NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public urged not to buy or use topical products containing undeclared controlled ingredients (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Department of Health (DH) today (June 17) appealed to the public not to buy or use four types of topical products as they were found to contain undeclared controlled drug ingredients. These products include:
     

    Product name Part 1 poisons found
    1. Zangyao xuanduwang Clobetasol propionate, ketoconazole and miconazole
    2. King poison to itch Antibacterial cream Clobetasol propionate, ketoconazole and miconazole
    3. HE SHENG MEI LANG DU WANG Clobetasol propionate, ketoconazole and miconazole
    4. ZHONG HUA ZHEN JUN WANG Antibacterial cream Clobetasol propionate and miconazole

     
    Acting upon intelligence, the DH has collected samples of the above-mentioned products from a retail stall in Tuen Mun for analysis. Test results from the Government Laboratory revealed that the above products contained undeclared controlled drug ingredients, which are Part 1 poisons under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap. 138). These products are also suspected to be unregistered pharmaceutical products. The DH, in collaboration with the Police, took enforcement action at the premises today. During the operation, a 51-year-old woman was arrested for suspected illegal sale and possession of Part 1 poisons and unregistered pharmaceutical products. The DH’s investigation is still ongoing.
     
    Clobetasol propionate is a steroid substance for treating inflammation. Inappropriate application of steroids could cause skin problems and systemic side effects such as moon face, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, adrenal insufficiency and osteoporosis. Products containing clobetasol propionate are prescription medicines that should be used under a doctor’s directions and be supplied in the premises of an Authorized Seller of Poisons (i.e. a pharmacy) under the supervision of a registered pharmacist upon a doctor’s prescription. Ketoconazole and miconazole are used for the treatment of fungal infections with side effects including local irritation and sensitivity reactions. Topical products containing ketoconazole and miconazole should be supplied in a pharmacy under the supervision of a registered pharmacist.
     
    According to the Ordinance, all pharmaceutical products must be registered with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong before they can be sold in the market. Illegal sale or possession of unregistered pharmaceutical products or Part 1 poisons is a criminal offence. Upon conviction, the maximum penalty for each offence is a fine of $100,000 and two years’ imprisonment.
     
    The DH strongly urged members of the public not to buy or use products of doubtful composition or from unknown sources. All registered pharmaceutical products should carry a Hong Kong registration number on the package in the format of “HK-XXXXX”. The safety, quality and efficacy of unregistered pharmaceutical products are not guaranteed.
     
    People who have purchased the products concerned should stop using them immediately and consult healthcare professionals if in doubt or if they feel unwell after use. They may submit the products to the Drug Office of the DH at Room 1804-06, 18/F, Wing On Kowloon Centre, 345 Nathan Road, Kowloon, during office hours for disposal.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detectives appeal for information after man repeatedly stabbed in Newham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives are appealing for information after a man was seriously injured after being repeatedly stabbed in east London.

    Police were called at 21:48hrs on Wednesday, 7 May to reports of a stabbing in Park Grove, E15.

    Officers arrived three minutes later and found a man nearby, aged in his 20s, suffering multiple stab injuries. He was taken to hospital by the London Ambulance Service with serious injuries. He remained in hospital for two weeks.

    Detective Constable Richard Brunning, the investigating officer from the North East Basic Command Unit, said: “This is a complex and serious incident. We keep an open-mind for the motive, however it is believed that the victim and offenders were not known to each other.

    “The violence which was displayed during this attack is shocking and we are doing everything we can to investigate what happened. We are looking to identify the suspects who are described as black, tall and slim.

    “We are appealing to the public who may recall seeing this incident, or have any footage of the suspects or vehicle involved, which we believe to be a white BMW series X1.

    “If you were in the Chadd Green estate at the time, witnessed the incident or have any information or footage please contact us without delay.”

    Anyone with information can call police on 101 or message @MetCC on X quoting CAD 7760/07MAY.

    Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Leonardo Villar-Gómez: Notes for the banking convention remarks

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    I would like to begin by expressing my gratitude for this opportunity to take part in this event, and extend a very special greeting to Mr. Jonathan Malagón, president of Asobancaria, Mr. Javier Suárez, chairman of its Board of Directors, all the members of the Association, the Financial Superintendent, Professor César Ferrari, and all those present at this convention.

    Turbulent times

    Exactly one year ago, I began my remarks at this same event by noting that, like most countries around the world, Colombia’s monetary policy had experienced particularly turbulent periods in recent years.

    At the time, that statement was entirely accurate. We had just emerged from the global recession triggered by the 2020 pandemic and experienced a remarkably rapid recovery, one that brought about apparent excess demand and mounting inflationary pressures. These pressures intensified further in 2022 with the sharp rise in grain and agricultural input prices following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    These developments pushed global interest rates up dramatically from their historically low levels seen in 2020, coupled with negative policy rates in several of the leading advanced economies, to the highest levels observed in over four decades by 2023.

    As if that were not enough, Colombia has also faced a substantial shift in public debt levels and the ratings assigned to this debt by the leading credit rating agencies. This has been accompanied by a pronounced deterioration in country risk indicators, both in absolute terms and relative to our regional peers. For example, the country risk premium on Colombian debt, as measured by Credit Default Swaps (CDS), relocated from among the lowest to among the highest in Latin America in just four years.

    By the time of the June 2024 Banking Convention, signs suggested that the global economy was achieving a soft landing. Inflation in advanced economies and many emerging markets was converging toward central bank targets, and economic activity was stabilizing, particularly in the United States, where unemployment had fallen to historic lows below 4%.

    However, the anticipation of a return to calmer times proved short-lived. Beginning in late 2024 and more markedly from April 2025 onward, we witnessed a dramatic and unexpected shift in U.S. trade policy. This included unprecedented tariff increases on global imports and a unilateral withdrawal from all existing free trade agreements, even those with long-standing allies.

    If uncertainty had been a defining feature of the past five years, the levels we are experiencing today far exceed anything we could have anticipated.

    The role of central banks and monetary policy

    What role do central banks play in this environment of heightened uncertainty, and how has Banco de la República responded in particular?

    Central banks in countries like Colombia cannot eliminate uncertainty related to variables beyond their control, such as global economic conditions or domestic fiscal policy decisions, which fall under the authority of the National Government and Congress. However, what central banks can and must do is provide transparent and credible signals about the medium- and long-term inflation outlook. In doing so, they help mitigate the effects of volatility in conditions that lie outside the scope of monetary policy.

    In Colombia, as in many other countries, I believe that the inflation targeting framework we adopted more than twenty-five years ago remains a highly effective and powerful strategy. It enables us to respond to changing conditions while providing an anchor for the economy and a relatively straightforward rule for conducting monetary policy.

    Broadly, and perhaps in simplified terms, the inflation targeting strategy can be described as follows: when the inflation outlook exceeds the established target, monetary policy should be contractionary, characterized by relatively high policy interest rates. This situation typically arises when demand for goods and services outpaces the economy’s productive capacity. As a result, contractionary policy generally acts countercyclically, helping to stabilize both demand and output around their potential levels.

    Conversely, when inflation expectations fall below the target, monetary policy should be expansionary, aimed at stimulating demand for goods and services, as we saw during the 2020 pandemic. One of the strengths of the inflation-targeting strategy is its simplicity, which also extends to the primary monetary policy instrument: the benchmark rate. This is the short-term rate at which the central bank provides liquidity to the financial system when needed.

    A key feature of this strategy is that the central bank – in our case Banco de la República – does not attempt to manage or control the exchange rate. Exchange rates can be influenced by factors entirely unrelated to domestic conditions. For instance, in the first half of this year, global dynamics led to the U.S. dollar depreciating by approximately 9% against the euro. This was reflected in the Colombian peso’s appreciation relative to the US dollar, even though the peso simultaneously depreciated against the euro and other currencies. While exchange rate movements can certainly impact inflation expectations and other critical economic variables, and are therefore relevant to our monetary policy decisions, Banco de la República does not target specific exchange rate levels. These rates may even move in opposite directions depending on the foreign currency in question.

    A similar dynamic applies to long-term interest rates, which often behave differently from the central bank’s short-term policy rate. This divergence was evident over the past year, when Banco de la República significantly lowered its policy rate, yet ten-year TES bond rates increased by over 1.5 percentage points. This rise was driven by changes in international financial conditions and a heightened perception of risk surrounding Colombia’s public debt.

    Under the inflation targeting framework, Banco de la República cannot eliminate the uncertainty caused by external and fiscal variables. However, it can contribute to economic stability by delivering a clear and credible message about the medium- and long-term inflation outlook. This, in turn, helps stabilize demand and output around their potential levels, an objective that aligns closely with the core mandate assigned to Banco de la República by the 1991 Constitution.

    Colombia: a relatively successful macroeconomic adjustment process

    How has the inflation targeting strategy worked in Colombia in recent years?
    I would argue that, considering the high degree of volatility in the environment, this strategy has been relatively successful. Unfortunately, it has not been entirely successful due to several factors that have slowed and complicated the convergence of inflation toward the target, making this process more difficult in Colombia than in other countries that apply the same policy framework.

    Let me begin by emphasizing that the persistence of observed and expected inflation above target has led us, in recent years, to maintain a restrictive monetary policy stance, with benchmark rates above what could be considered neutral or desirable in the medium- and long-term. This approach is consistent with the inflation-targeting strategy and has proven effective, given that inflation has declined by more than eight percentage points from a peak of 13.4% in the first quarter of 2023 to its current level of 5.16%.

    Thanks to this policy, the pronounced excess in domestic demand that we faced three years ago has been significantly corrected. At the time, this excess demand was reflected in a current account deficit exceeding 6% of GDP by 2022. That figure fell to just 1.8% of GDP in 2024. Although the deficit is expected to increase in 2025 due to lower oil prices and a partial recovery in domestic demand, it will likely remain at less than half of what it was three years ago. This makes the Colombian economy less reliant on external financing and less vulnerable to abrupt shifts in domestic and international conditions, a significant achievement in the current global context.

    Equally notable is the clear recovery in economic activity. Growth for 2025 is projected at 2.6%, well above the figures for the two previous years (0.7% and 1.7%, respectively), and compares favorably both with expectations for many Latin American countries and with the 2% average estimated by the IMF for the region. Colombia’s GDP growth in the first quarter of this year, which reached 2.7%, along with other high-frequency indicators of recent economic activity, further reinforces this sense of optimism.

    Of course, this recovery has been uneven. While sectors such as agriculture, retail, and entertainment are showing exceptional dynamism, others, particularly manufacturing, mining, and construction, continue to show low levels of activity and negative growth rates. Fixed capital investment also remained stagnant in the first quarter, holding at already depressed levels. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain these weak results, including issues related to sector-specific policies and significant uncertainty regarding the future of such policies and business incentives. Nevertheless, it is essential to note that domestic demand has demonstrated a consistently positive momentum. According to figures published by DANE, domestic demand grew by 4.4% in the last quarter of 2024 and by 4.7% in the first quarter of 2025, both in real terms.

    This growth in demand and productive activity is also reflected in the labor market. Employment increased by over 3% in the past year, and the unemployment rate in April was 8.8%, the lowest for that month in many years. However, it is essential to note that this improvement is due mainly to an increase in self-employment, rather than in wage or salaried employment.

    Undoubtedly, the gradual reduction in the policy interest rate initiated by the Board of Directors of Banco de la República since December 2023, made possible by a significantly lower inflation environment, has played an important role in supporting this recovery in domestic demand, economic activity, and employment.

    Why haven’t interest rates fallen further?

    I believe it is wise to reiterate that, although policy interest rates have fallen substantially, from 13.25% in December 2023 to 9.25% at present, they still remain at levels consistent with a contractionary monetary policy. Both nominal and real interest rates are above what the Bank’s technical staff considers neutral or desirable in the medium and long term, when inflation has converged to its 3% target and the economy is growing at a rate close to its potential.

    The primary reason for maintaining these relatively high rates is that inflation remains above the target. While we have made substantial progress in reducing it from its peak in March 2023, the decline has been slower than expected and also slower than in many other countries in the region and around the world, where inflation is already within the target ranges defined as acceptable by their respective central banks.

    This resistance to a faster decline in inflation in Colombia is largely due to the high levels of price and wage indexation present in our economy, along with other idiosyncratic and cyclical factors that have made the adjustment process more difficult. For instance, the minimum wage and transportation subsidies paid by employers increased by 11% this year, eight percentage points above the inflation target, making it more challenging to meet that target in 2025.

    In fact, since November 2024, the downward momentum in inflation has lost strength. Over the last six months, inflation has hovered in a narrow range between 5.1% and 5.3%, without a clear downward trend. Core inflation (excluding food and regulated items) continued to decrease during this period, falling from 5.4% in November to 4.8% in March. However, this trend reversed slightly in April, with inflation rising to 4.9%, driven by increases in non-regulated service sectors.

    This slowdown in the disinflation process since last November has heightened concerns about the pace of convergence toward the inflation target. It is also reflected in a notable increase in inflation expectations for the end of 2025, as reported in analyst surveys. These expectations now stand at around 4.8%, compared to approximately 3.7% in October of last year.

    Furthermore, international interest rates relevant to Colombia’s external financing have also increased. This is partly due to rising long-term rates in global financial markets, driven by heightened global uncertainty, and partly due to the increase in Colombia’s country risk premiums, following news that the fiscal deficit has widened far more than expected. Moreover, public debt as a share of GDP is rising at a pace that exceeds what is consistent with macroeconomic stability.

    These factors help explain a paradoxical and often misunderstood phenomenon: the yield on long-term TES securities, which determines the government’s financing costs, has risen significantly over the past year by as much as 1.5 percentage points for 10-year bonds. This has not resulted from an increase in Banco de la República’s policy interest rate; on the contrary, as previously noted, that rate has fallen substantially.
    When we compare Colombia with other Latin American countries that follow an inflation targeting strategy, we see that countries such as Peru, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Costa Rica have been able to reduce their policy interest rates more aggressively, as inflation in those economies is already within the target ranges set by their central banks. In Chile, inflation remains slightly above target, mainly due to the behavior of public utility rates, but expectations point to inflation converging to the 3% target by the end of 2025.

    The experiences of the region’s two largest economies are especially relevant as benchmarks for us.

    In Mexico, the central bank recently lowered its policy interest rate to 8.5%, considering the prospect of a sharp economic slowdown, or even a recession, due to the powerful impact of U.S. tariff policy on that country. It is worth noting, however, that this monetary policy move was facilitated by the fact that Mexico’s inflation rate is significantly lower than Colombia’s, at 4.2%. In fact, Mexico’s ex post real interest rate (i.e., the difference between the nominal rate and observed inflation) remains slightly higher than Colombia’s.

    Brazil presents a particularly striking case. Inflation there currently stands at 5.5%, slightly above Colombia’s rate. The Central Bank of Brazil had been making significant progress in lowering its policy interest rate, from 13.75% in August 2023 to 10.5% by mid-2024. However, in the second half of 2024, growing concern over the Brazilian government’s fiscal situation led to a sharp depreciation of the real exchange rate, a rise in inflation expectations, and a subsequent reversal in monetary policy. The central bank was forced to raise the policy rate rapidly, from 10.5% to its current level of 14.75%. In ex post real terms, this rate is more than five percentage points higher than Colombia’s. Fortunately, Colombia has not faced such a situation in recent times, and clearly we would not want to encounter it in the future either.

    In Colombia, the technical staff’s central scenario projection for the end of 2025 anticipates a continued decline in inflation. However, inflation is still expected to remain above the tolerance range of ±1 percentage point around the 3% target set by the Board last November. At that time, we believed it was both feasible and likely that inflation would fall within that range by 2025. Yet, developments beyond the Bank’s control, such as the increase in the minimum wage and the widening of the fiscal deficit, which in turn has driven a considerable rise in Colombia’s country risk premium, have made achieving that target significantly more difficult. These developments have compelled us to maintain a policy interest rate that, while it has continued to decrease, is clearly higher than what both the market and we had expected six months ago.

    Looking ahead, uncertainty remains high, driven by both domestic and international factors. Future monetary policy decisions will depend on the evolution of many variables, each of which must be assessed as new information becomes available. What I can say with confidence is that, under our current inflation-targeting framework, policy decisions will continue to be made cautiously to ensure that inflation converges toward the target. I am personally convinced that this strategy remains the most appropriate path for fostering sustainable economic growth over the long term.

    Financial system results

    Over the next few days, within the framework of this Banking Convention, numerous analyses of the current situation and outlook for financial institutions will be presented, starting with the one that Superintendent of Finance, Professor César Ferrari, is likely to deliver shortly. I will not delve into sector-specific issues, but I would like to leave you with two general messages.

    The first concerns the soundness and outlook of the financial system. Like many other sectors, the financial sector has borne a significant cost during the recent years’ adjustment process. Restrictive monetary policy led to a sharp increase in funding costs and interest rates on loans to customers, particularly in 2023. Combined with the slowdown in economic growth, this resulted in a marked deterioration of portfolio-at-risk and non-performing loan indicators, driving up provisioning expenses and loan write-offs. Consequently, a considerable number of financial intermediaries recorded substantial losses.

    Nonetheless, it is very encouraging that the credit institutions system as a whole continued to generate positive returns. Even those institutions that posted losses consistently maintained solvency ratios well above the regulatory minimums. After what was undoubtedly an arduous and painful adjustment process, the financial system remains fundamentally sound and well-positioned to resume a path of healthy, sustainable growth, something that is already becoming evident in recent data.

    Indeed, the number of institutions reporting losses has been falling significantly, in line with improving conditions. Non-performing loan indicators and provisioning expenses are trending downward, and the pace of loan portfolio growth is accelerating. All available signs suggest that the most difficult and painful phase of the adjustment process is now behind us.

    Bre-B

    The second message I would like to convey relates to the rapid progress we are making toward the launch of our fully interoperable instant payment system, Bre-B.

    As you know, in October 2023, less than two years ago, we published the regulation on the interoperability of instant transfers. Since then, we have worked closely with the financial industry to define the technical and operational standards necessary to enable all system users to send and receive money between accounts at any institution securely, at any time, in real-time, and with a simple, unified user experience.

    In line with our schedule, I am pleased to announce that the first component of the instant payment ecosystem will be available in mid-July. This is the Centralized Directory, a repository that stores the keys each user associates with their account, through which they will receive funds via Bre-B.

    The preparation process for launching Bre-B’s Centralized Directory led several entities to conduct pilot programs to fine-tune their procedures and familiarize customers with the key system. Based on this market evolution and in seeking to provide a smoother user experience, we recently updated the regulation to incorporate processes that capitalize on insights from these pilot efforts.

    Staying on track with our timeline, which has been adhered to in an exemplary manner, payments and transfers through Bre-B will be enabled in the third week of September 2025. As discussed in various technical working groups, each institution is expected to inform its users about the steps required to access this new service.

    The introduction of Bre-B represents a significant boost to ongoing efforts to digitize payments and financial services more broadly. It lays the groundwork for continued innovation in transaction infrastructure, while promoting financial inclusion, economic competitiveness, and user satisfaction.

    I would like to take this opportunity to recognize and thank the team at Banco de la República leading this initiative, as well as the National Government and all private sector stakeholders involved. I also extend my appreciation to the various international organizations that have contributed greatly to this effort through their support. This ambitious project is a clear example of what can be achieved when the public and private sectors collaborate toward a shared goal, leveraging international best practices to benefit the general population. I invite everyone to continue this collaborative work to ensure the scalability of the ecosystem by adding new functionalities and use cases, such as recurring payments and collections, so that Bre-B can support the vast majority of everyday transactions and achieve broad-based adoption.

    Contributory Pillar Savings Fund

    I cannot conclude this speech without at least briefly addressing the Contributory Pillar Savings Fund, which, under the pension reform enacted by Law 2381 of 2024, is to be administered by Banco de la República starting July 1.

    Last Thursday, May 29, the national government issued Decree 0574, which regulates several key aspects we had been expecting for months, regulations essential to advancing preparations for the Fund’s operation. I would like to thank the URF and the Ministry of Finance for their efforts and their openness to the Bank’s comments on earlier drafts.

    The challenge ahead is substantial. We must still finalize the signing of an inter-administrative contract between the government and Banco de la República, which will allow us to begin selecting and hiring the portfolio managers for the resources the Bank is expected to receive starting in July, less than a month from now.

    I want to reaffirm the Bank’s commitment, expressed since the Law’s enactment over a year ago, to work swiftly, collaboratively, and in coordination with all relevant parties. That said, the Bank’s ability to meet its legal responsibilities on time will also depend on the pace at which several preliminary steps are completed, many of which fall outside our direct control.

    Thank you once again to Asobancaria for the opportunity to participate in this opening session. I wish you productive deliberations in the days ahead. As always, I trust they will yield valuable contributions to the financial sector, the economy, and the country as a whole.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Five suspects to appear in Durban Commercial Crimes Court

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Five suspects arrested over the weekend for fraud and corruption are scheduled to appear in the Durban Commercial Crimes Court today.

    The arrest is related to the issuing of passports at the Department of Home Affairs offices in KwaZulu-Natal.

    A Home Affairs-led law enforcement operation, supported by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, busted a syndicate involved in passport fraud at the uMngeni and Commercial Road offices in Durban. 

    Among the five people arrested are a former Home Affairs official from the Prospecton office, a municipal project volunteer at the Commercial Road office, and three members of the public – one of whom was found with 226 passports that were recently stolen from the uMngeni Home Affairs office.

    Earlier this year, Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, warned at the launch of the Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum (BMIACF) that South Africa was increasingly becoming a “syndicate society”, and that Home Affairs was determined to work with other law enforcement agencies to crack down on syndicates operating in this environment.

    The operation follows the dismissal of 33 corrupt officials since July last year, as well as the criminal conviction of eight offenders, with sentences ranging from four to 18 years in prison.

    The successful operation was initiated by the Home Affairs’ Counter-Corruption Unit, following information received from the public.

    One of the suspects was found with keys to the Home Affairs offices on Commercial Road and at Prospecton. 

    The same suspect was also found with copies of enabling documents that did not belong to him. 

    Two further suspects have been identified as members of this syndicate but the Hawks remain on the hunt for them.

    “This latest operation lands another blow in our ongoing cleanup campaign at Home Affairs, which is specifically focused on breaking open criminal syndicates. 

    “The details of the case also reaffirms the urgent work we are doing to digitalise all of our processes, so that it becomes impossible for syndicates to penetrate and manipulate our systems. 

    “This combination of ensuring criminals are arrested and prosecuted, and using digital transformation to close the loopholes they exploit is how we will ultimately win the war against corruption,” Schreiber said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Two more suspects arrested for passport fraud, corruption

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Serious Corruption Investigation component of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, based in Pretoria, has arrested an additional two suspects in the ongoing operation that began on 14 June 2025, in KwaZulu-Natal, bringing the number of those arrested to seven.

    The execution operation emanates from a complaint from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) relating to the issuance of fraudulent passports to undocumented foreign nationals. 

    The allegations reported serious offences include corruption, fraud and the contraventions of the Identification Act and Immigration Act, which took place between February 2020 and July 2023. A group of South African citizens allegedly facilitated the fraudulent acquisition of South African passports by foreign nationals at DHA offices in Durban, specifically at the Commercial Street branch. 

    These unlawful activities took place outside of regular business hours, including evenings, weekends and public holidays, when the DHA offices were officially closed.

    Preliminary investigations by the DHA confirmed that the criminal activities were conducted after hours, where the local citizens were offered R300 to R1 000 in exchange for their cooperation, particularly at DHA offices in Isipingo, Durban Central and Eshowe — resulting in a case being opened for investigation by Serious Corruption Investigation.

    Thus far, a total of 38 individuals have been previously arrested in the matter from September 2022 to date. Of those arrested, seven are DHA officials, while 31 are private citizens. 

    About 24 individuals, four of whom are DHA officials, have been convicted and sentenced to a combined sentence of 310 years imprisonment.

    The other five suspects were arrested by the Serious Corruption Investigation on 14 June 2025 in various parts of Durban and will face charges of corruption, fraud, contravention of the Immigration Act and contravention of the Identification Act.

    The DPCI is not ruling out the possibility of more suspects being arrested. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scrapping the two child limit to help end child poverty

    Source: Scottish Government

    Shirley-Anne Somerville announces start date for key policy.

    The Scottish Government will effectively scrap the impact of the two-child limit from 2nd March 2026, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has confirmed.

    On a visit to Busy Bees Bellfield parent and toddler group in Portobello, Ms Somerville said the introduction of the Two Child Limit Payment will mean 20,000 fewer children will be living in relative poverty in 2026-27, according to Scottish Government modelling.

    Speaking ahead of a statement to parliament on the publication of the annual report on Best Start, Bright Futures, the Scottish Government’s child poverty strategy, Ms Somerville said:

    “The Scottish Government has consistently called on the UK Government to end the two-child cap. Reports suggest that they are looking at the impact it is having. But the evidence is clear and families and Scotland can’t wait any longer for the UK Government to make up its mind to do the right thing and scrap the cap once and for all.

    “The Two Child Limit Payment will begin accepting applications in March next year. At less than 15 months from when we announced this in the Scottish budget, this will be the fastest that a Scottish social security benefit has been delivered.

    “This builds upon the considerable action we have taken in Scotland, including delivering unparalleled financial support through our Scottish Child Payment, investing to clear school meal debts, and continuing to support almost 10,000 children by mitigating the UK Government’s Benefit Cap as fully as possible.

    “However, austerity decisions taken by the UK Government are holding back Scotland’s progress. Modelling published in March makes clear that if the UK Government act decisively on child poverty, they could help to take an estimated 100,000 children out of poverty this year.”

    Background:

    • On average, households with children in the poorest 10% of households are, this year, estimated to be £2,600 a year better off because of Scottish Government policies. This is projected to grow to an average of £3,700 a year by 2029-30. Child poverty modelling: update – gov.scot
    • Scrapping the Two Child Limit will help keep thousands of children out of poverty and reduce the depth of poverty faced for many more. The Scottish Government’s own modelling suggests 20,000 fewer children will be living in relative poverty in 2026-27 once this payment is introduced and the Scottish Fiscal Commission estimates that overall around 43,000 children in Scotland will benefit from mitigation of the two-child limit in 2026-27.
    • The Scottish Fiscal Commission has estimated the cost of the Two Child Limit Payment to be £155 million in the  financial year 2026-2027.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Israeli tank shelling kills 51 people awaiting aid trucks in Gaza, ministry says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israeli tank shellfire killed at least 51 Palestinians on Tuesday as they awaited aid trucks in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, the territory’s health ministry said, adding that dozens of others were wounded.

    Medics said residents said Israeli tanks fired shells at crowds of desperate Palestinians awaiting aid trucks along the main eastern road in Khan Younis. They said at least 51 people were killed and 200 wounded, with at least 20 of them in critical condition.

    There was no immediate comment by the Israeli military on the incident.

    Witnesses said Israeli tanks fired at least two shells at thousands of people awaiting aid trucks. Nasser Hospital wards were crowded with casualties, and medical staff had to place some on the ground and in corridors due to the lack of space.

    The incident was the latest in nearly daily mass deaths of Palestinians who were seeking aid in past weeks, including near sites operated by the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

    Local health officials said at least 23 people were killed by Israeli gunfire on Monday as they approached a GHF aid distribution site in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip.

    The GHF stated in a press release late on Monday that it had distributed more than three million meals at its four distribution sites without incident.

    There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military about Monday’s reports of shootings. In previous incidents, it has occasionally acknowledged troops opening fire near aid sites, while blaming militants for provoking the violence.

    Israel has put responsibility for distributing much of the aid it allows into Gaza into the hands of the GHF, which operates sites in areas guarded by Israeli troops.

    The United Nations has rejected the plan, saying GHF distribution is inadequate, dangerous and violates humanitarian impartiality principles.

    The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered in October 2023, when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli allies.

    U.S. ally Israel’s subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed nearly 55,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry, while internally displacing nearly Gaza’s entire population and causing a hunger crisis.

    The assault has also triggered accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice and of war crimes at the International Criminal Court. Israel denies the accusations.

    EYE ON IRAN

    The escalation is taking place as Palestinians in the Gaza Strip watch the exchange of attacks between Israel and Iran, which began with Israel launching major strikes on Friday.

    Residents of the Gaza Strip have circulated images of wrecked buildings and charred vehicles hit by Iranian missiles in Israeli cities, and some were hopeful the wider conflict could eventually bring peace to their ruined homeland.

    “We live these scenes and pain daily. We are very happy that we saw the day when we saw rubble in Tel Aviv, and they are trying to get out from under the rubble and the houses that were destroyed on top of their residents,” said Gaza man Saad Saad.

    Others said Iran’s response was greater than many, including Israel, had expected.

    “We saw how Iran, despite (showing) a lot of patience on the harm of the Israeli occupation and its frequent attacks and the assassinations carried out on Iranian soil, … it lost patience and the time has come for Iran to teach the Israeli occupation state a lesson,” said another Gaza man, Taysseir Mohaissan.

    With Israel saying its operation could last weeks, fears have grown of a regional war dragging in outside powers.

    Despite efforts by the United States, Egypt and Qatar to restore a ceasefire in Gaza, neither Israel nor Hamas has shown willingness to back down on core demands, with each side blaming the other for the failure to reach a deal.

    Hamas leaders have repeatedly thanked Iran for its military and financial support to the group in its fight against Israel, including during the current war.

    (Reuters)

  • Israeli tank shelling kills 51 people awaiting aid trucks in Gaza, ministry says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israeli tank shellfire killed at least 51 Palestinians on Tuesday as they awaited aid trucks in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, the territory’s health ministry said, adding that dozens of others were wounded.

    Medics said residents said Israeli tanks fired shells at crowds of desperate Palestinians awaiting aid trucks along the main eastern road in Khan Younis. They said at least 51 people were killed and 200 wounded, with at least 20 of them in critical condition.

    There was no immediate comment by the Israeli military on the incident.

    Witnesses said Israeli tanks fired at least two shells at thousands of people awaiting aid trucks. Nasser Hospital wards were crowded with casualties, and medical staff had to place some on the ground and in corridors due to the lack of space.

    The incident was the latest in nearly daily mass deaths of Palestinians who were seeking aid in past weeks, including near sites operated by the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.

    Local health officials said at least 23 people were killed by Israeli gunfire on Monday as they approached a GHF aid distribution site in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip.

    The GHF stated in a press release late on Monday that it had distributed more than three million meals at its four distribution sites without incident.

    There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military about Monday’s reports of shootings. In previous incidents, it has occasionally acknowledged troops opening fire near aid sites, while blaming militants for provoking the violence.

    Israel has put responsibility for distributing much of the aid it allows into Gaza into the hands of the GHF, which operates sites in areas guarded by Israeli troops.

    The United Nations has rejected the plan, saying GHF distribution is inadequate, dangerous and violates humanitarian impartiality principles.

    The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered in October 2023, when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli allies.

    U.S. ally Israel’s subsequent military assault on Gaza has killed nearly 55,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry, while internally displacing nearly Gaza’s entire population and causing a hunger crisis.

    The assault has also triggered accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice and of war crimes at the International Criminal Court. Israel denies the accusations.

    EYE ON IRAN

    The escalation is taking place as Palestinians in the Gaza Strip watch the exchange of attacks between Israel and Iran, which began with Israel launching major strikes on Friday.

    Residents of the Gaza Strip have circulated images of wrecked buildings and charred vehicles hit by Iranian missiles in Israeli cities, and some were hopeful the wider conflict could eventually bring peace to their ruined homeland.

    “We live these scenes and pain daily. We are very happy that we saw the day when we saw rubble in Tel Aviv, and they are trying to get out from under the rubble and the houses that were destroyed on top of their residents,” said Gaza man Saad Saad.

    Others said Iran’s response was greater than many, including Israel, had expected.

    “We saw how Iran, despite (showing) a lot of patience on the harm of the Israeli occupation and its frequent attacks and the assassinations carried out on Iranian soil, … it lost patience and the time has come for Iran to teach the Israeli occupation state a lesson,” said another Gaza man, Taysseir Mohaissan.

    With Israel saying its operation could last weeks, fears have grown of a regional war dragging in outside powers.

    Despite efforts by the United States, Egypt and Qatar to restore a ceasefire in Gaza, neither Israel nor Hamas has shown willingness to back down on core demands, with each side blaming the other for the failure to reach a deal.

    Hamas leaders have repeatedly thanked Iran for its military and financial support to the group in its fight against Israel, including during the current war.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Long awaited judicial review begins in Gogrial East, with support from United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)


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    Women and men in chains approach an improvised justice bench next to the main prison in Lietnhom, the county headquarters of Gogrial East, Warrap. Exhaustion is writ large on their faces. These prisoners have waited a long time for their time in court. Many of them don’t even know why they have been detained.

    “I really don’t know my offense. I don’t know my crime. I was taken from the court side, placed in a container and suddenly I ended up in prison,” one of them shares.

    Another case involves a young woman who found herself imprisoned on charges of adultery—a charge often misused against women—after a tragic incident involving her stepfather and deceased daughter.

    These anecdotes are a stark reminder that in South Sudan, access to justice cannot be taken for granted.

    In Lietnhom, with no resident judge for some five years, customary courts, typically limited to civil disputes, have been handling criminal cases beyond their jurisdiction. This resulted in unjust imprisonment, inadequate judicial procedures, and significant distress for inmates, particularly women and young girls.

    However, this week, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), through its Rule of Law section brought much-needed hope to communities living here by facilitating a two-week case review in collaboration with a judge, public prosecutor and defender sent by the Kuajok High Court to facilitate appropriate court hearings.

    “This judicial vacuum must be addressed immediately,” Judge George Michael explained, while beginning to review cases that had gone unheard for months or even years.

    On the first day, a woman detained for refusing a forced marriage burst into tears as her release was announced. “Today I finally feel my opinion matters,” she said. Her relief was palpable.

    Another compelling moment was when the judge addressed the court while reviewing the case of a teenage girl jailed for choosing a different religion. “We fought for our independence from Sudan to uphold our freedom of beliefs and rights. How can we imprison our own children for exercising these same freedoms?” he questioned.

    Within two days, substantial progress was made. “We found that many people were imprisoned without proper documentation or sufficient evidence,” noted Deng Kuol, the prison director.

    Out of 77 cases reviewed, 41 individuals were immediately freed, significantly reducing prison overcrowding and arbitrary detention. Only nine inmates remained for further legal proceedings.

    “Seeing wrongfully incarcerated people walk free with happiness is one of the most rewarding parts of our work,” smiles Lena Ellen Becker, a Justice Advisor with the UN Peacekeeping mission.

    “Don’t be surprised if overcrowding returns in weeks because of the absence of the permanent prosecutors or judges,” cautions Mr Kuol, however.

    While these initial sessions reveal deeper systemic issues, such as wrongful imprisonment, arbitrary arrests, and procedural negligence, the beginning of a comprehensive effort toward justice reform in Gogrial East is praiseworthy.

    Moving forward, detailed reviews and additional judicial support will continue.

    “Our roles need clarity, procedures must improve, and we must protect the vulnerable, especially women and girls,” stated Ayen Deng, a traditional leader working with the customary court.

    Despite these early victories, challenges remain.

    The woman released from prison faced immediate pressure from her family. They refused to return the cattle received as dowry and insisted she must either marry the man she had originally refused or face imprisonment again. “This shows us that some issues go beyond our courts,” explained a UNMISS officer. “Cultural practices and social pressures require a collective change in mindsets and strong government interventions to ensure true justice and freedom for all.”

    As Judge Michael poignantly reminded the gathering, “Justice delayed is justice denied,” pointing out the urgent need for continued commitment to human rights, fairness, and societal transformation across this young nation.

    While this UNMISS facilitated case review may only be a temporary solution at this point, its success sets the stage for future replications and long-term investments at the state level. Achieving lasting justice in Lietnhom and beyond will ultimately depend on sustained and collective efforts at every level.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Alert issued on suspicious calls

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Security Bureau today reminded the public to stay vigilant against suspicious calls purportedly made by Security Bureau staff, alleging that the citizen was suspected of breaking the law and required to visit the bureau office in person for verification.

     

    The bureau solemnly clarified that this is untrue and condemned such deception tactics. The bureau has displayed an alert message on its official website to remind the public to stay vigilant against scams.

     

    In addition to reminding people not to disclose their personal information to any suspicious or unidentified individuals, the bureau stressed that in case of doubt, they should call the Anti Scam Helpline 18222 for enquiries.

     

    Those who have provided personal information to suspicious individuals or suspect they have been scammed should contact Police, the bureau added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder investigation launched after fatal stabbing in Hackney

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a woman at an address in Dumont Road, Hackney.

    On Tuesday, 17 June at 04:57hrs officers were called to reports of a gas explosion with a person trapped inside an address.

    Officers attended alongside the London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade.

    A woman aged 46 was found inside the property with stab wounds. Despite the efforts of paramedics, she was sadly declared dead at the scene.

    A 44-year-old man was arrested at the address on suspicion of murder. He was taken to hospital with slash wounds where he currently remains. His condition is not life-changing or life-threatening.

    Two children ages 9 and 7 have also been taken to hospital as a precaution but are not believed to have been inside the property at the time of the gas explosion.

    Local road closures are in place while enquiries continue. There are also additional officers on patrol in the local area.

    Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 926/17June or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Foot-and-mouth disease detected in the North West

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has confirmed an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, specifically within the JB Marks Local Municipality.

    In the first case, the department was alerted by a private veterinarian, who visited a farm and noted suspicious signs. 

    A State veterinarian then collected samples, which were sent to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute (OVI) for testing.

    Another incident of FMD was detected at an abattoir in Madibeng.

    “The clinical signs of the affected  animals were missed at ante-mortem inspection but were detected on the slaughter line during the meat inspection process. 

    “Tissue samples were sent to the laboratory, and the results came back confirming both SAT 2 and SAT 3 types of the virus. 

    “The unslaughtered animals were escorted back to the farm of origin, a feedlot in Ventersdorp, through a Red Cross permit,” the statement read. 

    The department has placed both farms associated with the outbreak under quarantine, which prohibits the movement of animals and animal products. 

    In addition, the department has identified all farms connected to the Gauteng outbreak and is conducting tests to determine whether any of them are positive for the infection.

    “All such farms have also been put under precautionary quarantine until the test results are back.” 

    The department stated that any suspected case of FMD in susceptible animals must be reported to the local state veterinarian immediately.

    FMD is a highly contagious viral infection that affects cloven-hoofed animals and can impact some other species as well. 

    The main clinical signs of the disease include fever, lameness, and the appearance of blisters and sores in the mouth, feet, and teats.

    In recent months, outbreaks have occurred in five of the nine provinces in South Africa, with KwaZulu-Natal experiencing the most significant impact.

    Early this month, Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, announced that the department has ordered 901 200 doses of vaccines at a value of over R70 million. 

    The national department said this means that over 900 000 animals will be vaccinated in all areas that the department has prioritised.

    The department stated that Limpopo and Mpumalanga will also conduct their routine vaccinations, which are conducted three times a year, with some of the vaccines going to Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. 

    Meanwhile, last week, Cabinet announced plans to establish a biosecurity council that will bring together the South African Police Service, veterinarians, scientists, the Border Management Authority (BMA) and captains of industry to better respond to future outbreaks and manage the related risks. 

    READ | Government on top off foot-and-mouth disease response. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Results of the University’s Interfaculty Spartakiads

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    For several years now, NSU has been holding two Spartakiads: among faculties and institutes in 15 sports and among first-year students in 7 sports.

    The academic year has come to an end, all the results have been calculated and the most athletic faculties have been determined. As in the previous year, the Faculty of Physics and the Faculty of Mathematics and Mathematics fought for the prize places, and this time the physicists won by a good margin. But the economists unexpectedly broke into third place, pushing aside one of the leaders of the previous years – the students of the Faculty of Information Technologies.

    The final places were distributed as follows: 1st place – Physics Department, 140 points 2nd place – Mechanics and Mathematics Department, 127 points

    3rd place – Faculty of Economics, 124 points

    4th place – Faculty of Information Technology, 118 points

    5th place – NSU SUNC, 104 points

    6th place – Faculty of Natural Sciences, 94 points 7th place – Faculty of Geology and Geophysics, 87 points

    8th place – Humanities Institute, 66 points 9th place – Institute of Medicine and Medical Technologies, 65 points 10th place – Higher College of Informatics, 62 points

    11th place – Institute of Intelligent Robotics, 60 points

    12th place – Institute of Philosophy and Law, 49 points

    The Spartakiad of first-year students has also ended, which includes: mini-football, armlifting, track and field cross-country, swimming, strength all-around, cross-country skiing and shooting. The winners of the Spartakiad of first-year students were determined by the sum of places in six types of the program out of seven and they were:

    1st place – Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics

    2nd place – Faculty of Natural Sciences

    3rd place – Faculty of Information Technology

    More detailed results can be found in the Spartakiad tables on the page, where all competitions during the academic year were also covered.

    Congratulations to the winners on their excellent results! We thank all the participants who represented their faculties in various sports, and the teachers of the Department of Physical Education for organizing and holding sports and mass events throughout the academic year!

    We wish students successful passing of exam sessions, defending their diplomas and productive summer holidays, and we look forward to seeing everyone at our sports grounds next academic year!

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – 95 New Zealand Lawyers Call for Stronger Govt Stance on Israel Amidst Rising Tensions in Middle East

    Source: Max Harris
    Ninety-five New Zealand lawyers – including 9 King’s Counsel – have signed a letter to the Prime Minister and other ministers urging the Government to consider a stronger stance against Israel’s actions in Gaza.
    The letter has been sent amidst rising tensions in the region, following Israel’s surprise attacks on Iran, and Iran’s attacks on Israel in response.
    The letter’s signatories come from all levels of seniority in the legal community including senior barristers, law firm partners, legal academics, and in-house lawyers.
    The letter cites UN sources that document the steadily deteriorating plight of civilians in Gaza, featuring escalating levels of bombardment, forced displacement, blockades of aid and deliberate targeting of hospitals, aid workers and journalists, and notes key responses to date.
     
    In September last year New Zealand voted in favour of a UN General Assembly resolution calling upon all UN Member States to comply with their obligations under international law and take concrete steps to address Israel’s ongoing presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. At the time, New Zealand noted it expected Israel to take meaningful steps towards compliance with international law including withdrawal from the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The letter comments that Israel has done nothing of the sort.
     
    The letter goes on to point out that in May this year Independent UN Experts demanded immediate international intervention to “end the violence or bear witness to the annihilation of the Palestinian population in Gaza.” UN experts have observed the occurrence of over 52,535 deaths, of which 70 percent continue to be women and children. The Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher has called for a response “as humanitarians” urging “Humanity, the law and reason must prevail”.
    The letter urges the Government to consider a stronger response including to condemn Israel’s unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, to review immediately all diplomatic and political and economic ties with Israel, and to go further in imposing sanctions after New Zealand imposed sanctions on two extremist Israeli politicians.
    One of the letter’s signatories, barrister Max Harris, says: “This letter reflects rising concern among the general community about Israel’s breaches of international law.”
    “The Government has tried to highlight red lines for Israel, but these have been repeatedly crossed, and it’s time that the Government considers doing more, in line with international law,” adds Harris.
    Aedeen Boadita-Cormican, another barrister who has signed the letter, says: “The Government could do more to follow through on how it has voted at the United Nations and what it has said internationally.”
    “This letter shows the depth of concern in the legal community about Israel’s actions,” adds Boadita-Cormican.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Prosecutor’s Office Warns of Rise in Online Crimes Against Minors

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 17 (Xinhua) — Crimes committed by adults against minors using information and telecommunications networks are on the rise in China, calling for further strengthening of protection and law enforcement measures, according to a white paper released by the Supreme People’s Procuratorate (SPP) on Monday.

    In 2024, Chinese prosecutors charged 3,347 people with such crimes, up 14.1 percent year-on-year and accounting for 7.3 percent of all crimes committed by adults against minors in 2024, compared with 6.9 percent in 2023, according to data provided in the document.

    As the white paper highlights, Chinese prosecutors are working closely with cyber regulators and the police to combat crimes targeting minors, such as cyberbullying and sexual harassment. Greater efforts are also being made to punish fraudsters who exploit children in their criminal schemes.

    At the same time, legal protection for minors is being expanded, the White Paper says. This includes providing legal advice, influencing guardians so that they fulfill their duties, providing support to minors in civil proceedings, etc.

    The White Paper calls for further improvements to the overall digital environment for younger generations. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road Closed, Skipton Bridge, Geraldine-Fairlie Hwy

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Motorists are advised to take alternative routes due to a blockage on the Geraldine-Fairlie Highway on the Skipton Bridge following a crash this evening.

    Police were alerted to the single vehicle crash around 9.35pm.

    One person has received moderate injuries in relation to the crash.

    The road will remain closed for some time.

    ENDS.

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: ‘We were only asking for our rights’: Tunisian authorities punish mobilization for socioeconomic and environmental rights

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

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    Against the backdrop of a deepening cost of living and environmental crisis and despite repeatedly committing to upholding economic and social justice for the most disadvantaged, over the past five years Tunisia’s authorities have targeted individuals from marginalized and impoverished communities for peacefully protesting or striking over socioeconomic and environmental issues, Amnesty International said in a new report published today.  

    The report, ‘We were only asking for our rights and dignity’, highlights how Tunisia’s authorities have arrested, investigated or prosecuted people for peacefully protesting or striking over socioeconomic and environmental issues such as poor working conditions, pollution and access to water using vague charges of “obstruction.”    

    Between February 2020 and January 2025, the authorities have targeted at least 90 peaceful protesters, activists, trade unionists, and workers simply for exercising their rights to freedom of peaceful assembly, to form and join a union, and to organize and participate in strikes.

    “The right to freedom of peaceful assembly is fundamental to a thriving society and serves as a crucial means to strengthen human rights and protect workers’ rights,” said Sara Hashash, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International.   

    “This report highlights a worrying pattern of unjust criminalization of peaceful activism, usually at a local level where communities or workers have mobilized for their basic socioeconomic or environmental rights. It is another, less visible, manifestation of the repression of peaceful dissent within a broader crackdown on human rights and the rule of law in Tunisia and further threatens civic space in the country. 

    “Instead of using vague ‘obstruction’ charges to stifle or punish expressions of peaceful dissent or dissatisfaction over basic rights related to environmental or labour-related concerns Tunisia’s authorities should be working to safeguard and uphold the right to freedom of peaceful assembly in line with their international human rights obligations.” 

    Amnesty International has investigated nine cases as illustrative examples of a wider pattern of criminalization of peaceful assemblies using “obstruction” charges, cases which are likely to be under-reported due to their localization, the lack of access to human rights organization by affected communities and the fear of reprisals from authorities and employers.  

    The organization interviewed 26 people, eight of their lawyers and four family members to document these cases involving the investigation, arrest or prosecution of 90 people using “obstruction” charges. These vaguely formulated provisions do not meet the principle of legality and do not proscribe an internationally recognized criminal offence.  

    The legal proceedings were initiated in reprisal against peaceful assemblies or union activism, often affiliated with the Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT), and have sought to deter protesters and others from participating in future protests and strikes. Among those targeted, 16 were arrested and detained for periods ranging between three days and 20 months. Individuals targeted include residents and environmental rights activists who protested for their right to water and a healthy environment, and workers and unionists who organized protests and strikes over employment and working conditions.  

    As one striking female worker from a shoe factory in Kairouan stated: “It was the last straw, we decided to take action… We are not protected from chemicals we use in the factory… in the summer we have to work in very high temperatures; there is no water, no respect for our welfare… If you get sick you get a pay cut… You are dismissed if unable to work… There is always a lot of verbal abuse and insults.”  

    She described how they were summoned by police in November 2024 right before the constitutive meeting for a new union: “[They] wanted us to say that [we were] manipulated into doing something illegal, or that we had other suspicious motives, but there was no basis to it. We were only asking for our rights and our dignity.” 

    While most of the individuals concerned were convicted and sentenced to fines or suspended prison terms, or have not been detained pending trial, this pattern has a chilling effect on individuals considering voicing concerns over their social, economic, and environmental rights.  

    A local resident from the town of Bargou in the northern region of Siliana who participated in a protest about access to water in February 2023 stated: “It was barely a protest, we stood on the side of the road holding signs, there wasn’t any disruption. They [the police] summoned dozens of people for that’” 

    A local activist from the eastern region of Sfax, convicted for his involvement in an environmental protest movement in June 2023, told Amnesty International: “Everyone was taken to court. It was a way to silence us… to say close your mouth or you will go to prison”. 

    In February 2020, authorities summoned a group of women forestry maintenance workers in Sfax following a sit-in to protest their working conditions. Police asked them to sign statements in which they would commit not to protest again, infringing on their right to peaceful assembly.  

    Compounding this, in five of the cases documented, serious violations of the right to a fair trial and due process took place, including instances where defendants’ rights to information and adequate defense were denied.  

    In eight of the nine cases investigated, authorities used Article 136 of the Penal Code on “obstruction of work,” and in one case, they used Article 107 of the Penal Code on “obstruction of a public service.”  

    “Obstruction” charges have at times also been used as part of a set of charges brought against prominent political and civil society figures who expressed their opposition to President Kais Said, such as judge Anas Hmedi and opposition party leader Abir Moussi. 

    “The arbitrary application of these vaguely worded ‘obstruction’ legal provisions, coupled with fair trial violations, violates Tunisia’s international human rights obligations and sends a chilling message to anyone daring to speak out for their rights,” said Sara Hashash.  

    “Tunisia’s authorities must immediately quash convictions and drop charges in all cases relating t individuals’ participation in peaceful street protests and labour strikes. They must also repeal Articles 107 and 136 of the Penal Code or amend them in line with international human rights standards.” 

    Following President Kais Saied’s power grab on 25 July 2021, Tunisian authorities have escalated a wider crackdown on human rights including the right to freedom of expression and all forms of dissent, using repressive laws and unfounded charges to prosecute and arbitrarily detain political opponents, journalists, human rights defenders and civil society activists, lawyers and other perceived critics, while eroding judicial independence and the rule of law.  

    The rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are guaranteed under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, to which Tunisia is a state party. Under international human rights law, states have an obligation to tolerate temporary obstruction caused by a peaceful assembly, such as disruption of road traffic, pedestrian movements, or economic activity. The mere obstruction of movement or traffic cannot be equated with violence.

    – on behalf of Amnesty International.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE: actions on app protect security

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    (To watch the full media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)

    Chief Executive John Lee said today that actions taken by the Secretary for Security and the Police Force in relation to a mobile application were necessary to safeguard national security.

    In remarks ahead of this morning’s Executive Council meeting, he emphasised that the Government will always take strict enforcement action in accordance with the law with regard to all activities and acts endangering national security.

    “According to the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), all citizens have the obligation to uphold national security. So Hong Kong as a Special Administrative Region of the PRC, the residents of Hong Kong have that constitutional obligation.

    “The mobile application in question was released under the guise of a game with the aim of promoting secessionist agendas of ‘Taiwan independence’ and ‘Hong Kong independence’. This endangers national security.

    “The Secretary for Security and the Hong Kong Police have taken action in accordance with the Implementation Rules for Article 43 of the Hong Kong National Security Law, carrying out their responsibilities and duties to safeguard national security – they are doing the right thing.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Traffic disruption, Prebensen Drive, Napier

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Motorists are advised of traffic disruption following a two-vehicle crash on Prebensen Drive, near Ford Road and Severn Street, at around 4.50pm.

    No serious injuries have been reported.

    The road remains partly blocked while emergency services and contractors clear the scene.

    Motorists are advised to take an alternate route and expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: The ‘serious threat to life or health’ exception in the HIPC

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    Rule 11 of the Health Information Privacy Code (HIPC) allows you to disclose health information if it is necessary to prevent or lessen a serious threat to the life or health of any person, or public health or safety (the serious threat exception). In each case, there are requirements that must be met for the serious threat exception to apply. If another piece of legislation requires or allows you to share the health information in question you should rely on that legislation rather than Rule 11.

    Step 1: Have you received authorisation to share this information?

    Authorisation means that the person whose health information it is has agreed that you can share the information. Authorisation can also be given by the individual’s representative if the individual is dead or unable to exercise their rights under the HIPC (e.g. due to a cognitive impairment which impacts decision making or very young age).

    You should give the person as much information as possible about what information you will share, who you will share it with, and why.

    If you receive authorisation, then you can share the information under Rule 11(1)(b), which permits disclosure when it is authorised by the individual or their representative.

    If you don’t have authorisation, go to step 2.

    Step 2: Is it reasonably practical to seek authorisation?

    For the serious threat to life and health exception to apply, you need to have reasonable grounds to believe that it is not desirable or not practicable to get authorisation from the individual concerned. For example, if you have reasonable grounds to believe that seeking authorisation could increase the threat.

    If it is reasonable for you to seek authorisation, you need to do so. If you ask for authorisation, but the individual does not authorise you to disclose the information, you need to consider why it was not given and whether it is appropriate to continue through the steps.

    If it is not reasonably practical to seek authorisation, go to step 3.

    Step 3: Is there a serious threat to the life or health of a person?

    The serious threat exception applies to serious threats to:

    • The life or health of the person whose information it is.
    • The life or health of any other person.
    • Public health or public safety.

    When considering whether there is a serious threat, you need to use your clinical judgement to assess the likelihood of the threat occurring, the seriousness of the threat and the harm that could eventuate, and the imminence of the threat.

    If the threat does not meet the “serious threat” threshold, you cannot rely on this exception.

    If there is a serious threat, continue to step 4.

    Step 4: Is the disclosure to someone who can help lessen or prevent the threat?

    You can only disclose health information under the serious threat exception if you are sharing the information with someone who can help lessen or prevent the threat.
    You can share only as much information as is needed to prevent or lessen the threat. You should record your decision making about who to share with and how much information to share.

    The case note: Police were right to disclose mental health information is an example of how the serious threat exception could work in practice.

    Download the content on this page in one document (opens to PDF, 350KB).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrest made in relation to homicide of Kaea Karauria

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police have charged a teenager after alleged interference in the murder investigation of 15-year-old Kaea Karauria.

    The girl was taken into custody on 16 June, after Police investigating Kaea’s death learned that a witness had been approached and allegedly threatened.

    Detective Inspector Dave de Lange said the alleged incident occurred on 12 May, a day after the fight in which Kaea was killed. Police learned of the approach on 6 June, while conducting follow-up enquiries.

    The teen has been charged with wilfully attempting to pervert the course of justice, and will reappear in the Hastings Youth Court next month.

    Detective Inspector de Lange said any form of witness tampering was treated seriously.

    “When a witness is threatened, or attempts are made to sabotage an investigation, Police will act without hesitation. This should be a warning to anyone who contemplates interfering with justice.”

    Detective Inspector de Lange encouraged anyone with information about the incident to contact Police.

    “Kaea deserves justice, as does his family, so if you can help please talk to us,” he says.

    Footage of the incident can be uploaded here

    Information can also be reported online, or by calling 105 and referencing the file number 250511/1317.

    Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Xia Baolong to visit HK

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee revealed today that CPC Central Committee Hong Kong & Macao Work Office Director and State Council Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office Director Xia Baolong will visit Hong Kong from tomorrow until Sunday.

    Mr Lee told reporters ahead of the Executive Council meeting this morning that Mr Xia will attend the “5th Anniversary of Promulgation & Implementation of Hong Kong National Security Law Forum”, which is being organised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government.

    Mr Xia will also take the opportunity to observe economic and social developments in Hong Kong.

    The Chief Executive thanked Mr Xia for his continued concern and support for Hong Kong and extended his warmest welcome to Mr Xia ahead of his visit.

    Me Lee added that the Hong Kong SAR Government endeavour to ensure a smooth visit.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Protecting buyers from dodgy car sales

    Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

    Consumer Affairs Victoria is pursuing legal action to protect consumers from car sellers who break the law.

    It’s currently targeting licensed and unlicensed sellers whose conduct has undermined consumers’ rights when buying a used car.

    Two companies operating car businesses in Dandenong and Cranbourne were recently suspended from trading. They had failed to deliver cars to customers, to pay or transfer stamp duty, and to return deposits on cancelled contracts.

    More than 200 customers have so far claimed over $330,000 from the Motor Car Traders Guarantee Fund, after losing money dealing with CMG Automotive and CHM Motors. The fund compensates Victorians who suffer financial loss as the result of dealing with a licensed car business that breaks the law.

    Consumer Affairs is now asking VCAT to permanently cancel CMG Automotive’s licence.

    In a separate case, unlicensed car trader Zequn Wang, was recently convicted and fined $25,000. Wang bought or sold 84 cars between January 2022 and September 2023. This is far greater than the four cars per year limit you can trade without a licence.

    The Office of Public Prosecutions has now launched an appeal on Consumer Affairs’ behalf to the County Court, believing the sentence handed down was inadequate.

    In Victoria, unlicensed traders face maximum penalties of up to $19,000, or 15% of the sale price, for each car they buy, sell or exchange.

    Buying a used car? Things you need to know

    Consumer Affairs also provides information and advice so Victorians can make informed choices when buying a car.

    For many people, it’s one of the biggest purchases they’ll make. Understanding your rights can help you to be happy on the road.

    A new campaign will promote the laws that protect you when you’re buying a second-hand car. Demand for used cars rose 12% nationally last year.

    Buying from a licensed trader provides a cooling-off period, clear title and warranty. Combined with having access to compensation from the Motor Car Traders Guarantee Fund if things go wrong, these are strong protections not available if you buy from an unlicensed seller.

    Learn more about buying a used car safely and follow Consumer Affairs Victoria on Instagram.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Newburgh Felon of Firearms Possession

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Andre Decker, age 45, of Newburgh, New York, was convicted on Friday of possessing a firearm as a felon following a 4-day jury trial.

    United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and United States Marshal David McNulty made the announcement.

    The trial proof established that Decker, who was previously convicted of a violent felony involving a firearm, absconded from federal probation supervision and was the subject of an arrest warrant. On November 27, 2023, when Deputy United States Marshals attempted to apprehend Decker, he fled the apartment he shared with his girlfriend and led law enforcement on a foot chase wearing only his underwear. Decker broke into a neighboring apartment and hid in a closet where he was quickly located and arrested. The defendant possessed two loaded firearms in his apartment. 

    U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Andre Decker couldn’t hide from the U.S. Marshals, and he couldn’t escape this trial conviction, either. Decker’s extensive criminal history and utter disregard for the law warranted zealous prosecution for his conduct in this case, and that’s just what he got. I thank the U.S. Marshals and Albany Police Department for their work in apprehending the defendant and keeping him off the streets.”

    U.S. Marshal David McNulty stated: “Mr. Decker is a danger to our community.  We are proud to have secured his capture and wish to thank both the community, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and all our fellow law enforcement agencies whose cooperation was so important in this case.”

    Sentencing is scheduled for October 15, 2025, before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci.  Decker faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.

    The United States Marshal Service and Albany Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mikayla Espinosa and Ashlyn Miranda prosecuted the case.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders works together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australia needs early childhood education and care

    Source: Reserve Bank of Australia

    17 June 2025

    The Importance of Early Learning

    Research demonstrates that high-quality early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong learning, social development, and emotional wellbeing. Children who undertake two years of preschool typically do better at school, are more engaged in education and are more likely to remain engaged in education, meaning they are also more likely to seek out tertiary education such as TAFE. TAFE is central to stemming skills shortages for qualified early learning educators, but early learning teachers and educators are also essential for the TAFE workforce and TAFE students and their children, to not only allow parents and guardians to participate fully in work, but for their child’s development. A child’s brain grows to near-adult size in the first five years of life. This stunning period of development is crucial in determining whether children thrive and what their life chances and educational experiences are like down the track. Overwhelming international evidence shows that high-quality early childhood education is essential during these first years – even more so for vulnerable children who experience any kind of disadvantage. Yet the shortsighted perception persists (even in 2025!) that looking after babies, toddlers and preschoolers is low-skilled women’s work – with the main purpose of boosting parents’ economic participation.

    Valuing Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC)

    “I can’t count the number of times people say to me, ‘Kinder’s just Play-Doh and finger-painting isn’t it?’,” says Cara Nightingale, formerly a primary and kindergarten teacher in Victoria and now AEU Victorian Branch vice president, early childhood. AEU early childhood members may be degree-qualified preschool teachers, diploma-level educators who work in funded kinder programs, or Certificate III educators who work in funded kinder programs. Despite lingering dinosaur attitudes, Nightingale says: “Over the last few years we’ve seen significant progress in politicians and the broader community acknowledging the skill, expertise and importance of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC).”
    She says the quality of TAFE qualifications have helped in external recognition of the skill sets required in ECEC. “To deliver high-quality ECEC you need a workforce that is highly qualified and provided with wraparound supports and resources for retention, along with professional pay and working conditions that are reflective of the important work of Early Childhood teachers and educators,” Nightingale says.

    Victorian Union Wins

    Recent union wins in Victoria, a state that leads the country in ECEC sector bargaining, are driving change, Nightingale says. “When AEU early childhood members achieved pay parity with school teachers it was a significant win,” she says. “They are the only kinder teachers across the country that have achieved pay parity with school teachers.”

    Three Days Guaranteed

    More good news for the sector came in February with the Early Childhood Education and Care (Three Day Guarantee) Bill 2025, which guarantees families three days of subsidised early learning per week and eliminates the discriminatory activity test that previously restricted access based on parents’ work or study status.

    Policy Progress Since 2022

    Since the Albanese government came to office in 2022, there have been a number of significant industrial relations reforms, funding boosts and initiatives in the sector, including:

    • The Wage Justice for Early Childhood Education and Care Workers Bill 2024
    • A 15 per cent pay rise for early educators, to be phased in over two years
    • A $1 billion fund to build or expand early learning centres in under-served areas
    • The introduction of Free TAFE for priority employment areas, which has seen 35,500 enrolments in ECEC alone
    • The Fair Work Commission’s decision to grant multi-employer bargaining rights.

    Nightingale says multi-employer bargaining is an important shift of the power balance back towards the workforce and members, and directly led to significant ECEC member pay increases in Victoria. Nightingale also applauds the Victorian government’s moves to build state-funded early childhood services in places the market won’t.

    Childcare Deserts: The Last Frontier

    Finding any childcare, let alone affordable or high-quality learning options, remains a problem for many parents, especially those in regional and rural areas. A 2022 Mitchell Institute report found that around 35 per cent of the Australian population lived in what is classified as a ‘childcare desert’ – where there were more than three children per available childcare place. In places like Whyalla, Port Lincoln and Port Pirie in South Australia, around five children were competing for each place. Even worse, 1.1 million Australians live where there are simply no childcare and early learning services at all.

    The Case for Public Provision

    “There are just so many gaps,” says Thrive by Five’s Weatherill. “We are still far away from a universal, high-quality, and affordable early learning system the way we have it in place for maternal health services and primary schools.
    With the current system, we hand out a voucher and ask people to go shopping for childcare. That’s fine if you can find a service at the right price, but if you have children with special needs or you live in the country, or you’re a single mum or in a remote Aboriginal community, there are these gaps because the market [only] provides things that are easy to provide where they can make a dollar.” This is why public provision of ECEC as an essential service, like public TAFE, is important.

    TAFE: An Essential Pipeline

    Early indicators suggest things are moving in the right direction – the ECEC workforce has grown by more than 30,000 since Labor took office, and job vacancies in the sector dropped by 22 per cent in 2024 according to Jobs and Skills Australia. Far greater numbers of skilled graduates will be needed in the near future according to the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA), which estimates that an additional 85,000 ECEC workers are required to raise Australia’s provision to the OECD average by 2030 and a doubling of the sector by adding almost 260,000 workers to match provision in Nordic countries. Publicly funded TAFE and Free places will be required in large numbers to ramp up this ECEC workforce, providing the Cert III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. “The provision of free or low-cost TAFE for early educators is crucial in the workforce development story,” says Weatherill. “Degree-based teachers are important, but the overwhelming majority of early educators will be certificate and diploma qualified, and they’ll overwhelmingly be provided by TAFE.” “It’s all connected,” says Cara Nightingale. “Having properly funded TAFE and well-paid teachers is part of it, but so too is providing the additional supports for things like numeracy and literacy that we need.” She says another key benefit of retaining teachers is that they mentor the next generation, ensuring that their skills, knowledge and love of teaching continues.

    By Rochelle Siemienowicz

    This article was originally published in The Australian TAFE Teacher, Autumn 2025

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Media Advisory: Tara H. Jackson is the new Prince George’s County State’s Attorney

    Source: US State of Maryland

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 16, 2025

    Government Relations and Public Affairs
    187 Harry S. Truman Parkway
    Annapolis, Maryland 21401

    Media Advisory:
    Tara H. Jackson is the new Prince George’s County State’s Attorney 

    UPPER MARLBORO, Md. – Tara H. Jackson has been selected as the new State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County. Jackson succeeded Angela D. Alsobrooks, who was elected to the U.S. Senate, to serve as the Acting County Executive for Prince George’s County, Maryland. Jackson will serve as Prince George’s County State’s Attorney as Aisha Braveboy will be sworn in as county executive this week.

    Jackson’s career includes more than 20 years in the government and legal community. Jackson formerly served as Prince George’s County’s Chief Administrative Officer, beginning in December 2020. She began her career in public service as a prosecutor in the State’s Attorney’s Office, and later took on a role serving as Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) for Government Operations under County Executive Alsobrooks.

    Jackson earned a Bachelor of Science from James Madison University, a Juris Doctor from the University of Maryland School of Law, and a Master of Divinity in Leadership Development from the Phoenix Seminary.

    Pursuant to Article V of the Maryland Constitution, the circuit court judges of Prince George’s County appointed Jackson to fill the vacancy of State’s Attorney for the remaining term.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rider and witnesses sought following crash on Edmund Road, Rotorua on Sunday

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police are seeking witnesses to the events leading up to a crash on Edmund Road, Rotorua on Sunday 15 June at about 2.15pm at a designated pedestrian crossing.

    Rotorua Police is investigating after a motorcyclist overtook a stationary vehicle waiting for a pedestrian to cross, and then struck the pedestrian who was on the crossing at the time.

    The rider then performed a U-turn, rode back towards the crossing, but did not stop or check on the victim.  The rider then fled the scene.

    The 24-year-old sight and hearing-impaired victim was injured and flown to Waikato Hospital where he remains in a critical condition.

    Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Phil Wilkinson of the Rotorua Police is calling on any witnesses to come forward.

    “Police have a large team who are currently in the early stages of gathering evidence surrounding the circumstances of the crash, and what led to it happening,” he says.

    “Police have obtained CCTV footage of the motorcycle shortly after the crash showing the motorcycle turning left onto Clayton Road and travelling in the direction of Gem Street.

    “We would like the rider to do the right thing – come forward and speak to us about what happened.

    Someone will know who this rider is and police are appealing to those people to act on their conscience and contact us.

    The family of the injured man are understandably upset about this incident and are urging people to come forward.

    Police are wanting to hear from any other witnesses to the crash, and we ask them to contact us as soon as possible,” Detective Senior Sergeant Wilkinson says.

    We are appealing to anyone who recognises the motorcycle and or the rider pictured to come forward to Police online or call 105 using the file reference number 250615/1168.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Budget invests in CIT upgrades

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website.

    You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 17, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 17, 2025.

    In view of Trump’s review of AUKUS, should Australia cancel the subs deal? We asked 5 experts
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Andrews, Senior Manager, Policy & Engagement, Australian National University Speculation is swirling around the future of the A$368 billion AUKUS agreement, following Washington’s decision to review the nuclear submarine deal to ensure it meets President Donald Trump’s “America first” agenda. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was planning

    Australians in the bush want tougher penalties on crime. Here’s why – and what’s needed now
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Caitlin Davey, Lecturer of Criminology, Griffith University New research has found that while Australians generally support strong punishments, people living in the bush are significantly more likely than city dwellers to want to punish more harshly those who break the law. It means Australians living in rural

    Judy Davis gives a singularly vivid performance in The Spare Room – but the play falls short
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Moya Costello, Adjunct Lecturer in Creative Writing, Southern Cross University Brett Boardman/Belvoir In The Spare Room, Judy Davis lights up the stage with a singularly vivid performance. Adapted by Eamon Flack from Helen Garner’s 2008 novel of the same name, Davis plays sharp-tongued Helen (or Hel) to

    US travel ban on Pacific 3 – countries have right to decide over borders, Peters says
    RNZ Pacific New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters says countries have the right to choose who enters their borders in response to reports that the Trump administration is planning to impose travel restrictions on three dozen nations, including three in the Pacific. But opposition Labour’s deputy leader Carmel Sepuloni says the foreign minister should push

    Attack on Iran’s state media – Israel bombs IRIB building in new war crime
    Pacific Media Watch Israel targeted one of the buildings of the state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) in Tehran on the fourth day of attacks on Iran, interrupting a live news broadcast, reports Press TV. The attack, involving at least four bombs, struck the central building housing IRIB’s news department, while a live news

    What is ‘cognitive shuffling’ and does it really help you get to sleep? Two sleep scientists explain
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Melinda Jackson, Associate Professor at Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University Ursula Ferrara/Shutterstock If you’ve been on social media lately – perhaps scrolling in the middle of the night, when you know you shouldn’t but you just can’t sleep –

    New research shows Australians see influencers as major sources of misinformation
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sora Park, Professor of Communication, News & Media Research Centre, University of Canberra As consumption of traditional news continues to fall, audiences are turning to social media personalities and influencers for their information. These figures are increasingly shaping public debates. But Australian news audiences are sceptical. More

    Why does my phone sometimes not ring when people call? A communications expert explains
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jairo Gutierrez, Professor, Department of Computer and Information Sciences, Auckland University of Technology Tada Images There’s a certain feeling I get in the pit of my stomach when I’m waiting for an important call to come through. You know the type – maybe a call from your

    Wetland restoration is seen as sunk cost – but new research shows why it should be considered an investment
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wei Yang, Senior Scientist in Environmental Economics, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – Massey University Shutterstock/Wirestock Creators As extreme weather intensifies globally, governments are seeking nature-based solutions that deliver both climate and economic benefits. The restoration of wetlands is an often overlooked opportunity. As our recent study shows,

    Jaws at 50: a cinematic masterpiece – and an incredible piece of propaganda
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Colin Alexander, Senior Lecturer in Political Communications, Nottingham Trent University Jaws turns 50 on June 20. Last year, Quentin Tarantino called Stephen Spielberg’s film “possibly the greatest movie ever made”. Though he was quick to add that it isn’t the best film in terms of script, cinematography

    Ancient termite poo reveals 120 million-year-old secrets of Australia’s polar forests
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alistair Evans, Professor, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University Witsawat.S/Shutterstock Imagine a lush forest with tree-ferns, their trunks capped by ribbon-like fronds. Conifers tower overhead, bearing triangular leaves almost sharp enough to pierce skin. Flowering plants are both small and rare. You’re standing in what is now

    When new dads struggle, their kids’ health can suffer. Tackling mental distress early can help
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Delyse Hutchinson, Associate Professor, Clinical Psychologist, and NHMRC Leadership Fellow, SEED Centre for Lifespan Research, School of Psychology, Deakin University D-BASE/Getty In Australia, an estimated one in ten men experience mental health issues such as anxiety and depression before and after their child is born (the perinatal

    A weird group of boronias puzzled botanists for decades. Now we’ve solved the pollination mystery
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Douglas Hilton, Chief Executive, CSIRO Andy Young Boronias, known for their showy flowers and strong scent, are a quintessential part of the Australian bush. They led Traditional Owners to the best water sources and inspired Australian children’s author and illustrator May Gibbs to pen one of her

    Some students learning English can take at least 6 years to catch up to their peers. How can we support them better?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lucy Lu, Adjunct Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Education and Social Work, University of Sydney Rawpixel/ Getty Images About one quarter of Australian school students are learning English as an additional language or dialect. This means their first language or dialect is something other than English and they

    Ice Age shelter high up in the Blue Mountains reveals Aboriginal heritage from 20,000 years ago
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Erin Wilkins, Aboriginal Cultural Educator, Trainer and Facilitator, Indigenous Knowledge Artist’s impression of Dargan Shelter as it would have looked during the last Ice Age. Painting by Leanne Watson Redpath Travel back 20,000 years into the last Ice Age, to a time when the upper reaches of

    ‘Be brave’ warning to nations against deepsea mining from UNOC
    By Laura Bergamo in Nice, France The UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) concluded today with significant progress made towards the ratification of the High Seas Treaty and a strong statement on a new plastics treaty signed by 95 governments. Once ratified, it will be the only legal tool that can create protected areas in international waters,

    Samoan fashion designer fatally shot at Salt Lake City ‘no kings’ protest
    RNZ Pacific A renowned Samoan fashion designer was fatally shot at the “No Kings” protest in Salt Lake City on Saturday, the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) has confirmed. Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, known as Afa Ah Loo, an “innocent bystander” at the protest, died despite efforts by paramedics to save his life, police

    Israelis ‘now realise’ what Palestinians and Lebanese have been suffering, says analyst
    Asia Pacific Report A Paris-based military and political analyst, Elijah Magnier, says he believes the hostilities between Israel and Iran will only get worse, but that Israeli support for the war may wane if the destruction continues. “I think it’s going to continue escalating because we are just in the first days of the war

    What is uranium enrichment and how is it used for nuclear bombs? A scientist explains
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kaitlin Cook, DECRA Fellow, Department of Nuclear Physics and Accelerator Applications, Australian National University Uranium ore. RHJPhtotos/Shutterstock Late last week, Israel targeted three of Iran’s key nuclear facilities – Natanz, Isfahan and Fordow, killing several Iranian nuclear scientists. The facilities are heavily fortified and largely underground, and

    Issa Amro: Youth Against Settlements – ‘life is very hard, the Israeli soldiers act like militia’
    RNZ News Palestinian advocate Issa Amro has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize this year for his decades of work advocating for peaceful resistance against Israel’s illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. The settlements are illegal under international law — and a record 45 were established last year under cover of the war

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Director of Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of CPC Central Committee and Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of State Council Mr Xia Baolong to attend 5th Anniversary of Promulgation & Implementation of Hong Kong National Security Law Forum in Hong Kong

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Xia Baolong, will visit Hong Kong from June 18 to 22. He will attend the 5th Anniversary of Promulgation & Implementation of Hong Kong National Security Law Forum organised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government. He will also take the opportunity to inspect the latest economic and social development of Hong Kong.
    ​
         The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, expressed gratitude to Mr Xia for his continued concern and support for Hong Kong. He also extended his warmest welcome to Mr Xia for visiting Hong Kong for the Forum and inspection. The HKSAR Government endeavours to support and facilitate the inspection, ensuring the smooth conduct of the visit.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –