Category: Transport

MIL-OSI: Orocidin QR-01 Shows a Good Safety Profile in Preclinical Toxicity Study

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BEVERLY HILLS, California, Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orocidin A/S (“Orocidin”), a subsidiary of Nordicus Partners Corporation (OTCQB: NORD) (“Nordicus” or the “Company”), a financial consulting company specializing in supporting Nordic and U.S. life sciences companies in establishing themselves in the U.S. market, has successively completed its first toxicity study for QR-01, a novel treatment for aggressive periodontitis.

In the study, Orocidin dosed hamsters over a 2-week period with a concentration 5-8 times higher than the planned dose for the upcoming pilot efficacy study in patients.

“We are pleased to report that all animals exhibited high tolerance to the drug, with no adverse reactions and irritation at the buccal application site. No significant side effects were observed and more importantly, the necroscopic cross examination showed no changes in tissues.” said Allan Wehnert, CEO & Founder of Orocidin.

The successful completion of this study marks an important milestone for Orocidin, providing the foundation for the upcoming pivotal eight-week toxicity study.

For further information, contact:
Mr. Henrik Rouf
Chief Executive Officer
hr@nordicuspartners.com
Tel +1 310 666 0750

Investor Relations
Jonathan Paterson
Harbor Access Investor Relations
Jonathan.Paterson@Harbor-Access.com
Tel +1 475 477 9401

About Orocidin
Orocidin’s mission is to develop the preferred treatment against aggressive periodontitis. Our innovative therapeutic agent, QR-01, distinguishes itself through its unique ability to provide treatment of both inflammation and bacterial infection.

About Nordicus Partners Corporation
Nordicus Partners Corporation is the only U.S. publicly traded business accelerator and holding company for Nordic life sciences companies. Leveraging decades of combined management experience in domestic and global corporate sectors, Nordicus excels in corporate finance activities including business and market development, growth strategies, talent acquisition, partnership building, capital raising, and facilitating company acquisitions and sales. In 2024, Nordicus acquired 100% of Orocidin A/S, a Danish preclinical-stage biotech company developing next-generation therapies for periodontitis and 100% of Bio-Convert ApS, a Danish preclinical-stage biotech company dedicated to revolutionizing the treatment of oral leukoplakia. For more information about Nordicus, please visit: www.nordicuspartners.com, and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Threads and BlueSky.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:
This press release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. You can identify these statements by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate,” “intend,” “continue” or “believe” or the negatives thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. You should read statements that contain these words carefully because they discuss our plans, strategies, prospects and expectations concerning our business, operating results, financial condition and other similar matters. We believe that it is important to communicate our future expectations to our investors. There may be events in the future, however, that we are not able to predict accurately or control. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release speaks only as of the date on which we make it. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

The MIL Network –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s quiet change to US position on Taiwan is all about the economy

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Chee Meng Tan, Assistant Professor of Business Economics, University of Nottingham

The US state department has removed a highly symbolic phrase from its routine update on Taiwan. Its previous briefings said: “We do not support Taiwan independence.” This disappeared on February 13 2025.

That’s not all. Donald Trump’s new government also stated on the same day that it advocated a peaceful and coercion free resolution to the Sino-Taiwan issue and opposes unilateral changes to the status quo from either side. These may seem like small tweaks to previous US positions, but they are sending a big signal to China.

Beijing is concerned that the changes in the state department’s factsheet suggest that Trump’s government may be taking a stronger tack than was expected in being prepared to defend, or throw support behind, the island of Taiwan.

The issue for China is that it sees Taiwan as a breakaway province, which it believes should return to Beijing’s orbit. Many Taiwanese see it as a separate state.

China hasn’t ruled out the use of force to make Taiwan part of the republic and has even sent warplanes to defend the Taiwan Strait in the past week. China claims the waterway between the island and the mainland as its own, though this is disputed under the United Nations convention on the law of the sea.

Beijing will be concerned that Washington’s updated wording on Taiwan might mean that the US is less likely to stand idly by if China invades the island than it might have expected. But what’s also interesting is why the US is warming up to Taiwan despite how aggrieved Trump has been by how Taiwan has “stolen” the semiconductor industry from the US.

Trump’s eye on business

Given Trump’s transactional, or business-first approach, towards politics, it is hardly surprising that Washington’s updated statement of support on Taiwan’s independence may be aimed towards enhancing US rather than Taiwanese interests.

Many in Trump’s second cabinet such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz are China hawks who view Beijing as a national security threat and advocate a more aggressive stance towards China. One major US concern is China’s growing influence in Asia, which challenges US influence within the region.

Trump announces more tariffs on China in his first weeks in office.

While Washington still appears to tip its hat towards a one-China policy, its updated statement on Taiwanese independence suggests that the US might adopt an aggressive approach to any move by Beijing. The US’s watching brief on the China-Taiwan conflict will mean Beijing will have to think hard before taking any measures towards reclaiming the island right now.

A weakened Beijing?

China’s president, Xi Jinping, had hoped to win international hearts and minds through the Belt and Road Initiative, its global trade plan to build an international network of countries receiving Chinese investment. But as China’s own economy is weakened by a real estate crisis that started in 2021, the aim of showing Xi’s success through economic means is not working out as hoped.

The other avenue for Xi to enhance his reputation as leader is to bring Taiwan back into the Chinese fold. Since the Chinese Communist party came to power in 1949, various Chinese leaders have made reunification with Taiwan a long-term goal. So, if Xi could return Taiwan to China, he could be hailed domestically as one of the greatest leaders the country has ever seen.

If China’s plan to reunify with Taiwan was already a major challenge, Washington’s altered stance on Taiwan independence and overt opposition towards coercion or the use of force makes this task even more difficult for Beijing. This could weaken Xi’s image and undermine his rule further (and may of course be part of Trump’s agenda).

Prepped for the negotiation table

The US and China had spent years in trade negotiations before US tariffs were imposed on China during Trump’s first term, culminating in the phase one deal in January 2020. Trump has already announced an extra 10% of tariffs on Chinese goods in his first month in office.

It is plausible that these statements on Taiwan are aimed at enhancing Washington’s bargaining power in the burgeoning China-US trade war.

In 2016, Trump accused China of “raping” the US with unfair trade policies, and imposed tariffs of up to 25% on Chinese goods coming into the US. During his 2024 presidential campaign trail, Trump went as far as to suggests that tariffs on Chinese goods could go as high as 60%.

Higher tariffs are bad news for China since the country relies heavily on exports for economic growth, especially on high tech “new three” products – electric vehicles, lithium batteries and solar panels – to recover its ailing economy.

However, if Beijing is forced to retreat from Taiwan, Xi might have to fall back heavily on the economy to maintain political legitimacy. When that happens, Beijing could be forced to offer concessions to the Americans, such as buying more US products, and to address how subsidies are used to aid Chinese firms to the detriment of US businesses in China.

Overall, it’s likely that someone on Trump’s team has thought about all the implications of tweaking its Taiwan stance, and sees it as working out well for the US economy and, potentially, the Trump government overall. Taiwan is just a pawn in the game.

Chee Meng Tan 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. Trump’s quiet change to US position on Taiwan is all about the economy – https://theconversation.com/trumps-quiet-change-to-us-position-on-taiwan-is-all-about-the-economy-250106

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: 5 ways to improve security governance and prevent future illegal mining tragedies from happening
Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Andrew Grant, Associate Professor of Political Studies, Queen’s University, Ontario

After six months trapped underground, roughly 246 illegal miners were rescued at Buffelsfontein gold mine in Stilfontein, South Africa, in mid-January following a court order and intense public outcry.

An estimated 2,000 miners had been trapped underground after police blocked food and water from families and supporters in an attempt to force them into surrendering for arrest. In total, 87 died, many from starvation or dehydration, according to civic groups. Some survivors reportedly resorted to eating cockroaches or the flesh of their deceased colleagues to survive.

Illegal miners, known as “zama zamas” in South Africa, are people who enter mining sites without authorization to extract leftover gold and other minerals, often under dangerous and exploitative conditions.

This incident highlights the current failures in security governance at abandoned mining sites. Rather than ensuring safety and protecting lives, the police response contributed to the scale of the tragedy.

To prevent similar tragedies, security governance at abandoned or closed mining sites must be improved, and inclusive policies that address employment needs must be implemented.

A dangerous occupation

As more mining sites in South Africa and across the world reach the end of their life cycles, the number of mine closures will increase, along with the need for more effective security governance.

The value of remaining minerals, combined with the dearth of alternatives to sustain livelihoods, has led some people to engage in illegal artisanal mining, despite the significant risks involved.

While illegal mining provides financial support for households in impoverished regions, it also releases pollutants into the environment, disrupts and degrades water resources and supports criminal networks.

South Africa is a prime example of these challenges. The country is home to an estimated 6,000 abandoned mines and 30,000 illegal miners. Security governance challenges are a major part of South Africa’s socioeconomic reality, and these challenges continue to grow despite government crackdowns in recent years.

Current enforcement efforts are doing little to address the decades of poor post-mine closure management. South Africa’s Petroleum and Mineral Resources Development Act requires mining companies to rehabilitate sites after closure, although compliance is sporadic, leaving communities and ecosystems at risk.

With limited job opportunities in the formal sectors of the economy, many young people aged 15 to 34 have turned to informal sectors, including illegal mining, due to its low entry barriers. Compounding the problem is the government’s failure to legally distinguish between illegal and informal mining.

5 ways to improve security governance

The Buffelsfontein incident is a grim reminder that security governance cannot rely solely on policing tactics. Addressing the worsening socioeconomic cycle of miners trapped in abandoned and uncontrolled mines will require governments, companies and local communities to build stronger relationships before crises arise.

Solutions must recognize that zama zamas work with no safety equipment and face daily threats from criminal syndicates who control mining territories. We propose five solutions that, together, address the socioeconomic and governance challenges:
1. The Petroleum and Mineral Resources Development Act should be amended so mining permits are only granted when firms provide a mine closure security plan. This plan must include physical barriers like fencing and sealed shafts, with local communities involved in security enforcement. Funding would come from an independent relinquishment fund via annual contributions over the active lifespan of the mine to an interest-earning annuity held by a local financial institution and monitored by government and civil society.
2. Security efforts should combine private security firms with community-based approaches, including hiring local residents in monitoring roles. This approach will foster trust, create jobs, improve security governance and enhance environment, social and governance (ESG) investment ratings.
3. Drawing from successful models in other countries like Chile, drones, unmanned aerial vehicles and artificial intelligence monitoring methods can help monitor and secure high-risk areas. When used ethically, such technologies can reduce unauthorized mining activities.
4. With unemployment in South African mining regions exceeding 40 per cent, governments and the private sector must focus on renewable energy, agriculture and entrepreneurship as economic alternatives for mining communities. Germany’s Emscher Park Project, for instance, has transformed coal mining regions into renewable energy hubs that create jobs and revitalize local economies. South Africa can also repurpose abandoned mining sites for such initiatives.
5. As South Africa turns its attention to critical minerals, it has an opportunity to expand its green bonds to include funding for post-closure financial recovery for mining communities. These funds could finance infrastructure projects, vocational training and education so mining communities can transition successfully to other economic sectors.
Lessons for Canada

Canada is no stranger to the challenges of managing mines after closure. Across the Yukon, Northwest Territories and northern parts of several provinces, tailing pond failures have led to environmental pollution during the post-closure phase of the mining cycle.

Investing in post-closure mine rehabilitation can prevent future harms to the environment, as well as enhance the human security of local communities. Green investors and sustainable finance funds like those informed by the Institute for Sustainable Finance must take a more active role in funding these efforts.

The Buffelsfontein tragedy should serve as a wake-up call: security governance must evolve from punitive enforcement to proactive protection. Providing alternative livelihoods to illegal mining weakens criminal networks, removes dangerous working conditions, reduces environmental harms and saves lives.

Though Canada is considered a mining superpower, it could learn valuable lessons from South Africa’s experience. Adopting our suggested solutions could help Canada address its own abandoned mine risks and ensure a more sustainable future for its mining communities.

Andrew Grant has received grants from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada

Benjamin Ofosu-Atuahene has received funding in the form of an Ontario Graduate Scholarship.

Olusola Ogunnubi has received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

– ref. 5 ways to improve security governance and prevent future illegal mining tragedies from happening – https://theconversation.com/5-ways-to-improve-security-governance-and-prevent-future-illegal-mining-tragedies-from-happening-248741
MIL OSI – Global Reports –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Luján Speaks at New Mexico Legislature

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

Video of the speech is available HERE.
Santa Fe, N.M. – On Presidents’ Day, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) delivered remarks to a joint session of the New Mexico Legislature at the New Mexico State Capitol.
“It’s always an honor to be back at the Roundhouse. As a proud son of New Mexico, I grew up witnessing the dedication and hard work of those who serve in the State Legislature. Through my dad and his colleagues, I learned the importance of working together, standing up for what’s right, and serving our fellow New Mexicans. I’ll always be a strong voice for our state, and I’m grateful for the partnership of the legislature.
“My job is to serve the people of New Mexico. Just last year, through constituent services, we saved New Mexicans millions of dollars—helping families, veterans, and small businesses navigate federal agencies. My team is committed to going above and beyond for our communities.
“I had the privilege of welcoming several guests for my address. One of them was Mariah Solano from Santa Fe. She had been denied life-saving cancer treatment by her insurance, but my office intervened. Thanks to the quick efforts of everyone involved, I’m happy to share that she is now receiving the care she needs. Another guest, Leo Maes, a beloved New Mexico musician, faced a life-altering medical emergency while traveling abroad, leaving him paralyzed from the neck down. My office worked closely with the State Department to coordinate his treatment and bring him home. Today, thanks to the grace of God and the incredible care of New Mexico’s medical professionals, he is not only recovering but walking again.
“No matter our political differences, our shared values and traditions as New Mexicans unite us. In challenging times, like those we face today, we must stand together, speak up, and look out for one another.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan National Sentenced To 23 Months In Prison For Illegal Reentry In The United States

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Eddie Damian-Guillen, age 38, of Guatemala, was sentenced on February 13, 2025, to 23 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for illegal reentry into the United States by an illegal alien.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Damian-Guillen was encountered in the United States at Pike County Correctional Facility in Pennsylvania, having been arrested for driving under the influence of a controlled substance. Damian-Guillen was previously removed from the United States in 2003, 2004, and 2020. His removal in 2020 followed his conviction and sentence for assault in the first degree in Connecticut, in which he ran over a victim with his car following a bar fight.

Damian-Guillen will be removed from the United States following service of his sentence.

The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle A. Moreno prosecuted the case.

# # #

MIL Security OSI –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Federal Trial Jury Convicts New Orleans Woman of Two 2022 Robberies of Igor’s Lounge

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA- Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Simpson announced that on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, DEBORAH COOPER (“COOPER”), 54, of New Orleans, was found guilty of all charges following a jury trial presided over by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo.

The jury found COOPER guilty of all seven counts against her. Count 1 charged COOPER with conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a). Counts 2 and 4 charged COOPER with interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act robbery), in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1951(a) and 2. Counts 3 and 5 charged COOPER with using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§924(c)(1)(A)(ii) and 2. Count 6 charged COOPER with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). Count 7 charged COOPER with tampering with proceedings, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1512(c)(1).

According to court documents, COOPER, and an unknown person, robbed Igor’s Lounge, located on St. Charles Avenue, in New Orleans in February and March of 2022. During the February robbery, COOPER, and the unknown person, held an Igor’s bartender at gunpoint and demanded she open the register and poker drawer. The robbers then forced the bartender to the rear of the bar, and ordered her, at gunpoint, to lie on the floor while they fled. The robbers stole over twelve hundred dollars ($1,200.00) in U.S. currency. Similarly, during the March robbery, COOPER and the unknown person, retuned to Igor’s and robbed another bartender at gunpoint. This time , they stole over seven thousand dollars ($7,000.00) in U.S. currency. The New Orleans Police Department investigated the robberies and obtained surveillance footage showing the robbers parking COOPER’s Ram pickup truck near Igor’s on the day of the February robbery. NOPD then obtained a search warrant for COOPER’s residence and located various items of clothing worn by COOPER during the robberies, twelve hundred dollars ($1,200.00) in U.S. currency, and a Smith and Wesson firearm, that COOPER attempted to hide, during this search. The NOPD also located blue latex gloves in COOPER’s Ram truck, similar to the blue latex gloves worn by the robbers during the March robbery.

U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo will sentence COOPER on May 7, 2025. COOPER faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 14 years imprisonment up to a maximum term of life imprisonment as a result of being convicted of two counts of using, carrying, and brandishing of a firearm during the commission of a drug trafficking crime. This sentence will run consecutive to the sentences imposed by the Court for the remaining counts for which COOPER was convicted. As it relates to her convictions for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery, Hobbs Act Robbery, and Tampering with Proceedings, COOPER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. For the felon in possession of a firearm conviction, COOPER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. COOPER also faces a term of supervised release of up to 5 years after completing her term of imprisonment. At sentencing, the Court will also impose a mandatory special assessment fee of $700.00. Additionally, the Court may impose fines and restitution.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Brittany Reed and Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit.

MIL Security OSI –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney’s Office Announces Departure of Adair Ford Boroughs as U.S. Attorney

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews is now Acting U.S. Attorney

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina announced today the departure of Adair F. Boroughs as U.S. Attorney following termination by the new administration.

Under the Vacancies Reform Act, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews is now the Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. As Acting U.S. Attorney, Andrews is the chief federal law enforcement official in the state of South Carolina.

Andrews is a career federal prosecutor who first joined the Department of Justice through the Attorney General’s Honors Program in 2009. In addition to serving as First Assistant, Andrews previously served as Deputy Criminal Chief over the White Collar and General Crimes Section, District Ethics Officer, and as an Assistant U.S. Attorney handling a wide range of criminal, civil, and appellate matters. Andrews received an undergraduate degree from Davidson College, a master’s degree from the George Washington University, and a law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Before joining the Department of Justice, Andrews clerked for U.S. District Judge Margaret Seymour of the District of South Carolina, and Chief Justice Jean Toal of the South Carolina Supreme Court.

Boroughs was sworn in as United States Attorney in July of 2022, following a nomination by President Biden and confirmation by the U.S. Senate. As United States Attorney, Boroughs oversaw a staff that included approximately 140 attorneys and support personnel. During her tenure, Boroughs prioritized enforcement of federal civil rights laws and partnering with local, state, and federal law enforcement to address violent crime. The office secured five federal hate crime convictions and hosted seven United Against Hate events around the state in partnership with FBI Columbia to educate the public on the existence of a federal hate crime statute and encourage the reporting of hate crime incidents.

Boroughs prioritized the prosecution of offenders driving violence in South Carolina communities and recognized the value of local partners in identifying these offenders. Under her tenure, the office announced multi-defendant indictments and takedowns disrupting gun trafficking rings, illegal narcotics operations, and gang violence. She also oversaw multiple human trafficking, child exploitation, and white-collar prosecutions, including the recent indictment and extradition of a Nigerian national for a sextortion scheme resulting in the death of a 17-year-old Gavin Guffey.

“It has been the honor of my career to return to the Department of Justice and to serve alongside the men and women of the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said Adair Ford Boroughs, “The career men and women of this office work tirelessly day in and day out to meet the Department’s mission–to uphold the rule of law, keep our country safe, and protect civil rights. It has been my honor to support them in this critical and patriotic work however I could for as long as I could. To my colleagues, our law enforcement partners, and our South Carolina community, thank you for trusting me with this work.”

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MIL Security OSI –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana announces departure of U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

BILLINGS — The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana today announced the departure of U. S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich, effective yesterday.

Mr. Laslovich has served as the chief federal law enforcement officer for the District of Montana since being sworn into office on June 2, 2022. President Joe Biden nominated Mr. Laslovich for the position on Jan. 31, 2022, and the U.S. Senate confirmed him on May 17, 2022.

As U.S. Attorney, Mr. Laslovich oversaw all federal criminal prosecutions and civil litigation on behalf of the U.S. government. The district has offices in Helena, Great Falls, Missoula, Butte, and Billings.

“It has been the honor of my life to serve as the United States Attorney for the state that raised me. I am profoundly grateful to the talented and hard-working people in this office, as well as our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners who strive every day to uphold the rule of law, keep people safe, and steadfastly defend the interests of the United States of America. I have never been prouder to have served with them, and I will always be rooting hard for their continued safety and success,” Mr. Laslovich said.

During Mr. Laslovich’s tenure, the U.S. Attorney’s Office focused on prosecuting drug trafficking and violent and sexual abuse crimes occurring on Montana’s six Indian Reservations that are within federal jurisdiction for major crimes; building strong partnerships with other federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement agencies; addressing violent and firearms crimes in communities across the state through initiatives like Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF); and protecting civil rights for all Montanans. The office continued its work to protect children from online and in person sexual predators, abusers, and traffickers, and to catch fraudsters, especially those who prey on elderly and vulnerable persons.

Mr. Laslovich also emphasized the importance of strong working relationships with numerous law enforcement agencies at the local, state, tribal and federal levels. Mr. Laslovich and office representatives met regularly with tribal leadership to discuss various issues. The office also worked closely with other federal, state, and local law enforcement partners and organizations to strengthen trust, communications, and cooperation in working toward the shared goal of keeping people safe and holding offenders accountable.

In Indian Country, the U.S. Attorney’s Office worked with tribal and federal law enforcement partners to shut down trafficking rings attempting to set up bases on Montana reservations and enlist residents to distribute drugs transported from outside Montana. One of those cases involved dismantling a large, multi-state drug trafficking organization that was based on Crow Indian Reservation property known as Spear Siding and distributed methamphetamine and fentanyl to three other Montana Indian reservations and communities from suppliers in Washington and a Mexican cartel. The case resulted in federal convictions in Montana of 27 persons and was one of the largest federal drug trafficking investigations in Montana.

Additionally, a recent six-month-long enforcement initiative led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, in cooperation with Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Reservation, led to indictments of multiple individuals on drug crimes. The enforcement action was aimed at identifying hot spots and devoting law enforcement resources to communities facing rising rates of drug-related violent crime and overdose deaths.

During the last three years, federal prosecutors remained committed to making communities across Montana safer by identifying and prosecuting the most dangerous offenders through initiatives like PSN and OCDETF. In Great Falls, a multi-agency investigation into a large fentanyl trafficking ring led to a coordinated take down of suspects and convictions of 10 individuals.

During Mr. Laslovich’s tenure, prosecutions of individuals on federal firearms crimes increased significantly. The average number of defendants charged with illegal possession of a firearm averaged 111 cases a year from 2022 through 2024, compared with an average of 83 cases per year from 2014 to 2021. And the number of defendants charged with carrying a firearm in relation to a crime of violence or drug trafficking also increased to an average of 56 cases a year from 2022 to 2024 from an average of 40 cases per year from 2014 to 2021.

Additionally, Mr. Laslovich oversaw the launch in Montana of United Against Hate, a Justice Department initiative focused on improving the prevention of hate crimes and hate incidents by building relationships at the local level. Laslovich and the office’s civil rights coordinator and prosecutor held a series of community meetings across the state with law enforcement partners, community and faith organizations, tribal communities, and citizens to discuss identifying and reporting hate crimes and to learn about available resources. Further, the office successfully prosecuted a Basin man on federal hate and firearms crimes after he fired an AK-style assault rifle at the residence of a woman, who identified as lesbian, and was home at the time. The defendant was sentenced to 18 years in prison.

The office’s civil team continued its work defending the United States in litigation, collecting debts owed to the federal government, and investigating fraud. As part of that work, the U.S. Attorney’s Office reached a civil settlement agreement in 2024 between the federal government and St. Peter’s Health, in Helena, in which St. Peter’s agreed to pay $10,844,201 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims for payments to federal health care programs for services performed by an oncology doctor.

Prior to becoming U.S. Attorney, Mr. Laslovich served as regional vice president for SCL Health Montana-Wyoming since 2017. From 2009 to 2016, Mr. Laslovich was chief legal counsel in the office of the Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, where he prosecuted securities fraud cases. During 2011 and 2012, Laslovich also served as a special assistant U.S. attorney on securities cases in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana. He previously worked in the Montana Attorney General’s Office. Mr. Laslovich began his legal career at Datsopoulos, MacDonald & Lind, P.C. in Missoula and taught as an adjunct professor at the University of Montana School of Law for two semesters.

As one of the youngest Montanans ever elected to the Montana Legislature, Mr. Laslovich first served in the House of Representatives from 2001 through 2004 and then in the Senate from 2005 to 2010, representing Anaconda-Deer Lodge, Granite, and Powell counties.

Mr. Laslovich received his J.D. from the University of Montana School of Law in 2006 and his B.A., with high honors, from the University of Montana in 2003.

XXX

MIL Security OSI –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Indicted for Crack Conspiracy and Federal Gun Charges

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

NEW ORLEANS – STEVE BANKS (“BANKS”), age 49, of New Orleans, was indicted on February 14, 2025, for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

BANKS is charged in Count 1 with possession, with the intent to distribute, 280 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing crack, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A). Count 2 charges BANKS with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). Count 3 charges BANKS with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A) and 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

As to the drug trafficking charge in Count 1, BANKS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release. For Count 2, BANKS faces a maximum sentence of 15 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. For Count 3, BANKS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 5 years of supervised release.

According to the indictment, beginning at a time unknown but prior to September 2024, and continuing to on or about October 21, 2024, BANKS conspired with others to distribute crack in the Eastern District of Louisiana. On October 21, 2024, BANKS possessed, with the intent to distribute, 280 grams or more of a mixture containing crack, and three guns, including a Zastava Model ZPAP85, 5.56 millimeter semi-automatic rifle, a Glock Model 22, 40 millimeter semi-automatic pistol, with a loaded extended magazine, that had been reported stolen, and a Glock Model 17Gen5, nine millimeter semi-automatic pistol.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that the indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

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.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

MIL Security OSI –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: FBI Media Alert: FBI Offers Reward for Los Lunas Bandit in a Black Hoodie Responsible for a Bank Robbery
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

The FBI and Los Lunas Police Department are asking for the public’s help to identify a man who robbed U.S. Bank at 2421 Main Street SE, Los Lunas, on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at approximately 5 p.m.

Suspect description:
- Race: Hispanic
- Height: approximately 5’10”- 6’0”
- Build: Thin
- Clothing: Blue Jeans, Black Hoodie, Sunglasses, Face mask, black shoes
The suspect entered the bank and passed a demand note to the teller, then verbally demanded more money from a second teller. He was observed leaving northbound from the bank.

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of this suspect. Anyone with information about this robbery is asked to contact the FBI at (505) 889-1300.

Information about other bank/credit union robbers wanted by the FBI can be found at bankrobbers.fbi.gov. Bank robbery carries a possible prison term of up to 20 years. The use of a gun, other dangerous weapon, toy gun, or hoax bomb device during the commission of a bank robbery can be punishable by a prison term of up to 25 years.

MIL Security OSI –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dragon reactor dismantling underway
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

South Dorset MP Lloyd Hatton has visited the Winfrith Site to see how a cutting-edge robotic laser is taking apart the site’s Dragon reactor core.
Laser cutting the Dragon reactor neck ring

South Dorset MP Lloyd Hatton has visited the Winfrith Site to see how a cutting-edge robotic laser is taking apart the site’s Dragon reactor core.

MP Lloyd Hatton commented: “It was a privilege to visit the Winfrith site and witness first-hand the remarkable work being done to decommission the Dragon reactor. The innovation and dedication displayed by the team is truly impressive. The work at Winfrith is integral, both to making the UK’s nuclear waste safe, and to moving the country towards a cleaner and greener future.”

Inside the Dragon reactor control room

Pictured left to right – MP Lloyd Hatton, Andy Philps, Gary Reid, William Matheson, Ellanor Joyce and Robert Coan.

Winfrith site was constructed in the 1950s as a centre of excellence for nuclear reactor research which laid the basis for the development of nuclear power. Seven of the nine unique experimental reactors have been removed – the final two Dragon and the Steam Generated Heavy Water Reactor (SGHWR) are being decommissioned.

Dragon was a prototype 20-megawatt power output graphite moderated, helium cooled reactor. It began testing nuclear fuel and materials to support high temperature reactor programmes in 1964 – the year that Top of the Pops began, Beatlemania was global and the Forth Road suspension bridge opened in Scotland.

Early decommissioning removed the redundant plant components and equipment from the 100ft diameter cylindrical Dragon building, following defueling in the late 1990s. All that remains is the irradiated steel reactor pressure vessel and its core.

Driving innovation

The feasibility of using laser technology to cut the reactor core’s varying material types and thicknesses was initially tested on mock-up components at the Welding Institute, Cambridge. Further testing followed with a full-scale mock-up at Winfrith site.

Technical data and learning from these trials were then applied to perform keyhole surgery using a snake robot (Lasersnake) to remotely cut a three-tonne heat exchanger vessel known as the Purge Gas Pre-cooler (PGPC) from Dragon’s highly radioactive reactor core in 2018. This was a first for the UK nuclear industry and its success proved laser cutting as the principal technique for reactor core dismantling over the use of alternative hot cutting techniques.

The purge gas pre-cooler being removed in 2018

Phoebe Lynch, NRS strategic innovation programme manager, said: “Driving innovation into our mission is our greatest opportunity at NRS. All the learning from the initial operational phase of using laser cutting for the Dragon reactor core provided valuable insights into the feasibility, reliability and safety of this technique. These have been applied to refine the process to deliver this new phase of reactor core dismantling efficiently and pave the way for its broader adoption within the industry.”

Progress

The skilled team of operators have removed almost half of the one-inch-thick carbon steel plates that form the Top Ring Thermal Shield into removable sections using a telescopic mast-manipulator robotic arm and a laser cutter from a control room located outside the reactor building.

The laser cutting head cell

Laser cutting the Dragon reactor top ring thermal shield

Andy Philps, NRS senior project manager, commented: “It is fantastic to start the core dismantling after years of meticulous in-house engineering design, planning and decommissioning of the sub-systems in preparation for this phase.

“Once the upper shielding structures are removed, we will have access to the top of the reactor pressure vessel and then the core within.”

Waste management

This is the first of eleven phases to fully dismantle the Dragon reactor core over the next few years and pack it into 6m3 concrete intermediate level waste storage boxes. These will then be transported to Harwell site for storage until the national Geological Disposal Facility is available for permanent disposal.

The Dragon reactor building

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Published 18 February 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Provincially Funded Specialized Policing Teams Continue to Build Public Safety
Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on February 18, 2025

From July 1 to December 31, 2024, officers from Saskatchewan’s municipal Crime Reduction Teams (CRTs) and Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT) seized 67 firearms, more than 23 kilograms of methamphetamine and nearly 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl from Saskatchewan communities. Officers also charged 89 people with a total of 475 criminal charges.

“These numbers highlight the tireless efforts of our specialized policing teams in Saskatchewan and the positive impact they are having on our neighbourhoods and communities,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod said. “We are proud to continue supporting provincial law enforcement initiatives, and we are grateful for the work that is done by our municipal police services every day in support of community safety and wellbeing.”

There are currently three municipal CRT and STRT teams operating out of Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon. CRTs are dedicated to targeting street gangs and prolific offenders while responding to urban and rural crime surges when needed. STRT investigates illegal weapons, drugs and human trafficking cases.

“Crime is more complex than ever, and we need to be able to respond to the changing needs of our community,” Regina Police Service Chief Farooq Sheikh said. “Collaborating with government and community partners allows us to respond more effectively. This ongoing funding is a great example of how working together we can keep our communities safe.”

Between July and December 2024, municipal STRTs opened 19 human trafficking files and initiated 21 human trafficking interventions.

On November 27, 2024, members of the Saskatoon Police CRT investigated a case of suspected drug trafficking, resulting in the seizure of:
- $69,000 CAD;
- approximately 16 kilograms of methamphetamine;
- 470 grams of powdered cocaine;
- 175 grams of carfentanyl;
- 4 litres of gamma-hydroxybutyrate;
- 16 grams of fentanyl; and
- assorted paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.
As a result of this investigation, 15 charges were laid related to the possession of controlled substances and the proceeds of crime over $5,000.

“The Saskatoon Police Service is appreciative of provincial funding and support that allows us to enhance our policing efforts, invest in critical resources, and ensure our officers have the tools they need to keep our neighbourhoods safe,” Saskatoon Police Service Chief Cameron McBride said. “It is not just an investment in law enforcement – it is an investment in the safety and wellbeing of all of our communities.”

On October 24, 2024, during the execution of two search warrants, the Prince Albert Police Service CRT charged two individuals and seized over 1,200 grams of cocaine, more than $39,000 cash, over 1,300 grams of cutting agent, two firearms and other evidence related to drug trafficking.

“The provincially funded CRTs and STRTs continue to play a critical role in enhancing public safety across the province, including Prince Albert,” Prince Albert Police Service Chief Patrick Nogier said. “These specialized units provide the resources and flexibility needed for officers to focus on 21st century policing initiatives. In Prince Albert, their ongoing efforts have substantially contributed to reducing drug trafficking, removing illegal firearms and disrupting organized crime. This sustained impact reflects the dedication of the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety in supporting proactive policing initiatives that protect our communities and promote long-term public safety.”

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For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: RCMP Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams Continue to Deliver Safer Communities

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on February 18, 2025

Provincially funded RCMP Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERTs) continue to deliver significant results in preventing and addressing crime in Saskatchewan. From July to December 2024, RCMP SERT executed 385 arrest warrants, seized over 11.4 kilograms of illicit drugs, 144 firearms and more than $286,000 in cash from Saskatchewan communities.

“Our partnership with the RCMP plays an important role in reducing crime across Saskatchewan and promoting community safety,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod said. “These teams tackle a wide range of critical issues and we are proud of their accomplishments. The province will continue to work collaboratively with our policing partners to ensure the continued safety and security of Saskatchewan residents.”

SERT includes the Crime Reduction Teams (CRTs), Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team (WEST), and the Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT), each tackling critical areas of enforcement across the province.

“These investigational successes demonstrate how SERT and local RCMP detachments work together as the provincial police force to enhance community safety across Saskatchewan,” Saskatchewan RCMP Commanding Officer Assistant Commissioner Rhonda Blackmore said. “As a highly skilled and specialized unit, SERT’s intelligence-led, enforcement-based policing initiatives continue to combat dangerous crime and violent gang activity in the province. We will continue to help make Saskatchewan a safer place for all those who call it home.”

RCMP STRT is a specialized, intelligence-led enforcement team that investigates weapons, drug and human trafficking cases. From July through December 2024, the STRT opened 17 human trafficking files, executed 37 search warrants and made 31 arrests, seizing over 651,000 packs of tobacco and more than 900 grams of cocaine and laying 81 charges.

In July 2024, a Saskatchewan Highway Patrol (SHP) Officer conducted an inspection of a semi and trailer near Swift Current and determined the semi’s documentation was inconsistent. As a result of the investigation, the officer located approximately 30 pallets of unstamped tobacco in the trailer. Working collaboratively, RCMP STRT took carriage of the investigation with assistance of the Swift Current Rural RCMP detachment. STRT determined the truck was carrying about 8.75 million unstamped cigarettes, which SHP indicated was one of the largest tobacco seizures in their history.

RCMP CRT responds to crime surges in rural areas, targeting prolific offenders and street gangs in Saskatchewan. From July through December 2024, the CRT executed 288 arrest warrants, laid over 400 charges, seized more than 8.6 kg of illicit drugs and made 352 arrests.

In October 2024, North Battleford RCMP CRT- Gang Task Force executed search warrants at two residences as part of an ongoing drug trafficking investigation. At the residences, officers located and seized a loaded handgun, a rifle, approximately 81 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 58 grams of crack cocaine, ammunition, a sum of cash and drug trafficking paraphernalia. Continued investigation led officers to arrest three individuals and charge two with possession for the purpose of trafficking, among other charges.

RCMP WEST targets high-profile offenders who are a significant threat to public safety, such as gang members and violent offenders with outstanding warrants. The RCMP operates one WEST team out of Saskatoon and Meadow Lake and another out of Prince Albert. From July through December 2024, WEST executed 97 arrest warrants and made 82 arrests.

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For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former Finance Director Admits to Embezzling From Non-Profit

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

WASHINGTON – Jarrett Lewis, 44, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty today to one count of wire fraud in connection with an embezzlement scheme that bilked a District non-profit advocacy organization of more than $320,000, announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan, of the Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division.

U.S. District Court Judge John D. Bates scheduled a sentencing hearing for June 16, 2025.

Lewis was employed by the victim agency between June 2021 and October 2022. According to the statement of facts, while serving as Director of Finance for the non-profit, Lewis perpetrated a scheme to defraud his employer. Lewis was one of three employees at Victim 1 with access to the non-profit’s bank account. It was part of Lewis’s duties to pay bills on behalf of the organization. Lewis was also provided with a VISA card for an account belonging to Victim 1, and was authorized to use the VISA card to incur expenses on behalf of Victim 1 for goods and services related to its operations.

On 32 occasions, Lewis took advantage of his position by accessing Victim 1’s account and causing funds to be transferred to his personal account and for his own personal benefit. The total loss suffered by Victim 1 resulting from these transfers is $309,950.88. Lewis also used the non-profit’s VISA to book and pay for personal travel for himself, his family, and friends, totaling $9, 112. 96. In total, the parties stipulate that Lewis’s scheme to defraud amounts to a total of $321,057.98.

Lewis was arrested on September 5, 2024. He faces a custodial sentence in addition to fines and restitution.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Truscott with the Fraud, Public Corruption, and Civil Rights Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.

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MIL Security OSI –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Welltec Annual Report 2024 and Investor Conference Call Announcement

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Annual Report and Investor Conference Call Announcement

Welltec® will disclose its 2024 Annual Report and will discuss the results during an investor conference call to be held Wednesday, April 9th, 2025, at 5 pm CEST.

The conference call will be available only to current and prospective bond holders, broker dealers, and securities analysts, and can be accessed by dialling in a few minutes before the start and informing the operator that you would like to participate in Welltec’s investor conference call.

Relevant dial-in details and conference ID can be obtained by contacting Kris Petrov krpetrov@welltec.com and registering for the call. Registration will not be possible once the investor conference has started.

The 2024 Annual Report will be made available in the “Investor Room” on Welltec’s website at https://www.welltec.com/discover/investors.

For further information, please contact:
Kris Petrov, Finance Director
Cell: +45 48 14 35 14
E-mail: krpetrov@welltec.com

Company Profile:
Welltec® is a global technology company that develops and provides efficient, hi-tech solutions for the energy industry.
The company was founded in 1994 and grew rapidly by supplying innovative robotic technology to oil and gas operators. In 2010, Welltec introduced a new business segment focused on the development of Completion products. Commercialization of these products began in 2014, and the company is now a global leader in the field of metal expandable packer technology. Welltec’s cutting-edge products and services are designed to optimize the performance and integrity of a well, in any environment.
Through advanced engineering and lightweight design, Welltec’s solutions have helped clients increase operational efficiency and reduce carbon footprints in a safe and sustainable way for more than 30 years. Today, Welltec continues to evolve and invest in its technology portfolio with products and services adapted to take on the challenges of New Energy and Climate Technology, including Geothermal and Carbon Capture & Storage projects.

The MIL Network –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: AutoScheduler.AI Hosts LinkedIn Live Event on Cutting Through the AI Buzzwords
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Orchestration Platform and WMS accelerator, announces a LinkedIn Live Event on Cutting Through the AI Buzzwords. As AI is everywhere in supply chain conversations, companies have trouble discerning whether it is right for their business.

“Between ChatGPT, DeepSeek, Machine Learning, and ‘Proprietary Algorithms’ supply chain executives are getting lost in all the verbiage and having a hard time determining what is real and what isn’t,” says Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI. “In this event, I will provide a straight-talking session on what AI actually does in supply chain operations, whether in warehousing, transportation, procurement, or other, and help companies see where the real business value is.”

Date of Event: February 27, 2025
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM EST

The AutoScheduler LinkedIn Live Event: Cutting Through the AI Buzzwords will cover
- What AI Actually Is – DeepSeek vs. ChatGPT vs. Machine Learning vs. “Proprietary Algorithms” – what’s real?
- How AI is Used in Supply Chain – Warehousing, transportation, procurement, demand planning & beyond
- What AI Delivers – The business value, success stories, and how to measure ROI
Presenter: Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler.AI, is focused on bringing the future of technology into warehousing. He works with the top 10 Consumer Goods, Beverage, and Distribution companies to drive efficiency in distribution centers. Before launching AutoScheduler.AI, Keith was voted by Hart Energy Magazine as an Energy Innovator of the Year in 2020, was selected as a Pi Kappa Phi 30 under 30 member, and holds multiple patents in the fields of neural architecture search and supply chain planning. Keith has been published in journals and groups like SupplyChainBrain, Inbound Logistics, ISSA, and OTC for his work in logistics, cyber security, and predictive maintenance applications.

To register for the event, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/events/cuttingthroughtheaibuzzwords7297372946942083072/theater/.

About AutoScheduler.AI

AutoScheduler.AI empowers you to take full control of your warehouse with a cloud-based solution that seamlessly integrates with your existing WMS/LMS/YMS or any other solution. We automate critical tasks like labor scheduling, dock management, and task sequencing, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently. You’ve already invested in the software to run your warehouse—what we do is provide the orchestration layer that ties it all together to make real-time data driven decisions. With AutoScheduler.AI, you get smart orchestration for a smarter, more agile warehouse. For more information, visit: http://www.autoscheduler.ai.

Contact:
Becky Boyd
MediaFirst PR
Becky@MediaFirst.Net
Cell: (404) 421-8497

The MIL Network –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: EXL’s LDS platform recognized as ‘Luminary’ in Celent New Business and Underwriting Systems: North America Life Insurance Edition report

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EXL [NASDAQ: EXLS], a global data and AI company, announced it has been recognized as a Luminary in the Celent New Business and Underwriting Systems: North America Life Insurance Edition report.

The recognition marks the third consecutive year that EXL’s Life Digital Suite™ (LDS) solution, has been honored for its innovation and functionality. In 2022, EXL’s LDS also earned the Luminary honor, and in 2023, EXL won Celent’s XCelent Breadth of Functionality Award for its LifePRO™ platform.

This Celent report evaluated 20 different technology platforms supporting the automation and digitization of the new business and underwriting processes to lower operating costs and improve customer experience. The focus was on new business and underwriting systems currently offered in North America. The Celent evaluation is based on detailed analysis of product offerings and capabilities along with client references and surveys.

“As a modern, low-code, highly configurable system with six new clients in the U.S. and U.K., EXL’s LDS has become a top contender in the new business and underwriting solution market,” states Karen Monks, principal analyst in Celent’s Life Insurance Practice and author of the recent report. “EXL’s continued investment in the product, like Underwriter Assist, a summarization and query tool using GenAI, helps them make insurers’ shortlists.”

EXL’s LDS is a comprehensive digital platform that automates the entire new business and underwriting process from receipt of insurance application through policy issue. Fully interoperable with existing client technologies and pricing systems, the cloud-based solution is built a with simple no code configuration and includes pre-built product templates supporting fully customized agent landing and quote pages, personalized quotes and detailed management dashboards.

“The landscape of the life insurance industry favors fast decisioning and efficient workflows,” said Ajmal Malik, EXL’s vice president and LDS product manager. “At EXL, we empower insurers with fully automated, AI enhanced processes that help underwriters organize and search through unstructured data, streamline decision-making, and allowing them to thrive in this fast-paced environment.”

To read more about the report and to see how EXL compares to its competition, visit here. For more information on EXL’s Life Digital Suite, click here.

About EXL

EXL (NASDAQ: EXLS) is a global data and AI company that offers services and solutions to reinvent client business models, drive better outcomes and unlock growth with speed. EXL harnesses the power of data, AI, and deep industry knowledge to transform businesses, including the world’s leading corporations in industries including insurance, healthcare, banking and capital markets, retail, communications and media, and energy and infrastructure, among others. EXL was founded in 1999 with the core values of innovation, collaboration, excellence, integrity and respect. We are headquartered in New York and have approximately 57,000 employees spanning six continents. For more information, visit www.exlservice.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You should not place undue reliance on those statements because they are subject to numerous uncertainties and factors relating to EXL’s operations and business environment, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond EXL’s control. Forward-looking statements include information concerning EXL’s possible or assumed future results of operations, including descriptions of its business strategy. These statements may include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate” or similar expressions. These statements are based on assumptions that we have made in light of management’s experience in the industry as well as its perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate under the circumstances. You should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Although EXL believes that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, you should be aware that many factors could affect EXL’s actual financial results or results of operations and could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. These factors, which include our ability to maintain and grow client demand, our ability to hire and retain sufficiently trained employees, and our ability to accurately estimate and/or manage costs, rising interest rates, rising inflation and recessionary economic trends, are discussed in more detail in EXL’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including EXL’s Annual Report on Form 10-K. You should keep in mind that any forward-looking statement made herein, or elsewhere, speaks only as of the date on which it is made. New risks and uncertainties come up from time to time, and it is impossible to predict these events or how they may affect EXL. EXL has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date hereof, except as required by federal securities laws.

Contacts
Media
Keith Little
+1 703-598-0980
media.relations@exlservice.com

Investor Relations
John Kristoff
+1 212 209 4613
IR@exlservice.com

The MIL Network –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: CodeMonkey Launches Comprehensive Digital Literacy Curriculum for K-8 Students
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CodeMonkey is thrilled to announce the launch of its brand-new Digital Literacy Curriculum designed for K-8 students. This innovative program delivers a comprehensive approach to digital education, featuring over 130 engaging lessons on digital literacy, online safety, and responsible internet usage. Additionally, the curriculum includes more than 100 interactive typing lessons, ensuring that young learners develop essential keyboarding skills alongside their digital knowledge.

Empowering Students with Digital Literacy and Online Safety

In today’s technology-driven world, digital literacy has become a fundamental skill for students. CodeMonkey’s new curriculum is specifically designed to equip young learners with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively. Through a structured, age-appropriate learning pathway, students will explore critical topics such as:
- Understanding Computers & the Internet – How computers and the internet work, including hardware, software, and connectivity basics.
- Online Safety & Privacy – The importance of secure passwords, recognizing scams, and protecting personal information online.
- Responsible Digital Citizenship – Ethical behavior, digital etiquette, and strategies to combat cyberbullying.
- Media Literacy & Critical Thinking – Identifying reliable online sources, avoiding misinformation, and developing critical thinking skills.
By engaging students in interactive, gamified lessons, CodeMonkey makes learning about digital literacy both fun and accessible and ensures that students receive high-quality education in preparation for the digital future.

Mastering Keyboarding with 100+ Typing Lessons

In addition to digital literacy and safety, the new curriculum places a strong emphasis on typing proficiency. With over 100 typing lessons, students will develop proper keyboarding techniques, improving their typing speed and accuracy—a critical skill for success in the modern classroom and beyond. Through engaging and adaptive typing exercises, students will gain confidence in their ability to efficiently use digital tools.

About CodeMonkey
CodeMonkey is a leading platform in computer science education for kids, providing award-winning courses that introduce students to digital literacy, ai and real programming languages like CoffeeScript and Python. From schools to after-school programs and at-home learning, CodeMonkey offers a robust curriculum that makes computer science accessible and fun for students worldwide.

Why Digital Literacy Matters More Than Ever

With the increasing presence of technology in education, work, and social interactions, digital literacy is no longer optional—it’s essential. Research shows that students who are digitally literate perform better academically and are better prepared for future careers. However, many schools struggle to find comprehensive, structured programs that effectively teach these essential skills.

CodeMonkey’s new Digital Literacy Curriculum bridges this gap by offering a holistic, engaging, and structured learning experience that empowers students to become competent, responsible, and confident digital users.

Designed for Educators, Built for the Classroom

CodeMonkey understands that educators play a pivotal role in preparing students for a digital world. That’s why the new Digital Literacy Curriculum is designed with teachers in mind, featuring:
- Easy-to-Follow Lesson Plans – Structured, step-by-step guides for teachers with little to no prior digital literacy experience.
- Interactive and Self-Paced Learning – Engaging activities, real-world scenarios, and game-based lessons that adapt to students’ learning pace.
- Comprehensive Assessments – Built-in quizzes, projects, and progress tracking tools to measure student understanding and growth.
Bridging the Digital Divide with Future-Ready Learning

As technology continues to shape education and the workforce, CodeMonkey’s mission is to ensure that every student, regardless of background, has access to high-quality digital literacy instruction. This new curriculum provides a comprehensive and engaging solution to help students develop the critical skills necessary for success in a digitally connected world. By fostering responsible digital behavior, enhancing technical skills, and promoting ethical internet usage, CodeMonkey is paving the way for a generation of informed and empowered digital citizens.

CodeMonkey’s Digital Literacy Curriculum is now available for schools, districts, and individual educators. Schools and educators interested in integrating this program into their classrooms can reach out through the CodeMonkey website: www.codemonkey.com.

About CodeMonkey

CodeMonkey is a K12 Computer Science Curriculum and K8 Digital Literacy Curriculum, introducing kids to fundamental knowledge in today’s digital world in a gamified, engaging and fun approach. CodeMonkey is a globally recognized leader in coding and digital education and provides award-winning educational programs used by millions of students and thousands of schools worldwide. Through interactive, game-based learning, CodeMonkey empowers young learners with the skills they need to thrive in the digital age.

The MIL Network –
February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025 to Feature Top Legal, Commercial Workforce Experts

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of Congo, February 18, 2025/APO Group/ —

Working in close collaboration with oil and gas companies operating in the Republic of Congo’s hydrocarbons industry, pan-African legal and business advisory group CLG served as a key provider of commercial services for the acquisition of a number of operating fields by Trident Energy in January 2025. As part of the acquisition, Trident Energy acquired a 15.75% interest in the Lianzi Field, an 85% interest in the Nkosa and Nsoko 2 fields and a 21.5% interest in the Moho-Bilondo field from energy supermajors Chevron and TotalEnergies.

Having recently opened an office in Pointe-Noire, CLG is well-equipped to offer direct support for energy professionals operating in the country. As such, CLG will participate as the official Legal Partner to this year’s inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025, which takes place in Brazzaville from March 24-26. CEIF 2025 will feature the participation of CLG Congo Managing Director Yves Ollivier and Director of Tax and Legal Daodou Mohammad as speakers.

The inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, set for March 24-26, 2025, in Brazzaville, under the patronage of President Denis Sassou Nguesso and supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Société nationales des pétroles du Congo, will bring together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities. The event will explore the latest gas-to-power projects and provide updates on ongoing expansions across the country.

Congo’s upcoming Gas Master Plan is expected to be a major focus at CEIF 2025, providing a robust framework for gas exploration, production and commercialization. This regulatory reform is set to boost investor confidence and unlock the country’s full natural gas potential. As such, CLG Congo is expected to lead discussions on the country’s transforming regulatory structure while offering expertise on new commercial opportunities in the sector.

Meanwhile, with over 28 years’ experience in Africa’s energy and workforce development space, pan-African career management firm iCUBEFARM CEO Yolanda Asumu will also participate as a speaker at CEIF 2025. Under Asumu’s leadership, iCUBEFARM has become one of Africa’s most transformative professional networks, bridging talent with opportunity and driving economic growth. With a reach that spans over 10,000 professionals across Central Africa, the company is a strategic partner for businesses, delivering workforce development solutions to startups, small- and medium-sized enterprises and major companies alike.

In line with its economic goals, the Congolese government has established policies to ensure that Congo’s energy sector benefits local businesses and workers. The Minister of Hydrocarbons Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua recently launched a registration campaign for subcontracting and service companies in the oil and gas industry. The initiative is designed to enhance transparency and improve the integration of local companies into the industry.

As such, Asumu’s participation at CEIF 2025 is expected to support Congo’s strategy to encourage partnerships between foreign oil companies and local enterprises, with a focus on capacity building and knowledge sharing. Her participation as a speaker showcases the company’s dedication to supporting Congo’s approach to maximize domestic benefits from its vast energy resources, with a focus on job creation, technology transfer and building local expertise.

“The combined expertise of these speakers in legal, commercial and workforce development in Congo’s energy sector will be instrumental in driving discussions on the country’s energy future. Their insights at CEIF 2025 will foster important dialogue on how to align local and international efforts, build capacity and maximize the benefits of Congo’s vast energy resources, ensuring sustainable growth and economic development for the country,” stated Energy Capital & Power Events & Project Director Sandra Jeque.

MIL OSI Africa –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Inquest into the Death of Brendan Vermette

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on February 18, 2025

A public inquest into the death of Brendan Vermette will be held Tuesday, March 18 to 21, 2025, at the Coronet Hotel, 3551 2nd Avenue West, in Prince Albert.

The first day of the inquest is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Subsequent start times will be determined by the presiding coroner.

Vermette, 31, was found unconscious in his cell at the Saskatchewan Penitentiary in Prince Albert on March 9, 2022. EMS was called and staff began life-saving efforts. EMS arrived and took over his care. He was pronounced deceased at 01:22 hours on March 9, 2022.

Section 20 of The Coroners Act, 1999 states that the Chief Coroner shall hold an inquest into the death of a person who dies while an inmate at a jail or a correctional facility, unless the coroner is satisfied that the person’s death was due entirely to natural causes and was not preventable.

The Saskatchewan Coroners Service is responsible for the investigation of all sudden, unexpected deaths. The purpose of an inquest is to establish who died, when and where that person died and the medical cause and manner of death. The coroner’s jury may make recommendations to prevent similar deaths.

Coroner Blaine Beaven will preside at the inquest.

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February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/DR CONGO – Behind names like AFDL or M23 lies the Rwandan intervention in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Tuesday, 18 February 2025 wars

Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – “Sometimes you have the feeling that the poor are hopelessly lost,” reports a Church source from Bukavu, the capital of the Congolese province of South Kivu, which was taken by the M23 troops supported by the Rwandan army (see Fides, 17/2/2025). “City after city, village after village, the province of South Kivu is also falling. And they still talk about dialogue, offer themselves as mediators, without having the courage to call things by their name,” the source continues. It is not an internal conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, but an external aggression. “The country has been under attack for years, and since November 2021, when the M23 took up arms again, the situation has worsened. The M23 is the new name of the Rwandan intervention: Over time, it has operated under different names: AFDL (Alliance des Forces Démocratiques pour la Libération du Congo), RCD (Rassemblement Congolais pour la Démocratie), CNDP (Congrès National pour la Défense du Peuple)… Always with the same aim: to give a Congolese appearance to an invasion project that does not dare to admit its true nature”, said the source. “The testimony also describes the recurring pattern of this offensive: “The occupation is always preceded by riots, looting and murder. Then, the invaders arrive, presenting themselves as saviours. They do not impose respect for the law that they themselves have broken, but govern with a stick and a gun. And the inhabitants of Bukavu have already begun to experience this. Today, at a big meeting, they will present the new leaders and the new rules,” continued the source.As a sign of the new “normality”, the M23 has today, February 18, reopened the water links between Goma and Bukavu. “In the Ruzizi plain, Rwandan soldiers and M23 forces continue to advance and already have Luvungi in their hands,” the source said. According to our source, the population seems to have come to terms with the new situation: “And we will be surprised to see people applaud. Mothers who have seen the tomatoes they sold rot and have heard the cries of their hungry children will applaud. Men and young people who must be careful not to be confused with civilian soldiers or pro-government militiamen will applaud. Perhaps young people without a future will also applaud, who for decades have not been offered any opportunity for work or a decent life.” “And perhaps some will say that the people agree. What should an oppressed people do when they have no help, neither from within nor from outside? Must they die for the ideal of a fatherland? No, it will cling to its simple life and that of its children to move forward in a world that has become totally hostile,” concludes the source. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 18/2/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – The first training course on ecumenical and interreligious dialogue at the Abrahamic Family House inspired by the Document on Human Fraternity

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Tuesday, 18 February 2025

Abu Dhabi (Agenzia Fides) – A week of meetings, dialogues and visits to symbolic places in the Arabian Peninsula to experience and understand how different religions can really live together peacefully in the same place. These are the objectives of the first edition of the course on “Training and Exchanges in the Context of the Human Fraternity Document and its Receptions”, designed for delegates of the Episcopal Conferences who work in the field of ecumenical and interreligious dialogue.As the creator of this initiative, Father Stefano Luca, OFM Cap, Director of the Interfaith and Ecumenical Dialogue Office of the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia and Rector of St. Francis Church at the Abrahamic Family House, Abu Dhabi (where the course took place from Saturday 8 to Wednesday 12 February, a few days after the sixth anniversary of the signing of the document), explains, “after many months of planning, we launched the initiative with a very effective interreligious dialogue methodology: half-day training session at St. Francis Church, followed by half-day of visit of religious sites in order to gain insights from different religions present in the UAE. This enables delegates to acquire theoretical knowledge and to experience on the ground examples of best practices in terms of coexistence and dialogue”.Fifteen Regional delegates from 11 ecclesiastical regions of the Italian Bishops’ Conference attended the program, along with 5 Delegates of the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia that are part of three offices: Christian Formation, School Management, and Interfaith and Ecumenical Dialogue.The presentations by experts and theologians were followed by several moments of discussions with the Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, Bishop Paolo Martinelli. Many topics were addressed: “From the phenomenon of migration – suffice it to say that all the faithful and the clergy of the Vicariate are migrants without exception, of more than a hundred nationalities – to the history of the Catholic Church in the Gulf region,” explained Father Stefano. The day dedicated to ecumenical dialogue was attended by Armenian Orthodox Archbishop Mesrob Sarkissian, who spoke about the ecumenical movement that has developed in the region in recent years.The program continued with a visit to the four sites of the Abrahamic Family House (church, mosque, synagogue and Workshop Forum). The group then visited Sikh and Hindu temples, Greek Orthodox, Coptic and Anglican churches, as well as the great mosque of Abu Dhabi named after Sheikh Zayed.“The special thing is that in all these religious sites, we met religious leaders, and we had the possibility to have interfaith dialogue sessions with them and we learnt about the model of peaceful coexistence implemented in the UAE,” emphasizes the Franciscan.A very significant visit, says Father Stefano, “was to St. Joseph Catholic Church. Here the delegates immersed themselves in the life of a normal Sunday morning in our parishes. They took part in catechism classes and masses for children and adults. It was, as the delegates themselves said, an incredible experience.” And “not just by the number of faithful (let us keep in mind that more than 25.000 hosts are distributed at the masses every weekend), but most importantly they were impressed and edified by the joy, enthusiasm, devotion, and faith of the faithful and the children during their participation in the catechism classes and Masses as well. The high level of preparation of the catechists also impressed the delegates.”These were “valuable days for us as a church in the Gulf. Moments of dialogue, encounters, and the exchange of experiences.” “We are enriched in hearing about the experiences of those in Italy who are responsible for promoting interreligious and ecumenical dialogue, and on the other hand it is very interesting for us to be able to share the experiences that we have been having for some time now in this part of the world”, commented the Apostolic Vicar, Bishop Paolo Martinelli, who, together with Father Stefano, is already thinking about the future: “Our desire now is to invite other Episcopal Conferences to send their delegates to participate in our path of exchange and formation”. (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 18/2/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Young heroes learn to save: VSKS held a master class for children of SVO veterans at the State Institution of Humanities

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

On February 18, 2025, in the Moscow city branch of the All-Russian Student Rescue Corps, located on the territory of the State University of Management, as part of the celebration of Defender of the Fatherland Day, a master class was held for children of veterans of the special military operation.

This initiative is an important element of social support for the families of military personnel participating in the Special Military Operations, and has received the support of the Moscow City Branch of the United Russia Party.

The master class was attended by the Vice-Rector of the State University of Management Pavel Pavlovsky and the Moscow City Duma deputy, head of the Moscow City Branch of the VSKS Maxim Dzhetygenov.

“Today we pay tribute to the defenders of our Fatherland. To the soldiers who laid down their lives for the Motherland and its people, to the living participants in military conflicts and the heroes fighting today! Today, the children of our heroes will interactively learn how to use primary fire extinguishing equipment, try to work with emergency rescue tools, provide first aid and, as part of a team, try to save a conditional “teddy bear” from a labyrinth. We will introduce the children to safety culture and rescue skills in more detail. We are grateful to the State University of Management and the Moscow City Branch of the United Russia Party for their assistance in holding the event,” Maxim Dzhetygenov, head of the Moscow City Branch of VSKS, opened the event.

“From the very beginning of the SVO, the rector of the GUU Vladimir Stroyev sets one key task for the university: “Everything for the front, everything for Victory.” And active assistance to our soldiers is one of the key areas of our work. We implement retraining programs for soldiers who were seriously wounded at the front, we support universities in historical territories, we implement the “University Shifts” project, within the framework of which children from the DPR, LPR and the Kherson region come to us at the GUU for the holidays. And this is in addition to participating in the project initiated by the guys from the VSKS, which is called “GUU – SVOim” and is aimed at providing frontline units and civilians in the border area with the necessary products and technical equipment. Our partners for two years now have been the All-Russian public movement “Veterans of Russia”, so organizing an event for children of SVO participants is a logical continuation of activities in the chosen direction. We want the soldiers defending the Motherland at the front to clearly know that there is someone in the rear who will take care of their families and their children, because children are our wealth!” said Pavel Pavlovsky, Vice-Rector of the State University of Management.

A total of 30 children of SVO veterans took part in the master class, who happily donned real firefighter clothes and fought against simulated fires, learned how to use various primary fire extinguishing equipment, tried to play Jenga using rescue tools, and in the end, as a united team, rescued a simulated victim from an inflatable labyrinth and provided him with first aid.

The State University of Management is proud of its fighters of the All-Russian Student Rescue Corps, who never stand aside and help the residents of the Kursk region to endure temporary hardships, eliminate the consequences of inhuman terrorist attacks, clean the Black Sea coast from oil products and are always ready to share their experience and skills. They are

Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 02/18/2025

Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

MIL OSI Russia News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Alleged serial arsonist faces federal charges

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

McALLEN, Texas – A 36-year-old McAllen resident has been charged with arson and possession of a destructive device, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Daniel Eduardo Rivera is expected to make an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge J. Scott Hacker at 9:00 a.m.

According to the criminal complaint, Rivera has allegedly been targeting an individual since 2022 by setting multiple fires to the victim’s residence and vehicles.

The charges allege that in November 2022 at approximately 2:03 a.m., fire department officials responded to the victim’s residence due to a fire coming from a storage shed. They extinguished it, but authorities later determined it to be incendiary in nature, according to the complaint.

At approximately 1:10 p.m. that same day, the fire department was allegedly dispatched to the victim’s house for a second time where they discovered the porch to be fully engulfed with fire seeping into the home. The charges allege they were again able to extinguish it but not before it had caused significant damage to the home. They also found a Molotov cocktail at the scene, according to the complaint.

According to the victim, Rivera had allegedly confronted him and threatened to kill his family at night and burn the victim’s house down.

The complaint further alleges that in May 2024, fire officials responded to a vehicle fire in McAllen. It has already been extinguished, but authorities allegedly determined another Molotov cocktail was used in an attempt to set the car ablaze. The investigation links Rivera to that incident, according to the charges.

If convicted, Rivera faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the arson and a maximum of 10 for possession of a destructive device.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and explosives is conducting the investigation with the assistance of the McAllen Fire Marshal’s Office, Fire and Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lee Fry and Devin V. Walker are prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

MIL Security OSI –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Construction on the New La Ronge Long Term Care Home Reaches Halfway Mark

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on February 18, 2025

The Government of Saskatchewan announced today that construction on the new La Ronge Long-Term Care Home has reached 50 per cent completion.

Construction activities currently underway include completion of building envelope including glazing, interior partition walls, masonry brick installation, electrical and mechanical rough-ins, roof insulation and membrane and interior steel wall layout.

“It is wonderful to see the progress being made on the new long-term care home in La Ronge,” Minister Responsible for Seniors Lori Carr said. “When complete, the new space will ensure seniors and other residents of the north can receive long-term care that meets their needs closer to home and their families.”

The new three-story facility will consist of 80 private rooms with bathrooms, increasing capacity by 64 beds from the current space in the health centre. The home will also feature shared living areas, family rooms, a commercial kitchen and cafeteria, a serenity room and traditional healing space.

“We are very pleased to announce this project reaching 50 per cent completion,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister David Marit said. “This progress further highlights our commitment to create critical infrastructure that supports the needs of families in northern Saskatchewan. Together, we are building stronger communities that will serve generations to come.”

The new long-term care home will be owned and operated by the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA).

“We are thrilled to see the continued momentum of this new long-term care home project,” said Andrew McLetchie, Vice President, Integrated Northern Health, Saskatchewan Health Authority. “The SHA is committed to safe, quality care as close to home as possible. With significantly more capacity and amenities than the current facility, this new home will deliver on that commitment to residents of the La Ronge area.”

The Government has committed approximately $100 million to the project. The La Ronge and Area Long-Term Care Funding Committee is working to raise funds to purchase furniture, fixtures and equipment.

“The La Ronge and Area Long-Term Care Fundraising Committee is proud to partner with the SHA to ensure the new facility is fully equipped to meet residents’ needs,” Fundraising Coordinator Jacob Page said. “Through community support, we are raising funds for the furniture, fixtures, and equipment that will make this space welcoming, functional, and culturally inclusive for those who will call it home.”

Ledcor Construction Limited (Ledcor) began construction on the facility in July 2023 and it is expected to be substantially completed by early 2027.

“Ledcor is proud to be working on the new La Ronge Long Term Care facility,” Regional Manager Laird Ritchie said. “This project is an opportunity to enhance the community by creating an inspiring and functional space that will benefit future generations. We are thrilled to have reached the 50 per cent completion milestone and look forward to continuing to apply our expertise to ensure the project’s successful completion and lasting impact. The project team has actively engaged with the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT), the local band, and the town during the recruitment process. Our commitment to using local trades and suppliers has been warmly welcomed.”

Once residents can be moved into the new home, the current LTC space in the health centre will be renovated to improve program areas including therapies and add an adult day program and new hemodialysis unit.

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MIL OSI Canada News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: DRC: Injured seek treatment from MSF-supported hospitals in Bukavu amid fighting

Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

Marcus Bachmann, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) head of programmes for South Kivu province, explains the situation in this part of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the conflict evolves.

Marcus Bachmann, MSF head of programmes for South Kivu province, in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
© Herwig Prammer/MSF

What is the current situation in South Kivu?

While the hotspot of the conflict between M23/AFC and Congolese armed forces (FARDC) and their respective allies has been North Kivu, neighbouring South Kivu province has also long been receiving displaced people and touched by the violence. In the first three weeks of 2025, with the intensification of the conflict, MSF supported health structures in northern South Kivu received more than 315 injured patients.

In late January, M23 took control of Numbi, in the highlands of northern South Kivu, and of Minova, by the shores of Lake Kivu. Following the takeover of Goma, North Kivu’s capital, the group continued making quick advances in South Kivu. Last week, they captured the strategic towns of Kalehe and Kavumu.

Over the weekend, M23 fighters progressively entered Bukavu, South Kivu’s capital and one of the most populated cities in eastern DRC, as FARDC troops and allied forces reportedly withdrew from the town. Major armed clashes haven’t taken place in Bukavu, but there has been widespread looting and shootings amid the chaos. The city has been quite empty, with hardly any traffic, and very few people walking in the streets, as many residents opted to stay at home and others left the town. The situation is still volatile.

What is MSF doing in response?

We were not running regular medical activities in Bukavu, but we have offices to coordinate activities in the province. However, we have now started support to four hospitals in the city to deal with big influxes of injured, and to reinforce capacity for treating victims and survivors of sexual violence.

By Monday 17 February, our supported hospitals in Bukavu had already received 48 injured patients with wounds from gunshots and shrapnel, as a result of the violence that has taken place over the last few days. In one of the hospitals, they received 42 of these patients; all the injured were civilians, including 11 people under 18 years of age, and 16 of them were women.

In the north of South Kivu province, MSF continues to provide support to various departments of Minova General Referral hospital, three other health centres in Minova health zone, and Numbi health centre. These are areas where there are still thousands of displaced people.

In Uvira, further south in South Kivu province, where our teams have been providing care for patients with mpox in recent months, the situation has also become quite concerning. Fighting has been reported on the road leading from Bukavu to Uvira, and the general hospital there is receiving dozens of injured people, including civilians.

We are closely assessing the situation and exploring ways to scale up our emergency efforts to respond to the humanitarian needs of people in areas around Minova, Bukavu, and Uvira.

As thousands of people have been crossing the border from South Kivu into Burundi to seek refuge in the province of Cibitoke, MSF immediately dispatched a team to assess the urgent needs and provide emergency assistance in cooperation with the Burundian authorities. MSF’s priority is to support access to basic healthcare through mobile clinics, improve sanitation and access to water, and fight epidemics such as measles and cholera.

What are your main concerns?

The spread of violence and armed clashes, as well as related logistic constraints such as the closure of airports and lake navigation routes, is affecting our ability to provide medical care in various parts of northern South Kivu province. We urge all the parties to the conflict to ensure the protection of civilians, humanitarian workers, and medical infrastructure and personnel in all areas affected by the conflict

Due to the volatility of the situation, there is a risk of humanitarian needs exacerbating, particularly among communities that have been displaced for a long time.

We are also concerned about the potential surge in outbreaks of diseases, such as cholera. Our teams are prepared to respond if needed, including providing safe drinking water to communities.

You could also be interested in

Democratic Republic of Congo

Assistance needed for people leaving and staying in Goma following weeks of violence

Press Release 13 Feb 2025

Democratic Republic of Congo

MSF appeals for humanitarian access in Goma as casualties seek medical care

Press Release 29 Jan 2025

Democratic Republic of Congo

A chaotic situation and many war-wounded in Goma

Voices from the Field 31 Jan 2025

MIL OSI NGO –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Quantum effects make distant objects move together: new research finds this may happen with ripples in space

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Partha Nandi, Postdoc Fellow, Stellenbosch University

Galaxies, planets, black holes: to most people, everything about our Universe sounds and feels enormous. But while it’s true that much of what happens millions of light years away is large, there are also processes happening at the quantum end of the scale. That’s the branch of science which explains how nature works at very small scales – smaller than atoms. At this level, things behave in surprising ways.

Theoretical physicists Partha Nandi and Bibhas Ranjan Majhi explored the possibility that gravitational waves – ripples in space caused by massive objects moving or colliding – might exhibit quantum properties. They shared their findings with The Conversation Africa.

What are gravitational waves?

Simply put, they’re like tiny ripples in space, similar to the waves you see when you splash water. They occur when really heavy things in space, like stars or black holes, move around or crash into each other. These ripples then travel across space and carry energy.

They’re also far more than that: they are a method of communication. They carry information about massive cosmic events, helping scientists to “listen” to space in a way that wasn’t possible before their existence was confirmed.

In 1916 the legendary theoretical physicist Albert Einstein published a groundbreaking paper that laid out his theory of general relativity. He described gravity not as a force, but as the bending of space and time caused by massive objects. This bending affects how objects move, just like a heavy ball placed on a stretched rubber sheet makes smaller objects roll toward it.

Einstein accurately predicted the motion of planets, black holes, and even how light bends around massive objects – and the existence of gravitational waves rippling in space-time when those massive objects move or collide.

Read more: Curious Kids: what are gravitational waves?

It took nearly 100 years for Einstein’s hypothesis about gravitational waves to be confirmed. That’s when the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) in the US detected these waves for the first time. It took such a long time because despite how huge they sound, gravitational waves are minute: they stretch or squeeze space by a factor 1,000 times smaller than the size of an atom. Special tools were needed to spot them and LIGO’s cutting-edge technology was up to the task.

You argue that some gravitational waves are quantum in nature. What does that mean?

“Quantum” is the branch of science that explains how nature works at very small scales – smaller than atoms. At this level, things behave in surprising ways.

For instance, tiny particles can behave like waves. They can also exist in more than one state at the same time, which is called superposition. Additionally, they can be mysteriously linked so that a change in one instantly affects the other, no matter how far apart they are. This is called entanglement.

Read more: Quantum entanglement: what it is, and why physicists want to harness it

Photons are a good example. These are particles of light, and scientists have proved that they behave in these “quantum” ways, such as being able to exist in superposition or becoming entangled with each other.

Entanglement is a kind of connection but it’s much deeper than a simple link. When two objects are entangled, they share something called a quantum state. This describes everything about a particle or system. It’s like a blueprint, but instead of fixed details, it gives the chance of finding the particle under different conditions, such as its position or speed.

When two objects share a quantum state, their behaviour becomes mysteriously linked. If you measure one object, the state of the other will immediately adjust to match, no matter how far apart they are. This is what makes entanglement so special and unlike anything we see in the everyday world.

What did your research reveal?

We hypothesised that gravitational waves could have both classical and quantum properties. The ones detected by LIGO so far follow classical behaviour, matching Einstein’s theory of general relativity.

But the current LIGO detectors aren’t sensitive enough to detect quantum effects, and there’s been no way to know whether our hypothesis is correct. So we modelled a detector similar to the latest generation of LIGO, which has mirrors attached to arms that can move and vibrate.

Classical gravitational waves cause the mirrors to move in specific ways, but in our study quantum gravitational waves – tiny ripples caused by particles called “gravitons” – affected the mirrors differently. They can make the mirrors’ oscillation modes become entangled: parts of the motion move together in ways that classical waves cannot create.

To visualise this, imagine two wind chimes far apart, swaying in sync because of an invisible breeze. Here, the quantum gravitational waves are like that breeze. They make distant objects move together in a way that classical gravitational waves cannot.

This suggests that at very small scales, gravitational waves may show quantum features, like entanglement, which can’t be explained classically. We’re not suggesting that all gravitational waves are quantum. However, this does not imply that all gravitational waves are quantum in nature. Instead, those originating from the early universe, approximately 13.8 billion years ago, may carry quantum signatures. These types of gravitational waves may encode information about the early universe, especially around the time of the Big Bang, and how they may have changed over time.

Why is this an important finding?

Confirming the quantum nature of gravitational waves bridges Einstein’s relativity with quantum mechanics, solving a puzzle that has challenged physics for decades: the difficulty of reconciling the principles of general relativity, which describes gravity on a large scale, with the laws of quantum mechanics, which govern the behaviour of particles at the smallest scales.

This breakthrough could revolutionise our understanding of the universe. The quantum nature of gravitational waves could help advanced sensors detect faint cosmic signals and provide insights into the universe’s origins, black hole behaviour, and the fabric of reality. While LIGO has already made great progress in measuring gravitational waves, exploring their quantum side opens up a new field of physics.

Read more: Gravitational waves: will the global south provide the next pulse of gravity research?

It’s important to note that more research will be needed to test and replicate our findings in different experimental settings. We’re far from the only people studying these phenomena and we hope our findings will strengthen the efforts of South African institutions such as the National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences (NITheCS) and the Astrophysics Research Group at Stellenbosch University which contribute to gravitational wave astrophysics through data analysis, collaboration and theoretical work.

Advances in technology will also play a key role in expanding quantum gravitational wave research opportunities. The LIGO-India observatory, due to become operational by 2030, will be one such possible experimental setting.

– Quantum effects make distant objects move together: new research finds this may happen with ripples in space
– https://theconversation.com/quantum-effects-make-distant-objects-move-together-new-research-finds-this-may-happen-with-ripples-in-space-245050

MIL OSI Africa –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Town improvements and Blue Badge Parking enhancements18 February 2025 Infrastructure and Environment is continuing work on a project related to the Blue Badge holder database, with a newsletter that has been sent with further updates for Islanders. As a part of the Government’s… Read more

Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

18 February 2025

Infrastructure and Environment is continuing work on a project related to the Blue Badge holder database, with a newsletter that has been sent with further updates for Islanders.

As a part of the Government’s Common Strategic Policy on Revitalising Town we are continuing to make ongoing improvements with changes being made to enhance accessibility and transport provisions.

Key Updates

New Esplanade taxi rank and adjustments to Library Place

A new taxi rank is being introduced on the Esplanade to better serve the public and the International Financial Centre. Following data collection on existing taxi ranks at Library Place, two spaces will be removed, while one will remain in place to meet demand.

Additional disabled parking at Library Place

Three new disabled parking bays will be introduced at Library Place, with a maximum stay of two hours. This timeframe balances the need for accessibility with ensuring turnover for greater availability.

Loading and cycle parking enhancements

A slight extension of a loading/unloading bay will assist deliveries in the area. Additional cycle parking will also be introduced and reviewed once construction at New Cut is completed.

Connétable Andy Jehan, Minister for Infrastructure, said: “These improvements aim to make St Helier more accessible and better connected. Increasing disabled parking, refining taxi rank locations, and enhancing cycling provisions will support both residents and visitors in navigating the town more easily. The new disabled spaces will be identified with Blue Paint, and the markings have been very successful in raising greater awareness of the bays.’

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Coffee, tea and cocoa costs see global food import bill soaring past $2 trillion

Source: United Nations 4

14 November 2024 Economic Development

The global food import bill is projected to exceed $2 trillion in 2024 – fuelled by the rising cost of everyone’s favourite hot drinks – according to the latest Food Outlook released by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on Thursday.

The biannual report, which focuses on developments affecting global food and animal feed markets, highlights that higher costs for cocoa, coffee, and tea are driving the increase, while disparities in import bills persist across income levels.

Cocoa prices have soared nearly four times their ten-year average earlier this year, coffee prices have almost doubled, and tea prices are 15 per cent above long-term levels.

Together, these commodities are responsible for over half of the projected increase in global food import expenditures, which FAO economists anticipate will rise by nearly 23 per cent in 2024.

National disparities

While high-income countries, which make up two-thirds of the global food import bill, will see a 4.4 per cent increase, import expenditures for middle and low-income countries are expected to decline.

Lower-income countries may find some relief in reduced cereal and oilseed costs, although their per capita food intake for wheat and coarse grains is projected to decline, contrasting with an anticipated 1.5 per cent increase in rice consumption.

FAO emphasises the crucial role food exports play in supporting many economies.

For instance, coffee export earnings cover nearly 40 per cent of food import costs in Burundi and Ethiopia, while Côte d’Ivoire’s cocoa exports entirely offset its food import bill. Similarly, tea exports account for more than half of Sri Lanka’s import costs.

Mixed forecast

FAO’s forecasts reveal a mixed picture for global food production and trade.

Wheat and coarse grain output is expected to decrease but remain above consumption levels, while rice production is set for a record-breaking harvest in 2024/25 which could enable an increase in global rice consumption, reserves and international trade.

Production of meat and dairy is forecast to grow modestly while global fisheries output is expected to expand by 2.2 per cent, fuelled by aquaculture.

Meanwhile, vegetable oils’ consumption may outpace production for the second consecutive season, leading to stock drawdowns.

The report cautions that extreme weather, geopolitical tensions, and policy changes could destabilise production systems, further straining global food security.

Olive oil prices spike alongside climate stress

A special focus on olive oil details price spikes due to climate-related production declines.

IFAD

Compost made from a mixture of pine trees empty cones and cow dung helps olive trees grow in a sustainable way.

In Spain, wholesale prices for cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil reached nearly $10,000 per tonne in January 2024, almost triple their 2022 levels.

High temperatures, which force olive trees to conserve water for core functions instead of producing fruit, led to a nearly 50 per cent production cut for two years in a row.

Although Spain’s next harvest is expected to surpass the 10-year average, high prices may constrain global consumption.

Producers ought to consider more sustainable water and soil management practices, the report notes.

Given the great potential for expansion in olive oil exports, governments might offer support to olive growers, such as insurance schemes and measures to control the spread of diseases, said FAO Economist Di Yang.

Cheaper fertiliser…mostly

The report also highlights a 50 per cent drop in fertiliser prices since their 2022 peak, thanks to falling natural gas prices and reduced trade barriers.

FAO Economist Maria Antip noted however that phosphate fertilisers have resisted this trend, with ongoing trade barriers and geopolitical tensions posing risks to future supplies, particularly in Latin America and Asia.

Additionally, the report underscores the potential of low-carbon ammonia, a key component of nitrogen-based fertilisers, as a sustainable alternative.

However, while using renewable energy instead of natural gas is viable and investments to do so are underway, scaling up production will require targeted incentives to offset higher manufacturing costs and encourage adoption among farmers.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

February 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Quantum effects make distant objects move together: new research finds this may happen with ripples in space

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Partha Nandi, Postdoc Fellow, Stellenbosch University

An illustration of two black holes orbiting each other. Eventually they will merge, producing gravitational waves. Mark Garlick/Science Photo Library/Getty Images

Galaxies, planets, black holes: to most people, everything about our Universe sounds and feels enormous. But while it’s true that much of what happens millions of light years away is large, there are also processes happening at the quantum end of the scale. That’s the branch of science which explains how nature works at very small scales – smaller than atoms. At this level, things behave in surprising ways.

Theoretical physicists Partha Nandi and Bibhas Ranjan Majhi explored the possibility that gravitational waves – ripples in space caused by massive objects moving or colliding – might exhibit quantum properties. They shared their findings with The Conversation Africa.

What are gravitational waves?

Simply put, they’re like tiny ripples in space, similar to the waves you see when you splash water. They occur when really heavy things in space, like stars or black holes, move around or crash into each other. These ripples then travel across space and carry energy.

They’re also far more than that: they are a method of communication. They carry information about massive cosmic events, helping scientists to “listen” to space in a way that wasn’t possible before their existence was confirmed.

In 1916 the legendary theoretical physicist Albert Einstein published a groundbreaking paper that laid out his theory of general relativity. He described gravity not as a force, but as the bending of space and time caused by massive objects. This bending affects how objects move, just like a heavy ball placed on a stretched rubber sheet makes smaller objects roll toward it.

Einstein accurately predicted the motion of planets, black holes, and even how light bends around massive objects – and the existence of gravitational waves rippling in space-time when those massive objects move or collide.

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It took nearly 100 years for Einstein’s hypothesis about gravitational waves to be confirmed. That’s when the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) in the US detected these waves for the first time. It took such a long time because despite how huge they sound, gravitational waves are minute: they stretch or squeeze space by a factor 1,000 times smaller than the size of an atom. Special tools were needed to spot them and LIGO’s cutting-edge technology was up to the task.

You argue that some gravitational waves are quantum in nature. What does that mean?

“Quantum” is the branch of science that explains how nature works at very small scales – smaller than atoms. At this level, things behave in surprising ways.

For instance, tiny particles can behave like waves. They can also exist in more than one state at the same time, which is called superposition. Additionally, they can be mysteriously linked so that a change in one instantly affects the other, no matter how far apart they are. This is called entanglement.

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Photons are a good example. These are particles of light, and scientists have proved that they behave in these “quantum” ways, such as being able to exist in superposition or becoming entangled with each other.

Entanglement is a kind of connection but it’s much deeper than a simple link. When two objects are entangled, they share something called a quantum state. This describes everything about a particle or system. It’s like a blueprint, but instead of fixed details, it gives the chance of finding the particle under different conditions, such as its position or speed.

When two objects share a quantum state, their behaviour becomes mysteriously linked. If you measure one object, the state of the other will immediately adjust to match, no matter how far apart they are. This is what makes entanglement so special and unlike anything we see in the everyday world.

What did your research reveal?

We hypothesised that gravitational waves could have both classical and quantum properties. The ones detected by LIGO so far follow classical behaviour, matching Einstein’s theory of general relativity.

But the current LIGO detectors aren’t sensitive enough to detect quantum effects, and there’s been no way to know whether our hypothesis is correct. So we modelled a detector similar to the latest generation of LIGO, which has mirrors attached to arms that can move and vibrate.

Classical gravitational waves cause the mirrors to move in specific ways, but in our study quantum gravitational waves – tiny ripples caused by particles called “gravitons” – affected the mirrors differently. They can make the mirrors’ oscillation modes become entangled: parts of the motion move together in ways that classical waves cannot create.

To visualise this, imagine two wind chimes far apart, swaying in sync because of an invisible breeze. Here, the quantum gravitational waves are like that breeze. They make distant objects move together in a way that classical gravitational waves cannot.

This suggests that at very small scales, gravitational waves may show quantum features, like entanglement, which can’t be explained classically. We’re not suggesting that all gravitational waves are quantum. However, this does not imply that all gravitational waves are quantum in nature. Instead, those originating from the early universe, approximately 13.8 billion years ago, may carry quantum signatures. These types of gravitational waves may encode information about the early universe, especially around the time of the Big Bang, and how they may have changed over time.

Why is this an important finding?

Confirming the quantum nature of gravitational waves bridges Einstein’s relativity with quantum mechanics, solving a puzzle that has challenged physics for decades: the difficulty of reconciling the principles of general relativity, which describes gravity on a large scale, with the laws of quantum mechanics, which govern the behaviour of particles at the smallest scales.

This breakthrough could revolutionise our understanding of the universe. The quantum nature of gravitational waves could help advanced sensors detect faint cosmic signals and provide insights into the universe’s origins, black hole behaviour, and the fabric of reality. While LIGO has already made great progress in measuring gravitational waves, exploring their quantum side opens up a new field of physics.

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It’s important to note that more research will be needed to test and replicate our findings in different experimental settings. We’re far from the only people studying these phenomena and we hope our findings will strengthen the efforts of South African institutions such as the National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences (NITheCS) and the Astrophysics Research Group at Stellenbosch University which contribute to gravitational wave astrophysics through data analysis, collaboration and theoretical work.

Advances in technology will also play a key role in expanding quantum gravitational wave research opportunities. The LIGO-India observatory, due to become operational by 2030, will be one such possible experimental setting.

Partha Nandi receives funding from the University of Stellenbosch. as a posdoctoral fellowship.

Bibhas Ranjan Majhi 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. Quantum effects make distant objects move together: new research finds this may happen with ripples in space – https://theconversation.com/quantum-effects-make-distant-objects-move-together-new-research-finds-this-may-happen-with-ripples-in-space-245050

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 19, 2025