Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division
Headline: Defense Contractor Berg Co. Agrees to Pay $3.3M to Resolve Allegations of Causing Fraudulent Bids
Berg Companies Inc. (Berg) has agreed to pay $3.3 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting, or causing the submission of, false claims under prime vendor contracts with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), which the Department of Defense (DoD) uses to purchase goods and services.
Source: United States Attorneys General
Berg Companies Inc. (Berg) has agreed to pay $3.3 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting, or causing the submission of, false claims under prime vendor contracts with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), which the Department of Defense (DoD) uses to purchase goods and services.
Berg, based in Spokane, Washington, manufactures rigid wall shelters and sells them to the federal government, including through various prime vendor programs. In September 2019, Berg was acquired by Hunter Defense Technologies, Inc., which is a defense contractor that is based in Solon, Ohio.
Berg was a vendor to Noble Sales Co. Inc. doing business as Noble Supply & Logistics (Noble), which is a Boston-based prime contractor to DLA for Maintenance, Repair & Operations (MRO) contracts for the European Command. Under the MRO contracts, the DoD can place orders for goods and services through Noble. Noble is then required to solicit bids from two independently competing vendors for transactions below $25,000 and from three independently competing vendors for transactions at or above $25,000. According to DLA, MRO contracts are “a partnership aimed at achieving infrastructure savings, inventory cost reductions and favorable product pricing through leveraged buying.”
Pursuant to the settlement agreement, Berg admitted that, from 2019 to 2021, Berg coordinated with Noble and two other Noble vendors to submit inflated quotes for Berg-made rigid wall shelters so that the other vendors would win the awards at inflated prices. In the first scheme, Berg admitted that it coordinated and submitted inflated quotes on two solicitations for the sale of 10 Berg-made rigid wall shelters that Noble awarded to a New Mexico-based vendor. In the second scheme, Berg admitted that it coordinated and submitted inflated quotes on 26 solicitations for the purchase of 29 Berg-made rigid wall shelters that Noble awarded to a Florida-based vendor. As a result of these schemes, the United States contends that the requirements were not competed as required by the prime vendor contract and the military customers were overcharged for the Berg-made rigid wall shelters.
“Bid rigging of this type inhibits competition on the products and on prices, thereby creating the risk that the government is purchasing inferior products at exorbitant prices,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement reinforces the Department’s commitment in using the FCA to pursue anti-competitive fraud.”
“As evidenced in this settlement agreement, these contractors manipulated and undermined the fair and open bidding process designed to save our military and taxpayers money,” said U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley for the District of Massachusetts. “We commend Berg for cooperating with the government to resolve this matter and taking responsibility for this conduct. As this settlement demonstrates, not only will my Office continue to use the False Claims Act to help root out fraud, waste and abuse involving taxpayer funds, but it will reward those that accept responsibility and cooperate with the government.”
“Collusion in government contracting erodes public trust, distorts fair competition, and drives up costs for taxpayers and service members,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison for the District of New Mexico. “Such conduct undermines the integrity of the procurement process and betrays the public’s expectation that government funds will be used responsibly. This resolution demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting taxpayer dollars, ensuring a level playing field for all businesses, and holding accountable those who seek to profit by manipulating federal contracting. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to defend the integrity of government procurement and safeguard the interests of the American people.”
“Today’s settlement announcement demonstrates the commitment of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), along with our law enforcement partners, to aggressively pursue those who undermine the integrity of the DoD contracting process,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Chad Gosch of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, DCIS Southwest Field Office. “DCIS will use all available resources to hold accountable those who betray the trust of the American taxpayer by corrupting the DoD procurement system for personal gain.”
“GSA OIG will continue to work with its investigative partners to hold government contractors accountable for concealing relevant information that may affect the award or performance of government contracts,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph Dattoria of the U.S. General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Division.
Berg cooperated with the government in this matter. As part of the settlement, Berg acknowledged and accepted responsibility for the facts that form the basis of this settlement.
This settlement resolves claims brought against Berg under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the FCA, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when they believe that a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and to receive a share of the recovery. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblowers, Mark G. Davis and Andrew G. Gunn, to receive a $561,000 share of the recovery. Davis is a U.S. Army veteran and former salesperson for one of the sub-vendors involved in the conspiracy allegation. Gunn is the managing director of a United Kingdom company that manufacturers storage equipment for United States military customers and sold its equipment through this prime vendor’s MRO contracts. The remainder of the matter remains under seal.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the United States Attorney’s Offices for the District of New Mexico and District of Massachusetts, with assistance from the Defense Criminal Investigative Services, the Army Criminal Investigation Division, the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the General Services Administration Office of Inspector General.
