NewzIntel.com

Category: Police

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements releases latest information on cross-boundary passenger traffic estimation and arrangements for Labour Day Golden Week of Mainland

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements releases latest information on cross-boundary passenger traffic estimation and arrangements for Labour Day Golden Week of Mainland  
         During the upcoming Labour Day Golden Week of the Mainland (from May 1 to 5), the Immigration Department (ImmD) estimates that around 5.71 million passengers (including Hong Kong residents and visitors) will pass through Hong Kong’s sea, land and air control points. The ImmD, in consultation with the Shenzhen General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection and other Mainland authorities, estimates that around 4.90 million passengers will pass through land boundary control points. The number of outbound and inbound passengers using land boundary control points will be relatively higher on May 3 (Saturday) and May 5 (Monday), with around 590 000 passengers and 580 000 passengers respectively.
      
         The ImmD estimates that the passenger traffic at the Lo Wu Control Point, the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point and the Shenzhen Bay Control Point will be heavy, with a daily average forecast of about 230 000, 210 000 and 150 000 passengers respectively.
      
         To cope with the anticipated heavy traffic during the festive period, the ImmD has minimised leave for frontline officers for flexible deployment and the operation of extra clearance counters and kiosks.
     
         Furthermore, the ImmD, the Hong Kong Police Force, the Customs and Excise Department and the MTR Corporation Limited will set up a joint command centre at the Lo Wu Control Point to make necessary arrangements. The ImmD will also establish close communication with Mainland authorities, including the Shenzhen General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection. To ensure a smooth passenger traffic flow, passenger conditions will be closely monitored and appropriate traffic diversion plans will be adopted when necessary.
     
         To avoid congestion and longer-than-usual waiting times for immigration clearance, the ImmD advises all land boundary passengers to plan in advance, avoid making their journeys during busy periods and keep track of radio and TV broadcasts on traffic conditions at various control points. The busy times at boundary control points are available on the website of the ImmD at www.immd.gov.hk 
         For travellers making journeys to the Mainland, the ImmD reminds them to carry their proof of identity and valid travel documents for crossing the boundary. Hong Kong residents should also check the validity of their Home Visit Permits. Non-permanent residents must carry their valid smart identity card as well as their Document of Identity for Visa Purposes or valid travel document.
     
         Holders of the acknowledgement receipt issued due to the reported loss or replacement of their Hong Kong identity cards, or children under 11 years old who hold Hong Kong identity cards, should carry a valid travel document or Re-entry Permit.
     
         About 700 e-Channels have been installed at various control points. To further enhance the clearance efficiency of control points and allow more Hong Kong residents to use the fast and convenient e-Channel service, starting from March 31, the ImmD has adjusted the applicable age for e-Channel service for holders of smart identity cards. Eligible Hong Kong permanent residents aged 7 to 10 years old, who are at least 1.1 metres tall and hold a smart identity card and a valid Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Passport, can use the e-Channels without prior enrolment for self-service immigration clearance via face recognition technology at all control points. Moreover, the Contactless e-Channel service is available at all control points now. All eligible Hong Kong residents, after enrolment, can generate an encrypted QR code through the Contactless e-Channel mobile application to enter the e-Channel and then verify their identity with the facial verification technology for automated immigration clearance.
     
         In addition, all control points have introduced self-service departures for visitors to Hong Kong (Smart Departure), which provides greater travel convenience for visitors. The service employs facial recognition technology for identity verification, which allows eligible visitors holding electronic travel documents to perform self-service departure clearance through Smart Departure e-Channels without prior enrolment.
     
         Hong Kong residents who require assistance while travelling outside Hong Kong may call the 24-hour hotline of the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the ImmD at (852) 1868, call the 1868 hotline using network data or use the 1868 Chatbot via the ImmD Mobile App, send a message to 1868 WhatsApp assistance hotline or 1868 WeChat assistance hotline or submit the Online Assistance Request Form.
     
         The interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements is tasked with holistically co-ordinating and steering the preparatory work of various government departments for welcoming visitors to Hong Kong during the Labour Day Golden Week of the Mainland, as well as strengthening information dissemination to enable the public and visitors to plan their itineraries according to the latest situation.
    Issued at HKT 17:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Facilities enhanced for Golden Week

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government will introduce various measures to enhance facilities around the High Island Reservoir East Dam, adding to convenience for visitors during the Mainland’s Labour Day Golden Week.

    The measures are in response to a significant increase in the number of visitors accessing the East Dam during recent weekends and the Ching Ming Festival holiday.

    A large number of visitors on these days have taken taxis to the East Dam in the morning, causing severe traffic congestion on Sai Kung Man Yee Road and markedly increasing the travel time for Green Minibus (GMB) Route No. 9A, from Pak Tam Chung to the East Dam.

    At present, GMB Route No. 9A on the Pak Tam Chung-East Dam route serves passengers on weekends and public holidays, with a frequency of 15-20 minutes. The service hours for departures from Pak Tam Chung are between 9.30am and 6.40pm, while those for departures from the East Dam are between 10am and 7pm.

    As more visitors are expected in the East Dam area during the Golden Week holiday period, from May 1 to 5, various departments will enact enhancement measures.

    Co-ordination between the Transport Department (TD) and the operator concerned will allow GMB Route No. 9A services to be boosted subject to passenger demand. Furthermore, the operator will, on a trial basis, extend the service to May 2, a weekday.

    The TD and the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department (AFCD) will also take measures to enhance passenger queuing arrangements.

    In the event of the road section concerned experiencing heavy traffic, the TD will make an announcement through various channels advising members of the public to plan ahead for their journeys.

    It will also set up a messaging sign at a suitable location ahead of the AFCD’s Pak Tam Chung Barrier to inform visitors of traffic conditions on the roads leading to the East Dam area.

    For its part, the Water Supplies Department has arranged for contractors to carry out temporary improvement works at some locations on Sai Kung Man Yee Road to facilitate the manoeuvring of traffic. The works have been substantially completed.

    The AFCD will strengthen management of the country park area surrounding the East Dam. This includes deploying additional personnel to patrol the region, and the enhancement of cleaning services as necessary.

    In collaboration with the Tourism Commission and the Tourism Board, the AFCD will also enhance promotion of other hiking trails within Hong Kong’s country parks and disseminate hiking guidelines to tourists.

    Police will deploy uniformed officers to direct traffic in strategic areas at peak visitor arrival and departure times, and to help facilitate pedestrian flows. The force will also take action to combat any illegal acts by taxi drivers.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra’s best seafood spots, as voted by you

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Want to eat your seafood with a side of beautiful views? Snapper and Co is the picture-perfect spot. Image: Tourism Australia

    In Brief:

    • We asked Canberrans on the @WeAreCBR Instagram account where to find the best seafood in Canberra.
    • This list includes different locations you can find seafood.

    Canberra might be missing a beach, but there is no shortage of delicious spots to grab some seafood.

    We asked on the @WeAreCBR Instagram account where to find the best local seafood, whether it’s your classic fish and chips, or something a little more fancy like paella.

    Here are the top recommendations:

    Seafood buffet at the Hyatt Hotel

    Wanting to load up a plate with fresh seafood goodies? And maybe go back for more? The Hyatt Hotel offers Friday and Saturday evening seafood buffets, and you can even grab a cheeky dessert while you’re at it.

    Seafood at Med

    Med in Barton is serving up numerous seafood dishes. Kingfish, octopus and king prawns are all available, plus many more delicious dishes.

    Octopus at Saint Malo

    Dive headfirst into this delicious Mediterranean cuisine! There are various seafood dishes on the menu, but the standout is the octopus with black garlic and kipfler potatoes.

    Seafood and a view and Snapper & Co

    Visit Canberra’s iconic lakeside and snap up some fish and chips. With views of Telstra Tower and Lake Burley Griffin, this is one to add to your summer bucket list.

    Kickin Inn

    Looking to have a bit of everything? Kickin Inn is Canberra’s home to the famous seafood boil bags! Get everything mixed into a bag with your choice of sauce and add-ons, dig in and enjoy! But don’t forget your bib.

    Calamari Salad from Space Kitchen

    Looking to add some fresh greens into your seafood? This calamari is served with a Thai style salad and fresh papaya.

    Seafood at Water’s Edge

    Dine in a dome right on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin. With various seafood options ranging from crab to the fish of the day, you’re sure to enjoy this meal with a view!

    Oysters at Corella

    Like the finer things in life? The Appellation oysters at Corella are a fan favourite. Served with a lemon myrtle vinegar and the choice of half a dozen or the full dozen.

    Read more like this:

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged with murder following fatal stabbing in Twickenham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met detectives have named a man who died in a stabbing in south-west London as they charge a man with murder.

    Harpal Singh Roopra, 38, died after being found with stab wounds in Ellerman Avenue, Twickenham, at 23:39hrs on Saturday, 26 April.

    His family continue to be supported by specially trained officers.

    George Luka, 45 (28.12.79), of Ellerman Avenue, Twickenham, was charged on Monday, 28 April with murder. He will appear in custody at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court later this morning.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged in Southall murder investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of Michael O’Donnell in Southall have charged a man.

    The 66-year-old was found dead after officers were called to a residential property in Samara Drive at 10:56hrs on Wednesday, 23 April.

    A 54-year-old man arrested in connection with the incident has now been charged.

    Christopher Donnelly, 54 (11.04.71), of Samara Drive, Southall, was charged on Sunday, 27 April with murder and fraud by false representation.

    He will appear in custody at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday, 28 April.

    A 28-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been bailed pending further enquiries.

    Michael’s family continue to be supported by officers and have been informed of this development.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Health promotion scholarships to inspire next generation of leaders

    Source: South Australia Police

    A $660,000 funding boost from Healthway will support the next generation of health promotion leaders through a scholarship program run by the Australian Health Promotion Association.

    Healthway CEO Colin Smith said six exceptional graduates have recently been awarded a Health Promotion Scholarship, providing them with an incredible opportunity to launch their career.

    “This program is among the few capacity building workforce programs available nationally in public health,” he said.

    “Each scholarship, valued a $110,000 each, pays for 12 months full-time salary, working at an organisation of the graduate’s choice on a project they want to develop.

    “Congratulations to all scholarship recipients, we look forward to your contributions to health promotion in the years to come.”

    Australian Health Promotion Association National President Melinda Edmunds expressed gratitude for the long-standing partnership with Healthway.

    “Over 30 years, we have provided opportunities for 85 graduates and 40 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholarship recipients,” she said.

    “Not only does this scholarship program pave the way for the next generation of WA health promotion leaders, but it significantly boosts the health promotion capacity within the host organisation.”

    “For many past recipients, their contributions have been so significant that the host organisations have chosen to retain them even after the scholarship has ended,” she said.

    To find out more visit Health Promotion Scholarships.

    Scholarship recipient

    Host organisation

    Project description

    Jade Ashwell from Wanneroo

    Foodcore

    Project aims to empower Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) educators through capacity building activities and
    direct food and nutrition support and resources

    Charlene Carlisle
    from Jane Brook
    Aboriginal recipient

    Act Belong
    Commit at Curtin

    Project aims to promote mindful movement for children and young people through the Deadly Minds Project, a culturally safe Indigenous yoga teacher training. Deadly Minds supports children’s social and emotional
    wellbeing by teaching mindfulness based movement
    practices with a trauma informed lens and integrating
    them with cultural knowledge.

    Laura Thum from Inglewood

    Collaboration for
    Evidence, Research, and Impact in Public Health, Curtin

    Project aims to support Western Australian health
    promotion organisations to increase meaningful
    participation in peer-based health promotion by
    underserved populations, specifically young people,
    LGBTIQA+ people and people from culturally and
    linguistically diverse backgrounds, by establishing and
    piloting a capacity-building Community of Practice
    (CoP), PEER+.

    Isabelle Falantin from Broome

    Regional recipient

    Broome Regional
    Aboriginal Medical
    Service

    Project aims to create a preventative health program
    targeted at primary schools that encourages children to
    engage with a range of healthy behaviours.

    Samantha Elliott from Carine

    National Nutrition
    Foundation

    Project aims to create health promotion and nutrition
    education messages specifically tailored for adolescents aged 12-17.

    Kirsty Mullane from Sorrento

    North Metropolitan
    Health Service

    Project aims to facilitate local solutions to food
    insecurity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
    people livingin the north metropolitan catchment of
    Perth.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New community outreach van launched to engage with local communities

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    New community outreach van launched to engage with local communities

    Monday, 28 April 2025 – 1:47 pm.

    Tasmania Police has launched a new community outreach van to help engage with local communities.Speaking at the launch in George Town today, Commissioner Donna Adams said that the initiative was a direct response to recommendations from the Weiss Review, Tasmania Police Community Survey and Commission of Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse in Institutional Settings, and aimed to proactively bring services and information to communities who need them or have traditionally had little or no opportunity to engage with Tasmania Police.“These recent reviews have told us that our community expects better, more visible, and in-person engagement between Tasmania Police and community members,” Commissioner Adams said.“The reviews have also told us we need to continue to build trust with vulnerable community groups and Tasmanian sport and recreation organisations for the purpose of preventing, identifying and reporting grooming, and child sexual abuse.“Together with partnering organisations like Neighbourhood Watch, PCYC, and Crime Stoppers, Poli and the team are available to visit communities and community groups around the state to achieve these outcomes.”“Poli will provide visibility in the communities where they need police most.“At a time where there is a greater than ever demand for frontline policing services, you can expect that Poli will provide an additional avenue for members of the community to discuss issues important to the community and that our partner organisations may be able to assist in providing advice and assistance.“Together we can ease the pressure by adopting new community-focused solutions that ensure community safety and efficiency.”Commissioner Adams said that the Community Engagement team will take Poli to Deloraine and Agfest over the coming days before undertaking engagements in the south, the east coast and the north west coast in the next few weeks.“It’s a way of taking our people and some of our services and information directly into communities to engage with Tasmanians. It allows us to have a high-visibility police presence in vulnerable and priority communities and those that have limited opportunity to engage with Tasmania Police for key services,” she said.Funding was provided by the Tasmanian Government to support Tasmania Police in engaging and building trust with the community.Poli is being staffed by members of the Community Engagement Services team, along with local officers who will attend local events, including schools, community and sporting events, and be on hand to:• discuss local crime issues and provide crime prevention and general advice to residents and business owners• provide information and resources about personal, residential and business safety, as well as child safety and safeguarding• customise Poli’s visit to the community/community group’s needs.Poli is also available to support other key Tasmania Police initiatives such as firearm amnesties and recruitment, as well as providing information on how to identify grooming, and keeping children and young people safe from sexual abuse.Commissioner Adams said that a broader Tasmania Police Stakeholder Engagement Strategy was currently being developed, which would outline a coordinated approach to community engagement across the state and action plans to deliver key initiatives over the three-year life of the strategy.“By continuing to work together as an organisation, I am certain that this outreach initiative will prove to be a significant and positive change in how we provide targeted and focused police services to the Tasmanian community now and into the future.”For more information, check out www.police.tas.gov.au/poli

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Ngamai Wilam – Victoria’s first publicly funded residential treatment centre for eating disorders

    Source: Australian Capital Territory Policing

    We’re ensuring Victorians with an eating disorder get the care and support they need with Victoria’s first public residential eating disorder treatment centre, Ngamai Wilam.

    Operated by Alfred Health in Armadale, Ngamai Wilam is a brand new, purpose-built 12 bed residential centre, offering 24/7 support in a safe, home-like setting, providing specialist care for Victorians aged 18 and over who are living with an eating disorder.

    Delivering on the objectives of the Victorian Eating Disorders Strategy 2024-31, the establishment of this centre represents a shift in our system towards a stepped model of care, where care is available and tailored to an individual’s needs and circumstances – where we have services that are designed to meet people where they are at.

    By providing treatment, support, and care in a welcoming, home-like environment, Ngamai Wilam gives individuals the best chance at lasting recovery.

    The centre’s approach to care has been co-designed with people who have lived experience of eating disorders, alongside families, carers, health professionals, advocacy groups, and experts. By centring lived and living experience in both the design of the built environment and the model of care, Ngamai Wilam offers compassionate, evidence-based treatment, care and support for individuals impacted by eating disorders as well as their families, carers and supporters.

    The name, Ngamai Wilam (pronounced Nah-may Will-ahm) is inspired by the story of Nala, a wise spirit who created the first sunrise and sunset. Resonating strongly with the naming group, sunset is a reminder that as the day fades, so too can difficulties, where sunrise brings the promise of fresh beginnings and renewed strength to confront challenges.

    Ngamai Wilam represents a transformative approach to care for individuals with eating disorders. With a strong focus on family and chosen supports, Ngamai Wilam is committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred care that promotes long-term recovery.

    Read more about what we’re doing to tackle the rising prevalence and severity of eating disorders in the Victorian eating disorders strategy 2024-31.

    Further information

    Ngamai Wilam will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week with onsite staff support, and will be integrated with existing eating disorder services across the state.

    Treatment is free to consumers accessing Ngamai Wilam as a publicly funded service. Equitable access to care is provided to all Victorians with a diagnosed eating disorder.

    Ngamai Wilam will progressively open to a 12-bed capacity across 2025. More information on referral pathways is available on the Alfred Health websiteExternal Link.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police investigating after shots fired at Hastings house

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Hawke’s Bay Police are investigating after shots were fired at a house on Cobham Place in Hastings early this morning.

    The incident was reported to Police at around 3am today. Witnesses reported seeing possibly two people leaving the area on a quad bike at around the same time.

    Our initial enquiries indicate that this incident is not linked to the ongoing tensions between Mongrel Mob and Black Power in Eastern District.

    We would like to hear from anyone with information which might assist our investigation. We are particularly interested in any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area at around the time of the shooting.

    If you can help, please contact Police via 105, quoting file number 250428/4796.

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

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fellowship to promote young people’s mental health in Perth’s east

    Source: South Australia Police

    Curtin University’s Dr Jonathan Sae-Koew has received Healthway’s prestigious Early Career Research Fellowship to work in collaboration with the Y WA to co-design and evaluate strategies for promoting the mental health of young people in the City of Belmont.

