overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that, effective immediately, the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) will accept Conditional Approvals issued by the New York City Department of Transportation as proof of municipal authorization for the use of public space under the Dining Out New York program. This change streamlines the approval process for restaurants and bars seeking to expand their licensed premises to include outdoor municipal space.
“Outdoor dining has become an essential part of New York City’s vibrant hospitality industry, and my administration is committed to ensuring businesses have the support they need to thrive,” Governor Hochul said. “By recognizing NYC DOT’s Conditional Approvals, we are making it easier for restaurants and bars to offer al fresco options while ensuring compliance with the law and consideration of local input.”
Under the new policy, licensees seeking to add municipal public spaces for the sale or service of alcohol must comply with all applicable laws, including SLA Advisory 2024-1. Licensees must submit a complete alteration application to the SLA within 60 days of receiving a municipal permit or written authorization, including an NYC DOT Conditional Approval. These applications, which require proof of workers’ compensation and general liability insurance for the municipal space, can be submitted at [email protected] and will be processed without a fee.
For licensees who have already received municipal authorization as of April 2, 2025, the 60-day compliance period begins today. If a municipal permit or written authorization — including an NYC DOT Conditional Approval — is revoked, canceled, suspended or denied, the licensee must immediately cease alcohol service in the affected space and follow the removal procedures outlined in SLA Advisory 2024-1. This policy applies to both roadway and sidewalk dining areas under the Dining Out New York program.
New York State Liquor Authority Chair Lily Fan said, “The SLA is committed to delivering licensing decisions efficiently to support small businesses while protecting public safety. We appreciate the hard work and collaboration of our partners at the NYC DOT and the guidance of the Executive Chamber. Our shared goal is to make NYC’s Dining Out program a success, and I thank our staff for their diligence in processing these alteration applications.”
New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said, “New Yorkers came to enjoy outdoor dining during the pandemic, and we are proud that it is now a permanent part of our city’s streetscape. The New York City Department of Transportation took action to cut red tape and grant conditional approvals so that thousands of restaurants can serve customers as spring gets underway. We are pleased that the State Liquor Authority worked closely with us to make outdoor dining a success. We applaud their decision, which benefits restaurants and all New Yorkers who love outdoor dining.”
New York City Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu said, “Cheers New York! Today’s decision is a huge win for New York City’s vibrant outdoor dining scene, and will enable our restaurants, bars, and small businesses to bring the full experience of their restaurants to their outdoor dining setups. I applaud the State Liquor Authority’s decision for recognizing the importance of outdoor dining to our public realm.”
For additional details, businesses can refer to Alcoholic Beverage Control Law § 111-a and SLA Advisory 2024-1 or contact the SLA.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
SIA welcomes news that Martyn’s Law has received Royal Assent
The SIA welcomes the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 – Martyn’s Law – receiving Royal Assent.
Today (Thursday 3 April 2025) the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 – Martyn’s Law – has received Royal Assent.
In welcoming the news, Heather Baily, Chair of the SIA, said:
This is a watershed moment for public safety in the UK. Martyn’s Law will improve protective security and security standards at venues across the UK. The SIA has been confirmed as the new Martyn’s Law regulator. We have been entrusted with this important role, alongside our existing role regulating private security, which we will discharge with due care, proportion and diligence. We are working closely with the Home Office to prepare for this and look forward to reporting on progress to Home Office ministers.
Our thoughts are with all the families who lost loved ones in the Manchester Arena terror attack as well as all those whose lives have been affected by other acts of terrorism.
We would like to pay tribute to Figen Murray, and the rest of the campaign team, who have worked tirelessly to make the new duty a reality; we know they will be watching closely to ensure it is having the change intended.
Michelle Russell, Chief Executive of the SIA, said:
As the new independent regulator, our role will be to educate, support, and guide those covered by the new duty into compliance. This is to empower them to strengthen the protection and preparedness of premises and events across the UK and reduce the risk of harm from acts of terrorism.
We will ensure in a robust and proportionate way premises and events in scope of this duty comply with the requirements.
We are working with the Home Office on the preparation work for this new role and we will be setting up a new programme of work in due course.
There will be a period of time prior to the legislation being commenced. We expect this to be at least 24 months to allow for the set-up of the regulator. This will also ensure sufficient time for those responsible for premises and events in scope to understand their new obligations before they come into force, being able to plan and prepare accordingly. We look forward to engaging with those in scope and other stakeholders during this period as the preparation work progresses.
In the meantime, premises and events seeking advice on preparing for Martyn’s Law should continue to look for Home Office updates. They can also access free technical guidance and operational advice on protective security on the government partner websites of the National Protective Security Authority and ProtectUK.
Following a ruling by a District Judge, a Council tenant has been evicted this morning (Thursday 3 April) after drug-related activities and anti-social behaviour caused misery for her neighbours.
The Council was granted a possession order by York County Court to end the tenancy of Mandy Livesey, of 20 St Stephen’s Square, Acomb, York. This follows reports from neighbours to the Council and police about drug-taking and dealing, loud noise and arguments at the apartment, and an endless succession of visitors. The anti-social behaviour in the home and area was a continual source of disruption and concern for local people who were worried about its impact on their families.
City of York Council officers served a legal warning of eviction (a Notice of Intention to Seek Possession) on Ms Livesey, which she breached.
Following complaints from neighbours and evidence of loud noise, drink and drug-taking and numerous anti-social visitors, the Council returned the case to York County Court. After considering evidence, the judge granted the Council permission to apply for a warrant of eviction.
Council officers then evicted Ms Livesey today, advising her where she could get information on her housing options, should she need it.
Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing at City of York Council, said: “Thank you to all the neighbours and officers involved in ending this anti-social behaviour. This much-needed home will be re-let as quickly as possible.
“This case proves that together, we can tackle this kind of disruption and so improve the quality of life of those affected. Please report your concerns and work with us so we can take appropriate and effective action.”
Acting Sergeant Ben Ambler of North Yorkshire Police, added: “Drug use and antisocial behaviour has a detrimental impact on the quality of life for local people. It’s unacceptable and we’ll use all the powers and resources available to us to take action against those who make other people’s lives a misery.
“This result is evidence of our joint working with City of York Council and my thanks go to them for their work that has culminated in this eviction. I hope local residents are reassured that we will take action to tackle issues relating to drugs and anti-social behaviour and the impact these have on our communities.”
Please report anti-social behaviour here, or report it to the police on 101 if a non-emergency.
Anti-social noise levels can be reported here or by calling 01904 551525 Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm, or by calling the Noise Patrol 01904 551555 from 9pm Friday to 3am Saturday and between 9pm Saturday to 3am Sunday.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
April 3, 2025
Bridge across the Volga on the M-12 Vostok highway, Republic of Tatarstan.
On April 3, 1760, a decree was issued on the construction of the first bridges in St. Petersburg, and now they are one of the main attractions of the Northern capital. Many bridges in Russia are outstanding monuments of architecture, engineering art, and also an example of the use of the latest technology.
“The construction of bridges and artificial structures in the regions of Russia is of colossal importance for millions of people. They connect dispersed territories and significantly reduce travel time. This is especially important for regions with seasonal features, when some roads become impassable due to weather conditions. But thanks to artificial structures, people can be sure that they will be able to get to the right place at any time of the year. Bridge construction in the country is noticeably gaining momentum, becoming a platform for the use of innovative technologies that increase the service life of some of the most complex elements of road construction. In recent years alone, the country’s road and transport framework has been replenished with such outstanding structures as the cable-stayed bridge across the Oka on the M-12 “Vostok” highway with a unique architectural appearance and a system developed and certified in Russia, the Vysokogorsky Bridge across the Yenisei in Krasnoyarsk Krai, the bridge across the Svir River in Leningrad Oblast, the railway bridge across the Areda River on the Trans-Siberian Railway, the Crimean Bridge, the bridge across the Ob in Surgut, the bridge across the Volga on the bypass of Tver, the Arkhangelsky Bridge across the Sheksna. By 2030, it is planned to build more than 100 bridges with a total length of more than 40 km on the federal network alone,” said Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.
The Deputy Prime Minister added that promising artificial structures include a 12-kilometer bridge across the Volga on the southern bypass of Saratov, which will be the second longest after the Krymsky. Also, as part of the extension of the M-12 “Vostok” highway, bridges across the Belaya River in the Republic of Bashkortostan with a length of 813 m and a unique bridge across the Bolshaya Sarana River in the Sverdlovsk Region with supports over 50 m high will open this year.
There are over 250 artificial structures under construction or reconstruction on the federal road network under the jurisdiction of Rosavtodor. For example, the longest overpass in the Southern Urals and the Urals is being built across the Sim River in the Chelyabinsk Region. The complex natural landscape requires road workers to put in the utmost effort and come up with unique engineering solutions. The artificial steel-reinforced concrete structure, over 1 km long and over 40 m high, is being erected as part of a large-scale reconstruction of the M-5 Ural highway and the construction of a bypass around the city of Sim. In total, four bridges, two interchanges and five overpasses are planned to be built here.
Among the regional projects under construction are bridges across the Ob in Surgut and Novosibirsk, a bridge across the Lena in Yakutsk, which is being built in permafrost conditions, as well as a new bridge across the Volga in Yaroslavl and across the Oka in Ryazan.
The state-owned company Avtodor is currently constructing 162 artificial structures, including 38 bridges as part of the reconstruction projects of the M-1 Belarus and M-3 Ukraine highways, the new Dyurtyuli-Achit highway, which will be part of the M-12 Vostok highway, and the Adler bypass.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
A Met investigation into a savage attack where a man suffered life-changing injuries after he was shot and stabbed in broad daylight has led to three men being handed lengthy prison sentences.
Caleb Wallace, 18 (05.01.07), of Beam Avenue, Barking and Dagenham, Hayat Umar, 18 (13.03.07) of Stern Close, Barking and Dagenham and Joshua Amoaka, 18 (03.08.2006), of Cornflower Road, Chelmsford were sentenced at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 3 April.
Wallace and Umar, who were both convicted of attempted murder, possession of a firearm with intent and possession of a knife following a trial earlier this year were sentenced to 19 years’ imprisonment each.
Amoaka, who was previously found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm, possession of a firearm with intent and possession of a knife, was sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment.
All three were subject to between a third to a half reduction to their sentence due to being aged under 18 at the time the offence was committed.
The court heard that on Thursday, 2 May 2024 the victim, who was 18 at the time of the incident, was cycling along Whalebone Lane South in Dagenham when Wallace, Umar and Amoaka jumped out of a vehicle and chased him.
While attempting to escape from his attackers, the victim briefly collided with a member of the public and fell off his bike. In CCTV footage seen by the jury in court, Umar can be seen firing a sawn-off shotgun into the back of the victim at point-blank range before Wallace stabs him with a machete. Amoaka is also seen in the footage standing nearby, all during the day and in full-view of passers-by.
Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended and treated the victim at the scene before he was taken to hospital. His injuries were life-changing and he required a number of significant surgeries and extensive time spent in hospital recovering.
Detective Inspector Iain Wallace from the Specalist Crime Command, who led the investigation, said: “The brutality displayed by Wallace and Umar, while Amoaka stood menacingly by, all in broad daylight and in full view of passers-by is shocking.
“This has been an incredibly distressing time for the victim and his family. Equally, many of those who witnessed such a vicious attack will still be deeply traumatised and concerned about safety in the community.
“I hope these lengthy sentences will give the victim some small sense of closure, and allow those in the community to feel safer knowing that Wallace, Umar and Amoaka are no longer on the streets.”
A determined manhunt began immediately following the attack, with officers speaking to witnesses at the scene as well as painstakingly combing through hours of CCTV footage to understand what took place and to track the movements of the attackers after they fled the scene.
Umar and Wallace were arrested at an address in Kent on 10 May 2024. During a search of the address, officers found the distinct red trainers that Umar wore during the incident, as well as the multi-coloured trainers Wallace could be seen wearing on CCTV as he attacked the victim. A large black machete matching the one seen on CCTV was also discovered hidden under a bed at the property.
Amoaka was arrested at an address in Birmingham on 17 May 2024, where officers found a quantity of class A drugs as well as a hunting knife.
Wallace and Amoaka’s hats were both discarded at the scene after each came off while they chased the victim. They were sent for forensic testing. DNA found on the hats provided a match to both – further proof they had been at the scene.
Officers also discovered a series of TikTok videos by a gang affiliated with the three men, where those in the videos brazenly claim responsibility for the attack while mocking the victim.
This helped to further establish a watertight case against Wallace, Umar and Amoaka.
On March 25, 2025, Canmore RCMP received multiple reports regarding the theft of e-bikes and mountain bikes which were stolen from locked bike racks near the 1200 block of Bow Valley Trail in Canmore.
RCMP Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit (SAD CRU) was requested to assist Canmore RCMP with the investigation. Through the investigation, a suspect was identified on CCTV footage.
On March 27, 2025, SAD CRU located and arrested a 38-year-old individual, a resident of Calgary, and recovered all four stolen bikes. The individual has been charged with the following:
Trafficking of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000 (x2)
Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000
Theft of Bicycle Under $5000 (x2)
Fail to Comply with Release Order (x2)
After a judicial interim release hearing, the individual was remanded into custody to appear in Alberta Court of Justice in Calgary on April 3, 2025.
RCMP would like to thank the victims for their speedy reporting of the thefts, which aided in a quick and successful investigation.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
WASHINGTON – Ronnie Rogers, 69, of Washington D.C., pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy that imported and redistributed wholesale quantities of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine in the District of Columbia.
The plea agreement was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Washington Division, FBI Special Agent Sean Ryan of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Washington Field Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Rogers pleaded guilty to a three-count Information charging him with conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 100 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue, and 100 grams or more of heroin; conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and cocaine base; and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
U.S. District Court Judge Trevor N. McFadden scheduled a sentencing hearing for July 21, 2025. Rogers is eligible for a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison to a maximum of life.
According to the plea agreement, between July 2021 and November 2023, Rogers coordinated with his co-conspirators to traffic fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base in the District of Columbia and elsewhere. This included over 12 kilograms of fentanyl (including carfentanil, which is 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 times more potent than fentanyl), over 1967 grams of fentanyl analog (p-Fluorofentanyl, which is also more lethal than fentanyl), over 236 grams of heroin, over 500 grams of cocaine, and less than 28 grams of cocaine base.
On November 29, 2023, law enforcement executed search warrants at Rogers’ various residences.
At his apartment on the 1200 block of Massachusetts Avenue, NW, law enforcement recovered an array of narcotics that included a large baggie containing 494.8 grams of mixture of heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil; another baggie with 704.8 grams of carfentanil, an envelope containing 115.91 grams of fentanyl; another baggie containing 201 grams of fentanyl; and baggies containing 1,785 grams acetaminophen and 18 grams of fentanyl. In addition, officers recovered a Smith & Wesson SD-40 firearm, a Glock 43 pistol, a Rugar LCP pistol, $23,000 in cash, and an assortment of drug packaging materials and scales.
At Roger’s residence on the 6500 block of Gateway Boulevard, in District Heights, Maryland, law enforcement recovered more narcotics and weapons including two baggies containing 151 grams of fentanyl; plastic bags containing 2.4 grams of xylazine and 1.8 grams of heroin; baggies containing bundles of smaller bags containing 7.7 grams of fentanyl, heroin, xylazine, 1.4 grams of carfentanil, and 2.8 grams of acetaminophen, 20 small baggies containing 5.1 grams of fentanyl, heroin and xylazine; and bags containing 97.3 grams of heroin and fentanyl, 45.4 grams of cocaine base, and 14.2 grams of fentanyl with xylazine. Officers also recovered a Smith &Wesson .357 revolver, a Springfield XD 9mm firearm, a Canik TP9 pistol, assorted ammunition and magazines and $1,524 in cash.
At another residence utilized by Rogers located on the 2100 block of Pineview Court, Waldorf, Maryland, law enforcement recovered a FedEx parcel containing 1,013 grams of fentanyl.
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This case is being investigated by the DEA Washington Division, the FBI Washington Field Office, the Alexandria Police Department, and the Metropolitan Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Washington Field Division, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, U.S. Bureau of Prisons, Montgomery County Police Department, Prince George’s County Police Interdiction Unit, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, Arlington County Police, Montgomery County Department of Police, Virginia State Police, Loudoun County Sherriff’s Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland (Greenbelt), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys George Eliopoulos and Matthew Kinskey of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Section.
On March 17, 2025, Vermillion RCMP responded to a report from the Alberta Sheriff’s at the Vermillion Provincial Courthouse, of possible drugs found on someone at the location.
Vermillion RCMP attended and located a 35-year-old individual, of no fixed address, and after investigation, was found to have a quantity of suspected fentanyl in individual baggies.
The individual was charged with Possession of CDSA for the purpose of trafficking, and failure to comply with Undertaking.
The individual was brought before a justice of the peace, where she was remanded with a court date of April 7, 2025 at the Alberta Court of Justice in Vermillion.
The Vermillion RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the location of, or sightings of any drug related crimes in the area. Anyone with information in relation to drug or organized crimes is asked to please contact the Vermillion RCMP at 780-835-4441 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8377 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Traditional fruit or chocolate chip? This local list caters to all tastes.
We put the call out on the WeAreCBR Instagram page for Canberrans to vote for their favourite local Easter treat.
Remember that opening hours vary over Easter, so if you’re hoping to snap up a treat this weekend, be sure to check opening hours ahead of time.
From Easter eggs to hot cross buns, these are the best treats as voted by you:
Le Bon Melange’s hot cross buns are just as delicious as their standard offerings of pastries and cakes.
Southsiders can get their Easter fix at L’épi Artisan Baker, with gluten-free hot cross buns, traditional hot cross buns, and chocolate hot cross buns.
In addition to their usual Filipino fare, Lola and Lola are offering bright purple ube-langka hot cross buns.
The local chocolatier have Easter bunny lollipop packs, chocolate easter bunnies and chocolate Easter eggs, each available in dark, milk and white chocolate.
Studio Cocoa, online and at various stores throughout Canberra
Studio Cocoa stock a range of handmade chocolate Easter treats. Choose from cute bonbons, mini eggs, praline bunnies, smash eggs, crème eggs, funfetti truffles and hampers.
Wildflour,Townsville Street Fyshwick, Brierly Street Weston and Eyre Street Kingston
Check your local Wildflour café for chocolate and traditional hot cross buns or buy a hot cross bun pack from their online store.
Sweet Bones, Scullin Place Scullin and Lonsdale Street Braddon
In addition to their usual line-up of vegan treats, Sweet Bones have a special limited Easter menu on Saturday 30 March from 9am to 1pm. You can buy individual hot cross buns or pre-order a pack of their bake-at-home cinnamon scrolls from their online shop.
Locals flock to this Scandinavian-inspired bakery for their deliciously spiced Easter fruit buns.
Danny’s hot cross buns are a Canberra classic. If you happen to miss out this year, don’t fret: they’re available year-round on Saturdays as fruit buns (without their cross).
Although it’s not strictly a Canberra bakery, Clementine Bakery’s hot cross buns are available at all Two Before Ten locations.
Consider Pop Canberra your one-stop local Easter chocolate shop. This Easter you’ll find hot chocolate bombs, smash eggs, chocolate bars and more.
Three Mills Bakery, Leeton Street Fyshwick, Newcastle Street Fyshwick, Cooyong Street City and Market Street Belconnen Three Mills’ hot cross buns are available at their bakeries, stockists across Canberra and online. You can also order their Easter bundle, which includes hot cross buns and a selection of bake-at-home goodies to get you through the long weekend.
Spilt Milk’s Easter egg smash features gelato with smashed chocolate Easter eggs and caramel sauce.
If your Easter travels take you beyond Canberra’s border, stop in at Little Sutton Bakehouse for their freshly baked hot cross buns.
Another regional favourite, Murrumbateman Chocolate offers chocolate tasting experiences as well as easter treats including chocolate hens, hot cross bun chocolates, mini eggs, chocolate bars, cocktail-inspired chocolates and more. Visit their café or order online for Canberra delivery.
While Kate specialises in hot chocolate bombs, her Easter range includes sham bunnies and eggs filled with lollies and treats, cracked eggs, an extreme gift box and more.
Sonoma’s ‘not cross buns’ feature their signature ‘s’ in place of a cross, but otherwise carry all the delicious hallmarks of a traditional hot cross bun.
The Knox are offering traditional fruit and chocolate hot cross buns this Easter.
Did we miss your favourite? Send us an email at ourcanberra@act.gov.au.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Canberra students benefit from learning protective behaviours to use online.
From TikTok to Discord and beyond, Canberra kids are logging into a whole lot of online platforms.
But how much do teachers and parents know about them?
ACT school leaders gathered recently to discuss the topic at an online safety education leadership summit.
Principals and deputy principals from across Canberra engaged with a panel of experts on keeping students safe online.
Working together on online safety
Kellie Britnell from the eSafety Commissioner says there has been a recent increase in reporting online safety incidents such as cyberbullying and sexual extortion.
“Cyberbullying has now been around for quite a while … but you couple that with some of the new technologies like we’re seeing with artificial intelligence and it’s all new, it’s not regulated and it’s not just in Australia,” Kellie said.
Kellie recommends a whole-of-school and whole-of-community approach to education, with consistent messaging.
“We have to be working with children and young people, staff and teachers, but also with families. We need to keep talking,” she said.
A principal’s perspective
Ainslie Primary School Principal Wendy Cave says schools must work with students to help them draw on protective behaviours, skills and strategies.
Educators – many of whom may not have grown up with such technology – need to be on the front foot.
“There’s such a lot that’s hidden in the online world and it’s important for us all to explore it, unpack it and work together to understand the risks and challenges and opportunities,” Wendy said.
Kellie Britnell, Manager, Awareness and Capability, eSafety Commissioner (left) and Wendy Cave, Principal of Ainslie Primary
It provides tips on helping children safely navigate the digital world and educating them to avoid harmful online experiences.
Core to this are three key strategies:
1. Be engaged, open and supportive
Share online time as part of family life. Play games together. Talk about favourite apps, games or websites.
Keep communication open.
Reassure your child they can always come to you.
Let them know you will not cut off internet access if they report feeling uncomfortable or unsafe when online – this is a real concern that may stop your child from communicating with you openly.
If you notice a change in behaviour or mood, talk to your child about it. If you are concerned, consider seeking professional help – from your GP, a psychologist or school counsellor.
2. Set some rules
Set age-appropriate rules for devices and online access, with consequences for breaking them.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website.
You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The city’s diverse, accessible visitor experience is growing Canberra’s reputation as a go-to holiday destination.
Figures released by Tourism Research Australia show that 2023 was a record-breaking year for Canberra tourism.
During 2023 the ACT welcomed 5.8 million visitors who spent $3.8 billion in Canberra. This is the highest ever visitor expenditure in a 12-month period over the past 25 years. It surpassed 2022’s expenditure by $770 million.
Total visitor numbers have recovered to 95 per cent from pre-COVID levels. Expenditure has also surpassed pre-COVID levels, at 135 per cent compared to 2019.
Last year the ACT welcomed 5.63 million domestic visitors who spent a total of $3.33 billion. In the last 25 years, this is:
the highest ever number of visitor nights
the highest ever expenditure
the third highest number of domestic visitors.
Across all states and territories, the ACT experienced the biggest growth in domestic overnight visitation, and second highest expenditure growth, when compared to 2022. NSW remains the main source of domestic visitors to the ACT, accounting for two thirds of overnight visitors, and three quarters of day trip visitors.
International markets continue to rebound strongly with the USA, UK, China and India delivering 40 per cent of international visitors.
The city’s diverse, accessible visitor experience, led by its major attractions and events, are growing Canberra’s reputation as a go-to holiday destination. Major exhibitions at national attractions have been significant drawcards and new investment in a range of tourism products is providing more reasons to visit and return.
The ACT’s expanding aviation connectivity is making it cheaper and easier for visitors to get to Canberra. Canberra Airport connects to 12 domestic destinations, three North American hubs with Fiji Airways, and a host of destinations through Asia with Batik Airways.
Canberra’s Tourism industry is thriving on a national stage, receiving a record seven awards at the 2023 Qantas Australian National Awards including three gold awards.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Yarralumla Nursery’s staff carefully monitor the conditions of the seed bank.
When bushfire swept through Yarramundi Reach in 2003, it took with it Roman Cypress trees first planted in 1916.
While that exact type of Cyprus could well have disappeared from the ACT, Yarralumla Nursery’s seed bank came to the rescue.
“Yarralumla Nursery’s seed bank is a wonderful resource that has been used to create Canberra’s urban forest,” the nursery’s Senior Director Matt Parker said.
“We were able to propagate the same genetic Cyprus from our seed bank.”
The seed bank is a living record of every seed collected, purchased and stored at the Yarralumla Nursery since 1913.
The latest to be added are the seeds of the Bunya Pine tree.
Native to Queensland, these large conifers hold sacred values for First Nations peoples and come from a plant family dating back to the Jurassic period.
Bunya Pines can be found throughout Canberra – from the National Arboretum to Lanyon Homestead.
The seed bank is a valuable historical asset for the nursery and the role it has played in establishing Canberra’s green spaces.
It now contains over 200 genus of seeds, with relevant information painstakingly recorded.
Seeds are stored in alphabetical order, in old glass ‘lolly’ jars of all shapes and sizes.
They are hand-labelled with the species weight and seed registration number and consistently maintained at 20–22°C.
“If seeds are dried and stored correctly, there are minimal issues,” Yarralumla Nursery Production Operations Manager Belinda Ryan said.
“Our propagation staff specialise in monitoring the conditions of the seed bank and storing the seeds. For example, jars need to be at least two-thirds full of seed to maintain temperature and reduce air moisture and you can’t put seed into warm jars as this may break seed dormancy, meaning they could start to grow.”
Around 15,000 plant cards – which staff refer to as birth certificates – feature seed information dating back to 1913.
While these were once housed in wooden draws at the nursery they have since been digitised and are available on the Archives ACT website.
“Some Eucalyptus species from the ’60s are still viable and germinating,” Belinda said.
“The seed bank at Yarralumla Nursery is an amazing space full of nostalgia; I like searching through and finding the oldest seeds,” Matt said.
And now the newest are safely stored under B for Bunya Pine.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Getting involved in neighbourhood initiatives like community gardens can help make a positive difference.
If you avidly use your household recycling bin, upcycled old furniture, or received something from a “buy nothing” group in your community, you’ve been a part of the circular economy.
It’s a system that’s designed to minimise waste and maximise the use of resources. It promotes the repurposing, recycling and reuse of materials so nothing goes to waste.
The circular economy reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, but it’s also a pretty useful way to save money.
There are lots of ways that Canberrans can get involved in the circular economy.
Recycle correctly
If you can’t reduce or reuse, then recycling is the best choice.
Not everything that can be recycled can go in your yellow recycling bin.
Recycle these in your recycling bin:
aluminium and steel cans
glass bottles and jars
paper and flat cardboard
plastic bottles and containers
For other items, the Recyclopaedia is your go-to guide for recycling.
For example, batteries aren’t accepted in household bins. However, there are over 60 local collection points for the safe disposal of batteries.
Choose alternatives to single-use plastics
Choose reusable alternatives to single-use items such as water bottles, shopping bags and food containers to reduce waste.
Support local sustainable businesses
Look for local businesses that prioritise sustainability by offering products made from recycled materials or following eco-friendly production practices.
Some examples of sustainable businesses in Canberra include:
Thor’s Hammer
Soft Landing
repair businesses
local charity shops.
Get things repaired
Instead of automatically replacing broken or damaged items, consider repairing them.
Explore local repair cafes, workshops, or DIY repair tutorials to extend the lifespan of products and minimise waste.
A great place to start is the Tuggeranong Repair Café or the Hawker Community Repair Café.
The handy team of volunteers can help fix a range of items including household electrical items, clothing, laptops, tablets and mobile phones and more.
Get involved in local community initiatives focused on waste reduction and circular economy practices. These might include:
neighbourhood clean-up events
clothing swaps
community gardens
composting and food waste reduction.
By working together, Canberrans can create positive change on a larger scale.
Live in an apartment building? Consider working with a local collection and composting service.
Do your research
Make informed choices about what to buy and where to buy it. Prioritise products that are:
durable
energy-efficient
made from recycled or renewable materials.
Shop second-hand
Buying your items second-hand helps reduce waste to landfill and is typically more affordable.
Ways to buy second-hand goods include:
local charity shops
vintage stores or boutiques
markets, such as the Old Bus Depot Markets
Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace.
Make your own
Your Libraries ACT card comes with access to Creativebug, an online platform with art and craft video classes. There are classes on making and repairing clothes, knitting, and crocheting. There are also courses on how to make home décor or craft projects that make brilliant gifts for friends and family.
Keep an eye on the Tuggeranong Repair Café and Hawker Community Repair Café who sometimes offer repair workshops where you can learn skills from local volunteers.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The new homes vary in size and cater to a wide range of needs.
A new 30-unit public housing development has opened in Tuggeranong and is ready to welcome tenants.
The unit complex is one of the largest public housing developments delivered under the ACT Government’s Growing and Renewing Public Housing program.
The program, launched in 2019, aims to deliver 1,400 renewed or new public homes by mid-2027, which will increase the total number of public housing in the ACT by 400.
The new homes cater to a wide range of needs and are Class C Adaptable, making them suitable for people with disability and people as they grow older.
The development features an onsite playground and a range of unit sizes, from one-bedroom to four-bedroom.
They have each been completed with above-standard energy efficiency ratings, to provide tenants greater comfort and increased affordability.
The development is located close to shops, services and transport, as well Lake Tuggeranong and surrounding parks, allowing residents easy access to Tuggeranong’s outdoor spaces.
The ACT has the second-highest proportion of public housing out of any jurisdiction in the country.
The ACT Government’s Growing and Renewing Public Housing program is on track to meet its targets.
More than 640 homes have already been built or bought, and another 577 are in the construction pipeline.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Katie Pike will no longer need to travel interstate to train for skating competitions.
The new competition-standard half-pipe at Belconnen skatepark is another step closer.
With off-site fabrication underway, construction has now started on site to expand the skatepark alongside the legendary ‘Belco Bowl’.
Fencing of the site has been completed with works over the coming weeks to include demolition activities to provide access to site and earthworks to start preparing the area for the future half-pipe.
The concrete slab is in place and the on-site assembly of the prefabricated metal and wooden ramps is underway.
The new half-pipe is expected to open to the public early in the second half of 2024.
The Canberra Skateboarding Association and Canberra BMX Club have called for improvements to Canberra skate parks.
The city’s skate culture is already strong, and the sport is growing in popularity.
Belconnen is Canberra’s best-known skatepark and already considered world-class by many enthusiasts.
Also known as a vertical or vert ramp, the new half-pipe will take ACT skating to another level, growing the city’s appeal to both national and international skaters.
Young Canberra skater and international competitor Katie Pike is excited about the development.
“I’m really looking forward to having a competition vert ramp in my home skatepark,” she said.
“That will help me out a lot because obviously I have to travel to Sydney to skate competition vert ramps and now that we have one in Canberra it will be a lot easier. Instead of having to travel most weeks I can just train five minutes away from home.”
Joel Bliss, another local skater, is also enthusiastic.
“I’ve been waiting, I think, my whole Canberra skating life for this moment,” he said.
“The first sessions are going to be amazing. I’ll probably just drop in and roll around for a while to get used to it. Because these ramps are big! The vert ramps we are used to around here are like mini ramps in comparison to this actual proper-sized ramp, so the speed you get on these things is just a thing in itself.
“It’s going to be unreal and there will be skaters from all over Australia that will come when they hear about it. It’s going to be a good thing. I can’t wait,” Joel said.
The ACT Government manages seven skateparks and another 12 parks that feature skating facilities across Canberra.
These cater not only to skateboarders but also cyclists, scooters, rollerbladers and rollerskaters.
“I think it’s really good and I think it will help with the progression of skating in Canberra,” Katie said.
The competition-standard half-pipe is funded by both the ACT Government and the Australian Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
Joel Bliss can’t wait for the new half-pipe to be completed.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Canberrans are keen for spaces where their dogs can run free.
Work has begun on the new Franklin Dog Park, located in the open space bound by Nullarbor Avenue and Oodgeroo Avenue.
Major works are expected to take approximately nine months to complete (weather permitting), meaning Gungahlin dog owners should be able to use it next summer.
The new fully fenced dog park will be the third in Gungahlin and the eighth in Canberra.
Its design follows community consultation in 2022.
Key features include:
2,870m2 fenced recreational area
Accessible loop path within the perimeter of the dog park
Gravel car park with seven car spaces, including two accessible spaces and four bike rails
Picnic shelter, seating and drinking fountain
Dog agility area with some play elements including low and tall bar jumps, weave poles, pyramid ramp, hoop tunnels and log balance beams
Irrigated grass area for ball and frisbee play
Dog poo bag dispensers and bins.
There will also be 48 new trees planted for canopy cover, and additional shade once matured.
The ACT has one of Australia’s highest rates of pet ownership. Community feedback revealed Canberrans want space for their dogs to run free and a variety of terrains for dogs to explore and use their sense of smell.
Fenced dog exercise areas contribute to the effective management of dogs in public spaces by providing a controlled space where dogs can freely exercise and play. They also assist in alleviating the pressure on shared recreational areas.
There are several other projects currently underway across Canberra to provide more recreational opportunities for people and their dogs.
The new fenced dog park planned for the Lanyon Valley will provide more spaces for southsiders to socialise and exercise their dogs.
The Lanyon Valley dog park will include many of the same features as Franklin, including a grass play and agility areas, shade structures and seating.
A construction tender for that park will be released around the middle of the year.
Improvements to public open spaces present additional opportunities for on-leash dog walks.
These include improvements to the Tuggeranong foreshore, which are nearly complete, and upgrades to the Lake Ginninderra path circuit and Yerrabi Pond District Park.
Stay up to date on the suburban infrastructure projects being delivered, including playgrounds, local shopping centres and dog parks, at cityservices.act.gov.au/bettersuburbs.
The park will be located in the open space bound by Nullarbor Avenue and Oodgeroo Avenue.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Tuggeranong has over 30 dog off-leash areas and one dog park, with another on the way.
Tuggeranong is a dog friendly region of Canberra, with plenty of on-leash and off-leash open spaces for you and your four-legged friend to explore together.
Here are some of our favourite spots:
Dog parks
There is one dog park in Tuggeranong, with another one on its way.
Greenway – Mortimer Lewis Drive, Lake Tuggeranong
Located next to the picturesque Lake Tuggeranong, this scenic dog park is an ideal spot for your dog to socialise and play.
Large eucalyptus trees provide shade and there are large grassy areas. There are also benches so you can take a seat while your dog plays nearby.
There are two separate play areas: one for smaller dogs, and one for larger dogs.
Lanyon dog park – corner of Jim Pike Avenue and Woodcock Avenue, Gordon
Design work is progressing for a new fenced dog park near Point Hut Pond. Construction is expected to begin later in 2024.
There are over 30 areas that are dog off-leash in the Tuggeranong region.
Point Hut Pond
On hot days, take your dog to the western riverbank of Point Hut Crossing and Point Hut Bond. There are dog swimming spaces where your pooch can have a paddle before running themselves dry on the riverbank.
Calwell Playing Fields
With plenty of open space, Calwell Playing Fields is the perfect spot for zoomies or a game of fetch.
It’s important to know that ovals or sportsgrounds are conditional spaces. This means that if the oval is in use (i.e. when it is booked for formal sport, including training sessions), you and your dog will need to come back later.
Fadden Pines District Park
The side of this park closest to the Futsal Centre (the opposite side to the playground and skate park) is a dog off-leash area. There’s a large grassy area perfect for playing, and shady trees throughout the area.
There are public toilets on the other side of the park near the barbecue area. However, remember that when in use, all playgrounds, picnic areas and barbecue areas (as well as sportsgrounds) become dog prohibited areas. If they’re not in use, you’re able to venture into this area with your dog on their lead.
Simpsons Hill, Chisholm
This area is perfect for active dogs. There’s a grassy hill with lots of trees and space to run around.
On-leash areas
All streets, verges, footpaths and cycle paths are on-leash areas. You’ll also need to keep your dog on-leash if you’re within 10 metres either side of the path.
Lakes are also dog on-leash areas unless otherwise signposted.
Remember that regardless of where you are, it’s an offence not to pick up your dog droppings. You can receive a $150 fine for not picking up your dog’s droppings, and a $75 fine for not carrying appropriate equipment to collect your dog’s droppings. Keeping poo bags on hand near your leash (and using them to clean up after your dog) is an easy way to avoid copping a fine!
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
There are nine new units complete.
Nine new public housing units in West Belconnen are now complete and ready to welcome tenants.
The homes have been developed under the ACT Government’s Growing and Renewing Public Housing Program, which has seen more than 475 homes built and a further 577 under design or construction since the launch of the program in July 2019.
The new homes add to the category of public housing in highest demand: approximately 80 per cent of all housing applicants can be housed in a two-bedroom dwelling.
Each of the homes is equipped with Class C adaptable features, suitable for people with different mobility and accessibility needs, and support tenants to age in place.
They are located close to a school, shops, and transport and feature a 7-star energy rating, offering greater comfort and increased affordability for tenants.
The program demonstrates the ACT Government’s commitment to providing high-quality public housing that caters to tenants’ needs.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Both Thor’s Hammer and Women’s Shed Canberra are grant recipients.
Fourteen social enterprises have been successful in the ACT Government’s new social enterprise grants program.
The ACT Social Enterprise Grant Program aims to support new social enterprises to start up, and help existing social enterprises to take the next step in their business journey.
The 14 enterprises will share in $340,000, to help get their ideas off the ground with the support of The Mill House Ventures.
The Mill House Ventures is delivering the grant program on behalf of the ACT Government, and will work with the recipients to help them achieve their purpose.
“As the key organisation supporting social enterprises in the ACT, The Mill House Ventures is thrilled that these grants will provide so much practical assistance to our region’s early stage and start up social enterprises,” CEO at The Mill House Ventures Craig Fairweather said.
“The independent assessment panel had a very difficult, but rewarding, task in determining the final list of successful grant recipients.”
The recipients are highly motivated and committed to supporting the local Canberra community, providing solutions to challenges and building resilience.
Grant recipients include:
Women’s Shed Canberra, which offers women of all backgrounds, ethnicities, orientations, an ability to meet and to learn skills in building trades within a safe and supportive community.
GetAboutAble, a leading Australian accessibility consultancy that supports businesses and other organisations to improve their access and inclusion.
The Climate Factory, an organisation facilitating the creation of climate-cooling microforests in suburban locations, promoting biodiversity and fostering community engagement in environmental initiatives.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today held a seminar to enable participants to have a deeper understanding of the essence of the “two sessions” and its significance to Hong Kong.
The third session of the 14th National People’s Congress and the third session of the 14th National Committee (NPC) of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) were concluded successfully in March.
Hosted by Chief Executive John Lee, the seminar was attended by more than 320 participants including principal officials, Hong Kong SAR deputies to the NPC and members of the National Committee of the CPPCC as well as Executive Council and Legislative Council members.
Sharing his views at the event, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong SAR Zheng Yanxiong said that Hong Kong has to grasp the spirit of the “two sessions” focusing on seven aspects.
They are: grasping deeply the spirit of the important speech of General Secretary Xi Jinping in the “two sessions”; significant achievements of the country on all fronts over the past year; bright prospects in national economic and social development; overall requirements and major tasks for economic and social development this year; key initiatives in the government work report; significance of amending the Law on Deputies; and key plans for Hong Kong as highlighted by the “two sessions”.
The government work report pointed out boosting innovation and the radiating effect of the Greater Bay Area, striving for solid progress in high-quality Belt & Road co-operation, and speeding up the process to join the Comprehensive & Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
These plans are closely related to Hong Kong and deserve a high degree of attention, in particular the emphasis on “deepening international exchanges and co-operation and better integration into the national development”, highlighting the importance for Hong Kong to capitalise on its advantages as an international city and integrate into the overall national development, Mr Cheng said.
It also highlights the dialectical relationship between Hong Kong’s connection to the Mainland and to the world, he added.
Expressing gratitude to Mr Zheng for his sharing that deepened the participants’ understanding of the spirit of the “two sessions”, the Chief Executive said the central government firmly supports Hong Kong’s development.
“The Hong Kong SAR Government will fully implement the spirit of the ‘two sessions’ to unite society to deepen reforms comprehensively, proactively identify, adapt to, and drive change, pursue economic development and improve people’s livelihood, fully leverage the institutional strengths of ‘one country, two systems’ and align with national development strategies, deepen international collaboration and capitalise on Hong Kong’s role to link with the Mainland and the world.
“Hong Kong will vigorously develop new quality productive forces, accelerate its development into an international innovation and technology centre, consolidate and enhance its status as an international financial, shipping and trade centre, actively build an international hub for high-calibre talent, and take forward the Northern Metropolis and the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone,” Mr Lee said.
“Apart from strengthening economic and trade ties with traditional markets, Hong Kong will deepen exchanges and co-operation with new markets such as the Middle East, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and Central Asia, contribute to the Belt & Road Initiative, and tell the good stories of China and Hong Kong,” he added.
The Chief Executive encouraged government officials and the community to work hard and stay united to contribute to the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong and the well-being of its people, and meet the challenges ahead with greater confidence and determination to build a better future.
Join us on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 2:00 pm EDT for our next foreign, comparative, and international law webinar, “The More the Merrier: The Form and Function of Coalition Governments Around the World.”
Within the last two years, several jurisdictions have formed or are in the process of forming new coalition governments, including Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, France, South Africa, and New Zealand. In some instances, these new governments have occurred due to snap elections; taken a great deal of time to form; led to new parties coming into power or certain parties being excluded from power; indicated a change in national political practice; or a shift from one side of the political spectrum to the other. With these changes, we can observe how coalitions form, operate, and collapse in different global locations.
In our April entry of our Foreign and Comparative Law Webinar Series, we will look at coalition governments, focusing on how they are formed, how they function, and how they are dissolved. We will use examples from various jurisdictions around the world to illustrate different means of creating and ending coalition governments, as well as the contrasting functions of those governments.
Please register here.
This webinar will be presented by Heather Casey, a writer-editor in the Global Legal Research Directorate of the Law Library of Congress. Heather has a J.D. from William & Mary Law School, an M.L.I.S. from Drexel University, and a B.A. from the University of Cincinnati.
Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
WASHINGTON – Trevon Timothy Vines, 30, of Washington, D.C., has been indicted on a federal gun charge in the latest case to be federally adopted as part of the “Make D.C. Safe Again” initiative.
The indictment was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., Sean T. Ryan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Vines was indicted on one count of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Person Convicted of a Crime Punishable by Imprisonment for a Term Exceeding One Year.
According to court documents, on March 15, 2025, officers with the Metropolitan Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the vicinity of 1820 7th Street NW after observing a traffic infraction. It is alleged that during the course of the stop, officers observed several open containers of alcohol and requested that all occupants exit the vehicle.
It is alleged that one of the occupants, defendant Vines, was seated in the front passenger seat and holding a cup consistent with the others observed. As officers attempted to place Vines in handcuffs, they felt what they immediately recognized to be a handgun on his person in a front left jacket pocket. Vines then began physically resisting, grabbing one officer’s vest and attempting to move him while repeatedly reaching for the weapon forcibly.
Officers eventually recovered the firearm and discovered that it had been reported stolen from a gun dealer in White Plains, Maryland.
An investigation revealed that Vines is a convicted felon with multiple prior convictions. At the time of the incident, Vines was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal and D.C. law. He did not have a license to carry or own a firearm in the District of Columbia.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office, ATF Baltimore Field Office, and the Metropolitan Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emory V. Cole.
This case is part of Make D.C. Safe Again, a public safety initiative led by U.S. Attorney Martin that is surging resources to reduce violent crime in the District of Columbia. This initiative was created to address gun violence in the District, prioritize federal firearms violations, pursue tougher penalties for offenders, and seek detention for federal firearms violators.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
In mid-March, 2025, a Cuban National attempted to enter Canada from the US by running across the Fort Erie International Railway Bridge. Members of the RCMP Niagara-on-the-Lake Border Integrity Unit, with the assistance of members of the OPP contributing to Ontario’s Operation Deterrence, were able to locate and arrest the individual under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
The individual was transported to the CBSA at the Peace Bridge port of entry in Fort Erie. After being assessed, the individual was found to be ineligible for entry to Canada and was returned to the United States on the same day.
The Niagara-on-the-Lake RCMP Border Integrity Unit currently maintains a 24/7 presence at the railway bridge. The RCMP have recently arrested several people attempting to make illegal entry into Canada at the railway bridge. All individuals who have been arrested were eventually returned to the U.S.
Members of the Niagara-on-the-Lake RCMP are actively conducting patrols along the border in this area on the land, on the water and in the air to disrupt cross-border criminal activity.
The RCMP is committed to working with our partners to protect the residents and communities of Canada. Our collaboration with both the CBSA and OPP continues to provide positive results for Canada. The RCMP also acknowledges the assistance of CN rail.
“The RCMP continues to see positive operational impact from new investments in law enforcement between ports of entry and collaborative efforts with CN Police, OPP and CBSA in maintaining the security and integrity of Canadian borders.” Sgt. Lepa Jankovic, Border Integrity Unit, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Central Region RCMP
“The CBSA and RCMP work in close partnership to maintain the security of our borders. This is yet another example of how our collaboration contributes to protecting the integrity of our border and the safety of our communities.” – Michael Prosia, A/Regional Director General, Southern Ontario Region, Canada Border Services Agency
Fast Facts
In Canada, border security and integrity is a shared mandate between the CBSA and the RCMP. The CBSA is responsible for enforcement at 1,200 ports of entry across the country, while the RCMP is responsible for enforcement between ports of entry.
The RCMP Niagara-on-the-Lake Border Integrity Unit is tasked with the prevention and detection of cross-border smuggling both to and from Canada. This unit supports four CBSA ports of entry by conducting larger criminal investigations that start at the port. The unit is also tasked with protecting the border area between the ports from Cobourg on Lake Ontario to Port Burwell on Lake Erie. The members of the unit will often be found in boats ensuring vessels are complying with reporting requirements when entering Canada.
If you have any information related to smuggling, drug importation, trafficking, or possession, or wish to report other criminality, you can contact the Ontario RCMP at 1-800-387-0020, the confidential CBSA Border Watch toll-free line at 1-888-502-9060 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), at any time.
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Cristian Javier Vente Ocoro (39, Colombia), a/k/a “Shrek,” “Happy,” and “Teletubis,” has pleaded guilty to conspiring to traffic cocaine on vessels subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. Vente Ocoro faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. He was arrested in Colombia in September 2023 at the request of the United States and extradited to the United States a year later. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, Vente Ocoro was part of an organization that smuggled cocaine from South America to Central America and Mexico, a substantial portion of which passed through points of entry on the United States/Mexico border. Vente Ocoro handled the organization, logistics, and planning of smuggling ventures, as well as recruited and paid crewmembers. As part of the investigation, investigators associated Vente Ocoro with two failed smuggling ventures – the first on June 25, 2019, that involved 1,090 kilograms of cocaine; the second on July 31, 2019, that involved 2,125 kilograms of cocaine.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi- jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.
The specific mission of the OCDETF Panama Express Strike Force is to disrupt and dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations involved in large scale drug trafficking, money laundering, and related activities. The OCDETF Panama Express Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from the Coast Guard Investigative Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations. The Colombian National Police provided critical investigative support. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section’s Office of Judicial Attaché in Bogotá, Colombia provided significant assistance in securing the arrest and extradition of the defendant. The prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Florida. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza.
Residents of an informal Port Moresby settlement that was razed following the gang rape and murder of a woman by 20 men say they are being unfairly punished by Papua New Guinea authorities over alleged links to the crime.
Human rights advocates and the UN have condemned the killing but warned the eviction by police has raised serious concerns about collective punishment, violations of national law, police misconduct and governance failures.
A community spokesman said more than 500 people living at the settlement at the capital’s Baruni rubbish dump were forcibly evicted by the police in response to the killing of 32-year-old Margaret Gabriel on February 15.
Port Moresby newspapers reported the gang rape and murder by 20 men of 32-year-old Margaret Gabriel . . . “Barbaric”, said the Post-Courier in a banner headline. Image: BenarNews
Authorities accuse the settlement residents, who are primarily migrants from the Goilala district in Central Province, of harboring some of the men involved in her murder.
Prime Minister James Marape condemned Gabriel’s death as “inhuman, barbaric” and a “defining moment for our nation to unite against crime, to take a stand against violence”, the day after the attack.
He assured every effort would be made to prosecute those responsible and his “unwavering support” for the removal of settlements like Baruni, calling them “breeding grounds for criminal elements who terrorise innocent people.”
Gabriel was one of three women killed in the capital that week.
Charged with rape, murder Four men from Goilala district and two from Enga province, all aged between 18 and 29, appeared in a Port Moresby court on Monday on charges of her rape and murder.
The case has again put a spotlight again on gender-based violence in PNG and renewed calls for the government to find a long-term solution to Port Moresby’s impoverished settlements.
Dozens of families, some of whom have lived in the Baruni settlement for more than 40 years, were forced out of their homes on February 22 and are now sleeping under blue tarpaulins at a school sports oval on the outskirts of the capital.
Spokesman for the evicted Baruni residents, Peter Laiam . . . “My people are innocent.” Image: Harlyne Joku/Benar News
“My people are innocent,” Peter Laiam, a community spokesman and school caretaker, told BenarNews, adding that police continued to harass the community at their new location.
“They told me I had to move these people out in two weeks’ time or they will shoot us.”
Laiam said a further six men from the settlement were suspected of involvement in Gabriel’s death, but had not been charged, and the community has fully cooperated with police on the matter, including naming the suspects.
Authorities however were treating the entire population as “trouble makers,” Laiam added.
“They also took cash and building materials like corrugated iron roofing for themselves” he said.
No police response Senior police in Port Moresby did not respond to ongoing requests from BenarNews for reaction to the allegations.
Assistant Commissioner Benjamin Turi last week thanked the evicted settlers for information that led to the arrest of six suspects, The National newspaper reported.
Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Junior defended the eviction at Baruni last month, telling EMTV News it was lawful and the settlement was on state-owned land.
Bare land left after homes in the Baruni settlement village were flattened by bulldozers at Port Moresby, PNG. Image: Harlyne Joku/Benar News
Police used excavators and other heavy machinery to tear down houses at the Baruni settlement, with images showing some buildings on fire.
Residents say the resettlement site in Laloki lacks adequate water, sanitation and other facilities.
“They are running out of food,” Laiam said. “Last weekend they were washed out by the rain and their food supplies were finished.”
Separated from their gardens and unable to sell firewood, the families are surviving on food donations from local authorities, he said.
Human rights critics The evictions have been criticised by human rights advocates, including Peterson Magoola, the UN Women Representative for PNG.
“We strongly condemn all acts of sexual and gender-based violence and call for justice for the victim,” he said in a statement last month.
“At the same time, collective punishment, forced evictions, and destruction of homes violate fundamental human rights and disproportionately harm vulnerable members of the community.”
The evicted families living in tents at Laloki St Paul’s Primary School, on the outskirts of Port Moresby, PNG. Image: Harlyne Joku/Benar News
Melanesian Solidarity, a local nonprofit, called on the government to ensure justice for both the murder victim and displaced families.
It said the evictions might have contravened international treaties and domestic laws that protect against unlawful property deprivation and mandate proper legal procedures for relocation.
The Baruni settlement, which is home primarily to migrants from Goilala district, was established with consent on the customary land of the Baruni people during the colonial era, according to Laiam.
Central Province Governor Rufina Peter defended the evicted settlers on national broadcaster NBC on February 20, and their contribution to the national capital.
“The Goilala people were here during pre-independence time. They are the ones who were the bucket carriers,” she said.
‘Knee jerk’ response She also criticised the eviction by police as “knee jerk” and raised human rights concerns.
The Goilala community in Central Province, 60 miles (100 kilometers) from the capital, was the center of controversy in January when a trophy video of butchered body parts being displayed by a gang went viral, attracted erroneous ‘cannibalism’ reportage by the local media and sparked national and international condemnation.
The evictions at Baruni have touched off again a complex debate about crime and housing in PNG, the Pacific’s most populous nation.
Informal settlements have mushroomed in Port Moresby as thousands of people from the countryside migrate to the city in search of employment.
Critics say the impoverished settlements are unfit for habitation, contribute to the city’s frequent utility shortages, and harbour criminals.
Mass evictions have been ordered before, but the government has failed to enact any meaningful policies to address their rapid growth across the city.
While accurate population data is hard to find in PNG, the United Nations Population Fund estimates that the number of people living in Port Moresby is about 513,000.
Lack basic infrastructure At least half of them are thought to live in informal settlements, which lack basic infrastructure like water, electricity and sewerage, according to 2022 research by the PNG National Research Institute.
A shortage of affordable housing and high rental prices have caused a mismatch between demand and supply.
Melanesian Solidarity said the government needed to develop a national housing strategy to prevent the rise of informal settlements.
“This eviction is a wake-up call for the government to implement sustainable urban planning and housing reforms rather than resorting to forced removals,” it said in a statement.
“We stand with the affected families and demand justice, accountability, and humane solutions for all Papua New Guineans.”
Stefan Armbruster, Sue Ahearn and Harry Pearl contributed to this story. Republished from BenarNews with permission. However, it is the last report from BenarNews as the editors have announced a “pause” in publication due to the US administration withholding funds.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Landmark anti-terror legislation gains Royal Assent
Martyn’s Law will deliver increased protection by ensuring public premises and events are better prepared in the event of a terrorist attack.
Premises and events will be better prepared to respond to attacks as landmark legislation known as Martyn’s Law gained Royal Assent and became law today (Thursday 3 April).
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 will require public premises where 200 or more individuals may be present, to be better prepared and have plans in place to keep people safe in the event of an attack.
Larger premises and events where 800 or more people will be present will be required to take further steps to reduce their vulnerability to acts of terrorism – such as having CCTV, bag search policies or vehicle checks where appropriate.
‘Martyn’s Law’ is named in tribute to Martyn Hett who was tragically killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena attack in May 2017.
It delivers on the Prime Minister’s personal promise to Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray, who has been the driving force in campaigning for this legislation in her son’s memory, that he would bring in this law.
The Prime Minister invited Figen Murray into Downing Street today to mark this landmark moment and to express the debt of gratitude the nation has for her selfless work to turn such unimaginable pain into a lasting legacy for son Martyn.
The government is securing Britain’s future through the Plan for Change and this Act delivers a manifesto commitment to strengthen the security of public events and venues.
Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said:
Today is a landmark moment for our security as my government delivers on its promise to introduce Martyn’s Law and better protect the public from terrorism.
Figen’s courage and determination in the face of such unimaginable loss is truly humbling and it is thanks to her campaigning that Martyn’s Law means her son’s legacy will live on forever.
Security is the foundation of our Plan for Change and the first duty of any government. Martyn’s Law will ensure everyone can enjoy public events more safely and ensure venues across the country have clear, practical measures in place to protect people.
Figen Murray, mother of Martyn Hett said:
My son Martyn Hett was murdered alongside 21 innocent victims in the Manchester Arena terror attack on 22 May 2017, and whilst nothing will bring Martyn back, I am determined to ensure nobody endures what my family has experienced.
For the last 6 years I have campaigned to introduce measures that will improve security at public venues and how they respond to a terror attack – Martyn’s Law.
I am grateful to the Prime Minister, the Security Minister and Lord Hanson for how quickly they’ve progressed Martyn’s Law through parliament. But this would not have happened without the tireless support of my co-campaigners Nick Aldworth, Brendan Cox, Nathan Emmerich, my husband Stuart, and my children.
Over the implementation period it is vital that the government and Security Industry Authority provide all that is necessary for publicly accessible locations to implement Martyn’s Law.
Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, said:
Martyn’s Law will significantly strengthen public safety across our country, I’d like to thank Figen Murray for her tireless work to make this law a reality.
This government is securing Britain’s future through the Plan for Change and, as the eighth anniversary of the attack approaches, this new law delivers upon the lessons from the Manchester Arena Inquiry to keep people safe.
CTP Senior National Coordinator for Protect and Prepare, Jon Savell, said:
Martyn’s Law will ensure that the public have additional protection from terrorist attacks while at events and public venues. We will continue to work with businesses and with the government to make sure premises have the support they need to prepare for the implementation of the act.
Figen Murray has campaigned tirelessly for the introduction of this legislation and it’s thanks to her unwavering determination that it has achieved Royal Assent.
Mike Kill CEO of the Night Time Industries Association
The passing of Martyn’s Law into legislation is a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to public safety. This law will ensure that venues and events across the UK take appropriate and proportionate steps to protect the public from the evolving threat of terrorism. The NTIA has long supported measures that enhance security while remaining practical for businesses to implement.
We appreciate the government’s recognition of the challenges businesses face and the commitment to a 24-month implementation period, allowing time for preparation and adaptation. As an industry we will continue working closely with the Home Office, the SIA, and key stakeholders to provide clear guidance and support. Ensuring the safety of our night-time economy and public spaces remains our priority, and we fully support this crucial legislation.
Security Minster, Dan Jarvis, said:
I am proud that we have delivered Martyn’s Law as part of our commitment to strengthen the security at public events and venues.
I would like to pay tribute to Figen Murray, who has been nothing short of inspirational in her campaign for this legislation and a driving force in making it happen.
Giles Smith, Chief Executive of the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA) said:
The SGSA welcomes the passing of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) 2025 legislation.
Providing a safe, welcoming environment for fans is the SGSA’s top priority and we support the objectives of Martyn’s Law.
Lilongwe (Agenzia Fides) – “This year, the Church is celebrating a Jubilee Year with the theme: Pilgrims of Hope. As a falculty, can we not go to our prisons and help liberate those who do not belong there?” asked Father Wilfred Sumani, Acting Vice-Chancellor of the Catholic University of Malawi, in a speech to law faculty students preparing for the “Moot Court” competition (in which teams of law students compete in a mock criminal trial). Father Sumani urged the students to participate in the free defense of prisoners who cannot afford legal representation.Lawyer Noel Chalamanda, the facilitator of the training, expressed his commitment to join the challenge of helping prisoners on pro bono: “I will take on ten cases in this challenge and only require assistance from the students with the paperwork”.In Malawi, there are several cases of arrests based on inadequate investigations, often targeting poor individuals. This contributes to overcrowding in police cells and prisons. Despite legal reforms and the constitutional right of the poor to legal representation, this is rarely guaranteed in practice in Malawi. In addition to legal fees, those involved in a legal dispute also face other logistical costs. A large portion of the population still lives in rural areas. The inaccessibility and lack of functioning and effective legal institutions in rural areas is one of the main reasons why the poor have difficulty accessing the courts. For villagers, the nearest district court can be 25-40 kilometers away. Most villagers cannot afford a personal vehicle, and public transportation is non-existent in rural areas. The only means of transportation available to villagers are walking, cycling, or hitchhiking to court. Furthermore, they must arrive at the courthouse several days before the start of the trial, incurring costs for food and accommodation. The government provides insufficient funding for legal assistance to poor citizens, making it virtually impossible for most defendants. Furthermore, the Malawi Bar Association does not appear to particularly support the practice of pro bono defense. The initiative proposed by the Catholic University of Malawi for the Jubilee Year is therefore intended as a signal to try to change this situation. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 3/4/2025)
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Detectives investigating the murder of 16-year-old Hani Hicham Abou El Kheir are continuing their efforts to secure justice for his family.
Hani was fatally stabbed in Pimlico on 27 January 2013. Subsequently, five men were convicted of his murder and sentenced to a total of 131 years imprisonment following a trial at the Old Bailey in January 2014.
One suspect remains outstanding. He is Dilawar Hussain, 33, (24.09.91) who was born in Paddington and raised in London.
Hussain’s then home in Rampayne Street, SW1 was searched four days after the murder, but he was not present. An arrest warrant was obtained on 21 March 2013 at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court and officers established that Hussain, who was 21 years old at the time, had travelled to Bangladesh.
Efforts continue to be made to ensure Hussain faces justice for Hani’s murder. Met detectives and Hani’s mother, Pauline Hickey, are appealing for information in relation Dilawar Hussain’s whereabouts.
An arrest warrant remains in place for Hussain.
Hani’s mother Pauline said: “It is now 12 years since my only son, Hani, was hunted down and attacked in a busy street by a group of feral men. While several people have been jailed for his murder, one suspect remains free.
“Hani was only a boy when he was killed – he had his whole life to live and this was brutally taken away. The pain of his loss does not diminish with the passing of time and it only feels greater knowing Dilawar Hussain has evaded justice so far. If you can help, I would plead with you to get in contact with the police.”
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers who leads the investigation said:
“I am appealing for information as to the whereabouts of Dilawar Hussain. In 2014 we released a statement confirming he had fled to Bangladesh soon after the murder and we’ve heard nothing to believe that this situation has changed.
“Hani’s mother Pauline continues to fight for justice and to ensure those responsible for her son’s murder are held to account and we will not rest until we’ve helped achieve this for her.”
If you know where Hussain is or who is harbouring him please share this information with the Met Police via 101 or through our website and quote Op Jabalpur, or notify your local law enforcement agency.
I am a law professor at Villanova University outside Philadelphia, and my research focuses on the work of the administrative agencies that compose the federal government.
I believe that understanding the federal government’s presence in the Philly metro area can highlight some of the potential consequences in our region for the rapid changes currently underway.
Here are some examples of the broad variety of services that federal employees in the Philadelphia region provide to the public.
Services to businesses
Several federal agencies in the Philadelphia area provide expertise, advice and resources for businesses.
For example, the U.S. Commercial Service, part of the Commerce Department, has an office in Philadelphia and assists U.S. businesses with exporting their products for international markets.
The Small Business Administration, which has a district office in King of Prussia, provides resources and support for small businesses.
And the Economic Development Administration operates a regional office in Philadelphia that distributes federal funds for construction, workforce training, manufacturing, disaster relief and other purposes.
Benefits for retirees and veterans
Other federal agencies administer government benefits programs. The Social Security Administration disburses benefits for retirees and the disabled, providing more than US$13 billion in benefits to almost 8 million people in the Philadelphia region each month.
About 3,800 Pennsylvanians work for the Social Security Administration in offices located around the state.
The Department of Veterans Affairs operates the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Medical Center in West Philadelphia. The center provides primary and specialty health care for veterans.
Statewide in Pennsylvania, about 17,000 federal employees work for the Veterans Health Administration. Another 1,500 work for the Veterans Benefits Administration, which provides veterans with education and training, home loans, life insurance and pensions.
Census data collection
The Census Bureau operates an office in Philadelphia to collect and disseminate data in a region that stretches from Tennessee to Pennsylvania.
The Census Bureau conducts the constitutionally mandated census of the U.S. population every 10 years, as well as an economic census of businesses every five years, and numerous surveys about communities, health, housing, crime, education and more.
In addition, regional census employees answer questions from local media, work with local organizations to encourage participation in censuses and surveys, and educate the public about census data. This work is of particular importance because census data determines how federal funding is allocated.
Military logistics
The Defense Logistics Agency’s Troop Support Command is headquartered in Northeast Philadelphia. Troop Support is responsible for creating and maintaining military supply chains. This includes securing food, clothing, equipment and medical supplies.
In addition to its role in supporting the military, the Corps of Engineers also constructs and maintains civil works projects. Its first civil works project in the Philadelphia region was the construction of a breakwater near Cape Henlopen, Delaware, in 1829.
The Environmental Protection Agency is perhaps best known as an environmental regulator, enforcing limits on air and water pollution and toxic substances. But it also is active in other areas, such as cleaning up contaminated sites in the Philadelphia area through the Superfund program.
EPA’s National Priorities List includes almost 40 contaminated sites in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. For example, EPA manages the cleanup of the Philadelphia Navy Yard in South Philadelphia, where part of the Navy Yard had historically been used to dispose of waste from ships. EPA’s cleanup has remediated the onsite landfill and prevents contamination from seeping into the Delaware River.
EPA also supervises the cleanup in Havertown of the site of a former wood treatment operation that contaminated the soil and groundwater with the highly toxic chemical pentachlorophenol, or PCP. Because of the cleanup, part of the contaminated site is now a widely used YMCA that serves the recreational and fitness needs of the community.
Tax help
The Internal Revenue Service, another agency known for its enforcement activities, also provides services in the Philadelphia area to support taxpayers. These include, for example, taxpayer assistance centers in Horsham, King of Prussia, Media and Philadelphia.
Todd Aagaard is a visiting fellow at Resources for the Future in addition to his faculty position at Villanova University. From 1999 to 2007, he served as an attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice.
