NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-Evening Report: The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives shatters the church’s century-long effort to curate its own image

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brenton Griffin, Casual Lecturer and Tutor in History, Indigenous Studies, and Politics, Flinders University

    Hulu

    Reality TV series The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives follows a number of social media influencers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who rose to prominence through social media, and particularly TikTok.

    The show is based in Utah, United States, where the church has its headquarters. But it stands in stark contrast with the stereotypical perception of Mormons – and especially Mormon women – the church has promoted for more than a century.

    Through its exploration of traditionally “taboo” topics such as sex, marital issues, mental illness and sexual abuse, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives clashes against the church’s carefully curated public image.

    Historical pariahs

    Historically, the church’s practice of polygamy placed it at odds with the mainstream sexual and familial norms of 19th century America.

    Polygamy had been practised by Mormons since at least the 1830s, and was officially announced as permissible by the church in 1852. The church now acknowledges its founder, Joseph Smith, married almost 40 women and teenage girls before his death in 1844.

    When Mormon missionaries began to proselytise throughout the world, newspapers criticised the practice, and Mormons were framed as sexual deviants and racialised “pariahs”. In other words, Mormons were presented as being racially different to the rest of white American society. This claim was even supported by doctors at the time.

    1904 Time cartoon by C.J. Rudd, captioned: ‘Mormon Elder Berry – out with his six year olds, who take after their mothers.’
    KUER/Religion of a Different Color: Mormonism and the Struggle for Whiteness’ (2017) by W. Paul Reeve.

    To Mormons, however, polygamy was a reintroduction of the correct form of marriage, and they pointed to biblical prophets to justify it.

    In 1862, the US congress passed a series of laws aimed at abolishing polygamy. This resulted in the arrest of church leaders and the confiscation of church-owned funds and properties in Utah.

    Then, in the 1870s, exposés written by former Mormons (particularly women) decried polygamy as evil, increasing hostility against Mormon leaders.

    Ann Eliza Webb Young, ex-wife of Mormon prophet Brigham Young, wrote the exposé ‘Wife No. 19, Or The Story of Life in Bondage’.
    Internet Archive Open Library

    In 1890, church leader Wilford Woodruff announced in a revelation known as the Manifesto that polygamy would cease. The Manifesto was accepted by most Mormons as the government’s harassment increased. However, breakaway groups called “fundamentalists” continued the practice.

    Today, Mormon scriptures continue to state polygamy is the correct form of marriage, and will exist in the afterlife.

    The stereotypical Mormon

    Since the ending of polygamy, the church has sought to establish itself as a moral equal to mainstream Christian norms, especially sexual norms. In 1995, it released a document titled Family: A Proclamation to the World which emphasised the view that heterosexual marriage and strict gender roles are divinely ordained.

    The 1995 official Mormon document, ‘The Family: A Proclamation to the World’.
    BYU Scholar Arcive

    As the church has grown, it has presented its members as model citizens of the nations they reside in.

    In doing so, it has promoted unique doctrines and practices, such as sexual abstinence before marriage, and a particular health code called the Word of Wisdom which bars alcohol, tea, coffee and tobacco.

    These doctrines, and existing stereotypes of Mormons, are examined in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

    Colliding perceptions

    The 2024 release of the series caused waves in the Latter-day Saints community, with a number of Mormon-focused publications condemning it.

    Before the show was released, the church published a general statement saying media portrayals of Mormons “often rely on sensationalism and inaccuracies that do not fairly and fully reflect the lives of our Church members”. It has yet to directly comment on the show.

    Nonetheless, the representation of Mormons in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is problematic for the church, because it transgresses its highly curated image of Mormonism.

    As the influencers put it, there is a desire to push back against stereotypes around Mormonism, and particularly Mormon women. These stereotypes have been crystallised by the church to combat perceptions of Mormons as sexually abhorrent, due to past practices of polygamy.

    The women in the show wear clothing that would not cover “temple garments”, the mandatory Latter-day Saint undergarments which seek to impose sexual modesty.

    There is also a tongue-in-cheek acknowledgement that while the church prohibits stimulants such as tea, coffee and alcohol, Mormons within Utah and surrounds still consume other, somewhat surprising, substances. For instance, the use of ketamine in therapy is allowed when administered by a healthcare professional.

    The series also engages with topics considered taboo in the church, such as marital issues, mental health struggles and consensual sex. Even if these are being played up by the cast or producers, such discussions are lacking in broader Mormon circles.

    Importantly, there are admissions by some cast members, including one of the husbands, of being sexually abused as children. According to the cast members themselves, these disclosures are intended to empower viewers who may have had similar experiences.

    This is a powerful critique, because the Mormon church has come under intense scrutiny for its failure to properly respond to child sexual assault, both in the US and globally.

    The next steps

    The show is having a marked impact on perceptions of Mormonism, despite the church’s stance it doesn’t represent the beliefs and lifestyle of Mormons more broadly.

    For many viewers, it might be their introduction to the religion. This is concerning for adherents, and particularly for the church’s leadership.

    The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives reunion special aired earlier this month.
    Hulu

    There are internal tools the church could use against the show’s cast members, such as disciplinary councils or excommunication. But these would be ineffective since only about half the members consider themselves “faithful” Mormons.

    It’s interesting the church has yet to condemn the show. Perhaps maintaining an image of reluctant acceptance is more important, as in recent years the church has been criticised for overreach against its own members.

    In this case, the show would be an uncomfortable reality the church will just have to live with. Either way, the damage to the stereotypical Mormon image is done.

    The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is available to stream on Disney+.

    Brenton Griffin was raised as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but is no longer a practising member of the church. His research is focused on the religion’s place in Australian and New Zealand popular culture, politics, and society from the 19th century to present.

    – ref. The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives shatters the church’s century-long effort to curate its own image – https://theconversation.com/the-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives-shatters-the-churchs-century-long-effort-to-curate-its-own-image-260418

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Defence spending is like insurance – how will NZ pay the higher premiums?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Hickson, Lecturer in Economics and Director, Business Taught Masters Programme, University of Canterbury

    Getty Images

    Defence spending is like insurance – you have to pay for it but you hope you never have to use it. And the higher the risk you face, the higher your premium will be.

    New Zealand has now committed to paying those higher defence insurance premiums. The government’s 2025 Defence Capability Plan, released in April, includes NZ$9 billion in extra funding over the next four years. That’s a sizable increase on a current annual budget of just under $5 billion.

    New Zealand is not alone, of course. Driven by geopolitical tensions and US President Donald Trump’s demand that other countries spend a higher proportion of their GDP on defence, global military spending rose for the tenth year in a row to US$2,718 billion in 2024, with huge increases in Europe and the Middle East.

    How much “insurance” a country should buy in the form of defence spending will vary. Too little, and it cannot respond when it needs to; too much, and resources are needlessly wasted. For New Zealand, it is a matter of finding the right balance.

    Economically, however, defence spending is more complicated than simply buying weapons and recruiting more personnel. There can be benefits beyond basic security considerations.

    One involves what economists call “technology spillovers”. Past innovations developed for military use – such as jet engines, GPS and the internet – often found important civilian applications.

    The challenge is to design defence investments to deliberately build skills and technologies with wider economic benefit: advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity or clean tech. New Zealand’s defence plan includes this kind of spending, including
    between $100 million and 300 million on cybersecurity.

    On the other hand, promises of new jobs from large projects are often overstated, with New Zealand’s best known example being the “Think Big” policy of the 1970s. Rather, there can be job substitution as people move from civilian roles into military ones.

    Guns and butter

    In the end, of course, increased defence spending must be funded – through higher taxes, more debt or reduced spending on other items. Higher GDP growth would make the expenditure more affordable, but even then we face the same tradeoffs. It’s not possible to have lower taxes and debt as well as higher government spending.

    Most of the expenditure set out in the defence plan will be on equipment. But any increase in the output of the defence industry will likely crowd out other consumer and investment goods.

    While clearly an extreme example, one only has to look at how defence spending rose during WWII. The increase in military output came at the expense of other goods, leading to shortages and rationing.

    New Zealand doesn’t face that scale of change, but there is still likely to be some shift in production from “butter to guns”. We might also see a shift in how businesses spend their research and development money, towards military and away from civilian applications.

    New Zealand does not have a large defence industry and will need to import much of the new equipment. This implies a need for higher exports to pay for those imports, meaning fewer goods for New Zealanders to consume.

    Costs and benefits

    Most countries are understandably reluctant to cut spending on health, education and other things voters care about in order to boost defence. Hence, governments can be tempted to label new expenditures as “defence” when it could otherwise be classified as “updated infrastructure”.

    Spending on dual-purpose capital works is likely to increase, therefore, with projects earmarked for defence more likely to be funded. The New Zealand defence plan already allows for housing, airfield and port facilities that can all have multiple uses.

    There are also ethical considerations. Many consumers prefer not to invest in the arms trade, but components used in weapons manufacture often have non-military uses as well.

    Similarly, many consumer items, such as phones, vehicles and food, can be purchased by the military but clearly have non-military uses. We may see more of the output of companies that also produce non-military items directed into defence.

    All of this can make it difficult to classify a company as a defence contractor, and may be challenging for large investors (such as superannuation funds) with ethical investment policies. At the same time, the cost of not investing in defence firms might also rise as demand for their products or services increases and they become better investments.

    Like people in general, countries prefer lower insurance premiums. But when risks increase, so too does the price of insurance. Voters will disagree on how much should be spent on defence, but that is largely a political question.

    What economics teaches us, however, is that if you want to reduce your insurance premium, then reduce your risk. And that is something easier said than done.

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

    – ref. Defence spending is like insurance – how will NZ pay the higher premiums? – https://theconversation.com/defence-spending-is-like-insurance-how-will-nz-pay-the-higher-premiums-260399

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • Commemorative stamp released to mark 125th birth anniversary of Syama Prasad Mookerjee

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Department of Posts, Government of India, has released a commemorative postage stamp to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, a prominent educationist, statesman, and founder of Bharatiya Jana Sangh. The unveiling ceremony was held at the Siri Fort Auditorium in the national capital, in the presence of senior government officials and distinguished guests.

    Organised by the Ministry of Culture, the event paid tribute to Mookerjee’s legacy through cultural performances, exhibitions, and a theatrical presentation. The stamp was formally released by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology Jitendra Singh. The first stamp album was presented by Col. Akhilesh Kumar Pandey, Chief Postmaster General of the Delhi Circle.

    The programme featured patriotic instrumental performances and a theatrical act by the National School of Drama. A short documentary film and an exhibition highlighting Mookerjee’s life and contributions added depth to the occasion.

    In their addresses, the dignitaries recalled Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s pivotal role in Indian education, industry, and constitutional development. His vision for national unity and inclusive growth, rooted in Indian civilisational values, was also underscored.

    Designed by Nenu Gupta, the commemorative stamp symbolises Mookerjee’s lifelong commitment to public service and intellectual leadership. Along with the stamp, a specially designed First Day Cover and Brochure were also launched.

    The commemorative stamp and related philatelic items are now available at Philatelic Bureaus across the country and can also be purchased online at www.epostoffice.gov.in.

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Working together to promote 4R practices to farmers

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Charges against Canadian Army members in anti-government terror plot raise alarms about right-wing extremism

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Kawser Ahmed, Adjunct Professor at the Political Science department, University of Winnipeg

    This week, the RCMP arrested four men in Québec, alleging they were attempting to create an anti-government militia.

    The RCMP used the umbrella term “Ideologically Motivated Violent Extremism” to categorize the suspects. Essentially, this means the RCMP alleges they share violent right-wing ideologies. Their arrests raise questions about whether Canada’s problem with right-wing extremism is getting worse.

    The group is accused of storing explosive devices, dozens of firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition. The RCMP seized all of it, and the four suspects are due to appear in Québec City court next week. Three are charged with facilitating a terrorist activity, along with weapon-possession offences.

    The suspects include active members of the Canadian Armed Forces, according to the RCMP. Given the allegations that they were planning terrorist attacks for an extremist militia, the inclusion of army personnel might not be surprising.

    But it could represent a stark manifestation of a deeply troubling and accelerating trend: the rise of violent right-wing extremism and anti-government or anti-authority radicalization within western democracies. This is a shift dramatically exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic as many seized the opportunity to spread anti-government ideas based on restricted freedoms.

    Raphaël Lagacé, one of the suspects charged by the RCMP.
    (Instagram)

    Canada not immune to violent movements

    Canada often thinks it’s safe from violent movements, but it’s becoming more vulnerable. This is especially evident in places like Québec, where there has been ideological conflict in the past, including the massacre at a Québec mosque in January 2017.

    However, the threat is also clear on a national level.

    According to a Canadian intelligence report, far-right extremist groups actively recruit past and present members of the military and police.

    There’s also a long-running pattern of militia activity in North America. Activities in the United States show how dangerous it is when violent ideologies spread.

    This includes the nihilistic doctrine of accelerationism, which is a white-supremacist belief that the current state of society cannot be fixed and that the only way to repair it is to destroy and collapse the “system”.

    There are versions of accelerationism on both the right and left.

    The rise in right-wing extremism globally

    The charges in Québec shine a spotlight on the global trend of rising right-wing extremism that has been worsening since 2016.

    In the past decade, white supremacist, anti-government and militia groups have gained traction. That’s due in part to online echo chambers, growing political and social divisions and the rise and rapid spread of conspiracy theories.

    The U.S. is the best and most immediate example. Groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys are well-known, playing a significant role in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. These groups are keen to recruit current and former military and law enforcement officers because they know how to handle weapons and use explosives.

    In 2023, the FBI repeatedly said domestic violent extremism continues to pose a threat, especially racially or ethnically motivated extremists and anti-government groups.

    Accelerationism is behind a lot of this violence. It underpins efforts to speed up the disintegration of society through targeted violence and technology, with the goal of starting a racial war or civil war to bring down liberal democratic institutions.

    The Base is an example of this trend. It’s a multinational, trans-border white supremacist network that supports violence to create chaos.

    But this is not just a North American problem. Before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, far-right members of the Ukrainian Azov Regiment reportedly drew western extremists to their cause, many of whom were looking for paramilitary training, possibly to use against their own governments.

    Canada: The Base, the ‘freedom convoy’

    This global tide doesn’t leave Canada out. The arrests in Québec are the most recent and concerning example.

    Patrik Mathews, a former Canadian Army reservist from Winnipeg, was involved in a well-known Canadian case that involved recruiting for The Base, as well as a plot to harm a journalist, Canadian investigative journalist Ryan Thorpe. His reports in the Winnipeg Free Press exposed Mathew’s membership in the The Base.

    Mathew fled to the U.S. in 2019. The FBI subsequently arrested him and charged him with gun-related crimes and taking part in a riot at a Virginia protest. Mathew is now serving a long prison sentence for his part in what the FBI called a “neo-Nazi plot to instigate a race war in the United States.”

    These examples clearly show how extremists work within national military systems to learn tactical capabilities.

    The so-called “freedom convoy” occupation of Ottawa in 2022 also showed troubling connections between radicalism and some parts of the Canadian Armed Forces.

    Investigations found numerous active and former Army members were either actively involved with the convoy or donated a lot of money. Some were found to have posted extreme anti-government views online. Some Army members are also vulnerable to the right-wing ideologies of a “white-ethnostate” fuelled by political rhetoric and hate.

    All of this paints a bleak picture: extremist ideas are slowly taking hold in Canada as adherents aim to leverage military training to spread cynicism in democratic institutions. Previous studies back this up.

    Countering the threat

    To deal with this complicated and changing threat, we need a whole society, integrated approach that includes reliable top-down enforcement and monitoring and proactive, bottom-up societal resilience.

    To quickly disrupt and deter extremist groups, top-down actions are very important. To properly monitor, penetrate and break up violent extremist networks, law enforcement and security services like CSIS and the RCMP need more resources, updated laws and better co-ordination.

    It’s also important for the Canadian Armed Forces and other security-sensitive organizations to have better screening processes to find and purge those with extremist ideas.

    But law enforcement isn’t enough. For one, it could be seen as biased, which could lead to more radicalization. Bottom-up methods are just as important for long-term prevention.

    We need programs that provide teachers, social workers, community leaders and families with the tools they need to spot early signs of radicalization and do something about it in a positive way.



    Read more:
    How not to counter the radical right

    Dialogue, education

    It’s important to teach people how to think critically, read the news to fight false information and learn about civic duties that stress democratic principles and diversity. This is especially critical to fight against rising hate-motivated crimes.

    I am involved in a one such project. It’s called Extremism and Radicalization to Violence Prevention in Manitoba (ERIM). We strive to build resilient communities by creating awareness and early detection of radicalism.

    Dialogue and education are paramount.

    Canada can’t afford to wait for a disaster to happen before acting. It can’t let its soldiers — those tasked with protecting Canadians and Canada’s security — get caught up in right-wing extremism. They are a source of national pride and should remain so.

    Kawser Ahmed has led a Public Safety project called Extremism and Radicalization to Violence Prevention in Manitoba (ERIM)

    – ref. Charges against Canadian Army members in anti-government terror plot raise alarms about right-wing extremism – https://theconversation.com/charges-against-canadian-army-members-in-anti-government-terror-plot-raise-alarms-about-right-wing-extremism-260778

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Charges against Canadian Army members in anti-government terror plot raise alarms about right-wing extremism

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Kawser Ahmed, Adjunct Professor at the Political Science department, University of Winnipeg

    This week, the RCMP arrested four men in Québec, alleging they were attempting to create an anti-government militia.

    The RCMP used the umbrella term “Ideologically Motivated Violent Extremism” to categorize the suspects. Essentially, this means the RCMP alleges they share violent right-wing ideologies. Their arrests raise questions about whether Canada’s problem with right-wing extremism is getting worse.

    The group is accused of storing explosive devices, dozens of firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition. The RCMP seized all of it, and the four suspects are due to appear in Québec City court next week. Three are charged with facilitating a terrorist activity, along with weapon-possession offences.

    The suspects include active members of the Canadian Armed Forces, according to the RCMP. Given the allegations that they were planning terrorist attacks for an extremist militia, the inclusion of army personnel might not be surprising.

    But it could represent a stark manifestation of a deeply troubling and accelerating trend: the rise of violent right-wing extremism and anti-government or anti-authority radicalization within western democracies. This is a shift dramatically exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic as many seized the opportunity to spread anti-government ideas based on restricted freedoms.

    Raphaël Lagacé, one of the suspects charged by the RCMP.
    (Instagram)

    Canada not immune to violent movements

    Canada often thinks it’s safe from violent movements, but it’s becoming more vulnerable. This is especially evident in places like Québec, where there has been ideological conflict in the past, including the massacre at a Québec mosque in January 2017.

    However, the threat is also clear on a national level.

    According to a Canadian intelligence report, far-right extremist groups actively recruit past and present members of the military and police.

    There’s also a long-running pattern of militia activity in North America. Activities in the United States show how dangerous it is when violent ideologies spread.

    This includes the nihilistic doctrine of accelerationism, which is a white-supremacist belief that the current state of society cannot be fixed and that the only way to repair it is to destroy and collapse the “system”.

    There are versions of accelerationism on both the right and left.

    The rise in right-wing extremism globally

    The charges in Québec shine a spotlight on the global trend of rising right-wing extremism that has been worsening since 2016.

    In the past decade, white supremacist, anti-government and militia groups have gained traction. That’s due in part to online echo chambers, growing political and social divisions and the rise and rapid spread of conspiracy theories.

    The U.S. is the best and most immediate example. Groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys are well-known, playing a significant role in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. These groups are keen to recruit current and former military and law enforcement officers because they know how to handle weapons and use explosives.

    In 2023, the FBI repeatedly said domestic violent extremism continues to pose a threat, especially racially or ethnically motivated extremists and anti-government groups.

    Accelerationism is behind a lot of this violence. It underpins efforts to speed up the disintegration of society through targeted violence and technology, with the goal of starting a racial war or civil war to bring down liberal democratic institutions.

    The Base is an example of this trend. It’s a multinational, trans-border white supremacist network that supports violence to create chaos.

    But this is not just a North American problem. Before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, far-right members of the Ukrainian Azov Regiment reportedly drew western extremists to their cause, many of whom were looking for paramilitary training, possibly to use against their own governments.

    Canada: The Base, the ‘freedom convoy’

    This global tide doesn’t leave Canada out. The arrests in Québec are the most recent and concerning example.

    Patrik Mathews, a former Canadian Army reservist from Winnipeg, was involved in a well-known Canadian case that involved recruiting for The Base, as well as a plot to harm a journalist, Canadian investigative journalist Ryan Thorpe. His reports in the Winnipeg Free Press exposed Mathew’s membership in the The Base.

    Mathew fled to the U.S. in 2019. The FBI subsequently arrested him and charged him with gun-related crimes and taking part in a riot at a Virginia protest. Mathew is now serving a long prison sentence for his part in what the FBI called a “neo-Nazi plot to instigate a race war in the United States.”

    These examples clearly show how extremists work within national military systems to learn tactical capabilities.

    The so-called “freedom convoy” occupation of Ottawa in 2022 also showed troubling connections between radicalism and some parts of the Canadian Armed Forces.

    Investigations found numerous active and former Army members were either actively involved with the convoy or donated a lot of money. Some were found to have posted extreme anti-government views online. Some Army members are also vulnerable to the right-wing ideologies of a “white-ethnostate” fuelled by political rhetoric and hate.

    All of this paints a bleak picture: extremist ideas are slowly taking hold in Canada as adherents aim to leverage military training to spread cynicism in democratic institutions. Previous studies back this up.

    Countering the threat

    To deal with this complicated and changing threat, we need a whole society, integrated approach that includes reliable top-down enforcement and monitoring and proactive, bottom-up societal resilience.

    To quickly disrupt and deter extremist groups, top-down actions are very important. To properly monitor, penetrate and break up violent extremist networks, law enforcement and security services like CSIS and the RCMP need more resources, updated laws and better co-ordination.

    It’s also important for the Canadian Armed Forces and other security-sensitive organizations to have better screening processes to find and purge those with extremist ideas.

    But law enforcement isn’t enough. For one, it could be seen as biased, which could lead to more radicalization. Bottom-up methods are just as important for long-term prevention.

    We need programs that provide teachers, social workers, community leaders and families with the tools they need to spot early signs of radicalization and do something about it in a positive way.



    Read more:
    How not to counter the radical right

    Dialogue, education

    It’s important to teach people how to think critically, read the news to fight false information and learn about civic duties that stress democratic principles and diversity. This is especially critical to fight against rising hate-motivated crimes.

    I am involved in a one such project. It’s called Extremism and Radicalization to Violence Prevention in Manitoba (ERIM). We strive to build resilient communities by creating awareness and early detection of radicalism.

    Dialogue and education are paramount.

    Canada can’t afford to wait for a disaster to happen before acting. It can’t let its soldiers — those tasked with protecting Canadians and Canada’s security — get caught up in right-wing extremism. They are a source of national pride and should remain so.

    Kawser Ahmed has led a Public Safety project called Extremism and Radicalization to Violence Prevention in Manitoba (ERIM)

    – ref. Charges against Canadian Army members in anti-government terror plot raise alarms about right-wing extremism – https://theconversation.com/charges-against-canadian-army-members-in-anti-government-terror-plot-raise-alarms-about-right-wing-extremism-260778

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on release of public-events safety report

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Terry Yung, Minister of State for Community Safety and Integrated Services, has released the following statement in response to the release of the report for the Commission of Inquiry into Community Events Safety in B.C.:

    “I want to recognize the victims, families and communities who have been impacted by the tragic violence that occurred on April 26, 2025, after the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival. We continue to grieve with you, and we are here today because your safety, and the safety of everyone in our province, comes first.

    “Immediately following the attack, we commissioned Christopher Hinkson, a former chief justice, to support local governments, event organizers and public-safety officials to provide clear, practical guidance to ensure community events are safe this summer and beyond.

    “Today, on July 9, 2025, those recommendations are being made public. I want to sincerely thank Commissioner Hinkson and his team for their swift and thoughtful work. Their findings reflect extensive consultation with communities, Indigenous event planners, law enforcement, municipalities and event organizers and offer clear, practical steps to strengthen security and safety at community events.

    “Most importantly, the report includes new tools that event organizers throughout B.C. can begin using right away, including an event safety plan template and a risk assessment framework. These resources reflect best practices drawn from research, and can be adapted to suit events, large and small, and in rural and urban and Indigenous communities.

    “The report notes that the vast majority of public events in B.C. are safe, well organized and widely enjoyed. While this report provides a strong foundation, there is more work to do. We must continue bringing people together, across sectors and governments, to share best practices, strengthen collaboration and build lasting systems of support.

    “We have received the report and are working through the details, but we accept the intent of the recommendations and are working on how best to act on them, including with other levels of government and event organizers. This is about keeping people safe, supporting healing and maintaining public confidence in the safety of community gatherings.

    “Everyone deserves to feel safe when celebrating with friends, neighbours, and loved ones. That’s the foundation of this work: continuing to strengthen our work together to keep people and communities safe.” 

    Learn More:

    To read the report of the Commission of Inquiry into Community Events Safety, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/law-crime-and-justice/about-bc-justice-system/inquiries/commission_of_inquiry_into_community_events_safety-report_20250626.pdf

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Thirsty future: Australia’s green hydrogen targets could require vastly more water than the government hopes

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Madoc Sheehan, Adjunct Associate Professor in Chemical Engineering, James Cook University

    totajla/Shutterstock

    Green hydrogen is touted by some as the future – a way for Australia to slowly replace its reliance on fossil fuel exports. The energy-dense gas has the potential to reduce emissions in sectors challenging to decarbonise, such as steelmaking and fertiliser manufacturing.

    The Albanese government wants it to be a massive new export industry and has laid out a pathway through its National Hydrogen Strategy.

    Unfortunately, there’s a real gap between rhetoric and reality. Despite ambitious plans, no green hydrogen project has yet succeeded in Australia. The technology’s most prominent local backer, billionaire miner Twiggy Forrest, has dialled down his ambition. Globally, just 7% of announced green hydrogen projects are up and running.

    Economic viability is one problem. But there’s a much larger issue flying under the radar: water. Hitting the 2050 target of 15 million to 30 million tonnes of hydrogen a year would use 7–15% of the amount Australia’s households, farms, mines and black coal power plants use annually. That’s simply not sustainable.

    Splitting water

    Green hydrogen uses renewable energy to power electrolyser machines, which split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen.

    On the surface, this is an appealing use of clean energy, especially during solar peak periods.

    But what the government hasn’t properly accounted for is the water cost for green hydrogen. The strategy states water use is likely to be “considerable but not prohibitive”.

    This is questionable. For every kilogram of hydrogen produced through electrolysis, nine litres of water are directly consumed.

    That’s not all. The water needed to make hydrogen has to be extremely pure. Salt water has to be desalinated, and even fresh water needs purification. Equipment also needs cooling, which consumes even more water.

    All these processes incur substantial indirect water losses, such as the water used for industrial processes and cooling. The volumes used are highly uncertain. They can be up to 20 times greater than the direct water use.

    A key input value for the government’s hydrogen strategy modelling is taken from a 2015 report by the Argonne National Energy Laboratory in the United States, which assumes each kilogram of green hydrogen produced requires just over 30 litres of water.

    The Australian hydrogen strategy suggests 30 litres per kilogram of hydrogen would cover “all system losses including purification processes and cooling water required”. But it’s not clear if this figure covers other uses of water in making hydrogen, such as water treatment.

    Green hydrogen could help industrial sectors transition from fossil fuels. The problem is the water use.
    Audio und werbung/Shutterstock

    How much water would this use?

    According to the government’s modelling, making 15 million tonnes would require 740 billion litres of water. That would be about 7% of the 10,450 billion litres used by all of Australia’s households, farms, mines and black coal power plants.

    The government’s National Hydrogen Strategy shows the water use by major industries. Their total water use is 10,450 gigalitres annually.
    Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

    That’s substantial. One and a half Sydney Harbours worth, every year. But it might be a major underestimate. After all, estimates on indirect water use differ widely. The government’s figures are at the very bottom of the range.

    For instance, the latest research gives water consumption figures of about 66 litres per kilogram – more than twice as large. Other sources give values between 90 and 300 litres per kilogram of hydrogen – three to ten times higher.

    Uncertainty in modelling is normal. But the wide research suggesting much higher water use should give rise to real concern.

    If we take a middle-of-the-range figure of 95 litres per kilogram, this would mean that making 15 million tonnes of green hydrogen would use up 22% of the 10,450 billion litres used by households, farms, mines and black coal power plants annually by 2050.

    If hydrogen was even thirstier at 310 litres per kilogram, that would translate to 72% of that figure.

    These estimates are enormous. Even under the most optimistic scenario, the draw on Australia’s scarce freshwater resources would simply be too much. Where would this water come from? Farmers? Groundwater? Environmental flows from rivers?

    As the Queensland Farmers Federation pointed out in its response to the hydrogen strategy, the figures on water use “beg the question if they are in fact sustainable”.

    The Water Services Association of Australia has called for much greater attention to the water demands of green hydrogen, which it says are “often seriously underestimated”.

    What about saltwater? Australia has no shortage of oceans. The problem here becomes energy and wastewater. Desalination is still very energy intensive. Converting saltwater to fresh also produces large volumes of super-salty brine, which must then be managed as waste.

    Which way forward?

    Does this mean green hydrogen is a non-starter? Not necessarily. Improved electrolyser technology might offer ways to slash water use, while circular economy approaches such as resource recovery from brine could also reduce losses.

    But these concerns about water must be front and centre in future discussions about the shape and size of the industry in Australia.

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

    – ref. Thirsty future: Australia’s green hydrogen targets could require vastly more water than the government hopes – https://theconversation.com/thirsty-future-australias-green-hydrogen-targets-could-require-vastly-more-water-than-the-government-hopes-252044

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China, Egypt should continuously simplify trade and investment procedures: Chinese Premier

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 9 (Xinhua) — China and Egypt should continuously simplify bilateral trade and investment procedures, strengthen industrial connectivity and market connectivity, and strive for higher-level mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Cairo on Wednesday.

    Li Qiang made the remarks during a meeting with Hanafi Ali El-Gebali, Speaker of the Egyptian House of Representatives (lower house of parliament). The Chinese premier is on an official visit to Egypt at the invitation of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.

    Although China and Egypt are geographically far from each other, the friendship between the two countries has a long history, Li Qiang pointed out.

    According to him, since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations, the traditional Chinese-Egyptian friendship remains unchanged no matter how the international situation changes, and the dynamics of bilateral ties and cooperation continue to grow, demonstrating powerful internal energy.

    China is willing to further develop the traditional friendship with Egypt, strengthen political mutual trust, firmly support each other on issues related to the two sides’ core interests and major concerns, continuously elevate China-Egypt relations to new heights and achieve new results in bilateral cooperation, bringing more benefits to the peoples of both countries, Li Qiang stressed.

    He also called on both sides to maintain friendly exchanges between the legislative bodies of the two countries, strengthen political communication, share experiences in public administration and continuously improve mutual understanding.

    Noting that China is willing to deepen the alignment of development strategies with Egypt, the Chinese premier said the two sides should carry out high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and utilize the Forum on China-Arab States Cooperation and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation to steadily improve the quality of economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.

    Li Qiang pointed out that the two sides should cooperate in ensuring the sustainable operation of major bilateral projects, continuously simplify bilateral trade and investment procedures, strengthen industrial connectivity and market connectivity, and expand cooperation in emerging areas such as the digital economy and green development, so as to achieve a higher level of mutual benefit and win-win results.

    China hopes to maintain close communication and coordination with Egypt within the framework of mechanisms such as the UN, BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, promote joint efforts by all parties to safeguard the basic norms of international relations and the multilateral trading system, so as to inject more positive energy into world peace and development, the Chinese leader added. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China supports Arab solidarity and development – Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China /more details/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 9 (Xinhua) — China supports Arab countries in strengthening their strategic independence, enhancing unity and self-sufficiency, and choosing development paths that suit their national conditions, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in the Egyptian capital on Wednesday.

    At a meeting with Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Abu Al-Gheit, Li Qiang stressed that China always views and develops relations with Arab states from a strategic height and firmly supports their just causes.

    Noting that China and Arab countries are reliable friends and good partners, Li Qiang said that under the strategic leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Arab leaders, China-Arab relations have entered the best period in their history.

    According to the Premier of the State Council, China is willing to strengthen friendly ties with the Arab League, enhance strategic mutual trust with Arab countries, deepen cooperation in various fields, jointly promote modernization, and build a higher-level China-Arab community with a shared future.

    Li Qiang said that China hopes to further align its development strategies with Arab countries and continue high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road.

    He called on both sides to expand cooperation in areas such as energy, economy and trade, investment and financing, aviation and space, and to unleash the potential for cooperation in emerging areas such as new energy, artificial intelligence, digital economy and blue economy.

    The Chinese side is willing to work with Arab countries to coordinately advance significant flagship projects and “small but beautiful” public welfare projects to bring more benefits to the peoples of both sides, the Chinese leader added.

    The two sides, Li Qiang continued, should strengthen dialogue among civilizations and cultural and humanitarian exchanges, deepen cooperation between youth, think tanks, universities, as well as in the field of culture and tourism, and explore the possibility of implementing additional measures to facilitate exchanges between people, thereby strengthening ties between peoples.

    As the Premier emphasized, China hopes to strengthen coordination and communication with Arab countries in such venues as the UN, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the World Trade Organization and the Group of 20 (G20), demonstrating a common will, speaking with one voice, and promoting the building of a fairer and more reasonable global governance system.

    Li Qiang expressed hope that the Arab League will continue to play an important role in promoting the development of China-Arab relations and work with the Chinese side to ensure the successful holding of the 2nd China-Arab States Summit next year.

    A. A. Al-Gheit, for his part, noted that China is a good friend and partner of Arab countries, adding that Arab-Chinese relations are demonstrating positive development dynamics, and practical cooperation is bringing significant results.

    The Arab League Secretary General pointed out that the Arab side firmly supports the one-China principle, as well as the Belt and Road Initiative and the three major global initiatives put forward by President Xi Jinping.

    Congratulating China on its remarkable achievements in development, Al-Gheit said the Arab side is grateful to China for supporting the socio-economic development of Arab states and hopes to work with China to deepen political mutual trust, firmly support each other, and deepen exchanges and cooperation in such areas as trade, investment, and cultural and humanitarian contacts within the framework of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum.

    According to the Secretary General of the Arab League, the Arab side is ready to continue to implement the results of the first China-Arab States summit together with China and successfully hold the second such summit next year.

    A.A. Al-Gheit stressed that the Arab side highly appreciates China’s consistent support for Arab states at multilateral platforms such as the UN, and hopes to strengthen multilateral cooperation with China to jointly safeguard multilateralism and promote world peace and development. –0–

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

    .

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  • MIL-OSI Canada: Drug Treatment Court Proceedings are Officially Underway in North Battleford

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 9, 2025

    The Battlefords Drug Treatment Court is now in Session 

    This June, the first sitting of drug treatment court was held in North Battleford Provincial Court. The program, an expansion of the existing drug treatment courts in Regina and Moose Jaw, will serve the Battlefords and west central Saskatchewan. 

    “Drug treatment courts offer individuals a pathway in recovery rather than incarceration,” Provincial Court of Saskatchewan Chief Judge Shannon Metivier said. “This model of therapeutic justice provides an opportunity to address the underlying issues that bring people into conflict with the law and support lasting change that benefits not only the participants, but their families and communities.” 

    To participate in drug treatment court, offenders must plead guilty to their criminal charges. As an alternative to serving a sentence in custody, participants are instead required to complete 12-18 months of individualized programming with wrap-around services covering addiction, cultural and spiritual guidance, anger management, education, parenting, employment and more. This programming allows participants to overcome obstacles, find sustained sobriety and reunite with loved ones.  

    “The opening of the Battlefords Drug Treatment Court represents another step forward for the strong partnership that the courts and province have built to support residents in overcoming addictions and mental health challenges,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C., said. “Together we can promote proactive and transformative change that gives individuals the skills they need to create a successful and sustainable future for themselves.” 

    Drug treatment court is just one of three models of therapeutic court in Saskatchewan. There are also domestic violence courts in Regina, Saskatoon and the Battlefords, and mental health courts in Regina and Saskatoon. 

    The drug treatment courts in Moose Jaw and Regina have had over 156 graduates since the program started in 2006.

    “This model has been successful in southern Saskatchewan for almost 20 years, and the Provincial Court is very pleased to now expand the reach to the Battlefords and surrounding communities,” Chief Judge Metivier said.

    Judicial leaders and community stakeholders in the communities of North Battleford and Battleford have been instrumental in building the framework for the new Battlefords Drug Treatment Court. 

    “The Battlefords are full of caring and compassionate leaders,” Health Minister and MLA for the Battlefords Jeremy Cockrill said. “Today, we acknowledge the hard work of a community that has brought us a therapeutic court program that will improve the lives of individuals, families and our entire community for years to come.” 

    The federal government reimburses the province up to $850,000 annually for costs associated with the operation of drug treatment courts.

    “Substance use is a complex social and economic issue,” Federal Minister of Justice and Attorney General Sean Fraser said. “When someone is struggling, they deserve support and the right resources. By investing in the Battlefords Drug Treatment Court, we are strengthening our justice system and helping people get the care they need to recover, break the cycle of drug use, and prevent criminal reoffending. This ongoing support for drug treatment courts not only promotes healing but helps build healthier and safer communities.”

    The province is investing $624 million in mental health and addiction services in the 2025-26 Budget. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • India aims for energy independence by 2047 and net-zero by 2070: Hardeep Singh Puri

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has outlined a bold roadmap for energy security and a sustainable future at the 9th OPEC International Seminar held in Vienna, Austria. Addressing global energy leaders and industry experts, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, emphasized India’s commitment to achieving energy independence by 2047 and net-zero emissions by 2070.

    Speaking on the theme ‘Oil Markets: Energy Security, Growth & Prosperity’, Puri detailed India’s extensive plans to expand hydrocarbon exploration. Under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) Round-10, the government has opened 2.5 lakh sq km for exploration, with the target to scale this up to 0.5 million sq km by 2025 and 1 million sq km by 2030. He also highlighted India’s potential breakthrough in discovering a Guyana-scale oilfield in the Andaman Sea, positioning the country for major upstream growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

    Key policy reforms are driving this momentum. India has transitioned from a Production Sharing Contract regime to a Revenue Sharing Model under the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) and has amended the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948 to improve lease management, safety and dispute resolution.

    Notably, 99% of previously designated ‘No-Go’ areas have been opened, freeing over 1 million sq km for exploration. This expansion is underpinned by large-scale national data initiatives, including the National Seismic Program, the Andaman Offshore Project, Mission Anveshan, and the Extended Continental Shelf Survey.

    Highlighting India’s growing role in global energy markets, Puri noted that as the world’s third-largest energy consumer with daily demand of about 5.4 million barrels, India is both a structural growth engine and a stabilizing force in the oil market. “India will contribute nearly 25% of the incremental global energy demand growth in the coming years,” he said.

    To strengthen its energy security, India is diversifying its crude oil import sources from 27 to 40 countries, ramping up domestic production, advancing alternative fuels, and expanding its refining capacity to 310 MMTPA by 2028. The country also aims to boost its petrochemical sector, targeting a USD 300 billion industry by 2030.

    Despite global geopolitical tensions, Puri highlighted India’s success in ensuring affordable energy for its citizens. “India is the only major economy to reduce fuel prices even as global oil prices rose,” he pointed out.

    On the clean energy front, the Minister underlined the role of biofuels in India’s decarbonization pathway. The Global Biofuels Alliance — initiated by India — now has the support of over 29 countries and 14 international organisations. Domestically, the country is accelerating the use of ethanol, compressed biogas (CBG), biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). “India firmly believes the global energy transition must be just, inclusive and equitable. For 1.4 billion Indians and billions across the Global South, development must go hand in hand with dignity,” he said.

    He also shared the success of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), the world’s largest clean cooking programme. Since its launch, over 103 million LPG connections have been provided to women from economically weaker households, raising LPG coverage from 55% in 2014 to near-universal access today. Despite a 58% rise in global LPG prices, PMUY beneficiaries pay only $6–7 for a standard 14.2 kg cylinder — about 39% less than the international market price last year — supported by significant government subsidies and oil marketing companies absorbing $4.7 billion in losses.

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio County Man Admits to Fentanyl Distribution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Deontre Christian Johnson, age 25, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to distributing fentanyl in Ohio County.

    According to court documents, Johnson, also known as “Trap,” was selling fentanyl on Wheeling Island.

    Johnson is facing at up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

    The Ohio valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio County Man Admits to Role in Ohio Valley Drug Trafficking Operation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Aldridge, 27, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to conspiring to sell large quantities of fentanyl and cocaine.

    Aldridge entered a guilty plea today to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 500 grams or more of cocaine. According to court documents, Aldridge was working with others in a drug trafficking operation that spanned from Las Vegas, Nevada to the Ohio Valley.

    Aldridge faces at least 5 and up to 40 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Nogay is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

    The Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, Marshall County Drug Task Force, and the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug Task Force, all HIDTA-funded initiatives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; West Virginia State Police; Wheeling Police Department; Ohio County Sheriff’s Office; and the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.

    Press release on the associated case: www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/federal-grand-jury-indicts-twenty-six-drug-trafficking

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Miami-Dade Transit Supervisor and Wife Sentenced for Roles in Metrorail Bribery Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Dale Robinson, a former Miami-Dade Transit Track and Guideway Supervisor, and Marcia Robinson, his wife, were sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge K. Michael Moore after pleading guilty to federal charges.  Dale Robinson pleaded guilty to soliciting a bribe from a contractor for Miami-Dade Transit in connection with the issuance of Metrorail repair and maintenance contracts. Marcia Robinson pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony for helping her husband cover up the bribery scheme. 

    Dale Robinson was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.  In addition, a forfeiture judgment of $75,956 was previously entered against Dale Robinson, which he has already paid to the United States.  Marcia Robinson was sentenced to 3 years of probation for her lesser role.

    According to the facts admitted at the change of plea hearings, Dale Robinson was the acting General Superintendent and lead Rail Structure and Track Supervisor in the Track and Guideway unit of Miami-Dade Transit. His responsibilities included making recommendations for the selection of contractors to do Metrorail track maintenance and repair work for the transit unit and overseeing the work done by those contractors, including Jessie Bledsoe.  Bledsoe was the co-owner and operator of JB Railroad Contracting, Inc. (JB Railroad), a North Dakota-based company that did railroad track and rail replacement, repair, and maintenance work throughout the United States.   

    In or around January 2021, while JB Railroad was working on a previously obtained contract for the removal and replacement of Metrorail track fasteners and was in the process of seeking an additional contract to perform welding work on the Metrorail system for Miami-Dade Transit, Dale Robinson requested a large bribe from Bledsoe. Bledsoe agreed to pay Robinson that bribe, which was intended to influence Robinson’s selection of a contractor for the upcoming welding project. Bledsoe also agreed to conceal the payment by making it to a company specified by Dale Robinson.

    After this, in late January 2021, Dale Robinson directed Marcia Robinson, who lived in Maryland, to create a company and open a company checking account on which she would serve as the sole signatory.  Marcia Robinson formed Tailored Railroads & Consulting LLC (Tailored Railroads), filing the company paperwork in the State of Maryland.

    Between February 2021 through February 2022, Dale Robinson directed Marcia Robinson to send a total of four invoices from Tailored Railroads to JB Railroad. When Marcia Robinson sent each of these invoices, she knew that Tailored Railroads had not provided any goods or services to JB Railroad. Bledsoe then caused JB Railroad to issue four checks to Tailored Railroads to pay the invoices, which were actually payments for the bribe solicited by Dale Robinson.   Bledsoe ultimately provided $75,956 to Tailored Railroads for Dale Robinson’s personal benefit as part of Dale Robinson’s bribe solicitation.

    While not knowing all the details of her husband’s illegal bribery agreement with Bledsoe, Marcia Robinson knew that the four checks were being paid by Bledsoe for Dale Robinson’s recommendation to select JB Railroad to perform work for Miami-Dade Transit. Despite this, she did not inform authorities of her husband’s crime, and her actions helped conceal his criminal activity.   

    In a related case, Bledsoe pled guilty to paying a bribe to Dale Robinson in connection with his contracts with Miami-Dade Transit. Bledsoe’s sentencing hearing before U.S. District Judge Beth Bloom is set for October 3, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Brett D. Skiles of FBI Miami, and Inspector General Felix Jimenez of the Miami-Dade County Office of Inspector General (MDC-OIG) made the announcement.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward N. Stamm prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marx Calderon is handling forfeiture matters.     

    You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-20168.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 9th, 2025 N.M. Congressional Delegation Calls on President Trump to Grant State’s Major Disaster Declaration Request in Response to Severe Flooding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    N.M. Delegation: “It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss”

    RUIDOSO, N.M. — As families mourn the loss of the three lives taken in severe flash flooding, and as many New Mexicans are being forced to evacuate their homes and businesses, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are calling on President Donald Trump to approve a Major Disaster Declaration request from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.

    In a letter to President Trump, New Mexico’s Congressional delegation wrote, “We respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the severe weather system that produced unprecedented monsoonal rain statewide, causing severe thunderstorms and devastating flash flooding across multiple jurisdictions.

    “Yesterday and throughout the night, we watched Ruidoso leaders and staff, National Weather Service-Albuquerque staff, utility crews, first responders, medical providers, and rescue teams rally to save lives and help New Mexicans affected by the devastating flash flooding. We are immensely grateful for their heroic efforts.  

    “The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and robust response. Lives, homes, and critical infrastructure have been upended by this devastation, and New Mexico should not have to face it alone. We urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico’s request for a major disaster declaration.”

    A Major Disaster Declaration would open up access to Public Assistance and Individual Assistance funds from FEMA. Public Assistance supports the restoration and reconstruction of public infrastructure and lands. Individual Assistance supports families from losses suffered due to the flash flooding.

    The State is requesting Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan.

    The lawmakers added, “It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss.”

    Read the full text of the letter below or by clicking here.

    Dear President Trump,  

    We respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the severe weather system that produced unprecedented monsoonal rain statewide, causing severe thunderstorms and devastating flash flooding across multiple jurisdictions. 

    Yesterday and throughout the night, we watched Ruidoso leaders and staff, National Weather Service-Albuquerque staff, utility crews, first responders, medical providers, and rescue teams rally to save lives and help New Mexicans affected by the devastating flash flooding. We are immensely grateful for their heroic efforts. 

    The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and robust response. Lives, homes, and critical infrastructure have been upended by this devastation, and New Mexico should not have to face it alone. We urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico’s request for a major disaster declaration.

    The State is requesting Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan. We ask that you expeditiously grant the declaration and make this federal assistance available as soon as possible for the State to have all the resources they need to mitigate and recover from the devastation of this weather system. 

    Beginning on June 23, 2025, a weather system swept across New Mexico, producing monsoonal rain patterns and causing overwhelming damage across the state. Exacerbated by the severe to exceptional drought conditions across much of the state, as well as the number of interacting burn scars in much of the impacted area, the heavy rains and thunderstorms led to devastating flash flooding. Since this weather system started, it has impacted approximately 675 homes, with hundreds more under immediate threat of ongoing flooding in burn scars, and tragically caused at least three fatalities. Additionally, 70 distinct pieces of critical infrastructure have been damaged, including roads and bridges having been blown out by the floods and debris flow and drainage systems, water control facilities, and at least eight public buildings being destroyed or receiving severe damage. Many New Mexicans have been forced to evacuate their homes and businesses, often with livestock and pets.

    It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss. 

    Thank you for your consideration of this important request. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Railways issues 9,000 jobs in Q1, plans 50,000 appointments for FY 2025–26

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a major recruitment push, the Indian Railways has issued over 9,000 appointments in the first quarter of the financial year 2025–26 and is on track to offer more than 50,000 jobs by the end of the fiscal year, according to the Ministry of Railways.

    Since November 2024, the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) have conducted computer-based tests (CBTs) for over 1.86 crore candidates across seven different notifications covering a total of 55,197 vacancies. The large-scale examinations are part of a broader recruitment calendar that has so far announced 1.08 lakh vacancies since 2024.

    The Railways also plans to extend its recruitment efforts into the next financial year, with another 50,000 appointments expected to be made in FY 2026–27.

    Conducting CBTs at such scale is a complex logistical operation. In a move to ease the process for candidates, the Railways has taken the initiative to assign exam centres closer to candidates’ places of residence. Special preference has been given to female candidates and persons with benchmark disabilities (PwBDs).

    To uphold transparency and fairness, the Railways has introduced Aadhaar-based e-KYC authentication for candidate verification — a first for such large-scale government exams. The Ministry reported a success rate of over 95% in the implementation of this digital identity verification system.

    Additionally, 100% deployment of electronic jammers has been ensured at all exam centres to prevent cheating through electronic devices.

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to New Jersey Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought and Excessive Hea

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in New Jersey of the Aug. 11 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by drought and excessive heat occurring June 1, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the New Jersey counties of Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean as well as counties of Bucks and Philadelphia in Pennsylvania.

    Under this declaration SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”  

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is Aug. 11, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Myrtle Creek and Drain

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOC) in Douglas County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides occurring March 13-20.
    Beginning Monday, July 14, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Myrtle Creek and Drain to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The centers’ hours of operation are as follows:

    DOUGLAS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Myrtle Creek Community Center
    425 NW Second Ave.
    Myrtle Creek, OR  97457
    Opens at 9:00 a.m., Monday, July 14
    Monday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    Tuesday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    Permanently closes at 4:00 p.m.,
    Tuesday, July 15

    DOUGLAS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Drain Civic Center Meeting Room
    205 West A Ave.
    Drain, OR  97435
    Opens at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 16
    Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    Permanently closes at 4:00 p.m.,
    Thursday, July 17

    The following DLOC locations are open on the days and times as shown below:

    COOS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Myrtle Point City Hall
    Conference Room
    424 Fifth St.
    Myrtle Point, OR  97458
    Opens at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, July 10
    Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    Permanently closes at 4:30 p.m.,
    Friday, July 11

    DOUGLAS COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Roseburg Public Safety Center
    Third Floor – Salmon Conference Room 303
    700 SE Douglas Ave.
    Roseburg, OR  97470
    Mondays – Fridays, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Aug. 25, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 24, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Charges against Canadian Army members in anti-government terror plot raises alarms about right-wing extremism

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Kawser Ahmed, Adjunct Professor at the Political Science department, University of Winnipeg

    This week, the RCMP arrested four men in Québec, alleging they were attempting to create an anti-government militia.

    The RCMP used the umbrella term “Ideologically Motivated Violent Extremism” to categorize the suspects. Essentially, this means the RCMP alleges they share violent right-wing ideologies. Their arrests raise questions about whether Canada’s problem with right-wing extremism is getting worse.

    The group is accused of storing explosive devices, dozens of firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition. The RCMP seized all of it, and the four suspects are due to appear in Québec City court next week. Three are charged with facilitating a terrorist activity, along with weapon-possession offences.

    The suspects include active members of the Canadian Armed Forces, according to the RCMP. Given the allegations that they were planning terrorist attacks for an extremist militia, the inclusion of army personnel might not be surprising.

    But it could represent a stark manifestation of a deeply troubling and accelerating trend: the rise of violent right-wing extremism and anti-government or anti-authority radicalization within western democracies. This is a shift dramatically exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic as many seized the opportunity to spread anti-government ideas based on restricted freedoms.

    Raphaël Lagacé, one of the suspects charged by the RCMP.
    (Instagram)

    Canada not immune to violent movements

    Canada often thinks it’s safe from violent movements, but it’s becoming more vulnerable. This is especially evident in places like Québec, where there has been ideological conflict in the past, including the massacre at a Québec mosque in January 2017.

    However, the threat is also clear on a national level.

    According to a Canadian intelligence report, far-right extremist groups actively recruit past and present members of the military and police.

    There’s also a long-running pattern of militia activity in North America. Activities in the United States show how dangerous it is when violent ideologies spread.

    This includes the nihilistic doctrine of accelerationism, which is a white-supremacist belief that the current state of society cannot be fixed and that the only way to repair it is to destroy and collapse the “system”.

    There are versions of accelerationism on both the right and left.

    The rise in right-wing extremism globally

    The charges in Québec shine a spotlight on the global trend of rising right-wing extremism that has been worsening since 2016.

    In the past decade, white supremacist, anti-government and militia groups have gained traction. That’s due in part to online echo chambers, growing political and social divisions and the rise and rapid spread of conspiracy theories.

    The U.S. is the best and most immediate example. Groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys are well-known, playing a significant role in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. These groups are keen to recruit current and former military and law enforcement officers because they know how to handle weapons and use explosives.

    In 2023, the FBI repeatedly said domestic violent extremism continues to pose a threat, especially racially or ethnically motivated extremists and anti-government groups.

    Accelerationism is behind a lot of this violence. It underpins efforts to speed up the disintegration of society through targeted violence and technology, with the goal of starting a racial war or civil war to bring down liberal democratic institutions.

    The Base is an example of this trend. It’s a multinational, trans-border white supremacist network that supports violence to create chaos.

    But this is not just a North American problem. Before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, far-right members of the Ukrainian Azov Regiment reportedly drew western extremists to their cause, many of whom were looking for paramilitary training, possibly to use against their own governments.

    Canada: The Base, the ‘freedom convoy’

    This global tide doesn’t leave Canada out. The arrests in Québec are the most recent and concerning example.

    Patrik Mathews, a former Canadian Army reservist from Winnipeg, was involved in a well-known Canadian case that involved recruiting for The Base, as well as a plot to harm a journalist, Canadian investigative journalist Ryan Thorpe. His reports in the Winnipeg Free Press exposed Mathew’s membership in the The Base.

    Mathew fled to the U.S. in 2019. The FBI subsequently arrested him and charged him with gun-related crimes and taking part in a riot at a Virginia protest. Mathew is now serving a long prison sentence for his part in what the FBI called a “neo-Nazi plot to instigate a race war in the United States.”

    These examples clearly show how extremists work within national military systems to learn tactical capabilities.

    The so-called “freedom convoy” occupation of Ottawa in 2022 also showed troubling connections between radicalism and some parts of the Canadian Armed Forces.

    Investigations found numerous active and former Army members were either actively involved with the convoy or donated a lot of money. Some were found to have posted extreme anti-government views online. Some Army members are also vulnerable to the right-wing ideologies of a “white-ethnostate” fuelled by political rhetoric and hate.

    All of this paints a bleak picture: extremist ideas are slowly taking hold in Canada as adherents aim to leverage military training to spread cynicism in democratic institutions. Previous studies back this up.

    Countering the threat

    To deal with this complicated and changing threat, we need a whole society, integrated approach that includes reliable top-down enforcement and monitoring and proactive, bottom-up societal resilience.

    To quickly disrupt and deter extremist groups, top-down actions are very important. To properly monitor, penetrate and break up violent extremist networks, law enforcement and security services like CSIS and the RCMP need more resources, updated laws and better co-ordination.

    It’s also important for the Canadian Armed Forces and other security-sensitive organizations to have better screening processes to find and purge those with extremist ideas.

    But law enforcement isn’t enough. For one, it could be seen as biased, which could lead to more radicalization. Bottom-up methods are just as important for long-term prevention.

    We need programs that provide teachers, social workers, community leaders and families with the tools they need to spot early signs of radicalization and do something about it in a positive way.



    Read more:
    How not to counter the radical right

    Dialogue, education

    It’s important to teach people how to think critically, read the news to fight false information and learn about civic duties that stress democratic principles and diversity. This is especially critical to fight against rising hate-motivated crimes.

    I am involved in a one such project. It’s called Extremism and Radicalization to Violence Prevention in Manitoba (ERIM). We strive to build resilient communities by creating awareness and early detection of radicalism.

    Dialogue and education are paramount.

    Canada can’t afford to wait for a disaster to happen before acting. It can’t let its soldiers — those tasked with protecting Canadians and Canada’s security — get caught up in right-wing extremism. They are a source of national pride and should remain so.

    Kawser Ahmed has led a Public Safety project called Extremism and Radicalization to Violence Prevention in Manitoba (ERIM)

    – ref. Charges against Canadian Army members in anti-government terror plot raises alarms about right-wing extremism – https://theconversation.com/charges-against-canadian-army-members-in-anti-government-terror-plot-raises-alarms-about-right-wing-extremism-260778

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Millions of households to be given income boost as Bill progresses through Parliament

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Millions of households to be given income boost as Bill progresses through Parliament

    Nearly 4 million households will see an annual income boost estimated to be worth £725 cash as a Bill to overhaul the welfare system completes the next stage of its passage through Parliament.

    • Bill to introduce biggest permanent boost to out-of-work support since 1980 progresses through Parliament.
    • Legislation will remove perverse disincentives to work that exist in the welfare system while protecting 200,000 of those with the most severe, lifelong conditions who are not expected to ever be able to work.
    • Alongside the Bill, disabled people and those with health conditions will have legal protections to try work without fear of reassessment.
    • Reforms to the welfare system aimed at improving living standards across the country and breaking down barriers to opportunity as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

    Nearly 4 million households will see an annual income boost estimated to be worth £725 cash as a Bill to overhaul the welfare system completes the next stage of its passage through Parliament.

    For the first time ever, the Universal Credit standard allowance will permanently rise above inflation, amounting to £725 by 2029/30 in cash terms for a single person aged 25 or over.

    This is the highest permanent real terms increase to the main rate of out-of-work support since 1980, according to the IFS.

    Reforms set out in the Universal Credit Bill will look to rebalance the core payment and health top up in Universal Credit (UC). This will address the fundamental imbalance in the system which creates perverse incentives that drive people into dependency.

    The Bill, which will legislate to make these changes, today successfully cleared the House of Commons. It will now be introduced into the House of Lords to continue its passage through Parliament towards Royal Assent.

    Alongside these changes, we have published significant new measures, giving people receiving health and disability benefits the right to try work without fear of reassessment.

    The new Right to Try Guarantee enshrines this in law for the first time and includes disabled people and people with health conditions – such as those recovering from illness – who want to return to work now their health has improved.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:

    Our reforms are built on the principle of fairness, fixing a system that for too long has left people trapped in a cycle of dependence.

    We are giving extra support to millions of households across the country, while offering disabled people the chance to work without fear of the repercussions if things don’t work out.

    These reforms will change the lives of people across the country, so they have a real chance for a better future.

    As part of our commitment to protect the most vulnerable and severely disabled, 200,000 in the Severe Conditions Criteria group – individuals with the most severe, lifelong conditions who are unlikely to recover – will not be called for a UC reassessment.

    All existing recipients of the UC health element and new customers with 12 months or less to live or who meet the Severe Conditions Criteria will also see their standard allowance combined with their UC health element rise at least in line with inflation every year from 2026/27 to 2029/30.This means they can live with dignity and security, knowing the reforms to the welfare system mean it will always be there to support them.

    We are also putting disabled people at the heart of a ministerial review of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment led by Disability Minister Stephen Timms and co-produced with disabled people, along with the organisations that represent them, experts, MPs and other stakeholders – making sure it is fair and fit for the future.

    We will be engaging widely over the summer to design the process for the review and consider how it can best be co-produced to ensure that expertise from a range of different perspectives is drawn upon.

    These reforms are underpinned by a major investment in employment support for sick and disabled people – worth £3.8 billion over the Parliament. Funding will be brought forward for tailored employment, health and skills support to help disabled people and those with health conditions get into work as part of our Pathways to Work guarantee.

    This investment will accelerate the pace of new investments in employment support programmes, building on and learning from successes such as the Connect to Work programme, which are already rolling out to provide disabled people and people with health conditions with one-to-one support at the point when they feel ready to work.

    The reforms build on the Get Britain Working White Paper that will overhaul Jobcentres, empower Mayors and local leaders to tackle inactivity, and deliver a Youth Guarantee so every young person is either earning or learning, as part of the Government’s ambition to deliver an 80% employment rate.

    Further information

    The Universal Credit standard allowance is set to be around £250 higher than an inflation only increases.

    The UC Bill legislates for:

    Rebalancing of UC health and standard elements to address the fundamental imbalance in the system which creates perverse incentives that drive people into dependency through:

    • Increasing the UC standard allowance above inflation for the next four years – worth an estimated £725 by 2029/30 for a single adult aged 25 or over.
    • Reducing the health top-up for new claims to £50 per week from April 2026.
    • Ensuring that all existing recipients of the UC health element – and any new claimant meeting the Severe Conditions Criteria and/or that has their claims considered under the Special Rules for End of Life (SREL) – will receive the higher UC health payment after April 2026.
    • Exemptions from reassessment for those with the most severe, lifelong conditions.

    Updates to this page

    Published 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Nearly 50 spaces for women, children open in Kelowna

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    More women and their children leaving violence now have safe, secure place to stay as 44 new shelter and transitional housing spaces have opened in Kelowna.

    “Making sure women and children escaping violence can live safely, comfortably and affordably is essential to helping them recover and move forward,” said Ravi Kahlon, B.C.’s Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “Adding new shelter beds and transitional homes in Kelowna is offering hope, stability and the opportunity to live free from abuse.”

    The Province, through BC Housing, provided more than $5 million to the new Alexandra Gardner Women and Children Safe Centre (AG House) through a shovel-ready housing grant. A redevelopment of a former 20-space shelter, the newly built five-storey building features 20 shelter spaces for women and an additional 24 transitional studio homes for women and their children leaving violence.

    “Our government is committed to helping communities develop local solutions to housing need and homelessness,” said Stephen Fuhr, federal Secretary of State and MP for Kelowna. “This is why the Government of Canada has invested in AG House here in Kelowna. These new shelter beds and homes mean that women and their families will have a place to turn to where they will have the support they need to rebuild their lives, heal and gain independence. It’s another step forward in our bold, ambitious plan to build Canada strong.”

    NOW Canada will operate the new AG House, which includes two separate entrances for the women’s shelter and transition homes. The building has a full commercial kitchen, dining area and lounge, as well as laundry facilities. NOW Canada staff will be available on site to provide 24/7 support to clients.

    “NOW Canada is proud to partner with all levels of government to redevelop our shelter and add 24 transitional housing suites for women and children in Kelowna,” said Liz Talbott, executive director, NOW Canada. “This is a vital step toward addressing the shortage of shelter beds, affordable housing and essential services for vulnerable women in our community.”

    This project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the province has more than 93,250 homes that have been delivered or are underway, including more than 2,200 homes in Kelowna.

    In addition, through Building BC: Women’s Transition Housing Fund, the Province is working in partnership to deliver and operate 3,000 new transition, second-stage and long-term affordable housing spaces for women and children in the province. To date, more than 1,200 units are complete or underway throughout the province.

    Quotes:

    Jennifer Blatherwick, B.C.’s parliamentary secretary for gender equity –

    “Every person has the right to feel safe, valued and empowered in their home and community. However, too many people face a risk of violence, which is why more safe housing in Kelowna will provide a foundation for healing, refuge and care.”

    Tom Dyas, mayor of Kelowna –

    “Everyone deserves to be safe and have access to the supports they need. This new centre provides women and children in crisis with a secure, caring environment to begin rebuilding their lives. Thank you to all the partners who came together to make this possible.”

    Quick Facts: 

    • As with all projects for women and children leaving violence, the project address has not been disclosed for safety reasons.
    • Safe and Supported: B.C.’s Gender-Based Violence action plan was released in December 2023.
    • The action plan reports on vital work underway across government to address gender-based violence.
    • Initiatives were developed in consultation and co-operation with Indigenous partners, and with advice from community service providers and advocates.

    Learn More:

    To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for people in British Columbia, visit: 
    https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

    A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available online: 
    https://www.bchousing.org/homes-for-BC

    For provincial supports available for survivors of gender-based violence, sexual assault or domestic violence, visit: 
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/public-safety/domestic-violence  

    To learn more about Safe and Supported: B.C.’s Gender-based Violence Action Plan, visit: 
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/gender-equity/ending-gender-based-violence  

    For the most-requested Government of Canada housing information, visit: 
    https://www.canada.ca/en/services/finance/manage/housing.html

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbus man sentenced to life in prison for drug, firearm, sex trafficking crimes

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Defendant used violence & drug withdrawals to sex traffic women, caused overdose death

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – David Price, 56, of Columbus, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to life plus a consecutive 65 years in prison for his role in a narcotics distribution ring involving bulk amounts of fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine, methamphetamine and other narcotics. The defendant purposefully provided a narcotics mix to cause the overdose death of an adult female because she was talking to the police about his drug trafficking. Price also sex-trafficked victims through drug withdrawals and violence.

    A federal jury found Price guilty on all counts following a trial in January and February before U.S. District Judge Edmund A. Sargus, Jr.

    As part of this case, which charged 25 total defendants, the government seized more than $1.7 million, 50 firearms and nine vehicles, including a motorcycle.

    A multi-agency law enforcement task force initially announced the case in July 2022 after a federal grand jury initially indicted 11 defendants for distributing bulk amounts of fentanyl, cocaine and crack cocaine in central Ohio within 1,000 feet of a Columbus elementary school.

    A superseding indictment returned in October 2022 charged additional co-conspirators with distributing those same drugs in addition to methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana, Xanax and Oxycodone.

    Price, who is also known as “DP,” was charged in a third superseding indictment in December 2024 with 11 drug, firearm and sex trafficking crimes.

    According to court documents and trial testimony, Price was part of a conspiracy to distribute and possess to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, five kilograms or more of cocaine, 280 grams or more of “crack” cocaine and 100 grams or more of heroin, as well as marijuana, oxycodone and alprazolam. The drug trafficking organization operated from January 2008 until it was dismantled by law enforcement in 2022.

    Drug offenses took place at residences on Burgess and Harris avenues, which are within 1,000 feet of Burroughs Elementary School.

    In July 2021, Price distributed fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine that resulted in the overdose death of an adult female. The testimony at trial indicated he purposefully killed her because she was talking to the police about his drug business.

    The government also proved beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that Price conspired to commit sex trafficking. From 2016 until 2022, Price and other members of the conspiracy would force and/or coerce adult female drug addicts into performing commercial sex acts by providing, withholding, or threatening to withhold controlled substances and lodging. Investigation showed that various women would be allowed to stay at a drug residence associated with Price, receive a front of drugs so they were not in active withdrawal, go to Sullivant Avenue and have sex for money, pay the debt from the front drugs, and then be allowed to remain at the house.

    Price was also found guilty of three counts of sex trafficking related to his violence and coercion of three adult females. The testimony at trial indicated that he would lock the females inside his residence for days or weeks at a time and refuse to let them leave, forcing them to engage in sex acts. One victim was locked in a dog cage, shot and stabbed by Price. Another was restrained. A third was beaten and choked and left with a black eye. Price would refuse to provide them drugs unless or until they engaged in the sex acts, forcing them into withdrawal if they did not comply.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Kelly A. Norris commended the investigation coordinated by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission task force, which includes Columbus Division of Police Chief Elaine Bryant; Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; and Andrew Lawton, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Other agencies that have assisted the task force with the investigation include the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, HIDTA Task Force, IRS-Criminal Investigation, FBI, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI), Ohio National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, Pickerington Police Department, New Albany Police Department, and the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy Prichard and Emily Czerniejewski are representing the United States in this case.

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

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “Hubble at 35 Years” Symposium Explores Insights from Hubble’s Past

    Source: NASA

    As Hubble marks three and a half decades of scientific breakthroughs and technical resilience, the “Hubble at 35 Years” symposium offers a platform to reflect on the mission’s historical, operational, and scientific legacy. Hubble’s trajectory—from early challenges to becoming a symbol of American scientific ingenuity—presents valuable lessons in innovation, collaboration, and crisis response. Bringing together scientists, engineers, and historians at NASA Headquarters ensures that this legacy informs current and future mission planning, including operations for the James Webb Space Telescope, Roman Space Telescope, and other next-generation observatories. The symposium not only honors Hubble’s transformative contributions but also reinforces NASA’s commitment to learning from the past to shape a more effective and ambitious future for space science.

    Lessons Learned in Scientific Discovery and NASA Flagship Mission Operations
    October 16–17, 2025James Webb Auditorium, NASA HQ, Washington, D.C.

    The story of the Hubble Space Telescope confirms its place as the most transformative and significant astronomical observatory in history. Once called “the eighth wonder of the world” by a former NASA administrator, Hubble’s development since its genesis in the early 1970s and its launch, repair, and ultimate impact since 1990 provide ample opportunity to apply insights from its legacy. Scientists and engineers associated with groundbreaking discoveries have always operated within contexts shaped by forces including the government, private industry, the military, and the public at large. The purpose of this symposium is to explore the insights from Hubble’s past and draw connections that can inform the development of mission work today and for the future.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon Department of Human Services appoints George B. Lopez as Director of the Office of Tribal Affairs

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is pleased to announce the appointment of George B. Lopez as the new Director of the Office of Tribal Affairs, effective July 7, 2025.

    Lopez joins ODHS with extensive experience in tribal governance and community leadership. Most recently, he served as General Manager for the Klamath Tribes, where he led key administrative and community-based programs, managed a multimillion-dollar budget, and played a leading role in advancing tribal sovereignty and partnerships across education, public safety, and infrastructure development.

    “This role is essential to ODHS’s continued collaboration with Oregon’s Nine Federally Recognized Tribes,” said ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht. “George brings a deep commitment to Tribal communities and a strong track record of advocacy across Oregon. His experience will be a tremendous asset as we strengthen our government-to-government relationships. We’re excited to welcome him to the team and confident he’ll help advance our mission in meaningful ways.”

    The appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment process and will ensure continuity in leadership and support for tribal engagement.

    “I’m excited to take on this role and work with the Nine Tribes of Oregon, ODHS staff and leadership, and our partners at all levels,” said George B. Lopez, incoming Director of the ODHS Office of Tribal Affairs. “I’m committed to building strong relationships and supporting efforts that make a real difference for Tribal children, families and elders across the state.”

    ODHS also extends its sincere thanks to Sherril Kuhns, who served as interim director. Her dedication to tribal affairs and leadership during this transition have made a lasting impact on the agency’s work with Tribal Nations.

    For more information about the Office of Tribal Affairs and ODHS’s government-to-government work, visit https://www.oregon.gov/odhs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Acting Governor Eleni Kounalakis proclaims Disability Pride Month

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jul 9, 2025

    Sacramento, California – Acting Governor Eleni Kounalakis today issued a proclamation declaring July 2025 as Disability Pride Month.

    The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below:

    PROCLAMATION

     
    California joins communities around the nation in recognizing July as Disability Pride Month, an opportunity to celebrate the many ways that people living with disabilities – whether visible or invisible, mobility or cognitive, vision or hearing, learning or sensory, developmental or acquired – add to the diversity and strength of our state.
     
    Observed in July, Disability Pride Month marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a major civil rights milestone signed into law on July 26, 1990. Sponsored by California Congressman Tony Coelho, the ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, removing barriers to employment, transportation, public services, and other critical areas.
     
    California is home to more than 7 million adults with disabilities and provides one in eight kids with disability services in schools. For decades, our state has played a pivotal role in promoting the inclusion and integration of people with disabilities in all aspects of life. In partnership with the Legislature, the Newsom Administration is working to expand educational opportunities, employment options, health, and homecare access, civil rights, and community living for people of all ages with disabilities. The state also continues to prioritize accessibility of all state services and is deepening our commitment to employment opportunities for people with disabilities within state service.
     
    As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, let us reflect on the essential contributions of people with disabilities to our communities, our state, and our nation, and reaffirm our commitment to their rights and independence.
     
    NOW THEREFORE I, ELENI KOUNALAKIS, Acting Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim proclaim July 2025 as “Disability Pride Month.”
     
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 8th day of July 2025.

    ELENI KOUNALAKIS

    Acting Governor of California

    ATTEST:

    SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.

    Secretary of State

    Recent news

    Jul 9, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom announced $35 million for law enforcement partners, local governments and community groups tackling impaired driving. Sacramento, California – Helping to address the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or…

    Jul 8, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO — As wildfire conditions intensify across the Pacific Northwest, Governor Newsom has directed the deployment of a CAL FIRE Type 3 engine strike team to assist firefighting efforts in southern Oregon. The deployment includes five fire engines and a…

    Jul 8, 2025

    News What you need to know: The $101 million being made available today will support the development of affordable multifamily rental housing in Los Angeles, prioritizing the needs of displaced residents in the fire-devastated regions. Los Angeles, California – Six…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $35 million to law enforcement partners to keep communities safe from impaired driving

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jul 9, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom announced $35 million for law enforcement partners, local governments and community groups tackling impaired driving.

    Sacramento, California – Helping to address the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced more than $35 million in funding to nearly 150 local law enforcement agencies, local governments, crime laboratories, and nonprofit organizations to address the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

    The majority of the funding will support combatting impaired driving in communities, such as drug recognition evaluator training to improve the identification of drug-impaired drivers, as well as localized public outreach efforts. 

    As the legal cannabis market continues to grow, so do the state’s efforts to ensure Californians are recreating responsibly. By supporting the organizations that enforce and amplify our laws on the ground, we can keep everyone safer.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Administered by the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the grant funding comes from the sale of cannabis and cannabis products in California. CHP administers grants for education, prevention and enforcement programs aimed at helping communities tackle impaired driving. Additionally, funds are available for crime laboratories that conduct forensic toxicology testing. 

    “This funding represents a major step forward in our ongoing mission to save lives and prevent impaired driving,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “With over $35 million going to nearly 150 public safety partners across the state, we’re expanding our reach like never before. These resources will help those on the frontlines keep California’s roads safer for everyone.” 

    On top of combatting impaired driving in communities through trainings and public education campaigns, grant recipients will use the funds to inform local communities about impaired driving laws while highlighting the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. 

    Multiple recipients of two-year toxicology crime laboratory grants will use the funds to eliminate backlogs in analyzing forensic science evidence and to purchase or upgrade laboratory equipment to enhance testing capabilities.

    Four recipients of two-year medical examiner’s and coroner’s office grants will use the funds to improve and advance data collection in cases involving driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

    The growing cannabis market

    California’s regulated cannabis market is the largest in the world, fostering environmental stewardship, compliance-tested products, and fair labor practices, while driving economic growth and funding vital programs in education, public health, and environmental protection. The Department of Cannabis Control recently released a market outlook report that shows prices are stable, industry value is up, and the licensed market is growing. To learn more about the legal California cannabis market, state licenses, and laws, visit cannabis.ca.gov.

    Taking down illicit cannabis

    Reinforcing the state’s commitment to public safety, public health and the legal and regulated cannabis market, officials in 2024 seized $534 million worth of illegal cannabis. Through Governor Newsom’s Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force co-led by the Department of Cannabis Control, officials worked together to take down illegal cannabis operations, including residential illegal cultivation, and unlawful retail and delivery services.

    Since its inception in 2022, the Task Force has served 500 search warrants against illicit cannabis operations, seizing and destroying over $650 million in unlicensed cannabis. Operations have resulted in the eradication of more than 800,000 plants and over 220 tons of processed cannabis, along with the seizure of 190 firearms, more than $1 million in cash, and over 50 arrests statewide.

    The cannabis task force was established in 2022 by Governor Newsom to enhance collaboration and enforcement coordination between state, local, and federal partners. Partners on the task force include the Department of Cannabis Control, the Department of Pesticide Regulation, the Department of Toxic Substances Control, and the Department of Fish and Wildlife, among others. 

    Stronger enforcement. Serious penalties. Real consequences.

    California has invested $1.6 billion since 2019 to fight crime, help local governments hire more police, and improve public safety. In 2023, as part of California’s Public Safety Plan, the Governor announced the largest-ever investment to combat organized retail crime in state history, an annual 310% increase in proactive operations targeting organized retail crime, and special operations across the state to fight crime and improve public safety.

    Last August, Governor Newsom signed into law the most significant bipartisan legislation to crack down on property crime in modern California history. Building on the state’s robust laws and record public safety funding, these bipartisan bills offer new tools to bolster ongoing efforts to hold criminals accountable for smash-and-grab robberies, property crime, retail theft, and auto burglaries. While California’s crime rate remains at near historic lows, these laws help California adapt to evolving criminal tactics to ensure perpetrators are effectively held accountable.

    Recent news

    Jul 8, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO — As wildfire conditions intensify across the Pacific Northwest, Governor Newsom has directed the deployment of a CAL FIRE Type 3 engine strike team to assist firefighting efforts in southern Oregon. The deployment includes five fire engines and a…

    Jul 8, 2025

    News What you need to know: The $101 million being made available today will support the development of affordable multifamily rental housing in Los Angeles, prioritizing the needs of displaced residents in the fire-devastated regions. Los Angeles, California – Six…

    Jul 8, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of an additional 18 highly skilled Urban Search and Rescue Team members to Texas to assist with ongoing response efforts related to severe flooding impacts.The deployment includes a total of four…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: In-Depth Analysis – Public hearing with Claudia Buch, Chair of the ECB / SSM Supervisory Board – 15 July 2025 – 09-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This briefing has been prepared for the public hearing with the Chair of the Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM), Claudia Buch, scheduled for 15 July 2025 in the ECON Committee. Content: 1. Annual Report on Supervisory Activities for 2024 2. Annual Report on Sanctioning Activities in the SSM in 2024 3. ECB sanctions against SEB Baltics 4. The SSM’s simplification efforts 5. ECB’s feedback on Parliament’s Banking Union Annual Report 6. Between prudence and politics: EBA default framework fails to reflect legislative intent 7. National security or economic intervention? The stretching boundaries of golden power 8. New external expertise on (1) competitiveness of European banks and (2) real estate risks 9. Latest Supervisory Banking Statistics (Q4 2024)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Parliament deplores the democratic backsliding and repression in Georgia

    Source: European Parliament

    After decades of democratic progress, MEPs now believe Georgia is a victim of state capture and repeat their calls for new parliamentary elections in the country.

    In a report adopted on Wednesday by 490 votes in favour, 147 against with 49 abstentions, Parliament says the rigged October 2024 parliamentary elections in Georgia marked a clear turning point towards an authoritarian government in the EU candidate country. This flawed election paved the way, they say, for the ruling Georgian Dream party to illicitly capture state institutions and remove democratic safeguards, push ahead with repressive legislation while also cracking down on political opponents, journalists, and peaceful protesters.

    With the Georgian government jeopardising the country’s EU accession path, the EU-Georgia Association Agreement.

    Georgia must return to the course of democratic reforms

    While calling on Georgian Dream to return to a democratic path and Euro-Atlantic integration, MEPs reiterate their solidarity with the Georgian people and their legitimate pro-European aspirations. MEPs emphasise that upcoming municipal elections do not present an opportunity to reflect the democratic choice of the Georgian people unless imprisoned and detained political opposition leaders are released and the elections are held in an improved electoral environment. They also express deep concern over Georgia’s current restrictive media environment and attacks on the political opposition, including declarations by leaders of Georgian Dream indicating their intention to declare opposition parties unconstitutional.

    Quote

    “Sadly, we could not assess any progress by Georgia because, from having once been an inspiring leader among Eastern Partnership countries, Georgia has become a brutal dictatorship. Since the adoption of this report in committee, the situation has deteriorated: almost all leaders of the opposition have been detained and are in jail. Independent media are on the verge of collapse. The largest civil society organisations face threats and severe legal restrictions. Georgia is an example of how a country can be captured by Russian interests from within without a shot being fired. But the Georgian people are not giving up, they continue protesting every day, for more than 200 days, despite violent repression. The EU and its member states must take action before it is too late. We owe it to the brave Georgians fighting for a free and pro-European future,” rapporteur Rasa Juknevičienė (EPP, Lithuania) said.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI San Antonio Issues Warning About Disaster Related Fraud Schemes

    Source: US FBI

    The FBI stands united with our Texas Hill Country communities and those who have been impacted by the devastating floods of July 4. We urge the public to be aware of and vigilantly guard against fraud schemes that commonly emerge in the wake of major disasters.

    Unfortunately, after major catastrophic events it is common for scammers to seek opportunities to take advantage of the charitable public who generously contribute to recovery efforts. Fraudsters capitalize on the goodness of regular Americans by posing as charities or humanitarian aid organizations where fraudulent donations can be solicited in person, online, or via cryptocurrency. 

    In 2024, the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received more than 4,500 complaints representing approximately $96 million in losses from fraudulent charities and disaster relief campaigns.

    “Tragically, natural disasters often create ideal situations for opportunistic criminals to prey on those experiencing profound loss or those offering assistance to others,” said FBI San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp. “Scammers who view this heartbreaking disaster as an illicit financial opportunity will be identified and held accountable. They should know that the FBI and our partners will use every tool at our disposal to stop them or anyone else who seeks to use this disaster for personal gain.”

    “In the wake of tragedies like the one residents and visitors to the Texas Hill Country recently experienced, the worst elements of our society often look to take advantage of those who have lost everything,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “If you or someone you know is a victim of fraud related to the recent flooding, do not hesitate to report it to the FBI. Here in the Western District, we will do everything we can to hold to account those who would take advantage of a person’s loss and heartache.”

    We remind the public that some criminals claim to be representatives of the government or well-known nonprofits (such as the American Red Cross), and they solicit donations through emails, texts, or phone calls. Officials with government disaster agencies never call or text to ask for financial information, and there is no fee to apply for assistance. To learn more about legitimate flood resources available those effected by disaster, visit the Texas Disaster Portal at disaster.texas.gov.

    Sometimes, scammers offer to help victims secure government-provided temporary housing if the resident pays a small fee to reserve a space or as a security deposit on a key. Other scams include unsolicited work crews who show up unannounced offering to do quick repair work. Contact your insurance company before hiring anyone, and make sure the company you hire is licensed and bonded. 

    Do your own research before you donate. Best practices include, but are not limited to:

    • Donate to charities you know and trust.
    • Designate the donation for a specific disaster relief effort as opposed to a general fund.
    • Practice good cyber hygiene. Never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails, texts, or social media posts. To protect against common scam tactics such as Smishing, Vishing, and Spear Phishing, see – ic3.gov-PSA
    • Verify the legitimacy of any solicitation by contacting the organization directly through a trusted contact number.
    • Beware of organizations with names that are similar to, but not exactly the same as, those of reputable charities.
    • Avoid charities that ask for you to pay by cash, gift card, virtual currency, or wire transfer.
    • Pay by credit card or write a check directly to the charity; do not make checks payable to individuals.
    • Know that most legitimate charity websites end in “.org” rather than “.com.”
    • Make contributions directly; do not rely on others to make a contribution on your behalf.
    • Utilize resources provided by the Federal Trade Commission to learn how you can donate safely and avoid scams.

    Report It

    If you believe you have been a victim of disaster-related fraud, please call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI and follow the prompts. You can also make a complaint at tips.fbi.gov. Suspicious email solicitations and fraudulent websites can be reported to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at http://www.ic3.gov. 

    You can also submit complaints of fraud, waste, abuse, or mismanagement related to any man-made or natural disaster to the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud at 1-866-720-5721 or www.justice.gov/disastercomplaintform.

    MIL Security OSI –