    Heathway CEO Colin Smith said Dr Sae-Koew’s Fellowship, worth $396,711 over the next three years, will support those teenagers who need it most.

    “We know it is challenging for young people to thrive when resources and opportunities are limited.”

    “Through this fellowship, we will be able to identify the most impactful ways to enhance their mental health and wellbeing,” he said.

    Dr Sae-Koew said his project will initially focus on working with the Y WA in the City of Belmont to adapt their existing youth programs to help young people reach their full potential and become productive, engaged members of society.

    “We’re not starting again here, we’re building on what is already out there via some great service providers, such as the Y WA and their Base@Belmont Youth Centre, to support and promote models of work in other local government areas,” he said.

    “We’ll be helping them to refine their existing services and map out what additional support might be needed to promote positive mental health.”

    This announcement coincides with the opening of Healthway’s Health Promotion Research and Scholarship Programs for 2025. More than $800,000 in grants is available through the Health Promotion Research Scholarship, Aboriginal Health Research Scholarship and Health Promotion Research Fellowship programs, which are designed to support researchers in improving the health and wellbeing outcomes for Western Australians.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Two in hot water following risky break in

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A pair of alleged burglars in the middle of removing a hot water cylinder and copper piping from a Tikipunga property have been caught in the act.

    Police were alerted to a burglary at a property undergoing renovation on Thomas Street just after 9.30am yesterday.

    The homeowner reported seeing, through security cameras, two people allegedly inside the premises removing items from the home.

    Whangārei Area Prevention Manager, Senior Sergeant Dave Wilkinson, says Police were notified after two people were seen breaking into the property, which is currently under construction.

    “The Police Dog Unit, Delta, has responded and apprehended two people allegedly trying to run out the back of the property with tools.

    “One person suffered a minor dog bite as a result.

    “CCTV footage proved invaluable in this case, alerting the homeowner to the pair entering the property and allowing them to see the footage in real time.

    “CCTV is a great security measure and not only can it alert you as incidents are happening, but it is also a crucial tool in identifying offenders and providing critical evidence.”

    A 32-year-old man and an 18-year-old woman have been charged with burglary and will appear in Whangārei District Court today.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Murdered officer honoured on milestone day

    Source: New South Wales – News

    South Australia Police (SAPOL) and the South Australian Police Historical Society has today commemorated Police Foundation Day by unveiling a memorial plaque in Hindmarsh Square for an officer killed on duty.

    Dignitaries including Lord Mayor, the Honourable Dr Jane Lomax-Smith AM, Minister of Police Stephen Mullighan, Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens APM LEM and Deputy Commissioner Linda Williams APM LEM united with other guests this morning to honour and remember 23-year-old Foot Constable John McLennan Holman, who was tragically murdered at the location on 23 February 1929.

    Police Foundation Day is held annually on 28 April to commemorate SAPOL’s founding in 1838, being the oldest centrally organised police service in Australia, and one of the oldest civilian police services in the world.

    “Today, we pay tribute to Constable John McLennan Holman who had his life tragically cut short early in his policing career,” Commissioner Stevens said.

    “Constable Holman was a promising young officer who was held in the highest esteem by fellow comrades and his dedication to the job sadly eventuated in the loss of his life.

    “Since the establishment of South Australia Police in 1838, 62 police officers have been killed in the line of duty. This is a stark reminder of the dangers police face when protecting the community.”

    During a historical address, former Deputy Commissioner and Police Historical Society member John White revisited the tragic 1929 incident as part of the memorial service.

    “Constable Holman’s death brought about a shock wave across the community,” he said.

    “This memorial reminds us of the sacrifice this young officer made in the vicinity of where he was heartbreakingly killed.”

    Foot Constable Holman and fellow constables Budgen and Marshall responded unarmed to a report of shots being fired at Grenfell Street. Upon arrival, they reportedly found the area strangely quiet, with a motorcycle and sidecar parked unattended.

    Seizing the machine, the constables travelled a short distance when suddenly confronted by two men, one John Stanley McGrath, who suddenly shot Constable Holman after he dismounted and identified as a police officer.

    “Both men turned and ran away while, unarmed and wounded, constables Holman and Budgen bravely gave chase. Shot in the abdomen, Constable Holman collapsed while Constable Budgen continued chase, calling for backup from a nearby Constable King,” Mr White told the crowd.

    “Following a vicious gunfight involving Constable King, McGrath was shot in the leg and fell. When

    Constable Budgen leant over the offender, he heard a click and, fortunately, realised McGrath was out of ammunition.”

    Once McGrath and his accomplice were apprehended, Constable Holman was found unconscious and conveyed to the then Adelaide Hospital, where he sadly died from his wounds an hour later.

    Constable Holman had only joined the service two years prior in 1927 and was due to be married a week later. McGrath was found guilty of his murder in July 1929 and sentenced to death. This was later commuted to life imprisonment, but he was released after serving only 13 years.

    On Monday 25 February 1929 a state funeral was held for the fallen constable, seeing thousands line Adelaide streets in respect and disbelief.

    “For their actions on 12 May 1930, Constables Budgen and King were awarded the King’s Police Medal for conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in recognition of the fearless discharge of their duty at the risk of death on February 23, when Constable Holman was fatally shot,” Mr White added.

    Minister of Police Stephen Mullighan paid his respects at today’s memorial and acknowledged the work of all police, past and present.

    “Today, decades on, we honour the sacrifice of a young officer who died tragically far too soon,” he said.

    “The State Government acknowledges the ongoing risk and sacrifice our brave police continue to take on while protecting fellow South Australians. “

    Meanwhile, Constable John McLennan Holman is also remembered and honoured on the South Australia Police Roll of Honour and Wall of Remembrance, and the Australian National Police Memorial Wall of Remembrance, Canberra.

    Bill Prior, President of the SA Police Historical Society, former Deputy Commissioner and Police Historical Society member John White, Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens, Honourable Dr Jane Lomax-Smith AM and The Hon Stephen Mullighan MP, Minister for Police at today’s Police Foundation Day memorial event in Hindmarsh Square.

    Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens APM LEM with the unveiled plaque dedicated to Constable John McLennan Holman, who was killed on duty in 1929.

    In 2025 we recognise and honour the passing of Constable John McLennan Holman who died as a result of a fatal gunshot, whilst he was in the execution of his duty on 23 February 1929 in Hindmarsh Square Adelaide.

    Foot Constable John McLennan Holman and his  gravesite. The gravesite was restored in 1998 with funding from the Police Association of South Australia.

    The Register state funeral coverage February 26, 1929.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 4WD and adventure show rolling into Wanneroo

    Source: South Australia Police

    Lock your diffs and hold on to your grab handles! The City of Wanneroo is bringing the Ready 4 Adventure Show to Wanneroo this May.

    Running in high-range from Friday 9 to Sunday 11 May, the show promises three action-packed days of all things 4WD, caravanning, camping, boating and fishing – right here in the heart of Wanneroo.

    Well-known among adventure lovers, Ready 4 Adventure started as a popular magazine before becoming a TV series on Channel 9. Now, it’s bigger, bolder and live, designed to immerse attendees in the ultimate outdoor lifestyle experience.

    City of Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken said the event would be the first major outdoor adventure exhibition held north of the river, delivering exciting benefits for local residents and businesses, and an action-packed experience for people from all over Perth and beyond.

    “We’re proud to bring this fantastic event to the Wanneroo Showgrounds and showcase our City as a vibrant destination for large-scale community events,” Mayor Aitken said.

    “This is a great opportunity for locals to soak up a weekend of fun, inspiration and discovery, and for visitors to experience the incredible spirit of Wanneroo and everything we have to offer in our vibrant City.”

    The show will feature an extensive lineup of exhibitors and attractions, including:

    • Caravan and 4WD displays
    • Australia’s leading 4WD and accessory brands
    • Market alley, offering adventure gear, local products and unique finds
    • Food trucks and live cooking demos, including smoked meat specialists
    • Licensed bar area
    • Kid’s and family zone with carnival rides and entertainment for all ages.

    There will also be live demonstrations and special attractions, including:

    • 4×4 track demonstrations by YouTube personality Mad Matt and Eureka 4×4
    • The Shark 6 Stage, presented by BYD, with expert talks and cooking demos
    • Show & Shine competition for 4WD enthusiasts.

    Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor explorer or simply looking for a great day out, the Ready 4 Adventure Show is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

    It’s going to be an unmissable event, and to celebrate, the City of Wanneroo is giving away 10 double passes to the show.

    All you need to do is head to the City of Wanneroo Facebook page, find the giveaway post, and tag who you’d bring along for your chance to win.

    Buy tickets online and find more information, visit ready4adventure.com.au.

    This event is owned by Media Junction and Interact Digital and proudly sponsored by the City of Wanneroo.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: Fatal crash, Glenross

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    olice can now release the name of the man who died following a crash in Glenross on 29 March.

    He was 32-year-old Robert Douglas Ralston, from Wakari, Dunedin.

    Our thoughts remain with those close to him at this difficult time.

    A 31-year-old man is due to reappear in the Dunedin District Court on 6 May facing a charge of manslaughter.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Vancouver SUV attack exposes crowd management falldowns and casts a pall on Canada’s election

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ali Asgary, Professor, Disaster & Emergency Management, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies & Director, CIFAL York, York University, Canada

    A car attack at a Filipino street festival in Vancouver just two days before Canada’s federal election has killed at least 11 people and injured many more.

    The carnage along a street lined with food trucks took place shortly after one of the men vying to become Canada’s prime minister — New Democratic Party Leader Jagmeet Singh — attended the event. A shell-shocked Singh observed a moment of silence in Penticton, B.C., during another campaign stop the next day.

    A 30-year-old Vancouver resident has been arrested, but the motivation behind the attack is unknown.

    Vancouver police say the suspect has mental health issues and was known to police prior to the attack. Police also told a news conference there was no indication there was a need for extra policing at the festival, deeming it to have a “low threat level.”

    What goes into making that calculation, and is a public event ever truly low-risk?

    Vancouver police hold a news conference on the SUV attack. (CTV News)

    Difficulties of crowd management

    The Vancouver SUV attack is now classified as a crowd-related or mass gathering type of disaster. There have been cases of public vehicle-ramming attacks in Canada in the past, in particular the 2018 Toronto van attack that left 10 people dead.

    While it’s not yet known whether the Vancouver attack was targeted, there were clearly weaknesses in crowd management for such a large gathering. These types of attacks have been on the increase over the past decade and are now considered one of the prime threats to mass gatherings in public spaces and streets.

    Unfortunately, many mass gathering events do not allocate either sufficient resources or time for crowd management procedures, particularly those related to risk and emergency management.

    Organizing mass gathering events in public spaces should factor in different threats, including the potential for car ramming, and implement effective mitigation and preparedness measures.

    ‘Soft targets’

    Many public spaces where these events take place are vulnerable to car attacks. Evidence shows that mass gatherings are soft targets, meaning they’re easily accessible to large numbers of people and have limited security, protective and warning measures in place. Extreme precautions are needed to protect the public from such attacks so that they don’t become mass casualty events.

    Those in attendance should be aware that public spaces generally lack physical barriers, or the proper distribution of them, to resist car or vehicle attacks.

    While public awareness programs exist for other hazards such as flooding, earthquakes and extreme weather events, it’s now clear that such awareness and education are needed for mass public gatherings too.

    Police should be aware that relying on limited surveillance may not be sufficient to identify such threats at the scene. Vehicle access and traffic control should be in place throughout such events. Lack of warning systems to quickly inform the crowd about an ongoing attack further increases the impacts of vehicular attacks.

    Much of the focus on these types of events has been on the motivations of the attackers. Since a considerable number of vehicle-ramming attacks have been attributed to terrorism, communities or events with the perception of lower terrorism threats may not pay close enough attention to this type of threat.



    Read more:
    Toronto’s most recent car attack was a targeted crime, not a mass attack

    Impact on the election?

    Canadians aren’t likely to get many more details about the Vancouver attack until after voting day on Monday. Could the tragedy have an impact on the outcome of the federal election?

    Past and recent studies have drawn different conclusions about the impact of disasters on election results.

    According to what’s known as retrospective voting theory, voters judge governments on how they manage disasters, particularly highly publicized, tragic events, when casting their ballots. Voters can evaluate governments based on their handling of the disaster and the amount of effort they have put into minimizing risk.

    Some studies have found that local governments were rewarded after disaster events, including Calgary after the 2013 floods, several Italian municipal governments after earthquakes, local government officials in Brazil amid municipal drought declarations and civic elections in Japan after earthquakes, tsunamis and floods.



    Read more:
    Why Canada needs to dramatically update how it prepares for and manages emergencies

    Voters can and do punish or reward governments and elected politicians based on the effects of recent disasters on them and governments’ responses to them.

    But given how soon the Canadian election is being held after the disaster occurred — and the record number of voters who have already cast their ballots in advance polls — this tragedy isn’t likely to have a substantial impact.

    Hopefully, however, it will have an influence on how organizers, police and other authorities manage public crowds and events at a time when vehicle-ramming attacks are becoming a recurrent threat. Those elected this election should prioritize efforts to ensure communities can have safer mass gathering events.

    Ali Asgary 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. Vancouver SUV attack exposes crowd management falldowns and casts a pall on Canada’s election – https://theconversation.com/vancouver-suv-attack-exposes-crowd-management-falldowns-and-casts-a-pall-on-canadas-election-255395

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Vancouver SUV attack exposes crowd management falldowns and casts a pall on Canada’s election

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ali Asgary, Professor, Disaster & Emergency Management, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies & Director, CIFAL York, York University, Canada

    A car attack at a Filipino street festival in Vancouver just two days before Canada’s federal election has killed at least 11 people and injured many more.

    The carnage along a street lined with food trucks took place shortly after one of the men vying to become Canada’s prime minister — New Democratic Party Leader Jagmeet Singh — attended the event. A shell-shocked Singh observed a moment of silence in Penticton, B.C., during another campaign stop the next day.

    A 30-year-old Vancouver resident has been arrested, but the motivation behind the attack is unknown.

    Vancouver police say the suspect has mental health issues and was known to police prior to the attack. Police also told a news conference there was no indication there was a need for extra policing at the festival, deeming it to have a “low threat level.”

    What goes into making that calculation, and is a public event ever truly low-risk?

    Vancouver police hold a news conference on the SUV attack. (CTV News)

    Difficulties of crowd management

    The Vancouver SUV attack is now classified as a crowd-related or mass gathering type of disaster. There have been cases of public vehicle-ramming attacks in Canada in the past, in particular the 2018 Toronto van attack that left 10 people dead.

    While it’s not yet known whether the Vancouver attack was targeted, there were clearly weaknesses in crowd management for such a large gathering. These types of attacks have been on the increase over the past decade and are now considered one of the prime threats to mass gatherings in public spaces and streets.

    Unfortunately, many mass gathering events do not allocate either sufficient resources or time for crowd management procedures, particularly those related to risk and emergency management.

    Organizing mass gathering events in public spaces should factor in different threats, including the potential for car ramming, and implement effective mitigation and preparedness measures.

    ‘Soft targets’

    Many public spaces where these events take place are vulnerable to car attacks. Evidence shows that mass gatherings are soft targets, meaning they’re easily accessible to large numbers of people and have limited security, protective and warning measures in place. Extreme precautions are needed to protect the public from such attacks so that they don’t become mass casualty events.

    Those in attendance should be aware that public spaces generally lack physical barriers, or the proper distribution of them, to resist car or vehicle attacks.

    While public awareness programs exist for other hazards such as flooding, earthquakes and extreme weather events, it’s now clear that such awareness and education are needed for mass public gatherings too.

    Police should be aware that relying on limited surveillance may not be sufficient to identify such threats at the scene. Vehicle access and traffic control should be in place throughout such events. Lack of warning systems to quickly inform the crowd about an ongoing attack further increases the impacts of vehicular attacks.

    Much of the focus on these types of events has been on the motivations of the attackers. Since a considerable number of vehicle-ramming attacks have been attributed to terrorism, communities or events with the perception of lower terrorism threats may not pay close enough attention to this type of threat.



    Read more:
    Toronto’s most recent car attack was a targeted crime, not a mass attack

    Impact on the election?

    Canadians aren’t likely to get many more details about the Vancouver attack until after voting day on Monday. Could the tragedy have an impact on the outcome of the federal election?

    Past and recent studies have drawn different conclusions about the impact of disasters on election results.

    According to what’s known as retrospective voting theory, voters judge governments on how they manage disasters, particularly highly publicized, tragic events, when casting their ballots. Voters can evaluate governments based on their handling of the disaster and the amount of effort they have put into minimizing risk.

    Some studies have found that local governments were rewarded after disaster events, including Calgary after the 2013 floods, several Italian municipal governments after earthquakes, local government officials in Brazil amid municipal drought declarations and civic elections in Japan after earthquakes, tsunamis and floods.



    Read more:
    Why Canada needs to dramatically update how it prepares for and manages emergencies

    Voters can and do punish or reward governments and elected politicians based on the effects of recent disasters on them and governments’ responses to them.

    But given how soon the Canadian election is being held after the disaster occurred — and the record number of voters who have already cast their ballots in advance polls — this tragedy isn’t likely to have a substantial impact.

    Hopefully, however, it will have an influence on how organizers, police and other authorities manage public crowds and events at a time when vehicle-ramming attacks are becoming a recurrent threat. Those elected this election should prioritize efforts to ensure communities can have safer mass gathering events.

    Ali Asgary 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. Vancouver SUV attack exposes crowd management falldowns and casts a pall on Canada’s election – https://theconversation.com/vancouver-suv-attack-exposes-crowd-management-falldowns-and-casts-a-pall-on-canadas-election-255395

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greater protection for domestic abuse victims in North Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Greater protection for domestic abuse victims in North Wales

    Survivors of domestic abuse across North Wales will be better protected due to the further expansion of Domestic Abuse Protection Orders.

    • Clamp down on domestic abuse extended to North Wales
    • Hundreds more victims to benefit from stronger protections from cowardly abusers
    • Government reiterates commitment to halve violence against women and girls in a decade as part of its Plan for Change

    From today, victims in North Wales – as well as their friends, families or support workers – can apply for Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPO) in the family court at Caernarfon, Prestatyn or Wrexham. Police can also apply on their behalf in the magistrates’ court for protection against abusers. This comes as the Government reiterates its commitment to halve violence against women and girls in a decade as part of its Plan for Change.

    Domestic Abuse Protection Orders build on existing police powers, providing stronger protection for victims including forcing perpetrators to stick to strict exclusion zones wearing GPS tags and attending substance misuse or mental health interventions. 

    Unlike current schemes, these orders cover all types of domestic abuse – including physical, controlling, or coercive behaviour, economic abuse and stalking – and can be issued by all courts. There will also be no maximum duration for these orders, compared to the 28-days current protection orders offer.

    In the year to March 2024, North Wales Police granted 462 Domestic Violence Protection Notices and made over 350 applications under Clare’s Law to help protect victims of domestic abuse. These figures show why more flexible, streamlined tools like Domestic Abuse Protection Orders will further help victims.

    Today marks the second expansion after the successful launch in Greater Manchester, three London boroughs (Croydon, Bromley and Sutton) and with the British Transport Police in November 2024 – with orders also rolled out across Cleveland in March. Between 27 November and 31 March, over 100 Domestic Abuse Protection Orders have been secured in Greater Manchester alone, with the police dealing with 45 breaches and jail time handed down to some of those who breached the order.

    Since then, there have been multiple convictions for breach of an order with some perpetrators already behind bars. A maximum sentence for a breach of a Domestic Abuse Protection Orders is five years in prison.

    Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls, Alex Davies-Jones, said:

    The pilot of DAPOs is already helping a number of victims across England, ending the cycle of abuse trapping them in their own homes. I am now pleased to be expanding this to selected areas in my home country of Wales.

    Launching initially in North Wales, the rollout will continue to protect even more victims, and this helps to contribute to our Plan for Change.

    These orders work, and it’s imperative that victims – predominantly women – in pilot areas know where and how to access them. If you’re experiencing abuse, contact your local family court, police, or your support worker today to help access a DAPO for the safety you deserve.

    Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, Jess Phillips, said:

    Time and time again, victims of domestic abuse tell me their safety has been compromised by a system that fails to protect them properly. That’s why these new domestic abuse protection orders are not paper promises – they are real, practical tools that track abusers through electronic tagging, creating exclusion zones, and mandating attendance at behaviour change programmes.

    Rolling out these orders to North Wales marks an important step in gathering more valuable insight as we work towards wider expansion across the country. This is how we’ll deliver on our mission to halve violence against women and girls within a decade – through concrete actions that truly protect victims and hold perpetrators to account.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

    The UK Government is working to make our communities safer, and it is vital that we reduce violence against women and girls to achieve this goal.

    These new orders provide stronger protection for victims of domestic abuse, simplify their access to help and ensure court powers are more stringent than ever before.

    We are delivering change for people across the country and victims of appalling violence across North Wales will now have the protection they deserve.

    Jenny Hopkins, Chief Crown Prosecutor for Cymru-Wales, said:

    Domestic Abuse Protection Orders are another vital way for our prosecutors to protect victims of these terrible crimes.

    We can ask the court for an order if someone is convicted, or if they are acquitted, and will be looking to prosecute anybody who breaches that order.

    Background information

    • Domestic Abuse Protection Orders were launched in November 2024 across Greater Manchester, three London boroughs (Croydon, Bromley and Sutton) and with the British Transport Police.
    • In March 2025 they were extended to Cleveland.
    • The DAPO is a joint policy shared between the Ministry of Justice and the Home Office and was legislated for in Domestic Abuse Act 2021.
    • Tagging can be imposed for up to 12 months at a time.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Missing mother Leonie Emery subject of a Cold Case episode

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Rob Hunkin:

    Police investigating the disappearance of missing mother Leonie Emery in 2018 are encouraging people to watch Monday night’s Cold Case episode on TV One.

    Leonie who was just 25 years old when she disappeared without a trace seven years ago, leaving behind her four children and devastated whānau.

    Leonie was a free spirit who moved around regularly so her family were used to regular periods of no contact. She was reported missing to Police in 2019 but it’s believed she had not been seen or heard from for around a year prior to that.

    Investigators have undertaken extensive enquiries to understand Leonie’s last movements and what might have happened to her. Police have examined several possible scenarios but believe it is most likely that Leonie has been the victim of foul play.

    Leonie had been spending time in the Waikato but was last seen at a family member’s address in Papakura sometime in late January, early February 2018. Where did she go when she left and who was she with? These are some of the questions we need the public’s help with.

    The Cold Case episode will outline key elements of this investigation and we hope it will prompt someone to come forward with information which will help us get the answers Leonie’s whānau desperately want.

    We know there are people out there with key information Police need. Please tune in on Monday at 8:30pm to watch the episode.

    We urge anyone with information, no matter how small you might think it is to contact Police.

    If you can help, call 0800 COLD CASE (0800 2653 2273).

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What will the UK Supreme Court gender ruling mean in practice? A legal expert explains

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Maine, Senior Lecturer in Law, City St George’s, University of London

    jeep2499/Shutterstock

    The Supreme Court’s decision in For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers will mean changes in how trans people in the UK access services and single-sex spaces.

    In the highly anticipated judgment announced April 17, the court ruled that the definition of “sex”, “man” and “woman” in the Equality Act refers to “biological sex”. It found that this does not include those who hold a gender recognition certificate (trans people who have had their chosen gender legally recognised). In simple terms, “women” does not include transgender women.

    It is important to note that the court’s remit was focused on interpretation of existing laws, not creating policy. The court affirmed that trans people should not be discriminated against, nor did they intend to provide a definition of sex or gender outside of the application of the Equality Act.

    The prime minister has said he welcomes the “real clarity” brought by the ruling. But while it may bring some legal clarity, questions remain about the practical implementation. The judgment also raises new questions about the operation of the Gender Recognition Act, and what it now means to hold a gender recognition certificate.

    What was the court case?

    The gender-critical feminist group For Women Scotland challenged the Scottish government’s guidance on the operation of the Equality Act in relation to a Scottish law that sets targets for increasing the proportion of women on public boards.

    The definition of a “woman” for the purposes of that law included trans women who had undergone, or were proposing to undergo, gender reassignment.

    The issue that the court had to address was whether a person with a full gender recognition certificate (GRC) which recognises that their gender is female, is a “woman” for the purposes of the Equality Act 2010. The act gives protection to people who are at risk of unlawful discrimination.

    The court’s decision was that the meaning of “sex” was biological and so references in the act to “women” and “men” did not, therefore, apply to trans women or trans men who hold GRCs.

    What has changed with this ruling?

    Prior to the ruling, there were contested views as to whether trans people could access certain single-sex spaces – some of the most contentious being prisons, bathrooms and domestic abuse shelters.

    The ruling does not require services to exclude trans people from all single-sex spaces. It does, however, clarify that if a service operates a single-sex space, for example a gym changing room, then exclusion is based on biological sex and not legal sex. Neither the court nor the government has said how “biological sex” would be defined or proven.

    A service provider may operate a single-sex space on the basis of privacy or safety of users. To base this on biological sex must be a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim – for example, the safety of women in a group for abuse survivors. This means that service providers may still operate trans-inclusive policies, but they may open themselves to legal challenge.



    Read more:
    What does the UK Supreme Court’s gender ruling mean for trans men?

    What does this mean for the Gender Recognition Act?

    The Gender Recognition Act 2004 introduced gender recognition certificates (GRCs), which certify that a person’s legal gender is different from their assigned gender at birth. A trans person can apply for a GRC in order to change their gender on their birth certificate. For legal purposes, they are then recognised as their acquired gender.

    The ruling does not strike down or affect the operation of the Gender Recognition Act. But it does give the impression that the GRA – and holding a GRC – is now less effective.

    The ruling clarifies that a trans woman who has a GRC and is recognised legally in her acquired gender can be excluded from single-sex spaces on the ground of biological sex, as would a trans woman without a GRC. Before the ruling, a trans person with a GRC would have been able to access many single-sex spaces and services that match the gender on their GRC.

    In order to be granted a GRC, a person must show that they have lived in their acquired gender for at least two years and that they intend to live in that gender until death. Their application must be approved by two doctors, but – in what was a world-first at the time it was introduced – does not require any medical transition.

    The Supreme Court states that trans people (with or without a GRC) will still be protected from discrimination. Sex and gender reassignment are both protected characteristics under the Equality Act. This means that trans people may still rely on the law to protect them from direct or indirect discrimination levelled at them on the basis of being trans, or because of their perceived sex.

    The court uses the example that a trans woman applying for a job being denied that job on the basis of being trans would still be entitled to sue for discrimination.

    How will single-sex services operate?

    The key question now, both for service providers and trans people, is what spaces trans people will be able to use. It is not the Supreme Court’s job to issue guidance on this – and the judgment is notably silent on the practical implementation of the ruling.

    Service providers may choose to offer unisex spaces, for example gender neutral bathrooms. British Transport Police have already confirmed that strip searches of those arrested on the network would be conducted based on biological sex, and other services will likely follow.

    It is up to service providers, employers and healthcare providers to interpret the ruling and decide how to apply it. The government has said that further guidance will be issued by the Equality and Human Rights Commission. But how the ruling is implemented in practice, and what it means for other laws like the Gender Recognition Act, will likely be debated for some time.

    Alexander Maine 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. What will the UK Supreme Court gender ruling mean in practice? A legal expert explains – https://theconversation.com/what-will-the-uk-supreme-court-gender-ruling-mean-in-practice-a-legal-expert-explains-255043

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal Crash, Lake Sumner Road, Christchurch

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died, and another has been seriously injured following a crash on Lake Sumner Road this morning.

    Police were called to the crash at around 11.30am.

    Sadly, despite best efforts of emergency services, one person died at the scene.

    Another person received serious injuries.

    The Serious Crash Unit have been advised.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road Blocked, SH1, Greta Valley

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway One, near Greta Valley, is blocked following a three-vehicle crash this afternoon.

    Emergency services were called to the crash between Scargill Valley Road and Motunau Beach Road at around 4.20pm.

    One person is reported to have critical injuries at this time.

    The road is blocked, and motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible and expect delays.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rhode Island Man Admits Role to Defraud New Hampshire Automobile Dealership

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PROVIDENCE – A Providence man admitted to a federal judge in Rhode Island that he participated in a scheme to defraud automobile dealerships in Rhode Island and New Hampshire, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.

    Adalberto Mauricio Romero, 28, admitted that he intended to defraud a New Hampshire dealership in May 2022, when he sought to take possession of a Land Rover valued at $95,713. Delivery of the vehicle to Romero was halted when he presented a fraudulent driver’s license containing information that was used as part of an online application to secure financing through a dealership financing program.

    Romero pleaded guilty on April 24. 2025, to a charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 24, 2025. The sentence imposed will be determined by a federal district judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul F. Daly, Jr.

    The matter was investigated by the Warwick, RI, Police Department, the Bedford, NH, Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. 

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Show you care this Christmas

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Keep an eye on those around you, looking out for signs they may be struggling.

    In brief:

    • The festive season isn’t a happy time for everyone.
    • There are many ways to show people you care if they are having a hard time.
    • You can assist charities in a number of ways.

    The festive season isn’t always easy or enjoyable for everyone.

    Fortunately, there are many ways you can show a fellow Canberran that someone cares.

    Consider those around you

    Loneliness, grief or the stress of preparing for the holidays can get people down or leave them feeling anxious and overwhelmed.

    When things are not going well for you or someone you know, it is important to remember that you are not alone and there are people and services that can provide help, support and assistance.

    As well as being aware of your own mental health, keep an eye on those around you, looking out for signs they may be struggling. It could be a friend, family member, colleague or neighbour.

    For 24-hour help, call Lifeline on 131 114.

    There is also a crisis chat function.

    There are resources available if you need help with your mental health. Find out more by visiting the ACT Health website.

    Aimed at people under 25, their parents and carers, MindMap is a unique online tool where young Canberrans can find appropriate service information in a safe and anonymous way.

    Young Canberrans and their carers can also find targeted mental health support at MindMap.

    If you are experiencing domestic and family violence there are services that can help.

    If the situation is life-threatening, call Triple 000 immediately or visit your nearest Emergency Department.

    Ways you can give this Christmas

    There are also plenty of ways you can help locally this Christmas.

    While most charities will gladly accept financial donations, Canberrans can help those who might be doing it tough by donating gifts, toys, gift cards and/or non-perishable food items to one of the following charities.*

    There are also animal charities including the RSPCA and Canberra Pet Rescue, among many others.

    *This is just a small sample of ACT charities.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Latest health data reveals thousands of patients now seen quicker

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Latest health data reveals thousands of patients now seen quicker

    Thousands of patients are securing appointments quicker every day as part of the government’s drive to build an NHS fit for the future.

    Thousands of patients are seeing tangible benefits from the government’s Plan for Change, with the latest health data showing significant improvements in access to care.

    Tens of thousands of patients up and down the country are already getting their appointments more quickly thanks to the government’s Plan for Change to reform the NHS and drive forward national renewal. 

    By slashing waiting lists and delivering improvements across the NHS in record time—including delivering three million additional appointments six months early—the government is exceeding its own targets and driving down waiting lists at a rapid pace. This has resulted in a six-month decline and a 219,000 reduction since July.

    Around 4.5 million tests, checks and scans were carried out in Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs)—many of which are conveniently located on local high streets—between July and February, a 50% increase on the previous year. 

    This equates to 18,000 more checks being delivered every day for patients to diagnose some of the biggest killers, including cancer and heart disease. 

    As well as opening more CDCs to bring care closer to people’s homes, the government is going further and faster by significantly expanding the number of CDCs open 12 hours a day, seven days a week—making it easier for people to get their tests and appointments done at a time that suits them.

    Backed by almost £26 billion investment at the Budget, the Plan for Change is driving forward reform of the NHS to put an end to the misery for many people who have had to put their lives on hold while stuck on waiting lists, delivering the change people voted for. 

    Alongside action to rebuild the NHS, the Plan for Change is also focused on growing the economy to improve living standards across the country. 

    The government is already putting more pounds in people’s pockets by freezing fuel duty, boosting the minimum wage by up to £1,400 a year, and protecting working people with no rise in their national insurance, income tax, or VAT. Living standards are growing at their fastest rate in two years, and the Spring Statement showed people will be, on average, over £500 a year better off. 

    Earlier this month, we outlined plans for a Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, which aims to put 13,000 more officers into neighbourhood policing roles by 2029—an increase of more than 50%. This will help restore people’s trust in local policing. 

    To ensure that working people can benefit from clean, secure, homegrown energy, we have set up Great British Energy in Aberdeen to catalyse private investment and announced its first major project: installing solar panels on 200 schools and 200 NHS sites, which will cut energy bills.

    Through the Plan for Change, we are working to give every child the best start in life and break down barriers to opportunity. This week, thousands of children started attending the first 750 free breakfast clubs, providing them with a healthy start to the day, giving parents 30 minutes of free childcare, and helping them save up to £450 a year.

    Restoring economic stability and driving growth is fundamental to the Plan for Change. The OBR has confirmed that the economy will grow every year from 2026 and that our planning reforms will lead to a 0.2% increase in GDP, worth £6.8 billion. 

    Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden said:

    Through our Plan for Change, we are getting on with the job of rebuilding our country and improving the public services we all rely on.

    It’s already making a difference in people’s lives as we put police back on the beat, get more teachers in classrooms, and this week launched free breakfast clubs in hundreds of schools.

    The latest data shows our approach is delivering real change, with tens of thousands more patients getting the right care and waiting lists falling faster in areas where there are higher numbers of people out of work. And this is just the start.

    The government is also working at pace to slash NHS waiting lists in areas with the highest economic inactivity. The scheme, known as the Further Faster 20 programme, is part of plans to reduce the number of people unable to work due to long-term sickness, which is at its highest level since the 1990s.

    The programme sees teams made up of clinical leads from across trusts, as well as national specialists, driving innovative practices. It has resulted in a total of almost 50,000 cases being removed from waiting lists in these areas since October. 35% of the national reduction in the overall waiting list has come from the 20 hospitals involved in the scheme, which has fallen faster than the national average.

    Minister for Elective Care Karin Smyth said:

    This government made a promise to the British public to reverse more than a decade of soaring waiting times and poor access to patient care—and through our Plan for Change, we are starting to turn the tide across every part of the country—with our crack teams already having a transformative impact.

    This is a long road, but with tens of thousands more patients getting care that works for them and waiting lists falling faster in areas of high joblessness, we are getting the NHS back on its feet so it delivers for patients once again.

    This is only the start. From bringing patient care closer to home, to ending the 8 am scramble for a GP appointment, this government is determined to transform our NHS to make it fit for the future.

    One example of the Future Faster 20 programme is the Trafford Elective Hub, where the team have been running super-charged theatre lists that see almost twice the number of patients seen as standard theatre lists.

    The hub also runs super clinics at weekends, providing one-stop shops to treat 100 patients at a time. The hub also has employment advisers on hand to help patients get back to work faster.

    Miss Toli Onon, Joint Chief Medical Officer at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust said:

    The Trafford Elective Hub exemplifies innovative approaches to reducing waiting lists, such as High Performance theatre lists which are designed to optimise surgical productivity by refining the surgical pathway and minimising inefficiencies. 

    By enhancing the productivity and efficiency of our elective services, we are demonstrating a sustainable and effective model for the future that benefits more patients.

    Other initiatives include Super Clinics. These Super Clinics, which can serve up to 100 patients over weekends, streamline care by providing multiple services in one visit and include employment advisors to help patients return to work faster.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man arrested in Twickenham murder investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met officers have made an arrest after a man died after being found injured in south-west London.

    The Met was called at 23:39hrs on Saturday, 26 April to reports of a man found injured in Ellerman Avenue, Twickenham.

    Officers responded with paramedics and provided first aid to a 38-year-old man found with stab wounds. Despite their efforts, he died at the scene.

    His next of kin have been informed and will be supported by specially trained family liaison officers.

    A 47-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody at a south London police station.

    Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee, who is leading the investigation from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said:

    “A team of detectives are working to piece together the circumstances that resulted in this tragic incident. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family at this difficult time.

    “Officers will remain in the area throughout the day as they carry out further enquiries and gather evidence. Anyone with concerns or information about what happened should speak to them.”

    Anyone with information or people with dashcam footage that could assist the investigation team is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 8005/26Apr.

    To remain anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: School bullying

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ20: School bullying 
    Question:
     
         Some members of the public have noted that according to the guidelines on the handling of bullying incidents set out in the School Administration Guide published by the Education Bureau (EDB), the EDB advises schools to adopt a “Whole School Approach” (WSA) to formulate and implement anti-‍bullying strategies; the EDB requires schools to intervene and follow up bullying incidents as soon as possible only if such incidents occur; and the EDB should be notified only if the school bullying incidents are of a more severe nature (e.g. teachers being the bullies, and incidents involving brutal violence, injuries or deaths). There are views that as neither the adoption of WSA nor the reporting of school bullying incidents is mandatory, the handling of school bullying incidents has been ineffective for a prolonged period. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the number of student cases involving school bullying handled by schools, as well as the respective numbers of requests for assistance, complaints and reported cases in relation to school bullying received by the EDB, in each of the past three school years;
     
    (2) of the number of schools currently adopting WSA to formulate and implement anti-bullying strategies, as well as their proportion to the total number of schools;
     
    (3) whether it has grasped the primary reporting channels and handling procedures for school bullying adopted by schools under WSA; if so, of the details;
     
    (4) whether it has plans to change the current practice of not requiring schools to notify the EDB of all school bullying cases; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (5) given that the authorities have indicated the establishment of a one-‍stop hotline and the offering of online counselling services in the 2023-2024 school year to provide students and parents with advice on and support in handling school bullying, of the details of such hotline and services, and whether an assessment of their effectiveness has been conducted?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The Education Bureau (EDB) has all along been adopting a “zero tolerance” policy on school bullying. Any bullying act, irrespective of the form or for whatever reasons, is totally unacceptable. School is a place where students learn to show care, concern, support and respect for one another. Creating a safe and harmonious school environment for students to learn and grow up happily is the fundamental responsibility of schools, as well as the common goal of the EDB and all educators. Our reply to the question raised by the Hon Lai Tung-kwok is as follows:
     
    (1) According to the information collected from the EDB’s annual questionnaire survey on guidance and discipline cases in public sector primary and secondary schools, the number of student cases handled by schools related to school bullying from the 2020/21 to 2022/23 school years was about 420 on average per year. Schools have all along been handling bullying incidents properly and explaining the incidents to parents in accordance with their school-based policy. Parents and other people may also seek assistance from the EDB as necessary. In the three school years, the EDB had received a total of 47 requests for assistance, complaints and reports in relation to school bullying, which mainly involved physical/ behavioural violence and verbal attack. The EDB had completed 45 cases, of which five complaints were found substantiated or partially substantiated upon investigation.
     
    (2) to (4) The EDB has required all public sector schools in the territory, through issuance of circulars and guidelines, to take bullying incidents seriously, implement proactive measures and adopt the Whole School Approach in formulating and implementing anti-bullying policies. The School Administration Guide (SAG) and circular issued by the EDB lay down clearly and in details the principles of handling school bullying, as well as the relevant procedures, methods and follow-up actions, which should include a clear standpoint of “zero tolerance”, reporting mechanism and handling procedures, and monitoring with high transparency. In addition, the EDB has also adopted a multi-pronged approach to help schools implement the policy on prevention and handling of school bullying, including raising anti-bullying awareness among students and school staff, nurturing students’ proper values and cultivating in them a positive sense of mutual trust, inclusion and friendship through school curriculum, learning and teaching resources, student activities and teacher training.
     
         Under the spirit of school-based management, the Incorporated Management Committees should lead schools in formulating their school-based mechanisms and procedures for administering school operation, including the policy on prevention and handling of school bullying, with a view to fostering of a harmonious school environment that enables student learning and growth. Schools should take a proactive approach to handle each school bullying incident seriously, while all school staff are required to report to the school management or the responsible team when any bullying case is known to them. If school bullying incidents occur, schools should take education, guidance and protection of their students as the prime concern, handle the cases in accordance with the “Flowchart for Handling Bullying Incidents in Schools” provided in the SAG and circular by the EDB and activate school-based crisis management mechanism as the situation so warrants. Upon informed of a school bullying incident, action should be taken to stop the bullying immediately. The school should assess whether the student(s) concerned is/are injured or emotionally unstable, contact their parents as soon as possible and arrange for first aid or treatment as appropriate if there is any physical injury. Thereafter, the school should intervene and render an initial mediation, and arrange guidance personnel or relevant professional service outside school to provide in-depth follow-up for the student(s) involved in the school bullying incident. For school bullying incidents of a more serious nature (such as those involving serious violence or injury), the school should notify the respective regional education office of the EDB as soon as possible so that assistance could be rendered. If illegal acts are involved, schools should proactively contact the respective Police School Liaison Officer. For serious cases, schools should report the incidents to the Police immediately. The EDB will liaise with the schools, the Social Welfare Department (SWD) and the Police for appropriate handling measures. 
     
         We believe that in the handling of bullying incidents, education, guidance and protection of students should be the prime concern. Schools are staffed with professionals (including guidance personnel, school social workers and school-based educational psychologists) to provide students in need with due support and mediation. In the process of handling these cases, schools should work with parents to help the students involved rectify their behaviours and better protect the students being bullied. Moreover, through professional consultation and school visits, the EDB’s guidance professionals review with schools their anti-bullying work on an ongoing basis, and provide appropriate support according to schools’ needs. To further enhance schools’ capability of preventing and handling bullying in schools, the EDB will continue to provide professional training programmes, seminars and workshops for school personnel to keep them abreast of the latest information and strengthen their skills in handling bullying incidents, thereby enabling schools to implement their anti-bullying measures more effectively. The EDB will collaborate with other government departments such as the SWD and the Police to provide schools with assistance in various aspects to facilitate the cultivation of a harmonious and caring school environment. The EDB will continue to monitor the situation of schools and provide timely support to prevent school bullying and protect the well-being of students.
     
    (5) The EDB will set up a one-stop hotline and offer online counselling services in the 2023/24 school year to provide students and parents with advice on and support in handling conflicts among peers or school bullying. Through the hotline and online services, duty counsellors and registered social workers will provide advice and counselling services for students and parents, and may refer the cases to government or non-governmental organisations for follow-up where necessary. The hotline and online counselling services will commence operation in May 2024. The EDB will disseminate the details of the hotline and online services through various channels such as circular memorandum, briefings and websites, and will monitor the services operation on an on-going basis.
    Issued at HKT 11:47

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fatal traffic accident in Sheung Shui

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Police are investigating a fatal traffic accident happened in Sheung Shui tonight (April 26) in which a man died.

    At 7.25pm, a light goods vehicle driven by a 51-year-old man was travelling along Lung Ma Road towards Queens Hill Estate. When approaching the junction of Lung Ma Road and Lung Chun Road, the light goods vehicle reportedly went out of control and knocked down a 77-year-old man after running onto the pavement.

    Sustaining serious head injuries, the man was rushed to North District Hospital in unconscious state and was certified dead at 8.31pm.

    The driver was arrested for dangerous driving causing death and is being detained for enquiries.

    Investigation by the Special Investigation Team of Traffic, New Territories North is underway.

    Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 3800.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IOS SAGAR IN PORT LOUIS, MAURITIUS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 27 APR 2025 3:10PM by PIB Delhi

    IOS SAGAR arrived at Port Louis Harbour, Mauritius on 26 Apr 25 on completion of Phase I of Joint EEZ surveillance with National Coast Guard (NCG) Mauritius as part of deployment to the South Western Indian Ocean. The visit marks a significant milestone in India’s commitment to regional maritime cooperation and capacity-building with friendly foreign countries.

    Indian Naval Ship Sunayna (IOS SAGAR), which sailed from Karwar on 05 Apr 25, has 44 naval personnel from nine friendly foreign nations of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), including two officers and six sailors from the Republic of Mauritius.

    This initiative underlines the Indian Navy’s continued efforts to enhance interoperability, mutual learning, and regional maritime security in a spirit of collective growth and cooperation.

    The ship and her crew were received with warmth and enthusiasm, reflecting the close and time-tested bonds between India and Mauritius. The welcome reception was graced by Mr. Sooroojebally R, PMSM, the Commissioner of Police, and several high-ranking dignitaries of the Prime Minister’s Office, Mauritius Police Force, Indian High Commission, and NCG Mauritius. On completion of the welcome ceremony, the dignitaries were given a tour of the ship, which was followed by interaction with personnel embarked from friendly foreign nations.

    During the port call, the Commanding Officer, IOS SAGAR, will call on the Commandant, National Coast Guard, the Commissioner of Police and the High Commissioner of India. Various activities are planned during the two-day port call, including the visit by the IOS SAGAR crew to the Maritime Air Squadron, Special Mobile Force Squadron and the Police Helicopter Squadron. The Commissioner of Police will also interact with the multinational crew of IOS SAGAR at Police Headquarters. The ship will be open to visitors on 27 Apr 25. Activities like trekking, Joint Yoga session and friendly sports fixtures have also been planned during the ship’s stay at Port Louis.

    On departure, the ship will undertake phase II of Joint EEZ surveillance with the NCG Mauritius and, upon completion, proceed to Port Victoria, Seychelles.

    INS Sunayna, a state-of-the-art Saryu class NOPV, is designed for anti-piracy operations, maritime surveillance, and HADR. The ship is equipped with medium and close-range gunnery weapons and modern electronic warfare suites, including missile defence measures. She can also carry a helicopter, which enhances her operational and surveillance capability.

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    VM/SKS                                                                                                        94/25

     

     

    (Release ID: 2124711) Visitor Counter : 49

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Smart Parent Net” Recommendation: (Video)24 個品格優點 (Chinese version only); ‘e-Generation Joyful Internet Surfing’ Parent Seminar (5): Know more about Myopia Management under e-Learning & Recognising Online Pitfalls

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    IT in Education Section of EDB, Hong Kong Education City and Committee on Home-School Co-operation will co-organise ‘e-Generation Joyful Internet Surfing’ Parent Seminar (5): Know more about Myopia Management under e-Learning & Recognising Online Pitfalls. The seminar will be held on 8 June 2024 from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm in webinar mode. Cantonese and English sessions will be arranged. Registration is now open (application deadline: 8 June 2024 11:00 am). A resident optometrist from the Optometry Clinic of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University will provide parents with knowledge about protection of vision and offer them methods to prevent myopia in children and reduce its progression, allowing children to maintain ocular health in their daily lives and studies. A senior inspector of police from the Cyber Security Division of the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB) of the Hong Kong Police Force will share with parents strategies to prevent their children from falling prey to cyber pitfalls, and help parents to enhance children’s awareness of digital safety and prevent them from becoming victims of cyber traps. Parents are cordially invited to join the seminar. For details, please refer to the website (https://www.hkedcity.net/eventcalendar/event/66389267cc9f93d2758c0156).

    For enquiries, please contact HKEdCity at 2624 1000 or email to info@hkedcity.net.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ1: Mental health of primary and secondary school students

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ1: Mental health of primary and secondary school students 
    Question:
     
         Last year, the number of suspected student suicide cases reported to the Education Bureau (EDB) by primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong remained high and even hit a record high in the past five years. In addition, self-‍administered questionnaires were collected from 330 000 primary and secondary school students attending the Student Health Service Centres of the Department of Health in the 2022-2023 school year, with results indicating that 1.3 per cent of the students had attempted suicide in the past 12 ‍months. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) as the Government implemented a Three-Tier School-based Emergency Mechanism in all secondary schools in Hong Kong in December last year to address the problem of student suicide, how the EDB assists schools in identifying at an early stage students with mental health needs, and of the number of referral cases received so far by the off-campus support network team and the follow-up situations; whether it has assessed the effectiveness of these two tiers under the mechanism;
     
    (2) of the number of students with severe mental health needs who were referred by school principals under the aforesaid mechanism to receive psychiatric specialist services of the Hospital Authority in the past six months, and the follow-up situations of such cases; and
     
    (3) given the EDB’s call for active participation from primary and secondary schools in the 4Rs Mental Health Charter to be launched in the next school year to enhance students’ mental health, of the number and percentage of schools signing up for joining the charter before the deadline last month?
     
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Nurturing students with proper values and a positive attitude has all along been the objective of education, and “leading a healthy lifestyle” is one of the goals of school curriculum. The Education Bureau (EDB) attaches great importance to the physical and psychological well-being of students. Through cross-departmental and cross-sectoral collaboration with the Health Bureau (HHB), Department of Health (DH), Social Welfare Department (SWD), Hong Kong Police Force and other non-government organisations (NGOs), we work together to provide support for schools, students and parents. With the efforts of all parties, we can build a more robust safety net for students.
     
         In consultation with the HHB and SWD, my consolidated reply to the question raised by Dr the Hon Tik Chi-yuen is as follows:
     
    (1) and (2) In view of the upward trend of suspected student suicide cases in 2023, the Government has implemented the Three-Tier School-based Emergency Mechanism (the Three-Tier Mechanism) in all secondary schools in Hong Kong from December 2023 to December 2024 through the cross-departmental collaboration of the EDB, HHB and SWD so as to provide support for students with higher risk as early as possible.
     
         Under the Three-Tier Mechanism, schools will give priority to caring for and counselling students with higher risk and will provide timely assistance and seek professional counselling or treatment services for them through the school’s interdisciplinary team in the first-tier. The EDB urges school personnel to refer to A Resource Handbook for Schools: Detecting, Supporting and Making Referral for Students with Suicidal Behaviours published by the EDB to preliminarily identify the more vulnerable students and pay attention to whether they have displayed related warning signs. If necessary, schools may arrange students with higher risk to conduct a preliminary mental health screening by using screening tools, such as Self-test Station: Depressive Mood from the DH and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) from “Shall We Talk”. The interdisciplinary team in schools, which consists of guidance masters/mistresses, guidance personnel, school social workers and school-based educational psychologists, will prioritise and launch follow-up services for students with higher risk. School personnel are recommended to refer to the Guidelines on How Schools can Help Students with Mental Health Problems published by the EDB to provide support to students as soon as possible. In order to strengthen school personnel’s early identification of and support for students with suicidal tendencies, apart from providing guidelines and a 60-hour thematic course on “gatekeeper” training for teachers every year, the EDB also organised online “gatekeeper” training courses for primary and secondary schools in December 2023. About 1 000 school personnel enrolled for the online training course. In addition, the EDB organised more than 40 additional training courses and workshops early this year, with an enhanced focus on enriching school personnel’s knowledge and skills in caring for students with mental health needs. The courses benefited about 2 200 school personnel.
     
         In the second-tier of the mechanism, if the schools consider that they need to seek extra support subsequent to the identification and school-based intervention in the first-tier mechanism, they may seek assistance from the off-campus support network (support network) co-ordinated by the SWD. The SWD has engaged five NGOs to form the support network to provide extra support to schools. Upon receiving referrals, the support network team would contact the students concerned as soon as possible and arrange follow-up services, including emergency intervention services covering assessments, support and counselling through individual, group or online format; and would also refer the students to other services such as the Integrated Family Services, the Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness and the Integrated Children and Youth Services Centre according to their individual needs. As of March 2024, the support network team has received a total of 69 referral cases. Besides, the EDB has also collaborated with the SWD to arrange the support network team to visit about 150 secondary schools to organise mental health activities since February this year, with a view to enhancing students’ awareness of mental health, as well as strengthening their adaptability and awareness of help-seeking.
     
         In the third-tier of the mechanism, school principals may refer students with severe mental health needs to the psychiatric specialist services of the Hospital Authority (HA). After triage and screening, the HA will accord priority to students in urgent cases. Furthermore, the HA has set up a telephone consultation hotline specifically to provide professional advice for school principals. As of March 2024, the HA’s psychiatric specialist services received a total of 168 referrals and 75 telephone enquiries from school principals through the Three-Tier Mechanism. Among the referred cases, around 3 per cent were Priority 1 (urgent) category, while about 40 per cent were Priority 2 (semi-urgent) category. The remaining cases were either Routine (stable) or were already being followed up by the HA’s psychiatric specialist services.
     
         Based on our understanding and communication with schools, with the concerted efforts of schools and various stakeholders, school personnel’s awareness on students’ mental health has enhanced in general, being able to early identify and support students with higher risk. The operations of the second-tier and third-tier of the Mechanism are smooth, providing timely and appropriate counselling and treatment to students in need. The Government will closely monitor the operation of the Three-Tier Mechanism and engage a consultant to evaluate its effectiveness.
     
    (3) The EDB launched the 4Rs Mental Health Charter (4Rs Charter) in April this year and invited all public sector and Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) schools in Hong Kong to join. The 4Rs cover four important elements in fostering students’ mental health, namely Rest, Relaxation, Relationship and Resilience. We hope that the stakeholders’ awareness on mental health will be enhanced and they will work together and take actions through the promotion of 4Rs Charter. Schools participating in the 4Rs Charter are required to set practical and feasible goals and take concrete actions to promote students’ physical and psychological well-being. Schools joining the 4Rs Charter must also pledge to join the Mental Health Workplace Charter, which is jointly implemented by the DH, the Labour Department and the Occupational Safety and Health Council, as well as the Whole School Health Programme launched by the DH, so as to carry on with their school-based health promotion efforts in a more comprehensive and effective manner. The EDB has also been engaging NGOs as partner organisations of the 4Rs Charter to provide schools with additional services, activities and courses to enhance students’ health. As of May 31 2024, a total of 340 primary and secondary schools have applied to join the 4Rs Charter, accounting for 34 per cent of all public sector schools and DSS schools in Hong Kong. We will continue to encourage more schools to join the 4Rs Charter, so as to cultivate a healthy environment that is conducive to students’ growth.

         The EDB will continue to work with various stakeholders to promote mental health in a more comprehensive manner, jointly establish a support network and create a caring culture, so as to promote students’ physical and psychological well-being.
    Issued at HKT 15:34

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –