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Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ATO holds more GST fraudsters to account

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    The Australian Taxation Office’s (ATO) hunt for GST fraudsters continues as four more individuals are sentenced following action of Operation Protego.

    These recent sentencings reinforce the ATO’s unwavering commitment in investigating and holding all offenders to account.

    ATO Deputy Commissioner and Serious Financial Crime Taskforce (SFCT) Chief John Ford said the ATO’s ability to detect and halt GST fraud is unwavering.

    ‘Our fraud detection and prevention capabilities are advanced thanks to partnerships, technologies, and risk models all working together to stay ahead of fraudsters and criminals,’ Mr Ford said.

    Included in these sentencings are individuals who, at the time of offending, were current employees and contractors at the ATO. Once their involvement was identified, their employment ceased.

    ‘We expect all staff to act with the highest levels of integrity and these individuals violated the trust placed in them by the community.’

    ‘The community rightly expects all ATO staff to act with the highest levels of integrity. Those who do not meet our values have no place at the ATO,’ Mr Ford said.

    Latest sentencing outcomes

    • Kim Orense was sentenced in Penrith District Court to 18 months’ imprisonment, to be released on recognizance after serving 10 months subject to conditions to be of good behaviour for 2 years and to accept the supervision and guidance of Community Corrections, for dealing in money or property that was and which Mr Orense believe to be the proceeds of indictable crime, contrary to subsection 400.4(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). Between October 2021 and April 2022, 14 false business activity statements (BAS) were lodged in Mr Orense’s name, which resulted in him receiving $214,011 in fraudulent GST refunds. He transferred these funds to other bank accounts or associates, including Abigail Ussher, his former partner, who has also been sentenced. A search warrant conducted in June 2022 at Mr Orense’s residence found no business records, invoices, tools or equipment, that would suggest he was carrying out a house repair business that he claimed.
    • Abigail Ussher was sentenced in the Penrith District Court to 12 months’ imprisonment, to be released on recognisance after serving 5 months subject to conditions to be of good behaviour for 2 years and to accept the supervision and guidance of Community Corrections, for dealing in money or property that was and which Ms Ussher believed to be the proceeds of indictable crime, contrary to subsection 400.4(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). In 2022, Ms Ussher lodged 3 original and 4 revised BAS and received $117,297 in refunds through an ABN she claimed was for a business that provided crime scene cleaning services. Upon receiving the funds, Ms Ussher transferred them to personal accounts, or other third parties. She transferred funds to Kim Orense, her former partner, who has also been sentenced. An investigation into Ms Ussher’s bank activity and a search warrant on her home concluded that she was not carrying out a business and therefore not entitled to the refunds she had claimed.
    • Former ATO employee Menuwarage Ranasinghe was sentenced at Adelaide Magistrates Court to 4 months’ imprisonment with an order that she be released immediately upon giving security by recognizance of $500 to comply with a condition that she must be of good behaviour for 18 months for three counts of the offence of obtaining a financial advantage by deception. Ms Ranasinghe lodged three BAS which misrepresented the creditable expenses incurred by her business and, as a result, obtained $16,056.00 in GST refunds.
    • Former ATO contractor Baby Dee Zearwie was sentenced at Melbourne County Court to 8 months’ imprisonment, and immediately released on a two-year recognizance release order for 1 count of obtaining a financial advantage by deception by joint commission and 1 count of obtaining financial advantage by deception. Ms Zearwie obtained $87,649.60 in fraudulent GST refunds. She was also ordered to make reparations of $23,709.43.

    These matters were prosecuted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (Cth)(CDPP) following a referral from the ATO.

    You can confidentially report suspected tax crime or fraud to us by making a tip-off online or calling 1800 060 062.

    For more information about Operation Protego including recent sentencings, visit ato.gov.au/protego.

    Notes to journalists

    • As part of Operation Protego, the ATO has applied treatment against more than 57,000 alleged offenders. Those involved in this fraud have already been handed in the order of $300 million in penalties and interest.
    • As at 30 June 2025, 122 people have been convicted with a range of sentencing outcomes, including jail terms of up to 7 years and 6 months and with orders made to restrain real property.
    • The ATO has finalised 64 investigations and referred 54 briefs of evidence to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions. The figures do not include investigations into former ATO staff.
    • A high-resolution headshot of Deputy Commissioner and Serious Financial Crime Taskforce Chief John Ford is available from the ATO media centre
    • ATO stock footage and images is available for download and use in news bulletins from the ATO media centre.

    MIL OSI News –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Paul Lam promotes HK in Rome

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Justice Paul Lam continued his European visit by promoting Hong Kong’s unique legal advantages in Rome today.

    Mr Lam attended a networking lunch and meeting hosted by the Italy China Council Foundation and elaborated to the participants Hong Kong’s advantages of enjoying the strong support of the motherland while being closely connected to the world under the “one country, two systems” principle.

    He also explained to them how Hong Kong’s legal and dispute resolution services are conducive to international investment and trade.

    His itinerary in Rome also included calling on Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of Italy Jia Guide to brief him on the co-operation between the Department of Justice and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT) and the latest work progress on dispute resolution services.

    Mr Lam yesterday visited UNIDROIT and discussed its possible participation in the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy’s capacity-building programme and the work of organising the 2026 Asia-Pacific International Private Law Summit in Hong Kong.

    The justice chief also attended a seminar with UNIDROIT as the co-organiser and had dinner with former Minister of Justice of Italy and recipient of the 2024 Chinese Government Friendship Award Prof Oliviero Diliberto.

    He will leave Rome tomorrow and return to Hong Kong on July 13.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Forging Strength Through Partnership: U.S. and Jordan Launch Native Fury 25

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    Against the backdrop of desert terrain and fortified training zones, the roar of helicopters, the rumble of armored vehicles, and the sharp cadence of boots on gravel signaled the beginning of Exercise Native Fury 25—a powerful demonstration of unity, strength, and strategic readiness between the United States and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Lawler Introduces Bipartisan Bill Enhancing Abraham Accords Security Ties

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 7/10/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, introduced the Abraham Accords Defense Against Terror Act, bipartisan legislation that will expedite arms sales to U.S. partners that have normalized relations with Israel and are actively working with the United States to counter Iran and its terrorist proxies. 

    Specifically, it would narrow the timeline for congressional consideration after arms sales are accepted, while maintaining existing eligibility criteria for arms sales themselves. This is the same preferential treatment that our NATO allies receive. 

    Chairman Lawler is joined in introducing the bill by Representatives Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Ryan Zinke (MT-01), Donald G. Davis (NC-01), Bryan Steil (WI-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), Michael Baumgartner (WA-05), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Jeff Crank (CO-05), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Abraham Hamadeh (AZ-08), David Kustoff (TN-08), Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), Michael McCaul (TX-10), Mark Messmer (IN-08), Zach Nunn (IA-03), John Rose (TN-06), Maria Salazar (FL-27), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Elise Stefanik (NY-21), and Joe Wilson (SC-02).

    “As Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, I am committed to strengthening our relationships with regional partners and putting our ally Israel in the best position possible to do the same. There is no question that fostering deeper security relationships is key here,” said Chairman Lawler. “This legislation will do just that by providing greater benefits to our Abraham Accords and counterterrorism partners. It represents a key step toward implementation of the Abraham Accords and turning shared diplomatic commitments into real-world cooperation. Lastly, it sends a strong message to adversaries: the United States and its allies will not allow Iran’s proxies to destabilize the region unchecked.”

    “The Abraham Accords have been a historic model for peace between Israel and its neighbors, and we should be doing everything we can to expand it and bring more states into the fold,” said Congressman Moskowitz. “This commonsense bill builds on the progress of the Abraham Accords to incentivize others to normalize relations with Israel and cooperate against the threat of Iran and Iranian proxies, safeguarding our ally Israel’s very right to exist in the process,” said Congressman Moskowitz.

