WASHINGTON – Robert Andrew Cooper, 68, of Washington D.C., was arrested today and charged in a two-count federal indictment with repeatedly making threatening phone calls, in December 2024, during which he allegedly said he intended to kill a federal official and an officer of the Metropolitan Police Department.
The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., FBI Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Cooper is charged with two counts of interstate communications with a threat to kidnap or injure. He will make an initial appearance at 1:30 p.m. today.
The case is being investigated by the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan Horan.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
BOSTON – The former mayor of Les Irois, Haiti was convicted March 28 by a federal jury in Boston of illegally obtaining a permanent resident card, commonly referred to as a green card, by means of a false statement. A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigation found he concealed the fact that he ordered and carried out or materially assisted in extrajudicial and political killings and other acts of violence against the Haitian people.
Jean Morose Viliena, 52, was convicted of three counts of visa fraud. Sentencing is scheduled for June 20, 2025. Viliena was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2023.
“Viliena knowingly lied to conceal his violent past, deceiving immigration authorities to come to the United States. The brave witnesses who came forward to testify in this case relayed their experiences of extreme violence and oppression committed by Viliena and his associates. Thanks to their testimony, his fraud has been uncovered, and he will now face consequences for his violence and deception,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge New England Michael J. Krol.
“The political corruption and violence that the people of Haiti endured at the direction of Jean Morose Viliena, is appalling,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “The United States is not where you come to hide from your crimes. Today’s conviction is proof that running away from your crimes and lying to federal officials will catch up to you. I applaud the courage of the witnesses who spoke up about the abuse they suffered as a result of Viliena.”
“Today a jury found that Jean Morose Viliena lied his way into gaining entrance into the United States after committing unspeakable acts of violence in Haiti,” said Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division Matthew R. Galeotti. “The Justice Department will not stand for human rights violators illegally entering and roaming the streets of our communities. Thank you to the brave victims and witnesses who helped our law enforcement partners and prosecutors begin to hold Viliena accountable for his crimes.”
“The men and women of CBP work diligently alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to ensure the safety of the people in our communities. Emigrating to the United States is a privilege and if you conceal your criminal conduct to deceive your way into this country, you will ultimately be detected, held accountable and brought to justice,” said Jennifer De La O, Director of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Boston Field Office.
According to court documents, Viliena was the mayor of Les Irois, Haiti from December 2006 until at least February 2010. As a candidate and as mayor, Viliena was backed by a political machine called Korega, which exerts power throughout the southwestern region of Haiti through armed violence. Viliena personally supervised his mayoral staff and security detail and led an armed group in Les Irois aligned with Korega. Under Viliena’s direct supervision, the Korega militia enforced Viliena’s policies by various means, including by targeting political opponents in Les Irois through armed violence.
According to the indictment, as mayor, Viliena was involved in several instances of violence. The first occurred July 27, 2007 when a witness spoke at a judicial proceeding in Les Irois on behalf of a neighbor who had been assaulted by Viliena. In reprisal for that testimony, that evening, Viliena led an armed group to that witness’ home, where Viliena and his associates shot and killed the witness’ younger brother, and then smashed his skull with a large rock before a crowd of bystanders.
The second incident occurred in or around April 2008, when a group of local journalists and activists founded a community radio station. According to court documents, Viliena opposed establishment of the radio station and, on April 8, 2008, mobilized members of his staff and the Korega militia to forcibly shut down the radio station and seize its broadcasting equipment. At that time, Viliena distributed firearms to the Korega militia members, some of whom also carried machetes and picks.
On the day of the attack on the radio station, Viliena pistol-whipped an individual with his gun and struck him with his fists. When the individual tried to flee, Viliena ordered one of his associates to shoot and kill him. Shots were fired which hit the individual in the leg. The individual spent several months in various hospitals and his leg was later amputated above his knee. Another individual, also a citizen of Haiti, became a target of Viliena because of his association with the radio station. On the day of the attack of the radio station, that individual was present and when he tried to flee, he was hit by a bullet in the face. He required months of intensive medical treatment, including two surgeries to extract shotgun pellets from his face, which left him permanently blind in one eye. According to court documents, pieces of shotgun pellets remain in the individual’s scalp and arms.
On June 3, 2008, Viliena presented himself at the U.S. Embassy Consular Office in Port au Prince, Haiti where he applied for a visa to enter the United States. The form specifically requires that each applicant state whether they have “ordered, carried out or materially assisted in extrajudicial and political killings and other acts of violence against the Haitian people.” Viliena falsely responded that he had not. Viliena thereafter swore before a U.S. Consular Officer that the contents of the application were true and signed the application. According to court documents, the U.S. Department of State approved Viliena’s visa application.
On July 14, 2008, Viliena entered the United States and was later granted lawful permanent residence status and received a permanent resident card. Viliena used his permanent resident card on numerous occasions to enter the United States.
The charge of visa fraud provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.
The investigation was led by ICE HSI New England and CBP New England with the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service Boston Field Office and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service Fraud Detection and National Security Division. This matter was investigated with the assistance of the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center. Valuable assistance was provided by the Malden Police Department.
The Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center is led by ICE and leverages the expertise of criminal investigators, attorneys, historians, intelligence analysts and federal partners to provide a whole of government approach to prevent the U.S. from becoming a safe haven for individuals who commit war crimes, genocide, torture and other human rights abuses around the globe. Currently, ICE has more than 180 active investigations into suspected human rights violators and is pursuing more than 1,945 leads and removals cases involving suspected human rights violators from 95 different countries. The center has issued more than 79,000 lookouts since 2003, for potential perpetrators of human rights abuses and stopped over 390 human rights violators and war crimes suspects from entering the U.S.
Individuals can report suspicious criminal activity to the ICE Tip Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE or (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form. Highly trained specialists take reports from both the public and law enforcement agencies on more than 400 laws enforced by ICE.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The funding distributed to date has supported 2591 students from 1225 Canberra families.
Just over one month into the 2024 school year and the ACT Government has provided more than $1.5 million to eligible Canberra parents and carers through its Future of Education Equity Fund.
The funding distributed to date has supported 2591 students from 1225 Canberra families.
The fund helps ACT students from eligible families access everyday essentials to assist with their education and wellbeing.
This includes as book packs, uniforms and excursions, sport equipment and activities, tuition, and music lessons.
It supports financially disadvantaged families with students who are enrolled in preschool through to Year 12 in any ACT school.
Payments are:
$400 for preschool students
$500 for primary school students
$750 for high school and college students
Having such items and services, that they otherwise might not have, helps students fully engage with their education.
Last year the Fund supported 5000 students, with more than $2.9 million disbursed.
Applications for the 2024 school year will remain open until 29 November 2024.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Winners Glenda Stevens, Joanne Farrell and Mijica Lus
The recipients of the 2024 ACT Women’s Awards have been announced.
The awards recognise women and gender diverse people who have made an outstanding contribution to the lives of women and girls in the ACT.
Meet the 2024 ACT Women’s Awards winners:
2024 ACT Woman of the Year: Joanne Farrell – Founder and Director, Build Like a Girl
Joanne (Jo) Farrell is a champion for women in the building industry.
In 2020, she founded Build Like a Girl, a not-for-profit program that supports women of all backgrounds and ages to work in trades. Since then, Jo has helped 33 women gain full-time employment. She regularly assists with programs, initiatives and services aimed at improving the participation rate of women in trades, which is currently just 2 per cent.
“I’m really honoured to be nominated and recognised for the work,” Jo said.
“I just turn up every day and try and do the work and promote the industry for other women to work in and try and change the negative cultural behaviour we have across the board.
“For me it is a recognition of that work and hopefully other women feel encouraged to come and work in our industry with us.”
2024 ACT Senior Woman of the Year: Glenda Stevens – CEO, Fearless Women
Glenda is a community leader and expert in a range of social policy areas.
Glenda started Fearless Women, a program that provides girls and young women in the ACT with a support service to help them find their voice. It offers short-term counselling, equips girls and women with the tools and resources they need, and offers longer term mentoring support.
“It’s really exciting to see a young person who was frightened and stressed to be able to feel the exhilaration of achieving something,” Glenda said.
“For her to feel that sense of achievement and satisfaction is really good for her growth, and it’s good for all of us because we’re receiving the benefits of a wonderful young person.”
2024 ACT Young Woman of the Year: Mijica Lus – Founder, Aurosokwo Project
For the last six years, Mijica Lus has volunteered her time and effort with various not-for-profits in the ACT in areas of education, media, health care and human services.
Mijica leads the Aurosokwa Project, which supports multicultural communities through cross collaboration.
“If it’s helping with food pantries, decreasing homelessness, supporting mental health initiatives and youth services as well, that’s what the project is about,” Mijica said.
“I’m really excited to contribute to a city that has given me so much, and this is one way of showing my appreciation.”
2024 ACT Woman of the Year – Special Commendation Award: Delfina Shakespear, football match official
Delfina Shakespear is a National and State-level Football Match Official. She volunteers as a mentor, educator, and administrator, and provides strategic advice to Capital Football.
She is committed to empowering the next generation of female referees.
Delfina fearlessly speaks up against abuse and poor treatment faced by referees. She actively promotes cultural change through media engagement and initiatives like Reduce Abuse.
“Seeing the girls and women that I’ve mentored succeed, strive for their goals and push through all the challenges is the most rewarding thing,” Delfina said.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Year 7 student Sara is benefiting from reading sessions with Story Dog Lucky and his owner, Ron.
Year 7 student Sara has never felt comfortable reading in front of her class.
The Lanyon High School student would avoid it at all costs. That is, until her mother discovered the Story Dogs program at Libraries ACT.
The program is ideal for reluctant readers or those facing reading challenges.
It pairs a student with a trained dog and their volunteer owner, creating a relaxed, supportive environment for reading aloud.
Sara attends Tuggeranong Library on Friday afternoons to read to Lucky, a 21-month-old golden retriever.
‘I like the experience and since I don’t generally like reading in front of other people, I like reading in front the dog,” Sara said.
“It makes the experience a bit calmer. I am happy to keep doing this for a while.”
After only two sessions, Sarah’s mum, Rae, has noticed a difference.
“At school she always refused to talk in front of the class, but I have definitely seen a change,” Rae said.
“She finds the dog listens. It doesn’t judge and it’s fun. She might now associate the dog with talking out loud and this has really helped for someone who refuses to stand up and read.”
During her session, Lucky rests by Sara as she makes her way through a pile of story books.
Though concentrating hard, she touches and pats him as she reads.
Lucky’s owner, Ron, a retired public servant, listens but remains quiet.
“It’s great doing this. Last week, we had a little girl come in who is dyslexic and she just sat there on the rug with Lucky and held onto him the whole time. She started off a bit hesitant but after a minute she was right. It really calmed both her and him. Lucky is new to this too, so they were both learning at the same time,” Ron said.
“I used to coach football, so I know the satisfaction of being able to teach kids.”
The Story Dogs program is available for children aged 7–12 at Tuggeranong, Dickson and Gungahlin libraries.
Each child gets 20 minutes of one-on-one reading time with a Story Dog, under the watchful eye of a friendly volunteer like Ron.
Students who feel anxious or stressed during learning activities can find the presence of a furry friend reassuring.
Reading to a Story Dog can:
promote relaxation
lower blood pressure
eliminate fear of judgement
allow children to learn at their own pace.
“It’s wonderful to see the progress and you get as much out of it yourself as for anyone else,” Ron said.
Story Dogs sessions require bookings and are held during school terms at:
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Finalist Mijica Lus is the Founder of the Aurosokwo Project.
The 2024 ACT Women’s Awards will be announced on Thursday 7 March.
The awards recognise those who have demonstrated an outstanding contribution to improving the status and lives of girls and women in the ACT.
They celebrate the achievements of women who are excelling in their field and making a significant impact in helping girls and women achieve their full potential.
The award categories are:
ACT Woman of the Year
Senior Woman of the Year (aged over 60 years)
ACT Young Woman of the Year (aged between 16 and 24 years).
Congratulations to the 2024 ACT Women’s Awards’ finalists:
Dr Lubna Alam – Co-founder, ALO Enlightened Women
Joanne Farrell – Founder and Managing Director, Build Like a Girl
Mijica Lus – Founder, Aurosokwo Project
Philippa Moss – CEO, Meridian ACT
Delfina Shakespear – Football Match Official
Glenda Stevens – Founder, Fearless Women
Prof Dipti Talaulikar – Founder, Sakhi
Selina Walker – Ngunnawal Leader.
Finalist Delfina Shakespear, an elite match official with Capital Football and Football Australia, thinks the annual awards are important.
“It enables women to have a platform to talk about what they do, because as women sometimes we go about our business and don’t really talk about it more broadly,” she said.
Fellow nominee Professor Dipti Talaulikar, a clinical haematologist and professor at the ANU, as well as being the Founder of Sakhi said: “I was very touched with the nomination when I first heard about it. But the journey, the support that the government and the ACT’s Women Office provides is just amazing. The things you get to learn, the other women you get to meet, to hear their stories is just absolutely amazing. So, if you know anyone who is doing good work in the community, please nominate them.”
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Construction is expected to be completed by May 2025.
The new hydrotherapy pool in Canberra’s south is another step closer with Monarch Building Solutions appointed to lead its construction.
The first sod has now been turned on the site following the recent development approval for the project.
The construction phase is the next step and comes after extensive consultation and engagement with stakeholders to inform the design of the facility.
Construction is expected to be completed by May 2025.
“Monarch Building Solutions is honoured to play a role in enhancing healthcare infrastructure in Canberra,” Director of Monarch Building Solutions Marco Galeotti said.
“Our team is excited and ready to dive straight into the construction of the new southside hydrotherapy pool and understand the importance of this facility to the local community.”
Hydrotherapy offers a vital service for a wide range of Canberrans.
It provides people with mobility issues access to an important form of recreation. It also supports people to better manage chronic pain caused by illnesses such as cancer, migraine, osteoarthritis and arthritis, and it offers the opportunity to help people recover from injury or surgery.
The southside pool will complement the hydrotherapy pool opened at the University of Canberra Hospital in 2020.
“Arthritis ACT welcomes the commencement of the building of this essential infrastructure. For people living with chronic pain conditions which includes all types of Arthritis, hydrotherapy is essential both to providing ongoing pain relief as well as a wonderful place to exercise, especially for those that get a lot of pain when exercising,” CEO of Arthritis ACT Rebecca Davey said.
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp on Tuesday sentenced a man from Ferguson, Missouri who sold fentanyl and methamphetamine to undercover St. Louis County police officers to 93 months in prison.
Theodise Reece, 37, has been in custody since his arrest on Aug. 30, 2023, bringing the total he will serve for the crime to about nine years.
After receiving several tips in June of 2023 that Reece was selling illegal drugs, the St. Louis County Police Department set up a series of undercover purchases of drugs, Reece’s plea agreement says. Reece sold $100 worth of fentanyl on June 14, 2023, then $150 worth of methamphetamine six days later, Reece admitted in his guilty plea.
After making four more undercover purchases and witnessing Reece make another sale, investigators sought a search warrant for Reece’s home. They arrested him during an undercover buy on Aug. 30, 2023, and found a semiautomatic pistol in his car loaded with one chambered round and 18 more in an extended magazine. Inside a satchel slung across his chest, police found nearly 40 grams of fentanyl and 225 grams of meth as well as ecstasy, cocaine base and marijuana. Reece admitted that he sold drugs for a living. Investigators found an AR-style rifle in Reece’s home.
Reece pleaded guilty in November to three felonies: distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of one or more firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The St. Louis County Police Department Bureau of Drug Enforcement investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nino Przulj prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Responsibility for all fire functions moves to MHCLG
Greater clarity and accountability will be brought to fire and building safety from the transfer of Ministerial responsibility from the Home Office to MHCLG
Greater clarity and accountability will be brought to fire and building safety from today (1 April) thanks to the transfer of Ministerial responsibility for all fire functions from the Home Office to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Bringing these responsibilities together will strengthen coordination, improve policy implementation, and reinforce the government’s commitment to making homes, buildings and communities safer.
The change delivers on a key recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report, which advised that fire and building safety should be overseen by a single department.
The Minister for Building Safety and Local Growth who will be taking on responsibility for fire functions Alex Norris said:
“Ensuring the safety of people in their homes and communities is a top priority for this government. By bringing all fire and building safety responsibilities under one department, we are reinforcing accountability, improving coordination, and taking decisive action to protect lives.
“I would like to thank Dame Diana Johnson for her work in this important area. I look forward to working with fire and rescue services and key stakeholders to implement the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s recommendations and drive forward the reforms needed to keep people safe.
“This is a significant step in delivering meaningful change, making our buildings safer, and strengthening our country’s resilience for the future.”
Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson said:
“It has been an honour and privilege to serve as Minister for Fire.
“I would like to express my utmost gratitude to the brave firefighters in our fire and rescue services, who selflessly dedicate themselves to protecting the public from fire every day.
“I would also like to thank the government officials and stakeholders from across the sector I have worked with over the past nine months. Their drive to make the sector stronger has been invaluable and I am certain my good friend Alex Norris will also benefit from their advice.”
Following the publication of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report on 4 September 2024, the Prime Minister acknowledged the failings that led to the tragedy and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the necessary reforms. This transfer of Ministerial responsibility for all fire functions to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government represents an important part of this work, and the government will continue to drive forward the necessary reforms to make sure a tragedy like Grenfell can never happen again.
Notes to editors:
The Home Office will retain management of the Airwave Service Contract on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and will continue to oversee the Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme and His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
WASHINGTON – David Crocker, 25, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty to multiple armed robberies and firearms charges stemming from a series of robberies near Anacostia Park in 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., Chief Jessica M. E. Taylor, of the United States Park Police, and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Crocker pleaded guilty yesterday in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to two counts of armed robbery and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm. Crocker also pleaded guilty to unlawfully possessing a silver and black pistol on November 10, 2023. Sentencing is scheduled for June 4, 2025, before the Honorable Andrea Hertzfeld. As part of his sentence, Crocker will be required to register as a gun offender.
According to the government’s evidence, the defendant robbed two individuals at gunpoint on December 18, 2023, in the vicinity of Anacostia Park. In the first offense, the defendant robbed an individual at gunpoint in the 2200 block of Fairlawn Avenue, SE. Crocker brandished a black and silver pistol and took the victim’s phone, keys, and wallet before demanding the PINs to the victim’s Cash App account and credit cards.
Later the same day, the defendant robbed a different individual on the Anacostia Railroad Bridge. Crocker brandished the same silver and black pistol and took the victim’s bicycle, cell phone, keys, and wallet. The defendant again demanded the PINs to the victim’s Cash App account and credit cards. United States Park Police officers stopped and arrested Crocker moments later. They recovered the proceeds of the robbery and the silver and black pistol from the defendant.
This case was investigated by the United States Park Police and the Metropolitan Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kraig Ahalt for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A district judge sentenced a Centralia man to 125 months in federal prison for possessing three firearms as a convicted felon in three separate incidents with police.
Lamar R. Bennett, 33, pleaded guilty in July to three counts of felon in possession of a firearm.
“Three brushes with the law by one defiant felon—this sentence of more than a decade in federal prison sends a strong message that repeat offenders who defy the law can expect to face certain justice in the federal system,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.
According to court documents, Bennett was convicted as a felon in possession of a firearm in Marion County Circuit Court in 2020, further barring him from legally possessing firearms.
Bennett was the driver of a vehicle in a single-car crash in Washington County on April 21, 2023. Following the accident, Bennett placed a Smith and Wesson 9-millimeter pistol behind a concrete barrier on the side of the highway. Law enforcement recovered the firearm.
On Oct. 14, 2023, emergency personnel and law enforcement responded to Bennett’s residence in Jefferson County. Officers observed a Glock 43X pistol in his sweatshirt and recovered the firearm.
On November 23, 2023, law enforcement tried to conduct a traffic stop on Bennett’s vehicle in Marion County, but he fled. Ultimately, Bennett was apprehended and law enforcement recovered one Ruger SR9C pistol from him.
“This investigation and sentencing are a direct result of FBI Springfield Field Office’s dedication to disrupting and dismantling violent threats in our territory,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson. “This sentencing is a direct warning to those who continue criminal activity in our area.”
Following imprisonment, Bennett will serve three years of supervised release.
The FBI Springfield Field Office, Centralia Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office contributed to the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Hudson prosecuted the case.
They have arrived ahead of enhanced Air Policing missions as part of NATO’s commitment to maintaining regional security and airspace integrity.
This deployment highlights the UK’s dedication to supporting NATO allies, and promoting the collective security of Europe.
“The arrival of our Typhoon aircraft here at Malbork marks a proud moment for our team as we prepare to take on this vital NATO mission. It is a privilege to be in Poland, a country with which the United Kingdom shares a long and storied history of friendship and cooperation, that predates the NATO Alliance. This enduring bond, forged through shared values and mutual respect, reinforces the importance of NATO’s collective purpose and strengthens the foundation of our partnership.
“We are here to defend and deter, standing ready to protect against any threat, whilst reassuring our allies of the UK’s commitment to NATO and the region. Additionally, we strive to foster partnership, advance interoperability, develop trust, and reinforce collaboration and unity among our NATO member partners. Together, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to NATO’s collective defence, safeguarding the skies and fortifying bonds among our allies.”
Wing Commander Christopher Jacob Commanding Officer, 140 Expeditionary Air Wing
140 EAW deployment is part of NATO’s ongoing air policing program, which safeguards allied airspace in areas with limited local air defence resources. This mission serves as a reminder of the UK’s unwavering commitment to NATO’s collective defence and the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the region.
Harbour Breton RCMP responded to a residential disturbance that happened on a property in Belleoram on March 30, 2025. A firearm was discharged. The investigation led to the arrest of 27-year-old Trent Poole.
Shortly after 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, Harbour Breton RCMP received the report of a disturbance where one man reported being threatened by another. While police were responding, further information was received stating that a firearm was discharged outside on a residential property.
Poole was arrested without further incident and a firearm was seized. No one was injured.
Poole attended court on Monday, charged with the following criminal offences:
Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
Careless use of a firearm
Discharging a firearm with intent to wound an individual
Failure to comply with a condition of a release order
He was released by the court on a number of conditions and is set to appear in court at a later date.
Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a man and a woman in Thamesmead.
Police were called shortly before 15:00hrs on Tuesday, 11 March after concerns were raised for the welfare of the occupants of an address in Holstein Way, Thamesmead.
Emergency services attended and gained entry to the property.
Once inside they located a man and woman with serious injuries. They were sadly declared dead at the scene.
Both of their next of kin have been informed and continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
Formal identification has taken place. The woman who died was 51-year-old Michelle Mileham and the man who died was 53-year-old Gordon Mileham – they were siblings.
A post-mortem examination gave cause of death for both parties as stab injuries. Michelle’s death is being treated as murder; Gordon’s death is not being treated as suspicious and police are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.
An inquest will open on 10 April at Croydon Coroner’s Court.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
HOUSTON – Two Venezuelan nationals and alleged members of the recently designated foreign terrorist organization known as the Tren de Aragua (TdA) have been arrested on charges filed in the Southern District of Texas (SDTX), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jesus Miguel Barreto Lezama, 29, who was residing in Houston, has now appeared in federal court in Houston.
Also in custody is Briley Jesus Ballera Farias aka Derek, 32, who was arrested March 30 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he made his initial appearance.
A federal grand jury returned the indictment Jan. 29.
According to the allegations in the indictment, both men participated in a conspiracy, along with others, to import more than five kilograms of cocaine into the United States from Venezuela and Colombia. Barreto Lezama is also charged with importing nearly five kilograms of cocaine into the United States from Colombia between June 26, 2024, and July 3, 2024.
If convicted, they face a up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
The FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Colombian National Police. FBI-Houston’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force made the Houston arrest with the assistance of the Houston Police Department, DEA, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey N. MacDonald and Anibal J. Alaniz are prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorney David C. Smith from the Department of Justice’s Joint Task Force Vulcan.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
This case is also part of JTFV, which was created in 2019 to destroy MS-13 and now expanded to target TdA. It is comprised of U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country, including SDTX; Southern and Eastern Districts of New York; Districts of New Jersey, Utah, Massachusetts, Nevada, Alaska; Northern District of Ohio; Eastern District of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Eastern District of Virginia; Southern District of California; and the District of Columbia; as well as the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Criminal Division. Additionally, the FBI; DEA; Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Marshals Service; and Federal Bureau of Prisons have been essential law enforcement partners and spearheaded JTFV’s investigations.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Nature strips help create Canberra’s “garden city” character.
Nature strips, otherwise known as street verges, help create Canberra’s “garden city” character.
On most streets, nature strips include footpaths for people walking and cycling. Meaning there are certain things a nature strip can and cannot be used for.
Looking after verges is a responsibility shared by the ACT Government and residents, and there are lots of ways Canberrans can use them.
Read up on which plants you can use and avoid spiky plants and any weeds or plants that have been declared pest plants. Natives are a great place to start, especially if you are new to landscaping – but if you prefer an exotic grass, a dryland blend is the go-to in Canberra’s climate.
Remember to keep all plants below 50 centimetres (or 20 centimetres if you live in a bushfire prone area ).
Install compacted gravel
Adding gravel to your nature strip can help capture water runoff and improve the quality of stormwater.
There are some limits on the amount and size of gravel you can use so be sure to do your research.
Use organic mulch
When adding organic mulch like pine bark to your verge, please ensure it is free of stones, soils and other contaminants.
Keep a 50 millimetre clearance from tree trunks and remember to rake it flush with surrounding levels.
Erect temporary protective fencing
If you’ve just planted grass or plants and you want to protect your newly refreshed nature strip, you can erect temporary fencing made of rope or string, supported by stakes.
The fencing can be up for a maximum of 13 weeks. It mustn’t pose a safety hazard to the public.
Install garden edging
You can install garden edging on your verge if it’s made of stone, brick or timber.
The edging can have a maximum height of 150 millimetres, and a depth of 100 millimetres below the surface of the nature strip.
Always remember to contact Before you Dig – 1100, before you start work.
Things you can do to your nature strip that require approval:
erect bollards to prevent parking on the nature strip
modify an existing driveway or construct a new driveway
store landscaping materials for longer than two weeks
store a skip or construction material.
Things that are unlikely to be approved for your nature strip:
ponds
water fountains
permanent fencing
retaining walls
letterboxes
shipping containers
chicken runs
play equipment
boulders
pavers or concrete paths
new trees.
Parking on the nature strip is prohibited and remember that if you live in a heritage precinct – like some areas of Ainslie, Braddon, Reid and parts of the inner south – you may not be able to make changes to the nature strip in front of your home.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
This International Women’s Day, the ACT Public Service (ACTPS) celebrates the theme: ‘Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress’.
The ACTPS is a diverse, progressive public service within which 64.6 per cent of employees identify as female.
Women now comprise 56 per cent of the ACTPS Senior Executive Service.
A record low gender pay gap
This increased representation of women in leadership has driven the Service’s narrowing gender pay gap over the last year.
The ACTPS gender pay gap reached a record low of -0.1 per cent in June 2023. The ACT labour force sits at 10 per cent and the national gender pay gap at 13.3 per cent.
Employee spotlight
The ACTPS encourages an inclusive culture by acknowledging and showcasing the contributions of all staff.
Below, five female employees share their thoughts on International Women’s Day, working for the ACTPS and how they’ve seen the gender landscape change at work throughout their careers.
Rachael Dawes – Senior Director Urban Treescapes
Urban Treescapes Senior Director Rachael Dawes
Senior Director Rachael Dawes manages the Urban Treescapes business unit within City Services. Urban Treescapes is tasked with managing and protecting Canberra’s urban trees.
“I’m incredibly proud to be a woman working in the ACTPS caring for our urban forest, but particularly proud of the positive results of increased gender diversity in the team,” she said.
“When you have an inclusive environment, understanding and supporting each other, we can combine these diverse skills and lived experiences to respond to the changing conditions and needs of our environment”.
“There has been significant advancement in ACT urban forest management in recent years with the release of the Urban Forest Strategy and Urban Forest Act, which could not have happened without the vision and drive of the women in our team,” she said.
A career change led Rachael into forestry, and she urges women beginning their careers to look beyond perceived traditional career options.
“Explore your networks, ask questions, take chances and follow your interests and see what career path they can lead you down,” she said.
Arooj Fatima – Customer Service Operator, Access Canberra Contact Centre
Arooj Fatima of Access Canberra
Every day, Access Canberra Customer Service Officer Arooj Fatima assists Canberrans via phone.
From vehicle registration enquiries to Fix My Street requests, Fatima is the first point of contact on many issues.
First attracted to the role for its flexibility, she brings to it myriad skills including active listening, empathy, patience and problem solving.
“There needs to be an acknowledgement and inclusion of women in all aspects of society. Women need to be fully included, supported, and empowered in all fields to contribute to a more prosperous future for all,” she said.
Arooj says she has seen women make significant progress over the course of her career.
“Women are serving and being valued at all employment levels i.e., manager, team leaders and administrative roles. They are excelling in every field,” she said.
“I feel immensely proud to be a woman working for the ACTPS because of the respect, value, and recognition that I get. I feel so comfortable with the work environment, work life balance and flexibility. I feel included and appreciated for every little progress that I make. I am provided the opportunity to undertake various training and roles for my professional development,” she said.
Katie Smith – Principal, Duffy Primary School
Principal Katie Smith, right, with Deputy Principal Arilia Abell
Principal Katie Smith leads an all-female leadership team at Duffy Primary.
“By setting a strong example of supporting women, Deputy Principal Arilia Abell and I work to create a more inclusive and diverse work environment for future generations. Our presence in the school community showcases the importance of investing in women, inspiring both girls and boys to expect equality and inclusivity in their future workplaces,” she said.
Katie has seen progress in terms of gender equality during her career.
“One notable advancement is the increased representation of women in leadership roles such as principals and executive roles. Efforts to promote gender equality in education have led to greater recognition of female educators’ contributions and capabilities,” she said.
This year’s IWD theme resonates with Katie. “It speaks to our commitment to uplifting and supporting the capabilities of all women in our school community, providing opportunities for growth and success,” she said.
“For young women starting their careers: believe in yourself, set clear goals, seek mentorship, embrace learning, build a supportive network, speak up, prioritise balance, embrace challenges, stay flexible, and stay true to your values and passions.”
Rebecca Power, Project Director, CIT Woden Campus – Women in Construction advocate
Project Director Rebecca Power, third from right
Project Director Rebecca Power works describes her work as “Celebrating gender diversity, equity and inclusion in construction and on Major Projects Canberra construction sites”.
“In an industry where gender inclusion is still challenging, Major Projects Canberra strives towards our social objectives to encourage and enable women and girls to reach their potential, contribute to innovation and ideas, and be leaders in their individual fields and professions within our industry,” she said.
“I’m excited by the opportunity to continue to tell women’s stories in our industry, empower women to achieve and grow their careers while opening up mentoring pathways for women who are just beginning their careers, laying the foundations for a brighter future in infrastructure to inspire real progress. I want to continue to advocate for meaningful change and I am committed to this cause.”
“It provides guidance and leadership while empowering women to achieve their goals and aspirations in the construction industry,” she said.
Janet Zagari, Deputy CEO, Canberra Health Services
Janet Zagari is the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Canberra Health Services.
With 28 years in the health industry under her belt, her focus is on the service’s strategic direction, looking at cross-government priorities, operational planning and commissioning of new services.
“We know that diversity in the workforce generates better outcomes,” Janet said.
“Acknowledging the well-documented barriers that women face to participating in employment and the under representation of women in some industries and at senior levels, investing in women to create greater opportunities and genuinely believing that there is a value add to doing so is key to moving organisations forward.”
She cites increased representation of women graduating from medical school as a pronounced change in Australia.
“It is useful to stop and look back over the course of your career to think about what has changed, because it is easy to only see how far we still have to go and not to think about how far we have come,” she said.
“There are more women in traditionally male dominated areas of clinical practice, and better recognition of the value that women bring.”
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Chloe and her husband launched Hosking Bikes in February 2023.
In 2023, Canberran Chloe Hosking made the switch from pro-cyclist touring around Europe to launching her own bike company here in Canberra with the help of an ICON grant.
“I never set out to start a bike company, just like I never intended to become a professional cyclist, I came home with a lot of ideas,” Chloe said.
“With my husband Jack’s experience in start-up software companies and all of my industry connections, we launched Hosking Bikes in February 2023 and had bikes in market by June.
“Most business owners will know that capital raising is often one of the hardest parts of starting a business, so the grant was a huge help,” she said.
Chloe received $30,000 in matched funding last year from the ICON grant program. This enabled her to develop prototypes and help with marketing activities.
ICON grants are currently open and close 16 April 2024.
The ICON grants are delivered by the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN), which receives funding from the ACT Government to support entrepreneurs, innovators and start-ups, like Hosking.
Chloe wanted to create a bike tailored to the needs of women.
“Over the years, I felt I wanted to change the lack of female representation in the industry,” she said.
“When you look at the top five cycle brands, only 13 per cent of the executive and board are women. And a recent study showed that 50 per cent of the women in the industry are thinking about leaving.
“The only way to change that is to have people in the room to change the narrative.”
Wanting to see more women on bikes, Hosking Bikes is one way she’s making it more accessible.
“Cycling has given me so much, and I want women to experience the joy that I got and get from cycling. Even if they don’t go pro.
“Creating a brand like Hosking Bikes that champions getting more women on bikes is the way to do that. We’ve also created a bike that’s half the cost of other bikes and we’re very focused on building an inclusive community to support more women into the sport,” she said.
Chloe has some wise words for any women looking to start a business.
“Believe in yourself 100 per cent. As an athlete you learn that you lose a lot more than win, but you keep working toward success, even if it’s not a race.
“But also, don’t let them doubt you! They will, but ignore them!” she said.
RCMP NL encourages the public to protect themselves and vulnerable family or friends in the community against fraud and scams.A number of various online and telephone scams remain in circulation, as well as local scams on buy and sell sites and reports of fraudulent credit card use.
What to watch out for:
Police will never ask for money
Courts may ask for money, but you need to pay in person
You never have to pay to claim a prize
Be suspicious of “winning” a prize in a contest you never entered
Use reputable or first party websites when booking hotels or call the company directly
Never send cash in the mail to people you don’t know
Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it is. If you are unsure whether who you are speaking with on the phone, online, or even in person is legitimate or not, don’t be afraid to say no, leave the conversation, or get a second opinion.
RCMP NL encourages the public to discuss financial and digital safety with elders and vulnerable adults in their family or community. For more information, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre athttps://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm
The Immigration Department today estimated that around 4.58 million passengers will pass through Hong Kong’s sea, land and air control points during the upcoming Ching Ming festive period from April 3 to 6.
In consultation with the Shenzhen General Station of Exit & Entry Frontier Inspection and other Mainland authorities, the department estimates that around 3.91 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 April 4 and 6, with around 561,000 and 608,000 passengers respectively.
It is estimated that passenger traffic at the Lo Wu, Lok Ma Chau Spur Line and Shenzhen Bay control points will be heavy, with a daily average forecast of about 231,000, 211,000 and 149,000 passengers respectively.
To cope with the anticipated heavy traffic during the festive period, the department has minimised leave for frontline officers for flexible deployment and the operation of extra clearance counters and kiosks.
Additionally, the department, together with Police, the Customs & Excise Department and the MTR Corporation, will set up a joint command centre at the Lo Wu Control Point to make necessary arrangements.
It will also establish close communication with Mainland authorities, including the Shenzhen General Station of Exit & Entry Frontier Inspection. To ensure a smooth passenger traffic flow, conditions will be closely monitored and appropriate traffic diversion plans will be adopted when necessary.
All land boundary passengers should 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 department’s website.
Passengers may also check the estimated waiting times at each land boundary control point at any time or place via the Immigration Mobile Application.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today said it strongly disapproved of and rejected the untruthful remarks, slanders and smears against various aspects of Hong Kong in the US’ so-called 2025 Hong Kong Policy Act Report, saying it was apparent the report was compiled to serve the political purpose of maintaining US hegemony.
By piling up false stories and narratives, they were clearly crafted to serve the political interest of the US in order to suppress the development rights and security interests of others, the Hong Kong SAR Government added.
In a statement, it strongly condemned the wanton slander and political attacks in the report on Hong Kong where the “one country, two systems” principle is successfully implemented.
“The Hong Kong SAR is an inalienable part of the People’s Republic of China, and as a local administrative region that enjoys a high degree of autonomy under the principle of “one country, two systems”, comes directly under the jurisdiction of the Central People’s Government.
“The US once again told fallacies about Hong Kong by replacing the rule of law with political manipulation and confounding right and wrong, and blatantly interfering in Hong Kong affairs which are entirely China’s internal affairs. The US’ attempt to undermine the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong will only expose its slyness and will never succeed.”
The statement said that the so-called “sanctions” arbitrarily imposed against the officials of the Hong Kong and the central authorities who perform their duties in accordance with the law by the US at the same time as publishing the report smacks of despicable political manipulation to intimidate the relevant officials safeguarding national security.
“These grossly interfere in China’s internal affairs and Hong Kong affairs, and seriously violate the international law and the basic norms governing international relations. It once again, clearly exposed the US’ barbarity under its hegemony, which is exactly the same as its recent tactics in bullying and coercing various countries and regions.
“Despising the ‘sanctions’ by the US and not intimidated by such despicable behavior, Hong Kong will resolutely discharge the duty of safeguarding national security, and its government will make every effort to protect the legitimate rights and interests of all personnel.”
The statement also broke down in detail its solemn rejection of the report’s slandering remarks.
As repeatedly stressed by the Hong Kong SAR Government, the laws safeguarding national security in Hong Kong are for safeguarding national sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity; and ensuring the full and faithful implementation of the principle of “one country, two systems” under which the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy.
“The US Government has vilified the Hong Kong SAR’s legislative work, as well as law enforcement agencies, prosecutorial and judicial authorities, in claiming that fulfilment of their duties constituted an ‘erosion of rights and freedoms’.
“The fact is that the US has been ignoring the non-interference principle under international law, interfering with other countries’ internal affairs, grooming agents, instigating ‘colour revolutions’, and even creating social unrest and multiple humanitarian disasters through economic and military coercion, causing suffering to people in many countries.”
Referring to the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL) and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO), the statement noted that they have an extraterritorial effect.
As the law enforcement department of Hong Kong safeguarding national security, Police are duty bound to pursue the liability of those who have allegedly endangered national security overseas, and those absconders hiding in the US and other Western countries are wanted because they continue to blatantly engage in activities endangering national security.
Police are duty bound to put the persons concerned on the wanted list in accordance with the law, and it is necessary to take all lawful measures, including the measures specified under section 89 of the SNSO, to strongly combat the acts of abscondment, and such action is fully justified, necessary and legitimate.
“The extraterritorial effect for the laws safeguarding national security fully aligns with the principles of international law, international practice and common practice adopted in various countries and regions. Quite a number of countries would also impose similar measures on wanted criminals, including cancellation of passports.”
As regards the electoral system, the statement pointed out that the improved electoral system puts in place legal safeguards to ensure the full implementation of “patriots administering Hong Kong”.
Noting that keeping political power in the hands of patriots is a political rule commonly adopted around the world, it said that regardless of one’s background in Hong Kong, whoever meets the requirements and criteria of patriots can participate in elections in accordance with the law and serve the public by entering into the governance structure after getting elected.
Additionally, reforming District Councils (DCs) is an important part of improving district governance, and the DCs have returned to their rightful positioning under Article 97 of the Basic Law as advisory and service bodies that are not organs of political power, and the principle of “patriots administering Hong Kong” has been fully implemented, which is of great significance.
The statement highlighted that the Hong Kong SAR Government safeguards independent judicial power and fully supports the Judiciary in exercising its judicial power independently, safeguarding the due administration of justice and the rule of law.
The Court of Appeal in an important judgment decided in May 2024 that there are at least three areas where the court would make judgment while giving the executive deference on assessment on national security: first, where a fundamental right of the person affected by the measure is engaged; second, where the requirement of a fair trial is in issue; and third, where the question of open justice is raised.
The vilification of the US against Hong Kong that the executive influences how the court should interpret laws’ goes completely against the fact, the statement said.
Saying that all cases concerning offences endangering national security will be handled by the prosecution and judicial authorities of Hong Kong in a fair and timely manner in strict compliance with Article 42(1) of the HKNSL, the statement added that so-called ‘indefinite detention’ does not exist at all.
“The US’ detention against an individual whom it sees as a ‘terrorist’ for up to 20 years without charge is the real ‘indefinite detention’.”
The statement emphasised that the Hong Kong SAR Government steadfastly safeguards the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong people as protected under the law, noting that since Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, human rights in the city have always been robustly guaranteed constitutionally by both the Constitution and the Basic Law.
The HKNSL and the SNSO also clearly stipulate that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security in Hong Kong, and that the rights and freedoms its residents enjoy under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil & Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social & Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong, shall be protected in accordance with the law.
Just as the case with other places in the world, such rights and freedoms are not absolute. The ICCPR also expressly states that some of them may be subject to restrictions as prescribed by law that are necessary for protection of national security, public safety, public order or the rights and freedoms of others, etc.
Regarding national education, the statement stressed that it is an important part of the curricula for primary and secondary schools as well as kindergartens with a view to deepening Hong Kong students’ understanding of the country’s national affairs, history and culture, the Constitution and the Basic Law as well as national security.
“Implementation of national education, including national security education, is the legitimate duty of education authorities all over the world.
“Different places attach great importance to implementing national security education and developing their students’ sense of national identity, including knowledge of their respective constitution, their own history, culture, geography, etc.”
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Eating out doesn’t have to cost a lot.
Whether it’s two-for-one burgers or a cheap schnitty, who doesn’t love a good food deal?
We asked Canberrans on the We Are CBR Instagram page to tell us about the best weekly meal specials across the capital. So, bookmark or screenshot this list, for it is now your guide for eating out for less in Canberra!
All week deals
Kickstart Expresso – $14.90 Tradies Special – one large coffee and toasted sandwich
Loquita – $15 for 3 tacos
Old Canberra Inn – $21 vegan curry with rice and flatbread
Café Momo at Bruce – $12 bacon and egg roll and a coffee
Dickson Tradies – $15 bacon and egg roll and a coffee
Dolly’s – $12 bacon and egg roll and coffee
The Fish Shack – $20 Shack Basket: 3 pieces of fish, calamari rings, prawns, chips or salad
Flatheads O’Connor – $10 bacon and egg roll and a coffee
Raiders Gungahlin – $16 lunches including schnitzel, fish or curry.
Weekdays
Ainslie Football Club – $16 schnitzel with chips and coleslaw
Bleachers Bar – $20 lunch specials including steak, parmigiana, burgers or fish, all with chips
Caribou – $22 burger and soft drink
Eighty Twenty – $10.90 bacon and egg roll or wrap with a coffee
Appointments are available Monday to Friday, 9am – 4.20pm.
24 hours before your appointment you will receive a reminder text and email appointment reminder.
You can also cancel or change your appointment online if you can’t make it.
Virtual queuing
At busier times, you may be able to join a virtual queue by scanning a QR code when you arrive at a Service Centre.
By doing this, you don’t have to wait at the Service Centre. You can go grab a coffee or tick off something else on your to-do list.
All Access Canberra Service Centres are conveniently located in town centres, meaning there’s plenty of nearby options to keep you occupied whilst you wait.
You’ll receive a text message when it’s time to re-join the physical queue.
Languages on name badges
Access Canberra has a diverse team working at their Service Centres. Across the five locations, more than nine languages are spoken.
Team members who speak a language other than English will have the languages they speak listed on their name badges.
If you speak a language listed on a team member’s name badge, please feel free to chat with them in that language.
Next time you need to visit an Access Canberra Service Centre, consider using one of these services to make your day a little easier.
Remember, you can do most transactions online. It’s quick and available 24/7.
If you’d rather speak with someone over the phone, give Access Canberra a call on 13 22 81. The call centre operates Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm, and 9am – 5pm on weekends and public holidays.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
With a range of recycling and reuse options available, think before disposing during your spring clean.
If you’re planning a spring clean to spruce up your home, apartment, or townhouse there are several resources available to help you minimise your waste.
ACT recycling fast facts:
Around 250 tonnes of recycling from the ACT and our surrounding councils are sorted each day at the Materials Recovery Facility in Hume
12% of an average landfill household bin are items that could have been recycled
Whatever you’re looking to dispose of search for it in our Recyclopaedia for options to help you reduce, reuse and recycle.
Furniture and bulky waste
Whether you’re clearing out the garage, shed or opening up your living areas, there’s probably some furniture you’d like to dispose of. Make sure you consider these options:
Items in a reusable condition can be dropped off for free at Goodies Junction (conditions apply).
You can sell items on an online marketplace.
Book a free bulky waste collection. Canberrans are entitled to one free roadside bulky waste booking each year.
Disposing of an old mattress? Drop it off at Soft Landing in Hume. Fees apply.
Electronics
Disposing of a spare TV, computer, printer, modem, phone or other electronic device? If working, these items can be used again. If not, electronics are full of recyclable materials. Take a look at these options:
If working:
If broken or damaged:
Clothing, blankets and fabrics
If you’re cleaning out the wardrobe, consider donating, selling, swapping and reusing before disposing of garments and clothes.
Sell items on an online marketplace.
Donate to businesses or charities such as the Salvation Army, St Vincent de Paul, Another Chance, GIVIT or Koomarri Cut Cloth.
Hazardous waste – Cleaning products, oils paint and batteries
It’s important not to place hazardous waste in your kerbside wheelie bins or put them down the drain as they are harmful to the environment.
Hazardous waste, including cleaning products, paints, pesticides, batteries, poisons, pool chemicals, gas bottles and oil, can be dropped off for free at a Resource Management Centre.
Paper, cardboard, glass bottles, aluminium and steel cans
The ACT has five recycling drop-off centres where you can recycle excess empty household containers and packaging for free. The centres are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can also drop off eligible bottles, cans and cartons to earn 10 cents per item with the Container Deposit Scheme. There’s 19 return points across the ACT.
To see more information recycling tips and resources, visit the Recyclopaedia.
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The only transactions that need to be done in person are registrations that require a photo (for example a new driver licence, proof of identity or WWVP card or to arrange number plates for new registrations or custom plates).
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is continuing to call for information in relation to an aggravated assault at Casuarina last Friday.
Detectives from the Serious Crime Squad are particularly interested in speaking to a male bystander that intervened and removed the weapon when a disturbance between the female youths broke out at around 2:40pm in the shopping centre.
Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444 and quote reference number P25084989. Anonymous reports can also be made via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 45-year-old male in relation to an arson incident that occurred in Yuendumu yesterday evening.
Around 6:40pm, police received reports of a deliberately lit fire at a house in Yuendumu. Members attended the scene and the fire was extinguished. The kitchen of the residence sustained moderate damage.
No person was inside at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported to police.
A 45-year-old male was arrested in relation to the incident and a crime scene has been established.
Investigators from Alice Springs are travelling to Yuendumu to take carriage of the ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or attend your local police station. Please quote reference P25087963. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested two males aged 21 and 16-years-old for aggravated burglary at two business premises in Katherine overnight.
About 1am, Police CCTV Operators sighted a burglary in process at a business on the corner of Katherine Terrace and Warburton Street. It is alleged two males damaged the door to gain entry to one of the businesses whilst armed with an edged weapon. The pair then gained entry to a nearby licensed premises and stole a quantity of alcohol.
General duties members attended and a short time later both males were located nearby and arrested. Investigations remain ongoing and charges are expected to follow.
Police urge anyone who witnesses crime or antisocial behaviour to contact police on 131 444. In an emergency call 000. You can also report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
The cases registered, arrests made and quantity of drug seized under Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 by various Drug Law Enforcement Agencies (DLEAs) as reported to Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) during 2020 to 2024 is at Annexure-I. The specific details of incidents regarding number of killings, anti-social atrocities on women and children under the influence of various types of narcotics and chemical drugs in the country are not maintained.
As part of its drive against drug smuggling to make India a drug free nation, Government is taking various measures, some of which are mentioned below: –
(i) The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, as amended from time to time contains stringent provision to deal with illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and controlled substances as defined under Section 2 (viiib). Further, Chapter IV of the NDPS Act, 1985 provides detailed provisions for offences committed in contravention of the relevant provisions of the Act and penalties thereto.
(ii) Considering the international obligations or having regard to the available information and evidence with respect to the nature and effects of and the abuse or scope for abuse, Department of Revenue has scheduled 134 narcotic drugs under section 2(xi)(b), 173 psychotropic substances under section 3 and 45 controlled substances under section 9A in order to exercise due regulation, control or prohibition in public interest while ensuring availability of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances for medical and scientific use subject to the relevant provisions to the NDPS Act and rules/ regulations made thereunder.
(iii) A 4-tier Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD) mechanism for ensuring better coordination between Central & State Drug Law Enforcement Agencies and other stakeholders in the field of controlling drug trafficking and drug abuse in India has been established. An all in one NCORD portal has been developed for information related to drug law enforcement.
(iv) A dedicated Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) headed by Additional Director General/ Inspector General level Police Officer has been established in each State/ Union Territory to function as the NCORD Secretariat for the State/ Union Territory and follow-up on compliance of decisions taken in NCORD meetings at different levels.
(v) To monitor the investigation of important and significant seizures, a Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) under the Chairmanship of Director General, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has been set up by Government of India.
(vi) Border Guarding Forces (Border Security Force, Assam Rifles and Sashastra Seema Bal) have been empowered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 to carry out search, seizure and arrest for illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs at international border. Further, Railway Protection Force (RPF) has also been empowered under NDPS Act to check drug trafficking along the railway routes.
(vii) Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) coordinates with other agencies like, Navy, Coast Guard, Border Security Force, State ANTF, etc., to conduct joint operations to control the drug trafficking.
(viii) Electronics scanning of consignments for drug detection at all Ports are being ensured.
(ix) Towards the capacity building of Drug Law Enforcement Agencies of the country, NCB is continuously imparting training to the officers of other Drug Law Enforcement Agencies.
(x) To strengthen NCB and to increase its pan India presence, 536 posts in different level has been created in NCB. During this restructuring, special focus has been laid on cyber, legal, and enforcement aspects for more effective drug law enforcement.
(xi) A task force on Darknet and Crypto-Currency has been set up under the Multi Agency Centre (MAC) mechanism with a focus on monitoring all platforms facilitating Narco-trafficking, sharing of inputs on drug trafficking amongst Agencies/MAC members, interception of drug networks, continuous capturing of trends, modus operandi & nodes with regular database updates and review of related rules & laws.
(xii) To assist all DLEAs/other investigation agencies for investigation and proactive policing, National Integrated Database on Arrested Narco-Offenders (NIDAAN) portal is developed. It provides data of narcotics offenders involved in narcotics offences under Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
(xiii) A National Narcotics Helpline No. 1933 “Madak-Padarth Nished Asoochna Kendra” (MANAS) has been created as 24×7 toll-free National Narcotics Call Centre helpline. Accordingly, MANAS has been envisioned as an integrated system providing a single platform for citizens to log, register, track and resolve drug related issues/problems through various modes of communication like call, SMS, Chat-bot, e-mail & web-link.
(xiv) A high-level dedicated group has been created in National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) in November 2022 to analyze the drug trafficking through maritime routes, challenges and solutions (Maritime Security Group – NSCS).
(xv) Director General level talks by NCB are organized with neighboring and other countries such as Myanmar, Iran, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Singapore, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, etc. to resolve various issues on drugs trafficking having international implications and issue of maritime trafficking.
(xvi) Launched Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) in all districts of the country through more than 10000 master volunteers. It has reached out to more than 14.79 crore people including 4.96 crore youth and 2.97 crore women.
(xvii) Government is providing financial assistance to 350 Integrated Rehabilitation Centers for Addicts (IRCAs), 46 Community based Peer Led Intervention (CPLI) Centers, 74 Outreach and Drop In Centers (ODICs), 142 Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs), 124 District De-addiction Centres (DDACs) across the country.
(xviii) A Toll-free Helpline No.14446 for de-addiction is operated for providing primary counseling and immediate assistance to persons seeking help.
(xix) Government through its autonomous body National Institute of Social Defense (NISD) and other collaborating agencies like State Counsel of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), etc. provides for regular awareness generation and sensitization sessions for all stakeholders including students, teachers, parents.
(xx) Navchetna Modules, Teachers Training Modules have been developed by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE) for sensitizing students (6th – 11th standard), teachers and parents on drug dependence, related coping strategies and life skills.
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Annexure-I
Year
Case
Arrest
Quantity (in Kg)
2020
55,622
73,841
10,82,511
2021
68,144
93,538
16,09,612
2022
1,02,769
1,26,516
12,53,662
2023
1,09,546
1,32,954
13,89,725
2024
89,913
1,16,098
13,30,600
Cases registered, arrests made and quantity of drug seized under Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 by various Drug Law Enforcement Agencies (DLEAs) as reported to Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) during 2020 to 2024
Source: Narcotics Control Bureau
This was stated by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs Shri Nityanand Rai in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha.