NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Security: The Justice Department Files Lawsuit Against Sanctuary City Policies In Los Angeles, California

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Today, the Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the City of Los Angeles, California, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, and the Los Angeles City Council over policies that Los Angeles enacted shortly after President Donald J. Trump’s reelection to interfere with the federal government’s enforcement of its immigration laws.

    Not only are Los Angeles’s “sanctuary city” policies illegal under federal law, but, as alleged in the complaint, Los Angeles’s refusal to cooperate with federal immigration authorities contributed to the recent lawlessness, rioting, looting, and vandalism that was so severe that it required the federal government to deploy the California National Guard and the United States Marines to quell the chaos.

    “Sanctuary policies were the driving cause of the violence, chaos, and attacks on law enforcement that Americans recently witnessed in Los Angeles,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Jurisdictions like Los Angeles that flout federal law by prioritizing illegal aliens over American citizens are undermining law enforcement at every level – it ends under President Trump.”

    “Today’s lawsuit holds the City of Los Angeles accountable for deliberately obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration law,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “The United States Constitution’s Supremacy Clause prohibits the City from picking and choosing which federal laws will be enforced and which will not. By assisting removable aliens in evading federal law enforcement, the City’s unlawful and discriminatory ordinance has contributed to a lawless and unsafe environment that this lawsuit will help end.”

    On her first day in office, Attorney General Bondi instructed the Department’s Civil Division to identify state and local laws, policies, and practices that facilitate violations of federal immigration laws or impede lawful federal immigration operations, and, where appropriate, to take legal action to challenge such laws, policies, and practices. Today’s lawsuit is the latest in a series of lawsuits brought by the Civil Division targeting illegal sanctuary city policies across the country, including in New York and New Jersey.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Coordinated, Nationwide Actions to Combat North Korean Remote Information Technology Workers’ Illicit Revenue Generation Schemes

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Law Enforcement Actions Across 16 States Result in Charges, Arrest, and Seizures of 29 Financial Accounts, 21 Fraudulent Websites, and Approximately 200 Computers

    The Justice Department announced today coordinated actions against the Democratic People’s Republic of North Korea (DPRK) government’s schemes to fund its regime through remote information technology (IT) work for U.S. companies. These actions include two indictments, an arrest, searches of 29 known or suspected “laptop farms” across 16 states, and the seizure of 29 financial accounts used to launder illicit funds and 21 fraudulent websites.

    According to court documents, the schemes involve North Korean individuals fraudulently obtaining employment with U.S. companies as remote IT workers, using stolen and fake identities. The North Korean actors were assisted by individuals in the United States, China, United Arab Emirates, and Taiwan, and successfully obtained employment with more than 100 U.S. companies.

    As alleged in court documents, certain U.S.-based individuals enabled one of the schemes by creating front companies and fraudulent websites to promote the bona fides of the remote IT workers, and hosted laptop farms where the remote North Korean IT workers could remote access into U.S. victim company-provided laptop computers. Once employed, the North Korean IT workers received regular salary payments, and they gained access to, and in some cases stole, sensitive employer information such as export controlled U.S. military technology and virtual currency. In another scheme, North Korean IT workers used false or fraudulently obtained identities to gain employment with an Atlanta, Georgia-based blockchain research and development company and stole virtual currency worth approximately over $900,000.

    “These schemes target and steal from U.S. companies and are designed to evade sanctions and fund the North Korean regime’s illicit programs, including its weapons programs,” said Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the Department’s National Security Division. “The Justice Department, along with our law enforcement, private sector, and international partners, will persistently pursue and dismantle these cyber-enabled revenue generation networks.”

    “North Korean IT workers defraud American companies and steal the identities of private citizens, all in support of the North Korean regime,” said Assistant Director Brett Leatherman of FBI’s Cyber Division. “That is why the FBI and our partners continue to work together to disrupt infrastructure, seize revenue, indict overseas IT workers, and arrest their enablers in the United States. Let the actions announced today serve as a warning: if you host laptop farms for the benefit of North Korean actors, law enforcement will be waiting for you.”

    “North Korea remains intent on funding its weapons programs by defrauding U.S. companies and exploiting American victims of identity theft, but the FBI is equally intent on disrupting this massive campaign and bringing its perpetrators to justice,” said Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI Counterintelligence Division. “North Korean IT workers posing as U.S. citizens fraudulently obtained employment with American businesses so they could funnel hundreds of millions of dollars to North Korea’s authoritarian regime. The FBI will do everything in our power to defend the homeland and protect Americans from being victimized by the North Korean government, and we ask all U.S. companies that employ remote workers to remain vigilant to this sophisticated threat.”

    Zhenxing Wang, et al. Indictment, Seizure Warrants, and Arrest – District of Massachusetts

    Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts and the National Security Division announced the arrest of U.S. national Zhenxing “Danny” Wang of New Jersey pursuant to a five-count indictment. The indictment describes a multi-year fraud scheme by Wang and his co-conspirators to obtain remote IT work with U.S. companies that generated more than $5 million in revenue. The indictment also charges Chinese nationals Jing Bin Huang (靖斌 黄), Baoyu Zhou (周宝玉), Tong Yuze (佟雨泽), Yongzhe Xu (徐勇哲 andيونجزهي أكسو), Ziyou Yuan (زيو) and Zhenbang Zhou (周震邦), and Taiwanese nationals Mengting Liu (劉 孟婷) and Enchia Liu (刘恩) for their roles in the scheme. 

    “The threat posed by DPRK operatives is both real and immediate. Thousands of North Korean cyber operatives have been trained and deployed by the regime to blend into the global digital workforce and systematically target U.S. companies,” said U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley for the District of Massachusetts. “We will continue to work relentlessly to protect U.S. businesses and ensure they are not inadvertently fueling the DPRK’s unlawful and dangerous ambitions.”

    According to the indictment, from approximately 2021 until October 2024, the defendants and other co-conspirators compromised the identities of more than 80 U.S. persons to obtain remote jobs at more than 100 U.S. companies, including many Fortune 500 companies, and caused U.S. victim companies to incur legal fees, computer network remediation costs, and other damages and losses of at least $3 million. Overseas IT workers were assisted by Kejia Wang, Zhenxing Wang, and at least four other identified U.S. facilitators. Kejia Wang, for example, communicated with overseas co-conspirators and IT workers, and traveled to Shenyang and Dandong, China, including in 2023, to meet with them about the scheme. To deceive U.S. companies into believing the IT workers were located in the United States, Kejia Wang, Zhenxing Wang, and the other U.S. facilitators received and/or hosted laptops belonging to U.S. companies at their residences, and enabled overseas IT workers to access the laptops remotely by, among other things, connecting the laptops to hardware devices designed to allow for remote access (referred to as keyboard-video-mouse or “KVM” switches).

    Kejia Wang and Zhenxing Wang also created shell companies with corresponding websites and financial accounts, including Hopana Tech LLC, Tony WKJ LLC, and Independent Lab LLC, to make it appear as though the overseas IT workers were affiliated with legitimate U.S. businesses. Kejia Wang and Zhenxing Wang established these and other financial accounts to receive money from victimized U.S. companies, much of which was subsequently transferred to overseas co‑conspirators. In exchange for their services, Kejia Wang, Zhenxing Wang, and the four other U.S. facilitators received a total of at least $696,000 from the IT workers.

    IT workers employed under this scheme also gained access to sensitive employer data and source code, including International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) data from a California-based defense contractor that develops artificial intelligence-powered equipment and technologies. Specifically, between on or about Jan. 19, 2024, and on or about April 2, 2024, an overseas co-conspirator remotely accessed without authorization the company’s laptop and computer files  containing technical data and other information. The stolen data included information marked as being controlled under the ITAR.

    Simultaneously with today’s announcement, the FBI and Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) seized 17 web domains used in furtherance of the charged scheme and further seized 29 financial accounts, holding tens of thousands of dollars in funds, used to launder revenue for the North Korean regime through the remote IT work scheme.

    Previously, in October 2024, as part of this investigation, federal law enforcement executed searches at eight locations across three states that resulted in the recovery of more than 70 laptops and remote access devices, such as KVMs. Simultaneously with that action, the FBI seized four web domains associated with Kejia Wang’s and Zhenxing Wang’s shell companies used to facilitate North Korean IT work.

    The FBI Las Vegas Field Office, DCIS San Diego Resident Agency, and Homeland Security Investigations San Diego Field Office are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Casey for the District of Massachusetts and Trial Attorney Gregory J. Nicosia, Jr. of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section are prosecuting the case, with significant assistance from Legal Assistants Daniel Boucher and Margaret Coppes. Valuable assistance was also provided by Mark A. Murphy of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, and Southern District of California.

    Kim Kwang Jin et al. Indictment – Northern District of Georgia

    Today, the Northern District of Georgia unsealed a five-count wire fraud and money laundering indictment charging four North Korean nationals, Kim Kwang Jin (김관진), Kang Tae Bok (강태복), Jong Pong Ju (정봉주) and Chang Nam Il (창남일), with a scheme to steal virtual currency from two companies, valued at over $900,000 at the time of the thefts, and to launder proceeds of those thefts. The defendants remain at large and wanted by the FBI.

    “The defendants used fake and stolen personal identities to conceal their North Korean nationality, pose as remote IT workers, and exploit their victims’ trust to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg for the Northern District of Georgia. “This indictment highlights the unique threat North Korea poses to companies that hire remote IT workers and underscores our resolve to prosecute any actor, in the United States or abroad, who steals from Georgia businesses.”

    According to the indictment, the defendants traveled to the United Arab Emirates on North Korean travel documents and worked as a co-located team. In approximately December 2020 and May 2021, respectively, Kim Kwang Jin (using victim P.S.’s stolen identity) and Jong Pong Ju (using the alias “Bryan Cho”) were hired by a blockchain research and development company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and a virtual token company based in Serbia. Both defendants concealed their North Korean identities from their employers by providing false identification documents containing a mix of stolen and fraudulent identity information. Neither company would have hired Kim Kwang Jin and Jong Pong Ju had they known that they were North Korean citizens. Later, on a recommendation from Jong Pong Ju, the Serbian company hired “Peter Xiao,” who in fact was Chang Nam Il.

    After gaining their employers’ trust, Kim Kwang Jin and Jong Pong Ju were assigned projects that provided them access to their employers’ virtual currency assets. In February 2022, Jong Pong Ju used that access to steal virtual currency worth approximately $175,000 at the time of the theft, sending it to a virtual currency address he controlled. In March 2022, Kim Kwang Jin stole virtual currency worth approximately $740,000 at the time of theft by modifying the source code of two of his employer’s smart contracts, then sending it to a virtual currency address he controlled.

    To launder the funds after the thefts, Kim Kwang Jin and Jong Pong Ju “mixed” the stolen funds using the virtual currency mixer Tornado Cash and then transferred the funds to virtual currency exchange accounts controlled by defendants Kang Tae Bok and Chang Nam Il but held in the name of aliases. These accounts were opened using fraudulent Malaysian identification documents.

    The FBI Atlanta Field Office is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samir Kaushal and Alex Sistla for the Northern District of Georgia and Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section are prosecuting the case.

    21 Searches of Known or Suspected U.S.-based Laptop Farms – Multi-District

    Between June 10 and June 17, 2025, the FBI executed searches of 21 premises across 14 states hosting known and suspected laptop farms. These actions, coordinated by the FBI Denver Field Office, related to investigations of North Korean remote IT worker schemes being conducted by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices of the District of Colorado, Eastern District of Missouri, and Northern District of Texas. In total, the FBI seized approximately 137 laptops.

    Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the District of Connecticut, the Eastern District of Michigan, the Eastern District of Wisconsin, the Middle District of Florida, the Northern District of Georgia, the Northern District of Illinois, the Northern District of Indiana, the District of Oregon, the Southern District of Florida, the Southern District of Ohio, the Western District of New York, and the Western District of Pennsylvania.

    ***

    The Department’s actions to combat these schemes are the latest in a series of law enforcement actions under a joint National Security Division and FBI Cyber and Counterintelligence Divisions effort, the DPRK RevGen: Domestic Enabler Initiative. This effort prioritizes targeting and disrupting the DPRK’s illicit revenue generation schemes and its U.S.-based enablers. The Department previously announced other actions pursuant to the initiative, including in January 2025 and prior, as well as the filing of a civil forfeiture complaint in early June 2025 for over $7.74 million tied to an illegal employment scheme.

    As the FBI has described in Public Service Announcements published in May 2024 and January 2025, North Korean remote IT workers posing as legitimate remote IT workers have committed data extortion and exfiltrated the proprietary and sensitive data from U.S. companies. DPRK IT worker schemes typically involve the use of stolen identities, alias emails, social media, online cross-border payment platforms, and online job site accounts, as well as false websites, proxy computers, and witting and unwitting third parties located in the U.S. and elsewhere.

    Other public advisories about the threats, red flag indicators, and potential mitigation measures for these schemes include a May 2022 advisory released by the FBI, Department of the Treasury, and Department of State; a July 2023 advisory from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence; and guidance issued in October 2023 by the United States and the Republic of Korea (South Korea). As described the May 2022 advisory, North Korean IT workers have been known individually to earn up to $300,000 annually, generating hundreds of millions of dollars collectively each year, on behalf of designated entities, such as the North Korean Ministry of Defense and others directly involved in the DPRK’s weapons programs.

    The U.S. Department of State has offered potential rewards for up to $5 million in support of international efforts to disrupt the DPRK’s illicit financial activities, including for cybercrimes, money laundering, and sanctions evasion.

    The details in the above-described court documents are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Canadian Man Arrested and Detained for Role in Deadly Alien Smuggling Conspiracy at the U.S.’s Northern Border

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Note: View the indictment here and detention letter here.

    WASHINGTON — A dual Canadian American citizen was arrested on Sunday, June 15, for his role in a deadly human smuggling conspiracy that left a family of four, including two children under the age of three, dead in the St. Lawrence River. Oakes was arrested as he attempted to enter the United States via the Massena, New York, Port of Entry.

    Timothy Oakes, 34, from the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian Reservation (AMIR), Canada, was previously arraigned on numerous human smuggling offenses in the Northern District of New York District Court and had his detention hearing earlier today and will remain detained. Oakes was indicted on April 9 for conspiring with others to engage in alien smuggling, four counts of alien smuggling for profit, and four counts of alien smuggling resulting in death. United States based co-conspirators Dakota Montour, 31, and Kawisiiostha Celecia Sharrow, 43, both of Akwesasne-Mohawk, New York, and Janet Terrance, 45, of Hogansburg, New York, entered guilty pleas on Jan. 23, Oct. 8, 2024, and March 6, respectively.

    “As alleged, Oakes and his co-conspirators profited from a human smuggling operation with a singular, cold-hearted aim: making money by bringing illegal aliens into the United States, regardless of the danger to human life involved,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Their greed resulted in the deaths of a mother, a father, and two small children, as well as one of the defendants’ own brothers. The Criminal Division will continue to disrupt and dismantle these organizations and bring justice to smugglers whose actions result in senseless deaths.”

    “This case shows the terrible perils of illegally crossing the border,” said U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III for the Northern District of New York. “Four family members died because a smuggling network put them in harm’s way. My office is proud to partner with Joint Task Force Alpha to continue to combat dangerous human smuggling and trafficking organizations that operate on our northern border.”

    “Oakes’ arrest comes as part of our nearly two-year long investigation into a transnational criminal organization responsible for the large-scale smuggling of aliens from Canada into the United States,” said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan. “ICE HSI leverages its full range of authorities to combat and dismantle the heinous networks of greedy criminals who illicitly sell dangerous, sometimes fatal, passage through our nation’s northern border. We are extremely grateful for a multitude of law enforcement agency partners on the Border Enforcement Security Taskforce who join us in this fight to bring smugglers to justice.”

    “Two toddler aged children and their parents were the tragic victims of an alien smuggling attempt gone horribly wrong,” said Chief Patrol Agent Robert Garcia of the U.S. Border Patrol’s Swanton Sector. “Their deaths were a direct result of callous smugglers who exploited the vulnerable. Due to unrelenting perseverance and investigative efforts by multiple law enforcement agencies, those responsible will be held accountable. Our pursuit of justice persists until justice is served.”

    According to court documents, Oakes was a key facilitator in a human smuggling organization (HSO) that smuggled aliens from Canada into northern New York. Oakes, working with the HSO, routinely smuggled aliens into the United States by piloting boats across the St. Lawrence River. Additionally, Oakes used his home as a staging area for aliens before the HSO smuggled them into the United States. Oakes earned approximately $1,000 for every alien whom he smuggled across the St. Lawrence River into the United States.

    In March 2023, Oakes housed a Romanian family of four, together with other aliens, for about 24 hours. He then transported the family and a boat to a public boat launch. His brother, Casey Oakes, attempted to use the boat to smuggle the Romanian family into the United States, but the boat capsized, killing all four members of the family, as well as Casey Oakes.    

    Terrance, Montour, and Sharrow admitted in their plea agreements that in late March 2023, they were employed to illegally transport a Romanian family of four — a mother, father, one-year-old boy, and two-year-old girl — from Canada into New York. Specifically, Montour admitted that he was aware of the dangerous weather conditions on the day of the tragedy — high winds, freezing temperatures, and limited visibility — yet another co-conspirator still loaded the family of four into the small boat to attempt to cross the St. Lawrence River.

    HSI Massena engaged in an extensive years-long investigation of the case, with assistance from the U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., CBP’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force, New York State Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service, St. Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Department, Ontario Provincial Police, Sûreté du Québec, St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and the Cornwall Police Service. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant support with foreign legal assistance requests.

    The defendant’s vehicle with light blue boat in tow on March 29, 2023, at 9:29 p.m., consistent with the boat found in the river during recovery efforts.

    The investigation is a result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations and eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating within the Americas that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the border, including the Northern District of New York. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 380 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 340 U.S. convictions; more than 290 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    The investigation is being conducted under the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a joint partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks, or present grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence and prosecutorial resources. ECT coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.

    Trial Attorney Jenna E. Reed of the Criminal Division’s HRSP and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt for the Northern District of New York are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations 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 and Project Safe Neighborhoods.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Durable Medical Equipment Owner Sentenced to 12 Years for $61 Million Medicare Fraud Scheme

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Florida man was sentenced today to 12 years in prison and three years of supervised release for conspiring to defraud Medicare with false reimbursement claims for durable medical equipment (DME). He was also ordered to pay $21,195,540.18 in restitution and forfeiture in the amount of $2,514,040.

    According to court documents, Peter Roussonicolos, 64, of Port Saint Lucie, Florida, owned and operated five DME suppliers as a silent partner. Roussonicolos hid his involvement in the companies from Medicare because he had one or more felony convictions, making him ineligible to enroll with the government program. To further conceal his involvement, he recruited and paid co-conspirators to serve as nominee owners of the DME suppliers and caused others to falsify Medicare enrollment forms, bank records, and other documents to conceal the true ownership and control of the DME suppliers. He also knew that a co-conspirator paid kickbacks and bribes to patient recruiters in exchange for beneficiary referrals. As part of the scheme, the DME companies submitted approximately $61.5 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for medically unnecessary DME that was ineligible for reimbursement and were paid approximately $26.7 million of these claims.

    “Through lies and deceit, the defendant and his co-conspirators orchestrated a $61 million fraud on Medicare,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The defendant’s fraud drained critical government resources that could have been used to help vulnerable Americans. Today’s sentencing demonstrates the Department’s steadfast commitment to protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring accountability for those who seek to defraud our health care programs.”

    “Today’s sentence underscores HHS-OIG’s firm commitment to thoroughly investigating individuals who engage in illegal kickback schemes to prescribe medically unnecessary durable medical equipment for their own personal financial gain,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “We remain steadfast in our mission to protect the integrity of Medicare and other federal healthcare programs as well as the people served by those programs.”

    “This defendant and his co-conspirators orchestrated an elaborate scheme to steal millions from Medicare through kickbacks and sham billing,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “Today’s sentencing demonstrates that those who exploit our healthcare system for personal gain will be held accountable. The FBI is committed to working with our partners to protect taxpayer dollars and ensure the integrity of healthcare programs.”

    In November 2024, Roussonicolos pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud.

    The FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Jennifer Burns and Assistant Chiefs Jamie de Boer and Emily Gurskis of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case. Trial Attorneys Joanna Bowman and Lindita Ciko Torza of the Special Matters Unit assisted in the prosecution.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 9 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www. justice. gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Bipartisan Warren, Scott (Fla.) Letter Questions Biden Defense Secretary’s Decision to Launch Lobbying Firm

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    July 01, 2025
    Austin publicly promised Warren in 2021 he would not become a lobbyist after leaving government service
    “When our highest-ranking government officials and military officers treat their positions as steppingstones to personal enrichment, they corrupt the very institution they swore to defend.” 
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Rick Scott (R-Fla.), both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, wrote to former Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin seeking an explanation and further information on his recent decision to start a strategic advisory firm. Austin had publicly promised Senator Warren during his 2021 confirmation process that he would not become a lobbyist after his government service ended. 
    On June 3, 2025, Politico reported that Austin was launching Clarion Strategies, along with other former Biden defense and national security officials, to help clients “navigate geopolitical upheaval…, advancements in defense technology…, [and] global trade shifts and emerging alliances among U.S. adversaries like Russia, China, North Korea and China.” This new venture undermines his promises to Senator Warren to “ensure that the public has no reason to question my impartiality” and “[had] no intent to be a lobbyist.” 
    “The revolving door between the Pentagon and K Street has been spinning for years during both Democratic and Republican administrations. In your case, this move is particularly disappointing because you made a clear promise during your nomination hearing to uphold the public trust,” wrote the senators. 
    Austin’s pledges helped secure similar commitments from other defense nominees, including Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Heidi Shyu, and Under Secretary of the Army Gabriel Camarillo. 
    Austin appears to have found a loophole by serving as an “adviser” rather than a registered lobbyist. 
    “[That] undermines the very purpose of the promise that you made to the American people: to close the revolving door of government officials cashing in on their public service by lobbying, advising…” wrote the lawmakers.
    The senators demanded clarity on Austin’s new role by July 14, 2025, including whether he’ll register to lobby on behalf of any company; if any current or prospective clients have contracts with the Defense Department; if he’ll work on behalf of any foreign government; if he’ll recuse from any matters involving any companies he worked with as Defense Secretary; and whether any clients would benefit from his security clearance. 
    As leaders of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, Senators Warren and Scott held a hearing on the dangers of the revolving door. Both have also introduced legislation to tackle the revolving door, with Senator Warren introducing the Department of Defense Ethics and Anti-Corruption Act and Senator Scott introducing the Banning Lobbying and Safeguarding Trust (BLAST) Act to ban members of Congress from lobbying.
    Senator Warren has long sought to protect servicemembers and national security by pushing defense nominees to resolve their conflicts of interest: 
    In May 2025, Senator Warren pressed Mr. Michael Obadal, nominee for Under Secretary of the Army, on his refusal to divest from major defense contractors.
    In April 2025, Senator Warren secured a commitment from Lieutenant General John D. Caine, President Trump’s nominee to be the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, not to work for any major defense contractors—or companies affected by his official actions—after leaving government service. 
    In March 2025, ahead of his confirmation vote, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Deputy Defense Secretary Nominee Stephen Feinberg, urging him to recuse himself from all matters related to Ligado Networks, which has a pending $39 billion lawsuit against the DoD. 
    In March 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Mr. Emil Michael, nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, with concern over his history of inappropriate behavior at work, his attacks on journalists and public accountability, and his ties to technology companies that may seek contracts with the Department of Defense. 
    In February 2025, ahead of his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Mr. Stephen Feinberg, nominee for Deputy Secretary of the Department of Defense, pressing him to explain his “serious conflicts of interest” and his track record of mismanagement.
    In January 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Mr. Michael Duffey, nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment of the Department of Defense, ahead of his confirmation hearing, with serious concerns about his record, which include violating the law, disregarding Congressional authority, and his involvement in Project 2025. 
    In January 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Mr. Pete Hegseth, nominee for Secretary of the Department of Defense, regarding his ethics conflicts ahead of the Senate’s consideration of his nomination. Mr. Hegseth’s household’s ownership of stock in several defense contractors and his unwillingness to commit to the same post-employment restrictions he previously advocated for were particularly troubling for a prospective Secretary of Defense.
    In March 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren secured ethics commitments from Douglas Schmidt, ahead of his confirmation to be the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E) for the Department of Defense.
    In July 2023, Senator Elizabeth Warren secured a commitment from General Charles Q. Brown, Jr., President Biden’s nominee to be the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, not to become a defense industry lobbyist or receive compensation from a defense contractor for four years after leaving government service. 
    In June 2023, Senator Elizabeth Warren and representative Andy Kim reintroduced the Department of Defense Ethics and Anti-Corruption Act, to limit the influence of contractors on the military, constrain foreign influence on retired senior military officers, and assert greater transparency over contractors and their interaction with DoD.
    In July 2021, Senator Elizabeth Warren secured agreements to four-year recusals from former clients’ and employers’ party matters from then-Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall and then-USD(R&E) Heidi Shyu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens set out alternative to welfare cuts to tackle poverty and give dignity to Disabled people 

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    As the Government struggles to get its welfare reforms through parliament, Green Party MPs have produced a report detailing an alternative approach. They say that the case for “delaying the proposed changes in order to get change right is compelling” and are urging MPs to vote down the reforms later today.

    Amongst the proposals Green MPs recommend are:

    • Withdrawing the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill
    •  Increasing all disability benefits by 5 per cent and Universal Credit and legacy benefits by £40 a week
    • Working with Disabled people to co-produce a social security system that is fair, humane and accessible – and which joins up the support for Disabled people to help with additional costs
    • Developing interventions that are genuinely good value, lift people up and take an evidence-based approach to supporting people into work
    • Learning from the OBR’s assessment and equality impact assessments so any changes deliver on the stated objectives and do not push people into deeper poverty.

    Green MP Siân Berry said:

    “The Government’s process of bringing forward proposals for change has been marked by chaos. Decision making has been irresponsible, leaving disabled people feeling uncertain and anxious – even terrified. Their voices have not been front and centre of the debate about how to build a better social security system and the proposed changes represent a serious threat to Disabled people’s quality of life, dignity and equality.

    “Equalising capital gains tax with income tax would not only help raise funds for welfare payments but also be fairer as currently working disabled people on PIP are paying higher rates of tax on their income than wealthy people living off share dividends.

    “Change can be done right if it’s done with Disabled people rather than to them. We urge all MPs to vote against the welfare cuts tonight – let’s work together to create something more compassionate that lifts everyone up and supports the wellbeing of Disabled people.”

    Note

    The Lifting Up report from the Green MPs was their submission to the ‘Pathways to Work Green Paper’ consultation which closed on 30th June 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Phil Scott Appoints 83 to Boards and Commissions

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott’s office today announced a range of appointments made in the second quarter of 2025.

    Boards and commissions serve an important role in state government, giving Vermonters numerous opportunities to serve their state and communities. The Governor’s office is currently soliciting applications to fill vacancies and upcoming term expirations. All those interested in serving on board or commission should visit the Governor’s website at https://governor.vermont.gov/boards-commissions to apply.

    Appointments made in the second quarter of 2025 are listed below.

    ACT 264 Advisory Board

    • Alice Maynard, Underhill
    • Cynthia Smith, Fair Haven
    • Heather Freeman, Hyde Park
    • Laurie Mulhern, Bennington

    Board of Pharmacy

    • Kate-lyn Trucott, Lyndonville
    • Marvene Martinez, Vergennes

    Board of Professional Engineering

    • William Nourse, Essex

    Building Bright Futures Council

    • Dimitri Garder, North Bennington
    • Libby Daghlian, Winooski
    • Sharron Harrington, Burlington
    • Xusana Davis, Montpelier

    Caledonia County Sheriff

    • Brandon Thrailkill, Lyndonville

    Caledonia County Assistant Judge

    • Joe Benning, Lyndonville

    Capitol Complex Commission

    • Jireh Billings, Plymouth
    • John Hollar, Montpelier

    Clinical Utilization Review Board

    • Coleen Horan, M.D., Montpelier
    • Jennifer Chambers, Baltimore, MD

    Council for Equitable Youth Justice

    • Honorable Katherine Hayes, Brattleboro
    • Mercedes King, White River Junction
    • Peter Brown, Manchester, NH

    Department of Financial Regulation Commissioner

    • Kaj Samsom, Montpelier

    Deaf, Hard of Hearing, And Deaf/Blind Advisory Council

    • Amelie Briggs, Shelburne
    • Dr. Linda Hazard, Moretown
    • Julie Porter, Colchester
    • Kate Parrish, Hanover, MA
    • Rebecca Lalanne, Vernon
    • Sharon Henry, Hinesburg
    • Tracy Hinck, Norwich
    • Anne Daly, Brattleboro
    • Katharina Cahill, Waterbury Center

    Franklin County Assistant Judge

    • Jay Sweeny, St. Albans

    Human Rights Commission

    • Aditeei Lagu, Essex Junction

    Justice of the Peace

    • Krista M Rodrigue, Canaan
    • Justin Wright, St. Albans

    Northeast Forest Fire Protection Commission

    • Jay Hooper, Randolph Center

    Nuclear Decommissioning Citizens’ Advisory Panel

    • J. Randall Pratt, Wolcott

    Parole Board

    • Angela A. Chicoine, Essex Junction

    Passenger Tramway Board

    • Parker Riehle, South Burlington
    • Scott J. Reeves, Stowe

    State Infrastructure Bank Board

    • Dani Delaini, Brattleboro

    State Labor Relations Board       

    • Gwenna Peters, Duxbury

    State Rehabilitation Council

    • Ana Russo, Middlesex
    • Andrea Bacchi, Shaftsbury
    • Helena Kehne, Adamant
    • Krista Siringo, Bristol
    • Laura Flint, Waterbury
    • Sarah Launderville, Williamstown
    • Sherrie Brunelle, Colchester
    • William Garrison Meirs, Essex Junction

    State Veterinary Board 

    • Anne Murphy, Weybridge
    • Danielle Teehan, Newport
    • Jessica Alexander, Jericho

    Substance Misuse Prevention Oversight and Advisory Council

    • Amy Brewer, Williston

    Vermont Apprenticeship Advisory Board

    • Chris Damato, Derby Line
    • Greg Gove, Danville
    • Jeff Wimette, Fairfax
    • Jerry Baake, Pewaukee, WI
    • Pam Benoit, Barre

    Vermont Aviation Advisory Council

    • John Connor, Berlin
    • Victor Rivas, Bondville

    Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs

    • Alana Ojibway, Wilder
    • Charles Calley, Newbury
    • Linda Savoca, Cabot

    Vermont Community Development Board

    • David Riegel, Barton

    Vermont Economic Development Authority

    • Sarah Furman, Rutland

    Vermont Economic Progress Council

    • Heather Chase, Chester
    • Mark Nicholson, West Danville
    • Michael Keane, North Bennington
    • Mike Donohue, Shelburne
    • Rachel Smith, St. Albans

    Vermont Humanities Council

    • Candace Lewis, Georgia
    • Joseph Antonioli, Williston
    • Kathryn Santiago, Burlington

    Vermont Milk Commission

    • Harold Howrigan, Fairfield
    • Kiersten Bourgeois, St. Albans
    • Nicole Foster, Bridport
    • Rob Howe, Tunbridge

    Vermont Rail Advisory Council

    • Mark McKeon, Chester

    Vermont State Board of Nursing

    • Andrew D. Kehl, Hinesburg
    • Krystal Disorda, Brandon

    Vermont Veterans Home Board of Trustees

    • Steve Deal, Swanton

    Working Lands Enterprise Board

    • Stephanie Pope, Bridport
    • Susie Walsh Daloz, Middlesex

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: How pro basketball and theoretical physics shaped one health tech CEO

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Non-communicable diseases like stroke and heart disease have swapped spots with infectious diseases as top global killers. Improving health access – whether in the developed or emerging world — can save the lives of billions. CEO Bernd Montag explains how Siemens Healthineers is partnering with providers around the world to deliver technologies and help reduce the complexities that can stand in the way of efficient treatment. He’ll also share his own unique background – as a professional basketball player and later theoretical physicist – and how it shaped how he makes decisions and leads.

    This interview was recorded January 2025 at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland.

    About this episode:
    https://www.siemens-healthineers.com/

    Transcript:
    https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader/episodes/bernd-montag-siemens-healthineers

    Related podcasts:
    Bridging the gap in women’s health technology, policy and more:

    Kearney:
    https://tinyurl.com/3jmahwwj

    Tackling these surprising blindspots can bridge gender gaps in health, opportunity and more: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0HfUaxq69cJBZfVgGctVMB?go=1&sp_cid=974f0d02895cc3e5dc6ee274371893a7&utm_source=embed_player_p&utm_medium=desktop&nd=1&dlsi=38d6c85af7df484e

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECEgJAlM72A

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cabinet set to approve the next chapter for Derby’s libraries

    Source: City of Derby

    The future of the city’s library service and how it can continue to meet community needs for the next few years is to be considered by Cabinet.

    After extensive negotiations and a thorough review of proposed working models, Derby City Council withdrew from a process to appoint Sporting Communities, a not-for-profit organisation, to run Derby’s ten non-statutory community libraries in May.

    Now Cabinet members will be updated on the reasons for ending those negotiations and will be presented with fresh proposals on the interim operation of the service when they meet on 9 July.

    Council Cabinet approved plans for the city’s ten non-statutory libraries to be run by a Trust last year and a formal process to identify viable proposals was launched in March 2024.

    During extensive negotiations, it became clear that outsourcing is not the best or most sustainable way to protect the future of the library service. The proposed transfer was expected to save money for the Council. Negotiations revealed that the financial support needed for a successful transfer would exceed the allocated budget.

    The review comes as local authorities across England prepare for significant structural changes, potentially prompting a re-evaluation of how essential public services like libraries are delivered.

    Under the Public Libraries & Museums Act of 1964, the Council must provide a full and efficient public library service. The last Strategic Needs Assessment (SNA) in 2017 found that Derby needs five main libraries to meet its legal requirements, while adapting to evolving community needs.

    Local government reorganisation, anticipated to unfold over the next three years, could lead to a reconfiguration of library services across a broader region. A potential expansion would require a further SNA to determine statutory library provision for any new authority area.

    Cabinet is being asked to approve a recommendation to maintain the current library management structure and defer a full SNA until the future of the authority is clearer.

    Councillor Sarah Chambers, Cabinet Member for Cost of Living, Equalities and Communities said:

    Our priority is to ensure our library services remain a vital resource for our communities, even as we navigate significant changes in local government.

    This review is about making responsible decisions that secure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of our libraries for all residents.

    The Cabinet meeting is on Wednesday 9 July and can be watched live.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s international image has improved significantly in recent years and is recognized in different parts of the world – Russian expert

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, July 1 /Xinhua/ — Economic power, international activity and contribution to global development – these factors have a positive effect on China’s image on the world stage, which is recognized in various countries, Nikita Stepanov, a senior researcher at the Institute of Economics of the Russian Academy of Sciences and a member of the central board of the Russian-Chinese Friendship Society, told Xinhua in an interview.

    “China’s international image has indeed improved significantly in recent years and is worthy of recognition in various parts of the world. This is due to a combination of factors, primarily its active economic influence and the successful implementation of large-scale international projects, such as the Belt and Road Initiative. China has become an important trading partner for many countries, investing heavily in infrastructure and economic development, which has strengthened trust and respect for it on the world stage,” the expert noted.

    As N. Stepanov pointed out, today China plays a key role in the formation of inclusive economic globalization, demonstrating a development model that takes into account national characteristics and needs. The Chinese experience of sustainable growth and successful adaptation of economic reforms has become, in his opinion, an important reference point for many countries, especially for the states of the Global South and developing regions. “China has proven that it is possible to combine an open economy with active state participation, which has caused a wide response and interest in the modern world,” he believes.

    According to the Russian economist, China’s Belt and Road initiative strengthens the integration of developing countries into the global economy, stimulating infrastructure and industrial development. By promoting trade, investment and technological exchange, China acts as a stabilizing factor in maintaining the global economic order. “China not only offers alternative models, but also plays a driving role in stimulating growth and reducing the gap between developed and developing countries, maintaining balance and diversity in the global economic order,” he emphasized.

    N. Stepanov drew attention to the fact that China demonstrates a desire not only to develop the economy and infrastructure, but also to promote sustainable development and innovation at the global level. China is actively involved in reforming international institutions, stimulating their adaptation to modern challenges and the needs of different countries, especially developing ones. “Thus, China’s role in the global governance system is becoming increasingly significant, contributing to the formation of a more just and inclusive international order,” the expert noted.

    The Xinhua interlocutor emphasized that the hegemonic and intimidating behavior of the United States, which manifests itself in the abuse of tariff measures and military interventions without the sanction of the UN Security Council, raises serious concerns, undermines the international order, leads to the escalation of trade conflicts and instability in the global economy. At the same time, according to N. Stepanov, China plays an important role in maintaining the international order and developing the global governance system. “Over the past decades, it has consistently advocated respect for international law and the sovereignty of states, which contributes to strengthening multilateralism in international relations,” the economist recalled, adding that the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind reflects China’s commitment to cooperation, mutual respect and joint development, which is important in the era of global challenges.

    According to the Russian expert, the concept of building a community of common destiny for humanity has had a significant impact on the development of world diplomacy and international relations. “This concept emphasizes the need for global cooperation and mutual respect to address common challenges — climate change, pandemics, economic instability and conflicts. It encourages the search for compromises and joint actions, emphasizing the interdependence of all countries regardless of their level of development,” he explained.

    N. Stepanov is confident that the concept of a common destiny for humanity has strengthened multipolarity in world politics, supporting the principles of justice and equality. “China is actively promoting this idea through the Belt and Road initiative, promoting economic development and infrastructure cooperation in developing countries. Thus, the concept unites the efforts of different states on the path to sustainable and inclusive development of humanity,” he said.

    In addition, cultural diplomacy, as well as the dissemination of the Chinese language and traditional culture through Confucius Institutes, play an important role in improving China’s international image, according to the expert. “This expands the positive perception of the country,” concluded N. Stepanov. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Convicted for Their Roles in Multimillion-Dollar Transnational Telephone Scam

    Source: US FBI

    ATLANTA – Pradip Parikh, 67, of Valley Stream, New York, and Alpesh Patel, 40, of Louisa, Virginia, have been convicted for their roles in a scam that defrauded unsuspecting Americans out of millions of dollars after a five-day jury trial.                                                                                                                                         

    “This case involved a scheme to defraud multiple victims – many of whom were elderly – and to callously rob them of their hard-earned savings,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “The defendants and their conspirators within and outside the United States enriched themselves through government-imposter scams designed to exploit the public’s inherent trust in federal institutions. The jury has spoken, and Parikh and Patel will now be held accountable for their crimes.”

    “These defendants deliberately preyed on some of our most vulnerable citizens—particularly the elderly—by impersonating Social Security officials and exploiting their trust,” said Michelle L. Anderson, Assistant Inspector General for Audit performing the duties of the Social Security Administration (SSA), Inspector General. “This telephone imposter scheme defrauded millions of Americans and caused real harm to individuals who believed they were protecting their benefits. Today’s convictions send a clear message: we will relentlessly pursue those who weaponize fear and deceit to commit fraud, and we thank our law enforcement partners for helping bring these perpetrators to justice.”

    “These defendants targeted mostly older adults to cheat them out of their savings,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown. “This sentencing should make it known to individuals that protecting our most vulnerable community members is critically important, and we will hold accountable those who engage in these sorts of egregious fraud schemes.”

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: In 2022, Pradip Parikh, Alpesh Patel, and eight others were indicted for running, promoting, and profiting from an India-based call center scam targeting Americans. The fraudsters typically identified themselves as Social Security Administration employees, telling the victims that their Social Security Numbers had been compromised in connection with criminal activity and promising to help “protect” their assets. Upon luring the victims to agree to this offer, the fraudsters directed the victims to send money to bank accounts controlled by Parikh, Patel, and other conspirators. 

    During the defendants’ trial, a 70-year-old victim from New Jersey testified that one of the conspirators told her that she would be arrested and lose all her assets if she did not transfer funds to accounts that the caller designated. In response, the victim transferred more than $600,000 of her lifesavings to multiple banks accounts, including $150,000 to an account called “JDM Management” that Parikh controlled.

    A recently widowed mother of eight testified that she transferred over $300,000 to JDM Management’s account as part of the scheme. Parikh then laundered the funds, retaining thousands for himself and transferring the balance to a conspirator. 

    Other victims testified that they wired money to an account called “Seven Points Agency” that Patel controlled. Evidence admitted during trial revealed that the Seven Points Agency account was opened just before scam victims began wiring money into it. More than $100,000 was deposited into the account in the span of two days, and Patel immediately diverted those funds to a conspirator after keeping approximately $10,000 for himself. 

    Pradip Parikh and Alpesh Patel were charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and two substantive counts of money laundering. The jury convicted Patel of all the counts. Parikh was convicted of conspiracy to commit money laundering and two substantive counts of money laundering. 

    The conspiracy to commit wire fraud count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years of imprisonment, and the money laundering counts each carry a maximum penalty of ten years of incarceration. In determining the actual sentence, the court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are not binding but provide appropriate sentencing ranges for most offenders.

    Sentencing hearings for the defendants will be scheduled at a future date before United States District Judge William M. Ray II.

    This case is being investigated by the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    Assistant United States Attorney Angela Adams and Special Assistant United States Attorney Diane C. Schulman are prosecuting the case.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is part of the Department of Justice Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force. The Strike Force focuses on investigating and prosecuting defendants associated with foreign-based fraud schemes that disproportionately affect American seniors. These include romance scams, phone scams, mass-mailing fraud schemes, and tech-support fraud schemes. For further information on these scams, see https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice/senior-scam-alert.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Convicted for Their Roles in Multimillion-Dollar Transnational Telephone Scam

    Source: US FBI

    ATLANTA – Pradip Parikh, 67, of Valley Stream, New York, and Alpesh Patel, 40, of Louisa, Virginia, have been convicted for their roles in a scam that defrauded unsuspecting Americans out of millions of dollars after a five-day jury trial.                                                                                                                                         

    “This case involved a scheme to defraud multiple victims – many of whom were elderly – and to callously rob them of their hard-earned savings,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “The defendants and their conspirators within and outside the United States enriched themselves through government-imposter scams designed to exploit the public’s inherent trust in federal institutions. The jury has spoken, and Parikh and Patel will now be held accountable for their crimes.”

    “These defendants deliberately preyed on some of our most vulnerable citizens—particularly the elderly—by impersonating Social Security officials and exploiting their trust,” said Michelle L. Anderson, Assistant Inspector General for Audit performing the duties of the Social Security Administration (SSA), Inspector General. “This telephone imposter scheme defrauded millions of Americans and caused real harm to individuals who believed they were protecting their benefits. Today’s convictions send a clear message: we will relentlessly pursue those who weaponize fear and deceit to commit fraud, and we thank our law enforcement partners for helping bring these perpetrators to justice.”

    “These defendants targeted mostly older adults to cheat them out of their savings,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown. “This sentencing should make it known to individuals that protecting our most vulnerable community members is critically important, and we will hold accountable those who engage in these sorts of egregious fraud schemes.”

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: In 2022, Pradip Parikh, Alpesh Patel, and eight others were indicted for running, promoting, and profiting from an India-based call center scam targeting Americans. The fraudsters typically identified themselves as Social Security Administration employees, telling the victims that their Social Security Numbers had been compromised in connection with criminal activity and promising to help “protect” their assets. Upon luring the victims to agree to this offer, the fraudsters directed the victims to send money to bank accounts controlled by Parikh, Patel, and other conspirators. 

    During the defendants’ trial, a 70-year-old victim from New Jersey testified that one of the conspirators told her that she would be arrested and lose all her assets if she did not transfer funds to accounts that the caller designated. In response, the victim transferred more than $600,000 of her lifesavings to multiple banks accounts, including $150,000 to an account called “JDM Management” that Parikh controlled.

    A recently widowed mother of eight testified that she transferred over $300,000 to JDM Management’s account as part of the scheme. Parikh then laundered the funds, retaining thousands for himself and transferring the balance to a conspirator. 

    Other victims testified that they wired money to an account called “Seven Points Agency” that Patel controlled. Evidence admitted during trial revealed that the Seven Points Agency account was opened just before scam victims began wiring money into it. More than $100,000 was deposited into the account in the span of two days, and Patel immediately diverted those funds to a conspirator after keeping approximately $10,000 for himself. 

    Pradip Parikh and Alpesh Patel were charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and two substantive counts of money laundering. The jury convicted Patel of all the counts. Parikh was convicted of conspiracy to commit money laundering and two substantive counts of money laundering. 

    The conspiracy to commit wire fraud count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years of imprisonment, and the money laundering counts each carry a maximum penalty of ten years of incarceration. In determining the actual sentence, the court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are not binding but provide appropriate sentencing ranges for most offenders.

    Sentencing hearings for the defendants will be scheduled at a future date before United States District Judge William M. Ray II.

    This case is being investigated by the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    Assistant United States Attorney Angela Adams and Special Assistant United States Attorney Diane C. Schulman are prosecuting the case.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is part of the Department of Justice Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force. The Strike Force focuses on investigating and prosecuting defendants associated with foreign-based fraud schemes that disproportionately affect American seniors. These include romance scams, phone scams, mass-mailing fraud schemes, and tech-support fraud schemes. For further information on these scams, see https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice/senior-scam-alert.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa: Coalition commits to Action Plan to increase private investment mobilization for developing countries by end of 2027


    Download logo

    A coalition of governments, international development partners and private sector groups including the UN Capital Development Fund, UN Economic Commission for Africa, African Union Commission, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Global Investors for Sustainable Development (GISD) Alliance, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, Norway Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and Norad, Switzerland SECO and Convergence Blended Finance, are announcing the development of an Action Plan to increase mobilize private sector capital at scale in developing countries.

    The Action Plan, announced at the Fourth Financing for Development Conference (FFD4) in Seville, Spain, seeks to tackle poverty, economic growth and climate risks by deploying public sector resources through blended finance to mobilize private investment in underserved markets, which, over the last decade, has remained weak even as global wealth has ballooned. The Action Plan will include a dedicated Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Africa-focused track to advance context-specific blended finance approaches and support scalable investment opportunities in key sectors.

    FFD4 is a once-in-a-decade gathering of development partners seeking to build a renewed global financing framework to urgently unlock greater volumes of capital to close the financing gap of developing countries. Government-sourced Official Development Assistance (ODA) declined last year by over 7% compared with 2023, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), one of the co-proposers of the Action Plan.

    “The world has the resources – the money we need – to eradicate poverty and ensure every person can live a life free from poverty. Much of those resources lie with the private sector in the world’s most developed nations and they will likely remain there until the real and perceived risks that act as a barrier to investment in underserved markets are tackled head-on,” said Pradeep Kurukulasuriya, Executive Secretary of the UN Capital Development Fund, which provides catalytic and blended finance solutions for underserved markets.

    “Blended finance models that are tailored to country needs have the potential to de-risk markets, plug the international development finance gap and transform the lives of hundreds of millions of people living in the world’s underserved markets and Least Developed Countries,” Mr Kurukulasuriya added.

    “Bridging Africa’s investment gap demands bold, coordinated action. This Action Plan marks a turning point, a practical blueprint to shift global capital toward sustainable development in countries that need it most. The UN Economic Commission for Africa is committed to ensuring that Africa is not only part of the conversation, but central to the solution” added Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary, UN Economic Commission for Africa.

    “As traditional streams of overseas development assistance dry up, more people than ever are talking about the promise of blended finance,” shared Joan Larrea, Chief Executive Office of Convergence. “At FFD4, with this joint proposal, we have made a significant step towards making that promise a reality.”

    “Norway is proud to collaborate with this global coalition on developing the Action Plan to mobilize private investment for sustainable development. Addressing the financing gaps in Least Developed Countries and underserved markets is critical to tackling poverty, hunger, and climate challenges. By leveraging blended finance and fostering innovative partnerships, we aim to contribute to transformative change and create a foundation for equitable and inclusive growth,” said Åsmund Aukrust, Norway’s Minister of Development.

    “Mobilization of private capital for financing sustainable development is an integral part of Finland’s foreign and development policy”, says Ville Tavio, Finland’s Minister for Foreign Trade and Development. “Financing for Development Conference will increase the clarity and formality of private capital mobilization as part of the financing sustainable development for the next decade. We believe that developing a common action plan and standardizing the proven blended finance models will help us scale up private capital mobilization to deliver on the commitments agreed here in Seville.”

    While global assets have doubled to $482 trillion over the last decade, private sector investment to and within low- and middle-income countries has remained stubbornly weak. Only 5% of those global assets are invested in developing countries, excluding China, according to the Financial Stability Board, an international body that monitors the global financial system. Of that 5%, only a tiny proportion reaches the most underserved markets and the world’s 44 Least Developed Countries, which are collectively home to some 880 million people.

    The world stands at a crossroads for financing sustainable development with an estimated annual financing gap of $4 trillion – up from $2.5 trillion pre-pandemic. The OECD reports that all “official development finance” activity mobilized an average of $57 billion in private investment annually over the last five years – just 1% of the $6-7 trillion needed each year if the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are to be met.

    At the same time, domestic financial resources in developing countries are insufficient and cross-border private investment flows from developed to developing countries has been low over the past decade.

    Blended finance has the potential to transform private investment flows and positively contribute to the FfD4 Outcome Document mobilization objectives and to the SDGs.

    Signatories of the Joint Initiative have committed to develop an “effective, efficient, fair and practical action plan” through the remainder of 2025 and into 2026 to identify how to use a blend of public sector and philanthropic resources to mobilize and crowd-in larger amounts of private sector finance for development results at scale.

    The Action Plan will describe practical measures to mobilize private investment using standardized and replicable blended finance models tailored to country contexts, with an emphasis on alignment with national priorities and global development goals with the following measurable results:

    • At least 16 OECD DAC countries will agree to or endorse the Action Plan by March 31, 2026.

    • At least 27 African countries and 27 non-African developing countries will also endorse the Action Plan by the same date.

    • At least 16 developed and 54 developing countries will commit to implementing the plan starting June 30, 2026.

    The Action Plan is one of a series being submitted to conference organisers that seek to turn the objectives outlined in the FFD4 outcome document into a pathway for action.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Bank Group Appoints New Division Director for Mozambique, Madagascar, Mauritius, Comoros and Seychelles


    Download logo

    The World Bank Group has appointed Fily Sissoko as the new Division Director for Mozambique, Madagascar, Mauritius, Comoros, and Seychelles, effective today. He succeeds Idah Pswarayi-Riddihough, who held the position for the past four and a half years.

    In this new role, Mr. Sissoko will lead the World Bank Group’s engagement with government counterparts, development partners, and other stakeholders, advancing initiatives aligned with national priorities and the World Bank’s vision of a world free of poverty on a livable planet.

    An Ivorian national, Mr. Sissoko brings over 23 years of development experience across Africa, East Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific. Most recently, he served as the World Bank Country Manager for Togo, based in Lome. Prior to that, he was  the manager for the Governance Global Practice for the East Asia and Pacific region. He began his career at the World Bank in 2002 as a Financial Management Specialist in Dakar, Senegal, and has since held several leadership roles in financial management.

    Based in Maputo, Mr. Sissoko will oversee a portfolio of 63 projects totaling $8.5 billion in commitments across the five countries. This support spans key sectors including education, energy, health, social protection, infrastructure, agriculture, governance, and private sector development.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investigatory Powers Commissioner Reappointment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Investigatory Powers Commissioner Reappointment

    Sir Brian Leveson appointed for a third term as the Investigatory Powers Commissioner

    The Prime Minister has approved the appointment of Sir Brian Leveson as the Investigatory Powers Commissioner (IPC) for a third three-year term, with effect from 20th October 2025.

    Sir Brian was appointed as the second IPC in October 2019, succeeding Sir Adrian Fulford. Before retiring as a senior judge in 2019, he was President of the Queen’s Bench Division and Head of Criminal Justice for England and Wales.

    The IPC is responsible for the independent oversight of the use of investigatory powers, ensuring they are used in accordance with the law and in the public interest. He is supported by a number of Judicial Commissioners, the Technology Advisory Panel and the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office (IPCO).

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Birmingham Urges Residents to Support National Knife Surrender Campaign to Tackle Weapon-Related Harm

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Birmingham City Council is backing a national campaign to reduce knife crime by encouraging residents to surrender dangerous weapons anonymously and safely.

    As part of the national knife surrender scheme running from 1 to 31 July 2025, residents are urged to dispose of knives and other dangerous weapons using dedicated surrender bins across Birmingham, designated police stations, and a mobile van unit – all without fear of prosecution.

    In Birmingham, a mobile weapons surrender van will be stationed at Handsworth Park car park on Wednesday 2 July from 9am to 12pm. Residents can surrender knives and any other dangerous weapons safely and anonymously at this location. Personal information will not be taken, and you will not be asked any questions.

    In July, ahead of the new Government’s ban on ninja swords coming into force 1 August, there is a second surrender scheme running across England & Wales to offer safe disposal of ninja swords at designated police stations. These police stations include Bournville Police Station, Stechford Police Station or Sutton Coldfield Police Station from 8am to 10pm, and are only accepting ninja swords, not other weapons.

    Throughout the year, at any other time you will also be able to use one of the permanent weapon surrender bins in Birmingham.  These bins are provided by the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner working in partnership with local Community Safety Partnerships. These bins are regularly monitored and emptied, offering a trusted and confidential way to dispose of knives and sharp items that could otherwise cause harm. Locations of surrender bins in Birmingham can be found here.

    Councillor Mick Brown, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, said:

    “Every knife taken off our streets is a potential life saved. We are committed to working with partners and our communities to make Birmingham safer. This national surrender scheme provides a vital opportunity to take action, without fear of judgement or legal consequence. I encourage anyone in possession of a dangerous weapon – for whatever reason – to take this chance to do the right thing.”

    Councillor Jamie Tennant, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, said

    “Keeping our communities safe is something we all have a role in. This weapon surrender scheme gives people a chance to make a positive choice – to remove a weapon from our streets and help protect their friends, families, and neighbours. It’s about creating safer spaces for everyone, especially our young people. I encourage anyone who has a weapon – or knows someone who does – to make use of this scheme and help build a safer Birmingham together.”

    West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said: “Preventing and tackling serious violence and knife crime, is an absolute top priority for me as Police and Crime Commissioner. I am pleased to be supporting the installation of the new Ninja Sword surrender bins. Every knife, blade or ninja sword surrendered is potentially a life saved. Each one destroyed, is one less threat to our young people, families and communities. This initiative is not just about removing weapons from our streets, it’s about delivering on our commitment to prevention, promoting public safety and saving lives.”

    How to surrender a weapon

    • Anonymous disposal: Weapons can be surrendered anonymously via the mobile surrender van (at Handsworth Park car park on Wednesday 2 July from 9am to 12pm) as well as by using one of the permanent surrender bins across the city, of which can be found here.

    • Police stations: If you own a ninja sword purchased before 27 March 2025, you may be eligible for compensation. Ninja swords purchased after that date can be surrendered but are not eligible for compensation.

    Designated Police stations are ONLY accepting ninja swords, not other weapons. These police stations include Bournville Police Station, Stechford Police Station or Sutton Coldfield Police Station from 8am to 10pm.

    • Safe handling: All surrendered weapons must be safely wrapped and transported in a way that avoids harm to others. Items should never be openly carried in public places – use a sealed bag or secure container.

    The campaign, led by the Home Office and supported by Birmingham City Council and West Midlands Police, aims to reduce the number of dangerous weapons in circulation and promote community safety. Knife crime continues to be a pressing issue nationally, and this campaign is a key step toward preventing violence before it occurs.

    For further details on the national surrender scheme, visit: www.gov.uk.

    Details about the mobile surrender van and the complete schedule is available here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Record poll projects Greens as Holyrood kingmakers

    Source: Scottish Greens

    01 Jul 2025 Scottish Independence

    Scottish Greens set to elect 16 MSPs at ballot box next May.

    More in Scottish Independence

    Reputable election pollster Ipsos Mori has today released polling for the 2026 Holyrood election, which predicts the largest ever group of Scottish Green MSPs in Holyrood.

    The poll marks the highest ever polling for the Scottish Greens in the party’s history, with 15% on the regional list and 9% in constituencies.

    If replicated at the election next May, the Scottish Greens would return to Holyrood with 16 MSPs, including likely constituency seats in Edinburgh and Glasgow. This would double the eight Green MSPs elected in 2021, the party’s best result to date.

    Scottish Greens MSP Ross Greer said:

    “People have seen the impact of Scottish Green MSPs, they like it and they want much more of it. At the last election, we were sent to Holyrood with a mandate to deliver for people and planet – and that’s exactly what our MSPs have done.

    “We delivered free bus travel for young people, the emergency rent freeze, more free school meals, the upcoming end of peak rail fares, higher taxes on the super-rich and dozens of other transformational changes. Now, with an election less than a year away, our hard work is being reflected in the polls.

    “Our MSPs have shown that when voters elect Scottish Greens to Parliament we deliver policies which cut their bills, protect the planet and take on the elites who have rigged the system in their own favour.

    “From introducing rent controls to tackle sky-high rents or cutting transport costs by scrapping peak rail fares and delivering free bus passes for young people, it’s clear that if you want Green policies, you have to vote for the Scottish Greens.

    “Next year, Scotland will be at a crossroads. With the far-right hoping to enter our Parliament for the first time, it’s more important than ever that we have a strong ecosocialist voice at the heart of our politics, fighting for the people of Scotland and our planet, not for the super-rich who would exploit both.

    “The Scottish Greens have proven that when we are in the room, our MSPs put people before profit and deliver for the people of Scotland. Next May you can help us do even more. Vote Scottish Greens.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Protecting Consumers from Proposed Rate Hikes

    Source: US State of New York

    Official websites use ny.gov

    A ny.gov website belongs to an official New York State government organization.

    Secure ny.gov websites use HTTPS

    A lock icon or https:// means you’ve safely connected to a ny.gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

    July 1, 2025

    Albany, NY

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that she is demanding the Department of Public Service scrutinize the proposed rate hikes the New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) and the Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation (RG&E) are seeking, protecting consumers from sky-high utility costs that are making New York State less affordable.

    “At a time when New Yorkers are struggling to meet everyday costs, New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) and the Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation (RG&E) must find a way to avoid these unacceptably high rate hikes,” Governor Hochul said. “I am calling on the Department of Public Service to scrutinize these proposals to ensure these companies have the resources to keep our energy grid going but are not making additional profit off the backs of ratepayers.”

    You are leaving the official State of New York website.

    The State of New York does not imply approval of the listed destinations, warrant the accuracy of any information set out in those destinations, or endorse any opinions expressed therein. External web sites operate at the direction of their respective owners who should be contacted directly with questions regarding the content of these sites.

    Visit Site

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Permanent Secretary at Department for Transport 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New Permanent Secretary at Department for Transport 

    Jo Shanmugalingam has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary of the Department for Transport, taking over from Bernadette Kelly

    The Cabinet Secretary, with the approval of the Prime Minister, has announced the appointment of Jo Shanmugalingam as the new Permanent Secretary of the Department for Transport (DfT).

    Jo is currently the department’s Second Permanent Secretary, and has been serving as the Interim Permanent Secretary since Bernadette Kelly stepped down last month. 

    Jo started her career at the Department for Trade and Industry and spent six years at the Shareholder Executive (now UKGI). Her previous roles include Director General for Science, Innovation and Growth at the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology, and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy.

    She will lead the department as the government rebuilds Britain through growth and investment under the Plan for Change, transforming transport infrastructure across the country and making it easier to build new roads and railways.

    Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, said:

    I’m delighted to have Jo appointed as Permanent Secretary for the Department for Transport. Having worked closely with her since taking up my role, I know she will provide exemplary leadership as we deliver for this government and the public. 

    I’d like to once again thank Bernadette Kelly for her many years of public service – I can think of no one better to take over the reins from Bernadette than Jo, and I look forward to working with her to deliver this government’s ambitious Plan for Change.

    Cabinet Secretary, Sir Chris Wormald, said:

    I congratulate Jo Shanmugalingam on her appointment as Permanent Secretary at the Department for Transport. Jo’s valuable experience and impressive track record in delivery make her well suited to lead the department at such an important moment of infrastructure renewal under the Plan for Change – building transport services across the country that boost opportunity and growth for working people.

    I would also like to thank Bernadette Kelly for her dedicated service over 39 years in the Civil Service, in particular for her eight years leading the Department for Transport.

    Jo Shanmugalingam said:

    I am honoured to be appointed Permanent Secretary at the Department for Transport. Transport is fundamental to everything we do, connecting people to friends and family, jobs and training. 

    As a department we have a huge part to play at this critical time in driving economic growth. I’m incredibly fortunate to continue working with the talented team in DfT and across the transport system, who I know are all just as dedicated to delivering changes that make a real difference to people’s lives.

    The appointment follows an external recruitment competition overseen by the independent Civil Service Commission.

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £22 million to tackle waiting times in NHS Lothian

    Source: Scottish Government

    Additional funding to build on progress in clearing longest waits.

    Health Secretary Neil Gray has welcomed progress in reducing waiting lists at NHS Lothian as he confirmed the health board will be allocated an additional £22 million for the year ahead – as part of a £106 million investment across the NHS to tackle the longest waits.

    Latest figures show a 14% decrease last year in inpatient/daycase waits for all specialties at NHS Lothian – down from 26,462 at 31 March 2024 to 22,762 at 31 March 2025.

    The reduction in ongoing waits was driven by reductions in:

    • General surgery -19.6%
    • Gynaecology -20.6%
    • Orthopaedics -17.9%
    • Urology -27.9%

    On a visit to the Day Surgery Unit at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, the Health Secretary met with staff and patients and saw first-hand the positive impact Scottish Government investment is having on waits. The Day Surgery Unit carries out 30 – 40 scheduled procedures every day – this helps allow patients to leave for home from 2pm onwards with a focus on same day discharge.

    A huge variety of procedures are performed with patients from a mix of five specialties, including gynaecology, general surgery, vascular, neurosurgery and orthopaedics. Last year, around 4,500 procedures were carried out by the Unit.

    Mr Gray said:

    “This government is focussed on taking the action needed to cut waiting lists and we are determined to make it easier, faster and fairer for patients to get access to the treatment they need.

    “I was pleased to meet the team at the Royal Infirmary’s Day Surgery Unit who are carrying out fantastic work to help target long waits and making significant progress.  We want to build on this success and drive that improvement across Scotland – our additional investment of £106 million support this work across all health boards.

    “Figures published today show monthly A&E performance at its best since July 2023 and delayed discharge at its lowest since October 2023. Our plan to improve our NHS is working and we will build on this progress by increasing capacity and investing to tackle the longest waits to ensure patients get faster access to care.”

    Background

    £106 million to reduce waiting times – gov.scot

    Stage of treatment waiting times – Inpatients, day cases quarter ending 31 March 2025 – Publications – Public Health Scotland

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Entrepreneurship in Motion: IOM Exhibition Highlights the Power of Migration to Transform Lives

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Geneva, 1 July 2025 – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is proud to announce the opening of a new exhibition along Geneva’s iconic Quai Wilson, titled Strengthening Resilience, Transforming Lives. Open to the public from 1 July to 3 August 2025, the exhibition features a virtual platform and is presented by the IOM Development Fund, with contributions from the Enterprise Development Fund and IOM Goodwill Ambassador Paul Choy.

    “Migration is not just about crossing borders. It is about the determination to rebuild, to contribute and to thrive,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope. “The people featured in this exhibition have faced real challenges, yet they have found ways to turn ideas into businesses and businesses into opportunities, not just for themselves, but for those around them. Their stories remind us what is possible when people are given the chance to start over.”

    Displayed across 30 large-scale double-sided panels, the exhibition focuses on how entrepreneurship can support recovery, strengthen communities, and offer durable solutions for displaced people. It sheds light on the ways in which host communities, potential migrants, migrants, and returnees are building businesses, creating jobs, and contributing to local development.

    The people featured come from a wide range of countries and contexts, each bringing a story of resilience and initiative. Visitors are invited to discover the personal journeys of entrepreneurs from Bangladesh, Cabo Verde, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Georgia, Ghana, Iraq, Lebanon, the Marshall Islands, Pakistan, Paraguay and Türkiye.

    Each of them received support through the IOM Development Fund and IOM’s Enterprise Development Fund. The former backed pilot initiatives designed for scale, while the latter provides financial and technical assistance to help small and medium-sized businesses grow. Their experiences are documented through striking visuals and interviews captured by IOM missions worldwide and professional photographers, including IOM Goodwill Ambassador Paul Choy.

    The exhibition is part of a broader effort by IOM to support sustainable development through migration-focused initiatives. Since its establishment in 2001, the IOM Development Fund has supported more than 1,000 projects in over 125 countries. It provides seed funding to help governments strengthen migration management and pilot innovative ideas.

    Complementing this work, IOM’s Enterprise Development Fund is an innovative programme that supports livelihoods at the community level through private sector revitalization and economic development by targeting small and medium-sized enterprises, with the objective of post-conflict economic recovery and inclusive economic development.

    The exhibition is open to the public along the lakeside between the Bains des Pâquis and Parc Mon Repos, directly across from the Palais Wilson. All panel content is available in English and French, with QR codes linking to a virtual platform where visitors can access videos, photographs, and extended stories, also available in Spanish.

    Visit the exhibition: Quai Wilson, Geneva – 1 July to 3 August 2025

    Explore online:

    For more information, please visit IOM’s Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on Latin American Heritage Month

    Niki Sharma, Attorney General, has released the following statement in celebration of Latin American Heritage Month:

    “Each July, British Columbia marks Latin American Heritage Month – a time to honour the cultures, histories and contributions of Latin American communities that help shape our province.

    “Latin America spans more than 20 countries and territories where Spanish and Portuguese are spoken alongside hundreds of Indigenous languages. The region’s cultural diversity is rooted in ancient civilizations, such as the Aztec, Inca and Maya. It has been shaped by European colonization, the resilience and traditions of Africans brought through the transatlantic slave trade, and waves of immigrants from around the world who have made Latin America their home.

    “This diversity is a source of pride and strength for Latin Americans and reflects values shared in British Columbia, where multiculturalism defines our communities. Today, more than 66,000 Latin Americans call B.C. home and their presence has grown steadily in recent years. We celebrate their warmth, joy and strong sense of community. Through music, dance, language and food, they bring people together and keep cultural traditions alive throughout the province.

    “Our government is proud to work with organizations, such as the Vancouver Latin American Cultural Centre and Latincouver, which play a crucial role in preserving and uplifting Latin American heritage. Through public events, performances and exhibitions, they help strengthen cross-cultural connections and foster a deeper sense of belonging for all.

    “As we celebrate Latin American Heritage Month, let us recognize the resilience, creativity and cultural legacy of Latin American communities. Their stories are part of the fabric of British Columbia.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur and DeLauro Introduce Bill to Rein in Executive Branch Spending Abuses and Uphold Congressional Appropriations Authority

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Washington, DC — Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, have introduced H.R. 4230 the Appropriations Compliance and Training Act, legislation to restore accountability to the Executive Branch and ensure that Appropriated taxpayer dollars, enacted by Congress and signed into law, are spent in strict accordance with Congressional direction.
     

    “The Power of the Purse rests with Congress. That is established quite clearly in the Constitution, and it has been repeatedly affirmed by the Supreme Court. This Administration has demonstrated time and again a lack of understanding — or worse, deliberate disregard for the direction Congress provides through the Appropriations process,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “This is about enforcing the Constitution and safeguarding democracy. We set policy, we provide direction, and we allocate funds. Then, based on those allocations, the Executive Branch must execute — not reinterpret or ignore — what Congress has directed on behalf of the American people. This is not about politics. It is about protecting the constitutional role of Congress, respecting the will of the American people, and ensuring every public dollar is spent lawfully and transparently.”

    “Instead of being laser-focused on the cost-of-living crisis, President Trump is making it worse by illegally stealing resources promised to the American people,” said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03). “The Trump administration has been lawless from the jump, illegally freezing or taking funding, appropriated in law by Congress, for programs and services across the federal government that help the middle class, the working class, and small businesses and make sure billionaires and big corporations pay taxes. Whether they are a Democrat or a Republican, nobody should be managing American Taxpayers’ hard-earned money if they do not understand the law. This is a common-sense requirement to defend Congress’s power of the purse and reaffirm its constitutional authority over government funding.”

    The bill has already received strong support, with a growing list of cosponsors including Appropriations Committee Members: Rep. Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Rep. James Clyburn (SC-06), Rep. Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Rep. Betty McCollum (MN-04), Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Rep. Chellie Pingree (ME-02), Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06), Rep. Marc Pocan (WI-02), Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-22), Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Rep. Norma Torres (CA-35), Rep. Ed Case (HI-01), Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Rep. Joe Morelle (NY-25), Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49), Rep. Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Rep. Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Rep. Frank Mrvan (IN-01), and Rep. Glenn Ivey (MD-04).

    The Appropriations Compliance and Training Act will require high-ranking federal employees in the Executive Branch to take annual, mandatory training that will ensure their understanding and compliance with Appropriations laws, including the Antideficiency Act and the Impoundment Control Act. These laws clarify Congress’ power of the purse and prohibits the Executive Branch from spending or withholding funds beyond the explicit direction of Congress. The legislation is meant to make sure that all Executive Branch officials clearly understand their legal responsibilities and the potential consequences of violations. It also includes a review of what Congress has directed, through the Appropriations process, for each agency in that year’s funding law.

    A full copy of the H.R. 4230 the Appropriations Compliance and Training Act can be found by clicking here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Premier’s statement on Canada Day

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Premier David Eby has issued the following statement celebrating Canada Day:

    “Today, millions of people across our vast, beautiful land – from Bonavista to Vancouver Island, from the Arctic Circle to the Great Lakes waters – are celebrating Canada Day.

    “People will gather to enjoy food and fireworks, as well as parties and parades. This is a wonderful time for communities to gather and celebrate our peaceful and democratic country.

    “This Canada Day is unlike any other in recent memory, as we face unprecedented economic and political threats. Those dangers have sharpened our appreciation for what we have accomplished in building the Canada we love, including such monumental achievements as a public health-care system. To be Canadian is to be proud of the way we take care of each other.

    “The challenges we face in improving our country are many. We do so confident that we will find solutions by working together. Even as we debate our differences with vigour, we keep in mind far more unites us than divides us.

    “The Canada of today is the result of a long history of compromise and negotiation, reflecting the Canadian values of fairness, generosity and humility. We should be proud of the role Canada has played in the world. We have answered the call to combat tyranny, and have also been ardent peacekeepers in troubled lands. We have welcomed waves of newcomers throughout our history, and we are proud today to be able to offer sanctuary to people from war-torn countries who seek peace and security.

    “The pride we feel for our country does not mean we ignore our own troubled and complicated history. Canada Day offers an opportunity for reflection on the impact of colonialism on generations of Indigenous Peoples. Our government is dedicated to addressing these matters in a spirit of reconciliation in partnership with Indigenous Peoples.

    “The work of building a better Canada is never done, as nation building is an assignment without end. We will always seek to make a country that in every way is more peaceful, more prosperous and more democratic for ourselves, our families, our neighbours, our communities and for all who call this land home. An important part of that is our desire in British Columbia to build an economy that works for everyone.

    “Let’s take the opportunity this Canada Day to remind ourselves of what we have accomplished together. Happy Canada Day!”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Fortinet Recognized as the Overall Leader for the Third Time in a Row in the Westlands Advisory IT/OT Network Protection Platform Navigator 2025™ Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUNNYVALE, Calif., July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    News Summary

    Fortinet® (NASDAQ: FTNT), the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, today announced that Westlands Advisory, a leading OT security industry analysis and strategy firm, has once again named Fortinet as the Overall Leader in the IT/OT Network Protection Platform Navigator 2025 report, earning the top ranking in both strategic direction and capability for IT/OT.

    Since its inception and for the third time in a row, the latest report from Westlands Advisory highlights Fortinet’s extensive OT network security experience, noting that “OT cybersecurity has been a key strategic pillar” for Fortinet, “resulting in significant innovation, product expansion, growing alliances, and increasing market share.”

    “For more than 20 years, organizations have trusted Fortinet to protect operational technology environments and ensure compliance with the evolving needs of OT infrastructures. Fortinet uniquely delivers a comprehensive OT security platform, built from the ground up with the industry’s most advanced threat detection and protection capabilities to enable converged IT/OT infrastructure,” said Nirav Shah, Senior Vice President, Products and Solutions at Fortinet. “Our latest recognition from Westlands Advisory reflects the deep and growing trust our customers, partners, and the broader OT security community place in Fortinet.”

    Delivering Secure IT/OT Network Convergence

    The Fortinet OT Security Platform is unique in its ability to provide end-to-end network segmentation, OT asset and network visibility, network segmentation and microsegmentation, and advanced threat protection in a unified platform that is centrally managed and automated. With deep integration into the Fortinet Security Fabric, the OT Security Platform improves cyber resiliency and production reliability, lowers time to deployment, and simplifies operations to further support the protection of critical infrastructure and OT infrastructure from evolving cyberthreats.

    The Westlands Advisory report addresses several key benefits of the Fortinet OT Security Platform for customers, including:

    • Broad, integrated, high-performance security solutions and services across IT and OT infrastructures: Westlands Advisory highlights Fortinet’s delivery of a single platform across IT and OT to help reduce cyber risks across the entire organization. The OT Security Platform, an extension of the Fortinet Security Fabric, uniquely provides the widest and deepest breadth of networking and cybersecurity solutions in the market. These solutions provide near-real-time protection through the company’s AI-driven OT Security Service, powered by FortiGuard Labs, that enables OT-specific application- and protocol-based security, as well as virtual patching capabilities to shield unpatched OT assets from exploitation. As Westlands Advisory notes, the Fortinet OT Security Platform consists of over 20 products across three solution pillars: Secure Networking, Unified SASE, and Security Operations. The report goes on to say: “In addition, the technology integration offered through the OT Security Platform extends beyond Fortinet solutions to third-party technologies, delivering a comprehensive and centralized OT service.”
    • Cutting-edge innovation to solve urgent OT security use cases: The Fortinet OT Security Platform is also recognized by Westlands Advisory for its cutting-edge advancements and innovations that help customers solve many urgent and real OT use cases, such as asset discovery and management; network protection and segmentation; endpoint protection; secure remote access; and more. According to Westlands Advisory, “Fortinet offers the broadest range of industrial-grade security hardware solutions, including FortiGate Rugged firewalls and FortiSwitch industrial switches… Fortinet’s product roadmap is highly responsive to customer requirements and industry standards and has resulted in a number of industry awards, including the 2024 Red Dot Product Design Award [FortiGate Rugged 70G with Dual 5G Modems].” Additional recognitions include the Control Engineering 2024 Silver Product of the Year Award for FortiGate Rugged 70F, and the 2025 Gold Product of the Year Award for FortiGate Rugged 70G-5G-DUAL. The Westlands report also notes that the company’s OT security innovation extends to AI and ML, “where the focus has been on detections, understanding risk, and improving security operations.”
    • High-performance, energy-efficient, cost-effective solutions compared to other OT security solutions: Fortinet’s custom-built ASIC technology, embedded in FortiGate appliances, offers unmatched network security performance and reliability, which is critical in OT environments that run 24×7 or cannot suffer downtime. These custom ASICs, which include a networking processor and security processor, are integrated with the FortiOS operating system, allowing Fortinet to provide a comprehensive, high-performance networking and security solution that addresses the demands of modern network environments.

    With the recognition of the Fortinet OT Security Platform, the Westlands report underscores the importance of IT/OT convergence and reaffirms that organizations don’t have to choose between performance and protection.

    Additional Resources

    About Fortinet
    Fortinet (Nasdaq: FTNT) is a driving force in the evolution of cybersecurity and the convergence of networking and security. Our mission is to secure people, devices, and data everywhere, and today we deliver cybersecurity everywhere our customers need it with the largest integrated portfolio of over 50 enterprise-grade products. Well over half a million customers trust Fortinet’s solutions, which are among the most deployed, most patented, and most validated in the industry. The Fortinet Training Institute, one of the largest and broadest training programs in the industry, is dedicated to making cybersecurity training and new career opportunities available to everyone. Collaboration with esteemed organizations from both the public and private sectors, including Computer Emergency Response Teams (“CERTS”), government entities, and academia, is a fundamental aspect of Fortinet’s commitment to enhance cyber resilience globally. FortiGuard Labs, Fortinet’s elite threat intelligence and research organization, develops and utilizes leading-edge machine learning and AI technologies to provide customers with timely and consistently top-rated protection and actionable threat intelligence. Learn more at https://www.fortinet.com, the Fortinet Blog, and FortiGuard Labs.

    Copyright © 2025 Fortinet, Inc. All rights reserved. The symbols ® and ™ denote respectively federally registered trademarks and common law trademarks of Fortinet, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates. Fortinet’s trademarks include, but are not limited to, the following: Fortinet, the Fortinet logo, FortiGate, FortiOS, FortiGuard, FortiCare, FortiAnalyzer, FortiManager, FortiASIC, FortiClient, FortiCloud, FortiMail, FortiSandbox, FortiADC, FortiAI, FortiAIOps, FortiAgent, FortiAntenna, FortiAP, FortiAPCam, FortiAuthenticator, FortiCache, FortiCall, FortiCam, FortiCamera, FortiCarrier, FortiCASB, FortiCentral, FortiCNP, FortiConnect, FortiController, FortiConverter, FortiCSPM, FortiCWP, FortiDAST, FortiDB, FortiDDoS, FortiDeceptor, FortiDeploy, FortiDevSec, FortiDLP, FortiEdge, FortiEDR, FortiExplorer, FortiExtender, FortiFirewall, FortiFlex FortiFone, FortiGSLB, FortiGuest, FortiHypervisor, FortiInsight, FortiIsolator, FortiLAN, FortiLink, FortiMonitor, FortiNAC, FortiNDR, FortiPAM, FortiPenTest, FortiPhish, FortiPoint, FortiPolicy, FortiPortal, FortiPresence, FortiProxy, FortiRecon, FortiRecorder, FortiSASE, FortiScanner, FortiSDNConnector, FortiSIEM, FortiSMS, FortiSOAR, FortiSRA, FortiStack, FortiSwitch, FortiTester, FortiToken, FortiTrust, FortiVoice, FortiWAN, FortiWeb, FortiWiFi, FortiWLC, FortiWLM, FortiXDR and Lacework FortiCNAPP. Other trademarks belong to their respective owners. Fortinet has not independently verified statements or certifications herein attributed to third parties and Fortinet does not independently endorse such statements. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, nothing herein constitutes a warranty, guarantee, contract, binding specification or other binding commitment by Fortinet or any indication of intent related to a binding commitment, and performance and other specification information herein may be unique to certain environments.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Guinea Economic Update: Domestic Resource Mobilization and Management for Inclusive and Sustainable Development


    Download logo

    The second edition of the Guinea Economic Update offers an in-depth analysis of the country’s evolving macroeconomic position and examines how Guinea can increase domestic resource mobilization and management to achieve its development goals.

    The report, “Domestic Resource Mobilization and Management for Inclusive and Sustainable Development,” presents a dual focus: an evaluation of macroeconomic developments and outlook, and an examination of Guinea’s potential to enhance and manage domestic revenues, particularly in light of the expected windfall from the Simandou iron ore project.

    The first part of the report highlights Guinea’s ongoing and anticipated economic growth, with GDP growth reaching 5.7% in 2024, projected at 6.5% in 2025, and averaging 10% in 2026–27, driven by expanding mining activity. However, the report underscores that recent growth has not significantly reduced poverty, which remains high at 52%, due to limited job creation in the non-mining sectors.

    “In recent years, Guinea has achieved robust growth, primarily fueled by the mining industry and agriculture. Yet, the key challenge remains in transforming growth into employment opportunities for Guineans,” said Marilyne Youbi, World Bank Group Economist and Lead Author of the report.

    The report points to a widening fiscal deficit — 4.8% of GDP in 2024 and rising public debt, driven by infrastructure investment and still-limited revenue mobilization. Tax revenues remain low at 13.1% percent of GDP, significantly below regional targets, constraining the government’s ability to invest in essential services such as health, education, and infrastructure.

    The second part of the report presents an analysis of Guinea’s domestic resource mobilization and management landscape. It argues that increasing and better managing public revenues, especially from the mining sector, is essential for fiscal sustainability, economic diversification, and improved social outcomes. The report calls for stronger tax policy enforcement consistent with the Tax and Mining Codes, and it highlights key reform areas including enhancing tax audit capabilities, improving the integrity of the taxpayer database, ensuring timely filing and payment of taxes, and deepening digitalization of revenue administration. It also calls for reforms to strengthen management of public expenditures and public investments programs.

    “This report underscores the urgency of implementing reforms to make growth more inclusive and resilient,” said Issa Diaw, World Bank Group Country Manager for Guinea. “With the Simandou iron ore project poised to transform the economy, Guinea has a narrow window to ensure that the benefits of growth are widely shared.”

    As Guinea enters a potentially transformative phase in its development, the report calls for a renewed policy focus on debt sustainability, macroeconomic stability, as well as investments in human and physical capital.

    Download the Guinea Economic Update in English.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Seychelles’ Path to Macroeconomic Stability and Resilience

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    Comprehensive reforms have fueled Seychelles’ journey out of crisis and its continued resilience in the face of shocks

    Seychelles—a nation of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean—today enjoys a comparatively high degree of economic stability. Inflation is below 2 percent, real GDP has largely recovered from the pandemic, public debt is on course to reach the government’s target of less than 50 percent of GDP before 2030, and per capita income is the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa. But this stands in stark contrast to the country’s fortunes twenty years ago when it faced an economic crisis. What’s behind this turnaround?