The matter was handled by Trial Attorney Samson Asiyanbi of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Cunniff of the District of New Mexico, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lindsey Ross and Brian LaMacchia of the District of Massachusetts.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Source: US Marshals Service
Cheyenne, WY – The U.S. Marshals (USMS) District of Wyoming Fugitive Task Force (WFTF), along with members from the USMS Special Operations Group and with the assistance of several partner agencies, located and arrested early Friday a fugitive wanted on sexual assault and other charges.
Ricky Ayers, 53, a self-proclaimed sovereign citizen who had made threats against law enforcement during previous encounters, was wanted for sexual assault in the first degree, aggravated burglary, felonious restraint, and domestic battery.
Due to potential heightened threats to law enforcement, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office in Laramie asked for USMS assistance in apprehending Ayers, and the WFTF adopted the case for apprehension.
Investigators developed information that Ayers had a probable stockpile of weapons within his cabin and property in a remote area of Albany County. After taking Ayers into custody, the team located numerous weapons, primarily rifles, scattered throughout the property address.
Other agencies involved in Ayers’ capture include the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, Platte County Sheriff’s Office, Cheyenne Police Department SWAT, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Forest Service.
The Wyoming Fugitive Task Force, which is headed by the U.S. Marshals Service, District of Wyoming, was created in February 2004. Its mission is to track, locate, and apprehend state and federal fugitives. The Wyoming Fugitive Task Force is composed of numerous federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
Tips of wanted subjects or subjects who may be in violation of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act can be shared by submitting a tip through https://www.p3tips.com/USMS.aspx.
Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Shelby Sigler (34, New Port Richey) with fraud in connection with a major disaster or emergency benefits. If convicted, Sigler faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, between November 2023 and January 2024, Sigler knowingly made false and fraudulent statements and representations to obtain money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) when submitting an application for assistance from FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program as a result of Hurricane Idalia.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General with assistance from the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Greg Pizzo.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving fraud, waste, abuse, or mismanagement related to any man-made or natural disaster can report it by visiting the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www. justice. gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Source: US FBI
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the arrest of Pedro Danilo Espinoza-Guiffaro (34, Honduras) on a criminal complaint charging him with being unlawfully present in the United States after being previously removed from the United States. If convicted, Espinoza-Guiffaro faces a maximum penalty of two years in federal prison.
According to the complaint, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a targeted enforcement operation to arrest Espinoza-Guiffaro as he had an active Interpol Red Notice for Murder in Honduras. A surveillance team located Espinoza-Guiffaro in Duval County. During immigration processing, HSI agents learned that Espinoza-Guiffaro was previously ordered removed from the United States and actually removed from the United States in 2022 and 2024. There is no record Espinoza-Guiffaro ever applied for or received permission to return to the United States.
A complaint is merely a charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by HSI and FBI. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Lasry.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Source: United States Navy
DARWIN, Australia — U.S. Marines with the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D) 25.3 Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) are taking part in Exercise Talisman Sabre 25, Australia’s largest bilateral military exercise, to enhance interoperability and strengthen ties with the Australian Defence Force and U.S. Army joint forces across the Northern Territory (NT) this month.
Source: United States Airforce
Spanning more than 3,000 miles, this exercise will provide the opportunity for Airmen in multiple nations to work alongside allies and partners. Together, they will employ new concepts of operations in a realistic environment, delivering invaluable training for the joint force and showcasing rapid global mobility.
Source: United States Navy
ATLANTIC OCEAN – The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit-Special Operations Capable (MEU (SOC)) successfully completed Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), demonstrating the ability to jointly operate across a full spectrum of military operations.
Source: United States Navy
SUVA, Fiji – Forward-deployed U.S. Navy submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) departed Fiji following a scheduled port visit on July 11, 2025. Frank Cable is underway supporting 7th Fleet, the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, operating with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Source: United States Navy
MANILA, Philippines – Adm. Steve Koehler, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, traveled to the Republic of the Philippines alongside Fleet Master Chief Don Davis, July 9-11, 2025 to reaffirm the steadfast and enduring U.S.-Philippine alliance which is critical to advancing the two countries’ shared interests, signaling unwavering resolve, and aligning efforts to preserve regional stability.
Source: United States Navy
SEOUL, South Korea — Adm. Samuel J. Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, visited South Korea on July 11, 2025, where he joined senior U.S., Japanese and South Korean military and government officials to underscore the criticality of trilateral military cooperation for addressing security challenges on the Korean Peninsula and in the Indo-Pacific.
Source: United States Navy
SAN DIEGO – The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Omaha (LCS 12) arrived at its San Diego homeport July 11, following a 10-month rotational deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.
“I’m excited to welcome home the crew of this mighty warship, who showed incredible dedication and leadership during their deployment,” said Capt. Jose Roman, commodore, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron 1. “From multiple exercises with our partners to ensuring maritime security and freedom of navigation in critical waterways throughout the Indo-Pacific, Omaha has a great deal to be proud of.”
Throughout deployment, the Omaha participated in several multi-national events including the Oceania Maritime Security Initiative (OMSI), Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei, the Republic of Palau 30th Independence Anniversary, a joint sail with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), Exercise Noble Wolverine, Exercise Cobra Gold 2025, and Exercise Noble Dingo.
“It’s been an honor to serve with this crew as they’ve achieved outstanding operational milestones and risen to meet every challenge,” said Cmdr. Kevin Smith, commanding officer of the Omaha Gold crew. “Today we welcome home the USS Omaha and the Blue crew, and celebrate the commitment and perseverance of every Sailor onboard, as well as their families who support them.”
In August 2024, the Omaha participated in OMSI, a Secretary of Defense program aimed at diminishing transnational illegal activity on the high seas in the Pacific Island nations of Oceania’s Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ), as well as increasing interoperability with partner nations. The Omaha’s range and capabilities allowed the embarked U.S. Coast Guard law enforcement detachment the ability to access the remote U.S. and Pacific Island nations’ EEZs.
The Omaha participated in CARAT Brunei 2024 alongside the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and other U.S. military assets. During the exercise, a variety of subject matter expert exchange events were conducted. They focused on topics such as cyber security, emission control, force protection, international maritime law, maritime domain awareness, and public affairs for humanitarian assistance and disaster response. Bilateral training opportunities included best practices for a medical evacuation; mine countermeasures; visit, board, search and seizure; underwater demolition; and other topics. CARAT Brunei 2024 focused on dynamic naval capabilities, featuring cooperative evolutions that highlighted the U.S.-Brunei partnership and their shared goals of ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The Omaha participated in several events which celebrated the 30th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Palau, marking the Republic of Palau’s independence from the United Nations trusteeship administered by the U.S.
In the early months of 2025, the Omaha participated in Exercise Noble Wolverine, Exercise Cobra Gold 2025, and Exercise Noble Dingo. Noble Wolverine was a joint U.S. and Canadian exercise. During Cobra Gold 2025, Omaha, alongside Republic of Korea, Republic of Singapore, and Kingdom of Thailand navies conducted division tactics and crew exchanges. Noble Dingo included several operations as part of a joint sail with the RAN’s Hobart-class air warfare destroyer HMAS Sydney (DDG 42) in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
“These Sailors are returning home to their families with significant operational experience.,” said Cmdr. Ryan Doyle, commanding officer of the Omaha Blue crew. “I am particularly proud of the resiliency and self-sufficiency that our Sailors demonstrated throughout the deployments.”
During deployment, the Omaha conducted eight port visits, including six to partner and allied nations: Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, Brunei, Malaysia, Guam, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Hawaii.
The Omaha is a fast, optimally-manned, mission-tailored surface combatant that operates in near-shore and open-ocean environments, winning against 21st-century threats. LCS integrate with joint, combined, manned and unmanned teams to support forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around the globe.
