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MIL-OSI: ThoughtSpot Named a Leader in the 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Analytics and BI Platforms
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ThoughtSpot, the Agentic Analytics Platform company, today announced Gartner Inc. has positioned the company in the Leaders quadrant in the 2025 Gartner^® Magic Quadrant™ for Analytics and BI Platforms. A complimentary copy of the report can be found here.

We believe the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant arrives amidst a transformative period, characterized by a rapid surge in demand for trusted generative AI solutions that customers can rely on. Business, data, and product leaders are faced with the challenge of scaling efficiently, sparking innovation and delivering differentiated experiences – or risk being left behind. Traditional BI tools characterized by static charts and standalone dashboards that require the user to go and find the insight are long over. We’re now in a world where self-service is delivering the experience it always meant to be.

ThoughtSpot’s recognition as a Leader in this dynamic landscape of GenAI analytics we feel is a testament to how our agentic analytics platform is connecting users with accessible, governed, transparent AI-powered insights embedded directly in their flow of work. We believe the recognition underscores ThoughtSpot’s unwavering commitment to redefining how the world gets insights, empowering businesses to drive decisions on data and AI at scale.

Customers like Capital One, Comcast, Lyft, and Klaviyo are turning to ThoughtSpot as an innovative business partner they can trust to deliver value in their GenAI analytics strategies.

As reviewed on Gartner Peer Insights™ by customers across industries and roles:
- “ThoughtSpot has been an excellent choice for our business users who may not be technically savvy, but have mastery of their data. This tool allows them to drill down into levels of detail quickly and easily to help them understand how the business is performing, detect anomalies, and perform data-driven strategic planning,” said a VP of data engineering at $30B insurance firm; source.
- “We wanted the best natural language search BI tool that leverages generative AI and helps both technical and non-technical business users access their data and get their questions answered. We were able to successfully implement a production analytics offering within 4 months from contract signing, which was incredible including we were able to keep the team optimised… Spotter is tech that’s best in class, drill down on visuals was also really important to always be able to access the underlying data,” said the data product manager at an IT Services company; source.
“We are incredibly proud to be recognized as a Leader in the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant as the industry fully embraces the transformative power of AI-powered analytics – a shift that legacy BI solutions simply weren’t built for,” said Ketan Kharkanis, CEO at ThoughtSpot. “ThoughtSpot has surged in driving Agentic Analytics for the market, enabling customers across the Fortune 500 to agile startups in operationalizing data and AI at scale with connected insights that meet you where you are. Our robust platform supports data teams in preparing AI ready data in Analyst Studio, equips business users with a conversational data experience that takes them from insight to action, and allows product builders and developers to effortlessly create smart apps and intelligent experiences. As a trusted partner, we empower our customers to unlock unprecedented value and drive their businesses forward with confidence. This continued recognition is a testament to our relentless pursuit of innovation, from pioneering search-driven analytics to now leading the industry with agentic analytics.”

Key Business Achievements

The report publication follows a year of exceptional growth and innovation for ThoughtSpot, including:
- The launch of Spotter, an agentic AI analyst, built for every business user and transforming the way users proactively derive actionable and meaningful insights from their data.
- The expansion of the ThoughtSpot platform with the introduction of Analyst Studio, the creator space that empowers data teams to get data ready for AI and analytics, manage cloud costs, seamlessly switch between ad-hoc analysis and advanced data science, and focus on driving strategic impact—all within a unified, flexible, and integrated platform.
- ThoughtSpot announced two additional agentic capabilities including ThoughtSpot Agentic MCP Server, allowing users to bring the power of the world’s leading Agentic Analytics Platform to any AI agent or application that supports MCP and the introduction of ThoughtSpot’s Agentic Semantic Layer designed for the AI era. This advanced semantic layer acts as the intelligent bridge between your data and the business logic that drives decision-making.
- Deepened relationships with global partnerships across our ecosystem with the launch of ThoughtSpot’s agentic analytics platform for Snowflake customers, DataSpot, ThoughtSpot’s agentic analytics platform for Databricks customers, and a new channel partnership with Panasonic Solution Technology Partners in Japan.
- Key leadership appointments that have accelerated the global vision and growth of ThoughtSpot, including naming Ketan Karkhanis as CEO, Micheline Nijmeh as CMO and Brad Roberts as CFO.
- Rapid expansion of ThoughtSpot’s global presence with significant growth in Japan, ANZ and across EMEA. These key regions are pivotal to continued growth and helping leading organizations across the globe with AI-powered data-driven decision making.
- ThoughtSpot has also been recognized by CRN in the 2025 Cloud 100, AI 100 and Big Data 100 lists, a leader in Snowflake’s Modern Marketing Data Stack Report and a Proddy Award winner for the Top Embedded Analytics Product by Product School.
- These milestones are underpinned by ThoughtSpot posting significant fiscal growth in Fiscal Year 2024, closing with 40% year-over-year SaaS growth and more than doubling its monthly active users.
Download the report here.

About the Gartner Magic Quadrant

Magic Quadrant reports are a culmination of rigorous, fact-based research in specific markets, providing a wide-angle view of the relative positions of providers in markets where growth is high and provider differentiation is distinct. Providers are positioned into four quadrants: Leaders, Challengers, Visionaries and Niche Players. The research enables companies to get the most from market analysis in alignment with their unique business and technology needs.

Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Analytics and Business Intelligence Platforms, Anirudh Ganeshan, Edgar Macari, Jamie O’Brien, Kurt Schlegel, Christopher Long, June 16, 2025.

GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, and MAGIC QUADRANT is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

About ThoughtSpot
ThoughtSpot is the Agentic Analytics Platform that empowers every enterprise to transform insights into action. Our mission is to create a more fact-driven world by delivering a platform where anyone can effortlessly explore any data, ask any question, and uncover actionable insights faster—leading to growth, better business outcomes, and efficiency in their organizations. Agentic AI combined with ThoughtSpot’s intuitive natural language search, every user can confidently discover proactive insights from their business data creating real-time decisioning with impact. The platform’s unified capabilities, along with our agentic AI analyst, Spotter, ensures insights are connected and pervasive, enabling users to create precise, transparent, personalized, and actionable insights with enterprise grade trust, security, and scale. Accessible via the web and mobile app, ThoughtSpot ensures intelligent decision-making happens seamlessly, wherever and whenever needed. For organizations looking to drive value, ThoughtSpot Embedded provides a low-code solution to integrate AI-powered analytics directly into products and services that make every application an intelligent experience, driving data monetization and boosting user engagement for customers. Industry leaders like NVIDIA, Toyota, Hilton Worldwide, Capital One and Matillion rely on ThoughtSpot to transform how their employees and customers take advantage of data to create better business outcomes. Try ThoughtSpot today and experience the new era of analytics.

PR Contact:
Lindsay Noonan
Director of Communications, ThoughtSpot
press@thoughtspot.com

The MIL Network –
June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: ThoughtSpot Named a Leader in the 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Analytics and BI Platforms
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ThoughtSpot, the Agentic Analytics Platform company, today announced Gartner Inc. has positioned the company in the Leaders quadrant in the 2025 Gartner^® Magic Quadrant™ for Analytics and BI Platforms. A complimentary copy of the report can be found here.

We believe the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant arrives amidst a transformative period, characterized by a rapid surge in demand for trusted generative AI solutions that customers can rely on. Business, data, and product leaders are faced with the challenge of scaling efficiently, sparking innovation and delivering differentiated experiences – or risk being left behind. Traditional BI tools characterized by static charts and standalone dashboards that require the user to go and find the insight are long over. We’re now in a world where self-service is delivering the experience it always meant to be.

ThoughtSpot’s recognition as a Leader in this dynamic landscape of GenAI analytics we feel is a testament to how our agentic analytics platform is connecting users with accessible, governed, transparent AI-powered insights embedded directly in their flow of work. We believe the recognition underscores ThoughtSpot’s unwavering commitment to redefining how the world gets insights, empowering businesses to drive decisions on data and AI at scale.

Customers like Capital One, Comcast, Lyft, and Klaviyo are turning to ThoughtSpot as an innovative business partner they can trust to deliver value in their GenAI analytics strategies.

As reviewed on Gartner Peer Insights™ by customers across industries and roles:
- “ThoughtSpot has been an excellent choice for our business users who may not be technically savvy, but have mastery of their data. This tool allows them to drill down into levels of detail quickly and easily to help them understand how the business is performing, detect anomalies, and perform data-driven strategic planning,” said a VP of data engineering at $30B insurance firm; source.
- “We wanted the best natural language search BI tool that leverages generative AI and helps both technical and non-technical business users access their data and get their questions answered. We were able to successfully implement a production analytics offering within 4 months from contract signing, which was incredible including we were able to keep the team optimised… Spotter is tech that’s best in class, drill down on visuals was also really important to always be able to access the underlying data,” said the data product manager at an IT Services company; source.
“We are incredibly proud to be recognized as a Leader in the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant as the industry fully embraces the transformative power of AI-powered analytics – a shift that legacy BI solutions simply weren’t built for,” said Ketan Kharkanis, CEO at ThoughtSpot. “ThoughtSpot has surged in driving Agentic Analytics for the market, enabling customers across the Fortune 500 to agile startups in operationalizing data and AI at scale with connected insights that meet you where you are. Our robust platform supports data teams in preparing AI ready data in Analyst Studio, equips business users with a conversational data experience that takes them from insight to action, and allows product builders and developers to effortlessly create smart apps and intelligent experiences. As a trusted partner, we empower our customers to unlock unprecedented value and drive their businesses forward with confidence. This continued recognition is a testament to our relentless pursuit of innovation, from pioneering search-driven analytics to now leading the industry with agentic analytics.”

Key Business Achievements

The report publication follows a year of exceptional growth and innovation for ThoughtSpot, including:
- The launch of Spotter, an agentic AI analyst, built for every business user and transforming the way users proactively derive actionable and meaningful insights from their data.
- The expansion of the ThoughtSpot platform with the introduction of Analyst Studio, the creator space that empowers data teams to get data ready for AI and analytics, manage cloud costs, seamlessly switch between ad-hoc analysis and advanced data science, and focus on driving strategic impact—all within a unified, flexible, and integrated platform.
- ThoughtSpot announced two additional agentic capabilities including ThoughtSpot Agentic MCP Server, allowing users to bring the power of the world’s leading Agentic Analytics Platform to any AI agent or application that supports MCP and the introduction of ThoughtSpot’s Agentic Semantic Layer designed for the AI era. This advanced semantic layer acts as the intelligent bridge between your data and the business logic that drives decision-making.
- Deepened relationships with global partnerships across our ecosystem with the launch of ThoughtSpot’s agentic analytics platform for Snowflake customers, DataSpot, ThoughtSpot’s agentic analytics platform for Databricks customers, and a new channel partnership with Panasonic Solution Technology Partners in Japan.
- Key leadership appointments that have accelerated the global vision and growth of ThoughtSpot, including naming Ketan Karkhanis as CEO, Micheline Nijmeh as CMO and Brad Roberts as CFO.
- Rapid expansion of ThoughtSpot’s global presence with significant growth in Japan, ANZ and across EMEA. These key regions are pivotal to continued growth and helping leading organizations across the globe with AI-powered data-driven decision making.
- ThoughtSpot has also been recognized by CRN in the 2025 Cloud 100, AI 100 and Big Data 100 lists, a leader in Snowflake’s Modern Marketing Data Stack Report and a Proddy Award winner for the Top Embedded Analytics Product by Product School.
- These milestones are underpinned by ThoughtSpot posting significant fiscal growth in Fiscal Year 2024, closing with 40% year-over-year SaaS growth and more than doubling its monthly active users.
Download the report here.

About the Gartner Magic Quadrant

Magic Quadrant reports are a culmination of rigorous, fact-based research in specific markets, providing a wide-angle view of the relative positions of providers in markets where growth is high and provider differentiation is distinct. Providers are positioned into four quadrants: Leaders, Challengers, Visionaries and Niche Players. The research enables companies to get the most from market analysis in alignment with their unique business and technology needs.

Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Analytics and Business Intelligence Platforms, Anirudh Ganeshan, Edgar Macari, Jamie O’Brien, Kurt Schlegel, Christopher Long, June 16, 2025.

GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, and MAGIC QUADRANT is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

About ThoughtSpot
ThoughtSpot is the Agentic Analytics Platform that empowers every enterprise to transform insights into action. Our mission is to create a more fact-driven world by delivering a platform where anyone can effortlessly explore any data, ask any question, and uncover actionable insights faster—leading to growth, better business outcomes, and efficiency in their organizations. Agentic AI combined with ThoughtSpot’s intuitive natural language search, every user can confidently discover proactive insights from their business data creating real-time decisioning with impact. The platform’s unified capabilities, along with our agentic AI analyst, Spotter, ensures insights are connected and pervasive, enabling users to create precise, transparent, personalized, and actionable insights with enterprise grade trust, security, and scale. Accessible via the web and mobile app, ThoughtSpot ensures intelligent decision-making happens seamlessly, wherever and whenever needed. For organizations looking to drive value, ThoughtSpot Embedded provides a low-code solution to integrate AI-powered analytics directly into products and services that make every application an intelligent experience, driving data monetization and boosting user engagement for customers. Industry leaders like NVIDIA, Toyota, Hilton Worldwide, Capital One and Matillion rely on ThoughtSpot to transform how their employees and customers take advantage of data to create better business outcomes. Try ThoughtSpot today and experience the new era of analytics.

PR Contact:
Lindsay Noonan
Director of Communications, ThoughtSpot
press@thoughtspot.com

The MIL Network –
June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Mountain America Credit Union Promotes Musheer Alambath to Senior Vice President of Internal Audit

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SANDY, Utah, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mountain America Credit Union is pleased to announce the promotion of Musheer Alambath to Senior Vice President of Internal Audit, effective June 1, 2025. In this newly created role, Alambath will continue to drive the credit union’s audit strategy and risk management framework as Mountain America advances its ambitious growth strategy and member-driven mission.

A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available in this link.

“Musheer has demonstrated outstanding leadership and strategic foresight since joining Mountain America last year,” said Sterling Nielsen, president and CEO of Mountain America Credit Union. “As we evolve to meet the needs of our growing membership, his promotion reflects our commitment to building a resilient, forward-thinking organization. Musheer’s expertise ensures we continue delivering exceptional experiences for our members.”

Alambath joined Mountain America in October 2024 as vice president of internal audit, tasked with building a scalable audit function. Within eight months, he established a strong team, launched an audit framework, and improved internal governance.

With over 20 years of experience, Alambath is a certified public accountant and has led audit teams across North America, Europe, and the Middle East. He began his career at a major UAE bank, earning six promotions, including vice president, while auditing key operations.

A Sloan Fellow from Stanford Graduate School of Business, he holds a master’s degree in management. Alambath serves on the board of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) in the U.S. and Toronto and is a noted speaker on financial innovation and regulation.

“I’m honored to step into this new role at such a pivotal moment in Mountain America’s journey,” said Alambath. “Our growth demands not just scale, but smart governance. I’m excited to continue building a strong internal audit function that enables agility, enhances transparency, and supports sustainable growth for our members and communities.”

This strategic appointment reflects Mountain America’s ongoing commitment to organizational excellence, innovation, and stewardship as it continues expanding its impact and reach.

For more information about Mountain America, visit macu.com.

About Mountain America Credit Union

With more than 1 million members and $20 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union helps its members define and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure cutting-edge mobile banking, more than 100 branches across its multistate region, and over 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain America—guiding you forward. Learn more at macu.com.

The MIL Network –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Purpose Investments Announces 0% Management Fee Until February 1, 2026, for Newly Launched Purpose XRP ETF

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Purpose Investments Inc. (“Purpose” or “Purpose Investments”), Canada’s leading digital asset ETF manager and the firm behind the world’s first spot Bitcoin ETF, today announced a management fee holiday for its newly launched Purpose XRP ETF. Effective immediately, the ETF’s management fee will be fully waived until February 1, 2026.

The Purpose XRP ETF offers investors spot exposure to XRP – the native token of the XRP Ledger, a decentralized blockchain built to enable fast, low-cost global payments. It is the only XRP ETF in Canada offering CAD-hedged units and is designed to help investors access digital assets securely and transparently through a regulated vehicle.

“XRP’s real-world utility and global relevance continue to drive interest, and we want to make it even easier for Canadian investors to access this digital asset via ETF,” said Vlad Tasevski, Chief Innovation Officer at Purpose. “By fully waiving the management fee until early 2026, we’re reinforcing our commitment to simple and effective access to novel digital asset solutions that help investors cut through complexity.”

All units of the ETF – CAD-hedged (TSX: XRPP), CAD non-hedged (TSX: XRPP.B), and USD (TSX: XRPP.U) – are included in the fee holiday. Additionally, to provide investors long-term confidence, following the fee holiday period ending in February 2026, the fund’s total Management Expense Ratio (MER) will be capped at 0.89%*.

To learn more about the Purpose XRP ETF and the full lineup of Purpose’s digital asset solutions, please visit purposeinvest.com/crypto.

About Purpose Investments

Purpose Investments is an asset management company with over $24 billion in assets under management, focused on client-centric innovation across ETFs and investment funds. Purpose is a division of Purpose Unlimited, an independent financial technology company led by entrepreneur Som Seif.

For further information, please email us at info@purposeinvest.com.

Media inquiries:
Keera Hart
keera.hart@kaiserpartners.com
905-580-1257

*The MER cap is implemented at the discretion of Purpose Investments and is subject to change at any time.

Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses may all be associated with investment fund investments. Please read the prospectus and other disclosure documents before investing. Copies of the Prospectus may be obtained from purposeinvest.com. There can be no assurance that the full amount of your investment in a fund will be returned to you. If the securities are purchased or sold on a stock exchange, you may pay more or receive less than the current net asset value. Investment funds are not guaranteed; their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated. Crypto assets can be extremely volatile, and there is no guarantee that the amount invested will be returned to you.

Certain statements in this document may be forward-looking. Forward-looking statements (“FLS”) are statements that are predictive in nature, depend on or refer to future events or conditions, or that include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate” or other similar expressions. Statements that look forward in time or include anything other than historical information are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results, actions or events could differ materially from those set forth in the FLS. FLS are not guarantees of future performance and are, by their nature, based on numerous assumptions. Although the FLS contained in this document are based upon what Purpose Investments believes to be reasonable assumptions, Purpose Investments cannot assure that actual results will be consistent with these FLS. The reader is cautioned to consider the FLS carefully and not to place undue reliance on the FLS. Unless required by applicable law, it is not undertaken, and specifically disclaimed, that there is any intention or obligation to update or revise FLS, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

The MIL Network –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: 50 years after ‘Jaws,’ researchers have retired the man-eater myth and revealed more about sharks’ amazing biology

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Gareth J. Fraser, Associate Professor of Evolutionary Developmental Biology, University of Florida

The shark in ‘Jaws’ became a terrifying icon. Universal Pictures via Getty Images

The summer of 1975 was the summer of “Jaws.”

The movie was adapted from a novel by Peter Benchley.
Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

The first blockbuster movie sent waves of panic and awe through audiences. “Jaws” – the tale of a killer great white shark that terrorizes a coastal tourist town – captured people’s imaginations and simultaneously created a widespread fear of the water.

To call Steven Spielberg’s masterpiece a creature feature is trite. Because the shark isn’t shown for most of the movie – mechanical difficulties meant production didn’t have one ready to use until later in the filming process – suspense and fear build. The movie unlocked in viewers an innate fear of the unknown, encouraging the idea that monsters lurk beneath the ocean’s surface, even in the shallows.

And because in 1975 marine scientists knew far less than we do now about sharks and their world, it was easy for the myth of the rogue shark as a murderous eating machine to take hold, along with the assumption that all sharks must be bloodthirsty, mindless killers.

People lined up to get scared by the murderous shark at the center of the ‘Jaws’ movie.
Bettmann Archive via Getty Images

But in addition to scaring many moviegoers that “it’s not safe to go in the water,” “Jaws” has over the years inspired generations of researchers, including me. The scientific curiosity sparked by this horror fish flick has helped reveal so much more about what lies beneath the waves than was known 50 years ago. My own research focuses on the secret lives of sharks, their evolution and development, and how people can benefit from the study of these enigmatic animals.

The business end of sharks: Their jaws and teeth

My own work has focused on perhaps the most terrifying aspect of these apex predators, the jaws and teeth. I study the development of shark teeth in embryos.

Small-spotted catshark embryo (Scyliorhinus canicula), still attached to the yolk sac. This is the stage when the teeth begin developing.
Ella Nicklin, Fraser Lab, University of Florida

Sharks continue to make an unlimited supply of tooth replacements throughout life – it’s how they keep their bite constantly sharp.

Hard-shelled prey, such as mollusks and crustaceans, from sandy substrates can be more abrasive for teeth, requiring quicker replacement. Depending on the water temperature, the conveyor belt-like renewal of an entire row of teeth can take between nine and 70 days, for example, in nurse sharks, or much longer in larger sharks. In the great white, a full-row replacement can take an estimated 250 days. That’s still an advantage over humans – we never regrow damaged or worn-out adult teeth.

Magnified microscope image of a zebra shark (Stegostoma tigrinum) jaw. They have 20 to 30 rows of teeth in each jaw, each a new generation ready to move into position like on a conveyor belt. Humans have only two sets!
Gareth Fraser, University of Florida

Interestingly, shark teeth are much like our own, developing from equivalent cells, patterned by the same genes, creating the same hard tissues, enamel and dentin. Sharks could potentially teach researchers how to master the process of tooth renewal. It would be huge for dentistry if scientists could use sharks to figure out how to engineer a new generation of teeth for human patients.

Extraordinary fish with extraordinary biology

As a group, sharks and their cartilaginous fish relatives – including skates, rays and chimaeras – are evolutionary relics that have inhabited the Earth’s oceans for over 400 million years. They’ve been around since long before human beings and most of the other animals on our planet today hit the scene, even before dinosaurs emerged.

Sharks have a vast array of super powers that scientists have only recently discovered.

Their electroreceptive pores, located around the head and jaws, have amazing sensory capabilities, allowing sharks to detect weak electrical fields emitted from hidden prey.

CT scan of the head of a small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) as it hatches. Skin denticles cover the surface, and colored rows of teeth are present on the jaws.
Ella Nicklin, Fraser Lab, University of Florida

Their skin is protected with an armor of tiny teeth, called dermal denticles, composed of sensitive dentin, that also allows for better drag-reducing hydrodynamics. Biologists and engineers are also using this “shark skin technology” to design hydrodynamic and aerodynamic solutions for future fuel-efficient vehicles.

Fluorescent skin of the chain catshark (Scyliorhinus retifer).
Gareth Fraser, University of Florida

Some sharks are biofluorescent, meaning they emit light in different wavelengths after absorbing natural blue light. This emitted fluorescent color pattern suggests visual communication and recognition among members of the same species is possible in the dark depths.

Sharks can migrate across huge global distances. For example, a silky shark was recorded traveling 17,000 miles (over 27,000 kilometers) over a year and a half. Hammerhead sharks can even home in on the Earth’s magnetic field to help them navigate.

Greenland sharks exhibit a lengthy aging process and live for hundreds of years. Scientists estimated that one individual was 392 years old, give or take 120 years.

Still much about sharks remains mysterious. We know little about their breeding habits and locations of their nursery grounds. Conservation efforts are beginning to target the identification of shark nurseries as a way to manage and protect fragile populations.

Tagging programs and their “follow the shark” apps allow researchers to learn more about these animals’ lives and where they roam – highlighting the benefit of international collaboration and public engagement for conserving threatened shark populations.

Sharks under attack

Sharks are an incredible evolutionary success story. But they’re also vulnerable in the modern age of human-ocean interactions.

Sharks are an afterthought for the commercial fishing industry, but overfishing of other species can cause dramatic crashes in shark populations. Their late age of sexual maturity – as old as 15 to 20 years or more in larger species or potentially 150 years in Greenland sharks – along with slow growth, long gestation periods and complex social structures make shark populations fragile and less capable of quick recoveries.

Take the white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), for example – Jaws’ own species. Trophy hunting, trade in their body parts and commercial fishery impacts caused their numbers to dwindle. As a result, they received essential protections at the international level. In turn, their numbers have rebounded, especially around the United States, leading to a shift from critically endangered to vulnerable status worldwide. However, they remain critically endangered in Europe and the Mediterranean.

Protections and conservation measures have helped white sharks make a comeback.
Dave Fleetham/Design Pics Editorial/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

“Jaws” was filmed on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, in Massachusetts. After careful management and the designation of white sharks as a prohibited species in federal waters in 1997 and in Massachusetts in 2005, their populations have recovered well over recent years in response to more seals in the area and recovering fish stocks.

You might assume more sharks would mean more attacks, but that is not what we observe. Shark attacks have always been few and far between in Massachusetts and elsewhere, and they remain rare. It’s only a “Jaws”-perpetuated myth that sharks have a taste for humans. Sure, they might mistake a person for prey; for instance, surfers and swimmers can mimic the appearance of seals at the surface. Sharks in murky water might opportunistically take a test bite of what seem to be prey.

But these attacks are rare enough that people can shed their “Jaws”-driven irrational fears of sharks. Almost all sharks are timid, and the likelihood of an interaction – let alone a negative one – is incredibly rare. Importantly, there more than 500 species of sharks in the world’s oceans, each one a unique member of a particular ecosystem with a vital role. Sharks come in all shapes and sizes, and inhabit every ocean, both the shallow and deep-end ecosystems.

Most recorded human-shark interactions are awe-inspiring and not terrifying. Sharks don’t really care about people – at most they may be curious, but not hungry for human flesh. Whether or not “Jaws” fans have grown beyond the fear of movie monster sharks, we’re gonna need a bigger conservation effort to continue to protect these important ocean guardians.

Gareth J. Fraser receives funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF).

– ref. 50 years after ‘Jaws,’ researchers have retired the man-eater myth and revealed more about sharks’ amazing biology – https://theconversation.com/50-years-after-jaws-researchers-have-retired-the-man-eater-myth-and-revealed-more-about-sharks-amazing-biology-258151

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: 50 years after ‘Jaws,’ researchers have retired the man-eater myth and revealed more about sharks’ amazing biology

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Gareth J. Fraser, Associate Professor of Evolutionary Developmental Biology, University of Florida

The shark in ‘Jaws’ became a terrifying icon. Universal Pictures via Getty Images

The summer of 1975 was the summer of “Jaws.”

