Category: Crime

MIL-OSI Submissions: Myanmar: Four years after coup, world must demand accountability for atrocity crimes

Source: Amnesty International

The international community must take urgent action to ensure accountability for atrocities in Myanmar, 46 organizations said today ahead of the four-year anniversary of the 1 February 2021 military coup.

This year represents a turning point for accountability in Myanmar. While the military remains in control, they are losing ground in many areas. Amid rapidly evolving patterns of hostilities and changing political dynamics, renewed efforts must push for justice and ensure a future built on a lasting culture of respect for human rights.

Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar’s military junta has killed more than 6,000 people, arbitrarily detained more than 20,000, and renewed judicial executions. More than 3.5 million people are internally displaced. Human rights groups have documented the military’s torture and other ill-treatment of detainees, indiscriminate attacks, and the denial of humanitarian aid, which may amount to crimes against humanity and war crimes.

Myanmar’s military junta has carried out widespread and systematic attacks against the civilian population nationwide, bombing schools, hospitals, and religious buildings with total impunity. Armed groups fighting the military have also committed human rights violations. While some have pledged to hold perpetrators accountable, it remains to be seen whether these efforts are genuine and can meet international standards.

Last year, 2024, also marked the worst year of violence against the Rohingya community since 2017, with men, women, and children dying in bombings while being trapped in the middle of the armed conflict between the Myanmar military and the armed group the Arakan Army in Rakhine State.

At the same time, Myanmar’s military has lost an unprecedented amount of territory across the country to a loose coalition of ethnic armed groups, which have captured two regional commands, high-ranking military officers, dozens of towns, and border crossings. These groups have also been implicated in human rights abuses.

In areas controlled by ethnic armed groups or overseen by the National Unity Government—formed by democratically elected lawmakers and officials ousted in the 2021 coup—local structures of governance and civil society are emerging. These include schools, hospitals, administrative offices, prisons, police stations, and courts.

Our undersigned organizations call on all parties to the armed conflict in Myanmar to comply with international humanitarian law and engage with international justice mechanisms, including the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar. All countries, including regional actors in ASEAN and neighbouring states, must increase pressure on the junta by blocking arms shipments, suspending aviation fuel shipments and supporting international justice mechanisms, including by prosecuting or extraditing any suspected perpetrators. ASEAN must move beyond its failed Five-Point Consensus and take decisive action to hold the junta accountable. We also urge the international community to commit to a coordinated, long-term international justice strategy.

Globally, some highly anticipated international justice efforts are moving forward. In November 2024, the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor requested an arrest warrant for Myanmar’s Senior General Min Aung Hlaing for the crimes against humanity of deportation and persecution of the Rohingya committed in Myanmar and in part in Bangladesh between August and December 2017. Requests targeting other senior military officials are expected.

If these requests are granted, authorities in ICC member states must urgently comply with an arrest warrant for a suspect present within their jurisdiction and hand the person over to the ICC to face their accusers in a fair trial for alleged crimes under international law. The international community must deny safe haven to those accused of serious crimes by ensuring their immediate arrest and transfer to the ICC. The world must not allow perpetrators to evade international justice.

While the present arrest warrant request is a welcome step, it remains limited in scope, location, and time and does not cover any alleged crimes after the 2021 coup. The ICC Prosecutor should demonstrate further progress in his investigation, including considering crimes under international law committed after 2017 and in the four years since the coup. The UN Security Council and Member States of the ICC must refer the full situation in all of Myanmar to the ICC to ensure justice for all victims.

Governments, donors, and international agencies should support and pursue a wide variety of accountability efforts, including universal jurisdiction, and the potential creation of ‘hybrid’ or similar tailored justice mechanisms. The international community must also impose a global arms embargo, suspend jet fuel exports, and engage with all relevant national stakeholders, including civil society and those most affected by crimes.

The UN Human Rights Council resolution from April 2024 stressed the need for “close and timely cooperation” between the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, a body established by the UN Human Rights Council to collect and preserve evidence of atrocity crimes in Myanmar for future prosecutions, and “any future investigations or proceedings by national, regional or international courts or tribunals, including by the International Criminal Court or the International Court of Justice.”

It also requested the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to maintain a focus on accountability regarding international human rights law, international humanitarian law, and the rule of law and submit a future report on ways to “fulfil the aspirations of the people of Myanmar for human rights protection, accountability, democracy, and a civilian government.”

Myanmar will be discussed at the upcoming UN Human Rights Council session from 24 February to 4 April 2025. UN member states must use this opportunity to take a bold and innovative approach on Myanmar and adopt a resolution aimed at breaking the cycle of impunity for atrocity crimes. The international community must also amplify the voices of survivors, activists and the people of Myanmar who continue to resist oppression at great personal risk.

Myanmar’s human rights crisis did not begin with the coup. Decades of oppression have led to this moment. Ending impunity requires bold and adapted solutions and long-term political and financial commitment. The world must act now.

#Sisters2Sisters
Ah Nah Podcast – Conversations with Myanmar
Amnesty International
Arakan Rohingya National Organisation
Arakan Rohingya National Union
Assistance Association for Myanmar-based Independent Journalists
Athan – Freedom of Expression Activist Organization
Blood Money Campaign
Burma Action Ireland
Burma Campaign UK
Burma Civil War Museum
Burma Human Rights Network
Burma War Crimes Investigation
Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK
CAN-Myanmar
Center for Ah Nyar Studies
Chin Human Rights Organization
Community Rebuilding Center
Defend Myanmar Democracy
EarthRights International
Fortify Rights
Free Rohingya Coalition
Global Myanmar Spring Revolution
Human Rights Foundation of Monland
Independent Myanmar Journalists Association
Kaladan Press Network
Karen Human Rights Group
Karenni Human Rights Group
Mayu Region Human Rights Documentation Center
Mother’s Embrace
Myanmar Ethnic Rohingya Human Rights Organization in Malaysia
New Myanmar Foundation
Odhikar
Progressive Muslim Youth Association
Political Prisoners Network – Myanmar
Refugee Women for Peace and Justice
Refugees International
Rohingya Human Rights Initiative
Rohingya Student League
Rohingya Student Network
Rohingya Student Union
Rohingya Youth for Legal Action
RW Welfare Society
Sitt Nyein Pann Foundation
Women Organization of Political Prisoners
Youth Congress Rohingya.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £200 million boost to transform neighbourhood policing
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

Funding to kickstart the delivery of 13,000 more neighbourhood police officers has been doubled to £200 million to make the country’s streets safer.
Getty Images

Forces across England and Wales will now be given hugely increased resources to begin their recruitment to boost neighbourhood policing teams, helping to ensure that the government’s target for additional personnel is met by 2029.

After years of declining officer presence on Britain’s streets, this investment represents a crucial first step in rebuilding neighbourhood policing. This doubled funding – increased from December’s provisional £100 million commitment – reflects the scale of the challenges that many forces face, as well as the government’s determination to address them.

As part of a wider billion-pound boost to policing, this dedicated funding will strengthen local crime prevention and community safety. One of the government’s key pledges within its Plan for Change is that every neighbourhood will have a named, contactable officer, helping to restore the local knowledge and presence that effective neighbourhood policing demands.

These extra officers will see a return to the principles of British policing – where officers are part of the communities they serve and are focused on tackling crimes like antisocial behaviour, theft and knife crime that are blighting our communities.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

This major investment marks a turning point for policing in this country. By doubling extra neighbourhood funding to £200 million, we are giving forces across the country what they need to put more officers and PCSOs [police community support officers] where they’re needed most – on our streets and in our town centres.

Every neighbourhood deserves dedicated officers who know their patch, understand residents’ concerns and can tackle problems before they escalate. This investment, alongside new powers we are bringing into law, will help prevent crime and protect our communities, which is at the heart of our Plan for Change.

Restoring local policing will not happen overnight, but this funding boost will get more officers into our town centres and rural areas.

Forces across England and Wales will be able to boost their local policing teams with this investment, scheduled for next financial year. Each force will set out their plans to government by early spring, showing how they’ll use their allocation to increase visible patrols.

The rebuilding of local, visible policing in all our communities will be supported by the government’s new Police Standards and Performance Improvement Unit and new standards for neighbourhood policing. In addition to thousands more personnel in neighbourhood policing roles, the government will continue to help forces to protect officer numbers.

Alongside more officers on the ground, the upcoming Crime and Policing Bill will give these officers the tools they need to keep our streets safe, including enhanced powers such as respect orders to tackle antisocial behaviour and shoplifting effectively. This investment, combined with new powers and local control over resources, marks the start of a long-term commitment to restore visible policing across the country.

Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, National Police Chiefs’ Council Chair, said:

We welcome the investment in neighbourhood policing, which is a vital part of how we engage with our communities, building trust and confidence locally.

Working with our communities and partners to problem solve, tackle antisocial behaviour, supporting victims of domestic abuse, and diverting young people from offending are just some examples of the challenging and rewarding work officers do.

Visibility and engagement with local communities has always been central to the British policing model and police leaders are in agreement that it must always remain at the heart of what we do.

Neighbourhood Watch CEO John Hayward-Cripps said:

Neighbourhood Watch is delighted that the government is further increasing the investment in neighbourhood policing.

With the increased demands on the police, and public confidence at a low point, a focus on neighbourhood policing is key to the police being visible, approachable, and engaging proactively with the public.

This injection of investment will increase public confidence in the police and enhance feelings of safety within local communities.

Paul Gerrard, Co-op Director of Campaigns and Public Affairs, said:

We welcome the government’s commitment to boost neighbourhood police officer numbers to help protect local communities from crime. As a community-based retailer, we all too often see the significant and damaging impact of retail crime and antisocial behaviour in society.

We know – and have seen the results – that effective partnerships with local policing make a real difference, and I am cautiously optimistic that this latest development along with continued investment in preventative measures and the rising levels of police attendance can start to reverse retail crime levels, and help communities become stronger, more resilient and safer.

This funding boost comes as the government publishes its final police funding settlement today. Total funding to police forces across the country will be up to £17.5 billion next year, an increase of up to £1.1 billion compared to the 2024 to 2025 police funding settlement. This includes additional funding to support the costs of the pay awards, the increase in the employer national contributions and funding for officer maintenance.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Published 31 January 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: HAWKS NATIONAL HEAD TO HOLD A MEDIA BRIEFING TO SHARE ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2024/2025 FINANCIAL YEAR

Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

The National Head for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General (Dr/Adv.) Godfrey Lebeya and his management holds a media briefing to outline progress and take stock of milestones achieved during the third quarter of financial year 2024/2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jT_aaxh7bsA

MIL OSI Video –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Swiss Partners AG: BaFin warns against swissprimefx.com website and indicates possibility of identity theft

Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns against offers on the website swissprimefx.com. According to the findings of the supervisory authority, Swiss Partners AG, Vaduz, Liechtenstein, offers financial and investment services there without permission.

BaFin would like to point out that the two companies, swisspartners AG and swisspartners Versicherung AG, which are registered with both the Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority and BaFin, have no connection with Swiss Partners AG or the swissprimefx.com website. This constitutes identity theft.

Anyone offering financial and investment services in Germany requires the permission of BaFin. However, some companies offer such services without the necessary permission. You can find information on whether a particular company is authorized by BaFin in the company database.

The information provided by BaFin is based on Section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (KWG), Section 10 (7) of the German Crypto Markets Supervision Act (KMAG).

Please be aware:

BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

MIL OSI Global Banks –

January 31, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Wenda calls for international inquiry into film claim that Indonesia is using chemical weapons in West Papua

Pacific Media Watch

A West Papuan advocacy group is calling for an urgent international inquiry into allegations that Indonesian security forces have used the chemical weapon white phosphorus against West Papuans for a second time.

The allegations were made in the new documentary, Frontier War, by Paradise Broadcasting.

In the film, West Papuan civilians give testimony about a number of children dying from sickness in the months folllowing the 2021 Kiwirok attack.

They say that “poisoning . . . occurred due to the bombings”, that “they throw the bomb and . . . chemicals come through the mouth”, said United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) interim president Benny Wenda.

They add that this was “the first time they’re throwing people up are not dying, but between one month later or two months later”, he said in a statement.

Bombings produced big “clouds of dust” and infants suffering the effects could not stop coughing up blood.

“White phosphorus is an evil weapon, even when used against combatants. It burns through skin and flesh and causes heart and liver failure,” said Wenda.

‘Crimes against defenceless civilians’
“But Indonesia is committing these crimes against humanity against defenceless civilians, elders, women and children.

“Thousands of Papuans in the border region were forced from their villages by these attacks, adding to the over 85,000 who are still internally displaced by militarisation.”

Indonesia previously used white phosphorus in Nduga in December 2018.

Journalists uncovered that victims were suffering deep burns down to the bone, typical with that weapon, as well as photographing yellow tipped bombs which military sources confirmed “appear to be incendiary or white phosphorus”.

The same yellow-tipped explosives were discovered in Kiwirok, and the fins from the recovered munitions are consistent with white phosphorus.

“As usual, Indonesia lied about using white phosphorus in Nduga,” said Wenda.

“They have also lied about even the existence of the Kiwirok attack — an operation that led to the deaths of over 300 men, women, and children.

“They lie, lie, lie.”

[embedded content]
Frontier War/ Inside the West Papua Liberation Army Video: Paradise Broadcasting

Proof needed after ‘opening up’
Wenda said the movement would not be able to obtain proof of these attacks — “of the atrocities being perpetrated daily against my people” — until Indonesia opened West Papua to the “eyes of the world”.

“West Papua is a prison island: no journalists, NGOs, or aid organisations are allowed to operate there. Even the UN is totally banned,” Wenda said.

Indonesia’s entire strategy in West Papua is secrecy. Their crimes have been hidden from the world for decades, through a combination of internet blackouts, repression of domestic journalists, and refusal of access to international media.”

Wenda said Indonesia must urgently facilitate the long-delayed UN Human Rights visit to West Papua, and allow journalists and NGOs to operate there without fear of imprisonment or repression.

“The MSG [Melanesian Spearhead Group], PIF [Pacific Islands Forum] and the OACPS [Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States] must again increase the pressure on Indonesia to allow a UN visit,” he said.
“The fake amnesty proposed by [President] Prabowo Subianto is contradictory as it does not also include a UN visit. Even if 10, 20 activists are released, our right to political expression is totally banned.”

Wenda said that Indonesia must ultimately “open their eyes” to the only long-term solution in West Papua — self-determination through an independence referendum.

Scenes from the Paradise Broadcasting documentary Frontier War. Images: Screenshots APR

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged with prohibited behaviour

Source: Tasmania Police

Man charged with prohibited behaviour

Friday, 31 January 2025 – 4:43 pm.

A man has been charged over an incident at Royal Park, Launceston on Friday morning.
Police received multiple reports of a man exposing himself to members of the public in the area between 8am and 10.30am.
A 43-year-old Launceston man was later arrested by police and charged with prohibited behaviour.
He will appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court in April.
Police are calling for any witnesses to the incident, in particular anyone who may have witnessed a man acting in an offensive manner on the walking path between Royal Park and Kings Bridge.
Information can be provided by calling police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at Crimestopperstas.com.au. Please quote OR765581.

MIL OSI News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Questions FBI Director Nominee Kash Patel on Lack of Independence, Experience During Nomination Hearing

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

Padilla Questions FBI Director Nominee Kash Patel on Lack of Independence, Experience During Nomination Hearing

WATCH: Padilla slams Patel for dodging questions on background checks and civilian machine gun ownershipWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) questioned Kash Patel, nominee for Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. Padilla raised serious concerns about Patel’s fitness to lead the FBI independently, citing his lack of law enforcement experience, history of spreading falsehoods, and threats to weaponize the Bureau against political opponents.
Patel has published a political enemies list, threatened to prosecute journalists, and has even said he plans to “shut down the FBI Hoover Building on Day 1 and reopen it the next day as a museum of the “deep state.” Padilla directly challenged Patel on his past public statements that FBI agents and officials are “corrupt gangsters.”
As FBI Director, Patel would oversee the National Instant Criminal Background Check System and regulate machine gun distribution. Yet Patel repeatedly dodged questions on the constitutionality of universal background checks for firearm purchases and on whether civilian ownership of machine guns should be legal. His nomination has been praised by Gun Owners of America, a group that opposes background checks and claims that machine guns are protected under the Second Amendment — positions far outside the mainstream of law enforcement and public safety policy.
Padilla also confronted Patel about his role in financially supporting insurrectionists convicted for their roles in the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. He has raised money for the families of convicted January 6th rioters — yet he has not made similar efforts to support the police officers who were beaten, tased, and attacked defending the Capitol that day. Patel’s selective advocacy raises serious concerns about where his loyalties lie and whether he would prioritize law enforcement or political extremists as FBI Director.
Padilla called out Patel for his reckless actions during a high-stakes national security operation. While serving as Senior Director for Counterterrorism at the National Security Council, Patel provided false information to senior leadership during a SEAL Team hostage rescue mission in Nigeria. According to former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, Patel falsely claimed that the United States had secured permission to fly over foreign airspace, a misrepresentation that delayed the mission and put American lives at risk. When confronted by Padilla, Patel failed to own up to his serious lapse in judgement in this situation.
Key Excerpts:
PADILLA: Mr. Patel, do you believe that background checks for firearm purchases are constitutional?
PATEL: I don’t know the in-depths of it, but I think that’s what the Supreme Court has said, Senator.
PADILLA: So the word would be Y-E-S, yes. Can you say yes, are background checks constitutional?
PATEL: I can say whatever the Constitution and the Supreme Court ruled is the rule of the land.
PADILLA: And what is the rule, the law of the land at the moment?
PATEL: I’m not an expert on state-by-state background checks.
PADILLA: … Let me ask you another question. Do you believe that civilian ownership of machine guns are protected by the Second Amendment?
PATEL: Universal background checks are different. That’s not–
PADILLA: I asked you a separate question. Do you believe civilian ownership of machine guns is protected by the Second Amendment?
PATEL: Whatever the courts rule in regards to the Second Amendment is what is protected by the Second Amendment.
PADILLA: Yet another telling response, colleagues, on another important issue.
PADILLA: … Colleagues, we’ve been hearing a lot of partial responses and lack of recollections throughout the day, and I can’t help but identify the pattern of Mr. Patel calling FBI leadership corrupt, labeling agents as gangsters, accusing them of being part of a criminal “Deep State” conspiracy. We’ve heard of his experience with the J6 prison choir, a group of individuals convicted for their roles in the January 6 insurrection. We’ve heard his false claims that the U.S. has secured airspace permissions during a high stakes SEAL team hostage rescue mission in Nigeria. I can go on and on. These positions are inconsistent with the role of FBI director, a position that demands independence, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law. Mr. Patel, your loyalty to President Trump and the MAGA movement may score you points in some quarters, but they are certainly not the qualities necessary to serve as director of the FBI.
Video of Padilla’s first round of questioning is available here. His second round of questioning is available here.
Yesterday, Senator Padilla joined all Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee in requesting urgent access to critical materials directly pertaining to Kash Patel’s nomination.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Domestic Violence – Papunya

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force have arrested a 51-year-old man in relation to a domestic violence incident that occurred in Papunya yesterday.

Shortly after 12am on 30 January, police received reports that the 51-year-old man was driving a vehicle dangerously within the community. The offender has allegedly intentionally struck a 26-year-old male relative before exiting the vehicle and making threats with a machete.

The 26-year-old victim was taken to the local clinic with a suspected fractured pelvis and spine.

The 51-year-old was arrested and currently remains in custody with charges expected to laid.

Investigations are ongoing and police urge anyone with information to call police on 131 444 and quote reference P25029611 . Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Support services for those affected by domestic or family violence are available, including 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) and Lifeline (13 11 14).

MIL OSI News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Construction begins on new Port Stephens refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence

Source: New South Wales Government 2

Headline: Construction begins on new Port Stephens refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence

Published: 31 January 2025

Released by: Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

The NSW Government is building a safer New South Wales for regional women and children with construction now beginning on a new safe haven in Port Stephens.

Built under the Core and Cluster program, $7.2 million is being invested in a new six-unit refuge in Port Stephens being developed by Hume Community Housing.

The Core and Cluster refuge model promotes independent living by providing self-contained accommodation located next to a ‘core’ of support that facilitates access to services such as counselling, legal assistance, education, and employment support.

Hume Community Housing is a Tier 1 Community Housing Provider with more than 30 years’ experience, providing social and affordable housing and specialist disability accommodation.

Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services (PSFaNS) has been nominated as the future service provider to deliver tailored support services to victim-survivors at the completed refuge, helping them rebuild their lives and heal from trauma.

The NSW Government has invested $426.6 million over four years to provide new crisis accommodation across NSW for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence as part of the Core and Cluster program.

Once all 49 new Core and Cluster refuges are completed, and the replacement of eight existing government-owned women’s refuge buildings are refurbished, they will support more than an additional 2,900 women and children escaping domestic and family violence each year.

The Minns Labor Government is addressing domestic and family violence at all stages, by investing in primary prevention, early intervention, crisis responses and recovery. Making sure women and children have a safe place to go when they escape abuse is crucial to their recovery and helping them rebuild their lives.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

“For women and children escaping abusive and violent homes, having a safe haven is vital to begin recovering, healing and rebuilding their lives.

“The NSW Government is continuing the roll out of Core and Cluster refuges for domestic violence victim-survivors across the state, with a total of 49 new refuges set to be up and running by 2026.

“We’re proud to partner with local service providers to ensure that Core and Cluster residents receive tailored support so they can regain their confidence, recover and thrive.”

Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:

“Domestic and family violence has a devastating impact on the lives of people in Port Stephens and across the state. It must stop.

“This new Core and Cluster refuge will be life-changing for local women and children, giving them a safe and secure place to begin rebuilding their lives after trauma.

“For too long, women and children in our community have had to leave behind their jobs, schools, and support networks to find safety. This refuge means they will now have access to the crisis accommodation and support they need, right here in Port Stephens.”

Brad Braithwaite, CEO of Hume Housing said:

“Hume Community Housing is proud to be partnering with the Department of Communities and Justice and Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services to deliver this Core and Cluster refuge.

“Breaking ground today is just the beginning as we look towards providing a safe place for women and children fleeing domestic and family violence.

“This is central to Hume’s purpose: to create homes and opportunities for people to heal, rebuild and prosper in vibrant and connected communities.”

Sue Pollock, Manager Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services said:

“Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services has been providing services to our community for over 35 years.

“For most of those years women in our community have been advocating for a refuge to be available for women and children living with domestic and family violence.

“Women in Karuah Aboriginal Community have been working for nearly two years now to make sure that the refuge will be a place of comfort and safety, a place where women and children can breathe and be nurtured by the surroundings. They have been meeting each week designing and sewing the soft furnishings and mapping out the outdoor and living areas. We are grateful for such generosity of spirit.

“With the hard work and commitment from women in this community, with Hume Community Housing and funding from Department of Communities and Justice, women and children can now know that a place of safety and respite will exist in their community. A place where they can stay close to their supports, their schools, their jobs. Everyone deserves to feel safe and supported and live a life free from violence.”

Support:

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN.

MIL OSI News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Cassidy, Heinrich Propose Permanent Scheduling Fix for Fentanyl-Related Substances

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today joined Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) in introducing the Halt Lethal Trafficking (HALT) Fentanyl Act. The bipartisan bill would permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act.
Grassley will chair a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to examine permanent fentanyl scheduling on Tuesday, February 4.
“Today, roughly 150 Americans will die from fentanyl poisoning. Cartels fuel this crisis by marketing their poison as legitimate prescription pills. They also avoid regulation by chemically altering the drugs to create powerful fentanyl knock-offs,” Grassley said. “Congress closed that loophole by temporarily classifying fentanyl related substances under Schedule 1. The HALT Fentanyl Act would make permanent fentanyl related substances’ Schedule 1 classification and ensure law enforcement has the tools they need to combat these deadly drugs.”
“The Biden administration’s open border was an invitation to drug cartels smuggling Chinese fentanyl into the U.S., fueling the U.S. overdose epidemic,” Cassidy said. “Law enforcement must have the tools necessary to combat this trend. We cannot let this Schedule I classification lapse.”
The HALT Fentanyl Act is cosponsored by Sens. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Maggie Hassan (D-Nev.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), John Kennedy (R-La.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H).
Background:
Fentanyl is a controlled substance, meaning U.S. statute prohibits its use. Illicit drug manufacturers and traffickers sidestep the law by producing fentanyl-related substances – drugs that are substantially similar to fentanyl, but chemically tweaked ever so slightly – to push potent drugs into the U.S. on a technicality.
To keep pace with rapidly evolving drugs and combat opioid-related deaths, in 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration under the leadership of President Trump temporarily restricted all fentanyl-related substances. Congress has extended President Trump’s temporary scheduling order multiple times since. The HALT Fentanyl Act would permanently extend the 2018 Schedule I classification for fentanyl-related substances, which is set to expire on March 31, 2025.
-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: More than 5000 Australian victims receive text warning over romance scam
Source: Australian Competition and Consumer Commission

This is a joint media release between the AFP, National Anti-Scam Centre, Philippines Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and National Bureau of Investigation

Editor’s note: Text message screenshot, images from investigation, and audio grabs from AFP Commander Graeme Marshall are available via Hightail

Authorities have texted more than 5000 potential victims in Australia to warn they may have been targeted by romance scammers based in the Philippines.

The National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC), in partnership with the AFP-led Joint Policing Cybercrime Collaboration Centre (JPC3), has today texted potential victims, who are mostly male, urging them not to send money to people they’ve met online and outlined next steps to take if they have already sent money to the scammers.

The potential victims were identified following an investigation by Philippines authorities into a scam compound operating in central Manila, in November 2024.

More than 300 computer towers, 1000 mobile phones, and thousands of SIM cards were located by Philippines authorities and evidence gathered during the investigation has been shared with international law enforcement partners to help identify potential victims, including those who may not be aware they have been targeted.

Under Operation Firestorm, the JPC3 identified more than 5000 Australian-based phone numbers linked to messages found on an end-to-end encryption platform on the devices.

Operation Firestorm is a global operation launched by the JPC3 in August 2024, to address and disrupt offshore organised crime networks deceiving Australians through romance, cryptocurrency and investment scams.

The significant amount of technology located during the operation required extensive analysis, and JPC3 technical and cryptocurrency experts spent hundreds of hours extracting crucial evidence.

It is alleged the scammers, using popular online dating apps, tricked victims into a fake online romantic relationship, before convincing them to purchase legitimate cryptocurrency. They would request a minimum first investment between AUD $300 – $800 dollars, before encouraging the victim to invest more money.

The suspected scammer would then deceive the victim into transferring funds from the legitimate crypto exchange account into the scammer’s account.

Most of the Australian victims targeted were men over 35. The fraudsters posed as either a Filipino female working in Australia or a local female resident in the Philippines.

The investigation has so far resulted in the arrest of more than 250 suspects by Philippine law enforcement authorities.

AFP Commander Cybercrime Operations Graeme Marshall said the investigation highlighted the importance of international partnerships in disrupting serious organised cybercrime networks while supporting victims.

“The AFP worked closely with our partners, the National Anti-Scam Centre and Philippines Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and the National Bureau of Investigation, to ensure Australians targeted by this malicious scam were identified and given advice to help protect themselves online,” AFP Cmdr Marshall said.

“We urge anyone who received a text message warning from the National Anti-Scam Centre to take it very seriously and refrain from sending money to people you’ve met online.

“If you have already sent someone money or cryptocurrency, please report it to your bank immediately, then to police via ReportCyber. To help others avoid similar scams, you can also report it to ScamWatch.

“When it comes to romance scams, our message to the public is simple: protect your heart and your wallet. If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.

“There are many warning signs someone you’ve met online could be trying to scam you. In this case, the scammer would ask to move the conversation from an online dating app to an end-to-end encryption messaging platform.

“Cybercriminals commonly use this technique to protect themselves from being reported and removed from online dating or social media platforms.

“We urge the public to familiarise themselves with the warning signs of romance scams to help protect themselves, loved ones, friends and family when interacting with people online.”

Australian Competition & Consumer Commission Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said in 2024, Australians reported losing $23.6 million to dating and romance scams.

“Romance scammers prey on people seeking connection. Criminals build trust over time and often abuse this trust by encouraging people to make large investments leaving victims with significant financial losses and emotional distress,” Ms Lowe said.

“We encourage people to always independently verify any investment opportunity via trusted sources such as an Australian registered financial advisor.”

How to stop, check and protect yourself from romance scams
- Never send money or cryptocurrency to anyone you’ve met online. Be sceptical of any requests for money, no matter how genuine the story may seem.
- Verify the person’s identity. Take things slow and be wary if their story doesn’t add up or if they refuse to video chat or meet in person. Conduct reverse image searches on their profile pictures at https://images.google.com.
- Beware of overly affectionate behaviour. If someone you’ve just met online starts professing love quickly, it’s a red flag.
- Be careful of what you share. Never disclose personal information or send intimate photos to people you don’t know as this may be used to blackmail you or steal your identity.
What to do if you’re a victim of a scam
- Stop all communication with the scammer
- Take screenshots of conversations and profiles before blocking the scammer on all platforms.
- Contact your bank if you have transferred money or suspect unusual account activity.
- Report it to police at www.cyber.gov.au.
- Report suspected scams to www.scamwatch.gov.au to help others avoid similar scams.
- If you were contacted via social media, report it to the social media platform.
- Use strong, unique passphrases on your accounts and enable Multi-Factor Authentication wherever possible.
- If you are concerned your identity has been compromised, contact the national identity and cyber support service, IDCARE, at www.idcare.org.
- If you, or someone you know needs help, we encourage you to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, who provide 24/7 support services.
The JPC3 brings together Australian law enforcement and key industry and international partners to fight cybercrime and prevent harm and financial loss to the Australian community.

We are committed to equipping all Australians with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves against cybercrime.

Watch our cybercrime prevention videos and protect yourself against being a victim.

If there is an immediate threat to life or risk of harm, call 000.

Media enquiries:
AFP Media: (02) 5126 9297

MIL OSI News –
January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Sipekne’katik — Missing person: Help the RCMP find Jerome Patrick Paul

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Sipekne’katik RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 48-year-old Jerome Patrick Paul who was last seen in Sipekne’katik (Indian Brook).

Paul is described as 5-foot-8 and 200 pounds. He has short dark brown hair, brown eyes and is known to wear glasses. Paul is believed to be wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants.

At this time, investigators believe that Paul may be driving a dark blue Chevrolet cargo van with the rear passenger window smashed out.

When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Jerome Patrick Paul is asked to contact the Indian Brook RCMP detachment at 902-758-3388. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

File #: 2025-136698

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigate house fire in Warrane

Source: Tasmania Police

Police investigate house fire in Warrane

Friday, 31 January 2025 – 12:19 pm.

Police are investigating a house fire that was reported to emergency services around 3:10am this morning in La Perouse St Warrane.Tasmania Fire Service and Tasmania Police attended and the fire was quickly extinguished with an initial estimate of damage of $100,000. No one was home at the time of the fire.Anyone with information is asked to contact South East CIB on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

MIL OSI News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: CEO of Financial Firm Pleads Guilty to Running a Multimillion Dollar Fraud

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SAN DIEGO – Carlos Manuel da Silva Santos, the founder and chief executive officer of San Diego-based Ethos Asset Management, Inc., which offered financing to domestic and international businesses, pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft today in federal court.

Santos, a Portuguese national, has been in custody since his arrest on November 13, 2023, in Newark, New Jersey, after arriving in the United States from abroad.

According to his plea agreement, Santos admitted he and co-conspirators held Ethos out to the public as a “full-service project financing” company that offered loans to prospective borrowers in exchange for an upfront fee as collateral for Ethos to use. However, on many occasions when a borrower gave Ethos the upfront fee as collateral, Ethos’ funding never materialized.

To induce prospective borrowers to send Ethos an upfront fee as collateral and enter into loan agreements, Santos and his co-conspirators lied about Ethos’ history of funding projects, the source of Ethos’ money, the amount of capital available to disburse loans, and how Ethos used the collateral upfront fees. For instance, Santos admitted that he used money from the upfront collateral fees to release collateral deposited by other borrowers and to disburse loans to other borrowers.

Santos also admitted that he and others altered otherwise legitimate financial account statements to inflate the amount of money Ethos appeared to have at its disposal to finance projects for the purpose of luring prospective borrowers to provide collateral and financial institutions to lend money. For example, in August 2021, Santos successfully induced a borrower to wire money as a collateral upfront fee by sending a bank statement that falsely represented Ethos having $100,304,447.46 when, in fact, it did not.

In February and May 2023, Santos again induced borrowers to provide collateral upfront fees by emailing a copy of Ethos’ annual financial statements reflecting falsely that Ethos had over $2.2 billion in total assets and that an accounting firm had audited the statements. Indeed, Santos admitted that he knowingly forged the signature of an employee at a bookkeeping firm on Ethos’s 2022 annual financial statement to falsely indicate that the firm had audited the statement. In each noted example, Ethos fraudulently obtained upfront fees and failed to disburse loan payments as promised.

Santos further admitted Ethos’ project financing scheme was international in nature, with a presence in the United States, Brazil, Turkey, and elsewhere. Santos admitted his scheme resulted in $17,125,000 in losses to certain U.S. based victims. The plea agreement also explains that the parties will request a restitution hearing allowing the United States to offer evidence that Santos owes significantly more money to various other victims.

According to the plea agreement, Santos also forged the signature of an employee at an accounting firm to make it appear that the firm had audited Ethos’ annual financial reports.

“Untold numbers of people fall victim to fraud schemes every year,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “Whether it’s a simple email scam or an elaborate investment scheme, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will relentlessly pursue accountability for the defendants and restitution for the victims.”

“Today’s guilty plea underscores Homeland Security Investigation’s (HSI) unwavering commitment to combating financial crimes,” said Shawn Gibson, Special Agent in Charge for HSI San Diego. “This successful outcome is the result of an extensive, long-term investigation where our dedicated agents and partners assigned to the Costa Pacifico Financial Task Force worked tirelessly and diligently to gather all the evidence and bring this individual to justice. Their unwavering commitment and thorough efforts have been instrumental in protecting our community and upholding the law.

Sentencing is scheduled for April 18, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Robert S. Huie.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys E. Christopher Beeler, Carl F. Brooker IV, and Amy B. Wang.

If you believe you are a victim of Carlos Santos and his company Ethos Asset Management, Inc., contact Homeland Security Investigations at ethos-victim@hsi.dhs.gov.

DEFENDANT

Carlos Manuel da Silva Santos Age: 30 Portugal

SUMMARY OF CHARGES

Wire Fraud Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1349

Maximum penalty: Thirty years in prison and $250,000 fine

Aggravated Identity Theft – Title 18, U.S.C. Section 1028A

Maximum penalty: Mandatory two years in prison consecutive to the term for the underlying felony

INVESTIGATING AGENCY

Homeland Security Investigations

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Homicide investigation – Harley Shrimpton

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Please attribute to Detective Inspector Lindsay Pilbrow:

In November 2023, Tauranga Police launched a homicide investigation after Harley Shrimpton was killed at a rural property in Poripori Road, Lower Kaimai, Tauranga.

He had been missing since he was kidnapped on 3 November 2023 and a missing person report was filed with Police by his whānau.

In January 2024, 23-year-old Tauranga man Piripi Tukaokao was charged with murder, kidnapping and other related offences. He is remanded in custody and will be appearing in Hamilton High Court in November 2025.

We know that there were others who assisted the defendant and we are continuing to follow positive lines of enquiry.

It is crucial that all those responsible in relation to Harley’s death are held to account.

It’s now been over 14 months since Harley was found and since then a dedicated Police team has continued with enquiries and are closely analysing new information.

We continue to speak with people close to the investigation and have not ruled out laying further charges against others who may have been involved.

On behalf of Police and Harley’s whānau, I want to acknowledge the significant public support shown over the last year, to thank everyone who has come forward with information during the course of the investigation, and to urge anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact Police and tell us what you know.

Information can be passed to Police via our 105 phone service, or by going online to https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 and using ‘Update Report’, referencing file number 231117/9085.

Alternatively, information can be passed to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-nz.org.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Combat Illegal Fentanyl

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) joined Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and 10 colleagues in introducing the Halt Lethal Trafficking (HALT) Fentanyl Act to combat illegal fentanyl and keep communities safe.
This legislation makes permanent the temporary classification of fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This permanent scheduling will give law enforcement the tools they need to keep extremely lethal and dangerous drugs off our streets and ensure scientists can research and better understand these substances. Overdoses, largely driven by fentanyl, are the leading cause of death among young adults 18 to 45 years old. Synthetic opioids like fentanyl account for 66 percent of the total U.S. overdose deaths.
“Far too many Nevadans have lost their lives due to fentanyl, and we need to give law enforcement the tools they need to keep our communities safe,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “My bipartisan bill will keep this deadly drug off our streets, save lives, and make it easier for law enforcement to bring drug traffickers to justice.”
The HALT Fentanyl Act would permanently schedule illicitly produced fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs and streamline the regulatory process for scientists seeking approval from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to research Schedule I substances. The drug’s Schedule I classification is set to expire on March 31, 2025. Senators Cortez Masto, Cassidy, Grassley, and Heinrich were joined by U.S. Senators Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-V.W.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), John Kennedy (R-La.), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) in introducing the legislation. A one-pager can be found here and the bill text can be found here.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were an estimated 107,543 drug overdose deaths in the U.S. in 2023. This was primarily fueled by synthetic opioids, including illegal fentanyl, which are largely manufactured in Mexico from raw materials supplied by China. The U.S. House of Representatives passed the HALT Fentanyl Act in March 2023.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Update: Fatal crash Craigmore

Source: South Australia Police

A man has died following a fatal crash at Craigmore this morning.

Just after 8.30 am today (Friday 31 January), police and emergency services were called to Uley Road after reports of a crash between a black Volkswagen sedan and a white Holden sedan.

Sadly, the driver a 49-year-old man from Hewett died at the scene.

Road closures are still in place and motorists are asked to avoid the area.

The man’s death is the 12^th life lost on SA roads this year.

Police urge anyone who witnessed the crash or who has dashcam footage is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

MIL OSI News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Further appeal for information in Harley Shrimpton homicide investigation

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Please attribute to Detective Inspector Lindsay Pilbrow:

In November 2023, Tauranga Police launched a homicide investigation after Harley Shrimpton was killed at a rural property in Poripori Road, Lower Kaimai, Tauranga.

He had been missing since he was kidnapped on 3 November 2023 and a missing person report was filed with Police by his whānau.

In January 2024, 23-year-old Tauranga man Piripi Tukaokao was charged with murder, kidnapping and other related offences. He is remanded in custody and will be appearing in Hamilton High Court in November 2025.

We know that there were others who assisted the defendant and we are continuing to follow positive lines of enquiry.

It is crucial that all those responsible in relation to Harley’s death are held to account.

It’s now been over 14 months since Harley was found and since then a dedicated Police team has continued with enquiries and are closely analysing new information.

We continue to speak with people close to the investigation and have not ruled out laying further charges against others who may have been involved.

On behalf of Police and Harley’s whānau, I want to acknowledge the significant public support shown over the last year, to thank everyone who has come forward with information during the course of the investigation, and to urge anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact Police and tell us what you know.

Information can be passed to Police via our 105 phone service, or by going online to https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 and using ‘Update Report’, referencing file number 231117/9085.

Alternatively, information can be passed to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-nz.org.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: CH4 Global to open the world’s first EcoPark to grow Asparagopsis to reduce methane emissions from cows TODAY

Production begins at CH4 Global’s first full-scale EcoPark

ADELAIDE, Australia – January 30, 2024 – CH4 Global, Inc., will today officially open phase one of its first full-scale EcoPark, where it has begun to grow and process Asparagopsis in 10 large-scale cultivation ponds with a combined capacity of 2 million litres – capable of producing 80 metric tonnes of the seaweed each year.

Over the next year, the facility will expand to 100 ponds capable of producing enough Asparagopsis to serve 45,000 cattle per day – a significant step toward meeting demand from CH4 Global’s existing commercial partners in Australia and beyond. With additional investment, the facility could eventually expand to 500 ponds capable of serving hundreds of thousands of cattle per day.

Built at Louth Bay, 23km south of Port Lincoln on Eyre Peninsula, the EcoPark consists of research and development facilities, a seedling hatchery, patented in-land growth ponds, and harvesting and drying technologies to convert Asparagopsis into CH4 Global’s Methane Tamer products – allowing end-to-end production.

The EcoPark will sustainably grow methane-reducing Asparagopsis at scale. Asparagopsis, which is a red seaweed native to South Australia, drastically reduces methane emissions from cows by up to 90 per cent.

CH4 Global founder and Chief Executive Dr Steve Meller said the EcoPark was the first commercial facility of its kind, enabling the scalable propagation of Asparagopsis to meet the needs of feedlots under contract. CH4 Global’s system delivers consistent, high-quality production at a fraction of the cost, enabling profitability throughout the value chain without government subsidies.

With its proprietary pond-based system, CH4 Global aims to reduce production costs by up to 90 per cent compared to conventional tank-based methods, enabling rapid scaling while positioning CH4 Global to deliver its feed supplement at a price point that ensures profitability throughout the agricultural value chain.

“The EcoPark allows us to now grow Asparagopsis at-scale, providing more Methane Tamer to the feedlots and farmers we are already working with, and to meet the needs of the increasing number of organisations contacting us to help them change the feeding habits of their cows as we start bending the climate curve,” Dr Meller said.

“We are well and truly working towards eliminating one billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions and reaching 150 million cattle by 2030 through our local and international partnerships with feedlots and farmers, and it’s fantastic to see beef from these cows hitting shelves in Australia and heading overseas.”

Dr Meller said the Louth Bay EcoPark was an essential step on the climate journey and would be positive for the Eyre Peninsula community and economy.

CH4 Global has committed to preventing the creation of one gigatonne of CO2 emissions by 2032.

To do so, CH4 Global needs to reach 150 million cattle —10 per cent of the world’s total.“Along with supporting farmers in South Australia, Queensland and overseas to reduce emissions, we’re working closely with the Eyre Peninsula community by having worked with local contractors to build the EcoPark, sourcing local materials and providing regional jobs.”

CH4 Global has also been working with First Nations communities across South Australia, including with the planting of native species and on a land management plan, and providing a gathering space on-site.

CH4 Global has implemented a sustainable design framework for Louth Bay and future EcoParks, guiding the use and management of energy and natural resources, waste and GHG emissions, and efficient use of eco-friendly materials.

As part of its sustainable design framework, CH4 Global has remediated the 14ha site and will be responsible for 13km of beach. Remediation has included removing 5,000 tonnes of concrete tanks – crushed and recycled; 11.76 tonnes of HDPE to be recycled in Adelaide, 10 tonnes of plastic aquaculture trays and other plastic equipment for filtering water and other purposes, which have been rehomed and reused within the community; and sent five tonnes of steel to recycling.

About CH4 Global

CH4 Global, founded in 2018, is on an urgent mission to bend the climate curve, through collaboration with strategic partners worldwide. We deliver market-disruptive products that enable the food industry value chain to radically reduce GHG emissions.

The company’s first innovation, Methane Tamer feed additives for feedlot cattle, harnesses the power of Asparagopsis seaweed to reduce enteric methane emissions by up to 90 per cent.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Justice served in Southland drug operation
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Attribute to Southern District Crime Manager Detective Inspector Shona Low:

Police have smashed a significant Southland drug operation, thanks to some dodgy-looking crockery intercepted by Customs in Auckland.

Kilograms of drugs, including over 30kg of cannabis, and over $60,000 cash have been seized and two Invercargill men have been arrested and charged.

The operation began at the Auckland International Mail Centre on 6 January 2025, when a package caught the attention of Customs officers. It was declared to contain dining plates, but an X-ray raised suspicions and testing revealed more than 2kg of MDMA had been pressed into plate shape and coated with paint.

The package was addressed to an Invercargill property, and the Southern District Organised Crime Group immediately got to work, gathering information and preparing a search warrant.

On 23 January the Invercargill property was searched, and officers turned up ketamine, cash, ammunition and cannabis. But the most significant discovery was evidence that showed a connection to another Southland address.

Given the quantities of MDMA intercepted at the border and clear signs of a wider drug operation, Police quickly obtained a search warrant for the second property and prepared to search it that same day.

At that address, Police were met with an overwhelming smell of cannabis and found a sophisticated grow set-up, numerous plants, and more than 25kg of high-grade cannabis head, packaged and ready to be sold.

A sizeable amount of a substance, believed to be ketamine, was also located, along with another half-kilogram of MDMA, and more than $60,000 cash.

This is offending on a scale rarely seen in Southland and serious harm has been prevented, thanks to Customs and Police working closely together and acting fast.

This wasn’t someone growing a cannabis plant for their own use. It was an organised, sophisticated drug operation designed to make a profit, without any concern for the people affected or damaged by it. The drug trade feeds people’s addictions and fuels crime by encouraging desperate individuals to steal in order to pay for their next hit.

We know this won’t stop the supply of drugs, it won’t stop organised crime groups or others from trying to profit from addiction, but it will put a noticeable dent in the availability of illegal drugs in the district and the harm caused by them.

We want to thank the highly trained Customs officers whose efforts have contributed to keeping our communities safe.

By the numbers:
- 18kg (40lb) of high-grade cannabis head
- 12kg (28lb) of leaf
- 22 Cannabis plants
- 431g (15.2oz) of MDMA
- 0.46g of cocaine
- 210g (7.4oz) of suspected ketamine
- 6 rounds of .303 ammo, and a magazine
- 8 rounds of .300 ammo
- 250 rounds of .22 ammo
- $60,400 in cash
A 38-year-old Invercargill man appeared in the Invercargill District Court on 24 January, charged with:
- Supplying ecstasy
- Supplying ketamine
- Cultivating cannabis
- Possession of cannabis for supply
- Possession of ecstasy for supply.
He has been remanded in custody.

A 34-year-old Invercargill man appeared in the Invercargill District Court on 28 January, charged with:
- Possession of ketamine
- Unlawfully possessing ammunition.
ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Luchese Crime Family Solider and Four Associates Plead Guilty to Crimes Including Racketeering, Money Laundering and Illegal Gambling

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Earlier today and throughout the past few weeks, in federal court in Brooklyn, five members and associates of the Luchese organized crime family of La Cosa Nostra pleaded guilty to multiple crimes, including racketeering, money laundering and illegal gambling related to criminal activities throughout New York City. The proceedings were held before United States District Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto. Today, Luchese crime family soldier Anthony Villani pleaded guilty to racketeering, money laundering and illegal gambling. As part of Villani’s plea agreement, he will pay $4 million in forfeiture. His co-defendants have agreed to pay an additional approximately $1 million in forfeiture. Villani and his co-defendants operated a large-scale, illegal online gambling business (the Gambling Business) that operated under the protection of the Luchese crime family across the New York metropolitan area. The gambling business, known as “Rhino Sports,” operated since the early 2000s and brought millions in illicit profits annually.

John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the guilty pleas.

“These guilty pleas represent a victory for the rule of law over the pernicious activities of organized crime that undermine the safety of our communities,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “Illegal gambling businesses require enforcement and protection from mob rivals that carry the persistent threat of violence. However, the defendants’ luck ran out and, thanks to the hard work of the team of prosecutors and investigators, they will be held accountable for their crimes and pay their debt to society.”

FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy stated: “Our investigations involving members of the Five Families don’t make the same headlines as they have historically. However, the men pleading guilty in this case illustrate how entrenched the traditional mafia are in their noxious and familiar criminality. They are less flashy these days – and a lot of that is due to the incredible cunning and tenacity agents and investigators on our FBI New York Westchester Organized Crime Task Force use to pursue members of these organizations.”

As detailed in the indictment and court filings, for over 25 years, Villani has been involved in significant gambling operations, principally based in the Bronx and Westchester, New York, that were affiliated with multiple organized crime families. Villani owned and operated the Gambling Business since at least 2004. The Gambling Business was hosted using servers in Costa Rica and employed local bookmakers to pay and collect winnings. Villani’s bookmakers included members and associates of the Luchese crime family and other La Cosa Nostra families. As part of the scheme, Villani employed trusted individuals, including defendants Louis Tucci, Jr. and Dennis Filizzola, to assist in operating the business and collecting at least $1 million annually. Records obtained of the Gambling Business’s website indicated that Villani’s illegal gambling operation regularly took bets from between 400 and 1,300 bettors each week, most of whom were based in New York City and the metropolitan area. At Villani’s direction, Filizzola took proceeds from the Gambling Business and used them to purchase U.S. Postal Service money orders in false names, which were then made payable to one of Villani’s property companies to appear as legitimate rental payments.

When sentenced, Villani faces up to 20 years in prison. Louis Tucci, Jr., pleaded guilty on January 27, 2025 to illegal sports betting and faces up to five years in prison. Filizzola pleaded guilty on January 21, 2025 to illegal sports betting and money laundering and faces up to five years in prison and up to 20 years in prison on those counts respectively. James Coumoutsos pleaded guilty on January 21, 2025 to illegal sports betting and faces up to five years in prison. Michael Praino pleaded guilty on January 10, 2025 to illegal sports gambling and faces up to five years in prison. A sixth defendant remains at large.

The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section. Assistant United States Attorney Antoinette N. Rangel is in charge of the prosecution. Assistant United States Attorney Claire S. Kedeshian of the Office’s Asset Recovery Section is handling forfeiture matters.

The Defendants:

ANTHONY VILLANI
Age: 60
Elmsford, NY

JAMES COUMOUTSOS (also known as “Quick”)
Age: 62
Bronx, NY

DENNIS FILIZZOLA
Age: 61
Cortlandt Manor, NY

MICHAEL PRAINO (also known as “Platinum”)
Age: 47
Lake Worth, Florida

LOUIS TUCCI, JR. (also known as “Tooch”)
Age: 61
Tuckahoe, NY

E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 22-CR-405 (KAM)

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Drug offences – Katherine

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force have arrested a man in relation to a drug seizure that occurred in Katherine yesterday.

On Thursday 30 January, the Northern Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk, with the assistance of the Dog Operations Unit and Katherine Criminal Investigation Branch executed a search warrant at a residence in Katherine South.

A 50-year-old man was arrested following the seizure of 1.2kg of cannabis, 19 bottles of rum, 123 cans of beer and a quantity of cash.

The alleged offender has been charged with the Supply Schedule 2 Dangerous drug – Commercial Quantity, Possess Schedule 2 Dangerous Drug – Commercial Quantity and Unauthorised Sale of Liquor.

He has been remanded to appear in Katherine Location Court on today.

Detective Senior Sergeant Byron May said “The seizure of these items will have a significant impact towards the reduction of alcohol-related harm and anti-social behaviour in the community. Northern Territory Police will continue to target those who seek to profit from exploiting the vulnerable people in our community.”

Anyone with information on the supply of alcohol or drugs to our communities can call police on 131 444 or make an anonymous report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

MIL OSI News –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force Apprehends 5 Austin Homicide Suspects Sought on Capital Murder

Source: US Marshals Service

Austin, TX – Members of the U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force (LFTFT) continued their work of making Austin neighborhoods safer by apprehending five capital murder suspects in a 26-hour time span from Jan. 29-30.

The Austin Police Department (APD) requested assistance from the LSFTF to locate and apprehend five suspects sought on capital murder charges from an incident that occurred Nov. 25, 2024, at an apartment complex located in the 400 block of East Wonsley Drive in Austin, where a victim was pronounced deceased on scene.

The APD Homicide Unit investigated the incident and identified six suspects who allegedly conspired and acted with one another to commit the murder.

On Jan. 28, the Homicide Unit obtained warrants on all six suspects in the City of Austin Municipal Court and immediately requested apprehension assistance from the LSFTF – Austin Division to locate and apprehend five suspects who were believed to be in numerous locations within the city.

Members of the LSFTF continued investigative efforts with the Austin Police – Intel Unit that quickly led to the apprehension of five suspects, who were considered armed and dangerous.

Camron Josh-Anthony Perkins, 22, of Austin, was arrested on Jan. 29 in the 1500 block of E. Howard Lane in Austin.

Lorance Jones, 22, and Rhianna Doreen Farillas, 21, of Austin were arrested on Jan. 29 in the 1100 block of Pearl Retreat Lane in Austin.

Jon Charles Williard Jr., 20, of Austin was arrested on Jan. 29 in the 5900 block of E. Stassney Lane in Austin.

Judaren Makeel Forbes, 20, of Austin was arrested Jan. 30 at the Travis County Courthouse by the Travis County Sheriff’s Office screening deputies at the direction of the LSFTF, who learned Forbes had a scheduled court hearing on an unrelated matter.

All suspects have been transported and booked into the Travis County Jail where they await their judicial proceedings.

Members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force in Austin –

Austin Police Department-Tactical Intelligence Unit
Georgetown, Round Rock, and San Marcos Police Departments
Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson County Sheriff’s Offices
Texas Attorney General’s Office
Texas Department of Criminal Justice OIG
Texas Department of Public Safety
U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement
U.S. DHS/Homeland Security Investigations

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Two Years for Possessing Firearm While a Felon

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on January 27, 2025.

Cylis Chipps, 21, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Chipps was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in October 2024. He pleaded guilty on November 20, 2024.

On September 15, 2024, Chipps was discovered by law enforcement to be in possession of a pistol along with items that tested positive for methamphetamine. Chipps had previously been convicted of the felony crimes of possession of a controlled substance and stealing a firearm. It is unlawful for a person who has been convicted of a felony to thereafter possess a firearm.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.

Chipps was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Michigan Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Clark Lake, Michigan, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on January 27, 2025.

Jamie Lee, age 40, was sentenced to four years and nine months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Lee was indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2024. She pleaded guilty on November 13, 2024.

Beginning around March 2023, Lee began obtaining fentanyl along with her boyfriend, Jacob Denker. They picked up fentanyl in Colorado and then brought it to South Dakota. In Rapid City, Lee and her boyfriend had sub-distributors who further distributed fentanyl throughout the Rapid City area and the Pine Ridge Reservation. This activity continued through September 2023. Overall, Lee and co-conspirators were responsible for bringing over 400 grams of fentanyl to the area. Jacob Denker was previously sentenced to 10 years in federal prison. Co-defendant Eugene Giago is scheduled for trial on March 11, 2025.

This case was investigated by the FBI, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Badlands Safe Trails Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case.

Lee was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following the sentencing.

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Guatemala Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for 10 Years for Attempted Enticement of a Minor

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SIOUX FALLS – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a Guatemala man who resided in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet. The sentencing took place on January 27, 2025.

Jorge Manuel Rodriguez-Marroquin, age 48, was sentenced to the mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and is required to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Rodriguez-Marroquin must register as a sex offender upon release from federal prison.

Rodriguez-Marroquin was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2024. He pleaded guilty on November 12, 2024.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on March 9, 2024, when Rodriguez-Marroquin used Facebook to start a conversation with who he believed was a 15-year-old girl. He steered the conversation to sexual matters and enticed her to meet up with him for sexual activity. Unbeknownst to Rodriguez-Marroquin, the 15-year-old was an undercover law enforcement agent. Rodriguez-Marroquin was arrested when he showed up at the meet location.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.

Rodriguez-Marroquin was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 22 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SIOUX FALLS – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death. The sentencing took place on January 27, 2025.

Johnny Allen Neighbors, age 25, was sentenced to 22 years in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Neighbors was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2023. He pleaded guilty on October 4, 2024.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on January 21, 2023, when Neighbors intentionally distributed a pill containing fentanyl to an adult woman who ingested it and died. Fentanyl is a Schedule II controlled substance.

“This is yet another example of the lethal nature of fentanyl,” said Alison J. Ramsdell, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota. “In an environment where just two milligrams of fentanyl can lead to death, it is imperative that we educate our loved ones on the dangers of fentanyl so that we can avoid the tragic loss of life.”

This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.

Neighbors was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Edmonton — Alberta RCMP completes another year of Operation Cold Start

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

From Jan. 20 -24, 2025, your Alberta RCMP, along with law enforcement agencies across the province, participated in Operation Cold Start. Operation Cold Start is designed to work with the public to reduce theft of idling vehicles during colder conditions.

Law enforcement agencies checked unattended, idling vehicles to see if keys were in them, and whether or not they were properly secured. This gave the opportunity to educate vehicle owners on how to keep their vehicles safe during winter months.

“This campaign was a great chance to meet with community members and remind them that as temperatures dip, leaving a vehicle unattended can lead to it being stolen by opportunistic thieves who can then travel to commit additional crimes,” says Cpl. Mike Black of the Alberta RCMP’s Auto Theft Unit. “By following simple tips, such as using a remote starter, remaining in the vehicle as it warms up, and remembering that vehicles with push starts can be driven without a key present, theft of vehicles can be reduced.”

During the campaign, the Alberta RCMP noted there were 504 unlocked vehicles left idling with keys in the ignition and 1,277 locked vehicles left idling with keys in the ignition. Officers interacted with 625 vehicle owners and provided 1,128 information pamphlets.

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Brockton Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Firearms and Fentanyl Charges

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Seven firearms; 26 high-capacity magazines, thousands of rounds of ammunition; drugs found during search of defendant’s home

BOSTON – A Brockton man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

Shem Khattiya, 39, was sentenced by Senior District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 10 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. In October 2024, Khattiya pleaded guilty to a two count Superseding Information charging him with possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

In An investigation into Khattiya began in 2023, and in March 2023, a search was conducted at Khattiya’s Brockton apartment where over 800 grams of fentanyl; at least seven different firearms (most of which were loaded, some were ghost guns and some with serial numbers and some assault rifles); 26 high capacity magazines; thousands of rounds of ammunition; a ghost gun creation kit; triggers; a hydraulic kilogram press; and other items used in the manufacturing of drugs and firearms and distribution of drugs were recovered in his bedroom. It has been determined that “triggers” may qualify as machine guns as the purpose was to convert semi-automatic weapons into automatic weapons.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office, the Brockton Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey E. Weinstein of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Firearm as a Felon

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The sentencing took place on January 23, 2025.

Arlen Blackburn, 19, was sentenced to three years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Blackburn was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm by a federal grand jury in July 2024. He pleaded guilty on November 1, 2024.

In April 2024, Rapid City Police Department responded to a shots-fired report in town. Law enforcement located a vehicle that matched the description of a vehicle associated with the shots-fired report. The driver of the vehicle initially fled but later stopped and law enforcement discovered Arlen Blackburn inside as a passenger. Law enforcement learned that Arlen Blackburn had discharged a sawed-off shotgun earlier that day. The sawed-off shotgun barrel was far less eighteen inches in length. It is unlawful to possess an unregistered shotgun whose barrel is less than eighteen inches in length.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.

Blackburn was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

MIL Security OSI –

January 31, 2025