Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the man who died in a crash on Horotiu Road, Te Kowhai on 29 April.
He was 65-year-old David James Kingi, of Waipawa.
Our thoughts are with those close to him at this time.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: South Australia Police
Experience an extravaganza of artistic talent as the Beach to Bush Arts Festival arrives in the City of Wanneroo this May.
Featuring art of all kinds, the festival runs from 9 to 31 May, featuring painting workshops, dance classes, theatre productions and much more.
Wanneroo Deputy Mayor James Rowe said the 2025 festival offerings were bigger and better than ever before.
“Back for its third year, the popular Beach to Bush Arts Festival is a celebration of our City’s diverse array of artistic talent,” he said.
“We’ve got an incredible schedule of events, performances and workshops planned for this year’s festival, and I encourage everyone to stop by and check it out.”
The festival will conclude with a spectacular finale concert, featuring performances by talented local singers, dancers, bands and the Joondalup Symphony Orchestra.
The full schedule is available on the Beach to Bush event page.
Festival finale event details:
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
ISLAMABAD, May 8 (Xinhua) — Four people were injured in an explosion early Thursday at a military compound in Lahore, the capital of Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province, officials told Xinhua.
The blast occurred at around 6:55 a.m. local time/01:55 GMT/in the 4th Air Defense Complex, located next to the main building of the Naval War College in Nasirabad district, officials told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.
According to preliminary data, the object has been cordoned off by naval authorities.
Sources said the incident was being treated as a suspected missile or drone attack.
Police and other law enforcement agencies have cordoned off the area outside the complex. Further investigation is underway. –0–
Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing
Victorians are being warned about Plumbing Australia (Vic), after Consumer Affairs Victoria received more than 60 complaints since January last year from consumers unhappy with its services.
Its ABN (44 630 796 459) has been associated with more than 200 websites – many with almost identical pages. These websites appear prominently in online searches for plumbing services.
Search this document to confirm if a website you have accessed may be linked to Plumbing Australia (Vic) businesses: Plumbing Australia (Vic) websites (Word, 39KB)
Most complaints have been about General Home Services (generalhomeservices.com.au). Others include mrdrainmelbourne.com.au, 247 Local Plumber, Plumb patrol and Revive a pipe.
Based on complaints, Consumer Affairs Victoria believes Plumbing Australia (Vic) may have:
Reports suggest that Plumbing Australia (Vic)’s businesses follow a common approach:
Consumer Affairs Victoria Acting Director David Joyner urged people looking for help with emergency plumbing issues to choose tradespeople carefully.
“Dealing with a plumbing emergency is stressful, but there are ways to protect yourself,” he said.
“Look for reliable reviews and ask friends or family whether they know a tradesperson they can recommend.
“If possible, get a second opinion – especially if you’re told that a job is much larger than you expected – and steer clear of any tradie who asks you to pay a large deposit before they start.”
If you have had a bad experience with Plumbing Australia (Vic) or one of its businesses, contact us through our complaint form, email or by calling 1300 55 81 81.
Read our public warning:
Source: New Zealand Police
Saddle Road between Ashurst and Woodville is closed due to a serious two vehicle collision.
Emergency services received reports of the crash at 5:20pm, in which one person is believed to be critically injured.
Motorists are advised to avoid travel if possible as the only diversion is through the Pahiatua Track.
ENDS
Source: New Zealand Police
Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Fane Troy, Taupo Area Road Policing Manager:
Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Wookeun Kim in the Auckland District Court yesterday.
Mr Kim was the driver of a vehicle involved in a fatal crash at Mangakino on 21 April which killed one person and seriously injured another.
He was disqualified from driving for 15 months and ordered to pay $10,000 in reparations to the surviving victim, who remains in hospital.
Police are glad that this matter was able to be resolved in a timely fashion.
These crashes are traumatic for all people involved.
We would like to thank all those people who were involved in attending to the injured people at the crash scene – your efforts do not go unnoticed.
Members of the public who call police around poor driving are to be commended. If you see dangerous driving or driving that causes concern please ring 111.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The ABC series Austin was filmed in Canberra.
As a local, there’s nothing quite like seeing Canberra on screen.
Whether it’s a spot in your neighbourhood, a cultural institution or our bushland, Canberra has been a backdrop to several films and television shows.
Here are some of the locations that have been featured on screen:
This is one of many Canberra locations used to film the ABC comedy series, Austin. The Hyatt is a regular feature and appears as the ‘Canberra Hotel’ in the show.
Some of the other Canberra locations that were used for filming include:
Blacklight is an action film starring Liam Neeson and set in Washington DC. During 2021, an action scene was filmed on the streets of Canberra. Despite being edited to look as though the scene took place in DC, Canberra residents will recognise some familiar scenery.
Notable locations include:
The political thriller television series Secret City was filmed inside of Parliament House. You’ll see the prime minister’s office, the Press Gallery, and the building’s exterior to name a few.
Some other Canberra locations you’ll spot include:
Other TV shows and films that feature Parliament House include:
Somersault is a 2004 drama film starring Abbie Cornish and Sam Worthington. Most of the film is set in Jindabyne, but some of it was filmed in Canberra. Kambah Inn is featured, and some Canberrans will recognise the old Belconnen Interchange.
Mabo tells the life story of Eddie ‘Koiki’ Mabo and his part in the landmark case that overturned the doctrine of terra nullius. It starts Jimi Bani and Deborah Mailman and The High Court of Australia is visible in the film.
The High Court of Australia also featured briefly in film The Castle. It is the setting for Darryl Kerrigan’s (played by Michael Caton) legal battle to protect his family home.
Skate parks and Kingsley’s Chicken are two of Canberra’s most popular locations for teenagers. It’s fitting that they are featured in the 2013 film Galore. The film is set in suburban Canberra and tells the story of a group of teenagers in the lead up to the 2003 bushfires. Scrivener Dam is also visible in part of the film.
Blue World Order is a 2017 film directed by Ché Baker and Dallas Bland. It’s set in a post-apocalyptic world and stars Titanic actor Billy Zane. There is even a cameo from ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr.
The iconic Black Mountain Tower is visible in the film. Scenes were also shot at the Australian National University and Wee Jasper Caves.
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Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leoni Connah, Lecturer in International Relations, Flinders University
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated this week after India launched missile strikes on its long-time rival, killing more than 30 people.
India was retaliating for a terror attack on tourists in Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22, which killed 26 civilians, most of them Indian. New Delhi has blamed a Pakistan-based militant group for the incident.
Pakistan has vowed revenge for the airstrikes, calling them an “act of war”.
If a full-scale war does break out between the two nuclear powers, it wouldn’t be the first time they have fought over the disputed region of Kashmir. In fact, the two sides have been in conflict over Kashmir since 1947.
The people of Kashmir, meanwhile, are stuck in the middle of this geopolitical rivalry, trapped in a security state with little hope for the future.
Before the attack on the tourists last month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government had made repeated claims that “normalcy” was returning to the region.
However, Kashmir remains one of the most heavily militarised zones in the world and the people have long suffered human rights abuses the Indian government has justified on the grounds of counter-terrorism.
In 2019, the Modi government revoked Article 370 of the Indian constitution, which had granted a special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, along with a high degree of autonomy.
The revocation of this article brought Jammu and Kashmir, now a “union territory”, under the full control of the Modi government in New Delhi.
This decision was made on behalf of Kashmiris, not in consultation with them. Speaking with Kashmiris in 2020 as part of my ongoing research on the region, there was a huge sense of betrayal at the move.
One of my interview subjects claimed Indian security forces were “instilling fear and psychological warfare” in Kashmir. Another said “it’s no exaggeration to say after every three kilometres, there’s a checkpoint” manned by Indian security forces. The situation worsened during the COVID pandemic, with increased lockdowns and curfews.
Some hope did return last September when Kashmiris were able to vote in regional assembly elections for the first time in a decade.
The election meant the new local assembly would have the power to make and amend laws, debate local issues and approve decisions for the territory, particularly in education and culture.
However, this doesn’t mean “normalcy” had returned, nor was Kashmir peaceful and tranquil.
In February of this year, there were reports that Indian security forces had conducted operations against suspected militants, resulting in a lockdown and 500 people being detained.
A young Kashmiri man died by suicide after allegedly being tortured by police in February. The next day, another man was shot dead by the army.
These are just two incidents that are part of a wider cycle of violence that has become a part of everyday life in Kashmir.
After the April 22 tourist attack, the central government has doubled down on its heavy-handed approach to Kashmir under the guise of counter-terrorism.
Kashmiris have been subjected to an increased security presence, new lockdowns, “cordon and search operations”, social media surveillance, house demolitions and other draconian measures.
Police say some 1,900 Kashmiris have been detained and questioned since the attack. This number will no doubt continue to rise.
It is no wonder Kashmiris were saying “everyone lives in fear”, even before India launched missile strikes on its neighbour.
Possible retaliation from Pakistan – or a wider war – now looms, with Kashmiris again on the front lines.
There is a very big concern that right-wing Indian media outlets and social media posts are now encouraging the Indian government to respond to the terror attack in the same way Israel has retaliated against Hamas in Gaza.
Some commentators are portraying the April 22 attack as India’s version of the October 7 Hamas attack on southern Israel, which could become a dangerous precedent for what the future holds for Kashmir.
Israel also recently announced its support for India’s right to “self-defence”.
In addition, the rise in right-wing rhetoric increases the likelihood of Islamophobic attacks taking place against Kashmiris, as well as Muslims in India more broadly.
Each war fought between India and Pakistan over Kashmir has ended with negotiations and treaties.
Bilateral relations have been attempted numerous times over the years and would be a preferable option to increased escalation in the current conflict.
Ultimately, it is the Kashmiris who suffer the most whenever tensions boil over between the two nuclear powers. As one young man recently said:
My parents don’t allow me to step outside. Every time I get a call, I feel a wave of anxiety, fearing it might be the police.
Kashmir might be a wonderland, a mini-Switzerland or a paradise for others, but for us, it is an open prison. Everyone lives in fear. What future do we have?
Leoni Connah 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. ‘Everyone lives in fear’: trapped between two warring nuclear giants, the people of Kashmir continue to suffer – https://theconversation.com/everyone-lives-in-fear-trapped-between-two-warring-nuclear-giants-the-people-of-kashmir-continue-to-suffer-256085
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Customs today arrested a director and a company secretary over alleged wrongful acceptance of payments, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO).
The arrests were made after Customs received reports that private healthcare facilities operated by the company concerned had closed and subsequently failed to provide customers with services that had already been paid for.
Investigations revealed that before their suspected closure the facilities were still accepting payments for prepaid services.
Under the TDO, it is considered an offence if at the time of accepting payment a trader intends not to supply a product or intends to supply a materially different product, or if there is no reasonable ground for believing that the trader will be able to supply the product within a specified or reasonable period.
The arrests made were of a 61-year-old male director and a 31-year-old female company secretary.
As of 5pm on Wednesday, Customs and Police had received 1,686 reports in relation to the matter. They will continue to investigate and will take appropriate enforcement actions.
Meanwhile, the Consumer Council had received 844 complaints and said it will handle these in accordance with procedures.
On May 3, the Department of Health set up a dedicated telephone hotline, email address and WhatsApp number to handle public enquiries, free of charge. As of Wednesday, 112 enquiries had been received, including 50 concerning vaccines for children and 56 relating to vaccines for patients in other age groups.
The Government announced on May 2 that an inter-departmental team had been set up to look into the suspected closure of certain private healthcare facilities.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
A Bellerive man has been arrested and charged with grooming offences, police alleging he used social media to entice a person aged under 16 to self-produce child abuse material.
The 34-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday after members of the Tasmanian Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team (JACET) executed a search warrant as part of the team’s investigation into the detection of a child being groomed via social media.The Tasmanian JACET is comprised of members of the High-Risk Child Exploitation Unit (Tasmania Police) and the Australian Federal Police.
During the search, police located and examined numerous mobile devices.
As a result, a 34-year-old man was arrested and charged with using a carriage service to groom persons under 16 years of age, contrary to section 474.27 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth).
The man appeared in the Hobart Magistrates Court on Wednesday night and has been bailed, with strict conditions, to reappear in court in late June.
Online child abuse is a serious crime type. Tasmania Police, with the support of its partners, is committed to stopping these crimes and keeping our children safe.
If you have seen inappropriate behaviour online that you suspect is child abuse, report it:
• If the child is in immediate danger, call 000.
• Call 131 444
• Report online to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) https://www.accce.gov.au/report
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash on Tomoana Road, Hastings on 26 April.
He was 37-year-old Grant Ross Arthur Neville Tyler, from Akina, Hastings.
Our thoughts are with those close to him at this time.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the person who died following a crash in Awakino on 30 April.
He was 31-year-old Stan Tangaroa-Green, of Te Awamutu.
Our thoughts are with those close to him at this time.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: Police investigating after shots fired at Hastings house
Date: 08 May 2025 Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
The High Court recently decided it was unlawful for the Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai to authorise the killing of wildlife unless there was a direct link between killing and protecting wildlife. Incidental harm to wildlife, while not desired, sometimes happens when carrying out a lawful activity, such as consented construction works.
“This decision placed multiple projects, which previously received DOC authorisations, in a state of uncertainty,” Mr Potaka says. “Projects include activities for building new solar and wind farms, plantation forests, and powerline maintenance that are essential for supporting our growing economy.
“Today’s improvements give certainty to authority holders that their projects can continue lawfully, whether it’s for important conservation work like pest control or development and infrastructure projects.
“Today’s changes clarify how authorisations can be consistent with protecting wildlife, and that the Director-General of the Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai can make authorisations. We are restoring the approach that DOC was taking for authorising activities before the Court’s decision and provide legal clarity.
“These changes keep safeguards to protect wildlife. It’s important Aotearoa New Zealand’s wildlife continues to be protected, and that species can thrive as we support a strong and growing economy.
“Under the amended Wildlife Act, authority holders are still expected to avoid and minimise harm to protected species. Examples include relocating animals before doing any construction work – to protect populations and support the ongoing viability of species,” says Mr Potaka.
“Now the amendments have been enacted, we can turn to accelerating a comprehensive review of the Wildlife Act.”
For media enquiries contact:
Email: media@doc.govt.nz
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Southern road police targeting red lights and mobile phones
Thursday, 8 May 2025 – 11:55 am.
Southern Road Policing Services conducted a targeted traffic operation in central Hobart yesterday, focusing on road safety offences, including drivers disobeying red lights and using mobile phones while driving.
Inspector Kathy Bennett said police were disappointed at the number of drivers who appeared to push the limits of red and orange traffic lights, failing to recognise the importance of stopping safely.
“We remind all motorists that they have a brake pedal as well as an accelerator, and the decision to rush through a changing light could have serious consequences,” she said.
Throughout the operation, officers detected and issued infringements for multiple offences:
• 22 people were caught using mobile phones
• 14 people were caught disobeying red lights
• One driver was caught not wearing a seatbelt
Inspector Bennett said these sorts of operations will continue to target dangerous driving behaviours.
“We will continue conducting targeted operations to ensure motorists adhere to the law and prioritise safety,” she said.
“If you’re on the roads, please follow the road rules, and avoid distractions while behind the wheel.”
Source: New Zealand Police
Police are now in a position to release the name of the man who died in a crash on Mokau Road, New Plymouth on 21 April.
He was 64-year-old Allan Jefferson Latoa, of Spotswood.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: Secretary Noem Puts Sanctuary City Leaders on Notice: Time to Put Americans First
lass=”text-align-center”> The Secretary blasted sanctuary jurisdictions for failing to uphold federal law and called on leaders to stand up for Americans who have been victimized by reckless sanctuary policies
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem today held a press conference highlighting the devastation sanctuary policies have caused in Illinois and across America with Angel families who shared their tragic stories of their loved ones lost because of illegal alien crime
The Secretary also called out Illinois Governor Pritzker for shielding law breakers
“As Secretary of Homeland Security, I’m going to uphold our federal immigration laws,” said Secretary Kristi Noem
“I’m going to draw attention to people who are breaking the law and violating our Constitution
I’m going to fight for the victims every single day and draw attention to them as long as we can
And President Trump will continue to do that as well
We should be united as a country around bringing violent criminals to justice and getting them out of the United States of America
”
To watch the full press conference, click here
Some of the Angel Families who attended the press conference include:
Jim Walden, Angel Father of Lance Corporal James Ray “Jimmy” Walden III
Jimmy was killed by a twice-deported illegal alien who crashed into Jimmy’s motorcycle
He was killed in Maryland, but his father lives in Illinois
Kathy Zander, Angel Mother of John Zander
Four days before his 23rd birthday, John was convinced by his best friend to snort cocaine, not knowing that his friend had spiked it with fentanyl
John died from fentanyl poisoning
Brian McCann, Angel Brother of Dennis “Denny” McCann
Denny was crossing the street when he was hit by a car in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood and dragged to his death by an illegal alien
The driver was charged in the fatal crash, but after being released on bond, he disappeared
Nancy Platania Angel Mother of Nick Platania who tragically lost his life to a fentanyl overdose
Nick worked to get others clean from drugs and started his own business before his life was tragically taken by deadly drugs funneled into American communities
There are more than 200 sanctuary jurisdictions across the nation
The following headlines are only a handful of examples of sanctuary leaders refusing to work with federal law enforcement to protect Americans
New York Governor Kathy Hochul:
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers:
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell:
Portland Police Chief Bob Day:
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell:
Boston Police Department Commissioner Michael Cox:
On April 28, 2025, President Donald Trump signed the Protecting American Communities from Criminal Aliens Executive Order
Under the President’s order, the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Attorney General are directed to publish a list of states and local jurisdictions that obstruct the enforcement of federal immigration laws
Under President Trump’s leadership, DHS will work with DOJ to end violations of federal immigration law and bring jurisdictions into compliance with the laws of the United States
###
Source: New Zealand Police
Police has officially signed a long-term lease in Auckland so that training courses can begin in our biggest city next month.
“We are thrilled we have signed an agreement with Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University for space at their Ōtehā Auckland campus,” says Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers.
“We have worked closely with Massey over the past couple of months to deliver an agreement that meet our needs and works for the University as well.
“As part of the agreement Police has exclusive use of part of the campus, which includes multiple classrooms with capacity to seat up to 155 people, a locker room, storage space, offices, and car parks. We will also have access to gym and recreation areas, and we have a small number of dorm rooms allocated for Police staff.
“These are high quality facilities and will be a great environment for police officers to learn and develop in.
“Extensive planning and organisation are essential to delivering training at the new Auckland training base. We are already onsite working to get everything up and running for a range of Police courses.
“This training space in Auckland is pivotal for running our senior courses and continuing to free up space at the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) for recruit training. Upskilling and developing our officers is an important part of maintaining a highly capable workforce to keep our communities safe.
“This space will also enable the Tāmaki Makaurau recruit Wing 390 to start on 30 June. Wing 390 will complete the same curriculum as the recruits at RNZPC.
“Some elements of recruit training which cannot be completed at the campus, including tactical training and swim assessment, will be completed offsite.
“We know that being away from home for several months has been a deterrent for people wanting to join Police. The recruit training being based in Auckland will open the doors for a dream job that might not have been possible otherwise.
“Whether you’re taking your first steps into the workforce or considering a career change, the best time to apply is right now.
“If you are ready to start your training for one of the most rewarding careers there is, visit newcops.govt.nz to apply today,” Deputy Commissioner Rogers says.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to a rock throwing incident in Ludmilla overnight.
Around 10:20pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report that a brick had been thrown through a rear side window of a vehicle traveling outbound on Bagot Road near the entrance to Bagot Community.
The vehicle was carrying 4 occupants, with a woman suffering a serious injury to her eye.
Police and St John Ambulance attended, and the woman was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital for treatment.
The alleged offender is described as a male youth aged around 14-years-old. He allegedly fled with two other youths into Bagot Community.
Patrols were conducted in the area and investigations into the identity of the offender remain ongoing.
Detectives are urging anyone with information, particularly if you have dash-cam footage along Bagot Road yesterday evening , to contact police on 131 444, quoting reference number NTP2500047387. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
The Stolen Weapons Are Being Recovered by Police in Multiple States in Relation to Shootings, Other Crimes
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Ismael Terrero-Terrero, 22, of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Timothy J. Savage to 40 months’ imprisonment and $26,798 in restitution for multiple burglaries in which he stole more than 150 guns from licensed firearms dealers.
The defendant was charged by indictment in January of 2024, and pleaded guilty this January to three counts of theft of firearms from a federal firearms licensee and one count of possession of a stolen firearm.
As detailed in court filings, on April 28, 2023, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) was notified of a burglary at a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in Easton, Pennsylvania. Surveillance video showed that, at approximately 2:40 a.m., the defendant used a pry bar to make entrance into the building and immediately began taking AK-style pistols and AR-style rifles from the wall. He then used the pry bar to break open three glass display cases that contained pistols, placed the guns into a bag, and exited the building with 29 stolen firearms.
In the early morning hours of June 29, 2023, law enforcement officers were dispatched to an FFL in Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, for a report of a security alarm activation. Surveillance video showed that at approximately 1:35 a.m., the defendant and another man forced entry into the building. They broke the firearm display cases with a metal tool, took handguns from the display case and put them into a backpack. The men then exited the business and fled the scene with 44 stolen firearms.
On August 11, 2023, at approximately 4:16 a.m., the Telford Police Department (TPD) in Telford, Pennsylvania, received a notification of a burglar alarm activation at an FFL in the borough. Approximately three minutes later, a TPD officer arrived at the location and observed a male with a duffle bag entering the passenger seat of a nearby vehicle, which immediately started to flee from the officer. The officer’s pursuit of the vehicle was terminated a short time later, consistent with TPD policy. Upon examination of the scene and review of video surveillance footage, investigators determined that the defendant and another man had forced entry into the FFL and smashed multiple display cases containing firearms. The men then loaded numerous firearms into a large bag and a rolling suitcase, leaving the store with 82 stolen firearms.
“This defendant committed three separate burglaries, stealing an astonishing 157 firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “These guns have now found their way into our communities and are being recovered in shootings and other crimes from Connecticut to the Caribbean. Terrero-Terrero was actively putting guns in criminals’ hands and the repercussions will continue, at society’s expense. Public safety demands that we prevent offenders from getting their hands on guns — and punish those providing a steady stream of illegal weapons.”
“Stolen guns are crime guns that endanger our communities,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “Ismael Terrero-Terrero burglarized three Pennsylvania gun shops, stealing more than 150 firearms connected to crimes up and down the East Coast and overseas. Working with the Montgomery County Detective Bureau, Pennsylvania State Police, local police departments, and U.S. Attorney’s Office, this far-reaching and dangerous criminal operation was ended, and the perpetrator is going to prison for years.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the ATF and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maureen McCartney.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Staff monitor traffic flow on 30 screens, from over 130 CCTV cameras across Canberra.
The ACT’s Traffic Management Centre is the nerve centre for the road network.
For 12 hours a day, centre staff monitor traffic flow on 30 screens, from over 130 CCTV cameras.
They make changes to traffic signals as needed. This helps reduce congestion and improve travel times for motorists.
Staff work with a range of different people, including bus drivers and construction project managers, to do so.
There are several major public and private construction projects underway in the city. The Centre plays an integral role in ensuring motorists, pedestrians and cyclists get where they need to safely and efficiently.
Hundreds of Bluetooth ‘sniffers’ on the road network also give live anonymous travel time data to the centre.
This data is then placed on variable message signs, including on the Monaro Highway and Tuggeranong Parkway.
They state how long it will take to get to the city via different routes.
Centre staff are always prepared to respond and coordinate with relevant agencies in case of:
Stay up to date on travel changes in the city at the Built for CBR website.
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Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets
Good morning and a warm welcome to everyone, it’s a pleasure to be here.
Let me start by thanking AML Solutions for giving me the opportunity to speak on the 10th anniversary of the AML Summit.
I know you have a busy and interesting schedule to look forward to over the next couple of days. This year’s conference theme is aptly named “The evolution of Risk”. I understand that the presentations will focus on supporting reporting entities to understand what best-practice compliance looks like under a reformed risk-based and flexible AML/CFT system.
This theme is future-focused – and touches on issues I have spent a lot of time thinking about and planning for since becoming responsible for the AML/CFT portfolio in my role as Associate Minister of Justice.
You will likely know that last year Cabinet approved my plans for an AML/CFT reform programme. The objectives of legislative reform are to meet the objectives this government committed to in our coalition agreement: and that is to tackle organised crime and cut red tape.
How can New Zealand reform AML/CFT regulation to reduce burden on industry and support a common-sense approach to compliance; while still ensuring we are well placed to tackle organised crime and protect our international reputation as a trusted place to do business?
How do we equip ourselves to deal with new and emerging challenges and threats in this space? How can we harness new technologies to help us fight crime more effectively and make it easier and cheaper for businesses to defend themselves against money laundering?
How will we ensure that we, as a country, are doing our part in this inherently global fight – in a fractious world where the nexus of organised crime and international conflicts is growing?
Over the last year I have taken advice and considered many of the challenges facing the sector in detail. Many of you in this room, or online, will have been involved in and contributed to this advice. I am so grateful for your hard work and specialist contributions. Your expertise is invaluable – it enables robust discussion and informed decision-making.
Now is the time to deliver on our coalition commitments. The Act has now been in force for 11 years and we know the current system is not delivering as well as it could for New Zealanders, businesses, or for law enforcement.
This is because the laws and requirements are highly complex and not sufficiently risk based. As a result, they can be repetitive and unnecessarily burdensome. I have heard from many New Zealanders that the requirements are confusing, obstructive, and costly.
Some of the examples they have given me illustrate how absurd these requirements can be. I ’ve heard from mothers who’ve told me they cannot open bank accounts for their child unless they are able to prove where their child lives. I’ve heard from elderly widows, who had relied on their husbands to take care of bills and are now unable to have a bank account in their own name because they have no written proof to say they live in their own home. These are clear indications of how the system is failing to take a properly risk-based approach.
Multiple reviews of the current system have also identified deficiencies that make it harder for the system to effectively deter and combat the criminal activity that we know is taking place in New Zealand.
At New Zealand’s latest mutual evaluation, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) reported on several strengths in the New Zealand system but also highlighted that there is room for significant improvement.
I know you will be aware that compliance with international standards is incredibly important for New Zealand’s global reputation and financial standing. We know that FATF recommendations are now tougher, and that there are still many actions from our last evaluation that we need to address. Regulatory reform is needed to ensure we do well at our next evaluation.
But let’s not belabour what we already know about the deficiencies. Let’s instead focus on opportunities for the future and what we can achieve through this reform programme. To me, reform presents a great opportunity to enhance the strengths of our system, and to address identified concerns.
We know, for example, that the wider Financial Crime Group do excellent work, especially relating to asset recovery. We only need to cast our eyes to very recent news stories – I’m thinking of the announcement last September of the highly successful operation against the Comanchero gang which saw $5.8 million worth of assets restrained – to know law enforcement across the system is working hard and achieving remarkable successes through their work. A look at the latest Police annual report shows that over $72 million of assets were restrained from organised and financial crime, and 379 money laundering investigations resulted in prosecution.
We also know there is sound domestic cooperation and coordination on monitoring possible terrorist financing – the FATF told us so, at our latest mutual evaluation.
The FATF have also noted that we are known internationally for our high-quality responsiveness to cooperation requests.
In other words, New Zealand already does lots of things well. Our focus is therefore on improving the AML/CFT system to enhance these strengths. Let’s enable the system and its actors to achieve the intended outcomes: to detect and deter money laundering and terrorism financing.
This Government is about quality regulation. We want regulation that achieves intended outcomes, regulation that makes sense and is workable for all. This means getting rid of unnecessary red-tape– if regulation isn’t providing the results we are after, there is no point to it.
In the case of the AML/CFT system, regulation needs to contribute to the fundamental purpose of the system: tackling crime. To do that effectively, we need an agile, streamlined system that is laser focussed on real risk.
A truly risk-based system will better enable law enforcement to crack down on organised crime by providing the financial intelligence needed to go after criminal organisations. A truly risk-based system is more aligned with international obligations and standards. A truly risk-based system will provide regulatory relief for lower risk businesses and the public.
My reform programme, therefore, will be undertaken in three parts. The first phase is already well-advanced and will deliver immediate regulatory relief via two bills – the first, the Statutes Amendment Bill, has already been reported back from Select Committee to the House of Representatives, and is likely to come into effect in the coming months. The second, the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Terrorism Financing Amendment Bill, is currently before select committee.
The changes made through these bills include removing both address verification requirements for many customers, and relaxing enhanced customer due diligence requirements for lower-risk trusts. This will help make it easier for mums and dads to set up bank accounts for their kids, and easier for vulnerable kiwis – including the elderly – to get access to essential financial services.
This first set of reforms aims to make immediate changes, to make the AML/CFT system more risk-based and ease the regulatory burden on businesses.
These changes alone already represent the most significant regulatory relief in the history of the AML/CFT regime. But we do not intend to stop there.
The second phase of changes focuses on structural reforms for the regime. Cabinet has agreed that, as part of these structural reforms, we will be implementing a single AML/CFT supervisor structure within the Department of Internal Affairs. This will replace the current three-supervisor model.
This move will create a more efficient, effective, and risk-based supervisory structure – one that reduces unnecessary compliance costs for lower-risk businesses and transactions, removes the need for multi-supervisor coordination efforts – thereby reducing costs – and streamlines decision-making.
A single supervisor can be more resource responsive to the ever-changing risk environment. A single supervisor will be better able to deliver consistent and timely guidance to support reporting entities.
This will help to ensure that businesses have the confidence to take a more flexible approach to implementing their AML/CFT obligations and lower the barrier to accessing financial services for low-risk customers.
A single supervisor with overview of the wider AML/CFT environment will also be better able to look for and realise opportunities as they arise. For example, I’m sure we all agree that there are opportunities and benefits to be gained in the digital identity and open banking areas. In addition, the emergence of AI could herald improved, and more cost effective, electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) functions, risk assessments, and suspicious activity reporting.
Everyone here will be aware that in a world of increasing demands, the AML/CFT system in New Zealand is currently underfunded. My phase two structural reforms will also see us work towards introducing a sustainable funding model for the system.
The new hybrid funding model will establish an industry-levy. I will ensure that this levy is designed in a way that distributes the costs in a risk appropriate and equitable way, so that it targets the highest risk sectors – such as large international banks – and does not place an undue burden on small businesses.
This hybrid funding model will provide sufficient resourcing for core regulatory functions and deliver substantial savings to the Crown. This approach is in line with what has been done in other like-minded jurisdictions, like Australia, the United Kingdom and Canada.
As part of the work on the funding model, a work programme and a National Strategy will be developed in partnership with industry and agreed by Cabinet to ensure that the system is focussed on industry priorities. Any changes to the levy will also need to be informed by the AML/CFT National Strategy.
Now, I know that many of you in this room will have opinions and views on the approach we have taken to these structural reforms. I look forward to engaging with you and drawing on your sector expertise as we get stuck into the detail of this change process.
The structural changes in phase two of my reforms will result in an amendment Bill that I aim to have introduced by the middle of this year. Officials are currently working on the details of developing and implementing the levy, but I expect that the earliest it would be in place is by 2027.
The third phase of these reforms will deliver wider legislative changes to implement international standards outlined by the FATF. This Bill will be introduced later in this Parliamentary term.
Doing this international compliance work will have a natural flow on effect that improves New Zealand entities’ ability to carry on with business and sharpens our law enforcement tools. Importantly, it includes amendments to provide further flexibility for businesses to take a more risk-based approach to their AML/CFT obligations.
The work programme was designed to address specific areas that were identified through robust stakeholder consultation during the 2022 Statutory Review of the AML/CFT Act and further targeted engagement has been undertaken since then.
I am aware there is room for improvement in other areas as well – and some of you may be disappointed that more statutory reforms are not currently being progressed.
In arriving at my current statutory reform programme, I have taken a pragmatic approach – the current fiscal environment dictates that we are smart and outcomes-focused with our reforms. Right now, this means prioritising the changes that will give us the biggest bang for our buck in terms of regulatory relief, while ensuring compliance with international expectations and supporting law enforcement to tackle organised crime and delivering regulatory relief.
We need to prioritise this legislative work programme first to ensure that changes to the law are made and the system is properly set up to take a risk-based approach in time for our next mutual evaluation in 2028. I am excited and proud that this reform programme is on track to deliver the most significant regulatory relief since the Act came into force in 2013.
But, like you, I want to do more, if I can. I am committed to look for opportunities to do just that, not only through reforms to legislation, but also through considering potential exemptions and regulations that will support a more risk-based AML/CFT system.
I look forward to working with you all as we move forward with all the parts of this reform programme. To me, the key to successfully strengthening the AML/CFT system through these reforms is collaboration and leveraging expertise in the sector.
I encourage you all to participate in consultation when these opportunities come up. We need people with experience and knowledge to get involved – we need you. I look forward to hearing your views on how we can make the laws work for you.
Thank you for having me today, it’s a pleasure to be here with you all. Enjoy your time here at the conference.
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the woman who died following a crash on Waipapa Road, Mangakino on 21 April.
She was 64-year-old Woonkyung Lee, from the Republic of Korea.
Our thoughts are with her close ones at this difficult time.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can today release the name of the man who died at a property in Manurewa on Tuesday.
He was 30-year-old Selwyn Tetoko Hori Robson, of Auckland.
Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers says: “A 32-year-old woman has been remanded in custody to appear in the Auckland High Court on 28 May charged with Mr Robson’s murder.
“Police extend our thoughts to Mr Robson’s whānau and friends at this difficult time.”
ENDS.
Holly McKay/NZ Police
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the woman who died in a crash in Temple View on 16 April.
She was 32-year-old Kerri David, from Melville, Hamilton.
Our thoughts are with those close to her at this time.
Enquiries to determine the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: US State of California
An indictment was unsealed today in the Southern District of New York charging Tarek Bazrouk 20, of New York, New York, with three counts of committing hate crimes in connection with his repeated assaults of Jewish victims in New York City between 2024 and 2025. Bazrouk was arrested this morning and will be presented later today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Stewart D. Aaron. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman.
“The Civil Rights Division will continue to relentlessly pursue allegations of antisemitic violence and will not stop until justice is served for the victims and their families,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Under Attorney General Pam Bondi’s leadership, we will use all available resources to investigate and charge those who target and assault others because of their faith.”
“As alleged, on three separate occasions, Tarek Bazrouk deliberately targeted and assaulted Jewish victims at protests relating to the Israel/Gaza war,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for the Southern District of New York. “Despite being arrested after each incident, Bazrouk allegedly remained undeterred and quickly returned to using violence to target Jews in New York City. This Office is dedicated to seeking justice for victims of hate crimes and will aggressively prosecute those who spread bigotry and discrimination through violence.”
According to court documents, other public filings, and statements previously made on the record in this case, over the course of approximately nine months, Bazrouk physically assaulted three Jewish individuals at protests concerning the Israel/Gaza war. First, on April 15, 2024, Bazrouk — while wearing a green headband typically worn by Hamas terrorists — attended a protest concerning the Israel/Gaza war in Lower Manhattan, outside the New York Stock Exchange. During the protest, Bazrouk was arrested by officers from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) after lunging at a group of pro-Israel protestors. As Bazrouk was being escorted to an NYPD vehicle, Bazrouk kicked a different individual — Victim-1, a Jewish college student — in the stomach. At the time of the assault, Victim-1 was standing near other Jewish protestors, who were wearing kippahs (that is, brimless skullcaps traditionally worn by Jewish men), carrying Israeli flags, and singing Jewish songs.
Approximately eight months later, on Dec. 9, 2024, Bazrouk assaulted another individual at a protest relating to the Israel/Gaza war next to a university campus in upper Manhattan. The victim of the second assault — Victim-2 — is a Jewish student who attended the nearby university. On the date of the assault, Victim-2 and his brother were wearing kippahs, Victim-2 had an Israeli flag draped around his shoulders, and Victim-2 was singing Jewish songs. As the protest continued, Bazrouk — with his mouth covered — stole an Israeli flag from Victim-2’s brother and fled. After Victim-2 and his brother followed Bazrouk through a crowd to retrieve the flag, Bazrouk snuck up beside Victim-2 and struck him in the face with a closed fist.
Roughly one month later, on Jan. 6, 2025, Bazrouk assaulted a third Jewish victim — Victim-3 — at a protest concerning the Israel/Gaza war near 1st Avenue and East 18th Street in Manhattan. At this protest, Victim-3 was wearing an Israeli flag around his shoulders, a hat with an Israeli flag, and a chain with a Jewish star. During the protest, Bazrouk, who was wearing a keffiyeh on his face, made contact with Victim-3’s shoulder and wrapped his foot around Victim-3’s ankle. Victim-3 attempted to push BAZROUK away and cursed at him. Bazrouk then punched Victim-3 in the nose with a closed fist.
“Over the course of nine months, Tarek Bazrouk allegedly targeted and violently attacked multiple Jewish victims in a series of physical assaults, while demonstrating a pattern of supporting anti-Semitic terrorist organizations,” said Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia of the FBI New York Field Office. “These alleged hate crimes not only violated the victims’ ability to exercise their first amendment rights, but also intimidated and sparked fear among a broader population. The FBI won’t tolerate this behavior and will apprehend any individual who commits a federal crime seeking to harm others for their religious beliefs.”
“As alleged, Tarek Bazrouk deliberately set out to harm Jewish New Yorkers — targeting them at protests, singling them out, and assaulting them for nothing more than their identity,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “The NYPD worked closely with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to track him down and ensure he faces real consequences. Antisemitism and all forms of bigotry have no home here in New York — period. New Yorkers of all faiths are welcome to live and worship in our city freely, and we will never stop fighting to protect that right.”
According to court documents, pursuant to judicially authorized warrants, law enforcement subsequently searched a cellphone used by Bazrouk. Evidence from that device revealed Bazrouk’s anti-Semitic bias and his support for anti-Jewish terrorist groups including Hamas, demonstrating his motivation for repeatedly assaulting Jewish victims. In text messages, for example, Bazrouk identified himself as a “Jew hater,” labeled Jews as “worthless,” extorted “Allah” to “get us rid of [Jews],” called an acquittance a “Fucking Jew,” and told a friend to “slap that bitch” in reference to a woman with an Israeli sticker on her laptop. Bazrouk also told a friend that he was “mad happy” to have learned that certain of his family members overseas are part of Hamas. Bazrouk’s phone was also littered with pro-Hamas and pro-Hizballah propaganda, showing his support for organizations that have murdered thousands of Jews and Israelis.
Bazrouk is charged with three counts of committing hate crimes, each of which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
The maximum potential penalties in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for the Southern District of New York praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and thanked the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and the NYPD for their assistance.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Unit in the Criminal Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Adelsberg and Jim Ligtenberg for the Southern District of New York are in charge of the prosecution.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: United States Attorneys General
An indictment was unsealed today in the Southern District of New York charging Tarek Bazrouk 20, of New York, New York, with three counts of committing hate crimes in connection with his repeated assaults of Jewish victims in New York City between 2024 and 2025. Bazrouk was arrested this morning and will be presented later today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Stewart D. Aaron. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman.
“The Civil Rights Division will continue to relentlessly pursue allegations of antisemitic violence and will not stop until justice is served for the victims and their families,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Under Attorney General Pam Bondi’s leadership, we will use all available resources to investigate and charge those who target and assault others because of their faith.”
“As alleged, on three separate occasions, Tarek Bazrouk deliberately targeted and assaulted Jewish victims at protests relating to the Israel/Gaza war,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for the Southern District of New York. “Despite being arrested after each incident, Bazrouk allegedly remained undeterred and quickly returned to using violence to target Jews in New York City. This Office is dedicated to seeking justice for victims of hate crimes and will aggressively prosecute those who spread bigotry and discrimination through violence.”
According to court documents, other public filings, and statements previously made on the record in this case, over the course of approximately nine months, Bazrouk physically assaulted three Jewish individuals at protests concerning the Israel/Gaza war. First, on April 15, 2024, Bazrouk — while wearing a green headband typically worn by Hamas terrorists — attended a protest concerning the Israel/Gaza war in Lower Manhattan, outside the New York Stock Exchange. During the protest, Bazrouk was arrested by officers from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) after lunging at a group of pro-Israel protestors. As Bazrouk was being escorted to an NYPD vehicle, Bazrouk kicked a different individual — Victim-1, a Jewish college student — in the stomach. At the time of the assault, Victim-1 was standing near other Jewish protestors, who were wearing kippahs (that is, brimless skullcaps traditionally worn by Jewish men), carrying Israeli flags, and singing Jewish songs.
Approximately eight months later, on Dec. 9, 2024, Bazrouk assaulted another individual at a protest relating to the Israel/Gaza war next to a university campus in upper Manhattan. The victim of the second assault — Victim-2 — is a Jewish student who attended the nearby university. On the date of the assault, Victim-2 and his brother were wearing kippahs, Victim-2 had an Israeli flag draped around his shoulders, and Victim-2 was singing Jewish songs. As the protest continued, Bazrouk — with his mouth covered — stole an Israeli flag from Victim-2’s brother and fled. After Victim-2 and his brother followed Bazrouk through a crowd to retrieve the flag, Bazrouk snuck up beside Victim-2 and struck him in the face with a closed fist.
Roughly one month later, on Jan. 6, 2025, Bazrouk assaulted a third Jewish victim — Victim-3 — at a protest concerning the Israel/Gaza war near 1st Avenue and East 18th Street in Manhattan. At this protest, Victim-3 was wearing an Israeli flag around his shoulders, a hat with an Israeli flag, and a chain with a Jewish star. During the protest, Bazrouk, who was wearing a keffiyeh on his face, made contact with Victim-3’s shoulder and wrapped his foot around Victim-3’s ankle. Victim-3 attempted to push BAZROUK away and cursed at him. Bazrouk then punched Victim-3 in the nose with a closed fist.
“Over the course of nine months, Tarek Bazrouk allegedly targeted and violently attacked multiple Jewish victims in a series of physical assaults, while demonstrating a pattern of supporting anti-Semitic terrorist organizations,” said Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia of the FBI New York Field Office. “These alleged hate crimes not only violated the victims’ ability to exercise their first amendment rights, but also intimidated and sparked fear among a broader population. The FBI won’t tolerate this behavior and will apprehend any individual who commits a federal crime seeking to harm others for their religious beliefs.”
“As alleged, Tarek Bazrouk deliberately set out to harm Jewish New Yorkers — targeting them at protests, singling them out, and assaulting them for nothing more than their identity,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “The NYPD worked closely with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to track him down and ensure he faces real consequences. Antisemitism and all forms of bigotry have no home here in New York — period. New Yorkers of all faiths are welcome to live and worship in our city freely, and we will never stop fighting to protect that right.”
According to court documents, pursuant to judicially authorized warrants, law enforcement subsequently searched a cellphone used by Bazrouk. Evidence from that device revealed Bazrouk’s anti-Semitic bias and his support for anti-Jewish terrorist groups including Hamas, demonstrating his motivation for repeatedly assaulting Jewish victims. In text messages, for example, Bazrouk identified himself as a “Jew hater,” labeled Jews as “worthless,” extorted “Allah” to “get us rid of [Jews],” called an acquittance a “Fucking Jew,” and told a friend to “slap that bitch” in reference to a woman with an Israeli sticker on her laptop. Bazrouk also told a friend that he was “mad happy” to have learned that certain of his family members overseas are part of Hamas. Bazrouk’s phone was also littered with pro-Hamas and pro-Hizballah propaganda, showing his support for organizations that have murdered thousands of Jews and Israelis.
Bazrouk is charged with three counts of committing hate crimes, each of which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
The maximum potential penalties in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton for the Southern District of New York praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and thanked the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and the NYPD for their assistance.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Unit in the Criminal Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Adelsberg and Jim Ligtenberg for the Southern District of New York are in charge of the prosecution.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: Independent Police Conduct Authority
The Independent Police Conduct Authority received four complaints concerning Wellington Police officers obtaining a warrant and seizing vehicles for unpaid fines in 2022 and 2023. Upon review, the Authority found common themes arose which continue to be relevant to current Police practice.
The complaints arose following the commencement of ‘Operation Cobalt’. As part of this operation, Police used their legal power to apply for warrants to seize property for unpaid fines, specifically for the purpose of disrupting gang activity. The practice then transitioned into general policing, where the seizures did not always relate to gang activity. However, outside of Operation Cobalt, Police had no policy or instructions regarding the execution of the warrants for unpaid fines.
In three of the four cases we reviewed, officers lacked understanding of what is required when executing the warrants and they neglected to demand payment prior to seizing the vehicle. In doing so, they failed to comply with the requirements stipulated in the Summary Proceedings Act 1957, thereby making the vehicle seizures unlawful.
In early 2024, after our investigation commenced, Police updated policy to include the necessary guidance. Officers are now required to have bailiffs present unless there is urgency and/or good reason for Police to execute the warrant as part of a major event operation or criminal investigation.
The Authority recommends that, if Police wish to execute warrants to seize property for unpaid fines without the presence of bailiffs as part of major event operations or criminal investigations, Police should provide officers with specific training in the legal requirements for executing warrants and ensure that these are adhered to.
The Authority also found that it was unnecessary and unreasonable for an officer to execute one of the warrants for unpaid fines during the early hours of the morning.
Source: US State of North Dakota
David Aaron Bloyed, 60, of Frost, Texas, was found guilty today by a federal jury of one count of communicating a threat in interstate commerce to lynch and kill Glenn Funk, the elected District Attorney General (DA) for Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee.
“The defendant’s heinous threats strike at the heart of our justice system and the safety of those who have chosen to serve. As today’s verdict demonstrates, violent threats and intimidation against government officials and law enforcement will not be tolerated,” said Sue J. Bai, Head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “I am grateful to our law enforcement partners and prosecution team for their swift and determined work to bring justice in this case.”
“Antisemitic hate has no place in Nashville or anywhere, and this verdict shows these hateful threats for what they are: a crime,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire for the Middle District of Tennessee. “Our office will do whatever it takes to defend our community, and the prosecutors who serve it, from being threatened by these hatemongers.”
“The conviction of David Bloyed is yet another example of the FBI’s commitment to holding those accountable who threaten public officials and the Jewish community,” said Assistant Director in Charge David J. Scott of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “This criminal behavior and these disgusting threats will not be tolerated. The FBI will continue to work with our partners across the nation to investigate, identify, and hold those accountable who threaten violence and harm to specific communities and people.”
According to court documents, on July 14, 2024, members of the Goyim Defense League (GDL) – a national and international network of antisemitic provocateurs who espouse vitriolic antisemitism via the internet, through propaganda distributions and in street actions – were protesting in downtown Nashville on their “Name the Nose Tour” where its members travel to cities across the country to protest in the vicinity of synagogues and walk through the downtown hubs of cities with Nazi flags and yell antisemitic slurs at any individuals they encounter. GDL members encountered an employee of a local bar and a fight broke out. A GDL member was arrested and charged with aggravated assault for hitting the bar employee repeatedly using a metal flagpole with a swastika affixed to the top.
While in Nashville, GDL members routinely posted about their activities on various social media platforms, including Telegram. Following the arrest of the GDL member, a Telegram user associated with GDL posted threats against DA Funk that included a photograph of DA Funk with the caption, “Getting the rope,” and an emoji finger pointed towards Funk’s image.
The posts also included a photograph of a person hanging by the neck from a gallows, with the phrases, “The ‘Rope List’ grew by a few more Nashville jews today,” and “Will you survive the day of the rope?”
Law enforcement subsequently identified another social media account with an almost identical username, belonging to Bloyed and containing threats nearly identical to those posted on the Telegram account.
At sentencing, Bloyed faces up to five years in federal prison.
The FBI Nashville Field Office and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department are investigating the case.
Source: US Department of Homeland Security
The Secretary blasted sanctuary jurisdictions for failing to uphold federal law and called on leaders to stand up for Americans who have been victimized by reckless sanctuary policies
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem today held a press conference highlighting the devastation sanctuary policies have caused in Illinois and across America with Angel families who shared their tragic stories of their loved ones lost because of illegal alien crime. The Secretary also called out Illinois Governor Pritzker for shielding law breakers.
“As Secretary of Homeland Security, I’m going to uphold our federal immigration laws,” said Secretary Kristi Noem. “I’m going to draw attention to people who are breaking the law and violating our Constitution. I’m going to fight for the victims every single day and draw attention to them as long as we can. And President Trump will continue to do that as well. We should be united as a country around bringing violent criminals to justice and getting them out of the United States of America.”
To watch the full press conference, click here.
Some of the Angel Families who attended the press conference include:
There are more than 200 sanctuary jurisdictions across the nation. The following headlines are only a handful of examples of sanctuary leaders refusing to work with federal law enforcement to protect Americans.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul:
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers:
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell:
Portland Police Chief Bob Day:
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell:
Boston Police Department Commissioner Michael Cox:
On April 28, 2025, President Donald Trump signed the Protecting American Communities from Criminal Aliens Executive Order. Under the President’s order, the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Attorney General are directed to publish a list of states and local jurisdictions that obstruct the enforcement of federal immigration laws.
Under President Trump’s leadership, DHS will work with DOJ to end violations of federal immigration law and bring jurisdictions into compliance with the laws of the United States.
###
Source: New Zealand Police
Please attribute to Relieving Wellington District Commander Inspector Lincoln Sycamore:
Police acknowledge the findings by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) regarding four complaints against Wellington Police officers obtaining a warrant and seizing vehicles for unpaid fines in 2022 and 2023.
The incidents occurred following the start of ‘Operation Cobalt’, a nationwide effort by Police to target and disrupt illegal gang activity. As part of this operation, Police staff would apply for warrants to seize property belonging to gang members with unpaid fines.
Police have reviewed the policy and practice regarding obtaining a warrant to seize property for unpaid fines and have addressed the recommendation made by the IPCA.
In March 2024, we updated our search instructions for officers to ensure they are aware of and understand their obligations. Officers are required to have Ministry of Justice bailiffs present at the search location, unless there is urgency and or good reason for Police to execute the warrant as part of a major event operation or criminal investigation.
We also agree with the second recommendation made by the IPCA and have already begun the process to engage with Ministry of Justice to update an internal form used by officers. This will ensure the form accurately reflects the scope of the search and seizure power under section 99 of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre