NewzIntel.com

Category: Vehicles

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterbury Man Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Federal Prison for Role in Drug Trafficking Ring

    Source: US FBI

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TOMMY FIGUEROA, also known as “Coco,” 31, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 66 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his participation in a Waterbury drug trafficking ring.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, the FBI’s Waterbury Safe Streets Gang Task Force and other law enforcement agencies investigated two drug trafficking organizations based in the city of Waterbury.  One organization operated in the area of William Street and the other operated in the area of Maple Avenue.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, video surveillance, GPS tracking of vehicles, and numerous controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that the two organizations distributed cocaine, crack, and fentanyl through a network of sellers.  The organizations shared sources of supply and worked together to further their operations.

    Figueroa worked as a shift-boss for the Maple Street organization, ensuring that street-level distributors were selling narcotics, primarily crack cocaine, around the clock.  During the investigation, investigators made several controlled purchases of narcotics from Figueroa.  Investigators also determined that Figueroa had acquired two firearms for protection.

    Figueroa was arrested on related state charges on September 25, 2023, and the two firearms were seized.  While detained in state custody, he continued his involvement in narcotics trafficking through his then girlfriend, Neysa Vazquez-Ferrer.

    Seventeen individuals were charged with federal offenses as a result of the investigation. 

    On January 28, 2025, Figueroa pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    Vazquez-Ferrer pleaded guilty to a drug trafficking offense and, on May 22, 2025, was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment.

    The FBI’s Waterbury Safe Streets Gang Task includes members from the FBI, the Waterbury Police Department, the Naugatuck Police Department, and the Connecticut Department of Correction.  The DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Connecticut State Police, Wolcott Police Department, and Meriden Police Department have assisted the investigation.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Shan Patel through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the Waterbury State Attorney’s Office for its cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterbury Woman Sentenced to Three Years in Federal Prison for Role in Drug Trafficking Ring

    Source: US FBI

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that NEYSA VAZQUEZ-FERRER, 35, of Waterbury, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 36 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for her participation in a Waterbury drug trafficking ring.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, the FBI’s Waterbury Safe Streets Gang Task Force and other law enforcement agencies investigated two drug trafficking organizations based in the city of Waterbury.  One organization operated in the area of William Street and the other operated in the area of Maple Avenue.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, video surveillance, GPS tracking of vehicles, and numerous controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that the two organizations distributed cocaine, crack, and fentanyl through a network of sellers.  The organizations shared sources of supply and worked together to further their operations.

    Vazquez-Ferrer managed a stash location for the Maple Street organization where she packaged bags of individual dose capsules of crack cocaine.  She also enlisted her two teenage daughters to package and deliver narcotics.

    Seventeen individuals were charged with federal offenses as a result of the investigation.  Vazquez-Ferrer and several codefendants were arrested on November 29, 2023.  In association with the arrests, investigators executed multiple search warrants and seized approximately 700 grams of crack cocaine, more than 900 vials (“caps”) of crack, approximately 200 grams of loose fentanyl, more than 1,600 dose bags of fentanyl/heroin, two stolen firearms, numerous rounds of ammunition, and more than $39,000 in cash.

    On January 31, 2025, Vazquez-Ferrer pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.

    Vazquez-Ferrer, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on July 11.

    The FBI’s Waterbury Safe Streets Gang Task includes members from the FBI, the Waterbury Police Department, the Naugatuck Police Department, and the Connecticut Department of Correction.  The DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Connecticut State Police, Wolcott Police Department, and Meriden Police Department have assisted the investigation.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Shan Patel through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the Waterbury State Attorney’s Office for its cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterbury Man Sentenced to Nearly Eight Years in Federal Prison for Role in Violent Carjacking

    Source: US FBI

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL McCANN-ORTIZ, also known as “Bando,” 24, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 95 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his participation in a violent carjacking.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning hours of June 18, 2023, two all-terrain vehicles (“ATVs”) were stolen from a Waterbury residence.  After the theft, McCann-Ortiz and others mistakenly identified an individual (“Victim 1”) who they incorrectly believed was involved in the theft.  Later that night, Victim 1’s friend, (“Victim 2”), picked up Victim 1 from work and drove him home.  As they arrived at Victim 1’s residence, three vehicles followed them and surrounded the victims.  McCann-Ortiz and his associates, one of whom carried an assault-style rifle, exited the vehicles and approached the victims.  McCann-Ortiz and his associates demanded the return of the stolen ATVs, threatened to harm both victims, and physically assaulted them.

    Specifically, McCann-Ortiz repeatedly threatened to kill the victims, and punched and kicked one victim, causing serious bodily injury.

    McCann-Ortiz and his associates then stole Victim 2’s vehicle, which was owned by Victim 2’s relative, and other items and cash belonging to the victims.  McCann-Ortiz and his associates continued to harass the victims in the following days.

    McCann-Ortiz has been detained since his arrest on unrelated state charges on July 10, 2023.  On February 27, 2025, he pleaded guilty in federal court to carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury.

    This investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan J. Guevremont and David T. Huang.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DHS Condemns Biden Administration Failures in the Wake of the Lahaina, Hawaii Fires

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: DHS Condemns Biden Administration Failures in the Wake of the Lahaina, Hawaii Fires

    lass=”text-align-center”>Report reveals 1 in 6 survivors were forced to engage in sexual acts in exchange for basic necessities like food and housing
    WASHINGTON – A new report about the aftermath of the August 2023 Lahaina, Hawaii, fires reveals FEMA’s horrific neglect and mismanagement under the Biden Administration

       According to the report, issued by Filipino Hawaiian advocacy group Tagnawa, conditions for survivors in the aftermath of the fire were both appalling and inhumane

    1 in 6 survivors were forced to engage in sexual acts in exchange for basic necessities like food and housing and some women had to sleep in cars because they felt unsafe in FEMA-coordinated shelters

     “1 in 6 survivors of the Lahaina Fires were forced to engage in sexual acts in exchange for basic necessities like food and housing

    These women — our fellow American citizens — were so desperate for food that they had to resort to such extreme measures just to feed themselves in our own country

    That’s unacceptable

    That is unAmerican,” said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin

    “While American citizens from Hawaii to North Carolina suffered, Biden and Mayorkas used FEMA as a piggy bank, spending hundreds of millions of American taxpayer dollars to housing illegal aliens, including at the Roosevelt Hotel that served as a Tren de Aragua base of operations and was used to shelter Laken Riley’s killer

    ” This is yet another outrageous example of the gross mismanagement and poor treatment of Americans under the prior administration

     This will never happen again under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Tests New Ways to Stick the Landing in Challenging Terrain

    Source: NASA

    Advancing new hazard detection and precision landing technologies to help future space missions successfully achieve safe and soft landings is a critical area of space research and development, particularly for future crewed missions. To support this, NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) is pursuing a regular cadence of flight testing on a variety of vehicles, helping researchers rapidly advance these critical systems for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.  
    “These flight tests directly address some of NASA’s highest-ranked technology needs, or shortfalls, ranging from advanced guidance algorithms and terrain-relative navigation to lidar-and optical-based hazard detection and mapping,” said Dr. John M. Carson III, STMD technical integration manager for precision landing and based at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. 
    Since the beginning of this year, STMD has supported flight testing of four precision landing and hazard detection technologies from many sectors, including NASA, universities, and commercial industry. These cutting-edge solutions have flown aboard a suborbital rocket system, a high-speed jet, a helicopter, and a rocket-powered lander testbed. That’s four precision landing technologies tested on four different flight vehicles in four months. 
    “By flight testing these technologies on Earth in spaceflight-relevant trajectories and velocities, we’re demonstrating their capabilities and validating them with real data for transitioning technologies from the lab into mission applications,” said Dr. Carson. “This work also signals to industry and other partners that these capabilities are ready to push beyond NASA and academia and into the next generation of Moon and Mars landers.” 
    The following NASA-supported flight tests took place between February and May: 

    Identifying landmarks to calculate accurate navigation solutions is a key function of Draper’s Multi-Environment Navigator (DMEN), a vision-based navigation and hazard detection technology designed to improve safety and precision of lunar landings.  
    Aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard reusable suborbital rocket system, DMEN collected real-world data and validated its algorithms to advance it for use during the delivery of three NASA payloads as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. On Feb. 4, DMEN performed the latest in a series of tests supported by NASA’s Flight Opportunities program, which is managed at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. 
    During the February flight, which enabled testing at rocket speeds on ascent and descent, DMEN scanned the Earth below, identifying landmarks to calculate an accurate navigation solution. The technology achieved accuracy levels that helped Draper advance it for use in terrain-relative navigation, which is a key element of landing on other planets. 

    Several highly dynamic maneuvers and flight paths put Psionic’s Space Navigation Doppler Lidar (PSNDL) to the test while it collected navigation data at various altitudes, velocities, and orientations.  
    Psionic licensed NASA’s Navigation Doppler Lidar technology developed at Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, and created its own miniaturized system with improved functionality and component redundancies, making it more rugged for spaceflight. In February, PSNDL along with a full navigation sensor suite was mounted aboard an F/A-18 Hornet aircraft and underwent flight testing at NASA Armstrong.  
    The aircraft followed a variety of flight paths over several days, including a large figure-eight loop and several highly dynamic maneuvers over Death Valley, California. During these flights, PSNDL collected navigation data relevant for lunar and Mars entry and descent.  
    The high-speed flight tests demonstrated the sensor’s accuracy and navigation precision in challenging conditions, helping prepare the technology to land robots and astronauts on the Moon and Mars. These recent tests complemented previous Flight Opportunities-supported testing aboard a lander testbed to advance earlier versions of their PSNDL prototypes. 

    Researchers at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, developed a state-of-the-art Hazard Detection Lidar (HDL) sensor system to quickly map the surface from a vehicle descending at high speed to find safe landing sites in challenging locations, such as Europa (one of Jupiter’s moons), our own Moon, Mars, and other planetary bodies throughout the solar system. The HDL-scanning lidar generates three-dimensional digital elevation maps in real time, processing approximately 15 million laser measurements and mapping two football fields’ worth of terrain in only two seconds.  
    In mid-March, researchers tested the HDL from a helicopter at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with flights over a lunar-like test field with rocks and craters. The HDL collected numerous scans from several different altitudes and view angles to simulate a range of landing scenarios, generating real-time maps. Preliminary reviews of the data show excellent performance of the HDL system. 
    The HDL is a component of NASA’s Safe and Precise Landing – Integrated Capabilities Evolution (SPLICE) technology suite. The SPLICE descent and landing system integrates multiple component technologies, such as avionics, sensors, and algorithms, to enable landing in hard-to-reach areas of high scientific interest. The HDL team is also continuing to test and further improve the sensor for future flight opportunities and commercial applications. 

    Providing pinpoint landing guidance capability with minimum propellant usage, the San Diego State University (SDSU) powered-descent guidance algorithms seek to improve autonomous spacecraft precision landing and hazard avoidance. During a series of flight tests in April and May, supported by NASA’s Flight Opportunities program, the university’s software was integrated into Astrobotic’s Xodiac suborbital rocket-powered lander via hardware developed by Falcon ExoDynamics as part of NASA TechLeap Prize’s Nighttime Precision Landing Challenge.  
    The SDSU algorithms aim to improve landing capabilities by expanding the flexibility and trajectory-shaping ability and enhancing the propellant efficiency of powered-descent guidance systems. They have the potential for infusion into human and robotic missions to the Moon as well as high-mass Mars missions.  

    By advancing these and other important navigation, precision landing, and hazard detection technologies with frequent flight tests, NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate is prioritizing safe and successful touchdowns in challenging planetary environments for future space missions.  
    Learn more:  https://www.nasa.gov/space-technology-mission-directorate/  
    By: Lee Ann ObringerNASA’s Flight Opportunities program

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SFST’s speech at “Hong Kong Night” business networking reception and seminar in Vancouver, Canada (English only) (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SFST’s speech at “Hong Kong Night” business networking reception and seminar in Vancouver, Canada (English only) (with photo) 
    Distinguished guests, industry leaders and innovators, friends in Canada and from around the world,
     
    Good evening, everyone. Thanks for having me today for this very special occasion, called “Hong Kong Night”. I must say I always wonder why we have “Hong Kong night” in broad daylight. I suppose it could be a distinctive feature of this city which everybody loves. Just now, our colleague from Cathay Pacific mentioned to me that there will be a draw right after for tickets so I’m sure that explains why you are all here.
     
    Let me give you some flavour in terms of how Hong Kong has been faring, and also at the same time some talking points that you may want to share after this session. I want to give you an overview in terms of how Hong Kong has done so far in financial services under my portfolio, and also in particular the reason why I’m here in Vancouver because this is my last stop, after Toronto and also Ottawa. Through this visit, I had the opportunity to see many people at the government, regulators and also financial institutions. What I am impressed most is that it’s really a place where people are looking for a change. You already have a new government. At the same time, you are looking for ways to diversify, in terms of your economy, and also in terms of financial activities. So I think Hong Kong comes at the right time, where it’s a very viable option, either you are a corporate, an individual, or even an investor, to consider that in the context of diversification.
     
    Before I further proceed, maybe first of all, let me give you an overview of how Hong Kong’s been faring so far. I’ve been asked a lot in terms of the impact of tariffs on Hong Kong. I understand that there will be a fireside chat by Rocky (the Director and Head of Policy Research of the Financial Services Development Council, Dr Rocky Tung) later on, and I’ll leave that to the experts. But that said, Hong Kong being a service economy, I must say we don’t have much to export. At the same time, we are a free economy as stipulated in our Basic Law. So far so good in terms of our resilience, I would say, in the broader context of geopolitical change.
     
    More specifically, in our capital market, recently we do see an upsurge in our stock market. Right now, our average daily turnover is exceeding US$32 billion, and also we’ve welcomed a number of key mega IPOs (initial public offerings), like the recent one is CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Limited). It’s a major or global battery manufacturer for EVs (electric vehicles), and they just got listed at the same time, offering a shares equivalent to the size of around HK$41 billion. And funny enough, when you look at the composition of the investors, we have those from the US. At the same time, we also have investors from the Middle East, where the Kuwait Sovereign Wealth Fund, what we call the KIA, Kuwait Investment Authority, actually put in US$500 million in that offer. So you can see that despite all the talk about the deglobalisation or decoupling, finance, in particular, capital formation takes place, and also monies after returns.
     
    Of course, that is not alone in terms of what we are welcoming. We also welcome Canadian companies to list in Hong Kong as well. Right now, we have around six Canadian companies already listed in Hong Kong, like Manulife and also some of the mining and oil and gas companies. I do very much welcome many more listings, especially from this part of the world, where it could be tech, could be mining, or for other types of new economic activities.
     
    The second part I want to highlight, apart from how Hong Kong has been faring, is in terms of my observations so far this year, so far in my visit. Apart from the general ones that I just highlighted, I do see a number of areas that Hong Kong and Canada can work together. First of all, wealth management, because I got the chance to see and meet a number of insurance companies and banks from this part of the world. In fact, many of them are heavily invested and also have a strong presence in Hong Kong, like Manulife, which takes up 27 per cent of our Mandatory Provident Fund, a pension service system in Hong Kong. And also Sun Life, which is in collaboration with Dah Sing Bank in Hong Kong through the bank insurance businesses. Also we have CIBC (Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce) and others that already have a strong presence in corporate banking in Hong Kong.
     
    Many people see wealth management as an emerging trend, an area where we should work together. Because in the way that we see the world, like all of you, people are looking for ways to diversify. Many of the traditional markets where people want to park their wealth in the Anglo-Saxon world, people are still changing their minds in terms of whether they should diversify through geography or through products. In either way, Hong Kong is an option, because we have been the largest offshore cross-boundary wealth management centre so far in Asia, and we are looking to be the biggest one in the world. It is an area that we are very keen to develop further. Right now, we have 2 700 single family offices. We are going to have facilitated at least 200 more family offices by the end of this year. Also, we are going to have more tax concessions for family offices to cover private credit, carbon credit, and virtual assets. I will leave these details to our Invest Hong Kong colleagues. They will have all the details. All I want to say is wealth management, in particular in terms of family offices and high-net-worth individuals, is an area that I think Hong Kong can walk closely together with this country.
     
    The second area that I think is important to note in terms of collaboration is about what the host mentioned just now – the Web Summit Vancouver. The reason that I’m here is because we just passed a law to regulate stablecoin issues in Hong Kong. It is a big topic, not just in Hong Kong, but regionally, because many people see virtual assets as speculative. But that said, stablecoins being underpinned by fiat currency is a different animal, which potentially can be used in the form of payment. At a time when the US dollar or US-related assets are being questioned, I think many of the alternatives, also at the same time, in the form of stablecoins, have that role to play.
     
    In that regard, I have more to share in terms of our ecosystem effort to build an ecosystem in Hong Kong for our virtual assets. We have already 10 virtual asset exchanges, and also at the same time, we are going to issue licenses for stablecoin issuers. And very soon, we will also regulate these virtual asset custodians. For anyone of you who are participating, in this space, I do urge you to look at what Hong Kong has done and also at the same time how you can leverage the opportunities for your own development.
     
    Last but not least, in terms of what I want to inform this group is having debriefed all of you about what Hong Kong has done in terms of wealth management and virtual assets and also fintech in general, I’m sure that you do see a lot of need to come to Hong Kong. So even though you may not be able to get those free tickets, I’m sure you’re all rich enough to buy your own and also give yourself a reason to come to Hong Kong soon. And anytime, anywhere, you’re most welcome. Thank you.
    Issued at HKT 16:49

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Oxford Travel Options’ website launches for residents, visitors, and commuters

    Source: City of Oxford

    A new website has launched to help anyone who lives in, works in, or visits Oxford to find alternatives to travelling by car around the city. 

    Oxford Travel Options, aims to provide Oxford residents, commuters, visitors and businesses with information and advice on alternatives to travelling by car. 

    The website has been created by the Zero Carbon Oxfordshire Partnership and Low Carbon Oxford North, with support from the Low Carbon Hub. 

    The site includes information on different ways of travelling around the city, which is updated regularly. It covers everything from explaining different bus ticket types, cycling and walking routes, to online journey planners, lift share apps, information on wheelchair bus access, and cargo bike hire. It also includes advice for employers on supporting staff travel. 

    The website also features real stories from local people, with case studies and advice on a range of topics from travelling with kids to finding a liftshare buddy, and finding cheaper and healthier ways to travel.   

    The Zero Carbon Oxfordshire Partnership is a group of Oxfordshire’s leading institutions and employers working together to achieve zero carbon emissions across the county by 2050, including the universities, NHS trusts, councils, large businesses, further education, and community organisations. 

    Low Carbon Oxford North is a community climate charity set up by local residents to support ambitious CO2 cuts through local action. 

    Low Carbon Hub is a social enterprise out to prove we can meet our energy needs in a way that’s good for people and good for the planet. They provided funding to Low Carbon Oxford North for the project through their Community Grants Programme, which supports local action on climate change.  

    Transport is the second largest contributor to Oxford’s emissions, accounting for 23% of emissions. In order for Oxford to become a net zero city by 2040, a shift from private car use towards increased public transport-use is needed, as well as cycling, walking, working-from-home, and car sharing. 

    The need for the website was identified by the Partnership’s Sustainable Travel working group, which supports sustainable travel initiatives with employers, and by Low Carbon Oxford North through their work with Oxford residents. 

    Funding for the creation of the website has come from the Zero Carbon Oxfordshire Partnership and Low Carbon Hub. Ongoing management of the website will be funded by the Foundation for Integrated Transport and the Zero Carbon Oxfordshire Partnership.  

    “Transport is one of Oxford’s biggest sources of carbon emissions, and we know that helping people shift how they travel – even in small ways – is key to tackling this. The website brings together local travel advice to help people choose low-carbon options that fit their daily lives, including guidance for employers supporting staff to travel more sustainably. The Sustainable Travel Working Group identified the need for a central, user-friendly resource like this, and it’s great to see that idea now brought to life. We hope it will be a useful tool for employers, residents and visitors alike to make more confident, informed choices about how they travel.” 

    Jerry Woods, Champion of the ZCOP Sustainable Travel working group

    “We know from working with Oxford residents that there are lots of people in Oxford who would like to drive less and would value some support in making changes – and this is exactly what Oxford Travel Options is intended to do. The site makes it easier for people to access the huge variety of resources and services Oxford offers in support of sustainable travel.  We know people rely on cars for lots of reasons – we also know that small changes to our travel habits can save money, reduce stress and improve happiness, as well as improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions. This is not an ‘all or nothing scenario’. We hope that by providing lots of useful information, the website will encourage people to have a try and see how it goes!” 

    Carey Newson, Trustee of community climate charity Low Carbon Oxford North

    “I am delighted to welcome this fantastic initiative from ZCOP. Healthy and sustainable travel options improve every aspect of people’s lives: mental and physical health and wellbeing, educational outcomes, independence and resilience in young people, cleaner air, safer streets, better public transport, and much else.  

    “Part of the county council’s long-term transport strategy for Oxfordshire is to enable residents to feel the many benefits of walking and cycling, and using public and shared transport. The travel options website is an example of organisations working together to inspire others to try something new, one journey at a time.”  

    Councillor Andrew Gant, Cabinet Member for Transport Management at Oxfordshire County Council

    “We know from working with the city’s biggest employers that residents & their staff want information on how to travel into and across Oxford conveniently and sustainably. This new website aims to compile this information into one accessible place. I hope that residents will find it useful for journey planning & will encourage them to try different ways of getting to work and around the city.”

    Councillor Anna Railton, Deputy Leader, and Cabinet Member for a Zero Carbon Oxford, Oxford City Council

    “The University of Oxford is pleased to be part of the ZCOP Sustainable Travel Working Group and to support the launch of the Oxford Travel Options website. This resource makes sustainable travel simple and accessible for everyone in Oxford. With so many staff and students travelling daily, it provides valuable support to help make greener travel choices easier. It’s encouraging to see partners across the city collaborating on this initiative.” 

    Ed Wigzell, Sustainable Travel Manager, University of Oxford

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police catch drink and drug drivers

    Source: New South Wales – News

    South Australia Police detected 53 drink and drug driving offences in a targeted statewide road safety operation last week.

    Operation Stop Drink and Drug Drive was conducted from 23 to 25 May 2025 involving both static and mobile alcohol and drug testing units.

    Officer in Charge of Traffic Services Branch, Superintendent Shane Johnson said the results indicate that too many drivers are still making the irresponsible decision to drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

    “Drink and drug driving is a selfish decision that puts drivers and other road users at unnecessary risk of injury or a loss of life,” Superintendent Johnson said.

    “In this operation, police detected 23 positive drug driving offences and 32 drink driving offences, so 51 people immediately lost their licence and 22 had their vehicle impounded.

    “Police will continue to conduct high-visibility operations across the state to target those who ignore the law. If you drink alcohol or take drugs and get behind the wheel, you are taking an unnecessary risk and will get caught. “

    An incident of note involved a 62-year-old Para Hills woman who was detected allegedly with a blood alcohol reading five times over the legal limit with a reading of 0.266 after failing to navigate a left-hand turn and crashing a vehicle on a pedestrian refuge. She was issued with drink driving and driving without due care and issued with a 12-month immediate loss of licence.

    A 62-year-old Morphett Vale man was also detected with an alleged a blood alcohol reading of 0.266 was stopped for driving in an erratic manner. He was issued with a 12-month immediate loss of licence notice and police impounded his vehicle for 28 days.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – Alphawave IP Group plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

    1.         KEY INFORMATION

    (a) Full name of discloser: Sculptor Capital LP and
    Sculptor Capital Management Europe Limited
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
         The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient.  For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
         Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Alphawave IP Group plc
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
         For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 29 May 2025
    (f)  In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
         If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 No

    2.         POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

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

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

    Class of relevant security:

     

    		 Senior unsecured convertible bond (XS2962835257)
     

     

    		 Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:        
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:

     

    		 5,600,000 3.73    
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
     

         TOTAL:

    		 5,600,000 3.73    
    Class of relevant security:

     

    		 1p ordinary (GB00BNDRMJ14)
     

     

    		 Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:        
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:

     

    		     2,037,859 0.27
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
     

         TOTAL:

    		     2,037,859 0.27

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale

     

    		 Number of securities Price per unit
       

     

    		    

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    1p ordinary (GB00BNDRMJ14) CFD Increasing a short position 163,792 USD2.00

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

    (i)         Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

     

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

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
       

     

    		    

    4.         OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

     

     

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

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

     

     

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO

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

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

    *If the discloser is a natural person, a telephone number does not need to be included, provided contact information has been provided to the Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit.

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd. to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd. (TSX: BDGI; OTCQX: BDGIF), North America’s largest provider of non-destructive excavating and related services, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd. upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

    Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd. begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “BDGIF.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    “We are excited to be added to the OTCQX® Best Market, which provides the opportunity to broaden our market access, enhance liquidity, and strengthen our U.S. investor presence. This move enhances our visibility within the U.S. investment community and provides a convenient way for investors to trade our shares in their own currency and local market. It positions us to expand our investor base as we continue to build sustainable, scalable growth while delivering exceptional service and value to our customers and stakeholders,” said Rob Blackadar, Badger Infrastructure’s President & CEO.

    About Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd.
    Badger Infrastructure Solutions Ltd. is North America’s largest provider of non-destructive excavating and related services. Badger works for contractors and facility owners in a broad range of infrastructure industries and in general commercial construction. Badger’s customers typically operate near high concentrations of underground power, communication, water, gas and sewer lines, where safety and economic risks are high and where non-destructive excavation provides a safe alternative for certain customer excavation requirements. The Company’s key technology is the Badger HydrovacTM, which uses a pressurized water stream to liquify the soil cover, which is then removed with a powerful vacuum system and deposited into a storage tank. Badger is unique in the non-destructive excavation industry because it designs and manufactures all of its hydrovac units at its plant in Red Deer, AB, which has an annual production capacity of more than 350 hydrovac units. To complement the Badger Hydrovac, the Company has a select number of specialty units, including combo trucks, sewer and flusher units, and Air Vacs. The Company is headquartered in Calgary, AB, has a U.S. administrative office and training centre in Brownsburg, IN, a suburb of Indianapolis, IN, and services customers from approximately 140 field locations across both Canada and the United Sates.

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.
    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market and Pink® Open Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN, OTC Link NQB, and MOON ATS™ are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

    To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [GLOBALDATA PLC – 29 05 2025] – (CGWL)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

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

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 GLOBALDATA PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 29 MAY 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

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

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

    Class of relevant security: 0.01p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 10,981,538 1.3616    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 10,981,538 1.3616    

    NOTE: On 29/05/2025, 7,900 shares were transferred out by a discretionary client.

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    0.01p ORDINARY SALE 4,395 182.69p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

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

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

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

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

    NONE

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

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

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 30 MAY 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Spain: EIB finances Teknia with €30 million loan to support R&D investments for the European automotive sector

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • The loan will support Teknia’s research and development (R&D investments) in Spain, Poland, Romania, Germany, Sweden and Czech Republic to develop more sustainable manufacturing technologies for automotive components.
    • This operation by the European Investment Bank (EIB) supports innovation and sustainability in a strategic sector for the EU economy.
    • The agreement contributes to the EIB’s strategic priorities of innovation, climate action and cohesion.
    • The operation is backed by InvestEU, an EU programme that aims to unlock over €372 billion in investment by 2027.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Teknia have signed a loan worth €30 million to finance the company’s research and development activities, and measures to apply them in manufacturing of components for the automotive sector.  Teknia is a Spanish company present in 13 countries specialised in the manufacture of metal and plastic components for mobility solutions using a wide range of technologies.

    The EIB loan will support Teknia’s investments in R&D and in its facilities located in Spain, Poland, Romania, Germany, Sweden and Czechia. The investments will focus on the application of advanced manufacturing technologies, product diversification and cutting CO2 emissions. The company, one of the leading Spanish automotive suppliers, will reinforce its manufacturing capabilities and digitalization which are important pillars of its strategic plan in course.  

    The operation contributes to the EU’s cohesion policy as a significant part of the investments (approximately 51%) will be made in cohesion regions.

    “We are very pleased to be joining forces with Teknia to foster innovation and sustainability in the European automotive sector,” said Antonio Lorenzo, head of the EIB’s Corporate Lending Division Spain and Portugal. “This new financing is a clear example of how the EIB is helping companies to become more sustainable, more innovative and more competitive while contributing to strengthening Europe’s leading position in strategic sectors”.

    “This important loan will allow us to keep growing during these challenging times in the automotive sector and focus even more in innovation to manufacture the mobility of the future in our plants in the most sustainable way, decreasing the carbon footprint of the group”, Javier Quesada de Luis, Teknia CEO, explained. “We look to the future with optimism and will keep reinforcing our operations digitalizing our plants and innovating to codevelop new products together with our clients”.

    The EIB operation will boost EU competitiveness and help to reindustrialise a sector undergoing transformation due to the impact of developments like electrification and digitalisation.

    The loan contributes to the EIB Group’s strategic priorities of innovation and climate action and cohesion. These are three of the Group’s eight priorities set out in its Strategic Roadmap for the years 2024-2027.

    The EIB loan is partially guaranteed by InvestEU, the flagship EU programme to mobilise over €372 billion of additional public and private sector investment to support EU policy goals from 2021 to 2027.

    Background information  

    EIB 

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union, and the capital markets union.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.  

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.  

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    InvestEU

    The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with crucial long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps mobilise private investment for EU policy priorities, such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. InvestEU brings together under one roof the multitude of EU financial instruments available to support investment in the European Union, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is implemented through financial partners that invest in projects, leveraging on the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increasing their risk-bearing capacity and mobilising at least €372 billion in additional investment.

    Teknia

    Teknia is a multinational group specializing in the manufacturing of mobility components through metal and plastic components in a wide range of technologies.

    Founded in 1992 as a global supplier to the automotive industry, Teknia is present in 13 countries, with 23 plants and more than 3,500 employees. The company’s clients include the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers, as well as other Tier-1 suppliers. Teknia’s revenues reached €431 million in 2024.

    Teknia – RDI and Advanced Manufacturing
    Spain: EIB finances Teknia with €30 million loan to support R&D investments for the European automotive sector
    ©EIB
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    European Commission
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    ©European Commission
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: North of Scotland Councils announce multi-million-pound EV charging infrastructure partnership

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Highland, Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray Councils are today announcing that EasyGo has been awarded a 20-year contract to provide EV charging infrastructure for the north of Scotland. The contract is estimated to be worth £300 million, with Highland Council acting as the lead authority.

    The large-scale EV infrastructure project will accelerate the region’s transition to Net Zero and see 570 new charging points installed across the north of Scotland by 2028, more than doubling the existing EV infrastructure and further enhancing the region’s charging network. EasyGo will also adopt and maintain all existing council-owned public charging points in the region.

    Transport Scotland has committed more than £7 million of funding to enable the partnership as part of the Scottish Government’s £30 million Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund. The fund was launched in 2022 and enables local authorities to work with the private sector to deliver a high-quality public EV charging network across all of Scotland.

    The north of Scotland partnership is the first inter-council contract to have been awarded and is the largest grant award in Scotland since the fund’s inception.

    Councillor Ken Gowans, Vice Convener of The Highland Council said: “We are honoured to lead this groundbreaking initiative in the north of Scotland which sets a new standard for regional cooperation. This project exemplifies the power of collaboration as we work closely with our neighbouring local authorities to create a comprehensive and accessible EV charging network. By addressing the critical need for expanded charging infrastructure, we are removing significant barriers to electric vehicle adoption, better serving our communities in both urban and rural areas and delivering a wide range of community benefits. Together, we are paving the way for a greener, more equitable and connected future across the Highlands and beyond.”

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “This is a huge boost to the electric vehicle charging network in Aberdeen. The new enlarged infrastructure means more places to charge electric vehicles which fits in with Aberdeen City Council’s plans for net zero and with the aim of improving air quality. Hopefully there will be increased use of the charging stations.  We will continue to promote greener technologies because everyone benefits from a cleaner environment. Looking to the future, we want to ensure Aberdeen’s place as energy capital of Europe.”

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “The investment in the city’s electric vehicle network is part of our Net Zero Vision and Strategic Infrastructure Plan for Energy Transition. The new infrastructure will help cement our position as a world leader in the energy sector as an economic driver for the city, region, Scotland and the UK.”

    Councillor Gillian Owen, Leader of Aberdeenshire Council, said: “This is a hugely aspirational programme for all our regions, and I very much welcome the future development of additional electric vehicle charging infrastructure to help future-proof our network. As a large rural authority, we acknowledge that more needs to be done to improve and extend the existing infrastructure to cater for under-served areas across Aberdeenshire and to ensure far greater reliability of services for motorists. Through this ambitious partnership approach, I am confident it will encourage a major increase in EV usage and help promote equality within both rural and urban areas.”

    Councillor Kathleen Robertson, Leader of Moray Council, said: “This initiative highlights perfectly how collaborative efforts across the north of Scotland can deliver for all of our communities. We’re not only expanding the electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Moray but working with our neighbours to open up economic growth and development opportunities across our region. By playing our own part in the drive to net zero we’re helping Scotland make the journey that really matters. As an electric car driver myself I know how welcome this investment will be for locals and visitors and am proud we’re delivering a climate positive network for the ages.”

    Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “I’m pleased that over £7 million from the Scottish Government is transforming public electric vehicle infrastructure across the north of Scotland. Our £30 million Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund has now been fully allocated to support this type of collaboration across the country and is expected to support the delivery of around 6,000 additional public charge points by 2030.

    “In the north of Scotland, our investment has enabled an innovative procurement partnership across four local authorities, that is expected to leverage over £4.9 million of additional matched private sector investment over the next three years to expand the availability, accessibility and reliability of public EV charging.

    “As we transition away from ChargePlace Scotland, in line with our published vision for public charging infrastructure – this truly collaborative approach, supported through our Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund, directly contributes to our ambition to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030.”

    EasyGo is a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, operating over 4,500 chargers across more than 1,500 locations in Ireland. Founded in 2018, EasyGo delivers fast, reliable direct current (DC) charging to over 100,000 EV drivers and collaborates with major industry players to enhance the accessibility and interoperability of its charging infrastructure.

    Ollie Chatten, CEO of EasyGo, said: “As the largest EV charging network across Ireland, we are truly excited to be working with the Scottish Government on the north of Scotland electric vehicle charging infrastructure partnership, following a successful and thorough procurement process. Supporting progressive councils across the country in building out EV infrastructure is a vital step towards a more sustainable and future-focused Scotland. This project enables us to bring our proven expertise to the forefront, ensuring a reliable and efficient charging network that will power Scotland’s journey to Net Zero.”

    Highland Council Vice Convener Cllr Ken Gowans

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Improving lives through local climate action

    Source: Scottish Government

    Scotland’s Climate Action Hubs to receive £6 million funding.

    Community projects across Scotland aimed at improving lives through local climate action are set to benefit from a share of £6 million Scottish Government funding.

    Scotland’s nationwide network for Climate Action Hubs encourage and support climate action unique to their own areas from flood mitigation, repair shops and local energy generation to food growing and tree planting.

    There is now a Hub covering every area in Scotland fulfilling a previous Programme for Government commitment to ensure people are empowered to act on climate in their own neighbourhoods.

    Acting Net Zero Secretary Gillian Martin confirmed the funding during a visit to Buckie Thistle Football Club which is being supported by Moray Climate Hub to reduce its impact on the environment and raise awareness of climate change in local schools. 

    Ms Martin said: “I am very pleased to hear first-hand how Moray Climate Hub has been helping communities in the area support climate action from working with their local football team to identify ways in which they can cut their emissions to setting up a biodiversity garden for adults with learning difficulties.

    “Football clubs, like Buckie Thistle, play an influential role in their local community, and their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint will undoubtedly inspire others to do the same, and provide a template for climate action that other clubs can follow.

    “Tackling climate change is our collective responsibility and will require collaborative action at all levels. We must also share in the economic and health benefits that protecting our planet for future generations will bring. 

    “Communities are uniquely placed to play a critical role in shaping and driving forward the transition to low carbon and climate resilient living and we want to empower people to take action in their neighbourhoods that’s right for them. 

    “That is why we are proud to continue to support our hugely successful framework of regional climate hubs, which provide a vehicle for communities to come together and engage in collective grassroots action.”

    Moray Climate Hub Manager (Moray CAN) Louise Nicol said: “We’re delighted to receive continued funding , it means we can keep supporting communities across Moray to take meaningful climate action in ways that work for them. Working with Buckie Thistle has been great, and we are both learning so much from each other. Football is more than a game – it’s a community hub, and it’s a great way to open up conversations about the environment.”

    Buckie Thistle Football Club General manager, Stephen Shand, said: “We’re very grateful for the support from Moray Climate Hub – it’s helped us get our heads around what we can do as a club to be more environmentally responsible. We’re just at the start of the journey, but it’s exciting to learn more and see where small changes can make a difference. The help we are getting to find funding has been a huge boost to the club.”  

    Background

    A total of 24 hubs have been set up across Scotland – fulfilling a 2024 Programme for Government commitment.

    Contact information for climate action hubs.

    The Scottish Government is providing up to £6 million of funding in 2025 – 2026 for its network of Climate Action Hubs alongside a support package for delivery. This is broken down as follows – with some funding still to be allocated:

    Hub

    Total 25/26 Grant

    Angus

    171,946.00

    Argyll and Bute

    158,208.00

    Ayrshire

    370,000.00

    Dumfries and Galloway

    212,461.60

    Dundee

    163,895.00

    East Dunbartonshire

    105,985.00

    East Lothian

    166,617.00

    East Renfrewshire

    106,294.00

    Edinburgh

    375,000.00

    Fife

    307,505.00

    Forth Valley

    375,000.00

    Glasgow

    473,425.00

    Highlands & Islands

    476,952.00

    Inverclyde

    102,000.00

    Lanarkshire

    473,661.95

    Midlothian

    125,000.00

    Moray

    146,247.00

    North East

    510,895.00

    Outer Hebrides

    141,700.00

    Perth & Kinross

    165,000.00

    Renfrewshire

    162,000.00

    Scottish Borders

    171,151.33

    West Dunbartonshire

    70,960.00

    West Lothian

    170,985.00

    Total

    5,702,888.88

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strabane’s pubs set to come alive with local talent as Summer Jamm Festival unveils vibrant Music Tr

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Strabane’s pubs set to come alive with local talent as Summer Jamm Festival unveils vibrant Music Tr

    30 May 2025

    Strabane is eagerly anticipating the return of the Summer Jamm Festival on Saturday, June 7th. The day promises a wealth of family fun running from 12pm to late, with a significant highlight being the celebration of Strabane’s rich musical heritage through the inaugural Music Trail.

    As dusk approaches, the town will transform into a melodic wonderland. The Music Trail, in conjunction with Strabane BID, commences at 4pm and continues into the night across Strabane’s pubs.

    Attendees are invited to follow their ‘Music Map’ from bar to bar, discovering and celebrating the incredible talent of local musicians and bands. This trail is more than just a series of performances. It’s a testament to Strabane’s thriving artistic community and a unique opportunity to experience a diverse array of genres in welcoming local venues.

    Among the artists taking part are DJ Ryan Doc, Adam Dolan, Sticks Doherty, DJ Johnny G, The Brambles, David Doc, DJ Paul Carlin, Louis McTeggert, Darren Doherty, Nicky McCallan, Glen Rouse, Darragh Doherty and Ryan Quigg, Ragamuffins, Roddy Lynch and 2Vague.

    Throughout the afternoon and evening they will be appearing at the Harp and Fiddle, XOX, Christy’s Bar, The Railway Bar, Dicey’s Bar, the Fir Trees Hotel, Charlie’s Bar and the Farmers’ Home.

    “The Music Trail is truly the beating heart of our evening festivities at Summer Jamm this year,” says Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council.

    “We are incredibly proud to showcase the exceptional musical talent we have right here in Strabane. This trail offers an intimate and authentic way for both residents and visitors to connect with our local culture, support our artists, and enjoy a fantastic atmosphere in our town’s pubs. It’s the perfect end to what promises to be a brilliant day.”

    From acoustic sets to lively DJs, the Music Trail features a packed schedule across numerous venues, ensuring there’s something to suit every musical taste. Attendees can craft their own personalised musical journey, hopping between pubs to catch their favourite acts or discover new ones.

    Adding to the day’s excitement, the popular Bear Run ’74 Supercar event is coming to Strabane for the first time. Bear Run ’74 will take over Railway Street in full throttle fashion – a fierce spectacle of luxurious supercars lined from the Alley Theatre right up to Abercorn Square.

    Think chrome, growls, and glam: Strabane won’t know what hit it.

    The event showcases an impressive display of supercars while raising vital funds for the Mayor’s chosen charity. The stunning Lamborghini Revuelto, sure to be the number one attraction at this year’s Bear Run ’74, boasts impressive performance credentials. The supercar achieves 0-60 mph in just 2.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of over 217 mph. It’s guaranteed to turn heads at this year’s Summer Jamm.

    Beyond the music and roaring engines, the Summer Jamm Festival offers a host of other family-friendly attractions including a new Street Art Festival with interactive selfie murals, the Kidz Farm petting zoo, dinosaur encounters, and urban sports activities.

    The festival also features a diverse Arts and Crafts and Food Quarter, and dedicated family entertainment at The Alley Theatre.

    The Summer Jamm Festival takes place on Saturday, June 7th from 12pm to late, with the Music Trail beginning at 4pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of Strabane at this exciting community celebration.

    For Music Trail times and venues, visit www.derrystrabane.com/subsites/summer-jamm/pub-music-trail.

    For other festival details, please visit www.derrystrabane.com/summerjamm and follow Whats On Derry Strabane and The Alley Theatre Facebook pages for further updates.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Another step towards innovative technologies: GUU and SPb FRC RAS signed a cooperation agreement

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    On May 27, 2025, Rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev and Director of the St. Petersburg Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Ronzhin signed an agreement on cooperation in the educational and scientific fields.

    St. Petersburg Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences is a leading scientific institution with advanced scientific groundwork in fundamental research and engaged in interdisciplinary research in the field of information technology, automation, environmental management and environmental safety.

    Vice-Rector Maria Karelina and Director of the Engineering Project Management Center Vladimir Filatov also took part in the meeting on behalf of the State University of Management. The Director of the St. Petersburg Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences was given a tour of the State University of Management and the Engineering Project Management Center, where specialists presented the projects being implemented. These included developments in the field of unmanned aircraft systems and work within the framework of a large scientific project being carried out at the State University of Management. Representatives of the State University of Management’s Student Design Bureau demonstrated a project to restore the LuAZ-967M (TPK) vehicle and create its electrified version.

    Within the framework of the signed agreement, the State University of Management and the St. Petersburg Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences will carry out joint research projects in the field of high-tech innovative technologies, develop and update educational programs for higher and additional professional education, and conduct expertise in the field of research and experimental activities.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Our armed forces turned terror hideouts into ruins: PM Modi on Operation Sindoor

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Karakat in Bihar on Friday, laid the foundation stone and dedicated multiple development projects worth over ₹48,520 crore, marking a major step towards boosting infrastructure and economic progress in the state.

    Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister said he felt honoured to accelerate Bihar’s development from its sacred soil. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of the state for their continued support, especially acknowledging the presence and blessings of thousands of women in the audience. “The affection and trust shown by the people of Bihar, particularly our mothers and sisters, is a great source of strength,” he said.

    During his address, Prime Minister Modi referred to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed several innocent lives. Recalling his earlier visit to Bihar in the aftermath of the attack, he said he had promised the nation that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. “Today, I stand before you having fulfilled that pledge. Our armed forces turned the hideouts of those who conspired from across the border into rubble,” he stated.

    The Prime Minister underlined that the swift and decisive response by India’s forces had sent a strong message to the world. “This is the new India. The world has seen the power of the sindoor of our daughters. The terrorists, once emboldened by protection across the border, now cower in fear,” he added, referring to the military action termed Operation Sindoor.

    Describing the operation as a testament to India’s growing strength and resolve, PM Modi said the country’s military struck key enemy positions, including airbases and military installations, within minutes. “This is the India of resilience, courage and swift action,” he asserted.

    Paying tribute to Bihar’s legacy of bravery, the Prime Minister invoked the memory of Veer Kunwar Singh and noted the substantial contribution of the state’s youth to the Indian Army and Border Security Force (BSF). He praised the BSF’s valour during Operation Sindoor and described them as an unbreakable shield protecting India’s borders.

    PM Modi also honoured BSF Sub-Inspector Imtiaz, a native of Bihar, who was martyred in the line of duty on May 10. “The sacrifice of Bihar’s brave son will always be remembered,” he said.

    Reiterating his earlier statement from Bihar, the Prime Minister said that Operation Sindoor was just a glimpse of India’s capabilities. “This was only one arrow from our quiver,” he declared, reinforcing the message of a strong and assertive India.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Grigorenko: The selection of particularly significant projects of the second wave has been completed

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The government has resumed issuing grants for industrial competence center projects. A total of 49 projects will be implemented within the second wave: 17 of them will receive grant funding, the other 32 projects will be implemented using the companies’ own funds. Completion of 86% of the selected second wave projects is planned for up to and including 2027.

    During the selection of the second wave of projects, on the instructions of Deputy Prime Minister – Head of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko, an additional assessment of their economic efficiency and potential for replication was carried out.

    All developments that claimed the status of particularly significant projects were reviewed by development institutes – the Russian Foundation for Information Technology Development and the Skolkovo Foundation. Also, all projects that participated in the selection underwent an independent examination, within the framework of which an assessment was made of industry and inter-industry demand, economic feasibility of expenses and project implementation timeframes. In addition, the developments were checked for compliance with the requirements for inclusion in the register of software and hardware systems. Inclusion in the register facilitates the replicability of the solution and opens up the possibility of its use at critical information infrastructure (CII) facilities.

    “The projects implemented within the framework of the ICC are not just another point digital solutions. These are developments that are designed to increase the efficiency of entire sectors of the economy and ensure import substitution. We continue to improve the mechanism for selecting and implementing particularly significant projects in order to obtain competitive solutions that are not inferior to foreign ones, which the market is already waiting for and wants to implement. Additional assessment will allow us to determine at the stage of project selection which of them the industry is most interested in and how government investments will be returned to the budget in the form of tax deductions. It is important to exclude a situation in which one company – the customer – receives benefits from the implementation of the project. Also, let me remind you that we pay equal attention to both grant projects and projects at the expense of the companies’ own funds. All of them – regardless of the source of funding – must be completed on time and implemented within one or several industries,” commented Dmitry Grigorenko.

    The approved projects with grant co-financing, which will be implemented during the second wave, include, for example, a digital platform for solving and tracking quality issues commissioned by NAZ LLC. The system will automatically identify quality issues and promptly report them. Its implementation is expected to increase the speed of decision-making by 20% and increase the profits of enterprises in the automotive industry by 5-15%.

    The Industrial Assistant software package, implemented by order of DST-Ural LLC, also received grant support. The solution will allow using topographic images to create highly accurate 3D terrain models, plan mining operations, create routes for equipment movement, and warn of possible collapses and landslides. The system will help reduce the number of emergency situations and equipment downtime, and save on its repair and maintenance.

    Among the second-wave projects implemented at the expense of the companies’ own funds is the information system of the Federal State Unitary Enterprise Rosmorport for recording the calls of ships at the ports of the Russian Federation on domestic software (developed by JSC Sitronics). The project will consolidate data on ship calls at ports in a centralized database and create a “single information window” for the industry. Also among the progressive projects that will be implemented at the expense of the companies’ own funds is the development of JSC Kama – the cross-platform digital environment “Atom” for managing the functions of an electric vehicle. The system includes online diagnostics services, a digital cloud web system and a mobile application for managing an electric vehicle.

    For all projects, agreements have already been signed with customer companies at the level of development institutions on the provision of grants. The funds will be transferred to the recipients no later than June 1, 2025.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington Post: Scalise Leads Outside the Glare of the House Speakership

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Last week, Washington Post’s Paul Kane profiled House Majority Leader Steve Scalise’s (R-La.) critical leadership in the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and examined his role as the most tenured member of Congressional leadership. To see highlights of the piece, see below. To read the full article, click here.

    Washington Post: Scalise Leads Outside the Glare of the House Speakership
    The House majority leader, having come back from a shooting and a cancer bout, has shifted into the role of GOP elder statesman after having once sought the chamber’s top job.May 24, 2025By Paul Kane
    When House Majority Leader Steve Scalise looks around the leadership table these days, he realizes no one else played even a small role in the last big GOP tax-cut bill in 2017.“Everybody else is new. It’s amazing when you think about how much turnover there’s been,” the Louisiana Republican said.Scalise serves as the leader tasked with educating the relative newcomers about mistakes of the past while trying to push their sweeping conservative agenda across the legislative finish line.Scalise, 59, has found something close to political solace, effectively, as the COO for the House implementing day-to-day tasks, with House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) in the CEO role managing relationships with the Senate, President Donald Trump and key party holdouts on big votes.That paid off early Thursday when, despite the smallest majority in almost 100 years, House Republicans narrowly passed the massive tax-and-border-security package with not a single vote to spare.When the gavel fell, Scalise gave a high-five to House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minnesota) before embracing him. Behind them, the three chiefs of staff for Johnson, Scalise and Emmer all jumped into one another’s arms in a group bear hug.“It shows you how much better things are,” Scalise said in an interview Thursday.Less than two years ago, all three were engaged in a leadership game of musical chairs, following the far-right flank’s decision to eject Kevin McCarthy (R-California) from the top job.…Making matters worse, Scalise had just been diagnosed with multiple myeloma blood cancer, which included some intensive and debilitating treatments while also fueling rumors pushed by his internal foes. That followed the 2017 shooting at a congressional baseball practice in which Scalise was within minutes of dying.“There were people trying to spread a rumor that I had six months to go, and obviously that wasn’t true. And a lot of those other things were disgustingly false, deliberate lies. But look, this is a rough-and-tumble business. I have no qualms about that,” Scalise said in a 45-minute interview Tuesday in his third-floor Capitol suite, looking out onto the National Mall, one of two interviews we had for this column.…Rather than sulking away from politics, Scalise hunkered down and fashioned a strong relationship with his fellow Louisianan, whom he’s known for decades.He’s now the elder statesman of an incredibly green leadership team. During the 2017 effort to pass President Donald Trump’s first-term tax cut plan, Johnson was just months into his congressional service and Emmer was starting his second term. Rep. Lisa C. McClain (R-Michigan), now the No. 4 GOP leader, was working in the financial services industry.Having won his first election in 2007, Scalise knows what life was like before Trump consumed Republican politics. He’s one of fewer than 25 GOP members, out of 220, who served during George W. Bush’s presidency.Scalise was first elected to a top leadership post in 2014, as whip, which put him in charge during Trump’s first term of marshaling support for the effort to repeal the Affordable Care Act and pass the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.He spent a lot of time early this year reminding everyone how difficult those lifts were. The Senate failed on its ACA repeal vote in July 2017 and then kept fiddling on the issue into the fall, and the House didn’t fully engage on the tax plan until the fall, passing the budget resolution in late October despite the opposition of 20 Republicans from wealthy states that opposed its handling of local-tax deductions.The final vote on the nearly $2 trillion tax cut did not come until five days before Christmas 2017.“We had a rocky start in 2017, and it really threw us off a few months. We literally burned the first few months of that supermajority not having a sync between Congress and President Trump,” Scalise recalled Tuesday.Back then, House Republicans had more than 240 members, a luxury compared with today’s tally of 220, with Johnson able to spare just three votes from his side of the aisle to pass legislation with no Democratic support.So Scalise fought hard against Republicans, particularly in the Senate, when they wanted to divide up Trump’s agenda into two bills that would use the parliamentary fast track known as reconciliation, allowing some budget measures to pass without clearing the Senate’s filibuster hurdle.House Republicans have been so bitterly divided that at times they struggle to execute the most basic tasks, so it made no sense to bet on them passing two major bills with no margin for error.Scalise believes that pushing the tax agenda faster will deliver benefits faster to voters — something Republicans failed at eight years ago because Trump’s approval ratings on the economy did not soar until well after the 2018 midterm elections.“We never really got the economic benefits because it takes months for those economic benefits to kick in. By the time you get to the midterms, you really didn’t have the full bounce from the positive things that did happen,” he said.This time around, financial markets have had a different reaction, panicked by how the massive legislation will add trillions to the swelling federal debt.But Republicans have convinced themselves it will give an economic boost regardless. So Scalise visited Trump a year ago and began planning with committee chairmen about how to push through an agenda as quickly as possible if the GOP swept control of Congress.“Let’s be ready for the moment,” he told Trump.Close friends feel that Scalise is finally really comfortable and delivering results, after an almost biblical run of surviving the shooting, fighting McCarthy and others in internal feuds, and battling blood cancer.“We can’t minimize the speaker’s role, we can’t minimize the whip’s role. But Steve Scalise is running on all cylinders in a big way,” said Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Florida), a 22-year veteran and unofficial lieutenant on Team Scalise.…Scalise said that he is in remission and that he goes through a battery of tests monthly. Sometimes he still crosses a partisan line that doesn’t fit his otherwise backslapping nature, as happened during a fiery, almost 20-minute speech just after 5 a.m. Thursday.Scalise accused Democrats of saying “President Biden’s health is just fine,” a couple of days after the former president’s prostate cancer diagnosis.It was a more partisan jab, coming from someone who’s also battling cancer, than Scalise’s natural posture.When Pelosi delivered her farewell speech from leadership, in November 2022, Scalise was the only member of the GOP leadership to attend. He said that he loves the institution and was there out of respect, particularly after she had been so nice to him after the 2017 shooting.Scalise blames “small numbers on both sides” who use a burn-it-all-down approach to toxify the image of Congress.“It doesn’t take many people to do it. And that helps beat the institution down,” he said.Scalise has been beat down more than most lawmakers, and he has the scars — real and emotional — to show for it.But he keeps forging ahead.Next month, at the annual Congressional Baseball Game, Scalise will again take the field at Nationals Park, where lawmakers gathered in a massive, bipartisan prayer the day after the 2017 shooting.He expects to occupy the one spot in the baseball lineup that he has yet to secure inside the Capitol.Scalise bats leadoff for the Republican team.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man to appear in court after driving with excess breath alcohol, Oamaru

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Southern Police are urging motorists to drive safe this holiday weekend after a driver was arrested and charged with excess breath alcohol.

    At around 5.20pm, Oamaru Police were notified by a member of the public of a vehicle driving dangerously on State Highway One.

    A Police unit saw the vehicle on the main street of Oamaru and signalled the vehicle to stop.

    The 31-year-old man driving from Christchurch to Invercargill returned a breath alcohol result over five times the legal limit.

    The man was taken into custody at the scene.

    Police know there are four factors that can lead to fatalities and serious injuries on our roads – restraints, impairment through alcohol and drugs, distractions, and speed.

    Motorists are urged to take greater responsibility on our roads and ensure everyone in their vehicle is able to reach their destination safely.

    Police would like to thank the member of the public who reported the driving behaviour.

    The 31-year-old man is due to appear in court at a later date.

    If you see unsafe driving behaviour, or someone is in immediate danger, please call 111 as soon as possible.

    You can also report non-emergencies or matters after the fact through 105.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Newtons Road, Templeton

    Source: New Zealand Police

    One person has died following a serious crash in Templeton this afternoon.

    At around 2.45pm, emergency services were called to the intersection of Dawson Road and Newton Road.

    The crash involved a truck and two cars.

    Sadly, one person died at the scene. Our thoughts are with their family at this difficult time.

    The Serious Crash Unit has conducted a scene examination and the road is now open.

    While Police’s investigation into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing, Police would like to remind motorists to take care on our roads.

    Drive sober, remove distractions, wear your seatbelt, and stick to the speed limit to ensure you get to your destination safely

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Tianmen grand bridge under construction in China’s Guizhou

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

    Tianmen grand bridge under construction in China’s Guizhou

    Updated: May 30, 2025 14:38 Xinhua
    This aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows the Tianmen grand bridge under construction in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. The 1,553-meter-long grand bridge is a major project on the expressway linking Anshun and Panzhou in Guizhou. The bridge deck, 560 meters above water surface in the valley beneath it, will allow vehicles to run at 100 kilometers per hour when completed. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows workers at the construction site of the Tianmen grand bridge in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows the Tianmen grand bridge under construction in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows the Tianmen grand bridge under construction in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows the Tianmen grand bridge under construction in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows the Tianmen grand bridge under construction in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows the Tianmen grand bridge under construction in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows the Tianmen grand bridge under construction in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows the Tianmen grand bridge under construction in southwest China’s Guizhou Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police recover 365 pieces of pounamu, West Coast

    Source: New Zealand Police

    West Coast Police have recovered 365 pieces and boulders of pounamu that had been stolen from the Jackson River, following a report made by a member of the public.

    On Wednesday 28 May, Inspector Tracey Wharehoka was notified by Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio, representing the local hapū Ngāi Māhaki, located in South Westland, that a vehicle had reportedly been seen heading up the river by a member of the public, and it appeared the occupants were collecting pounamu.

    Public fossicking for pounamu is only allowed on beaches. Rivers are able to be fossicked by Ngāi Tahu members, but only with a permit from their local hapū to do so legally, which the people linked to the vehicle and trailer did not have.

    With some quick discussion, a decision was made to deploy staff from Franz Joseph to locate and intercept the vehicle.

    Police were successful in stopping the vehicle and recovered the stolen pounamu. This matter will be continued to be investigated and through the resolution process the pounamu will be returned to the hapū.

    Inspector Wharehoka says Police take pride in working alongside local hapū, and the theft of pounamu is treated with the same value and mindset that would be taken with other stolen property.

    “We are pleased we were able to move quickly and intercept these alleged thieves in the act.

    “People are often under the impression that because some of these West Coast locations are remote, no one else is watching.

    “This incident proves that is simply not true, and our tight-knit community have their eyes and ears switched on for any unusual activity.”

    Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio chairman, Paul Madgwick expressed the thanks of the iwi for the swift response of Police for what has been an ongoing problem with theft of their taonga, especially in these remote areas.

    “While the Vesting Act confirms that all pounamu is owned by Ngāi Tahu, our respective pounamu management plans provide an opportunity for the public to fossick freely on the beaches, and also recognise the right of Ngāi Tahu members to collect pounamu themselves, within boundaries.

    “Anyone who is unsure of the rules around pounamu gathering, or has pounamu in their possession and is unclear about ownership, whether they’re the general public or Ngāi Tahu whanau, is urged to reach out to the local Rūnanga to understand what is permissible.”

    Inspector Wharehoka says the protection and recovery of pounamu is just as much about education and knowledge as it is about detection and enforcement.

    Two men, aged in their 30s were spoken to at the time of the incident. Police are investigating the matter and charges are being considered.

    “We will continue to work with local iwi and those involved for the best action and outcome for all,” says Inspector Wharehoka.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • Musk aiming to send uncrewed Starship to Mars by end of 2026

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Two days after the latest in a string of test-flight setbacks for his big new Mars spacecraft, Starship, Elon Musk said on Thursday he foresees the futuristic vehicle making its first uncrewed voyage to the red planet at the end of next year.

    Musk presented a detailed Starship development timeline in a video posted online by his Los Angeles area-based rocket company, SpaceX, a day after saying he was departing the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump as head of a tumultuous campaign to slash government bureaucracy.

    The billionaire entrepreneur had said earlier that he was planning to scale back his role in government to focus greater attention on his various businesses, including SpaceX and electric car and battery maker Tesla.

    Musk acknowledged that his latest timeline for reaching Mars hinged on whether Starship can accomplish a number of challenging technical feats during its flight-test development, particularly a post-launch refueling maneuver in Earth orbit.

    The end of 2026 would coincide with a slim window that occurs once every two years when Mars and Earth align around the sun for the closest trip between the two planets, which would take seven to nine months to transit by spacecraft.

    Musk gave his company a 50-50 chance of meeting that deadline. If Starship were not ready by that time, SpaceX would wait another two years before trying again, Musk suggested in the video.

    The first flight to Mars would carry a simulated crew consisting of one or more robots of the Tesla-built humanoid Optimus design, with the first human crews following in the second or third landings. Musk said he envisioned eventually launching 1,000 to 2,000 ships to Mars every two years to quickly establish a self-sustaining permanent human settlement.

    NASA is currently aiming to return humans to the surface of the moon aboard Starship as early as 2027 – more than 50 years after its last manned lunar landings of the Apollo era – as a stepping stone toward ultimately launching astronauts to Mars sometime in the 2030s.

    Musk, who has advocated for a more Mars-focused human spaceflight program, has previously said he was aiming to send an unmanned SpaceX vehicle to the red planet as early as 2018 and was targeting 2024 to launch a first crewed mission there.

    The SpaceX founder was scheduled to deliver a livestream presentation billed as “The Road to Making Life Multiplanetary” from the company’s Starbase, Texas, launch site on Tuesday night, following a ninth test flight of Starship that evening.

    But the webcast was canceled without notice after Starship spun out of control and disintegrated in a fireball about 30 minutes after launch and roughly halfway through its flight path without achieving some of its most important test goals.

    Two preceding test flights in January and March failed in more spectacular fashion, with the spacecraft blowing to pieces on ascent moments after liftoff, raining debris over parts of the Caribbean and forcing scores of commercial jetliners to change course as a precaution.

    Musk shrugged off the latest mishap on Tuesday with a brief post on X, saying it produced a lot of “good data to review” and promising a faster launch “cadence” for the next several test flights.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: West Coast warrants

    Source: New Zealand Police

    West Coast Police have executed 10 search warrants across the Westport and Greymouth area this week, in relation to organised crime in the wider region.

    West Coast staff worked alongside colleagues from the Te Waipounamu Gang Distribution Unit (GDU) and the Tasman District Organised Crime Unit (TDOCU).

    While undertaking the warrants Police located :
    – More than a kilo of cannabis
    – A vehicle sought in relation to a hit and run crash
    – A pistol
    – An illegal bar operating.

    Two men appeared at Greymouth District Court on Wednesday the 28th May charged with Assaults police and Possession of cannabis for supply, to further appear on the 18th June.

    Two more men will appear at Greymouth District Court on Wednesday the 4th June, facing charges of Unlawful possession of a firearm and Operating a bar without a licence.

    Police have gained further information from the execution of these warrants and further arrests have not been ruled out.

    West Coast Area Commander, Inspector Hamish Chapman says, “The activities this week demonstrate the commitment Police has to drive down and disrupt organised and gang related crime and the harm it has on our communities.”

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: California’s ports face economic devastation as tariffs cripple trade with Asia-Pacific

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

    Ships loaded with containers are pictured at the Port of Los Angeles, California, the United States, on April 29, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    California’s ports are experiencing worse conditions than during the COVID-19 pandemic as U.S. President Donald Trump’s reckless trade war with China and other Asia-Pacific economies harmed the state’s economy, triggering widespread job losses and forcing billions of dollars in budget cuts.

    “The vessel calls, or cancellations, that we’re seeing today are starting to exceed the number that we saw in COVID-19,” Mario Cordero, chief executive of the Port of Long Beach, told CalMatters, an independent news agency focusing on California, in an interview published Wednesday.

    The Port of Long Beach alone supported 2,714,707 jobs across the United States, representing one out of every 77 American jobs, according to a comprehensive economic impact analysis completed on May 12 by the Port of Long Beach. In California, the port said it supported 1.1 million jobs, accounting for approximately five percent of the state’s total employment.

    Trade expert Paul Bingham of S&P Global Market Intelligence confirmed the unprecedented nature of the crisis during another recent interview with Cordero.

    “There’s nothing like this that any of us that are still active in our careers have seen before,” Bingham said. “From an economics perspective, we’d have to go back over 90 years to the 1930s to find tariff levels for the United States on a trade-weighted basis close to what they are right now.”

    The Golden State, the strongest state in the field of economy in the country, faced a 12-billion-U.S.-dollar budget deficit, with Governor Gavin Newsom directly blaming Trump’s “chaotic tariffs strategy” during his May 14 state budget announcement.

    The of Port Long Beach operations had seen dramatic deterioration. According to Cordero, the port received typically 20 container vessels weekly, but the number dropped to 14 vessels two weeks into May 2025 and current schedules showed only 18 this week.

    At the Port of Los Angeles, Executive Director Gene Seroka said during a media briefing that the facility had expected 80 ships to arrive in May, but 17 were subsequently canceled.

    The Port of Oakland in Northern California saw a 15 percent month-over-month drop in container activity in April, according to port spokesperson Matt Davis.

    The human cost also proved devastating across California’s supply chain network. Part-time port workers received no hours while full-time longshoremen struggled to reach 40 hours per week, according to Gary Herrera, president of the International Longshore Workers Union Local 13, speaking at a media briefing with Long Beach officials.

    Eric Tate, secretary-treasurer of Teamsters Local 848 representing about 8,000 truck drivers in Southern California, said in May that some drivers worked only one to two days weekly.

    “When there’s no work for longshoremen, there’s very little work for us except gate monitoring,” Luisa Gratz, president of International Longshore Workers Union Local 26, told CalMatters. “It’s heartbreaking. It’s putting people out of work.”

    California has deep economic ties with the Asia-Pacific markets. Chinese goods account for 40 percent of imports at the Port of Los Angeles, 63 percent at the Port of Long Beach, and 45 percent at the Port of Oakland, according to CalMatters’ data.

    The Port of Long Beach’s economic impact analysis showed the facility generates 309 billion dollars in national gross domestic product (GDP) and 84.4 billion dollars in tax revenues annually.

    The agricultural sector, California’s economic backbone worth 59 billion dollars annually, faced significant losses. “We got hammered. We lost the whole Chinese market to Australia. At this point, I’m on the verge of losing everything,” Christine Gemperle, an almond farmer of Stanislaus County, told The Los Angeles Times last month.

    Almond prices crashed from 2.5 dollars per pound to 1.4 dollars per pound due to tariffs imposed by Trump during his first term in 2018, according to research from the University of California’s Giannini Foundation of Agricultural Economics.

    Furthermore, the uncertainty caused by tariff policies has resulted in substantial economic damage for businesses, said experts.

    “The uncertainty here is not something because we have a virus we don’t understand, it’s the uncertainty around policy and what that has done to business, where there’s a lack of certainty, a lack of ability to plan has imposed costs on all of us,” Bingham said during his interview with Cordero.

    Economic analysts have warned of broader recession risks. The International Monetary Fund slashed its U.S. and global economic growth forecasts, citing Trump’s tariffs. Apollo Global Management’s chief economist, Torsten Slok, forecasts a “self-inflicted recession” by summer 2025, with layoffs spreading from trucking to retail.

    “You can’t put the toothpaste back into the tube — once you squeeze it, it’s out,” Constance Hunter, chief economist at the Economist Intelligence Unit, told The Washington Post on April 28.

    On Wednesday, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of International Trade invalidated Trump tariffs. In the ruling published on the court’s website, “The court holds for the foregoing reasons that IEEPA does not authorize any of the Worldwide, Retaliatory, or Trafficking Tariff Orders.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closed, Newtons Road, Templeton

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Newtons Road, Templeton is closed following a serious crash this afternoon.

    Emergency services received a report of a three-vehicle crash at around 2.45pm at the intersection of Newtons Road and Dawsons Road.

    Initial indications suggest there are serious injuries.

    The road is closed while emergency services are in attendance.

    Motorists are advised to follow diversions and expect delays.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Let construction commence. Next stage of the State Highway 58 Road of Regional Significance about to get underway

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Work will soon begin on the next stage of the State Highway 58 Safety Improvements Project between Moonshine and Murphys/Flightys Roads.

    Next week, NZTA/Waka Kotahi and Downer will start project enabling works –  ahead of constructing two roundabouts at Moonshine Road and Murphys/Flightys Roads, widening the road, and installing side barriers and median wire rope barriers. 

    Other improvements will include construction of shared paths, bus stops and drop off areas at each of the roundabouts, and new culverts to manage water flows across the project. 

    Current SH58/Moonshine Road intersection.

    Flightys/Murphys Road roundabout design.

    SH58/Moonshine Road roundabout design.

    Jetesh Bhula, Regional Manager Infrastructure Delivery says the next stage of the project is crucial as it rounds out important work already completed on this part of the state highway. 

    “It ensures safety measures are in place along the full route between Pāuatahanui and the Hutt Valley.” 

    “Safe roads bring huge benefits for the community by reducing crash rates. The costs of deaths and serious injuries bring significant social costs, but also immense pain and anguish for victims, their families, and their friends,” Mr Bhula says. 

    He says the project’s gains far outweigh its construction pains. 

    “The upcoming work will ensure this important east-west highway is a much safer, more reliable, and easier-to-use connection for the more than 19,000 motorists who use it every day.”  

    Previous improvements between State Highway 2 and east of Moonshine Road started in 2019 and were completed in December last year. 

    Mr Bhula says they have already proved their worth. 

    “Locals will be aware of the road’s high crash rate – which includes 13 serious crashes on SH58, between Transmission Gully and SH2, from 2015 to 2025.  

    “Since December, we have had twenty-three barrier strikes recorded on the completed section of road. This goes to show how the improvements have been critical in reducing the severity of crashes.” 

    Mr Bhula acknowledges the patience of the local community given how long the project has been running. 

    “It has created travel delays. However, SH58 is a heavily used road that connects to numerous residents and businesses. We have had to balance the need to maintain network access for traffic and residents against completing the works as quickly as we can.” 

    He says every effort will be made to reduce the impact of the remaining works on the public. 

    “As much construction work as possible will happen off the current highway alignment, reducing impacts and delays for road users. However, some disruption is unavoidable with other parts of the project – such as when each leg into the roundabout is realigned and connected, and barriers are installed.” 

    “Work is expected to take around 20 months to complete, finishing in 2027. Please expect traffic management and temporary speed limits to be in place during this time,” Mr Bhula says

    Planning for work between Flightys/Murphys Roads and Transmission Gully is underway and specific details for this area will be confirmed at a later date.”

    More information:

    • State Highway 58 runs between State Highway 2 in the Hutt Valley and the Transmission Gully Interchange in Pāuatahanui.
    • This Crown-funded project is a Road of Regional Significance and aims to improve safety and reliability of the route. 
    • State Highway 58 is a regional route providing critical east-west access from State Highway 2 to State Highway 1 and is key to the region’s state highway network. Over 19,000 vehicles travel this highway daily. It is narrow and windy with many unprotected roadside hazards. 
    • A safer speed limit of 80 km/h was put in place in 2018 following public consultation, and construction of physical safety improvements has been progressing in stages, from east to west. 
    • More information about the project can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    View larger construction milestones map [PNG, 267 KB]

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Top tips for safe and stress-free King’s Birthday weekend trips

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) encourages those heading off for a long weekend break to check the  NZTA’s King’s Birthday Weekend 2025 Holiday Journey Planner  to plan their trips and avoid the worst congestion spots over the long weekend.

    NZTA’s King’s Birthday Weekend 2025 Holiday Journey Planner(external link)

    The interactive tool uses data from previous years to provide information on peak travel times to avoid, maps for popular holiday routes across the country, and real-time updates on road conditions, closures, and delays.

    It’s a great resource to help you plan your trip and avoid congestion during the long weekend.

    NZTA is urging everyone on the roads this weekend to drive safely and follow our top tips for a safe King’s Birthday Weekend:

    • Take the time to check your vehicle is safe before you leave – check the tyres, indicators, windshield wipers, lights
    • Be patient and allow plenty of time – rest stops are important for the driver and passengers on long trips
    • Drive to the road and weather conditions and check our winter driving advice
    • Slow down and be prepared for unexpected hazards
    • If you are travelling long distances, share the driving
    • Wear your seat belt throughout the journey and check your passengers are also buckled up

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China expands visa-free access for Latin America to boost trade ties

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

    For the first time since 2017, Peruvian national Marcel Sanchez Lopez is preparing to return to China, this time, unburdened by the once-cumbersome entry procedures.

    “Even as a CEO of a big company, I used to feel that going to China was like facing a sea of troubles,” said Marcel Sanchez, who leads a major energy firm with longstanding ties to Chinese gas equipment supplier Tianjin Sinogas Repower Energy Co., Ltd. “Now that it’s visa-free, I’m bringing my family for both business and sightseeing.”

    Starting June 1, 2025, citizens of Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Chile, and Uruguay will be allowed to enter China without a visa for up to 30 days for business, tourism, cultural exchange, or transit. The policy, which will run on a trial basis until May 31, 2026, was announced recently by the Chinese foreign ministry.

    Unveiled at the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC (the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum in Beijing earlier this month, this policy aligns with China’s broader initiative to extend visa exemptions and foster friendly exchanges with more Latin American and Caribbean countries (LAC countries).

    For Chinese companies with trade ties in the region, the measure is viewed as a long-awaited step toward meaningful cooperation. “It solves a real bottleneck in our business operations,” said Ryan Yang, general manager of Sinogas, a Tianjin-based energy technology firm exporting to Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Chile, and Brazil. “Clients can now come for factory inspections, product demos, and training sessions without weeks or months of visa delays.”

    Marcel Sanchez, whose company began working with Sinogas eight years ago, said visa constraints often hindered cooperation. “In the past, we had to skip business trips and just rely on remote support from our Chinese partner. Now we can do face-to-face collaboration again, and that’s where real progress happens,” he added.

    China’s continued expansion of its visa-free policy and efforts to facilitate entries send a clear signal of the country’s commitment to high-standard opening up, according to Yu Haibo, an associate professor specializing in tourism management at Tianjin-based Nankai University.

    These measures demonstrate China’s resolve and efforts to promote a more dynamic, inclusive and resilient form of economic globalization, Yu noted.

    Trade between China and LAC nations has doubled over the past decade, reaching 518.4 billion U.S. dollars in 2024. Chinese products, including its signature electric vehicles, are exported extensively to LAC countries, while goods originating from the region also enjoy popularity in China. Notably, Chilean cherries and Argentine beef have become regular staples in the diets of Chinese households.

    Sun Yanfeng, a researcher at the Institute of Latin American Studies under the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, noted that Latin American countries are eager to boost exports through their economic and trade ties with China. The visa-free policy, he added, will greatly facilitate visits by Latin American entrepreneurs, especially those from small and medium-sized enterprises, by simplifying travel procedures.

    Tianjin Free Trade Service Co., Ltd., a major service provider for thousands of small and medium-sized exporters, has business development teams preparing for more inbound visits. “This policy will bring Latin American partners to our doorstep,” said Du Chen, a manager at the company. “Without the visa hurdles, people are more willing to come, to see, and to trust.”

    Elizabeth Milagros Alvarado Taco, a Peruvian graduate student majoring in international business at Tianjin Foreign Studies University, said the visa-free policy will accelerate business activities, making it easier for Latin American entrepreneurs and businessmen to come to China for negotiations, factory visits, or trade fairs.

    “It can also facilitate the rotation of international teams, improve coordination of multinational projects, and reduce costs and processing time. Overall, this convenience will promote bilateral investment and corporate cooperation,” she said. 

    MIL OSI China News –