    “There are too many bureaucratic barriers that prevent us from assisting our closest allies in global security. This bill strengthens the ties forged by the Abraham Accords by ensuring our partners have expedited access to the tools they need to stand against Iran and its terrorist proxies. Israel is one of our closest and most vital allies, and peace through strength is the only way to secure the region and protect American interests. I’m proud to support this bipartisan effort to build on the success of the Abraham Accords and combat terrorism abroad,”  said Chairman Ryan Zinke of the House Foreign Affairs Foreign Military Sales Taskforce.

    “The Abraham Accords Defense Against Terror Act strengthens Israel’s qualitative military edge and ensures that our allies have the tools they need to confront shared threats head-on,” said Congressman Davis. “Congress must send a clear message to Iran and its proxies: America stands firmly with Israel and with those who choose peace and stability over terror. Israel’s security is non-negotiable and the United States will never waver in defending our closest ally in the Middle East.”

    “The Abraham Accords marked a major step toward peace in the Middle East, countering Iran’s influence and supporting our most important regional ally, Israel. The Abraham Accords Defense Against Terror Act builds on this historic agreement by encouraging the normalization of relations with Israel, combating Iran and its terrorist proxies, and strengthening the U.S. defense industrial base,” said Congressman Steil.

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler Urges President Trump to Restore Key Funding for After-School Programs in the Hudson Valley

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 7/11/25… Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) is urging President Trump to release federal funding for 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which provide vital before- and after-school programs across the Hudson Valley.

    These programs are particularly impactful for low-income students in low-performing schools. Local recipients of this funding include the New Square Community Improvement Council, Peekskill City School District, United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Westchester Jewish Community Services and so many great organizations in our community.

    “This program deeply aligns with [the] Administration’s goals to return power to the state, instead of Washington, D.C., bureaucrats. State Education Agencies are fully responsible for administering the grant, providing each community with the opportunity to distribute funding where it is most needed,” wrote Congressman Lawler.

    “21st Century Community Learning Centers are a perfect example of what happens when we take the federal government out of education – outcomes are better. Students that participate in these programs have been found to have better attendance records, are more engaged in their classes, and see improvements in their academic performance, including in reading and math” concluded Congressman Lawler in his letter. 

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    The full letter can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Aberdeen improves positive response score in latest edition of the National Student Survey The University of Aberdeen has increased its positive response score in the latest National Student Survey, reflecting its ongoing commitment to delivering an outstanding student experience.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The University of Aberdeen has received further positive responses in the latest National Student Survey

    The University of Aberdeen has increased its positive response score in the latest National Student Survey, reflecting its ongoing commitment to delivering an outstanding student experience.
    In terms of positive responses**, Aberdeen ranked first in the UK for Business Studies and History of Art, Architecture and Design.
    More broadly, the University was ranked within the Top 5 in the UK in seven other subjects:

    Biosciences (3rd)

    Earth Sciences (4th)

    English Studies (4th)

    Forensic & Archaeological Sciences (4th)

    Microbiology & Cell Science (4th)

    Biomedical Science (5th)

    Theology & Religious Studies (5th)

    Other areas where Aberdeen scored highly include ‘the right opportunities to give feedback on your course’, where the University ranked third in the UK and for the ‘balance between directed and independent study’ where the institution has the highest rank in Scotland.
    For overall satisfaction*– a question asked only in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland – the University retained its high ranking and was third across the devolved nations.
    At subject level – Aberdeen ranked first for overall satisfaction in the following areas:
    ·                Dentistry
    ·                Business Studies
    ·                Creative Writing
    ·                English Studies (non-specific)
    ·                French Studies
    ·                Linguistics

    While we’re proud of the progress we’ve made, we remain committed to continually enhancing the student experience and maintaining high levels of satisfaction at the University of Aberdeen” Professor Jo-Anne Murray

    ·                History of Art, Architecture and Design
    ·                Theology & Religious Studies
    ·                Law
    ·                Mathematics
    ·                Earth Sciences
    ·                Others in biosciences
    ·                Teacher Training
    Professor Jo-Anne Murray, Vice-Principal (Education) said: “The NSS is a vital reflection of how our students feel about their experience; it’s our opportunity to hear directly from those at the heart of everything we do.
    “Each year, we strive to provide the best possible learning environment and support for our students. While we’re proud of the progress we’ve made, we remain committed to continually enhancing the student experience and maintaining high levels of satisfaction at the University of Aberdeen and as such work will begin immediately to learn from and improve upon these scores.”
    The National Student Survey (NSS) is an independent survey that gathers final year undergraduate students’ opinions on the quality of their course.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Anti-social tenant evicted as part of tackling County Lines

    Source: City of York

    Following a ruling by a District Judge, a council tenant was evicted yesterday (Thursday 10 July 2025), after criminal activities and anti-social behaviour caused misery for their neighbours.

    This follows reports from local residents to the Council and North Yorkshire Police about substance misuse and dealing, and anti-social behaviour at a home in the west of the city.

    The anti-social behaviour in the home and local area included loud noise and arguments at the house, which disrupted and worried local people about its impact on their families.

    Following ongoing work with residents and North Yorkshire Police, City of York Council served the tenant a number of legal warnings of eviction. The tenant then unsuccessfully appealed against the warnings and also breached them.

    The Council then applied to York County Court for an eviction warrant. After considering the evidence, the District Judge granted it and evicted the tenant on Thursday 10 July.

    Councillor Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing and Safer Communities at City of York Council, said:

    Working with the police and neighbours, as this case shows, we take action against tenancy breaches to stop anti-social behaviour. We also fully support work to tackle illegal activity such as County Lines and the misery it heaps on communities.

    “This home will now be prepared to be sensitively re-let to another tenant as quickly as possible.”

    Sergeant Charlotte Gregory, from the York Community Safety Hub, said:

    Alongside City of York Council, we have worked tirelessly to robustly address the deeply concerning behaviour of the tenant, resulting in the County Court granting full possession of the property back to the Council.

    “This positive outcome, which falls under Operation Titan, North Yorkshire Police’s dedicated effort to combat County Lines drug dealing, shows we will use all available powers to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. The multi-agency approach involves more than criminal convictions, as this successful eviction clearly demonstrates.

    “The detrimental impact this behaviour has on residents, and the community as a whole, will not be tolerated.

    “We encourage residents to keep feeding information to the Council, to the police, or anonymously to Crimestoppers.

    “You can be assured that we will use it effectively against those suspected of being involved in drug dealing and related anti-social behaviour in our area.”

    The tenant was advised where they could get information about their options for new accommodation.

    To report anti-social behaviour:

    To report drug-related crime:

    • Anyone with any information about suspected drug-related crime are urged to make a report via the North Yorkshire Police website or by calling 101 and speaking to the Force Control Room.
    • Always dial 999 if an emergency response is required.
    • If you would prefer to remain anonymous, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or make a report online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

    The signs of drug-dealing can include:

    • Increased callers at a home at all times of the day or night
    • Increase in cars pulling up for short periods of time
    • Different accents at a home
    • Anti-social behaviour at a home
    • Not seeing the resident for long periods of time
    • Drug-related waste such as small plastic bags and syringes
    • Windows covered or curtains closed for long periods.

    For professional support for substance-related issues, visit:

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKSAR Government strongly condemns smears on Hong Kong by the US under pretext of the so-called “national emergency”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government today (July 11) strongly condemned the government of the United States (US) for, under the pretext of extending the so-called “national emergency”, once again overriding the rule of law with politics, and wantonly smearing, by despicable political maneuvers, the work of the HKSAR in preventing, suppressing and imposing punishment for activities endangering national security in accordance with the law.
     