The movie was adapted from a novel by Peter Benchley.
Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

The first blockbuster movie sent waves of panic and awe through audiences. “Jaws” – the tale of a killer great white shark that terrorizes a coastal tourist town – captured people’s imaginations and simultaneously created a widespread fear of the water.

To call Steven Spielberg’s masterpiece a creature feature is trite. Because the shark isn’t shown for most of the movie – mechanical difficulties meant production didn’t have one ready to use until later in the filming process – suspense and fear build. The movie unlocked in viewers an innate fear of the unknown, encouraging the idea that monsters lurk beneath the ocean’s surface, even in the shallows.

And because in 1975 marine scientists knew far less than we do now about sharks and their world, it was easy for the myth of the rogue shark as a murderous eating machine to take hold, along with the assumption that all sharks must be bloodthirsty, mindless killers.

People lined up to get scared by the murderous shark at the center of the ‘Jaws’ movie.
Bettmann Archive via Getty Images

But in addition to scaring many moviegoers that “it’s not safe to go in the water,” “Jaws” has over the years inspired generations of researchers, including me. The scientific curiosity sparked by this horror fish flick has helped reveal so much more about what lies beneath the waves than was known 50 years ago. My own research focuses on the secret lives of sharks, their evolution and development, and how people can benefit from the study of these enigmatic animals.

The business end of sharks: Their jaws and teeth

My own work has focused on perhaps the most terrifying aspect of these apex predators, the jaws and teeth. I study the development of shark teeth in embryos.

Small-spotted catshark embryo (Scyliorhinus canicula), still attached to the yolk sac. This is the stage when the teeth begin developing.
Ella Nicklin, Fraser Lab, University of Florida

Sharks continue to make an unlimited supply of tooth replacements throughout life – it’s how they keep their bite constantly sharp.

Hard-shelled prey, such as mollusks and crustaceans, from sandy substrates can be more abrasive for teeth, requiring quicker replacement. Depending on the water temperature, the conveyor belt-like renewal of an entire row of teeth can take between nine and 70 days, for example, in nurse sharks, or much longer in larger sharks. In the great white, a full-row replacement can take an estimated 250 days. That’s still an advantage over humans – we never regrow damaged or worn-out adult teeth.

Magnified microscope image of a zebra shark (Stegostoma tigrinum) jaw. They have 20 to 30 rows of teeth in each jaw, each a new generation ready to move into position like on a conveyor belt. Humans have only two sets!
Gareth Fraser, University of Florida

Interestingly, shark teeth are much like our own, developing from equivalent cells, patterned by the same genes, creating the same hard tissues, enamel and dentin. Sharks could potentially teach researchers how to master the process of tooth renewal. It would be huge for dentistry if scientists could use sharks to figure out how to engineer a new generation of teeth for human patients.

Extraordinary fish with extraordinary biology

As a group, sharks and their cartilaginous fish relatives – including skates, rays and chimaeras – are evolutionary relics that have inhabited the Earth’s oceans for over 400 million years. They’ve been around since long before human beings and most of the other animals on our planet today hit the scene, even before dinosaurs emerged.

Sharks have a vast array of super powers that scientists have only recently discovered.

Their electroreceptive pores, located around the head and jaws, have amazing sensory capabilities, allowing sharks to detect weak electrical fields emitted from hidden prey.

CT scan of the head of a small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) as it hatches. Skin denticles cover the surface, and colored rows of teeth are present on the jaws.
Ella Nicklin, Fraser Lab, University of Florida

Their skin is protected with an armor of tiny teeth, called dermal denticles, composed of sensitive dentin, that also allows for better drag-reducing hydrodynamics. Biologists and engineers are also using this “shark skin technology” to design hydrodynamic and aerodynamic solutions for future fuel-efficient vehicles.

Fluorescent skin of the chain catshark (Scyliorhinus retifer).
Gareth Fraser, University of Florida

Some sharks are biofluorescent, meaning they emit light in different wavelengths after absorbing natural blue light. This emitted fluorescent color pattern suggests visual communication and recognition among members of the same species is possible in the dark depths.

Sharks can migrate across huge global distances. For example, a silky shark was recorded traveling 17,000 miles (over 27,000 kilometers) over a year and a half. Hammerhead sharks can even home in on the Earth’s magnetic field to help them navigate.

Greenland sharks exhibit a lengthy aging process and live for hundreds of years. Scientists estimated that one individual was 392 years old, give or take 120 years.

Still much about sharks remains mysterious. We know little about their breeding habits and locations of their nursery grounds. Conservation efforts are beginning to target the identification of shark nurseries as a way to manage and protect fragile populations.

Tagging programs and their “follow the shark” apps allow researchers to learn more about these animals’ lives and where they roam – highlighting the benefit of international collaboration and public engagement for conserving threatened shark populations.

Sharks under attack

Sharks are an incredible evolutionary success story. But they’re also vulnerable in the modern age of human-ocean interactions.

Sharks are an afterthought for the commercial fishing industry, but overfishing of other species can cause dramatic crashes in shark populations. Their late age of sexual maturity – as old as 15 to 20 years or more in larger species or potentially 150 years in Greenland sharks – along with slow growth, long gestation periods and complex social structures make shark populations fragile and less capable of quick recoveries.

Take the white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), for example – Jaws’ own species. Trophy hunting, trade in their body parts and commercial fishery impacts caused their numbers to dwindle. As a result, they received essential protections at the international level. In turn, their numbers have rebounded, especially around the United States, leading to a shift from critically endangered to vulnerable status worldwide. However, they remain critically endangered in Europe and the Mediterranean.

Protections and conservation measures have helped white sharks make a comeback.
Dave Fleetham/Design Pics Editorial/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

“Jaws” was filmed on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, in Massachusetts. After careful management and the designation of white sharks as a prohibited species in federal waters in 1997 and in Massachusetts in 2005, their populations have recovered well over recent years in response to more seals in the area and recovering fish stocks.

You might assume more sharks would mean more attacks, but that is not what we observe. Shark attacks have always been few and far between in Massachusetts and elsewhere, and they remain rare. It’s only a “Jaws”-perpetuated myth that sharks have a taste for humans. Sure, they might mistake a person for prey; for instance, surfers and swimmers can mimic the appearance of seals at the surface. Sharks in murky water might opportunistically take a test bite of what seem to be prey.

But these attacks are rare enough that people can shed their “Jaws”-driven irrational fears of sharks. Almost all sharks are timid, and the likelihood of an interaction – let alone a negative one – is incredibly rare. Importantly, there more than 500 species of sharks in the world’s oceans, each one a unique member of a particular ecosystem with a vital role. Sharks come in all shapes and sizes, and inhabit every ocean, both the shallow and deep-end ecosystems.

Most recorded human-shark interactions are awe-inspiring and not terrifying. Sharks don’t really care about people – at most they may be curious, but not hungry for human flesh. Whether or not “Jaws” fans have grown beyond the fear of movie monster sharks, we’re gonna need a bigger conservation effort to continue to protect these important ocean guardians.

Gareth J. Fraser receives funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF).

– ref. 50 years after ‘Jaws,’ researchers have retired the man-eater myth and revealed more about sharks’ amazing biology – https://theconversation.com/50-years-after-jaws-researchers-have-retired-the-man-eater-myth-and-revealed-more-about-sharks-amazing-biology-258151

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier stresses innovation, boosting demand to propel growth

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

NANJING, June 18 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang has urged efforts to promote innovation and expand effective demand to propel sustained improvement in the economy.

Li made the remarks during an inspection tour from Monday to Wednesday in east China’s Jiangsu Province. During the tour, he underlined efforts to foster a strong atmosphere for starting businesses and making achievements, and to stimulate vitality for high-quality development in the process of deepening reform and opening up.

While inspecting a local machinery company, Li called for actively applying technologies such as artificial intelligence and clean energy to promote the upgrade of the construction machinery industry in line with the global trend.

Efforts should focus on aligning innovation with industry needs, advancing major original breakthroughs and technological innovations, and accelerating both industrialization and market applications, Li said.

He also stressed the need to carry out in-depth basic research, promote cross-disciplinary integration and innovation, and strengthen cooperation to secure the leading position in future sci-tech and industrial development.

At a local home appliance company, Li learned about the effects of the country’s consumer goods trade-in program, and urged the company to make good use of relevant policies to unleash consumption potential.

Noting that the country’s market is vast and continuously growing, Li said that China welcomes enterprises from all countries to invest and start businesses here.

“We will further increase policy support and service guarantees to create a favorable environment for foreign-funded enterprises to develop and thrive in China,” he said.

During the tour, Li also underlined efforts to better leverage the role of the China-Europe Railway Express and cross-border e-commerce to enhance economic and trade exchanges between China and Central Asia, expand their cooperation areas, and promote mutual benefit in the high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road.

Jiangsu has a solid economic foundation, and also has higher development requirements, Li said, urging the province to better leverage its economic strength to make more contributions to the overall development of the country.

MIL OSI China News –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Ezell, Miller-Meeks Introduce the Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources Act

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

Representatives Mike Ezell (MS-04) and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) introduced H.R. 4018, the Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources Act, legislation that codifies President Trump’s Executive Order 14285 to support and expand domestic seabed mineral development.

The bill strengthens America’s economic and national security by accelerating the responsible development of critical mineral resources found on the ocean floor. These minerals are essential for producing advanced technologies, renewable energy infrastructure, and defense systems — yet the U.S. remains dangerously reliant on foreign supply chains.

“President Trump was right to prioritize seabed minerals, and I’m proud to carry that effort forward in Congress,” Ezell said. “My Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals Act will help secure our mineral supply chains, create American jobs, and keep our nation competitive in the global economy. Mississippi’s Gulf Coast understands the importance of energy, infrastructure, and national defense, and this bill supports all three. It’s about putting America first, reducing our dependence on adversaries like China, and making sure our innovation and security are never held hostage by foreign supply chains. We have vast resources right off our shores — it’s time we take full advantage of them, and do it responsibly.”

“The United States cannot afford to remain dependent on adversarial nations for the critical minerals that power our economy, energy systems, and national defense,” Miller-Meeks said. “By codifying President Trump’s executive order, the Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals Act takes an important step toward strengthening our supply chains and securing access to essential resources found right off our coasts. This legislation will help protect American jobs, enhance our economic security, and ensure the United States remains competitive on the global stage — all while maintaining strong environmental safeguards. I’m proud to join Rep. Ezell in introducing this commonsense, strategic bill.”

“Tapping into America’s rich critical mineral resources is vital to support our national security and eliminate our dependence on foreign adversaries for vital resources,” House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman said. “Representatives Ezell and Miller-Meeks’ Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals Act will codify President Trumps executive order on this issue and ensure the United States can lead the world in offshore mineral development.”

“We applaud Congressman Ezell’s leadership in championing the Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals Act,” Oliver Gunasekara, CEO of Impossible Metals said. “The global race for critical minerals is on, and the United States can’t afford to sit on the sidelines. This bill recognizes the urgent need to unlock our own seabed resources and lead the world with responsible, American innovation.”

By codifying the President’s Executive Order, the bill provides regulatory certainty for developers while ensuring environmental protections and U.S. strategic interests remain a priority. It also directs key federal agencies to streamline permitting, identify high-potential seabed areas, and collaborate with private industry to safely unlock these resources.

The legislation is expected to receive strong support from industry leaders, energy advocates, and national security experts.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Ezell, Miller-Meeks Introduce the Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources Act

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

Representatives Mike Ezell (MS-04) and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) introduced H.R. 4018, the Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources Act, legislation that codifies President Trump’s Executive Order 14285 to support and expand domestic seabed mineral development.

The bill strengthens America’s economic and national security by accelerating the responsible development of critical mineral resources found on the ocean floor. These minerals are essential for producing advanced technologies, renewable energy infrastructure, and defense systems — yet the U.S. remains dangerously reliant on foreign supply chains.

“President Trump was right to prioritize seabed minerals, and I’m proud to carry that effort forward in Congress,” Ezell said. “My Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals Act will help secure our mineral supply chains, create American jobs, and keep our nation competitive in the global economy. Mississippi’s Gulf Coast understands the importance of energy, infrastructure, and national defense, and this bill supports all three. It’s about putting America first, reducing our dependence on adversaries like China, and making sure our innovation and security are never held hostage by foreign supply chains. We have vast resources right off our shores — it’s time we take full advantage of them, and do it responsibly.”

“The United States cannot afford to remain dependent on adversarial nations for the critical minerals that power our economy, energy systems, and national defense,” Miller-Meeks said. “By codifying President Trump’s executive order, the Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals Act takes an important step toward strengthening our supply chains and securing access to essential resources found right off our coasts. This legislation will help protect American jobs, enhance our economic security, and ensure the United States remains competitive on the global stage — all while maintaining strong environmental safeguards. I’m proud to join Rep. Ezell in introducing this commonsense, strategic bill.”

“Tapping into America’s rich critical mineral resources is vital to support our national security and eliminate our dependence on foreign adversaries for vital resources,” House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman said. “Representatives Ezell and Miller-Meeks’ Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals Act will codify President Trumps executive order on this issue and ensure the United States can lead the world in offshore mineral development.”

“We applaud Congressman Ezell’s leadership in championing the Unleash America’s Offshore Critical Minerals Act,” Oliver Gunasekara, CEO of Impossible Metals said. “The global race for critical minerals is on, and the United States can’t afford to sit on the sidelines. This bill recognizes the urgent need to unlock our own seabed resources and lead the world with responsible, American innovation.”

By codifying the President’s Executive Order, the bill provides regulatory certainty for developers while ensuring environmental protections and U.S. strategic interests remain a priority. It also directs key federal agencies to streamline permitting, identify high-potential seabed areas, and collaborate with private industry to safely unlock these resources.

The legislation is expected to receive strong support from industry leaders, energy advocates, and national security experts.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: OPEC Fund Development Forum 2025 concludes with new commitments to accelerate global development impact
- Announcement of over US$1 billion new financing: OPEC Fund signs US$362 million new loan agreements during the Forum and announces approval of US$720 million in new financing in the second Quarter
- A Country Partnership Framework agreement with Rwanda earmarks US$300 million financing in the next three years
- At the high-level Mauritania roundtable hosted by the OPEC Fund, the Arab Coordination Group (ACG) announced a pledge of US$2 billion financing over the next 5 years to support Mauritania’s development priorities.
The fourth OPEC Fund Development Forum (https://OPECFund.org) concluded today with a strong slate of new commitments, loan agreements and strategic partnerships to advance inclusive transition and sustainable development. The Forum brought together more than 700 global leaders, including government representatives, development institutions and private sector stakeholders, under the theme “A Transition That Empowers Our Tomorrow”.

The OPEC Fund announced some US$720 million in new financing to support development efforts across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and saw the signing of US$362 million in new loan agreements. A new Trade Finance Initiative is set to secure vital supplies and help close trade-related liquidity gaps in partner countries.

OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said: “The OPEC Fund Development Forum reflects our conviction that partnerships must deliver results. Today we achieved tangible progress – with new signings, new partnerships and new approaches to help our partner countries turn ambition into action. Whether in energy, infrastructure, agriculture or finance, we are responding with solutions that make a difference.”

As part of its Small Island Developing States (SIDS) initiative, the OPEC Fund signed cooperation agreements with Grenada, and the Solomon Islands, expanding support for climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure.

Deepening Country Partnerships for Long-term Impact

New country-level agreements and cooperation frameworks include:
- A US$212 million loan agreement with Oman to finance the Khasab-Daba-Lima Road Project (Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road), improving local and regional connectivity, as well as a Country Partnership Framework (CPF) to strengthen cooperation over the next five years.
- A US$25 million loan agreement with Cameroon to strengthen the Rice Value Chain Development Project, supporting smallholder farmers and strengthening food security in vulnerable regions, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and the Kuwait Fund.
- A CPF with Rwanda to allocate up to US$300 million in financing for 2025 – 2028, supporting the country’s development priorities, including quality infrastructure, improved essential basic services and the promotion of entrepreneurship and the private sector.
- Other country partnership agreements included: Azerbaijan to support infrastructure, energy transition and sustainable development; Botswana to support infrastructure, renewable energy, innovation and digital transformation, as well as private sector export-led growth over the next three years; Grenada to build resilience through sustainable development initiatives; Kyrgyz Republic to increase cooperation in transport, water supply and sanitation, energy, agriculture and banking sectors; and Solomon Islands to expand engagement and increase cooperation including in the private sector.
Scaling up Private Sector Support

The OPEC Fund continues to prioritize private sector-led growth with targeted financing to financial institutions across Africa:
- In Côte d’Ivoire, a €30 million loan agreement with Coris Bank International Côte d’Ivoire and a €35 million loan agreement with NSIA Banque will facilitate access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- A US$40 million loan agreement with the East African Development Bank (EADB) will boost economic investments across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda, strengthening regional integration and inclusive growth.
New Trade Finance Initiative
- At the Forum the OPEC Fund also announced a new Trade Finance Initiative to boost trade resilience in partner countries by facilitating access to essential imports, closing liquidity gaps and strengthening resilience to external shocks in vulnerable economies.
Advancing global cooperation

The Forum also featured new agreements to deepen multilateral cooperation:
- A new cooperation agreement with the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) will strengthen collaboration in infrastructure, energy and human development projects across the Latin America and Caribbean region.
- The OPEC Fund and the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) formalized a cooperation agreement to coordinate efforts on climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable food systems.
- A cooperation agreement with the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) will support training programs to promote institutional transparency and anti-corruption capacity building in partner countries.
Ahead of the Forum, the OPEC Fund hosted the Annual Meeting of the Heads of Institutions of the Arab Coordination Group (ACG). Delegates participated in a high-level roundtable with the President of Mauritania, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani to strengthen development collaboration and mobilize investment flows to Mauritania. The roundtable resulted in an ACG joint pledge of US$2 billion financing over the next five years. This will be directed to vital sectors, including energy, water, transportation and digital infrastructure to stimulate economic growth. A dedicated Arab Donors Roundtable on the Sahel addressed strategies to mobilize greater support for the region’s urgent challenges. It was organized by the Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CLISS) and sponsored by the OPEC Fund’s partner institution, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of OPEC Fund.

Media Contact:
Basak Pamir
OPEC Fund for International Development
Head of Outreach & Multimedia
B.Pamir@opecfund.org
+431511564174
Telephone: +43-1-515 64-0
Fax: +43-1-513 92 38
www.OPECFund.org

About the OPEC Fund:
The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people. Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education. To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$29 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of more than US$200 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+/Outlook Stable by Fitch and S&P Global Ratings. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.

MIL OSI Africa –
June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: Is Mark Carney turning his back on climate action?

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Deborah de Lange, Associate Professor, Global Management Studies, Toronto Metropolitan University

The G7 summit in Alberta, hosted by Prime Minister Mark Carney, has ended with only passing mention of fighting climate change, including a statement on wildfires that is silent on the pressing need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

This is puzzling. Canadians didn’t opt for Conservative Pierre Poilievre, considered by some to be an oil and gas industry mouthpiece, in the last federal election. Instead, voters gave Carney’s Liberals a minority government.

Carney was the United Nations Special Envoy on Climate Action and Finance and was behind the UN-backed Net-Zero Banking Alliance, so some Canadians might have assumed he’d prioritize climate action if he won the election. Instead, Carney has described developing fossil fuel infrastructure as “pragmatic.”

But it’s unclear how a country grappling with abysmal air quality due to wildfires fuelled by global warming will benefit from further global fossil fuel development and its related emissions.

Read more:
Wildfire smoke can harm your brain, not just your lungs

Warming rapidly

Canada is warming faster than most of the globe. Its leaders should be laser-focused on mitigating climate change by reducing fossil fuel use to the greatest extent possible, as soon as possible.

This decades-long understanding of how to approach climate action has been repeatedly explained by experts and is well known to governments globally. Canada’s prime minister was once one of those experts.

Carney now has a tremendous opportunity to lead by steering Canada in a clean direction.

Canada is at the forefront of clean technology, with numerous business opportunities emerging, particularly in areas like circular economy international trade. These opportunities not only support Canada’s commitment to meeting its Paris Agreement targets but also help expand and diversify its global trade.

Eco-industrial parks

Canada already has exemplar eco-industrial parks — co-operative businesses located on a common property that focus on reducing environmental impact through resource efficiency, waste reduction and sharing resources. Such industrial communities are in Halifax and in Delta, B.C. They represent significant investment opportunities.

Vacant urban land could be revitalized and existing industrial parks could boost their economic output and circular trade by building stronger partnerships to share resources, reduce waste and cut emissions.

Read more:
A sustainable, circular economy could counter Trump’s tariffs while strengthening international trade

Canada would benefit economically and environmentally by building on existing expertise and expanding successful sustainability strategies to achieve economic, environmental and social goals.

But by continuing to invest in fossil fuels, Canada misses out on opportunities to diversify trade and boost economic competitiveness.

The secret to China’s success

Real diversification makes Canada less vulnerable to economic shocks, like the ones caused by the tariffs imposed by United States President Donald Trump.

Fossil fuel reliance increases exposure to global economic risks, but shifting to cleaner products and services reduces climate risks and expands Canada’s global trade options. China’s economic rise is partly a result of this strategy.

That’s seemingly why Trump is so fixated on China. China today is a serious competitor to the U.S. after making smart trade and economic decisions and forging its own path, disregarding American pressure to remain a mere follower.

Investing in its huge Belt and Road Initiative, China also aligned itself with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It’s building diplomatic bridges with many Belt and Road countries in southeast Asia as Trump’s America alienates its partners, pulling out of the Paris Agreement and cutting foreign aid.

As another one of the America’s mistreated partners, Canada was poised to forge its own path under Carney. Instead, Carney is supporting American oil and gas by encouraging Canadian pipeline projects.

Clean innovation is the path forward

Canadian oil and gas is a concentrated industry controlled by a wealthy few, primarily Americans. More pipelines would therefore mean more sales of fossil fuels to other countries, with the beneficiaries mostly American.

Fossil fuel investments reduce Canada’s diversification because the resources used to further these projects could go elsewhere — toward clean diversification. With almost unlimited clean economy options across many sectors, clean diversification would broaden Canada’s economic and trade portfolios and reduce American control.

Read more:
Why Canada’s Strong Borders Act is as troublesome as Donald Trump’s travel bans

This is International Business 101, and would make the Canadian economy more competitive through innovation, while reducing the country’s climate risk.

California, often targeted by Trump for its policies, has been a leader in clean innovation, making its economy the envy of the world.

Read more:
California is planning floating wind farms offshore to boost its power supply – here’s how they work

My recent research shows that clear, decisive choices like those made in California will be key to Canada’s future success. Canada must make choices aligned with goals — a core principle of strategic management.

My research also suggests Canada must restructure its energy industry to focus on renewable energy innovation while reducing fossil fuel reliance. Increased renewable energy innovation, as seen in patent numbers, leads to higher GDP.

Contrary to common beliefs, pollution taxes boost the economy in combination with clean innovation. But when the government supports both the fossil fuel industry and clean industries, it hinders Canada’s transition to a cleaner future.

Trapped by the fossil fuel industry?

Do Canadian taxpayers truly want to keep funding an outdated, polluting industry that benefits a wealthy few, or invest in clean industries that boost Canada’s economy, create better jobs and protect the environment? To differentiate Canada from the United States, it would make sense to choose the latter.

Carney should consider refraining from pushing for the fast-tracking of polluting projects. If he doesn’t, Canada will become more uncompetitive and vulnerable, trapped by the fossil fuel industry.

Read more:
Mark Carney wants to make Canada an energy superpower — but what will be sacrificed for that goal?

Carney’s support for pipelines may have stemmed from Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s implicit support for Alberta sovereignty. She made veiled threats to Canada at a critical juncture, when Trump was making repeated assertions about annexing Canada.

Alberta didn’t vote for Carney. But Canadians who care about mitigating climate change did.

Banks that felt pressure to at least recognize sustainable finance during the Joe Biden administration joined Carney’s Net-Zero Banking Alliance.

But as soon as Trump came to power a second time and walked away from the Paris Agreement, many American banks abandoned the alliance. Canadian banks followed suit, and Carney remarkably missed another moment to show Canadian leadership by stopping their exit.

In fact, Carney seems to have abandoned his own organization to appease Trump as the president made multiple 51st state threats. The prime minister had the chance to differentiate Canada and demonstrate his own leadership. Instead, he seems to have easily turned his back on his principles under pressure from Trump.

Deborah de Lange receives funding from SSHRC and ESRC. She is affiliated with The Liberal Party of Canada and The Writers’ Union of Canada.

– ref. Is Mark Carney turning his back on climate action? – https://theconversation.com/is-mark-carney-turning-his-back-on-climate-action-258737

MIL OSI Analysis –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Welch Joins Democratic Colleagues in Urging Rubio to Preserve the State Department’s Human Rights Bureau

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) joined U.S. Senator Jeanee Shaheen, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and eight Democratic colleagues in urging Secretary of State Marco Rubio to preserve the staff and programs administered by the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) amid the Department’s proposed reorganization.
“The proposed reorganization of DRL raises serious concerns about the Department’s prioritization of democracy and human rights and the role of DRL in advancing U.S. national security priorities—concerns that were the basis for Congress’s bipartisan codification in statute an Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor and the directive ‘to promote the increased observance of internationally recognized human rights by all countries’ as a principal goal of U.S. foreign policy,” wrote the Senators. “The proposed reorganization would result in a structural and substantive demotion of human rights promotion that runs counter to the spirit of the law and your personal legacy working on these issues.”
“Over 80% of DRL’s programs support human rights defenders working in closed, anti-democratic societies, including Cuba, China, Nicaragua, North Korea, Iran, Russia, Venezuela, and others which the Trump Administration has identified as adversaries of the U.S.,” continued the Senators.
The Senators concluded: “As you stated in the subcommittee hearing previously mentioned, ‘millions of people around the world who live in societies dominated by fear and oppression look to the United States of America to champion their cause to fully exercise their God-given rights. There are no greater champions more capable of advancing this noble cause than the dedicated staff in DRL. We need these champions in the Department.”
In addition to Senators Welch and Shaheen, the letter is cosigned by Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Sens. Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.).
Read and download the full text of the letter.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 19, 2025
Top Maoist leaders surrender after 25 years, major blow to LWE in Chhattisgarh

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

In a significant setback to the Left Wing Extremist (LWE) movement, two senior Maoist leaders, including the commander of the Mobile Political School (MOPOS), surrendered to security forces on Monday. The surrender, which took place before senior police and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) officials, marks a crucial breakthrough in anti-Naxal operations in the region.

Jeevan Tulavi (45), also known as Ram Tulavi, and his wife Agasha (35), alias Aarti Korram, gave up arms before Inspector General of Rajnandgaon Range Abhishek Shandilya, Superintendent of Police Y.P. Singh, and Commandant of the 27th Battalion ITBP Vivek Kumar Pandey. Officers from the 44th Battalion ITBP were also present.

Jeevan, a resident of Parvidih village under Mohla police station in Mohla Manpur Ambagarh Chowki (MMAC) district, has been active in Maoist operations for over 25 years. Currently serving as a Divisional Committee Member (DVCM) and Education Unit Commander of the Maad Division, he carried a bounty of ₹8 lakh. He joined the LWE movement in 2008 and initially served in the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) in the South Rajnandgaon-based division.

Since 2012-13, Jeevan transitioned into an ideological role, teaching Maoist philosophy through the Mobile Political School (MOPOS) in the Maad Division. He is known to have travelled extensively across Abujhmad, spreading LWE ideology through the Mobile Academic School (MAS) and heading the education wing until his surrender.

Agasha, his wife and a resident of Telitola village in the same district, was serving as an Area Committee Member (ACM). She played a key role in the Press Team of the Maad Division and was also the commander of the Maoist cultural wing, Chetna Natya Mandali (CNM). Active since the early 2000s, Agasha contributed as a singer, dancer, poet, orator, and composer for the LWE propaganda machinery. She was also responsible for handling digital communication, including drafting press releases and managing computers.

The surrender is seen as part of the growing impact of sustained operations led by police and ITBP in the MMAC district and the former Rajnandgaon region. In the past three months alone, five senior Maoist cadres from the district have surrendered, weakening the organizational structure of the LWE in this strategically critical area bordering the heavily affected regions of Gadchiroli (Maharashtra) and Kanker (Chhattisgarh).

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Hochul is a Guest on “The Briefing With Jen Psaki”

Source: US State of New York

ast night, Governor Hochul was a guest on MSNBC’s “The Briefing with Jen Psaki.”

AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

Governor Hochul: Do you want to know what I really think?

Rebecca Lewis, City & State: Please.

Governor Hochul: It’s bullshit. How dare they—

(END VIDEO CLIP)

Jen Psaki, MSNBC: Couldn’t have said it better myself. That was New York Governor Kathy Hochul, today, reacting to the arrest of New York City Comptroller and Mayoral candidate Brad Lander. And Governor Kathy Hochul joins me. Now, Governor, thank you so much for being here with me tonight.

You rushed down to the courthouse today after Brad Lander was arrested to demand his release. We heard a little bit from him earlier. Can you just walk us through what happened today, including your interaction with officers at the building?

Governor Hochul: Yes, and thank you for your coverage of this deeply troubling story that seems to be unfolding all across our country, Jen. I literally was in a part of Brooklyn, known as Little Haiti. I was walking the streets talking to people who were so frightened — living in the shadows of a once vibrant street was now almost a ghost town because people are terrified. And then while I’m out there trying to meet these people, let them know we’re, we see them, we’re gonna support them.

Then I get the word that one of our elected officials for the City of New York has been arrested. And I know Brad Lander. I went right down there. And I wanted to see him. I went up to the ninth floor. And they wouldn’t let me come in. But I had a chance to talk to ICE officers and the people in charge, and my Head of Homeland Security came down and Head of my Counterintelligence and all the professionals that I work with. We all stood there and I said, “I’m not leaving until you let him out. I want him released. Because what are the charges? What are you possibly saying? We all saw the video.”

And after about an hour of me waiting and talking to a lot of people, they said they’d release him without charges, but Brad Lander has all the attorneys and attention on this he needs. I mean, he can take care of himself. I’m confident of that, but what I cannot get out of my mind are all the people that are so terrified right now are the ones who go into those courtrooms following the law and the procedure — told, show up this date for your court appearance. And then they’re sitting ducks while they’re in the courtroom. They withdraw their legal status and they walk out and they’re captured.

This is beyond the pale, and we have to stand up and call it out for what it is and say we are a better country than this. And the voices that we heard during the marches over the last weekend, the people who stood up there, the elected officials who are doing their part — we have to stand up and say no more. And I’ll tell you this, as I said, under eight hours of questioning in Congress just a few days ago — I will work with the Trump administration to remove the people he said he was going after. I will help you get the criminals out of here, the ones who are violent criminals who are hurting other people, the human traffickers, the people who are dealing in drugs, people with guns — I want them gone.

I’ll help you but don’t take care of the home healthcare aides, the 160 who are gonna lose their jobs that I’ve met today and talked to. They’ll lose their jobs and they lose their status. And you know what? That means there’s 160 vulnerable New Yorkers who are gonna lose their caregivers and the people who work in the restaurants and hospitality, let them get jobs, pay their taxes, be part of our communities – like my grandpa was a migrant farm worker. Everybody comes and starts out and struggles. But you know what? Over time it works. It’s the American dream, and that dream is dissipating by the moment here in this country, and we cannot let it go.

Jen Psaki, MSNBC: No question about it. And I know, and I just mentioned that you had announced today the State is dedicating $50 million for legal assistance for immigrants. And I want to ask you about that in one moment.

I think one of the things that was so striking about today, many things was that, you know, Brad Lander was released without charges. You said earlier today that to your knowledge, the charges have been dropped and that he walks out of there free man.

But the US Attorney’s Office said that it is investigating his action still and would decide later whether to charge him with a crime. This is all on video, which we played the full video. Are you confident there won’t be charges? And I raise this because he’s just escorting immigrants to the courthouses who are trying to abide by their court hearings.

Governor Hochul: That’s all he is doing, and he did it without any fanfare over a number of times. Just a lot of people are volunteering. These people are terrified. I mean, these are our neighbors. These are people who’ve lived among us for many, many years sometimes. And people are just doing the right thing. They’re showing their humanity. He showed up and just escorting someone and speaking to him and just trying to let him know it’s going to be okay. The best we can. And then you have them ripped apart and terrorized the way they were and go after elected officials. I mean, no, no. It’s wrong. It’s wrong.

And again, we will help the Trump administration — we have been doing this for years — get rid of the true criminals. But coming here to seek asylum as they have for the last few years, or coming with temporary protected status like 300,000 Venezuelans did. And people from Haiti. They had legal status when they came. So when you take it away, once they’re here, it’s just like a cruel joke on them.

So, they’re not the criminals. Let’s find them a legal pathway. Let’s give them work authorization. I know the Trump administration is capable of doing this. They can do this, and there’ll be a lot of employers, including the people in my State, New York — I have 400,000 open jobs as we speak. They’re not taking someone’s job. They’ll be doing an important service to us.

Let’s have a conversation. Let’s ask Congress. Why you won’t do something as simple as passing common sense, bipartisan legislation to reform our immigration laws, find legal pathways. Yes, we have to secure our borders. No one doubts that, but the people who are here and already contributing, come on. We’re a nation of immigrants. That’s why we’re so great.

Jen Psaki, MSNBC: I mentioned a couple times that you announced the $50 million for legal assistance, which is very powerful and as Brad Lander mentioned, a lot of these people don’t have legal representation.

Governor Hochul: That’s right.

Jen Psaki, MSNBC: This tactic though, which I called dirty earlier because I think it’s dirty of these agents showing up at courthouses and kind of stalking people who don’t have criminal records are not trying to, are just trying to abide by what they’re supposed to be doing. Is there anything you can do as Governor to stop those tactics or other Governors can ban together and do?

Governor Hochul: No, they’re not allowed in New York state courts. You know, and, and let’s think about this, when this was passed a few years ago, law enforcement supported this because people who’ve been victims of the crimes are witnesses of crimes, if they think that if they go in to be involved in the criminal justice system to maybe to solve a crime, that they could be removed instantaneously. We want to make sure that we are working to protect our community. People are safer when people feel they can come forward, but apparently in federal courthouses, here in New York City and all across America, they’re basically staking out people who walk in the front door to keep an appointment they were given. They’re told to go before this judge on this date or check in.

I mean, a heartbreaking story just a couple weeks ago. A mom takes her two boys, 19 and 20-year-old down to make sure they’re legally checking in as they’re told to do. Guess what? She walks out without them. Because they took them away from her. And she doesn’t know where they are. We’re all human beings.

Jen Psaki, MSNBC: Yeah.

Governor Hochul: If we can’t find some compassion in our hearts at this moment and do what’s right, history will judge us very poorly. That’s why we’re urging the administration — go after the really bad ones like you said you would. That’s my plea. Go after the bad ones. We’ll help you. Every state will help you. But can we just leave these law abiding people alone? Can we just do that?

Jen Psaki, MSNBC: There are so many stories, like the ones you mentioned and the ones we saw play out today. Governor Kathy Hochul, I know you’ve had a day, so thank you so much for being here with us, helping explain all of the video footage we’ve just showed everybody watching. Really appreciate you being here.

Governor Hochul: Alright, thank you, Jen.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Government peacebuilders, youth and United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) sow seeds of peace amidst guns

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

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As morning breaks, the vast and open plains of South Sudan’s Lakes state are filled with sounds of cattle and the overwhelming smell of smoke.

It is at this relatively quiet time, that a team from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and state authorities from the Ministry of Peacebuilding set out on a drive.

They aim to meet herders, armed youth, and residents in cattle camps that dot the landscape. Why? To hear their concerns and discuss the possibility of a future without violence.

For generations, cattle have been a symbol of wealth and pride across Lakes. And, in recent years, they have also become a source of deadly conflict. Cattle theft, revenge raids, and competition over water have left a trail of grief in local communities with countless lives lost and properties destroyed.

At one such cattle camp called Buol, 24-year-old herder Makur Magor Bok stands firm at the centre of a gathering. A seasoned cattle keeper despite his age, Makur carries a weapon, not out of malice, he says, but out of necessity. “If I knew my cattle and my family were safe, I would give up my gun today,” he says, gesturing to the automatic rifle slung across his shoulder. “We are not criminals, we are just afraid.”

Makur told Civil Affairs officers from the UN Peacekeeping mission that thieves had stolen one of his rifles, along with phones and solar chargers. Though he knew who was responsible, he made a decision that surprised many in his community. “I could have tracked them and fought with them, retrieved my belongings and avenged myself, but I remembered the peace messages I heard from UNMISS before. You said revenge only brings more killing,” he explained. “So I reported them to the traditional authorities. I want to believe in the law, not in a gun and, hopefully, I won’t be disappointed”

His unprecedented choice—to trust the system instead of fuelling the cycle of violence—sparked a debate among his peers. Some responded with irony, while others said that they had seen enough of their people die over senseless quarrels.

In another nearby cattle camp, Abuok Deng, a 17-year-old girl, shared her fears. “We sleep in fear. On any given night, someone might raid us. I think to myself that maybe this is the night I lose my baby brother; maybe this is the night someone hurts me,” she exhales, with looking out into the distance. “We need safety.”

The team of government peacebuilders and UNMISS peacekeepers listened intently and responded with strong messages on conflict resolution, the power of dialogue, and the importance of community-led peace. “This visit is not about disarming people,” stated Ruby Awude, a Civil Affairs Officer. “It is about creating the kind of peace and safety in communities that makes carrying a gun unnecessary.”

As twilight fell, the team left behind more than just words: they left seeds for lasting peace. Whether these take root depends not only on institutional change but also on the courage of individuals like Makur and Abuok.

Their words reflect the hope that still flickers in Lakes state: that even in a place tormented by cycles of conflict, there are those who choose peace.

– on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

MIL OSI Africa –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: “We may be from two countries but are one family”: Ethiopian peacekeepers hand over medical supplies in Bor

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

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“It’s increasingly difficult for us to provide essential medication to patients, whether in hospitals or smaller clinics,” reveals Dr. Bol Chaw.

Dr. Chaw is the medical director at Bor State Hospital in Jonglei, South Sudan. His concerns are shared by many across this country, where people living in remote areas often go without basic healthcare.

But Dr Chaw has helping hands in the form of Blue Helmets from Ethiopia serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) who handed over a large shipment of vital supplies to the hospital – broad spectrum antibiotics, anti-malarials, painkillers, drugs to tackle chronic illnesses such as hypertension, and surgical materials.

The handover couldn’t have been timelier, given the onset of the rainy season in the country which often leads to an uptick in malaria cases among communities.

“Since we patrol consistently among communities, we are aware of the challenges they face, particularly with the ongoing economic crisis and consequent shortage of medical supplies. We felt that we must support them. We may be from two countries but are one family and families share,” explains Lieutenant-Colonel Desalegn Sahile Gulilat, commanding officer of the Ethiopian troops.

To build further trust and goodwill, Ethiopian peacekeepers followed the medical outreach by providing some basic first aid training to medical staff.

“These partnerships with our international friends such as UNMISS make a real difference in saving lives,” says Dr. Chaw.

Beyond this gesture, the Ethiopian contingent undertakes regular patrols and provides military escorts for aid convoys, ensuring lifesaving humanitarian assistance reaches the most vulnerable across the state.

“There are many ways in which we, as peacekeepers, protect civilians. We are on the ground to be of service,” added Lieutenant-Colonel Gulilat.

– on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

MIL OSI Africa –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Angola Environmental Serviços (AES) Seeks Partnership Opportunities, Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025 as Silver Sponsor

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

Waste management company Angola Environmental Serviços (AES) will return to the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference and exhibition in 2025 as a Silver Sponsor. Operating at the intersection of the environmental and hydrocarbon sectors, AES strives to become a leading national company providing integrated waste management services. As Angola expands its portfolio of exploration and production projects, these services will play an instrumental part in preserving the natural environment while ensuring optimal oil and gas operations.

AES promotes environmental sustainability through the deployment of world-class technology, working closely with upstream operators across both the onshore and offshore markets. The company’s AOG 2025 sponsorship reflects its commitment to supporting oil and gas projects, creating new opportunities for greater collaboration across the industry as a range of major projects advance in the country.

AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute; national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

In recent years AES has invested heavily in its infrastructure and human capital, with aims to position itself as the partner of choice for oil and gas operators. Through its two waste management facilities – situated at the SONILS base in Luanda and the Kwanda base in Soyo – the company deploys a range of services, from thermal desorption to incineration to landfill services, tank cleaning and cargo transport units. The strategic location of these bases positions AES at the center of Angola’s upstream and logistics industries, with close proximity to active and upcoming projects in the Kwanza and Lower Congo basins.

AES’ suite of clients further underscores its role in the country’s oil and gas sector. These include TotalEnergies, Azule Energy, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Sonangol, Etu Energias, Angola LNG and many more. The company has also worked closely with international service and technology firms, including SLB, Halliburton, Aker Solutions, among others. As major operators expand their presence in Angola amid a $60 billion investment pipeline planned for the coming five years, partnerships with AES will serve to advance the environmental and operational efficiency of oil and gas developments.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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MIL OSI Africa –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Shell Trading & Shipping’s Filippo Bof Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025

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

Filippo Bof, Head of Business Development: Africa and Med at Shell Trading & Shipping – the trading and supply branch of energy major Shell – will speak at this year’s Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference. Taking place on September 3-4 in Luanda, the event is the official meeting platform for the country’s hydrocarbon sector, uniting investors and operators from across the entire petroleum value chain. With a prominent presence in Africa, Shell Trading & Shipping is well-positioned to lead discussions on enhancing regional trade and petroleum distribution.

During AOG 2025, Bof will participate in a panel discussion titled: From Extraction to Expansion: Financing Angola’s Oil & Gas’ Development, where he is expected to share insight into the role of multilateral lenders, development banks and private equity in unlocking projects across the value chain. Shell Trading & Shipping is seeking new opportunities to finance oil and gas projects, and with its expertise in hydrocarbon trade, stands to play an instrumental role in supporting the next wave of downstream developments in Angola.

AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute; national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

As sub-Saharan Africa’s second-largest oil producer, Angola has ambitions to position itself as a regional petroleum hub. The country is accelerating the development of downstream infrastructure to achieve this goal, with projects underway in refining, petrochemical production and cross-border pipelines. Upcoming refining projects include the first phase of the Cabinda Refinery (30,000 bpd); the Lobito Refinery (200,000 bpd) and the Soyo Refinery (150,000 bpd). The Cabinda Refinery is expected to begin operations in 2025 while Angola is currently seeking $4.8 billion to bridge the financing gap for the Lobito Refinery. Additionally, the country has signed an agreement with Zambia for the development of a 1,400 km pipeline linking the Lobito Refinery to Zambia’s capital city Lusaka. Technical work for the pipeline was completed in 2024.

In addition to crude facilities, Angola strives to diversify its economy through natural gas projects. The country currently exports natural gas as LNG, primarily through its sole LNG facility in Soyo. Looking ahead, Angola seeks to develop steel and petrochemical manufacturing, while accelerating regional LPG distribution. These developments highlight a unique investment opportunity for global financiers, project developers and traders. Shell Trading & Shipping – with its global network of trading teams, shipping and maritime capabilities – offers an integrated network of supply and distribution abilities, and as such, has emerged as a strong partner for Angola as it strives to bolster exports and regional distribution.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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MIL OSI Africa –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: KZN launches technological tools to curb fraud and wasteful expenditure

Source: South Africa News Agency

KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC Francois Rodgers has unveiled the province’s new digital Supply Chain Management (SCM) system, which aims to reduce wasteful expenditure, fraud, corruption, and bias in government procurement processes.

Speaking at the official launch in Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday, Rodgers announced that KwaZulu-Natal is the first province in South Africa to implement such system, which is set to be piloted during the management of the province’s R158 billion budget in the 2025/2026 financial year.

Rodgers acknowledged that the province has experienced numerous challenges linked to manual procurement system, which he described as a major source of irregularities.

“Generally, the root of fraud, corruption, irregular and wasteful expenditure can be found in our SCM processes. The implementation of a digital procurement system has become a priority,” Rodgers said.

According to Rodgers, the digital procurement platform implementation may derive in the following benefits:

•    Enforcing transparency and efficiency in procurement processes. Minimizing supply SCM fraud, corruption, bias, and enabling a fair and just environment for all stakeholders involved.
•    Replacing all manual submissions and reduce human errors and the creation of audit trails which will foster accountability at all levels.
•    The electronic system will also foster a culture of openness, empowering suppliers to compete on a level playing field, irrespective of their size or background, whilst ensuring targeted procurement from priority groups.
•    Reduction of irregular expenditure through effective planning and contract management.
•    Compliance with SCM policies and regulations.
•    The system will allow for budget blocking especially at requisition creation stage.
•    The system will allow for price bench marking to ensure that the province obtains value for money and negotiates based on market prices.

Rodgers said the system has been approved by National Treasury, with full implementation expected to take place between January 2026 and April 2027, in the selected departments.

He said set-up costs are expected to range from R3 million to R5 million, with R20 million already allocated from the funds saved by the MEC through cost-cutting measures and curbing wasteful expenditure.

Provincial data analysis centre

In another first for KwaZulu-Natal, Rodgers announced that the Provincial Treasury will be setting up a Data Analysis Centre, which will allow the analysis of provincial financial data to enable MECs and all departments’ management to make timeous and informed financial decisions.

Rodgers said the centre will feature a comprehensive financial dashboard, which will allow real-time monitoring of provincial finances by MECs and departmental leadership.

“This tool will allow us to observe total expenditure and revenue collection to address timeously issues of over-spending and under-collection. The dashboard will also enable provincial government leaders to live-monitor human capital trends in all departments.

“The dashboard is imperative to the development of an ethical and capable state. It will also aid in the determination of the quantum of accruals (invoices received and not paid), quantum of debts (monies owed to government), whether governance committees are meeting and whether all invoices are paid within 30 days,” Rodgers said.

He added that through the dashboard, the provincial government will be able to tell the extend of critical vacancy rates across government departments. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MOU signed with Homes England to help deliver city centre vision
Source: City of Plymouth

Plymouth’s ambitions to provide thousands of homes in the city centre have taken a step closer with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Homes England.

Neil Hook, Director – Homes England South and London
Tracey Lee, Chief Executive – Plymouth City Council
Council Leader Tudor Evans – Plymouth City Council
Eamonn Boylan, Interim CEO – Homes England

Council leader Tudor Evans and Homes England CEO Eamonn Boylan signed the partnership document which is the next step in strengthening the working relationship between the two organisations.

A new strategic partnership will accelerate the delivery of high-quality homes in Plymouth, supporting a transformational regeneration of the city centre and surrounding areas. These homes will play a key role in unlocking the economic potential of recent dockyard investments and help create a vibrant city where people can live, work, eat, shop, and socialise.

This initiative aligns with the UK Government’s Strategic Defence Review, which identifies defence as a new engine for national growth. The Continuous At Sea Deterrent programme represents a generational investment in national security—and Plymouth is set to benefit directly.

“Plymouth is at the forefront of a new era of economic opportunity,” said Tudor Evans. “By investing in affordable, high-quality housing, we’re not only supporting our defence capabilities but also creating a thriving, inclusive city for future generations.”

The provision of affordable homes is central to retaining local talent, attracting new families, and ensuring that all communities benefit from this once-in-a-generation opportunity.

Our city centre currently has around 800 homes in it. The top 20 English cities have an average of 8,000 homes, and regeneration over the last 20 years in Newcastle, Manchester, Salford, Sheffield and Leeds has shown that more housing in city centres plays a key part in rejuvenating them.

City centres need to be more than shops, they need to be about culture, leisure, events and festivals, and places to live. There are also 8,000 people on the housing list and while the city centre was built for retail after the war, now is the time to bring people to live in the city centre again.

The proposal is for a shared delivery plan to work together over five years to deliver a strategy for a series of transformative investments, acquisitions and developments which are rooted in the Plymouth and South West Devon Joint Local Plan.

Interventions are designed to act a catalyst and market-making investments, that will allow the public sector to create the right conditions and confidence for the private sector to invest and deliver the wider regeneration of the city centre.

Councillor Evans added: “We have been working with Homes England on our vision for the city centre and this is another important step along the road to making a vision a reality.

“With change of this scale in the pipeline, we need to set out and confirm common goals, get clarity of what we are working towards and be clear about how we are going to bring others along on the journey.”

Eamonn Boylan, Chief Executive of Homes England, said: “Our new Memorandum of Understanding with Plymouth City Council is an important step in strengthening our commitment to the area.

“We’ll work side-by-side with the council to help achieve their vision for the city centre and support them to deliver 10,000 new homes for the people of Plymouth.”

Extensive work is underway to develop shared ambitions with the agreed shared outcomes. They are:
- Pioneering Urban Regeneration: Redefining the city centre as a dynamic hub of activity, focusing on homes and culture and diversification.
- Delivering Nationally Significant Urban Regeneration: The city centre is nationally significant as a post war response to planning and urban design. Options will be considered to unlock a nationally significant urban extension in the heart of the city centre and look at how models can be pioneered that can be replicated elsewhere
- Fostering Sustainable Development: The partners will consider ways to create a model of urban development that minimises environmental impact while maximising community benefits.
- Empowering Local Businesses and Unlocking Private Investment: By strategically deploying government funding and leveraging private sector expertise, the vision is for a city centre that encourages market-led private sector investment and development. This includes working with landowners, leaseholders and occupiers to identify opportunities for joint investment.
- Championing Social Justice via the Growth Alliance Plymouth (GAP) Through targeted initiatives and inclusive policies, there is potential to improve access to quality housing, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
- Catalysing Private Sector-Led Development: Strategically deploying government funding and leveraging private sector expertise to encourage market led private sector investment and development.
- Linking delivery to future planning policy: Homes England will work with the Council, Department for Transport, and MHCLG to shape a masterplan for Plymouth that delivers sustainable growth across all housing types and tenures. This will require an ambitious planning framework and a supply chain capable of delivering high quality homes and a population that can afford to live and work in Plymouth. The GAP work will continue to focus on skills, training and education that underpin these broader themes.
- Embedding long term delivery goals into ways of working. The GAP programme will be the framework from which resourcing, delivery outcomes and ambition are embedded into the Council.
This ambitious work programme will be overseen by a Strategic Investment and Regeneration Board attended by senior representatives from the Council and Homes England.

The Council has embarked on a number of transformational projects designed to inject life, new uses and new visitors into the city centre. As well as the transforming the public realm of Old Town Street and New George Street, Armada Way, other projects in the pipeline include the former Civic Centre which is destined to be a city centre campus with a focus on blue/green skills as well as homes.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reverend Clive Foster appointed as first Windrush Commissioner
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

News story

Reverend Clive Foster appointed as first Windrush Commissioner

Home Secretary appoints first Windrush Commissioner to deliver justice for victims, and ensure their voices remain at the heart of reform.
The Home Secretary has appointed senior pastor Reverend Clive Foster MBE as the first Windrush Commissioner – delivering on the government’s manifesto commitment to achieve justice for victims of the Home Office Windrush scandal.

The announcement comes ahead of Windrush Day this Sunday (22 June), marking the 77th anniversary of the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush to Britain and the community’s extraordinary contribution to this country.

This appointment forms part of the Plan for Change to ensure lessons from past injustices are fully embedded across government policy.

The commissioner, a newly created role on a 3-year term, will provide independent oversight of the government’s work to address the Home Office Windrush scandal and ensure the voices of victims remain at the heart of efforts to deliver justice.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

The story of the Windrush generations is woven into the fabric of our nation and this government is absolutely determined to right the wrongs they suffered at the hands of the Home Office.

This is why I am delighted to welcome Reverend Clive Foster as our new Windrush Commissioner. His deep understanding through his own connections and dedicated community work makes him the perfect champion for those affected by this historic injustice.

I look forward to working closely with Reverend Foster as we continue our vital work to rebuild trust and deliver the justice that the Windrush generations so rightfully deserve.

Reverend Foster is a senior pastor at the Pilgrim Church in Nottingham and brings valuable experience in community leadership and social justice work.

With personal connections to the Windrush generations through his parents who migrated to the UK from Jamaica in 1959, Reverend Foster brings both lived experience and professional expertise to the role. He is the founder of the Nottingham Windrush Support Forum and serves as vice chair of the Windrush National Organisation where he volunteers.

Windrush Commissioner Reverend Clive Foster MBE said:

I’m honoured to take on the role of Windrush Commissioner. I’m committed to ensuring justice is delivered for the Windrush generations – people who have given so much to this country and deserve better than the treatment they have received.

The injustices they faced must never be repeated, and that requires more than words; it requires cultural change, accountability, and action. My aim is to deliver change that the Windrush generations can see and feel in their everyday lives, particularly in how the Windrush status and compensation schemes operate.

I will carry out this role independently, without fear or favour, while creating a constructive relationship with government where challenge is welcomed and scrutiny leads to specific, transparent improvements.

Reverend Foster believes the Windrush generations should not be defined by a scandal, but by their extraordinary contribution to the UK and should now be celebrated.

Since coming to power, the government has strengthened support for the Windrush generations through a £1.5 million fund to help affected individuals access compensation and re-establishing the Windrush Unit to drive forward the action needed to prevent a similar scandal from ever happening again.

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Published 18 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 19, 2025
Vedic chants resonate in Zagreb as PM Modi receives rousing welcome in Croatia

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing welcome by the vibrant Indian community in Zagreb as he began his landmark visit to Croatia – the first-ever by an Indian Prime Minister to the country – on Wednesday.

Zagreb is the last stop on PM Modi’s three-nation tour, which also included visits to Cyprus en route to Canada for Tuesday’s G7 Summit in Kananaskis.

As a special gesture, the PM was warmly received by his Croatian counterpart Andrej Plenkovic at the Franjo Tudman Airport with a ceremonial welcome.

“This is a special visit, the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister to a valued European partner. I am grateful to Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic for the special gesture of welcoming me at the airport,” PM Modi posted on X.

Plenkovic said that PM Modi’s significant visit comes at a pivotal moment.

“We welcomed the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Zagreb! This is the first visit by the Prime Minister of India – the most populous country in the world, and it comes at an important geopolitical moment. We are starting a new chapter in Croatia-India relations and creating the conditions for strengthening bilateral cooperation in a number of areas,” the Croatian Prime Minister commented.

Members of the Indian diaspora, waiting to catch a glimpse of PM Modi, were seen gathered in huge numbers as the PM’s motorcade drove through the city.

Hundreds of people, including locals, also gave a grand welcome to PM Modi as he arrived at his hotel.

Amid chants of “Modi-Modi”, “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram”, PM Modi witnessed vibrant and energy-filled cultural performances from people present at the venue.

PM Modi joined a group of locals chanting Vedic shlokas and also interacted with a few in the gathering while getting inside the building.

Citing the centuries-old close cultural links, PM Modi had said before arriving in the country that he is looking forward to his visit and meetings with President Zoran Milanovic and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic.

Prime Minister Modi had asserted that the three-nation tour is also an opportunity to thank partner countries for their steadfast support to India in India’s fight against cross-border terrorism, and to galvanise global understanding on tackling terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

Analysts reckon that the first-ever visit by an Indian PM to Croatia will help in fostering stronger political and economic collaboration with Croatia. It will also provide a crucial opportunity to expand bilateral cooperation in various sectors including trade, innovation, defence, ports, shipping, science and tech, cultural exchange, and workforce mobility.

India and Croatia have close cooperation in trade, investment, defence, agriculture sectors amongst others, and also cooperate in international fora, vibrant cultural exchanges and close people-to-people ties.

The bilateral trade between both nations stands at about USD 300 million with the Indian investments in Croatia being roughly around USD 48 million.

Prime Minister Modi briefly interacted with Croatian PM Plenkovic at COP-26 in 2021 and the virtual India-EU Leaders Meeting the same year.

Former President Ramnath Kovind undertook State Visit to Croatia in March 2019, during which he was conferred with Croatia’s highest civilian honor (‘the Grand Order of the King of Tomislav’).

India has been well known in Croatia for centuries, and the earliest Croatian visitors to India were missionaries. Links have been found between the Principality of Dubrovnik and Goa, and the Church of Sao Braz was reportedly built by Croatians around 1563 in Goa.

The Indian community in Croatia has changed over the last three years rapidly due to the demographic situation in Croatia where a lot of foreign workers are being employed for carrying out work in different sectors of the economy.

There were approximately 17000 Indians residing in Croatia in December 2024. Many of the Indian workers are working on short to medium term contracts and therefore at least 90 per cent of the people currently residing are those who form a part of the mobile population staying in Croatia for a specific contractual period.

(IANS)

June 19, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Four Leaders Of Notorious Nuestra Familia Prison Gang Sentenced For Racketeering Conspiracy

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

Sentencings Conclude the Northern District of California’s Successful Prosecution of 40 Members and Associates of the Violent Prison Gang

OAKLAND – Four top leaders of the Nuestra Familia (NF) prison gang were sentenced today to federal prison terms ranging from 120 months to 175 months following their convictions at trial for racketeering conspiracy. David Cervantes, aka “DC,” was sentenced to 120 months; James Perez, aka “Conejo,” was sentenced to 120 months; Guillermo Solorio, aka “Capone,” aka “Caps,” was sentenced to 175 months; and George Franco, aka “Puppet,” was sentenced to 175 months. U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers handed down the sentences.

The sentences follow a three-month trial in 2024, which established that the four defendants—Cervantes, 76; Perez, 70; Solorio, 45; and Franco, 59—were senior members of the NF prison gang, serving on the General Council, the primary decision-making body for the gang. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, all four defendants held a leadership role in a lucrative and violent criminal enterprise that engaged in murder conspiracies, attempted murder, drug distribution, and money laundering:

Cervantes was one of three “Generals” who sat atop the NF organizational structure, specifically the “General Advocates Office,” and made final decisions on serious matters involving governance of the enterprise. As the sole member of the General Advocates Office, Cervantes oversaw member discipline, a role that included deciding when members should be attacked or killed for violating gang rules.
Perez was another General of the prison gang, specifically, the “General of Prisons.” In this role, Perez was responsible for maintaining authority over all NF regiments and NF criminal activity within the California prison system.
Franco was a member of the NF’s “Inner Council” and was Regimental Commander of San Joaquin County. As a member of the Inner Council, Franco was an advisor to the three NF Generals (two of whom were Cervantes and Perez) and was part of the General Council that, in addition to member discipline, made other significant decisions in conducting the affairs of the NF.
Solorio was likewise part of the NF “Inner Council” and was an advisor to the NF Generals. Solorio also was the Regimental Commander over the Monterey County Street Regiment, overseeing criminal activity, including largescale drug trafficking, by subservient Norteno street gangs.

“The brutal violence and drug trafficking that this criminal enterprise ran from within state prisons touched every county in the Bay Area. With these sentences, 40 gang leaders and associates have now been convicted and brought to justice for the violence they caused inside and outside prison walls, and the community is now safer as a result,” said United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian. “These convictions would not have been possible without the dedicated work of our law enforcement partners across multiple agencies and jurisdictions and the talented lawyers and staff from within our office.”

“The sentencing of these four top Nuestra Familia gang leaders marks the final chapter in the successful dismantling of one of the most violent and entrenched prison gangs operating in California. Through sustained, coordinated efforts with our law enforcement partners, we have brought to justice 40 members and associates of this dangerous gang who spread violence and fear inside prison walls and outside throughout our communities,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani. “This case demonstrates the FBI’s unwavering commitment to rooting out organized criminal enterprises and protecting the public from those who use intimidation and brutality to maintain power.”

The sentencings of these four defendants mark the successful completion of the prosecution of NF leadership in the Northern District of California. Forty Nuestra Familia members and associates, including defendants both on the streets and in California state prisons, have now been convicted and sentenced. This includes all seven members of the NF’s General Council, its entire senior leadership team, as detailed in the table below:

Defendant	Convictions	Sentence Imposed
David Cervantes aka “DC”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for three attempted murders and two murder conspiracies	120 months
James Perez aka “Conejo”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for two attempted murders and two murder conspiracies	120 months
Antonio Guillen aka “Chuco”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for two murder conspiracies and one attempted murder	175 months
George Franco aka “Puppet”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for one attempted murder and one murder conspiracy	175 months
Guillermo Solorio aka “Capone”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with a special finding for attempted murder	175 months
Trinidad Martinez aka “Trino”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for one attempted murder	144 months
Samuel Luna aka “Sammy”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for four murder conspiracies and one attempted murder	175 months

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mari Overbeck, Leif Dautch, and Aseem Padukone of the Violent Crime Strike Force prosecuted this case, with the assistance of Veronica Hernandez and Kevin Costello. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI (San Francisco, Sacramento, and Phoenix Divisions, and Cryptanalysis and Racketeering Records Unit), the DEA, the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the U.S. Marshal Service, with the assistance of the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office, and the San Jose Police Department, and with support from the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, Antioch Police Department, Campbell Police Department, Fremont Police Department, King’s County Sheriff’s Office, Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, Mountain View Police Department, Sacramento Police Department, Salinas Police Department, Menlo Park Police Department, Santa Clara County Parole Department, Santa Clara County Probation Department, Santa Clara Police Department, Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, Modesto Police Department, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, San Francisco Police Department, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department, and Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety.

This investigation and prosecution was part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, which identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

MIL Security OSI –

June 19, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Four Leaders Of Notorious Nuestra Familia Prison Gang Sentenced For Racketeering Conspiracy

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

Sentencings Conclude the Northern District of California’s Successful Prosecution of 40 Members and Associates of the Violent Prison Gang

Cervantes was one of three “Generals” who sat atop the NF organizational structure, specifically the “General Advocates Office,” and made final decisions on serious matters involving governance of the enterprise. As the sole member of the General Advocates Office, Cervantes oversaw member discipline, a role that included deciding when members should be attacked or killed for violating gang rules.
Perez was another General of the prison gang, specifically, the “General of Prisons.” In this role, Perez was responsible for maintaining authority over all NF regiments and NF criminal activity within the California prison system.
Franco was a member of the NF’s “Inner Council” and was Regimental Commander of San Joaquin County. As a member of the Inner Council, Franco was an advisor to the three NF Generals (two of whom were Cervantes and Perez) and was part of the General Council that, in addition to member discipline, made other significant decisions in conducting the affairs of the NF.
Solorio was likewise part of the NF “Inner Council” and was an advisor to the NF Generals. Solorio also was the Regimental Commander over the Monterey County Street Regiment, overseeing criminal activity, including largescale drug trafficking, by subservient Norteno street gangs.

Defendant	Convictions	Sentence Imposed
David Cervantes aka “DC”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for three attempted murders and two murder conspiracies	120 months
James Perez aka “Conejo”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for two attempted murders and two murder conspiracies	120 months
Antonio Guillen aka “Chuco”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for two murder conspiracies and one attempted murder	175 months
George Franco aka “Puppet”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for one attempted murder and one murder conspiracy	175 months
Guillermo Solorio aka “Capone”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with a special finding for attempted murder	175 months
Trinidad Martinez aka “Trino”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for one attempted murder	144 months
Samuel Luna aka “Sammy”	18 U.S.C. § 1962(d) – Racketeering conspiracy, with special findings for four murder conspiracies and one attempted murder	175 months

MIL Security OSI –

June 19, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Member Of Marion Gardens Jersey City Street Gang Sentenced to Two Consecutive Life Sentences for Murders and Drug Trafficking

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

NEWARK, N.J. – Today, Myron Williams, a/k/a “Money,” a/k/a “Tunchi,” 31, of Newark was sentenced before the Honorable Michael E. Farbiarz to life imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, life imprisonment for murder in aid of racketeering, 240 months’ imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and 120 months’ imprisonment for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, with all sentences to run consecutively.

Williams’s co-defendant Khalil Kelley, a/k/a “Billski,” 26, of Jersey City, was previously sentenced on June 5, 2025, to life imprisonment, plus a consecutive ten-year term of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, for his role in the Marion Gardens street gang and a gang-related murder.

Also today, Jawaad Davis, 23, of Jersey City, was sentenced to 170 months’ imprisonment for his role in the Marion Gardens street gang, which included orchestrating a robbery that resulted in murder.

Eight other individuals are pending sentencing. Roger Pickett, a/k/a “Zy G,” 24, of Jersey City was convicted at trial along with Williams and Kelley. The remaining defendants—Herbert Thomas, 49, of Jersey City; Andre Alomar, a/k/a “Dre8,” 24, of Newark; Naim Richardson, a/k/a “Ninicks,” 32, of Jersey City; Anthony Rogers, a/k/a “MG,” 25, of Jersey City; Quaseame Wilson, a/k/a “Qua Gz,” 28, of Jersey City; Javon Williams, a/k/a “J45,” 28, of Jersey City; and Keith Anderson, a/k/a “Beef3,” 23, of Jersey City—all pled guilty before trial. Each defendant will be sentenced before Judge Farbiarz in Newark as follows:

Anthony Rogers, a/k/a “MG”	June 26, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.
Quaseame Wilson, a/k/a “Qua Gz”	July 1, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
Andre Alomar, a/k/a “Dre8”	July 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
Roger Pickett, a/k/a “Zy G”	July 2, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
Keith Anderson, a/k/a “Beef3”	July 2, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
Javon Williams, a/k/a “J45”	July 2, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
Naim Richardson, a/k/a “Ninicks”	July 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
Herbert Thomas	October 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

Myron Williams, Khalil Kelley, Roger Pickett, Jawaad Davis, Anthony Rogers, Quaseame Wilson, Andre Alomar, Keith Anderson, Javon Williams, and Naim Richardson are all members and associates of the neighborhood street gang associated with the Marion Gardens Housing Complex. Since 2013, they and their fellow gang members have committed numerous acts of violence, including three separate murders, on March 29, 2021, Nov. 20, 2021, and Nov. 1, 2022.

On March 29, 2021, Kelley and other gang members lured a rival gang member outside by sending him Instagram messages pretending to be the victim’s fellow gang member. When the victim opened the door to his residence, Kelley and another gang member brandished firearms, and the victim was shot multiple times in the chest, killing him. Pickett and Myron Williams then picked up Kelley and other gang members after they abandoned the murder vehicle in Newark.

On Nov. 20, 2021, Myron Williams, Pickett, and Richardson lured a rival gang member outside by sending him Instagram messages pretending to be the second victim’s fellow gang member. Williams and another gang member shot the victim when he opened the door to his residence.

On Nov. 1, 2022, Davis facilitated the murder of the third victim by coordinating a narcotics transaction with the victim and the victim’s associate. When the victim and his associate arrived at the Marion Gardens Housing Complex to complete the narcotics transaction, they were robbed of their narcotics supply. During the robbery, Pickett and Wilson held the victim and his associate at gunpoint. After a struggle ensued, Pickett shot and killed the victim while his associate fled. Pickett then fled the Marion Gardens Housing Complex with Wilson.

For months, investigators observed and documented hundreds of narcotics transactions in and around the Marion Gardens Housing Complex. The investigation likewise revealed that Herbert Thomas was a primary supplier of narcotics to the Marion Gardens street gang.

When each defendant was arrested on March 17, 2023, law enforcement seized contraband at several different locations, including heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine, narcotics packaging materials, ammunition, bulletproof vests, and a loaded handgun.

U.S. Attorney Habba credited investigators of the Gang Intelligence Unit and the Homicide Unit of the Major Case Division of Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Esther Suarez, and special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks Jr., and investigators of the Jersey City Police Department, under the direction of Director James Shea, with the investigation leading to the convictions. He also thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy, and the U.S. Marshals, under the direction of U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos, for their assistance.

This investigation was conducted as part of the Jersey City Violent Crime Initiative (VCI). The VCI was formed in 2018 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Jersey City Police Department, for the sole purpose of combatting violent crime in and around Jersey City. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate to strategize and prioritize the prosecution of violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Jersey Division, the U.S. Marshals, the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), the Jersey City Police Department, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, New Jersey State Parole, the Hudson County Jail, and the New Jersey State Police Regional Operations and Intelligence Center/Real Time Crime Center.

The government is represented by First Assistant U.S. Attorney Desiree Grace, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Maloy and Javon Henry, of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Newark.

###

Defense counsel:

Myron Williams – William Strazza, Esq.
Jawaad Davis – Jason Orlando, Esq. and Tyler Newman, Esq.

Khalil Kelley – Kevin Buchan, Esq. and James Seplowitz, Esq.

MIL Security OSI –

June 19, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Member Of Marion Gardens Jersey City Street Gang Sentenced to Two Consecutive Life Sentences for Murders and Drug Trafficking

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

Anthony Rogers, a/k/a “MG”	June 26, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.
Quaseame Wilson, a/k/a “Qua Gz”	July 1, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
Andre Alomar, a/k/a “Dre8”	July 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
Roger Pickett, a/k/a “Zy G”	July 2, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
Keith Anderson, a/k/a “Beef3”	July 2, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
Javon Williams, a/k/a “J45”	July 2, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
Naim Richardson, a/k/a “Ninicks”	July 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
Herbert Thomas	October 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

###

Defense counsel:

Myron Williams – William Strazza, Esq.
Jawaad Davis – Jason Orlando, Esq. and Tyler Newman, Esq.

Khalil Kelley – Kevin Buchan, Esq. and James Seplowitz, Esq.

MIL Security OSI –

June 19, 2025

MIL-OSI: TAB Bank CIO Tami Fisher Honored with Utah Business Executive Excellence Award

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OGDEN, Utah, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tami Fisher, Chief Information Officer at TAB Bank, was named a winner of the Utah Business Executive Excellence Awards for her leadership in driving the bank’s digital transformation and aligning IT strategy with business objectives.

The Executive Excellence Awards is an annual event celebrating the highest achievements in Utah’s business community. This event highlights members of executive teams for their strategic vision, resilient leadership and profound influence on improving the business landscape and quality of life in the state of Utah.

Fisher developed and initiated a clear roadmap for the bank’s digital transformation, focusing on operational efficiency, optimizing internal expertise and accelerating innovation to enhance the customer experience. She has prioritized the transition to more modular and flexible services, allowing for faster technology integration and greater adaptability to stay ahead of industry trends and exceed customer expectations.

“Tami is emblematic of TAB’s vision to build value in all we do through her work at TAB and with her community involvement,” said Austin Strong, CEO of TAB Bank. “Her expertise in leading organizational change and transforming technological infrastructure has made her an effective leader and an indispensable asset. Tami has helped put TAB on a positive technological trajectory to deliver for our clients.”

Unlike many in the industry, Fisher does not come from a traditional tech background. Her deep knowledge of banking operations and technology management enables her to bridge business and IT—ensuring that tech decisions directly support customer needs and business growth.

Fisher has partnered with like-minded senior leaders to organize the “Women and Allies at TAB” affinity group, a forum for women at the bank to share experiences, build skills and promote professional growth. She is dedicated to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where employees at all levels can thrive. In addition, she mentors women across the industry through the Silicon Slopes Women in Leadership program, which supports professionals at all stages of their careers.

Fisher will be featured in the July 2025 issue of Utah Business and honored at an awards luncheon on June 26, 2025, at the University of Utah David Eccles School of Business.

About TAB Bank
At TAB Bank, our mission is to unlock dreams with bold financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses nationwide. We are committed to building value in all we do through our innovative banking products. Our dedication drives us to continuously improve, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our clients with excellence and agility. For over 25 years, we have remained steadfast in offering tailored, technology-enabled solutions designed to simplify and enhance the banking experience.

For more information about how we can help you achieve your financial dreams, visit www.TABBank.com.

Contact Information:
Trevor Morris
Director of Marketing
801-710-6318
trevor.morris@tabbank.com

The MIL Network –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: TAB Bank CIO Tami Fisher Honored with Utah Business Executive Excellence Award

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OGDEN, Utah, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tami Fisher, Chief Information Officer at TAB Bank, was named a winner of the Utah Business Executive Excellence Awards for her leadership in driving the bank’s digital transformation and aligning IT strategy with business objectives.

The Executive Excellence Awards is an annual event celebrating the highest achievements in Utah’s business community. This event highlights members of executive teams for their strategic vision, resilient leadership and profound influence on improving the business landscape and quality of life in the state of Utah.

Fisher developed and initiated a clear roadmap for the bank’s digital transformation, focusing on operational efficiency, optimizing internal expertise and accelerating innovation to enhance the customer experience. She has prioritized the transition to more modular and flexible services, allowing for faster technology integration and greater adaptability to stay ahead of industry trends and exceed customer expectations.

“Tami is emblematic of TAB’s vision to build value in all we do through her work at TAB and with her community involvement,” said Austin Strong, CEO of TAB Bank. “Her expertise in leading organizational change and transforming technological infrastructure has made her an effective leader and an indispensable asset. Tami has helped put TAB on a positive technological trajectory to deliver for our clients.”

Unlike many in the industry, Fisher does not come from a traditional tech background. Her deep knowledge of banking operations and technology management enables her to bridge business and IT—ensuring that tech decisions directly support customer needs and business growth.

Fisher has partnered with like-minded senior leaders to organize the “Women and Allies at TAB” affinity group, a forum for women at the bank to share experiences, build skills and promote professional growth. She is dedicated to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where employees at all levels can thrive. In addition, she mentors women across the industry through the Silicon Slopes Women in Leadership program, which supports professionals at all stages of their careers.

Fisher will be featured in the July 2025 issue of Utah Business and honored at an awards luncheon on June 26, 2025, at the University of Utah David Eccles School of Business.

About TAB Bank
At TAB Bank, our mission is to unlock dreams with bold financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses nationwide. We are committed to building value in all we do through our innovative banking products. Our dedication drives us to continuously improve, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our clients with excellence and agility. For over 25 years, we have remained steadfast in offering tailored, technology-enabled solutions designed to simplify and enhance the banking experience.

For more information about how we can help you achieve your financial dreams, visit www.TABBank.com.

Contact Information:
Trevor Morris
Director of Marketing
801-710-6318
trevor.morris@tabbank.com

The MIL Network –

June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Renergen’s Phase 2 EPC Contractor Awarded Preferred Bidder Status

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

JOHANNESBURG, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Renergen is pleased to announce that preferred bidder status has been awarded to He4u consortium for the design, procurement, delivery, construction and commissioning for phase 2 of the Tetra4 LNG and helium liquefaction project, comprising of, Chart Industries Inc. (NYSE: GTLS), Wilson Bayly Holmes – Ovcon Ltd (JSE: WBO), and Aurex Constructors. The appointment of an acceptable EPC contractor in Phase 2 was one of the two remaining conditions for the DFC Phase 2 loan.

The award is a key milestone in the project’s progress. The award confirms that Chart Industries’ Helium liquefier and LNG liquefaction technologies have been selected as Tetra4’s preferred technical solution for the implementation of Phase 2 of the Virginia Gas Project. In addition, the award includes multiple local construction and fabrication partners, such as Aurex and WBHO, that are well-versed in executing large projects in South Africa.

Chart Industries, Inc. is a leading independent global manufacturer of highly engineered equipment servicing multiple market applications in energy and industrial gas. Chart’s unique product portfolio is used throughout the liquid gas supply chain in the production, storage, distribution and end-use of atmospheric, hydrocarbon, and industrial gases. Chart is headquartered in Georgia, the USA, with operations in over 50 countries globally

WBHO is a multidisciplinary, international construction company. WBHO’s motto, “Rely on Our Ability”, demonstrates the pride they take in providing their clients, big and small, with safety first and quality always. Construction activities, which cover the full spectrum, are divided into four main operating divisions: Building Construction, Civil Engineering, Projects and Roads and Earthwork. WBHO Projects Division undertakes the EPC/Design & Construct and renewable energy projects for the Group. The origins of the present group date back to 1970 and today the group is one of the largest construction companies in Southern Africa and is listed on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange with a Level 1 B-BBEE contributor status.

Aurex Constructors is an industry-leading multidisciplinary contractor, renowned for its commitment to quality and safety, delivering uncompromised excellence within the energy sector. As a B-BBEE Level 2 contributor with over 40 years of experience, Aurex specialises in Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation and Piping services, providing construction and maintenance solutions to the industrial, power generation and renewable energy industries, including EPC project services specifically for PV energy generation plants. The company has a proven track record of successfully completing large-scale and complex projects, making it a trusted partner in the industry.

“Chart Industries is pleased to have been selected by Renergen as technology partner for Tetra4’s Helium and LNG liquefaction requirements. We look forward to providing our world-class technologies and engineering solutions at scale to Tetra4 as the company moves toward implementation of the next phase of the Virginia Gas Project.”, said Jillian Evanko, CEO of Chart Industries Inc.

“We are excited to have such an experienced and technically strong team executing our Phase 2 project on a turnkey basis, and we have every confidence that the skillset they bring to the table and when combined with Worley who will be responsible to manage and oversee the contractors in official capacity as Owners Engineer, reduces the execution risk tremendously on Phase 2. This represents another major milestone, and one of very few remaining towards commencement of construction of Phase 2, said Stefano Marani, CEO of Renergen.

ASP Isotopes Inc. (NASDAQ: ASPI) announced a firm intention offer to the shareholders of Renergen Limited on 20 May 2025. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions

Contacts
Mandy Stuart
Email – Mandy@renergen.co.za
Telephone – +27 84 6067200

The MIL Network –

June 19, 2025

MIL-OSI: Davidson Kempner Capital Management LP : Form 8.3 – Spectris PLC

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

FORM 8.3

PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

1. KEY INFORMATION

(a) Full name of discloser:	Davidson Kempner Capital Management LP
(b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
(c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree	Spectris PLC
(d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
(e) Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure	17/06/2025
(f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”	No

2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

(a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

Class of relevant security:	5p ordinary (ISIN -GB0003308607)
	Interests		Short positions
	Number	%	Number	%
(1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:
(2) Cash-settled derivatives:	1,096,773	1.1%
(3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL:	1,096,773	1.1%

All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

(b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:
Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:

3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

(a) Purchases and sales

Class of relevant security

Purchase/sale

Number of securities

Price per unit

(b) Cash-settled derivative transactions

Class of relevant security	Product description e.g. CFD	Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position	Number of reference securities	Price per unit
5p Ordinary	CFD	Increasing a long position	22,290	GBP 33.2195
5p Ordinary	CFD	Increasing a long position	182,809	GBP 33.2692
5p Ordinary	CFD	Increasing a long position	50,000	GBP 33.3229

(c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

(i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

Class of relevant security

Product description e.g. call option

Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc.

Number of securities to which option relates

Exercise price per unit

Type
e.g. American, European etc.

Expiry date

Option money paid/ received per unit

(ii) Exercise

Class of relevant security

Product description
e.g. call option

Exercising/ exercised against

Number of securities

Exercise price per unit

(d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

Class of relevant security

Nature of dealing
e.g. subscription, conversion

Details

Price per unit (if applicable)

4. OTHER INFORMATION

(a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

None

(b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
(i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
(ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

None

(c) Attachments

Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?

Date of disclosure:	18/06/2025
Contact name:	Alex McMillan
Telephone number:	646 282 5805

Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

The MIL Network –

June 19, 2025

Category: Transport

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