NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Work starts on £27 million Comrie Flood Protection Scheme

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The Comrie Flood Protection Scheme will protect nearly 200 homes from the threat of flooding once it is completed next year. 

    Work on the scheme is being carried out by Balfour Beatty and will provide defences along the Water of Ruchill, River Earn and River Lednock – areas all historically prone to flooding. 

    The defences include the construction of flood walls and embankments, incorporating innovative natural flood management techniques such as root wad revetment bank protection measures, which all told will offer protection against a 1 in 200 year magnitude flood event. 

    Comrie has experienced major flood events in recent years, including January 1993, February 1997, December 2006, and August and November 2012. 

    Previous flood protection works undertaken by Perth and Kinross Council in 2013 significantly reduced the flooding risk to the Dalginross area.  

    However, residual flood risks from the River Earn and River Lednock remained. The detailed design of the flood scheme to address these was completed in 2023, with main construction works now underway and completion targeted for Autumn 2026.  

    Led by principal designer Sweco, the scheme will provide improvements to flood resilience for the community of Comrie through increased flood defence levels while also providing a high-level finish with the use of locally sourced natural stone materials and high-quality landscaping, including compensatory tree planting, with three trees planted for every one felled during construction. 

    The project is funded through a collaboration between the Scottish Government, providing 80% of the costs, and Perth and Kinross Council, contributing the remaining 20%.  

    Councillor Eric Drysdale, Convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee said: “It is fantastic to see construction underway on this vital flood protection scheme in Comrie. 

    “Flooding is sadly becoming a more frequent occurrence due to climate change, so this scheme is hugely important for residents and businesses in the area.” 

    Perth and Kinross Council leader Councillor Grant Laing said: “As a Council we are committed to working with our communities and this will make a real difference to the lives of people who live and work in Comrie.”  

    Keith MacDonald, Portfolio Director at Balfour Beatty said: “We are delighted to have commenced construction on the Comrie Flood Protection Scheme, helping to safeguard hundreds of homes and businesses from the risk of flooding.

     “Our focus remains on carrying out the works safely and sustainably, using innovative natural flood management techniques to enhance resilience while minimising environmental impact.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft planted almost 11 million trees in 2024

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In 2024, employees of Rosneft and its subsidiaries planted over 10.7 million tree seedlings of various species, which is almost 30% more than the year before. The total area of forest plantations is comparable to the territory of more than 4.5 thousand football fields.

    Over the past four years, the Company’s enterprises have planted a total of approximately 37 million tree seedlings and saplings, making a significant contribution to the conservation of nature and biological diversity in the Russian Federation.

    March 21 marks the International Day of Forests, which was established by the UN General Assembly to draw attention to the issues of rational use of these natural resources and their importance for our planet.

    Preservation of the environment for future generations is an integral part of the corporate culture and social policy of the Company. Rosneft implements a number of large-scale environmental programs and is a leader in minimizing the impact on the environment and improving the environmental friendliness of production. The Company’s approaches to afforestation and reforestation are presented in the public position “Preserve the Planet for the Benefit of Current and Future Generations: Sustainable Forest Management”.

    In 2024, more than 30 subsidiaries planted seedlings in various regions of the country, including: in the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug – Yugra, Yamalo-Nenets and Nenets Autonomous Okrugs, the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Krasnoyarsk and Stavropol Krais, Tyumen, Saratov, Samara, Sakhalin Oblasts, as well as in Bashkiria and the city of Moscow. The work was carried out both as part of reforestation work and voluntary campaigns – “Green Spring”, “Forest Planting Day”, “Save the Forest” and the International Campaign “Garden of Memory”, dedicated to the memory of those killed in the Great Patriotic War.

    The largest contribution to forest restoration in 2024 was made by RN-Yuganskneftegaz, RN-Purneftegaz, East Siberian Oil and Gas Company, Bashneft, RN-Vankor and Samotlorneftegaz.

    Employees of RN-Yuganskneftegaz, Rosneft’s largest oil-producing asset, planted more than 4.8 million coniferous seedlings during the 2024 growing season. This is 41% more than last year. The green area was about 1,300 hectares.

    Over the past three years, the RN-Purneftegaz company has planted more than 1.2 million pine seedlings on an area of 340 hectares in Yamal.

    The East Siberian Oil and Gas Company has completed reforestation work in the Achinsk and Karatuz forestries of the Krasnoyarsk Territory. The oil workers planted 940 thousand forest seedlings on an area of 300 hectares. The forestry territories grew by 820 thousand Siberian spruce seedlings, 70 thousand Siberian cedar pine seedlings and almost 50 thousand Scots pine seedlings.

    In 2024, Bashneft planted 748 thousand trees on an area of over 200 hectares. This is 45% more than the same indicator last year. The plantings took place in the Republic of Bashkortostan, the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug – Yugra and the Nenets Autonomous Okrug. Employees of the Company’s enterprises and their family members participate in various environmental campaigns: Green Spring, Forest Planting Day, Save the Forest, hold clean-up days and clean up the coastal zones of rivers, reservoirs and springs, support the Green Office project, and help botanical gardens and zoos.

    RN-Vankor planted about 400 thousand pine seedlings on an area of 182 hectares in the Krasnoyarsk Territory. During the growing season, the seedlings were transported to forestries in special containers that protect future trees from damage and root drying. Pine was chosen for reforestation as one of the forest-forming species – these trees are among the most resistant to winds and adverse conditions, and their root system strengthens the soil. Pines grow quickly and are capable of creating significant forest areas in a short time, which become a habitat for many species of animals and birds, which is of great importance for restoring the natural balance of the taiga.

    In 2024, Samotlorneftegaz employees planted more than 390 thousand pine seedlings on more than 107 hectares. Large-scale work to restore coniferous forests began in 2008. Over 17 years, the district’s forest fund has increased by 2 million trees, which is more than 700 hectares.

    The group’s companies not only plant trees, but also help equip forestry with modern equipment. Thus, in 2024, Samotlorneftegaz transferred domestically produced snow and swamp-going vehicles to forestry in the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Yugra. The self-propelled equipment is adapted to work in harsh climatic conditions and will be used for fire patrols, reforestation work, and year-round sanitary control of the forest fund. With the financial support of the enterprise, the material and technical equipment of the aviation and ground forest protection base, which is engaged in the protection and reproduction of the district’s forests, has been improved.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to WMO’s World Day for Glaciers announcement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on the WMO’s (World Meterological Organisation) announcement on World Day for Glaciers. 

    Dr Bethan Davies, Chair in Glaciology, Newcastle University, said:

    “Worldwide, glaciers are shrinking. Everywhere we look, glaciers are getting smaller each year; they are melting and losing more ice than they are gaining from snowfall or other solid precipitation.

    “The loss of glaciers is a loss for society. Glaciers are beautiful in their own right, forming some of our world’s most inspiring landscapes. They have a cultural importance, being revered by mountain and polar communities in different regions across the world. They have an economic importance and value; glaciers bring in funds through tourism and adventure travel. But most importantly, glaciers provide ecosystem services. As they melt, they maintain the river flow down-valley, especially in dry seasons and even more importantly in drought years. This melt eventually makes its way to the sea, where it contributes to global sea level rise.

    “On World Day of the Glacier in the International Year of Glacier Preservation we may ask, what does it mean to ‘preserve’ glaciers?

    “The most effective way to preserve glaciers is by reducing carbon dioxide emissions and curbing the rise in global heating. While we can hypothesise about potential glacier-geoengineering solutions, none of these are tested and may cause more harm than good. All would require substantial investment in inhospitable and often politically contested parts of the world; funds that would be better invested in clean energy and transport.

    “I am pleased that the UN and WMO have brought glaciers to the forefront and highlighted their significance and importance to society. While they are an iconic image of climate change, they are so much more, providing water and ecosystem services, contributions to GDP through tourism, being an important cultural part of our landscape, and driving rising sea levels and increasing mountain hazards as they shrink. We must do more to ‘preserve’ them by immediately curbing carbon emissions and meeting the Paris agreement of 1.5 C of warming.”

    Declared interests

    Bethan Davies: none to declare

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Heathrow Airport in London closed due to power outage from nearby fire

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    London’s Heathrow Airport remains closed until midnight Friday due to a “significant power outage” caused by a fire at a nearby electricity substation, a spokesperson said.

    The outage has affected the entire airport, with no clear timeline for power restoration. “To maintain the safety of our passengers and colleagues, we have no choice but to close Heathrow until 23:59 GMT on March 21,” the spokesperson added.

    Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport until further notice. Over 1,300 flights, including 120 already airborne, are affected, according to Sky News, citing Flightradar24, a live flight-tracking website. Some planes have been diverted to other airports, including London Gatwick Airport, those in Paris and Shannon Airport in Ireland.

    British Airways, Heathrow’s largest carrier, urged customers not to go to the airport until further notice and said it is working to update them on travel options.

    London Heathrow, one of the world’s busiest airports, handled a record 83.9 million passengers last year.

    The fire that broke out in Hayes, north of the airport has also left around 16,000 nearby homes without power. The cause remains unknown, but the National Grid is working to restore electricity as quickly as possible. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: The Basilica Cistern: A Timeless Water Marvel Beneath Istanbul

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Transporting water through gravity

    Water from the Belgrade Forest reached the Basilica Cistern through a gravity-fed system. The aqueducts were precisely engineered with gravity slopes to maintain a continuous flow. These water conduits also incorporated bridges and siphons to go through valleys and uneven terrain, ensuring efficient water delivery over long distances.

    Beyond the Basilica Cistern, the water was distributed to public fountains, baths, and palaces using clay and lead pipes and underground channels, all operating by gravity. Some elevated cisterns created additional water pressure for better distribution, making the system both sustainable and efficient. This gravity system ensured a continuous flow of water from its source to the city.

    Harvesting rainwater

    Although the primary source of water for the Basilica Cistern came from the forest, it also collected rainwater. The large underground space allowed rainwater to seep through the ground and be stored, supplementing the aqueduct supply. The vaulted ceilings and brick arches helped channel water efficiently, and the waterproof mortar reduced the water loss. This method provided extra supply during water shortages.

    The Belgrade Forest remains an essential part of Istanbul’s water supply system. While modern reservoirs and dams have been built to meet the city’s growing water needs, parts of the forest continue to feed Istanbul’s water network. The forest also plays a crucial role in climate regulation, groundwater recharge, and flood prevention.

    Screening for clean water

    Ensuring clean water was a priority for the Byzantine engineers. The Basilica Cistern used a natural sedimentation process where impurities settled at the bottom. Additionally, grated inlets at the aqueduct entry points helped filter out debris. Over time, new technologies as sand and charcoal filtration techniques were employed in Byzantine and Ottoman water systems to further purify the water before distribution.

    Storing water without leakage

    The Basilica Cistern’s construction is a marvel of engineering. Spanning 9,800 square meters, it features 336 marble columns, each about 9 meters tall, arranged in 12 rows of 28 lines. These columns, many repurposed from earlier Roman structures, support the vaulted brick ceiling.

    A key challenge in any water reservoir is leak prevention. The Byzantine engineers solved this by

    • lining the walls with thick waterproof mortar (opus signinum), a blend of brick dust and lime;
    • using hydraulic cement to harden parts in contact with water; and
    • employing brick-built arches and vaults to evenly distribute the weight and prevent structural failures.

    Despite centuries of use and neglect, the cistern still retains water today—a testament to the effectiveness of its design.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Joint Fiji forces tackle civil strife, flash flood crisis and rebels in exercise

    Asia Pacific Report

    A joint operation between the Fiji Police Force, Republic of Fiji Military Force (RFMF), Territorial Force Brigade, Fiji Navy and National Fire Authority was staged this week to “modernise” responses to emergencies.

    Called “Exercise Genesis”, the joint operation is believed to be the first of its kind in Fiji to “test combat readiness” and preparedness for facing civil unrest, counterinsurgency and humanitarian assistance scenarios.

    It took place over three days and was modelled on challenges faced by a “fictitious island grappling with rising unemployment, poverty and crime”.

    The exercise was described as based on three models, operated on successive days.

    The block 1 scenario tackled internal security, addressing civil unrest, law enforcement challenges and crowd control operations.

    Block 2 involved humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and coordinating emergency response efforts with government agencies.

    Block 3 on the last day dealt with a “mid-level counterinsurgency”, engaging in stabilising the crisis, and “neutralising” a threat.

    Flash flood scenario
    On the second day, a “composite” company with the assistance of the Fiji Navy successfully evacuated victims from a scenario-based flash flood at Doroko village (Waila) to Nausori Town.

    “The flood victims were given first aid at the village before being evacuated to an evacuation centre in Syria Park,” said the Territorial Brigade’s Facebook page.

    “The flood victims were further examined by the medical team at Syria Park.”

    Fiji police confront protesters during the Operation Genesis exercise in Fiji this week. Image: RFMF screenshot APR

    On the final day, Thursday, Exercise Genesis culminated in a pre-dawn attack by the troops on a “rebel hideout”.

    According to the Facebook page, the “hideout” had been discovered following the deployment of a joint tracker team and the K9 unit from the Fiji Corrections Service.

    “Through rigorous training and realistic scenarios, the [RFMF Territorial Brigade] continues to refine its combat proficiency, adaptability, and mission effectiveness,” said a brigade statement.

    Mock protesters in the Operation Genesis security services exercise in Fiji this week. Image: RFMF screenshot APR

    It said that the exercise was “ensuring that [the brigade] remains a versatile and responsive force, capable of safeguarding national security and contributing to regional stability.”

    However, a critic said: “Anyone who is serious about reducing crime would offer a real alternative to austerity, poverty and alienation. Invest in young people and communities.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Second crocodile captured near turf farm in Bohle River in weeks

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Issued: 20 Mar 2025

    Open larger image

    The large crocodile was sighted near residential areas in Townsville.

    A large estuarine crocodile has been captured in the upper reaches of the Bohle River in Townsville following reports from the community – the second large croc removed from the area in weeks.

    Wildlife Rangers from the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) recently conducted a site assessment following reports of a large crocodile in a flooded section of the Bohle River near residential areas and an unfenced turf farm.

    Given the size of the animal and its location, it was declared for removal.

    Senior Wildlife Ranger Tony Frisby is urging locals to be extra vigilant.

    “We have now successfully captured two large crocodiles in the same location within three weeks of each other.” Mr Frisby said.

    “It is essential that people in the surrounding area are aware of the potential presence of crocodiles and to prioritise their safety.”

    Crocodile sightings can be reported by using the QWildlife app, completing a crocodile sighting report on the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372. The department investigates every crocodile sighting report received.

    Media contact:                  DETSI Media Unit on (07) 3339 5831 or media@des.qld.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Cleveland Men Indicted For Trying To Send Firearms To Drug Cartel Members In Mexico

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

    Tampa, FL – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the  unsealing of an indictment charging Yarquimedes Rodriguez Hilario (32, Cleveland, OH) and Adison Lopez-Ramirez (34, Cleveland, OH) with conspiring to traffic firearms and money laundering. If convicted on all counts, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of 35 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies the defendants that the United States intends to forfeit assets that are traceable to proceeds of the offense. 

    According to the indictment and other court documents filed during this investigation, since 2021, undercover agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), posing as Mexican cartel members, were introduced to Yuendry Rodriguez Hilario because he was a trafficker of firearms that could be smuggled to Mexico. Undercover communications with Yuendry Rodriguez Hilario and others discussed the purchase of AR-15s and rocket-propelled grenade launchers. One of the coconspirators described that he sold AR-15s and AK-47s to El Salvadorans and had cocaine available for distribution. Yuendry Rodriguez Hilario further offered fentanyl to one of the agents to make pills.

    Beginning in late-2021, members of the conspiracy sold or arranged the sale of at least 90 rifles and one Mac-10-type machine gun with a silencer to undercover agents in the Middle District of Florida and Cleveland, Ohio. On October 21, 2021, Adison Lopez-Ramirez delivered nine .223/5.56 caliber rifles and one 9mm rifle to undercover ATF agents in St. Petersburg, Florida, in exchange for $16,000. Soon after the sale, federal agents followed Lopez-Ramirez as he deposited $9,000 from the sale into the bank account of Yarquimedes Rodriguez Hilario, the brother of Yuendry Rodriguez Hilario.

    In November 2022, an undercover agent told Yuendry Rodriguez Hilario that his associates in Mexico were “battling and losing” and needed to purchase more firearms. On March 2, 2023, Yuendry Rodriguez Hilario arranged to deliver 40 AM-15 multi-caliber firearms to the agents. Saleh Yusuf Saleh, who acquired and assembled the parts to make the firearms, arrived at the meeting with Yuendry Rodriguez Hilario and the agents. After an undercover agent inspected one of the boxes of firearms, both Yuendry Rodriguez Hilario and Saleh were arrested.

    In March 2024, Yuendry Rodriguez Hilario was sentenced to 13 years and 4 months’ imprisonment. In November 2024, Saleh Yusuf Saleh previously was sentenced to 5 years and 8 months in federal prison. 

    Image 1: Firearms from the October 21, 2021 Sale

     Images 2-3: Firearms from March 10, 2022 Sale

    Images 4-5: Firearms from May 26, 2022 Sale

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

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.

    The specific mission of the OCDETF Panama Express Strike Force is to disrupt and dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations involved in large scale drug trafficking, money laundering, and related activities. The OCDETF Panama Express Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from the Coast Guard Investigative Service, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The Cleveland offices of ATF, HSI, DEA, and FBI, with assistance from the Cleveland Police Department and Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, provided critical support in the apprehension of the defendants. It is being prosecuted by Dan Baeza.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America which streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – Protest against Winston Peters’ policy of appeasement towards genocidal Israel – PSNA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    Palestine Solidarity supporters will protest New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ “the real state of the nation” public meeting in Ōtautahi/Christchurch this Sunday from 1pm at the Christchurch Town Hall (the NZ First meeting for Peters begins at 2pm)

    While New Zealanders call for sanctions on Israel for genocide, Mr Peters continues to look the other way.

    As we said in a media release yesterday Mr Peters has repeatedly failed to:

    ·         Express any concern for the Palestinians killed by Israel since Israel ended the ceasefire (at least 436 killed – including 183 children as well as nearly 200 during the ‘ceasefire’)

    ·         Condemn Israel for this industrial-scale carnage, which the International Court of Justice found more than a year ago to be a case of ‘plausible genocide’.

    ·         Condemn Israel for ending the ceasefire (It was Israel alone which refused to begin negotiations on stage two of the ceasefire agreement which was to lead to a permanent Israeli ceasefire and withdrawal from all of Gaza)

    ·         Condemn Israel for its blockade on food, water, fuel, electricity, and medical supplies getting into Gaza – a war crime by any measure of humanity.

    “Mr Peters talks about the ‘incomprehensible human suffering over the past year and half’ but there is no mystery about this suffering” John Minto says.

    “It stems from a brutal miliary occupation declared illegal last year by the International Court of Justice.”

    “Mr. Peters pretends this is a conflict between two equal sides.  But there is no balance when one side is carrying out mass slaughter and the other is fighting for survival.”

    Mr Peters seems to think he is being clever in not condemning Israel as a way of avoiding offending the US but New Zealanders want and expect more from our government. We want principled action which will gain the respect of countries the world over rather than cowardly appeasement.

    The protest will be calling on the government to “Sanction Israel for Genocide!”

    John Minto
    Co National Chair
    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Outdoor fire restrictions lifted for West Coast after rain

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand has placed the Grey and Buller Inland areas on the West Coast back in an open fire season, from 9am on Friday 21 March until further notice.
    This means people no longer need to apply for permits from Fire and Emergency to light fires in the open air.
    West Coast District Manager Myles Taylor says these areas were the last remaining parts of the West Coast to have fire restrictions in place.
    “With recent rainfall and cooler temperatures lowering the fire danger, the Grey and Buller Inland zones will join the rest of the West Coast in an open fire season,” he says.
    “However, Department of Conservation land – which is a large proportion of the West Coast District – remains in a restricted fire season.
    “We would like to thank people on the West Coast for respecting the fire restrictions and taking extra care during the dry summer period.
    “We also remind everyone to continue taking care when lighting fires and to visit checkitsalright.nz for advice and conditions for your particular location.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Flood prevention works on Great North Rd, Warkworth, to start this month

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) and Auckland Transport (AT) advise work to replace the existing broken culvert and other upgrades to alleviate flood risk on Great North Road in Warkworth will get underway later this month.

    From Monday 31 March to Friday 11 April, the road will be closed 24/7 between the Hill Street and Hudson Road intersections.

    Work will take place between 7.30am and 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday. Some overnight work may be required and will be communicated to nearby residents in advance, with contractors working hard to minimise noise and disruption as much as possible.

    Northbound traffic will be detoured via Matakana Road and Te Honohono Ki Tai Road. Southbound traffic will take the same detour, in reverse. The detour route is expected to add approximate 4 minutes to people’s journeys.

    Please be patient and treat our crews with kindness and respect. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the traffic management directions at our work sites. 

    The 995, 998, and 999 bus will be detoured via Hudson Road during the closure. The park-and-ride will remain open with a temporary bus stop inside.

    This work is weather dependent and there may be changes to the planned works in the case of unsuitable weather.

    Access for emergency services and local residents will be maintained throughout the closure. 

    This project is part of works to return the old State Highway 1 to AT following the opening of the Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway.

    People should visit the NZTA Journey Planner website (journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)) for up-to-date information on the works.

    NZTA and AT thank everyone for their patience while this important work is completed.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Slip repairs 98% complete on north rural roads

    Source: Auckland Council

    Two years on from the devastating Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods and Cyclone Gabrielle, Auckland Transport (AT)’s flood recovery team has now repaired 98 per cent of the slips that occurred on local roads in the ‘north rural’ area.

    Across the Auckland region, more than 2000 slips on local roads were reported to AT after the weather events. This included 1200 smaller slips which were fixed fairly quickly. But more than 800 bigger slips required extensive investigation to inform sustainable and resilient engineering designs before any construction repair works could begin.

    In the north rural area 323 of these complex slips needed repairing:

    • 256 minor (less than $250,000 to repair)
    • 67 major (more than $250,000 to repair).

    By the end of February 2025, all minor slips and 62 major slips in the area had been repaired with two under construction and three more to go.

    “It’s been a massive job, and we thank the people of Rodney for their continued patience, especially those communities dealing with long road closures,” said Alan Wallace, GM Road Asset Maintenance and Renewals at AT.

    “A number of roads like Ahuroa Road, Krippner Road and Matakana Valley Road slipped in multiple places and required some pretty complex engineering solutions before construction could even begin. Then when our contractors did get on site they were often in tricky terrain and working in variable weather conditions.”

    Mr Wallace says the north rural flood recovery programme is ahead of schedule and he’s confident the remaining slips will be repaired by mid-2025.

    The three remaining north rural slip sites are:

    • Pinchgut Road, Kaukapakapa (two sites)
    • Dairy Flat Road, Dairy Flat (one site).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Israeli army starts ‘ground activity’ in northern Gaza as Hamas fires rockets at Israel

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Israeli military said on Thursday its forces had begun ground operations in northern Gaza, while Hamas’ armed wing claimed responsibility for rocket attacks on central Israel, including Tel Aviv, escalating hostilities as a weeks-long ceasefire collapses.

    Israeli troops began what the military described as “ground activity” overnight in the Beit Lahia area of northern Gaza, near the coastal border. Images released by the military showed soldiers and armored vehicles advancing, though it did not specify the scale or duration of the operation.

    The move follows a “targeted ground operation” launched Wednesday in central and southern Gaza aimed at establishing a “buffer zone” to separate northern and southern parts of the enclave, according to Israeli authorities.

    Shortly after the military’s announcement, air raid sirens sounded in central and southern Israel on Thursday. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said three rockets were fired from southern Gaza, with one intercepted and the others landing in open areas. Loud explosions were reported in Tel Aviv, though no casualties were immediately confirmed.

    Hamas’ Al-Qassam Brigades said it had launched a rocket barrage at Tel Aviv in retaliation for what it called Israel’s “massacres against civilians.”

    Israel resumed strikes in Gaza on Tuesday after a ceasefire that began on Jan. 19 unraveled, with officials stating the renewed campaign targets Hamas militants.

    Gaza health authorities reported over 470 Palestinian deaths since Tuesday. Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for Gaza’s Civil Defense, said on Thursday that at least 71 Palestinians had been killed in Israeli airstrikes on residential areas since dawn, accusing Israel of targeting civilians. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Israeli forces expand ground operation in Gaza as Hamas fires rockets at Israel

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Israeli troops are seen near the southern Israeli border with Gaza, on March 20, 2025. The Israeli military said on Thursday its troops were expanding their ground operation in southern Gaza, advancing into the Shabura refugee camp in Rafah city. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Israeli military said on Thursday its troops were expanding their ground operation in southern Gaza, advancing into the Shabura refugee camp in Rafah city.

    “Troops began conducting ground activity in the area of Shabura in Rafah,” the military said in a statement, adding that they had “dismantled a number of terrorist infrastructure sites” in the area.

    Meanwhile, Israeli ground troops continued operations in northern and central Gaza after the military urged residents to avoid the Salah al-Din Road, the main north-south route in the enclave, and instead travel along the coast.

    Israeli forces also targeted the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, which had already ceased operations due to fuel shortages and previous strikes. The military claimed that the site was being used by Hamas as a command and control center to direct attacks against Israeli forces and targets.

    Israel’s expanded offensive follows a “targeted ground operation” launched Wednesday in central and southern Gaza aimed at establishing a “buffer zone” to separate northern and southern parts of the enclave, according to Israeli authorities.

    Shortly after the military’s announcement, air raid sirens sounded in central and southern Israel on Thursday. The Israel Defense Forces said three rockets were fired from southern Gaza, with one intercepted and the others landing in open areas. Loud explosions were reported in Tel Aviv, though no casualties were immediately confirmed.

    Hamas’ armed wing Al-Qassam Brigades claimed responsibility for the launch of the rocket barrage, calling it retaliation for Israel’s “massacres against civilians.”

    The UN agency for Palestine refugees warned Thursday that “the worst is yet to come given the ongoing ground invasion (in Gaza).”

    “Evacuation orders forcing people to flee were issued, impacting tens of thousands of people. The vast majority have been already displaced,” Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner-general of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, said on social media platform X.

    He said there is “an endless unleashing of the most inhumane ordeals” in Gaza, highlighting Israel’s continued blockade of aid and tightened siege on the war-torn enclave.

    Israel resumed strikes in Gaza on Tuesday after a ceasefire that began on Jan. 19 unraveled. The Hamas-run Gaza media office said in a statement on Thursday that the death toll from the renewed Israeli strikes in Gaza has risen to 591, in addition to 1,042 wounded. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese satellites to enhance global early warning systems

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

    China will launch three Fengyun geostationary meteorological satellites over the next two years to enhance global early warning systems, supporting the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All initiative and helping billions fight climate change, a senior official said.

    Chen Zhenlin, head of the China Meteorological Administration, said the satellites — one optical over the Indian Ocean, and one optical and one microwave over the western Pacific Ocean — are in their final phases of integration testing and are scheduled for launch between 2025 and 2026.

    The deployment of these satellites will bring groundbreaking development to global early warning systems, Chen told China Daily in an exclusive interview ahead of World Meteorological Day, which falls on Sunday and is themed “Closing the Early Warning Gap Together”.

    “Their high-frequency monitoring capabilities will allow these satellites to take advantage of the window for disaster prevention,” Chen said.

    The Indian Ocean and the western Pacific regions are vulnerable to extreme weather events, including typhoons and torrential rainfall. Real-time monitoring by the Fengyun satellites will enable early detection of disaster precursors, buying crucial response time.

    The microwave satellite, which is capable of penetrating cloud cover, will provide precise analysis of typhoon structures, improving the accuracy of their path and intensity forecasts. “This will give nations across Asia and the Pacific advance warnings ranging from hours to days,” Chen said.

    The optical satellites are capable of detecting heat waves and smoke from wildfires, while the microwave satellite can monitor changes in atmospheric moisture, helping in flood prediction. Together, they can track drought trends in Africa and conduct 3D observations of severe rainstorms in Southeast Asia, supporting climate resilience in countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

    Each of the optical satellites features a rapid scanning mode, providing minute-specific data for high-risk areas. “For instance, Pacific island nations will be able to predict the landfall of a severe cyclone 72 hours in advance,” Chen said.

    In line with global efforts to strengthen climate adaptation, China unveiled its Action Plan on Early Warning for Climate Change Adaptation (2025-27) during the COP29 UN climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November.

    The action plan focuses on sharing China’s expertise and technological prowess with developing economies to enhance disaster preparedness, minimize economic losses and reduce casualties from extreme weather events.

    Under the plan, China will provide and co-develop cloud-based early warning systems, alongside capacity-building programs, Chen said, adding that a key feature is integrating satellite data, global numerical forecasting and AI-powered meteorological models to improve prediction accuracy and accessibility.

    Multi-hazard monitoring will extend across meteorology, hydrology and marine fields, providing digital tools and interactive platforms to developing economies to close the technological gap.

    “A cloud-based early warning system has already been deployed in Pakistan, the Solomon Islands and several other countries involved in the BRI, significantly enhancing their ability to respond to climate threats,” Chen said.

    The action plan also prioritizes the development of local expertise.

    China will train 2,000 specialists, offer 100 scholarships and provide 50 visiting scholar positions over the next two years to help partner nations build independent meteorological and disaster response teams.

    The plan was well received when it was unveiled last year, Chen noted.

    Selwin Hart, special adviser to the UN secretary-general on climate action, called it the first national action plan directly supporting the UN’s Early Warnings for All initiative, which was launched by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in March 2022. The initiative called for every person on Earth to be protected by early warning systems by 2027.

    Celeste Saulo, secretary-general of the World Meteorological Organization, highlighted the critical role of China’s upcoming satellite launch in advancing global early warning capabilities.

    Chen, from the China Meteorological Administration, said the country plans to expand cloud-based early warning platforms, with a focus on supporting African nations in building meteorological early warning systems. AI models and numerical forecasting technology will improve the accuracy of global meteorological disaster predictions, he said.

    China will establish data service hubs in high-risk regions such as Africa, ASEAN countries and South Asia, aiming to bolster African drought and flood responses through cross-border meteorological disaster coordination.

    “China is exploring trilateral cooperation with developed economies, including the United States and European nations, to expand the reach of early warning services,” Chen said.

    The country will continue implementing capacity-building programs for developing economies, including setting up joint laboratories and fostering international research collaborations to equip vulnerable countries with technical expertise, he added.

    Beyond meteorology, China seeks to integrate early warning systems with UN sustainable development goals, using climate data to enhance food security in Africa and improve urban infrastructure resilience worldwide.

    “The combination of Chinese technology and international cooperation will directly benefit billions of people, making a tangible contribution to global climate resilience,” Chen said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung Electronics’ Water Conservation Efforts for World Water Day

    Source: Samsung

    March 22 marks World Water Day, designated by the United Nations (UN) to underscore the vital importance of water and promote global collaboration in addressing water-related challenges. In observance of this day, Samsung Electronics carried out a variety of water conservation initiatives across 26 domestic and international worksites, engaging approximately 36,200 participants, including employees, local governments, NGOs and members of the community. Beyond these activities, Samsung Electronics remains dedicated to responsible water stewardship by enhancing its initiatives focused on water reuse and replenishment, strengthening worksite management systems, and deepening partnerships with key stakeholders.
     
     
    Global Participation by Samsung Electronics Employees in Water Conservation Efforts
    Each year, Samsung Electronics collaborates with employees and local communities on a variety of initiatives, including stream clean-ups near its facilities and water-saving campaigns across its operations. This year, the company aligned these activities with its environmental strategies, including water replenishment projects. These efforts included upgrading reservoirs and pumping facilities in drought-affected regions near its worksites, as well as supporting clean drinking water initiatives for neighboring villages.
     
    ▲ Employees at Samsung Electronics Vietnam participated in a cleanup at Cau River
     
    To raise awareness about the importance of clean water, Samsung Electronics employees around the world participated in a variety of initiatives. Here are some highlights of their efforts, captured in photos.
     
     
    ① River Cleanup Activities With Employees, Local Governments, NGOs and Community Members
    * Regions of participation: Korea, Vietnam, U.S, Mexico, Brazil, Hungary, Indonesia, South Africa
    ▲ Employees at Samsung Electronics Home Appliances America took part in cleanup activities along nearby rivers and streams.
     
    ▲ At the Cheonan and Onyang worksites in Korea, employees visited streams such as Jangjaecheon, Cheonancheon and Gokgyocheon as part of the One Company, One Stream initiative, contributing to local ecological preservation efforts. In addition, the Hwaseong worksite in Korea is planning stream cleanup activities along Woncheonricheon stream in collaboration with local civic groups and residents, in celebration of World Water Day.
     
     
    ② Returning Clean Water – Water Replenishment Projects
    * Regions of participation: Samsung Electronics is currently implementing water replenishment projects in Korea, Vietnam, India, Mexico, the United States and Indonesia. The company also plans to launch water replenishment projects in Malaysia, Brazil, China, Thailand, Hungary, Türkiye, Slovakia, Poland and Egypt, starting this year.
    ▲ Samsung Electronics Malaysia held an opening ceremony to launch its water replenishment project.
     
     
    ③ ‘Join Us in Saving Water!’ – Water Conservation Campaign
    * Regions of participation: Korea, Vietnam, Mexico, Thailand
    ▲ Samsung Electronics Thailand aired a water-saving campaign video in the company cafeteria.
     
     
    ④ Protecting Aquatic Ecosystems Near Worksites
    * Regions of participation: Korea and Vietnam
    ▲ As part of efforts to protect aquatic ecosystems, employees at Samsung Electronics Vietnam monitored water quality in nearby streams and carried out environmental awareness surveys in collaboration with local government offices, residents and NGOs.
     
     
    Partnering With Stakeholders To Drive Water Conservation and Reduce Usage
    Samsung Electronics recognizes water as a vital resource for a sustainable future and is committed to reducing water intake and promoting water reuse across its operations.
     
    The DX Division has set a goal of achieving 100% water replenishment by 2030, returning to local communities an amount of water equivalent to what is used in its production processes, thereby helping to prevent the depletion of water resources. To achieve this, Samsung is actively implementing water replenishment projects across multiple regions worldwide.
     
    In 2023, Samsung Electronics partnered with the Korea Rural Community Corporation (KRC) to support the construction of water redistribution facilities, enabling the reuse of agricultural water by channeling it from downstream to upstream areas in farmland regions. In collaboration with the Korea Ecological & Environmental Institute (KEEI), Samsung also carried out reservoir dredging in the Haman region in Korea to expand aquatic ecosystems and secure agricultural water supplies, contributing to water reuse and mitigating the risks of drought and water scarcity.
    * Regions where agricultural water reuse facilities have been established (Five locations in Korea): Wando, Shinan, Pyeongtaek, Andong, Changnyeong
     
    ▲ Samsung Electronics, in collaboration with the KRC Andong held a completion ceremony in July 2024 to mark the construction of an agricultural water redistribution facility in Andong, Korea. In April 2024, Samsung Electronics Vietnam signed an agreement with the local People’s Committee to support water replenishment projects.
     
    Building on these efforts, Samsung implemented 23 water replenishment projects across six countries in 2024, returning a total of 1.35 million tonnes of water annually to local communities and achieving 100% water replenishment by Korean facilities’ water usage standards. The company is committed to expanding this achievement globally by 2030, helping to mitigate local water risks and advance water resource conservation across all its international operations.
     
    Meanwhile, the DS Division is promoting various initiatives to protect water resources through partnerships with public, private and governmental organizations.
     
    In March 2024, Samsung signed a public-private-governmental memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Environment, K-water and other stakeholders to advance water-related initiatives. This collaboration was further strengthened in November 2024 through an additional MOU for the Jangheung Dam Artificial Wetland Creation Project, jointly developed with the Ministry of Environment and K-water. This marks the first project in Korea jointly led by public, private and governmental partners. The project aims to enhance riparian ecological belts and artificial wetlands through forest restoration, planting and waterway rehabilitation. In addition, it will create cultural and recreational spaces, including an ecological art museum and walking trails, contributing to the well-being of local communities.
     
    The DS Division has also set a target to keep water intake to 2021 levels by 2030. To that end, Samsung signed another MOU in December 2024 with the Ministry of Environment, Gyeonggi Province, the cities of Hwaseong and Osan, K-water and the Korea Environment Corporation for the Gyeonggido Region Semiconductor Site Reclaimed Water Project (Phase 1). This project will recycle treated wastewater from Hwaseong and Osan to supply 120,000 tonnes of reclaimed water per day to Samsung’s Giheung and Hwaseong semiconductor facilities. The project will proceed with feasibility studies for private investment, basic and detailed phases, and then installation and operation of reuse facilities, with water supply to the DS Division’s Giheung and Hwaseong worksites scheduled to begin in 2029.
     
     
    Expanding Platinum Certifications From the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS)
    In March 2023, Samsung Electronics’ Hwaseong worksite became the first facility in Korea to achieve the Platinum certification, the highest level from the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS).* Since then, Samsung has continued to expand the number of AWS-certified worksites across its global operations. AWS is a global water stewardship initiative jointly established by international organizations to assess companies’ comprehensive water management systems.
    * The Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) is a global water management initiative jointly established by organizations such as the UN Global Compact (UNGC) and Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). AWS evaluates a company’s water stewardship performance across 100 criteria, including ▲ sustainable water management, ▲ pollution control, ▲ water sanitation, ▲impact on aquatic ecosystems within the watershed, and ▲ governance. Based on these assessments, certifications are awarded at three levels, including ‘Platinum,’ ‘Gold,’ and ‘Core.’
     
    The DS Division has achieved Platinum certification for its Giheung/Hwaseong and Pyeongtaek worksites in Korea, followed by its Xi’an worksite in China and most recently its Cheonan/Onyang worksites in Korea in November 2024. The DX Division has also expanded its certifications, securing Platinum certifications for its Suwon, Gumi and Gwangju worksites in 2023, as well as for its Vietnam worksites in 2024. Samsung Electronics also plans to extend AWS certifications to its India operations by 2025.
     
    Water is a vital resource, and ensuring the availability of clean and safe water for future generations is a critical responsibility. Samsung Electronics is fully committed to this mission and will continue to promote water stewardship and the importance of sustainable water management among its employees. The company will also actively collaborate with stakeholders to advance water-related initiatives and take a leading role in the conservation of global water resources.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Special Public Avalanche Warning in place for central Rockies

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    From Avalanche Canada: https://avalanche.ca/news/20250320-spaw

    Avalanche Canada, in partnership with Parks Canada, Alberta Parks, and the Province of British Columbia, has issued a Special Public Avalanche Warning for recreational backcountry users across the central Rockies. The warning applies to Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, and Jasper National Parks, Kananaskis Country, and areas immediately adjacent to those parks. It is in effect immediately and remains in place through Monday, March 24.

    Recent storm snow overlies a weak snowpack structure and has produced numerous very large avalanches over the last two weeks. Avalanches triggered on this layer have propagated widely, even through forested areas, and may involve the entire depth of the snowpack. There have been several serious avalanche incidents in this time, including two fatal incidents, and the snowpack is dangerous and unpredictable. Avalanches may also be triggered remotely, meaning they could be initiated from a distance. Warming, sun, and stormy weather will all increase the likelihood of triggering an avalanche.

    “While natural avalanche activity is beginning to taper off, the snowpack remains primed for human-triggering,” says Stephen Holeczi, Visitor Safety Specialist at Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks. “This is an unstable and highly volatile situation,” Holeczi cautions, because “Weak layers are buried under up to 90 cm of storm snow, and more snow expected by the weekend will add to slabs over those weak layers.” He adds, “the complex snowpack in the central Rockies continues to demand caution, conservative decision-making, and careful terrain choices.”

    It is important that backcountry recreationists remain alert to the dangerous avalanche conditions and don’t become complacent as the natural avalanche activity declines. It is essential to choose low-angle terrain without overhead hazard or terrain traps. Avalanches on this layer may run far and release unpredictably, and slopes with tracks on them should not be considered safe. 

    To reduce risk, Avalanche Canada, Parks Canada, and Alberta Parks recommend: 

    • Sticking to lower-angle slopes (less than 30 degrees)
    • Avoid terrain with exposure to overhead hazard, terrain traps, or runout zones
    • Avoiding avalanche terrain
    • Avoiding sun-exposed slopes during warm and/or sunny conditions 

    “With a special public avalanche warning in effect for Kananaskis Country, we want to make sure anyone heading to the mountains exercise extreme caution,” said Todd Loewen, Alberta Minister of Forestry and Parks. “All backcountry users should educate themselves on avalanche terrain, avalanche safety equipment and companion rescue, and stay up to date on advisories and warnings in the area. Taking the time to fully prepare yourself and avoid dangerous avalanche conditions will help keep you and those around you safe.”

    “The snowpack in the Rockies is complex and highly unstable at the moment, posing a significant avalanche risk,” said Kelly Greene, BC Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “If you were considering going into the backcountry this weekend, I strongly urge you to put your safety first. Now is the time to exercise extreme caution, follow the advice and guidance of Avalanche Canada, and make well-informed decisions.”

    Backcountry users should always check the avalanche forecast at https://avalanche.ca. Everyone in a backcountry group must carry essential rescue gear—an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel — and have the training to use it. 

    For a map of the SPAW regions, click: https://asset.cloudinary.com/avalanche-ca/5179b632436737b18001e0033028f487  

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon Indicted For Possession Of Stolen Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident who has prior felony convictions made his initial court appearance Wednesday before United States Magistrate Judge Nancy J. Koppe for allegedly being in possession of nearly 30 stolen firearms.

    According to allegations contained in the indictment and statements made in court, on or about January 25, 2025, Francisco Iniguez (37) possessed 28 stolen firearms. Some of the stolen firearms included handguns, rifles and shotguns. He has prior felony convictions including possession of a firearm by a felon, driving or taking a vehicle without consent, grand theft, identity theft, and burglary in the second degree, all occurring in Los Angeles County, California. Iniguez is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm due to his prior felony convictions.

    A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Iniguez with one count of possession of stolen firearms and one count of prohibited person in possession of firearms. A jury trial has been scheduled to begin on May 19, 2025, before United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva.

    If convicted, the maximum statutory penalty is 25 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.

    This case was investigated by ATF and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.

    If you have information about illegal firearms activity, you are urged to submit a tip to ATF by calling the hotline at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867) or through the ReportIt mobile app.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview – Sunrise

    Source: Historic Cooma Gaol listed on the NSW State Heritage Register

    NATALIE BARR: This week’s inquest into the shocking death of Lilie James has uncovered a terrifying, yet common pattern of aggression and coercive control. Her killer, an obsessed ex partner, stalked Lilie and tried to control her before eventually planning her murder in cold blooded detail. 

    This is the moment he shopped for his weapon, he shopped for it, a hammer from the hardware store, and this is the moment he practised storming the bathroom where Lilie would eventually be killed. 

    Now her parents say something needs to change. Lilie’s mum, Peta, says if parents don’t teach their sons to respect a woman’s choices, we might be setting our daughters up for a failure. 

    Joining us now is Education Minister, Jason Clare, and Deputy Opposition Leader, Sussan Ley. Good morning to both of you. 

    JASON CLARE, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION: Good morning. 

    BARR: Jason, an expert told us this week that domestic violence often starts with coercive control, boys exerting control over girls. What are we doing in our schools, in Australian schools to teach this? 

    CLARE: You can’t imagine what Lilie’s Mum and her Dad are going through at the moment. The sort of mind numbing pain that they’re experiencing. We got a little bit of an insight into that yesterday. Lilie was an innocent young woman whose life was taken away from her by this monster. 

    I think the key point we need to make is that this is not just the act of one monster. One in five women over the age of 15 are the victims of some type of sexual violence, and in answer to your question, if we’re serious about this, then it does involve education in our schools, not just at high school, but at primary school as well. 

    Last year we started the roll out of a five year program which is worth about $77 million investing in teaching our boys about respect and about consent, about coercive control, about stopping at the start the sort of things that led to this murder. 

    BARR: Because we are in week 12 of the year and 14 women and four children have already lost their lives. So whatever we’re doing up until this point, it’s not working, is it? 

    CLARE: No, it’s not. And part of it is what we do in our schools, part of it is what we do as mums and dads, part of it is what men do, talking to other men, calling out comments and actions by other men when we see the wrong thing being said. 

    Incidentally, the action that we’re taking to ban access to social media for young people under the age of 16 is important too, because it means that fewer boys are going to get access to that cesspit where you see the sort of horrible things that are said about women. 

    BARR: Yeah, you’re right on that, because it’s a whole community attitude. Sussan, I want to go to you and talk about older people; it’s not just young boys here, it is a community attitude. 

    A senior school principal said at the time of this murder words to the effect of, “This type of thing doesn’t happen as often as it does in other countries” and as we’ve seen roughly one woman a week, many years, is killed by domestic violence. 

    He then said this murderer, Thijssen, wasn’t a monster, he committed a monstrous act which was in complete contradiction to how everyone knew him. Again that was untrue. An ex girlfriend said he stalked her, he trapped her, he scared her. 

    Do we need to also look at educating our older people who are obviously getting this wrong too? 

    SUSSAN LEY: Everybody needs to pay attention, and no one could ignore the heartbreaking words from Lilie’s mother, and as a mother, I just had no words, Nat, it was just so, so incredibly painful to listen to. 

    There was a tragic chain of events that ended up with this monstrous act, and we have to work out as a society, and yes, everybody, how to break that chain, and it’s a job that’s too big for teachers, for schools, we have to bring in parents, we have to bring community groups, footy groups, faith groups, everybody. 

    I want to commend the work of the Movember Foundation doing some pretty incredible stuff around rebuilding what masculinity means, also Chanel Contos and Teach Us Consent. There are terrific materials, groups and information out there. 

    But ultimately we lost this beautiful young woman, and we have to work out how we break that chain of violence. So we also bring men and boys into the conversation, because men and boys are not a problem to be solved, they need to be brought into the solution. 

    So let’s, as you’ve indicated, as others have, make this something that everyone everywhere participates in. 

    BARR: Yep. Exactly. And like Jason said, it starts at primary school, and then into high school, and the language we all use, and the dads use and maybe we can get somewhere.

    CLARE: Yep. 

    BARR: We thank you both for joining us this week. We’ll see you next week.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: DPRK test-fires latest anti-aircraft missile system

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) test-fired the latest anti-aircraft missile system Thursday “to examine the comprehensive performance of the system which was put into full-scale production at the munitions industry enterprise concerned,” the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Friday.

    The test proved that the combat fast response of the latest anti-aircraft missile system is advantageous and the overall weapon system is highly reliable, according to the KCNA report.

    Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK, oversaw the test-fire, saying that the DPRK military will be equipped with the defence weapon system.

    Also on Thursday, the DPRK top leader inspected the Nampho Dockyard in a trip to learn about the rebuilding and production capacity expansion of the shipyard, the KCNA said in another dispatch on Friday.

    During the field guidance tour, Kim instructed the country’s shipbuilding industry to accelerate its modernization and increase the overall shipbuilding capacity, calling it “a primary and important issue for developing the national economy and bolstering the country’s naval forces,” the KCNA said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Klobuchar, Cantwell, Colleagues Call on President Trump to Reverse the Illegal Firing of FTC Commissioners

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    March 20, 2025
    [SPRINGFIELD, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and over two dozen of their Senate colleagues called on President Trump to reverse the illegal firing of Commissioners Rebecca Kelly Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). 
    “This action contradicts long standing Supreme Court precedent, undermines Congress’s constitutional authority to create bipartisan, independent commissions, and upends more than 110 years of work at the FTC to protect consumers from deceptive practices and monopoly power,” wrote the Senators. “We urge you to rescind these dismissals so the FTC can get back to the people’s work.”
    “Congress established the FTC in 1914 as an independent agency made up of bipartisan, multi-member, expert commissioners who are tasked with protecting consumers,” the Senators continued. “In 2024 alone, the FTC used this authority to return more than $330 million to consumers, while simultaneously blocking anticompetitive mergers and challenging monopoly power that can result in higher prices, fewer choices, and less opportunity for American consumers, workers, and small businesses. The FTC has consistently carried out this mandate as a bipartisan commission under Republican and Democratic administrations.”
    In addition to Duckworth, Durbin, Klobuchar and Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
    The full text of the letter is available here and below.
    Dear President Trump,
    On March 18, 2025 you announced your intention to fire Commissioner Slaughter and Commissioner Bedoya from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This action contradicts long standing Supreme Court precedent, undermines Congress’s constitutional authority to create bipartisan, independent commissions, and upends more than 110 years of work at the FTC to protect consumers from deceptive practices and monopoly power. We urge you to rescind these dismissals so the FTC can get back to the people’s work.
    Congress established the FTC in 1914 as an independent agency made up of bipartisan, multi-member, expert commissioners who are tasked with protecting consumers. In 2024 alone, the FTC used this authority to return more than $330 million to consumers, while simultaneously blocking anticompetitive mergers and challenging monopoly power that can result in higher prices, fewer choices, and less opportunity for American consumers, workers, and small businesses. The FTC has consistently carried out this mandate as a bipartisan commission under Republican and Democratic administrations.
    When establishing the FTC, Congress lawfully exercised its power to establish a bipartisan, multi-member, expert commission and to shield that commission from political pressure by allowing commissioners to serve 7-year terms and limiting the President’s power to remove commissioners only “for inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office.” Under the law, as you are aware, the President retains the sole authority to nominate new commissioners and to appoint the Chair of the Commission. The President may also appoint a new Chair among the sitting commissioners at any time. 
    Ninety years ago, the Supreme Court held that Congress’s authority to create bipartisan, multi-member, expert commissions—and specifically the FTC—“cannot well be doubted” because “it is quite evident that one who holds his office only during the pleasure of another cannot be depended upon to maintain an attitude of independence. . . .” In a 2020 decision involving whether Congress could insulate the single director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) from at-will removal by the President, the Supreme Court declined to revisit this precedent, finding important differences between the CFPB and the FTC, including that the FTC has multiple expert members to ensure the Commission retains relevant expertise at all times, that each President can influence the makeup of the Commission by nominating new members and appointing the Chair (as you have already done), and that the Commission is funded through the traditional appropriations process that the President may influence.  
    As such, the structure of the FTC does not undermine executive authority and is well within Congress’s power to establish independent agencies tasked with protecting Americans from harmful business practices, fraud, and outright corruption. As Commissioners duly appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, Commissioners Slaughter and Bedoya must be allowed to continue their work at the Commission. 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Eastern European Organized Crime Leaders Convicted Of Murder-For-Hire Targeting U.S.-Based Journalist On Behalf Of The Iranian Government

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    The Iranian Government Hired Polad Omarov and Rafat Amirov to Kill Masih Alinejad in Exchange for $500,000

    Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Leslie R. Backschies, the Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today that a jury returned guilty verdicts against RAFAT AMIROV, a/k/a “Farkhaddin Mirzoev,” a/k/a “Pᴎᴍ,”  a/k/a “Rome,” and POLAD OMAROV, a/k/a “Araz Aliyev,” a/k/a “Polad Qaqa,” a/k/a “Haci Qaqa,” on all five counts in the Superseding Indictment, which included murder-for-hire and attempted murder in aid of racketeering charges, in a trial before U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon.  AMIROV and OMAROV are scheduled to be sentenced on September 17, 2025.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “For years, the Government of Iran has attempted to silence an outspoken Iranian journalist, author, activist and critic of their regime through any means necessary, including harassment, violence, intimidation, and even attempted murder.  Chillingly, the plot to murder this Iranian dissident culminated over 6,000 miles from Iran, on U.S. soil, right here in New York, when a hitman with an AK-47 camped outside her home to kill her.  I commend the career prosecutors of this Office and our law enforcement partners at the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division for their tireless work in bringing these defendants to justice.  This verdict should send a clear message around the world:  if you target U.S. citizens, we will find you, no matter where you are, and bring you to justice.”

    FBI Assistant Director in Charge Leslie R. Backschies said: “The convictions of Rafat Amirov and Polad Omarov send a clear message to all foreign governments who violate our laws and attempt to commit violence against Americans — they and their proxies will face justice for any attempt to silence Americans on U.S. soil.  The Iranian government’s shameless conduct and attempt to violate our laws and assassinate a critic of their human rights atrocities will not be tolerated.  The FBI is determined to disrupt any effort by foreign governments to use violence to repress our citizens’ freedoms, here or abroad.”

    As reflected in the Superseding Indictment and the evidence presented at trial:

    AMIROV and OMAROV were high-ranking members of an Azeri faction of the Russian Mob (the “Organization”) who worked with other members of the Organization to attempt to kill Masih Alinejad on instructions from high-ranking members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (“IRGC”). Alinejad has previously been the target of plots by the Government of Iran to intimidate, harass, and kidnap her for her work as a journalist, author, and human rights activist who has publicized the Government of Iran’s human rights abuses around the world.  As recently as 2020 and 2021, Iranian intelligence officials and assets plotted to kidnap Alinejad from within the U.S. for rendition to Iran in an effort to silence her criticism of the Iranian regime.

    After these brazen efforts to kidnap Alinejad from the U.S. failed, the IRGC turned to AMIROV and OMAROV to locate, surveil, and murder her.  Beginning in approximately July 2022, AMIROV sent targeting information—which he had received directly from IRGC officials in Iran—about Alinejad to OMAROV.  In turn, OMAROV communicated this information to Khalid Mehdiyev, another member of the Organization who had been residing in Yonkers, New York, so that Mehdiyev could surveil Alinejad and murder her. In turn, Mehdiyev sent photographs and videos of Alinejad’s residence to OMAROV, who shared these materials with AMIROV and the IRGC officials who orchestrated the plot in Iran.  AMIROV and OMAROV then arranged for a $30,000 cash payment to Mehdiyev, who used a portion of this payment to buy an AK-47 style assault rifle, two magazines, and at least 66 rounds of ammunition; as Mehdiyev boasted in electronic communications, a “war machine” he could use to kill Alinejad.

    In late July 2022, Mehdiyev repeatedly traveled to Alinejad’s neighborhood to surveil her.  Mehdiyev sent reports of his surveillance to OMAROV, who passed them to AMIROV.  On July 24, 2022, Mehdiyev reported to OMAROV from Alinejad’s residence that he was “at the crime scene.”  On July 27, 2022, OMAROV told AMIROV that Mehdiyev was ready to kill Alinejad, writing “this matter will be over today.  I told them to make a birthday present for me.  I pressured them, they will sleep there this night.”  On July 28, 2022, Mehdiyev sent OMAROV a video taken from inside the car that Mehdiyev was driving with the assault rifle and a message reading “we are ready.”  AMIROV sent an image of the interior of Alinejad’s home to OMAROV to be forwarded to Mehdiyev, writing “this is the house where she stays.”  As OMAROV continued to update AMIROV about Mehdiyev’s readiness, AMIROV cautioned OMAROV “let him keep the car clean.”  When Mehdiyev subsequently drove from where he was surveilling the residence, he was stopped after a traffic violation and, during a subsequent search of the vehicle, police officers found the assault rifle, 66 rounds of ammunition, approximately $1,100 in cash, and a black ski mask.

    After Mehdiyev was arrested and placed into custody, OMAROV contacted Mehdiyev’s mother and threatened to kill her and her other son if she did not locate Mehdiyev. 

    *               *                *

    AMIROV, 46, of Iran; OMAROV, 40, of the country of Georgia, were convicted on five counts:  murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison (Count One); conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison (Count Two); conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison (Count Three); attempted murder in aid of racketeering, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison (Count Four); and possession and use of a firearm in connection with the attempted murder, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison (Count Five).

    Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and its New York Field Office Counterintelligence-Cyber Division and the New York FBI Iran Threat Task Force.  Mr. Podolsky also thanked the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”) and the NYPD Intelligence Bureau, as well as the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, for their assistance. Mr. Podolsky also thanked the authorities in the Czech Republic.

    This case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Lockard, Jacob H. Gutwillig, and Matthew J.C. Hellman are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from paralegal specialist Owen Foley and Trial Attorneys Christopher Rigali and Leslie Esbrook of the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Career Offender Sentenced To 10 Years In Prison For Distribution Of Methamphetamine And Possession Of Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAS VEGAS – A career offender residing in Las Vegas was sentenced today by United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey to 10 years in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release for selling large amounts of methamphetamine from his residence and possessing several firearms.

    According to court documents, between November 2021 and October 5, 2022, Eric Langpop conspired to sell methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, from his home. As part of the investigation, the DEA recovered over a pound of methamphetamine from the defendant. During the execution of a search warrant at Langpop’s residence, law enforcement found methamphetamine and several firearms, including pistols, shotguns, a rifle, an assault rifle, and two silencers.

     

    Photographs of two firearms and a silencer recovered from defendant’s home

     

    Photograph of methamphetamine near a hand and scissors for scale

    Langpop has prior felony convictions for trafficking in controlled substances, including a felony sale of a controlled substance conviction in 2009; separate sale and transport of a controlled substance convictions in 2013; and a transport of a controlled substance conviction in 2016, all in Clark County, Nevada. He also has four separate domestic violence battery convictions. He is prohibited by law from possessing firearms due to his felony and domestic violence convictions.

    Langpop pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and one count of felon in possession of a firearm.

    Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kevin Adams for the DEA Las Vegas District Office made the announcement.

    The DEA investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Brister prosecuted the case.

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

    ###

     

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North County Residents Indicted for Using Children to Manufacture and Distribute Hallucinogenic Drugs

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Randal Vance and his longtime friend, Keir Ceballos-Rivera, were indicted by a federal grand jury on charges that they employed children to help them cultivate, produce and distribute psilocybin mushrooms at locations in Fallbrook and Bonsall.

    Also indicted was Rebecca Vance, wife of Randal Vance. The trio made their initial appearances in federal court today on an array of federal drug-trafficking charges. Randal Vance and Ceballos are charged with conspiring to use and employ minors to produce a controlled substance; all defendants are charged with conspiring to distribute a controlled substance and conspiring to obstruct justice by destroying evidence; and Randal Vance is charged with distributing a controlled substance to minors and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.

    At today’s hearing, prosecutors told the court the children were 9 and 11 when the alleged conspiracy to harvest psilocybin at the locations on Ash Street in Fallbrook and Lilac Road in Bonsall began. Psilocybin mushrooms are a controlled substance that act as hallucinogenic drugs, inducing altered states of consciousness and vivid sensory experiences.

    All three defendants were arrested yesterday. At today’s hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge Valerie E. Torres granted the government’s request that Randal and Rebecca Vance be detained without bond because they are a flight risk. A detention hearing for Ceballos-Rivera is set for March 25, 2025.

    The United States told the Court that Randal Vance informed customers and co-conspirators that the minors assisted him in producing psilocybin. For example, on or about October 18, 2023, Vance texted a photograph of one of the minors holding a large psilocybin mushroom in front of his face at the Ash Street location and said that the “11 year old helps me grow them.”

    One of the minors informed Randal Vance on May 31, 2024, that he was selling a psilocybin capsule to a friend for $3. At the time, the boy was a student at Lincoln Middle School in Oceanside. Randal Vance responded: “Nice! Make sure your friend’s parents don’t find out or you and I are in big big trouble.”

    Randal Vance boasted of dosing the children with psilocybin and advised others to do likewise, the indictment said. For example, on or about October 13, 2023, Randal Vance messaged a co-conspirator a photo of one of the minors holding a large psilocybin mushroom and stated that an 11-year old “cultivates and microdoses. It’s good for kids’ brains.” Later in the conversation, Randal Vance identified the other minor as nine years old and said, “Yeah I usually do a half dose of microdose capsules for them” and “.05 every other day for them. It’s such a difference too.”

    Ceballos-Rivera sent Randal Vance a photograph of another child at the Ash Street location holding a large psilocybin mushroom and covering part of his/her face on or about September 7, 2024. Ceballos-Rivera wrote: “From earlier today haha” and “‘No face, no case.’”

    Randal Vance is also charged with illegally possessing a Glock 34 pistol, a Walther P22 pistol, a Henry Survival AR7 rifle, a Smith and Wesson revolver, an H&R Model 900 revolver, and a Browning 30-06 rifle in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

    On October 4, 2024, law enforcement executed search warrants on the Fallbrook and Bonsall locations. At the Ash Street location, law enforcement recovered approximately 204 pounds of fresh psilocybin mushrooms, 53 pounds of dried psilocybin mushrooms, 35 pounds of psilocybin chocolate bars, 18 pounds of inoculated substrate to grow psilocybin mushrooms, and equipment used to grow, harvest, and process psilocybin mushrooms.

    At the Lilac Road location, law enforcement recovered approximately 25 pounds of dried psilocybin mushrooms, five pounds of psilocybin chocolates, and five pounds of psilocybin capsules, as well as molds used to make the psilocybin chocolate bars.

    Law enforcement officials also seized six firearms from the Lilac Road location: a Glock 34 pistol, a Walther P22 pistol, a Henry Survival AR7 rifle, a Smith and Wesson revolver, an H&R Model 900 revolver, and a Browning 30-06 rifle. None of the firearms were locked up, and loaded magazines were found next to the Glock 34 and Walther P22.

    Randal Vance was arrested that day. Prior to his federal arrest, he was out on bond pending state charges. After Randal Vance’s arrest by local law enforcement, the defendants are alleged to have conspired together to destroy evidence by deleting phone messages and taking down websites Randal Vance had used to distribute psilocybin.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Benjamin and Dana Segal.

    If you are concerned that your child may have been exposed to illegal drugs as a result of the activities alleged in this case, please contact the DEA at https://www.dea.gov/submit-tip.

    DEFENDANTS                                 Case Number 25-CR-817-RSH                                   

    Randal Vance                                     Age: 42                                   Fallbrook, CA

    Rebecca Vance                                   Age: 41                                   Oceanside, CA

    Keir Ceballos-Rivera                          Age: 33                                   Oceanside, CA

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Conspiracy to Employ or Use Minors to Violate the Controlled Substances Act – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841, 846, and 861(a)

    Maximum penalty: Mandatory minimum one year to 40 years in prison

    Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance- – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841 and 846

    Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison

    Distribution of a Controlled Substance to Minors– Title 21, U.S.C., Section 859(a)

    Maximum penalty: Mandatory minimum one year to 40 years in prison

    Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense- – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 924(c)

    Maximum penalty: Mandatory minimum five years to life in prison

    Conspiracy to Obstruct Justice- – Title 18, U.S.C., Sections 1503(a), (b)(3), and 371

    Maximum penalty: Ten years in prison

    INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

    Drug Enforcement Administration

    San Diego Sheriff’s Department

    *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: End of eternal ice: Many glaciers will not survive this century, climate scientists say

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    Glaciers in many regions will not survive the 21st century if they keep melting at the current rate, potentially jeopardising hundreds of millions of people living downstream, UN climate experts said on the first World Day for Glaciers.

    Together with ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica, glaciers lock up about 70 per cent of the world’s freshwater reserves. They are striking indicators of climate change as they typically remain about the same size in a stable climate.

    But, with rising temperatures and global warming triggered by human-induced climate change, they are melting at unprecedented speed, said Sulagna Mishra, a scientific officer at the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

    Hundreds of millions of livelihoods at risk

    Last year, glaciers in Scandinavia, the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard and North Asia experienced the largest annual loss of overall mass on record. Glaciologists determine the state of a glacier by measuring how much snow falls on it and how much melt occurs every year, according to UN partner the World Glacier Monitoring Service (WGMS) at the University of Zurich.

    In the 500-mile-long Hindu Kush mountain range, located in the western Himalayas and stretching from Afghanistan to Pakistan, the livelihoods of more than 120 million farmers are under threat from glacial loss, Ms. Mishra explained.

    The mountain range has been dubbed the “third pole” because of the extraordinary water resources it holds, she noted.

    ‘Irreversible’ retreat

    Despite these vast freshwater reserves, it may already be too late to save them for future generations.

    Large masses of perennial ice are disappearing quickly, with five out of the past six years seeing the most rapid glacier retreat on record, according to WMO.

    The period from 2022 to 2024 also experienced the largest-ever three-year loss.

    “We are seeing an unprecedented change in the glaciers,” which in many cases may be irreversible, said Ms. Mishra.

    Ice melt the size of Germany

    WGMS estimates that glaciers, which do not include the Greenland and Antarctica ice sheets, have lost more than 9,000 billion tonnes of mass since 1975.

    “This is equivalent to a huge ice block of the size of Germany with a thickness of 25 metres,” said WGMS director Michael Zemp. The world has lost 273 billion tonnes of ice on average every year since 2000, he added, highlighting the findings of a new international study into glacier mass change.

    “To put that into context, 273 billion tonnes of ice lost every year corresponds about to the water intake of the entire [world] population for 30 years,” Mr. Zemp said. In central Europe, almost 40 per cent of the remaining ice has melted. If this continues at the current rate, “glaciers will not survive this century in the Alps.”

    Echoing those concerns, WMO’s Ms. Mishra added that if emissions of warming greenhouse gases are not slowed “and the temperatures are rising at the rate they are at the moment, by the end of 2100, we are going to lose 80 per cent of the small glaciers” across Europe, East Africa, Indonesia and elsewhere.

    A trigger for large-scale floods

    Glacial melt has immediate, large-scale repercussions for the economy, ecosystems and communities.

    The latest data indicates that 25 to 30 per cent of sea level rise comes from glacier melt, according to the World Glacier Monitoring Service.

    Melting snowcaps are causing sea levels to rise about one millimetre higher every year, a figure that might seem insignificant, yet every millimetre will flood another 200,000 to 300,000 persons every year.

    “Small number, huge impact,” glaciologist Mr. Zemp said.

    © WMO

    Glacier cumulative mass balance change since 1970.

    Everyone is affected

    Floods can affect people’s livelihoods and compel them to emigrate from one place to another, WMO’s Ms. Mishra continued.

    “When you ask me how many people are actually impacted, it’s really everyone,” she stressed.

    From a multilateral perspective, “it is really high time that we create awareness, and we change our policies and…we mobilise resources to make sure that we have good, policy frameworks in place, we have good research in place that can help us to mitigate and also adapt to these new changes,” Ms. Mishra insisted.

    A day to consider world’s glaciers

    Providing added momentum to this campaign, the World Day for Glaciers on 21 March aims to raise awareness about the critical role that these massive frozen rivers of snow and ice play in the climate system. It coincides with World Water Day.

    To mark the occasion, which is one of the highlights of the 2025 International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation, global leaders, policymakers, scientists and civil society representatives are due to gather at UN Headquarters in New York to highlight the importance of glaciers and to boost worldwide monitoring of the cryospheric processes of freezing and melting that affect them.

    WGMS’s Mr. Zemp, who also teaches glaciology at the University of Zurich, is already preparing for a world without glaciers.

    “If I think of my children, I am living in a world with maybe no glaciers. That’s actually quite alarming,” he told UN News.  

    “I really recommend going with your children there and having a look at it because you can see the dramatic changes that are going on, and you will also realise that we are putting a big burden on our next generation.”

    © USGS

    Scientists collecting data on South Cascade Glacier in the US state of Washington.

    Glacier of the Year

    This year’s Glacier of the Year 2025 is South Cascade Glacier in the US state of Washington.

    The body of ice, which has been continuously monitored since 1952, provides one of the longest uninterrupted records of glaciological mass balance in the western hemisphere.

    “South Cascade Glacier exemplifies both the beauty of glaciers and the long-term commitment of dedicated scientists and volunteers who have collected direct field data to quantify glacier mass change for more than six decades,” said Caitlyn Florentine, from the U.S. Geological Survey.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses programme of Bavaliyali Dham

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses programme of Bavaliyali Dham

    PM lauds Bharwad community’s dedication to service, love for nature and commitment to cow protection

    Developing villages is the first step toward building a Viksit Bharat: PM

    PM emphasises on the importance of education for empowering the community through modernity as the way forward

    PM highlights the importance of “Sabka Prayas” being the nation’s greatest strength

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 9:04PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi delivered his remarks during the programme of Bavaliyali Dham related to the Bharwad Samaj of Gujarat via video message today. Addressing the gathering, Shri Modi extended heartfelt greetings to Mahant Shri Ram Bapu ji, the community leaders, and the thousands of devotees present. He began by paying respectful tribute to the traditions of the Bharwad community and to the revered saints and mahants who have dedicated their lives to upholding these traditions. Highlighting the immense joy and pride associated with the historic Mahakumbh, Shri Modi remarked on the significant occasion of Mahant Shri Ram Bapu ji being conferred the title of Mahamandaleshwar during this sacred event, calling it a monumental achievement and a source of great happiness for all. He conveyed his wishes to Mahant Shri Ram Bapu ji and the families of the community, celebrating their contributions and achievements.

    Shri Modi said that over the past week, Bhavnagar’s land seemed to transform into Lord Krishna’s Vrindavan, highlighting the Bhagwat Katha conducted by the community, describing the atmosphere as one filled with devotion, where people immersed themselves in Krishna’s essence. “Bavaliyali is not merely a religious site but a symbol of faith, culture, and unity for the Bharwad community and many others”, he added.

    The Prime Minister emphasized, with the blessings of Naga Lakha Thakur, the sacred place of Bavaliyali has always provided the Bharwad community with true direction and boundless inspiration. He highlighted the golden opportunity of the re-consecration of the Shri Naga Lakha Thakur temple, calling it a momentous occasion. He noted the vibrant celebrations over the past week, praising the enthusiasm and energy of the community. He further remarked on the Ras performed by thousands of women, describing it as a living embodiment of Vrindavan and a harmonious blend of faith, culture, and tradition, describing it as a source of immense joy and satisfaction. He highlighted the contributions of the artists who participated in the programs, bringing the events to life and delivering timely messages to society. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the community would continue to receive valuable messages through the Bhagwat Katha. He extended heartfelt appreciation to all those involved, stating that their efforts deserve endless accolades.

    Expressing gratitude to Mahant Shri Ram Bapu ji and the organizers of the Bavaliyali Dham event for inviting him to participate in this auspicious occasion, the Prime Minister conveyed his inability to attend in person due to parliamentary commitments. He assured that he would visit in the future to pay his respects. 

    Shri Modi highlighted his long-standing connection with the Bharwad community and Bavaliyali Dham, lauding the community’s dedication to service, their love for nature, and their commitment to cow protection, describing these values as beyond words. He remarked on the shared sentiment that resonates deeply within the community.

    Underlining the profound legacy of Naga Lakha Thakur, Shri Modi hailed his contributions as a beacon of service and inspiration. He highlighted the enduring impact of Thakur’s efforts, which continue to be remembered and celebrated even after centuries. He shared his personal witness to the remarkable services rendered by Pujya Isu Bapu during challenging times in Gujarat, particularly during periods of severe drought. He noted the immense hardships faced by regions like Dhandhuka and Rampur, where water scarcity was a persistent issue. He praised Pujya Isu Bapu’s selfless service to the afflicted, describing it as a divine act recognized and revered across Gujarat. The Prime Minister further highlighted Isu Bapu’s dedication to the welfare of displaced communities, the education of their children, environmental conservation, and the preservation of Gir cows. He remarked that every aspect of Isu Bapu’s work reflects a deep tradition of service and compassion.

    Lauding the Bharwad community for their unwavering commitment to hard work and sacrifice, emphasizing their consistent progress and resilience, the Prime Minister recalled his past interactions with the community, where he encouraged them to transition from wielding sticks to embracing pens, symbolizing the importance of education. He expressed pride in the new generation of the Bharwad community for adopting this vision, with children advancing through education. Shri Modi highlighted the need for further progress, stating that now even the daughters of the community should hold computers in their hands. He emphasized the community’s role as protectors of nature and culture, applauding their embodiment of the “Atithi Devo Bhava” tradition. He noted the unique values of the Bharwad community, where elders are cared for within joint families, reflecting a spirit of service akin to serving the divine. Acknowledging the community’s efforts in preserving traditions while embracing modernity, Shri Modi commended initiatives like providing hostel facilities for children of displaced families and connecting the community with new opportunities globally. He expressed his desire for the community’s girls to excel in sports and highlighted the potential he witnessed during Gujarat’s Khel Mahakumbh. He also emphasized the community’s dedication to cattle rearing, particularly their efforts in preserving the Gir cow breed, which has brought pride to the nation. He remarked on the global recognition of Gir cows and urged the community to extend the same care and concern to their children as they do to their livestock.

    Emphasising his deep connection with the Bharwad community, describing them as his family and partners, Shri Modi remarked on the gathering at Bavaliyali Dham, expressing his belief that the community would support his vision for Viksit Bharat within the next 25 years. He highlighted the importance of collective efforts, reiterating his statement from the Red Fort about “Sabka Prayas” being the nation’s greatest strength. The Prime Minister underscored the need to develop villages as the first step toward building a Viksit Bharat. He highlighted the government’s free vaccination program for livestock to combat Foot and Mouth Disease, urging the community to ensure regular vaccinations for their cattle. He described this initiative as an act of compassion and a way to receive divine blessings. Shri Modi also mentioned the introduction of Kisan Credit Cards for cattle rearers, enabling them to access low-interest loans for expanding their businesses. He emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous cattle breeds and highlighted the National Gokul Mission as a key initiative for their conservation and growth. He urged the community to take full advantage of these programs. The Prime Minister reiterated the significance of tree plantation, encouraging the community to plant trees in honor of their mothers. He described this as a way to restore the health of Mother Earth, which has suffered due to excessive exploitation and chemical use. He emphasized the value of natural farming and urged the community to adopt this practice to rejuvenate the land. Shri Modi praised the Bharwad community’s dedication to service, highlighting the potential of cattle dung as a resource for strengthening the soil. He commended the efforts of Gujarat’s Governor, Shri Acharya Devvrat in promoting natural farming and called on the community to contribute to this cause.

    The Prime Minister extended his heartfelt wishes to the Bharwad community and prayed for the continued blessings of Naga Lakha Thakur on everyone. He expressed his hope for the well-being and progress of all individuals associated with Bavaliyali Dham. Shri Modi emphasized the importance of education, urging the community’s children, especially daughters, to excel academically and contribute to a stronger society. He remarked that empowering the community through modernity and strength is the way forward. He concluded by expressing joy and gratitude for being part of this auspicious occasion, acknowledging that his presence in person would have brought him even greater happiness.

     

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Leveraging Non-conventional Data Sources for Official Statistics

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 6:45PM by PIB Delhi

    The brainstorming session on Leveraging Non-Conventional Data Sources for Official Statistics, of Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), was concluded on 20th March, 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

    The inaugural session of the event was addressed by Sri Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairman Axilor Ventures and Co-founder of Infosys, Sri Rana Hasan, Regional Lead Economist, South Asia, Asian Development Bank (ADB), Sri Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator (UNRC), and Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

    Sri Kris Gopalakrishnan, one of the co-founders of Infosys, Chairman, The Council, IISc Bangalore, and the Chairman, Board of Governors of IIIT, Bangalore, in his keynote address, underpinned the importance of the non-conventional data by citing success of Aadhar, primarily developed as a tool of citizen services, however, now used for developing various applications. He said that in view of India’s tremendous potential in technology, it can lead from front in respect of using non-conventional datasets for decision making.

    He impressed upon the need of standardization of various datasets, strengthening data processing capabilities, and developing data governance framework. He emphasized further that there is a need for evolving a framework enabling access to private data, legally backed and for rightful usages. In addition, he underlined that there is a need of fostering data literacy amongst all stakeholders so that the non-conventional sources are effectively used. Further, he opined that a single source of data would empower not only to the data producers but also to the entrepreneurs. He concluded by stating that the deliberations like this would strengthen formalizing the non-conventional data sources.

    Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, MoSPI, impressed upon the importance of such sessions for encouraging a concerted effort of all stakeholders for the optimal usages of available in the ecosystem. He urged upon the representatives of the Central Ministries/Departments, including the Statistical Advisors to explore the possibility of reusing datasets generated by the other agencies. Further, he also mentioned that the culture of data sharing, however, maintaining the sanctity of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) must be fostered in the working of all the stakeholders.

    Sri Shombi Sharp, UNRC in his address shared some best practices regarding the citizen generated data and their usages in the official statistics especially in achieving the SDGs. Besides, he also emphasized upon a greater collaboration amongst the stakeholders to capitalize the full potentials of all possible alternate datasets.   

    Sri Rana Hasan in his presentation demonstrated the power of combining various datasets for an improved decision making.  He noted that the cities are hubs of growth and innovation, and thus India’s ongoing urbanization should be appropriately leveraged. He observed further that since the industrial parks are affecting neighboring settlements, they should be catalysed for structural transformation.

    The first technical session invited presentations from Shri. M. C. Gaur, Addl. Surveyor General (NZ), Survey of India; Shri. Ayago Wambile, Senior Economist, World Bank; Prof. Bappaditya Mukhopadhyay, Expert in Analytics, Great Lakes Institute of Management, New Delhi; and Shri. Ankur Bansal, Founder, GDi Partners. This session was moderated by Sh. P. R. Meshram, Director General (Data Governance), MoSPI.

    Sh. Gaur from Survey of India, in his presentation, highlighted the relevance of linking statistical data to geospatial locations and making the same easily accessible to various data users. While Shri. Wambile from World Bank, spoke about different non-traditional data sources such as, scanner data, mobile phone data, etc that can be leveraged to supplement the official statistical data in the country. Prof Mukhopadhyay from Great Lakes Institute of Management, presented a specific use case of using satellite data to assess SDG at district and sub-district levels over time. Shri Bansal from GDi Partners thereafter, brought attention to objectives, challenges, and potential way forward of using non-traditional data sources along with illustrations of use of such data sets by NSOs across the world.

    The second technical session invited presentations from Ms. Tanusree Deb Barma, Deputy Director General, UIDAI, M/o Electronics and Technology; Prof. Shalabh, Professor of Statistics & Data Science, IIT Kanpur; Shri Srinivasa Rao Sitiraju, DD, BGWSA, NRSC, Department of Space, ISRO; and Dr. Karan Nagpal, India Regional Director, IDinsight, New Delhi, India. The session was moderated by Ms. Geeta Singh Rathore, Director  General (NSS), MoSPI.

    Ms. Tansuree from M/o Electronics and Technology, provided an overview of the Aadhar Ecosystem and presented areas where non-traditional data is being used for authentication of data, identification of bugs, etc. Further, Shri Sitiraju from ISRO, presented various types and aspects of Geospatial data being collected by ISRO and products built using them within the official data ecosystem. Dr. Shalabh from IIT Kanpur, thereafter, presented a specific use case of grievance redressal mechanism leveraging emerging technologies for deriving insights from grievance data collected by Government of India, while Dr. Nagpal from IDinsight presented various use cases of alternative datasets and their usages in generating macro indicators. He, specifically, discussed various usages in price data in official statistics.

    The event has been attended by around 150 delegates, ranging representations from the central Ministries/Departments, UN agencies, Think Tanks, Independent organisations, and Universities and research institutions.

    The deliberations of the brainstorming session would be a sine qua non for the data innovation involving tapping into alternative data gathered from new or non-conventional data sources and combining and enhancing existing data sources with that new data to gain additional insights.

    One of the significant takeaways of the brainstorming session is that the digital revolution provides abundant opportunities to improve the way services are delivered, including harnessing valuable data and insights into products, services, and customer behaviors. Such data innovations are rapidly changing institutions and the data sources available to them. A well-designed intertwining of various data sources may provide better comprehension resulting into improved health care system, Strong supply chains and logistics, Convenient travel, Smart farming, and a transparent FinTech ecosystem.

    Further, it was discussed that the Ministries/Departments may use the alternative datasets for the real time monitoring and tracking the decision variables. In addition, it also emerged that the Ministries/Departments may make available Alternative/Administrative datasets to various stakeholders so that their integration with Census/Survey data may become possible.  Besides, it emerged that there should be concerted efforts of all the stakeholders for creation of enabling environment so that all possible data sources, Conventional and Non-Conventional are used for decision making.  

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: International Day of Forests 2025

    Source: Government of India

    International Day of Forests 2025

    India’s Integrated Vision for Forests, Food, and Sustainability

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 6:35PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    Forests are the lifelines of our planet, providing oxygen, food, medicine, and livelihoods to millions. Beyond their ecological significance, forests are pillars of global food security, offering essential resources such as fruits, seeds, roots, and wild meat, which support indigenous and rural communities. Every year on March 21, the world celebrates the International Day of Forests to celebrate all types of forests, recognize the importance of trees and forests, and take action to protect them.

    In year 2012, the United Nations declared March 21 as the International Day of Forests (IDF) to celebrate and raise awareness about the vital role of forests. Every year a new theme is chosen by the Collaborative Partnership on Forests. The theme for this year is “Forests and Food,” which emphasizes the deep connection between forests and global food security.

    In India forests are deeply intertwined with culture, economy, and biodiversity, and their protection is not just an environmental necessity but a fundamental responsibility. In this direction, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and related ministries of Government of India have launched various schemes that link forests to food security, nutrition, and livelihoods.

    National Agroforestry Policy

    Agroforestry is a sustainable land-use system that integrates trees and crops to enhance agricultural productivity, improve soil fertility, and provide an additional income source for farmers. Recognizing its potential, the Government of India introduced the National Agroforestry Policy in 2014 to promote tree plantation in farmland.

    Objectives of the Scheme

    The National Agroforestry Scheme aims to encourage farmers to adopt agroforestry for climate resilience, environmental conservation, and economic benefits.

    Implementation Strategy

    The scheme emphasizes the production and distribution of Quality Planting Material (QPM) through nurseries and tissue culture units. The ICAR-Central Agroforestry Research Institute (CAFRI) is the nodal agency responsible for providing technical support, certification, and training. Various institutions such as ICFRE, CSIR, ICRAF, and state agricultural universities collaborate to implement the program effectively.

    Market and Economic Support

    To make agroforestry profitable, the scheme supports farmers through price guarantees and buy-back options for farm-grown trees. It also encourages private sector participation in the marketing and processing of agroforestry products. Additionally, agroforestry integrates well with India’s strategy to promote millets, as millets thrive in tree-based farming systems.

    Funding and Support Interventions

    The government provides financial assistance for the establishment of nurseries and research projects.

    Green India Mission

    The Green India Mission (GIM) also known as National Mission for a Green India, is a key part of India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). It is one of the eight missions under NAPCC. The mission aims to protect, restore, and enhance India’s forest cover while tackling climate change. GIM focuses on improving biodiversity, water resources, and ecosystems like mangroves and wetlands, all while helping absorb carbon. The activities under GIM were started in the FY 2015-16.

    Mission Goals:

    • Expand forest/tree cover by 5 million hectares (mha) and improve the quality of another 5 mha of forest and non-forest land.
    • Boost ecosystem services like carbon storage, water management, and biodiversity.
    • Improve livelihoods for 3 million households by increasing income from forest-based activities.

    Sub-Missions:

    GIM has five sub-missions, each focused on a different aspect of greening:

    1. Enhancing Forest Cover – Improving Forest quality and ecosystem services.
    2. Ecosystem Restoration – Reforesting and increasing forest cover.
    3. Urban Greening – Adding more trees in cities and nearby areas.
    4. Agro-Forestry & Social Forestry – Boosting biomass and creating carbon sinks.
    5. Wetland Restoration – Reviving critical wetlands.

    Ecosystem Services Improvement Project (ESIP)

    The Green India Mission is working on the Ecosystem Services Improvement Project (ESIP), a World Bank-backed initiative in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh.

     

    Funding and Expenditure

     

    As of July 2024, Rs. 909.82 crores have been allocated to 17 states and one Union Territory for plantation and eco-restoration over 155,130 hectares. In Maharashtra’s Palghar district, 464.20 hectares in Dahanu Division have been covered under GIM for plantation and eco-restoration.

     

    Forest Fire Prevention & Management Scheme

    The Forest Fire Prevention & Management is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme that supports states and Union Territories in preventing and controlling forest fires. The Ministry provides financial assistance to help implement various fire prevention and management measures.

    India has a forest fire detection system managed by the Forest Survey of India, Dehradun. It uses remote sensing technology to detect and share information about forest fires in near real-time. This system plays a crucial role in the early detection and effective management of forest fires across the country. The Ministry has also constituted a Crisis Management Group under the chairmanship of Secretary (EF&CC) to deal with crises arising as a result of forest fires.

    Source: India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023

    Objectives of the scheme

     

    The scheme aims to reduce forest fire incidents and restore productivity in affected areas. It emphasizes the involvement of local communities in forest protection and contributes to maintaining environmental stability. Developing a fire danger rating system and forecasting methods is also a key objective. The scheme encourages the use of modern technology, such as Remote Sensing, GPS, and GIS, to enhance fire prevention efforts. Additionally, it seeks to improve knowledge about the impact and behaviour of forest fires.

    Implementation

     

    Following the recommendations of the Parliamentary Committee and NGT’s directions, the Ministry has developed the National Action Plan on Forest Fire. It is based on a study with the World Bank and consultations with key stakeholders like State Forest Departments and the National Disaster Management Authority. In addition to forest fire detection, the Forest Survey of India (FSI), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has developed a satellite-based Forest Fire Monitoring and Alert System. This system helps in the timely detection and monitoring of forest fires. Fire alerts are sent via SMS and email to registered users, ensuring quick response and better fire management.

    Van Dhan Yojana

    Launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TRIFED, the Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana (PMVDY) aims to improve the livelihood of tribal communities by enhancing the value of forest produce. The scheme helps tribal gatherers become entrepreneurs through skill training, infrastructure support, and market linkages.

    Formation of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs)

    Under this initiative, tribal communities form Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs), each consisting of 300 members from 15 Self-Help Groups (SHGs). These Kendras serve as hubs for processing, value addition, and marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFPs).

    Financial Support and Implementation

    The scheme is a centrally funded, with ₹15 lakh allocated per Kendra. Tribal members contribute ₹1,000 each to ensure ownership. The government also supports branding, packaging, and global market access for tribal products.

    Two-Stage Implementation

    1. Stage I: Establishment of 6,000 Kendras across tribal districts with basic facilities.
    2. Stage II: Scaling up successful Kendras with better infrastructure, such as storage and processing units.

    Impact and Benefits

    PMVDY generates sustainable livelihoods, promotes forest conservation, discourages tribal migration, and strengthens the tribal economy, making it a key initiative for India’s tribal development.

    Conclusion

    India’s commitment to forest conservation and sustainable development is evident through various initiatives like the National Agroforestry Policy, Green India Mission, Forest Fire Prevention & Management Scheme, and Van Dhan Yojana. These programs not only help restore and protect forest ecosystems but also enhance livelihoods, promote climate resilience, and strengthen food security. On International Day of Forests 2025, it is crucial to reaffirm our dedication to preserving forests as vital resources for future generations. By integrating conservation efforts with community participation and sustainable policies, India continues to pave the way for a greener, healthier, and more prosperous future.

    References:

    International Day of Forests 2025

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  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE San Francisco, federal partners target transnational criminal organizations in major enforcement action

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SAN FRANCISCO – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement along with the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, and U.S. Probation, conducted a multi-agency operation March 11 targeting the disruption of cartel related narcotics and firearms distribution as well as others identified as criminal threats to the South Lake Tahoe, California community.

    Gang members affiliated with Sureno and MS-13 known for their involvement in drug and weapons trafficking were among those arrested in the one-day operation along with other individuals with convictions for possession for sale of narcotics or controlled substances, selling or modifying firearms, narcotics trafficking, DUI, false imprisonment, and possession of obscene material depicting minors in sexual conduct.

    “Collaborative enforcement actions of this scale demonstrate a whole government approach with enhanced intelligence-driven investigations followed by coordinated law enforcement action,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations San Francisco acting Field Office Director Polly Kaiser. “We will continue to leverage our resources and staff to disrupt and remove those that pose a risk to public safety.” 

    The arrested individuals are currently being processed for federal prosecution and removal proceedings, where applicable.

    For more information, visit www.ice.gov or follow @EROSanFrancisco on social media.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Indictment Charges New Haven Man with Drug Distribution and Firearm Possession Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson, and Connecticut State Police Colonel Daniel Loughman today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging HARRY WHITLEY, 22, of New Haven, with drug distribution and firearm possession offenses.

    The indictment was returned on March 12, 2025, Whitley appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Dave Vatti in Bridgeport and pleaded not guilty to the charges.  He has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on November 4, 2024.

    As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on November 4, 2024, Whitley, who had an active state arrest warrant and was on probation, was observed participating in a suspected drug transaction in New Haven.  Whitley was arrested a short time later in Waterbury.  At the time of his arrest, he possessed fentanyl, cocaine, and oxycodone, and a Glock 17 9mm semiautomatic pistol with an extended magazine and a Glock-style machine gun conversion device, commonly referred to as a “Glock switch.”

    It is alleged that Whitley’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for firearm possession and larceny offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

    The indictment charges Whitley with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and oxycodone, an offense that a carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of at least five years.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Silverman stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the New Haven Police Department, and the Connecticut State Police.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Lembo and Nathan Guevremont.

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

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