    A spokesman for the HKSAR Government said, “The US has blatantly and repeatedly breached the international law and the basic norms underpinning international relations, and vainly interfered with the internal affairs of the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong matters by extending again the so-called ‘national emergency with respect to Hong Kong’. Such act is arbitrary and unreasonable. The US has time and again made skewed remarks about Hong Kong’s situation and imposed the so-called ‘sanctions’ on Hong Kong, attempting to interfere with Hong Kong’s law-based governance and undermine the city’s rule of law as well as its prosperity and stability. Their despicable plots are doomed to fail.
     
    “Endangering national security is a very serious offence. No country will watch with folded arms on acts and activities that endanger national security. With at least 21 pieces of laws safeguarding national security in the US, the US exposed their double standards as they pointed fingers at the HKSAR’s legal system and enforcement mechanisms to safeguard national security, while totally disregarding the constitutional duty and practical needs of the HKSAR to legislate, and the positive effects brought by the enactment of the relevant national security legislation on economic development and the protection of human rights.”
     
    The spokesman said, “In over five years of the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL), the HKSAR law enforcement agencies have been taking law enforcement actions based on evidence and strictly in accordance with the law in respect of the acts of the persons or entities concerned, which have nothing to do with their political stance, background or occupation. The Department of Justice of the HKSAR is in charge of criminal prosecutions under Article 63 of the Basic Law, with all its prosecutorial decisions made on an objective analysis of all admissible evidence and applicable laws. Everyone charged with a criminal offence will receive fair trial strictly in accordance with laws applicable to Hong Kong (including the HKNSL and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO)) and as protected by the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights.”
     
    “Since Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, human rights in the city have been robustly guaranteed constitutionally by both the Constitution and the Basic Law. The legal framework in safeguarding national security in the HKSAR is in line with relevant international human rights standards. The HKNSL and the SNSO clearly stipulate that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security. The rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as applied to the HKSAR are protected in accordance with the law.”
     
    The spokesman reiterated, “The HKSAR Government will, as always, resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the HKNSL, the SNSO and other relevant laws safeguarding national security in the HKSAR, to effectively prevent, suppress and impose punishment for acts and activities endangering national security in accordance with the law, whilst upholding the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong people in accordance with the law, so as to ensure the steadfast and successful implementation of the principle of ‘one country, two systems’. The HKSAR Government strongly demands the US to immediately stop acting against the international law and basic norms of international relations and interfering in Hong Kong matters which are purely China’s internal affairs.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: VIOLENT FELON SENTENCED FOR POSSESSING A FIREARM

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

    PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Tariq Dazour Walker, 27, of Pensacola, Florida was sentenced to 120 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    According to court records, on December 4, 2024, Pensacola Police Department responded to reports of shots fired at the Pensacola Village apartment complex. Multiple witnesses identified Walker as the shooter. Walker was a convicted felon at the time, with multiple prior felony convictions for robbery, grand theft auto, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Removing violent offenders from our communities remains a top priority of my office, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute those who terrorize our streets.  I deeply appreciate the combined efforts of our state and federal law enforcement partners to keep our neighborhoods safe, and my prosecutors will stand shoulder to shoulder with them in the fight to protect our communities from violent criminals.”

    Chief Eric Randall of the Pensacola Police Department said: “We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensure the safety of Pensacola. Our collaboration with our local, state and federal partners is unwavering in the pursuit to keep our neighborhoods safe from armed felons.”

    The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Escambia County Sherriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pensacola Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) 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).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: 21st Iteration of Pacific Partnership Prepares for Indo-Pacific Mission Aboard USS Pearl Harbor

    Source: United States Navy

    JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii – Pacific Partnership 2025 (PP-25) officially kicks off with the arrival of the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, led by Rear Admiral Todd F. Cimicata, U.S. Pacific Fleet Executive Agent for Pacific Partnership, and the mission commander, U.S. Navy Captain Mark B. Stefanik.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Secretary at the Police Bravery Awards

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Home Secretary at the Police Bravery Awards

    The Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, gave a speech at the annual Police Bravery Awards.

    Thank you very much, good evening everyone, and thank you as ever to the Police Federation and of course Police Mutual for organising the event this year, and thank you for the invitation to speak and to present this inspirational award.

    I’m very conscious as well of being asked to speak before everyone gets to eat as well.

    I’ve actually been an MP now for 28 years, of which 15 of them I have had the honour to be able to come here to this event.

    It was an early mistake that I tried to learn from in my first years as an MP, where I had been invited to the annual dinner from a local community organisation. I had all of the briefing notes from my new office, and they said, they wanted to speak for three quarters of an hour.

    Three quarters of an hour? And then they asked me to speak before dinner as well – seriously? And I got to 25 minutes into this speech, and I could see everybody just getting really, you know, picking up the glasses, getting increasingly irritable.

    We’ve got a chair next to me, obviously rustling bits of paper, and I’m thinking, and it still says speak for three quarters of an hour. And I kept going. I had said literally everything I could think of about this community organisation. And finally I sat down and the chair said to me, said “right, well, we’ve cancelled the first course. We’re going to move on.”

    I said – what have I done? He said “so we did ask your office if you could speak for four to five minutes.”

    So I will learn from that experience and try not to speak for too long. But I did want to just have a chance to pay some tributes and to say a huge thank you, because it’s many times I have been here in shadow roles, in different roles, and to see a huge amount of work that policing does, the bravery that policing shows.

    But this is my second time here and at the end of just my first year as a Home Secretary, and it has been a huge honour to see every single day this year the incredible work that policing does in so many different parts of the country, so many different ways.

    But I actually wanted to start by paying tribute not to the officers who’ve been nominated, not even to all of the officers and staff that support them, but to all the family members who are here and who do so much to support all of the officers, all of our police family in the work that they do.

    The policing family includes all of those family members who are here, who have to put up with, who have to get the kids to school, who have to sort out everything, and also deal with the stress and the worry and provide the support so that every one of you can do your job. So please join with me in saying a huge thank you and paying tribute to all of the family members.

    I want to say thank you as well to not just all of you, but everyone within policing and the the officers, the officers who’ve had to face the most difficult situations, but also all of the colleagues, all of the PCSOs, the staff, from the forensics officers to the family liaison support officers, everybody within policing who holds policing together, that in turn holds our communities together and keeps all of us safe.

    And we often talk about the way in which you have to run towards danger when the rest of us get to walk away, but you also have to run towards the trickiest, the most difficult situations that the rest of us can’t solve. And when everybody else has given up, it’s you that have to pick up the pieces. And as one officer that I spoke to this evening said, he was saying “well, it’s just the job we do.” He said “who else are you going to call?”

    And it’s true, when everything else goes belly up, you are the ones that we call. So I just wanted to say a huge thank you, because we owe you a huge debt of gratitude for being the ones we call when everything else has gone wrong, and for being the ones who are there to pick up the pieces too.

    So I want to thank you too to recognise the impact and the consequences that that can have for all of you, because I know too that this really isn’t an easy job, and it’s a special job, and you do it with the most incredible dedication, but it also has consequences, and there’s a price to be paid for doing such a difficult job as well.

    And so I wanted to just also say we’re drawing up now, and Diana Johnson, the Policing Minister, is here today as well. We’re drawing up now a policing reform white paper that recognises many of the challenges that are faced across policing. And we’re trying to do this in a different way, working with police forces, working with policing in a way that I don’t think governments previously have done.

    But we will also make sure that respect for the workforce and the support the workforce needs is also a part of that white paper.

    And I wanted to particularly to thank everyone for the work that has been done to roll out, based on some of the pilots that’s been done, the first police specific mental health crisis line, to be able to provide that added support that we will need to build on to make sure that we recognise the impact that this has, this incredible job also has on those who do this.

    I want to say a huge thank you to all of them, the award nominees here tonight, and to pay tribute and to honour the huge bravery shown. You will hear the stories later on. And some of those who I’ve spoken to have said, well, I’ve heard everybody else’s stories, but really, you know, I shouldn’t have been nominated, because look at the bravery that everybody else has shown. And I think everybody has, I’ve heard say something similar, and would really just say to all of you, please do, let us pay tribute to you, because the bravery you’ve shown in those split second moments has been truly incredible and has helped save lives and has helped change lives, and has been the crucial things that we depend on you to do. And we are saying thank you, both to you and also to all of your colleagues, through you as well.

    Those stories of total selflessness, where we’ve had people trapped in burning buildings or freezing waters with no hope of survival, until our police officers from Lincolnshire, Staffordshire, Derbyshire, Essex, Manchester and Sussex came running to their rescue.

    The stories of the sheer instinctive courage, where dangerous men were stopped from doing huge harm to others only because officers from Bedfordshire, Cheshire, Dorset, Durham, Hampshire, Leicestershire, Leyton, Suffolk, Surrey, Thames Valley, Tower Hamlets and Wiltshire were willing to put their own lives on the line to keep everybody else safe.

    And the stories of the incredible compassion where people who were ready to end their own lives were pulled back from the brink by the interventions from officers from Kent, from Humberside, from Norfolk, South Wales, West Yorkshire.

    And stories of officers from Cambridge and North Wales, Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire, dealing with apparently routine cases, issues that they were responding to, suddenly found themselves dealing with the most serious and deadly situations that they had to respond to with the utmost calm as well.

    And if the stories tell us anything, it’s the way in which all of you need to respond and be ready to respond to anything that you face, whether it’s the off duty officers in Lancashire or Southall breaking up fights in the street. Or in Cleveland, Cumbria, West Mercia, West Midlands, dealing with the mobs or gas explosions or speeding vehicles or dangerous dogs. Or in Northumbria, responding to the disgraceful disorder that broke out on the streets last summer.

    I am so sorry that so many of you who had to deal with frankly that disgraceful way, you should never have had to face the attacks on police officers by mobs, by missiles, and I will always back you in the job that you do to keep people safe.

    I think what the awards also show us is the fine line, the close margins between the miracles and the tragedies, and between the lives that you were able to save and the lives that no one could have saved.

    But you were still there, and you still did your best to help them, and the stories that we have this evening from Avon and Somerset, from Dyfed-Powys, from Gwent, from Northamptonshire and Warwickshire of officers trying to rescue individuals trapped in the most terrible of situations.

    So as we celebrate the lives that were saved, we also mourn the lives that were lost, and think of the victims too, and thank every officer for the incredible, incredible courage that was shown.

    And the same is true, perhaps most of all for our colleagues here this evening from Merseyside police, and I know they would give anything not to be in the room tonight and not to have their story be one of those that we once again, remember or be forced to relive that awful day once again.

    But we all know, and we’re all so grateful, because it was if it was not for you, and if it was not for your courage or the instinct that told you and your colleagues to run towards danger that day, there would be many more mums and dads in Southport today without their little girls to hold.

    So it’s a reminder, it’s a recognition of what something Sir Robert Peel said in a speech in Parliament 180 years ago when he talked about recognising the very best of public service, but also recognising you and through you, all of those that you work with too, because the service you have given, in his words, was “remembered, marked and honoured by a grateful country.”

    So I’m hugely grateful, but I say this on behalf of people right across the country. We’re hugely grateful for the bravery that you’ve shown, not just to face the really difficult things, but also then to get back up the following morning and to face it all again.

    So thank you for doing that. Thank you for caring so much for the job that you do, and thank you so much for being part of the amazing thing that is British policing. Thank you for keeping us safe.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson announces prison sentence for York Co. man who solicited teen, hurt two people in a car wreck when he fled policeRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – Attorney General Alan Wilson announced that, on July 9, Hunter Thomas Wallace pleaded guilty to one count of Criminal Solicitation of a Minor and two counts of Failure to Stop for Blue Lights with Great Bodily Injury, before the Honorable Perry H. Gravely in York County.

    In May of 2023, the York County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and other law enforcement officers throughout South Carolina, conducted a proactive undercover investigation to combat the online solicitation of minors in York County. A person, later identified as Wallace, contacted an undercover officer who had created an online persona of a 14-year-old female. After the undercover officer informed Wallace that he was speaking to a 14-year-old, Wallace proceeded to solicit sexual activity from and send nude images to the persona. Wallace, after requesting to meet in person to engage in sexual activity, traveled to a predetermined location in York County. After arriving at the location, Wallace drove away without having exited his vehicle. Law enforcement was able to locate the vehicle in a nearby parking lot. When blue lights were activated to initiate a stop, Wallace fled. Shortly thereafter, Wallace ran a red light and struck another vehicle. Two people in the vehicle suffered life-threatening injuries because of the collision.

    Judge Gravely sentenced Wallace to seven years for the Criminal Solicitation of a Minor charge, with credit for 776 days of jail time he’s already served. He was also given a consecutive sentence of 10 years suspended to three years of probation for the charges of Failure to Stop for Blue Lights with Great Bodily Injury. He must register as a sex offender upon release, and his driver’s license will be suspended for three years following the completion of his sentence.

    Assistant Attorney General Anna Sharpe prosecuted the case for the state.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Ramps Up Commitment to Advance Development and Cancer Care Across Africa

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Three Years of Rays of Hope

    The IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative aims to widen access to life-saving cancer care where it is needed most; by helping low- and middle-income countries establish or expand medical imaging, radiotherapy and nuclear medicine services. Since its launch in 2022, more than 90 countries have requested support under the initiative.  

    Malawi has already built it’s first-ever public radiotherapy centre (see below), while Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti and Lesotho are also in the process of establishing radiotherapy services. Linear accelerators for radiotherapy have been delivered to Kenya, Malawi, Niger and Paraguay. More than 80 cancer care professionals have been trained around the world, and 12 Rays of Hope Anchor Centres have been set up. 

    The Director General’s trip began in Addis Ababa at the Rays of Hope Forum, a gathering of countries taking stock of achievements made and planning vital next steps. 

    During the forum, the IAEA and St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital also entered a significant new partnership to address inequality in global childhood cancer care. 

    Read more about the Rays of Hope Forum here.

    While in Ethiopia the Director General met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali to talk health and energy. 

    Mr Grossi joined Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera and Health Minister Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe to open the country’s first public radiotherapy centre. 

    “This is a major milestone under Rays of Hope, which supported the centre with life-saving equipment,” said the Director General.

    During his ensuing visit to Kenya, the Director General met with Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale and other key members of the government. They exchanged views on support received so far and the importance of facilitating further training for Kenyans working in cancer care.

    Mr Grossi visited Monrovia, Liberia, marking the first time an IAEA Director General has ever been to the West African country.  

    “Today, with Rays of Hope support, we celebrated the groundbreaking of the country’s only radiotherapy facility. We are helping establish it, starting with a mammography unit and training to bring life-saving care to those who need it most. More support will soon be on the way,” said the Director General.  

    Mr Grossi met with President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Acting Foreign Minister Cllr. Deweh Grey, Health Minister Louise Kpoto, and several other ministers at the Environmental Protection Agency.  

    Beyond cancer care, the IAEA is also strengthening food security through Atoms4Food, reinforcing radiation safety, supporting sustainable water management, as well as Liberia’s national energy strategy.  

    As a marine country, Liberia faces ocean acidification and plastic pollution. “Nuclear science, including support through our NUTEC Plastics, can help protect its coasts and communities,” said the Director General. “There is much more we can do together. The IAEA is here, ready to continue supporting Liberia’s development in all its aspects.” 

    During the week, the Director General also travelled to Rwanda to attend the Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa (#NEISA2025) in Kigali. 

    Several countries in Africa are considering nuclear power as a clean, reliable & accessible energy option.
    At @NEISAfrica’s Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa #NEISA2025 in Kigali 🇷🇼, I saw a continent ready to act, and the @IAEAorg is ready to support. pic.twitter.com/1W7ytgD69x

    — Rafael Mariano Grossi (@rafaelmgrossi) July 1, 2025

    At the summit, the Director General also met with both Rwanda and Niger’s Prime Ministers to talk about support for smart agriculture and water management via Atoms4Food.  

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Ramps Up Commitment to Advance Development and Cancer Care Across Africa

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Three Years of Rays of Hope

    The IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative aims to widen access to life-saving cancer care where it is needed most; by helping low- and middle-income countries establish or expand medical imaging, radiotherapy and nuclear medicine services. Since its launch in 2022, more than 90 countries have requested support under the initiative.  

    Malawi has already built it’s first-ever public radiotherapy centre (see below), while Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti and Lesotho are also in the process of establishing radiotherapy services. Linear accelerators for radiotherapy have been delivered to Kenya, Malawi, Niger and Paraguay. More than 80 cancer care professionals have been trained around the world, and 12 Rays of Hope Anchor Centres have been set up. 

    The Director General’s trip began in Addis Ababa at the Rays of Hope Forum, a gathering of countries taking stock of achievements made and planning vital next steps. 

    During the forum, the IAEA and St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital also entered a significant new partnership to address inequality in global childhood cancer care. 

    Read more about the Rays of Hope Forum here.

    While in Ethiopia the Director General met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali to talk health and energy. 

    Mr Grossi joined Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera and Health Minister Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe to open the country’s first public radiotherapy centre. 

    “This is a major milestone under Rays of Hope, which supported the centre with life-saving equipment,” said the Director General.

    During his ensuing visit to Kenya, the Director General met with Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale and other key members of the government. They exchanged views on support received so far and the importance of facilitating further training for Kenyans working in cancer care.

    Mr Grossi visited Monrovia, Liberia, marking the first time an IAEA Director General has ever been to the West African country.  

    “Today, with Rays of Hope support, we celebrated the groundbreaking of the country’s only radiotherapy facility. We are helping establish it, starting with a mammography unit and training to bring life-saving care to those who need it most. More support will soon be on the way,” said the Director General.  

    Mr Grossi met with President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Acting Foreign Minister Cllr. Deweh Grey, Health Minister Louise Kpoto, and several other ministers at the Environmental Protection Agency.  

    Beyond cancer care, the IAEA is also strengthening food security through Atoms4Food, reinforcing radiation safety, supporting sustainable water management, as well as Liberia’s national energy strategy.  

    As a marine country, Liberia faces ocean acidification and plastic pollution. “Nuclear science, including support through our NUTEC Plastics, can help protect its coasts and communities,” said the Director General. “There is much more we can do together. The IAEA is here, ready to continue supporting Liberia’s development in all its aspects.” 

    During the week, the Director General also travelled to Rwanda to attend the Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa (#NEISA2025) in Kigali. 

    Several countries in Africa are considering nuclear power as a clean, reliable & accessible energy option.
    At @NEISAfrica’s Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa #NEISA2025 in Kigali 🇷🇼, I saw a continent ready to act, and the @IAEAorg is ready to support. pic.twitter.com/1W7ytgD69x

    — Rafael Mariano Grossi (@rafaelmgrossi) July 1, 2025

    At the summit, the Director General also met with both Rwanda and Niger’s Prime Ministers to talk about support for smart agriculture and water management via Atoms4Food.  

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Victim named in Knightsbridge murder investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A victim has been named following a fatal stabbing in Knightsbridge.

    Detectives are continuing to investigate the fatal stabbing of a man in Knightsbridge on Thursday, 9 July.

    Police were called to Seville Street at 21:24hrs following reports of a stabbing. Sadly, a man was declared dead at the scene by paramedics after sustaining stab wounds.

    The victim has been named as 24-year-old (27.07.2000) Blue Stevens from Yateley, Hampshire. His next-of-kin are aware and will continue to receive support from specialist officers.

    Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command, supported by local officers, are pursuing several lines of enquiry and you can expect to see more officers – both uniformed and plain-clothed – on patrol in the area. At this early stage no arrests have been made.

    BCU Commander Christina Jessah, who leads policing in Central West London and the Royal Parks, said: “Our thoughts remain with Blue’s loved ones following this tragic incident and they continue to be supported by specialist officers. They have asked for their privacy as they come to terms with Blue’s death.

    “We are working at pace to establish the exact circumstances and advise people avoid speculating while we continue our enquiries.

    “We understand the impact this incident has had on the local community and local businesses. That is why we have increased the number of police on patrol in the area and I encourage the public to speak to them if they have any questions or concerns.”

    Please call police on 0208 721 4961 referencing CAD 8521/09JUL if you were a witness or have any information which might help.

    You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Victim named in Knightsbridge murder investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A victim has been named following a fatal stabbing in Knightsbridge.

    Detectives are continuing to investigate the fatal stabbing of a man in Knightsbridge on Thursday, 9 July.

    Police were called to Seville Street at 21:24hrs following reports of a stabbing. Sadly, a man was declared dead at the scene by paramedics after sustaining stab wounds.

    The victim has been named as 24-year-old (27.07.2000) Blue Stevens from Yateley, Hampshire. His next-of-kin are aware and will continue to receive support from specialist officers.

    Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command, supported by local officers, are pursuing several lines of enquiry and you can expect to see more officers – both uniformed and plain-clothed – on patrol in the area. At this early stage no arrests have been made.

    BCU Commander Christina Jessah, who leads policing in Central West London and the Royal Parks, said: “Our thoughts remain with Blue’s loved ones following this tragic incident and they continue to be supported by specialist officers. They have asked for their privacy as they come to terms with Blue’s death.

    “We are working at pace to establish the exact circumstances and advise people avoid speculating while we continue our enquiries.

    “We understand the impact this incident has had on the local community and local businesses. That is why we have increased the number of police on patrol in the area and I encourage the public to speak to them if they have any questions or concerns.”

    Please call police on 0208 721 4961 referencing CAD 8521/09JUL if you were a witness or have any information which might help.

    You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Exercise Sea Breeze 25-2 Demonstrates Enhanced NATO Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Mine Countermeasures Capabilities in the UK

    Source: United States Navy

    Exercise Sea Breeze 25-2, hosted at Portland Port, United Kingdom, is underway, showcasing strengthened collaboration in explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) and mine countermeasures (MCM) between NATO Allies and partners. The exercise focuses on mentorship and tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) exchange, preparing a core group of nations for operations in the Black Sea region.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Around the Air Force: Department Level Exercise, Aeromedical Readiness, Recruiting Exceeds Goals

    Source: United States Spaceforce

    In this week’s look Around the Air Force, a DLE kicks off in multiple locations across the U.S. States and Indo-Pacific, a TAES exercise tests patient movement capabilities in contested environments, and the Air Force exceeds annual recruiting goals with its strongest DEP in the past decade.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ICC champions private sector de-risking at Ukraine Recovery Conference 

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: ICC champions private sector de-risking at Ukraine Recovery Conference 

    Speaking alongside Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Economy, Andrii Teliupa, at an ICC co-hosted roundtable on export finance for Ukraine’s reconstruction – an official URC25 side event – ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO announced ICC’s intention to establish a new Working Group on Export Finance for Reconstruction of Conflict-Afflicted Areas under the umbrella of the ICC Global Banking Commission. 

    “With the right risk mitigation tools in place, business can play a pivotal role in the reconstruction of Ukraine and other conflict-affected regions. ICC is proud to offer a trusted platform that fosters stronger public-private collaboration on export credit risk mitigation – enabling our global banking community to engage more effectively with public sector stakeholders on these critical issues.”  

    Mr Denton

    Held at the Luiss School of Law on 9 July, in partnership with the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine and the Kyiv School of Economics, the roundtable convened senior officials from commercial banks, Export Credit Agencies, Development Finance Institutions, Multilateral Development Banks, businesses, and international organisations for candid dialogue on persistent challenges and practical solutions to mobilise export finance and mitigate risks facing businesses involved in Ukraine’s recovery. 

    The roundtable formed part of a broader series of ICC engagements in Rome. On 11 July, Mr Denton highlighted the importance of mitigating dispute-related risks to attract foreign investment on a URC panel looking at revitalising and modernising the manufacturing sector to boost industrial competitiveness. During the session, Mr Denton unveiled new details of a dedicated ICC dispute resolution initiative announced in November 2024, confirming a 20% reduction on administrative expenses for disputes related to Ukraine’s reconstruction across ICC’s full range of dispute resolution services, including arbitration and mediation.   

    Speaking at a Confindustria and Deloitte event, “Connecting for Ukraine’s Future Prosperity” on 9 July, Mr Denton also underscored the role of public-private partnerships and targeted de-risking measures in supporting infrastructure activity in Ukraine – a strategic sector for recovery.  

    ICC’s activities at the Ukraine Recovery Conference build on engagements at the 4th UN International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) in Seville earlier this month, where ICC co-hosted a high-level event with UNCTAD and the Berne Union looking at ways to enhance de-risking mechanisms for sustainable investment. 

    Participation in the 2025 Ukraine Recovery Conference builds on ICC’s longstanding involvement in Ukraine’s recovery process. This includes collaboration with multilateral platforms including the Ukraine Donor Platform, its Business Advisory Council, and the SME Resilience Alliance for Ukraine. 

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    July 12, 2025

  • Indian Army launches ‘Operation SHIVA’ to ensure safe Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Army has launched ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’, a high-intensity annual security exercise to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Friday.

    This year’s deployment comes amid heightened threats from Pakistan-backed proxy groups, following recent operations in the Valley, officials said.

    Planned in coordination with the civil administration and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the operation aims to strengthen security along both the northern and southern routes of the pilgrimage.

    According to the Army, over 8,500 troops have been deployed this year, supported by a multi-layered counter-terror grid, advanced surveillance tools and disaster response measures.

    A dedicated counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) grid with over 50 systems and electronic warfare assets has been put in place to tackle possible drone threats. Continuous UAV surveillance missions and live monitoring of Yatra routes and the holy cave are also being carried out.

    Engineer units have been tasked with building and repairing bridges, widening tracks and undertaking disaster mitigation work. Medical arrangements include over 150 medical personnel, two advanced dressing stations, nine aid posts, a 100-bed hospital and 26 oxygen booths stocked with two lakh litres of oxygen, the Army said.

    Signal companies have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted communication, while bomb detection and disposal squads remain on standby. The Army has also kept helicopters ready for any emergencies.

    Other arrangements include emergency rations for over 25,000 people, Quick Reaction Teams, tent cities, water points and essential equipment such as bulldozers and excavators.

    High-resolution PTZ cameras and live drone feeds are being used to track convoys between Jammu and the cave shrine to enable early threat detection and swift response.

    The Army said Operation SHIVA 2025 reflects its commitment to securing the annual pilgrimage and ensuring a safe and uninterrupted passage for devotees.

    IANS

    July 12, 2025

  • Indian Army launches ‘Operation SHIVA’ to ensure safe Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Army has launched ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’, a high-intensity annual security exercise to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Friday.

    This year’s deployment comes amid heightened threats from Pakistan-backed proxy groups, following recent operations in the Valley, officials said.

    Planned in coordination with the civil administration and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the operation aims to strengthen security along both the northern and southern routes of the pilgrimage.

    According to the Army, over 8,500 troops have been deployed this year, supported by a multi-layered counter-terror grid, advanced surveillance tools and disaster response measures.

    A dedicated counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) grid with over 50 systems and electronic warfare assets has been put in place to tackle possible drone threats. Continuous UAV surveillance missions and live monitoring of Yatra routes and the holy cave are also being carried out.

    Engineer units have been tasked with building and repairing bridges, widening tracks and undertaking disaster mitigation work. Medical arrangements include over 150 medical personnel, two advanced dressing stations, nine aid posts, a 100-bed hospital and 26 oxygen booths stocked with two lakh litres of oxygen, the Army said.

    Signal companies have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted communication, while bomb detection and disposal squads remain on standby. The Army has also kept helicopters ready for any emergencies.

    Other arrangements include emergency rations for over 25,000 people, Quick Reaction Teams, tent cities, water points and essential equipment such as bulldozers and excavators.

    High-resolution PTZ cameras and live drone feeds are being used to track convoys between Jammu and the cave shrine to enable early threat detection and swift response.

    The Army said Operation SHIVA 2025 reflects its commitment to securing the annual pilgrimage and ensuring a safe and uninterrupted passage for devotees.

    IANS

    July 12, 2025

  • Indian Army launches ‘Operation SHIVA’ to ensure safe Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Army has launched ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’, a high-intensity annual security exercise to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Friday.

    This year’s deployment comes amid heightened threats from Pakistan-backed proxy groups, following recent operations in the Valley, officials said.

    Planned in coordination with the civil administration and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the operation aims to strengthen security along both the northern and southern routes of the pilgrimage.

    According to the Army, over 8,500 troops have been deployed this year, supported by a multi-layered counter-terror grid, advanced surveillance tools and disaster response measures.

    A dedicated counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) grid with over 50 systems and electronic warfare assets has been put in place to tackle possible drone threats. Continuous UAV surveillance missions and live monitoring of Yatra routes and the holy cave are also being carried out.

    Engineer units have been tasked with building and repairing bridges, widening tracks and undertaking disaster mitigation work. Medical arrangements include over 150 medical personnel, two advanced dressing stations, nine aid posts, a 100-bed hospital and 26 oxygen booths stocked with two lakh litres of oxygen, the Army said.

    Signal companies have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted communication, while bomb detection and disposal squads remain on standby. The Army has also kept helicopters ready for any emergencies.

    Other arrangements include emergency rations for over 25,000 people, Quick Reaction Teams, tent cities, water points and essential equipment such as bulldozers and excavators.

    High-resolution PTZ cameras and live drone feeds are being used to track convoys between Jammu and the cave shrine to enable early threat detection and swift response.

    The Army said Operation SHIVA 2025 reflects its commitment to securing the annual pilgrimage and ensuring a safe and uninterrupted passage for devotees.

    IANS

    July 12, 2025

  • Indian Army launches ‘Operation SHIVA’ to ensure safe Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Army has launched ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’, a high-intensity annual security exercise to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Friday.

    This year’s deployment comes amid heightened threats from Pakistan-backed proxy groups, following recent operations in the Valley, officials said.

    Planned in coordination with the civil administration and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the operation aims to strengthen security along both the northern and southern routes of the pilgrimage.

    According to the Army, over 8,500 troops have been deployed this year, supported by a multi-layered counter-terror grid, advanced surveillance tools and disaster response measures.

    A dedicated counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) grid with over 50 systems and electronic warfare assets has been put in place to tackle possible drone threats. Continuous UAV surveillance missions and live monitoring of Yatra routes and the holy cave are also being carried out.

    Engineer units have been tasked with building and repairing bridges, widening tracks and undertaking disaster mitigation work. Medical arrangements include over 150 medical personnel, two advanced dressing stations, nine aid posts, a 100-bed hospital and 26 oxygen booths stocked with two lakh litres of oxygen, the Army said.

    Signal companies have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted communication, while bomb detection and disposal squads remain on standby. The Army has also kept helicopters ready for any emergencies.

    Other arrangements include emergency rations for over 25,000 people, Quick Reaction Teams, tent cities, water points and essential equipment such as bulldozers and excavators.

    High-resolution PTZ cameras and live drone feeds are being used to track convoys between Jammu and the cave shrine to enable early threat detection and swift response.

    The Army said Operation SHIVA 2025 reflects its commitment to securing the annual pilgrimage and ensuring a safe and uninterrupted passage for devotees.

    IANS

    July 12, 2025

  • Indian Army launches ‘Operation SHIVA’ to ensure safe Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Army has launched ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’, a high-intensity annual security exercise to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Friday.

    This year’s deployment comes amid heightened threats from Pakistan-backed proxy groups, following recent operations in the Valley, officials said.

    Planned in coordination with the civil administration and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the operation aims to strengthen security along both the northern and southern routes of the pilgrimage.

    According to the Army, over 8,500 troops have been deployed this year, supported by a multi-layered counter-terror grid, advanced surveillance tools and disaster response measures.

    A dedicated counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) grid with over 50 systems and electronic warfare assets has been put in place to tackle possible drone threats. Continuous UAV surveillance missions and live monitoring of Yatra routes and the holy cave are also being carried out.

    Engineer units have been tasked with building and repairing bridges, widening tracks and undertaking disaster mitigation work. Medical arrangements include over 150 medical personnel, two advanced dressing stations, nine aid posts, a 100-bed hospital and 26 oxygen booths stocked with two lakh litres of oxygen, the Army said.

    Signal companies have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted communication, while bomb detection and disposal squads remain on standby. The Army has also kept helicopters ready for any emergencies.

    Other arrangements include emergency rations for over 25,000 people, Quick Reaction Teams, tent cities, water points and essential equipment such as bulldozers and excavators.

    High-resolution PTZ cameras and live drone feeds are being used to track convoys between Jammu and the cave shrine to enable early threat detection and swift response.

    The Army said Operation SHIVA 2025 reflects its commitment to securing the annual pilgrimage and ensuring a safe and uninterrupted passage for devotees.

    IANS

    July 12, 2025

  • Indian Army launches ‘Operation SHIVA’ to ensure safe Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Army has launched ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’, a high-intensity annual security exercise to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Friday.

    This year’s deployment comes amid heightened threats from Pakistan-backed proxy groups, following recent operations in the Valley, officials said.

    Planned in coordination with the civil administration and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the operation aims to strengthen security along both the northern and southern routes of the pilgrimage.

    According to the Army, over 8,500 troops have been deployed this year, supported by a multi-layered counter-terror grid, advanced surveillance tools and disaster response measures.

    A dedicated counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) grid with over 50 systems and electronic warfare assets has been put in place to tackle possible drone threats. Continuous UAV surveillance missions and live monitoring of Yatra routes and the holy cave are also being carried out.

    Engineer units have been tasked with building and repairing bridges, widening tracks and undertaking disaster mitigation work. Medical arrangements include over 150 medical personnel, two advanced dressing stations, nine aid posts, a 100-bed hospital and 26 oxygen booths stocked with two lakh litres of oxygen, the Army said.

    Signal companies have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted communication, while bomb detection and disposal squads remain on standby. The Army has also kept helicopters ready for any emergencies.

    Other arrangements include emergency rations for over 25,000 people, Quick Reaction Teams, tent cities, water points and essential equipment such as bulldozers and excavators.

    High-resolution PTZ cameras and live drone feeds are being used to track convoys between Jammu and the cave shrine to enable early threat detection and swift response.

    The Army said Operation SHIVA 2025 reflects its commitment to securing the annual pilgrimage and ensuring a safe and uninterrupted passage for devotees.

    IANS

    July 12, 2025

  • Indian Army launches ‘Operation SHIVA’ to ensure safe Amarnath Yatra in Kashmir

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Army has launched ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’, a high-intensity annual security exercise to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the Shri Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Friday.

    This year’s deployment comes amid heightened threats from Pakistan-backed proxy groups, following recent operations in the Valley, officials said.

    Planned in coordination with the civil administration and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the operation aims to strengthen security along both the northern and southern routes of the pilgrimage.

    According to the Army, over 8,500 troops have been deployed this year, supported by a multi-layered counter-terror grid, advanced surveillance tools and disaster response measures.

    A dedicated counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) grid with over 50 systems and electronic warfare assets has been put in place to tackle possible drone threats. Continuous UAV surveillance missions and live monitoring of Yatra routes and the holy cave are also being carried out.

    Engineer units have been tasked with building and repairing bridges, widening tracks and undertaking disaster mitigation work. Medical arrangements include over 150 medical personnel, two advanced dressing stations, nine aid posts, a 100-bed hospital and 26 oxygen booths stocked with two lakh litres of oxygen, the Army said.

    Signal companies have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted communication, while bomb detection and disposal squads remain on standby. The Army has also kept helicopters ready for any emergencies.

    Other arrangements include emergency rations for over 25,000 people, Quick Reaction Teams, tent cities, water points and essential equipment such as bulldozers and excavators.

    High-resolution PTZ cameras and live drone feeds are being used to track convoys between Jammu and the cave shrine to enable early threat detection and swift response.

    The Army said Operation SHIVA 2025 reflects its commitment to securing the annual pilgrimage and ensuring a safe and uninterrupted passage for devotees.

    IANS

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Dextall Closed $15M Series A as Leading Developers Back AI-Powered Prefab To Tackle Housing Crisis

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dextall, the construction technology company integrating design software with off-site manufacturing, has closed a $15 million Series A round to scale its AI-powered prefabrication platform nationwide.

    The round was anchored by industry powerhouses whose balance sheets and project pipelines rival those of major venture firms:

    • L+M Development Partners – a national leader in affordable and mixed-income housing, responsible for over $20 billion in development and more than 55,000 residential units built, preserved, or under construction.
    • Essence Development, founded by former NFL safety Jamar Adams, manages a $6 billion pipeline including nearly 4,000 affordable and workforce housing units and 3,000 market-rate units across the Northeast corridor.
    • Simpson Strong-Tie (NYSE: SSD) – the global leader in structural connectors, with $2.2 billion in 2024 revenue and a worldwide materials supply network spanning more than 50 facilities.

    L+M and Essence bring high-volume affordable housing projects where speed and cost certainty are critical. Simpson Strong-Tie strengthens Dextall’s global supply chain and supports its scalable model for distributed fabrication by leveraging its international footprint in material supply. This support, which also included participation from Winklevoss Capital, reflects growing investor demand for scalable technology that can modernize outdated industries.

    Dextall’s vertically integrated platform combines Dextall Studio, proprietary software that converts schematic designs into fully detailed architectural and fabrication drawings in under a week (a process that traditionally takes up to 36 months), with a modular façade system manufactured by certified regional partners and delivered through Dextall’s AI-powered operating system.

    This not only presents unprecedented efficiency, but addresses a critical moment for housing. Over 6 million people have applied for just 10,000 affordable units in New York City. Vacancy rates are at a record-low 1.4%, and average rents have surpassed $3,500/month. Affordable housing no longer lives within the standard two-story model, with buildings towering up to 50 in urban areas. Escalating costs, labor shortages, and supply chain delays have made many of these projects financially unfeasible.

    Dextall’s system removes those barriers, enabling large, complex developments to move forward where they would otherwise stall. By reducing the design-to-install timeline by up to 80%, onsite labor by up to 87%, and lowering operational energy costs by 20%, Dextall presents a solution to the affordable housing crisis facing America’s densest cities.

    Dextall also enables faster, safer, high-quality construction that aligns with Local Law 11 and decarbonization targets. Its model emphasizes a system for dismantling building in components, reducing landfill waste for a more sustainable approach.

    After four years of strategic execution, the company has built a $110 million project backlog and signed $50 million in new contracts during 2024 alone—demonstrating strong market adoption, commercial traction, and demand, even before securing institutional capital.

    Industry leaders are already engaging with Dextall: SOM and SLCE Architects are specifying Dextall panels on upcoming designs, while Turner Construction and Suffolk Construction are actively installing the panels on high-rise projects currently underway. These collaborations highlight that off-site fabrication can meet the industry’s highest design and performance standards without prolonging design cycles.

    “With investors who control tens of thousands of units, a global supply partner, and the top builders and architects already onboard, we’re not speculating about disruption—we’re delivering it at scale,” said Aurimas Sabulis, Dextall founder and CEO. “We’ve found clear product-market fit and built a model that is as scalable as it is practical—delivering real value where the industry needs it most.

    The Series A funding will accelerate the development of Dextall Studio, expand sales operations to Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Chicago, support the global expansion of fabrication capacity to meet growing demand, and lay the foundation for additional prefabricated building components.

    About Dextall
    Dextall is reshaping how mid- and high-rise buildings are designed and delivered—starting with exterior walls. By combining intelligent design automation with scalable prefabricated systems, Dextall shortens construction timelines, locks in project costs, and significantly reduces embodied carbon. The company’s goal is to eliminate 1 million days of coordination and construction time by 2030. Headquartered in New York City, Dextall is rapidly expanding across key U.S. markets.

    Media Contact
    media@dextall.com | +1 352 282 1294

    The MIL Network –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government to increase sexual offences courts 

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Government to increase sexual offences courts 

    Government is set to increase the national footprint of sexual offences courts as part of the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

    “Going forward, we will increase the national footprint of sexual offences courts, particularly in rural communities with additional 16 sexual offences courts to be established in line with the recent amendments to the law and two additional TCCs (Thuthuzela Care Centers). 

    “The Sexual Offences Courts shall assist to deal with the alarming figures of sexual violence in the country and offer support services that are tailor-made for the survivors of sex crime,” Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said.

    This as she tabled the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development Budget Vote on Wednesday.
    The Minister said that GBVF continues to devastate individuals and communities. 

    “We have a duty to do all that we can to protect the victims of gender-based violence, especially women and children. In this connection, the department has adopted a victim biased and victim centric approach which puts the victim first to avoid case bungling which gets perpetrators off the hook and secondary victimisation.”

    This as over the  2024-25 period, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) recorded 3 697 convictions in relation to sexual offence with over 79% convicted with direct imprisonment, while 44 147 victims were supported at the 66 TCCs across the country. 

    “In collaboration with [the] SAPS [South African Police Service], the DNA project has processed 60 518 DNA samples to track and deal with repeat sexual offenders and serial rapists.”

    Additionally, the department will ensure that all convicted sex offenders are registered in the National Register for Sexual Offenders (NRSO) and initiate a process to review legislation that is currently an inhibitor to the public release of this register. 

    The department further plans to ensure that protection orders are served by the clerk of the court on the respondent no later than 24 hours from the time the order is received by the clerk of the court.

    TRC matters 

    On matters related to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), the Minister said it was important for all of society to work together to heal the divisions of the past. 

    “The TRC made recommendations and in June 2003, Parliament approved the granting of reparations to TRC identified victims in respect of final reparation in the form of a once-off grant of R30 000,00; medical benefits and other forms of social assistance; symbols and monuments; and rehabilitation of communities for purposes of contributing to healing the wounds of the past and restoring human dignity.”

    She added that the total amount paid to individuals as interim reparations stands at almost R53 million while the total amount paid for the final once-off individual grants is just below R500 million.

    In basic education, the total number of learners funded is 11934 and the payments made to the beneficiaries in respect of this reparation is about R137 million.

    The total number of students funded is 1922 and the payments made to the beneficiaries in respect of this reparation is R132 million.

    “[The] Gallows Exhumation project out of a total of 180 remains recovered including missing persons, gallows and other cases 76 have been handed over to families and will conclude two that are remaining this year.

    On TRC related criminal cases and inquest work, there are total of 158 separate investigations. There are a total seven reopened inquests, 10 formal inquests, six finalised inquests, four pending inquests and two convictions.

    “President Cyril Ramaphosa has established A Judicial Commission of Inquiry into allegations regarding efforts or attempts were made to stop the investigation or prosecution of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission cases to be chaired by retired Constitutional Court Judge Sisi Khampepe,” said the Minister.

    READ | President establishes commission of inquiry into delay in TRC cases

    The establishment of the commission of inquiry is part of an agreement reached in settlement discussions in a court application brought by families of victims of apartheid-era crimes. 

    Fighting fraud and corruption

    On matters related to the fight against fraud, the department will increase efforts towards disrupting and reducing the effects of organised crime through a multi-stakeholder approach. It will collaborate closely with key partners, including the SAPS, Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS). 

    “The Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the NPA successfully recovered over R3.9 billion in ill-gotten gains through the implementation of the Corporate Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanism, thus ensuring that persons and entities do not benefit from unlawful activities and corruption.”

    In the financial year 2024/25, the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) recovered a cash value of more than R833 million, assets to the value of R 1.3 billion, set aside irregular contracts worth R 5.6 billion and prevented potential loss to the state to tune R 2.7 billion.

    “The establishment of the Special Tribunal has allowed for expedited resolutions and substantial recovery for the state, showcasing the Unit’s effectiveness. The SIU will also enhance its anti-corruption through among others establishing a dedicated Lifestyle Audit Unit as a permanent capability to enhance its mandate in detecting unexplained wealth and preventing corrupt practices.”

    “This initiative includes the acquisition of an advanced lifestyle audit analytics tool that will increase efficiency and enable high-quality, evidence-based reporting. The Unit will ensure protection of whistle-blowers and SIU personnel integral to upholding the integrity of anti-corruption efforts,” said Kubayi. –SAnews.gov.za 

    Neo
    Fri, 07/11/2025 – 10:37

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Files Statement of Interest on Suppression of Competition in the Marketplace of Ideas Through Deplatforming of Rival Viewpoints

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Today, the Justice Department filed a statement of interest in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia in the case of Children’s Health Defense et al. v. Washington Post et al. The lawsuit — led by plaintiffs allegedly deplatformed for sharing independent news and opinion related to the COVID-19 pandemic — alleges that the Washington Post, BBC, AP, and Reuters colluded with one another and with the large digital platforms to suppress competition from independent perspectives that rival mainstream media.  The statement of interest explains how the antitrust laws protect viewpoint competition in news markets.    

    “When companies abuse their market power to block out and deplatform independent voices and protect legacy media, they harm competition and threaten the free flow of information on which consumers depend,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “This Antitrust Division will always defend the principle that the antitrust laws protect free markets, including the marketplace of ideas.”   

    The Antitrust Division routinely files statements of interest and amicus briefs in federal court where doing so will help protect competition and consumers, including by encouraging the sound development of the antitrust laws. A collection of these statements of antitrust and amicus filings is publicly available on the Division’s website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 12, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Around the Air Force: Department Level Exercise, Aeromedical Readiness, Recruiting Exceeds Goals

    Source: United States Air Force

    In this week’s look Around the Air Force, a DLE kicks off in multiple locations across the U.S. States and Indo-Pacific, a Theater Aeromedical Evacuation System exercise tests patient movement capabilities in contested environments, and the Air Force exceeds annual recruiting goals with its strongest Delayed Entry Program in the past decade.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 12, 2025
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