For more news from Commander, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron 1, visit https://www.surfpac.navy.mil/comlcsron1/ or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/COMLCSRONONE/
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: Last Day to Apply for Federal Assistance for March Storms
Last Day to Apply for Federal Assistance for March Storms
LITTLE ROCK, Ark
– Monday, July 14, is the last day to apply for federal disaster assistance if you had damage from the destructive storms and tornadoes that cut across north-central and northeast Arkansas in March
Homeowners and renters, including students, may apply for federal assistance if you live in Greene, Hot Spring, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, Sharp or Stone County
FEMA has many types of assistance available
FEMA may be able to help with basic home repair costs, personal property loss, and temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home or residence hall
Repair or replacement assistance may be available for a primary vehicle, a computer damaged in the disaster, or books and other items required for school
For students, your property damage or loss must have occurred in a designated county
To apply for FEMA assistance, go to DisasterAssistance
gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362
Lines are open daily from 6 a
m
to 10 p
m
CT and specialists speak many languages
If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service
To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube
The U
S
Small Business Administration also offers low-interest disaster loans to Arkansas homeowners and renters, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations
To apply to SBA, go to SBA
gov/disaster or call the Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955
Survivors may also apply for FEMA and SBA disaster assistance, submit documents and speak to someone about their applications at several sites
To find locations and hours, visit fema
gov/disaster/4865, scroll to the bottom of the page and click the link under “In-person Survivor Assistance
”For the latest information about Arkansas’ recovery, visit fema
gov/disaster/4865
Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x
com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook
com/FEMARegion6
toan
nguyen
Mon, 07/14/2025 – 13:08
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002810/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Marlena Maląg (ECR)
Directive 2011/64/EU established minimum excise duties on manufactured tobacco in the European Union, giving Member States the freedom to set higher rates based on their own circumstances. The Law and Justice Party Government of 2015-2023 made use of this freedom to pursue a policy of moderate excise duty increases, which led to a reduction in the shadow economy and growth in budgetary revenue in Poland. In 2024, Donald Tusk’s new governing coalition decided to significantly increase these rates, which has already led to a growth in the shadow economy, according to market analyses. Similar observations have been made in the Netherlands, which has seen an increase in the consumption of cigarettes without excise duty having been paid.
In relation to the above:
Submitted: 9.7.2025
Source: European Parliament
The Commission has adopted emergency measures[1] pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2016/429[2] and Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/687[3].
These measures include restrictions on the movement of susceptible animals and products from the affected areas. The definition of such restricted areas ensures safe trade from non-restricted areas of the EU, including affected Member States.
Consignments of live animals from different restricted areas are only authorised if all conditions laid down in Union law are met, including pre-export quarantine and veterinary certification.
Compliance with these requirements falls under the responsibility of the competent authorities of the Member States concerned. Member States must record the results of checks performed on animals involved in intra-EU trade in TRACES and their performance can be monitored during Commission audits.
Source: European Parliament
The Commission has adopted emergency measures[1] pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2016/429[2] and Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/687[3].
These measures include restrictions on the movement of susceptible animals and products from the affected areas. The definition of such restricted areas ensures safe trade from non-restricted areas of the EU, including affected Member States.
Consignments of live animals from different restricted areas are only authorised if all conditions laid down in Union law are met, including pre-export quarantine and veterinary certification.
Compliance with these requirements falls under the responsibility of the competent authorities of the Member States concerned. Member States must record the results of checks performed on animals involved in intra-EU trade in TRACES and their performance can be monitored during Commission audits.
Source: European Parliament
The EU Agri-Food Fraud Network (FFN)[1] works with law enforcement through the European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT), guided by the EU Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment Report.
EMPACT connects Member States, EU bodies, and international partners to combat serious organised crime. For illegal pesticides, the FFN co-leads with Europol the Operational Action Plan ‘Environmental Crime’ and supports Europol’s Operation SILVER AXE, targeting intellectual property rights protected non-compliant products.
Participants share related information via the Secure Information Exchange Network Application (SIENA), for secure exchange. The FFN contributes by data sharing, statistical analysis, and trend evaluation.
The Commission audits Member States to assess controls on marketing and use of plant protection products, including detecting fraud.
The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) actively detects dangerous goods, as pesticides, and works closely with customs authorities to support cross- border investigations. OLAF has coordinated a joint customs operation on dangerous substances, including pesticides, in the context of the Asia-Europe Meeting[2].
Moreover, OLAF provided support and specialised intelligence for operations leading to the interception of a significant consignments of illegal pesticides in Bulgaria and Romania[3][4].
The Commission works with partner countries at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development fighting illegal trade in pesticides and remains committed mitigating negative impacts of illegal pesticides on environment, thus ensuring the protection of European consumers .
Source: European Parliament
This in-depth analysis, commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Justice, Civil Liberties and Institutional Affairs at the request of the Committee on Legal Affairs, explores the proposed 28th company law regime. It highlights the need for a unified, digital-native EU-level company registration system to reduce fragmentation, enhance legal certainty, and support innovation, entrepreneurship, and cross-border growth across the Single Market.
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002772/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Daniel Freund (Verts/ALE)
Gambling companies in Europe are extremely concentrated in Malta. There are 321 such companies with a Maltese licence[1].
The largest companies are: Flutter (TSG Interactive, PokerStars), Hillside (bet365), 888 (Mr. Green), Betsson, Super Group (Betway), and Tipico.
Another deeply concerning matter is the Maltese Gaming Act (Chapter 583 of the Laws of Malta)[2], which hinders the enforcement of rulings handed down by courts in other Member States against Maltese-licensed gabling companies. After almost two years of reviewing the compatibility of Malta’s Gaming Act with EU law, the Commission has recently decided to open an infringement procedure against Malta.
Submitted: 8.7.2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002772/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Daniel Freund (Verts/ALE)
Gambling companies in Europe are extremely concentrated in Malta. There are 321 such companies with a Maltese licence[1].
The largest companies are: Flutter (TSG Interactive, PokerStars), Hillside (bet365), 888 (Mr. Green), Betsson, Super Group (Betway), and Tipico.
Another deeply concerning matter is the Maltese Gaming Act (Chapter 583 of the Laws of Malta)[2], which hinders the enforcement of rulings handed down by courts in other Member States against Maltese-licensed gabling companies. After almost two years of reviewing the compatibility of Malta’s Gaming Act with EU law, the Commission has recently decided to open an infringement procedure against Malta.
Submitted: 8.7.2025
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Police reclassified a death on arrival case happened in Yuen Long yesterday (July 14) as murder.
At 5.42pm yesterday, Police received a report from a staff member of a residential care home on Long Wo Road that a man had collapsed
Police officers sped to the scene and found the 54-year-old man lying unconsciously on the ground. Sustaining no superficial injury, he was rushed to Pok Oi Hospital and was certified dead at 6.35pm.
Initial investigation revealed that the deceased allegedly had a dispute with a 50-year-old man, who assaulted him with fists and kicks. Police arrested the 50-year-old man for murder at scene. He is being detained for further enquiries.
Post-mortem examinations will be conducted later to ascertain the cause of death of the deceased.
Active investigations by the District Crime Squad of Yuen Long are under way.
Anyone who witnessed the case or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 4640.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Police reclassified a death on arrival case happened in Yuen Long yesterday (July 14) as murder.
At 5.42pm yesterday, Police received a report from a staff member of a residential care home on Long Wo Road that a man had collapsed
Police officers sped to the scene and found the 54-year-old man lying unconsciously on the ground. Sustaining no superficial injury, he was rushed to Pok Oi Hospital and was certified dead at 6.35pm.
Initial investigation revealed that the deceased allegedly had a dispute with a 50-year-old man, who assaulted him with fists and kicks. Police arrested the 50-year-old man for murder at scene. He is being detained for further enquiries.
Post-mortem examinations will be conducted later to ascertain the cause of death of the deceased.
Active investigations by the District Crime Squad of Yuen Long are under way.
Anyone who witnessed the case or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 4640.
Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA
Twenty years ago, the adoption of the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (A/CPPNM) marked the start of a new era in international efforts to counter the risk of nuclear security threats.
The Convention and its Amendment are the only internationally legally binding undertakings in the area of physical protection of nuclear material and of nuclear facilities used for peaceful purposes. They provide a robust international legal framework as a foundation for effective nuclear security.
On the occasion of the anniversary, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi emphasized in his message that “it is in everyone’s interest that all States join and implement both. We need to do everything possible against current and emerging threats, and we need to lay a solid foundation for the many communities embracing reliable, low carbon nuclear energy in more and more countries.”
The Amendment came into force in May 2016 and extended the scope of the original treaty to cover physical protection of nuclear facilities and nuclear material used for peaceful purposes in domestic use, storage and transport. It also further criminalizes offences related to illicit trafficking and sabotage of nuclear material or nuclear facilities, and provides for strengthened international cooperation in light of the expanded scope, such as assistance and information sharing in the event of sabotage.
The first Conference of the Parties to the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Materials was held at the IAEA’s headquarters in Vienna, Austria from 28 March to 1 April 2022. The second such Conference is scheduled to be held in Vienna in April 2027.
“As we prepare for the second conference on the Amendment to the CPPNM, the IAEA will continue its support. We will do this through new partnerships with key decision makers and stakeholders, new initiatives and tailored legislative and technical assistance,” Grossi said.
The CPPNM currently has 165 Parties, of which 138 have also joined the Amendment. Most recently, Mongolia became the latest Party to the Amendment.
Mongolia’s ratification of the A/CPPNM in April 2025 marked a strategic step in strengthening the national nuclear security framework and legal infrastructure. “This development reaffirms Mongolia’s strong commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology and to preventing nuclear and radiological threats both nationally and regionally. By joining the Amendment, Mongolia has expanded its obligations to protect nuclear material not only during international transport but also in domestic use and at nuclear facilities, in line with international standards,” said Gerelmaa Gombosuren, Acting Head of the Foreign Affairs Division in Mongolia’s Nuclear Energy Commission.
“The country’s adherence was made possible through close cooperation with the IAEA, whose legal guidance, technical assistance, and capacity-building support have significantly enhanced our institutional preparedness. We remain committed to the universalization and effective implementation of the A/CPPNM and to contributing to global nuclear security efforts,” she added.
Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA
Twenty years ago, the adoption of the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (A/CPPNM) marked the start of a new era in international efforts to counter the risk of nuclear security threats.
The Convention and its Amendment are the only internationally legally binding undertakings in the area of physical protection of nuclear material and of nuclear facilities used for peaceful purposes. They provide a robust international legal framework as a foundation for effective nuclear security.
On the occasion of the anniversary, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi emphasized in his message that “it is in everyone’s interest that all States join and implement both. We need to do everything possible against current and emerging threats, and we need to lay a solid foundation for the many communities embracing reliable, low carbon nuclear energy in more and more countries.”
The Amendment came into force in May 2016 and extended the scope of the original treaty to cover physical protection of nuclear facilities and nuclear material used for peaceful purposes in domestic use, storage and transport. It also further criminalizes offences related to illicit trafficking and sabotage of nuclear material or nuclear facilities, and provides for strengthened international cooperation in light of the expanded scope, such as assistance and information sharing in the event of sabotage.
The first Conference of the Parties to the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Materials was held at the IAEA’s headquarters in Vienna, Austria from 28 March to 1 April 2022. The second such Conference is scheduled to be held in Vienna in April 2027.
“As we prepare for the second conference on the Amendment to the CPPNM, the IAEA will continue its support. We will do this through new partnerships with key decision makers and stakeholders, new initiatives and tailored legislative and technical assistance,” Grossi said.
The CPPNM currently has 165 Parties, of which 138 have also joined the Amendment. Most recently, Mongolia became the latest Party to the Amendment.
Mongolia’s ratification of the A/CPPNM in April 2025 marked a strategic step in strengthening the national nuclear security framework and legal infrastructure. “This development reaffirms Mongolia’s strong commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology and to preventing nuclear and radiological threats both nationally and regionally. By joining the Amendment, Mongolia has expanded its obligations to protect nuclear material not only during international transport but also in domestic use and at nuclear facilities, in line with international standards,” said Gerelmaa Gombosuren, Acting Head of the Foreign Affairs Division in Mongolia’s Nuclear Energy Commission.
“The country’s adherence was made possible through close cooperation with the IAEA, whose legal guidance, technical assistance, and capacity-building support have significantly enhanced our institutional preparedness. We remain committed to the universalization and effective implementation of the A/CPPNM and to contributing to global nuclear security efforts,” she added.
Source: US FBI
ANCHORAGE, AK—The FBI Anchorage Field Office is seeking information regarding the identity and whereabouts of an unknown suspect who robbed the Wells Fargo Bank located within the Anchorage 5th Avenue Mall at 320 W 5th Avenue.
On Friday, July 11, 2025, at approximately 1:40 p.m., an unknown suspect entered the bank, approached a bank employee, and presented a note demanding money. The note also indicated that the suspect was in possession of a firearm. The suspect then fled the area on foot after the robbery.
The suspect was observed sitting in a massage chair outside the bank several minutes before entering. Witnesses described the suspect as an adult male, approximately 5’5” tall, and possibly in his 40s or 50s.
Anyone with information concerning the identity and whereabouts of this individual should contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office at 907-276-4441 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Redefining Woden as a vibrant, modern hub where people can live, work, and thrive.
The brand-new CIT Woden Campus is now complete and set to welcome students on 21 July.
Welcoming up to 6,500 students per year, the campus will deliver cutting-edge training in fields such as:
The project benefits
The campus also invites students and the community to enjoy CIT student-run businesses, including:
Let’s take a sneak peek!
The CIT Restaurant and Commercial Training Bar, as well as a Produce Shop/Apprentice Kitchen shop, are located on the ground floor.
There is an additional kitchen and training bar on Level 1 adjacent to the multipurpose space. The kitchen areas are all glassed, providing visual activation throughout and allowing the public to see culinary students in action.
The hair and beauty space includes areas for hairdressing, barbering, spray tanning, make-up, and beauty therapy, along with a reception area.
It connects directly to the ground floor commercial hair salon, making it easy for clients, students, and teachers to move between the two levels.
This spacious, open-plan area is designed to host a variety of events including media and music performances, exhibitions, graduations, open days, and hospitality training.
It opens onto the Level 1 Terrace, which features bench seating with power outlets, native landscaping, and edible gardens.
Screen and media areas include specialist graphic design computer labs, dedicated studios for photography, videos and music. Staff will also have workspaces for media, music and photography.
Designing with Country has been a guiding principle for the CIT Woden Campus project.
The large ‘oculus’ skylight provides a meaningful physical and visual connection with Sky Country from inside the building. It reflects a silhouette of a wedge tailed eagle or ‘Mulleun’, considered a totem animal for the local Ngunnawal people.
The bleachers support gathering or social spaces throughout the day. They go from levels 1 all the way up to level 5 to meet the oculus skylight.
CIT Woden is located next to the new public transport interchange being built on Callam Street. It will improve bus services, safety and enhance connectivity to the area.
It will feature 18 bus stops, passenger-friendly shelters and enhanced lighting and signage.
The transport interchange will also incorporate a light rail stop for the network’s future extension to Woden.
Three public green spaces are available for students, staff, and the community to enjoy.
A walking link between the new public transport interchange and the town centre, this corridor includes spaces for public seating, outdoor dining, and retail frontage
Located at the north end of the campus is asunny breakout space for students, staff, local businesses and residents.It includes trees, gardens, and areas for dogs.
Located at the western end of the campus is a gathering and ceremony space surrounded by a mix of native and non-native planting and seating with charging ports.
For more information visit the Built for CBR website.
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Source: US State of North Dakota
Hill ASC Inc., doing business as Hill Associates, of Rockville, Maryland, agreed to pay at least $14.75 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act in connection with a General Services Administration (GSA) contract for information technology services.
This settlement relates to a contract under which Hill provided information technology services to federal agencies from 2018 to 2023 through GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program. The MAS program provides the government with a streamlined process to buy commonly used commercial goods and services. GSA negotiates contract terms and other agencies can then buy goods and services from the contractor under that GSA MAS contract. The settlement resolves allegations that Hill billed federal agencies for labor of information technology personnel who did not have the experience or education required under the contract. In addition, it resolves allegations that, although GSA required technical evaluations for contractors who sought to offer highly adaptive cybersecurity services to government customers, and Hill had not passed such an evaluation, Hill submitted claims for such cybersecurity services and other services that were not within the scope of the MAS contract. Finally, it resolves allegations that Hill charged the government for unapproved fees, failed to provide government customers with required information about discounts for prompt payment, and included unallowable incentive compensation in a cost submission in connection with a new contract proposal.
Under the settlement with the United States, Hill has agreed to pay $14.75 million, plus additional amounts if certain financial contingencies occur. The settlement amount was based on the company’s ability to pay.
“Information technology contractors are expected to charge the government appropriately for their services,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to pursue cyber fraud and hold accountable those companies that knowingly fail to meet contractual obligations to the American taxpayers.”
“Federal agencies should get what they have paid for from GSA contractors, nothing less,” said GSA Deputy Inspector General Robert C. Erickson. “I appreciate the hard work of all the attorneys, auditors, and special agents involved in this investigation.”
“False claims and similar unfair advantage by contractors undermine the integrity of the contracting process and can result in significant adverse effects to vital security concerns,” said Treasury Deputy Inspector General Loren Sciurba. “Treasury OIG is committed to conducting and assisting other agencies to the utmost in investigations, audits, and other work to detect and prevent these violations of the public trust.”
“As the nation’s tax watchdog, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) is dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)’s contracting and procurement processes,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jessica Cipolla of TIGTA’s Gulf States Field Division. “We remain steadfast in our mission to expose and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud the IRS. Anyone doing business with the IRS or the Department of the Treasury is expected to operate with the highest levels of honesty and integrity. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners for their continued collaboration and critical support in this investigation.”
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the GSA’s Office of the Inspector General, the Treasury Department’s Office of Inspector General, and TIGTA. The matter was handled by Senior Trial Counsel Christopher Terranova of the Fraud Section.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Source: US State of North Dakota
Hill ASC Inc., doing business as Hill Associates, of Rockville, Maryland, agreed to pay at least $14.75 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act in connection with a General Services Administration (GSA) contract for information technology services.
This settlement relates to a contract under which Hill provided information technology services to federal agencies from 2018 to 2023 through GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program. The MAS program provides the government with a streamlined process to buy commonly used commercial goods and services. GSA negotiates contract terms and other agencies can then buy goods and services from the contractor under that GSA MAS contract. The settlement resolves allegations that Hill billed federal agencies for labor of information technology personnel who did not have the experience or education required under the contract. In addition, it resolves allegations that, although GSA required technical evaluations for contractors who sought to offer highly adaptive cybersecurity services to government customers, and Hill had not passed such an evaluation, Hill submitted claims for such cybersecurity services and other services that were not within the scope of the MAS contract. Finally, it resolves allegations that Hill charged the government for unapproved fees, failed to provide government customers with required information about discounts for prompt payment, and included unallowable incentive compensation in a cost submission in connection with a new contract proposal.
Under the settlement with the United States, Hill has agreed to pay $14.75 million, plus additional amounts if certain financial contingencies occur. The settlement amount was based on the company’s ability to pay.
“Information technology contractors are expected to charge the government appropriately for their services,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to pursue cyber fraud and hold accountable those companies that knowingly fail to meet contractual obligations to the American taxpayers.”
“Federal agencies should get what they have paid for from GSA contractors, nothing less,” said GSA Deputy Inspector General Robert C. Erickson. “I appreciate the hard work of all the attorneys, auditors, and special agents involved in this investigation.”
“False claims and similar unfair advantage by contractors undermine the integrity of the contracting process and can result in significant adverse effects to vital security concerns,” said Treasury Deputy Inspector General Loren Sciurba. “Treasury OIG is committed to conducting and assisting other agencies to the utmost in investigations, audits, and other work to detect and prevent these violations of the public trust.”
“As the nation’s tax watchdog, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) is dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)’s contracting and procurement processes,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jessica Cipolla of TIGTA’s Gulf States Field Division. “We remain steadfast in our mission to expose and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud the IRS. Anyone doing business with the IRS or the Department of the Treasury is expected to operate with the highest levels of honesty and integrity. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners for their continued collaboration and critical support in this investigation.”
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the GSA’s Office of the Inspector General, the Treasury Department’s Office of Inspector General, and TIGTA. The matter was handled by Senior Trial Counsel Christopher Terranova of the Fraud Section.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division
Headline: Justice Department Releases Guidance on Implementing President Trump’s Executive Order Designating English as the Official Language of the United States
WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Justice released Guidance to ensure compliance with President Trump’s Executive Order No. 14224, which establishes English as the official language of the United States of America. Consistent with the Executive Order, the Department of Justice will lead a coordinated effort across federal agencies to minimize non-essential multilingual services, redirect resources toward English-language education and assimilation, and ensure legal compliance with the Executive Order through targeted measures where necessary.
Source: US Marshals Service
Wheeling, WV – Three (3) subjects were located and arrested in Powhatten, Belmont County, OH.
Jesse Thompson, 21, Chaz Suarez, 23, and Stormetta Hawkins, 32, were arrested today around 8:00am by the U.S. Marshals Service – Mountain State Fugitive Task Force in Powhatten, OH. Thompson, Suarez and Hawkins were wanted by the Moundsville Police Department due to an investigation involving a home invasion where the victims were pistol whipped and five (5) firearms were stolen.
The U.S. Marshals Service was requested to assist in locating Thompson, Suarez and Hawkins from Moundsville Police Department. Deputy U.S. Marshals received information that the subjects were staying in Powhatten, OH.
On July 11, 2025, Deputy Marshals, Task Force Officers, Belmont County Sheriff Deputies and Powhatten Police responded to 200 block of State Route 7 in Powhatten, OH. U.S. Marshals announced their presence and immediately located and arrested Thompson, after further search of the residence Hawkins and Suarez were located and placed in custody. During the search of Suarez, DUSMs located a loaded H&K .45 caliber pistol in his waist band. Upon further investigation, Powhatten Police Department and Belmont County conducted a search of the residence and located and seized two (2) additional firearms which were suspected to be from the home invasion, ammunition and small amount of suspected Methamphetamine.
All subjects were transported to the Belmont County Jail in Flushing, OH pending extradition hearing to West Virginia.
The U.S. Marshals Service is the nation’s oldest federal law enforcement agency, having served the country since 1789.