    From times of crisis

    In the mid-2000s, Seychelles faced significant macroeconomic challenges stemming from expansionary fiscal policies and a rigid state-led economy. Large fiscal deficits were driven by high public spending on capital projects, subsidies, transfers to state enterprises and high debt service payments, while government revenues were constrained by significant tax concessions to foreign investors in the growing tourism sector. An expansionary monetary policy within a fixed exchange rate framework and extensive exchange controls led to external imbalances and depletion of foreign reserves. By 2008, gross public debt exceeded 192 percent of GDP and reserves had dwindled to just 2 weeks of import cover. The global financial crisis exacerbated these vulnerabilities, and the crisis came to a head in mid-2008 when the Seychelles authorities missed payments on the nation’s private foreign debt and Standard & Poor’s downgraded Seychelles to selective default.

    Changing course

    In response to this crisis, the government launched a comprehensive reform program with support from the IMF and other development partners. Key actions included abolishing all exchange restrictions and floating the rupee, consolidating public finances, reforming state enterprises, and abolishing indirect product subsidies in favor of a targeted social safety net. Paris Club creditors agreed to a debt stock reduction. These measures quickly yielded positive outcomes: inflation fell, foreign reserves were restored to over 3 months of import cover, and public debt declined to below 70 percent of GDP within five years. This turnaround rebuilt investor confidence, and the restoration of macroeconomic stability allowed policymakers room to shift from crisis management to macro-structural reforms in support of sustainable growth. 

    Resilience and commitment tested

    The COVID-19 pandemic, which caused a sudden collapse in global tourism, was another tremendous shock. But its years of macroeconomic stability enabled Seychelles to face this new challenge from a position of strength. Confronted with an economic contraction of nearly 12 percent in 2020, the government implemented timely fiscal and monetary measures to support households and businesses, utilized emergency financing from the IMF, and moved quickly to resume tourism. As tourism rebounded in 2021 and 2022, economic growth surged to nearly 13 percent in 2022, helping to regain lost ground. Foreign exchange reserves were maintained above 3 months of import cover, and the exchange rate was allowed to move to facilitate adjustment. Key to managing the effects of the pandemic and the international commodity shock that followed were the fiscal and foreign exchange buffers built up in prior years and a commitment to macro fiscal discipline demonstrated by the government. 

    Staying on course

    Given highly volatile global economic and financial conditions, Seychelles’ hard-won macroeconomic stability will likely be put to the test again. Environmental pressures limit scope to expand tourism, while vulnerability to external shocks argues for continued strong fiscal discipline and external buffers. To ensure continued economic growth and resilience, vital investments in infrastructure will be necessary, together with deeper development of human capital, more efficient public services, and financial sector deepening and inclusion. Concerted efforts are also needed to strengthen the social safety net and address critical social ills that hamper productivity and economic development. Some of these areas fall within the reform agenda under the current IMF-supported Extended Fund Facility and Resilience and Sustainability Facility, but others will require new policy commitments.

    Seychelles’ economic record highlights the importance of sound macroeconomic management and institutional strengthening in achieving and sustaining economic prosperity. Its journey offers valuable lessons for other small economies aiming at building resilience in an increasingly uncertain global landscape.

    Todd Schneider is IMF mission chief to Seychelles and an advisor in the IMF’s African Department, where Hany Abdel-Latif is an economist, Pedro Maciel is a senior economist, and Henry Quach is a research analyst.

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/07/01/cf-seychelles-path-to-macroeconomic-stability-and-resilience

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ninth and Tenth FCI Dublin Correctional Officers Charged with Sexual Abuse of Female Inmates

    Source: US FBI

    OAKLAND – Two former correctional officers at the Federal Correctional Institution in Dublin, Calif., Jeffrey Wilson and Lawrence Gacad, were charged yesterday by information with sexual abuse of female inmates.  Wilson and Gacad are the ninth and tenth correctional officers to be charged in connection with the wide-ranging investigation into sexual abuse of inmates at the federal prison.  

    Wilson, 34, is charged with five counts of sexual abuse of a ward related to his alleged abuse of an FCI Dublin inmate, C.S.  The information alleges that Wilson engaged in sexual abuse of the victim on multiple occasions between March 14, 2022, and Aug. 16, 2022.  The acts allegedly occurred in a medical room at FCI Dublin.  Wilson is also charged with falsely telling federal agents that he had never had sexual contact with C.S. and that he had never given her contraband while she was an inmate at FCI Dublin.

    Gacad, 33, is charged with one count of abusive sexual contact related to his alleged abuse of an FCI Dublin inmate, S.L., between March 1, 2022, and June 14, 2022.

    United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian, Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG) Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeremy Hunt, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani made the announcement.      

    As part of the Department of Justice’s ongoing investigation into FCI Dublin, 10 FCI Dublin correctional officers have been charged with crimes related to the sexual abuse of the female prisoners at the facility.  The status of these cases is below:

    Defendant

    		 Case Number Status
    Warden Ray J. Garcia 4:21-cr-00429-YGR Convicted on all counts by jury on Dec. 8, 2022; sentenced to 70 months in prison
    CO John Bellhouse 4:22-cr-00066-YGR Convicted on all counts by jury on June 5, 2023; sentenced to 63 months in prison
    Chaplain James Highhouse 4:22-cr-00016-HSG Pleaded guilty on Feb. 24, 2022; sentenced to 84 months in prison
    CO Enrique Chavez 4:22-cr-00104-YGR Pleaded guilty on Oct. 27, 2022; sentenced to 20 months in prison
    CO Ross Klinger 4:22-cr-00031-YGR Pleaded guilty on Feb. 10, 2022; sentenced to one year of home confinement
    CO Andrew Jones 4:23-cr-000212-YGR Pleaded guilty on Aug.17, 2023; sentenced to 96 months in prison
    CO Nakie Nunley 4:23-cr-000213-YGR Pleaded guilty on Sept. 5, 2023; sentenced to 72 months in prison
    CO Darrell Smith (a/k/a “Dirty Dick Smith”) 4:23-cr-00110-YGR Indicted on April 13, 2023; trial scheduled for Sept. 2, 2025
    CO Jeffrey Wilson 4:25-cr-00180 Information filed on June 25, 2025
    CO Lawrence Gacad 4:25-cr-00181 Information filed on June 25, 2025

    An information merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  If convicted, Wilson faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for each count of sexual abuse of a ward in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2243(b) and eight years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the count of false statements to a government agency in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001(a)(2).  Gacad faces a maximum sentence of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the count of abusive sexual contact in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2244(a)(4).  Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Paulson, Alethea Sargent, Sailaja Paidipaty, and Molly Priedeman are prosecuting these cases with the assistance of Veronica Hernandez and Amala James.  The prosecutions are the result of an investigation by the DOJ OIG and the FBI.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Countdown to Euro 2025 as Government gives advice to travelling fans

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Countdown to Euro 2025 as Government gives advice to travelling fans

    Ahead of Euro 2025 kicking off tomorrow, the Foreign Office is providing fans with the information and advice they need for a safe and enjoyable tournament.

    • With the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro football tournament kicking off tomorrow, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is working closely with the Football Associations of England and Wales to provide information and advice to travelling fans
    • Ahead of Women’s Summer of Sport, the UK Government continues to drive progress in women’s sport to improve access and boost the nation’s economy

    With thousands of supporters expected to follow reigning champions England and major-tournament newcomers Wales when the Women’s Euro 2025 kicks off tomorrow, the Foreign Office has issued top tips to help fans have a safe and enjoyable tournament in Switzerland.

    Advice for fans travelling to the eight different stadiums hosting matches across the country includes: checking travel advice, signing up to email alerts for the latest developments, ensuring your passport meets entry requirements and getting travel insurance before you go. The UK will also have a consular presence in Switzerland throughout the tournament, to support those British nationals requiring help or advice.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    The Women’s Euros promises to be a spectacular event with legions of fans travelling to multiple locations across Switzerland to enjoy the matches. Together with in-country consular support, we’ve put together some practical advice to help people have a safe and enjoyable trip and get behind our home teams.

    Lionesses Head Coach Sarina Wiegman said:

    We know thousands of you will be planning on travelling to Switzerland. Trips like this are a really big commitment and we understand the sacrifices our travelling support will be making. We thank you and please know your loyalty and passion will never be taken for granted by myself and the players.

    We wish everyone a fantastic experience and hope it is a summer to remember.

    Specifically fans travelling to Switzerland are advised to:

    In 2024, UK Women’s Sport attracted audiences of over 44.17 million, an increase of nearly 40% in just two years, with global revenues predicted to have risen by 240% in 4 years.

    The Government is driving progress across women’s sport, which in addition to improving access for women and girls across the country is also helping to boost economic growth and deliver on Our Plan for Change. On 21 March, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport announced an investment of £100 million to fund grassroots facilities throughout the UK. £98 million of this will support projects in 2025/26.

    Wales Office Minister and Equalities Minister Nia Griffith said:

    Along with hundreds of other supporters across Wales I will be travelling to Switzerland this month to cheer on our fantastic women’s team as they take part in a major tournament for the very first time.

    I wish the squad and staff the very best of luck and Wales fans should follow advice and prepare for their trip so they can fully enjoy this historic and ground-breaking moment for Welsh football.

    Fan Engagement Executive at Football Association of Wales, Macsen Jones said:

    As Cymru prepare to make history with our first-ever appearance at the UEFA Women’s EURO, thousands of our supporters will be travelling to Switzerland to cheer them on.

    The FAW has been working closely with the FCDO to provide up-to-date travel advice, helping ensure that our fans stay safe and well-informed while supporting Cymru this summer.

    As a Euro match ticket holder, fans can travel from anywhere in Switzerland to the stadium and back on the day of your match for free, with the offer valid for the entire Swiss public transport network. Additionally, every host city will host a Fan Zone to provide entertainment beyond the 90 minutes of football.

    Background:

    • Travelling England and Wales fans will be able to contact the FCDO by phone 24/7 on +44 (0)20 7008 5000 or by calling the Embassy locally on +41 31 359 77 00. Fans in Switzerland can access the Swiss emergency services by dialling 112.
    • Fans planning to travel elsewhere in the region should check Travel Advice for each location they plan to visit or transit through.
    • Globally, Deloitte predicts that revenue generated by women’s elite sports will reach at least $2.35 billion, or £1.8 billion, in 2025, with revenues predicted to have risen by 240% in 4 years.
    • The event guide for the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 can be found here: www.uefa.com/womenseuro/event-guide/

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Technology and Energy Secretaries chair second AI Energy Council meeting

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Technology and Energy Secretaries chair second AI Energy Council meeting

    The Technology and Energy Secretaries have chaired the second round of discussions, with a focus on compute and the energy demands of AI.

    The Technology and Energy Secretaries chairing the second meeting of the AI Energy Council.

    Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology Peter Kyle and Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Ed Miliband led the second meeting of the AI Energy Council in London this week (Monday 30 June).

    Joined by regulators and representatives of the energy and tech sectors, the latest round of talks centred on the energy demands which will be needed to power the UK’s compute ambitions, and the future energy needs of the sector as a whole.

    The government has set the ambition of ramping up the UK’s public compute capacity – the building block of AI development – 20 fold in the next 5 years, with talks focused on how the country’s energy grid can meet that goal.

    Presentations from the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the National Energy System Operator (NESO) on energy demands for AI kicked off the session, with the Energy Secretary reflecting on the work being undertaken by the council’s dedicated working group on forecasting energy demand.

    With the energy demands of data centres – key drivers of AI development and growth – expected to double in the coming years, attendees also reiterated the importance of ensuring they can be connected to the power grid as swiftly as possible.

    This was further highlighted by the Technology Secretary’s reflections on the importance of growth and increasing the UK’s sovereign AI capabilities as central pillars of the AI Energy Council’s work, noting its role as a vital forum for answering key questions and unlocking opportunity. 

    At the conclusion of the meeting, those in attendance reflected on the shared mission across the energy and tech sectors and the urgency of the council’s work in the coming years as the government powers both its AI and clean energy superpower ambitions. This also included an agreement to work together to forecast future trends support the government’s broader work on grid connections.

    The council will next meet in Autumn.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –