Paris-based global media freedom watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has recalled that 20 journalists were killed during the six-year Philippines presidency of Rodrigo Duterte, a regime marked by fierce repression of the press.
Former president Duterte was arrested earlier this week as part of an International Criminal Court investigation into crimes against humanity linked to his merciless war on drugs. He is now in The Hague awaiting trial.
The watchdog has called on the administration of current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr to take strong measures to fully restore the country’s press freedom and combat impunity for the crimes against media committed by Duterte’s regime.
“Just because you’re a journalist you are not exempted from assassination, if you’re a son of a bitch,” Rodrigo Duterte said in his inauguration speech on 30 June 2016, which set the tone for the rest of his mandate — unrestrained violence against journalists and total disregard for press freedom, said RSF in a statement.
During the Duterte regime’s rule, RSF recorded 20 cases of journalists killed while working.
Among them was Jesus Yutrago Malabanan, shot dead after covering Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war for Reuters.
Online harassment surged, particularly targeting women journalists.
Maria Ressa troll target The most prominent victim was Maria Ressa, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and founder of the news site Rappler, who faced an orchestrated hate campaign led by troll armies allied with the government in response to her commitment to exposing the then-president’s bloody war.
“The arrest of Rodrigo Duterte is good news for the Filipino journalism community, who were the direct targets of his campaign of terror,” said RSF’s Asia-Pacific bureau director Cédric Alviani.
RSF’s Asia-Pacific bureau director Cédric Alviani . . . “the Filipino journalism community were the direct targets of [former president Rodrigo Duterte]’s campaign of terror.” Image: RSF
“President Marcos and his administration must immediately investigate Duterte’s past crimes and take strong measures to fully restore the country’s press freedom.”
The repression carried out during Duterte’s tenure continues to impact on Filipino journalism: investigative journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio has been languishing in prison since her arrest in 2020, still awaiting a verdict in her trial for “financing terrorism” and “illegal possession of firearms” — trumped-up charges that could see her sentenced to 40 years in prison.
With 147 journalists murdered since the restoration of democracy in 1986, the Philippines remains one of the deadliest countries for media workers.
Attributable to Sergeant Shane Tailby, Eastern Bay of Plenty Road Policing:
Police are appealing for information following a fatal crash in Whakatane yesterday, (Sunday 23 March).
Around 4:55pm Police responded to Ohope Road after a car and a motorbike collided.
It appears the motorbike has been travelling at speed around the corner where they have slid out onto their side into the opposite lane, a vehicle travelling in the opposite direction has then struck the motorbike, with the impact resulting in the car flipping onto its roof.
The motorbike rider was located in a critical condition and CPR was commenced, however sadly they died at the scene.
The driver was taken to Whakatane Hospital with minor injuries, and was discharged last night.
The investigation into the cause of the crash remains ongoing and Police are asking anyone that witnessed the crash or has information that may assist in our investigation to contact Police.
You can report information to us via 105 either online or over the phone. Please reference file number: 250323/2112.
Police are appealing for information following an aggravated robbery at a commercial premises in Invercargill.
At around 3.30am this morning, Police were alerted to four people entering a store on North Road with two armed with knives and another with a trye iron.
The group targeted cigarettes and tobacco before fleeing the area in a vehicle.
Thankfully, the two store employees are uninjured however they are understandably shaken by the incident.
Invercargill Police would like to speak with anyone who may have witnessed the aggravated robbery or may have information that could assist in our investigation.
Police would also like to hear from anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage in the North Road area between 12am and 5am this morning.
Anyone who may have information that can assist Police in our investigation is urged to contact us online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.
Please use the reference number 250324/2633.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 11
Firearms and ammunition surrendered to police during amnesty drive
Monday, 24 March 2025 – 11:10 am.
Police continue to encourage Tasmanians to surrender illegal or unwanted firearms and related items, after eight firearms and a large quantity of ammunition were surrendered as part of a mobile amnesty drive over the weekend. “As part of a firearms amnesty drive across the state over the weekend, eight firearms and a large quantity of ammunition were surrendered to police,” said Assistant Commissioner Adrian Bodnar. “This is eight firearms now out of our community that can’t get into the wrong hands and be used to commit crime or cause harm.” Included in the surrendered firearms were one shotgun, three rifles, two air rifles, one pistol and one gel blaster that has the appearance of a firearm. “While it’s pleasing that people surrendered these items, we know there continues to be people in our community that have illegal or unwanted firearms, which is a concern.” “Under Tasmania’s permanent firearms amnesty you can surrender illegal or unwanted firearms, firearm parts, ammunition, or gel blasters that have the appearance of a firearm at any time without fear of being prosecuted for the possession.” “If you have items to surrender, or you know of someone who has illegal firearms, please contact police on 131 444.” Crime Stoppers Tasmania Ambassador, Mark Mewis said, “if you suspect that someone has an illegal firearm or ammunition, you can help keep your community safe by sharing what you know with Crime Stoppers.” “The public can provide information anonymously to Crime Stoppers, safely and without the need to say who you are, get involved, or put yourself at risk of harm. Submit your tip at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000,” added Mr Mewis.”
Like a relentless ocean, wave after wave of pro-Palestinian pro-human rights protesters disrupted New Zealand deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters’ state of the nation speech at the Christchurch Town Hall yesterday.
A clarion call to Trumpism and Australia’s One Nation Party, the speech was accompanied by the background music of about 250 protesters outside the Town Hall, chanting: “Complicity in genocide is a crime.”
Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) co-chair John Minto described Peters’ attitude to Palestinians as “sickening”.
Inside the James Hay Theatre, protester after protester stood and spoke loudly and clearly against the deputy Prime Minister’s failure to support those still dying in Gaza, and his failure to denounce the ongoing genocide.
Ben Vorderegger was the first of nine protesters who appealed on behalf of people who have lost their voices in the dust of blood and bones, bombs and sniper guns.
Before he and others were hauled out, they spoke for the tens of thousands of Palestinians who have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza — women, men, doctors, aid workers, journalists, and children.
Gazan health authorities have reported that the official death toll is now more than 50,000 — but that is the confirmed deaths with thousands more buried under the rubble.
Real death toll The real death toll from the genocide in Gaza has been estimated by a reputed medical journal, The Lancet, at more than 63,000. A third of those are children. Each day more children are killed.
One by one the protesters who challenged Peters were manhandled by security guards to a frenzied crowd screaming “out, out”.
The deputy Prime Minister’s response was to deride and mock the conscientious objectors. He did not stop there. He lambasted the media.
At this point, several members of his audience turned on me as a journalist and demanded my removal.
Pro-Palestine protesters at the Christchurch Town Hall yesterday to picket Foreign Minister Winston Peters at his state of the nation speech. Image: Saige England/APR
This means that not only is the right to free speech at stake, the right or freedom to report is also being eroded. (I was later trespassed by security guards and police from the Town Hall although no reason was supplied for the ban).
Inside the Christchurch Town Hall the call by Peters, who is also Foreign Minister, to “Make New Zealand Great Again” continued in the vein of a speech written by a MAGA leader.
He whitewashed human rights, failed to address climate change, and demonstrated loathing for a media that has rarely challenged him.
Ben Vorderegger in keffiyeh was the first of nine protesters who appealed on behalf of Palestinans before being thrown out of the Christchurch Town Hall meeting. Image: Saige England/APR
Condemned movement Slamming the PSNA as “Marxist fascists” for calling out genocide, he condemned the movement for failing to talk with those who have a record of kowtowing to violent colonisation.
This tactic is Colonial Invasion 101. It sees the invader rewarding and only dealing with those who sell out. This strategy demands that the colonised people should bow to the oppressor — an oppressor who threatens them with losing everything if they do not accept the scraps.
Peters showed no support for the Treaty of Waitangi but rather, endorsed the government’s challenge to the founding document of the nation – Te Tiriti o Waitangi. In his dismissal of the founding and legally binding partnership, he repeated the “One Nation” catch-cry. Ad nauseum.
Besides slamming Palestinians, the Scots (he managed to squeeze in a racist joke against Scottish people), and the woke, Peters’ speech promoted continued mining, showing some amnesia over the Pike River disaster. He did not reference the environment or climate change.
After the speech, outside the Town Hall police donned black gloves — a sign they were prepared to use pepper-spray.
PSNA co-chair John Minto described Peters’ failure to stand against the ongoing genocide of Palestinians as “bloody disgraceful”.
The police arrested one protester, claiming he put his hand on a car transporting NZ First officials. A witness said this was not the case.
PSNA co-chair John Minto (in hat behind fellow protester) . . . the failure of Foreign Minister Winston Peters to stand against the ongoing genocide of Palestinians is “bloody disgraceful”. Image; Saige England/APR
Protester released The protester was later released without any charges being laid.
A defiant New Zealand First MP Shane Jones marched out of the Town Hall after the event. He raised his arms defensively at protesters crying, “what if it was your grandchildren being slaughtered?”
I was trespassed from the Christchurch Town Hall for re-entering the Town Hall for Winston Peters’ media conference. No reason was supplied by police or the Town Hall security personnel for that trespass order..
“The words Winston is terrified to say . . . ” poster at the Christchurch pro-Palestinian protest. Image: Saige England/APR
It is well known that Peters loathes the media — he said so enough times during his state of the nation speech.
He referenced former US President Bill Clinton during his speech, an interesting reference given that Clinton did not receive the protection from the media that Peters has received.
From the over zealous security personnel who manhandled and dragged out hecklers, to the banning of a journalist, to the arrest of someone for “touching a car” when witnesses report otherwise, the state of the nation speech held some uncomfortable echoes — the actions of a fascist dictatorship.
Populist threats The atmosphere was reminiscent of a Jorg Haider press conference I attended many years ago in Vienna. That “rechtspopulist” Austrian politician had threatened journalists with defamation suits if they called him out on his support for Nazis.
Yet he was on record for doing so.
I was reminded of this yesterday when the audience called ‘out out’ at hecklers, and demanded the removal of this journalist. These New Zealand First supporters demand adoration for their leader or a media black-out.
Perhaps they cannot be blamed given that the state of the nation speech could well have been written by US President Donald Trump or one of his minions.
The protesters were courageous and conscientious in contrast to Peters, said PSNA’s John Minto.
He likened Peters to Neville Chamberlain — Britain’s Prime Minister from 1937 to 1940. His name is synonymous with the policy of “appeasement” because he conceded territorial concessions to Nazi Germany in the late 1930s, fruitlessly hoping to avoid war.
“He has refused to condemn any of Israel’s war crimes against Palestinians, including the total humanitarian aid blockade of Gaza.”
Refusal ‘unprecedented’ “It’s unprecedented in New Zealand history that a government would refuse to condemn Israel breaking its ceasefire agreement and resuming industrial-scale slaughter of civilians,” Minto said.
“That is what Israel is doing today in Gaza, with full backing from the White House.
“Chamberlain went to meet Hitler in Munich in 1938 to whitewash Nazi Germany’s takeovers of its neighbours’ lands.
“Peters has been in Washington to agree to US approval of the occupation of southern Syria, more attacks on Lebanon, resumption of the land grab genocide in Gaza and get a heads-up on US plans to ‘give’ the Occupied West Bank to Israel later this year.
“If Peters disagrees with any of this, he’s had plenty of chances to say so.
“New Zealanders are calling for sanctions on Israel but Mr Peters and the National-led government are looking the other way.”
New Zealand First MP Shane Jones marched out of the Town Hall after the event, dismissing protesters crying, “what if it was your grandchildren being slaughtered?” Image: Saige England/APR
Only staged questions The conscientious objectors who rise against the oppression of human rights are people Winston Peters regards as his enemies. He will only answer questions in a press conference staged for him.
He warms to journalists who warm to him.
The state of the nation speech in the Town Hall was familiar.
Seeking to erase conscientiousness will not make New Zealand great, it will render this country very small, almost miniscule, like the people who are being destroyed for daring to demand their right to their own land.
Saige England is a journalist and author, and a member of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA). She is a frequent contributor to Asia Pacific Report.
Part of the crowd at the state of the nation speech by Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters at the Christchurch Town Hall yesterday. Image: Saige England/APR
The 90 recruits of Wing 386, alongside their patron Dame Noeline Taurua, were welcomed to the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) last week.
“The constabulary recruiting team has worked incredibly hard to deliver 90 recruits onto Wing 386 and we are really happy to have increased our wing capacity sooner than initially planned,” 500 Programme Director, Superintendent Kelly Ryan says.
“Other groups within Police providing specialist services to some of our recruiting processes such as Emergency Communication Centre, Vetting and Safer People have provided additional support to make this possible.”
Last year Police announced it would increase the potential capacity of recruit wings at the RNZPC from 80 to 100 from April 2025. The change was in response to a major surge in applications and will help ensure quality applicants move through the pipeline and into training faster.
Since the announcement, changes have been made to the RNZPC to facilitate the larger wings.
“Enabling even 10 more recruits to join a wing is a significant jump and required a lot of planning and additional support for training. We look forward to welcoming even more recruits in our wings of up to 100 in the months ahead,” Superintendent Ryan says.
“The median time between application and starting at RNZPC has already reduced by more than 90 days over the last year.
“We’re focused on making sure our process is fit-for-purpose, so applicants flow through each step quickly and our standards continue to be robust.”
The increased capacity at the RNZPC, and a training facility to come in Auckland soon, will support Police’s work to deliver on the Government’s commitment of 500 additional officers.
“Achieving this growth in recruits requires a huge effort from across the entire organisation for attracting, selecting, and training the new officers,” Superintendent Ryan says.
“Research is very clear, the most effective way to recruit police officers is through our own staff identifying, encouraging, and supporting people they know would be great to apply.
“It’s critical that everyone leans in on this, so we get the very best people into our organisation.”
Districts have also demonstrated strong support by putting in place at least one full time constabulary member to actively engage and take ownership of their district’s recruiting.
“Whether you’re taking your first steps into the workforce or considering a career change, the best time to apply is right now.
“The earlier you apply, the sooner you’ll be ready to start your training into a one of the most rewarding careers there is,” Superintendent Ryan says.
A cordon is in place around a property in Sydenham as Police work to ensure a person’s safety.
Police were called to an address on Percival Street about 10:40am to reports a person was making threats.
As a precaution, Police have evacuated people from adjacent properties and a cordon of approximately 100m is in place around the Percival Street address.
People are asked to stay clear until the situation can be safely resolved.
Cycling not only enhances health but also builds character, says Dr Manuskh Mandaviya during ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ in Lucknow Dr Mansukh Mandaviya leads 500-plus riders during ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ in Lucknow; Paralympians Nitesh Kumar, Manisha Ramdass support fight obesity campaign
Posted On: 23 MAR 2025 3:52PM by PIB Delhi
Honourable Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya led more than 500 riders during the ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ here along with Minister of State for Sports & Youth Welfare, Govt of Uttar Pradesh, Girish Chandra Yadav, Principal Secretary (Sports) Manish Chauhan and Secretary (Sports) Uttar Pradesh Suhas Yathiraj.
Spreading Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message of fighting obesity and indulging in a healthy and active lifestyle, Dr Mandaviya said “Cycling not only enhances one’s health but also builds character.”
The Union Sports Minister completed a 3 kilometre ride from Marine Drive (Samajik Parivartan Sthal) to Samta Mulak Chauraha to 1090 Chauraha and back along with senior officials from Sports Authority of India (SAI) and members of MyBharat intitiative and Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI).
Organised by SAI’s Netaji Subhas Regional Centre in Lucknow, the cycling drive witnessed huge enthusiasm from young boys and girls and 100-plus athletes from the local National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) who also grooved to Zumba performances prior to the cycling drive.
Building Fitter & Healthier Bharat ! 🚴♂️🇮🇳
Participated in the #SundaysOnCycle drive in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) March 23, 2025
Addressing the media after the cycle rally, Dr Mandaviya encouraged citizens to incorporate cycling in their daily routines to fight obesity and reduce air pollution levels across the country.
“Cycling not only enhances one’s health but also builds character, boosts confidence and shapes the future of our nation. It is not just a mode of transport, but a key step towards a healthier, more sustainable future. By adopting cycling as part of our daily lives, we can improve our physical well-being, reduce pollution and contribute to a greener environment. I urge every citizen to embrace cycling, not only as a hobby but as a regular part of their lifestyle for the benefit of their health and our planet. Let us all make fitness a priority, for a healthy youth is the strength of a prosperous state and country,” he said.
Sh. Girish Chandra Yadav, Hon’ble Minister of State for Sports and Youth Welfare, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh, remarked: “Fitness is the foundation of a strong and vibrant society. For our youth to succeed in life, both physically and mentally, it is essential that we instill the values of discipline, hard work and fitness.”
In Delhi, the ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ saw the presence of Paris Paralympics para badminton medallists Nitesh Kumar and Manisha Ramadass. The athletes were in Delhi to participate in the ongoing Khelo India Para Games 2025. Smt Sminu Jindal, founder of Svayam, the official accessibility partner of KIPG 2025, was also present to motivate the participants. Nitesh, Manisha and Ms. Jindal flagged off the event that was supported by PEFI and witnessed participation of more than 600 people.
In Mumbai, Asian Games medal-winning javelin thrower Kishore Jena participated in the cycling movement at picturesque Aksa Beach.
Till now, the nationwide cycling drive has been organised across 5000 locations with approximate participation of 2 lakh-plus individuals. The movement also promotes environment-friendly practices to decrease air pollution levels across the country. The initiative is being conducted across multiple States & Union Territories with participation from cycling enthusiasts, athletes, coaches, sports science experts, amongst others.
Previously, the cycling event witnessed participation of Indian Army jawans, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and prominent sports stars like Lovlina Borgohain, Sangram Singh, Shanky Singh, Nitu Ghanghas, Saweety Boora, Paris Paralympics bronze medallist Rubina Francis and Simran Sharma (para world champion) apart from celebrities like Rahul Bose, Amit Sial and Gul Panag, to name a few.
The ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ is organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), My Bikes and MY Bharat. Events are simultaneously held nationwide at SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) and the Khelo India centres (KICs).
Intensifying the fight against obesity, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya will be taking part in the nationwide movement ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ on 23rd March 2025. Union Minister will be joined by Honourable Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt. Anandiben Patel and Uttar Pradesh Minister of Sports & Youth Affairs, Shri Girish Chandra Yadav.
Dr. Mandaviya will ride a bicycle for 3 kilometres from Marine Drive (Samajik Parivartan Sthal) to Samta Mulak Chauraha to 1090 Chauraha and back, leading a group of more than 400 cyclists, spreading Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message of fighting obesity and indulging in a healhthy and active lifestyle.
Elsewhere, Asian Games medal-winning javelin thrower Kishore Jena will be participating in the cycling movement at picturesque Aksa Beach in Mumbai with members of Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI) taking part in the initiative in New Delhi.
Till now, the nationwide cycling drive has been organised across 4200 locations with approximate participation of 2 lakh individuals. The movement also promotes environment-friendly practices to decrease air pollution levels across the country. The initiative is being conducted across multiple States & Union Territories with participation from cycling enthusiasts, athletes, coaches, sports science experts, amongst others.
Previously, the cycling event witnessed participation of Indian Army jawans, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and prominent sports stars like Lovlina Borgohain, Sangram Singh, Shanky Singh, Nitu Ghanghas, Saweety Boora, Paris Paralympics bronze medallist Rubina Francis and Simran Sharma (para world champion) apart from celebrities like Rahul Bose, Amit Sial and Gul Panag, to name a few.
The ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ is organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), My Bikes and MY Bharat. Events are simultaneously held nationwide at SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) and the Khelo India centres (KICs).
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.
Released 24/03/2025
Canberra sporting and recreation clubs will share over $3.2million in funding through the latest round of the ACT Government’s Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme.
Four funding options are available through the Scheme including:
The Community Sport Facilities Funding Program supports the development of new high quality, sustainable facilities, or the upgrade of existing facilities, to maintain or increase physical activity in the Canberra community.
The Club Enhancement Program assists sporting and recreation groups to further develop their local services and programs including purchasing equipment, upskilling coaches and officials or supporting improvements to club governance.
The State Organisation Support Program provides funding through 3-year agreements to be used for improving organisational capacity and capability.
The Industry Partnership Program allows the ACT Government to co-invest with State Sporting Organisations, in innovative and collaborative projects which are scalable and sustainable.
Minister for Sport and Recreation, Yvette Berry says this investment in Canberra’s sport and recreation organisations enables much needed improvements and upgrades allowing for increased participation and inclusiveness.
“The Scheme supports not-for-profit sport, recreation and community organisations in developing fit for purpose, sustainable and accessible places and spaces for sport and active recreation.
“Through this round, among the 38 successful applicants, the ACT Water Ski Association will receive $190,000 to upgrade the Water Ski Clubhouse facilities, including a refurbishment of the kitchen and bathrooms to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for members.
“Tuggeranong BMX Club will be able to replace the BMX start gate with $47,000 of funding through the scheme.
“The Belconnen Netball Association were successful in obtaining $571,000 in support to construct a new female and male toilet and change facilities, a full accessible toilet with shower and enhanced storage space.
“The Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme supports the ambition of the ACT Government’s CBR Next Move strategy by investing in facilities for greater participation in sport and recreation.
“Maintaining our sporting facilities is essential to ensure that the community can continue to participate in the sporting and recreation activities that they love, promoting a healthy lifestyle throughout the Canberra community.”
Quote attributable to Kim Clarke, President of Belconnen Netball Association.
“We are delighted to receive this investment from the ACT Government to upgrade our off-court facilities at Charnwood to ensure they are a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all our participants and supporters. Our current toilet and storage facilities are not suitable to cater for up to 2000 users on competition days and this support will ensure a safe, accessible and welcoming environment for everyone to play and attend our netball activities and competitions.”
Quote attributable to Maria Cowan, President of ACT Waterski Tournament Division.
“On behalf of Waterski ACT we are incredibly excited to be a successful recipient of an investment from the ACT Government for our clubhouse facilities including the kitchen and bathrooms at Molonglo Reach. The project is essential to rectify the current outdated facilities particularly in relation to acceptable standards for female facilities and disabled access.”
Quote attributable to Paul Stewart, President of Tuggeranong BMX Club.
“The new starting gate will significantly improve the sporting experience and safety of our club members particularly children and beginners. We are very thankful to the ACT Government for this support to ensure this important improvement is made at our club for all our participants.”
Closing of 19th Australasian Police & Emergency Services Games
Saturday, 22 March 2025 – 2:00 pm.
Emergency service workers and volunteers will today mark the closing of the 19th Australasian Police & Emergency Services Games. Tasmania Police Assistant Commissioner Rob Blackwood said the games had brought together not just police, fire, ambulance and SES, but also those emergency staff that work in customs, corrections, royal lifesaving, environment and the coast guard. “Throughout the week we have seen participants enjoying both friendship and sportsmanship, with more than 2,000 competitors in over 50 individual sporting events and over 5,000 medals being presented to our competitors.” he said. “It was extraordinary to see everyone come together to support one another while also enjoying some healthy competition. Supporting the mental and physical health of police officers, as well as other emergency services is extremely important, and we hope this year every participant is walking away with great memories.” “This year more than 200 volunteers also donated their time to make the games possible and I’d like to take the opportunity to thank them, as well as all of the sponsors, clubs and venues who are hosting the events.”
Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of an incident at Dickson Street, Glenorchy on 11 March where a man sustained a serious head injury. “Sadly, police can advise the man has died earlier today in the Royal Hobart Hospital, and our thoughts are with the young man’s family and friends,” said Detective Acting Inspector Nicholas Bowden, from Glenorchy CIB. The police investigation is now a murder inquiry. Emergency services were called to the scene about 11.30pm on 11 March, arriving to find a 19-year-old man unconscious and non-responsive outside a property. “The young man has received a stab wound to the head. A police investigation is ongoing into the circumstances surrounding this incident,” he said. “Detectives are following a specific line of inquiry. Investigations indicate that the person or people responsible and the victim knew each other, and that this was an isolated incident. “If anyone has any information in relation about this matter, I ask them to come forward. “In particular, if anyone saw a small four door sedan, possibly silver in colour, with several occupants, in the area of Dickson Street at the time, please contact Police. We are particularly interested in dash cam or other CCTV vision.” Information can be provided to direct to Glenorchy CIB on 131 444 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000 – quote OR769213.
Attributable to Inspector Angela Hallett, Eastern District Road Policing Manager:
Infringements issued, vehicles ordered off the road, and a vehicle impounded are some of the results from Hawke’s Bay Police’s focus on antisocial road users at the weekend.
Police had an increased presence across Hawke’s Bay as part of our plan to disrupt unlawful driving behaviour of antisocial road users.
Over the course of the weekend, we saw a large number of antisocial road users out and about, predominantly on Friday night, with some smaller groups stopped or deterred on Saturday night by a strong Police presence.
At a Police checkpoint in the early hours of Saturday, multiple people were issued infringements for offences including breaches of learner and restricted licence conditions. These breaches carry the penalty of demerit points and fines, which jeopardises an individual’s continued holding of a driver’s licence.
Several unsafe or defective vehicles were issued pink or green stickers, ordering them off the road until they get a new WOF or COF.
A further vehicle was impounded after the driver was identified as being disqualified – an offence that results in the vehicle being impounded and the driver being summonsed to appear in court. False number plates were also seized from one vehicle, and an infringement was issued to the driver.
Antisocial road user behaviour is extremely dangerous to those involved, their spectators, and other road users.
That fact was highlighted this weekend, when a bystander participating in the event was struck by a vehicle doing skids at a gathering in Hawke’s Bay. While no serious injuries were reported, it was an extremely close call, and enquiries are ongoing.
We will continue to maintain a focus on this area and work together with partner agencies and the community to suppress this unlawful activity and hold those involved accountable.
A number of roads were damaged from the activities this weekend, and debris was found scattered on main roads, which require inspection and clearing from local councils and the New Zealand Transport Agency.
These drivers are often young people who are still living in their family homes with parents. We ask that parents or those known to them to have conversations with your young people about this activity before it gets to a point where Police need to take enforcement action, or worse, where actions result in injury or death.
Overall, we want to see a stop to this behaviour.
If you have information that may assist Police, please contact Police on 105 either online or over the phone. If it’s happening now contact us on 111.
We need your help preventing and responding to this behaviour, no matter how small that information may seem, such as hearing this behaviour outside your house, we want to hear about it.
Police along with other government agencies will be recovering the group of four stranded people in the Far North this morning.
Shortly after 4pm yesterday, contact was made with a group of four missing people who had become stranded in the outback after suffering mechanical issues with their car. The group had left Oodnadatta on Friday at 4pm, believed to be heading to Finke in the Northern Territory. However, concerns were raised when the group had failed to arrive.
Supplies were provided to the group including food and a telephone, and plans were made to recover them today.
Police have maintained contact with the group overnight, and resources are stationed in the Far North, and at the earliest opportunity this morning, these resources will return to the area the group were located to recover them.
More updates will come to hand when available throughout the day.
“These official numbers from New Zealand Police show meth use is surging. Communities are suffering from addiction and crime, and the Government has no real plan to break the cycle of crime,” Labour police spokesperson Ginny Andersen said.
“The report shows that at least 1,434 kilograms of methamphetamine was consumed in 2024—an unprecedented increase over 2023—at a social harm cost of $1.5 billion. This is a direct threat to public safety, as meth fuels violent crime and puts massive pressure on frontline police, who are already stretched thin under this Government.
“New Zealanders were promised 500 new police officers, but the Government has been losing police faster than they can hire them. Meanwhile, they’re telling retailers ‘you’re on your own’ with their dangerous citizen’s arrest plan.
“This Government has no real plan and no interest in prevention. They’re obsessed with headlines, not real results. Mark Mitchell has failed on recruitment and failed on crime,” Ginny Andersen said.
Attributable to Inspector Angela Hallett, Eastern District Road Policing Manager:
Infringements issued, vehicles ordered off the road, and a vehicle impounded are some of the results from Hawke’s Bay Police’s focus on antisocial road users at the weekend.
Police had an increased presence across Hawke’s Bay as part of our plan to disrupt unlawful driving behaviour of antisocial road users.
Over the course of the weekend, we saw a large number of antisocial road users out and about, predominantly on Friday night, with some smaller groups stopped or deterred on Saturday night by a strong Police presence.
At a Police checkpoint in the early hours of Saturday, multiple people were issued infringements for offences including breaches of learner and restricted licence conditions. These breaches carry the penalty of demerit points and fines, which jeopardises an individual’s continued holding of a driver’s licence.
Several unsafe or defective vehicles were issued pink or green stickers, ordering them off the road until they get a new WOF or COF.
A further vehicle was impounded after the driver was identified as being disqualified – an offence that results in the vehicle being impounded and the driver being summonsed to appear in court. False number plates were also seized from one vehicle, and an infringement was issued to the driver.
Antisocial road user behaviour is extremely dangerous to those involved, their spectators, and other road users.
That fact was highlighted this weekend, when a bystander participating in the event was struck by a vehicle doing skids at a gathering in Hawke’s Bay. While no serious injuries were reported, it was an extremely close call, and enquiries are ongoing.
We will continue to maintain a focus on this area and work together with partner agencies and the community to suppress this unlawful activity and hold those involved accountable.
A number of roads were damaged from the activities this weekend, and debris was found scattered on main roads, which require inspection and clearing from local councils and the New Zealand Transport Agency.
These drivers are often young people who are still living in their family homes with parents. We ask that parents or those known to them to have conversations with your young people about this activity before it gets to a point where Police need to take enforcement action, or worse, where actions result in injury or death.
Overall, we want to see a stop to this behaviour.
If you have information that may assist Police, please contact Police on 105 either online or over the phone. If it’s happening now contact us on 111.
We need your help preventing and responding to this behaviour, no matter how small that information may seem, such as hearing this behaviour outside your house, we want to hear about it.
Police made three arrests following aggravated burglaries at two Takanini businesses this morning.
Just after 1am, an alarm was activated at a business on Great South Road.
Detective Senior Sergeant Michele Gillespie, of Counties Manukau CIB, says staff had arrived on scene and found the offenders failed to gain access to the cash converters business.
“The group had used a hammer to try and smash their way inside but instead left the scene.”
Meanwhile, about an hour and a half later Police were called to a nearby vape shop.
“A burglary was in progress, with offenders gaining entry to the store,” Detective Senior Sergeant Gillespie says.
“The business was closed at the time and products were stolen from the store as a result.”
Police were quickly on scene and began making enquiries.
“One Police unit was carrying out area enquiries and located three males on Manuroa Road,” Detective Senior Sergeant Gillespie says.
The group, all aged 17, were all detained in relation to both burglaries.
Police have charged one male with two counts of burglary and assaults Police.
He will appear in the Manukau Youth Court today. The other two males have been referred to Youth Aid.
State Highway 2 has reopened in both Featherston and Carterton.
However, a local road closure remains in place in Carterton. Access to Pembroke Street from State Highway 2 is closed to traffic.
8 pm
State Highway 2 is now fully open in both directions at Kaitoke.
Closures remain in place on State Highway 2 in Featherston and Carterton while a Police homicide investigation into this afternoon’s incident remains ongoing.
Local road detours are available at both locations, but drivers can expect travel delays and should allow extra time for their journeys.
Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:
6:30 pm
There is a further closure of State Highway 2 in relation to today’s police incident in Wairarapa and Kaitoke.
State Highway is now closed in Featherston between Revans and Lyon Streets due to a police investigation.
A local road detour is available. Drivers must follow instructions of police an emergency service on site.
A road closures also remain in place on State Highway 2 in Carterton between Holloway Street and Victoria Street.
State Highway 2 at Kaitoke near Kaitoke Loop Road is now open under stop/go traffic management.
Drivers can expect ongoing delays and closures while Police investigations continue. Road users must factor this into their travel plans.
Updates will be provided as the situation changes, and the highway’s status can be checked on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website.
5:25 pm
State Highway 2 is also now closed in Carterton between Holloway Street and Victoria Street due to an incident being managed by Police.
A local road detour is available via Park Road, Rutland Road, and Richmond Road.
Drivers must follow all instructions from Police and emergency services at the scene
Further update will be provided when the highway’s status changes.
5 pm
Due to a police incident, State Highway 2 is currently closed in both directions north of Upper Hutt.
The highway is closed to traffic near Kaitoke Loop Road.
Drivers should avoid the area and delay their journey. All road users must follow the directions of emergency services on site.
Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:
Two men have been jointly charged with murder in relation to the death of a man in South Wairarapa yesterday afternoon.
The men, aged 23 and 25, are due to appear in Wellington District Court tomorrow.
Further charges against the pair are being considered.
Our investigation continues, with one focus being to establish what other parties may have been involved in the incident.
We can however say that Police believe it involved parties known to each other, with no ongoing risk to the public.
We appreciate the community’s continued support as we work to make enquiries in the Wairarapa, and people will continue to notice an increased Police presence.
We want to thank those people who have already come forward and shared valuable information, which has assisted with our enquiries to date.
Police are still appealing to anyone who has information to please come and speak with us.
If you can help, please contact us on 105 either online or over the phone.
Attributable to Acting Detective Sergeant Jo Gallon:
Police are appealing for information following a firearms incident where a man was arrested in West End, Palmerston North, yesterday afternoon.
Around 5:40pm Police responded to reports that a man had presented a firearm at members of the public and Police on Thompson Street, no shots were fired.
A 19-year-old man was arrested at the scene with no injuries to members of the public or Police. He is due to appear in the Palmerston North District Court on Monday 24 March, on multiple charges in relation to the incident.
Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what occurred. We know people recorded the incident on their phones, we are keen to view any footage obtained of the incident or male’s behaviour
If you videoed or witnessed the event, which occurred at the intersection of Ferguson and Thompson Street, Palmerston North. Please call 105 and provide file number 250323/8884.
Waikato Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a crash involving a car and a truck on Airport Road, Tamahere this afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the crash, near the intersection of Raynes Road, about 2.10pm.
The driver of the car sustained minor injuries.
Police would like to speak to the driver of the truck, who may be unaware that a collision has occurred, but will likely have damage to the left side of their trailer.
The truck was described as a white European-style truck with a flat nose, possibly a Scania or similar make. It was described as towing a double curtain sider trailer and was travelling north on Airport Road towards the Waikato Expressway.
Police would also like to hear from anybody who may have witnessed this crash and may have information that could assist in identifying the truck involved, such as dash cam footage.
If you can help, please contact 105 and quote the event number P062005619.
One person has been summonsed to court following a crash on State Highway 5, Rangataiki today.
Police responded to a two-vehicle crash involving a van and an SUV on State Highway 5 around 10:30am.
Upon arrival 12 people were located injured inside the vehicles, including four that were transported to hospital in a serious condition, and eight people who transported in minor to moderate conditions.
The road was closed for around three hours as the road was cleared, and enquiries were conducted at the scene.
Initial enquiries suggest the driver attempted to overtake a vehicle, and has struck the second vehicle head on.
The 57-year-old van driver has been summonsed to appear in the Tauranga District Court next week on a charge of careless driving causing injury.
A 49-year-old man previously sought by Police in connection to a spate of offending in Auckland retail premises has now been arrested.
He is due to appear in Auckland District Court tomorrow on nine charges of aggravated assault, five charges of theft from retails, and several other charges.
The warrant for his arrest in connection to an aggravated robbery will also be heard.
Police would like to thank the Auckland city centre retail community, as well as the security sector, who kept Police up to date with sightings and information, and ultimately led us to making an arrest.
We believe this arrest will make the city centre safer.