NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Crime series – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to a crime series overnight.

    About 8pm, police received reports of an alleged aggravated robbery along Stephens Road, where a vehicle pulled up alongside the male and two unknown offenders with machetes threatened him and demanded cash and his backpack. As a result, the male’s backpack and wallet containing $100 were stolen and the youths fled in the vehicle.

    Shortly after, police received reports of an alleged aggravated robbery on Larapinta Drive, where two males with machetes confronted a male who was walking. The victim ran from the alleged offenders and dropped his phone. The youths picked up his phone; however, upon the victim asking for it back they demanded money in return. The victim handed over $300 before they gave his phone back and fled the scene in the vehicle.

    At 8:17pm, police received reports of an alleged aggravated robbery on Dixon Road, where a female was pushed off her e-scooter and threatened by four unknown offenders who alighted from a vehicle. One was allegedly holding a knife while they threatened the victim for money. The victims e-scooter and purse was stolen and the offenders fled the scene in the vehicle.

    Police attended to the three victims and obtained statements. Later in the night, police CCTV operators observed the vehicle travelling along Barrett Drive before it fled South of the Gap. Police were called to the scene; however, the vehicle fled before police arrival.

    About 11:20pm, police located the vehicle abandoned on a dirt track near Karnte Camp.

    The vehicle has been seized for forensic testing and the Crime command have carriage of the investigation.

    Anyone with information in relation to the crime series, particularly anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage from the area at the time of the incidents, is urged to contact police on 131 444. You can anonymously report crime via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or on https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ROC (Taiwan) government congratulates Singapore on successful completion of general election

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    ROC (Taiwan) government congratulates Singapore on successful completion of general election

    Date：2025-05-04
    Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    May 4, 2025No. 134Singapore smoothly completed the election of its 15th Parliament on May 4. The result was a victory for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and the People’s Action Party that he leads. On behalf of the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses its sincere congratulations to the people and government of Singapore on the successful conclusion of yet another parliamentary election.Taiwan and Singapore have long shared cordial ties. Bilateral cooperation has developed steadily in recent years, with the two sides maintaining close exchanges in economics, trade, semiconductors, technology, culture, and other domains. Taiwan looks forward to building on the existing foundations to further deepen collaboration with Singapore, jointly respond to global and regional challenges, and contribute to the advancement of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific. (E) 
     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Calls on CBS Owner to Stand Up for First Amendment, Not Surrender to Trump 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    WASHINGTON, May 7 – As President Trump continues his attempts to intimidate the media and those who are critical of him, Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today warned Paramount Global Chair Shari Redstone not to capitulate to Trump.
    Lawyers for Trump and Paramount, the parent of CBS News, have begun mediation over a lawsuit brought by Trump that accuses ’60 Minutes’ of deceptively editing an interview with Kamala Harris. Legal experts have called the suit baseless and an easy victory for CBS. But Paramount is entering the talks prepared to make a deal. It has been reported that Shari Redstone, the company’s controlling shareholder, is considering settling with Trump in return for his administration’s approval of Paramount’s $8 billion sale to Skydance.
    “This lawsuit is an attack on the United States Constitution and the First Amendment. It has absolutely no merit and it cannot stand,” Sanders and the senators wrote. “In the United States of America, presidents do not get to punish or censor the media for criticizing them. Freedom of the press is what sets us apart from tin pot dictatorships and authoritarian regimes.”
    It was also reported that Redstone asked the CEO of CBS to “delay sensitive stories about Trump” until the Skydance merger was completed. If the Skydance merger is approved, the Redstone family could gain up to $2.4 billion.
    “Rewarding Trump with tens of millions of dollars for filing this bogus lawsuit will not cause him to back down on his war against the media and a free press. It will only embolden him to shakedown, extort and silence CBS and other media outlets that have the courage to report about issues that Trump may not like,” the senators continue. “We urge you and the board of directors at Paramount to make it clear to President Trump today that Paramount will not surrender to his attack on the First Amendment.”
    Sanders and the senators conclude: “Stand up for freedom of the press and our democracy. Do not capitulate to this dangerous move to authoritarianism.”
    Read the text of the letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Noem Requests Death Penalty Against Alleged Human Smugglers Whose Actions Resulted in the Death of at Least Three Individuals

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Secretary Noem Requests Death Penalty Against Alleged Human Smugglers Whose Actions Resulted in the Death of at Least Three Individuals

    ASHINGTON—Today, Secretary Kristi Noem announced that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will request the Department of Justice bring alien smuggling charges and seek the death penalty against two Mexican nationals whose human smuggling operation resulted in at least three deaths

    Secretary Noem’s request is based on a thorough review of both the Immigration and Naturalization Act and the Federal Death Penalty Act

    On May 5, 2025, United States Coast Guard (USCG) Sector San Diego received a report from the North County Dispatch Joint Powers Authority (North Comm) of an overturned panga-style boat that washed ashore in Torrey Pine, San Diego

    USCG Sector San Diego engaged multiple DHS and local assets to assist, including U

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    Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), United States Border Patrol (USBP), and San Diego Fire-Rescue

    USBP confirmed through interviews of surviving individuals that there were originally 16 persons on board, including 14 adults and two minors

    Two surviving individuals identified as Mexican nationals were detained on suspicion of smuggling illegal aliens into the United States

    Three deceased were recovered and identified as Indian nationals

    Seven others remain missing

    Statement Attributable to Secretary Kristi Noem:
    “Yesterday, off the coast of southern California, a panga-style boat capsized that was operated by Mexican nationals attempting to smuggle 14 aliens into the U

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    Tragically, three people were killed and seven are still missing

    I commend the U

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    Coast Guard, and all Homeland Security personnel involved in the immediate response and ongoing investigation

    Their professionalism and rapid action in perilous conditions reflect the highest standards of service and dedication to saving lives and upholding our nation’s laws

    “This tragedy is a stark reminder of the inhumanity and lethal danger inherent to human smuggling at sea

    Their deaths were not only avoidable but were also the direct result of the greed and indifference of smugglers who exploited them

    Maritime smuggling is not just illegal—it is a violent and inherently dangerous crime

    Those who knowingly place human lives at grave risk in furtherance of such crimes must be held fully accountable

    “Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, alien smuggling acts that result in death are capital crimes punishable by death

    And under the Federal Death Penalty Act, those who intentionally participate in conduct knowing that it could result in the loss of life may be eligible for capital punishment

    Accordingly, I will be formally requesting that the Attorney General ensure that these two suspected smugglers are swiftly prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law

    I will also be urging the Attorney General to seek the death penalty in this case

    The Department of Homeland Security will not tolerate this level of criminal depravity or reckless disregard for human life

    We will continue to work with our federal partners to ensure justice is served and our laws upheld

    ”
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission decides to refer SWEDEN to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to bring its rules on preliminary income taxation in line with EU law requirements

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 07 May 2025 Today, the European Commission decided to refer Sweden to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to comply with the principle of freedom to provide services under Article 56 of the TFEU and Article 36 of the EEA Agreement.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission decides to refer HUNGARY to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to ensure independence of its rail regulatory body

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 07 May 2025 Today, the European Commission decided to refer Hungary to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to comply with the Single European railway area Directive (Directive 2012/34/EU) related to the status of the national regulatory body responsible for the Hungarian railway market. According to the Directive, Member States must establish a rail regulatory body to ensure the correct application of EU rules on rail market access.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission decides to refer SWEDEN to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to fulfil its obligations under EU maritime security acquis

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 07 May 2025 Today, the European Commission decided to refer Sweden to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to remedy an infringement in relation to the EU’s legal framework on maritime security (Regulation (EC) No 725/2004, Directive 2005/65/EC and Commission Regulation (EC) 324/2008).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Commission decides to refer BULGARIA, GREECE, and POLAND to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to transpose EU rules on tolls and vignettes levied for road infrastructure use

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 07 May 2025 Today, the European Commission decided to refer Bulgaria, Greece and Poland to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to transpose EU rules on the charging of vehicles for the use of certain infrastructures.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C. tests emergency alerts to cellphones, TV, radio

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    To improve public safety in the event of an emergency, a test of the B.C. Emergency Alert system will occur at 1:55 p.m. (Pacific time) on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, as part of Emergency Preparedness Week.

    The test alert will be sent to all compatible cellphones, and will interrupt radio and television broadcasts. The test message to cellphones will read: “This is a TEST of the B.C. Emergency Alert system. This is ONLY a TEST. In an emergency, this message would tell you what to do to stay safe. This information could save your life. Click for more info: www.emergencyinfobc.ca/test. This is ONLY a TEST. No action is required.”

    This test, by the National Public Alerting System, will assess the system’s readiness for an actual emergency and identify any required adjustments.

    The National Public Alerting System is a collaboration among federal, provincial and territorial governments, as well as industry partners. It provides a standard alerting capability to rapidly warn the public of imminent or unfolding hazards and threats to life and safety.

    The B.C. Emergency Alert system was launched on April 6, 2018, and is tested twice a year, in spring and fall. Recognizing the importance of this tool, the Province expanded the use of B.C. Emergency Alerts in 2022 beyond tsunami warnings to also include imminent threats from floods, wildfires and extreme-heat emergencies.

    Last year, the federal government launched the earthquake early-warning system in British Columbia. If the threshold is met, this system will automatically issue an intrusive alert message to cellphones in areas expected to be affected, before strong shaking is felt. This alert message provides precious seconds of warning for people to better protect themselves and others.

    Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is responsible for sending intrusive alerts to cellphones for tornados, hurricanes, severe thunderstorms and storms surges. Police are responsible for alerts for civil emergencies and Amber Alerts.

    During the 2023 and 2024 wildfire seasons, tens of thousands of people were asked to evacuate on short notice due to the threat of wildfires. B.C. Emergency Alerts were an important tool to provide people with timely, life-saving information.

    People in British Columbia can participate in a short online survey after the test to help determine the reach of the test message. This survey is administered by Public Emergency Alerting Services:

    Quick Facts:

    • To receive alerts, cellphones must be connected to an LTE cellular network.
    • Cellphones must be turned on and not set to “do not disturb” or airplane mode, be wireless public alerting (WPA) compatible, be within the alert area and have up-to-date cellular software.
    • Alerts will be broadcast automatically, at no cost to the user.
    • Following a 2014 Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) decision, all radio and television broadcasters in Canada are mandated to broadcast intrusive public alerts.

    Learn More:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Outstanding B.C. lawyers receive King’s Counsel designation

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The following King’s counsel appointees are listed alphabetically by surname, with the year they were called to the B.C. bar:

    Peter Ameerali (2005) is a leading public law litigator and has been a constitutional expert with the B.C. Ministry of Attorney General since 2005. He pioneered B.C.’s civil forfeiture regime and has argued at all court levels. A recognized mentor and trainer, Ameerali has shaped the careers of dozens of lawyers and articled students. He is a respected leader in legal ethics, equity and inclusion, serving in senior advisory roles within and outside government.

    Morgan Camley (2006) is a nationally recognized barrister known for her excellence in complex litigation and regulatory matters. With a practice rooted in advocacy, she has appeared at all levels of court in B.C. and beyond. A dedicated mentor and leader, Camley is a champion for 2SLGBTQ inclusion in law and a respected voice in legal education and access to justice. Her practice spans commercial, Aboriginal, public and municipal law. She is widely regarded for her strategic, principled and community-centred approach to litigation and dispute resolution.

    Michelle Casavant (2010) has made a profound impact on legal education in British Columbia, particularly through her leadership on the Truth and Reconciliation Committee during her six years on the Continuing Legal Education Society of British Columbia’s board of directors. A gifted educator and respected legal practitioner, Casavant shares her knowledge to elevate the profession and foster lifelong learning. Her work co-drafting complex land transaction regulations under the Indian Act and First Nations Commercial Industrial Development Act earned her a 2024 Excellence Award from the Community of Federal Regulators.

    Nikki Charlton (2004) is one of British Columbia’s leading family law practitioners, recognized by Lexpert and Best Lawyers Canada for her expertise and advocacy. A partner at Farris LLP and a bencher of the Law Society since 2024, she is also an accredited mediator, arbitrator and parenting co-ordinator. Nikki has shaped precedent-setting case law and is a respected educator, author, and conference leader. She is deeply committed to access to justice, providing pro-bono services and supporting vulnerable populations. She is a prolific contributor to continuing legal education and access to justice.

    Mary Childs (1989) is general counsel for the Tsawwassen First Nation, where she leads the legal department for the Nation’s self-governing authority. Her legal career has focused on corporate law, specializing in charities, and not-for-profit and co-operative groups. She has been an active public servant, serving as governor and chair of the Law Foundation of B.C., advancing Indigenous justice and legal services. She is also engaged in legal education and has served on various boards, including the B.C. Passenger Transportation Board, contributing significantly to public and Indigenous law.

    Beverly Churchill (1988) is a leader in family law and consensual dispute resolution. Practising in the Interior, she specializes in mediation, arbitration and collaborative law. With more than 37 years of experience, she has trained more than 350 professionals across Canada in non-evaluative child interviews. She chaired the BC Hear the Child Society and has contributed to multiple family-law organizations. A passionate advocate for children, she strives to support families through less adversarial processes, enhancing access to justice and promoting child-centred practices in the family justice system.

    Christina Cook (2010) founded the Indigenous Lawyer History website and has held key leadership roles, including as an elected bencher for the Law Society of BC and chair of the Canadian Bar Association BC (CBABC) Aboriginal Lawyers Forum. She is a recognized advocate for diversity and inclusion, having received awards such as the UBC Indigenous Law Students Association’s Courage in Law Award and the Philippa Samworth Award for the Advancement of Women in Law. Serving as senior policy lawyer at BC First Nations Justice Council. She continues to influence national legal initiatives and mentor the next generation of Indigenous lawyers.

    Barbara Cornish (1992) is a nationally and internationally recognized mediator and arbitrator, specializing in commercial, insurance and regulatory disputes. A partner at Cornish Margolis Boyd, she focuses exclusively on alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and has been named a Global Elite Thought Leader in ADR. A distinguished fellow and governor of the International Academy of Mediators, she contributes to the development of ADR practices through her leadership roles and educational initiatives. Her work in access to justice, mentorship and contributions to legal education make her a prominent figure in her field.

    Vincent Critchley (1997) is a highly regarded professional liability lawyer and the managing partner at QA Law. With more than 25 years of experience, he is the go-to lawyer for repairing legal errors, particularly on behalf of the Lawyers Indemnity Fund. He has been at the forefront of developing the law in areas that affect legal malpractice. Critchley has appeared as lead counsel in precedent-setting cases at the Court of Appeal. He is also a committed educator, regularly lecturing on professional liability, litigation strategy and contributing to legal organizations such as the Continuing Legal Education Society of British Columbia (CLEBC) and ICBC.

    Michaela Donnelly (1997) is senior trial counsel with the BC Prosecution Service (BCPS), specializing in major crime prosecutions, such as homicide and dangerous-offender applications. She is a recognized expert on issues related to not criminally responsible by reason of mental disorder, providing training for prosecutors and police. Donnelly regularly appears before the BC Review Board and is deeply committed to legal education, mentorship and community service. She also serves on the BCPS Gender Equity and Advancement Committee, focusing on improving equity and opportunities for women in the legal profession.

    Stephanie Fabbro (1999) is a leading family lawyer, mediator and parenting co-ordinator. Practising at Hamilton Fabbro, the firm she co-founded in 2008, she is recognized annually by Best Lawyers in Canada and the Canadian Lexpert Directory. A tireless advocate for non-adversarial family law, she leads the BC Collaborative Roster Society and Parenting Coordinators Roster Society. She has been instrumental in advancing parenting co-ordination standards in B.C. and developing accessible family law resources. In addition, she serves as a mentor and a community volunteer.

    Grant Haddock (1992) is the founder of Haddock and Company, specializing in housing law, including non-profit housing, strata property, residential tenancy and co-op housing. He has created a discounted legal services program for the housing sector, increasing access to justice. A sought-after speaker, he regularly delivers seminars for BC Non-Profit Housing Association and LandlordBC. His advocacy for affordable housing and mentoring of young lawyers has made a significant impact on B.C.’s housing sector. He also contributes to legal publications and continues to champion legal education and access to justice.

    Kevin Kohan (2003) is chief legislative counsel and registrar of regulations for British Columbia and has played a pivotal role in shaping provincial legislation for more than two decades. Known for his legal precision, leadership and integrity, Kohan has drafted landmark laws, such as emergency COVID-19 legislation and the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. He leads a team of more than 50 professionals and has modernized legislative drafting to reflect inclusive and transparent governance. He is a adviser to cabinet and a two-time Premier’s Award recipient.

    Andrew MacDonald (1989) is a deputy regional Crown counsel with the BCPS, after stepping down as regional Crown counsel for the Fraser region in 2024. Known for his integrity and exceptional judgment, he has mentored young lawyers and contributed to legal education. He is recognized for his commitment to justice and volunteer work in the community. His leadership within the BCPS has made a lasting impact on the prosecution service.

    Andrea MacKay (2000) is one of British Columbia’s top trial and appellate litigators, with a practice spanning complex civil, criminal and administrative law. MacKay has appeared in numerous landmark cases, including at the Supreme Court of Canada, and has also made a significant contribution to the bench and bar through her extensive work on criminal ineffective assistance appeals. She frequently assists the Law Society of B.C. and colleagues in challenging matters and provides pro-bono representation in cases of public importance. She has taught at the national criminal law program and has been an instructor at the McEachern advanced trial advocacy course.

    Anne MacKenzie (1979) has had a distinguished career, including 34 years as a judge, serving as Associate Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of B.C. and as a Court of Appeal justice. Recently returning to practice at Hira Rowan LLP, she has presided over significant civil, criminal and family trials, including in French. As a mentor, she has played a key role in judicial education. She retired from the bench in 2024 and continues to contribute to the legal community through practice and educational initiatives.

    Raji Mangat (2011) is a respected non-profit leader and litigator with 20 years of experience working to improve access to justice for marginalized communities through systemic change efforts. She is a strong advocate for equity and inclusion in the legal profession and has donated her time to several legal organizations, including Access Pro Bono, Health Justice, and Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers BC.

    Suzette Narbonne (1995) is the managing lawyer at the Society for Children and Youth Legal Centre in Vancouver. Her legal career began in 1989 with Legal Aid Manitoba, where she served in remote areas and First Nations communities. After moving to B.C. in 1995, she focused on legal-aid clients before joining the Society for Children and Youth in 2017. She is an advocate for children’s legal rights, leading initiatives to ensure children’s voices are heard in legal matters.

    Emily Ohler (2001) is a respected human rights leader known for her innovative, values-driven approach to complex challenges. As chair of the BC Human Rights Tribunal, she led a turnaround during a period of crisis, securing critical funding, restructuring operations and launching reforms that reduced delays and restored public confidence. With a global background in international law and United Nation’s reparations, Ohler combines legal expertise with strategic vision, equity and integrity.

    Mark Oulton (2000) has long been recognized as one of B.C.’s leading public law, natural resource and commercial law barristers. His unique background has allowed him to develop a multi-disciplinary litigation practice that sits at the intersection of forestry, commercial and Indigenous law, and engages challenging and important issues at the centre of reconciliation and its intersection with the provincial economy. Beyond the courtroom, Oulton is a director with VanIAC and Brockton school, and an author for CLEBC.

    David Paterson (1985) is a prominent litigator in Aboriginal law and reconciliation, currently practising at Paterson Law Office. He played a key role in landmark cases and negotiated the historic Haida Title Lands Agreement. His contributions to residential school litigation were instrumental in the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement. He is a leader in public service and legal organizations, such as Reconciliation Canada. His integrity and expertise have earned him widespread recognition for his dedication to justice and reconciliation in Canada.

    Georges Rivard (1992) practises criminal law in Fort St. John, defending cases in English and French. Of French Canadian Métis heritage, he advocates for marginalized communities in northern B.C., particularly First Nations clients. He is committed to language rights, advancing these causes in court and mentoring young lawyers. As a bencher for the Law Society of BC, he contributes to ethics and complaints review. His fierce advocacy and dedication to diversity and justice have earned him respect in the legal community, particularly in the northern and rural regions of B.C.

    Salima Samnani (2008) is the director of legal services at the Indigenous Community Legal Clinic and a lecturer at Peter A. Allard school of law at the University of British Columbia. She is the principal of Salima Samnani Law Corporation, where she practices in family law and employment law, providing legal expertise to individuals, community organizations, non-profit legal services and marginalized communities. She has served as the counsel for the Union of BC Indian Chiefs at the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and commission counsel for the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry (B.C.). She received her J.D. from the University of Victoria and a master’s degree in law and international business from the University of Fribourg in Switzerland.

    Kate Saunders (2007) leads one of the largest litigation teams in British Columbia’s Ministry of Attorney General, serving as supervising counsel since 2018. She provides strategic leadership on more than 5,000 active cases and oversees the Province’s settlements under the Crown Proceeding Act. She has worked on landmark cases involving the public health-care system, safe-injection sites and free speech. Saunders’ commitment to public service further extends to serving as an adjudicator on the Law Society of B.C.’s tribunal, advocating for lawyer wellness, volunteering as an instructor at universities and promoting access to justice through pro-bono initiatives.

    Jon Sigurdson (1974) has had a distinguished career as a lawyer, judge and educator. After practising with Bull Housser Tupper, he became a partner at Fraser Kelleher Sigurdson Watts and Gudmundseth. Serving as a Supreme Court Justice from 1994 until 2017, he contributed to judicial education and legal education as an instructor at UBC’s Allard school of law. He was also a contributing editor for The Advocate. His leadership in legal education and commitment to justice and mentorship have made him a highly respected figure in B.C.’s legal community.

    Thomas Spraggs (2003) is a respected civil litigator, legal innovator and dedicated leader in British Columbia’s legal community. He owns Spraggs Law and has championed technology to modernize legal practice. A bencher for Westminster County since 2020 and the Law Society of B.C.’s second vice-president for 2025, Spraggs is widely recognized for his integrity, mentorship and commitment to professional wellness, access to justice and reconciliation. He contributes to legal education through CLEBC and CBABC and has served on numerous boards, reflecting his deep commitment to public service and the advancement of the legal profession.

    Karen Tse (2012) is a rural family lawyer, family law mediator, Legal Aid BC duty counsel and civil litigator. As the first female and IBPOC partner at Rockies Law LLP and first Asian female to serve as vice-president and president-elect of the Kootenay Bar Association, she is dedicated to promoting access to justice in rural communities and providing mentorship to the Kootenay bar. Tse was named volunteer of the year by the Fernie Chamber of Commerce. Her work with the Fernie Women’s Resource Centre and Fernie Child Care Society continues to support rural families accessing child care and women and children in crisis.

    John Tuck (1995) is the acting assistant deputy attorney general in the Legal Services Branch at B.C.’s Ministry of Attorney General. With nearly 30 years of experience specializing in information and privacy law, he provides strategic advice to government, including premiers and senior officials. He has appeared at all levels of court, including in front of the Supreme Court of Canada. In addition to his legal practice, he is an adjunct professor at the University of Victoria law school, where he teaches privacy law.

    Gaynor Yeung (1996) is a partner at Whitelaw Twining in Vancouver, specializing in insurance law and mediation. She has appeared before all levels of B.C. courts and is widely respected by plaintiff and defence counsel. She is regularly recognized by Best Lawyers in Canada and is a member of the Canadian Academy of Distinguished Neutrals. Elected a bencher in 2021, she chairs the practice standards committee and serves as vice-chair of the EDI Committee, demonstrating her leadership, commitment to ethics and integrity within the legal community.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ7: Combating phishing

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ7: Combating phishing 
    Question:
     
         The Hong Kong Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Centre handled a total of 12 536 security incidents last year, with phishing accounting for over half of all cases, marking a 108 per cent increase from 2023. In addition, between January and February this year, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) posted on its website press releases on phishing instant messages and fraudulent websites related to banks for more than 50 times. Regarding combating phishing, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the respective numbers of fraud cases involving phishing and the losses incurred in each of the past five years, together with a breakdown by industry;
     
    (2) among the phishing websites reported by members of the public on the public intelligence platform since the launch of “Scameter”, of the proportion of those that have actually been added by the Police to the scam database; whether a mechanism for immediate takedown of the reported phishing websites has been put in place; if so, of the average time taken to take down such websites;
     
    (3) as it has been reported that in view of the susceptibility of SMS messages issuing an SMS one-time password (OTP) to interception by hackers, the HKMA has requested that banks implement measures by the end of last year requiring customers to authenticate online credit card transactions using the banking applications in their mobile phones instead of using an SMS OTP for authentication, whether the HKMA will formulate a specific timetable for phasing out OTP authentication; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (4) as the Office of the Communications Authority has launched the SMS Sender Registration Scheme for companies or organisations that have registered as Registered Senders to use SMS messages with the prefix “#” in order to help members of the public ascertain the authenticity of SMS messages, but it has been reported that some fraudsters use fraudulent mobile base stations, which are illegal radio devices, to circumvent the existing mechanism, impersonating official or financial institutions to send fraudulent SMS messages, whether the authorities will study the formulation of measures to address the aforesaid situation, and at the same time step up publicity to raise the public’s anti-deception awareness; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Deception is a serious crime. Regardless of the tactics used by criminals, we will take stringent combat actions as long as illegal activities are involved. Phishing scams as mentioned in the question generally refers to a crime where illegal elements sent out through SMS messages, emails, voice messages, QR codes, etc, to potential victims en masse, impersonating organisations such as banks, telecommunication service providers (TSPs) or even government departments. Alleging that irregularities in the recipients’ accounts are detected or account verification is needed, criminals lure recipients of the messages into clicking on an embedded link and entering a fake website to provide their account login credentials, credit card information, personal information, etc. The criminals will then use such information to make purchases with credit cards or transfer the bonus points out of the recipients’ accounts. The Police have been making every effort to combat various types of fraud cases, including phishing scams, in collaboration with different government departments. Apart from taking intelligence-led enforcement actions, the Police are raising public awareness against this type of crime through public education and promotional activities.
     
         In consultation with the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau and the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the reply to the Member’s question is as follows:
     
    (1) The Police have maintained statistics on phishing scam cases since 2023. In 2023 and 2024, 4 322 and 2 731 cases on phishing scam were received respectively. The monetary losses involved were $102.4 million and $53.5 million respectively. In the first two months of 2025, the Police received a total of 242 phishing scam reports, a decrease of 347 cases (58.9 per cent) as compared with the same period last year. The monetary loss involved decreased by 54.2 per cent to $4.9 million.
     
         The Police do not maintain any breakdown by industry in relation to phishing scams.
     
    (2) “Scameter” has yielded remarkable results since its launch in September 2022. As at February 2025, more than 7.60 million searches had been recorded and about 950 000 alerts on frauds and cyber security risks had been issued. Members of the public had also reported over 355 000 suspicious phone calls and over 38 000 suspicious websites through the public intelligence platform of “Scameter”.
     
         In February 2023, the Police launched a mobile application version, “Scameter+”, to help members of the public distinguish suspicious online platform accounts, payment accounts, phone numbers, email addresses, websites, etc, and to provide the public with anti-fraud tips. “Scameter+” has now been upgraded and is equipped with automatic detection functions, namely the Call Alert function and the Website Detection function, which will automatically identify scam calls and fraudulent websites. If potential fraud or cyber security risk is detected, “Scameter+” will issue a real-time notification, reminding users not to answer the call or browse the website. There is also a public intelligence platform in “Scameter+” for members of the public to report frauds and pitfalls, thereby further enriching its database.
     
         The Police update the database of “Scameter” on a daily basis and will continuously review and enhance its functions, while strengthening other anti-fraud measures in a proactive manner. The database of “Scameter” comprises information collected from reports made by members of the public and obtained by the Police from other channels, including criminal investigations and intelligence. We do not maintain statistics on the percentage of phishing websites reported by the public that have actually been added by the Police to the scam database.
     
         Moreover, under the co-ordination of the Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA), the Police and major TSPs have established a mechanism where TSPs will, based on the fraud records provided by the Police, block the telephone numbers suspected to be involved in deception cases and intercept suspicious website links as soon as possible. As at end February 2025, the TSPs had successfully blocked about 40 000 website links involved in fraud cases and more than 8 600 suspected fraudulent phone numbers at the Police’s request. The OFCA does not maintain any record of the average time required for relevant actions by TSPs.
     
    (3) The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has been closely monitoring the trend of digital frauds and actively encouraging banks to implement effective anti-fraud measures. In line with the HKMA’s guidelines, card-issuing banks have gradually started providing customers with more secure authentication methods since late 2024. Customers can authenticate online payment card transactions through their bank’s mobile application (App) instead of using SMS One-Time Passwords (OTPs). According to banks’ statistics, the related fraud rate has decreased by nearly 80 per cent.
     
         In response to the latest modus operandi of digital frauds, the HKMA announced three new measures in April 2025, and which are succinctly referred to as E-Banking Security ABC. The measures require banks to strengthen E-banking security to further enhance customers’ fraud prevention capabilities.
     
         Firstly, banks are required to implement (A) a new measure called Authenticate in-App by Q4 2025 or earlier. Thereafter, when customers log into Internet banking and conduct high-risk transactions (such as adding new payees, increasing transfer limits, changing the phone number for receiving bank notifications, or binding Internet banking accounts to mobile devices), they will need to conduct authentication through their bank’s mobile App instead of using SMS OTPs. Furthermore, starting in Q3 2025, when customers bind or rebind their mobile devices, they will have to conduct authentication via facial recognition or similarly stringent authentication methods (such as visiting a branch in person), replacing the current practice of using SMS OTP for two-factor authentication. If customers insist on using SMS OTPs for authenticating transactions or device binding, banks will need to follow the HKMA’s requirements, and implement effective risk management measures for those transactions or binding requests, such as enhancing the monitoring of related transactions and deferring the execution of higher-risk transactions. These measures will help gradually phase out the use of SMS OTPs for authentication purposes.
     
         Additionally, banks will also need to implement the remaining two new measures, namely (B) “Bye to unused functions” and (C) “Cancel suspicious payments”, during Q2 2025. The former will give customers the option to deactivate Internet banking functions like increasing transfer limits and adding new payees, to better suit their personal needs while strengthening risk management. The latter will further enhance the effectiveness of the Suspicious Account Alert mechanism, and provide customers with sufficient time to review the alert content.
     
         Together, the three new measures referred to as E-Banking Security ABC mentioned above will offer more comprehensive fraud prevention and protection coverage for bank customers.
     
    (4) The SMS Sender Registration Scheme (the Scheme) was implemented on December 28, 2023, and was fully opened to all industries in February 2024. As at end March 2025, over 495 public and private organisations (including the Immigration Department, the Department of Health, the Police and the Consumer Council) have participated in the Scheme. Under the Scheme, only those companies or organisations qualified as Registered Senders are able to send SMS messages using their Registered SMS Sender IDs with the prefix “#”. TSPs will block fraudulent SMS messages sent by non-Registered Senders via the Internet. In addition, to enhance the implementation effectiveness of the Scheme, the OFCA will, after obtaining the consent of the Registered Senders, request TSPs to prohibit non-“#” SMS messages suspected to impersonate identities of a Registered Sender, further safeguarding the public’s interest. An SMS Sender Registry is available on the OFCA’s website for the public to verify registered companies, and efforts will continue to engage more organisations to participate in the Scheme.
     
         In mid-February this year, there were public enquiries about suspected fraudulent SMS messages with the prefix “#”. The Police and the OFCA were highly concerned. Of the 31 reports received by the Police, two involved monetary losses, totalling about $30,000. The Police subsequently arrested a male and seized illegal radiocommunications apparatus. A joint press briefing with the OFCA was held to brief the public on how to stay vigilant against this type of fraud. The incident was an isolated case, and the relevant apparatus could only affect mobile phones within a limited area without undermining the overall implementation effectiveness of the Scheme. The OFCA has requested all TSPs to enhance monitoring of abnormal network signals, and has established a reporting mechanism. If similar cases are detected in future, the OFCA will promptly co-ordinate with the Police to take follow-up actions.
     
         In response to these illegal activities, the Police will continue to adopt a multipronged approach, including use of technology in fraud prevention and enhanced enforcement actions, to combat fraud on all fronts. Regarding use of technology in fraud prevention, the Police will collaborate with other departments to step up interception of suspicious transactions and fraudulent phone calls. Anti-scam applications will also be upgraded to provide immediate alerts. Enforcement-wise, the Police will carry out rigorous investigation on money laundering activities and stooge accounts, and will work with overseas law enforcement agencies to combat cross-border fraud syndicates.
     
         Apart from resolute law enforcement actions, the Government has adopted a multipronged publicity strategy to enhance public awareness of fraud. The Police will continue to work jointly with the OFCA and the industry in stepping up publicity and education, with a view to raising the public’s anti-deception awareness. The OFCA and TSPs will strengthen monitoring on network signals and take timely response measures when abnormalities are found.
     
         Specifically, in January 2025, the OFCA launched the District Anti-Phone Deception Ambassador Scheme, which received support from more than 150 District Council (DC) members’ ward offices covering 18 districts in Hong Kong with the participation by more than 300 DC members and their staff members, to promote anti-phone scam messages at district level. The OFCA will continue to step up publicity and public education in the community through issuing press releases, broadcasting TV and radio announcements, publishing social media posts, producing and distributing promotional leaflets and posters, and organising various different community activities to deliver anti-phone scam messages to the public more comprehensively. Since 2023, the OFCA has conducted a total of 21 roadshows with Legislative Council Members and DC members, and organised 182 public education and publicity programmes. 
     
         To combat the rampant phishing scams, the Police have increased publicity efforts. Through the Police electronic platform, the website CyberDefender as well as traditional media, the Police have educated the public about common and new tactics used by fraudsters. The Police have warned members of the public not to click onto any hyperlink embedded in messages of unknown sources or suspected to contain phishing websites. Instead, they should contact the relevant institution directly for verification, or carry out risk assessment and fact checking using the “Scameter” or “Scameter+”. For assistance, they are advised to call the Anti-Scam Helpline 18222.
    Issued at HKT 12:20

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ1: Transportation and communications in remote scenic spots

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Lam So-wai and a reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

    Question: It has been reported that earlier on, due to the severe inadequacy of ancillary transport facilities at the East Dam of the High Island Reservoir (East Dam), numerous visitors were left stranded there in the evening. Some taxi drivers even took advantage of this situation by overcharging. Furthermore, some members of the public have relayed insufficient mobile network coverage in the area, which has adversely affected public communications and their ability to seek assistance. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ19: Ticketing arrangements for large-scale stage performances

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Leung Man-kwong and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):
     
    Question:

    It has been reported that recently, after admission tickets of a concert held in the Main Stadium of the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) were put on sale through the ticket sales platform, there has been a spate of disputes involving the chaotic ticket exchange arrangements and obstructed views of some seats located in areas where the view was obstructed but the relevant platform had not marked prior to sale, etc., which have aroused strong dissatisfaction among the public. There are views that such situations may affect the confidence of the public and tourists in Hong Kong’s capability in hosting large-scale performances. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether the authorities have required organisers of commercial performances held at government venues to provide the relevant departments with clear ticketing plans in renting venues, such as information on the ticket-vending mechanisms, the number of tickets available for sale, the ticket collection arrangements, and the disclosure standards for seating information (including marking of areas with obstructed views); if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (2) as it is learnt that ticket sales platforms collected handling charge from ticket buyers but failed to offer proper post-sale arrangements for those affected by the aforesaid situations, of the regulatory measures currently put in place by the Government on the platforms responsible for selling tickets of activities held at public venues, and how it would assist consumers in recovering loss;
     
    (3) whether the authorities will study requiring ticket sale companies responsible for selling tickets of commercial performances held at government venues to adopt “identity-bound ticket limit” and “delayed ticket transfer mechanism” (e.g. ticket transfer must be processed through the official platforms), so as to curb the problem of ticket scalping; and
     
    (4) whether consideration will be given to including a requirement of providing the electronic ticket exchange function in the new contract between government venues (such as the KTSP) and ticketing agencies, so as to ensure that members of the public are not required to go to the venues in person to exchange their tickets?
     
    Reply:
     
    President:
     
    In consultation with the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Leung Man-kwong is as follows:
     
    Hirers of performance venues under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) are required to obtain the LCSD’s approval on the ticket price scale, the seating plan and the ticketing system before the commencement of ticket sales. The seating plan shall indicate seats that are available for sale with prices specified, those with sightline problems or blocked due to technical reasons, and those for which complimentary tickets are to be issued.
     
    The Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) has fully commissioned since March 2025, with the Kai Tak Sports Park Limited (KTSPL) being responsible for its daily operation under a “Design, Build and Operate” contract. The ticketing arrangements for events held at the various venues within the KTSP, including the choice of ticketing platform, are decided by individual event organisers. The KTSPL has already uploaded the seating plan of the three major venues to its website for public reference, and will maintain close liaison with event organisers regarding the arrangements of seats available for sale for individual events. As the stage design and venue usage of different events at the KTSP vary, event organisers will specify the seats with restricted view when selling tickets on the ticketing platform. These seats will also be marked as restricted view on the relevant tickets.
     
    Subject to the requirements of event organisers, ticketing platforms offer different ticket collection arrangements, including the use of physical tickets and/or e-tickets. Some concerts/events held at the LCSD’s performance venues and the KTSP adopt the use of physical tickets, where audiences collect their tickets by such means as ticket delivery or at self-service ticketing kiosks, etc. after their purchase. E-ticket function is also available on URBTIX under the LCSD, events taking place at the KTSP could also use e-tickets as well. If an organiser chooses to adopt the use of e-tickets, their patrons could be admitted to the programmes by presenting either the e-ticket image in the confirmation email received, or the e-ticket QR code stored in the mobile app(s) to the venue staff for scanning and verification. At the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens recently held in the KTSP, the organiser opted to use e-tickets. Audiences had to download the relevant app on their smartphones to redeem their e-tickets and present such tickets upon entry by opening the app concerned.
     
    Apart from ticket collection arrangements, ticketing platforms offer different ticketing proposals to cater to the needs of event organisers. For example, when handling ticketing for large-scale and popular events, URBTIX under the LCSD liaises with the organisers on ticketing proposals which cater to individual programmes (including adopting real-name ticketing arrangement); offering Internet, mobile app and telephone booking services only; setting a cap for the number of tickets each patron can purchase per transaction as well as imposing a limit on the number of tickets that can be purchased with the same credit card on the first day of ticket sales; increasing the transparency of ticketing information; implementing delayed ticket collection arrangement; and encouraging organisers to increase the ratio of tickets for public sale, etc. We note that other ticketing platforms also offer similar arrangements such as real-name ticketing arrangement and setting a cap for the number of tickets that can be purchased, etc.
     
    Each ticketing platform has its own customer services arrangement, such as providing ticketing enquiries and after-sales supporting services. In addition, the Consumer Council (the Council) carries out its statutory functions in accordance with the Consumer Council Ordinance (Cap. 216), including the handling of complaints relating to goods and services of and the provision of advice to consumers, as well as conciliating disputes between consumers and traders. If consumers consider that the organisers and/or ticketing platforms have not handled the matters in relation to event tickets properly or have failed to reach a consensus with them, consumers may lodge a complaint with and seek assistance from the Council on conciliation.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Marine Department hosts seminar to promote water sports safety (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Marine Department hosts seminar to promote water sports safety  
         Speaking at the seminar, the Deputy Director of Marine, Mr Shi Qiang, urged the public to prepare well before participating in water sports activities to ensure safety. He also reminded the public to comply with requirements of the Marine Safety (Alcohol and Drugs) Ordinance, which came into effect on January 1 this year, and advised members of the public not to operate vessels or perform specified duties on vessels underway while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in order to safeguard maritime safety.
     
         The MD also reminded coxswains and vessel operators to make adequate preparations before setting sail, including planning their trips and inspecting the vessel’s structure and its safety equipment onboard. There should also be a sufficient number of qualified crew members on board to guide passengers in following safety guidelines for water sports activities. Coxswains and vessel operators should also familiarise themselves with all safety precautions and contingency measures, obtain sufficient weather forecast information and closely monitor weather conditions and relevant warning signals.
     
         When operating recreational craft in shallow waters, speed-restricted areas or waters where people are engaged in water sports activities, coxswains must take extra care, strengthen lookouts and take appropriate safety measures to avoid danger.
     
         The MD also reminded the public that they should check the list of pleasure vessels endorsed by the MD to be let for hire or reward by scanning the QR code posters displayed at public piers and popular marine tourism spots. TV and radio announcements in the public interest will be broadcast on various platforms to assist the public in identifying endorsed pleasure vessels.
     
         As well, swimmers should swim at beaches where lifeguards are on duty, avoid swimming away from the bathing beach area and avoid swimming near anchored vessels. Swimmers should understand their physical abilities, take care of accompanying children, and avoid swimming alone or unaccompanied. They should also refrain from swimming immediately after eating, drinking or taking drugs. To prevent accidents, divers should follow the relevant guidelines and maintain safety awareness at all times. When surfacing, divers should pay particular attention to their surroundings and the movement of vessels in the vicinity, and display proper buoyancy signals.
     
         As the typhoon season approaches, the MD particularly calls on owners, coxswains and persons-in-charge of local vessels to take appropriate precautionary measures prior to the onset of a typhoon to ensure the safety of persons on board and the vessels.
     
         The MD will continue to promote safety awareness among the public through education and publicity. The MD distributes leaflets to the public, such as “Observing the safety advice, Enjoying the fun at sea”, which provide safety advice for various water sports activities to prevent accidents.
     
         Officers of the MD and the Marine Police will strengthen their patrol operations in speed-restricted zones, waters in the vicinity of popular beaches and water sports sites, while taking action against illegal or reckless boating activities. Lifeguards from the LCSD will also monitor boating activities at various beaches and adjacent waters. They will inform the MD and the Marine Police if law enforcement actions against offenders are required.
     
         The MD hopes that the industry and the public will work together to promote water sports safety so that everyone can enjoy pleasant leisure water sports activities.
    Issued at HKT 17:15

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ15: Promoting pop culture industry

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Kenneth Fok and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):
     
    Question:
     
    The Government in the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development (the Blueprint) published in November last year explicitly proposed that Hong Kong should be developed into a “capital of pop culture”. Measures include promoting the development of the pop culture industry, supporting the innovative development of pop culture, and promoting the organisation of more events such as concerts and music festivals. However, some members of the industry have relayed that the existing measures on venue provision, ancillary support and talent nurturing are not in line with the policy objectives, which affect the competitiveness of Hong Kong’s pop culture. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the details of the use of the venues under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) for organising pop culture activities in the past three years, including the venues involved, the number of sessions of the programmes held, the types of activities, the number of participants and the utilisation rates of seats (set out in a table);
     
    (2) as some members of the industry have relayed that it is difficult for emerging artists and independent groups to be allocated time slots in LCSD venues, whether the Government will review the existing venue allocation mechanism and scoring criteria, so as to address the industry’s demand for small and medium-sized commercial performance venues; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (3) given that the 2022 Policy Address has proposed to increase the number of seats at performance venues by about 50 per cent, of the number of newly-built or converted venues and the number of additional seats at present, and whether it has reviewed if the progress of work in achieving this policy objective is in line with expectations;
     
    (4) whether the authorities will comprehensively enhance the relevant measures to solve the problem of insufficient performance venues for the pop culture industry (including reviewing the Venue Partnership Scheme to increase the quota for small and medium-sized performing groups; enhancing the transparency of the scoring criteria for booking LCSD venues; relaxing the restriction on the use of some government venues (e.g. sports grounds and vacant school premises) for performances; and studying the provision of dedicated venues for pop culture); if so, of the specific plans; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (5) given that the Blueprint has proposed to promote the private sector to organise more pop culture events in Hong Kong, of the authorities’ specific plans in place to encourage enterprises and investors to support the development of local pop culture, and whether it will provide incentives to attract more market resources, so as to assist the industry in exploring commercial performance opportunities and support the nurturing of talents for the industry?
     
    Reply：
     
    President：
     
    Hong Kong’s unique pop culture is an important brand of our culture. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region  Government endeavours to promote the development of pop culture, with a view to developing Hong Kong into the “capital of pop culture”, in accordance with the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development (the Blueprint), consolidating Hong Kong’s role as an East-meets-West Centre for international cultural exchange.
     
    In consultation with the Development Bureau, my reply to the question raised by the Hon Kenneth Fok is as follows:
     
    (1) The number of performances and attendance of pop culture activities held at the performance venues under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) in the past three years are tabulated as follows (with numbers of attendance in parenthesis):
     

    Venue / Year 2022 (Note 3) 2023 2024
    Stadia (Note 1) 90
    (667 954)    		 114
    (803 632)    		 117
    (938 522)
     
    Performing arts venues (Note 2) 420
    (82 562)    		 607
    (125 764)    		 721
    (133 318)
     

     
    Note 1: Stadia include the Hong Kong Coliseum and the Queen Elizabeth Stadium.
    Note 2: Performing arts venues include the Hong Kong Culture Centre, the Hong Kong City Hall, the Sheung Wan Civic Centre, the Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre, the Ko Shan Theatre, the Ngau Chi Wan Civic Centre, the Sha Tin Town Hall, the North District Town Hall, the Tsuen Wan Town Hall, the Kwai Tsing Theatre, the Tuen Mun Town Hall and the Yuen Long Theatre. The Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre was closed for the renovation and improvement project since April 2022.
    Note 3: Owing to COVID-19, all performance venues were closed for 104 days in 2022.
     
    (2) to (4) The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB), the LCSD and the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) etc., endeavour to provide venues for various arts and culture activities. We are aware that there has been a strong demand for performance venues from the public as well as the arts and culture sectors. Therefore, we have been building new performance venues and upgrading existing facilities over the past few years. The newly built East Kowloon Cultural Centre and the upgraded Tai Po Civic Centre and Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre are expected to open in full this year; The WestK Performing Arts Centre is expected to be completed in 2026; and we are also building the New Territories East Cultural Centre. A total of around 8 300 seats will be available at these performance venues. Besides, the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) officially commissioned on March 1, 2025, providing venues for hosting large-scale pop culture events.
     
    Since its full commissioning in March 2025, the KTSP has provided an option of a brand-new and attractive venue for sports and cultural mega events in Hong Kong, including concerts and pop culture events. The KTSP features a 50 000-seat Kai Tak Stadium, a 10 000-seat Kai Tak Arena, a 5 000-seat Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground and other ancillary facilities. In the past two months, various large-scale concerts of various renowned international, Asian and local bands and singers took place at the Kai Tak Stadium and Kai Tak Arena.
     
    The Government has also been supporting small and medium-sized arts groups and emerging artists through various measures, such as providing funding support for large-scale and cross-year arts and cultural initiatives/activities through the Arts Capacity Development Funding Scheme. Programme offices of the LCSD also provide support to local small and medium-sized arts groups and emerging artists through different modes of collaboration to promote continuous innovation and development of arts groups in Hong Kong.
     
    We are reviewing the usage and hiring arrangements of our venues (including reviewing the Venue Partnership Scheme), with an aim to make more effective use of venues resources, offer more booking slots for use of different arts groups and cater for the needs of the arts and culture sectors, thereby building a vibrant, diverse and flourishing ecosystem. On setting up of a dedicated venue for pop culture, the LCSD is currently identifying a suitable site for the Pop Culture Centre, and will discuss with and consult various stakeholders and expert advisers on related matters, such as the long-term planning and facilities of the Pop Culture Centre etc., with a view to formulating appropriate plans for developing it into a cultural landmark and tourism hotspot.
     
    The public pleasure grounds under the LCSD have all along been open to applications for non-designated uses, such as charitable activities or festive celebrations. When processing relevant applications, the LCSD will consider factors such as the proposed duration of hire, the area to be hired, as well as the purpose and nature of the activity. Given the very keen public demand for sports facilities, the LCSD will strive to strike a balance to meet the needs of different venue users.
     
    On the use of school venues, the Government has launched the Pilot Scheme on the Use of School Venues by Arts Groups in 2024 to open up parts of school venues for rehearsals by arts groups after school hours on a pilot basis. Any organisation/institution that wishes to use vacant school premises (VSP) for long-term or short-term uses could liaise and seek support from the relevant policy bureau(s) for its application of using the VSP.
     
    (5) On promoting the development of local pop culture and industries, LCSD has been collaborating with the sector to organise the annual Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival (PCF) since 2023. The first two editions of PCF attracted about 530 000 and over 640 000 participants respectively. The third edition of PCF is being held from April to July 2025 with the theme “More Than Joy” to promote Hong Kong’s unique comedy. PCF offers rich and diverse activities, supports local young artists and emerging art groups, and promotes cross-generation and cross-genre collaboration. We will step up the promotion of pop culture programmes to the Mainland and overseas facilitate Hong Kong’s pop culture to “go global”, thereby establishing overseas collaboration networks for local artists and the brand of PCF.
     
    The CSTB has been supporting mega arts and cultural events organised by the private sector or non-governmental organisations in Hong Kong through the Mega Arts and Cultural Events (ACE) Fund, including mega events on pop culture such as ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025 and Hypefest Hong Kong 2024. The Mega ACE Fund has enhanced its operation since January 1, 2025. To enhance the level of participation of commercial organisations, matching grant has been introduced in the new application mechanism. The initiative aims to encourage the event organisers to solicit commercial sponsorship, thereby boosting the market feasibility and business potential of events and to follow the over-arching principle of industry building.
     
    Besides, the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA) actively makes use of its museums, performing arts venues and public spaces to promote pop culture through various cultural and artistic programmes. For example, the WKCDA held “WestK POPFEST” in 2023 and 2024, which has been sponsored by private enterprises for two consecutive years, has brought together local young singers and groups, blending pop culture with artistic creation. The events were well-received by music fans, attracting over 60 000 participants in 2024, breaking the attendance record for different types of music festivals held in the WKCD over the years.
     
    The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) continues supporting the co-production of television variety programmes by local television stations with their counterparts in the Mainland and Asia through the CreateSmart Initiative, so as to help the industry explore business showcasing opportunities in the Mainland and overseas, uplift the soft power of Hong Kong pop culture and enhance economic benefits. The scheme has so far accepted two rounds of applications. Eight project had been approved, among which five were broadcast.
     
    On talent nurturing, sponsored by the CCIDA, the “Make Music Work – Music Creation and Production Talents Nurturing Scheme” was launched in 2019 to support the development of emerging local music talent. In the latest edition, 12 units each comprising a composer, lyric writer and arranger were matched with experienced music producers and singing units for a series of support and training to produce original songs, and were provided with a platform and live concert to release and perform their original songs, so as to promote local original music development. 
     
    We will continue to foster the industry to explore private market and investment actively, as well as exploring business showcasing opportunities and support talent nurturing of the industries, so as to align with the strategic directions of the Blueprint.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ5: Combating offences of voyeurism and clandestine recording of intimate parts

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Doreen Kong and a reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):
     
    Question:
     
         There are views pointing out that although criminal offences of voyeurism and unlawful recording of intimate parts came into force in 2021, incidents involving clandestine recording of intimate parts of others in public places or private spaces still continue to occur from time to time following rapid technological development and widespread application of smart devices. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) since the offence of unlawful recording of intimate parts came into force, of the number of reports received by the Police regarding such an offence, and the number of cases in which prosecutions were instituted against the persons involved;
     
    (2) given that it is learnt that mini recording devices currently available on the market are mainly sourced from Mainland e-commerce platforms, of the measures the Government has put in place to prevent members of the public from using recording devices purchased through such channels for the purpose of clandestine recording; and
     
    (3) whether it will enhance the design of public places to prevent clandestine recording, and formulate building and design standards against clandestine recording, such as installing detection devices against clandestine recording (e.g. infrared scanners) in schools, shopping malls and other venues, as well as conducting improvement works to address design flaws in partition panels in certain restrooms and changing rooms?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The act of clandestine photography seriously invades the victims’ privacy and often inflicts incurable physical and mental harm on them. In 2021, the Security Bureau amended the Crimes Ordinance (Cap. 200) to introduce four new offences to combat voyeurism-related acts: (1) the offence of voyeurism, which deals with the act of peeping or clandestine photography in circumstances that give rise to a reasonable expectation of privacy; (2) the offence of unlawful recording or observation of intimate parts; (3) the offence of publication of intimate images originating from commission of the above two offences; and (4) the offence of publication or threatened publication of intimate images without consent.
     
         The four new offences carry a maximum penalty of five years of imprisonment. The Government seeks to convey a clear message to the community that clandestine photography or malicious dissemination of intimate images will not be tolerated and that there are serious consequences for committing the relevant offences, thereby achieving a deterrent effect and protecting possible victims. Through high-profile law enforcement actions as well as publicity and education, the Police have been combatting voyeurism-related acts on all fronts to protect the privacy of the public.
     
         The reply to the Member’s question is as follows:
     
    (1)  The statistics on cases received by the Police, and the relevant numbers of arrests, prosecutions and convictions since voyeurism-related offences since the Crimes Ordinance (Cap. 200) came into effect in October 2021 are tabulated at Annex. In 2024, for the offence of voyeurism, the Police received 172 cases and arrested 107 persons; 59 persons were prosecuted. For the offence of unlawful recording or observation of intimate parts, the Police received 350 cases and arrested 252 persons; 193 persons were prosecuted.
     
    (2)  According to the Police’s statistics, in nearly 98 per cent of the offences of voyeurism and unlawful recording or observation of intimate parts in the past year, offenders used smartphones with camera functions that they carried with them to commit the crimes. Most of these cases occurred in places with high pedestrian flow, such as public transport, transport stations, and shopping malls. The offenders took the advantage of the crowdedness to follow the victims when boarding or alighting from the vehicles or when taking the escalators, and surreptitiously took photos with their smartphones, which were handy and not easily spotted.
     
         There are of course still cases involving the use of other general photographic equipment, which can be purchased from various channels. Similar to smartphones, the intended purposes of most of these types of photographic equipment are proper and legitimate. For example, to provide better care for elderly living alone, many families install video cameras at home, so that family members can render timely assistance to the elderly persons when they need help. Therefore, we are of the view that regulation on photographic equipment or its purchasing channels may not be the most direct and effective way to combat such crime. The Government needs to strike a balance between combatting crime and protecting the rights of the public to reasonably use technology products.
     
    (3)  On using architectural designs that prevent clandestine photography, the Police will continue to strengthen collaboration with public transport operators, shopping malls, public housing estates, private residential buildings and property management agencies, encouraging them to take into consideration the prevention of voyeurism-related offences in their overall crime prevention plan. The Police will also advise and encourage different stakeholders to conduct on-site reviews to ensure the safety of their venues. The Police are ready to offer advice on access control, illumination, mirror installation, coverage of closed circuit televisions, etc. to minimise the risks of crime. If necessary, professional advice can be sought from the Crime Prevention Bureau of the Police.
     
         On law enforcement, the Police have been stepping up efforts to combat voyeurism-related acts, particularly targeting high-risk places such as public transport, shopping malls and changing rooms. The Police have also been implementing anti-crime operations and intelligence-led operations to enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement.
     
         As for preventive measures, through ongoing collaboration with various stakeholders by way of publicity and education, the Police seek to heighten public vigilance and proactively disseminate messages on alertness against clandestine photography. Topics such as ways to identify suspected acts of clandestine photography and self-protection measures in different places (such as changing rooms and toilets) are covered. The Police also encourage citizens to come forward to report crimes.
     
         The Police have also produced posters, videos and publicity stickers on prevention of voyeurism-related acts, and distributed them through channels such as schools, shopping malls, public transport and government venues. Besides, the Police regularly organise crime prevention seminars and community activities to brief the public on relevant legislation and ways of self-protection. To further boost the publicity effects, the Police have uploaded relevant information, including educational videos and publicity posters, on the offence of voyeurism and prevention of clandestine photography on the website SafeCity.HK for public access and downloading.
     
         The Police call on members of the public to heighten their vigilance. In case suspected acts of clandestine photography are identified, they should not hesitate to report the crime and provide evidence to assist in the Police investigation. We will continue to combat voyeurism-related acts on all fronts through high-profile law enforcement actions, publicity and education to protect the privacy of the public.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ROC (Taiwan) government congratulates Singapore on successful completion of general election

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    ROC (Taiwan) government congratulates Singapore on successful completion of general election

    • Date：2025-05-04
    • Data Source：Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

    May 4, 2025
    No. 134

    Singapore smoothly completed the election of its 15th Parliament on May 4. The result was a victory for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and the People’s Action Party that he leads. On behalf of the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses its sincere congratulations to the people and government of Singapore on the successful conclusion of yet another parliamentary election.

    Taiwan and Singapore have long shared cordial ties. Bilateral cooperation has developed steadily in recent years, with the two sides maintaining close exchanges in economics, trade, semiconductors, technology, culture, and other domains. Taiwan looks forward to building on the existing foundations to further deepen collaboration with Singapore, jointly respond to global and regional challenges, and contribute to the advancement of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific. (E) 

     

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City comes together to mark 80th anniversary of VE Day

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Residents in Chestnut Grove were among those who gathered over the Bank Holiday weekend to celebrate VE Day with a street party.

    Some 35 residents took part in the event, and five takeaway buffet boxes were delivered to elderly residents who were unable to attend. The Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Linda Leach, was in attendance and led a minute’s silence in respect to the active and fallen military.

    She also visited street parties at Lawnside Green, Broadmeadow Green, Howell Road Allotments, Tithe Road, Stanley Road and Taunton Avenue, and the Wednesfield in Bloom VE Day afternoon tea.

    Mayor Councillor Leach said: “I was delighted to be invited to a number of street parties over the Bank Holiday Weekend and to be able to reflect on the immense sacrifices made by those who fought, during the Second World War and in other wars, for our freedom, and to celebrate the peace and prosperity their bravery has given us all.

    “The commemorations continue over the next few days, including on VE Day itself on Thursday when the Royal British Legion will be holding a service of remembrance at the Cenotaph, and I myself am looking forward to representing the city when I attend multiple memorial services at The Hague and in the Netherlands this weekend.”

    The commemorations continue tomorrow (Thursday) when the City of Wolverhampton Central Branch of the Royal British Legion will be holding a service of remembrance at the Cenotaph, St Peter’s Square. All are welcome; please gather at 10.50am.

    And Central Library will he holding a coffee morning tomorrow from 10.30am. Staff will dress in red, white, and blue, and there will be a green screen and sing-along with school children. Again, all are welcome.

    Pictures from the VE Day commemorations can be found at Flickr.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Search and Rescue Operation – Kalkarindji

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force coordinated a search and rescue operation conducted by local community members to locate two women southeast of Kalkarindji yesterday.

    About 10:00am, the Joint Emergency Services Communications Centre received reports of concerns for welfare of two women after they did not arrive safely to the Kalkarindji community following an outing the previous night. One of the females was able to get in contact with a member of the community and advised that they were bogged and the other female had walked off.

    A local helicopter, provided by Helimuster Helicopters commenced the Search and Rescue Operation and members from the community assisted.

    About 2:35pm, the first female was located by the ALPA Community Store manager near a cattle station bore and an hour later the second female and their pet dogs were located by the helicopter. Both females were safe and well and transported to Kalkarindji Clinic for medical assessment.

    Senior Constable Karl von Minden, Police Search and Rescue Coordinator said, “Police appreciate the assistance of staff from the Kalkarindji ALPA store, Helimuster Helicopters, local community members and Kalkarindji police for their swift response and assistance in the search efforts.”

    “Those who choose to explore the great Territory outback are urged to carry sufficient drinking water, consider bringing a Personal Locator Beacon and to stay with their vehicle if lost in the bush.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Leads Push Back on Social Security Staffing and Service Cuts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    (WASHINGTON, DC) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis along with 14 of her Republican colleagues sent a letter to newly confirmed Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, Frank Bisignano, detailing concerns regarding potential changes to services provided at local SSA offices, the SSA website, and the SSA 1-800 number.

     

    The Members took proactive action by writing to Commissioner Bisignano to express their concerns over recent staffing cuts and proposals that can further deteriorate customer service that has been subpar in recent years. While the Social Security Administration (SSA) has publicly stated that it does not plan to permanently close field offices, its draft service delivery plan includes “field office consolidation.” Additionally, 47 locations are currently listed on the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) website as potential closure candidates. 

     

    The agency initially planned to end over-the-phone verification, but later revised its decision, opting instead to implement anti-fraud technology while continuing to allow phone-based certification. The Members also emphasized ensuring uninterrupted services for seniors and individuals with disabilities who rely on SSA benefits, especially as the elderly population continues to grow with all Baby Boomers reaching age 65 by 2030.

     

    Signers of the letter include:

    • Rep. Jeff Hurd (R-CO-3)

    • Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA-7)

    • Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1)

    • Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-2)

    • Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-2)

    • Rep. Gabe Evans (R-CO-8)

    • Rep. David Valadao (R-CA-22)

    • Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-6)

    • Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA-2)

    • Rep. Mike Ezell (R-MS-4)

    • Rep. Michael Turner (R-OH-10)

    • Rep. Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (R-PA-8)

    • Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA-3)

    • Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) 

     

    READ THE FULL LETTER HERE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sheriffs Ezell, Nehls Reintroduce Resolution Honoring Local Law Enforcement Ahead of Police Week

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

     Today, Sheriffs Mike Ezell (MS-04) and Troy Nehls (TX-22) announced the reintroduction of a House resolution formally recognizing the essential role that local law enforcement officers play in protecting communities, enforcing the law, and maintaining public safety across the United States. The resolution comes in advance of National Police Week, which begins May 12, 2025.

    “As a former sheriff, I know firsthand the courage, professionalism, and selflessness that our law enforcement officers bring to the job every single day,” Ezell said. “These men and women are the backbone of public safety in our communities. They run toward danger, not away from it—and they do it to protect people they may never meet. As we approach Police Week, I am proud to stand alongside officers who put on the badge each morning, not knowing what the day may bring. They deserve our respect, our gratitude, and our unwavering support.”

    “Every day, law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect and defend the communities they serve,” Nehls said. “As a former Texas Sheriff, I am proud to support my colleague, Congressman Ezell’s resolution, showing our unwavering support for the men and women in blue. Our nation’s law enforcement officers deserve our utmost respect and gratitude. I will always back the blue.”

    The resolution expresses strong support for local law enforcement agencies and officers, emphasizing:

    • The bravery shown by officers in the face of danger;

    • The professionalism required to enforce the law with fairness and integrity;

    • And the personal sacrifice officers and their families make to keep others safe.

    Ezell’s resolution also encourages Americans to take time during Police Week to reflect on the service and sacrifice of law enforcement personnel, including those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Woman killed in hit-run collision at Hillcrest

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A pedestrian has died after being struck by a vehicle at Hillcrest overnight.

    Emergency services responded to North East Road, Hillcrest at 11pm on Tuesday 6 May after a young woman was hit by a car.

    Sadly, there was nothing police or paramedics could do, and the 20-year-old woman from Greenacres was pronounced deceased a short time later.

    Major Crash investigators attended and examined the scene overnight.  The crash occurred on the north-east bound carriageway of North East Road, near Forbes Street, near the service station.

    Investigators have spoken to witnesses who described seeing a silver sedan involved in the crash, but it did not stop at the scene.

    The driver of the car is urged to come forward.

    Anyone with information about this silver sedan, which possibly has front end damage, or the driver is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    Police are appealing for any witnesses or other motorists with dashcam footage, including of the woman’s presence on the roadway before the fatal crash, to contact police.  Police are also seeking any CCTV footage from the area.

    The young woman is the 29th life lost on South Australian roads so far this year.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for $38 Million Catalytic Converter Theft Ring

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tou Sue Vang, 33, of Sacramento, was sentenced today to 12 years in prison for his role in transporting thousands of stolen catalytic converters across state lines, laundering money, and other related crimes, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, Tou Vang, along with his brother Andrew Vang and mother Monica Moua, purchased stolen catalytic converters from local thieves and sold them to a buyer in New Jersey for more than $38 million. Catalytic converter theft has become prevalent across the nation because of their value, relative ease to steal, and their lack of identifying markings. Thieves steal catalytic converters from vehicles on the street for the precious metals they contain, which may be more valuable per ounce than gold, and then sell them to buyers like T. Vang. The black-market price for certain catalytic converters from California can be more than $1,000 each.

    This prosecution is part of a nationwide initiative that dismantled a catalytic converter theft conspiracy. In addition to the three California defendants, this case includes 12 New Jersey defendants, including brothers Navin Khanna and Tinu Khanna, who operated DG Auto and purchased the stolen catalytic converters from California for more than $38 million. Tou Vang and his family operated primarily from their private residences and storage units; and did not have a scrap yard or valid business license. Some of the shipments that Tou Vang made to DG Auto were over 1,000 pounds and contained a single type of high-value catalytic converter, such as the Toyota Prius. Tou Vang and his family used the funds they received from the Khanna brothers and withdrew cash from the bank accounts they controlled to purchase more stolen catalytic converters, thereby promoting the carrying on of the unlawful activity.

    Tou Vang spent the proceeds of these stolen catalytic converters to fund his lavish lifestyle, including to purchase a five-acre multi-home complex in Rio Linda for $1.235 million in cash, over a dozen motor vehicles (including two Teslas and two Sea Doos), and an additional home in Sacramento. As part of T. Vang’s sentence, the United States forfeited more than $150,000 in U.S. currency, 13 motor vehicles, four personal watercraft, jewelry, and real estate, amongst other property.

    “This defendant led a network of criminals that hurt thousands of innocent car owners,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Beckwith. “This case represents the kind of far-reaching investigation that federal, state, and local law enforcement partners can do when working together. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to continuing its law enforcement partnerships to disrupt criminal conspiracies like this one that target the American people.”

    “Theft usually happens in the shadows, most often with the help of professional enablers such as Mr. Vang who facilitated the sale of stolen goods. The financial expertise of IRS Criminal Investigation Oakland Field Office agents has helped trace the assets and unraveled the truth behind these organizations,” said Special Agent in Charge Linda T. Nguyen. “Today’s sentencing is a true reflection of the collaborative commitment between all the local, state, and federal agencies who contributed to this outcome as our way to protect the people in the communities and bring justice to light.”

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the IRS Criminal Investigation with assistance from the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, Sacramento Police Department, Davis Police Department, Auburn Police Department, Livermore Police Department, and San Bernardino County Sherriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Veronica M.A. Alegría of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eastern District of California and Trial Attorney César S. Rivera-Giraud of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case.

    The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Louis Felon Who Fatally Shot Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk on Tuesday sentenced a St. Louis man who shot an acquaintance in 2023 to nine years in prison.

    Clayton Pierce Davis, 39, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis in November to one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition.

    On July 4, 2023, Davis was celebrating with others in St. Louis. After a Fourth of July event, the group went to a shop on the corner of Gravois Avenue and Chippewa Street in south St. Louis. An argument started and Davis fired 12 shots from a handgun, fatally shooting a man and wounding his girlfriend. At least one of the victims was armed and the woman fired one shot.

    Davis is a felon and is thus barred from possessing firearms. He has prior convictions for robbery, riot in a penal institution, dog fighting, stealing and assault.

    The case was investigated by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Torrie Schneider prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Allen Woman Sentenced to Over 11 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in the Pine Ridge Reservation and in Rapid City

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced an Allen, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.

    Misty Hornbeck, age 50, was sentenced on May 5, 2025, to 11 years and three months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

    Hornbeck was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2024, and pleaded guilty on February 27, 2025.

    Hornbeck’s conviction stemmed from the large-scale distribution of methamphetamine on the Pine Ridge Reservation and in Rapid City, South Dakota. Hornbeck, who resided in Colorado during the conspiracy, supplied methamphetamine to her codefendants through her sources in Colorado. Hornbeck’s codefendants then transported the methamphetamine into South Dakota. Once the methamphetamine was in South Dakota, it would be further distributed by multiple individuals, including Hornbeck’s co-defendants Nathan Tobacco-Clifford, Milo Shot With Arrow, and others. Between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine was distributed during the course of this criminal conspiracy.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and the Badlands Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, which is comprised of agents from the FBI, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, Martin Police Department, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox prosecuted the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Porcupine Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison for Involuntary Manslaughter and False Statement

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Porcupine, South Dakota, man convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter and two counts of False Statement. The sentencing took place on April 25, 2025.

    Clayton Fire Thunder, age 40, was sentenced to a total of eight years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $300 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    A federal grand jury indicted Fire Thunder in May 2024. He was found guilty following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota, in January of 2025.

    On the early morning of September 15, 2022, a male drove his partially clothed girlfriend to Indian Health Services (IHS) hospital on the Pine Ridge Reservation and dropped her off at the Emergency Department. The male did not provide his identity nor the female’s identity. The male told medical personnel that a firearm went off while they were engaged in intimate relations and that she had been shot accidentally.

    Law enforcement identified and located the male at his residence several hours later. The male was cleaning the crime scene and sent text messages to the female’s relative’s claiming the shooting was an accident. A search of the residence was conducted. Law enforcement was unable to locate the handgun that the male claimed was used in the shooting. The male was arrested and eventually charged with second degree murder, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. A digital surveillance system that recorded traffic to the male’s house was seized by law enforcement.

    After reviewing the footage, law enforcement identified a vehicle that appeared at the male’s residence shortly after midnight and just before the female was brought to IHS. After several months, law enforcement was able to identify the driver of the vehicle as Marino Waters and the passenger as Clayton Fire Thunder. The investigation revealed that Waters drove Fire Thunder to the male’s residence just east of Pine Ridge two times on the morning of September 15, 2022. Fire Thunder intended on selling a firearm to the male in exchange for cash and/or methamphetamine. The male did not answer the door when Fire Thunder knocked, and unexpectedly, Fire Thunder discharged one round from the firearm into the residence. The round ended up penetrating the siding, backboard, and drywall of the residence and struck and killed the male’s girlfriend, a 27-year-old female.

    When Fire Thunder was interviewed by the FBI in March of 2023, he gave a false statement and said that he did not have a firearm when the shooting occurred. Fire Thunder admitted to being at the residence and told law enforcement that he was inquiring with the male homeowner about a junked car at 4:00 o’clock in the morning. Fire Thunder was reinterviewed again in October 2023. Fire Thunder continued to deny that he possessed a firearm during the shooting death of the female and this time said that he was inquiring about a flatbed at 4:00 o’clock.

    Seventeen witnesses and over 200 exhibits were introduced at Fire Thunder trial establishing that Fire Thunder possessed and discharged a firearm on the morning of September 15, 2022, that resulted in the death of a 27-year-old female. The jury found Fire Thunder guilty of involuntary manslaughter and two counts of false statement.

    This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.

    This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Puerto Rico Violent Offender Task Force Arrests Violent Federal Fugitive in Juana Díaz

    Source: US Marshals Service

    San Juan, PR – The U.S. Marshals District of Puerto Rico Violent Offender Task Force arrested today a Puerto Rico man who became a federal fugitive in April after violating the conditions of his bail.

    Roric H. Núñez-García, 25, who was one of several people arrested during a police raid in February at the Enudio Negrón Residential Complex in Villalba, was released on bail in April following an order from a federal magistrate and immediately cut off his electronic bracelet.

    He is suspected of being involved in a shooting that occurred later that night in the municipality of Villalba.

    Deputy U.S. Marshals, in coordination with agents from the Puerto Rico Police Bureau’s Strike Force, Arrest and Search Units, and with the assistance of Public Housing Administration security agents, arrested Núñez-García without incident at an apartment located in the Leonardo Santiago Public Housing Complex in the municipality of Juana Díaz.

    During the operation, authorities seized a modified firearm capable of fully automatic fire, multiple magazines, and ammunition.

    “Our citizens should know that the United States Marshals Service in Puerto Rico continues to pursue those who believe they can evade the law and escape accountability for their actions,” said Wilmer Ocasio-Ibarra, U.S. Marshal for the District of Puerto Rico. 

    “Núñez-García not only attempted to flee justice but is also suspected of involvement in multiple homicides in Juana Díaz, Villalba, Santa Isabel, and Ponce. He represents a serious threat to our communities. I want to express my sincere gratitude and recognize the outstanding efforts of the members of the Puerto Rico Violent Offender Task Force for swiftly capturing this dangerous fugitive and protecting our citizens from further harm. They may try to hide, but they should know that the U.S. Marshals Service will not rest until they are found and brought to justice.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Charged in Human Smuggling Event that Led to at Least Three Deaths

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Two complaints were filed in federal court today charging five people with participating in a human smuggling event that led to the deaths of at least three migrants, including a 14-year-old boy from India. His 10-year-old sister is still missing at sea and presumed dead; their father is in a coma and mother is also hospitalized.

    According to court records, on May 5, 2025, witnesses observed an overturned panga boat at a beach in Del Mar, California. Bystanders and San Diego Lifeguards participated in rescue efforts. Law enforcement officials recovered three bodies, including the boy, identified in court records as P.P.B. Four others were rescued and hospitalized, including P.P.B.’s mother and father; nine others were initially unaccounted for, including P.B.B.’s 10-year-old sister.

    Two men believed to be involved in the smuggling event – Mexican nationals Julio Cesar Zuniga Luna and Jesus Juan Rodriguez Leyva – were arrested Monday at the beach and charged today with Bringing in Aliens Resulting in Death and Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain.

    Later Monday night, Border Patrol agents were conducting operations in Chula Vista, California where they identified a vehicle that had been observed at the scene of the maritime smuggling incident earlier that day. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene. During the investigation, Border Patrol Agents identified two other vehicles that were involved in the smuggling event and were able to successfully stop and arrest the drivers of these load vehicles and locate eight of the nine migrants missing from the boat, with the exception of the 10-year-old sister of P.P.B.

    Melissa Jenelle Cota, Gustavo Lara and Sergio Rojas-Fregosa – all Mexican nationals – were arrested and charged with Transportation of Illegal Aliens. Rojas-Fregoso, was identified as an alien who had previously been deported on December 19, 2023.

    “The drowning deaths of these children are a heartbreaking reminder of how little human traffickers care about the costs of their deadly business,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “We are committed to seeking justice for these vulnerable victims, and to holding accountable any traffickers responsible for their deaths.”

    “Human smuggling, regardless of the route, is not only illegal but extremely dangerous. Smugglers often treat people as disposable commodities, leading to tragic and sometimes deadly consequences, as we saw in this case,” said Shawn Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of HSI San Diego. “Yesterday’s heartbreaking events are a stark reminder of the urgent need to dismantle these criminal networks driven by greed. The HSI along with the U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard, and other partners from the Marine Task Force, remains firmly committed to holding those responsible accountable for these senseless deaths.”

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Van Demark and Edward Chang.

    DEFENDANTS                                            

    Case Number 25mj02403-JLB

    Jesus Ivan Rodriguez-Leyva                          Age: 36                                  Mexico

    Julio Cesar Zuniga-Luna                                Age: 30                                   Mexico

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Bringing in Aliens Resulting in Death – Title 8, U.S.C., Sections 1324(a)(1)(A)(i), (v)(II), and (a)(1)(B)(iv)

    Maximum penalty: Death or Life in Prison and $250,000 fine

    Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain – Title 8, U.S.C., Section 1324(a)(2)(B)(ii)

    Maximum penalty: Ten years in prison with a three-year mandatory minimum and $250,000 fine

    Case Number 25mj2386-JLB

    Melissa Jennelle Cota                                    Age: 33                                  Mexico

    Gustavo Lara                                                  Age: 32                                   Mexico

    Sergio Rojas-Fregoso                                     Age: 31                                   Mexico

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Transportation of Illegal Aliens – Title 8, U.S.C., Section 1324(a)(1)(A)(ii)

    Maximum penalty: Ten years in prison and $500,000 fine

    Deported Alien Found in the United States – Title 8, U.S.C., Section 1326

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

    INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

    Homeland Security Investigations – Marine Task Force

    Homeland Security Investigations

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection

    United States Coast Guard

    San Diego Lifeguard Service

    San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office

    *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: District Man Pleas Guilty to Fatal October Southeast Shooting

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WASHINGTON – Andre Clark, 34, of the District, pleaded guilty yesterday to second-degree murder while armed for the October 2024 shooting of Leonard Taylor, Jr., announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

    Clark’s guilty plea, which is contingent upon the Court’s approval at sentencing, calls for a range of 15-to-20 years in prison, to be followed by supervised release. Superior Court Judge Todd E. Edelman accepted the factual basis for the plea and scheduled sentencing for July 11, 2025. 

    According to a proffer of facts submitted at the plea hearing, on the morning of Oct. 20, 2024, the defendant walked out of a building on the 1500 block of 19th St., SE and towards the victim, who was sitting in the driver’s seat of a gray sedan parked on that street. Clark walked up to the driver’s side of the car, leaned down towards the driver’s side window, and used his right hand to point a firearm at the victim. As the victim started to drive away, the defendant fired his gun at him, striking the victim in the back and killing him. 

    The defendant was located and arrested in Baltimore, Maryland, Dec. 19, 2024, and has been in custody since his arrest.   

    This case was investigated by officers, detectives, and other personnel of the Metropolitan Police Department.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Bromwich.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three CBP Officers Indicted for Allowing Undocumented Individuals to Enter the U.S. Through Their Inspection Lanes; Two Accused of Taking Bribes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers Farlis Almonte, Ricardo Rodriguez and Kairy Stephania Quiñonez are charged in an indictment with allowing vehicles with undocumented individuals to pass through their lanes into the U.S. without inspection while working at the San Ysidro Port of Entry.

    The indictment alleges that Almonte, Rodriguez, and Quiñonez revealed their lane assignments and hours they were scheduled to work the primary inspection booths at the San Ysidro Port of Entry so that co-conspirators would know when it was safe to transport undocumented individuals across the border with impunity – sometimes using code words to gain admittance.

    According to the indictment, the defendants falsely reported in the Transportation Enforcement Communications System – a database known as “TECS” that is used by CBP officers – the number of occupants in co-conspirators’ vehicles to conceal the fact that those vehicles contained undocumented individuals.

    Almonte and Rodriguez are also charged with receipt of bribes by a public official. The indictment alleges that in exchange for money, they failed to enforce the immigration laws of the United States by allowing vehicles with undocumented immigrants to enter the United States.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Francisco Nagel and Bianca Calderon-Peñaloza.

    DEFENDANTS                                 Case Number 25-CR-1502                                      

    Farlis Almonte                                    Age: 38                       San Diego, California

    Ricardo Rodriguez                              Age: 34                       Tijuana, Mexico

    Kairy Stephania Quiñonez                  Age: 31                       Imperial Beach, California

    SUMMARY OF CHARGE

    Conspiracy to Bring in Aliens for Financial Gain – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371 and Title 8, U.S.C. Section 1324(a)(2)(B)(ii)

    Maximum Penalty: Five years in prison

    Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain, Aiding and Abetting – Title 8, U.S.C. Section 1324(a)(2)(B)(ii) and Title 18, U.S.C. Section 2

    Maximum Penalty: Fifteen years in prison with a five-year mandatory minimum

    Receipt of Bribes by Public Official – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 201(b)(2)(C)

    Maximum Penalty: Fifteen years in prison

    INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

    Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General

    Homeland Security Investigations

    Drug Enforcement Administration

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations

    United States Border Patrol

    *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –