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Frantic evacuations, new lockdowns, and a devastating earthquake… It’s been an eventful week across the world! The Taliban are back in charge in Afghanistan while the US, the UK, and NATO allies face criticism as they frantically evacuate people out of the country.
Meanwhile, among mounting protests, frozen assets, and control of one of the world’s largest heroin producing countries, the Taliban have a lot on their plate as the world steps back to see how the Taliban will rule this time around. And New Zealand extends its strict lockdown after the one case it found has now spread to other parts of the country. And Haiti continues to deal with the destruction of the powerful earthquake that ripped into the country.
Elsewhere, On the Circuit this week we look at the politics of Protection and ask what does that even mean? This weeks podcast guest, Ray Buford, sums it up nicely...
“You have to realize that you can go from uppercase 'P' to Lowercase 'p' in the matter of a door swing."
Okay, let's dive in.
On the Circuit has you covered when you're busy covering others.
At A Glance:
The Politics of Protection - What the heck is it?
Living With the Shia - Surviving as a hostage.
Beware Afghan Trojan Horse - Infiltrating Immigration
The Circuit Magazine Podcast
As a Protection officer, all your moves have to be calculated because they may have ramifications that could extend beyond you and outside of the detail, leading to severe repercussions for the protectee. This is what we mean when we talk about ‘the politics of protection.’
You cannot teach the politics of protection, it needs to be learned through experience. However, good advice and mentorship can help you navigate pitfalls and lessen the potential collateral damage. This week, Elijah is joined by Ray Buford, a veteran of the protection industry who has worked inside the bubble and understands the politics of protection as well as anyone.
If you enjoy listening to the Circuit Podcast and can spare a minute, please rate/review us. Your rating will help us to rank higher making it easier for others to find the podcast.
The Need to Know
Spymasters at London’s Vauxhall Cross secret service HQ fear David Smith may have passed information to the Russians and the MI6 Berlin station may have to be dismantled
New satellite images show Russia may be preparing to test nuclear powered 'Skyfall' missile — www.cnn.com
New satellite images show Russia may be preparing another test of its nuclear-powered cruise missile, known as "Skyfall"-- a controversial weapon that is designed to defeat US defense systems.
The NSW Police Minister has threatened arrests and an unprecedented police presence on Sydney streets in the wake of expected anti-lockdown protests.
At least three protesters injured when Thai police fired tear gas, rubber bullets at Bangkok rally amid COVID surge.
At least 47 people, including 30 civilians and 14 soldiers, were killed by rebels in Arbinda town, according to state media.
There is no exact count of how many Nepalis workers there are in the war-torn country, but figures range from 2,000 to 15,000. And it seems their fate rests on Indian rescue flights.
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From the Pages of the Circuit Magazine
On May 29, 2007, IT consultant Peter Moore and four bodyguards, all British ex-servicemen, were kidnapped in Iraq.
During his years of imprisonment, Moore endured solitary confinement, mock executions, and the loss of his four colleagues. He was eventually freed in return for, and after, the release of two senior leaders of the Shia paramilitary group Asaib Ahl al-Haq.
In this exclusive interview, 10 yrs after his release, Peter Moore talks to the Circuit Magazine about his experiences of being a hostage in Iraq for 2 yrs
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Latest Issue - Hot Off the Press!
[Stratfor] FocusOn: Afghanistan
Several unconfirmed reports indicate anti-Taliban forces are rallying in the former Northern Alliance stronghold of the Panjshir Valley — bringing into question the Taliban’s ability to govern the entire country mere days after seizing Kabul.
With the Taliban now in control of all borders, escaping Afghan territory will no doubt prove a dangerous endeavor. But despite the risks, thousands will still likely attempt to flee for fear of the coming return to the socially and politically restrictive rule of the Taliban.
After gaining control of Kabul, the Taliban’s desire for international legitimacy will be shaped by their willingness and capability to constrain transnational militants from using Afghanistan as a base of operations.
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From the Community...
Having been a gold mine for Western contractors for the past 20 years, is this the end of an era for Afghanistan? What do you think this means for Private Security in and around the region?
There can often be a stigma attached to mental health and a tendency to bottle things up and not talk to others.
Do you think there is enough emphasis placed on mental health in the security industry?
Ask questions, get advice, and find industry resources from an active and thriving community of professional, working operators:
Elsewhere, On the Circuit...
Afghans will ALWAYS jump to the winning side. That’s because for decades they’ve had to find a way to survive…feed their families and keep them alive in times of danger.
Their loyalties are to themselves, their families and their tribes…that’s it!
However…if you’re seen as winning, and you’re handing out money…they will be well chuffed to work for you. So would I in their position.
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Until next week...
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