Source: New Zealand Police
The Police Media Centre will operate at reduced capacity on Thursday 5 June.
Media Advisors will be available to respond to urgent queries and significant events only, during the usual hours of 6am to 9pm.
Other queries may be held until the following day.
We appreciate your patience and understanding.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​Following is a question by Dr the Hon Starry Lee and a written reply by the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, in the Legislative Council today (June 4):
Question:
In April this year, the Government published a consultation paper on the regulatory regime on basketball betting. There are views pointing out that while the regime aims to combat illegal gambling activities, the community is generally concerned about possible intensification of the gambling craze upon regulation of basketball betting, particularly the negative impact on youths. In addition, it has been reported that the average age of participants in basketball betting is younger than the corresponding figures in horse racing and football betting, and statistical data from gambling counselling organizations also indicate a deteriorating trend in the gambling problem among young people. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) as the aforesaid consultation paper has pointed out that the regulation of football betting since 2003 has generally been effective in channelising illegal betting demand to the legal channel, whether the Government has compiled statistics on the changes in betting turnovers of legal and illegal gambling, as well as the number of help-seeking cases from pathological gamblers and the age distribution trend of those help-seekers, since the regulation of football betting; whether it has assessed the effectiveness of the existing betting regulatory regime in reducing youth gambling participation;
(2) of the following information on the assistance provided by the Ping Wo Fund to help youths quit gambling in the past five years: the number of youths assisted, the expenditure on the relevant publicity and education activities and the number of people covered, and the percentage of help-seeking cases from youths involving basketball betting;
(3) whether it will, upon implementation of the regulatory regime on basketball betting, require basketball betting operators to submit data on young bettors on a regular basis; whether it has assessed the adequacy of the existing measures to curb underage betting, including whether it will further restrict advertising targeted at youths;
(4) as there are views in the community that the authorities should consider setting up a dedicated committee to monitor the impact of basketball betting on youths, and strengthening the use of the Ping Wo Fund to take forward anti-gambling education (especially publicity efforts targeting young groups), whether the authorities will study the relevant proposals; and
(5) whether it has studied if implementation of the regulatory regime on basketball betting will result in a lower age range of gamblers; whether it will make use of technology to enhance the monitoring of gambling activities (such as using artificial intelligence to identify abnormal betting patterns), so as to prevent youth gambling addiction?
Reply:
President,
As a matter of policy, the Government does not encourage gambling. To address the possible problems brought by gambling, the Government adopts a multi-pronged strategy including law enforcement against illegal gambling activities, public education on the harms of gambling addiction, provision of counselling and support services to people in need and regulation over gambling activities through legislation.
The Government’s consolidated reply to Dr the Hon Starry Lee’s question is as follows:
Combatting illegal gambling activities
On law enforcement against illegal gambling activities, the existing Gambling Ordinance explicitly stipulates that all unauthorised gambling activities, apart from those situations stated in the ordinance, constitute an offence. The Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) has put in place strategies to combat illegal gambling activities, especially those involving triad-related or organised crimes, in four aspects, namely prevention, education, intelligence gathering and law enforcement. The HKPF will continue to closely monitor the illegal gambling trend, take appropriate intelligence-led law enforcement actions and strengthen the promotion against these illegal gambling activities. It is worth noting that according to the Gambling Ordinance, participating in illegal gambling (such as betting with an illegal bookmaker) is also an offence. Upon conviction, an offender is liable to a maximum penalty of a $50,000 fine and imprisonment for nine months.
Public education and provision of counselling and support services
The Government attaches great importance to preventing gambling-related problems, particularly among youth. The Government established the Ping Wo Fund (PWF) in 2003 to finance both preventive and remedial measures to address the gambling-related problems. The Ping Wo Fund Advisory Committee (PWFAC) was also established to provide advice to the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs on the use and application of the PWF.
The PWF provides appropriate counselling, treatment and other support services to individuals affected by gambling as well as their family members. The PWF will also launch targeted public education and publicity campaigns to raise public awareness (particularly among young people) on the harms of gambling addiction, thereby mitigating its associated negative consequences.
The PWF has consistently prioritised public education and awareness campaigns to raise public awareness on the harms of gambling addiction, and to increase public knowledge of the services available, enabling those in need to seek help at an early stage. These public education measures include providing financial support for non-governmental organisations and schools to organise public education programmes aimed at preventing and alleviating gambling-related problems, a publicity truck programme and other promotional efforts on traditional media and online platforms.
The PWF’s funding support on public education and other publicity campaigns aimed at preventing and alleviating gambling-related problems has more than doubled over the past five years. Detailed figures are set out in the Annex.
In the past five years, service-seekers aged 18 or below constituted 1-2 per cent of the total number of persons receiving counselling or treatment services from the four counselling and treatment centres funded by the PWF. These data indicate that there has been no substantial change in the prevalence of gambling among young people. Relevant data (including variation in other age groups) are set out in the Annex. Separately, according to the information from The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC), the proportion of bettors in the 18-21 age group has consistently remained below 2 per cent in the past five years.
We do not maintain a separate breakdown on individuals receiving counselling and treatment services due to illegal basketball betting.
We will review the work of the PWF from time to time, with particular focus on young people, to enhance measures for preventing and alleviating gambling-related problems. The HKJC has also committed to donate to the PWF over a four-year period starting from 2023/24, with contributions set at $45 million per annum for the first two years and $50 million per annum for the subsequent two years.
Regulations
The Government currently regulates the HKJC’s betting activities through the Betting and Lotteries Commission (BLC). Restricting betting activities to a limited number of authorised and regulated outlets is to address the actual and persistent public demand for certain gambling activities which is being satisfied by illegal means and the issue cannot be tackled by law enforcement alone.
According to the HKJC, the amount of football betting turnover ranged from $92.5 billion to $160.3 billion in the past five years. In addition, since the legalisation of football betting in 2003, it has diverted back to the legal channel over $1,581 billion of turnover, which would have continued to flow into the unregulated and illegal gambling market without the regulation.
Under the existing mechanism, the Government requires the HKJC to submit regular work reports for review by both the Government and BLC. The HKJC is also required to meet with the Government and BLC on a regularly basis to report on its progress and plans, ensuring compliance with all licensing conditions and facilitating the review of current betting-related measures. The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau will continue to work closely with BLC to ensure that authorised betting activities are properly regulated.
At present, a number of conditions have been imposed under the licences of horse race betting, football betting and Mark Six Lottery issued to the HKJC to require its adoption of measures to minimise the negative impact of gambling on the public, especially on young people. These conditions include that the HKJC:
As stated in the consultation document on the regulatory regime on basketball betting, the above stringent legal and regulatory restraints will continue to be put in place in the proposed basketball betting regime.
We will continue to closely collaborate with the PWFAC and the BLC, observe the prevalence of gambling activities among Hong Kong people, maintain communication with relevant departments, and proactively enhance our efforts to prevent and alleviate problems relating to gambling. As mentioned above, the HKJC has committed to donate to the PWF over a four-year period from 2023/24. If it is decided to implement the proposed regulatory regime for basketball betting, the Government will request the HKJC to further increase the donation to the PWF for stepping up public education programmes, as well as enhancing counselling and support services.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The NT Police Force is calling for information in relation to an aggravated robbery in Tennant Creek overnight.
Around 2:10am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of an unlawful entry and stolen motor vehicle from a lodge on Paterson Street.
It is alleged an unknown number of offenders stole a white Ford Ranger. The vehicle exited the premises by ramming through the gates of the lodge.
General duties members coordinated a response and successfully deployed a tyre deflation device on the vehicle along Paterson Street before it came to a stop in bushland nearby Mulga Camp. The offenders fled the scene, and police are continuing investigations to identify those involved.
Anyone with information in relation to the incident is urged to contact police on 131 444. Please reference to job number P25150339. You can anonymously report crime via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
OTTAWA, June 4 (Xinhua) — A man was killed and five people were injured in a shooting outside a shopping mall in Toronto, Canada, police said on Tuesday evening.
According to her, one person was pronounced dead at the scene, and five others were rushed to hospital with gunshot wounds. Their condition has not yet been reported.
Police and paramedics were called to the scene of a mass shooting in the area of Rainey Avenue and Allen Road at around 8:30 p.m. local time, Canadian media reported.
Police have not released any details about potential suspects.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow took to social media to express her sadness over the shooting and said her office was in contact with police. –0–
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Man charged by Police National Security Department
NSD arrested the man for “conspiracy to commit terrorist activities” on June 2.
The case will be mentioned at the Kwun Tong Magistrates’ Courts this afternoon.
Issued at HKT 13:50
NNNN
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is continuing to investigate the death of a 24-year-old man in police custody in Alice Springs.
This incident is being investigated by the Major Crime Section, which operates under strict protocols.
The coronial investigation has been paused, while the criminal investigation into the man’s death is undertaken to determine whether any criminality was involved.
The coroner has been made aware of the decision and will be provided with regular updates as the criminal investigation progresses.
All evidence collected in relation to the death, including CCTV, cannot be released until the criminal investigation is concluded.
The timeline for this investigation is unknown at this early stage.
The cause of the man’s death remains undetermined.
An independent examination of the initial undetermined findings of the autopsy is also being undertaken.
The forensic pathologist is in the process of completing further investigation to ascertain the cause of death.
The NTPF is aware of the public interest in this matter and further updates will be provided through a media release as relevant information becomes available.
*This release was updated at 3:25pm on 4/06/2025.
Source: New Zealand Police
Police are now in the position to name the man who died following a crash on Seafront Road on 25 May.
He was 25-year-old Paki Topi Rongo Whiti-ao Maaka Ngaira, from Castlecliff.
Police extends our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: Australian Green Party
Hyperdome music festival on 7 June 2025 will be the third music festival to participate in the continuing NSW drug checking trial.
The free and anonymous drug checking service allows festival patrons to bring a small sample of substances they intend to consume to be analysed. Qualified health staff provide a rapid evaluation of the main components of the substance in line with available technology, and an indication of potency where possible.
NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant said there will always be risks involved when consuming these substances and this is not an endorsement of illicit drug use.
“The drug checking trial is designed to help patrons make safer choices by connecting them with experienced health and peer staff who can provide information along with harm reduction advice,” Dr Chant said.
“The service is staffed by peer workers, health workers and analysts who clearly communicate the capabilities and limitations of drug checking to festival patrons.
“Patrons are never advised that a drug is safe to use. Staff will provide patrons with a referral to health and welfare services available at the event and in the community to help support harm minimisation.”
The first trial site was located at the Yours and Owls music festival in Wollongong on 1 and 2 March 2025. The second trial site was located at the Midnight Mafia Festival in Sydney on 3 May 2025.
NSW Health and NSW Police Force are working closely with festival organiser Symbiotic and other stakeholders to ensure safe and effective implementation of the trial at the Hyperdome festival. The trial operates alongside other harm reduction and medical services at participating festivals. Illicit drugs remain illegal in NSW.
“Drug checking is one more tool in the belt to create a safer event and we welcome and support NSW Health on this Government-led harm reduction initiative,” Symbiotic Co-Director Janette Bishara said.
The 12 month trial will be independently evaluated. Up to nine additional festivals will be included in the trial following Hyperdome.
The trial comes after the NSW Government’s Drug Summit concluded in early December. The recently released Report on the 2024 New South Wales Drug Summit provides a priority action recommending a trial of music festival-based drug testing.
Further information on the NSW drug checking trial can be found here.
More information for young people around how to keep themselves and their friends safe at music festivals is available on the Your Room website.
Source: New Zealand Police
Mossburn Five Rivers Road, near Diack Road, is currently closed following a bus crash earlier this afternoon.
The bus was carrying 17 passengers, including the driver, when it crashed about 3.45pm. Some passengers have sustained minor to moderate injuries.
The road will remain closed while recovery crews work to move the bus.
Motorists are advised to take alternate routes, such as the Resolution Drive on-ramp, and expect delays.
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the man who died after sustaining serious injuries in Tokoroa on 27 May.
He was 30-year-old Rapana (Raaps) Tukuru Tahana-Heretini, of Tokoroa.
Police are still seeking any information from witnesses, including CCTV footage from Abercorn Place at around 4:15am on Tuesday 27 May.
If you can help, please get in touch with us via our 105 service, quoting reference number 250527/7868.
You can also provide information anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is continuing to investigate the death of a 24-year-old man in police custody in Alice Springs.
This incident is being investigated by the Major Crime Section, which operates under strict protocols and with full transparency.
In consultation with the Northern Territory Coroner, the coronial investigation has been paused, while the criminal investigation into the man’s death is undertaken to determine whether any criminality was involved.
The coroner has requested, and will be provided, with regular updates as the criminal investigation progresses.
All evidence collected in relation to the death, including CCTV, cannot be released until the criminal investigation is concluded.
The timeline for this investigation is unknown at this early stage.
The cause of the man’s death remains undetermined.
An independent examination of the initial undetermined findings of the autopsy is also being undertaken
The forensic pathologist is in the process of completing further investigation to ascertain the cause of death.
The NTPF is aware of the public interest in this investigation and further updates will be provided through a media release as relevant information becomes available.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
CCTV focus in Bellerive investigation
Wednesday, 4 June 2025 – 12:26 pm.
Detectives reviewing CCTV footage from the Bellerive area have identified two people they believe could assist with the ongoing investigation into the death of a 45-year-old man.
The body of Luke Jon Telega was found in an industrial-sized garbage bin on Monday morning, at the rear of a business premises in Percy Street.
Police would like to speak with the woman pictured standing at a shopfront, (Photo 1) who was on Percy Street, Bellerive, around 7:50pm on Sunday, June 1.
Police believe the member of the public may have spoken with someone in Percy Street at the time and may be able to assist with inquiries. The woman was driving what is believed to be a light-coloured Toyota Prado.
Police would also like to speak with the woman pictured at the front of a car, (Photo 2) who was in Percy Street about 8:05pm on Sunday and who may be able to assist detectives. The woman was driving a red SUV at the time.
Further, police would like to speak with anyone who was in the area of Percy Street, Scott Street and Cambridge Road on the evening of Sunday through to 8am on Monday, and may have seen either someone on foot, or riding a bicycle, in these areas.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police of 131 444 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
A joint South Australian (SA) and Northern Territory (NT) Police Taskforce has charged a man with historical child abuse offences against young people from the Northern Territory that occurred in South Australia.
Taskforce Artemis was launched in October 2023 shortly after a now 65-year-old man was arrested by SA Police for 2 historical child abuse offences allegedly committed in South Australia.
The charges relate to 30 victims, with the alleged offending occurring between 1990 to 2023 in South Australia.
SA and NT Police, along with South Australian ODPP Witness Assistance officers have continued to engage with all victims and witnesses to provide support and assistance.
The 65-year-old man is currently on remand and has now been charged with:
He appeared in SA District Court today.
South Australian Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Crime Service Catherine Hilliard said “Operation Artemis has been a complex and incredibly confronting investigation.
“The SA Police have been working closing with the NTPF as we conducted investigations into this offending.
“The privacy and safety of the victims, remains our number one priority. We have been providing updates, along with support, to everyone effected.”
Northern Territory Police Force Assistant Commissioner Michael White said “While the scale of the alleged offending discovered during investigations by Task Force Artemis is disturbing, it is important the community be aware that these investigations have been methodical and not resulted in any other person being charged with respect to the alleged offending.
“The NTPF is working closely with those effected.”
Members of the public who have any information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://crimestoppers.com.au/ or to contact NTPF Police on 131 444.
You can also make a report online by alerting the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation via the ‘Report Abuse’ button at www.accce.gov.au/report.
Source: New South Wales – News
A joint South Australia and Northern Territory Police Taskforce has charged a man with historical child abuse offences against young people from the Northern Territory that occurred in South Australia.
Taskforce Artemis was launched in October 2023, shortly after a now 65-year-old man was arrested by SA Police for two historical child abuse offences allegedly committed in South Australia.
The charges relate to 30 victims, with the alleged offending occurring between 1990 to 2023 in South Australia.
SA and NT Police, along with South Australian ODPP Witness Assistance officers have continued to engage with all victims and witnesses to provide support and assistance.
The 65-year-old man is currently on remand and has now been charged with:
* 12 counts of sexual abuse of a child
* 8 counts of indecent assault
* 6 counts of unlawful sexual intercourse
* 4 counts of assault
* 3 counts of aggravated indecent assault
* 3 counts of possess child exploitation material
* 2 counts of aggravated incite or procure child to commit indecent act
* 2 counts of aggravated assault
* 1 count of aggravated compelled sexual manipulation
* 1 count of attempt indecent assault
* 1 count of attempt aggravated incite or procure child to commit indecent act
* 1 count of gross indecency
He appeared in the SA District Court today.
South Australian Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Crime Service Catherine Hilliard said, “Operation Artemis has been a complex and incredibly confronting investigation.
“The SA Police have been working closely with the NTPF as we conduct investigations into this offending.
“The privacy and safety of the victims remains our number one priority. We have been providing updates, along with support, to everyone effected.”
Northern Territory Police Force Assistant Commissioner Michael White said, “While the scale of the alleged offending discovered during investigations by Task Force Artemis is disturbing, it is important the community be aware that these investigations have been methodical and not resulted in any other person being charged with respect to the alleged offending.
“The NTPF is working closely with those effected.”
Members of the public who have any information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://crimestopperssa.com.au/ You can remain anonymous.
You can also make a report online by alerting the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation via the ‘Report Abuse’ button at www.accce.gov.au/report
Source: South Australia Police
The City of Wanneroo shares our respects following the passing of a pioneering figure in our local business community, Bill Meredith, at the age of 91 years old.
A founding member and former Vice President of the Wanneroo Business Association and a true local business legend, Bill played a key role in laying the foundation for the dynamic business landscape we see in our City today.
Even if you did not know Bill personally, chances are you knew of him – his Landsdale-based business, Bill’s Machinery, is a local landmark, instantly recognisable thanks to the big red plane out the front.
This symbol is also a testament to Bill’s entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability – qualities that contributed to his longevity and continued success as a businessman.
Throughout his life, Bill achieved so much, including being named the City of Wanneroo Mayor’s Visionary Businessperson Award in 2008.
His passion, mentorship and unwavering commitment to his community will leave a lasting legacy and be remembered for many years to come.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and admired him.
Mayor Linda Aitken JP
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash on State Highway One, Timaru on 21 May.
He was James Campbell McKenzie, 69, from Timaru.
Police extend our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Queenstown Police would like to speak to the victim of a seemingly unprovoked assault in late May.
The assault happened about 2.40am on Sunday 25 May 2025, at a taxi rank near Searle Lane and Camp Street.
At the time, the victim was looking down at his phone and walking in the direction of the Cookie Time shop when he was punched by one of three men who had left a bar in Searle Lane.
After the incident, a member of the public briefly spoke to the victim, handing back his beanie, which fell off during the assault.
Detective Lisa Watt says Police discovered the incident while investigating an assault moments before, in a Searle Lane bar.
“The alleged offender for the first incident has been arrested, but we would like to speak with the victim of the assault that happened on the footpath near the Cookie Time shop, the passerby, or any other witnesses.
“The victim is described to have a black beard, and was wearing a black puffer jacket, blue jeans, white shoes, and black beanie. If that was you, please contact us so we can understand what happened and hold the person responsible to account.”
If you have information that may assist, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report”, or call 105.
Please use the reference number: 250527/7943
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash in Okoia on Monday 26 May.
He was 76-year-old David Hauparoa Hiroti, of Okoia.
Our thoughts are with those close to him at this difficult time.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Attributable to Tasman District Road Policing Manager, Acting Inspector Nathan Snell.
From Wednesday 28 May to Sunday 1 June 2025, Tasman Police delivered an operation focused on anti-social road users.
This was in response to an increase in complaints from the local community.
Two search warrants were executed, resulting in a stolen firearm being located and three vehicle impounds for sustained loss of traction and driver licence offences.
Further Police activities occurred across the district with Tasman Police staff supported by the Anti-Social Road User team from Christchurch.
The team deployed across Nelson Bays and Marlborough resulting in over 50 vehicles being inspected and deemed unsafe or defective.
Five more vehicles were impounded for Land Transport Act offences.
Over 100 Infringement notices were issued for speeding, restraint and distraction offences amongst many others.
Following the operation, Police have laid charges against multiple individuals for unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, sustained loss of traction, driving whilst suspended, driving whilst disqualified and threatening behaviour. Further charges are being considered.
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Source: New Zealand Police
Police’s newest recruitment advertising campaign is now mobile across Tāmaki Makaurau with five double-decker buses wrapped in Police livery.
Commissioner Richard Chambers says: “This campaign represents another positive step toward delivering our target of 500 additional officers.
“These newly decorated double-decker buses seat 500 people, which is exactly the number we want to recruit.
“Auckland has always been a key recruitment area for us, and we are keen to be highly visible and advertise far and wide. We know that the buses are ideal for reaching the whole of the city.”
The ‘police’ buses will be in public circulation for over three months.
The cost to wrap the buses totalled $119,800 including print, installation and 12 weeks of media advertising.
“The new Auckland training campus at Albany will also help make a career with the Police a reality for those who cannot relocate to Wellington for the full 20-week course.
“That campus is set to welcome its first intake from the start of July. That is a significant development in our recruitment and training,” Commissioner Chambers says.
Applications remain open in all districts across the country, except for Canterbury. Recruitment efforts continue to ramp up and applications are trending upwards with a spike in applications in 2025 and total application numbers reaching the highest seen in 10 years.
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Issued by Police Media Centre
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: New Zealand Police
A prolific Tauranga shoplifter has been sentenced to two years in prison after being convicted of 37 shoplifting charges dating back to 2024.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers said it was the result of outstanding investigative work by an officer in the Tauranga Retail Crime Unit.
The officer began his investigation based on a single shoplifting report that came through Auror, with no offender identified and no real lines of enquiry.
From that single report, the officer was able to build a picture of a serial shoplifter, who was offending on an almost daily basis.
A 45-year-old woman was arrested in February 2025, and charged with offending dating back to September 2024. She appeared in Tauranga District Court on 21 May and was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.
“This was the result of meticulous and painstaking work by the officer in the Tauranga Retail Crime Unit,” Commissioner Chambers said.
“The exceptional work of the officer has meant a serial shoplifter has been held to account for her actions. It highlights the importance of monitoring and following up on what might initially seem like low-level offending.
“We know how devastating this type of offending is for our retail community, and holding people to account for shoplifting and retail theft remains a priority for NZ Police.
“The convictions in this case were a result of not only outstanding investigative work, but also of the great rapport that the officer has built with local retailers.
“Each region is different and policing Districts much continue to have the leeway to decide how their resources are best used, and what their priorities need to be.
“However, the case does highlight just how effective the dedicated retail crime unit in Tauranga can be.
“It provides a good model for other Districts to consider when deciding how to tackle retail crime.”
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Issued by Police Media Centre.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Two men arrested and youths spoken to after drug dog patrols in Glenorchy
Wednesday, 4 June 2025 – 9:34 am.
Tasmania Police continues to focus on reducing anti-social behaviour and retail crime in the Glenorchy municipality with high visibility patrols supported by police dog handlers yesterday afternoon resulting in several arrests and formal directions being made.
Sergeant Iain Shepherd from the Tasmania Police Dog Handlers Unit said that during the patrols, dog handlers searched 12 people resulting in the seizure of drugs such as methylamphetamine and cannabis, and three people were found in possession of knives or other weapons.
“A 48-year-old man from Bridgewater wanted on stealing charges was located and interviewed and another 48-year-old man from Bridgewater was arrested for consuming alcohol and engaging in disorderly conduct.”
“The man was bailed before being arrested again a short time later for attempted stealing.”
“He was banned from entering all Coles stores for one year and will appear in court at a later date.”
“Five other individuals also received formal directions to leave the Glenorchy CBD due to their behaviour.”
“In addition, several youths were spoken to, and those found in possession of drugs will be dealt with through youth diversion programs,” said Sergeant Shepherd.
Police would like to thank the community for their support and assistance, and encourage anyone with information about drugs and anti-social behaviour to contact police at 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania at 1800 333 000 or via crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Youths charged in Devonport
Wednesday, 4 June 2025 – 9:03 am.
Two boys have been arrested and charged over an alleged assault in the Devonport CBD as police continue to focus on anti-social behaviour in the city precinct.
The male youths have been bailed to appear at the Devonport Youth Justice Court at a later date.
Tasmania Police is aware of recent reports of anti-social behaviour in the Devonport CBD and is continuing with a high-visibility police presence in the area to deter this disruptive behaviour.
“Members of the public and those working in the Devonport CBD have a right and expectation to feel safe. Tasmania Police are committed to ensuring public safety and will not tolerate any disruptive or harmful behaviour from anyone,” Devonport Police Acting Inspector Luke Negri said.
“Offenders, including youths, will be held to account for their actions and behaviour.”
Anyone who witnesses concerning activity is encouraged to report it to police on 131 444 or call triple zero (000) if it is an emergency.
You can also report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au
Source: New Zealand Police
A man has died this morning, following a crash on No 3 Road, Te Puke last night.
Police were called to an address in Te Puke this morning after a man was located deceased. It was later discovered that he was involved in a crash last night.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash and the death are ongoing.
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers has welcomed an Office of the Privacy Commissioner report into the trial of facial recognition technology by a major supermarket chain, saying such technology is a valuable tool for fighting crime.
“I welcome the OPC’s comments about the potential benefits of facial recognition technology and the finding that, in the case of the Foodstuffs trial, it was effective at reducing incidences of serious repeat offending.”
“The value of technology such as facial recognition is that it is fair and accurate. It has an important role to play in policing.
Facial recognition technology is valuable for deterring, detecting and resolving crime. While there are many benefits to using technology it is crucial to have appropriate guidance in place.”
“I welcome the clear guidelines from the OPC on how retailers can use it effectively and the safeguards that are required. It offers useful guidance on whether its use is appropriate, what the privacy risks are and how those can be minimised.”
Commissioner Chambers said the use of facial recognition technology as a crime prevention tool was a decision for retailers to make for themselves and their businesses.
“Police is supportive of retailers using tools like this to enhance safety for their staff and communities, as long as it is done lawfully and ethically.
I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to better use technology to help achieve positive outcomes.
One of the biggest opportunities we have as a country is to embrace technology when it comes to fighting crime.”
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Issued by Police Media Centre.
Source: US FBI
A Mexican man wanted for a 2013 murder in Los Angeles was returned to the United States from Mexico over the weekend by members of the FBI’s Fugitive Task Force.
The man, Luis Alberto Gutierrez Tejeda, 33, a Mexican national whose most recent U.S. address was in Sylmar, was arrested last year in Guadalajara, Mexico, by authorities there who were working with the FBI’s Legal Attaché in Mexico City and the FBI’s Fugitive Task Force in Los Angeles. Since his arrest, Tejeda has been incarcerated in Mexico awaiting formal extradition to the United States.
Tejeda was wanted for a 2013 murder in the Arleta neighborhood of Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley during which the victim was shot while in his vehicle. Detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) who are investigating the homicide, identified Tejeda as the shooter responsible. Once it became known that Tejeda fled the United States, LAPD Detectives contacted the FBI’s Fugitive Task Force and requested assistance in locating and apprehending Tejeda. The FBI obtained a federal warrant charging Tejeda with Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution.
Tejeda was taken into custody by Mexican authorities in October 2024. In May, the Fugitive Task Force received notification that the Mexican Attorney General would relinquish custody of Tejeda to American authorities on May 30, 2025. Tejada was escorted by task force members to Los Angeles on Friday and was turned over to the custody of the LAPD. The federal UFAP charge is expected to be dismissed.
The FBI’s Fugitive Task Force in Los Angeles is a collaborative effort involving the FBI, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to apprehend fugitives, including those who’ve fled from Los Angeles and those who flee to Los Angeles from other jurisdictions. The task force works to locate and arrest individuals who are wanted for various crimes, including violent crimes, and often collaborates with Mexican authorities to return fugitives to the United States. Mexican authorities and the FBI’s Legal Attaché in Mexico City provided considerable assistance, as did the Department of Justice – Office of International Affairs.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sebastian Rosenberg, Associate Professor, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, and Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney
On ABC’s 4 Corners this week, psychiatrists and nurses have warned New South Wales’ mental health system is in crisis. They report some patients with severe mental distress are waiting two to three days in emergency departments for care.
The program highlighted chronic failures in NSW’s mental health system, but the shortfalls are being felt across the nation.
Just over 7% of the nation’s health budget is spent on mental health. But together with alcohol and drug issues, mental health accounts for around 15% of the nation’s burden of disease.
Problems in mental health go beyond under-funding: it’s also about how the resources we do have are spent.
So how did we get here? And what can we do to fix it?
Back in the 1980s, psychiatric deinstitutionalisation promised to replace treatment provided in the old psychiatric institutions with mental health services and care in the community. Too often, these institutions failed to promote recovery, and delivered improper care and even abuse.
Many of these institutions were indeed closed. But the shift in mental health care over the past 40 years has not been from asylums to the community, but rather to the mental health wards of Australia’s general public hospitals and the emergency departments (EDs) which operate in them.
Hospitals are expensive and often traumatic places to provide mental health care. We know this from frequent statutory inquiries and reports.
For presentations to EDs, all the indicators are heading in the wrong direction. More people are seeking care for their mental health in EDs, they are arriving sicker (according to their triage category) and they wait longer for care.
Hospitals account for more than 80% of total state and territory spending on mental health. In 2022–23, A$6.5 billion of the states and territories’ total spend of $8bn on mental health was directed towards hospital-based care. Just $1bn was provided outside hospitals.
Evidence indicates community-based care can reduce reliance on EDs for mental health care.
Yet community mental health services now often comprise little more than a phone call to check if a client is taking their medication. Of the 9.4 million community mental health service contacts in 2022–3, 4 million lasted less than 15 minutes.
Mental health clinical staff spend just 20% of their time with consumers.
The solutions are already at hand, but haven’t been pursued or scaled up. These include:
multidisciplinary models such as assertive community treatments, which provide mixed specialist clinical and psychosocial support in the community, in people’s homes
service models the Australian College of Emergency Medicine have proposed as alternatives to hospital ED care. These include safe havens, mental health nurse liaison services and dedicated homelessness teams. These services can provide the care required to divert patients away from hectic emergency departments, in calmer, more therapeutic spaces
NSW programs such as the Housing and Accommodation Support Initiative provide community based, clinical and psychosocial support to people with severe mental health needs. This program reduced admissions due to mental health by 74% over two years
Adelaide’s Urgent Mental Health Care Centre, which operates as an alternative to EDs and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This clinic was designed in collaboration with the community, including people with a lived experience of a mental health crisis, and offers a welcoming, safe environment
Step-Up Step-Down services, which can effectively meet the needs of some of “the missing middle”. These are people whose mental health needs are too complex for primary care but not assessed as a big enough risk to themselves or others to “qualify” for hospital admission.
Funding support for psychosocial services remains tiny. It accounts for about 6% of total spending on mental health care by states and territories.
As a result, almost half a million Australians with either severe or moderate mental health needs are currently unable to access necessary psychosocial care. This impacts their recovery.
It also leaves clinical services without a viable “psychosocial partner”. So people needing mental health care might be able to get a prescription, but are much less likely to receive assistance with unstable housing, employment support or help getting back to school.
There is already concern to address identified workforce shortages and psychiatrists’ pay disputes.
The next round of mental health planning must also discuss and clarify the complementary roles in mental health care, as people with more complex mental health needs typically benefit from multidisciplinary, team-based care. This includes psychiatrists, psychologists, allied health professionals, nurses, peer workers, social service providers, GPs, justice, school and housing services and others such as drug and alcohol services. Who is best placed to plan and coordinate this care?
Reducing our over-reliance on hospital-based mental health care and EDs needs agreement by all Australian governments to explicitly prioritise the principles of early intervention, community-based mental health care and hospital avoidance in mental health.
These steps, together with more personalised approaches to treatment and better accountability, will help us achieve systemic quality improvement in mental health care.
Sebastian Rosenberg does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. People with severe mental illness are waiting for days in hospital EDs. Here’s how we can do better – https://theconversation.com/people-with-severe-mental-illness-are-waiting-for-days-in-hospital-eds-heres-how-we-can-do-better-257971
Source: US State of California Governor
What you need to know: The state will use specially equipped vehicles to collect block-by-block air quality data in 64 communities heavily burdened by pollution. The results will help create local solutions to improve air quality and public health.
SACRAMENTO – While the Trump administration rolls back pollution protections across the country, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the launch of California’s Statewide Mobile Monitoring Initiative (SMMI), a first-of-its-kind program delivering hyper-local air pollution data to guide air quality improvement efforts in California.
“While the federal government threatens to take us back to the days of smoggy skies and clogged lungs, California continues to lead the way. We’re deploying first-of-their-kind vehicles to monitor pollution levels at a block-by-block level, delivering critical air quality information to communities across the state.”
Governor Gavin Newsom
Starting in June, the pilot project will deploy mobile air monitoring equipment to 64 communities throughout the state, with a particular focus on communities that have long faced environmental disparities. The project spearheaded by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) will use sensor-equipped vehicles from Aclima and mobile laboratories operated by researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, University of California, Riverside, and Aerodyne to collect and analyze data on local pollution levels.
The initiative is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide effort that puts billions of Cap-and-Invest dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment — particularly in disadvantaged communities.
More than 60% of the mobile monitoring will serve priority populations, including low-income communities and communities facing disproportionate pollution burdens. The 64 communities were consistently nominated for focused action under the Community Air Protection Program, underscoring the state’s commitment to protecting the health of Californians in areas most burdened by air pollution.
“By meeting communities where they are and listening to their concerns, we’re building an air quality monitoring system that integrates the lived experiences of the people most impacted by air pollution,” said CARB Executive Director Dr. Steven Cliff. “The Statewide Mobile Monitoring Initiative represents an unprecedented opportunity to gather the detailed information we need to better protect public health in neighborhoods that have historically borne the brunt of environmental injustice.”
Monitoring will take place in the 64 communities over the next year. The project is expected to end in June 2026, when the collected data will become publicly available. Final results will be shared with the 64 communities, the general public, and the Board. CARB, local air districts, stakeholders, and community stakeholders will use the data to help guide efforts to address existing and emerging pollution concerns. The data is also expected to inform future regulatory programs, academic research, and applications for grants such as the Community Air Grants Program.
The program is guided by a robust community engagement framework. More than 40 community-based organizations across California have partnered with CARB to identify local air quality concerns and ensure community voices shape monitoring efforts from the ground up.
California’s clean air leadership
Over the last 50 years, the state’s clean air efforts have saved $250 billion in health costs through reduced illness and reduced diesel-related cancer risk by nearly 80 percent.
The state continues to set clean energy records. Last year, California ran on 100% clean electricity for the equivalent of 51 days – with the grid running on 100% clean energy for some period two out of every three days. Since the beginning of the Newsom Administration, battery storage is up to over 15,000 megawatts – a 1,900%+ increase.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Kevin Mullin California (15th District)
Washington, D.C. – A bipartisan coalition of lawmakers is calling for more robust federal support to help ensure that when a disaster strikes, members of the National Urban Search & Rescue Response System (US&R) can respond. These heroic task forces deploy to communities across America that need additional help during dangerous crises like wildfires, hurricanes and building collapses, but their work has been underfunded for years.
For the second year in a row, a coalition of lawmakers led by Representatives Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Young Kim (CA-40), and Jill Tokuda (HI-02) – and which has grown to over 40 members of Congress from across the country – are urging Congress to include a modest, but desperately-needed, $16 million increase for a total of $56 million in funding for US&R.
America’s US&R Response System includes 28 task forces strategically located across 19 states, and are composed of highly-trained emergency personnel from local fire departments. They are expected to respond to devastating national disasters well beyond their border without commensurate funding from the Federal government to maintain their operations.
US&R has helped communities receive immediate, life-saving assistance during catastrophic events such as the Maui and Los Angeles wildfires, Hurricanes Milton and Katrina, the September 11 terrorist attacks, the Oklahoma City bombing, the Northridge Earthquake, and many other extreme crises. These task forces play a vital role in national disaster response efforts and the lawmakers are seeking full funding for the task forces in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget to properly support this heroic work. Last year, the House passed an Appropriations bill with the requested level of funding, but Congress ultimately did not pass full-year spending bills. They are repeating the effort this year.
“Ensuring our US&R task forces are fully funded means ensuring communities across America can depend on them when disaster strikes,” said Rep. Kevin Mullin. “I’m proud that California Task Force 3 is based out of Menlo Park Fire in my congressional district. The time and effort that is put into hosting and maintaining a task force for deployment at a moment’s notice is no small task. These teams represent the gold standard in emergency response and provide lifesaving services to those who are experiencing an unfathomable emergency. Their readiness comes at a cost, and providing adequate federal funding will help us stay prepared and save lives.”
“Urban Search and Rescue teams from across the country are often among the first to help communities and families during times of great loss. Nearly two years after the devastating Maui wildfires, I can still vividly recall US&R teams entering the burn zone while the ground was still hot enough to melt shoes,” said Rep. Jill Tokuda. “I will always be grateful for the comfort and closure they provided, which is why I’m so proud to have joined my colleagues Representatives Kevin Mullin and Young Kim in advocating for increased funding for the US&R system in this year’s appropriations bills. We never know when disaster will strike, but when it does, all Americans deserve to know that US&R will come to their aid.”
“First responders need the proper resources to keep our communities safe during a major disaster, including deadly wildfires and flood events,” said Rep. Young Kim. “The National Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Response System consists of 28 vital task forces made up of federal, state, and local emergency personnel who are on call for rapid deployment to provide emergency medical care and search collapsed buildings. I support our US&R task forces’ lifesaving work and appreciate Orange County Fire Authority Chief Fennessy’s leadership as Western Representative for 9 US&R task forces. I will do my part to protect this program that saves lives.”
US&R Leaders Speak Out for Federal Support
“When disaster strikes, our US&R assets are the backbone of the response effort,” said Joseph R. Downey, Chief of Rescue Operations with Fire Department of the City of New York (NY-TF1), and US&R Task Force Representative-National. “With our extensive training and experience, we form a reliable and adaptable force that operates at the heart of every federal disaster response. New York City, with the largest Fire and Police Departments in the country, received much needed assistance from US&R task forces in response to the 9-11 attacks on the WTC and Hurricane Sandy. Our task forces have consistently gone above and beyond to support the mission, but the lack of funding is hindering our ability to respond effectively. With increased labor and equipment costs, along with the expansion of our mission scope and more frequent deployments, we need your help now more than ever.”
“FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams, sponsored by local government fire agencies like Menlo Park Fire Protection, provide vital, highly trained surge resources to communities that have been struck by catastrophic disasters,” said Mark Lorenzen, Fire Chief, Menlo Park Fire Protection District (CA-TF3). “They are critical in both life saving measures as well as helping move jurisdictions forward to recovery. The teams are struggling financially to cover increasing costs while federal funding lags well behind inflation. I am thankful for the bipartisan efforts of our legislators, including Rep. Kevin Mullin who helped lead this effort to bridge the funding gap to ensure our sustainability.”
“Over the past eight months alone, California Task Force 5 (CA-TF5) activated on a wide range of incidents — from Hurricanes Helene and Milton on the east coast to the Palisades and Eaton Fires in Los Angeles — and on each deployment, the investments made in the program were returned beyond measure in the form of lives saved, families rescued, and communities protected,” said Brian Fennessy, Fire Chief of the Orange County Fire Authority (CA-TF5). “As the home of one of only 28 such task forces in the nation, we are grateful for the elected officials, including our own Rep. Young Kim, who not only recognize the program’s importance, but also work to secure increased funding to expand its life-saving services.”
“Ohio Task Force 1 (OH-TF1) has been deployed by FEMA nearly 40-times in the past 25 years,” said Evan W. Schumann, OFE, Program Manager (OH-TF1). “Our canine handlers and dogs have been deployed to such events as the State of Washington landslide in 2014, the Kentucky Flooding in 2022, and the Hawaii Wildland Fire. To remain ready to respond to any disaster, OH-TF1 spent 11,696 hrs. of training in 2023 and over 2,647 hrs. of service time (doing work without compensation). The associated personnel costs of OH-TF1’s 2023 activities were almost all uncompensated by federal funding and born on the backs of OH-TF1’s Participating Agencies or team members. I am grateful to Reps. Mullin, Kim and Tokuda for leading the charge to increase funding for the Urban Search & Rescue program that will provide us greater support.”
Read the full letter here.
This letter was signed by Reps. Gabe Amo (RI-01), Becca Balint (VT-At Large), Wesley Bell (MO-1), Ami Bera (CA-6), Brendan Boyle (PA-2), André Carson (In-7), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-5), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Gabe Evans (CO-8), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Mike Flood (NE-1), Jared Golden (ME-2), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Maggie Goodlander (KY-3), Julie Johnson (TX-32), William Keating (MA-9), Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Jennifer Kiggans (VA-2), Young Kim (CA-40), John Larson (CT-1), Stephen Lynch (MA-8), Seth Magaziner (RI-2), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Doris Matsui (CA-7), Dave Min (CA-47), Seth Moulton (MA-6), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chris Pappas (NH-1), Scott Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (C0-7), Ayanna Pressley (MA-7), Maria Salazar (FL-27), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-5), Greg Stanton (AZ-4), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Jill Tokuda (HI-2), Lori Trahan (MA-3), Derek Tran (CA-45), Frederica Wilson (FL-24).
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