NewzIntel.com

Category: United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Where does the UK most need more public EV chargers?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Labib Azzouz, Research Associate in Transport and Energy Innovation, University of Oxford

    Electric vehicle chargers at a motorway service station in Grantham, England. Angus Reid/Shutterstock

    The automotive and EV industry has repeatedly insisted that the UK needs more electric vehicle (EV) chargers to help motorists make the switch from conventional fossil-fuel burning cars.

    The Labour government has announced £400 million to install EV chargers, mainly on streets in poorer residential neighbourhoods, in place of the Conservative’s £950 million rapid charging fund that was directed at installing chargers in motorway service stations.

    Does it matter where these chargers are – and who pays to build them?

    The short answer is yes, it does matter. Our research conducted at motorway and local EV charging stations across England – including those located in residential areas, high streets and community centres – indicates that these two types of infrastructure serve distinct groups of users and fulfil different purposes.

    Suggesting that one can substitute for the other risks sending mixed signals to both the industry and the driving public.

    We found that motorway charging stations tend to cater to wealthier men, who are more likely to own premium EVs with long-range batteries and better performance. Many of these drivers have access to home chargers, so their use of public chargers is only for occasional, long-distance travel for business, leisure, or holidays – trips that require chargers along motorways.

    Convenience and charging speed are often more important than the price of public charging, particularly when the travel costs of these drivers are covered by their employers.

    Local public charging stations, on the other hand, serve more diverse groups. These include drivers from lower-income households who are more likely to own older and smaller EVs with shorter ranges. Access to home charging is often limited, especially for people living in flats or urban areas without driveways, garages or off-street parking.

    Not everyone can plug in at home.
    Andersen EV/Shutterstock

    Local chargers are also vital for taxi and delivery drivers who depend on their vehicles for work and make frequent short trips throughout the day. There are many professional drivers without access to workplace charging stations who need alternative local provision – something the Conservative government recognised in its 2022 EV charging strategy.

    Ultimately, the transition to EVs should take a balanced approach that carefully considers social equity, economic viability and environmental impact.

    Different locations serve different drivers

    Motorway charging stations are commercially attractive to private investors, such as energy companies, specialist charging providers and car manufacturers, despite their higher upfront costs and complex requirements.

    This is because service stations offer greater short-term revenue due to their ability to set premium prices. This is a result of there being limited alternatives and high demand for rapid charging, especially among long-distance travellers, and the willingness of EV drivers to pay for speed and convenience – unlike in more price-sensitive neighbourhood settings.

    Unsurprisingly, the government found that the rapid deployment of motorway chargers in recent years has been largely driven by the private sector. Our research highlighted that these revenues could be enhanced by a broader range of retail, dining and relaxation amenities, turning the time waiting for a car to charge into a more productive and pleasurable experience.

    Residential charging stations may not offer high profits per charge, but they typically require lower capital investment and benefit from consistent and predictable use. They are also suited to measures for reducing strain on the grid and balancing energy supply and demand.

    These measures include tariffs that make it cheaper to charge EVs during off-peak hours, or technology that allows cars to feed electricity stored in batteries back into the grid. These features make them appropriate for public funding, where return on investment is measured not just in profit but in value for the public.

    Considering that local EV charging serves those who do not have access to home charging and who drive for a living, the case for public funding is even stronger. These sorts of chargers make switching to an EV easier for different groups.

    For example, safe and carefully placed public chargers could help more women switch to EVs – although our research suggests that, while “careful placement” might refer to residential areas, it doesn’t necessarily mean on streets. Well-lit car parks and community destinations are sometimes considered safer options.

    Charging points outside a community centre in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland.
    AlanMorris/Shutterstock

    By helping EV drivers make frequent short trips, local chargers can also significantly reduce urban air pollution, emissions and noise, contributing to more liveable, healthier cities.

    That said, motorway charging stations and those near key transport corridors still play a crucial role in a comprehensive national network, and public funding may be required in more peripheral and rural areas of the UK where installations lag and commercial interest is limited.

    While long-distance trips are less frequent than short ones, they account for a disproportionately large share of energy use and emissions. Switching such trips to electric will be essential to reaching net zero goals.

    It seems reasonable to prioritise public investment in local EV charging infrastructure to support a fairer EV transition, but this should not be limited to on-street chargers. Investment is needed in residential and non-residential areas, public car parks, community centres and workplaces.

    Different types of EV charging are not interchangeable – all are needed to support the switch.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Labib Azzouz has received funding from the UK Research and Innovation via the UK Energy Research Centre and Innovate UK as part of the Energy Superhub Oxford (ESO) project.

    Hannah Budnitz receives government funding from UK Research and Innovation grants via the Economic and Social Research Council and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. She has also previously received funding from Innovate UK and the Department for Transport.

    – ref. Where does the UK most need more public EV chargers? – https://theconversation.com/where-does-the-uk-most-need-more-public-ev-chargers-259623

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Five ways to avoid illness like the Lionesses

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Samantha Abbott, Doctoral Researcher, Department of Sport Science, Nottingham Trent University

    England’s Beth Mead cheering on podium after win v Germany in the Women European Championship Final 2022 photographyjp/Shutterstock

    Think back to the last time you had a cold or the flu. Now imagine stepping onto the pitch for a European Cup final, while battling through those symptoms. For elite athletes, illness can strike at the worst possible time – and it could hit women harder.

    Research suggests that female athletes are more susceptible to cold and flu-like illnesses than their male counterparts. For England women’s national football team, the Lionesses, this risk only increases before a major tournament like the Euros.

    Close contact, shared kit, disrupted sleep and travel all add up to a perfect storm for infection. But targeted nutritional strategies, alongside good sleep and hand hygiene, can offer a crucial line of defence.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    1. Fuel first: energy matters for immunity

    Before anything else, players need to eat enough. Energy supports both performance and immune function. In fact, female athletes who didn’t meet their energy needs in the run-up to the 2016 Olympics were four times more likely to report cold or flu symptoms.

    This is especially relevant in women’s football, where low energy and carbohydrate intake has been documented among professional players and recreational players too. Regular meals and snacks that include carbohydrate-rich foods like oats, bread and pasta, especially around training, are essential to meet energy demands and support immune health.

    2. Eat the rainbow

    Athletes are often encouraged to go beyond the public’s five-a-day fruit and veg target, aiming instead for eight to ten portions daily. Why? Because colourful plant foods are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds: all vital for immunity.



    Read more:
    We’re told to ‘eat a rainbow’ of fruit and vegetables. Here’s what each colour does in our body

    Each colour offers unique benefits. For instance, red fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Orange produce like carrots get their colour from beta-carotene, which is converted by the body into vitamin A – a key vitamin for immune health.

    Eating a rainbow of colours means getting a wide range of nutrients.

    3. Vitamin C: powerful but timing matters

    Vitamin C has long been linked with reducing the risk and severity of cold and flu symptoms. One Cochrane review found that regular vitamin C intake halved the risk of illness in physically active people.

    However, more isn’t always better. Long-term use of high-dose vitamin C supplements could blunt training adaptations – the structural and functional changes the body undergoes in response to repeated exercise – because of its anti-inflammatory effects. That’s why vitamin C is most effective when used strategically, such as during high-risk periods like travel or intense competition. Good food sources include oranges, kiwis, blackcurrants, red and yellow peppers, broccoli and even potatoes.

    4. Gut health supports immune health

    Around 70% of the immune system is located in the gut, making gut health a key player in illness prevention. This is where probiotics (live bacteria) and prebiotics (which feed those bacteria) come in.

    Probiotics, found in fermented foods like kefir and kimchi or in supplement form, have been shown to reduce the duration and severity of respiratory illnesses in athletes. Prebiotics have similarly shown promise. In one study, a 24-week prebiotic intervention in elite rugby players reduced the duration of cold and flu symptoms by over two days.



    Read more:
    Gut microbiome: meet Lactobacillus acidophilus – the gut health superhero

    In the build-up to the Euros, including probiotic-rich foods in their diet or taking a daily prebiotic and probiotic supplement may help players stay healthy and return to training faster if they do get ill.

    5. Zinc lozenges: first aid for a sore throat

    If cold-like symptoms do appear, zinc lozenges can offer fast-acting relief. Zinc has antiviral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. When zinc is delivered as a lozenge, it acts directly in the throat, where many infections begin. Taken within 24 hours of symptoms starting, zinc lozenges could shorten illness duration by a third.

    But caution is key. Long-term use of high-dose zinc supplements can actually suppress immune function. Zinc lozenges should only be used short-term at symptom onset, not as a daily supplement.

    Staying match-ready during major tournaments means more than just tactical drills and fitness. Nutrition is a powerful ally in illness prevention, especially for women’s teams like the Lionesses. From fuelling adequately to supporting gut health and knowing when to supplement, these nutritional strategies can make the difference between sitting on the bench and bringing a trophy home.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Five ways to avoid illness like the Lionesses – https://theconversation.com/five-ways-to-avoid-illness-like-the-lionesses-259302

    MIL OSI –

  • Djokovic passes Muller test to reach Wimbledon second round

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic was made to work hard after a strong start as he began his bid for a 25th Grand Slam title by beating unseeded Frenchman Alexandre Muller 6-1 6-7(7) 6-2 6-2 to reach the second round on Tuesday.

    The sixth seed, who is aiming to equal Roger Federer’s haul at the All England Club and move past Margaret Court in the all-time list of major champions, will take on British wild card Dan Evans in the next round.

    “I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t think I have a chance, to be honest,” Djokovic said.

    “I think I always have a chance, I’ve earned my right to feel I can go all the way to the title. I’ve had arguably the most success of any Grand Slam here in the last decade.

    “It’s just the beginning of the tournament. There are many fantastic players in the draw. I’m going to be playing a Briton in the next round. That’s going to be a tough one, but I look forward to it.

    “I’ve always felt like grass, particularly in the second part of my career, was really the surface where I played my best tennis, so why not do it again?”

    Djokovic, who endured a poor year before lifting his 100th tour-level trophy in Geneva ahead of a run to the semi-finals of the French Open, powered through the opening set against Muller by winning six games on the trot.

    Muller put up much more of a fight in the next set, saving five breakpoints to hold for 4-4 before forcing a tiebreak where he raised his game again to battle from 2-5 down and draw level in the match.

    Djokovic caught his breath when the Centre Court roof was closed and then took a medical timeout early in the third set for a stomach problem, before going up 3-2 with a break after Muller hit his sixth double fault of the match.

    Having wrapped up the third set, Djokovic racked up a 4-2 advantage in the fourth set with an exquisite backhand winner and there was no looking back from there as he completed the victory by holding to love.

    “I went from feeling my absolute best for a set and a half to my absolute worst for about 45 minutes,” Djokovic added.

    “Whether it was a stomach bug, I don’t know what it was, but I just struggled with that. The energy kicked back in after some doctor’s miracle pills.

    “I managed to finish the match on a good note.”

    -Reuters

  • Djokovic passes Muller test to reach Wimbledon second round

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic was made to work hard after a strong start as he began his bid for a 25th Grand Slam title by beating unseeded Frenchman Alexandre Muller 6-1 6-7(7) 6-2 6-2 to reach the second round on Tuesday.

    The sixth seed, who is aiming to equal Roger Federer’s haul at the All England Club and move past Margaret Court in the all-time list of major champions, will take on British wild card Dan Evans in the next round.

    “I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t think I have a chance, to be honest,” Djokovic said.

    “I think I always have a chance, I’ve earned my right to feel I can go all the way to the title. I’ve had arguably the most success of any Grand Slam here in the last decade.

    “It’s just the beginning of the tournament. There are many fantastic players in the draw. I’m going to be playing a Briton in the next round. That’s going to be a tough one, but I look forward to it.

    “I’ve always felt like grass, particularly in the second part of my career, was really the surface where I played my best tennis, so why not do it again?”

    Djokovic, who endured a poor year before lifting his 100th tour-level trophy in Geneva ahead of a run to the semi-finals of the French Open, powered through the opening set against Muller by winning six games on the trot.

    Muller put up much more of a fight in the next set, saving five breakpoints to hold for 4-4 before forcing a tiebreak where he raised his game again to battle from 2-5 down and draw level in the match.

    Djokovic caught his breath when the Centre Court roof was closed and then took a medical timeout early in the third set for a stomach problem, before going up 3-2 with a break after Muller hit his sixth double fault of the match.

    Having wrapped up the third set, Djokovic racked up a 4-2 advantage in the fourth set with an exquisite backhand winner and there was no looking back from there as he completed the victory by holding to love.

    “I went from feeling my absolute best for a set and a half to my absolute worst for about 45 minutes,” Djokovic added.

    “Whether it was a stomach bug, I don’t know what it was, but I just struggled with that. The energy kicked back in after some doctor’s miracle pills.

    “I managed to finish the match on a good note.”

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI: PFMCrypto Launches World’s First “XRP Liquidity Mining”: AI-Powered Multi-Asset Cloud Mining Unlocks the Next Generation of Passive Income

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Farington, England, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the crypto market heats up and XRP edges toward the $5 milestone, PFMCrypto is redefining how investors earn mining rewards. The company has officially launched “XRP Liquidity Mining”, the world’s first AI-powered multi-asset cloud mining vault, enabling users to mine multiple cryptocurrencies simultaneously while dynamically reallocating computing power to optimize real-time returns.

    With the official launch of Liquidity Mining, users gain access to a fully automated crypto earnings strategy that mines across XRP, BTC, DOGE, ETH, and other assets—based on market trends, profitability opportunities, and network difficulty. No technical setup or hardware is needed, and even first-time investors can begin earning stable daily rewards with just $10.

    Why “Liquidity Mining” Is a Game-Changer for Passive Crypto Income?

    Unlike traditional mining models that lock users into a single asset or static contracts, Liquidity Mining uses PFMCrypto’s proprietary AI earnings engine—AURA—to adjust dynamically in real time. AURA tracks network-wide variables such as price fluctuations, mining difficulty, block rewards, and energy costs, instantly reallocating hash power to the most profitable assets.

    “Liquidity Mining is like autopilot for your crypto income,” said PFMCrypto’s CEO. “Whether XRP is rallying or Bitcoin’s hash rate is fluctuating, our system reallocates in real time—so your funds are always working where they matter most.”

    Key Features of PFMCrypto’s Liquidity Mining:

    –  Multi-Asset Mining – A single deposit mines XRP, BTC, DOGE, ETH, and more

    –  AI Optimization – Real-time resource balancing for maximum daily returns

    –  Low Entry Barrier – Plans start at just $10, perfect for beginners (plus a $10 welcome bonus for new users)

    –  Predictable Earnings – Daily rewards paid in stablecoins or your chosen crypto

    –  No Hardware Needed – 100% cloud-based mining—no rigs, noise, or heat

    –  Enterprise-Grade Security – Assets protected by multi-layer custody infrastructure

    Investor Demand Surges Ahead of Potential XRP Breakout

    Following Ripple’s recent legal settlement with the U.S. SEC—ending a four-year battle with a $125 million settlement—market optimism around XRP is hitting new highs. Analysts now estimate a 95% chance that an XRP ETF could be approved by early Q4, potentially unleashing significant institutional capital inflows.

    “PFMCrypto’s XRP Liquidity Mining couldn’t be better timed,” noted the company’s Chief Market Strategist. “Investors want diversified upside exposure without direct market risk—and this product delivers exactly that.”

    Sample Liquidity Mining Plans:

    $100 Plan – 2-Day Term – Earn $3.00 per day (plus $2 bonus)

    $1,000 Plan – 9-Day Term – Earn $13.10 per day

    $5,000 Plan – 30-Day Term – Earn $78.50 per day

    $10,000 Plan – 40-Day Term – Earn $180.00 per day

    All plans guarantee full principal return at maturity, and users can instantly withdraw earned profits at any time.

    Trusted by Over 9.2 Million Users in 192 Countries

    Since its founding in 2018, PFMCrypto has built a reputation for transparent, high-performance mining systems. Today, it serves a global user base of over 9.2 million, with its AI-driven passive income solutions trusted by beginners and institutions alike.

    Get Started with Liquidity Mining in 3 Simple Steps

    1. Sign Up – Register and receive a $10 welcome bonus.
    2. Choose a Mining Plan – Select your budget and contract duration.
    3. Start Earning Daily – Let PFMCrypto’s AI do the work while you earn.

    About PFMCrypto

    PFMCrypto is a global leader in cloud-based cryptocurrency mining and AI-optimized DeFi solutions. Founded in 2018, the platform supports mining for XRP, BTC, ETH, DOGE, LTC, and SOL. PFMCrypto provides more than 9.2 million users with low-risk, high-yield opportunities to participate in the future of decentralized finance.

    Discover Liquidity Mining and start your smarter mining journey today: https://pfmcrypto.net 

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    The MIL Network –

  • Wimbledon’s AI judges receive mixed reviews from players and fans

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The All England Club’s decision to replace line judges with artificial intelligence technology at Wimbledon has received mixed reviews from players and fans alike.

    This week has marked the first time the tournament has been played without meticulously dressed judges determining whether the ball is in or out.

    The 300 line judges have been cut to 80 who are instead assisting chair umpires and interceding should the latest Hawk-Eye Electronic Line Calling (ELC) system, fail.

    The system uses AI to analyse footage from up to 18 cameras to track the progress of the ball and decide if it is in or out.

    Sally Bolton, the Chief Executive of the All England Club, said the new system was brought in to ensure the calls were accurate and not to cut costs.

    “It’s not a money-saving exercise; it’s about evolving the tournament and making sure that we’re providing the most effective possible line calling,” she said.

    World number one Jannik Sinner told a press conference after his victory over fellow Italian and close friend Luca Nardi:

    “As tennis tries to get better for the umpire it’s very difficult to see, especially when first serves are over 200km per hour, so it’s very difficult to see in a small space if they’re in or out, so for sure the technology helps, especially here on grass.”

    However, other players found problems with the technology. On Monday, China’s Yuan Yue complained that the system was too quiet for her to hear its decision.

    There were small protests outside the grounds against the technology, while some fans expressed sadness about the absence of line judges – a tradition that goes back to the 1870s – and the drama that often accompanies a player’s challenge.

    “Tennis is a physical sport, but it’s also a mental game and at a professional level I think that idea of challenging a call is really part of the game,” Jess from Oxford told Reuters.

    “As a spectator when they review the footage and everybody is clapping, and it’s the whole thing that this decision comes out and there’s uproar or whatever.

    “It’s sad that part of the atmosphere is gone, because you can’t challenge the calls now. It’s AI, it’s resolute.”

    Ivan from Northern Ireland raised concerns that the technology may have some teething problems.

    “It was strange not having a line judge. We watched a game on Court Two and a couple of times a ball from where we were sitting, which was close to the line, was out.

    “The player pointed to it and stopped and looked to the umpire, and he just ignored it, and the player accepted it. But I expected to see the replay.

    “There were a couple of other times when it was obviously out and obviously in and the replay came up. So the replays were not consistent.”

    -Reuters

  • Wimbledon’s AI judges receive mixed reviews from players and fans

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The All England Club’s decision to replace line judges with artificial intelligence technology at Wimbledon has received mixed reviews from players and fans alike.

    This week has marked the first time the tournament has been played without meticulously dressed judges determining whether the ball is in or out.

    The 300 line judges have been cut to 80 who are instead assisting chair umpires and interceding should the latest Hawk-Eye Electronic Line Calling (ELC) system, fail.

    The system uses AI to analyse footage from up to 18 cameras to track the progress of the ball and decide if it is in or out.

    Sally Bolton, the Chief Executive of the All England Club, said the new system was brought in to ensure the calls were accurate and not to cut costs.

    “It’s not a money-saving exercise; it’s about evolving the tournament and making sure that we’re providing the most effective possible line calling,” she said.

    World number one Jannik Sinner told a press conference after his victory over fellow Italian and close friend Luca Nardi:

    “As tennis tries to get better for the umpire it’s very difficult to see, especially when first serves are over 200km per hour, so it’s very difficult to see in a small space if they’re in or out, so for sure the technology helps, especially here on grass.”

    However, other players found problems with the technology. On Monday, China’s Yuan Yue complained that the system was too quiet for her to hear its decision.

    There were small protests outside the grounds against the technology, while some fans expressed sadness about the absence of line judges – a tradition that goes back to the 1870s – and the drama that often accompanies a player’s challenge.

    “Tennis is a physical sport, but it’s also a mental game and at a professional level I think that idea of challenging a call is really part of the game,” Jess from Oxford told Reuters.

    “As a spectator when they review the footage and everybody is clapping, and it’s the whole thing that this decision comes out and there’s uproar or whatever.

    “It’s sad that part of the atmosphere is gone, because you can’t challenge the calls now. It’s AI, it’s resolute.”

    Ivan from Northern Ireland raised concerns that the technology may have some teething problems.

    “It was strange not having a line judge. We watched a game on Court Two and a couple of times a ball from where we were sitting, which was close to the line, was out.

    “The player pointed to it and stopped and looked to the umpire, and he just ignored it, and the player accepted it. But I expected to see the replay.

    “There were a couple of other times when it was obviously out and obviously in and the replay came up. So the replays were not consistent.”

    -Reuters

  • Feeling hot, hot, hot – Swiatek downs Wimbledon debutant to reach round two

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iga Swiatek still has a long way to go to master the art of grasscourt tennis but on Tuesday the Pole took the first step towards what she hopes will be a triumphant run at Wimbledon as she beat Polina Kudermetova 7-5 6-1 in the first round.

    Facing a Wimbledon debutant, the five-times Grand Slam champion might have hoped for an easy ride as no doubt she would liked to have escaped the Court 2 furnace as quickly as possible with the temperature soaring above 33 degrees Celsius.

    Despite being a grasscourt novice, Russia’s Kudermetova refused to be overawed by the occasion, or her opponent, as she went toe-to-toe from the baseline with Swiatek for 45 minutes.

    It was not the kind of first-round trial Swiatek would have wanted as she bids to improve her rather mediocre record at the All England Club, which remains the only major where she has not contested at least a semi-final.

    It was not until the penultimate point of the opening set that Swiatek earned her first break point, which the eighth seed duly converted when Kudermetova netted a backhand to surrender the set.

    That blow effectively snuffed out the 22-year-old Russian’s hopes of winning a match at a Grand Slam for the first time as her tactics fell apart in the second.

    While Kudermetova had kept Swiatek second-guessing her game-plan for the duration of the 45-minute opening set, the former world number one raced through the second in 24 minutes, securing the victory with a sizzling backhand winner.

    “I’m glad my game clicked in the second set and am glad some fans came to see us today as it’s so hot,” Swiatek told the crowd after setting up a second–round meeting with American Caty McNally.

    EMPTY SEATS

    With many ticket holders deciding they could not tolerate the scorching heat inside the bowl-like arena, Swiatek and Kudermetova were greeted by a mass of empty green seats when they entered the sparsely-filled Court 2.

    Many of those who braved the sweltering conditions tried to keep cool by using paper or battery-operated fans. But even holding those for long with sweaty palms was a challenge.

    It was not just the spectators who were left hot and bothered as the mass of towels that started piling up next to Swiatek’s chair told its own story.

    But having reached her first grasscourt final last week at Bad Homburg, Swiatek was eager to make sure all the groundwork for Wimbledon would not be in vain.

    Two aces in the opening game suggested she might get off court in double quick time but when Kudermetova earned the first break point of the match in the fifth game, Swiatek realised her 64th-ranked opponent would be no pushover.

    A Kudermetova unforced error handed Swiatek a lucky escape and by the time the four-times Roland Garros champion bagged the first set, the stats showed she had been outplayed in a number of areas, including total winners and first serve points won.

    Yet with the momentum of claiming the first set behind her, it was not long before Swiatek was celebrating winning her 62nd consecutive opening match on the tour.

    “I needed some time to adjust to the grass because it’s different than Bad Homburg,” said Swiatek, who turned up for the match after enduring a sleepless night due to the hot weather.

    “The heat is going to be over tomorrow, so I survived it,” she added with a smile.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: GAZA: Starvation or Gunfire – This is Not a Humanitarian Response

    Source: Amnesty International –

    NGOs call for immediate action to end the deadly Israeli distribution scheme (including the so-called Gaza Humanitarian Foundation) in Gaza, revert to the existing UN-led coordination mechanisms, and lift the Israeli government’s blockade on aid and commercial supplies. The 400 aid distribution points operating during the temporary ceasefire across Gaza have now been replaced by just four military-controlled distribution sites, forcing two million people into overcrowded, militarized zones where they face daily gunfire and mass casualties while trying to access food and are denied other life-saving supplies.

    Today, Palestinians in Gaza face an impossible choice: starve or risk being shot while trying desperately to reach food to feed their families. The weeks following the launch of the Israeli distribution scheme have been some of the deadliest and most violent since October 2023. 

    In less than four weeks, more than 500 Palestinians have been killed and almost 4,000 injured just trying to access or distribute food. Israeli forces and armed groups – some reportedly operating with backing from Israeli authorities – now routinely open fire on desperate civilians risking everything just to survive.

    The humanitarian system is being deliberately and systematically dismantled by the Government of Israel’s blockade and restrictions, a blockade now being used to justify shutting down nearly all other aid operations in favour of a deadly, military-controlled alternative that neither protects civilians nor meets basic needs. These measures are designed to sustain a cycle of desperation, danger, and death. Experienced humanitarian actors remain ready to deliver life-saving assistance at scale. Yet more than 100 days since Israeli authorities reimposed a near-total blockade on aid and commercial goods, Gaza’s humanitarian conditions are collapsing faster than at any point in the past 20 months.

    Under the Israeli government’s new scheme, starved and weakened civilians are being forced to trek for hours through dangerous terrain and active conflict zones, only to face a violent, chaotic race to reach fenced, militarized distribution sites with a single entry point. There, thousands are released into chaotic enclosures to fight for limited food supplies. These areas have become sites of repeated massacres in blatant disregard for international humanitarian law. Orphaned children and caregivers are among the dead, with children harmed in over half of the attacks on civilians at these sites. With Gaza’s healthcare system in ruins, many of those shot are left to bleed out alone, beyond the reach of ambulances and denied lifesaving medical care. 

    Amidst severe hunger and famine-like conditions, many families tell us they are now too weak to compete for food rations. Those who do manage to obtain food often return with only a few basic items – nearly impossible to prepare without clean water or fuel to cook with. Fuel is nearly depleted, bringing critical lifesaving services – including bakeries, water systems, ambulances, and hospitals – to a standstill. Families are sheltering under plastic sheets, operating makeshift kitchens amid the rubble, without fuel, clean water, sanitation, or electricity. 

    This is not a humanitarian response.

    Concentrating more than two million people into further confined areas for a chance to feed their families is not a plan to save lives. For 20 months, more than two million people have been subjected to relentless bombardment, the weaponization of food, water and other aid, repeated forced displacement, and systematic dehumanization – all under the watch of the international community. The Sphere Association, which sets minimum standards for quality humanitarian aid, has warned that the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s approach does not adhere to core humanitarian standards and principles.
    This normalization of suffering must not be allowed to stand. States must reject the false choice between deadly, military-controlled food distributions and total denial of aid. States must uphold their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, including prohibitions on forced displacement, indiscriminate attacks, and obstruction of humanitarian aid. States must ensure accountability for grave violations of international law. 

    We, the undersigned organizations, once again call on all third states to:

    • Take concrete measures to end the suffocating siege and uphold the right of civilians in Gaza to safely access aid and receive protection. 
    • Urge donors not to fund militarized aid schemes that violate international law, do not adhere to humanitarian principles, deepen harm, and risk complicity in atrocities. 
    • Support the restoration of a unified, UN-led coordination mechanism—grounded in international humanitarian law and inclusive of UNRWA, Palestinian civil society, and the wider humanitarian community—to meet people’s needs.

    We reiterate our urgent calls for an immediate and sustained ceasefire, the release of all hostages and arbitrarily detained prisoners, full humanitarian access at scale, and an end to the pervasive impunity that enables these atrocities and denies Palestinians their basic dignity. 

    Editor’s Note
    • On 15 June, the Red Cross field hospital in Al Mawasi received at least 170 patients injured while trying to reach a food distribution site. The following day, 16 June, more than 200 patients arrived at the same facility – the highest number recorded in a single mass casualty incident in Gaza. Of that number, 28 Palestinians were declared dead. A WHO official underscored the deadly pattern: “The recent food distribution initiatives by non-UN actors every time result in mass casualty incidents.”
    • These deaths add to the broader toll: since October 2023, over 56,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, including at least 17,000 children.

    List of signatory organizations:

    ABCD Bethlehem, ACT Alliance, Act Church of Sweden, Action Against Hunger (ACF), Action Corps, ActionAid, Age International, Agricultural Development Association – PARC, Al Ard for Agricultural Development, Al-Najd Developmental Forum, American Friends Service Committee, Amnesty International, Amos Trust, Anera, Anti-Slavery International, Arab Educational Institute – Pax Christi Bethlehem, Asamblea de Cooperación por la Paz, Asociación de Solidaridad Internacional UNADIKUM, Association for Civil Rights Israel (ACRI), Association Switzerland Palestine, B’Tselem – The Israeli Information Center for Human Rights in the Occupied Territories, BADIL Resource Center for Palestinian Residency and Refugee Rights, Beesan Charitable Association, Bimkom – Planning and Human Rights, Bisan Center for Research and Development, Botswana Watch Organisation, Breaking the Silence, Broederlijk Delen, CADUS e.V., Caritas Germany, Caritas International Belgium, Caritas Internationalis, Caritas Jerusalem, Caritas Middle East and North Africa, Center of Jewish Nonviolence, CESIDA – Spanish Coordinator of HIV and AIDS., Children Not Numbers, Choose Love, Christian Aid, Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP), CIDSE – International Family of Catholic Social Justice Organisations, CNCD-11.11.11, codepink, Combatants for Peace, Comité de Solidaridad con la Causa Árabe, Congregations of St Joseph, COOPERATIVE AGRICULUTAL ASSOCIATION, Cordaid, Council for Arab-British Understanding (Caabu), Coventry Friends of Palestine, Cultures of Resistance, DanChurchAid, Danish Refugee Council, DAWN, Diakonia, Ekō, Embrace the Middle East, Emmaüs International, Entraide et Fraternité, Episcopal Peace Fellowship Palestine Justice Network, EuroMed Rights, FÓRUM DE POLÍTICA FEMINISTA, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Friends of Sabeel North America (FOSNA), Fund for Global Human Rights, Fundación Mundubat, Gaza Culture and Development Group (GCDG), Gaza Society for Sustainable Agriculture and Friendly Environment (SAFE), German Platform of Development and Humanitarian Aid NGOs (VENRO), Gisha – Legal Center for Freedom of Movement, Glia, Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect (GCR2P), Greenpeace, HaMoked: Center for the Defence of the Individual, Hands for Charity, HEKS/EPER(Swiss Church Aid), HelpAge International, Human Security Collective, Humanité Solidarité Médecine (HuSoMe ONG), Humanity & Inclusion – Handicap International, Humanity Above All, INARA, Independent Catholic News, Indiana Center for Middle East Peace, International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), International NGO Safety Organisation (INSO), INTERSOS, Islamic Relief Worldwide, Jewish Network for Palestine, Jüdische Stimme für Demokratie und Gerechtigkeit in Israel/Palästina, JVJP, Just Foreign Policy, Just Treatment, Kairos Ireland, Kenya Human Rights Commission, Kvinna till Kvinna Foundation, Martin Etxea Elkartea, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, Médecins du Monde International Network, Médecins Sans Frontières, MedGlobal, Medical Aid for Palestinians, Medico International, medico international schweiz, Medicos sin fronteras (MSF – Spain), Mennonite Central Committee, Middle East Children’s Alliance, Mothers Manifesto, MPower Change Action Fund, Muslim Aid, Mwatana for Human Rights, Nonviolent Peaceforce, Norwegian Church Aid, Norwegian People’s Aid, Norwegian Refugee Council, Oxfam International, Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF), Palestine Justice Network of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), Palestinian American Medical Association (PAMA), Parents Against Child Detentions, Partners for Palestine, Partners for Progressive Israel, PAX, Pax Christi Australia, Pax Christi England and Wales, Pax Christi International, Pax Christi Italy, pax christi Munich, Pax Christi Scotland, Pax Christi USA, Peace Direct, Peace Watch Switzerland, Penny Appeal Canada, Physicians for Human Rights Israel, Plan International, Plataforma de Solidaridad con Palestina de Sevilla, Plateforme des ONG françaises pour la Palestine, Polish-Palestinian Justice Initiative KAKTUS, Première Urgence Internationale, Presbyterian Church (USA), Quixote Center, Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary – NGO, ReThinking Foreign Policy, Right to Movement, Rumbo a Gaza-Freedom Flotilla, Saferworld, Saskatoon Chapter of Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East, Save the Children, Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Solsoc, Stichting Heimat International Foundation, STOPAIDS, Støtteforeningen Det Danske Hus i Palæstina, Terre des Hommes International Federation, Terre des hommes Lausanne, Terres des Hommes Italia, The Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET), The Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions (ICAHD UK), The Palestine Justice Network of the Presbyterian Church USA Bay Area, The Rights Forum, Union of Agricultural Work Committees-UAWC, United Against Inhumanity (UAI), Universities Allied for Essential Medicines UK, US-Lutheran Palestine Israel Justice Network, Vento di Terra, War Child Alliance, War on Want, Welthungerhilfe, and Yesh Din.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lochaber to come alive for Royal National Mòd as 2025 fringe programme launched

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Lochaber will come alive with the sights and sounds of Gaelic song, cèilidh music, bagpipes and processions as the Royal National Mòd rolls into the Highlands from 10 – 18 October 2025.

    Attendees of the world’s largest celebration of Gaelic language and culture are in for a bustling nine days, as events showcasing everything from music, poetry and dances, to exhibitions, book launches, and the region’s best food and drink, are unveiled.

    With the Scottish Languages Bill, which gives Gaelic official status as a language, passing unanimously in the Scottish Parliament this month, the prosperity of the indigenous tongue continues to grow.

    Organised by An Comunn Gàidhealach and hosted in a different Scottish town each year, the Royal National Mòd provides an essential platform for using, improving and showcasing Gaelic for thousands of speakers, learners and supporters.

    Fort William and the surrounding areas will welcome the 133-year-old event for the ninth time in 2025, with thousands expected to descend on the town – called An Gearasdan, meaning The Garrison, in Gaelic.

    The Mòd is expected to generate a significant economic boost for the region in the process.

    Lochaber Mòd 2025 will open with a torchlight parade through the streets of Fort William, before the event’s flagship venue for the week, the Nevis Centre, hosts the event’s Opening Concert.

    Lochaber talent in the form of Dàimh (meaning connection, pronounced ‘dive’) will provide a fitting start to the week, wowing audiences with their electrifying musical interplay. Support will come from young Skye-based collective Ceilear, who formed as part of Dàimh piper Angus MacKenzie’s Culture Collective project, Eilean a’ Cheòl.

    The breadth and depth of local talent will also be on display for Ar Cànan ’s Ar Ceòl on Saturday 11 October as local pipe bands, Ardnamurchan High School trad group, Jane Douglas School of Dance, Lochaber Gaelic Choir, local youth choirs and many others, come together to celebrate the music and language of the region.

    The event’s Marquee Stage will host daily entertainment including a cèilidh singing challenge which will see members of the public get up to perform a rendition of their favourite song.

    A secret judging panel, featuring well-known singers, will be hidden among the crowd for the fun, informal event called Gabh Òran, meaning ‘sing us a song’.

    Street cèilidhs at Cameron Square will fill the town centre with dancing throughout the week, while Fort William pubs will be buzzing with a schedule of pop-up late night music sessions.

    Some of the region’s finest solo pipers including Angus Nicolson, Moira Robertson and Laura Robertson will showcase Scotland’s national instrument at its best at a Piping Recital on Monday 13 October, while celebrated Scottish musicians Màiri Morrison and Alasdair Roberts will perform their latest album, Remembered in Exile: Songs and Ballads from Nova Scotia on Tuesday 14 October.

    Sruth – an event established to provide an informal space for young Gaelic speakers and learners to interact with prominent figures in the Gaelic community – takes on a new life at this year’s event as An Comunn Gàidhealach partner with BBC Alba and The L.A.B Scotland outreach project.

    Youngsters will have the opportunity to learn what goes on behind the scenes in TV, trying their hand at presenting and camera operating, while using their Gaelic.

    Shinty, football and other sports will also feature on the programme, alongside a wealth of come-and-try activities for youngsters, family cèilidhs and more.

    The local region’s reputation for outstanding food and drink will also come to the fore with a Taste of Lochaber exhibition and a special Whisky Tasting Night.

    The week will wrap up in style with a Closing Dance on Friday 17 October, hosted by all-star cèilidh band, followed by the spectacular traditional Massed Choirs event on Saturday 18 October, which sees hundreds of choir members from across Scotland take part in a parade and giant group performance on the streets of Fort William.

    The event’s famous competitions, which span from solo singing, clàrsach and art to choral singing, accordion and Battle of the Bands, will form the backbone of the event.

    With around 200 competition categories and more than 270 medals and trophies up for grabs across the week, individuals and groups of all ages and from all corners of Scotland and beyond, will travel to the prestigious event for the chance to compete for glory.

    James Graham, Chief Executive Officer of An Comunn Gàidhealach, said: “With growing numbers of young speakers and learners and this latest show of parliamentary support for the language, we firmly believe that Gaelic is on an upward trajectory.

    “The Royal National Mòd plays an essential role in representing and championing all facets of Gaelic culture and demonstrates the beauty, power and connection to be found in the language. It is a joy to return to the Highlands this year and bring the camaraderie and celebration of the Mòd to Lochaber, a region rich in Gaelic history and with a deep appreciation for the language.”

    Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “The growing success of the Royal National Mòd demonstrates how promoting Gaelic enriches communities and goes hand-in-hand with economic prosperity. 

    “Last year’s National Mòd generated an estimated £3.6 million for the economy, which was the highest figure in five years. 

    “To support Gaelic’s growth, our Scottish Languages Bill will strengthen the rights of parents to ask for a Gaelic school to be established in their area and introduce targets on the number of people speaking Gaelic. 

    “We are also working to drive growth in Gaelic communities so that more people who speak the language continue to live in those areas.”

    Highland Council Leader Raymond Bremner said: “Gaelic has a huge role to play in the social, cultural and economic health of the Highlands – that’s a message that will shine through when the Royal National Mòd returns to Lochaber in October.

    “Organisers have put together a terrific programme of events – there will be something for everyone and I have no doubt that this year’s National Mòd will deliver many memorable moments. It will also create lasting friendships and help to bring significant economic benefits for the region.

    “I know myself how important the National Mòd is for using and improving our Gaelic and what the events mean to the host area.

    “Highland Council sees Gaelic language and culture as one of our most prized economic assets. This is demonstrated by our commitment to the language in schools – as this year we mark 40 years of Gaelic medium education in the region – and in our communities.

    “We’re delighted the National Mòd is returning to the Highlands for what promises to be a superb celebration in Lochaber.”

    Ealasaid MacDonald, Ceannard (CEO), Bòrd na Gàidhlig, said: “Once again, the Royal National Mòd is showcasing our language and culture through competition, events and gatherings, with a wonderful programme providing lots of opportunities to use and enjoy Gaelic.

    “It is well known that Lochaber is a great host for the Mòd and we are all looking forward to visiting in October.”

    This year’s Royal National Mòd in Lochaber is supported by EventScotland, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Highland Council, EventScotland, The Scottish Government, Caledonian MacBrayne, BBC ALBA, Creative Scotland and SQA.

    The Royal National Mòd returns to Lochaber in 2025, from 10 – 18 October. Tickets for flagship events are on sale now, visit https://buytickets.at/ancomunn.

    Ends

    News release issued by An Comunn Gàidhealach

    Bidh tachartasan am pailteas ann an Loch Abar aig Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail 2025 is prògram an iomaill air bhog

    Cluinnear ceòl Gàidhlig, seinn na pìoba, is bidh cèilidhean is caismeachd ann an Loch Abar nuair a thilleas Am Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail dhan Ghàidhealtachd 10 – 18 Dàmhair 2025.

    Tha naoi làithean trang air toiseach air na fheadhainn a bhios aig an fhèis ceòl is cultar na Gàidhlig as motha air an t-saoghail. Bidh tachartasan ann le ceòl, bàrdachd, dannsaichean, taisbeanaidhean, leabhraichean ùra agus am biadh agus deoch as fheàrr sa sgìre.

    Chaidh Bile nan Cànanan Albannaich aontachadh gu h-aona guthach ann am Pàrlamaid na h-Alba o chionn ghoirid, is mar sin tha ìomhaigh na cànain a’ fàs fhathast.

    Tha Am Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail air eagrachadh leis A’ Chomunn Ghàidhealach is bidh e ann am baile Albannaich eadar-dhealaichte gach bliadhna. Tha e na sàr chruinneachadh do luchd-labhairt, luchd-ionnsachaidh is luchd-taic na Gàidhlig.

    Ann an 2025 cuiridh An Gearasdan agus an sgìre mun cuairt air fàilte an tachartas a tha 133 bliadhna a dh’aois airson an naoidheamh uair. Tha dùil gun cruthaich Am Mòd buannachd mòr eaconamach don sgìre aig a’ cheart àm.

    Fosglaidh Mòd Loch Abar 2025 le caismeachd lòchrain tro shràidean A’ Ghearasdain, mus bi Cuirm Fhosglaidh aig Ionad Nibheis, a bhios na phrìomh ionad Mòid air feadh na seachdain. Bidh tàlant Loch Abar air an deagh riochdachadh le Dàimh, a chuireas an t-seachdain air a casan, agus an fhacal dàimh fhèin na shamhla air an ceangal eadar buill a’ chòmhlan agus an luchd-èisteachd. Còmhla riutha air àrd-ùrlar bidh còmhlan Ceilear. Nochd iad an toiseach mar phàirt den phròiseact Culture Collective aig Aonghas MacCoinnich: Eilean a’ Cheòl.

    Bidh farsaingeachd tàlant na sgìre ri fhaicinn cuideachd aig Ar Cànan ’s Ar Ceòl Disathairne 11 Dàmhair. ’S e cuirm-chiùil air leth a bhios ann, le ceòl bho chòmhlain-phìoba, còmhlan traidiseanta Àrd-sgoil Àird nam Murchan, Jane Douglas School of Dance, còisirean òigridh na sgìre agus tòrr a bharrachd.

    Aig Àrd-ùrlar an Teanta cluinnear ceòl gach latha, agus Dùbhlain Seinn Cèilidh , Gabh Òran, far am faighear cothrom òran a ghabhail. Bidh pannal breitheamhan dìomhair falaichte anns an luchd-èisteachd.

    Aig Ceàrnag Camshroin gach latha bidh Cèilidh Shràid ann air feadh na seachdain, is bidh taighean-seinnse A’ Ghearasdain trang le clàr-ama seiseanan ciùil air an oidhche.

    Bidh cuid de na pìobairean as fheàrr sa sgìre, Aonghas MacNeacail is Moira Robasdan nam measg, a taisbeanadh ionnsramaid nàiseanta na h-Alba aig Ceadal Pìobaireachd Diluain 13 Dàmhair. Cuideachd Dimàirt 14 Dàmhair bidh cuirm-chiùil le Màiri Nic’IlleMhoire & Alasdair Roberts: Remembered in Exile, Òrain Alba Nuaidh.

    Chaidh Sruth a chur air bhonn gus àite a thoirt do luchd-labhairt òga is luchd-ionnsachaidh na Gàidhlig coinneachadh ri Gàidheil ainmeil. Thèid ath-bheothachadh am bliadhna mar phàirt pròiseact L.A.B. aig BBC ALBA. Gheibh òigridh cothrom sgilean camara ionnsachadh is eòlas a chur air na bhios a’ dol aig cùl ghnòthaichean ann an telebhisean, is an sgilean Gàidhlig a chleachdadh aig a’ cheart àm.

    Chìthear spòrs cuideachd anns a’ phrògram, iomain, ball-coise agus cur-seachadan sam faod òigridh a dhol an sàs, cèilidhean teaghlaich is eile.

    Ionnsachaidh daoine mu dheidhinn deagh bhiadh agus dheoch na sgìre aig taisbeanadh Taste of Lochabar agus tachartas sònraichte Blasad Uisge-beatha.

    Thèid an t-seachdain a thoirt gu ceann le Cuirm-dhùnaidh Dihaoine 17 Dàmhair aig am bi còmhlan làn rionnagan, air thoiseach air na Co-chòisirean Disathairne 18 Dàmhair, aig am bi na ceudan buill còisire o air feadh na h-Alba a’ caismeachd is a’ seinn air sràidean A’ Ghearasdain.

    Bidh farpaisean ainmeil A’ Mhòid – leithid seinn aon-neach, clàrsach, còisirean, bogsa-ciùil is Cogadh nan Còmhlan – aig teas-meadhan an tachartais. Le barrachd na 200 farpais agus 270 bonn is cuas rim buannachadh air feadh na seachdain, bidh feadhainn o gach ceàrnaidh de dh’Alba agus an t-saoghail a’ dèanamh air a’ Mhòd gus am bi cothrom aca buannachadh.

    Thuirt Seumas Greumach, Àrd-oifigear a’ Chomuinn Ghàidhealaich: “Le fàs àireamhan luchd-labhairt òga agus taic às ùr sa phàrlamaid dhan chànan, tha dùil againn gu bheil a’ Ghàidhlig air deagh shlighe. Tha àite riatanach aig A’ Mhòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail ann a bhith riochdachadh agus brosnachadh cultar na Gàidhlig agus e a’ samhlachadh am bòidheachd is na ceangalan anns a’ chànan. ’S e tlachd a th’ ann tilleadh dhan Ghàidhealtachd am bliadhna agus Loch Abar cho cudromach ann an eachdraidh na Gàidhlig le coimhearsnachd a tha bàidheil dhan chànan.”

    Thuirt an Leas-Phrìomh Mhinistear Ceit Fhoirbeis: “Leis a’ Mhòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail a’ sìor-fhàs nas soirbheachaile, tha dearbhadh ann gun tèid coimhearsnachdan a bheartachadh tro bhrosnachadh na Gàidhlig, ’s e ceangailte gu dlùth ri soirbheachadh eaconamach.
    “Thathar a’ tomhas gun tug am Mòd Nàiseanta an-uiridh £3.6 millean a-steach dhan eaconamaidh. B’ e sin am figear as àirde ann an còig bliadhna.
    “Gus taic a chumail ri fàs na Gàidhlig, bidh Bile nan Cànan Albannach againn a’ neartachadh còraichean nam pàrantan a bhith ag iarraidh gun tèid sgoil Ghàidhlig a stèidheachadh anns na sgìrean aca, agus bheir e a-steach targaidean a thaobh àireamh nan daoine a tha a’ bruidhinn na Gàidhlig.
    “Tha sinn cuideachd ag obair gus leasachaidhean a bhrosnachadh ann an coimhearsnachdan Gàidhlig, airson ’s gum bi barrachd dhaoine aig a bheil an cànan fhathast a’ fuireach anns na sgìrean sin.”

    Thuirt Ceannard Chomhairle na Gàidhealtachd, an Comhairliche Raymond Bremner: “Tha a’ Ghàidhlig air leth cudromach dhan slàinte sòisealta, cultarail agus eaconamach ann an sgìre na Gàidhealtachd. Bidh sin gu math follaiseach nuair a thilleas Am Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail a Loch Abar san Dàmhair.

    “Chaidh deagh phrògram ullachadh leis an luchd-eagrachaidh – bidh rudan ann a fhreagras air a h-uile duine is tha mi cinnteach gun tachair tòrr rudan air an cuimhnich daoine aig Mòd Nàiseanta na bliadhna. Cruthaichidh e cuideachd càirdeasan ùra agus buannachdan eaconamach mòra don sgìre.

    “Tha fhios agam fhìn cho cudromach ’s a tha Mòd Nàiseanta do chleachdadh na Gàidhlig agus cho math sa bhios na tachartasan don sgìre.

    “Aithnichidh Comhairle na Gàidhealtachd cho cudromach ’s a tha cànan is cultar na Gàidhlig do ar eaconamaidh. Chithear dearbhadh air a’ sin nar sgoiltean Gàidhlig – tha sinn am bliadhna a’ comharrachadh 40 bliadhna foghlam tro mheadhan na Gàidhlig sa sgìre – agus nar coimhearsnachdan.

    “Tha sinn air ar dòigh gu bheil A’ Mhòd Nàiseanta a tilleadh dhan Ghàidhealtachd a bhios na fhìor dheagh fhèis ann an Loch Abar.”

    Thuirt Ealasaid Dhòmhnallach, Ceannard Bhòrd na Gàidhlig: “Bidh am Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail a’ taisbeanadh ar cànan is ar cultar tro cho-fharpaisean, tachartasan agus cruinneachaidhean a-rithist am-bliadhna, le prògram mìorbhaileach a bheir seachad tòrr chothroman airson a’ Ghàidhlig a chleachdadh agus a chomharrachadh. Gun teagamh, ’s e àite math a th’ ann an Loch Abar airson am Mòd a chumail agus tha sinn uile a’ coimhead air adhart ri bhith a’ tadhal ann san Dàmhair.”

    Tha Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail am-bliadhna ann an Loch Abar a’ faighinn taic bho EventScotland, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Comhairle na Gàidhealtachd, Riaghaltas na h-Alba, Caledonian Mac a’ Bhriuthainn, BBC ALBA, Alba Chruthachail agus SQA.

    Tillidh Am Mòd Nàiseanta Rìoghail a Loch Abar 10 – 18 Dàmhair 2025. Tha tiogaidean prìomh thachartasan rim faighinn aig: https://buytickets.at/ancomunn.

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ratcliffe: “Children’s safety must come before policy – lower the speed limit at Markethill High”

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    TUV Councillor Keith Ratcliffe has called on the Department for Infrastructure to urgently reconsider its refusal to reduce the speed limit on the Mowhan Road in Markethill, directly outside Markethill High School.
    In a letter to Roads Service, Cllr Ratcliffe highlighted persistent concerns raised by local parents, school staff, and residents about the dangers posed by fast-moving traffic on the stretch of road used daily by pupils. He also renewed calls for a pedestrian crossing at Markethill Primary School.
    “The fact that a serious injury collision hasn’t happened yet should not be used as justification for inaction. We should not wait for a tragedy to occur before acting. This is a heavily trafficked road outside a secondary school — it should be a basic priority to lower the speed limit and protect young pedestrians.”
    Cllr Ratcliffe has urged Roads Service to carry out a fresh, site-specific assessment of the Mowhan Road, taking into account the volume of traffic, pedestrian movement, and the vulnerability of school-aged children.
    “I understand the Department must follow certain criteria, but there must be flexibility where common sense and public concern demand it. A community that sees pupils crossing a busy road every day at speed expects leadership and action — not just policy compliance”.
    The TUV representative also raised the ongoing lack of a pedestrian crossing at Markethill Primary School, stating:
    “I continue to receive complaints about the absence of a safe crossing point for pupils at the primary school. In both these cases — the Mowhan Road speed limit and the lack of a crossing — the Department must put the lives of children first.”
    Cllr Ratcliffe concluded by calling on the Department to respond with urgency and show a willingness to work with the community to deliver safer roads in Markethill.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Play! Memorial Park tennis courts back in use after revamp

    Source: City of Canterbury

    Home  »  Latest News   »   Play! Memorial Park tennis courts back in use after revamp

    Just as Wimbledon is underway, we have now completed a fantastic revamp of the tennis courts in Herne Bay Memorial Park.

    Four of the eight courts have been completely resurfaced, with the other four thoroughly cleaned and resprayed. All eight now sport the classic tennis blue and green colours.

    In addition, they all have new posts and nets, and one of the courts has pickleball line markings as well as tennis markings.

    These courts will remain free of charge to use and no booking is required.

    Cabinet member for open spaces, Cllr Mel Dawkins (pictured left, above), joined Lord Mayor Cllr Keji Moses and Heron ward councillor David Thomas for an inspection and the chance to hit a few shots.

    Cllr Dawkins said: “The courts look absolutely ‘ace’ and we are sure they are going to prove to be a ‘smash’ in the town.

    “It’s a job really well done and thanks go to the council officers who have run this project and our contractor ETC Sports Surfaces for such professional work.”

    The revamp cost £70,000 and was paid for using section 106 planning contributions from developers.

    We are also keen to develop a ‘Friends of…’ group for the courts to encourage activity and help to report any issues.

    Anyone interested in getting involved should email Leisure Development Officer Giles Seaford at giles.seaford@canterbury.gov.uk.

    Published: 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Where does the UK most need more public EV chargers?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Labib Azzouz, Research Associate in Transport and Energy Innovation, University of Oxford

    Electric vehicle chargers at a motorway service station in Grantham, England. Angus Reid/Shutterstock

    The automotive and EV industry has repeatedly insisted that the UK needs more electric vehicle (EV) chargers to help motorists make the switch from conventional fossil-fuel burning cars.

    The Labour government has announced £400 million to install EV chargers, mainly on streets in poorer residential neighbourhoods, in place of the Conservative’s £950 million rapid charging fund that was directed at installing chargers in motorway service stations.

    Does it matter where these chargers are – and who pays to build them?

    The short answer is yes, it does matter. Our research conducted at motorway and local EV charging stations across England – including those located in residential areas, high streets and community centres – indicates that these two types of infrastructure serve distinct groups of users and fulfil different purposes.

    Suggesting that one can substitute for the other risks sending mixed signals to both the industry and the driving public.

    We found that motorway charging stations tend to cater to wealthier men, who are more likely to own premium EVs with long-range batteries and better performance. Many of these drivers have access to home chargers, so their use of public chargers is only for occasional, long-distance travel for business, leisure, or holidays – trips that require chargers along motorways.

    Convenience and charging speed are often more important than the price of public charging, particularly when the travel costs of these drivers are covered by their employers.

    Local public charging stations, on the other hand, serve more diverse groups. These include drivers from lower-income households who are more likely to own older and smaller EVs with shorter ranges. Access to home charging is often limited, especially for people living in flats or urban areas without driveways, garages or off-street parking.

    Not everyone can plug in at home.
    Andersen EV/Shutterstock

    Local chargers are also vital for taxi and delivery drivers who depend on their vehicles for work and make frequent short trips throughout the day. There are many professional drivers without access to workplace charging stations who need alternative local provision – something the Conservative government recognised in its 2022 EV charging strategy.

    Ultimately, the transition to EVs should take a balanced approach that carefully considers social equity, economic viability and environmental impact.

    Different locations serve different drivers

    Motorway charging stations are commercially attractive to private investors, such as energy companies, specialist charging providers and car manufacturers, despite their higher upfront costs and complex requirements.

    This is because service stations offer greater short-term revenue due to their ability to set premium prices. This is a result of there being limited alternatives and high demand for rapid charging, especially among long-distance travellers, and the willingness of EV drivers to pay for speed and convenience – unlike in more price-sensitive neighbourhood settings.

    Unsurprisingly, the government found that the rapid deployment of motorway chargers in recent years has been largely driven by the private sector. Our research highlighted that these revenues could be enhanced by a broader range of retail, dining and relaxation amenities, turning the time waiting for a car to charge into a more productive and pleasurable experience.

    Residential charging stations may not offer high profits per charge, but they typically require lower capital investment and benefit from consistent and predictable use. They are also suited to measures for reducing strain on the grid and balancing energy supply and demand.

    These measures include tariffs that make it cheaper to charge EVs during off-peak hours, or technology that allows cars to feed electricity stored in batteries back into the grid. These features make them appropriate for public funding, where return on investment is measured not just in profit but in value for the public.

    Considering that local EV charging serves those who do not have access to home charging and who drive for a living, the case for public funding is even stronger. These sorts of chargers make switching to an EV easier for different groups.

    For example, safe and carefully placed public chargers could help more women switch to EVs – although our research suggests that, while “careful placement” might refer to residential areas, it doesn’t necessarily mean on streets. Well-lit car parks and community destinations are sometimes considered safer options.

    Charging points outside a community centre in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland.
    AlanMorris/Shutterstock

    By helping EV drivers make frequent short trips, local chargers can also significantly reduce urban air pollution, emissions and noise, contributing to more liveable, healthier cities.

    That said, motorway charging stations and those near key transport corridors still play a crucial role in a comprehensive national network, and public funding may be required in more peripheral and rural areas of the UK where installations lag and commercial interest is limited.

    While long-distance trips are less frequent than short ones, they account for a disproportionately large share of energy use and emissions. Switching such trips to electric will be essential to reaching net zero goals.

    It seems reasonable to prioritise public investment in local EV charging infrastructure to support a fairer EV transition, but this should not be limited to on-street chargers. Investment is needed in residential and non-residential areas, public car parks, community centres and workplaces.

    Different types of EV charging are not interchangeable – all are needed to support the switch.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Labib Azzouz has received funding from the UK Research and Innovation via the UK Energy Research Centre and Innovate UK as part of the Energy Superhub Oxford (ESO) project.

    Hannah Budnitz receives government funding from UK Research and Innovation grants via the Economic and Social Research Council and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council. She has also previously received funding from Innovate UK and the Department for Transport.

    – ref. Where does the UK most need more public EV chargers? – https://theconversation.com/where-does-the-uk-most-need-more-public-ev-chargers-259623

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Five ways to avoid illness like the Lionesses

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Samantha Abbott, Doctoral Researcher, Department of Sport Science, Nottingham Trent University

    England’s Beth Mead cheering on podium after win v Germany in the Women European Championship Final 2022 photographyjp/Shutterstock

    Think back to the last time you had a cold or the flu. Now imagine stepping onto the pitch for a European Cup final, while battling through those symptoms. For elite athletes, illness can strike at the worst possible time – and it could hit women harder.

    Research suggests that female athletes are more susceptible to cold and flu-like illnesses than their male counterparts. For England women’s national football team, the Lionesses, this risk only increases before a major tournament like the Euros.

    Close contact, shared kit, disrupted sleep and travel all add up to a perfect storm for infection. But targeted nutritional strategies, alongside good sleep and hand hygiene, can offer a crucial line of defence.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    1. Fuel first: energy matters for immunity

    Before anything else, players need to eat enough. Energy supports both performance and immune function. In fact, female athletes who didn’t meet their energy needs in the run-up to the 2016 Olympics were four times more likely to report cold or flu symptoms.

    This is especially relevant in women’s football, where low energy and carbohydrate intake has been documented among professional players and recreational players too. Regular meals and snacks that include carbohydrate-rich foods like oats, bread and pasta, especially around training, are essential to meet energy demands and support immune health.

    2. Eat the rainbow

    Athletes are often encouraged to go beyond the public’s five-a-day fruit and veg target, aiming instead for eight to ten portions daily. Why? Because colourful plant foods are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds: all vital for immunity.



    Read more:
    We’re told to ‘eat a rainbow’ of fruit and vegetables. Here’s what each colour does in our body

    Each colour offers unique benefits. For instance, red fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Orange produce like carrots get their colour from beta-carotene, which is converted by the body into vitamin A – a key vitamin for immune health.

    Eating a rainbow of colours means getting a wide range of nutrients.

    3. Vitamin C: powerful but timing matters

    Vitamin C has long been linked with reducing the risk and severity of cold and flu symptoms. One Cochrane review found that regular vitamin C intake halved the risk of illness in physically active people.

    However, more isn’t always better. Long-term use of high-dose vitamin C supplements could blunt training adaptations – the structural and functional changes the body undergoes in response to repeated exercise – because of its anti-inflammatory effects. That’s why vitamin C is most effective when used strategically, such as during high-risk periods like travel or intense competition. Good food sources include oranges, kiwis, blackcurrants, red and yellow peppers, broccoli and even potatoes.

    4. Gut health supports immune health

    Around 70% of the immune system is located in the gut, making gut health a key player in illness prevention. This is where probiotics (live bacteria) and prebiotics (which feed those bacteria) come in.

    Probiotics, found in fermented foods like kefir and kimchi or in supplement form, have been shown to reduce the duration and severity of respiratory illnesses in athletes. Prebiotics have similarly shown promise. In one study, a 24-week prebiotic intervention in elite rugby players reduced the duration of cold and flu symptoms by over two days.



    Read more:
    Gut microbiome: meet Lactobacillus acidophilus – the gut health superhero

    In the build-up to the Euros, including probiotic-rich foods in their diet or taking a daily prebiotic and probiotic supplement may help players stay healthy and return to training faster if they do get ill.

    5. Zinc lozenges: first aid for a sore throat

    If cold-like symptoms do appear, zinc lozenges can offer fast-acting relief. Zinc has antiviral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. When zinc is delivered as a lozenge, it acts directly in the throat, where many infections begin. Taken within 24 hours of symptoms starting, zinc lozenges could shorten illness duration by a third.

    But caution is key. Long-term use of high-dose zinc supplements can actually suppress immune function. Zinc lozenges should only be used short-term at symptom onset, not as a daily supplement.

    Staying match-ready during major tournaments means more than just tactical drills and fitness. Nutrition is a powerful ally in illness prevention, especially for women’s teams like the Lionesses. From fuelling adequately to supporting gut health and knowing when to supplement, these nutritional strategies can make the difference between sitting on the bench and bringing a trophy home.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Five ways to avoid illness like the Lionesses – https://theconversation.com/five-ways-to-avoid-illness-like-the-lionesses-259302

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FREE Energy upgrades offered to Plymouth homes

    Source: City of Plymouth

    It may be summer, but some Plymouth residents will be able to apply for free energy installations that will make their homes cosier without costing a penny or the earth.

    People on a low income, those on certain benefits or live in a certain postcode could be eligible for the grant under the Warm Homes Local Grant.

    The grant is designed to give more people who rent or own homes the chance to have more energy efficient measures installed. This could include:

    • wall, loft and underfloor insulation
    • air source heat pumps
    • smart controls
    • solar panels.

    Plymouth City Council has been allocated £2.5 million and is working with Plymouth Energy Community (PEC) to deliver the improvements. Since starting in 2013, PEC has helped over 37,000 households with energy advice or energy efficiency measures.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “Thousands of private homes need to have more energy efficient measures but the upfront cost of installing them is simply beyond the reach of many people.

    “This is an incredible opportunity for people to get free measures installed, save them thousands of pounds for years to come – and help the environment at the same time.”

    A decision has been signed to allocate £2.5m from the Warm Homes Local Grant into the capital programme. This enables the Council to fully fund retrofit measures for eligible residents. This funding is expected to pay for over 200 homes to have new measures installed.

    Justin Bear, Retrofit Lead at Plymouth Energy Community, added: “Helping people improve the comfort and energy efficiency of their homes is core to what PEC do so we’re delighted to partner with the Council on this scheme.”

    “Retrofitting our homes improves people’s health, and also ensures people are more secure in being able to pay their winter bills.”

    To be eligible, your home must:

    • be privately owned (either by you or your landlord)
    • have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of D, E, F or G – if you do not know your home’s EPC, you can find it out when you apply
    • Your household income must usually be £36,000 a year or less. If you earn more, you might still be eligible if you live in a certain postcode area or
    • someone in your household is getting certain benefits.

    People can Apply for the Warm Homes: Local Grant to improve a home – GOV.UK to see if they are eligible. Their home will be surveyed to assess the installation of the most appropriate measures. If you have a landlord, they may need to pay for some of the improvements.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ARU students across region to celebrate graduation

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    An ARU graduation ceremony at Chelmsford Cathedral

    July will see approximately 6,000 Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) students across the East of England cross the stage to graduate, ready to take the next step in their careers.

    Ceremonies begin at the Cambridge Corn Exchange from Monday, July 7 until Wednesday, July 9. In addition to students formally receiving their degrees, an honorary doctorate will be bestowed on Nadia Edwards-Dashti, entrepreneur, author, equity and inclusion thought-leader, and co-founder of London-based Harrington Starr, a global leader in FinTech recruitment.

    Peterborough Cathedral will host the first ever set of graduations for ARU Peterborough students at 2pm on Friday, 11 July.

    On Monday, 14 July, graduation ceremonies take place in Essex, with 21 ceremonies to be held at Chelmsford Cathedral across the week.

    On Thursday, 17 July, ARU will bestow the award of Honorary Doctor of Business Administration on alumnus Vice Admiral Andrew Kyte, the Royal Navy’s Chief of Defence Logistics and Support.

    Many of the 6,000 students due to attend graduation ceremonies this month will go on to take up vital roles in public service, including careers as doctors and police officers.

    “Graduation is always a fantastic occasion, not only for our students and their families, but also our staff who have worked with them for several years to help them to earn their degree.

    “My warmest congratulations to all our graduates, we are extremely proud of them and they will always be part of our ARU community.”

    Professor Roderick Watkins, Vice Chancellor of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: National Health Care Fraud Takedown Results in 324 Defendants Charged in Connection with Over $14.6 Billion in Alleged Fraud

    Source: US State of California

    Largest Justice Department Health Care Fraud Takedown in History
    More than Doubles Prior Record of $6 Billion

    The Justice Department today announced the results of its 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown, which resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants, including 96 doctors, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and other licensed medical professionals, in 50 federal districts and 12 State Attorneys General’s Offices across the United States, for their alleged participation in various health care fraud schemes involving over $14.6 billion in intended loss. The Takedown involved federal and state law enforcement agencies across the country and represents an unprecedented effort to combat health care fraud schemes that exploit patients and taxpayers.

    Demonstrating the significant return on investment that results from health care fraud enforcement efforts, the government seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, cryptocurrency, and other assets as part of the coordinated enforcement efforts. As part of the whole-of-government approach to combating health care fraud announced today, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) also announced that it successfully prevented over $4 billion from being paid in response to false and fraudulent claims and that it suspended or revoked the billing privileges of 205 providers in the months leading up to the Takedown. Civil charges against 20 defendants for $14.2 million in alleged fraud, as well as civil settlements with 106 defendants totaling $34.3 million, were also announced as part of the Takedown.

    Today’s Takedown was led and coordinated by the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and its core partners from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The cases were investigated by agents from HHS-OIG, FBI, DEA, and other federal and state law enforcement agencies. The cases are being prosecuted by Health Care Fraud Strike Force teams from the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, 50 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide, and 12 State Attorneys General Offices.

    “This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

    “As part of making healthcare accessible and affordable to all Americans, HHS will aggressively work with our law enforcement partners to eliminate the pervasive health care fraud that bedeviled this agency under the former administration and drove up costs,” said Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of the Department of Health and Human Services.

    “The Criminal Division is intensely committed to rooting out health care fraud schemes and prosecuting the criminals who perpetrate them because these schemes: (1) often result in physical patient harm through medically unnecessary treatments or failure to provide the correct treatments; (2) contribute to our nationwide opioid epidemic and exacerbate controlled substance addiction; and (3) do all of that while stealing money hardworking Americans contribute to pay for the care of their elders and other vulnerable citizens,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Division’s Health Care Fraud Unit and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices stand united with our law enforcement partners in this fight, and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to protect the integrity of our health care programs for the American people.”

    “The scale of today’s Takedown is unprecedented, and so is the harm we’re confronting. Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable,” said Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins of HHS-OIG. “Our agents at HHS-OIG work relentlessly to detect, investigate, and dismantle these fraud schemes. We are proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in protecting taxpayer dollars and safeguarding patient care.”

    “Health care fraud drains critical resources from programs intended to help people who truly need medical care,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to pursuing those who exploit the system for personal gain. With more than $13 billion in fraud uncovered, this is the largest takedown for this initiative to date. Together, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold those accountable who steal from the American people and undermine our health care systems.”

    Transnational Criminal Organizations

    29 defendants were charged for their roles in transnational criminal organizations alleged to have submitted over $12 billion in fraudulent claims to America’s health insurance programs.

    For instance, a nationwide investigation known as Operation Gold Rush resulted in the largest loss amount ever charged in a health care fraud case brought by the Department. These charges were announced in the Eastern District of New York, the Northern District of Illinois, the Central District of California, the Middle District of Florida, and the District of New Jersey against 19 defendants. Twelve of these defendants have been arrested, including four defendants who were apprehended in Estonia as a result of international cooperation with Estonian law enforcement and seven defendants who were arrested at U.S. airports and the U.S. border with Mexico, cutting off their intended escape routes as they attempted to avoid capture.

    The organization allegedly used a network of foreign straw owners, including individuals sent into the United States from abroad, who, acting at the direction of others using encrypted messaging and assumed identities from overseas, strategically bought dozens of medical supply companies located across the United States. They then rapidly submitted $10.6 billion in fraudulent health care claims to Medicare for urinary catheters and other durable medical equipment by exploiting the stolen identities of over one million Americans spanning all 50 states and using their confidential medical information to submit the fraudulent claims. As alleged, the organization exploited the U.S. financial system by laundering the fraudulent proceeds and deploying a range of tactics to circumvent anti-money laundering controls to transfer funds into cryptocurrency and shell companies located abroad. The arrests announced today also include a banker who facilitated the money laundering of fraud proceeds on behalf of the organization through a U.S.-based bank.

    The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team and its partners detected the anomalous billing through proactive data analytics, and HHS-OIG and CMS successfully prevented the organization from receiving all but approximately $41 million of the approximately $4.45 billion that was scheduled to be paid by Medicare. HHS and CMS intend to seek to return the $4.41 billion in escrow to the Medicare trust fund for needed medical care. The scheme nonetheless resulted in payments of approximately $900 million from Medicare supplemental insurers. To date, law enforcement has seized approximately $27.7 million in fraud proceeds as part of Operation Gold Rush.

    In another action involving foreign influence, charges were filed in the Northern District of Illinois against five defendants, including two owners and executives of Pakistani marketing organizations, in connection with a $703 million scheme in which Medicare beneficiaries’ identification numbers and other confidential health information were allegedly obtained through theft and deceptive marketing. The defendants allegedly used artificial intelligence to create fake recordings of Medicare beneficiaries purportedly consenting to receive certain products. According to court documents, the beneficiaries’ confidential information was then illegally sold to laboratories and durable medical equipment companies, which used this unlawfully obtained and fraudulently generated data to submit false claims to Medicare. Certain defendants controlled dozens of nominee-owned durable medical equipment companies and laboratories that allegedly submitted fraudulent claims for products and services the beneficiaries did not request, need, or receive. Certain defendants also allegedly conspired to conceal and launder the fraud proceeds from bank accounts they controlled in the United States to bank accounts overseas. In total, the defendants caused approximately $703 million in alleged fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, which paid approximately $418 million on those claims. The government seized approximately $44.7 million from various bank accounts related to this case.

    Finally, a defendant based in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates who owned a billing company allegedly orchestrated a scheme to prey upon vulnerable individuals in need of addiction treatment by conspiring with treatment center owners to fraudulently bill Arizona Medicaid approximately $650 million for substance abuse treatment services. According to court documents, some of the services billed were never provided, while other services were provided at a level that was so substandard that it failed to serve any treatment purpose. As part of the conspiracy, treatment center owners allegedly paid illegal kickbacks in exchange for the referral of patients recruited from the homeless population and Native American reservations. The defendant received at least $25 million of ill-gotten Arizona Medicaid funds as a result of the conspiracy and is charged with a money laundering offense for his alleged use of those funds to purchase a $2.9 million home located on a golf estate in Dubai.

    Fraudulent Wound Care

    Charges were filed in the District of Arizona and the District of Nevada against seven defendants, including five medical professionals, in connection with approximately $1.1 billion in fraudulent claims to Medicare and other health care benefit programs for amniotic wound allografts. As alleged, certain defendants targeted vulnerable elderly patients, many of whom were receiving hospice care, and applied medically unnecessary amniotic allografts to these patients’ wounds. Many of the allografts allegedly were applied without coordination with the patients’ treating physicians, without proper treatment for infection, to superficial wounds that did not need this treatment, and to areas that far exceeded the size of the wound. Certain defendants allegedly received millions in illegal kickbacks from the fraudulent billing scheme.

    “Today’s unprecedented enforcement action demonstrates that CMS and our federal partners are united in our mission to protect the integrity of Medicare and Medicaid by crushing waste, fraud, and abuse,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Every dollar we prevent from going to fraudsters is a dollar that stays in the system to serve legitimate beneficiaries. Through advanced data analytics, real-time monitoring, and swift administrative action, CMS is leading the fight to protect Medicare, Medicaid, and the trust Americans place in these vital programs. We’re not waiting for fraud to happen—we’re stopping it before it starts.”

    Prescription Opioid Trafficking

    74 defendants, including 44 licensed medical professionals, were charged across 58 cases in connection with the alleged illegal diversion of over 15 million pills of prescription opioids and other controlled substances. For example, five defendants associated with one Texas pharmacy were charged with the unlawful distribution of over 3 million opioid pills. As alleged, the defendants conspired to distribute massive quantities of oxycodone, hydrocodone, and carisoprodol, which were subsequently trafficked by street-level drug dealers, generating large profits for the defendants. This coordinated action is a continuation of the Health Care Fraud Unit’s systematic approach to stopping drug trafficking organizations and their pharmaceutical wholesale suppliers, which together have fueled an epidemic of prescription opioid abuse for nearly a decade.

    DEA also announced today that in the last six months, DEA charged 93 administrative cases seeking the revocation of pharmacies, medical practitioners, and companies authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances.

    “Health care fraud isn’t just theft — it’s trafficking in trust. Today’s announcement shows that when doctors become drug dealers and treatment centers become profit-driven fraud rings, DEA will act,” said Acting Administrator Robert Murphy of the DEA. “We’re targeting the entire ecosystem of fraud — from pill mills in Texas to kickback clinics exploiting Native communities. If you abuse your medical license to push poison or pad your pockets, we will hold you accountable.”

    Telemedicine and Genetic Testing Fraud

    In today’s Takedown, 49 defendants were charged in connection with the submission of over $1.17 billion in allegedly fraudulent claims to Medicare resulting from telemedicine and genetic testing fraud schemes. For example, in the Southern District of Florida, prosecutors charged an owner of telemedicine and durable medical equipment companies with a $46 million scheme in which Medicare beneficiaries were allegedly targeted through deceptive telemarketing campaigns and then fraudulent claims were submitted to Medicare for durable medical equipment and genetic tests for these beneficiaries. The Department continues to focus on eliminating health care fraud schemes that depend on telemedicine, including schemes involving fraudulent claims for genetic testing, durable medical equipment, and COVID-19 tests.

    Other Health Care Fraud Schemes

    The other cases announced today charge an additional 170 defendants with various other health care fraud schemes involving over $1.84 billion in allegedly false and fraudulent claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance companies for diagnostic testing, medical visits, and treatments that were medically unnecessary, provided in connection with kickbacks and bribes, or never provided at all. For example, in the Western District of Tennessee, prosecutors charged three defendants, including business owners and a pharmacist, with a $28.7 million scheme to defraud the Federal Employees’ Compensation Fund by allegedly billing for medications for injured United States Postal Service employees that were never prescribed by a licensed practitioner and largely were not dispensed as claimed. And in the Western District of Washington and the Northern District of California, prosecutors charged medical providers with allegedly stealing fentanyl and hydrocodone, respectively, that was meant for the providers’ patients, including child patients in need of anesthesia.

    “VA’s Integrated Veteran Care Programs provide critical community-based health care to our nation’s disabled veterans and their dependents,” said Acting Inspector General David Case of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG). “Robust oversight of VA’s health care system is one of VA-OIG’s highest priorities. VA-OIG is committed to holding accountable those who defraud government benefits programs intended to care for our nation’s heroes.”

    Breaking Down Silos in the Fight Against Health Care Fraud

    In connection with the coordinated nationwide law enforcement operation, the Department is announcing that it is working closely with HHS-OIG, FBI, and other agencies to create a Health Care Fraud Data Fusion Center to bring together experts from the Department’s Criminal Division, Fraud Section, Health Care Fraud Unit Data Analytics Team; HHS-OIG; FBI; and other agencies to leverage cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytics to identify emerging health care fraud schemes. The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team was established in 2018 to enhance the Unit’s ability to detect, investigate, and prosecute complex health care fraud schemes. Joining forces with data analysts from HHS-OIG, FBI, and other partners will increase efficiency, detection, and rapid prosecution of emerging health care fraud schemes. It will also implement the President’s Executive Order Stopping Waste, Fraud, and Abuse by Eliminating Information Silos (Exec. Order No. 14243, 3 C.F.R. 294 (2025)) by reducing duplicative data teams, increasing operational efficiency through a whole-of-government approach, and leveraging cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other agency resources.

    Principal Assistant Deputy Chief Jacob Foster, Assistant Deputy Chief Rebecca Yuan, Trial Attorney Miriam L. Glaser Dauermann, and Data Analyst Elizabeth Nolte, all of the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, led and coordinated this year’s Takedown. The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Kentucky, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Western District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorneys General’s Offices for California, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team used cutting-edge data analytics to identify and support the investigations that led to these charges.

    In addition to FBI, HHS-OIG, DEA, and CMS, HSI, VA-OIG, IRS Criminal Investigation, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Department of Labor, United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Office of Personnel Management Office of Inspector General, and other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies participated in the operation. The Medicaid Fraud Control Units of California, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin also participated in the investigation of many of the federal and state cases announced today.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Forces. Prior to the charges announced as part of today’s nationwide Takedown and since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which operates in 27 districts, charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively billed Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurers more than $27 billion.

    The following materials related to today’s announcement are available on the Health Care Fraud Unit’s website through these links:

    •  Graphics and Resources

    •  Case Descriptions

    •  Court Documents

    An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: National Health Care Fraud Takedown Results in 324 Defendants Charged in Connection with Over $14.6 Billion in Alleged Fraud

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Largest Justice Department Health Care Fraud Takedown in History
    More than Doubles Prior Record of $6 Billion

    The Justice Department today announced the results of its 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown, which resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants, including 96 doctors, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and other licensed medical professionals, in 50 federal districts and 12 State Attorneys General’s Offices across the United States, for their alleged participation in various health care fraud schemes involving over $14.6 billion in intended loss. The Takedown involved federal and state law enforcement agencies across the country and represents an unprecedented effort to combat health care fraud schemes that exploit patients and taxpayers.

    Demonstrating the significant return on investment that results from health care fraud enforcement efforts, the government seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, cryptocurrency, and other assets as part of the coordinated enforcement efforts. As part of the whole-of-government approach to combating health care fraud announced today, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) also announced that it successfully prevented over $4 billion from being paid in response to false and fraudulent claims and that it suspended or revoked the billing privileges of 205 providers in the months leading up to the Takedown. Civil charges against 20 defendants for $14.2 million in alleged fraud, as well as civil settlements with 106 defendants totaling $34.3 million, were also announced as part of the Takedown.

    Today’s Takedown was led and coordinated by the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and its core partners from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The cases were investigated by agents from HHS-OIG, FBI, DEA, and other federal and state law enforcement agencies. The cases are being prosecuted by Health Care Fraud Strike Force teams from the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, 50 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide, and 12 State Attorneys General Offices.

    “This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

    “As part of making healthcare accessible and affordable to all Americans, HHS will aggressively work with our law enforcement partners to eliminate the pervasive health care fraud that bedeviled this agency under the former administration and drove up costs,” said Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of the Department of Health and Human Services.

    “The Criminal Division is intensely committed to rooting out health care fraud schemes and prosecuting the criminals who perpetrate them because these schemes: (1) often result in physical patient harm through medically unnecessary treatments or failure to provide the correct treatments; (2) contribute to our nationwide opioid epidemic and exacerbate controlled substance addiction; and (3) do all of that while stealing money hardworking Americans contribute to pay for the care of their elders and other vulnerable citizens,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Division’s Health Care Fraud Unit and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices stand united with our law enforcement partners in this fight, and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to protect the integrity of our health care programs for the American people.”

    “The scale of today’s Takedown is unprecedented, and so is the harm we’re confronting. Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable,” said Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins of HHS-OIG. “Our agents at HHS-OIG work relentlessly to detect, investigate, and dismantle these fraud schemes. We are proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in protecting taxpayer dollars and safeguarding patient care.”

    “Health care fraud drains critical resources from programs intended to help people who truly need medical care,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to pursuing those who exploit the system for personal gain. With more than $13 billion in fraud uncovered, this is the largest takedown for this initiative to date. Together, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold those accountable who steal from the American people and undermine our health care systems.”

    Transnational Criminal Organizations

    29 defendants were charged for their roles in transnational criminal organizations alleged to have submitted over $12 billion in fraudulent claims to America’s health insurance programs.

    For instance, a nationwide investigation known as Operation Gold Rush resulted in the largest loss amount ever charged in a health care fraud case brought by the Department. These charges were announced in the Eastern District of New York, the Northern District of Illinois, the Central District of California, the Middle District of Florida, and the District of New Jersey against 19 defendants. Twelve of these defendants have been arrested, including four defendants who were apprehended in Estonia as a result of international cooperation with Estonian law enforcement and seven defendants who were arrested at U.S. airports and the U.S. border with Mexico, cutting off their intended escape routes as they attempted to avoid capture.

    The organization allegedly used a network of foreign straw owners, including individuals sent into the United States from abroad, who, acting at the direction of others using encrypted messaging and assumed identities from overseas, strategically bought dozens of medical supply companies located across the United States. They then rapidly submitted $10.6 billion in fraudulent health care claims to Medicare for urinary catheters and other durable medical equipment by exploiting the stolen identities of over one million Americans spanning all 50 states and using their confidential medical information to submit the fraudulent claims. As alleged, the organization exploited the U.S. financial system by laundering the fraudulent proceeds and deploying a range of tactics to circumvent anti-money laundering controls to transfer funds into cryptocurrency and shell companies located abroad. The arrests announced today also include a banker who facilitated the money laundering of fraud proceeds on behalf of the organization through a U.S.-based bank.

    The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team and its partners detected the anomalous billing through proactive data analytics, and HHS-OIG and CMS successfully prevented the organization from receiving all but approximately $41 million of the approximately $4.45 billion that was scheduled to be paid by Medicare. HHS and CMS intend to seek to return the $4.41 billion in escrow to the Medicare trust fund for needed medical care. The scheme nonetheless resulted in payments of approximately $900 million from Medicare supplemental insurers. To date, law enforcement has seized approximately $27.7 million in fraud proceeds as part of Operation Gold Rush.

    In another action involving foreign influence, charges were filed in the Northern District of Illinois against five defendants, including two owners and executives of Pakistani marketing organizations, in connection with a $703 million scheme in which Medicare beneficiaries’ identification numbers and other confidential health information were allegedly obtained through theft and deceptive marketing. The defendants allegedly used artificial intelligence to create fake recordings of Medicare beneficiaries purportedly consenting to receive certain products. According to court documents, the beneficiaries’ confidential information was then illegally sold to laboratories and durable medical equipment companies, which used this unlawfully obtained and fraudulently generated data to submit false claims to Medicare. Certain defendants controlled dozens of nominee-owned durable medical equipment companies and laboratories that allegedly submitted fraudulent claims for products and services the beneficiaries did not request, need, or receive. Certain defendants also allegedly conspired to conceal and launder the fraud proceeds from bank accounts they controlled in the United States to bank accounts overseas. In total, the defendants caused approximately $703 million in alleged fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, which paid approximately $418 million on those claims. The government seized approximately $44.7 million from various bank accounts related to this case.

    Finally, a defendant based in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates who owned a billing company allegedly orchestrated a scheme to prey upon vulnerable individuals in need of addiction treatment by conspiring with treatment center owners to fraudulently bill Arizona Medicaid approximately $650 million for substance abuse treatment services. According to court documents, some of the services billed were never provided, while other services were provided at a level that was so substandard that it failed to serve any treatment purpose. As part of the conspiracy, treatment center owners allegedly paid illegal kickbacks in exchange for the referral of patients recruited from the homeless population and Native American reservations. The defendant received at least $25 million of ill-gotten Arizona Medicaid funds as a result of the conspiracy and is charged with a money laundering offense for his alleged use of those funds to purchase a $2.9 million home located on a golf estate in Dubai.

    Fraudulent Wound Care

    Charges were filed in the District of Arizona and the District of Nevada against seven defendants, including five medical professionals, in connection with approximately $1.1 billion in fraudulent claims to Medicare and other health care benefit programs for amniotic wound allografts. As alleged, certain defendants targeted vulnerable elderly patients, many of whom were receiving hospice care, and applied medically unnecessary amniotic allografts to these patients’ wounds. Many of the allografts allegedly were applied without coordination with the patients’ treating physicians, without proper treatment for infection, to superficial wounds that did not need this treatment, and to areas that far exceeded the size of the wound. Certain defendants allegedly received millions in illegal kickbacks from the fraudulent billing scheme.

    “Today’s unprecedented enforcement action demonstrates that CMS and our federal partners are united in our mission to protect the integrity of Medicare and Medicaid by crushing waste, fraud, and abuse,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Every dollar we prevent from going to fraudsters is a dollar that stays in the system to serve legitimate beneficiaries. Through advanced data analytics, real-time monitoring, and swift administrative action, CMS is leading the fight to protect Medicare, Medicaid, and the trust Americans place in these vital programs. We’re not waiting for fraud to happen—we’re stopping it before it starts.”

    Prescription Opioid Trafficking

    74 defendants, including 44 licensed medical professionals, were charged across 58 cases in connection with the alleged illegal diversion of over 15 million pills of prescription opioids and other controlled substances. For example, five defendants associated with one Texas pharmacy were charged with the unlawful distribution of over 3 million opioid pills. As alleged, the defendants conspired to distribute massive quantities of oxycodone, hydrocodone, and carisoprodol, which were subsequently trafficked by street-level drug dealers, generating large profits for the defendants. This coordinated action is a continuation of the Health Care Fraud Unit’s systematic approach to stopping drug trafficking organizations and their pharmaceutical wholesale suppliers, which together have fueled an epidemic of prescription opioid abuse for nearly a decade.

    DEA also announced today that in the last six months, DEA charged 93 administrative cases seeking the revocation of pharmacies, medical practitioners, and companies authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances.

    “Health care fraud isn’t just theft — it’s trafficking in trust. Today’s announcement shows that when doctors become drug dealers and treatment centers become profit-driven fraud rings, DEA will act,” said Acting Administrator Robert Murphy of the DEA. “We’re targeting the entire ecosystem of fraud — from pill mills in Texas to kickback clinics exploiting Native communities. If you abuse your medical license to push poison or pad your pockets, we will hold you accountable.”

    Telemedicine and Genetic Testing Fraud

    In today’s Takedown, 49 defendants were charged in connection with the submission of over $1.17 billion in allegedly fraudulent claims to Medicare resulting from telemedicine and genetic testing fraud schemes. For example, in the Southern District of Florida, prosecutors charged an owner of telemedicine and durable medical equipment companies with a $46 million scheme in which Medicare beneficiaries were allegedly targeted through deceptive telemarketing campaigns and then fraudulent claims were submitted to Medicare for durable medical equipment and genetic tests for these beneficiaries. The Department continues to focus on eliminating health care fraud schemes that depend on telemedicine, including schemes involving fraudulent claims for genetic testing, durable medical equipment, and COVID-19 tests.

    Other Health Care Fraud Schemes

    The other cases announced today charge an additional 170 defendants with various other health care fraud schemes involving over $1.84 billion in allegedly false and fraudulent claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance companies for diagnostic testing, medical visits, and treatments that were medically unnecessary, provided in connection with kickbacks and bribes, or never provided at all. For example, in the Western District of Tennessee, prosecutors charged three defendants, including business owners and a pharmacist, with a $28.7 million scheme to defraud the Federal Employees’ Compensation Fund by allegedly billing for medications for injured United States Postal Service employees that were never prescribed by a licensed practitioner and largely were not dispensed as claimed. And in the Western District of Washington and the Northern District of California, prosecutors charged medical providers with allegedly stealing fentanyl and hydrocodone, respectively, that was meant for the providers’ patients, including child patients in need of anesthesia.

    “VA’s Integrated Veteran Care Programs provide critical community-based health care to our nation’s disabled veterans and their dependents,” said Acting Inspector General David Case of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG). “Robust oversight of VA’s health care system is one of VA-OIG’s highest priorities. VA-OIG is committed to holding accountable those who defraud government benefits programs intended to care for our nation’s heroes.”

    Breaking Down Silos in the Fight Against Health Care Fraud

    In connection with the coordinated nationwide law enforcement operation, the Department is announcing that it is working closely with HHS-OIG, FBI, and other agencies to create a Health Care Fraud Data Fusion Center to bring together experts from the Department’s Criminal Division, Fraud Section, Health Care Fraud Unit Data Analytics Team; HHS-OIG; FBI; and other agencies to leverage cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytics to identify emerging health care fraud schemes. The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team was established in 2018 to enhance the Unit’s ability to detect, investigate, and prosecute complex health care fraud schemes. Joining forces with data analysts from HHS-OIG, FBI, and other partners will increase efficiency, detection, and rapid prosecution of emerging health care fraud schemes. It will also implement the President’s Executive Order Stopping Waste, Fraud, and Abuse by Eliminating Information Silos (Exec. Order No. 14243, 3 C.F.R. 294 (2025)) by reducing duplicative data teams, increasing operational efficiency through a whole-of-government approach, and leveraging cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other agency resources.

    Principal Assistant Deputy Chief Jacob Foster, Assistant Deputy Chief Rebecca Yuan, Trial Attorney Miriam L. Glaser Dauermann, and Data Analyst Elizabeth Nolte, all of the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, led and coordinated this year’s Takedown. The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Kentucky, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Western District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorneys General’s Offices for California, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team used cutting-edge data analytics to identify and support the investigations that led to these charges.

    In addition to FBI, HHS-OIG, DEA, and CMS, HSI, VA-OIG, IRS Criminal Investigation, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Department of Labor, United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Office of Personnel Management Office of Inspector General, and other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies participated in the operation. The Medicaid Fraud Control Units of California, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin also participated in the investigation of many of the federal and state cases announced today.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Forces. Prior to the charges announced as part of today’s nationwide Takedown and since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which operates in 27 districts, charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively billed Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurers more than $27 billion.

    The following materials related to today’s announcement are available on the Health Care Fraud Unit’s website through these links:

    •  Graphics and Resources

    •  Case Descriptions

    •  Court Documents

    An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: National Health Care Fraud Takedown Results in 324 Defendants Charged in Connection with Over $14.6 Billion in Alleged Fraud

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Largest Justice Department Health Care Fraud Takedown in History
    More than Doubles Prior Record of $6 Billion

    The Justice Department today announced the results of its 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown, which resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants, including 96 doctors, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and other licensed medical professionals, in 50 federal districts and 12 State Attorneys General’s Offices across the United States, for their alleged participation in various health care fraud schemes involving over $14.6 billion in intended loss. The Takedown involved federal and state law enforcement agencies across the country and represents an unprecedented effort to combat health care fraud schemes that exploit patients and taxpayers.

    Demonstrating the significant return on investment that results from health care fraud enforcement efforts, the government seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, cryptocurrency, and other assets as part of the coordinated enforcement efforts. As part of the whole-of-government approach to combating health care fraud announced today, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) also announced that it successfully prevented over $4 billion from being paid in response to false and fraudulent claims and that it suspended or revoked the billing privileges of 205 providers in the months leading up to the Takedown. Civil charges against 20 defendants for $14.2 million in alleged fraud, as well as civil settlements with 106 defendants totaling $34.3 million, were also announced as part of the Takedown.

    Today’s Takedown was led and coordinated by the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and its core partners from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The cases were investigated by agents from HHS-OIG, FBI, DEA, and other federal and state law enforcement agencies. The cases are being prosecuted by Health Care Fraud Strike Force teams from the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, 50 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide, and 12 State Attorneys General Offices.

    “This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

    “As part of making healthcare accessible and affordable to all Americans, HHS will aggressively work with our law enforcement partners to eliminate the pervasive health care fraud that bedeviled this agency under the former administration and drove up costs,” said Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of the Department of Health and Human Services.

    “The Criminal Division is intensely committed to rooting out health care fraud schemes and prosecuting the criminals who perpetrate them because these schemes: (1) often result in physical patient harm through medically unnecessary treatments or failure to provide the correct treatments; (2) contribute to our nationwide opioid epidemic and exacerbate controlled substance addiction; and (3) do all of that while stealing money hardworking Americans contribute to pay for the care of their elders and other vulnerable citizens,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Division’s Health Care Fraud Unit and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices stand united with our law enforcement partners in this fight, and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to protect the integrity of our health care programs for the American people.”

    “The scale of today’s Takedown is unprecedented, and so is the harm we’re confronting. Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable,” said Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins of HHS-OIG. “Our agents at HHS-OIG work relentlessly to detect, investigate, and dismantle these fraud schemes. We are proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in protecting taxpayer dollars and safeguarding patient care.”

    “Health care fraud drains critical resources from programs intended to help people who truly need medical care,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to pursuing those who exploit the system for personal gain. With more than $13 billion in fraud uncovered, this is the largest takedown for this initiative to date. Together, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold those accountable who steal from the American people and undermine our health care systems.”

    Transnational Criminal Organizations

    29 defendants were charged for their roles in transnational criminal organizations alleged to have submitted over $12 billion in fraudulent claims to America’s health insurance programs.

    For instance, a nationwide investigation known as Operation Gold Rush resulted in the largest loss amount ever charged in a health care fraud case brought by the Department. These charges were announced in the Eastern District of New York, the Northern District of Illinois, the Central District of California, the Middle District of Florida, and the District of New Jersey against 19 defendants. Twelve of these defendants have been arrested, including four defendants who were apprehended in Estonia as a result of international cooperation with Estonian law enforcement and seven defendants who were arrested at U.S. airports and the U.S. border with Mexico, cutting off their intended escape routes as they attempted to avoid capture.

    The organization allegedly used a network of foreign straw owners, including individuals sent into the United States from abroad, who, acting at the direction of others using encrypted messaging and assumed identities from overseas, strategically bought dozens of medical supply companies located across the United States. They then rapidly submitted $10.6 billion in fraudulent health care claims to Medicare for urinary catheters and other durable medical equipment by exploiting the stolen identities of over one million Americans spanning all 50 states and using their confidential medical information to submit the fraudulent claims. As alleged, the organization exploited the U.S. financial system by laundering the fraudulent proceeds and deploying a range of tactics to circumvent anti-money laundering controls to transfer funds into cryptocurrency and shell companies located abroad. The arrests announced today also include a banker who facilitated the money laundering of fraud proceeds on behalf of the organization through a U.S.-based bank.

    The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team and its partners detected the anomalous billing through proactive data analytics, and HHS-OIG and CMS successfully prevented the organization from receiving all but approximately $41 million of the approximately $4.45 billion that was scheduled to be paid by Medicare. HHS and CMS intend to seek to return the $4.41 billion in escrow to the Medicare trust fund for needed medical care. The scheme nonetheless resulted in payments of approximately $900 million from Medicare supplemental insurers. To date, law enforcement has seized approximately $27.7 million in fraud proceeds as part of Operation Gold Rush.

    In another action involving foreign influence, charges were filed in the Northern District of Illinois against five defendants, including two owners and executives of Pakistani marketing organizations, in connection with a $703 million scheme in which Medicare beneficiaries’ identification numbers and other confidential health information were allegedly obtained through theft and deceptive marketing. The defendants allegedly used artificial intelligence to create fake recordings of Medicare beneficiaries purportedly consenting to receive certain products. According to court documents, the beneficiaries’ confidential information was then illegally sold to laboratories and durable medical equipment companies, which used this unlawfully obtained and fraudulently generated data to submit false claims to Medicare. Certain defendants controlled dozens of nominee-owned durable medical equipment companies and laboratories that allegedly submitted fraudulent claims for products and services the beneficiaries did not request, need, or receive. Certain defendants also allegedly conspired to conceal and launder the fraud proceeds from bank accounts they controlled in the United States to bank accounts overseas. In total, the defendants caused approximately $703 million in alleged fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, which paid approximately $418 million on those claims. The government seized approximately $44.7 million from various bank accounts related to this case.

    Finally, a defendant based in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates who owned a billing company allegedly orchestrated a scheme to prey upon vulnerable individuals in need of addiction treatment by conspiring with treatment center owners to fraudulently bill Arizona Medicaid approximately $650 million for substance abuse treatment services. According to court documents, some of the services billed were never provided, while other services were provided at a level that was so substandard that it failed to serve any treatment purpose. As part of the conspiracy, treatment center owners allegedly paid illegal kickbacks in exchange for the referral of patients recruited from the homeless population and Native American reservations. The defendant received at least $25 million of ill-gotten Arizona Medicaid funds as a result of the conspiracy and is charged with a money laundering offense for his alleged use of those funds to purchase a $2.9 million home located on a golf estate in Dubai.

    Fraudulent Wound Care

    Charges were filed in the District of Arizona and the District of Nevada against seven defendants, including five medical professionals, in connection with approximately $1.1 billion in fraudulent claims to Medicare and other health care benefit programs for amniotic wound allografts. As alleged, certain defendants targeted vulnerable elderly patients, many of whom were receiving hospice care, and applied medically unnecessary amniotic allografts to these patients’ wounds. Many of the allografts allegedly were applied without coordination with the patients’ treating physicians, without proper treatment for infection, to superficial wounds that did not need this treatment, and to areas that far exceeded the size of the wound. Certain defendants allegedly received millions in illegal kickbacks from the fraudulent billing scheme.

    “Today’s unprecedented enforcement action demonstrates that CMS and our federal partners are united in our mission to protect the integrity of Medicare and Medicaid by crushing waste, fraud, and abuse,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “Every dollar we prevent from going to fraudsters is a dollar that stays in the system to serve legitimate beneficiaries. Through advanced data analytics, real-time monitoring, and swift administrative action, CMS is leading the fight to protect Medicare, Medicaid, and the trust Americans place in these vital programs. We’re not waiting for fraud to happen—we’re stopping it before it starts.”

    Prescription Opioid Trafficking

    74 defendants, including 44 licensed medical professionals, were charged across 58 cases in connection with the alleged illegal diversion of over 15 million pills of prescription opioids and other controlled substances. For example, five defendants associated with one Texas pharmacy were charged with the unlawful distribution of over 3 million opioid pills. As alleged, the defendants conspired to distribute massive quantities of oxycodone, hydrocodone, and carisoprodol, which were subsequently trafficked by street-level drug dealers, generating large profits for the defendants. This coordinated action is a continuation of the Health Care Fraud Unit’s systematic approach to stopping drug trafficking organizations and their pharmaceutical wholesale suppliers, which together have fueled an epidemic of prescription opioid abuse for nearly a decade.

    DEA also announced today that in the last six months, DEA charged 93 administrative cases seeking the revocation of pharmacies, medical practitioners, and companies authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances.

    “Health care fraud isn’t just theft — it’s trafficking in trust. Today’s announcement shows that when doctors become drug dealers and treatment centers become profit-driven fraud rings, DEA will act,” said Acting Administrator Robert Murphy of the DEA. “We’re targeting the entire ecosystem of fraud — from pill mills in Texas to kickback clinics exploiting Native communities. If you abuse your medical license to push poison or pad your pockets, we will hold you accountable.”

    Telemedicine and Genetic Testing Fraud

    In today’s Takedown, 49 defendants were charged in connection with the submission of over $1.17 billion in allegedly fraudulent claims to Medicare resulting from telemedicine and genetic testing fraud schemes. For example, in the Southern District of Florida, prosecutors charged an owner of telemedicine and durable medical equipment companies with a $46 million scheme in which Medicare beneficiaries were allegedly targeted through deceptive telemarketing campaigns and then fraudulent claims were submitted to Medicare for durable medical equipment and genetic tests for these beneficiaries. The Department continues to focus on eliminating health care fraud schemes that depend on telemedicine, including schemes involving fraudulent claims for genetic testing, durable medical equipment, and COVID-19 tests.

    Other Health Care Fraud Schemes

    The other cases announced today charge an additional 170 defendants with various other health care fraud schemes involving over $1.84 billion in allegedly false and fraudulent claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance companies for diagnostic testing, medical visits, and treatments that were medically unnecessary, provided in connection with kickbacks and bribes, or never provided at all. For example, in the Western District of Tennessee, prosecutors charged three defendants, including business owners and a pharmacist, with a $28.7 million scheme to defraud the Federal Employees’ Compensation Fund by allegedly billing for medications for injured United States Postal Service employees that were never prescribed by a licensed practitioner and largely were not dispensed as claimed. And in the Western District of Washington and the Northern District of California, prosecutors charged medical providers with allegedly stealing fentanyl and hydrocodone, respectively, that was meant for the providers’ patients, including child patients in need of anesthesia.

    “VA’s Integrated Veteran Care Programs provide critical community-based health care to our nation’s disabled veterans and their dependents,” said Acting Inspector General David Case of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG). “Robust oversight of VA’s health care system is one of VA-OIG’s highest priorities. VA-OIG is committed to holding accountable those who defraud government benefits programs intended to care for our nation’s heroes.”

    Breaking Down Silos in the Fight Against Health Care Fraud

    In connection with the coordinated nationwide law enforcement operation, the Department is announcing that it is working closely with HHS-OIG, FBI, and other agencies to create a Health Care Fraud Data Fusion Center to bring together experts from the Department’s Criminal Division, Fraud Section, Health Care Fraud Unit Data Analytics Team; HHS-OIG; FBI; and other agencies to leverage cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytics to identify emerging health care fraud schemes. The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team was established in 2018 to enhance the Unit’s ability to detect, investigate, and prosecute complex health care fraud schemes. Joining forces with data analysts from HHS-OIG, FBI, and other partners will increase efficiency, detection, and rapid prosecution of emerging health care fraud schemes. It will also implement the President’s Executive Order Stopping Waste, Fraud, and Abuse by Eliminating Information Silos (Exec. Order No. 14243, 3 C.F.R. 294 (2025)) by reducing duplicative data teams, increasing operational efficiency through a whole-of-government approach, and leveraging cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other agency resources.

    Principal Assistant Deputy Chief Jacob Foster, Assistant Deputy Chief Rebecca Yuan, Trial Attorney Miriam L. Glaser Dauermann, and Data Analyst Elizabeth Nolte, all of the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, led and coordinated this year’s Takedown. The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Kentucky, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Western District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorneys General’s Offices for California, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team used cutting-edge data analytics to identify and support the investigations that led to these charges.

    In addition to FBI, HHS-OIG, DEA, and CMS, HSI, VA-OIG, IRS Criminal Investigation, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Department of Labor, United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Office of Personnel Management Office of Inspector General, and other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies participated in the operation. The Medicaid Fraud Control Units of California, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin also participated in the investigation of many of the federal and state cases announced today.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Forces. Prior to the charges announced as part of today’s nationwide Takedown and since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which operates in 27 districts, charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively billed Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurers more than $27 billion.

    The following materials related to today’s announcement are available on the Health Care Fraud Unit’s website through these links:

    •  Graphics and Resources

    •  Case Descriptions

    •  Court Documents

    An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens set out alternative to welfare cuts to tackle poverty and give dignity to Disabled people 

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    / by Green Party

    As the Government struggles to get its welfare reforms through parliament, Green Party MPs have produced a report detailing an alternative approach. They say that the case for “delaying the proposed changes in order to get change right is compelling” and are urging MPs to vote down the reforms later today.

    Amongst the proposals Green MPs recommend are:

    • Withdrawing the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill
    •  Increasing all disability benefits by 5 per cent and Universal Credit and legacy benefits by £40 a week
    • Working with Disabled people to co-produce a social security system that is fair, humane and accessible – and which joins up the support for Disabled people to help with additional costs
    • Developing interventions that are genuinely good value, lift people up and take an evidence-based approach to supporting people into work
    • Learning from the OBR’s assessment and equality impact assessments so any changes deliver on the stated objectives and do not push people into deeper poverty.

    Green MP Siân Berry said:

    “The Government’s process of bringing forward proposals for change has been marked by chaos. Decision making has been irresponsible, leaving disabled people feeling uncertain and anxious – even terrified. Their voices have not been front and centre of the debate about how to build a better social security system and the proposed changes represent a serious threat to Disabled people’s quality of life, dignity and equality.

    “Equalising capital gains tax with income tax would not only help raise funds for welfare payments but also be fairer as currently working disabled people on PIP are paying higher rates of tax on their income than wealthy people living off share dividends.

    “Change can be done right if it’s done with Disabled people rather than to them. We urge all MPs to vote against the welfare cuts tonight – let’s work together to create something more compassionate that lifts everyone up and supports the wellbeing of Disabled people.”

    Note

    The Lifting Up report from the Green MPs was their submission to the ‘Pathways to Work Green Paper’ consultation which closed on 30th June 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cabinet set to approve the next chapter for Derby’s libraries

    Source: City of Derby

    The future of the city’s library service and how it can continue to meet community needs for the next few years is to be considered by Cabinet.

    After extensive negotiations and a thorough review of proposed working models, Derby City Council withdrew from a process to appoint Sporting Communities, a not-for-profit organisation, to run Derby’s ten non-statutory community libraries in May.

    Now Cabinet members will be updated on the reasons for ending those negotiations and will be presented with fresh proposals on the interim operation of the service when they meet on 9 July.

    Council Cabinet approved plans for the city’s ten non-statutory libraries to be run by a Trust last year and a formal process to identify viable proposals was launched in March 2024.

    During extensive negotiations, it became clear that outsourcing is not the best or most sustainable way to protect the future of the library service. The proposed transfer was expected to save money for the Council. Negotiations revealed that the financial support needed for a successful transfer would exceed the allocated budget.

    The review comes as local authorities across England prepare for significant structural changes, potentially prompting a re-evaluation of how essential public services like libraries are delivered.

    Under the Public Libraries & Museums Act of 1964, the Council must provide a full and efficient public library service. The last Strategic Needs Assessment (SNA) in 2017 found that Derby needs five main libraries to meet its legal requirements, while adapting to evolving community needs.

    Local government reorganisation, anticipated to unfold over the next three years, could lead to a reconfiguration of library services across a broader region. A potential expansion would require a further SNA to determine statutory library provision for any new authority area.

    Cabinet is being asked to approve a recommendation to maintain the current library management structure and defer a full SNA until the future of the authority is clearer.

    Councillor Sarah Chambers, Cabinet Member for Cost of Living, Equalities and Communities said:

    Our priority is to ensure our library services remain a vital resource for our communities, even as we navigate significant changes in local government.

    This review is about making responsible decisions that secure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of our libraries for all residents.

    The Cabinet meeting is on Wednesday 9 July and can be watched live.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kyle Welcomes 20mph Speed Limit for Dunseverick Primary School

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV party chairman and Causeway Councillor Allister Kyle:

    “I very much welcome the long-overdue introduction of a 20mph speed limit outside Dunseverick Primary School. This is a vital step forward for the safety of our children, their parents, and school staff.

    “Having previously written to Dr McMahon, Head of DfI’s Northern Division, and the local PSNI commander, I highlighted the very real dangers posed by vehicles travelling at high speed past this small country school, located on the busy Whitepark Road between Ballintoy and Bushmills. The drop-off area sits on a sweeping bend, with the national speed limit applying — a totally unacceptable situation given the volume of tourist traffic and the vulnerable nature of young children entering and exiting the school grounds.

    “I also raised these concerns in relation to William Pinkerton Memorial Primary School in Dervock, where a 30mph limit is currently in place, but where vehicles frequently exceed that speed during busy morning periods.

    “I am grateful that these concerns, and those of local parents, were taken seriously and that party leader Jim Allister took the matter directly to the Infrastructure Minister to press for urgent action.

    “It is reassuring to see that our combined efforts — along with the persistent voices of local families — have helped deliver this result. While it is regrettable it has taken so long, the decision to implement a 20mph speed limit outside Dunseverick Primary during school hours is a common-sense and necessary measure.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investigatory Powers Commissioner Reappointment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Investigatory Powers Commissioner Reappointment

    Sir Brian Leveson appointed for a third term as the Investigatory Powers Commissioner

    The Prime Minister has approved the appointment of Sir Brian Leveson as the Investigatory Powers Commissioner (IPC) for a third three-year term, with effect from 20th October 2025.

    Sir Brian was appointed as the second IPC in October 2019, succeeding Sir Adrian Fulford. Before retiring as a senior judge in 2019, he was President of the Queen’s Bench Division and Head of Criminal Justice for England and Wales.

    The IPC is responsible for the independent oversight of the use of investigatory powers, ensuring they are used in accordance with the law and in the public interest. He is supported by a number of Judicial Commissioners, the Technology Advisory Panel and the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office (IPCO).

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Birmingham Urges Residents to Support National Knife Surrender Campaign to Tackle Weapon-Related Harm

    Source: City of Birmingham

    Birmingham City Council is backing a national campaign to reduce knife crime by encouraging residents to surrender dangerous weapons anonymously and safely.

    As part of the national knife surrender scheme running from 1 to 31 July 2025, residents are urged to dispose of knives and other dangerous weapons using dedicated surrender bins across Birmingham, designated police stations, and a mobile van unit – all without fear of prosecution.

    In Birmingham, a mobile weapons surrender van will be stationed at Handsworth Park car park on Wednesday 2 July from 9am to 12pm. Residents can surrender knives and any other dangerous weapons safely and anonymously at this location. Personal information will not be taken, and you will not be asked any questions.

    In July, ahead of the new Government’s ban on ninja swords coming into force 1 August, there is a second surrender scheme running across England & Wales to offer safe disposal of ninja swords at designated police stations. These police stations include Bournville Police Station, Stechford Police Station or Sutton Coldfield Police Station from 8am to 10pm, and are only accepting ninja swords, not other weapons.

    Throughout the year, at any other time you will also be able to use one of the permanent weapon surrender bins in Birmingham.  These bins are provided by the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner working in partnership with local Community Safety Partnerships. These bins are regularly monitored and emptied, offering a trusted and confidential way to dispose of knives and sharp items that could otherwise cause harm. Locations of surrender bins in Birmingham can be found here.

    Councillor Mick Brown, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, said:

    “Every knife taken off our streets is a potential life saved. We are committed to working with partners and our communities to make Birmingham safer. This national surrender scheme provides a vital opportunity to take action, without fear of judgement or legal consequence. I encourage anyone in possession of a dangerous weapon – for whatever reason – to take this chance to do the right thing.”

    Councillor Jamie Tennant, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, said

    “Keeping our communities safe is something we all have a role in. This weapon surrender scheme gives people a chance to make a positive choice – to remove a weapon from our streets and help protect their friends, families, and neighbours. It’s about creating safer spaces for everyone, especially our young people. I encourage anyone who has a weapon – or knows someone who does – to make use of this scheme and help build a safer Birmingham together.”

    West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said: “Preventing and tackling serious violence and knife crime, is an absolute top priority for me as Police and Crime Commissioner. I am pleased to be supporting the installation of the new Ninja Sword surrender bins. Every knife, blade or ninja sword surrendered is potentially a life saved. Each one destroyed, is one less threat to our young people, families and communities. This initiative is not just about removing weapons from our streets, it’s about delivering on our commitment to prevention, promoting public safety and saving lives.”

    How to surrender a weapon

    • Anonymous disposal: Weapons can be surrendered anonymously via the mobile surrender van (at Handsworth Park car park on Wednesday 2 July from 9am to 12pm) as well as by using one of the permanent surrender bins across the city, of which can be found here.

    • Police stations: If you own a ninja sword purchased before 27 March 2025, you may be eligible for compensation. Ninja swords purchased after that date can be surrendered but are not eligible for compensation.

    Designated Police stations are ONLY accepting ninja swords, not other weapons. These police stations include Bournville Police Station, Stechford Police Station or Sutton Coldfield Police Station from 8am to 10pm.

    • Safe handling: All surrendered weapons must be safely wrapped and transported in a way that avoids harm to others. Items should never be openly carried in public places – use a sealed bag or secure container.

    The campaign, led by the Home Office and supported by Birmingham City Council and West Midlands Police, aims to reduce the number of dangerous weapons in circulation and promote community safety. Knife crime continues to be a pressing issue nationally, and this campaign is a key step toward preventing violence before it occurs.

    For further details on the national surrender scheme, visit: www.gov.uk.

    Details about the mobile surrender van and the complete schedule is available here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Record poll projects Greens as Holyrood kingmakers

    Source: Scottish Greens

    01 Jul 2025 Scottish Independence

    Scottish Greens set to elect 16 MSPs at ballot box next May.

    More in Scottish Independence

    Reputable election pollster Ipsos Mori has today released polling for the 2026 Holyrood election, which predicts the largest ever group of Scottish Green MSPs in Holyrood.

    The poll marks the highest ever polling for the Scottish Greens in the party’s history, with 15% on the regional list and 9% in constituencies.

    If replicated at the election next May, the Scottish Greens would return to Holyrood with 16 MSPs, including likely constituency seats in Edinburgh and Glasgow. This would double the eight Green MSPs elected in 2021, the party’s best result to date.

    Scottish Greens MSP Ross Greer said:

    “People have seen the impact of Scottish Green MSPs, they like it and they want much more of it. At the last election, we were sent to Holyrood with a mandate to deliver for people and planet – and that’s exactly what our MSPs have done.

    “We delivered free bus travel for young people, the emergency rent freeze, more free school meals, the upcoming end of peak rail fares, higher taxes on the super-rich and dozens of other transformational changes. Now, with an election less than a year away, our hard work is being reflected in the polls.

    “Our MSPs have shown that when voters elect Scottish Greens to Parliament we deliver policies which cut their bills, protect the planet and take on the elites who have rigged the system in their own favour.

    “From introducing rent controls to tackle sky-high rents or cutting transport costs by scrapping peak rail fares and delivering free bus passes for young people, it’s clear that if you want Green policies, you have to vote for the Scottish Greens.

    “Next year, Scotland will be at a crossroads. With the far-right hoping to enter our Parliament for the first time, it’s more important than ever that we have a strong ecosocialist voice at the heart of our politics, fighting for the people of Scotland and our planet, not for the super-rich who would exploit both.

    “The Scottish Greens have proven that when we are in the room, our MSPs put people before profit and deliver for the people of Scotland. Next May you can help us do even more. Vote Scottish Greens.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Permanent Secretary at Department for Transport 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New Permanent Secretary at Department for Transport 

    Jo Shanmugalingam has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary of the Department for Transport, taking over from Bernadette Kelly

    The Cabinet Secretary, with the approval of the Prime Minister, has announced the appointment of Jo Shanmugalingam as the new Permanent Secretary of the Department for Transport (DfT).

    Jo is currently the department’s Second Permanent Secretary, and has been serving as the Interim Permanent Secretary since Bernadette Kelly stepped down last month. 

    Jo started her career at the Department for Trade and Industry and spent six years at the Shareholder Executive (now UKGI). Her previous roles include Director General for Science, Innovation and Growth at the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology, and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy.

    She will lead the department as the government rebuilds Britain through growth and investment under the Plan for Change, transforming transport infrastructure across the country and making it easier to build new roads and railways.

    Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, said:

    I’m delighted to have Jo appointed as Permanent Secretary for the Department for Transport. Having worked closely with her since taking up my role, I know she will provide exemplary leadership as we deliver for this government and the public. 

    I’d like to once again thank Bernadette Kelly for her many years of public service – I can think of no one better to take over the reins from Bernadette than Jo, and I look forward to working with her to deliver this government’s ambitious Plan for Change.

    Cabinet Secretary, Sir Chris Wormald, said:

    I congratulate Jo Shanmugalingam on her appointment as Permanent Secretary at the Department for Transport. Jo’s valuable experience and impressive track record in delivery make her well suited to lead the department at such an important moment of infrastructure renewal under the Plan for Change – building transport services across the country that boost opportunity and growth for working people.

    I would also like to thank Bernadette Kelly for her dedicated service over 39 years in the Civil Service, in particular for her eight years leading the Department for Transport.

    Jo Shanmugalingam said:

    I am honoured to be appointed Permanent Secretary at the Department for Transport. Transport is fundamental to everything we do, connecting people to friends and family, jobs and training. 

    As a department we have a huge part to play at this critical time in driving economic growth. I’m incredibly fortunate to continue working with the talented team in DfT and across the transport system, who I know are all just as dedicated to delivering changes that make a real difference to people’s lives.

    The appointment follows an external recruitment competition overseen by the independent Civil Service Commission.

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £22 million to tackle waiting times in NHS Lothian

    Source: Scottish Government

    Additional funding to build on progress in clearing longest waits.

    Health Secretary Neil Gray has welcomed progress in reducing waiting lists at NHS Lothian as he confirmed the health board will be allocated an additional £22 million for the year ahead – as part of a £106 million investment across the NHS to tackle the longest waits.

    Latest figures show a 14% decrease last year in inpatient/daycase waits for all specialties at NHS Lothian – down from 26,462 at 31 March 2024 to 22,762 at 31 March 2025.

    The reduction in ongoing waits was driven by reductions in:

    • General surgery -19.6%
    • Gynaecology -20.6%
    • Orthopaedics -17.9%
    • Urology -27.9%

    On a visit to the Day Surgery Unit at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, the Health Secretary met with staff and patients and saw first-hand the positive impact Scottish Government investment is having on waits. The Day Surgery Unit carries out 30 – 40 scheduled procedures every day – this helps allow patients to leave for home from 2pm onwards with a focus on same day discharge.

    A huge variety of procedures are performed with patients from a mix of five specialties, including gynaecology, general surgery, vascular, neurosurgery and orthopaedics. Last year, around 4,500 procedures were carried out by the Unit.

    Mr Gray said:

    “This government is focussed on taking the action needed to cut waiting lists and we are determined to make it easier, faster and fairer for patients to get access to the treatment they need.

    “I was pleased to meet the team at the Royal Infirmary’s Day Surgery Unit who are carrying out fantastic work to help target long waits and making significant progress.  We want to build on this success and drive that improvement across Scotland – our additional investment of £106 million support this work across all health boards.

    “Figures published today show monthly A&E performance at its best since July 2023 and delayed discharge at its lowest since October 2023. Our plan to improve our NHS is working and we will build on this progress by increasing capacity and investing to tackle the longest waits to ensure patients get faster access to care.”

    Background

    £106 million to reduce waiting times – gov.scot

    Stage of treatment waiting times – Inpatients, day cases quarter ending 31 March 2025 – Publications – Public Health Scotland

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Place de Brest to close for pipe laying

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Contractors will shortly start a key phase of the Armada Way project, which will be buried but will play a crucial role in the regeneration of the city centre.

    From Monday 7 July Place de Brest will close to the limited delivery traffic to enable deep level drainage work to get underway. Shoppers will still be able to cross Place de Brest via a specific pedestrian route.

    New pipework will be laid which will straddle the width of Armada Way connecting both sides of Cornwall Street – around 50 metres – and measure 1.5 metres across.

    The new drainage is for surface water, helping to take pressure off the combined sewage system. The work is expected to take around 14 weeks and will see trenches four metres deep dug.

    City Centre Champion Mark Lowry said: “It all sounds a bit techie but one of the key aspects of the scheme is helping to reduce the amount of unclean water that ends up in the Sound.

    “Upgrading drainage systems will futureproof this area so that when the time comes to build new homes in the city centre, the infrastructure will be better placed to cope with more demand. Anything we can do now to alleviate the pressure will pay off in the future.”

    The old drainage system is showing its age. It is a post war combined sewer system – surface and foul water – that was not designed to deal with the capacity it currently has to cope with, given the demands of modern plumbing in residential and commercial properties.

    The scheme will have a sustainable drainage system. Through a series of interventions such as rain gardens, the rill, reed beds and landscaped channels, rain and surface water is diverted away from the current drainage system. It also helps to irrigate the trees and plants.

    Other work at Place de Brest includes laying foundations and installing the appropriate cabling and infrastructure for solar panel canopies that form part of the scheme.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Emma Honey shines in national Trading Standards awards 1 July 2025 Emma Honey shines in national Trading Standards awards

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    An Isle of Wight Trading Standards officer has been hailed as one of the UK’s brightest new talents in the battle against counterfeit goods.

    Emma Honey has been awarded the prestigious ‘Rising Star’ accolade by the Anti-Counterfeiting Group (ACG), recognising her exceptional work tackling intellectual property (IP) crime — despite still being in training.

    Emma’s investigations have already led to the seizure of fake clothing, jewellery, electronics, and tobacco products, protecting both consumers and local businesses.

    Her leadership, innovation, and passion for enforcement have also seen her deliver training to police officers and chair the regional apprentice network.

    Reflecting on the award, Emma said: “I’m incredibly honoured to receive this recognition.

    “It’s been a real team effort, and I’ve learned so much from my colleagues and partners. I’m passionate about protecting people from the harms of counterfeit goods and supporting our local businesses, and I’m excited to keep building on this work.”

    James Potter, Trading Standards and community safety manager at the Isle of Wight Council, praised Emma’s achievement

    He said: “Emma’s recognition as a ‘Rising Star’ is not only a personal triumph but also a shining example of the vital work being done by Isle of Wight Trading Standards to keep the community safe from counterfeit crime.

    “Her dedication, professionalism and instinct for enforcement are truly impressive. She’s made a real impact not just on the Island but across the region. This award is richly deserved and a sign of even greater things to co

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New river legacy project connecting York with water, nature and climate resilience

    Source: City of York

    Published Tuesday, 1 July 2025

    Ousewem has launched a new flagship initiative in York, designed to reconnect residents with their rivers and neighbourhoods, whilst inspiring action on flood resilience and climate change.

    Building on the success of natural flood management (NFM) projects across the Swale, Ure, Nidd and Upper Ouse catchments, this new riverside route will tell the story of how communities, landscapes and local leadership are coming together to shape a more climate-resilient future.

    The project, will be co-designed with residents, schools and stakeholders, is being delivered in partnership with Innovate Educate -a creative consultancy known for embedding research, participation and place-based learning into every stage of their work.

    Councillor Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency at City of York Council, added:

    “This project shows our commitment to working with York communities in visible and lasting ways.

    “By telling the story of our rivers and the actions being taken to reduce flooding, we are helping people understand the value of nature-based solutions – not just in the countryside but here in the heart of the city.”

    Karen Merrifield, Director of Innovate Educate, said:

    “We believe creativity is a core part of climate resilience -not an afterthought.

    “This project is about more than signage or information, it is about co-creating something that belongs to York’s communities. From schoolchildren to heritage professionals, everyone has a part to play in imagining a future shaped by care, connection and the river itself.”

    The route will feature creative elements and educational resources, helping residents and visitors of all ages explore how nature-based solutions, land use and local action are shaping a safer, greener future for York. It will also act as a platform for partnerships that connect climate resilience with the region’s rich cultural assets – from libraries and archives to heritage schools and local artists.

    Opportunities for sponsorship may also be explored, supporting further investment in climate resilience and nature recovery across York and North Yorkshire. Just as rivers connect places upstream and downstream, this project links people across the catchment – from rural landowners to city residents – in a shared effort to live better with water.

    Early engagement will begin this summer, with schools, community groups and partners invited to shape how the story of York’s rivers is shared.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –