportunity: Supercharging the new energy era of renewables, efficiency, and electrification’ that highlighted the compelling economic case for the rapidly declining cost of renewable energy, and the rapidly growing role of the clean energy economy in powering jobs and economic growth. Ministers affirmed their determination to fulfil multilateral climate commitments and reiterated the importance of reforming the finance system and improving access to climate finance for developing countries. Ministers recommitted to building nature-positive economies to support a central theme of Brazil’s COP Presidency. The UK reiterated its support for Australia’s bid to host COP31 in partnership with the Pacific and expressed the hope that a decision would soon be reached. Ministers welcomed UK sharing its hosting experience and agreed to explore secondments to support COP31 planning. The UK and Australia welcome the close collaboration between our countries in the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) negotiations for an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including through our shared membership of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution. At this critical juncture ahead of INC-5.2, the final opportunity to secure an agreement, we call upon all members of the INC to recommit to working constructively to achieve an effective comprehensive agreement that addresses the full lifecycle of plastic. We recognise that Commonwealth countries are particularly affected by plastic pollution and in that regard we renew our commitment to collaborating through the Commonwealth Clean Ocean Alliance, to tackle plastic pollution in the commonwealth. Ministers pledged to deepen collaboration through the UK-Australia Climate and Clean Energy Partnership.

    62 . Ministers welcomed close cooperation to support the development of resilient critical mineral supply chains governed by market principles. This includes developing a roadmap to promote a standards-based market to reflect the real costs of responsible production, processing and trade of critical minerals as agreed at the recent G7 meeting on 17 June. Ministers agreed upon the importance of the sustainable and responsible extraction and processing of critical minerals for the energy transition, and committed to working together on solutions. These include the new Critical Minerals Supply Finance developed by UK Export Finance (UKEF) which can provide finance support to overseas critical minerals projects that supply the UK’s high-growth sectors. UKEF has up to £5bn in finance support available for projects in Australia and will work closely with Export Finance Australia. Ministers also undertook to ensure the UK is consulted on the design and implementation of Australia’s Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve.

    63 . Ministers discussed the leading roles being played by Australia and the UK in the full and effective implementation of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement welcoming in particular Australia’s role as Co-Chair of the Preparatory Commission. Ministers were encouraged by each country’s progress towards ratification of the treaty, which is a landmark agreement for protection of the world’s ocean.

    64 . Ministers discussed the increasing geostrategic, climatic, and resource pressures on the Antarctic and Southern Ocean region and reaffirmed their shared and long-standing commitment to the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS). Ministers committed to upholding together the ATS rules and norms of peaceful use, scientific research, international cooperation and environmental protection, and to deepen understanding of the impact of climate change on the oceans and the world through Antarctic research including in the context of the International Polar Year of 2032/33. Ministers welcomed the United Kingdom’s chairing of CCAMLR for 2024-5 and 2025-6.

    65 . Ministers agreed on the importance of ensuring all children have the right to grow up in a safe and nurturing family environment. Ministers recognised the transformative impact on children’s health, capacity to learn and economic prospects that growing up in a family-based environment can have. Ministers acknowledged the UK’s Global Campaign on Children’s Care Reform and agreed to work together to drive international awareness and demonstrate their commitment to children’s care reform.

    66 . Ministers reiterated their commitment to upholding shared values and continuing to invest in sustainable development, gender equality, disability equity and social inclusion, which underpin global prosperity. To support sustainable development, Ministers agreed to deepen cooperation with emerging donors of development assistance, to diversify funding, enhance development effectiveness, share lessons and build trust and transparency with partners. Ministers committed to work together to deliver sustainable solutions for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), recognising their unique vulnerabilities and to ensure meaningful engagement in international processes, including ODA graduation.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man jailed for life for Newham murder

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man who attacked a stranger on a night out in east London has been given a life sentence.

    Hamza Kamali, 29, will serve a minimum of 25 years in jail after he was found guilty of murdering 38-year-old Saley Beya outside a nightclub in Romford Road E7 in the early hours of Saturday, 10 August 2024.

    Saley’s family said in a statement: “Today marks a significant moment for our family as justice has finally been served in the case of our beloved brother, son, and friend — Saley Beya — who was brutally taken from us in August of last year.

    “We welcome the court’s verdict with a mixture of relief and sorrow. Saley was a kind, generous, and deeply loved young man whose life was full of promise. His absence is felt every single day, and the pain of losing him in such a horrific way is something we will carry with us forever.”

    Detective Superintendent Kelly Allen, Specialist Crime North, said: “Saley’s family and loved ones have endured incredible pain and suffering over this past year as they have tried to come to terms with their terrible loss. I hope they can take some comfort in the fact his killer will be behind bars for a considerable period of time.

    “Kamali’s actions that night were violent and deliberate. He went out armed with a knife – clearly intent on causing harm. We will never know what prompted his interaction with Saley, but it is clear he is a very dangerous individual with little regard for human life and I’m pleased the jury were able to recognise the threat he poses to the public.”

    On the evening of Friday, 9 August Saley and his friends had attended a party in Stratford before deciding to continue their evening at a nightclub, arriving at the Romford Road venue at about 02.30hrs.

    Around an hour later they were all outside when an altercation took place between one of Saley’s friends and a group of men who were known to Kamali. Shortly after, Kamali arrived at the scene and following a brief interaction with the victim the situation escalated into violence and Kamali stabbed Saley in the leg.

    Saley was able to run from the scene, but he was pursued by Kamali who kicked out at him several times as he tried to get away from him. Eventually giving up his pursuit, Kamali returned to Romford Road, before leaving the scene with others.

    Meanwhile Saley had succumbed to his wound and collapsed in the street. Emergency services attended and paramedics attempted to stem the bleeding, but Saley went into cardiac arrest on his way to hospital. He remained in a critical condition for nearly three weeks before sadly dying on 29 August.

    Following the incident, Kamali returned to his home address. After 30 minutes he reappeared from the property wearing different clothes and carrying a full plastic bag which he was then seen to discard. That bag was never recovered.

    After Kamali’s arrest on 16 August a search of his home led to the discovery of a pair of bloodstained trainers – later identified to be his own. He had a noticeable injury to his hand – a wound CCTV had shown him tending to with a tissue in the immediate aftermath of the stabbing. Blood from this injury was also found at the crime scene. It is believed he injured himself with his knife in the course of attacking Saley.

    Kamali (03.04.96), who is of Henniker Road, Stratford was convicted on Tuesday, 22 July of murder and possession of an offensive weapon.

    + Abdi Ulusow, 28 (03.09.96), of Hathaway Crescent E12 and Edson Bernardo, 26 (10.07.99), of Carlton Avenue, Westcliff-on-Sea appeared at the Old Bailey on 3 July where they pleaded guilty to affray and possession of an offensive weapon (machete and pole) in connection with the incident. On Thursday, 24 July both were jailed for two years.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Climate – Advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change (July 24, 2025) (24.07.25)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    On March 29, 2023, the UN General Assembly requested, via a resolution co-sponsored by all EU Member States, an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice concerning the obligations of States in respect of climate change. Questions submitted to the Court for their opinion dealt with States’ international obligations with respect to the protection of the climate system and the environment from anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions and the ensuing legal consequences for States.

    Along with some 100 States and international organizations, France took part in this advisory process by filing written statements with the Court and participating in arguments. France defended an ambitious reading of the Paris Climate Agreement and called on all States to abide by their obligations to protect the climate system and other environmental components.

    France takes note of the opinion issued by the Court on July 23, which marks an end to these historic proceedings. This landmark opinion will be studied very closely.

    France reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the ICJ. It will continue working ambitiously to achieve its climate goals and to support its partners.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • Vice-Presidential election: Election Commission appoints returning officer and assistants

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Election Commission of India (ECI) has appointed the Secretary General of the Rajya Sabha as the returning officer for the upcoming Vice-Presidential election. The decision follows established convention, with the role rotating between the Secretaries General of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

    The appointments were made under Section 3 of the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952, in consultation with the Union Ministry of Law and Justice and with the consent of the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

    In addition to the returning officer, the ECI has appointed Garima Jain, Joint Secretary, and Vijay Kumar, Director, both from the Rajya Sabha Secretariat, as assistant returning officers for the election.

    The formal Gazette notification is being issued separately.

    The Vice-Presidential election is conducted under Article 324 of the Constitution and governed by the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952, along with the accompanying rules from 1974.

    On Wednesday, the ECI initiated the process to conduct Vice-Presidential election, two days after Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from the post citing health reasons.

    “The Election Commission of India, under Article 324, is mandated to conduct the election to the office of the Vice President of India. The election to the office of the Vice President of India is governed by The Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952 and the rules made thereunder, namely The Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Rules, 1974,” said the ECI.

    Under Article 66(1) of the Constitution, the Vice-President is elected by an electoral college comprising members of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, using the system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote, with voting conducted by secret ballot.

    Dhankhar’s tenure was originally set to end on August 10, 2027.

  • How India is quietly powering Maldives’ growth through infra and human capital

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s continued development partnership with the Maldives stands as a testament to the enduring ties between the two nations, with several landmark projects reflecting New Delhi’s commitment to supporting the island nation’s growth across sectors ranging from healthcare and education to infrastructure and fisheries.

    Healthcare cooperation

    The Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Male remains a key symbol of India’s assistance to the Maldives. Conceived during the visit of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in February 1986, the 200-bed facility was inaugurated in April 1995 by then Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. Named after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, IGMH is the largest public healthcare institution in the country.

    India had initially deployed 72 medical professionals to help operationalise the hospital. A major renovation, supported by India at a cost of ₹52 crore, was inaugurated in March 2019 by then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

    Strengthening technical education

    India has also contributed to capacity-building in technical education through the establishment of the Maldives Institute of Technical Education (MITE), now known as the Faculty of Engineering Technology (FET). The foundation stone was laid in 1993 following an agreement during Prime Minister V.P. Singh’s visit in 1990. The completed institute was handed over in 1996 and has since been pivotal in training Maldivian youth in vocational and technical disciplines.

    Tourism education

    In a bid to bolster the Maldives’ hospitality sector, India supported the construction of the India-Maldives Friendship Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies. The foundation stone was jointly laid by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in 2002. The eight-storey modern facility was officially handed over in February 2014 by then External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid. With a capacity for over 200 full-time students, the institute serves as a centre of excellence for tourism and hospitality studies.

    Largest Indian grant project supports law enforcement training

    The National College for Police and Law Enforcement (NCPLE), located in Addu City, is India’s largest grant-funded project in the Maldives. Built with ₹222.98 crore in grant assistance, the college was inaugurated in March 2022 during the visit of External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. The institution is designed to enhance the training capabilities of Maldives’ police and law enforcement agencies.

    Land reclamation in Addu to spur urban growth

    India has also supported the Addu Reclamation Project under an $80 million Line of Credit. A total of 184 hectares of land has been reclaimed to facilitate urban and economic development in Addu City. The project was inaugurated on August 11, 2024, during EAM Dr. Jaishankar’s visit to the country.

    Water and sanitation

    Improving basic infrastructure has also remained a focus area. Under a Line of Credit worth $107.31 million, water and sanitation projects have been completed across 34 islands. Of these, 28 projects have already been handed over to the Maldivian government. The initiative is aimed at enhancing public health and environmental sustainability.

    Fisheries infra

    In support of the Maldives’ crucial fisheries sector, a new ice plant with a daily production capacity of 50 tons has been established in Gemanafushi. The facility, developed under the Indian Line of Credit, was inaugurated on February 27, 2025. It is expected to bolster fish preservation, improve export capacity, and strengthen the livelihoods of fishing communities.

    India’s development footprint in the Maldives reflects a broader strategy of regional cooperation grounded in mutual respect and people-first initiatives. As both nations navigate the next phase of bilateral engagement, these enduring projects lay a strong foundation for deeper collaboration rooted in shared prosperity.

  • MIL-Evening Report: Leaked document reveals proposed law revisions in NZ, as Western defence of Zionist genocide threatens Pacific

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Mick Hall

    A leaked document has revealed secretive plans to revise terror laws in New Zealand so that people can be charged over statements deemed to constitute material support for a proscribed organisation.

    It shows the government also wants to widen the criteria for proscribing organisations to include groups that are judged to “facilitate” or “promote and encourage” terrorist acts.

    The changes would see the South Pacific nation falling in line with increasingly repressive Western countries like the UK, where scores of independent journalists and anti-genocide protesters have been arrested and charged under terrorism laws in recent months.

    The consultation document, handed over to the New Zealand Council for Civil Liberties (NZCCL), reveals the government has been in contact with a small number of unnamed groups this year over plans to legally redefine what material support involves, so that public statements or gestures involving insignia like flags can lead to charges if construed as support for proscribed groups.

    As part of a proposal to revise the Terrorism Suppression Act, the document suggests the process for designating organisations as terror groups should be changed by “expanding the threshold to enable more modern types of entities to be designated, such as those that ‘facilitate’ or ‘promote and encourage’ terrorist acts”.

    The Ministry of Justice has been contacted in an attempt to ascertain which groups it has been consulting with and why it believed the changes were necessary.

    NZCCL chairman Thomas Beagle told Mick Hall In Context his group was concerned the proposed changes were a further attempt to limit the rights of New Zealanders to engage in political protest.

    ‘What’s going on?’
    “When you look at the proposal to expand the Terrorism Suppression Act, alongside the Police and IPCA conspiring to propose a law change to ban political protest without government permission, you really have to wonder what’s going on,” he said.

    A report by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) in February proposed to give police the right to ban protests if they believed there was a high chance of public disorder and threats to public safety.

    That would potentially mean bans on Palestinian solidarity protests if far right counter protestErs posed a threat of violent confrontation.

    The stand-alone legislation would put New Zealand in line with other Five Eyes and NATO-aligned security jurisdictions such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

    Beagle points out proposed changes to terror laws would suppress freedom of speech and further undermine freedom of assembly and the right to protest.

    “We’ve seen what’s happening with the state’s abuse of terrorism suppression laws in the UK and are horrified that they have sunk so far and so quickly,” he said.

    More than 100 people were arrested across the UK on suspicion of supporting Palestine Action, a non-violent protest group proscribed as a terrorist organisation by the British government earlier this month.

    Arrests in social media clips
    Social media clips showed pensioners aggressively arrested while attending rallies in Liverpool, London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Truro over the weekend.

    Independent journalists and academics have also faced state repression under the UK’s Terrorism Act.

    Among those targeted was Electronic Intifada journalist Asa Winstanley, who had his home raided and devices seized in October last year as part of the opaque counter-terror drive “Operation Incessantness”.

    Independent journalist Asa Winstanley . . . his home was raided and devices seized in October last year as part of “Operation Incessantness”. Image: R Witts Photography/mickhall.substack.com

    In May, the country’s Central Criminal Court ruled the raid was unlawful.

    Journalist Richard Medhurst has had a terror investigation hanging over his head since being detained at Heathrow Airport in August last year and charged under section 8 of the Terrorism Act. Activist and independent journalist Sarah Wilkinson had her house raided in the same month.

    Others have faced similar intimidation and threats of jail. In November 2024, Jewish academic Haim Bresheeth was charged after police alleged he had expressed support for a “proscribed organisation” during a speech outside the London residence of the Israeli ambassador to the UK.

    Meanwhile, dozens of members of Palestine Action are in jail facing terror charges. The vast majority are being held on remand where they may wait two years before going to trial — a common state tactic to take activists off the street and incarcerate them, knowing the chances of conviction are slim when they eventually go to court.

    ‘Targeted amendments’
    The document says the New Zealand government wants to progress “targeted amendments” to the Act, creating or amending offences “to capture contemporary behaviours and activities of concern” like “public expressions of support for a terrorist act or designated entities, for example by showing insignia or distributing propaganda or instructional material.”

    Protesters highlight the proscription of Palestine Action outside the British Embassy at The Hague on July 20. No arrests were made following 80 arrests by Dutch police the week before. Image: Defend Our Juries/mickhall.substack.com

    It suggests that the existing process for proscribing an organisation is slow and cumbersome, noting that: “Specific provisions need to be followed to designate entities not on a UN list, but the decision-making process is lengthy and the designation period is short. This impacts timely decision-making and the usefulness of designation as a tool to prevent terrorism.”

    It proposes to improve “the timeliness of the process, by considering changes to who the decision-maker is” and extending the renewal period from three to five years.

    The document suggests consulting the Attorney-General over designation-related decisions to ensure legal requirements are met may not be required and questions whether the designation process requiring the Prime Minister to review decisions twice is necessary. It asks whether others, like the Foreign Minister, should be involved in the decision-making process.

    Beagle believes the secretive proposals pose a threat to New Zealand’s liberal democracy.

    “Political protest is an important part of New Zealand’s history,” he said.

    “Whether it’s the environment, worker’s rights, feminism, Māori issues, homosexual law reform or any number of other issues, political protest has had a big part in forming what Aotearoa New Zealand is today.

    Protected under Bill of Rights
    “It’s a right protected by New Zealand’s Bill of Rights and is a critical part of being a functioning democracy.”

    The terror laws revision forms part of a wider trend of legislating to close down dissent over New Zealand’s foreign policy, now closely aligned with NATO and US interests.

    The government is also widening the definition of foreign interference in a way that could see people who “should have known” that they were being used by a foreign state to undermine New Zealand’s interests prosecuted.

    The Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill, which passed its first reading in Parliament on November 19, would criminalise the act of foreign interference, while also increasing powers of unwarranted searches by authorities.

    The Bill is effectively a reintroduction of the country’s old colonial sedition laws inherited from Britain, the broadness of the law having allowed it to be used against communists, trade unionists and indigenous rights activists.

    Republished from Mick Hall in Context on Substack with permisson.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Leaked document reveals proposed law revisions in NZ, as Western defence of Zionist genocide threatens Pacific

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Mick Hall

    A leaked document has revealed secretive plans to revise terror laws in New Zealand so that people can be charged over statements deemed to constitute material support for a proscribed organisation.

    It shows the government also wants to widen the criteria for proscribing organisations to include groups that are judged to “facilitate” or “promote and encourage” terrorist acts.

    The changes would see the South Pacific nation falling in line with increasingly repressive Western countries like the UK, where scores of independent journalists and anti-genocide protesters have been arrested and charged under terrorism laws in recent months.

    The consultation document, handed over to the New Zealand Council for Civil Liberties (NZCCL), reveals the government has been in contact with a small number of unnamed groups this year over plans to legally redefine what material support involves, so that public statements or gestures involving insignia like flags can lead to charges if construed as support for proscribed groups.

    As part of a proposal to revise the Terrorism Suppression Act, the document suggests the process for designating organisations as terror groups should be changed by “expanding the threshold to enable more modern types of entities to be designated, such as those that ‘facilitate’ or ‘promote and encourage’ terrorist acts”.

    The Ministry of Justice has been contacted in an attempt to ascertain which groups it has been consulting with and why it believed the changes were necessary.

    NZCCL chairman Thomas Beagle told Mick Hall In Context his group was concerned the proposed changes were a further attempt to limit the rights of New Zealanders to engage in political protest.

    ‘What’s going on?’
    “When you look at the proposal to expand the Terrorism Suppression Act, alongside the Police and IPCA conspiring to propose a law change to ban political protest without government permission, you really have to wonder what’s going on,” he said.

    A report by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) in February proposed to give police the right to ban protests if they believed there was a high chance of public disorder and threats to public safety.

    That would potentially mean bans on Palestinian solidarity protests if far right counter protestErs posed a threat of violent confrontation.

    The stand-alone legislation would put New Zealand in line with other Five Eyes and NATO-aligned security jurisdictions such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

    Beagle points out proposed changes to terror laws would suppress freedom of speech and further undermine freedom of assembly and the right to protest.

    “We’ve seen what’s happening with the state’s abuse of terrorism suppression laws in the UK and are horrified that they have sunk so far and so quickly,” he said.

    More than 100 people were arrested across the UK on suspicion of supporting Palestine Action, a non-violent protest group proscribed as a terrorist organisation by the British government earlier this month.

    Arrests in social media clips
    Social media clips showed pensioners aggressively arrested while attending rallies in Liverpool, London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Truro over the weekend.

    Independent journalists and academics have also faced state repression under the UK’s Terrorism Act.

    Among those targeted was Electronic Intifada journalist Asa Winstanley, who had his home raided and devices seized in October last year as part of the opaque counter-terror drive “Operation Incessantness”.

    Independent journalist Asa Winstanley . . . his home was raided and devices seized in October last year as part of “Operation Incessantness”. Image: R Witts Photography/mickhall.substack.com

    In May, the country’s Central Criminal Court ruled the raid was unlawful.

    Journalist Richard Medhurst has had a terror investigation hanging over his head since being detained at Heathrow Airport in August last year and charged under section 8 of the Terrorism Act. Activist and independent journalist Sarah Wilkinson had her house raided in the same month.

    Others have faced similar intimidation and threats of jail. In November 2024, Jewish academic Haim Bresheeth was charged after police alleged he had expressed support for a “proscribed organisation” during a speech outside the London residence of the Israeli ambassador to the UK.

    Meanwhile, dozens of members of Palestine Action are in jail facing terror charges. The vast majority are being held on remand where they may wait two years before going to trial — a common state tactic to take activists off the street and incarcerate them, knowing the chances of conviction are slim when they eventually go to court.

    ‘Targeted amendments’
    The document says the New Zealand government wants to progress “targeted amendments” to the Act, creating or amending offences “to capture contemporary behaviours and activities of concern” like “public expressions of support for a terrorist act or designated entities, for example by showing insignia or distributing propaganda or instructional material.”

    Protesters highlight the proscription of Palestine Action outside the British Embassy at The Hague on July 20. No arrests were made following 80 arrests by Dutch police the week before. Image: Defend Our Juries/mickhall.substack.com

    It suggests that the existing process for proscribing an organisation is slow and cumbersome, noting that: “Specific provisions need to be followed to designate entities not on a UN list, but the decision-making process is lengthy and the designation period is short. This impacts timely decision-making and the usefulness of designation as a tool to prevent terrorism.”

    It proposes to improve “the timeliness of the process, by considering changes to who the decision-maker is” and extending the renewal period from three to five years.

    The document suggests consulting the Attorney-General over designation-related decisions to ensure legal requirements are met may not be required and questions whether the designation process requiring the Prime Minister to review decisions twice is necessary. It asks whether others, like the Foreign Minister, should be involved in the decision-making process.

    Beagle believes the secretive proposals pose a threat to New Zealand’s liberal democracy.

    “Political protest is an important part of New Zealand’s history,” he said.

    “Whether it’s the environment, worker’s rights, feminism, Māori issues, homosexual law reform or any number of other issues, political protest has had a big part in forming what Aotearoa New Zealand is today.

    Protected under Bill of Rights
    “It’s a right protected by New Zealand’s Bill of Rights and is a critical part of being a functioning democracy.”

    The terror laws revision forms part of a wider trend of legislating to close down dissent over New Zealand’s foreign policy, now closely aligned with NATO and US interests.

    The government is also widening the definition of foreign interference in a way that could see people who “should have known” that they were being used by a foreign state to undermine New Zealand’s interests prosecuted.

    The Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill, which passed its first reading in Parliament on November 19, would criminalise the act of foreign interference, while also increasing powers of unwarranted searches by authorities.

    The Bill is effectively a reintroduction of the country’s old colonial sedition laws inherited from Britain, the broadness of the law having allowed it to be used against communists, trade unionists and indigenous rights activists.

    Republished from Mick Hall in Context on Substack with permisson.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Leaked document reveals proposed law revisions in NZ, as Western defence of Zionist genocide threatens Pacific

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Mick Hall

    A leaked document has revealed secretive plans to revise terror laws in New Zealand so that people can be charged over statements deemed to constitute material support for a proscribed organisation.

    It shows the government also wants to widen the criteria for proscribing organisations to include groups that are judged to “facilitate” or “promote and encourage” terrorist acts.

    The changes would see the South Pacific nation falling in line with increasingly repressive Western countries like the UK, where scores of independent journalists and anti-genocide protesters have been arrested and charged under terrorism laws in recent months.

    The consultation document, handed over to the New Zealand Council for Civil Liberties (NZCCL), reveals the government has been in contact with a small number of unnamed groups this year over plans to legally redefine what material support involves, so that public statements or gestures involving insignia like flags can lead to charges if construed as support for proscribed groups.

    As part of a proposal to revise the Terrorism Suppression Act, the document suggests the process for designating organisations as terror groups should be changed by “expanding the threshold to enable more modern types of entities to be designated, such as those that ‘facilitate’ or ‘promote and encourage’ terrorist acts”.

    The Ministry of Justice has been contacted in an attempt to ascertain which groups it has been consulting with and why it believed the changes were necessary.

    NZCCL chairman Thomas Beagle told Mick Hall In Context his group was concerned the proposed changes were a further attempt to limit the rights of New Zealanders to engage in political protest.

    ‘What’s going on?’
    “When you look at the proposal to expand the Terrorism Suppression Act, alongside the Police and IPCA conspiring to propose a law change to ban political protest without government permission, you really have to wonder what’s going on,” he said.

    A report by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) in February proposed to give police the right to ban protests if they believed there was a high chance of public disorder and threats to public safety.

    That would potentially mean bans on Palestinian solidarity protests if far right counter protestErs posed a threat of violent confrontation.

    The stand-alone legislation would put New Zealand in line with other Five Eyes and NATO-aligned security jurisdictions such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

    Beagle points out proposed changes to terror laws would suppress freedom of speech and further undermine freedom of assembly and the right to protest.

    “We’ve seen what’s happening with the state’s abuse of terrorism suppression laws in the UK and are horrified that they have sunk so far and so quickly,” he said.

    More than 100 people were arrested across the UK on suspicion of supporting Palestine Action, a non-violent protest group proscribed as a terrorist organisation by the British government earlier this month.

    Arrests in social media clips
    Social media clips showed pensioners aggressively arrested while attending rallies in Liverpool, London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Truro over the weekend.

    Independent journalists and academics have also faced state repression under the UK’s Terrorism Act.

    Among those targeted was Electronic Intifada journalist Asa Winstanley, who had his home raided and devices seized in October last year as part of the opaque counter-terror drive “Operation Incessantness”.

    Independent journalist Asa Winstanley . . . his home was raided and devices seized in October last year as part of “Operation Incessantness”. Image: R Witts Photography/mickhall.substack.com

    In May, the country’s Central Criminal Court ruled the raid was unlawful.

    Journalist Richard Medhurst has had a terror investigation hanging over his head since being detained at Heathrow Airport in August last year and charged under section 8 of the Terrorism Act. Activist and independent journalist Sarah Wilkinson had her house raided in the same month.

    Others have faced similar intimidation and threats of jail. In November 2024, Jewish academic Haim Bresheeth was charged after police alleged he had expressed support for a “proscribed organisation” during a speech outside the London residence of the Israeli ambassador to the UK.

    Meanwhile, dozens of members of Palestine Action are in jail facing terror charges. The vast majority are being held on remand where they may wait two years before going to trial — a common state tactic to take activists off the street and incarcerate them, knowing the chances of conviction are slim when they eventually go to court.

    ‘Targeted amendments’
    The document says the New Zealand government wants to progress “targeted amendments” to the Act, creating or amending offences “to capture contemporary behaviours and activities of concern” like “public expressions of support for a terrorist act or designated entities, for example by showing insignia or distributing propaganda or instructional material.”

    Protesters highlight the proscription of Palestine Action outside the British Embassy at The Hague on July 20. No arrests were made following 80 arrests by Dutch police the week before. Image: Defend Our Juries/mickhall.substack.com

    It suggests that the existing process for proscribing an organisation is slow and cumbersome, noting that: “Specific provisions need to be followed to designate entities not on a UN list, but the decision-making process is lengthy and the designation period is short. This impacts timely decision-making and the usefulness of designation as a tool to prevent terrorism.”

    It proposes to improve “the timeliness of the process, by considering changes to who the decision-maker is” and extending the renewal period from three to five years.

    The document suggests consulting the Attorney-General over designation-related decisions to ensure legal requirements are met may not be required and questions whether the designation process requiring the Prime Minister to review decisions twice is necessary. It asks whether others, like the Foreign Minister, should be involved in the decision-making process.

    Beagle believes the secretive proposals pose a threat to New Zealand’s liberal democracy.

    “Political protest is an important part of New Zealand’s history,” he said.

    “Whether it’s the environment, worker’s rights, feminism, Māori issues, homosexual law reform or any number of other issues, political protest has had a big part in forming what Aotearoa New Zealand is today.

    Protected under Bill of Rights
    “It’s a right protected by New Zealand’s Bill of Rights and is a critical part of being a functioning democracy.”

    The terror laws revision forms part of a wider trend of legislating to close down dissent over New Zealand’s foreign policy, now closely aligned with NATO and US interests.

    The government is also widening the definition of foreign interference in a way that could see people who “should have known” that they were being used by a foreign state to undermine New Zealand’s interests prosecuted.

    The Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill, which passed its first reading in Parliament on November 19, would criminalise the act of foreign interference, while also increasing powers of unwarranted searches by authorities.

    The Bill is effectively a reintroduction of the country’s old colonial sedition laws inherited from Britain, the broadness of the law having allowed it to be used against communists, trade unionists and indigenous rights activists.

    Republished from Mick Hall in Context on Substack with permisson.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man sentenced for the manslaughter of Marc Allen

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been jailed for 13 years at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 24 July after robbing and running over a man, leaving him to die in the street in Erith in 2019. He will serve a further 5 years on license.

    Errol Woodger, 38 (18.12.1986) of Mottisfont Road, Abbey Wood, was found guilty at the same court of robbery and manslaughter of 51-year-old Marc Allen following a three-week trial that concluded on Tuesday, 15 April 2025.

    On Sunday, 29 December 2019, Marc Allen interrupted Errol Woodger robbing items from his flat on Peareswood Road, Erith, including his car keys.

    Mr Allen attempted to stop Woodger driving off in his car, but Woodger deliberately drove the car at him, running him over and causing him fatal injuries. Mr Allen was taken to hospital but never regained consciousness and died on Wednesday, 29 January 2020.

    Woodger was charged with robbery and murder on Wednesday, 19 June 2024 and was remanded into custody.

    At trial, Woodger was found guilty of one count of manslaughter and one count of robbery.

    Detective Sergeant Nick Bale, of the Met’s Homicide Command, said:

    “Our thoughts remain with Marc’s family and loved ones.

    “I’d like to thank the Homicide team who led on this investigation and the members of the public who were able to help us. The response we received to our appeal for information and witnesses following Marc’s senseless death directly led to Mr Woodger’s arrest and charges nearly five years after this tragic incident.

    “A man was fatally injured in a brutal way and died as a result – outside his home where he should have felt safe. I can only hope that this sentence goes some way in providing a sense of justice to Marc’s family.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia Judiciary – Threats to judges a threat to justice

    Source: Australian Judicial Officers Association

    From Justice Steven Moore, President of the Australian Judicial Officers Association – 25 July 2025

    Threats against judicial officers are increasing, new data revealed on the inaugural United Nations International Day for Judicial Wellbeing show.

    Between 2023 and 2024, the number of Victorian judicial officers who sought support to manage a threat more than doubled, with the largest number coming from Magistrates.

    Based on 2025 reports to date, the overall number of reported threats is expected to increase a further 70 per cent.

    The figures reflect New South Wales research from July 2022 which found 61 per cent of surveyed judges had experienced some form of threat, with 41 per cent threats of harm. The sitting and retired judges surveyed reported threats were most commonly experienced in person in the courtroom or court precinct followed by on social media.

    The Australian Judicial Officers Association (AJOA) called on the Attorneys-General of the Commonwealth, the States and the Territories to formulate and implement consistent policies and measures to address the increasing threats.

    “The increasing prevalence of threats to the safety and security of Australian judicial officers is alarming and unacceptable,” AJOA President Justice Steven Moore said.

    “It demands urgent action to ensure judicial officers and court staff may go about their work without unnecessary risks to their psychological and physical health and safety, and to ensure that they may properly discharge their oaths of office.”

    Justice Moore said while judicial decisions were often significant for those involved or widely discussed in the community, personal threats should never be tolerated as ‘part of the job’.

    “Legitimate scrutiny of decision making is a cornerstone of the law. If someone disagrees with the basis for a decision or believes a legal error has occurred there are avenues of appeal for that to be properly considered,” he said.

    “Judicial officers perform an essential social role. It means putting personal opinion aside and applying laws enacted by parliament and legal precedents. Threats of personal harm for performing this role are unwarranted and should alarm the community.”

    “It is particularly sobering to consider the deteriorating situation in relation to safety and security of judges in the United States, where judges have been murdered as recently as 2023,” he said.

    “Although the experience in the US shouldn’t be assumed to automatically flow to Australia, there is clearly an erosion of respect for, and understanding of, the role of judicial officers, that left unabated has the potential to undermine our system of justice.”

    The United Nations chose July 25 for the International Day for Judicial Wellbeing to coincide with the anniversary of the Nauru Declaration of Judicial Wellbeing.

    The 2024 declaration, which was endorsed by the Chief Justices and senior judicial figures of countries including Australia, Canada, England, Jamaica and numerous Pacific Island Nations, states that the court environment and culture must demonstrate zero tolerance for corruption, discrimination, harassment, bullying and other negative behaviours.

    Read the full paper on Judicial Safety and Security: https://www.ajoa.asn.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/P105_02-250723-Judicial-safety-and-security-paper-25-July-2025.pdf

    The Australian Judicial Officers Association is the professional association of judges and magistrates in Australia.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –