NewzIntel.com

Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Sanction Palestinian Leadership and Institutions That Reward Terrorism

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353January 23, 2025
    Cotton, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Sanction Palestinian Leadership and Institutions That Reward Terrorism
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today reintroduced the PLO and PA Terror Payments Accountability Act, legislation that would impose sanctions on foreign persons and entities that provide payments to Palestinian terrorists and the families of terrorists as part of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Palestinian Authority’s (PA) system of terror compensation. 
    Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Tim Scott (R- South Carolina), and Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) are cosponsoring the legislation. Congressman Mike Lawler (New York-17) will be introducing companion legislation in the House. 
    “The Palestinian Authority and the Palestine Liberation Organization continue to support terrorism against Israel by providing hundreds of millions of dollars per year in their reprehensible ‘pay-for-slay’ program. Anti-Semitic Palestinian terrorists know they can expect payment as a reward for killing Israelis and Americans–with thousands of Palestinian terrorists tied to October 7 eligible for these terror payments. Our bill will ensure that the PA, PLO and their institutions that reward acts of terrorism are punished,” said Senator Cotton.
    Text of the bill may be found here.  
    The PLO and PA Terror Payments Accountability Act would impose sanctions on:
    Foreign persons who serve as an employee of the PLO and PA that has facilitated the payments, provided payments themselves, or knowingly provided significant financial, technological, or material support and resources as part of the PLO and PA’s system of compensation supporting acts of terrorism. 
    Entities that facilitate the PLO and PA system of compensation supporting acts of terrorism including the Commission of Prisoners and Released Prisoners, the Institute for the Care of the Families of the Martyrs and the Wounded, the Palestine National Fund, and National Association of the Families of the Martyrs of Palestine.
    Foreign financial institutions that participate in a financial transaction that is part of the PLO and PA’s system of compensation supporting acts of terrorism. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump has fired a major cyber security investigations body. It’s a risky move

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Toby Murray, Professor of Cybersecurity, School of Computing and Information Systems, The University of Melbourne

    Before the end of its first full day of operations, the new Trump administration gutted all advisory panels for the Department of Homeland Security. Among these was the well-respected Cyber Safety Review Board, or CSRB.

    While this change hasn’t received as much notice as Trump’s massive announcement about AI, it has potentially significant implications for cyber security. The CSRB is an important source of information for governments and businesses trying to protect themselves from cyber threats.

    This change also throws into doubt the board’s current activities. These include an ongoing investigation into the Salt Typhoon cyber attacks which began as early as 2022 and are still keeping cyber defenders busy, attributed to hackers in China.

    Salt Typhoon has been described as the “worst telecommunications hack” in US history. Among other activities, the hackers obtained call records data made by high-profile individuals and even the contents of phone calls and text messages. The phones of then presidential nominee Donald Trump were reportedly among those targeted.

    What does the Cyber Safety Review Board do?

    The board was established three years ago by the Biden administration. Roughly speaking, its job is the cyberspace equivalent of government air traffic investigation bodies such as the US National Transportation Safety Board, or the Australian Transport Safety Bureau.

    The CSRB investigates major cyber security incidents. Its job is to determine their causes and recommend ways government and businesses can better protect themselves, including on how to prevent similar incidents in future.

    Its members include global cyber security luminaries from industry, such as cyber executives from Google and Microsoft, and US government leaders from several departments and agencies concerned with security.

    The US CSRB has previously published three major reports. Its first covered the infamous 2021 Log4j vulnerability, described at the time as the “single biggest, most critical vulnerability ever”. (A vulnerability is a weakness in a computer system that cyber criminals can exploit.)

    The board’s most recent published investigation involved a very sophisticated hacking campaign that targeted Microsoft’s cloud email services in 2023. As a result, hackers even gained access to the emails of various US government agencies.

    Cyber security experts widely consider the CSRB as a positive thing. Late last year, Australia even committed to establish its own version, the Cyber Incident Review Board.

    At the time of writing, it’s unclear whether the CSRB will continue – perhaps with different membership – or whether its activities will cease entirely.

    Either way, the decision to fire the board’s members has significant security implications. It comes at a moment in history when cyber threats have never been more severe.

    What is Salt Typhoon?

    The CSRB has been investigating the Salt Typhoon hacking campaign. Salt Typhoon is the name Microsoft assigned to a sophisticated group of hackers believed to be operated by China’s Ministry of State Security. The ministry is somewhat like a combination of an intelligence agency and a secret police service.

    Salt Typhoon is best known for hacking into several US telecommunication companies, first reported in August 2024. In December, it came to light Salt Typhoon’s telco hacks may also have impacted countries beyond the US. American, Australian, Canadian and New Zealand authorities also jointly issued public guidance to organisations to help defend against Salt Typhoon.

    Salt Typhoon reportedly targeted prominent figures, including political leaders. The hackers’ goal appears to have been to collect intelligence, rather than cause damage.

    For example, it has been reported Salt Typhoon collected a list of all phone calls made near Washington DC, which could help them determine who was talking to whom in the US capital.

    Salt Typhoon also reportedly obtained a list of phone numbers wiretapped by the US Justice Department. This confirmed the fears of many people opposed to the government’s powers to lawfully wiretap citizens’ phones.

    It is unclear why the hackers obtained that information. Some have speculated it would identify which of their own operatives were being monitored by US law enforcement.

    To say the Salt Typhoon revelations created waves in government and cyber security circles is putting it mildly. Telecommunications are critical infrastructure, as well as highly valuable targets for intelligence collection.

    The idea that foreign spies could burrow so deeply into the communication fabric of the US was unprecedented and disturbing.

    In October 2024 the CSRB was tasked with investigating Salt Typhoon’s activities.

    An uncertain future

    With the board now fired, the future of the Salt Typhoon investigation remains unclear.

    A thorough and impartial investigation of the Salt Typhoon hacks, had it been allowed to run, was likely to have delivered highly valuable cyber security lessons. Those lessons are important for both US companies and those in Australia, which have also been the targets of Chinese intelligence collection.

    The future of the CSRB itself is now also in question. The board and its overseas equivalents serve a vital role in promoting cyber information-sharing that helps to improve best practices.

    It is imperative these bodies are staffed with a diverse collection of impartial experts, able to carry out their work free from government and corporate interference.

    It remains to be seen whether dissolving the current CSRB will be a gift to Chinese hackers (as some have claimed), or simply a speed bump in the evolution of the board.

    Toby Murray is the Director of the Defence Science Institute, which receives Commonwealth and State government funding. Toby receives research funding from the Australian government and has previously received funding from the US Department of Defense, Facebook and Google.

    – ref. Trump has fired a major cyber security investigations body. It’s a risky move – https://theconversation.com/trump-has-fired-a-major-cyber-security-investigations-body-its-a-risky-move-248106

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Johnson, Grassley Launch Congressional Investigation into Deadly New Year’s Day Attacks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson
    WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Chairman Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) called for answers in the aftermath of the tragic New Year’s Day attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas. 
    Sens. Johnson and Grassley are demanding the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Defense (DOD), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) provide further information on the backgrounds and motives of the ISIS-inspired New Orleans attacker, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, and Las Vegas perpetrator, Matthew Alan Livelsberger. 
    Additionally, the chairmen are requesting records from Meta regarding Jabbar’s Facebook activity leading up to his deadly assault in New Orleans’ French Quarter. Jabbar posted five videos to his Facebook page in the hours before the attack describing his ISIS allegiance and harmful intent.
    “The public deserves complete transparency and the truth regarding the New Orleans terrorist attack and the Las Vegas car explosion,” the chairmen wrote. “While we understand the investigation into both of these incidents is ongoing, we expect your agencies to be forthcoming and responsive to oversight requests from Congress on this very serious matter.”
    The senators are also following up on legally protected whistleblower disclosures that the FBI Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the New Orleans field office was on vacation during the New Year’s attack. Since receiving the senators’ letters, the FBI has confirmed the New Orleans SAC was on vacation at the time and did not return to New Orleans until January 2.
    “These are major public events that a SAC should be present for. The FBI failed to note this in any of the joint briefings it provided to Congress and must provide more information,” the chairmen noted.
    Sens. Johnson and Grassley’s letters are linked below:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: King Stresses that “All of the Above” Energy Policy Means Exploring All Power Sources

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a hearing of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee (ENR) to consider the nominations of Chris Wright to be Secretary of Energy and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum to be Secretary of Interior, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) noted the omission of wind and solar technologies in recent Executive Orders despite public statements pledging an “all of the above” approach to energy. Senator King began his remarks by reiterating his support for the two nominees, while also making clear the need to recognize the value of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
    “Thank you so much. I supported both nominees. I don’t expect to agree with everything any nominee holds, but I think that both of these nominees understand these issues — the issues before us — quite well. I will echo Senator Hickenlooper’s comments, I look forward to working with both of them. I think they will make a significant contribution. I wanted to make a more general comment. In this committee I have heard the phrase “all of the above” 100 times. Unfortunately, in the last couple of days it appears that “all of the above” doesn’t include wind and solar. Anybody who thinks wind power doesn’t produce real electricity, I would advise them to go to a project to put their tongue on the bus bar of a wind turbine to see if it’s real energy. Of course, it is. The development of those technologies — which, by the way, wind and solar are the cheapest electrical generation technologies available today, three cents per kilowatt hour is the average across the country, lower than anything else. Combined cycled natural gas is close. The intermittency problems we discussed are solvable. They are solvable by natural gas as a potential backup that can be ramped up and ramped down as needed. It can be solved, of course, by the incredible development of battery technology which Senator Heinrich mentioned,” said Senator King.
    Speaking to the urgency of climate change, Senator King echoed the importance of keeping every option on the table to help deliver sustainable and economically viable energy solutions.
    “So, all I want to do is reiterate my belief that ‘all of the above’ includes all of the available technologies, as well as those still in development: small modular reactors, geothermal. There are tremendous opportunities out there, but to try to say that there is only one source of energy and that it lies beneath the surface of the Earth and is not geothermal, that’s not accurate, nor does it take cognizance to the real effects that both witnesses acknowledge of climate change. We can argue whether it causes a particular disaster or not, but no one can argue that the climate is changing and that it is having an effect. We see it in Maine in our forests, in our oceans — the Gulf of Maine is warming faster than any other body of water on Earth with the exception of the Arctic Ocean. I think it’s ironic by the way, the sudden interest in Greenland, and it’s strategic value rests upon the 75% reduction in Arctic Ocean ice over the last 40 years. Either climate change is real or it isn’t, but it is certainly real in many areas of the country and to argue to the contrary is not realistic. It is a challenge that we have to meet and I hope that we don’t take tools out of our toolbox that can contribute to the solution of that problem, as well as sustainable and economically viable energy. Thank you, Mr. Chairman,” concluded Senator King.
    As a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Senator King has advocated for climate solutions that deliver on the clean energy potential of the historic Inflation Reduction Act. He has repeatedly emphasized the importance of permitting reform to deliver carefully considered, timely approvals of sorely-needed clean energy projects. Senator King has also been one of the Senate’s most vocal advocates for improving energy storage technologies and development and worked to include significant storage investments in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. 
    Recently, Senator King published an Op-Ed and spoke with CNN regarding his positions on the advise and consent process of Cabinet-Level nominees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: One charged following aggravated robbery and flee in Whangārei 

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has been taken into custody following outstanding Police work in Whangārei overnight.

    At about 5.10pm, officers spotted a vehicle which had been identified from two robberies in the Kensington and Tikipunga areas on 22 January.

    Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer, Whangārei CIB, says Police signalled for the vehicle to stop in Otangarei however it failed to do so and fled from Police.

    “The vehicle was then abandoned and the occupants fled.

    “The dog unit arrived quickly, putting cordons in place and locating two people within minutes.”

    Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says a 16-year-old was arrested and charged with aggravated robbery and unlawfully getting into a vehicle. Further charges are being considered.

    “This was an excellent example of a well-coordinated response to some dangerous behaviour within our community.

    “If you witness any unlawful behaviour please contact Police, you can report information to us by calling 111 if it is happening now or via 105 either online or over the phone if it’s after the fact.”

    The 16-year-old will appear in Whangārei Youth Court today.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from a DHS Spokesperson on Directive Expanding Immigration Law Enforcement

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Statement from a DHS Spokesperson on Directive Expanding Immigration Law Enforcement

    ASHINGTON – Today, Acting Department of Homeland Security Secretary Benjamine Huffman issued a directive essential to fulfilling President Trump’s promise to carry out mass deportations.
    The directive gives Department of Justice (DOJ) law enforcement officials in the U.S. Marshals, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons authority to investigate and apprehend illegal aliens.
    “Thanks to the last Administration’s open border policies, we’ve seen violent criminals and gang members terrorize American communities. Today’s action empowers law enforcement officials at the DOJ to help identify and apprehend aliens who have illegally come into our country. Mobilizing these law enforcement officials will help fulfill President Trump’s promise to the American people to carry out mass deportations. For decades, efforts to find and apprehend illegal aliens have not been given proper resources. This is a major step in fixing that problem.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: San Joaquin County Man Pleads Guilty for his Role in Murder-for-Hire Plot

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jagninder Singh Boparai, 48, of Manteca, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to use interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, Boparai conspired with Ramesh Kumar Birla Jr., 45, of Dublin, and Shaminderjit Singh Sandhu, 51, of Tracy, to murder Victim 2. In February 2023, Boparai met with a person he believed to be a hitman at a Starbucks in Manteca. Unbeknownst to Boparai and his co-defendants throughout their interactions, the hitman was a confidential informant working for the FBI. Boparai told the supposed hitman that the first job involved the assault of Victim 1, and once he proved his trustworthiness, he would be given another job. The following day, Boparai met the confidential informant again and offered to pay $6,000 for the assault of Victim 1. In March 2023, in the presence of Birla and another individual, Boparai met with the confidential informant, and Boparai gave the confidential informant $1,000 as a down payment for the assault. According to court documents, after more time had passed, the confidential informant showed Boparai a staged photo of Victim 1 laying on the ground covered in bruises, dirt, and blood to indicate the assault had occurred. Boparai said he liked the photo and told the confidential informant that he had two other “jobs,” one of which involved robbing a business, and the other involved making a person “disappear.”

    According to court documents, in March 2023, Boparai met with the confidential informant to pay the confidential informant $10,000 as a down payment for the murder of Victim 2. Sandhu provided Victim 2’s address, and Boparai instructed the confidential informant that Victim 2 must disappear without any evidence remaining. Boparai then made two calls to Birla asking for Victim 2’s Facebook profile. Boparai subsequently received a Facebook profile picture of Victim 2, which he showed to the confidential informant. On March 24, 2023, Sandhu and Birla met with the confidential informant in a parking lot in Manteca. Sandhu and Birla claimed that Boparai was out of town, but Boparai was observed by surveillance remaining in a car in the same parking lot. Sandhu and Birla instructed the confidential informant to kill Victim 2 and take Victim 2’s remains to Mexico in a suitcase.

    All three defendants were arrested on March 31, 2023, and are currently in federal custody.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the California Highway Patrol, the Ceres Police Department, the Dublin Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the Lathrop Police Department, the Modesto Police Department, the San Joaquin County Probation Office, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office, the Stockton Police Department, the Tracy Police Department, the Turlock Police Department, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian T. Kinsella is prosecuting the case.

    Boparai is scheduled to be sentenced on May 8, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta. He faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    The remaining two defendants are scheduled for a further status conference on April 10, 2025. If convicted, they each face the same penalties as Boparai. As to these two co-defendants, the charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Kodiak residents indicted for drug trafficking related to 2022 fatal fentanyl overdose

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment this week charging three Kodiak residents with drug trafficking crimes in Alaska, including distributing fentanyl which resulted in a fatal overdose.

    According to court documents, between February 2022 and July 2023, Ashley Katelnikoff, 37 and Gerry Pugal, 37, allegedly conspired together to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl and over 500 grams of a mixture containing methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine.
    Court documents further allege that on or about Aug. 25-26, 2022, Katelnikoff distributed fentanyl as part of the conspiracy, which resulted in the death of a victim.

    The indictment also alleges that between Nov. 21-29, 2022, Pugal and Kalani Coyle, 32, attempted to possess with intent to distribute over 400 grams of a fentanyl mixture and over 50 grams of a mixture containing methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine.

    Katelnikoff is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances resulting in death and one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. Pugal is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances resulting in death and one count attempted possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. Coyle is charged with one count of attempted possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. The defendants will make their initial court appearance on a later date before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, Katelnikoff and Pugal face between 20 years to life in prison, and Coyle faces 10 years to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
    U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska and Special Agent in Charge David Reames of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Seattle Division Office made the announcement.

    The DEA Seattle Division Office and Anchorage District Office, with significant assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Anchorage Domicile, IRS Criminal Investigation Seattle Field Office, Alaska State Troopers and the Kodiak Police Department, are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alana Weber, Chris Schroeder and Stephan Collins are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colorado Springs Man Sentenced To 13 Years For Being A Felon In Possession of a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Lemich Riddle, 27, Colorado Springs, was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison after being found guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    According to the facts established at trial, on November 1, 2022, officers in Colorado Springs located Riddle, who had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.  Colorado Springs Police Department SWAT team officers took him into custody as he was driving back to his apartment.  In his car, officers found six firearms. Riddle has a prior felony conviction that prohibits him from possessing firearms.

    “We will always prosecute dangerous felons who possess weapons,” said United States Attorney Matt Kirsch. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of this defendant’s continued violation of the law.

    “CSPD strives for excellence in every investigation, and those around the illegal possession of firearms are no different,” said Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vasquez. “This case highlights how the quality work of our investigators can be amplified by our partnership with federal authorities, resulting in significant sentencing that holds individuals accountable in meaningful ways that also make our community safer.”

    United States District Court Judge Regina M. Rodriguez presided over the sentencing. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and the Colorado Springs Police Department handled the investigation. The Violent Crime and Immigration Section of the United States Attorney’s Office handled the prosecution.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    Case Number: 23-cr-00051-RMR

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police locate trove of stolen items in search warrant following air ambulance burglary

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Constable Ashley Wilson:

    Police investigating the burglary of an air ambulance helicopter in Mosgiel have located a trove of stolen items from several other burglaries.

    As a result of ongoing enquiries into the air ambulance helicopter burglary on 12 January, Police executed a search warrant at a Dunedin address yesterday afternoon.

    The recovered stolen items are believed to have been taken during the burglaries of multiple commercial and residential properties in early January this year.

    A bag containing medical equipment was found in the large amount of stolen property, and it is believed all items in the bag have been recovered.

    Some property has been identified from stores including Torpedo Seven, Off the Chain Bike Shop, Chisholm Park Golf Shop, Cash Converters, and 2Degrees. Many other stolen items are yet to be identified and returned to their respective stores.

    A 31-year-old man was arrested in Dunedin on 15 January in relation to the burglary of the air ambulance helicopter and two other burglaries.

    After the results of the search warrant, further charges are likely.

    The 31-year-old man is due to reappear on Tuesday 4 February in Dunedin District Court.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alleged Sinaloa Cartel Leader Extradited from Mexico, Appears in Court

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Alleged Sinaloa Cartel cell leader Octavio Leal-Hernandez, aka Chapito Leal, who is believed responsible for trafficking large amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin and marijuana into the United States from Mexico, appeared in federal court today following his extradition from Mexico yesterday.

    Leal-Hernandez was indicted by a federal grand jury in the Southern District of California in May 2020 for International Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances and Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances.

    At today’s hearing, Leal-Hernandez was arraigned and entered a not-guilty plea before U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara L. Major. The judge granted the government’s request that the defendant be held without bond pending trial. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 10, 2025, for a motion hearing/trial setting in front of U.S. District Court Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks.

    The government filed a memorandum today in support of its request for detention that describes Leal-Hernandez as a cell leader who rose through the ranks of the Sinaloa Cartel. The memo said Leal-Hernandez was aligned with the Beltran-Leyva faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, specifically with Fausto Isidro Meza Flores, aka Chapo Isidro. Meza Flores is the co-leader of the Beltran-Leyva faction of the Sinaloa Cartel and was designated by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control as a Foreign Narcotics Kingpin.

    Between January 2012 and April 2012, law enforcement authorities lawfully intercepted wire and electronic communications between Leal-Hernandez and several of his drug trafficking associates. The wiretap intercepts confirmed that Leal-Hernandez was a leader/organizer of the Beltran-Leyva faction of the Sinaloa Cartel in Tijuana, Mexico and was responsible for supplying drug distributors in Southern California and other destinations within the United States. The wiretap intercepts also confirmed that Leal-Hernandez has committed acts of violence to facilitate his drug trafficking activities.

    Further investigation after 2012 until his arrest in 2020 confirmed that Leal-Hernandez remained one of the organization’s leaders, responsible for directing, managing, and overseeing the organization’s drug trafficking in Tijuana.

    According to the government’s detention memorandum, Leal-Hernandez oversaw the collection and preparation of large shipments of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and marijuana from Tijuana, Mexico into the United States. He then directed organization members to coordinate the logistics of storing the drugs in the organization’s stash houses and transporting them to the organization’s distributors and customers throughout California and elsewhere in the United States.

    “This appearance in an American court is the result of our unwavering pursuit of those who perpetuate violence and push narcotics into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “We will hold traffickers accountable, no matter how long it takes.”

    “The arrest and extradition of Leal-Hernandez marks a significant victory in our relentless fight against the deadly scourge of narcotics trafficking. This joint Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was made possible due to the dedication, expertise, and extensive investigative work of our special agents and our invaluable federal law enforcement partners,” said Shawn Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in San Diego. “We extend our deepest gratitude to all involved for their unwavering hard work, commitment, and collaboration.”

    “Drug traffickers are predators that must be held accountable for the harm they cause,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian Clark. “The capture and extradition of Leal-Hernandez is a reminder to any cartel member that there is nowhere to hide; we will use every tool at our disposal to hold you accountable because no one is beyond the grasp of the DEA and our law enforcement partners.”

    “International drug cartels cause immeasurable harm to the American public by importing lethal narcotics and committing acts of violence which terrorize our community,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “The serious and sustained actions of international drug traffickers will not be tolerated, and we will continue to work closely with our partners to keep our communities safe.”

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Mellor. The U.S. Marshals Service completed the removal of Leal-Hernandez from Mexico to the Southern District of California.

    DEFENDANTS                                             Case Number 20cr1224                                               

    Octavio Leal-Hernandez                                Age: 44           Tijuana

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    International Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 959, 960, and 963

    Maximum Penalty: Life, Mandatory Minimum: Ten years

    Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 846.

    Maximum penalty: Life, Mandatory Minimum: Ten years

    INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

    Homeland Security Investigations

    Drug Enforcement Administration

    Federal Bureau of Investigation

    U.S. Coast Guard

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition of Leal-Hernandez.

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

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

                                                                                   

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: China has invested billions in ports around the world. This is why the West is so concerned

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Claudio Bozzi, Lecturer in Law, Deakin University

    Shutterstock

    On his way to the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro in November, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Peruvian President Dina Boluarte to officially open a new US$3.6 billion (A$5.8 billion) deepwater mega-port in Peru called Chancay.

    China’s state-owned Cosco shipping giant had purchased a 60% stake in the port for US$1.6 billion (A$2.6 billion), which gave the company exclusive use of the port for 60 years.

    Days later, the first ship departed for Shanghai loaded with blueberries, avocados and minerals.

    Chancay is part of China’s vision of a 21st century maritime Silk Road that will better connect China’s manufacturing hubs with its trading partners around the world. This has involved a heavy investment in ports in many countries, which has the West concerned about China’s expanding influence over global shipping routes.

    Newly re-elected US President Donald Trump made clear these concerns when he claimed China was “operating” the Panama Canal and the US intended to take it back.

    China does not operate the canal, though. Rather, a Hong Kong company operates two ports on either side of it.

    A booming port expansion

    The scale and scope of the maritime Silk Road is impressive. China has invested in 129 ports in dozens of countries through its state-owned enterprises, mostly in the Global South. Seventeen of these ports have majority-Chinese ownership.

    According to one estimate, Chinese companies invested US$11 billion (A$17.7 billion) in overseas port development from 2010–19. More than 27% of global container trade now passes through terminals where leading Chinese firms hold direct stakes.

    China has entered Latin America aggressively, becoming the region’s top trading partner. Its port strategy has clearly signalled a long-term goal to access the exports essential to its food and energy security: soybeans, corn, beef, iron ore, copper and battery-grade lithium.

    Last year, for example, Portos do Paraná, the Brazilian state-owned enterprise that acts as the port authority in the state of Paraná, signed a letter of intent with China Merchants Port Holdings to expand Paranaguá Container Terminal, the second-largest terminal in South America. China may invest in even more Brazilian ports, as 22 terminals are scheduled to be auctioned before the end of 2025.

    In Africa, Chinese investment grew from two ports in 2000 to 61 facilities in 30 countries by 2022.

    And in Europe, Chinese enterprises have complete or majority ownership of two key ports in Belgium and Greece – the so-called “dragon’s head” of the Belt and Road Initiative in Europe.

    What’s driving this port strategy?

    China’s emergence as a maritime and shipping power is central to Xi’s ambition for global economic dominance.

    For one, China requires stable access to key trading routes to continue meeting the demand for Chinese exports globally, as well as the imports Beijing needs to keep its economy humming.

    Controlling ports also enables China to create economic zones in other countries that give port owners and operators privileged access to commodities and products. Some fear this could allow China to disrupt supplies of certain goods or even exert influence over other countries’ politics or economies.

    Another key driver of this strategy is the metals and minerals needed to fuel China’s rise as a tech superpower. Beijing has concentrated its port investment in regions where these critical resources are located.

    For example, China is the world’s largest importer of copper ore, mainly from Chile, Peru and Mexico. It is also one of the world’s major lithium carbonate importers.), mainly from Chile and Argentina. And its port deals in Africa give it access to rare earths and other minerals.

    In addition, tapping into Latin America counteracts the trade tensions China has experienced recently with Europe. It also preempts concerns about possible US tariffs imposed on Chinese goods by Trump.

    Military concerns

    These moves have prompted concern in Washington that China is challenging US influence in its own backyard.

    China maintains that its seaport diplomacy is market oriented. However, it has established one naval base in the strategically located African nation of Djibouti. And it is believed to be building another naval base in Equatorial Guinea.

    According to a recent report by the Asia Society Policy Institute, strategy analysts believe China is seeking to “weaponise” the Belt and Road Initiative.

    One way it is doing this is by requiring the commercial ports it invests in to be equally capable of acting as naval bases. So far, 14 of the 17 ports in which it has a majority stake have the potential to be used for naval purposes. These ports can then serve a dual function and support the Chinese military’s logistics network and allow Chinese naval vessels to operate further away from home.

    US officials are also concerned China could leverage its influence over private companies to disrupt trade during a time of war.

    How is the West responding?

    While China’s investments are raising suspicions, the West’s willingness to invest in ports at this scale is limited. The US International Development Finance Corporation, for instance, has a much slower, rigorous process for its investments, which generally leads to fairer outcomes for both investors and host nations.

    However, some Western companies are acquiring stakes in established and newly built ports in other countries, albeit not to the extent of Chinese enterprises.

    The French shipping and logistics company CMA CGM’s global port development strategy, for example, includes investments in 60 terminals worldwide. In 2024, it acquired control over South America’s largest container terminal in the Port of Santos, Brazil.

    Trump has threatened tariffs as one way of countering China’s global sea power. An advisor on his transition team has proposed a 60% tariff on any product transiting through the Chancay port in Peru or any other Chinese-owned or controlled port in South America.

    Rather than making nations reluctant to sign port deals with Beijing, however, this kind of action just erodes Washington’s regional influence. And China is likely to take retaliatory measures, like banning the export of critical minerals to the US.

    Host nations like Peru and Brazil, meanwhile, are using the competition for port investment to their advantage. Attracting interest from both the West and China, they are increasingly asserting their autonomy and adopting a strategy of using ports to “play everywhere” on the global stage.

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

    – ref. China has invested billions in ports around the world. This is why the West is so concerned – https://theconversation.com/china-has-invested-billions-in-ports-around-the-world-this-is-why-the-west-is-so-concerned-244733

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Section of road within frontier closed area near Lin Ma Hang Village in Sha Tau Kok opens today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Section of road within frontier closed area near Lin Ma Hang Village in Sha Tau Kok opens today (with photos)
    Section of road within frontier closed area near Lin Ma Hang Village in Sha Tau Kok opens today (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Government has, with effect from today (January 24), opened a specified section of road within the frontier closed area (FCA) near Lin Ma Hang Village in Sha Tau Kok, by exempting the requirement to apply for a closed area permit for the public travelling by green minibus passing through this section of road, with a view to facilitating travel for members of the public and tourists to Lin Ma Hang Village and Robin’s Nest Country Park.     A spokesman for the Security Bureau stated, “Robin’s Nest Country Park was established in November last year. Having considered public views on opening the relevant section of road within the FCA near Lin Ma Hang Village and after careful study of the feasibility, the Government decided to implement special arrangements to open the relevant road portion.”     The Hong Kong Police Force published in the Gazette today that, pursuant to section 38A(1) of the Public Order Ordinance, the requirement to apply for a closed area permit would be exempted for any person travelling to and from Lin Ma Hang Village by green minibus passing through the road within the FCA between Wang Lek and the entrance of Lin Ma Hang Village. Starting from today, members of the public and tourists can take green minibus No. 59K (Sheung Shui Station – Lin Ma Hang) from Sheung Shui MTR Station to reach Lin Ma Hang Village through the relevant section of road within the FCA. After alighting, members of the public can visit tourist attractions such as MacIntosh Forts and Lin Ma Hang Lead Mine directly via the Lin Ma Hang Country Trail and can continue towards the direction of Sha Tau Kok via the Robin’s Nest Country Trail to enjoy the scenery around Yan Chau Tong and Shenzhen Wutong Mountain.      “We hope this measure can facilitate visits by members of the public and tourists to Robin’s Nest Country Park and nearby areas for sightseeing and experiencing Hong Kong’s rich geological features and historical heritage,” the spokesman said. The spokesman added that this exemption is only applicable to persons travelling by green minibus through the relevant section of road within the FCA and does not apply to private vehicles, taxis or other vehicles without a valid closed road permit, or to members of the public using other means of travel such as walking or cycling.     “In fact, there are various ways to visit Robin’s Nest Country Park, not limited to the above road within the FCA. Members of the public and tourists may choose other transportation means and routes, including New Territories green minibus No. 55K (Sheung Shui Station – Sha Tau Kok), KMB bus No. 78K (Sheung Shui Station – Sha Tau Kok), or KMB bus No. 277A (Lam Tin Station – Sha Tau Kok), to arrive at the Tam Shui Hang stop of Sha Tau Kok Road (Shek Chung Au), and then to the entrance of the Lin Ma Hang Country Trail through Shan Tsui Village Road. Public transport operators will closely monitor passenger demand and reserve sufficient vehicles and manpower to enhance frequency according to actual passenger growth,” the spokesman said.     For more information on Robin’s Nest Country Park, please visit the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department’s website (www.afcd.gov.hk) or the Enjoy Hiking website (www.hiking.gov.hk).

     
    Ends/Friday, January 24, 2025Issued at HKT 9:01

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense Contractor Executive Pleads Guilty to Bribery Scheme Involving $100 Million in Government Contracts

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Russell Thurston, a former executive vice president at Cambridge International Systems, Inc., a defense contractor headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting that he participated in a bribery scheme with other Cambridge employees and former Naval Information Warfare Center employee James Soriano.

    According to Thurston’s plea agreement, Cambridge – acting through Thurston and multiple other Cambridge employees – gave various things of value to Soriano, including expensive meals at restaurants in San Diego; a ticket to the 2018 Major League Baseball All Star Game held at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.; and a job at Cambridge for Soriano’s friend, Liberty Gutierrez. According to Gutierrez’s plea agreement, Gutierrez did minimal work at Cambridge and gave Soriano $2,000 a month from her Cambridge salary.

    In return, Soriano, acting in his position as a contracting officer’s representative at Naval Information Warfare Center, influenced the procurement process to ensure that Cambridge was awarded two large task orders. Soriano further ensured that Cambridge was able to capture a steady stream of government funds by influencing a series of projects on those task orders to be approved. According to Cambridge’s plea agreement, as a result of the conspiracy, the government obligated more than $32 million on one of the task orders and over $100 million on the other.

    Soriano also allowed Cambridge employees to draft various procurement documents for him, even when Cambridge was competing for contracts against other bidders. Thurston and Soriano also worked together to remove document properties so that other government employees would not know of Cambridge’s involvement in drafting the documents.

    According to Thurston’s plea agreement, Thurston received periodic pay bonuses from Cambridge – which totaled between $150,000 and $250,000 – based on the profits Cambridge received from the bribery conspiracy.

    Thurston is scheduled to appear before U.S. District Judge Todd W. Robinson for sentencing on April 11, 2025.

    “The integrity of our nation’s procurement system relies upon the honest dealing of government contractors,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden. “This guilty plea shows a commitment to that principle by holding accountable a defendant who repeatedly bribed a government employee to benefit himself at the expense of others.”

    “This investigation clearly established Mr. Thurston’s guilt and his plea is a positive step toward accountability for his role in the crime,” said Bryan D. Denny, Special Agent in Charge for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Western Field Office. “DCIS remains committed to working jointly with the United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to investigate and deter public corruption within the Department of Defense.”

    “Mr. Thurston’s actions directly undermined the Department of Defense contracting process that ensures our warfighters get the best gear for their missions while ensuring our taxpayer dollars are responsibly allocated,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office. “Our men and women in uniform volunteer to put their lives on the line in defense of the United States and they deserve better than to be put at unnecessary risk. IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to partnering with fellow law enforcement agencies to protect our servicemembers from this sort of corruption.”

    “Using a position of public trust as a means to inequitably grant access to federal programs for personal gain will not be tolerated,” said SBA OIG’s Western Region Special Agent in Charge, Weston King. “Our Office will remain relentless in the pursuit of those who seek to exploit SBA’s vital economic programs. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to seeing justice served.”

    Cambridge was separately charged and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery in 24-cr-00759-TWR. Cambridge was ordered to forfeit the $1,672,102.23 in profits it obtained from the bribery conspiracy and pay a $2.25 million fine.

    Soriano was charged as a co-defendant and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery and fraud and false statement in filing a tax return in 24-cr-0341-TWR. Soriano was also separately charged and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery in 23-cr-2282-TWR. Soriano is next scheduled to appear before U.S. District Judge Todd W. Robinson for sentencing on May 9, 2025.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick C. Swan, Katherine E.A. McGrath, and Carling E. Donovan.

    DEFENDANT                                               Case Number 24-cr-0341-TWR-2                         

    Russell Thurston                                             Age: 52                                   Mt. Pleasant, SC

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Conspiracy to Commit Bribery – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371

    Maximum penalty: Five years in prison; maximum $250,000 fine or twice the gross gain or loss resulting from the offense, whichever is greatest

    INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

    Defense Criminal Investigative Service

    Naval Criminal Investigative Service

    Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General

    Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation

    Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General

    If you have information regarding fraud, waste, or abuse relating to Department of Defense personnel or operations, please contact the DoD Hotline at 800-424-9098. 

                                                                                   

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Owner of San Diego Surrogacy Consulting Businesses Admits to Stealing Client Funds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Lillian Arielle Markowitz, former owner of three San Diego-based surrogacy consulting businesses, pleaded guilty in federal court today to fraud charges, admitting that she stole hundreds of thousands of dollars in client funds from escrow accounts set up to pay for surrogacy-related services.

    According to her plea agreement, Markowitz admitted that she owned three businesses — My Donor Cycle, Surrogacy Beyond Borders, and Expecting Surrogacy — through which she marketed herself as a surrogacy consultant to those seeking to realize their dreams of becoming surrogate parents. Beginning around 2018, when Markowitz and her businesses began to experience financial distress, she devised a scheme to steal money from her surrogacy clients by, among other things, submitting fraudulent requests to the escrow company where her clients’ funds were maintained.

    Markowitz admitted to submitting four fraudulent escrow disbursement requests from the escrow accounts of two couples. One included what Markowitz knew to be a forged client signature, and each one resulted in her obtaining a check from the escrow company without the knowledge or consent of her clients.

    In addition, Markowitz admitted that beginning in January 2019 and continuing through May 2021, she defrauded nine additional clients by falsely promising their funds would be deposited into an escrow account and that they would be accessed only to pay for expenses related to their respective surrogacy journey. In fact, Markowitz deposited these clients’ funds into a business checking account and immediately accessed those funds to cover general business expenses, expenses related to other clients’ surrogacy journeys, and her personal expenses. As a condition of her plea, Markowitz has agreed to make restitution of at least $389,142.00 to her former clients.

    “The path to parenthood through surrogacy can be fraught with emotional and financial challenges,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “This defendant selfishly exploited vulnerable clients who were striving to fulfill their dream of becoming parents.”

    “Instead of aiding her hopeful clients on their path to parenthood, the defendant took advantage of their vulnerability, betrayed their trust, and stole their money,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “FBI will continue to investigate these unique fraud schemes to protect the public against those who employ empty promises and prey upon vulnerable individuals.”

    Markowitz is scheduled to be sentenced on April 11, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., by District Judge Todd W. Robinson.

    If you believe that you may be a victim in this case, please contact the FBI San Diego field office at (858) 320-1800.

    This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey D. Hill and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark W. Pletcher.

    DEFENDANT                                                           Case Number 24-CR-0904-TWR

    Lillian Arielle Markowitz (aka Lillian Frost)             Age: 40                                   Portland, OR

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Wire Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1343

    Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine

    INVESTIGATING AGENCY

    Federal Bureau of Investigation         

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Entire Pacific region at risk’, says UNAIDS on Fiji HIV outbreak

    RNZ Pacific

    Fiji’s Minister for Health and Medical Services has declared an HIV outbreak.

    Dr Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu announced 1093 new HIV cases from the period of January to September 2024.

    “This declaration reflects the alarming reality that HIV is evolving faster than our current services can cater for,” he said.

    “We need the support of every Fijian. Communities, civil society, faith-based organizations, private sector partners, and international allies must join us in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and ensuring everyone affected by HIV receives the care and support they need.”

    In early December, the Fiji Medical Association called on the government to declare an HIV outbreak “as a matter of priority”.

    As of mid-December, 19 under-fives were diagnosed with HIV in Fiji.

    The UN Development Programme has recently delivered 3000 antiretroviral drugs to Fiji to support the HIV response.

    World’s largest epidemic
    A report released in mid-2024 showed that in 2023, 6.7 million people living with HIV were residing in Asia and the Pacific, making it the world’s largest epidemic after eastern and southern Africa.

    “Among countries with available data, HIV epidemics are growing in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Fiji, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Papua New Guinea and the Philippines,” the report said.

    The regional director of UNAIDS Asia Pacific Eamonn Murphy said rising new infections in Fiji “put the entire Pacific region at risk”.

    “Prioritisation of HIV by the government is critical for not only the people of Fiji, but the entire Pacific,” he said.

    “Political will is the essential first step. There must also be community leadership and regional solidarity to ensure these strategies work.”

    UNAIDS said the 1093 cases from January to September was three times as many as there were in 2023.

    Preliminary Ministry of Health numbers show that among the newly-diagnosed individuals who are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy, half contracted HIV through injecting drug use. Over half of all people living with HIV who are aware of their status are not on treatment.

    Second-fastest growth
    “Fiji has the second fastest growing HIV epidemic in the Asia and the Pacific region,” Murphy said.

    He said the data does not just tell the story about a lack of services, but it indicates that even when people know they are HIV-positive, they are fearful to receive care.

    “There must be a deliberate effort to not only strengthen health systems, but to respond to the unique needs of the most affected populations, including people who use drugs.

    “Perpetuating prejudice against any group will only slow progress.”

    UNAIDS also said the HIV Outbreak Response Plan called for a combination of prevention approaches.

    Since the sexual transmission of HIV remains a significant factor, other key approaches are condom distribution and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a treatment taken by an HIV-negative person to reduce the risk of contracting HIV if they are exposed.

    UNAIDS support
    Through the Australian government’s Indo-Pacific HIV Partnership, UNAIDS is supporting Fiji to scale up prevention approaches.

    United Nations Resident Coordinator in Fiji Dirk Wagener said the outbreak declaration and the launch of high-impact interventions, such as needle syringe programmes and PrEP, marked a critical turning point in Fiji’s efforts to combat the epidemic.

    “The Joint UN Team on HIV, with UNAIDS as its secretariat, stands ready to provide coordinated and sustained support to ensure the success of these strategies and to protect the most vulnerable.”

    The HIV Surge Strategy includes tactics for Fiji to achieve the Global AIDS Strategy targets — 95 percent of all people living with HIV aware their status, 95 percent of diagnosed people on antiretroviral therapy, and 95 percent of people on treatment achieving a suppressed viral load.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closed, SH2, Ormond

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Matawai Road/SH2 is closed following a serious crash in Ormond this afternoon.

    Police were alerted to a two vehicle crash near Hatten Lane at around 1.10pm.

    Initial enquiries suggest there are injuries.

    The road is closed while the Serious Crash Unit examine the scene.

    Southbound traffic has diversions however it is not suitable for large trucks. There are no diversions for northbound traffic.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area, use alternate routes and expect delays.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appeal for information: burglaries, Rolleston

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attribute to Senior Sergeant Rachel Walker, Area Response Manager, Canterbury Rural South:

    Rolleston Police investigating reports of burglaries from residential addresses in recent weeks would like to hear from anyone who may have information that could help.

    Three separate incidents have been reported since the 1 January this year.

    Among the items that were stolen were a number of military medals, including a Pacific Star medal, distinctive jewellery and a go-kart. Police are appealing for any information that could reunite these items with their rightful owners.

    If you have any information that could help our enquiries, and you have not yet spoken to Police, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 250123/2449.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    We would also like to remind people to keep their homes as safe as possible if they’re going away this summer.

    Lock up doors and windows and ask a neighbour to check on your home regularly. Consider investing in an alarm system and sensor lights.

    Also ensure you have someone trusted to clear your mail and any other items that may be delivered. If you see any suspicious behaviour, please call 111 immediately.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two new councillors elected in Edinburgh as by-election result announced

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Neil Cuthbert (left) and Conor Savage

    The Colinton/Fairmilehead by-election result has been announced at Waverley Court in Edinburgh.

    Neil Cuthbert of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party and Conor Savage of the Scottish Labour Party have been duly elected to serve in the City of Edinburgh Council as members for the Colinton/Fairmilehead Ward.

    The declaration was made in the early hours of Friday, 24 January by Returning Officer for Edinburgh, Paul Lawrence.

    Returning Officer for Edinburgh Paul Lawrence, said:

    Thanks to everyone who took part in the by-election to elect two new councillors to represent their communities on matters affecting their ward and the wider city. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Neil and Conor as new councillors and look forward to working with them.

    I would also like to thank our elections team and council colleagues who have worked so hard on this by-election in recent months – not least given the extremely challenging circumstances of rescheduling the count at such short notice due to Storm Eowyn.

    The turnout for the by-election was 31.9%.

    For further details of the results, please visit the Elections section of the Council website.

    Published: January 24th 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Domestic violence and firearms offences – Johnson

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force have arrested a 30-year-old male in relation to domestic violence offences on Thursday afternoon.

    Around 10am Thursday, police received intelligence that a male who was allegedly involved in a domestic violence assault the previous day, Wednesday 22 January 2025, was in possession of a firearm and driving through the Palmerston area.

    Territory Safety Division (TSD) members attended the male’s residence on Tarakan Court, established a cordon, and the 30-year-old male was arrested. During a lawful search of the unit, officers located and seized a quantity of illicit substances.

    A subsequent search of the offender’s vehicle located a firearm and ammunition, which were also seized.

    The firearm was not used during either incident.

    The offender remains in police custody, with charges expected to follow. Investigations are ongoing.

    If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, please reach out on 131 444 or, in an emergency, call 000. You can also anonymously report through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joint Statement from AG Brown, Twelve Other Attorneys General: State and Local Law Enforcement Cannot Be Commandeered for Federal Immigration Enforcement

    Source: Washington State News

    OLYMPIA – Attorney General Nick Brown, along with the attorneys general of California, New York, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Mexico, Rhode Island and Vermont, today issued a joint statement addressing a memorandum from a Trump political appointee at the U.S. Department of Justice addressing state and local involvement in federal immigration enforcement:

    “It is well-established — through longstanding Supreme Court precedent — that the U.S. Constitution prevents the federal government from commandeering states to enforce federal laws. While the federal government may use its own resources for federal immigration enforcement, the court ruled in Printz v. United States that the federal government cannot ‘impress into its service — and at no cost to itself — the police officers of the 50 States.’ This balance of power between the federal government and state governments is a touchstone of our American system of federalism.

    “Despite what he may say to the contrary, the President cannot unilaterally re-write the Constitution. The President has made troubling threats to weaponize the U.S. Department of Justice’s prosecutorial authority and resources to attack public servants acting in compliance with their state laws, interfering with their ability to build trust with the communities they serve and protect. Right now, these vague threats are just that: empty words on paper. But rest assured, our states will not hesitate to respond if these words become illegal actions.

    “As state attorneys general, we have a responsibility to enforce state laws – and we will continue to investigate and prosecute crimes, regardless of immigration status. We will not be distracted by the President’s mass deportation agenda.” 

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Commissioner recommends panel inquire into Judge’s conduct

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Judicial Conduct Commissioner has recommended a Judicial Conduct Panel be established to inquire into and report on the alleged conduct of acting District Court Judge Ema Aitken in an incident last November, Attorney-General Judith Collins said today.
    “I referred the matter of Judge Aitken’s alleged conduct during an incident on 22 November 2024 to the Judicial Conduct Commissioner,” Ms Collins says.
    “The Commissioner has recommended a Judicial Conduct Panel be set up to inquire into what happened. However, because of my role in making the referral, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith will act as Attorney-General on this matter, to avoid any perception of conflict of interest, bias or pre-determination on my part in the decision yet to be made.
    “Mr Goldsmith will therefore now consider the Commissioner’s recommendation.
    “No further comment will be made.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Stoodley man charged over evade, hooning

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Stoodley man charged over evade, hooning

    Friday, 24 January 2025 – 1:30 pm.

    A 19-year-old Stoodley man has been charged in relation to evade police and hooning matters that occurred in the Kentish area on two occasions in January.
    On Saturday 18 January, members of Latrobe Police Station were on mobile patrol on Buelah Road, Stoodley, when they observed a grey Ford Falcon Sedan conducting a large burn out.
    Police attempted to intercept the vehicle, when the driver evaded police.
    A search warrant was subsequently executed at a residence in Stoodley, where the vehicle was located.
    The 19-year-old driver was charged with multiple offences and bailed to appear in the Devonport Magistrates Court in April.
    The man’s vehicle was clamped for a period of 28 days.
    As part of the investigation, the man was also charged in relation to a separate hooning matter on Railton Road and Native Rock Road at Railton on New Year’s Day.
    Sergeant Jeremy Williams said police remained committed to road safety and continued to conduct high-visibility patrols.  
    “It is disappointing when drivers not only put their own lives at risk, but the lives of other road users,” he said.
    “Tasmania Police has zero tolerance when it comes to hooning offences and this type of driving behaviour is unacceptable.
    Anyone with information or cash cam footage should contact Latrobe Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Domestic violence and firearm offences – Johnson

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force have arrested a 30-year-old male in relation to domestic violence offences on Thursday afternoon.

    Around 10am Thursday, police received intelligence that a male who was allegedly involved in a domestic violence assault the previous day, Wednesday 22 January 2025, was in possession of a firearm and driving through the Palmerston area.

    Territory Safety Division (TSD) members attended the male’s residence on Tarakan Court, established a cordon, and the 30-year-old male was arrested. During a lawful search of the unit, officers located and seized a quantity of illicit substances.

    A subsequent search of the offender’s vehicle located a firearm and ammunition, which were also seized.

    The firearm was not used during either incident.

    The offender remains in police custody, with charges expected to follow. Investigations are ongoing.

    If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, please reach out on 131 444 or, in an emergency, call 000. You can also anonymously report through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Comm, Clear and Connected: The 8th Communication Squadron keeps Beverly Pack 25-1 connected

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea  –  

    Secure and seamless communication is important to complete day-to-day military operations. It’s required when they are executed from afar.

    The 8th Communications Squadron successfully tested their extended capabilities for the first time during Exercise Beverly Pack 25-1, simultaneously connecting operations at Kunsan Air Base and a simulated forward operating base through an expeditionary communications team Jan. 12-16. The exercise marks the largest-scale agile combat employment generation, deployment, and sustainment exercise within Seventh Air Force.

    “The 8th expeditionary communications team consists of four AFSCs within the communications career field who are dedicated to providing ACE support and capability,” said 1st Lt. Mackenzie Clay, 8th CS operations flight commander. “They were given orders to provide C4I (command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence) for the wing, simulating and testing all the equipment in the flyaway kits to ensure constant communication between operational forces and wing leadership.”
    The Communication Flyaway Kits, consisting of tactical satellite communications and network devices, are designed by coordinating with other units and assessing deployment requirements to sustain operations at Kunsan and at simulated locations. They are imperative to integrate plans and agencies during exercises and any potential contingency operations.

    “The team operates on mission-type orders to provide C4I, communicating through the Emergency Operations Center via the primary, alternate, contingency and emergency (PACE) plan,” said SrA Luis Del Carmen Diaz, expeditionary communications operator. “Through the use of the Communication Flyaway Kit package, the 8 CS can provide short and long range Non-Classified and Secret Internet Protocol Router (NIPR and SIPR) Networks as well as mission partner environment communication capabilities.”

    Expeditionary communications teams and other CS assets are necessary for ACE operations: they help provide integral information regarding locations and statuses of adversaries and friendly forces. Providing the fullest picture of the operational scenario, they are a necessary component for quality decision-making which enables dispersed forces to adapt and prevail.

    “We are continuously testing our equipment and ideas to bring faster speeds, options, and sizes to support ourselves and our allies,’ said SSgt Guillerma Khan, expeditionary communications NCOIC. “Mobility is essential, and our assets are the glue between us and any given location. The ability to communicate on-the-go pushes us further ahead of our adversaries.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Finds Hopkinsville, Kentucky Man Guilty of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Distribution Conspiracy and Money Laundering

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

    Paducah, KY – Today, following a three-day trial, a federal jury convicted a Hopkinsville, Kentucky, man of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as seven counts of money laundering.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison, of the USPIS Pittsburgh Division, Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd, of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Cincinnati Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Shawn Morrow of the Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jason Newby of the Hopkinsville Police Department made the announcement.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between May 20, 2020, and January 22, 2022, Robert Blaine, 46, of Hopkinsville, Kentucky conspired with Roderick Tutt and Jessica Ochoa to possess with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and over 400 grams of a fentanyl mixture. During that time frame, Blaine wired money to Ochoa as payment for the drugs and in furtherance of the overall conspiracy. Blaine also mailed a box containing $36,960 in U.S. currency to Ochoa that he obtained from proceeds of illegal drug sales. On January 21, 2022, Blaine arranged for Tutt to travel to Arizona to pick up fentanyl and methamphetamine from Ochoa.  Tutt was supposed to bring the drugs back to Blaine in Hopkinsville. Tutt was arrested on the way back to Hopkinsville with 2,059 fentanyl pills and approximately 8 kilograms of methamphetamine.     Blaine has numerous prior drug trafficking convictions.

    On July 20, 2023, Roderick Tutt, 36, of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, and Jessica Ochoa, 40, of Phoenix, Arizona pled guilty to conspiring with Blaine to possess with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and 400 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl. Ochoa also pled guilty to seven counts of money laundering. Tutt and Ochoa are scheduled for sentencing on March 25, 2025, before a United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky.

    Blaine is scheduled for sentencing on May 5, 2025, and remains in federal custody pending sentencing. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the DEA Paducah Post of Duty, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division, ATF – Louisville Division, and the Hopkinsville Police Department, with assistance from the FBI Louisville Field Division, the Tonto Apache Police Department, and the DEA – Phoenix Division.  

    Assistant United States Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case with assistance from paralegal Cristy Crockett.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: COMLOG WESTPAC Sailors take E-7 Navy-wide advancement exam. [Image 4 of 5]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    SINGAPORE (Jan. 16, 2025) Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Jeffrey Bowman, attached to Motor Vessel Carolyn Chouest, participates in the E-7 Navy-wide advancement exam at Sembawang Naval Installation, Jan. 16, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in Naval exercises and responses to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings/Released)

    Date Taken: 01.16.2025
    Date Posted: 01.21.2025 03:35
    Photo ID: 8836748
    VIRIN: 250116-N-YV347-1036
    Resolution: 8256×5504
    Size: 6.73 MB
    Location: SG
    Web Views: 11
    Downloads: 2

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Chief of Staff, NAVELSG Visits COMLOG WESTPAC, January 23, 2025 [Image 1 of 3]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    SINGAPORE (Jan. 23, 2025) Capt. James Bach, left of center, Chief of Staff, Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group, delivers a command capabilities brief to staff and personnel assigned to Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/ Task Force 73 (COMLOGWESTPAC/CTF 73), during a scheduled visit to Sembawang Naval Installation, Jan. 23, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional Allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and responses to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

    Date Taken: 01.23.2025
    Date Posted: 01.23.2025 22:49
    Photo ID: 8840610
    VIRIN: 250123-N-ED646-1007
    Resolution: 8256×5504
    Size: 4.11 MB
    Location: SG
    Web Views: 1
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  • MIL-OSI Australia: SA Police to conduct three road safety operations during Australia Day long weekend

    Source: South Australia Police

    South Australia Police will conduct three road safety operations during the Australia Day long weekend, bringing a strong police presence focused on targeting road safety offences statewide.

    Traffic Services Branch Officer in Charge Superintendent Shane Johnson warns road users not to take risks on the road.

    “Police will have a strong presence across South Australia with Operation Safe Long weekend, Operation Safe Hills and Operation Stop Drink Drug Drive,” said Superintendent Johnson.

    “The Australia Day long weekend has historically marked a busy season on South Australian roads with people commuting for holidays and traveling to events.

    “In addition, the Tour Down Under is still attracting an increased number of cyclists on the roads.

    “Our long weekend operations will cover proactive detection activities for drink and drug driving, speeding, distracted driving and illegal mobile phone use, non-use of seatbelts and dangerous driving.

    “Drivers should share the road with cyclists safely by checking blind spots frequently, signal clearly and early, respect bike lanes and maintain a safe distance from cyclists.

    “Road safety offenders risk heavy penalties, but more importantly, they risk the loss of life or serious injury – a lasting tragedy for the families and communities left behind. It’s imperative we do our part to keep roads safe for ourselves and others.”

    During the 2024 Australia Day long weekend there was one life lost and 14 serious injuries.

    Visit SA Police website for long weekend safety tips:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Visible police presence for Australia Day

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police will have a strong presence in the city on Sunday to ensure community safety as six major events coincide.

    Police have been working with event organisers within the Adelaide CBD with the bulk of events taking place between Elder Park, King William Road and Victoria Square.

    Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens said tens of thousands of people are expected in the city throughout the day.

    “Police will have additional resources to ensure public safety and the capacity to boost numbers if needed,” Commissioner Stevens said.

    “Everyone has the right to participate in these activities safely and police will have a highly visible presence in all parts of the city and North Adelaide to ensure this occurs.

    “While SAPOL supports the right for peaceful protest and freedom of expression, police will have zero tolerance for anti-social, racist or violent behaviour.

    “For those events which have not been planned in conjunction with police, any inflammatory conduct or criminal offending will be dealt with quickly to ensure public safety.”

    Starting the day with a Morning of Mourning at Elder Park from 7:30am the Women’s Tour Down Under (TDU) race will kick off nearby on King William Road at 10am. Survival Day 2025 events will be held at Victoria Square, with a march down King William Street at 11 and events continuing at the Square. The Men’s TDU will be held from 1:30pm and Aus Lights on the River, including the Respecting Country Parade will begin at 5pm.

    “Many of the events will occur in the Declared Public Precinct, meaning police can conduct a metal detector search of a person and any property in their possession for the presence of weapons,” Commissioner Stevens said.

    Police also have the power to:

    • carry out general drug detection in relation to any person within the precinct,
    • order a person or group posing a risk to public safety to leave the declared public precinct
    • ban a person who commits an offence of a kind that may pose a risk to public safety and order or behaves in an offensive or disorderly manner within the precinct (for up to 24 hours).
    • remove children from the declared public precinct who are in danger of physical harm or abuse, behaving in an offensive or disorderly manner, or otherwise committing or about to commit an offence.

    Road closures will be in place to ensure the safety of pedestrians and cyclists, so motorists are encouraged to check www.traffic.sa.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –